Comedy

Terms of Endearment (1983)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

Every family has a short list of movies that regularly rotate on the TVs in the house. These movies tend to go hand-in-hand with slow Sunday afternoons, or early mornings when someone is up surfing through cable movie channels. If one of these movies is on, we stop and watch no matter how many times we have seen it before.

Terms of Endearment, directed by James L. Brooks, based on the Larry McMurtry novel of the same name, is near the top of the “regularly on the TV” list in my family. We could also add this to the list of movies that never fails to make my mom cry. Maybe it’s because we’re a Houstonian family, and the scenes set in Houston resonate deeply with us. I mean, how many times have you seen Houston on the big screen? Anyways, Terms of Endearment clearly impacted audiences when it was released in 1983. It became the second-highest grossing film of the year, and won 5 out of the 11 Academy Awards it was nominated for.

The film follows a mother-daughter duo and covers a 30-year span of their relationship. The mother, Aurora, played by Shirley MacLaine, has a complex relationship with her maturing daughter, Emma, played by Debra Winger. They clearly love each other, but never can see eye to eye. They are each other’s biggest supporters while also being each other’s biggest source of heartache. Aurora and Emma reside in the well-to-do neighborhood of River Oaks in Houston. However, once Emma marries her boyfriend Flap (Jeff Daniels), whom her mother very much dislikes, the newly-weds move to Iowa for Flap’s career. Aurora, now alone in Houston, must face her independence and come to terms with the fact that she cannot control those whom she cares for the most. As Aurora and Emma ease into their new lives, they remain bonded but with space, slowly learn to grow on their own. Aurora, whose rigidity has led her to turn down many romantic prospects, finds herself in a relationship with her next-door neighbor, Garrett (Jack Nicholson). Garrett, a certified playboy, is probably the exact opposite of Aurora’s ideal man. This relationship allows her to engage in a carefree nature she has never let herself experience before. Emma, who has always approached life in a more carefree, “follow the leader” manner than her mother, becomes more decisive and in control of her own narrative when her marriage hits the rocks. Both women come to realize the value in navigating life together despite having different perspectives. The film calls us to examine relationships in our own lives, and how unconditional love means accepting and learning to share life with others, not bend theirs to fit into ours, or vice versa.

The simplicity of Terms of Endearment is one of its qualities that has aged the best. It genuinely feels like James L. Brooks picked up a camera and started following these individuals around. The costumes and settings are not particularly impressive, but they are not supposed to be. We are observing everyday life for this mother and daughter, and they lead relatively normal lives. The simplicity makes it relatable for everyone. Brooks is probably most known for his role in helping create the iconic Mary Tyler Moore Show. I see so many similarities between that show and Terms of Endearment. Now, the latter obviously leans heavy on drama while MTM mainly focuses on situational comedy. However, both feature a cast of characters that are deeply flawed…they’re human. Brooks is at his best when highlighting the frailties of individuals while also exposing the goodness at the core of most human beings. We like to laugh and revel in good company. We want romance and strive to find “our person.” But we also make mistakes. We waste breath and say hurtful things. All of this makes up life, and we must take that for what it is – simply a brief period of time where we can try our best for the people we love.

A character-driven film requires perfect performances from its actors. MacLaine and Nicholson both won much deserved Oscars, but Winger, Daniels, and John Lithgow (who plays a love interest of Emma’s) give wonderful performances as well. Daniel’s character Flap is not supposed to be likable, but I never feel completely down on him. Daniel’s ability to elicit compassion from the audience for someone who more or less lives up to the name “Flap,” is a true feat. The chemistry between MacLaine and Nicholson is palpable, and the two work extremely well together. Similar to the situation with Flap, we are not necessarily Aurora’s biggest cheerleaders. But through the compelling honesty in her performance, MacLaine commands our attention to her character and nudges us to see the good in her.

“How are you? It’s not my fault, but I’m sorry.”

– Aurora Greenway

40 years after its release, Terms of Endearment continues to evoke emotional responses from old and new audiences. The message is simple and timeless. From our relationships, to our jobs, and our health, life can get messy. Although these factors can bear a lot of weight and require a lot of our energy, in the end, we do not have much control over how they play out. The one thing we can do is be there for each other. Aurora takes care of Emma and allows Garrett to take care of her. Emma supports her mother, and when Emma’s health fails, Flap learns to support her. Once we set aside our differences and acknowledge our shortcomings, we will relish the moments that make life wonderful. As the film progresses, we are reminded that time is fleeting, and we must meet people where they are at and love them for who they are.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

Wow…it’s been a while! I am back from my unofficial year-long writing hiatus. To be honest, I just wasn’t motivated to write about the movies I saw in theaters over the past year. I never would have guessed that a Quentin Tarantino film would be the one to revive my passion for review writing.

