Friday, January 2, 2015

Back to the Future [A Fat Jesus Trilogy Review]


I honestly have no clue why, but I woke up New Years Day thinking about trilogies. How the age old tradition in the film industry is to take a good films and ideas, and tap them dry, whether the subsequent films are good or not. Of course not all film series are like this at all. So, I rounded up a bunch of the best trilogies (and the ones I just plain enjoy) and I've decided to go through them and watch them at my leisure. Since it is the New Years, with the hope of our future year fresh on minds, I figured why not start the year watching one of the best trilogies of all time dealing with the future..and the past and the present and everything in between. I've seen 'Back to the Future' growing up, but I've never properly watched it (and the rest of the trilogy) as a whole. I must say, it has been a pleasure going through these three films today and I'm blown away at how well they hold up to a viewing still.

'Back to the Future' follows the story of Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) as a teenager growing up in Hill Valley, California in 1985. He is an aspiring musician and is dating a girl, Jennifer Parker. His father and mother are less ambitious. One night, Marty meets is scientist friend, Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd), in the parking lot of a mall. Doc unveils a time machine to Marty which is modified into a DeLorian. He tells Marty that time travel is possible thanks to his invention, The Flux Capacitor. The Flux Capacitor is powered by plutonium that he swindled off of Libyan terrorists. The machine works once you get the DeLorian up to 88 miles per hour, transporting you to whatever time and date you have input. Trouble erupts when the Libyans come back for the stolen plutonium, Doc is shot and Marty takes the car and travels back to 1955 by mistake. In 1955 Marty accidentally changes the course of his families history by saving his father from being hit by a car. Causing his mother to become infatuated with him. Now Marty and Doc must find a way to get Marty back to the future while keeping the future they both know, intact.

'Back to the Future Part II' picks up after the events of the first film, with Marty about to take Jennifer to the lake in his pick-up truck, back in 1985. Doc rides up in the DeLorian and informs the two that he needs them, as in the future (2015 to be precise), their kids are in big trouble. Marty and Doc must team up in the 2015 and, once again, go back to 1955 in order to right all the mayhem they always seem to cause when they use the DeLorian.

'Back to the Future Part III' begins, once again, right where the end of the second film leaves off. Marty, who is still in 1955, receives a letter from Doc, who is stuck in 1885. Informing him that he is okay and the location of the DeLorian, which is in need of some repairs. He also tells Marty not to come back and save him. After repairing the DeLorian, Marty spots a tombstone with Doc's name on it dated a week after he sent the letter. Marty ignores Doc's wishes and travels back in time to save him, before he is killed by an outlaw with an all too familiar face.

'Back to the Future' was the best film of the three. While all three are fantastic, the first film holds the best overall feel and charm to it. The story is expertly crafted, the action is fun, the romance feels genuine, the music and score is nearly iconic and the humor is top notch. Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd are a highly charismatic duo throughout the series You can really see how well they work off of each other, even in the first film. It's one of the best films you'll ever see. What makes it even better, is that it gives you incentive to watch the second part, rather than just watching it because it is the second part. 'Back to the Future Part II' is probably the weakest of the three films, but that doesn't make it any less good. The future world crafted may be a little too mundane and over-saturated with fax machines, as we're currently living in the 2015 they traveled to, but it's fun to see what we all hoped we could be now. Hover-cars (and boards), full body holograms and bio-genetic touch controlling everything we use (that's not too far of). The story is less humor and more science. As the second film focus' on Doc and Marty trying to avoid themselves, to not break the present, while fixing the alternate present, that they caused by going into the future. Kinda confusing right? Doc explains it way better than me. The same elements are there, but it just doesn't feel completely like the first or third installments. While it's a great film in it's own right, it doesn't have quite the fun and charm of the first film. 'Back to the Future Part III' is a great end to this series and takes it to a place no explored by the first two films. The past. Doc is stuck in 1885 Wild West Hill Valley and it's quite a change of scenery. I say that, because it really is. 1955, 1985 and even 2015 Hill Valley are pretty distinct and seem familiar and accessible. But, 1885 Hill Valley it truly becomes a western. With this film comes back a lot of the charm the first film had. There's humor and one-liners again, the science is still there, but toned down, and a romantic element sorely missing from the second film is re introduced again. Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd are completely settled in as Marty and Doc by this point. Familiar faces abound in this lively western town, while the story remains pretty much the same as the first two films. This is probably the best designed of the films, as I thought that Wild West Hill Valley and the sweeping shots it brought with it, were awesome. What puts this ahead of the second film is the ending. Which is hard to pull off a times in a trilogy of films. It made your heart feel warm, it made sense (for the most part) and most of all, it put a smile on your face. Here's hoping to that Chicago Cubs World Series win too.

