edac681 Reviews

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (2013)

It's like watching a magic show for the second time. Nothing new, but still enjoyable!

[7/10 · 14 March 2013]

Burt Wonderstone (Steve Carell) astounded Anton Marvelton (Steve Buscemi) with just a basic handkerchief disappearing magic act when they were kids. The two quickly became friends and eventually partners performing in Ballys Casino and Hotel in Vegas. After performing thousands of the same show, their performances became just a routine and they quickly lost passion for magic. Furthermore, their future performing in Vegas was quickly threatened by stunt magician, Steve Gray (Jim Carrey). Will they be able to find the passion they lost and gain back their audience or will this be the end of Burt and Anton in Vegas?

The performance by Steve Carell was similar to many of his past performances. I didn't feel like there was anything new, but that's not necessary a bad thing. The performances by Steve Buscemi and Olivia Wilde were well performed as supporting casts. Jim Carrey performed decently well although his character was a bit exaggerated at times.

There were a few magical surprises including a cameo by David Copperfield and the demolition of Lady Luck Casino. There was also a mention of Stardust Casino early in the movie for those of you who remember its existence from years back.

While watching the film, there were a few parts when I felt like I was actually watching a magic show. Although there was nothing spectacular about the film and its ending was somewhat expected, it was still a fun film to watch. If you love magic, this would be an entertaining film to watch. There are a number of parodies and physical comedy jokes throughout the film to keep you entertained. Overall, the film was enjoyable.

Dolphin Tale (2011)

Emotional, entertaining, and captivating!

[10/10 · 13 September 2011]

The story of Dolphin Tale is very inspirational and uplifting. It teaches us not to give up when all seems hopeless. Winter lost her tail and the aquarium was poised to close down due to financial issues. After the aquarium exhausted all possible options, they had to sell the aquarium, but no other centres are willing to accept Winter. The last option they have was to put her down peacefully. Despite the hopelessness, young Sawyer Nelson (played by Nathan Gamble) refuses to give up. After witnessing a mother and her little girl who has only one leg were willing to drive hours up from out of town just to see Winter, Sawyer came up with a brilliant plan that can save this handicapped dolphin. Although Sawyer failed many of his school subjects, he is indeed brilliant. His mom was surprised by his knowledge, commitment and intelligence, brought forth by what he was interested in.

There are many lessons that we can take from Dolphin Tale. One of the many lessons is that children who may not seem bright at first, just needs to find a subject of interest to them in order to display their intelligence. Moreover, miracles do happen, but sometimes we need to persevere long enough and never give up before we are able to see it happen. Dolphin Tale teaches us that there is hope even when all seems hopeless.

Dolphin Tale neither has a typical villain nor a big climax. It is simply an inspirational movie that I find to be emotional, entertaining and captivating. It is children friendly and excellent for the whole family to watch. I was astounded by this movie and I highly encourage everyone to watch it. The actors and actresses truly deliver. Moreover, I am once again dazzled by Gamble's acting as he brilliantly portrays the character of Sawyer Nelson. I look forward to his future projects and I believe he will continue to rise in the film industry.