I’m not going to lie, my anticipation to see Once Upon a Time in Hollywood was not high in weeks prior to the film’s release. Leonardo DiCaprio is my favorite actor, but I am not the biggest fan of Tarantino. I’ve seen several of his films, and I dislike his use of extreme violence and racially-charged language. However, the cast and premise of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood caught my attention. I love portrayals of retro Hollywood and stories with a historical twist. That being said, I purposefully did not do much research before going to see it.*

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Rick Dalton, Brad Pitt as Cliff Booth, and Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate. Rick Dalton is a fading television western star, and Cliff Booth is his best friend and stunt double. The film follows this fictitious storyline while somewhat depicting the real events involving Sharon Tate and the Manson murders. But, in classic Tarantino fashion, it lacks a defined narrative. There is no three-act structure and no overarching conflict. Because of this, I think Tarantino risks losing many audience members to boredom. The majority of the film focuses on depicting the daily life of these stars in the late 1960s. The colors, wardrobes, and sets are incredibly nostalgic and visually stunning. Great acting performances, particularly by DiCaprio, keep the audience hanging on until the latter third of the film, when action involving the plot finally kicks in. I have seen it twice now, and my reactions differed. I loved it the first time, but naturally noticed many flaws after the second viewing.

Shot of the Regency Bruin Theater in the film
My own picture of the theater

Before I start the review, I thought I’d share something pretty cool. One of Robbie’s scenes was shot in Westwood where she attends a screening of The Wrecking Crew, which Tate starred in. Most of the scene takes place inside the historic Regency Bruin Theater, which is where I saw the film on opening night! It was surreal to watch the scene unfold in the very theater I was watching in. The picture on the right is the current marquee outside the theater. Anyways, back to my review…

*Light spoilers, don’t read further if you haven’t seen the film!*

Without a doubt, DiCaprio’s performance steals the show. I think he carries the film. I definitely would not have been as invested in the story had the performance not been one of his bests. Brad Pitt is good as his sidekick, but some of the lines he delivers come off awkwardly. I think we can attribute that to the odd nature of his character and weak screenwriting. DiCaprio and Pitt really do work well together, and I hope we get to see future collaborations. Margot Robbie does not have many lines; she is primarily there to present Tate’s persona and beauty. It was nice to see appearances by legends like Al Pacino, Bruce Dern, and Kurt Russell. Overall, the acting in the film is solid and does not falter.

Most of the criticisms towards Once Upon a Time in Hollywood target Tarantino’s directorial decisions. The film does have its absurd moments, but I think he intentionally exaggerates for entertainment. It does pay off, because I laughed out loud with the rest of the audience several times during the opening night screening. Like I said previously, there is no established conflict for a good portion of the film. As a result, several scenes meander with no clear purpose. I didn’t mind this, for the most part, because the good scenes are really good. Some of the drawn-out scenes with Tate, particularly in Westwood, could have been trimmed. If the goal was to create parallel narratives between Tate’s life and the duo of Dalton/Booth, I think Tarantino fails. She comes off as a background character who lacks a substantial storyline. There are some moments of sloppy editing, but being familiar with Tarantino’s style, it was difficult to know whether or not those imperfections were intentional. Critiquing the noticeable “flaws” in this film is challenging because they obviously stem from Tarantino’s unique vision. The film is not bad because of his choices. The key filmmaking elements of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, such as the acting and cinematography, are excellent. It’s in the little things, like unusual pacing and editing, where viewers may find fault. However, I have found that what some may describe as a mistake will not resonate with all viewers. Therefore, it is difficult to refer to his unconventional directorial choices as “flaws.”

I genuinely did admire Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. I say that with hesitation because the film is abnormal. It has taken some serious reflection to pinpoint exactly what I liked about it. I think the strong acting performances, homage to an old era, and pure entertainment value of the film makes it an enjoyable watch. Understandably, the “day-in-the-life” nature of it will leave some viewers wondering what the point of it is. Everyone will have a different experience and reaction. I think you have to take it for what it is and leave the heavy analysis at the door. Tarantino crafted a fairytale to indulge in and express his love for Hollywood in the late 1960s. 

Comment your opinions of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood below!

*Having an idea of the circumstances surrounding Sharon Tate and the Manson family will make the film more meaningful.

Rated R for language and violence, although it’s not quite as violent as Tarantino’s other films. 

Lady Bird (2017)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

The awards’ nomination season is suddenly upon us! I finally got around to seeing Lady Bird, which was recently nominated for four Golden Globes including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. On top of these nominations, Lady Bird has broken a significant record. It is currently the Best Reviewed film in Rotten Tomatoes nineteen-year history. I had to see what the hype was all about.

