Recently viewed movie thread - Rental Edition (6 Viewers)

[cstu]

Blackfish:

Documentary about the Orca responsible for the death of a trainer a couple years back. You get a peek into the background of the Orca, some of the training methods, the behavior of the animals, etc.. Slanted, but very good. I would say it's a must watch for fans of docs like The Cove or even Grizzly Man. 8/10

Can't see myself going to Sea World after seeing this.

 

[jdoggydogg]

I get your point, andy, and it is a good one. like I stated, I was unlikely to enjoy the movie and was done as soon as round 2 of the cgi boxing match started.

I guess my opinion is only nolan and wheedon should do summer blockbusters, as those are the few I have liked in the last several years.

Man of Steel wasn't terrible. The emotional content worked. The fight scenes were spectacular, but those always get tedious. I think the movie's biggest problem was the art direction on Krypton. I found it to be ugly.

 

[KarmaPolice]

I get your point, andy, and it is a good one. like I stated, I was unlikely to enjoy the movie and was done as soon as round 2 of the cgi boxing match started.

I guess my opinion is only nolan and wheedon should do summer blockbusters, as those are the few I have liked in the last several years.

Man of Steel wasn't terrible. The emotional content worked. The fight scenes were spectacular, but those always get tedious. I think the movie's biggest problem was the art direction on Krypton. I found it to be ugly.

my problem is that I will never get how people can find completely cgi action scenes "spectacular". most of the comic book movies require them and i find it dull.

 

[KarmaPolice]

Hunger:

holy ####, what a movie. McQueen has the fantastic ability to present scenes in a non judgemental way and just let you take in the experience. hardly any dialogue in the movie except for the amazing 20+ min exchange in the middle of the movie. fassbender was amazing and looked like he gave bale a run for a weight loss record for a role. great movie, but not an easy watch. 8/10.

can't wait to see 12 years a slave. might try to catch it on Friday.

 

[cstu]

I get your point, andy, and it is a good one. like I stated, I was unlikely to enjoy the movie and was done as soon as round 2 of the cgi boxing match started.

I guess my opinion is only nolan and wheedon should do summer blockbusters, as those are the few I have liked in the last several years.

Man of Steel wasn't terrible. The emotional content worked. The fight scenes were spectacular, but those always get tedious. I think the movie's biggest problem was the art direction on Krypton. I found it to be ugly.

my problem is that I will never get how people can find completely cgi action scenes "spectacular". most of the comic book movies require them and i find it dull.

You're not alone. I love CGI when it's used well but I can't stand extended fight/chase sequences and they bore me to tears.

 

[cstu]

Hunger:

holy ####, what a movie. McQueen has the fantastic ability to present scenes in a non judgemental way and just let you take in the experience. hardly any dialogue in the movie except for the amazing 20+ min exchange in the middle of the movie. fassbender was amazing and looked like he gave bale a run for a weight loss record for a role. great movie, but not an easy watch. 8/10.

can't wait to see 12 years a slave. might try to catch it on Friday.

You won't be disappointed. It's my pick for Best Picture and Best Actor.

BTW, I just heard an interview with McQueen and it was strange to hear a guy named Steve McQueen talking with a British accent.

 

[jdoggydogg]

I get your point, andy, and it is a good one. like I stated, I was unlikely to enjoy the movie and was done as soon as round 2 of the cgi boxing match started.

I guess my opinion is only nolan and wheedon should do summer blockbusters, as those are the few I have liked in the last several years.

Man of Steel wasn't terrible. The emotional content worked. The fight scenes were spectacular, but those always get tedious. I think the movie's biggest problem was the art direction on Krypton. I found it to be ugly.

my problem is that I will never get how people can find completely cgi action scenes "spectacular". most of the comic book movies require them and i find it dull.

Sure. I'd say they are well made, but yes, there's only so much you can do with scenes like that.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Hunger:

holy ####, what a movie. McQueen has the fantastic ability to present scenes in a non judgemental way and just let you take in the experience. hardly any dialogue in the movie except for the amazing 20+ min exchange in the middle of the movie. fassbender was amazing and looked like he gave bale a run for a weight loss record for a role. great movie, but not an easy watch. 8/10.

can't wait to see 12 years a slave. might try to catch it on Friday.

Not a fan at all of McQueen, even the fact he shares the same name should be a tip off but critics seem enamored with him. Stunt filmmaker IMO who prefers physical reality over historical relevance.

To each their own.

 

[Chaka]

I get your point, andy, and it is a good one. like I stated, I was unlikely to enjoy the movie and was done as soon as round 2 of the cgi boxing match started.

