The Help

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Movie: The Help (2011)

Studio : Dreamworks SKG

Info : Click Here

Runtime : 137 min

Website : thehelpmovie.com

Rating : PG-13

Trailer :

Click here to view the embedded video.

Review:

On the brink of the civil rights movement in the south, a young college socialite named Skeeter (Emma Stone) asks Aibileen (Viola Davis), her friend’s African American maid, to share her life story after seeing her mistreated by the family. At first Aibileen is hesitant as the black culture frowned upon such association and speaking up at the time, but she bravely defies their advice and tells her tale. As her life unfolds before Skeeter, who transcribes it as she speaks, they become friends. And the revelations that are revealed by this woman and her outspoken friend (Octavia Spencer) ruffle the small Mississippi town’s perceptions on race and the treatment of humankind.

This period piece set in the South of the 60’s pulls no punches in describing what life was like back then, the racial divide between the white folk and the black folk. Even though slavery had been abolished one hundred years before, the prejudices are clearly defined in this film. But this is not a film that is meant to depress or look down on anyone, but to show the strength, the optimism, the power of these gracious women. Despite being mistreated, they were able to triumph against incredible odds and Aibileen’s story inspires not only the town, but the audience as well.

I can’t help but think back to Color Purple and how much of a groundbreaking film it was and this, I believe, this is the Color Purple of this generation. The talent of the African American women in defining just how it was back then, complete with the attitudes, the fears, the joys and the issues that abounded, is just spectacular. I could see Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer being up for an Academy Award for their portrayals. Bryce Dallas Howard proved her acting chops in playing Hilly, who starts out prejudice, but mellows as time goes on. Her conversion is handled quite well throughout. And Emma Stone is excellent as the socialite who wants to change perceptions as a writer and journalist.

It’s unfortunate that this film will be drowned out by other blockbusters that are out, but this is definitely a movie to see, especially if you like your films smart, subtle, dramatic, and even a bit lighthearted at times. It’s certainly a step away from the current fare that has ruled the box office as of late.

We give this movie a 4.9/5 and recommend it to everyone. All those in our group came out inspired and even a bit more educated, and that is really something. See it now and definitely look for it at this year’s Oscars.

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Life In A Day

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Movie: Life In A Day (2011)

Studio : National Geographic

Info : Click Here

Runtime : 90 min

Website : Facebook

Rating : PG-13

Trailer :

Click here to view the embedded video.

Imagine what life is like in one day. That is what this film does through the submissions of people from around the world, all on June 24th, 2010. Produced by Ridley Scott and directed by Kevin McDonald, this project, in cooperation with YouTube and National Geographic sets out to document 24 hours on our shining blue planet. 80,000 submissions were sent in from all areas of the globe. They even gave cameras to people who didn’t even have such technologies so that they could be included in this tribute. And in the end, they looked at 4,500 hours of video and selected 350 portions of those for just over 90 minutes of on screen film. It was quite a feat just narrowing it down.

So what did they narrow it down too? Well, basically it’s a documentary of what we in the human race go through each day. In some cases, it’s awesome. In other cases, it’s boring. In still others, it’s tragic and sad. National Geographic has never been afraid to show the darker side of humanity and this film does not shy away from what might be disturbing to some. The clips are rapid fire so that if one is not your cup of tea there will be another one along in a moment. And that’s the beauty of this experiment turned into a major film. That everyone can find their own stories, even if they aren’t one of the ones in the clips, from what is there. There is something for every person to relate to on some level. And the sheer compassion and work that went into this is surely going to be inspirational and uplifting to those who experience it.

Being citizens of the world and geeks that love to watch YouTube, we really loved this film and strongly hope that it will be released in a wider market. It seems almost a shame that its release is limited to select cities, although we certainly hope that once it reaches DVD and Netflix that more people will get to see it. We realize it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but we think that people should experience it. If for nothing else, than to remind ourselves that we are on a planet filled with a diverse set of people and not everyone lives the same way as others. That there is glory in the world and tragedy as well. That the smallest sacrifice and the biggest dreams can share this place we call Earth. At the risk of sounding like a movie promo, mixed with propaganda, it is worth the 90 minutes.