Lady Bird, directed and written by Greta Gerwig, has been in theaters across the United States since November 3rd. The success it has seen so far is impressive because the film is actually Gerwig’s directorial debut. She is already an accomplished actress. Lady Bird tells a coming-of-age story involving Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson and her senior year of high school. She is an artistic and outspoken girl who is determined to go to college on the East Coast, far away from her “obnoxious” family in Sacramento, California. The typical teenager themes are illustrated through a turbulent mother-daughter relationship and a confusing first love. Needless to say, the film has been remarkably popular amongst teenagers and young adults. I enjoyed it, although I felt something was missing.

The acting is exceptional and definitely not the area where Lady Bird slacks. Saoirse Ronan must have been on Gerwig’s mind as she was writing the script, because Ronan plays the part of Lady Bird superbly. It is within Ronan’s repertoire to play such a youthful and spunky character because she has previously in Brooklyn. In my opinion, a good performance must subtlety coerce the audience into thinking that they are watching a real-life person, not an actor. This is what Ronan does. She is joined on-screen by Lucas Hedges in the role of Danny and up-and-coming star Timothée Chalamet in the role of Kyle. Personally, I adored Lady Bird’s best friend Julie, played by Beanie Feldstein. The talent in this cast is undeniable and enables the film to be about more than just a cliché high school experience. In fact, I think that is what I appreciated about it the most.

It is obvious that the subject matter of Lady Bird comes from the heart. Gerwig has attested that her screenplay was inspired by her personal adolescent anecdotes. In fact, some characteristics are extremely similar to her own life. The first draft of the script was 350 pages long, a six hour film!* This is interesting because it demonstrates what Gerwig (now 34) has learned by reflecting on her teenage years. It is as if she is telling the youths in the audience that everything will turn out fine, despite the seemingly huge bumps in the road. I really loved how she included a spiritual aspect in the story. Lady Bird attends a Catholic all-girls school where she is labeled as the rebellious student. At the time, she strongly dislikes the rigid structure of the school and behaves rather nonchalantly towards its traditions. But, at the end of the film, she finds herself back in a church, a place she probably figured she would never set foot in again. Lady Bird realizes that this spiritual element she grew up with will always be a part of her. It is a touching moment.

The issue I had with Lady Bird lies in the fact that there was no extremely compelling aspect of the story. I was never bored, but I was never completely captivated either. There is not necessarily a climax, and nothing shocking lingers to affect the storyline. The best way to describe the structure of the plot would be as a timeline, because it basically follows Lady Bird from the start of her senior of high school to the beginning of her freshman year in college. Some audience members may not notice the lack of “Hollywood intrigue,” but I felt it needed an extra dash of excitement.

I recommend that everyone, especially younger individuals, try to see Lady Bird because it is something that many will be able to relate to. A lot of teenage drama is universal, which is why I think it resonates with those who have loved it. Anyone who grew up during the early 2000s (when the film is set) will get a kick out of the outfit and song choices. If you have seen it, I would love to hear your opinions! Feel free to comment below.

Lady Bird is rated R. 

Image Credit to Variety.com

*Trivia credit to IMDb.com

The Disaster Artist (2017)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

Ever heard a film called The Room? You probably have, as it is universally considered the worst film ever made. I have never seen The Room, but I have always been curious as to why it has such a terrible reputation. Funnily enough, the film is now considered a cult classic. The Disaster Artist gives an inside look at the creation of this mess of a film.

The Disaster Artist was released in limited theaters on December 1st. It will be available in most theaters across the United States on December 8th. James Franco directed the film, but also stars in it alongside his brother Dave Franco. This marks the first time that the Franco brothers have worked together on a film. The cast includes a whole list of recognizable names including Alison Brie (Dave Franco’s wife), Seth Rogen (frequent collaborator with James Franco), Zac Efron, and Josh Hutcherson. It is obviously based on a true story as it tells the journey of two aspiring actors, Tommy Wiseau (James Franco) and Greg Sestero (Dave Franco), and their attempt to follow their dreams in Hollywood. I really enjoyed this film. Although it is hilarious, there is a very sincere side to it.

James and Dave Franco.
James Franco and Seth Rogen.

One of the reasons The Disaster Artist is so hysterical and engaging is because of the writing behind it. The adapted screenplay, written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber, is based on the book, “The Disaster Artist: My Life Inside The Room, the Greatest Bad Movie Ever Made.” The quick banter holds up the pacing of the film and almost every single line is funny. Even though the story is modeled after real-life events, the writers put their own creativity into it. Some parts are embellished for the sake of entertainment, but they still manage to convey the important details.