The 'Back to the Future' trilogy is a must watch for anyone, as it's one of the best sci-fi, comedy, romance, western, you name it, series ever put on film. While the sub genre may change, the sci-fi element stays true throughout each film. The comedy, action, romance are kinda iffy in spots, but you're not gonna find me complaining. Same goes with the actual science and plot-holes that are here and there. Not to mention the music and score throughout each film is a pleasure to listen to. Robert Zemeckis, who directed all three films, did a fantastic job with each film and deserves praise for this awesome trio of films. Same goes for executive producer Steven Spielberg. Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd as Marty and Doc, may be one of the most iconic duos in film history. Both shine in each film and drive the stories that span the trilogy. The acting support from Thomas F. Wilson, Lea Thompson, Claudia Wells, Elizabeth Shue and Mary Steenburgen, is more than adequate and helps lend to the talents of Fox and Lloyd. 'Back to the Future' is a film series you can sit down and watch in a day, that you won't feel bad about. Each film is so good, you're never not happy about viewing it. Great Scott, indeed!


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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Boyhood [A Fat Jesus Quick Hit]


Richard Linklater has simply made such a brilliant film in 'Boyhood.' When you look at his repertoire, you see alright films like 'Dazed and Confisued' and 'School of Rock.' You also see critically acclaimed films such as his 'Before...' series. 'Boyhood' is on another level compared to all his previous work and may be the best thing he will ever be apart of. Filmed over a 12 year stretch, with the same actors, Linklater has crafted a film that's as fantastic as it is ambitious.

'Boyhood' follows the story of Mason Evans Jr. (Ellar Coltrane), and to a lesser extent his older sister Samantha (Lorelei Linklater), their mother, Olivia (Patricia Arquette) and on some weekend visits, their father, Mason Sr. (Ethan Hawke). We meet Mason when he is six years old living in Texas. The family moves to Houston so that Olivia can complete graduate studies and get a job. Around that time, Mason Sr. takes the kids bowling and vows to spend more time with them going forward. Thus begins the journey of growing up, experiencing life and all the emotions, twists and turns that comes with it.

This is a film that's kind of hard to review, because I don't want to give anything away for those who haven't seen it yet. There's spoiling story, but there's also spoiling an experience someone could have watching a film. The story is engrossing and grand. You're not just watching the story of Mason Evans Jr. growing up, you're growing up with Mason Evans Jr. Played fantastically throughout, even as a younger child, by Ellar Coltrane. The support from Lorelei Linklater and Patricia Arquette is perfect. The scenes with Ethan Hawke are fantastic too and really capture the way a father bonds with his kids. The emotion that 'Boyhood' evokes is nothing short of astounding. The laughs are there, the seriousness wells up and heartbreaking moments hit you hard. The cinematography displayed throughout is a driving point of this for me. The sweeping landscapes of rural Texas, the bustling city shots or even just a creek in which they're fishing. Everything is just beautiful to look at throughout this film. The way that 'Boyhood' was made is also a pretty monumental thing, that has never really been done before. Taking 12 years to film a movie, so that you can use the same actors as they grow up. That way the audience can really connect and invest in them is a pretty genius, and one of a kind way, of making a film. There also wasn't a set script throughout this film. Linklater had a basic outline and the ending ready, but chose to incorporate real life experiences of the actors into the film itself, giving it even more of that authentic feel you feel while watching.