I guess my opinion is only nolan and wheedon should do summer blockbusters, as those are the few I have liked in the last several years.

Man of Steel wasn't terrible. The emotional content worked. The fight scenes were spectacular, but those always get tedious. I think the movie's biggest problem was the art direction on Krypton. I found it to be ugly.

my problem is that I will never get how people can find completely cgi action scenes "spectacular". most of the comic book movies require them and i find it dull.

It all depends. Most of it is sensory overload and unnecessary but sometimes it can be very well done.

 

[jdoggydogg]

Cloud Atlas

I'm only 30 minutes in, but this is some whacky, ####ed up ####.

It's taking me forever to finish this, but here's an update about two hours in:

Wow. This is so bad, it's almost good. All the gimmicks, the time shifts, the pretentious, overwrought silliness. I hate this movie, and yet, I can respect the effort.

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Hunger:

holy ####, what a movie. McQueen has the fantastic ability to present scenes in a non judgemental way and just let you take in the experience. hardly any dialogue in the movie except for the amazing 20+ min exchange in the middle of the movie. fassbender was amazing and looked like he gave bale a run for a weight loss record for a role. great movie, but not an easy watch. 8/10.

can't wait to see 12 years a slave. might try to catch it on Friday.

Was gonna take the Fassbender/Cunningham exchange in the latest timdraft for long take, but I don't think it fit the criteria or something like that.

 

[KarmaPolice]

I get your point, andy, and it is a good one. like I stated, I was unlikely to enjoy the movie and was done as soon as round 2 of the cgi boxing match started.

I guess my opinion is only nolan and wheedon should do summer blockbusters, as those are the few I have liked in the last several years.

Man of Steel wasn't terrible. The emotional content worked. The fight scenes were spectacular, but those always get tedious. I think the movie's biggest problem was the art direction on Krypton. I found it to be ugly.

my problem is that I will never get how people can find completely cgi action scenes "spectacular". most of the comic book movies require them and i find it dull.

It all depends. Most of it is sensory overload and unnecessary but sometimes it can be very well done.

Yeah, even in these types of movies there is good cgi and bad. I just think that it is way overused in general, and even good cgi to me is the equivalent of putting a bow on a turd.

 

[KarmaPolice]

Hunger:

holy ####, what a movie. McQueen has the fantastic ability to present scenes in a non judgemental way and just let you take in the experience. hardly any dialogue in the movie except for the amazing 20+ min exchange in the middle of the movie. fassbender was amazing and looked like he gave bale a run for a weight loss record for a role. great movie, but not an easy watch. 8/10.

can't wait to see 12 years a slave. might try to catch it on Friday.

Was gonna take the Fassbender/Cunningham exchange in the latest timdraft for long take, but I don't think it fit the criteria or something like that.

Not sure how it would have scored, but 100% would qualify. I don't remember a cut during that whole scene.

 

[cstu]

Indie Game: The Movie

I didn't expect much but thought it was a fascinating look at what goes into making indie games and the people that make them. Even if you don't play games I'd recommend watching this.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Grabbers:

Try this one out if you are in the mood for a goofy/campy monster movie. Set in Ireland, the locals figure out that alcohol is poisonous to the alien monster. What better way to battle the beasts than to stay perpetually drunk? Fun premise, but for my tastes it was a little too B-movie. Still worth definitely worth a watch if you are into that type of movie. 5/10

Man of Steel:

I know I am predisposed not to like this movie. Still, I really enjoyed the middle 1/3 or so of this one. The beginning on Krypton was a little too much for my tastes, and the last 1/3 of the movie got boring watching 2 aliens punch each other through buildings. In the middle of the Snyder CGI sandwich is a decent Superman story with good performances. Really liked that they have Lois knowing what he is from the beginning, and for this movie at least we got away from the wonderful Superman disguise of putting on glasses so nobody could possibly know who he is. Couldn't remember if it was this way in the others or not, but it is pretty dumb that Superman cares so much for random humans every once in a while and wants to save them, but nevermind the 1000s that probably were hurt or killed as they destroy a couple cities. One of the better Superman movies I can remember seeing, but I am not sure if that is saying much. 4/10

I started watching Grabbers a couple weeks ago during my halloween horror kick, but passed out probably about halfway thru. I was enjoying it up to that point, Id like to re-watch again sometime soon. Hell, maybe tonight even.

