[7.00/10] Ice Age: Continental Drift [3D] (2012)

Ice Age: Continental Drift [3D] (2012)

Brief review: Blue Sky Studios continues to provide us with steadily solid sequels to the original "Ice Age" movie, which quickly became a world-wide favorite back in 2002. Now ten years later, the studio brings us "Continental Drift" - a worthy sequel that proves the series still has a lot of potential, despite its rather narrow premise. Being obviously set in the ice age, this franchise is limited by its own concept, which doesn't allow its creators to run their imagination wild, plot-wise. For that reason, "Ice Age 4" doesn't shine with much originality in terms of storytelling, but compensates that with high entertainment value, wittily written script, amusing characters and gorgeous visuals. The animation has definitely evolved since "Dawn of the Dinosaurs", becoming much more polished. Yes, the color palette lacks that in-your-face vividness, and the visuals aren't particularly vibrant, but considering the icy CGI surroundings, that's kind of understandable. Sadly, the 3D isn't that great, and barely elevates the visuals to another level. Our beloved protagonists Manny, Diego, and Sid are just as funny and likable as we remember them to be, but if you think Scrat steals the show yet again, you're wrong, because all the glory belongs to one newly introduced character - Sid's Granny. She brings the biggest laughs with her mega-cool, free-spirited attitude and funny looks, and in fact, saves the flick from being average.

Overall summary: Yes, it all feels overly familiar, but for a third sequel "Ice Age 4" offers enough wittiness, funny gags, eye-catching visuals and exciting action to stand out from its predecessors, plus, it features one of the funniest, most hilarious animated characters ever.

You can read an extended version of my "Ice Age: Continental Drift 3D" movie review over at White Cat Magazine. The brief version of it is also featured on the site TVFilmNews.com.

[7.00/10] My Week with Marilyn (2011)

My Week with Marilyn (2011)

QuickRating: Even though it is based on a true story, the plot itself is hardly anything special, but Curtis' "My Week with Marilyn" is nonetheless a truly engaging and thoroughly entertaining bio-drama about the most popular woman of all time, that fascinates with its vibrant visuals and refined direction, but what makes it truly outstanding is the sensational performance by Michelle Williams who captures the spirit of Monroe quite perfectly.

[7.00/10] A Dangerous Method (2011)

A Dangerous Method (2011)

QuickRating: Not necessarily one of David Cronenberg's most finest achievements, but still a pretty solid effort, "A Dangerous Method" is an intriguing and thought-provoking drama exploring the complicated human sexuality in a very intelligent way using historical facts, that is nicely-shot and complemented by strong performances from Michael Fassbender, Keira Knightley and Viggo Mortensen, the latter being the best of the bunch.

[7.00/10] The Muppets (2011)

The Muppets (2011)

QuickRating: Slightly overrated due to everyone's nostalgia for the show and the franchise, but still a very welcome return on the silver screen, "The Muppets" is warm, sweet, joyous, moving and funny, plus, every single one of the songs is a real pleasure to listen to, and delightfully sang and danced by Amy Adams and Jason Segel, who also shine in their roles, though the star of the movie remains the one and only Miss"Fabulous" Piggy.

[7.00/10] Trust (2011)

Trust (2011)

QuickRating: Its 'child abuse through the internet' subject matter may already feel a bit dated, but "Friends"' own, David Schwimmer, does a surprisingly solid job behind the camera, delivering a dramatic, gripping and disturbing, if a bit too obvious first-time directing effort, that works mainly due to the smooth pacing, moving story, and strong and dedicated performances from the incredible Clive Owen and the rising star Liana Liberato.

[7.00/10] Moneyball (2011)

Moneyball (2011)

QuickRating: Considering the fact that baseball is USA's most popular sport of all time, "Moneyball" is strictly for American audiences. Those who love baseball will find it inspiring, but those who don't really care about it won't be as thrilled. Despite the film's limited appeal, "Moneyball" is still an intelligent, amusing, touching and exceptionally well-crafted sports dramedy, with a charismatic, award-worthy central performance from Brad Pitt.

