Found Footage Festival (2005)

Imagine America's Funniest Home Videos. Now stop. Now imagine America's Funniest Home Videos with actually funny videos! What a concept. And can you imagine, with hosts that are actually human?
This is what "The Found Footage," festival is all about. Geoff Hass and Joe Pickett have produced and put together some truly strange and bizarre and funny videos from all over the country. From McDonalds training videos to SPCA outtakes; 1980's video games cheat videos, to Penis Pump Procedurals to truly cheesy 80's infomercials. This collection of videos will make you laugh, because it showcases just how bizarre human beings are.
There isn't much to say about this video collection. It's something you have to see to believe; check out their website and look at the clips and you'll find out what I am talking about.
The video and hosts will be touring the country so be sure to check out their website for dates and more information at:
www.foundfootagefestival.com

Wedding Crashers (2005)

Director: - David Dobkin

Writers: - Steve Faber, Bob Fisher

Cast: - Vince Vaughn, Owen Wilson, Christopher Walken, Rachel McAdams, Jane Seymour

New Line Cinema

Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn play two divorce counselors that spend their off time crashing weddings in search of free food, booze, and of course, a girl for the night. The premise itself is fine, and indeed the film has some very funny scenes, however; the misogynistic undertones of the film left me feeling unfulfilled. All of the female characters are so flat, dull, and stereotypical Ð something just there for the men to react to and use Ð rather than interact with, that it left me in my seat saying, "Come on, use your head, come up with some better ideas and make this film fly!"
I did say some of the scenes were funny, in fact they were so funny and original that I believe this may be Vince Vaughn's funniest film to date. Many of the scenes roll on-and-on with close ups on Vaughn -- the way he delivers some of his lines you can't help but laugh.
The premise of the story was great, but the story itself was hackneyed. Owen Wilson's character, of course, as if we didn't see this coming three-billion miles away, falls in love with a girl at a wedding the boys are crashing. It just so happens to be a Senator's wedding, Senator Cleary, played by Christopher Walken, and he's running for president. Owen takes Vaughn along for the ride breaking many of their "crasher's rules." As we might expect, eventually everyone learns that Owen and Vaughn are not who they say they are so Owen has to prove his love to the girl he has fallen for. Of course everything works out and we have a happy ending. What did you expect, originality? That might cost the studios too much money. Don't see this film for the story. This film is worth seeing just for the few moments of comedic gems that Vince Vaughn delivers. And Owen Wilson is good, but is it just me, or does that guy need a nose job? I can't stand looking at his nose!

40 Year Old Virgin (2005)

Director: - Judd Apatow

Writer: - Judd Apatow and Steve Carell

Cast: - Steve Carell, Catherine Keener, Paul Rudd, Romany Malco

Universal Pictures

If you could characterize the idea of a 40 year old virgin then Judd Apatow and Steve Carell have hit the mark perfectly. Stuck in a pre-pubescent mindset, Andy Stitzer, played by Steve Carell, works in the shipping department of an electronics store. Andy rides a bicycle to work, and in his off time ads to his collection of action figures (still in their original packages), plays video games, and sex is not on his mind - he's given up.
If I were panning for comedic gold, and Steve Carell were to pass my pan, at first look I'd pass him up. And that would be my mistake. Despite Carell's look, when the camera is rolling, Carell takes his characters to new levels, playing the subtlety and nuances perfectly. He might very well be the next Peter Sellars, and if you don't know who Peter Sellars is then you're missing out.
When Andy's co-workers learn that he's a virgin, they make it their mission to get him laid. Romany Malco plays Jay, a player type that refers to most all women as "hoes." While Paul Rudd plays David a love stricken guy who hasn't been able to get back into dating after his last girlfriend dumped him two years ago. As the boys make it their goal to help Andy, Andy ends up fine and not needing any help at all because he meets a women in the store, Trish, played by Catherine Keener. Keener is marvelous in this film, and brings a seriousness to the bizarre comedy going on around her.
The supporting cast all work well together, and the chemistry between them is natural. The script, at times, while predictable is still enjoyable, and so many good scenes keep you wanting more.
One of the highlights of the film is when Carell's character goes in to have his chest hair waxed. It's clear that Steve Carell actually chose to have his real chest hair ripped out for the camera. His reactions are over the top because he's really experiencing the pain, and yet pulling off his character at the same time... it doesn't get any better in comedy. This is a classic scene.
The end of the film features a fantasy sequence with the cast lip synching to the song "The Age of Aquarius." This scene is not only funny, it's cutting edge. The scene makes no sense, and frankly, neither does comedy. Comedy is something hard, indefinable and cannot be taught.