In an age where reality TV rules and YouTube viewership is commonplace, this movie is custom made to show people as they really are, even if it’s only for a day. Check out Life in a Day, hopefully playing in a theater near you. We think you’ll be glad you did. And thus, we give this movie 4.7/5 as a rating…

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Conan O'Brien Can't Stop

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Movie: Conan O’Brien Can’t Stop (2011)

Studio : Pariah

Info : Click Here

Runtime : 89 min

Website : conanobriencantstop.com

Rating : R

Trailer :

Click here to view the embedded video.

I’m sure you all remember the great debate over the ouster of Conan O’Brien on the Tonight Show after he refused to make way for Jay Leno to return to 11:35pm on NBC. When he had given up his position as host, his contract stated that he could not compete on TV for six months. And so he did a series of concerts called the “Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on TV Tour” and unlike Charlie Sheen, gained a bigger audience in the process and was very, very funny. This film is a documentary about what was going on during that time, with candid interviews and a look at the performer, his techniques, and his life.

It should be noted that this is not a film of concert footage with some backstage interviews thrown in. While it does have some of that footage, its focus is on the man himself and his personal and professional life during what he describes as a difficult time. It’s extremely candid in its portrayal showing the good side and the bad side through personal moments. We discover during the course of the documentary that Conan’s on screen personality is really almost a caricature of the man himself. His transformation into what the public knows from what he’s like in private is fascinating.

The documentary takes the entire process of preparing for a show and how both he and the crew bring it all together. It explores not only the setup, the backstage, the pre-show, the show itself and the shut down, but how Conan makes it work for those long nights. It provides some laughs from the actual concert, but backstage is the biggest part. And what Conan shows is his generally jovial nature and almost boyish enthusiasm, which makes him endearing to watch. At the same time, it also provides a very emotional look into the demons that he was wrestling with during his “half-assed” show, which he what he often called the concert tour.

One thing that we were very impressed with is how much caring he has for those that work with him, and the often angry and frustrations that he has in doing so, and the audience itself. You always hear about comedians who love the crowd, but hate the individuals that pay. Conan doesn’t seem to be like that, and that what’s gives this tale even more appeal than you would think. The chance to see an artisan at work at his trade is something that is always a good thing. And the way that director Rodman Flender sets out to do that shows that he too cared as much about Conan as the comedian does his fans.

As a result, we give the movie 4.5/5 stars. Even if you are not a big Conan fan, but find the process of comedic work appealing, then this film will definitely be for you. It’s a truly humble and enlightening experience that will give you new insight into the man and what it takes to really put on a live improvisational show. And that in itself is worth the price of admission and a bit of time.

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African Cats

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Movie: African Cats (2011)

Studio : Disneynature

Info : Click Here

Runtime : 99 min

Website : disney.go.com/disneynature/africancats/

Rating : PG

Trailer :

Click here to view the embedded video.

Review:

On Earth Day, Disneynature presents African Cats, the real life documentary that is actually three separate stories in one. The first follows a little lion cub that wants to be like his mother. But when his mother is injured, Mara must learn to go it on his own. Then Layla, who is a cheetah mom with five young ones must fight to keep her cubs safe, while going out and hunting for food, leaving them behind, possibly in great danger. And Fang, in a story reminiscent of The Lion King, is the leader of his pride, but when he’s injured in a fight, his challengers for the position make their move. Fang must prove to the others that he still has what it takes to be the king.

Narrated by Samuel Jackson, who attaches names and human emotions to these cats through a caring voice over, the film is very human, despite being about lions and cheetahs. Now whether that is a good thing or a bad thing depends on your point of view in relation to the humanizing of animals. But if you can forgive that, there is a lot of heart in this movie and it’s obvious that the directors (Keith Scholey and Alastair Fothergill) really cared about portraying these three stories in such a way that it’s easy to relate to. And there is something for every age. Kids will enjoy watching the antics of Mara as he tries to grow up the best he can be. Moms and women will relate to the pain and sacrifice it takes to raise kids, the struggle and the worry, and the willingness to do whatever it takes to keep them safe. And dads and guys will no doubt relate to the fighting courage of Fang as he tries to maintain his position in this dangerous world.