Watched Man of Steel a couple nights ago. I really liked it - as far as superhero movies go - but Id like to watch it again when Im not drunk by the last third. Im guessing hammered me didnt have a problem with CGI fest at the end. I did think the middle part was strong, as was the cinematography, not surprising considering its Snyder. I haven't seen the Reeves Superman movies since I was a kid basically, and thought the one with Spacey a few years back was ok and a little better than the treatment it got, but calling this one of the better Superman movies I dont think is a stretch for like you said, many are pretty cheesy. I actually thought it was the best, but Id like to give it another watch to give me a better feeling.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Okay, okay. Let me amend my Scorsese statement.

He's not overrated as a director. His movies are simply overrated from an enjoyment standpoint.

They are simply overrated from an enjoyment standpoint...to YOU!

Scorsese has made more movies that I not only enjoy, but love, than any director - and its not even close. His films may lack something here or there from a filmmaker's standpoint, but typically if they are anything first and foremost, its that theyre enjoyable.

Thats why I said in a previous post, I'll throw on a Scorsese movie 9 times out of 10 over other directors films' that Ive already seen. They are so enjoyable, rewatchable, top notch acting and dialogue, and entertaining its ridiculous. Just my opinion as well, but I have trouble buying another guy that loves movies thinking Scorsese films are overrated from an enjoyment standpoint.

 

[Kenny Powers]

When it comes to Scorsese, I dont care if everyone loves his film, calls it a masterpiece, or gives it awards.

It doesnt matter, because to me, he has consistently made more enjoyable, entertaining films than any director.

:wheelhouse:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvTNyKIGXiI

Eh, not really.

I don't think Im going out on a limb thinking Scorsese is a great director, and has consistently made very good movies. Not like he's a fake director.

When I said I don't care if he makes a film that is considered a masterpiece, gets critical acclaim, wins awards, etc basically what Im saying is while I might call directors like Ang Lee or PT Anderson better "directors", I'll choose to watch a Scorsese film 9 times out of 10 over any of their films.

I think a few of his popular movies are overrated, I would assume that it's because I don't love gangster movies and have never been to NY so don't care about the love he has for that city, but I would never say that Scorsese isn't a great director. The man knows his stuff and loves film - I love listening to him talk about film and will catch any interview/bonus feature that I can with him in it. That said, just like any director who has been in the game this long he does have a few clunkers on the resume. Personally, I think his peak was during his '76-'85: I love Raging Bull, Taxi Driver, After Hours, and The King of Comedy. He is starting to grow on me again, as I thought Gangs of NY and Shutter Island were great and have really warmed up to Hugo and The Departed. Even if his movies don't fit into my wheelhouse, I think he deserves all the credit he gets as being a great director.

I really need to see After Hours and The King of Comedy, I know they both have their fans among FBGs. Ive also never seen Age of Innocence or Kundun before, and am interested to see those at some point since they seem so atypical compared to Scorsese's resume. Id also like to watch Bringing Out the Dead again which I only saw when I was pretty young when it came out, and Id like to view it thru a different lense.

I loved Gangs, Shutter Island, and The Departed from first watch. Also really liked Hugo for what it was, but have only seen it once (in theaters). Its probably Marty's most visually impressive film actually. I actually think his peak is quite arguable, which is somewhat surprising considering how long he has been making films. I wouldnt disagree with your 76-85, but he has made critically acclaimed films in each of the last 5 decades, and multiple acclaimed films in many of those.

Based on that timeframe/age, I think Spielberg is an easy director to compare him too, and Id take Scorsese's filmography in a second over Spielberg.

 

[36th Chamber]

Place Beyond the Pines - Solid flick

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Okay, okay. Let me amend my Scorsese statement.

He's not overrated as a director. His movies are simply overrated from an enjoyment standpoint.

They are simply overrated from an enjoyment standpoint...to YOU!

Scorsese has made more movies that I not only enjoy, but love, than any director - and its not even close. His films may lack something here or there from a filmmaker's standpoint, but typically if they are anything first and foremost, its that theyre enjoyable.

Thats why I said in a previous post, I'll throw on a Scorsese movie 9 times out of 10 over other directors films' that Ive already seen. They are so enjoyable, rewatchable, top notch acting and dialogue, and entertaining its ridiculous. Just my opinion as well, but I have trouble buying another guy that loves movies thinking Scorsese films are overrated from an enjoyment standpoint.

Why is it not self evident when something is an opinion? Does one really have to write "IMO" after everything they post?

This isn't a shot at you KP. I just notice it a lot online.

 

[KarmaPolice]

The To-Do List:

Continuing on the trend of movies that seem to be saying "the ladies can be that raunchy too" such as Bridesmaids and The Heat here we have the HS losing your virginity movie from the girls' side. Love Aubrey Plaza, so I had to check it out, and she plays the nerdy teen well. It REALLY pushes the envelope with gross out gags and language, and it is fun seeing the women talk so frankly about a topic that is usually reserved for the horny guys. I laughed a bit, but having seen so many of these movies, it didn't feel like anything new besides the woman angle so it did get a little stale. 5.5/10 I know this one will make many parents very uncomfortable.

