Not something a lot of people would typically classify as a film.  More of an art project, but what an emotional trip it is.  There is nothing that unifies yet separates humanity more than our day-to-day lives.  Through user-submitted footage, this film manages to show you the similarities and differences until you are left with no choice but being shaken.

Rating: 8/10

I’ve really developed dislike for Tom Cruise over the past few years, but putting that aside, this was actually a pretty solid movie. The plot is a bit generic but there are enough twists and turns to keep you going. What actually made me like the movie were the action sequences. It’s been a while since I’ve seen some well thought out action sequences instead of just camera tricks and cinematography to make them seem more incredible. There are a number of cringe-worthy scenes (especially if you had a fear of heights when you were growing up). And, as usual, Simon Pegg is hilarious.

Rating: 8/10

A well-rounded, even documentary that provides the viewer with some insight to how people sometimes spawn dissension from what seems like nothing. There’s nothing mindblowing here, but it’s definitely an interesting watch, even if you’re not a fan. You just might have a bit more appreciation for the contributions of the group to hip hop if you are.

Rating: 8/10

For any piece of work to become a classic, it has to tackle themes and ideas that transcend time. And it has to do this in a way that can be understood/related to by anyone. The Breakfast Club is about a group of seemingly small-minded teenagers stuck in detention, who then proceed to discover ideas way beyond their level of education. At it’s core, The Breakfast Club is a movie about friendship and the pains of growing up. However, it expands into something much much greater. It presents this idea that we are quick to categorize and label people instead of attempting to truly understand who they are. If we believe that we have never shared the same fears or challenges as them, then we simply lob on the first idea of “their type” that is presented to us. We never take the time to understand what make them tick, and prefer to just assume that we know. We forget that we are all human. And while we can only really relate to someone else insofar as our experiences go, it is possible that their experiences are comparable to ours. It is humorous and well-written and, of course, emotional. 

Rating: 9/10

The Lookout is Memento done more as a character study.  While the plot is mildly predictable, the film functions as an interesting insight into the life of Chris Pratt, and the things that he struggles with on a daily basis.  Some not-so-great decisions lead to some not-so-great consequences, that he must deal with for the rest of his life.  Gordon-Levitt is great, as usual, at hinting at the deeper struggles of his character.  The film is smart and thrilling, and just plain enjoyable.

Rating: 7/10

A complex movie and a complex character to spread some light on a complex world. The old-school narration style works wonders with such excellent writing.  One of Scorcese’s deepest, strongest films.  Everything from the script to the camera work to the soundtrack weaves an almost flawless final cut.  Truly classic.

Rating: 10/10

So instead of just posting randomness, I’m mostly gonna use this to post short movie reviews from now on since RT is being glitchy.

As much as I love Norse mythology, I have to say that this one was disappointing.  It benefits from the performances of it’s cast, and the sheer awesomeness of the myths of Asgard and the Nine Realms.  But I find it too predictable and too shallow for my liking.

The visuals for Asgard were phenomenal and I found some of the shots of the realm breathtaking, but some of the other aspects of the movie (such as costumes) seemed a bit cheap and low budget, which is unexpected from Marvel, who definitely have more than enough money to fund for properly designed costumes.

Rating: 5/10

I’ll warn you now, this is not your typical movie, in more ways than one.  It’s not everyday that someone attempts to explain all of existence in a mere two hours and eighteen minutes of film.  If you are patient and open-minded, you’re in for a real treat.  And even if you wind up disliking the film, I hope that you can at least appreciate Malick’s ambition.

Rating: 10/10