Even though the movie is rated G, it should be noted that while there is no bloody, graphic violence, the movie goes deep into the lives of these animals, and that includes the good and the bad. There are death scenes, some heartbreaking, and this may upset some children. There are also scenes where the newly caught prey is also being eaten after the killing (which it does not show). Kids or adults squeamish about such scenes may find it disturbing as well. Parents may wish to be ready for questions the children may have or if your child is overly sensitive, you may want to keep that in mind.

The cinematography is stunning in the best tradition of a National Geographic film or Disney’s own True Life Adventures that aired on the Wonderful World of Disney. The camera work not only is responsible for some beautiful scenery being captured, but also is able to express the suspense, the danger, and the love of these fine creatures.

African Cats hitting theaters on Earth Day is no coincidence. The celebration is all about the planet and its creatures, and so what better way to do that then show some of it’s most majestic in their daily lives.

For those who love animals, documentaries, with a rich story, you’ll probably love this movie. And even the hardest person will probably melt by the sweetness and cute factor of this film’s lighter moments. The story will keep one interested, but as we said above, your opinion of such material at the start will matter a lot going in on whether you like it or not. With that said, we give this movie a 3.5/5 stars.

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Soul Surfer

Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars

Movie: Soul Surfer (2011)

Studio : Sony Pictures

Info : Click Here

Runtime : 106 min

Website : soulsurferthemovie.com/

Rating : PG

Trailer :

Click here to view the embedded video.

Review:

Soul Surfer tells the amazing true story of a brave young lady who overcame incredible odds to continue her dream of being a championship surfer.

Bethany Hamilton was quite a child prodigy of the waves. By 13, she’d already won championships in the sport, gained a sponsor (Rip Curl) and began competing on the professional circuit. It seemed that she was headed for a fantastic career. But tragedy struck when a tiger shark attacked her during a morning surf, ripping off her left arm. The injury left her having to relearn just about everything she did and in most people, it would have spelled the end of her watery goal and lifestyle. But encouraged by her father, a surfer dude himself, she learned not only to live with a single upper appendage, but to reclaim her place on the board.

This film is well executed and those that like inspirational stories will find this the “feel good movie of the year” thus far. The adaptation of Hamilton’s own book and careful interviews with her family and friends make for a rich story that range from the darkest moments to the lightest triumphs.

AnnaSophia Robb (Bridge over Terabithia, Escape to Witch Mountain) seemed a bit cautious in her role. Playing someone that exists in real life is always a challenge and while she’s believable as Bethany, you can always tell that she’s a bit guarded in how she presents herself in the story. Fortunately for her, she didn’t have the play the role with one arm tied behind her back. Modern technology allowed her to wear a sleeve and glove which editors were able to take out of the film much like they do with the “invisible man”. Her parents, played by Helen Hunt (Twister), who we are glad to see return to the silver screen, and the ever popular and flamboyant Dennis Quaid, are much more comfortable and free in their own roles. We were also thrilled to see Craig T. Nelson (Coach) make an appearance as her doctor.

The big surprise of the movie, however, was Carrie Underwood (American Idol winner and country singer). This is her first movie role and she hit it out of the park as the church youth leader. Her acting was superb and truly believable. We normally don’t recommend that people quit their day jobs, but she could. And we look forward to seeing her appear in other films, as well as continuing her music of course.

The surfing scenes are sure to get any wave rider excited. In scenes reminiscent of some of the best surfing footage, the visuals really give you a feel of that world, the world of professional and amateur surfing. From the dangers of the sport to the joys of winning, each moment on the water is skillfully done.

There was a lot of concern in this movie from producers whether a film with a lot of religious undertones would play well on the big screen. They even tried to take out some of the references in order to appeal to a wider audience, but the Hamiltons would have none of it. And in the end, they wound up returning many that they had tried to cut. As such, some people may find the movie a bit preachy. But it’s the truth of what transpired in this young lady’s life. To tone it down or cut out scenes would be to gut the honesty and integrity of the film. Good for Hamilton for sticking up for that. What good is an inspirational story if you are going to strip it of what made it inspirational to begin with? Just for the record, however, we didn’t find it overly preachy at all.