[7.00/10] The Devil's Double (2011)

The Devil's Double (2011)

QuickRating: Bold, frighteningly daring and disturbingly realistic, sometimes utterly cruel, but always compelling, "The Devil's Double" stuns with its dazzling production design, gold-toned cinematography, and Tamahori's spot-on direction, but above all, it showcases the undeniable acting talent of UK rising star, Dominic Cooper, who delivers one of the very best, most brilliantly convincing and sadly overlooked performances of the year.

[7.00/10] Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark (2011)

Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (2011)

Brief review: Are you afraid of the dark? You should be. And you will be, after you see Troy Nixey's effective and surprisingly scary remake of the 1973 ABC made-for-TV movie of the same name. There was something uniquely sinister about the original "Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark" movie, that the 2011 version is lacking, however, Nixey's recreation has its own strengths and moments of horror brilliance. Despite the predictability of the script and a couple of rushed scenes, the story is well-built and offers a descent amount of genuine scares and tension along the way, plus, the movie's taut direction and smooth pacing make it constantly entertaining from beginning to the end. With its ominous atmosphere, dark and gloomy settings, eerie sound effects and murky cinematography, this artfully-crafted little chiller will make your skin crawl. The hidden basement of the lavish old house is as creepy as it can get, the stunningly-designed little ancient demons are scary as hell, and the heavy emphasis on blacks and shadows suits the grim tone of the story. The darkly charming Bailee Madison is impressive as the uneasy, yet clever Sally, and both, Katie Holmes and Guy Pearce are very convincing, if slightly underwritten, as the busy renovators.

Overall summary: Although it's fairly predictable and lacks the haunting chills of the original, "Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark" is still an effective and visually-atmospheric horror remake, that delivers plenty of solid scares, good old-fashioned thrills and some truly creepy images.

[7.00/10] Melancholia (2011)

Melancholia (2011)

Brief review: Over the years, Danish film-maker Lars von Trier provoked our minds with many unusual film, and "Melancholia" is no exception. Basically, the movie is split up in two parts. The first part is called "Justine", which is the name of the main character, and it depicts the film's titular state. Kirsten Dunst delivers an award-worthy performance as the emotionally confused Justine, whose mood is a rollercoaster of ups and downs. The second part, called "Claire", is more about paranoia and frustration, and also the fictional part of the movie, which shows us the end of the world in a way we've never experienced before. Here, the main focus is on Charlotte Gainsbourg, and she does a terrific job in portraying her despaired character, Claire. "Melancholia" definitely lives up to its title - the mood of the movie is depressing and constantly melancholic. On one hand, that's understandable, since that's what the director intended, but on the other hand, it may become too tedious for some viewers. Shot in a 'handycam' style, "Melancholia" is weirdly artsy, visually. There are some truly stunning shots, especially in the beginning, that mesmerize with their bizarre beauty, but the overall tone of the film is intentionally dark and deeply gloomy.

Overall summary: Like all the other Trier films, "Melancholia" isn't everyone's cup of tea - it's as moody as its lead character, and as bizarre and pretentious as its creator, however, the film is wonderfully acted, and depicts self-destruction and depression beautifully.

[7.00/10] Evil Things (2011)

Evil Things (2011)

Brief review: Shot in 2009 and shown at a few festivals that same year, yet released widely in 2011, "Evil Things" is a (fake) evidence about the disappearance of 5 college students who has left NY on Jan 9, 2009 for a weekend in the country. "Evil Things" is not your typical 'found footage' flick dealing with ghosts, zombies or exorcism. It has a supernatural touch, but that touch is so subtle, you'll still believe every minute of it. It takes the POV sub-genre to another level, bringing slasher horror into it and using no gimmicks whatsoever. There are no cheap scares, and the movie gets more and more tense as the story unfolds. The second half is edge-of-your-seat chilling and often terrifying, without revealing too much to loose the viewer's interest. The plot may be simple, but due to the gripping script and Perez's steady direction, you'll find yourself glued to the screen, deeply involved and connected with the characters. Speaking of characters, those are likable and surprisingly plausible. The chemistry between the young actors is so strong, it feels like they all are real life friends and know each other since forever. Every single one of them deliver a solid, genuine and thoroughly believable performance, with Laurel Casillo and Elyssa Mersdorfbi being the standouts.

