Reviews With Mike Furches: science fiction

Showing posts with label science fiction. Show all posts

Friday, July 9, 2021

The Forever Purge, Immigration in America

Okay, here goes from the git go, a guilty confession, I have appreciated and enjoyed the Purge series for the most part, including the television series. I know some will call me demented for it, but I think it embodies much of quality allegory in story. As in the sense of true and quality science fiction, we see a story that is a commentary, often politically focused on today’s world, and few things in recent years has done that as well as The Purge as we look at themes of violence, prejudice and much more.

In the latest rendition of the story, we have The Forever Purge which looks at attitudes of the extreme right on issues such as immigration. Now note I said extreme right, it is not meant to necessarily be a representation of the entire right, but it is to be intended I believe as a representation of how we look at each other as human beings, especially in our current environment as related to immigration into the United States from Mexico and Central America as through the Southern border.

The premise in The Forever Purge is that in the past a government has come to be that allows for various reasons one night a year for all crime to be legal including murder. Apparently while being taken over in the past, that government has once again gained control, however this time after the 12-hour period of the purge there is a group of organized extremist who seek to bring purity to America and extend the purge, or legal time of crime including murder to extend forever as to bring white purity back to America. I can tell you from this point on in this review, there will be those who are critical for political reasons, some possibly legitimate, others driven by conspiracy theories.

The Forever Purge is provided some excellent direction by Everardo Gout. There is also a very well told story here with character development. We see characters who change throughout the story from what is perceived as a racist attitude only to come to understand it isn’t racist, it is more of a differing opinion. We also see characters change and of course with a movie like this, as change begins to happen, we also see tragedy with some of those characters.

I was impressed with the movie, more so than I thought, and will say it is better than some of the recent Purge movies. I would go so far as to say that for the times we live, and with the current climate regarding immigration this may be the most thought provoking and best movie of the series. That isn’t to say it is for everyone, it clearly isn’t as it is a violent telling carried out to the extreme that some people apparently have for each other, especially with the immigration issues we see. It is to say though, that if the purpose of this movie is to create thought and dialog, this is a very well-done movie.

There are questions we need to ask ourselves that are worthy of discussion. What in our belief system is based off stereotype or assumption as opposed to reality? Are we willing to go out of our comfort zone to get to know people who are different? If we were faced with the same struggle that some in Central America or other countries face, what would we do to be willing to escape to freedom or a better life? Are we willing to sacrifice our lives to help others out in their need? What drives our actions and belief system? While we may not condone murder as is the case in The Purge, do our actions condone the unjust treatment of other human beings? These are all questions that for people of faith, followers of Jesus, we must ask ourselves, and The Forever Purge certainly provides some assistance in formulating our views on those questions in a serious way.

On a scale from 1 – 10 for the seriousness of this movie and the thought provoking questions it causes us to ponder within ourselves, I give a deserving and thought provoking 7

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Monday, June 14, 2021

A Quiet Place Part 2, Coming of Age

One of my favorite films in recent history was A Quiet Place. It was prior to Covid that we begin seeing the advance trailers for A Quiet Place Part 2. With a great deal of excitement I anxiously awaited to see the movie, then Covid shut down the theaters and put on delay many releases, including A Quiet Place Part 2. I recently had the opportunity to finally catch the movie in the theater. I had heard mixed reviews but knew I needed to make up my own mind by actually seeing the movie. The movie was at a disadvantage as I had such high expectations.

First, the entire cast is back and under the direction of John Krasinski who also directed and helped write the original. His wife Emily Blunt is back as Evelyn Abbott and her children played nicely by Millicent Simmonds and Noah Jupe. Also, which will bring some confusion as this is a sequel and not a prequel is the return of John Krasinski as Evelyn's husband. I won't give much away as this is part of the draw to the film. Also added to this nicely shot, scored, and edited film is Cillian Murphy as Emmett, a critical character to the story.

