Film Gurl

“Everyone gets old. Not everyone grows up.”

- Young Adult

When I first saw the trailer to this film, it looked like a fun type of movie to see. So, I decided to check it out. I’m glad I did.

(Note: Before I go into the review, I will say that I really enjoy watching Charlize Theron on screen – she’s a very talented actress. In fact, I just recently saw another film she played in which she had a very strong performance and powerful role).

In any case, this film starts out very unconventional – it’s not your typical Hollywood type of movie. In actuality, it’s set more like an indie of film. The opening of the movie is not very fancy though it’s very honest. And, to be frank – that’s what I liked about it.

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, I was a bit surprised to see the opening credits and music play a bit after the film had started. Though, I did appreciate the honesty and realism depicted).

At the heart of it, this film is about growing up. It seems to be a “midlife crisis” type of movie where the main character, Mavis Gary (played by Charlize Theron), begins to reflect on her current life in search of her purpose. And, in doing so – she soon realizes the emptiness she’s feeling is due to the lack of purpose and meaning in her life.

So, she sets a course to find the answers by re-visiting her childhood town. In doing so, she begins to see all that she has missed out being away all these years. She starts comparing herself to others including her childhood friends which makes her feel more miserable.

As the days go by, she begins to see all that is missing in her life. And, she only sees that which she does not have which everyone else around her does. This results in causing her to go spiraling down as the film progresses causing her to finally hit rock bottom.

Though, after a series of mishaps and conversations with others who see the good in her and what she has accomplished – she slowly begins to realize all is not lost in the world. In a sense, the film really has a very positive spin on things even though her journey led her through many hardships she didn’t want to see.

(Note: Going into the film, I did read a few reviews citing it was a very dark movie. Though, after seeing it – I beg to disagree. It was actually a very enlightening picture which really makes you want to think about your own life and the meaning it has had for you so far).

At it’s core, this movie is really about growing up and realizing what life is all about. Though, before you can do this – you have to be a grown up yourself. And, that is the ironic part as some of her actions and behavior were a bit childish. In a sense, Mavis Gary was still a “young adult” until she grew up and realized her faults.

Overall, I really enjoyed the film. What I like about Charlize Theron is that she can play very different roles. At times, she can be very dramatic starring in more serious types of movies. On the other hand, she can also play more comedic roles being very funny and entertaining to watch, such as the case in this film.

If you’re looking for a very honest and entertaining film that explores the issues of the meaning of life and finding purpose, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, it would be great to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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“What is hidden in snow. Comes forth in the thaw.”

- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Over the holidays, I was able to check this film out based on the book. And, let me just say – it was definitely worth it.

Going into the movie, I already knew the storyline as I had seen the original Swedish film. Here is a shot of the film poster which looks pretty cool:

(Note: The translation on the poster reads “Men Who Hate Women” – a main theme in the film).

With that being said, I’m very glad to have seen the original Swedish adaptation before seeing this American version. Why?

There are things that were more subtle in the original film that gave me an appreciation for the director’s style and tone. And, comparing that here to David Fincher’s work really gave me a new perspective. All in all, I would say the storyline and its characters remained the same in both films – it was just the subtle differences in interpretation and presentation that gave each film its unique identity.

To be honest, there were a couple small details that I didn’t quite understand in the Swedish film (maybe subject to interpretation) that came out in the American version. Though, having seen both films really gave me a higher appreciation for the different styles among the two directors.

As for the book itself, I have not had a chance to read it. And, I wonder how it compares to both films.

(Note: For those who have read the book, it would be great to hear your thoughts on how it compares to the films).

Getting back to the movie, this is really one for those who have an appreciation for thriller and mystery type of films. And, I’ll be totally frank – this movie is not for everyone. There are some shocking and “in your face” type moments which may not be well received for the faint of heart – this is definitely not one for the kids.

(Note: For those who have not seen the films or read the book, I’m not going to go much into detail with the storyline as I don’t want to ruin it for you. Though, I will say – it’s best suited for those who enjoy the mystery and thriller type of genre).

Though, if you do enjoy a good mystery thriller – I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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From time to time, I get into a political thriller type of mood. And, let me just say – this was one of those times. So, I decided to check this film out.