The World's End:

Really liked the first part of the movie. Would have been completely happy with a movie just dealing with the idea of these guys getting dragged along on their ####### friend's selfish quest to relive the glory days (I guess night?). Got a little bored with the the last part of the movie as the crap hit the fan. Still definitely worth a viewing if you are a fan of the other two movies of theirs, but I would personally put this one a bit below Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead. At that end of the day, even 3rd in this trilogy is still a pretty good movie. 6/10

 

[KarmaPolice]

When it comes to Scorsese, I dont care if everyone loves his film, calls it a masterpiece, or gives it awards.

It doesnt matter, because to me, he has consistently made more enjoyable, entertaining films than any director.

:wheelhouse:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvTNyKIGXiI

Eh, not really.

I don't think Im going out on a limb thinking Scorsese is a great director, and has consistently made very good movies. Not like he's a fake director.

When I said I don't care if he makes a film that is considered a masterpiece, gets critical acclaim, wins awards, etc basically what Im saying is while I might call directors like Ang Lee or PT Anderson better "directors", I'll choose to watch a Scorsese film 9 times out of 10 over any of their films.

I think a few of his popular movies are overrated, I would assume that it's because I don't love gangster movies and have never been to NY so don't care about the love he has for that city, but I would never say that Scorsese isn't a great director. The man knows his stuff and loves film - I love listening to him talk about film and will catch any interview/bonus feature that I can with him in it. That said, just like any director who has been in the game this long he does have a few clunkers on the resume. Personally, I think his peak was during his '76-'85: I love Raging Bull, Taxi Driver, After Hours, and The King of Comedy. He is starting to grow on me again, as I thought Gangs of NY and Shutter Island were great and have really warmed up to Hugo and The Departed. Even if his movies don't fit into my wheelhouse, I think he deserves all the credit he gets as being a great director.

I really need to see After Hours and The King of Comedy, I know they both have their fans among FBGs. Ive also never seen Age of Innocence or Kundun before, and am interested to see those at some point since they seem so atypical compared to Scorsese's resume. Id also like to watch Bringing Out the Dead again which I only saw when I was pretty young when it came out, and Id like to view it thru a different lense.

I loved Gangs, Shutter Island, and The Departed from first watch. Also really liked Hugo for what it was, but have only seen it once (in theaters). Its probably Marty's most visually impressive film actually. I actually think his peak is quite arguable, which is somewhat surprising considering how long he has been making films. I wouldnt disagree with your 76-85, but he has made critically acclaimed films in each of the last 5 decades, and multiple acclaimed films in many of those.

Based on that timeframe/age, I think Spielberg is an easy director to compare him too, and Id take Scorsese's filmography in a second over Spielberg.

I hear you. It's just for my personal tastes, his output in the 90s isn't as good, even though a couple of his more acclaimed movies are from the decade.

Hugo is a visual treat, I just feel like I am getting preached to at the end when I watch it. The movie is for people who are in love with and appreciate cinema, so I think he could have forgone the seeming lecture on how great the olden days of cinema were. Still like it the more times I watch it, though.

Spielberg vs. Scorsese is interesting. I might "enjoy" the top couple Speilberg movies films more, but he also has put out more clunkers (or maybe I have just seen more of his clunkers?). As I get older, I have have grown a little tired of Speilberg's emotional manipulation in his movies too. I guess the short version of my opinion might be that I would probably say that Scorsese is more talented, but I would probably take my chances on a random Spielberg movie over a random Scorsese movie if I was forced to sit down and choose.

 

[Chaka]

Spielberg's run from '75-89 was absolutely unbelieveable. I mean not a clunker in the bunch (screw you if you don't love 1941).

Then he had Always and Hook (both stunk) but followed it up with Jurassic Park and Schindler's list, two more duds then Saving Private Ryan. Then it gets really uneven with three real winners (Catch Me If You Can, Munich & Lincoln) a couple fun films (Minority Report & Adventures of Tintin) and four of the worst films I have ever seen (A.I., War of the Worlds, Crystal Skull and War Horse. So bad. So very, very bad). Never saw The Terminal.