Overall summary: Silly title aside, "Evil Things" is an underrated POV slasher flick that shows a whole new different side of the 'found footage' horror sub-genre, and works thanks to its authentic originality and brilliantly believable characters, plus, it's super-tense and actually scary.

[7.00/10] Bad Teacher (2011)

Bad Teacher (2011)

QuickRating: Sexy, shamelessly naughty and laugh-out-loud hilarious, "Bad Teacher" is not only a breath of fresh air into the tired comedy genre, but also hands down the funniest movie of the year so far, thanks to Cameron Diaz's larky, yet alluring performance, the absolutely marvellous supporting cast, and last but not least - the smart and witty script full of clever jokes and amusingly awkward situations that bring tons of laughs.

[7.00/10] Doomsday (2008)

Doomsday (2008)

QuickRating: Neil Marshall's 2008 sci-fi action flick is nowhere nearly as astounding as his horror hit "The Descent", and it's lacking in creativity script-wise, however, with its constantly gripping plot, thrilling action and chase sequences, gloomy post-apocalyptic settings, and stunningly grim cinematography, "Doomsday" is pure popcorn entertainment at its best. Just turn your brain off, sit back, and enjoy the creepy ride...

[7.00/10] The Shrine (2011)

The Shrine (2011)

QuickRating: This Canadian horror film may be incompetently-acted and lacking in production values, but its clever story is surrounded by a mystery that keeps you guessing until the unexpectedly satisfying twist ending, plus, it offers lots of creepy and tense moments, atmospheric visuals, a couple of good scares and characters you can relate to. "The Shrine" is not just a nice little cinematic surprise, but one true gem of a horror movie.

[7.00/10] Unknown (2011)

Unknown (2011)

Brief review: After his underrated gem, "Orphan", Spanish director Jaume Collet-Serra brings us his latest thriller, aptly titled "Unknown". Set in Germany, it tells the story of Dr. Martin Harris, who awakens from a coma, only to discover that someone has taken on his identity, and now he sets out to prove who he is, with the help pf a young woman. As tense, as it's constantly gripping, "Unknown" offers plenty of thrills, twists and turns along the way, and it keeps you guessing until the very end. However, the movie is a bit too implausible to be taken seriously, and it suffers from a messy script and an outdated concept. The lack of originality is compensated by solid performances from the actors involved. Liam Neeson turns in a great and very believable performance as the confused doctor, who struggles to get his true identity back. Diane Krugerdazzles as the bold and fearless, yet loyal stranger, Gina, and she just steals the show every time she appears on the screen. The snowy backdrop of Berlin is 'cold', yet stunningly-atmospheric, and the stylish, bluish cinematography reflects the dark and mysterious mood of the film. Collet-Serra's direction is a bit muddled in places, yet competent enough, offering lots of dynamic camera movements and crisp editing.

Overall summary: With its intriguing premise, spot-on execution, and strong lead performances by Liam Neeson and Diane Kruger, "Unknown" is a tense, unpredictable and thoroughly engrossing thriller that delivers, despite its confusing narrative and lack of believability.

Numerous QuickRatings PART 5: 2010 Movies [3]

Primal (2010)

QuickRating: Although the Australian bush provides a beautiful backdrop for this oddly intriguing story, and the acting from the young Aussie cast is decent at best, the film itself is almost ruined by an incompetent execution, so-so directing and weak script, and though it succeeds in the gore department, "Primal" fails to deliver genuine scares.