Now, I’ll be honest – this is not my typical type of film. Though, since the mood struck me – I went into the film wanting to watch it. For those who may not be political thriller type of film buffs, this may not be the film for you.

With that being said, I will say – I did enjoy the movie. Though, some reviewers thought the film to be too slow – I did not feel that way. Sure, it’s definitely not a very action oriented type of movie. But, I did not find myself bored with the script or the storyline – it kept my attention throughout.

As for the story, I don’t think it was very original but it did compel some good performances. Ryan Gosling plays the typical young idealist, Junior Campaign Manager Stephen Meyers, who was intent on walking behind the footsteps of Governor Mike Morris, played by George Clooney.

Meyers believes in Morris and his cause. To him, he’s a hero and one to be trusted. However, as in many cases – we soon find out that Morris is not who he appears to be. And, that is devastating to Meyers.

Basically, this is a movie about the game of politics and how it can affect an idealist who comes to realize what is real and what is not. And, in so many cases – the truth can hurt.

But, at the end of the day the question remains – how do you handle the truth? Do you abandon your beliefs and walk away? Or, do you face up to the truth and take matters into your own hands? That is the dilemma Meyers is left with. And, the outcome was quite surprising.

(Note: I won’t ruin it for those who have not seen the film but I will say there were a few actions Meyers did that surprised me).

Overall, I enjoyed the film. Though, I will say – it’s one of those movies to enjoy when the mood strikes you. If you’re in the mood for a political thriller type of film, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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Since it’s Indie Movie Monday (#IndieMM), I thought I’d share with you this indie film, “Determinsm,” by indie filmmakers/directors/writers Sanjit Majumdar and Ranju Majumdar, who just made the film available to us all. (thank you!)

(Note: For those who missed it, feel free to check out my review on the film made awhile back).

If you’re in the mood for a drama and thriller type of film, I do recommend this one.

Check it out, and please help to spread the word!

(Update 12/9/11: If you enjoyed the movie and would like to purchase it for yourself or for someone else (it makes a great gift!), feel free to visit this link to buy the movie. Thanks for reading!)

(Note: For those who are interested, feel free to check out the Determinism website for more info about the movie. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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Since I am a fan of the franchise, I was really looking forward to this film. Being that it came out around Halloween season, it really put me in the spirit of things.

Before I go into the review, I will warn you – what you see in the trailer is not at all a true depiction of what you see in the film. Many have been disappointed as there were some parts in the trailer that I had been anticipating while watching the movie. It has been argued that the trailer was a bit misleading due to this inconsistency.

But, I have some mixed feelings about this statement. Perhaps, it was their intention as many times what is revealed in the trailer may sometimes spoil the film for some. Maybe this was part of the mystery behind the movie as to anticipate what is expected (as seen in the trailer) but surprised with the results. This is just my observation. Though, some may beg to differ.

(Note: For those who saw the movie, I’d be interested in hearing if this bothered you at all or had any affect of your overall opinion of the film).

In any case, the movie is more of a prequel to the prior films. It goes more into the childhood of the two main characters, the sisters Katie and Kristi, and their experience with the paranormal as kids. In a sense, we go back in time (literally to the 80s) to see firsthand what they witnessed as children along with their parents, Julie and Dennis.

Just like the first two films, there is always a believer and a non-believer. In this case, the father, Dennis, is the believer while the mother, Julie, is the non-believer. At first, we (as the audience) get spooked with false alarms (as in the prior two films). However, as the movie progresses – the “paranormal” begins to settle in and make its presence known.

(Note: For those who missed it, here are my reviews on the first film as well as the second one).

As in the movies before, this film follows the same formula – it goes back and forth between being “spooked” as a joke versus being “spooked” for real. As in the other two movies, this is definitely one to see with a group of people. (It’s more fun that way!)

With that being said, there were a lot of inconsistencies in the film. I don’t want to ruin it for those who have not seen the movie, but I will say – there were a lot of things that just didn’t make sense. As a fan of the franchise, I felt there was a disconnect between some parts of the story of the prior films compared to this one.