 

[jdoggydogg]

The World's End:Really liked the first part of the movie. Would have been completely happy with a movie just dealing with the idea of these guys getting dragged along on their ####### friend's selfish quest to relive the glory days (I guess night?). Got a little bored with the the last part of the movie as the crap hit the fan. Still definitely worth a viewing if you are a fan of the other two movies of theirs, but I would personally put this one a bit below Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead. At that end of the day, even 3rd in this trilogy is still a pretty good movie. 6/10

So many bad comedies in the world, I give this one an A-.

 

[jdoggydogg]

Spielberg's run from '75-89 was absolutely unbelieveable. I mean not a clunker in the bunch (screw you if you don't love 1941).

Then he had Always and Hook (both stunk) but followed it up with Jurassic Park and Schindler's list, two more duds then Saving Private Ryan. Then it gets really uneven with three real winners (Catch Me If You Can, Munich & Lincoln) a couple fun films (Minority Report & Adventures of Tintin) and four of the worst films I have ever seen (A.I., War of the Worlds, Crystal Skull and War Horse. So bad. So very, very bad). Never saw The Terminal.

I couldn't watch Terminal. I couldn't buy Hanks as a poor immigrant.

No one ever mentions Munich, but I think that is one of Spielberg's best films.

 

[KarmaPolice]

The World's End:

Really liked the first part of the movie. Would have been completely happy with a movie just dealing with the idea of these guys getting dragged along on their ####### friend's selfish quest to relive the glory days (I guess night?). Got a little bored with the the last part of the movie as the crap hit the fan. Still definitely worth a viewing if you are a fan of the other two movies of theirs, but I would personally put this one a bit below Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead. At that end of the day, even 3rd in this trilogy is still a pretty good movie. 6/10

So many bad comedies in the world, I give this one an A-.

true. might have undersold it a little, but my ratings aren't genre specific and comedies usually don't score with me. Shaun and fuzz are probably 8/10 movies for me, and I didnt dig this as much.

 

[Statorama]

Hopefully I can save people from watching "The Counsellor" starring Brad Pitt and a host of others.Boring dialogue....basically boring everything. The kind of movie you sit there waiting to finally "kick in" but never does.

Just curious: could you cite a movie you think has interesting dialogue?

Pulp fiction is an obvious choice. There are a number of older movies like The Maltese Falcon that I could list. I'm a sucker for well written romance like Before Sunrise / Before Sunset. Just about any Coen Brothers or Woody movie. Glengarry Glen Ross. Lots of the early Kevin Smith stuff (if pressed I'd list Chasing Amy at the top). A Fish Called Wanda, The Sting, tombstone, The Princess Bride, Monty Python Holy Grail, My Cousin Vinny, heck even the Clooney Oceans 11 movie had some snappy dialogue.

The older stuff is where you'll find the best dialogue driven movies though.

I'm not surprised that people take issue with The Counselor. I'm just surprised that you don't like The Counselor and cite the reason as the script being boring because the script is fantastic.

I have the same problem with some of Mamet's stuff, in that it sounds like writing instead of people having a legitimate conversation.

 

[Chaka]

Hopefully I can save people from watching "The Counsellor" starring Brad Pitt and a host of others.Boring dialogue....basically boring everything. The kind of movie you sit there waiting to finally "kick in" but never does.

Just curious: could you cite a movie you think has interesting dialogue?

Pulp fiction is an obvious choice. There are a number of older movies like The Maltese Falcon that I could list. I'm a sucker for well written romance like Before Sunrise / Before Sunset. Just about any Coen Brothers or Woody movie. Glengarry Glen Ross. Lots of the early Kevin Smith stuff (if pressed I'd list Chasing Amy at the top). A Fish Called Wanda, The Sting, tombstone, The Princess Bride, Monty Python Holy Grail, My Cousin Vinny, heck even the Clooney Oceans 11 movie had some snappy dialogue.

The older stuff is where you'll find the best dialogue driven movies though.

I'm not surprised that people take issue with The Counselor. I'm just surprised that you don't like The Counselor and cite the reason as the script being boring because the script is fantastic.

I have the same problem with some of Mamet's stuff, in that it sounds like writing instead of people having a legitimate conversation.

Ditto Aaron Sorkin. Good writing but often lacks authenticity.

 

[Statorama]

Looking for a date night movie that you can both enjoy? About Time [\b]should be in the theaters for another week before it's sent to Redboxville

 

[El Floppo]

Hopefully I can save people from watching "The Counsellor" starring Brad Pitt and a host of others.Boring dialogue....basically boring everything. The kind of movie you sit there waiting to finally "kick in" but never does.

Just curious: could you cite a movie you think has interesting dialogue?