The Brothers Grimm (2005)

Director: - Terry Gilliam

Writer: - Ehren Kruger

Cast: - Matt Damon, Heath Ledger, Peter Stormare, Lena Headey

Miramax

The concept to take old fairy tales and weave them into one story is a great concept and wonderful idea. It is this idea that is the basic principle behind Terry Gilliam's "The Brothers Grimm."
Matt Damon and Heath Legder play two brothers, the Brothers Grimm, a traveling pair that goes from village to village ridding towns of evil curses and spirits. Of course what they really are is con artists. The Brothers find out the tales of the villages fears, then create an elaborate con, in which they prove to everyone that the spirits and curses have been removed. These snake-oil salesmen, as it were, is a great idea to start the film off with, but Gilliam watered down the characters. They have a touch of used car sales men to them, but this could have been played way up for the comedic value, which it was not.
The film takes place in French occupied Germany in the 1700's. Eventually the Brothers are arrested, and they are given a deal. The French believe someone else is pulling the same scam they use, so they send the Brothers out to expose the con artists. The problem is, the village forest actually is cursed and enchanted.
The biggest problem with the acting in this film is there isn't much chemistry between the two Brothers played by Matt Damon and Health Ledger. Separately, the two actors are doing a fine job. Matt Damon plays Wilhelm Grimm, a no nonsense analytical chap who is the mastermind behind the Brothers cons. In stark contrast, Health Ledger's character, Jacob Grimm, is a scholar, somewhat slow, and a student of legends and myths.
Once in town, the Brothers are constantly monitored by Italian torture specialist played by Peter Stormare. His performance is very unusual, at times absurd, but played to comedic perfection. His performance is indeed a highlight of the film.
The first twenty to twenty five minutes of this film I could have done without. I might as well have left the theatre for an ice cream cone. The film really begins when the Brothers enter the town and look to unravel the mystery of the enchanted Forest. There are plenty of good moments in this film, and a few scenes and special effects that are handled so beautifully and balanced that it is a pleasure to watch. I wouldn't let small children watch this film for it is at times extremely dark and disturbing.
As a film for adults, the film lacked and could have pushed the envelope with where Gilliam was heading in terms of mixing these rather morose and macabre fairy tales. But much of the film hints at darkness of the tales and then glosses over them. However, for children, the film gives just enough to probably terrify your child for a few days and give them nightmares. This throws the balance of the film off. I don't think Gilliam knew if he was making this film for adults or children.
Matt Damon wasn't horrible, which was surprising. And some of the story and visuals are stunning and well balanced. The ending of this film was a bit of a letdown, and many aspects of the script are left unresolved. However, if your looking for pure entertainment, you'll probably enjoy this film. But don't take the kids, unless you want them to spend the next ten years in therapy.