In a Quiet Place Part 2 we see the continuation of the story in large as to what happens after the first movie. It makes seeing the first movie essential to fully understand and appreciate this film. We see creatures that while blind have an incredible sense of hearing thus, requiring quiet. In Part 2 there is more dialog than the first film but the importance of silence is still a mainstay of the film. Thus, when there is sound, it brings the audience into the story with a measure of perceived fear as at that point we know something is about to happen, we just aren't sure when or how. \

I love the themes carried over from the first film which involves the importance of family and the love family should have for each other but there are other aspects here that are added. We see the importance of overcoming fear and taking on responsibility, as well as the continued story line of a willingness to make sacrifices from others. Even the times when one may not want to make sacrifices but comes to the realization that one often has to take chances and do something seemingly against their nature to help others. We see what it is for a heart that has been turned cold to come back to the place and willingness of serving others. What we see is a story of changed behavior, seeking redemption and purpose in life and in that search, the importance it can have on others.

There are continued lessons of morality and sacrifice here, much like the first, but with different themes. For me, while it is not quite as good as the original, it is still refreshing and worth seeing. In comparisons to the near perfect original, it falls a little short, however, in comparison to other movies as of recent, it still stacks up well.

This is a wonderfully acted and told story. It will have some scares but more importantly cause you to think beyond what you see on screen. It does what good film and in particular good science fiction does. It incorporates elements resembling of Aliens but it goes beyond the original Quiet Place and takes you beyond. Not in a way that takes advantage of the audience, but respects the audience and the times we live in, where the message of hope, love and sacrifice is needed as much as ever.

On a scale of 1 - 10 for the two children old enough to make decisions that make a difference, thus a reminder of each of us doing the same, I take them away and am left with a very enjoyable 8.

To see the trailer for this film click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpdDN9d9Jio

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Thursday, May 6, 2021

In The Earth Movie Review

Most of the time I love the movies I am blessed to review them, then at times I'm so liking the movie that I realize, while I'm blessed to do reviews, sometimes it's work. Unfortunately, this review of In The Earth, was work.

Covid is a horrible reminder of 2020. It didn't take long to take it to the movie screen. In The Earth is a movie set in a world where people are wearing masks, has to go through concepts of isolation, contamination control and more. Any of that sound familiar? Unfortunately the world in the movie is convoluted enough that it becomes difficult to figure out what is going on as scientists explore things around them and try to figure out in their world and the woods and wilderness that is void of contemporary conveniences.

Starring Joel Fry, Reece Shearsmith, and Hayley Squires we see a group of characters searching for truths related to the virus. Martin and Alma, played by Ellora Torchia working as a team exploring some abnormalities taking place in the wilderness surrounding them. They come upon the character Zach played by Reece Shearsmith who has been overcome by the elements and isolation. His is playing havoc on his psyche.

In The Earth is confusing and I am uncertain what it is trying to address. Using a psychedelic style of filming used in drug culture movies of the 70's we see some bizarre filming styles and special effects as well as story that resembles the drug culture films.

One thing the movie does is it causes us to question the methods we use to care for the earth. Are we doing more harm than good? Clearly Covid and it's origins and the questions that surround it come into play and is an influence on this film. We see attitudes come about that causes some to the extreme. There is little compassion and understanding, and if anything, we see the need to be careful in who we trust as we don't really know the motives behind the actions of some or if they can be trusted or not.

I am reminded of the importance of caring for the earth as expressed in the Bible. The need to show love towards each other, yet to be careful as we don't know what is going on. We need to be reminded that even Satan appears as an angel of light when in reality, he seeks to kill and destroy.

There are parts of this movie that were extremely difficult to watch for various reasons, those seeing it will know what I'm speaking of. It is interesting in many ways, but for me, it fell short. I truly appreciate what I "think" the filmmakers are trying to address, I just don't know for sure what their intent is.

I like leaving a movie feeling like I've been entertained, learned something or it has had some value. Unfortunately, In The Earth didn't just fall short for me, It fell way short. I imagine there are those that would appreciate this style of art film, as for me, I didn't.

On a scale of 1 - 10 for the concept of the third planet from the sun, (the earth which we should care for) I give a disappointing 3.

