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Reviews
The Incident (2011)
Viewed this at Tiff 2011 Midnight Madness
And all I can say is that it was madness. Not sure if any other reviewed was at the same showing but they actually had to call the ambulance because a few girls passed out and were hyperventilating. Lets just say it was pretty gory. The plot itself was pretty basic. A couple of young musicians work in the cafeteria to make ends meet. Bad storm results in a power outage. Then all the inmates are running amok since the doors are opened due to the lack of power. Total mayhem ensures. I enjoyed it. The story like I said was pretty basic, with a few twists here and their along with some suspense. I gave it a 7 because I like the mayhem. It made me feel like that's what would happen under those same circumstances. I am sure you will enjoy this film just don't watch it if you have a weak stomach, or after eating a big meal lol
Sarah Palin: You Betcha! (2011)
Great Documentary (unauthorized)
In this movie Nick Broomfield tells an interesting story. Actually I was at the showing at TIFF where he had to dodge banana peels to get into the theatre. It was interesting as he travelled around Alaska her friends and family wanted to talk with him, seeking fame and fortune, or so it appears. At one point we see what happens when Sarah's people figure out what is going on. He made a number of attempts to let her tell her side of the story, but judging by the way she has been portrayed by the media it is easy to assume she would not make an appearance. Even after saying that she will be talking to him.
It is an very different perspective from our goof friend Michael Moore in that Nick is less confrontational in his approach. It is also very scary to imagine that so many people supported her at one point and to some degree still do. How disillusioned are they with politics and the democratic process that they have decided to pit their faith and hope in her hands. This that are presented in this movie are very disturbing and make me wonder if she could have ever got away with half the things she did in places like California, New York or Massachusetts.
See for yourself after yourself, but I can assure you. After seeing Sarah Palin: You Betcha. You wont be the same.
P.O.V.: I'm Carolyn Parker: The Good, the Mad, and the Beautiful (2012)
Not much information on this movie, but it is worth watching.
I feel personally connected to some degree to this story. I travel frequently to Houston, Texas. The year that Hurricane Katrina hit I was in Houston for a day. the airport was a mess, and I noticed while I was delayed that all the local hotels were booked up. As I sat in the lobby watching the footage of the Louisiana Super dome roof getting ripped off by mother nature I could not help to notice that everybody I was talking too from New Orleans was White. When I finally caught my flight we actually flew right over the Hurricane and I still remember to this day how big it was, and how frightening it looked from 20,000 ft up. I had an eerie feeling that this was going to be bad. By the time I landed in Toronto the number of casualties had started to grown, and the levies had broken. I returned to Houston not a month later and by now we had seen the devastation caused by the storm. On this trip the focus had shifted from the Super dome to the Astro dome. On a recent trip back to Houston I was actually caught up in the middle of a tropical storm and I can assure you even though it was nothing like Katrina it was a very scary sight indeed.
Now the movie, I'm Carolyne Parker: The Good, The Mad, and the Beautiful. Is an incredible tale of survival and on how some people are able to succeed even when they are down. It is a story about community and faith helping people get through the most difficult times. It is a story that allows us to see that the glass isn't always half empty but rather half full. One day I intend to travel to New Orleans and on my journey I hope to meet Carolyn Parker. A women who should be an inspiration to all of us.
The footage was newsworthy, and the camera work and interviewing was perfect. I enjoyed this movie immensely and look forward to seeing it again very soon. If you remember this sad time in American history like I do then you will watch this movie and think. How. how could these events take place in the most advanced nation in the world and with such devastating effects. But at the same time you will also say, how could people who appear to have nothing, and lost everything continue to go on, and not only that but have the will to fight.
Et maintenant on va où? (2011)
Best movie in a long time
The day I viewed this movie was the same day that it was announced that this film would be the Lebanese nomination for the Oscar for the Best Foreign Film. I even the the pleasure to be sitting right next to the Director and leading actress Nadine Labaki. I personally told her that she made a very beautiful movie, dealing with difficult topics in today's world. It is a very well written script. And the acting was fabulous even though most of the actors were amateurs. I have seen the movie a number of times since that day and every time I enjoy it as much as the first time. I did recommend it to all of my friends and family and to anybody else I can suggest it too. This is one of the best films I have ever seen and probably the best in a long time. This movie made us laugh out loud and cry at times. But everything works together well and it shows with the finished product that is as close to perfection as you can get on the big screen.