Pulp fiction is an obvious choice. There are a number of older movies like The Maltese Falcon that I could list. I'm a sucker for well written romance like Before Sunrise / Before Sunset. Just about any Coen Brothers or Woody movie. Glengarry Glen Ross. Lots of the early Kevin Smith stuff (if pressed I'd list Chasing Amy at the top). A Fish Called Wanda, The Sting, tombstone, The Princess Bride, Monty Python Holy Grail, My Cousin Vinny, heck even the Clooney Oceans 11 movie had some snappy dialogue.

The older stuff is where you'll find the best dialogue driven movies though.

I'm not surprised that people take issue with The Counselor. I'm just surprised that you don't like The Counselor and cite the reason as the script being boring because the script is fantastic.

I have the same problem with some of Mamet's stuff, in that it sounds like writing instead of people having a legitimate conversation.

Ditto Aaron Sorkin. Good writing but often lacks authenticity.

Good call on both Mamet and Sorkin. I'm too tired to try to immitate Mamet... but I'd repeat myself a lot and swear a bit. Sorikin just too much of the sit-com snappy "clever" dialogue that every/any actor/character might be saying at any point without distinction between them.

 

[El Floppo]

Okay, okay. Let me amend my Scorsese statement.

He's not overrated as a director. His movies are simply overrated from an enjoyment standpoint.

They are simply overrated from an enjoyment standpoint...to YOU!

Scorsese has made more movies that I not only enjoy, but love, than any director - and its not even close. His films may lack something here or there from a filmmaker's standpoint, but typically if they are anything first and foremost, its that theyre enjoyable.

Thats why I said in a previous post, I'll throw on a Scorsese movie 9 times out of 10 over other directors films' that Ive already seen. They are so enjoyable, rewatchable, top notch acting and dialogue, and entertaining its ridiculous. Just my opinion as well, but I have trouble buying another guy that loves movies thinking Scorsese films are overrated from an enjoyment standpoint.

Why is it not self evident when something is an opinion? Does one really have to write "IMO" after everything they post?

This isn't a shot at you KP. I just notice it a lot online.

It's a fine line... people take their movies seriously sometimes, and comments like "overrated" imply objectivity more than the subjective "IMO" so I get arguing a point against it.

But then again, I think Scorcese is one of the best out there- and I don't even love a bunch fo his movies.

 

[El Floppo]

When it comes to Scorsese, I dont care if everyone loves his film, calls it a masterpiece, or gives it awards.

It doesnt matter, because to me, he has consistently made more enjoyable, entertaining films than any director.

:wheelhouse:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvTNyKIGXiI

Eh, not really.

I don't think Im going out on a limb thinking Scorsese is a great director, and has consistently made very good movies. Not like he's a fake director.

When I said I don't care if he makes a film that is considered a masterpiece, gets critical acclaim, wins awards, etc basically what Im saying is while I might call directors like Ang Lee or PT Anderson better "directors", I'll choose to watch a Scorsese film 9 times out of 10 over any of their films.

I think a few of his popular movies are overrated, I would assume that it's because I don't love gangster movies and have never been to NY so don't care about the love he has for that city, but I would never say that Scorsese isn't a great director. The man knows his stuff and loves film - I love listening to him talk about film and will catch any interview/bonus feature that I can with him in it. That said, just like any director who has been in the game this long he does have a few clunkers on the resume. Personally, I think his peak was during his '76-'85: I love Raging Bull, Taxi Driver, After Hours, and The King of Comedy. He is starting to grow on me again, as I thought Gangs of NY and Shutter Island were great and have really warmed up to Hugo and The Departed. Even if his movies don't fit into my wheelhouse, I think he deserves all the credit he gets as being a great director.

I really need to see After Hours and The King of Comedy, I know they both have their fans among FBGs. Ive also never seen Age of Innocence or Kundun before, and am interested to see those at some point since they seem so atypical compared to Scorsese's resume. Id also like to watch Bringing Out the Dead again which I only saw when I was pretty young when it came out, and Id like to view it thru a different lense.

I loved Gangs, Shutter Island, and The Departed from first watch. Also really liked Hugo for what it was, but have only seen it once (in theaters). Its probably Marty's most visually impressive film actually. I actually think his peak is quite arguable, which is somewhat surprising considering how long he has been making films. I wouldnt disagree with your 76-85, but he has made critically acclaimed films in each of the last 5 decades, and multiple acclaimed films in many of those.

Based on that timeframe/age, I think Spielberg is an easy director to compare him too, and Id take Scorsese's filmography in a second over Spielberg.