Broken Flowers (2005)

Director: - Jim Jarmusch

Writer: - Jim Jarmusch

Cast: - Bill Murray, Jeffery Wright, Sharon Stone, Frances Conroy, Brea Frazier

Focus Features

Do yourself a favor...see this movie.
"Broken Flowers" is Jim Jarmusch's latest film. One word: excellent. Don Johnston played by Bill Murray, is dumped by his latest girlfriend. He receives an anonymous pink letter informing him that he has a son who may be looking for him. Prompted by his neighbor, Winston, played by Jeffery Wright, Don examines his past relationships with women, and goes on a quest to meet in person, his old flames from twenty years past to try and solve the mystery of the letter.
This could easily be one of Bill Murray's greatest roles because the pace and nature of the film allow Murray to shine as a true dramatic actor. It's a testament to his acting ability. Bill Murray can say more with a look, or gesture, then some actors can do with one-hundred lines of dialogue.
The stand-out comic relief in this film comes from actor Jeffery Wright, as Winston the neighbor. As an amateur sleuth, Winston spends his off time studying the ways a private detective works. It is Winston that sets Johnston on his journey, complete with plane tickets, maps off the internet, and general guidance for Johnston on how to search for clues.
But the real journey is within Don Johnston. The external journey is a reflection for Don. A way to hold up a mirror to his past, and the mirror is not that flattering.
The film is beautifully shot, and given the slow pace; we are allowed to drink in all the visuals that are offered. Jim Jarmusch does not treat his audience like a child. This film is a treat. Go see it

Dark Water (2005)

Director: - Walter Salles

Writer: - Rafael Yglesias

Cast: - Jennifer Connelly, Ariel Gade, Shelly Duvall, John C. Reilly, Tim Roth

Walt Disney Studios

Based on a film by the creators of the Japanese version of "The Ring" comes this haunting, chilling film about a young mother who goes to extreme lengths to solve a mystery and protect her daughter. Dahlia Williams (Jennifer Connelly), is starting a new life; newly separated with a new job and a new apartment, she's determined to put her relationship with her estranged husband behind her and devote herself to raising her daughter, Ceci.
But when the strained separation disintegrates into a bitter custody battle, her situation takes a turn for the worse. Her new apartment - dilapidated, cramped, and worn - seems to take on a life of its own. Mysterious noises, persistent leaks of dark water from the ceiling, and strange happenings cause her imagination to run wild, sending her on a puzzling and mystifying pursuit to find out who is behind the endless mind games. If indeed they are games. One thing trumps all others in Dahlia's world: no matter what it is that's out there, she'll stop at nothing to find it.
"Dark Water" gets off to a slow start, and stays that way for three quarters of the film. At times I found myself bored with the slow pace. But what really makes this film work, is the ending. I would have to be arrested if I told you the ending because it makes the film. I think I was actually in shock as the credits rolled down the screen. So what more can you ask for from a suspense/horror film?

Fantastic Four (2005)

Director: - Tim Story

Writers: - Mark Frost, Simon Kinberg

Cast: - Jessica Alba, Michael Chiklis, Chris Evans, Ioan Gruffudd, Julian McMahon

Fox Studios

How to mix a summer blockbuster: one, take a popular comic book with well known characters; two, toss in plenty of CGI animation, and three, don't waste too much time on story, after all, it gets in the way of the action. That is the recipe in 20th Century Fox's production of "Fantastic Four."
Four NASA researchers working for Von Doom Enterprises are sent on a mission which goes horribly wrong, exposing the four to an eradiation cloud which alters their DNA and births different superhuman powers within each of them.
Screenwriter Simon Kinsberg, also the writer of "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" and "XXX State of the Union," attempts to bring these classic Marvel comic book characters to life. Also on board in the screenwriting department is Mark Frost. Frost's history is as a television writer on the TV Series "Twin Peaks." Frost and Kinsberg must not have collaborated much on this script, because as far as the character development goes, well, it didn't, and that is the problem. The story is predictable and lacks excitement.
As the Fantastic Four learn of their powers, we are treated with a mix of special effects. Johnny Storm, aka "The Human Torch," played by Chris Evans learns of his power to burst into flame while downhill skiing. Susan Storm, aka "Invisible Woman," played by Jessica Alba disappears while out to dinner with Reed Richards, aka "Mr. Fantastic," played by Ioan Gruffudd. Reed Richards, "Mr. Fantastic," soon learns he has the power to stretch any part of his body. While under observation, Ben Grimm, aka "The Thing," played by Michael Chiklis, mutates into a man made of rock.
"The Thing" is the only rock that keeps this film rolling. As The Four try to figure out how to return back to normal, Ben Grimm is disgusted with what he has become. His wife leaves him after the accident and all he wants to do is get back to normal so she'll return. A weak sub-plot is a second attempt by the writers to give the characters some depth. "Mr. Fantastic" and "Invisible Woman" were once lovers, but "Mr. Fantastic's" analytical nature, and fear of taking risks, sabotaged their relationship. As their powers bring the four closer together it also rehashes the relationship lost between Storm and Richards.
The choice by Fox to bring in director Tim Story was a mistake, but maybe Fox Productions figured that since Tim Story has "Story" as his last name they wouldn't have to work on the story in the actual script. Tim Story directed "Barbershop," with Ice Cube, and his resume lacks everything in the department of summer action films. I would never take my car to a bicycle repair man. You get what I'm saying? As you might imagine, the one liners in the film worked. Story does have an eye and an ear for comedic timing, but the lack of developed characters in the script doesn't leave Story much story to work with.
"Fantastic Four" is eye candy and for those that love the comic books, you'll probably have a good time.

