Sunday, December 27, 2009

Movies and more Movies

Right, so the past week and a half have been pretty "hectic" for me. I guess I can call it that, being on holiday, watching movies etc. You know, stressful stuff. I've been wanting to do a proper movie review for awhile now but I keep watching new movies and then with the holiday, I didn't have much time to sit down and get to it.

Well, today is not any different, I'll just pretty much summarize all the movies I've watched in the recent past, be it on DVD or in the Cinemas. I will do more in-depth reviews once I'm in Penang as I presume (or rather pray/hope) that I'll have more time there and doubt I'll have as many distractions.

This month has been an awesome month for movies. Every movie I've been to the cinema to watch has been worth every penny (from here you should know that I did not watch New Moon) and I'm glad I've watched them. I'll start with movies I've watched in the cinema as it may sway your decision to go out and watch it instead of sitting at home and waiting for Mr. Pirate to sell it.


James Cameron's Avatar

Alright, just let me tell you, if you have not watched this movie yet. Go out and watch it now, turn off your pc and try to get tickets. I think this movie was already in the making by James Cameron 10 years ago but back then the technology did not live up to his vision. Now that he has found out a satisfactory way, and boy is it satisfactory, to make it, he has brought the world of Pandora to life.
The movie is about humans, as usual, going to another planet, in this movie, Pandora, to mine their minerals. (Sound familiar anyone? *coughUSinthemiddleeastcough*) Sam Worthington plays the role of this guy who pilots an "Avatar". An Avatar is one of those blue things, which is sort of a clone of the local people.
The plot is really simple, which leaves us the time to really admire the world of Pandora, and the amazing CGI on display. I watched both the normal and 3D version and I can tell you that 3D makes a whole lot of difference. This is not a movie that just puts lots of floating stuff in there as a 3D gimmick. It's very different watching it in 3D and I suggest you do the same.
Amazing execution of this movie, even if it's a bit long and the plot a little thin and predictable. If you're one those people that feel the journey is more important than the end. This movie is right up your alley. Even if you're not, watch this, cause this could pave the way for a new era of movies with animation. Lastly, this is NOT an animated movie, the actors actually played all the parts, with sensors on their bodies ala Gollum in Lord of the Rings.

9/10
Verdict: Cancel your other plans, go out and watch this before it is removed from Cinemas.



Sherlock Holmes
Sherlock Holmes, a name that is known worldwide, even if people don't actually KNOW who he is, I assume most of us know that he is a detective and a very smart one. The latest incarnation of Mr. Holmes reintroduces us to him, getting the Guy Ritchie treatment. This one is fast paced, full of hard hitting action, whilst still remaining witty and intelligent. Robert Downey nails the role perfectly, a mix of wit, intelligence and zaniness. In some ways a cross between Jack Sparrow and Jason Bourne if you will. Jude Law is also superb here in his role as Dr. Watson. He is the opposite to Holmes and gives us a sort of "control" character. Down to earth but every bit as intelligent as Sherlock. Then we have the beautiful Rachel McAdams as Irene Adler, and Mark Strong who is brilliant as the baddie, Lord Blackstone.
The movie and plot moves fast, and keeps you guessing. The dialogue is witty and the characters lovable. There is everything in here, comedy, action, bit of drama. What there is not, is there is no reason you should now watch this, so go. Blockbuster done right.

8.5/10
Verdict: Good fun stuff, Watch it!



Zombieland
Alright, this movie sorta came outta the blue if your not a movie buff. Not much publicity and arguably low profile cast. But if you missed it, your loss. This is one of the most brilliantly made fun zombie movies I'ved watched in awhile. Touted as the movie version of the game Left4Dead, this one is fun start to finish. Go in, don't take it too seriously and you will come out very satisfied. Every character is so unique in their own way and with just about 6 actors through-out the whole show, the 4 main characters manage to carry the whole movie. We have the innocent but sincere geek, the ass-kicking tough guy, the ingenious but charming chick, and the innocent-looking but sneaky little sister. You come to love each of their characters because they're so simple but the chemistry between them is good, then again could just be the fact that I find Emma Stone HOT! The plot is basically just 4 people going across America to get away from zombies and finding themselves on the journey. And don't forget all those rules. This is one movie which I'll want to buy the DVD and watch again cause it's just such a laugh.

8/10

Verdict: Looking for a fun way to spend an otherwise planless night? This is it, you won't regret.
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