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, you’ll know what I’m talking about. I did notice the director used for this one was different than the ones used before).

For me personally, I think the inconsistencies as well as the difference of style based on the prior two films really made this one less enjoyable. To be honest, there were just so many parts that just didn’t add up. And, regarding the style and tone of the film – I didn’t feel as “spooked” as the other two before.

As for the film progressed towards the end, it just got more and more weirder. I won’t spoil it for you but the ending was pretty ridiculous and just looked like it was thrown together. Though, some reviewers liked it – I just felt like it left me hanging. And, that was the overall tone of the movie – it was just inconsistent.

Overall, I was a bit disappointed with the film. As a prequel, I thought this one had a lot of potential. If they could have just filled the gaps with the inconsistencies and get back to the real story from the prior two films, I think it could have been another hit.

If you’re a fan of the franchise (like me) and really want to see how this pans out, I would say – go ahead. Though, if you’re not – it’s best if you just pass on it.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: NEUTRAL

(Note: If you had a chance to see the film, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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“If fashion is a religion, VOGUE is the Bible.”

- The September Issue

Since I enjoyed the last documentary I saw on the subject of fashion, I decided to check this one out as well. And, let me tell you – it was definitely an interesting and thought provoking film.

Basically, this movie takes you behind the scenes (as did the last one I reviewed) of the fashion world. Though, this time – from the viewpoint of one of the most powerful women in fashion, Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of American Vogue.

To be honest, I did not know much about the fashion world before seeing these “behind the scenes” types of films. However, after watching them – I now can see how much influence fashion has had on society and our culture.

In a way – I guess there’s truth when we hear the saying “He or she is making a fashion statement.” To many, fashion is a way of life – a way to give identity to oneself and show the world oneself. It’s a way for individuals to be themselves and showcase who they are from the outside.

Getting back to the movie, it was just amazing to see how one woman, Anna Wintour, has so much power and klout in the fashion world. To see top designers and retail stores trying to cater to her every move and whim was just astonishing – it showed exactly how much power she has.

For those who saw this film, it is rumored that Meryl Streep’s character was based on the real life story of Anna Wintour. Whether it be true or not, I think this documentary attempts to really humanize Anna Wintour and her persona – it explains why she is the way she is.

(Note: For those who saw the film, you’ll know what I’m talking about. In a way, I thought the movie did a really good job of showing the other side of Anna Wintour – the human side).

Though, this movie is just not a story about Anna Wintour – it is a story about those who work with her as well. And, one of the characters I enjoyed seeing was Grace Coddington who seemed to be one of Wintour’s right hand people.

Now, Coddington has a very interesting story to tell (which I won’t ruin for those who have not seen the film) about how she got into the fashion world. She seems to be a very important asset to Vogue, which Wintours acknowledges at the end of the film.

It was interesting to see the dynamic between the two – very different people and many times with differing opinions. Though, both Wintour and Coddington possess talents and skills that are much needed to run and operate the magazine.

What I liked about Coddington’s character was the way it showed how much she cared – she is very much in a sense more humanized than Wintour. Though, there are some human characteristics that are portrayed of Wintour.

Coddington is much more one to work and bring people together to get the job done. While Wintour is one who mainly makes decisions based on the work done which Coddington supervises. To see the dynamic between the two is really quite interesting.

Overall, I did enjoy the film. It was very educational and entertaining as well. The movie gave a lot of insight into the fashion world from a “behind the scenes” perspective. I especially enjoyed watching the interaction between the characters and companies in the film. To see it all come together, really was a treat in itself.

If you have an interest in fashion and are in the mood for a documentary type of film, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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When I first saw the trailer to this film, I thought it was going to be an action based kind of film full of car chases and gun robbers. Though, I do have to admit – it didn’t look like something I wanted to rush over and see at the theatre. However, based on the positive reviews – I decided to go and check it out.

Let me just say, I think the trailer did a very good job of explaining the plot and getting the interest of movie goers. It did look like a typical action film with an interesting storyline and plot.

From the trailer alone, it looked like it had it all – action, car chases, robbers, and of course – a love interest. It looked like an action movie. But, how it played out was a different story all together.

