Inside the Head of a TV Junkie

This post is done in response to one written by [Mike].  He has decided to post the top 100 films of all time for 2008 (according to the AFI) and has the goal of watching all 100 by the end of 2008.  I am also going to list the 100 films and bold the ones that I’ve seen.  As of this posting date, I’ve seen 40 out of the 100.   To view the list and see how I’ve progressed so far, click the more link below.
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Here is one of the newer posters for the next installment of Batman.  Creepy.

Cloverfield is probably one of the most anticipated movies of early 2008.  Ever since the teaser trailer came out with Transformers and didn’t show much, people have been talking about it.  First, if you are susceptible to motion sickness, stay away from this movie.  It’s completely filmed like a home movie.  It’s very shaky but that’s one element that makes this film so good.

 

The good:  Excellent story telling, perfect use of suspense and the "unknown" factor, interesting and effective use of a handheld camera and using lesser know actors was the correct move for this film.

 

The bad: Storyline issues and unbelievable or impossible plot points (of things that should be completely believable/possible).

 

As you can see, not many bad things to mention about this film.  Of course, it’s not a deep or thoughtful piece, but it definitely entertains.  The movie is played as though the audience is watching the playback of film from the handheld camera.  There is no background story.  There is no explanation of what happens next.  I am okay with that since there is no real need for the audience to know.  My friend Erin mentioned she saw a review somewhere on the web that said "think Godzilla meets The Blair Witch Project."  Perfect way to describe how this film works.

 

If you don’t get motion sick, see this movie in the theater.

yes, the poster is supposed to be that dark! it’s kick ass! comments? (nothing rude, e.k.m.)

This movie is a bit confusing! I mean, it’s hard for me to explain the movie without giving away too much. Let’s see what I can do…

In the beginning of this movie, you get a really good idea of what you think it’s all going to be about… but you’ll be wrong. There is no way to figure this movie out before the end is shown… seriously! It’s a good thing. I love movies that seem like you’ve figured them all out and then you’re completely wrong. There are parts of this movie that will really confuse you though and I’m not sure if it ‘s a mistake or if that’s the way the movie was meant to be. If you go and see this film, let me know so we can discuss more. There are inconsistances (at least I think there are) that need explaining… and I NEED someone to talk to about it!

Ok, that’s all for now. I say go and see it in the theater, it’s pretty damn good.

This movie is entertaining, beautifully done… but is it the best movie ever made? NO. Do I recommend you see it in the theater, YES. You’ll most likely enjoy the movie if you are an action fan… even a history buff could find it interesting. Other than that, it’s just a film to see. It’s not deep. There are no hidden meanings. Seeing this movie will not make you a better person. That being said, you decide if it’s the movie for you.

This movie was good. It wasn’t boring. It kept my attention for the most part. The director does a great job of showing how someone can become consumed by something. He does it without making it seem fake or even making the movie feel as though it completely revolves around the characters obsession. The movie starts out very well, it grabs your attention right from the beginning. Towards the end is where it starts to fall apart. It’s about 25 to 30 mins too long. They could shave it to about a 2 hour movie and it would have been perfect. Anyway, if you can get to see the movie for under $10, go for it. Otherwise, I’d wait until it comes out on DVD.It would be a crime for me not to mention that this is one of the best performances done by Jake Gyllenhaal. Maybe you should see it just for that? Hmmm.

Time to watch some TV now. Until later people!

This movie is great. It’s about the Irish Civil War in the early 20th Century. I’m very interested in Irish history and this is another excellent film that shows the perspective of the struggle from yet another side, the common man. The movie begins very innocently, showing daily Irish life with a game of Hurling between friends. You’re quickly thrown back into what this movie is all about… the Irish struggle for independence from Great Britain. Honestly, this film has one of the saddest endings I’ve seen in a long time. To give away the ending wouldn’t be doing this film justice, so if you want to know how it ends up, you must rent it. It’s hard to go into more detail as this movie is one of those that is not easily explained. Let me know if you have any trouble finding a copy to watch. Oh yeah, and it may take some time to get used to the accents as they are somewhat thick. I suggest turning on subtitles for the very beginning until you get used to the accents.

If you have seen this movie, please comment about it. I’d love to hear your thoughts.