Serbuan maut (2011)
One incredible movie.
If you like action, then this is the movie for you. It is nonstop action. The story is not the greatest but come on, I didn't go to watch the story. What I did go to see was a lot of action and excitement. And I can assure you I wan not disappointed. Neither were the other thousand people watching it with me. The movie was a world premier and I have told everybody i know who enjoys these types of movies to watch it. A few people who have seen it based on my recommendation have loved it as much as I did. When you watch it make sure you are alert and in the mood to be and prepared to be sitting on the edge of your seat. I guarantee you will be raving about the raid after you see it.
Elles (2011)
Not true to life but enjoyable nevertheless.
Juliette Binoche was great in this role. I remember when she came out at the end of the movie and spoke to the crowd. I was lucky enough to be near the front of the theatre.All I can say is Juliette is one classy lady. She spoke about her role with a lot of eloquence. She explained how the movie was in a funny way empowering women. Since the girls she was interviewing were all acting on there own. They were taking charge of there lives and by working as prostitutes they had the freedom to do other things. This movie does have a very serious undertone, and manages to give us a few laughs. But overall the message isn't lost. Interesting story, nicely written, and acted to perfection. This is a thought provoking film that makes you think without making you sit through a documentary.
The Meddler (2015)
I liked the story,
I like Susan and Rose in this movie. In addition all the supporting cast was great. The script was well written, and the scenes were shot very well in order to tell the story. The music was also very complimentary to the narration. I also enjoyed recognizing a few locations from my numerous trips to Los Angeles. The Malibu Pier, and the Mall at Glendale were my favorites. I guarantee you will laugh, and maybe even cry a little. This is a must see movie for mothers and daughters. It might even help you with your relationship if you listen and pay attention. I will recommend this to my fiends and especially to the ladies and some mothers.
Girl Model (2011)
Interesting documentary.
This movie gives us an interesting perspective of the modeling industry. Troubling as it may be sometimes the truth needs to be told. Like was mentioned earlier back home the families think that they are going to be well off and get pulled out of poverty but in reality the odds are against them. And the girls are lonely and not any better off after traveling to these modeling gigs. I think most people already know the things that are presented to us in this documentary but I think once we see it on the big screen it a little harder to ignore. Great movie to see for young girls and anybody who it involved in the fashion industry.
Nuit #1 (2011)
A film focused on dialogue.
This movie was very engaging. It focuses on the dialogue between two people. It is very intelligent, shot well with a great script. The music helps to tie everything together. I think it would be a great date night film with your significant other. This movie also proves that a film does not need to have a big budget and lots of special effects to work. This one works great with limited resources and it still seems to work. The whole theater was impressed and so was I. Check it out on a rainy night when you and your partner are looking for something to watch that isn't too engaging but yet tells a beautiful story.
Where to Invade Next (2015)
Michael Moore Scores a perfect 10
I always enjoy watching Michael's movies. But I think this my be his best work to date. Don't be fooled by the tittle. This is a thought provoking movie that really opens your eyes to a lot of things and makes you think long and hard about our priorities. In true Michael fashion we get lots of laughs and a lot of smart humor. Everybody should see this movie and judge it for themselves. Don't watch it with any preconceived notions and based on your political view point. Non partisanship is mandatory if you want to get the most from this film. And no matter on your point of view I assure you that you will learn something.
Gokudô daisensô (2015)
I am a sucker for Japanese films.
This was not the best film I have ever seen. An I agree with the other reviewer that it was a little abstract. The Frog man was something out of the ordinary. As the Director told the crowd after the movie. He had some time, and money and decided to make this movie. It is probably not your usual run of the mill Japanese fight movies, but he wanted to make something different. And he definitely did that. Prepare to be shocked when you see this film because I can assure you it is probably not what you expected but sometimes it is good to mix things up a little. It might work for some people. For me it was barely acceptable. I didn't hate it but I also didn't love it. I will agree that something unique was made and I suppose if you are into the genre of films. Watch it and see how you feel about it.
The Day (2011)
It wasn't my favourite film but its okay.
All things considered it is a Canadian film with a limited budget. So if you take that into consideration it is pretty good. But comparing it to other films it scores a lower score. The story and creating the feel for it was done very well but that is not enough to make it higher than 6/10. the acting was acceptable and the cinematography was above average. Even though it wasn't my favourite film I did like it enough to watch it again. Just for the shear art of the film. Don't get me wrong it is not philosophical or anything but what they were able to do with the little resources they had made it worthwhile. Sometimes when we watch movies we need to judge them for what they are. And like I said already and cant emphasis enough this move is very good for what they had, it just wont be winning any awards any time soon.