To see the trailer for this film click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1EeY5lvIcg

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Monday, June 30, 2014

Gojira Godzilla 1954

I know it is early in the Summer and the Summer blockbusters seem to be lacking this year. As a result I have been looking back at some of the old blockbusters of the past. While I don't think the movie for this review was released in the summer, or even if it was a blockbuster at the time, it certainly was the precursor to at least 2 blockbusters based off of the original movie, Gojira/Godzilla. This summer season, so far, the best movie I have seen is not the remake of Godzilla but the original, remastered, uncut, version released in 1954. The film making its rounds this year in various theaters courtesy of Rialto Pictures on the giant screen in an uncut version which is not, repeat, is not even close to the version shown in most American theaters over the years. This version is in fact, SUPERIOR and additional sights to see it on the big screen can be seen at their web site; http://www.rialtopictures.com/godzilla.html

In Wichita Kansas we are blessed in many ways, one is the presence of a dear friend Leif Jonker. Leif, well known for his own release of Leif Jonker's Darkness, considered by many as one of the best gore horror movies ever made, it is a gem, Leif is a real life diamond in the ruff kind of gem. He cares about movies and as a result brings some classics to some wonderful Wichita theaters. One such upcoming example will be Sorcerer, the 1977 William Friedkin classic starring Roy Scheider. One of the earlier Summer wares that Leif blessed our community with was the original Gojira/Godzilla. It played to sold out audiences and I have to admit, I had never seen the film in its original version, only the television dubbed versions. My friend Steve and I went to the movie at one of our classic theaters and sat next to Leif at this sold out show which had been moved to a larger theater to accommodate the crowds. Man oh man was I in for an incredible pleasurable moment watching this movie in the way it was meant to be watched, on the big screen, subtitled from the original Japanese which added a great deal to the dubbed and earlier edited versions.

One of the first things to take notice of is the date of this film 1954. The Japanese were fresh off the heals of World War 2 and the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Imagine, going through the horrors of that war and those bombings only to a few years later make a movie that deals with nuclear weapons and the effects of the bombings on the land and water. Out of this came a virtually indestructible monster to terrorize the people and landscape of those who had just gone through these horrors. In the original Gojira/Godzilla the emotions, feelings and horror of the situations comes across the screen through the actors and story. I couldn't help but think of the Japanese people, going back in time and in history thinking of their lives during the making of this movie, for many, even going through the difficulties of the war and bombings.

I have to admit, the special effects don't come close to holding up to today's standards, but in an innocent kind of way, the effects add to the concept of the story. While they don't hold up, it takes the viewer back to the time frame of when the film was made, it also helps us draw on the emotions and story. It did so enough that the audience attending the showings was applauding at the conclusion of the film due to the magic they had just witnessed. Now let me make it clear, this audience while consisting of many art film fans, was far from just this type of audience. Many were fans who came just wanting to see a version of Godzilla, the typical movie fan, who in the end, were also applauding.

Some see films of this nature and wonder; are there any benefits or things we can learn today? It is likely that if they give it a chance they will see one of the best examples of how we can learn from films like this. Through the power of the acting you can see the lasting impact on the destruction we often do to each other, despite what one may deem as appropriate for any given society. This isn't to say if nuclear power or weapons are good or bad or if it was justifiable to use nuclear weapons to end the war or not, those are questions that are open for debate on other forums, it is to say however, that as a Christian, who is commanded to love my neighbor and even my enemy, I must be concerned of the impact of such actions, and certainly their after effects. Godzilla in a way as only film can, becomes a parable of sort to such thoughts of those suffering through the difficulties of such things. It is one of the beautiful things of quality science fiction and horror that when done in an appropriate way, causes us to think far and wide beyond just the images we see on screen. Godzilla in many ways is more than a movie monster, he is a metaphor for the consequences of our actions as humans. Godzilla is not just a beast from beyond, he is a creation of our own actions and lack of understanding and care for those around us, including the children who also occupy the spaces we dwell.