Of course, a good screenplay is even better when it is paralleled with excellent acting. James Franco does an incredible job of playing the eccentric Tommy Wiseau. Everything, from his European accent to his exaggerated mannerisms, is spot on. I will not be surprised if he receives some major award nods. Dave Franco’s character, Greg Sestero, is more or less the “straight man.” He is more down-to-earth but a bit naive. I think that the audience sympathizes with Greg because of what he endures in his friendship with Tommy. Dave Franco gives a great performance of this likable guy. Seth Rogen has the role of Sandy the script supervisor, and his sharp wit is what one would expect from Rogen. He once again displays his comedic talent and adds another level of hilarity to the film. Each person brings a creative and necessary aspect to the story, which is a main reason why it is compelling.

Despite how funny The Disaster Artist is, there are some moments when the audience realizes how Tommy Wiseau never saw The Room as a joke. It was his dream. It is unfortunate to watch someone, no matter how weird he or she might be, work hard only to see his or her final product become a flop. Tommy sunk $6 million into the film, and it only made $1800 in its opening weekend. The scene of the premiere is bittersweet as Tommy comes to terms with how his film will be received by movie-goers and critics. Alas, Tommy was saved by cult audiences. The Room has now made a significant amount of money due to midnight showings with die-hard fans and film enthusiasts.

The Disaster Artist is a must-see for those who enjoy dramedies, especially true ones! There is no need to have seen The Room prior to seeing this film. In fact, having no background information may make The Disaster Artist even more amusing. The Franco brothers lead a skilled cast in telling a story that provides an inside look into the making of what became part of film history.

This film is rated R. 

Image from the Toronto International Film Festival. 

The Shop Around the Corner (1940)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

It is the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday films are popping up on all of the movie channels. It is a great time to watch some classic Christmas stories while spending time with family. Turner Classic Movies features some of the best holiday films during their November and December schedules. The Shop Around the Corner is one of the great seasonal stories that features charming individuals and serves as a reminder of what the holidays are all about.

The Shop Around the Corner premiered in the winter of 1940. Directed by Ernst Lubitsch, it stars Jimmy Stewart as Alfred Kralik and Margaret Sullavan as Klara Novak. The plot takes place in a small shop in Budapest, Hungary. Alfred and Klara are pen pals who fall in love through their letters to one another. Because the letters are anonymous, neither has any idea that they actually work in the shop together. Ironically, Alfred and Klara despise each other in real life. The story follows the relationship of the two as well as the rest of the characters that are employed in the shop. It is a classic Golden Age romantic comedy with timeless and universal themes.

Jimmy Stewart was born to play these kinds of roles. His character, Alfred Kralik, has the audience’s attention throughout the entire film. He is the one that everyone roots for. Margaret Sullavan plays the perfect female lead opposite Stewart. She is funny and intelligent. Sullavan is not a “sex symbol” as some other Old Hollywood actresses were called. Her simplicity adds to how special and meaningful this film is. Apparently, Lubitsch was so insistent on having Stewart and Sullavan as the leading roles that he delayed shooting until they were both available. The chemistry between the two may be attributed to the fact that Stewart and Sullavan were long-time friends prior to the making of the film. Both of them feed off of each other’s charm and quick wit. However, unlike many formulaic romantic comedies, all of the characters are given depth. My favorite supporting actor was Felix Bressart who played Pirovitch. He is a humble family man who truly cares about his friends. He frequently acts as Alfred Kralik’s right-hand man. Every single character has his or her place within the film and adds value to the overall story.

Although this film is nostalgic and romantic, there is a very real and serious element to it. One of the main characters, Mr. Matuschek (Frank Morgan), discovers that his wife is having an affair. He tries to commit suicide, but luckily one of his employees prevents him from doing so. Mr. Matuschek suffers from loneliness, but realizes that he can be fulfilled through acts of humanity. At the end of the film, he offers a Christmas feast to the new errand boy who has no family to celebrate with. This moment is touching and acknowledges the true “holiday spirit.” The universal love for this film is a credit to its ability to reach to all audiences, no matter who might be watching.

The importance of family and love shines through in The Shop Around the Corner. Even though the employees at the shop are not related, they resemble a family. They quarrel but also rely on each other. They get lonely but love reminds them of what they have. Life has its ups and downs, but sometimes the positive notes are so great that they can outweigh any negativity. After finishing the film Ernst Lubitsch said, “It’s not a big picture, just a quiet little story that seemed to have some charm. It didn’t cost very much, for such a cast, under $500,000. It was made in twenty-eight days. I hope it has some charm.” I believe the reason this film continues to be an annual holiday classic is because of its simplicity and honesty.

I highly recommend The Shop Around the Corner. If you have seen it or if you have any questions, feel free to comment below!

This film is not rated. 