To be honest, this is not an action movie – it is a much slower paced film. In fact, it is categorized as a film noir. With that being said, I think many going into the movie expected it to be a different type of movie – the type portrayed in the trailer.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, you know what I’m talking about. It definitely was not what I expected).

Now, is this a good thing or a bad thing? For some yes, for others no.

About the film itself, I will say I enjoyed the opening scene. It really got me into the feeling of what I expected from the movie. There was a rush of adrenaline pumping while I watched and it really got me into the tone of what I thought the movie would be.

However, this tone changed once the movie started. And, throughout – it alternated between mostly dramatic scenes with bits of action intertwined.

Though, I will say – the style and plot of the film itself was somewhat unique. To be honest, it wasn’t typical at all. There were a few unexpected moments which I really give credit to the movie.

At one point, I was expecting one thing to happen only to be surprised (as well as shocked) as to what had actually occurred. Truthfully, there were a lot of “in your face” type moments which I thoroughly enjoyed.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, you’ll know what I’m talking about. One of the scenes really came as a surprise and shocked me as to the outcome).

Personally, I have mixed feeling about the film. Sure, it had an interesting style and plot being a film noir type of movie and all. And, yes – there were a few scenes in the movie I did enjoy which entertained me and left me on the edge of my seat.

However, there were other scenes which made the movie quite slow. Alternating between the drama and adding the few action scenes did help.

Though, at the end – I just didn’t feel like the film was strong enough. It didn’t really leave any sort of impression on me – it just kind of ended.

Overall, I will say this movie is more for a specific type of audience – those who enjoy film noir type of films. It definitely is not for everyone. And, if you’re looking for an action type of movie – this is probably not going to cut it.

If you enjoy film noir type of films, you may want to check this one out. If not, I’d probably pass on it unless it somewhat peaks your interest. And, in that case – I’d recommend waiting for it to come out on DVD.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: NEUTRAL

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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drama, film noir, review | Comments (4)

Recently, I had the chance to watch this documentary film based on the famous New York Times photographer, Bill Cunningham. And, let me just say – it was a different kind of movie. It’s a movie about one man’s life work and quest to capture the most interesting and unique fashion trends the world has ever seen.

It was very interesting to witness Cunningham’s life and daily work routine behind the scenes. Sometimes we do not think about how stories are actually told and put together. Usually, we just read what is told to us and view the pictures that are presented.

However, in this movie – I learned there is an art to putting all the pieces (aka the pictures) together. And, it is an art that has been mastered and carefully told over a lifetime by Bill Cunningham.

Apart from seeing his day to day work, what really intrigued me about this movie was witnessing Cunningham’s passion and drive for his work. Over and over again, he continues his quest to find the most unique and interesting fashion trends the world has ever seen. And, this is not just done on the runway. No. It’s done right on the streets of New York – this is where he says it all happens.

Though, the film does not limit itself. It takes us with Cunningham to his ultimate quest in his fashion search – Paris. Yes, this is the very center of the fashion world. And, many unique pieces (as well as characters) we did see.

Speaking of characters, the film does go to show Cunningham’s social circle of very well known socialites of high society, world renown models, and many famous names in entertainment. But apart from all of the glitz and the glamour, it also shows his real, normal life to show what life is like when he is off the clock.

In addition, the movie also introduces us to some of his colleagues – many who are also world renown photographers themselves. In a way, it really shows the culture behind the work and it’s circle of influence.

Overall, I really enjoyed the movie. It’s definitely a film for those who enjoy biographical and documentary type of films. To be honest, I don’t think this film is just for those who enjoy the fashion world. It’s an entertaining movie for anyone interested in seeing the behind the scenes of one’s life work.

If you’re in the mood for a documentary and biographical type movie, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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When I first saw the trailer to this film, it definitely looked entertaining. I’ve always enjoyed watching Steve Carell, whether it be on film or television. Though, I was a bit unsure if this was a movie I should wait to go on DVD. Yet after much debate (as well as reading a lot of positive reviews), I decided to check it out and hit the theatre. I’m glad I did!

