[quote]The Joker says, "A year ago these cops and lawyers wouldn't dare cross any of you" to the gangsters very early on. [/quote]
Admittedly that could mean "This time last year" to effect. The fact that he said a yar ago doesn't neccessarily signify that Batman arrived exactly a year ago, more that something has changed over the year in between.
Also, great review that sums up practically everything I thought about the film. If Heath Ledger doesn't get the Oscar, he will have been robbed to the biggest degree. Also, I feel this, along with Wall-E, are proving that this is one of the best years for films in while, and we still have the winter season to look forward to.
I sense there will be a lot of tension on the days leading up to night the Oscar nominations are announced...
Further apologies: A massive overreaction on my front
Ok I'm seriously regretting posting that now. I'm very sorry if I offended anyone, and agreed, looking back on my post it does seem a little contradictory. You have to admit though, that vonFiedler's original post was certainly open to perhaps a little TOO much interpretation. I got the sense that he was indeed, "Openly calling Film Brain an idiot", because I thought when he said "If you feel you've seen some of this before and that's a terrible outrage, you're an idiot." he was using the word "outraged" in a mocking way, meaning that when he used the word "idiot" he was indeed, insulting Film Brain. Don't get me wrong, I am in no way justifying my actions, they were, agreed, uncalled for.
Ok, sorry about that outburst, I got a little emotional there, but my point remains. Let other people have their opinions, and at least respect the effort Film Brain has gone into to produce this review, so you can read it. For FREE.
Get a life you facist prick. Film Brain went and posted his honest opinions on this blog, taking up his own time in order to provide some entertainment for us, and you crucify him because of it. This is facism. You are attempting to force your opinions down other peoples throats, and for what reason? So your already oversized ego can get a boost? Everyone is entitled to their opinions, respect that.
A very good and interesting review.
I think you've been a little harsh on Michael Angarano, I didn't think he was bad to the extent that you thought he was, it was just his character was completely hollow and uneccessary.
Apart from that, I totally agree with you. The film was entertaining, but the chances of me watching it again are unlikely.
Now this is a surprise! Considering Dreamworks' track record (Shrek 3 anyone?) and the sheer number of star names attatched I was expecting Kung Fu Panda to be terrible. However, after some positive comments (including this) I'm actually considering going.
Great article also.
Well I must say that my thoughts on the 2003 version were mixed. After seeing it I felt it was badly paced and poorly written, but it certainly had some redeeming features. After discovering the utter slating the film recieved, and that it had a ridiculous 5.8 rating on IMDB, I would certainly agree with you on the matter that it is underrated.
Probably one of the reasons why I had a certain dislike to the film was it's director, and what it could have been. When I first saw those words: "Directed by Ang Lee", my jaw dropped. I was stunned. Not only because he also directed far more subtle pieces, like the brilliant Sense and Sensibility and the wonderful Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, but also because the film was so far removed from the rest of his work in terms of quality. Okay admittedly this isn't fair, as I'm not judging the film for what it is, but I couldn't help think just how amazing the film could have been under Lee's direction.
I loved Eric Bana's performance, and I think Eric Bana is a great actor, especially in his oscar-robbed performance in Steven Spielberg's Munich. I wouldn't say he was in top-form in Hulk, but he still gives a very good performance, perfectly suiting the character.
In terms of special effects, obviously I thought it was very good, and unlike some recent CGI-orgys (*Cough* Jumper *Cough*) it didn't give me motion sickness.
However overall the film was a big dissapointment. Its acting was good, its direction was good (though not of Ang Lee's standard), and yet it still didn't work. It's because of the script. You put it well enough in your review so I won't bother elaborating, but the script spoilt the film for me, along with the rather erratic pacing.
These flaws, along with my initial dissapointment don't prevent me from coming to the films defense when it is given such a slating though. A 5.8 on IMDB? Piss off.
I must say that I wasn't exactly hyped about the new Hulk, due to the rather idiotic effects (ahulk that looks absolutely nothing like Norton). Instead I decided to wait for some reviews to emerge. However, several months later, I was treated to the truly excellent Iron Man, which gave me hope for this adaptation. Now this reviews seals the deal. I'm going to see if I can catch The Incredible Hulk when I can.
A very interesting review Mathew, and while I'm not familiar with Rendition, I am familiar with dull-as-hell political "thrillers".
I'm not entirely sure if films like this hurt the industry or not. On one hand, it's teaching the studios a lesson that the term "thriller" does not mean "drama with classy editing and more tension". On the other hand, the studios may interpret their lack of success as a sign than more creative works are not worth the risk.
Either way I think I'll be avoiding this one! ;D
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