Madagascar (2005)

Director: - Eric Darnell

Writers: - Mark Burton, Billy Frolick

Producers: - Teresa Cheng, Mireilla Soria

Voices: - Ben Stiller (Alex)
Chris Rock (Marty)
Jada Pinkett Smith (Gloria)
David Schwimmer (Melman)

Dreamworks

"Madagascar" is the latest animated feature from DreamWorks.
A group of Zoo animals find themselves in world of trouble when Marty, a Zebra (Chris Rock) decides to escape the Zoo to experience the real world and all it has to offer. Marty's friends, Alex the Lion (Ben Stiller), Melman the Giraffe (David Schwimmer) and Gloria the Hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith) go after Marty to bring him back to the Zoo.
When the animals find Marty at Manhattan Central Station, they also find themselves surrounded by humans. When the animals are brought back to the Zoo, a large protest prompts the Zoo to return the animals to their natural habitat. Transported by sea to Africa, the ship suffers an accident - one which I won't spoil - and the animals end up a drift at sea in their cargo boxes. They finally wash up on shore at Madagascar, a remote island populated by an interesting clan of Lemurs.
The story by Mark Burton and Billy Frolick is engaging and the message positive. It raises the question of animal captivity, and also points out the absurdity of trying to "tame" animals. Alex, the Lion, once on Madagascar, struggles, having never had to feed himself. Unlike his herbivore friends, he doesn't understand his instinct is to eat meat, and his instinct is to eat his Zebra friend Marty. Slowly Alex's instincts take over and anything moving, including Marty, looks like a slab of meat.
This is a good family movie. However, I'm not sure children under the age of 6 should see it. It does raise interesting questions, but some of the scenes in regard to Alex's struggle to not eat his friend could be a little heavy. For adults the humor does appeal in many ways, and the film makes some interesting references to some recent popular films. The animation isn't mind blowing but the story is interesting.
"Madagascar" is worth seeing if you're out with the kids and want to catch a Lion, Zebra, Hippo and a Giraffe get into an adventurous situation.

Bewitched (2005)