Those are two of my favorites... I think I have a Rupert Pupkin alias kicking around in here. AH almost feels like a Coen Brotheres movie with it's pacing and content... KoC-

 

[Time Kibitzer]

The World's End:

Really liked the first part of the movie. Would have been completely happy with a movie just dealing with the idea of these guys getting dragged along on their ####### friend's selfish quest to relive the glory days (I guess night?). Got a little bored with the the last part of the movie as the crap hit the fan. Still definitely worth a viewing if you are a fan of the other two movies of theirs, but I would personally put this one a bit below Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead. At that end of the day, even 3rd in this trilogy is still a pretty good movie. 6/10

That's exactly how I felt about Hot Fuzz. Loved the first half as a straight comedy; really funny stuff that's as just about any mainstream comedy that comes out these days, but once they have the #### hit the fan, the laughs end completely and all you're left with is over-the-top action nonsense that goes on and on.

 

[KarmaPolice]

The World's End:

Really liked the first part of the movie. Would have been completely happy with a movie just dealing with the idea of these guys getting dragged along on their ####### friend's selfish quest to relive the glory days (I guess night?). Got a little bored with the the last part of the movie as the crap hit the fan. Still definitely worth a viewing if you are a fan of the other two movies of theirs, but I would personally put this one a bit below Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead. At that end of the day, even 3rd in this trilogy is still a pretty good movie. 6/10

That's exactly how I felt about Hot Fuzz. Loved the first half as a straight comedy; really funny stuff that's as just about any mainstream comedy that comes out these days, but once they have the #### hit the fan, the laughs end completely and all you're left with is over-the-top action nonsense that goes on and on.

good point, but I think at the time a silly buddy cop movie didn't seem as tired as the end of the world-ish movies are to me now. now I might not like hot fuzz as much since the buddy cop movies are back in full force again.

 

[badmojo1006]

"The Bank Job" with Jason Statham is always a fun movie

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I haven't reached for a Redbox movie in weeks. There are a few films that bombed over the summer at theaters that I am waiting to watch like Lone Ranger but I haven't seen a thing that had me running to grab.

I was going to the movies a lot in the early summer so maybe that's why.

 

[El Floppo]

I think it was called Now You See Me? The magician movie. Kind of enjoyed it and am hoping the tricks they did as part of their shows were based on real tricks (girl floating in the bubble would be pretty amazing) and not just CGI. When Morgan Freeman tells me enough times that nothing is as it seems, I take him on his word and start guessing at possible plot twists. Can't say I nailed everything, but I hit all of the major points and used the Law and Order method of determining "who did it" (most famous actor not in the main group).

Some questions:

Spoiler

Was the eye of Horus supposed to be a magic fairy land into which the 4 horsemen disappeared? Or do they just get jobs as merry-go-round operators? Not really clear on what the point of that was.

Does Mark Ruffalo just go back to being a bumbling FBI agent afterwards?

 

[cstu]

The Institute

I really dug it. I thought it was brilliantly done and one of the more interesting things I've seen in awhile. People who liked Exit Through the Gift Shop will probably like this, but with a 5.2 on IMDB it seems a lot of people aren't getting it. My suggestion is to watch it knowing as little about it and enjoy the ride.

 

[cstu]

The Wolverine

Great movie and I only found one really annoying thing in the movie - the unnecessarily long and ridiculous train fight. I never like fights on the top of trains so take it with a grain of salt.

 

[belljr]

The Heat ---- I laughed through a good portion of it

 

[FreeBaGeL]

I think it was called Now You See Me? The magician movie. Kind of enjoyed it and am hoping the tricks they did as part of their shows were based on real tricks (girl floating in the bubble would be pretty amazing) and not just CGI. When Morgan Freeman tells me enough times that nothing is as it seems, I take him on his word and start guessing at possible plot twists. Can't say I nailed everything, but I hit all of the major points and used the Law and Order method of determining "who did it" (most famous actor not in the main group).

Some questions:

Spoiler

I liked it but I thought the twist at the end was dumb and unnecessary. It would have stood fine without it, it had enough twists already.

Plus, I'm pretty sure we saw a few scenes of Mark Ruffalo's character being a stressed out FBI agent trying to solve everything when he was alone with no one around to mislead. That, of course, makes no sense given the ending.

 

[Kenny Powers]

"The Bank Job" with Jason Statham is always a fun movie

Its light years better than The Italian Job

 

[Daywalker]

"The Bank Job" with Jason Statham is always a fun movie

Its light years better than The Italian Job

Liked both of them. Always wanted a sequel to the Italian Job. Seems ripe.

