Frankenweenie (2012)

Typical dark and mysterious film by Tim Burton. I love the little references here and there (Van Helsing, Persephone, V. Frankenstein), and it kept me on the edge of my seat. ("What were you doing boys?" "Science!")

[I love the nutty maniacal science teacher ("They like what science gives them but not the questions... That's what makes you a scientist."), and the quirky characters were interesting in their own right (Mr. Whiskers!).]

I thought the ending was off though - shouldn't you be teaching your kid to let go instead? (In all fairness, though, Sparky's a remarkable dog.) Still, a good movie for late afternoon or the after hours.


Rating: 4 / 5 (minus 1 because of my noted comment above)

(Watched March 20, 2013)

Oz, the Great and Powerful

Shiny World of Oz story about greatness and goodness. No Dorothy here, but Kansas and witches a-plenty. I got a nice happy feeling after the movie, but it feels lacking in substance.

I like the black and white motifs, and the modern-ish reactions of the characters.

Lastly: Too much Edison love, what about TESLA?!

Rating: 4 / 5 (because it's purty)

(Watched March 10, 2013)

Wreck-It Ralph

A feel good movie that even non-gamers can appreciate (though gamers can think of it as a salute to their happy childhood). It deals with the realm of make believe, but has that homey moral vibe too. Inconsistencies here and there, but what the heck - it's a fun animated movie anyway.

Rating: 5 / 5

(Watched Nov. 11, 2012)

Life of Pi

Beautiful cinematography, lovely movie of a person who lived to dwell on religion, survivalist tactics, tragedy, love and a tiger. Fantastical to a degree, but interesting. I guess you gotta see it to believe.

Rating: 5 / 5

(Watched Jan 20, 2013)

Hitchcock

Drama-laden take of the behind-the-scenes of Psycho. Quite something to chew on, and stunning scenes. Sometimes shadowy, but all around interesting, especially to the Hitchcock fan.

Also: Alma Reville is one tough lady.

Rating: 4 / 5

(Watched Feb 9, 2013)

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Young adult in nature, but poignant tale. The acting was great. (I loved Patrick.) Very real, and quite deep. Lots of issues to chew on. I think I could watch this over & over again, and still end up crying.

Rating: 5 / 5

(Watched Oct 6, 2012)

Bodyguard (Bollywood)

Lovely movie - comedy, drama, romance, action... And plenty of eye candy! Has a kind of delusional feel to it, but a good movie with an interesting twist. I love the Bodyguard song too!

(I feel this would be a great date movie.)

 Rating: 4 / 5

(Watched Feb 9, 2013)

Snow White and the Huntsman

Gritty, real-life take on the well-known legend. Dark scenes, okay acting. Snow White's really snow white here.

(Charlize Theron looks amazing, too.)

Rating: 3 / 5

(Watched Feb 15, 2013)

Dark Shadows (2012)

Star-studded cast, but what fine acting. Fun movie with vampires, magic and, well, love. Dark, but also light enough. Not too deep, but enjoyable.

Rating: 4 / 5

(Watched Feb 15, 2013)

Les Miserables: The Musical Phenomenon (2012)

Wonderful adaptation, though I get surprised by the singing every so often. I shed many a tear. Great cast, great film.

Rating: 5 / 5

(Watched 15 Feb 2013)