Director: - Nora Ephron

Writers: - Nora Ephron, Delia Ephron

Producers: - Lucy Fisher, Penny Marshall, Douglas Wick

Cast: - Nicole Kidman, Will Ferrell, Michael Caine

Sony Pictures

Walking into this film I thought "Bewitched" was going to be cursed from the start. Remake after remake coming out of Hollywood is a testament to how afraid the studios have become about taking on "risks" and new ideas. I was prepared to dislike this film. However, the script by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron had an interesting premise. Jack Wyat, played by Will Ferrell, is a self-centered egotistical movie star whose career in recent years has hit the toilet. When he is offered the chance to star in a TV remake of the sitcom "Bewitched" Jack jumps at the chance with big plans for the show. The plan: to be the one and only star of the show. In finding a nobody to play Samantha, Jack finds Isabel, played by Nicole Kidman. But what Jack doesn't know is that Isabel is a real witch.
The script was incredibly slow in the beginning of this film. Nicole plays Isabel as sweet as sugar. Unfortunately there isn't much for Will Ferrell, as Jack, to do in much of this film. The egotistical actor is a role Will would have no trouble playing, similar in ways to the character he played in "Anchorman." But the direction of this film doesn't allow Will to go over- the-top until the last third of this film.
The chemistry, or lack of, between Nichole and Will was a let down. This is a comedy, and the in last half of the film, becomes a romantic comedy. The film lacks focus. For a comedy, it's just not that funny. And for a romance it misses the mark. There are funny moments in this film; the scenes in which Jack finds out that Isabel is a which, Ferrell plays the reactions masterfully. Will Ferrell, when given the chance does come to life. Will Ferrell has a way of playing over-the-top just right, and this film really could have focused more on the comedy that could have come from this premise. As for Nicole Kidman, she does a sweet job playing Samatha, but it's nothing amazing. The lack of chemistry between Kidman and Ferrell, and the overall lack of a distinct tone in the film contributed to why this film lacked on many fronts. The film is a great premise poorly executed.
"Bewitched" is worth seeing, but I'd wait for it on DVD.

Batman Begins (2005)

Director: - Christopher Nolan

Writers: - Christopher Nolan, David Goyer

Producers: - Emma Thomas, Charles Roven, Larry Franco

Cast: - Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Katie Holmes

Warner Bros.

"Batman Begins" is a breathe of fresh air to a franchise that died on the vine several films back.
The script by Christopher Nolan and David Goyer takes us to Bruce Wayne as a child. After the murder of his parents, young Bruce becomes distant, distracted and hell-bent on avenging his parents death. When the killers parole comes up Bruce has plotted to kill the murderer of his parents, but someone beats him to it - shooting the killer in the hallway of the courthouse. Now filled with unresolved rage, not able to avenge his parents death, Bruce leaves everything behind and moves to the far east in search of enlightenment. He approached by Ducard, played by Liam Neeson, a warrior in the League of Shadows, an organization whose sole purpose is to bring justice to those who commit crimes against society. Ducard convinces Bruce to joinÉ and here Batman's origins begins. Bruce is trained as a warrior in the League. Ideas and disciplines instilled in Bruce are of eastern philosophy. The idea of the warrior is to face their greatest fear, to understand the fear, and to use fear against their opponents. For Bruce, this is in the form of a bat.
When Bruce leaves the league he returns to Gotham to clean up the city, and now the fun begins. We journey with Bruce as he creates the Batman character. A character meant to instill fear in all who comes across him. Unlike other superhero movies, we see Bruce finding his equipment, building his costume, building the very idea of what Batman is. Haven't you ever wondered where someone like Superman or Spiderman get their outrages costumes? It's a key element often forget in this genre of film making.
Director, Christopher Nolan, really brings a sense of realism to the picture, as if this character could actually exist in our own world. It is not a world that is over-the-top and cartoonish as the preceding films have been. Christian Bale as Batman is overall realistic. Unfortunately, some character choices were made which didn't work. The choice of Bale to use a different voice while as Batman, for example, just didn't work. It seemed awkward and forced. I can see why the choice was made, of course, so no one would recognize the voice as Bruce Wayne. However, as according to the script, the idea of the Batman is to strike fear in all who come across him. So, if this is the case, why worry about your voice when your opponent is terrified of you from the onset? This didn't make much sense. The script by Christopher Nolan and David Goyer worked. The flow of the film and look of the film were smooth. Because of the nature of the film, and trying to present the story in a more realistic way, it is at times slow. The picture could have been cut down in length -- I felt it ran a little long.
Overall the look, and idea of showing the birth of a superhero worked - by no means was this a great movie, but it was an overall good film, and an interesting new direction for the Batman franchise, which had died long ago. It will be interesting to see where the franchise goes from here.