 

La La Land (2016)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

It would be an understatement to say that I was merely excited for La La Land. I have been waiting for this film for a little over a year. Luckily, I had the chance to see it a month earlier than its release date at a local film festival. I love musicals and grew up watching them, so the idea behind La La Land – along with its incredible cast and crew – was a dream come true.

*There are very light spoilers in this review. Read at your own risk.*

La La Land makes its nation-wide debut (USA) on Christmas Day. It is being released in several cities today, December 16. Directed and written by Damien Chazelle, it follows the journey of two aspiring artists in Los Angeles. One is a jazz pianist, Sebastian, who is played by Ryan Gosling. The other is an actress, Mia, who is played by Emma Stone. The story takes place in modern times, but there are inklings of classic Hollywood, which I appreciated. Both Sebastian and Mia start off struggling to achieve their dreams. Eventually, the two fall in love, and their dreams begin to grow realistic. Bittersweet sacrifices must be made in order for Sebastian and Mia to accomplish what each person wants in life. I walked out of the theater with all different kinds of feelings. I was amazed and overjoyed, but I was also reflective and emotional. I absolutely loved the film, and might even put it up on my list of favorites.

“Here’s to the fools who dream.”

La La Land was one of those films that was on my mind for days after I saw it. I have so much to say about it, but bare with me and I will try to condense most of it for this review.

First of all, I think that Damien Chazelle (who is only 31 years old) is one of the most talented directors in Hollywood right now. La La Land is his third feature film, his second being the critically acclaimed Whiplash from 2014. Chazelle actually came up with the idea for La La Land when he was a student at Harvard University, which was long before he started on Whiplash. However, studios were not willing to fund his idea because they did not believe that this type of musical could be successful. Not to be defeated, Chazelle put La La Land aside and began to write Whiplash. After the huge praise and success Whiplash received, studios were willing to give Chazelle the money he needed for La La Land. 

Chazelle was inspired by the musicals he grew up watching, and it is evident in the finished film. Some of those musicals included Singin’ In the Rain, Top Hat, and The Umbrellas of Cherbourg. Chazelle was so passionate about those films that he would actually screen them for the cast and crew during production to show them what he envisioned for La La Land. He teamed up with his close friend and composer Justin Hurwitz, whom he attended Harvard and worked on Whiplash with. Hurwitz wrote six original songs and the score for the musical, making sure each one matched the tone and mood needed for the specific scenes that they would be featured in. The song that is played in one of the film’s trailers, “City of Stars,” took Hurwitz thirty-one rewrites to satisfy both Chazelle and himself. The music in the film was fantastic, and I had several of the songs stuck in my head for days. All of the songs fit their scenes perfectly.

Although I loved everything about La La Land, if I had to pinpoint my favorite aspect, it would be the chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. This is their third film together, including Gangster Squad and Crazy, Stupid, Love. Both have said in interviews that it makes the experience a lot smoother and more fun when acting alongside a good friend or “buddy” as Emma Stone puts it. The two talented actors make the romance between Mia and Sebastian seem so authentic, that it is hard to believe they are not a couple in real life. I found myself so attached to both characters, and I wanted to see both be successful. Both Gosling and Stone give such great performances that fit their personalities so well, so I was shocked to learn that they were not the first choices Chazelle had. Originally, Chazelle reached out to Emma Watson and Miles Teller (who was the star of Whiplash). Watson was busy with another project, and Teller did not have the right chemistry with Stone. Thank goodness for this, because I truly think that Gosling and Stone are the closest modern-day comparison to Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire. Obviously, Rogers and Astaire had more dancing talent and experience, but Gosling and Stone do match the chemistry of the legendary pair. There is one scene, which is probably my favorite, where Sebastian and Mia walk to their cars after a party. They are still acquaintances at the time, but that soon changes. The two begin singing and dancing with the Los Angeles skyline in the background, which creates a great cinematic moment.

Stone and Gosling dance with the LA skyline in the background. (IMDb.com)
Stone and Gosling dance with the LA skyline in the background. (IMDb.com)

It is fascinating to read about how much effort and practice went into nailing the song and dance scenes (choreographed by Mandy Moore) in La La Land. Damien Chazelle had the cast rehearse in warehouses for three months prior to when they began shooting. Ryan Gosling claimed in a recent interview that he spent four hours a day for three months practicing the piano pieces his character plays in the film. Yes, that is Gosling playing the piano himself without a hand double. My favorite story from the set is how the cast and crew managed to pull off the opening number (“Another Day of Sun”). Chazelle got a 48-hour permit to film on the 105-110 interchange in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that this interchange is 100 feet high; one of the production designers even questioned that someone might fall off. Somehow, Chazelle managed to pull it off in scorching 100 degree weather. The final result is stunning, and it brings the audience right into the film.