This review isn't as encompassing as what I would normally do, but rest assured, 'Boyhood' is truly one of the best films of 2014. It's garnered universal acclaim from all outlets and rightfully so. Richard Linklater's ambitious dream finally came to fruition after 12 years of filming. The phenomenal story of a boy and his family growing up, living life, going through triumphs and hardships. Ellar Coltrane, Lorelei Linklater, Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke are outstanding throughout. It's one of the best films you'll see all year and probably this decade. 'Boyhood' deserves any and all awards it wins in the coming months.


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Tuesday, December 30, 2014

The Tale of the Princess Kaguya [A Fat Jesus Quick Hit]


I finally got to see 'The Wind Rises' after awards season earlier this year and it was a nice movie. So I was very excited to get to see 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' before the awards season of 2014 officially began. Studio Ghibli is probably my favorite animation company, right up there with Pixar, even though that's pretty cliche to say at this point. Don't get me wrong, I love Pixar (and Disney Animation, too), but Studio Ghibli films always hit me right in the emotional gut. Couple that with the always beautiful style, fantastic music and highly original storytelling. 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' ranks up there with the best Ghibli has to offer.

'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' follows the story of Kaguya-hime (Aki Asakura). One day, Okina (Takeo Chii), a bamboo cutter, finds a miniature girl inside of a bamboo shoot. He takes her home to his wife Ona (Nobuko Miyamoto) and they decide to raise the girl. They also decide to name her, "Princess." Princess grows at an exponential rate and makes friends who begin to call her "Little Bamboo." One of the kids, Sutemaru (Kengo Kora), develops a close relationship with Princess. One day Okina finds gold and fine cloth in the bamboo and takes it to be a sign of Princess' royalty. Okina begins to build her a palace in the capital, and soon Princess' days living in the mountains come to an end. Princess finds herself now living in a lavish palace and being groomed into a true princess. She has even been given a proper name, Princess Kaguya, because of the light that radiates from her. During the after-party (so to speak) of her naming ceremony, she overhears guests unkind words towards her. This sends Kaguya into a despair as she begins to search for why she is here on earth.

From the get go, the art style 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' gets you immersed in the world. The hand drawn style that Studio Ghibli brings to this Japanese folktale is truly outstanding. The world and people are beautifully drawn. The backdrops of the mountains or palace are filled vibrant colors that perfectly accent what is going on in a given scene. This is probably my favorite Studio Ghibli film yet, from a purely artistic standpoint. The voice-over work is top notch too, especially Aki Asakura, the voice of Princess Kaguya. I'm not one to ever really complain about voicing in an animated feature, but when Studio Ghibli hires actors to voice roles, it's always spot on. The adaptation of the Japanese folktale, 'Tale of the Bamboo Cutter' was outstanding as well. It's sluggish at times because of the runtime, that's well over two hours, but that doesn't make any less mesmerizing. The last 20 minutes or so of this film is one of the best conclusions to a Ghibli film ever. The strong conclusion propels this film into becoming a near perfect one. The emotion 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' brings to the table is astounding as well. You'll feel joy and happiness. You'll laugh at times, while at other times you'll be hit with overwhelming sadness. All this is done expertly, as you will see it in the animation as well as feel inside of you. The music and score are also utterly beautiful, furthering the emotional tones of the film. The koto, predominately used throughout the score, is simply beautiful. Combine that with the completely authentic sounding music laced throughout, the beautiful singing from Aki Asakura and Kazumi Nikaido, and this may well be my favorite sounding Ghibli film to date.

'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' is the best animated film of 2014. Yes, I get that this was released last year in Japan, but we're just getting it in North America now. This is also Studio Ghibli's best film since 'Spirited Away' (in my humble opinion, if that means anything). In his first film since 'My Neighbors the Yamadas' in 1999, Isao Takahata, has got to have made Mr. Hayao Miyazaki himself proud. 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' is truly the complete animated film. The beautiful and vibrant (hand drawn) animation, the perfect score and music, combined with the outstanding folklore adaption, ads up to one of the best films you'll see this year.