Before I get into the review, I will say my hesitation to see this movie was due to the trailer – it looked like it may be a film where they put a lot of the funny parts in the sneak preview. To be honest, this has happened before and has sometimes ruined the movie for me. Though, to my surprise – this was not the case here.

Now, I will admit – there were a lot of funny parts included in the trailer itself which made some of the parts of the movie a bit predictable. Though, they did not include everything. And, by everything – I mean there were some classic moments in the film which really entertained me and threw me for a loop.

I don’t want to spoil it for those who have not seen the movie, but I’ll just say – these funny yet unpredictable moments really made the film worthwhile. To sum it up, there were two main ones which really had me entertained yet shocked at the same time. I won’t ruin it for you, but I will say one of them involved Marisa Tomei. And, her performance definitely made it worthwhile.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, I really enjoyed watching Marisa Tomei and her character. She was so hilarious!)

Getting back to the film, this movie is really about those unexpected moments we all have in life. Sometimes we can plan too much and may have everything mapped out that we find ourselves unprepared for the unexpected. And, that is what life is about – we don’t know what is always going to happen.

At the heart of it, this is a film about coping with the mysteries of what happens when things don’t go the way we expect them to be. And, the way we deal with these types of predicaments may cause us to question ourselves and take on a different personality.

But, with everything – we are who we are. And, sometimes people change for the better. Or, sometimes they change for the worst.

Though, the important thing is to always keep in mind who we are and be true to ourselves. Sure, we all make mistakes and sometimes things don’t go our way. But through it all, we must keep in mind who we really are and not lose sight of our true identity as a human being.

For me personally, I think this movie had a lot to say beyond it’s underlying entertainment value. Though the messages may be subtle, they seem to be important nonetheless.

Overall, I enjoyed this film. It was very entertaining and I truly appreciated the unpredictable moments, which made it worthwhile. It seemed to have it all – a little bit of drama, comedy, and some twists which is always a plus in my book.

If you’re in the mood for a comedy type of movie with a few unpredictable twists, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

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“Change begins with a whisper.”

-The Help

I recently saw this movie based on this book. And, let me tell you – it was definitely worth it.

When I first saw the trailer to this film, it really looked like a fun type of movie to watch. But, at the same time – it also looked like a film with an important message. Even more so, it was a period piece which serves a special place in my heart. So, I decided to check it out. I’m glad I did!

Before I go on, I just have to give a small warning. Personally, I think this is a film geared more towards women. To be honest, I’m not quite sure how well received this movie will be by men. Though, I can see some whose interest may peak should they enjoy these types of movies.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, I’d definitely be interested in hearing your thoughts on this subject!)

Regarding the movie itself, this film has it all. It will make you laugh. It will make you cry. It will make you jump for joy. And, most of all – it will touch your heart.

Since I have an interest and special place in my heart for period pieces, this film was definitely a treat for me to see. Plus, it was light hearted enough to make me laugh but at the same time had an important message to tell.

In watching this movie, I couldn’t help but wonder if the issues presented in the film could also pertain to the issues we have today. It’s always interesting to see how the issues of one generation sometimes pass down to subsequent generations. And, sometimes – we are faced with the issues of the past even today.

At the heart of it, this movie really shows the ignorance our country has exercised in the past. And, in displaying this behavior – it shows how this type of ignorance can have an affect on an entire society and in turn pass down from generation to generation.

But, at the same time – it’s also a film about courage. It’s a movie about having the courage to stand up and fight back for what you believe in despite the consequences. At the heart of it, it’s a film about hope.

What I enjoyed about this film is that it was not just one sided. We actually got a chance to see both sides of the issues presented from different points of view. And, in turn – it really made for a good movie since we were able to see different sides of the issues.

Overall, I think this movie had a lot of heart. There were ups, there were downs. I laughed, I cried. It made me feel something. But above all else, it had an important message to say that really made me think. And, to me – this is what makes a film worth it.

If you’re in the mood for a drama type of movie with a bit of comedy (as well as a period piece), I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who have seen the movie and read the book, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on how the two compare. Going into the film, I didn’t read the book beforehand. Thanks for reading!)

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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drama, historical, review | Comments (2)