Film: Shoot Em Up
A quick word on this one. This is a very violent action film spoof but I had a good time watching it. The audience I was with seemed to really enjoy it as well. Even though it's a spoof, it has some amazing action sequences, gunplay and a sense of humor. It had some wit that you have to appreciate if you've ever watched an action movie and thought things like "why are they doing that?" "talking villain again" or "how'd they miss?"
Once rumored for James Bond, Clive Owen turns in another fine performance. He protected a baby in Children of Men and does so again here, reluctantly.
If you took it seriously, you would probably think it's terrible and over the top.
Labels: film
Film: Live Free Or Die Hard
I saw the new Die Hard film today and it is the best summer movie so far. You have to suspend disbelief at times but it's an enjoyable couple hours at the theater. In a summer of sad sequels, one finally hits a mark as high as other films in the series. And your butt doesn't have to get sore waiting for the editor to end the film. (Are editors getting paid by the final run time of the movie? If so the Pirates guy must be rich.) I don't mind great three hour movies (Godfather, LoTR trilogy, etc) but it better be great.
I didn't like the idea of Apples television ad "Mac guy" playing the sidekick. I tried to dislike him early on but I had to give in and say he played the role effectively. Bruce Willis is John McClane and it was great seeing the role back on the screen. Although the film is the first PG-13 in the series, it was still basically an old R rated film. People die easily and frequently with the bad language being drowned out in explosions and gun fire.
The reduced impact of CGI on this film is a welcome change. Like the last Terminator film, it's refreshing to see real cars and helicopters being blown up and hurled about in the air. No matter how good special effects have become in recent years, there is a feeling that comes with reality that just shines through in this film.
Labels: film
