90s Movie Review - Good Will Hunting

Director: Gus Van Sant
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 126 minutes
Year: 1997
Starring: Matt Damon, Robin Williams, Minnie Driver, Ben Affleck, Casey Affleck, Stellan Skarsgård
Description: A therapist (Robin Williams) counsels Will Hunting (Matt Damon), a janitor with e genius IQ.

Review: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck are big names now, but in 1997 that was not the case. “Good Will Hunting” was a real career starter for the two. They don’t only star in the movie, they wrote the screenplay as well. And for the last, they won an Academy Award.

We meet Will Hunting, a janitor at Harvard who also happens to have a very high IQ. While in mandatory sessions with therapist Sean Maguire, Will is clear about the fact that he doesn’t have any ambition of doing anything with his intelligence.

Matt Damon and Robin Williams’ performances are central to the film. Together they portray a beautiful and believable friendship. The two actors are very well attuned to each other and the scenes between them are the backbone of the film. Both performances are amazing, and Williams deservedly won an Academy Award for it.

The film is character driven, the plot comes second. It takes some time to develop. Will’s struggle between choosing for himself and what others expect of him is portrayed in a beautiful way.

The story grabs you and doesn’t let you go, yet the film isn’t too heavy. This combination is hard to find. It’s been a while since I last watched it, but after the rewatch I realized how much I really love this film.

Rating: 5/ 5

00s Movie Review - Angels & Demons

Director: Ron Howard
Genre: Thriller/ Mystery
Runtime: 138 minutes
Year: 2009
Starring: Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor, Stellan Skarsgård, Ayelet Zurer

Description: Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) works with a nuclear physicist to solve a murder and prevent a terrorist act against the Vatican during one of the significant events within the church.

Review: “Angels & Demons” open with a bang, as well as visual as sound. Director Ron Howard sets the tone to the spectacle we are going to experience. You are overwhelmed with tons of info, see grotesque images of the Vatican and the laboratory of CERN. After that opening, we see Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon for the first time in this film. He is called to the Vatican to help them with the kidnapping of the four preferiti.

The movie has a quick montage and it looks all so impressive. But there is also some room to breathe and reflect. The search for the missing preferiti is exciting, but sometimes a little bit predictable. But overall it’s a well-executed thriller that keeps you on the edge at all times. I loved Tom Hanks in “The Da Vinci Code” but also in “Angels & Demon” (okay, I love Tom Hanks in everything). Ewan McGregor and Stellan Skarsgård are solid supporting actors.

Although I really enjoyed “Angels & Demons”, I prefer “The Da Vinci Code”.

Rating: 5/ 5

Movie Review - Dune

Director: Denis Villeneuve
Genre: Drama/ Adventure/ Action
Runtime: 156 minutes
Year: 2021
Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya, Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, Stellan Skarsgård, Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem, Dave Bautista, Charlotte Rampling

Description: Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) is the son of a noble family who is entrusted with the protection of the most valuable asset and most vital element in the galaxy.

Review: It’s not often that a book retains the status of being unfilmable after it’s been filmed. Author Frank Herbert’s “Dune” did not exactly get the film adaptation this extremely popular and influential work deserved in 1984. In 2000 another attempt was made with a mini-series, which, with its longer running time, did more justice to the complex source material. It would probably have stopped there, were it not for the fact that in tha last two decades Hollywood has tackled many books that were considered unfilmable. Just look at “The Lord of the Rings”-trilogy. And it this complex story can be adapted into one of the most beloved and acclaimed film trilogies of all time, why shouldn’t  “Dune” work? And with the right filmmaker, lots is possible.
Enter Denis Villeneuve, who has been on an impressive winning streak for a good decade now. Villeneuve does not shy away from collaborating with big stars, but has always managed to avoid to easy Hollywood projects. Instead, he devotes himself to films that can easily categorize as ‘quality cinema’: suitable for a large audience but not pedantic and more confrontational than comfortable. “Blade Runner 2049” could be called his first blockbuster.
“Dune” is similar in scale and budget to Villeneuve’s previous film, but a lot more complex in terms of narrative. After all, Frank Herbert’s science fiction novel is full of characters and hard-to-explain science fiction concepts, which could potentially keep the average moviegoer away. in this, fortunately, Villeneuve’s aptitude for the subject matter is apparent, once again managing to strike a good balance between grand visual spectacle and concrete personal drama. As with “Blade Runner 2049”, he stays pretty faithful to the source material, but manages to bend it visually well to his will. By his own admission, he was only ready for this project after the experience of films like “Arrival” and “Blade Runner 2049”, and that doesn’t seem to be a meaningless statement, as “Dune” looks and feels like a logical continuation of Villeneuve’s previous films, but mostly one that benefits from the experience as a filmmaker.
Unlike the 1984 film, Villeneuve’s “Dune” does not open with a confusing dump of info, but simply begins with a clear narrative in which plot details pass by in fairly organic fashion. Of course it helps when you gradually learn about the feudal system of the distant future, the tension between various noble families, the importance of the raw material that can only be found on the desert planet Arrakis or the possible messianic status of the youthful main character Paul Atreides, but the central plot is still easy to follow when all these details get a bit too much for you. Thankfully, “Dune” never presents its plot information as homework, doesn’t blind itself to the details, and is smart enough to leave some characters in the wings until a future installment.
“Dune” is more than its plot. Villeneuve has a keen eye for the world in which the extensice story is set. And so, for example, there is a meaningful close-up when the young hero Paul takes his first steps on the desert sands of Arrakis. Whereas previous film adaptations showed this desert planet as a rather dark place, similar to how Mars is usually portrayed, Villeneuve makes full use of the Middle Eastern metaphor by showing this planet in bright light with harsh shadows. This makes the inhospitality of this world completely palpable even before the huge sandworms appear. It helps, of course, that it was really filmed in the desert, and with the beautiful rock formations, it's not hard to be visually impressive. Villeneuve also shows a good eye for scale with his wide panoramas in which there is always something going on in the background.
“Dune” opens with the indication that this is ‘part one’, but the arrival of a second is not guaranteed. This will leave you possibly somewhat unfulfilled, not knowing of this story will ever be concluded appropriately. It is to be hoped that there is enough enthusiasm for a continuation, because Villeneuve absolutely deserves it.

