Gareth von Kallenbach (977 KP) rated Frozen (2013) in Movies
Aug 6, 2019
Because the only trailers I saw for this movie were the funny scenes with Olaf the snowman and Sven the reindeer, I honestly had no idea the movie was going to be a musical treat about two princesses. Disney knows the formula of a simple but engaging story, an attractive heroine, catchy songs and comical supporting characters has worked for them time and time again, so they doubled their efforts with two princesses, voiced beautifully by Kristin Bell (Anna) and Glee’s Idina Menzel (Elsa), two funny supporting characters and a plethora of memorable songs. While strongly geared toward little Disney princesses, boys will enjoy the antics of Olaf, voiced perfectly by Jon Gad and the bravery of Kristoff and his reindeer Sven, both voiced by another Glee alum, Jonathan Groff.
Disney must love the fact that every movie they release about princesses sparks nostalgic feelings of other Disney favorites. Because of the constant reference to “A true love’s kiss” in this movie, I’m digging around for my copy of “Enchanted”. While the songs are more broadway than the Disney pop little kids love, weeks after screening this movie both my husband and I still sing, “Do you want to build a snowman?” to each other and try to look as adorable as Anna. A definitely must-watch again.
Gareth von Kallenbach (977 KP) rated Project X (2012) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
The story follows three teens: Thomas, Costa, and JB. Costa and JB are on a mission to execute the biggest birthday bash known to man for their best friend Thomas. Their mission? To hopefully change their reputations as high school losers. Of these three, Costa is the only one whose real life name is not the same as his character. Many of the characters in this film used their real names, much to my surprise.
When I first read the film’s synopsis, the following phrase was included: “Project X is a warning to teens, parents and law enforcement.” Naturally, I assumed the film was going to be a documentary laced with lessons for the viewers. While I can’t say more without giving away what happens, I was surprised — and that’s saying something.
Nima Nourizadeh showcases his skills on the silver screen for the first time in a non-documentary capacity, though the film is very documentary-esque. I have to give him two thumbs up for creating a very funny, visually appealing, and emotionally charged film.
The best part for me was the comedy, which I’m sure resonated with younger viewers more, but was hilarious none-the-less. It’s a triumph for true laugh-out-loud film-making.
My only criticism comes from a scene near the end, which seems completely implausible given the realistic nature of the film. This particular scene felt very out of place. At the risk of ruining the moment for you, I will simply say that the drug dealer really lights up the scene, albeit
in a very unlikely manner.
I would call this underdog film an unexpected win.
Gareth von Kallenbach (977 KP) rated Red Riding Hood (2011) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
Amanda Seyfried stars as Valerie in Red Riding Hood a reworking of the classic fairytale of the same name. The film also stars Shiloh Fernandez as Peter, Valerie’s childhood best friend turned love interest, and Max Irons as Henry, the wealthy suitor who has been selected to wed Valerie. The supporting cast includes some additional familiar faces such as Michael Hogan (The Reeve) best known for his work as Colonel Tigh in the Sci-Fi series Battlestar Galactica and Michael Shanks, known for his work on the hit television series Stargate SG-1 , who plays Adrien Lazer.
The concept of building more depth into the Red Riding Hood story is a good idea however the execution in this bland who-done-it comes a crossed as scattered. The film lacks cohesion and fails to build interest in the storyline focusing instead on sweeping landscapes and overly intense one-on-one character interactions.
The wardrobe is impressive with clothing that aptly represents both village life and fairytale ideals. However, much like the rest of the film, the wardrobe seems to be taking cues directly from other movies. Among the numerous familiar scenes is an ending that could have been plucked from The Lord of the Rings.
The film is not missing any major components but the lack of originality is a fatal flaw that impacts the entire tale. The scary moments are not scary. The intrigue lacks potency. And the romantic triangle fails to generate the intended drama.
Moviegoers will see far worse films this spring but Red Riding Hood does not deliver on what could have been a brilliant adaptation.
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