I could go on and on about this film, but I will stop here. La La Land is a must-see for 2016. It says a lot that I saw the film for the first time over a month ago, and I am still thinking about it. It will affect everyone in a different way, so I am curious to see what the final consensus will be. The film is already getting stellar reviews and awards buzz, but time will tell. The musical numbers and dialogue scenes are so well blended; there is no awkward jump from song to reality. It has something for everyone, whether that be a great love story, entertaining music, or witty dialogue. La La Land will speak to idealists and those who have big aspirations. All dreams have little snags here and there, but that does not mean the next step should be to give up. It is happy and it is sad, but without that, there would not be much of a story to tell. 🙂

P.S. There are appearances by J.K. Simmons and John Legend that make the film even better.

Fun Fact: The score composed by Justin Hurwitz was recorded with a 90-piece orchestra on a scoring stage. The stage was the same stage that many classic musicals, such as Singin’ In the Rain, had their scores recorded on.

La La Land is rated PG-13 only because of the very infrequent use of curse words. Other than that, it is a family film that everyone can attend. 

Please leave your comments below! I am very interested to see everyone’s opinions about this film.

Image credit to : http://www.theplaylist.net. and http://www.imdb.com

Don’t Think Twice (2016)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

I have always been interested in improv because that is how several of my favorite entertainers got started in the film or television industry. Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Will Ferrell…the list goes on. Don’t Think Twice focuses on an improv troupe in New York City. There are six comedians, and one of them gets a big break. This film gives an inside look into the lives of the members of the troupe and the conflicts they deal with.

Don’t Think Twice, written and directed by comedian Mike Birbiglia, was released in July of this year. As mentioned before, the film follows a popular improv troupe, called The Commune, through their adventures as comedians. The troupe is like a close-knit family, but they all have their individual goals and desires. All six of them aspire to be on Weekend Live, which is supposed to represent the well-known Saturday Night Live. Jack, played by Keegan-Michael Key, finally receives his chance and takes it. This changes his life as well as the rest of the troupe’s lives.

I loved the messages in this film. As an aspiring filmmaker, I found the lessons to be helpful and a reminder of what “success” really is. Miles, played by Mike Birbiglia, is the leader and oldest of the troupe. He was Jack’s former improv coach, and has always had joining the cast of Weekend Live at the top of his bucket list. Miles auditioned once before, but did not make it. The big breaks never seen to come to him, as he watches the rest of his “improv family” move up in their careers. However, Mike finally realizes, near the end of the film, what his purpose in life is. This is his version of success.

The acting in this film was very authentic. I felt as if I was actually watching a real improv troupe and their documentary. Although the film is not made in documentary style, it sometimes felt that way. I felt as if I was just standing off in the corner of the room as the troupe performed, or sitting at a nearby table when the troupe was at a bar. The audience and character connection is strong. All viewers care and want to see each character achieve their dreams and do well. It shines an honest light on the trials that the troupe endures, whether that be envy of another member or the change in a relationship caused by diverging paths.

Personally, Sam (short for Samantha) was my favorite character. Gillian Jacobs does a great job of presenting a well-liked, sweet person who is happy with the little things in life. She, like Jack, has the chance to audition for Weekend Live, but she chooses not to go. Sam realizes that her version of success is being in the improv troupe and performing shows every night. She does not want the fast-paced, glamour life that she sees at Weekend Live. Sam is someone who is content with herself and her position in life. She has a moment of self-discovery at the end of the film, when she performs on the stage by herself. She knows that the small stage is where she belongs.

Don’t Think Twice shows that “making it big” does not make life any easier. It might even make it harder. Jack’s new job thrusts him into the limelight, and they have a hard time understanding that. The rest of the troupe has the impression that Jack can put in a good word for them and they will be hired for Weekend Live just like that. Unfortunately, that is not how it works. Just because Jack is on a higher level does not mean he has a secure job where he can just say or do whatever he wants. This whole dilemma puts a strain on the friendships in the troupe. These clashes not only happen in improv, but in other professions as well. This is why the film is so relatable.

This film is different, but it is probably one of my favorites (if not my favorite) that I have seen this year. It was a limited release, so it has not gotten the buzz it deserves. Don’t Think Twice is a comedy, but it contains touching and emotional aspects that capture the audience. It is rare to watch a film these days where one can enjoy such a caring connection with the characters. It shows that even as one chases his or her dream, reality always gets in the way. But eventually, everyone finds their place and where they belong. If Don’t Think Twice is in theaters near you, I really recommend seeing it!