Rating: 4,5 / 5

Ranking the Franchise - Thor

I just rewatched all the “Thor” movies. And although it’s not one of the most consistent Marvel franchises, it is spectacular and memorable. This franchise is not finished yet, so I will probably ‘rerank’ this series when “Thor: Love and Thunder” is released. But for now, here is my ranking of the three “Thor” movies we already have.

3. Thor: The Dark World (2013)
There is enough to enjoy in this sequel, but in general it’s a bit bland. And the villain, Malekith, isn’t very interesting and we don’t really get to know much about him. Chris Hemsworth does feel more comfortable in his role and the final confrontation is pretty cool.

2. Thor (2011)
A film like this makes or breaks with its leading man. And with Chris Hemsworth they got the perfect guy. Not only is her one of the most beautiful people Hollywood has to offer, but he’s also charismatic and can easily carry a film this big. “Thor” is a great first film in a series.

1. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
When a sequel disappoints, it’s a very bold step to add another sequel and totally spin it around. That’s what director Taika Waititi did for “Thor: Ragnarok”. And I think all the Gods for bringing him in, because he dared to takes risks, add humor and self-mockery and make it a more colorful world. “Thor: Ragnarok” isn’t only the best movie centering its hero, but it’s also one of the best MCU movies to date. And are we lucky to have Waititi back for “Thor: Love and Thunder”.

10s Movie Review - Thor

Director: Kenneth Branagh
Genre: Adventure/ Action/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 115 minutes
Year: 2011
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Kat Dennings, Stellan Skarsgård, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Renee Russo, Idris Elba, Jaime Alexander, Colm Feore, Ray Stevenson, Clark Gregg, Jeremy Renner

Description: The powerful but arrogant Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is cast out of Asgard to live amongst humans in Midgard (Earth), where he soon becomes one of their finest defenders.

Review: Superheroes often carry a big burden. Whether it’s trying to control their super powers or hiding their identity; a hero has a big responsibility and has to deal with that daily. And that’s no different for Thor, the God of thunder.
The fate of the world is again hanging by a thread and the man with the hammer is the one to fight the evil. After he unleashes an ancient war with the Frost Giants, his father Odin banishes him for ignoring his orders and sends him to Earth. There it seems that Thor is unable to handle his hammer Mjolnir, until he shows that he is a true hero will he rekindle his powers.
Thor has a rich background story, as well from Norwegian mythology as the comic books that started in 1962. Thor is the only God amongst the Avengers. He comes from a world other then Earth. His world is visualized amazingly, it looks stunning.
Once Thor joins the Earthlings, there is room for humor. At first, Jane thinks he is a homeless guy, but when S.H.I.E.L.D. shows up Jane knows there is more to him. The humor never overshadows the action and the comedy is mostly very dry and always well-timed.
The creators try to avoid the black and white view on good and evil as much as possible. This makes for an interesting battle between brothers Thor and Loki, even though you know which one embodies good and which one is evil.
This is one of those films that makes or breaks due to the casting of its main hero. Chris Hemsworth stars in his first major role and he is the perfect choice. Hemsworth is undoubtably one of the most beautiful peope Hollywood has to offer, but with that he is also extremely charismatic and has humor that suits his character. Natalie Portman, who plays his love interest Jane, is mostly seen as the better actor of the two, but she never manages to step away from Hemsworth’s shadow. It feels more obligated for her.
“Thor” is a great film, highly entertaining and fun.