Gojira/Godzilla is an incredible movie, not so much the remakes, they are barely okay and entertaining at best. I don't know if they even come close to the social commentary of the original. Unfortunately though, even here, most of us have only seen the Americanized, edited, watered down version of this film. That in and of itself also says something else about film, the audience and at some level of spiritual and political commentary even more about ourselves as a movie going audience. If wanting to see an incredible classic though, just as some of us are blessed here in Wichita to do due to an incredible loving caring man, Leif Jonker, a man many mischaracterize because of his horror experience. We can enjoy quality, wonderful films from all genres, just as Steve and I were able to do with Gojira/Godzilla. I would encourage, if never seeing this film in its original, uncut restored version, see movie magic the way movie magic can be. Either look up the DVD or if given a chance, check out Rialto Pictures web site and try to catch a theatrical showing of the film. In the process, think about those impacted by the actions of society, governments and even neighbors. Think about the real monsters in life. While we may do what we can, we are impacted by our surroundings but can make a difference for the future if we choose, even when it means going out of the way to show others understanding. Gojira/Godzilla is a terrific example of that, in fact, the best I have seen so far this year as far as movies go. Don't believe me, see the uncut, restored original for yourself and tell me otherwise after seeing the film.

To see the original trailer for the film, just click on the following video, if having trouble with the video, click on the link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1Rm3bnFxKs

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Sunday, June 29, 2014

Armageddon 15 Years Later

I did a brief review for Hollywood Jesus some 13 years ago for the movie Armageddon after it first came out on DVD. I focused then on the powerful relationship between the father and daughter but now, on the 15 year anniversary of the film I have watched the film again and realized, the themes are just as powerful as ever.

Armageddon is a film that is self described in its title. An all star cast in the special effects laden flick features the upcoming likely demise of the earth by a giant asteroid. A rag tag group of astronauts and others are brought together by NASA to help make a last ditch effort to save the earth before being struck by the asteroid. There are multitudes of stars from Liv Tyler, to Billy Bob Thornton and Bruce Willis to Ben Affleck. While many were critical of the film when initially released, I found it then and still do, very entertaining and quite emotional. Just as the film caused me to reflect on family, loved ones and the willingness to sacrifice for those loved the first time I saw it, it still maintains those emotions for me all these years later.

Armageddon is directed by the king of the Summer Blockbuster, Michael Bay and is produced by Jerry Bruckheimer. It seems as if Bay has a way of directing movies that gets blasted by many critics yet loved enough by fans to have them flocking to the theaters. Armageddon was in fact the 2nd highest grossing film of 1998 right behind Saving Private Ryan. It has everything Summer audiences seem to enjoy, the potential destruction of the earth, lots of special effects and a love story that involves sacrifice and salvation. The formula has worked well for Bay in many of his films.

The special effects for Armageddon are spectacular but as good as they are, there was something else special about the movie, something that touches the soul. There is a story of the love between a father and daughter and the willingness of the father to make a sacrifice not just for his daughter but the world around him. In that sacrifice he thinks and knows what is important. While he is willing to sacrifice for others, he also understands that his daughter has a special place in his heart. It is the thing many critics seemed to make fun of, even ribbed the movie for but it got to me as I think about the sacrifices for the ones I love as it would most any parent watching the movie.

Another theme addressed in many movies of the summer as in Armageddon is the potential destruction of the earth. It seems as if people are always thinking about the end of the world. How will the world end? Will it be an asteroid, drastic changes in weather, or even a giant monster from the ocean or a virus from outer space? For many Christians this is due to our beliefs from the Bible. Is it close to the time to the end happening? While these may be appropriate questions, Armageddon the movie also does a good job at addressing and making sure we address and observe important factors in this scenario. It causes the viewer to take into consideration not just the future but the present. What about the relationships we have with family, friends, coworkers, etc...? Are we doing our best to make sure we enjoy and thrive on life while at the same time, making a significant difference now? As I have gotten older, these themes still resonate and the desire to love has grown over the last 15 years, thus driving my own mortality even more home. Movies like Armageddon can actually contribute, inspire and move people towards a better life, not just for themselves, but those around them. Armageddon illustrates limits on life and none of us are guaranteed of tomorrow. At the end of life on this planet, hopefully we have made a difference and those around us will know of our love and sacrifice for them.