All in all, the movie is a story that will warm your heart and fill your soul. With so many films out that really drag and sometimes burn, it’s good to see one rise for a change. We give it 4 out of 5 stars. Sure, it’s a bit documentary like and a bit afterschool special oriented, but it’s an uplifting tale that really left us believing that we can overcome anything if we try hard enough. And that was the point.

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Invictus

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Movie: Invictus (2009)

Studio : Malpaso Productions

Info : Click Here

Runtime : 133 min

Website : invictusmovie.warnerbros.com

Trailer :

Click here to view the embedded video.

Review:

In 1990, Nelson Mandela was released after 27 years in prison and by 1994, he became the first democratically-elected president of South Africa. One of his greatest achievements: making South Africa’s rugby team the best in the world?

There is some method in his madness. Just as Mandela recalls a childhood where booing the team was a sign of rebellion towards the Afrikaners, he sees that bringing a team that South Africa will cheer on as a nation will also bring a divided people together along the way.

You have to credit Clint Eastwood for originality. Not only did he choose a topic that is obscure, but also strangely relevant as well. Think about it: just a few months ago, Peter Jackson released a film centered on apartheid, and Morgan Freeman’s role plays a man whom the Afrikaners partially distrust for seeming more like a celebrity than a politician (a view quite a few Republicans hold in regard towards a certain politician of our own).

I should warn that this really is not a movie you see for the thrill of rugby. Matches have a tendency to be brushed over, and while you can see rules explained from time to time, I was left scratching my head wondering what was going on as the drama was edited into a handful of clips for most of the matches, likely for the sake of time and perhaps better edited out or shortened further.

I don’t think Eastwood knew where to go with this film overall, or what to keep or edit out, perhaps because he was balancing a sports movie with a political one. One plot branch that I thought was unnecessary, for example, involves a trip to Mandela’s prison. It’s significant, yes, but not necessary for Damon’s character at that point.

Freeman delivers the chilling accuracy of Mandela 90% of the time, (the other 10% of the time he sounds like himself). I have to also admit it’s impressive seeing Matt Damon go from his chubby role in The Informant!, into a chunky muscleman that could bench-press Jason Bourne. But acting-wise, undue credit should go to Tony Kgoroge, who plays a quiet, incisive, and eternally paranoid bodyguard for Mandela. When you see him crack a smile, even for a brief moment, it shows you all the inner depth that was implied despite his background role.

If you’re a Freeman fan, then you won’t be disappointed watching him in action. If you’re someone else? There’s always the DVD.

-Donald Lee

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It Might Get Loud

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Movie: It Might Get Loud (2009)

Studio : Steel Curtain Pictures

Info : Click Here

Runtime : 95min

Website : sonyclassics.com/itmightgetloud

Trailer :

Click here to view the embedded video.

Review:

On January 23, 2008, David Guggenheim gathered three rock icons from different generations and brought them into one warehouse for a discussion and jam session: Jimmy Page, U2′s The Edge, and Jack White. Together, they share their love of an instrument that they have based their fame on: the electric guitar.

Despite what the trailer may say, do not believe it! What you are seeing is hardly a documentary on the electric guitar. You get some remarks on electric guitars and how each of them was a part of their life, but this is not so much a documentary on the instrument as it is a history of how these three men came into the electric guitar and what brought them into becoming the artists they are. The furthest the film goes is remarking on what musical influence each person found that helped mentor them into finding the sound they wanted.

As you can imagine even with such a misleading premise, having three very influential guitarists discuss their past and their methodology with the instrument, coupled with some great music, still makes for an entertaining documentary (at least, if you like rock, which I do).

It seems that there might have been a plan to starkly contrast each of them since it begins with a stark difference in how The Edge engineers his sounds together through a sound lab versus Jack White’s “use it until you break it” methodology, but it seems to break down along the way into what I said before. This breakdown is actually welcome since you can feel this genuine fraternity between these three men, right down to an unplugged jam session during the credits that you almost have to hesitate applauding to.

So as an electric guitar documentary? A solid B-flat. As a documentary of three guitar greats and some of their music as well as influences? Plug yourself in and remember: it might get awesome.

-Donald Lee

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