Saat po long 2 (2015)
For action films this is a good as it gets.
I loved the story and at times it actually gets a little hard to follow since a lot is going on but eventually you will figure it out. After seeing this film TIFF midnight madness I raced home and I am currently trying to get a copy of SPL 1 Kill Zone. The fight scenes are incredible and if you are into that stuff you will go gaga for this film. It is strange some scenes are straight hand on hand combat, while others rely on knives and yet others focus on guns. But in the end the hand on hand fighting wins hands down. The jail house riot was well shot and the final fight scene had some incredible choreography. I really cant wait for SPL 3. The best part of the whole film is that after all the fighting, dying and blood shed it actually had a moral which is always nice. Do yourself a favor and see this movie. And if you can do so on the big screen even better.
Fargo (1996)
Classic movie
I finally watched this movie after seeing it on a number of top movie lists. I have to admit it was even better than I thought it would be. I enjoyed the acting, the characters, the cinematography and the music. But the screenplay and the plot was what really made this movie as good as it was. I like the way the movie moved a long at a certain pace but kept building on the plot and things just kept getting deeper and deeper. Both from the side of the criminals and the side of the law enforcement. I cant say enough about this movie and would like to avoid spoiling it for everybody but I do admit you really need to see it. Some movies don't need a lot of special effects in order to succeed. As we can see in Fargo and more recently in Nebraska. I gave it nine stars out of ten and for me that is a near perfect score.
Sumagurâ Omae no mirai wo hakobe (2011)
Like I mentioned earlier
I go to TIFF every year in search or exciting, crazy, innovative new movies to watch that I would normally not have the opportunity to do so. Well I am glad to say that this is just one of those films. the story, mixed with the script, the acting and of course the fight sequences left me breathless. I have yet to see one Asian movie at TIFF that has disappointed me. But like I always tell people you better have a strong stomach and be prepared to see some things on the screen that might make you queezy. besides that grab a big bag of popcorn take your date and be prepared to be shocked till your hearts content. At the screening I was at a few girls did ave to leave the theatre so be prepared and don't say I didn't warn you.
Ma ma (2015)
Penelope Cruz is a great actress.
This movie is filled with a lot of emotions, and being Spanish they even managed to throw in a little Soccer lol.
The acting was incredible, from Penelope, to her supporting cast, to the child actors. I enjoyed the way the movie took us away at times to an almost dream like state.
The comic relief was on the ball. Based on the topic at hand this was obviously not a comedy, but as in real life from time to time laughter is the best medicine. I gave the movie 8 stars but I think that most people who are movie aficionados will give it a higher ranking. I have a feeling that this one might get an Oscar nod, lets see how that turns out.
I especially liked the few twists and turns it had. It jeeps you paying attention and on your toes right up to the last scene in the movie.
Make sure to see it and make sure to most post your thoughts.
Headshot (2011)
Every year at TIFF I try to see as many movies from Asia as I can.
This was one of the movies I viewed in 2011. Lately Thailand never disappoints me. Great concepts, great shots, amazing fight sequences very exciting and engaging films. Like one of the other reviews stated if you are going to the movies looking for big name stars, don't go see this film. But is you are going to the theatre with an open mind and looking to see a good film, then is is right up your alley. I know when I go see movies I usually get a general idea of what the film is about. Based on what I read I either go or choose not to go. This film captured my attention based on a number of factors and for that reason I decided to go see it. i can assure you that it was exciting, and I enjoyed every second of it, as I imagine you will if you agree with my philosophy with regards to movie watching.
Killer Joe (2011)
Great movie with Matthew McConaughey
Like some of the other reviews have said, you are in for a wild ride if you decide to watch this movie. I just hope that you have a very strong stomach. Personally I loved it, after all isn't that why we go to the movies in order to escape reality. Sure at times it may not be a pretty site bit sometimes life isn't pretty. Sure they tend to exaggerate and overdo everything in the movies you have to admit it makes for an entertaining time, just like Killer Joe does. Some people did leave the theatre and were repulsed but hey its a film festival you are seeing unrated films that may or may not have undergone a final edit you should be prepared for the worse. Just watch it and tell me honestly you didn't enjoy yourself.