 

[biggamer3]

Watched Prisoners recently. Nothing revolutionary or that surprising, but its a well acted suspenseful film that does the job. Might have been about 20 mins too long, but I didn't feel "bored" by the movie at any point.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I get your point, andy, and it is a good one. like I stated, I was unlikely to enjoy the movie and was done as soon as round 2 of the cgi boxing match started.

I guess my opinion is only nolan and wheedon should do summer blockbusters, as those are the few I have liked in the last several years.

Man of Steel wasn't terrible. The emotional content worked. The fight scenes were spectacular, but those always get tedious. I think the movie's biggest problem was the art direction on Krypton. I found it to be ugly.

my problem is that I will never get how people can find completely cgi action scenes "spectacular". most of the comic book movies require them and i find it dull.

You're not alone. I love CGI when it's used well but I can't stand extended fight/chase sequences and they bore me to tears.

Okay, I think I can sympathize with you guys now.

If you feel about Man Of Steel like I felt about Thor: The Dark World, then I can see your point. I was really disinterested almost from beginning to end with the whole thing.

Of course, the whole thing started off poorly when the white trash couple brought their kids, aged 2 and 3, with them to the movie. "I want to go HOOOOMMMMEEE! was said before the previews had even finished."

 

[Cliff Clavin]

Man of Steel: What a hot mess of crap. Good christ this was bad.... like Green Lantern bad. So many things with this I don't know where to begin.

The Worlds End: Big let down. Loved Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead (and Simon Pegg in general). Did not find this funny at all. Fell asleep with about 30~ minutes left and won't be turning it back on.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Man of Steel: What a hot mess of crap. Good christ this was bad.... like Green Lantern bad. So many things with this I don't know where to begin.

The Worlds End: Big let down. Loved Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead (and Simon Pegg in general). Did not find this funny at all. Fell asleep with about 30~ minutes left and won't be turning it back on.

Oh come on.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

Man of Steel: What a hot mess of crap. Good christ this was bad.... like Green Lantern bad. So many things with this I don't know where to begin.

The Worlds End: Big let down. Loved Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead (and Simon Pegg in general). Did not find this funny at all. Fell asleep with about 30~ minutes left and won't be turning it back on.

Oh come on.

It was that bad. Soooo many flaws, inconsistencies, plot holes and just all round ####tiness.

 

[KarmaPolice]

Man of Steel: What a hot mess of crap. Good christ this was bad.... like Green Lantern bad. So many things with this I don't know where to begin.

The Worlds End: Big let down. Loved Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead (and Simon Pegg in general). Did not find this funny at all. Fell asleep with about 30~ minutes left and won't be turning it back on.

Oh come on.

I think I liked green lantern better than the first Thor

 

[jdoggydogg]

The World's End:

Really liked the first part of the movie. Would have been completely happy with a movie just dealing with the idea of these guys getting dragged along on their ####### friend's selfish quest to relive the glory days (I guess night?). Got a little bored with the the last part of the movie as the crap hit the fan. Still definitely worth a viewing if you are a fan of the other two movies of theirs, but I would personally put this one a bit below Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead. At that end of the day, even 3rd in this trilogy is still a pretty good movie. 6/10

So many bad comedies in the world, I give this one an A-.

true. might have undersold it a little, but my ratings aren't genre specific and comedies usually don't score with me. Shaun and fuzz are probably 8/10 movies for me, and I didnt dig this as much.

I liked Shaun, actually liked World's more than Fuzz.

 

[jdoggydogg]

Hopefully I can save people from watching "The Counsellor" starring Brad Pitt and a host of others.Boring dialogue....basically boring everything. The kind of movie you sit there waiting to finally "kick in" but never does.

Just curious: could you cite a movie you think has interesting dialogue?

Pulp fiction is an obvious choice. There are a number of older movies like The Maltese Falcon that I could list. I'm a sucker for well written romance like Before Sunrise / Before Sunset. Just about any Coen Brothers or Woody movie. Glengarry Glen Ross. Lots of the early Kevin Smith stuff (if pressed I'd list Chasing Amy at the top). A Fish Called Wanda, The Sting, tombstone, The Princess Bride, Monty Python Holy Grail, My Cousin Vinny, heck even the Clooney Oceans 11 movie had some snappy dialogue.

The older stuff is where you'll find the best dialogue driven movies though.

I'm not surprised that people take issue with The Counselor. I'm just surprised that you don't like The Counselor and cite the reason as the script being boring because the script is fantastic.

I have the same problem with some of Mamet's stuff, in that it sounds like writing instead of people having a legitimate conversation.

I see why you'd say that. Movies are often so poorly written that I can forgive an overly mellifluous tone. Kinda like Deadwood. I don't really care if some of these guys could never have been so eloquent. I just want more.