My Rating: 5.00/10

Jackass 3D (2010)

QuickRating: Featuring the best slow-mo sequences since "Zombieland"'s opening scene, and numerous incredible stunts, as well as some gross and even scary ones, "Jackass 3D" is three times crazier than its predecessors, and just as funny and entertaining, even though it's hardly watchable at times. Just see it.. if you dare.

My Rating: 5.75/10

Welcome to the Rileys (2010)

QuickRating: Grim, yet somewhat uplifting, "Welcome to the Rileys", can't boast with excellent production values or skillful direction, but it offers and original and emotionally-gripping story, and it features Kristen Stewart's best performance to date, a great turn by James Gandolfini, and an absolutely amazing supporting performance from Melissa Leo.

My Rating: 6.50/10

Another Year (2010)

QuickRating: Thoughtful, poignant and astoundingly acted, if rather slow-moving and overly simplistic, "Another Year" may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it offers a realistic glimpse of everyday life with its ups and lows, and shows how you can easily create your own happiness, if you believe in yourself, and if you're dedicated to the people you love.

My Rating: 7.25/10

Numerous QuickRatings PART 1: Pre-2009 Movies

To Live (1994)

QuickRating: With its splendidly-executed and remarkably-realistic portrayal of one family's struggle during China's pre-revolutionary era, Zhang Yimou proves yet again that he's capable of turning a seemingly simplistic story into something so deeply-moving, heart-wrenching and emotionally-powerful, it may touch your heart and soul forever.

My Rating: 9.00/10

In My Skin (2002)

QuickRating: Although it deals with the disturbing subject matter of self-mutilation, "In My Skin" is neither as shocking nor as effective as it thinks it is, and its bleak, grinding atmosphere and obnoxious characters, make it an unpleasant and rather bizarre experience, that never fully manages to get under your skin, despite its graphicness.

My Rating: 4.50/10

Dawn of the Dead (2004)

[Director's Cut]

QuickRating: Thanks to its excitingly action-packed plot, compelling characters, eye-candy cinematography, top-notch special and practical effects, and stylized goriness, visionary director Snyder's debut feature, "Dawn of the Dead", ranks as one of one of the most most polished and accomplished horror remakes in cinematic history.

My Rating: 8.25/10


The Wrestler (2008)

QuickRating: Exceptionally well acted, yet rather unimpressive compared to Aronofsky's previous efforts, "The Wrestler" is a compelling if slightly overrated character-driven drama, that surely marks Mickey Rourke's comeback as a serious actor, and showcases director's talent, but the film itself is as flawed and inconsistent as its main character.

My Rating: 7.00/10

[7.00/10] Conviction (2010)

Conviction (2010)

Brief review: Based on the true story of Betty Anne Waters, an unemployed single mother who, with the help of attorney Barry Scheck, exonerated her wrongfully convicted brother, "Conviction" is an inspirational character-driven drama about loyalty, devotion, struggle and courage, that shows how even situations that seem hopeless are not always lost. However, "Conviction" is all about the performances. Hilary Swank, one of the finest actresses working today, delivers a powerful and extremely convincing performance as the determined and fierce Betty, devoted to her unjustly accused brother. Sam Rockwell also gives an astounding performance as the troubled rebel, Kenny Waters. Minnie Driver also shines as Betty's best friend, Abra, and though her screen time is very limited, she's an absolute joy to watch. Though, "Conviction" has this made-for-TV feel about it, it looks slick enough, visually. The muted, yet saturated color palette represents the 80's era well, and suits the tough and dramatic subject matter of the film. Tony Goldwyn's direction is competent, if unremarkable, and the simplicity of the story is compensated by a clever structure and a smooth editing.

Overall summary: Though traditional and often predictable, "Conviction" is a solid, emotionally-charged and brilliantly-acted drama, that inspires as well as entertains.