Main Cast: Keegan-Michael Key, Mike Birbiglia, Gillian Jacobs, Kate Micucci, Tami Sagher, and Chris Gethard

*Don’t Think Twice is rated R for language (minor) and marijuana use (minor)*

Image from RollingStone.com

The Nice Guys (2016)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

I have been waiting for The Nice Guys to be released ever since I saw the first trailer last year. I knew immediately that it would be a film that I would like because of the cast and story. Let me just say, my expectations were met and exceeded. I have never laughed so hard in a movie theater before, thanks to this film.

The Nice Guys made its United States debut today, May 20. The film was directed and written by Shane Black, who also directed Iron Man 3 and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. Black was assisted by Anthony Bagarozzi on the screenplay. It stars Ryan Gosling, who plays Holland March, and Russell Crowe, who plays Jackson Healy. This is the first film with the pairing of these two A-list actors, and it should definitely not be the last one.

The film is set in 1977 in Los Angeles, California. The film was actually mostly filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, but one would never know. Holland March (Gosling) is an always-drunk private investigator who does not take his job seriously. He is truly “in it for the money.” March has a thirteen-year-old daughter, Holly, who is played by Angourie Rice. Jackson Healy (Crowe) is a more “under the radar” private investigator who likes to play rough. The two characters cross paths when a girl named Amelia, played by Margaret Qualley, is brought to their attention. March and Healy team up to form an improbable crime fighting duo that brings tons of laughs and entertainment.

I have said this before and I will say it again: Ryan Gosling is at his best when he plays the comedic role. He was perfect in The Big Short as the comedic role and he is perfect in The Nice Guys. Gosling’s timing with his smart aleck remarks are on point. This film contains a lot of slapstick comedy as well, and Gosling flawlessly executes. The witty screenplay helped, but not many actors can carry such a funny role.

Holland March: Look on the bright side. Nobody got hurt.

Jackson Healy: People got hurt.

Holland March: I’m saying, I think they died quickly. So I don’t think they got hurt.

Of course, it helps to have chemistry with the other leading actor. Both Gosling and Crowe compliment each other extremely well. Jackson Healy is more of the straight man, while he lets Holland March make a fool of himself (more often than not). Crowe is great at doing this. His comments about certain situations are ones that the audience can relate to. There are some truly hilarious exchanges between the two characters, whether it is fighting over something trivial during a tense moment or trying to figure out the best way to solve the mystery. The biggest surprise in the cast was probably Angourie Rice. As I mentioned before, she plays Holly March. Even though she is young, Holly March is in some ways more intelligent and effective than her father. Young actors can sometimes overact in their role, but Rice did not. Her character saves the detective duo from several traps and frequently assists them in their investigation. Based on this performance, I would say that her acting career looks promising.

Shane Black knows how to successfully incorporate comedy and drama. He has done it in all of his films. While The Nice Guys is mostly comedic, there are several situations where the audience can feel for and connect with certain characters. One can see that these guys actually have hearts and do not always enjoy going out and killing whomever is in their path. It takes a toll on them. All of the characters have their own story and personality. Although Holland March is a drunk and pretty much a failure (at the beginning), he is a caring father. The characters were not one dimensional.

If you are thinking about going to see this film, I highly recommend it. I could not stop laughing at certain scenes – it was absolutely hysterical! It is a very entertaining story and has a sturdy plot. Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe shine in this film with the help of a comical screenplay and several supporting actors like Angourie Rice and Matt Bomer. If you have seen it or have any questions, leave a comment in the section below!

This film is rated R for language, nudity, and violence. There is a lot of cussing and fighting, but nothing too gory. There is some nudity towards the beginning of the film since the story does involve the death of an adult film star.  

Image credit: http://www.knoxnews.com

 

Hail, Caesar! (2016)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

Do you ever ask the question, “What in the world?” when you are sitting in a movie audience? Is there ever so much laughter that you cannot hear the dialogue? This was the feeling and atmosphere when I went to see Hail, Caesar! The film was released nationwide (USA) on February 5. It is star-studded, with actors like George Clooney and Ralph Fiennes. Directed and written by Joel and Ethan Coen, Hail, Caesar! is a very entertaining and different film.

For Old Hollywood fans, this film is a dream come true. Hail, Caesar! is set in the 1950s at Capitol Pictures. Everything has a vintage look and feel. Every type of Old Hollywood film, like aquatic films and musicals, are displayed. The story follows a day in the life of studio executive Eddie Mannix, played by Josh Brolin. Mannix is the one who sorts out all of the studios’ and actors’ problems, from unplanned pregnancies to thick Texan accents. The job is no walk in the park because the people Mannix has to interact with can be downright bizarre. Of course, hilarity ensues, creating great laughs and surprises.

