Saturday, October 31, 2009

This is It


imdb link  Photos

Plot: This was a making-of video for Michael Jackson's London concert series that he was preparing when he died. It contains all the major songs from the show and backstage development of the show.

Review: This was a lively movie with singing and dancing. The first part of the film was great with powerful dancing and old songs that I forgot that i liked. It showed a dynamic Michael Jackson singing, working and practicing.

The latter part of the movie got repetitive, as the film became predictable. I think the best stuff was at the begining.

The movie is more substantive because it was Michael from beyond the grave. Michael's concert was going to push for action on climate change and environmentalism generally. It was a little corny to hear him preach about that although as you may know from my recent post, I find global warming beyond refute.

Cast: Michael Jackson

Crew: directed by Kenny Ortega

Rating: 3.0 flasks
 Early in the film, it was headed for 4.0, because it was fun and deep, but it kept going and lost a flask.

More: Surprisingly good; recommended. The actual live show would have been something.
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Sunday, October 25, 2009

W





imdb link  Photos

Plot: W is a biography of President George W. Bush with his personal triumphs and personal issues. 

Review: W is uneven. The beginning of the movie gives us some insight in the W's personality, and it is interesting as it shows his life in Texas. The political scenes early in the movie are the highlight with all of the fictionalized political figures. Once the Iraq Wars starts the movie becomes a bore, and eventually the movie fizzles to its 129 minute conclusion. 

Even though President Bush has only been out of office for one year, the film is dated already. The political shots in this movie already seem hollow and transparent rather than biting and insightful.

One constant in this movie is the clever and evocative acting from Josh Brolin -- should have had an Oscar nomination.

Stone's directing is still tops, and the film is well made and well photographed.

Cast: Josh Brolin, James Cromwell, Elizabeth Banks

Directed by: Oliver Stone

Rating: 2.0 flasks


Rating: The scene with the war council wondering without direction around Bush's ranch was a highlight --an example of the clever direction. 
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