[7.00/10] Megamind (2010)

Megamind (2010)

Brief review: Though it borrows an idea or two from other animated features, "Megamind" does the best it can, with its somewhat original antagonist-turned-protagonist premise, to provide us with an amusing, smart and consistently gripping story of a misfortuned, blue-skinned supervillain, who has the reputation of an 'evil mastermind'. Megamind himself has to be one of the most likable villains ever put on film, as he's not only uniquely-charming, but also very smart, creative and emotional anti-superhero, that will steal every viewer's heart. However, it's the delightfully adorable best friend of MM, Minion, that outshines everyone else, with his quirky look and admirable loyalty and devotion to Megamind. Tina Fey's Roxanne, though naive, is a true force of nature. The egocentric Metro Man, voiced by Brad Bitt, while a bit annoying, is somewhat attractive. Even if, animation-wise, it doesn't look as polished as some of the other animated features released this year, "Megamind" is quite strong, visually. While not exactly striking, the animation is vivid, bright, and extremely detailed, and the palette is rich in color and texture. Since, I saw the 2D version of "Megamind", I can't comment on the 3D effects, but even in 2D, it is effective enough.

Overall summary: It's no "The Incredibles", but Dreamworks' "Megamind" is a clever twist on the superhero genre, that offers plenty of stupendous action sequences, chatty, colorful characters and some solid, if unspectacular visuals.

[7.00/10] Tomorrow, When the War Began (2010)

Tomorrow, When the War Began (2010)

Brief review: Based on the John Marsden's novel of the same name, this nicely-crafted Aussie flick provides us with a highly-adventurous experience, filled with plenty of action, likable characters and many surprises along the way. "Tomorrow, When the War Began" is basically a 'war' movie, but the war itself is presented in a very, very different fashion, and though fictional, the story is utterly disturbing, even shocking at times. Plus, it has this comic book feel about it, that makes it even more enjoyable to watch. The cast of largely unknown young Aussie actors does a very good job overall. Caitlin Stasey's character, Ellie, is the center of attention and she turns in a very genuine and convincing performance. Stasey does manage to successfully carry almost the entire movie on her shoulders, and she deserves a kudos for that. The other actors also give solid performances, though their characters are pretty underwritten. Action-wise, there's nothing overdone about this movie, as the action sequences themselves are brilliantly-staged, thoroughly realistic and quite exciting to watch. The film also impresses with competent direction, excellent editing and some really striking scenery, especially the one from the "Hell" valley.

Overall summary: Action-packed, thrilling and hugely entertaining, "Tomorrow, When the War Began" is one of the better Aussie flicks of 2010, and almost like nothing you've seen before.

[7.00/10] Secretariat (2010)

Secretariat (2010)

Brief review: Latest live-action Disney film, chronicles the life of Secretariat, the 1973 race horse winner of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Though it doesn't shine with much originality or with very imaginative script, "Secretariat" is an inspirational and very uplifting story, that represents life with its ups and downs, highs and lows, alternating dramatic scenes with some stirring and hilarious ones, without any unnecessary exaggeration. Moreover, the film is consistently gripping, cleverly-written, and it features plenty of likable characters, excellently-performed by the talented cast involved. Diane Lane delivers an engaging and thoroughly charismatic performance as the bold and determined Penny Chenery, who is the key character in the movie. However, it's John Malkovich that steals the show as the temperamental horse trainer. Oh, and the 'red' stallion itself looks nothing short of glorious! "Secretariat" is nicely-shot, and it looks very fresh and appealing, visually, in an old-fashioned sort of way. The production design is excellent, and golden tint of the cinematography not only pleases the eye, but fits perfectly the uplifting mood of the movie, as well as the imagery of the 70's era.

Overall summary: Quite predictable, yet exciting, thoroughly entertaining and hugely enjoyable, "Secretariat" is a true crowd-pleaser, and probably the most feel-good movie of the year.