The film is loaded with big name actors and actresses. Alongside Josh Brolin, George Clooney stars as Baird Whitlock, who is the top actor at Capitol Pictures. Alden Ehrenreich plays Hobie Doyle, a sweet but unintelligent western actor who cannot seem to lose his very strong Texan accent. This character is hilarious and causes most of the laughs. Scarlett Johansson portrays DeeAnna Moran, an Esther Williams-like aquatic actress. Ralph Fiennes has the role of Laurence Laurentz, the classic Old Hollywood director with a calm demeanor. Channing Tatum is Burt Gurney, a character with elements of Gene Kelly. He performs one musical number that is very fun and amusing to watch. There are small roles played by Jonah Hill and Frances McDormand as well. This cast is excellent.

The Coen Brothers are known for their unique style of filmmaking. Hail, Caesar! does not fall short of this expectation as far as unusual goes. This film does not have a very deep plot at all. It merely shows studio life in the 1950s and everything that came with it. It has a satirical feel. Being a big fan of movies from the Golden Age of Cinema, I loved the setting and style of this film. The photography was terrific. There are many subtle references to films from the 1950s. Hail, Caesar! explores the old ways of editing, acting, and using sound stages.

This film is more entertaining than anything else. There are tons of laughs and strange plot twists. To be honest, I really was not sure what to make of it while walking out of the theater. It ends abruptly without a real finish to the plot. But I guess this just says that Eddie Mannix deals with these events daily, so they really never end. I liked this film, but I think it really depends on the person. If you are a fan of Old Hollywood, you will find it enjoyable to watch.

This film is rated PG-13.

(Image credit to http://www.hailcaesarmovie.com)

 

Joy (2015)

Posted on by Catherine Harpold

Joy, directed by David O. Russell, was released nationwide (USA) on Christmas Day. I have been wanting to see this film since I first saw the trailer at the beginning of October. The cast made up of Russell’s usual people: Jennifer Lawrence (Joy), Robert De Niro (Rudy), and Bradley Cooper (Neil Walker). These three stars worked together on Silver Linings Playbook and American Hustle; their chemistry is evident. This film has not received the best reviews, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.

This film is based on the story of Joy Mangano and her “Miracle Mop” adventure during the 1990s. I would say “loosely based” because there are many facts that are missing and/or different. It is amazing to see how Joy overcame all the adversarial situations and pessimistic individuals in order to create and lead her own company. This film really showed the importance of family, even if they are difficult at times, and how determination can go a long way. Joy is very inspiring when it comes to following one’s dreams. To me, David O. Russell’s quote about the film sums up the basic theme:

“If you’re going to live a fairytale, you’ve got to go through the goblins.”- David O. Russell

Jennifer Lawrence was terrific. Throughout the whole film, I felt like she was actually Joy! She completely grasped the role, including Joy’s unyielding personality. Surprisingly, Bradley Cooper does not have as much screen time as one might expect. Because of this, Lawrence carries this film on her shoulders, which is very different from many male-dominated films in theaters today. Her performance creates a strong connection with the audience. When she struggles, the audience feels her struggles. One of my friends even said that she could feel the stress that Joy was feeling. Lawrence’s Golden Globe nomination (Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy) is rightfully earned.

Bradley Cooper is one of the headlining actors, but his role does not give him much screen time. In fact, he does not make his first appearance until the plot is well on its way. Despite his limited participation, Cooper shines as Neil Walker, the head of QVC at the time. He acts as a boss, mentor, and confidant towards Joy. It is fun to see Lawrence and Cooper’s characters support each other through a strong friendship, which they have carried over from the several other films that they have starred in together.

Robert De Niro plays the role of Joy’s dad, Rudy. Rudy is divorced (twice, actually) and always looking for love. He supports Joy, but often has a hard time showing it. Joy takes care of him more than he takes care of her. Rudy provides much of the comedy, since he has a very blunt personality and really no filter over what he says. His girlfriend, Trudy  (played by Isabella Rossellini), financially supports Joy. Both Rudy and Trudy frequently doubt Joy and her company, but they are always there for her. Loyalty is one of the main messages in the film.

I really enjoy David O. Russell’s directing style. There is a sense of comfort and warmth in the way he presents the setting. The camera movements are also very noticeable, in a good way. It is clear that Russell is inspired by many of cinema’s greats, like Steven Spielberg. He uses techniques that are lost in many of today’s films. The film was created in a unique and unconventional fashion that was refreshing.

Overall, Joy was an entertaining film that provided many themes relating to family and love. I really appreciated the inspiring message that hard work will eventually pay off. It was nice to see a director who uses artistic techniques to tell a special story. The acting was fantastic as well. Joy is a great film to see over the holidays with your family. I encourage you to go see it and share your opinion.

The film is rated PG-13 for one (I repeat, one) curse word. Other than that, it is a clean film that everybody can enjoy.