Rating: 4 / 5

90s Movie Review - Deep Blue Sea

Director: Renny Harlin
Genre: Action/ Horror/ Thriller
Runtime: 105 minutes
Year: 1999
Starring: Thomas Jane, Saffron Burrows, LL Cool J, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Rapaport, Stellan Skarsgård, Jacqueline McKenzie, Aida Turturro
Description: Searching for a cure to Alzheimer's disease a group of scientists on an isolated research facility become the bait as a trio of intelligent sharks fight back.

Review: When it comes to shark movies, “Jaws” is the only masterpiece out there. “Deep Blue Sea” is one of the better shark films, but don’t pay any attention to the logics. Turn off your brain and just watch it, it’s a lot of fun.
While trying to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, a group of scientist is working on a laboratory in the middle of the ocean and testing on sharks. This makes the sharks smarter. And more unpredictable and dangerous. Soon the people in the lab are the hunted ones.
The makers did find some inspiration with “Jaws”, but also “Jurassic Park”. The film is fast paced and entertaining from beginning till end. And it’s not as predictable as you would think, because it’s quite surprising who will die and who won’t.
Not all the actors are that good, it’s mostly the men who shine. Thomas Jane is the hero of the story, as Carter Blake, a diver with a dark past. Samuel L. Jackson hardly ever disappoints and he even has an unforgettable speech in this film. Unforgettable for so many reasons. LL Cool J has a fun supporting role, as the cook. Both Saffron Burrows and Michael Rapaport only show us how annoying their characters are.
The special effects are pretty good, sometimes it’s too obvious it’s a computer animated shark. But all in all “Deep Blue Sea” is not one of those terrible shark movies. It’s fun and entertaining, with some surprise elements here and there and enough excitement for a fun movie night.

Rating: 3,5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 125: Cinderella

Director: Kenneth Branagh
Genre: Adventure/ Drama/ Romance/ Fantasy
Runtime: 113 minutes
Year: 2015
Starring: Lily James, Richard Madden, Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter, Hayley Atwell, Ben Chaplin, Stellan Skarsgård, Derek Jacobi, Holliday Grainger, Sophie McShera

Description: When her father unexpectedly passes away, young Ella (Lily James) finds herself at the mercy of her cruel stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and her scheming step-sisters (Holliday Grainger, Sophie McShera). Never one to give up hope, Ella's fortunes begin to change after meeting a dashing stranger (Richard Madden).

Review: In 1950 Disney came with the animated musical “Cinderella” and 65 years later the studios turn it into a live action film. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, “Cinderella” is a surprisingly good fairytale.
Disney always gives us heroes, beautiful costumes, emotion, morals, villains and depth. And although “Cinderella” is sugar sweet, it’s a delightful film for the whole family. And for the hopeless romantics among us.
Cinderella is played by Lily James, who isn’t an extraordinary actress but manages to make her character charming and very likeable. The prince is played by Richard Madden, who we know as Robb Stark from “Game of Thrones”. The stars are actually the bigger names in the cast: Cate Blanchett as the evil stepmother and Helena Bonham Carter as the fairy godmother. These great actresses support “Cinderella” well.
“Cinderella” is filled with great décor and scenery, but also gorgeous costumes. Really something from a fairytale. But it’s not a film that hides behind all the beauty it shows. There is a moral and it’s supposed to inspire, escepcially young girls. “Cinderella” touches you and is really easu to watch. A guarantee to put a smile on your face. I didn’t expect to like it this much. It’s an enchanting film.

Rating: 4/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 113: W Delta Z

Director: Tom Shankland
Genre: Thriller/ Crime
Runtime: 105 minutes
Year: 2007
Starring: Stellan Skarsgård, Melissa George, Tom Hardy, Selma Blair, Paul Kaye, Sally Hawkins

Description: A calculating killer coerces a detective to pay for his previous mistakes.

Review: The cover of the DVD says it’s “Se7en” meets “Saw”. And that’s sort of true. A police duo is trying to find a serial killer who tortures the victims before killing them. Gladly the focus is more on the police work than the torturing, although the ones that we get are pretty gruesome.
Helen Westcott is a young police officer that has to team up with veteran Eddie Argo. They find a pregnant woman with the letters WΔZ carved in her belly. They are looking for a serial killer.
The film has a raw and grim atmosphere. It’s an overlooked thriller. You can see it drew inspiration from movies like “Se7en” and “Saw”, but it also has many original aspects. There is a twist, that is very surprising, but for me a bit farfetched. Overall “W Delta Z” is a pretty good thriller.

Rating: 3/ 5