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Sunday, December 28, 2014

Foxcatcher [A Fat Jesus Quick Hit]


With Steve Carell and Channing Tatum as leads, you'd expect this to be a comedy through and through. Steve Carell has always been a top-tier Hollywood funny man. While over the past few years Channing Tatum has proven he's got some of the best comedic timing in the business. You would be quite wrong in this assumption though, as 'Foxcatcher' may be one of the darkest bio-pics I've ever watched. Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, alongside Mark Ruffalo and director Bennett Miller ('Capote' and 'Moneyball'), have made one of the better films to come out this year.

'Foxcatcher' follows the story of Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum) in the years following his gold medal win at the 1984 Olympics, alongside his brother, Dave (Mark Ruffalo), who also won a gold medal, both in wrestling events. Mark is training for the 1987 World Championships, when he receives a call one day from John du Pont (Steve Carell), millionaire owner of a chemical company. du Pont offers Mark a chance to train with him for Worlds (and subsequently the 1988 Olympics in Seoul) and make some money that he desperately needs. Mark jumps at the chance, but Dave (who was also invited) turns down the opportunity. Eventually, the two need Dave's training more than ever, as both men are spiraling. Culminating in one of the most horrific tragedies that no one ever saw coming. 

This is one of the slowest and most chilling films I've ever watched. I haven't felt quite so uncomfortable watching something, as I did during some of the scenes in 'Foxcatcher.' This is a heavy film, laced with the struggles over personal demons and the way money and not being accepted, really can corrupt someone. Steve Carell's most sombering role yet, isn't at all deterred by his make-up and cosmetic effects. They actually look really good. Carell gives a fantastic, yet borderline disturbing, performance as John du Pont. The slow roll is in full effect as you start to put two and two together throughout this film. This bio-pic and thriller, will make you gasp, if you let it suck you in and stay with it. Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo as The Schultz Brothers are quite fantastic in their own right. Tatum and Carell's scenes are powerful, dark and even filled with dread at times. When Ruffalo is in the mix, you get an odd air of hope mixed in to everything going on. The emotions in this are off the charts and the three leads convey it all expertly. The film is shot beautifully. Sweeping shots of the home and landscapes look great. The sets and overall look of the film is great as well. The dark tones throughout never make anything seem too happy. Even the training scenes in a brightly colored and vibrant facility, seem dull and lifeless, almost like a boot camp. The sets, houses and landscapes are done remarkably well. The score adds to all this, as the piano pieces they use throughout bring a constant sense of anxiety. All of this may seem like I'm taking this in as a horror film, in a sense it could be, but the feel of 'Foxcatcher' was never really happy-go-lucky in the slightest. 'Foxcatcher' is a long watch to boot, clocking in at just under two hours.

There's a lot of drag at times in this film, that's the main reason I couldn't get all the way behind it. It just feels like a ton of the scenes go on for too long. That always hurts films in my book. Otherwise, 'Foxcatcher' is one of the darkest, and best, that 2014 has to offer. The story of this bio-pic thriller is top notch, the acting between Steve Carell, Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo is outstanding, while the overall quality of the film is superb. 'Foxcatcher' is an uncomfortably great film that you should really give a chance.


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Thursday, December 25, 2014

The Interview [A Fat Jesus Film Review]


Boy, this film has sure sent everyone into a tizzy. The latest Seth Rogen and James Franco team-up has been one of the most publicized film releases in recent memory. Sony Pictures have been pretty heavily hacked the past couple of months. With films being leaked onto the internet and personal emails being disclosed. About a week ago, December 16th, hackers (now presumed to be from North Korea) sent Sony a threatening message to not show 'The Interview.' A day later, Sony cancelled the NYC Premiere and major theater chains (like AMC) across the US pulled the film from their Christmas Day release. This effectively killed any hope of the film releasing. This caused a backlash from media, theater owners and even The White House. In the days following all this hubbub, it was reported that Sony was looking for other ways to release 'The Interview.' These (presumed sites) included online streaming services like Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube. A few days ago, on December 23rd, Sony announced that 'The Interview' would have a limited theater release on Christmas Day. Then yesterday morning, it broke that Sony would also be releasing 'The Interview' online, for everyone, via Google Play, X-Box Video and YouTube. The film went live at 1PM (Eastern Standard Time) yesterday and 'The Interview' is now available for the masses.