Kill List (2011)
Great showing at Tiff Midnight Madness 2011
This is a horror film that makes you think. The scenery is dark and bleak but it helps with the whole eerie feeling of the film. It definitely has a number of twists and you keep trying to think what is going to happen next. I went into this movie not knowing what to expect like most of the crowd at the Ryerson Theater. But in the end we were all all pleasantly surprised. The script was good, the story like was exciting, and the overall film was a good effort. Make sure to watch it around Halloween with a bunch of friends and I am sure you wont be disappointed.
Try to avoid all spoilers prior to seeing this film since that is half the fun, being on edge and trying to predict what is going to happen next.
Elena (2011)
Well done worth seeing.
Most of the complaints about the movie fail to realize that sometimes, in more artistic works time, lighting, limited dialogue are used to create a mood. This move had a very interesting message, and in order to demonstrate the predicament that Elena is in. I could relate to her and how she felt that she was used and that her step daughter takes things for granted. While Elena is a very modest women who is looking out for the best interests of those around her.
I did enjoy the film, and as with most foreign films I enjoy the lighting the music and the overall feel. This goes a long way in order to transport us to another time and place. I actually felt for Elena right from the start of the film.
You must see in order to understand but I hope you get as much as I got out of it.
Une nouvelle amie (2014)
I loved it.
After going over the film list for TIFF 2014 this movie seemed to stand out to me. Based on what I was reading it was actually different from what I expected. I suppose my imagination is just not very creative lol.
I did see this movie with a female friend and she really enjoyed it as well. What I do remember if that within a few minutes of starting the whole theatre was in tears. And then a few minutes later we were all laughing so hard we were crying. That is all I will so so as not to spoil it. We did enjoy the acting, the lighting, the costumes etc. The ending was also very suspenseful and the way tings finished were very interesting. I guess you have to see it for yourself and make your own judgement.
I strongly urge you to watch it and come back with your comments, recommendations, suggestions.
Hwajang (2014)
I think more people should see this film
Like one of the other reviews stated, it is not about how big the budget is but rather how a film makes you feel. I personally felt for the lead character. A female friend I watched the film with felt differently which is strange to me. The main character is so down and out, depressed and feeling all alone in the world. Yet he still wakes up every day and goes on with his life. Things happen in his day to day life to challenge and question who he is. I wont give up any more so as not to spoil it, but his actions are what the movie focuses on.
I really think that more people should see it, and even though it was in subtitles I really dint feel like I was missing anything nor did I strain myself to watch it. I really enjoyed it and for me it was the perfect way to close of TIFF 2014 on Sunday night at 9:00 at he Isabel Bader Theatre.
Manglehorn (2014)
I agree with some of the others.
Perhaps this isn't your typical Al Pacino movie, but just to see the man on the screen is incredible. He can take any role and make it fascinating. It was a pretty simple sorry with a very complicated character. An older man who was trying to start all over again, which could be hard for even the young at heart. He does a good job of showing us how eccentric the character has become. From the cats, to the meetings with Holly Hunter.
I would recommend watching it if you are an Al Pacino fan and see a different side to the legend. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at his sheer skill especially since most of the movie revolves around him.
Revenge of the Green Dragons (2014)
I don't get all the terrible reviews.
Sure it wasn't the greatest film of all time. But it sure as hell wasn't as bad as everybody says it is.
I enjoyed it, with its twists and turns. A lot of well shot scenes. And come on its a gangster movie how could you go wrong.
The ending was good and might have left you wanting a little more but overall I think it will make a good watch on a rainy night. Let me know what you think after watching it because I definitely recommend it. Especially since it is a Scorsese and has Ray Liota in it. The fact that it is based on a true story is a bonus.
You have to keep in mind that this as a movie that you need to watch to appreciate. Don't let the reviews fool you, perhaps people see Martin Scorsese's name and have different expectations.
The Editor (2014)
Good job didn't know it was Canadian.
As the other reviews have stated this was a tongue and cheek spoof on some older horror genre films. It was well done, and once the movie started the whole theater (Ryerson during TIFF) was in stitches. The acting was on point, the lighting was perfect and the script was right in live with what you would expect. And the effects. What can I say about the effects. they did the job and then some.
I really felt like I was watching a movie from the good old days of horror just like I used to watch on Sci Fi theater, and Creature Features on Saturday afternoons.
I am pretty sure that if you watch this while having a few drinks and with a couple of friends you guys will have a hoot.