'The Interview' follows the story of Dave Skylark and Aaron Rapoport (James Franco and Seth Rogen). Dave Skylark hosts a late night talk show in which he interviews celebrities about controversial topics. Aaron Rapoport is the producer for the show. Shortly after their 1,000th episode, Dave finds out that North Korean dictator, Kim Jong-un (Randall Park), is a big fan of the show. Aaron travels to China to arrange an interview with Jong-un's people. The interview is confirmed by Sook (Diana Bang) one of Un's right hand women. After Dave finds out he will be interviewing Kim, they have a giant party at his house. Upon waking up the next day, Dave and Aaron are approached by CIA Agent Lacey (Lizzy Caplan). She informs them that the US wants them to assassinate Kim Jong-un, so that change may finally start to come about in North Korea. Dave and Aaron reluctantly agree and begin to prepare for their trip to North Korea, where Dave and Aaron will attempt to assassinate one of the most dangerous men in the world.

This films hype reached critical mass in recent weeks with all of the news surrounding it coming out day after day. Some will argue that this is an important moment in the history of film. Where free speech prevailed. Some will likely say that "North Korea was right, maybe we should have just left it on the shelf." It wasn't the best team up between Rogen, Franco and (writer) Evan Goldberg. I think it was bigger for one reason, the (nearly) simultaneous release of a major film on video on demand and in theaters. I get that films that get a video on demand release, simply don't make the money that ones that are released to theaters make. But, it makes sense, for studios to at least consider the possibility of going forward with an idea like this. Major studio films are going to be seen in theaters, there's no stopping that. People still want to experience films on the big screen. If you also add a VoD release along side of a nation-wide schedule, you not only reach more people, but you get even more exposure for your product. I'll be honest here, if you're not a fan of the Seth Rogen and James Franco's brand of comedy, you're gonna have a hard time liking this film. This is the type of comedy that relies heavily on Rogen and Franco playing off of each other. One liners all over the place, raunchy and sexual jokes and over the top nonsense throughout. I loved every minute of it too. I get that the story is iffy at best, and probably out of taste in more than a few places. I get that the violence, especially towards the end of the film, is kind of unnecessary. I also get that this may be the film that starts World War III. But watching this with a group of friends and just laughing, made watching this on Christmas Eve all the more worth it. People get caught up on whether a film's good or bad too easily, including myself. With 'The Interview' you need to go in, turn your brain off and enjoy it. The laughs are plentiful and the running jokes they do throughout hit well. The acting is pretty okay. Seth Rogen and James Franco are who you expect them to be. The performances by Randall Park and Diana Bang were also pretty good. Randall Park shines as Kim Jong-un. The CGI and action are done well too, albeit way over the top. The film is about two hours, but if you're into it, you're not counting the minutes until it's over. The music is okay and probably has the best use of Katy Perry's "Firework" you're ever gonna hear.

'The Interview' is far from a perfect film, despite the rating you may see on iMDB. The story is iffy and borderline out of taste, the gratuitous violence near the end is also a bit out of place and it's not the best Rogen and Franco team-up. Nevertheless, this film is one that I quite enjoyed. There's plenty of laughs to be had throughout and that's what you should be watching a comedy film for in the end. Rogen and Franco's chemistry is amazing, and the amount of stupidly hilarious things they come up with, that I'll laugh at, is awesome. 'The Interview' isn't the best comedy of the year, but as it turns out, may be one of the most important films to be released this year.


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