Armageddon is one of those movies that when I first saw it I was a little more critical of than I should have been. There are other movies over the years I rated higher that I tire of but that has not been the case with Armageddon. Even in the case of that years bigger movie, Saving Private Ryan, I gave a better, more critically praised review, but truth is, I have only seen that movie twice in the last 15 years. Armageddon though has caught my eye at least 5 or 6 times. I think it is one of those movies many can relate to. If looking for a good, enjoyable, thought provoking, tear jerker of a movie Armageddon is a good reminder of one that the audiences loved despite what the critics say. It is one that moves the audiences to contemplate those they share the earth with and for this father, thinking back on his daughter over the last 15 years to need a tissue to wipe some of those dust mites away in his eyes that cause a tear or two.

To see the movie trailer for Armageddon, click on the following video if the video link does not work, click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq6q2BrTino

Monday, June 11, 2012

Doctor Who The Seeds Of Death Special Edition, The Patrick Troughton Years 1966-1969

Since 1963 Doctor Who, a BBC television serial has entertained multitudes of people across the world. I recall, even as a small child, watching The Doctor in his interplanetary and time travels. I always thought the program, while hokey in some ways, was enlightening and entertaining in others. As of recent BBC Television has unearthed some historical programs from the series and is releasing them to the public. The newest of which is The Seeds of Death Special Edition featuring The Patrick Troughton years from 1966–1969. Fans of the new Doctor Who series will appreciate the backdrop and historical nature of the programs included on this DVD, for others, it may be a bit too dated to thoroughly enjoy unless they are a student of film or a fan of old Science Fiction. For those in this category, if for no other reason than its historical value, this will be a must own edition to their DVD collection.

In the viewing of this two DVD set, it should be noted, television series of the early to late 1960’s didn’t have what would be considered today, the best special effects. There is nothing exceptional here, not the acting, the special effects, editing, sound, etc… What is exceptional is the story and concepts as presented through the history of Doctor Who which has continued for some 50 years. What is also exceptional is the special features DVD which goes into the history of this particular series of episodes which features in part on the Martians and their two groups of citizens, based largely and in part on the cast system identifying a race of people based on economic status, seeing a lower cast of people, and a higher cast of people. While the special effects creating these creatures are not spectacular, what it does is focus on what makes up these characters emotionally, their desires, wishes, intentions and so forth is one of the things that makes Doctor Who as Science Fiction work. As mentioned in the commentaries on the DVD’s it seems as if most everything a basic film student is taught in film school is abandoned here. Yet despite that willingness to go against even the norms of film making for the time there is a humanistic, emotional understanding of the characters, one that translates to helping drive home the themes and points of the show.

In the world of Doctor Who there is a time space travel machine called the T-mat. The T-mat transports individuals almost instantly, something like the transporter on Star Trek. In this season the T-mat has been hijacked by the Martians, and the Doctor and his team must get it back before the Marians use it to destroy the earth. The series aspect allows the story to be developed along with some social commentary along the way. As is the case in many Doctor Who story lines, they actually do a pretty good job at all aspects of story development, especially in creating scary creatures. There are some surprises along the way as well as some thought provoking moments.

This series features primarily Patrick Troughton, the second Doctor in the incarnation of the Doctor Who actors who has played the part over the years. The character in regards to the stories in this series is quite well developed and we can see that in various concepts of the video, from the relations the Doctor has with others in the cast to his relationship and understanding of The Martians. While Troughton may not have been the best in the line of Doctors in my opinion, he was a likeable character who did quite well in the part. Much of that was due to the way the program was often times scripted, using the talents of the actors in the particular scenes they were playing. Patrick Troughton, the second in the series of Doctor Who Caracters did as well as any of the Doctors at presenting fear, it is a concept that enabled him to be one or the more memorable Doctors even if he isn’t the favorite of the Doctors.

Doctor Who, since its origins has found ways to interject the spiritual along with science in its themes, even back in the mid 1960’s. Especially in this series are the treatment and understanding of foreign culture as well as the concepts of how people or aliens in this case are treated. There are also the concepts of fear and death which are addressed. Often at play is popular perception, however, while popular perception is at times important, especially if rooted in reality, there is always more than what one can quickly observe. Quick judgments often lead to inappropriate or even dangerous situations. Just as Jesus and his followers give caution to judgment, the assessment of ones actions is always encouraged and what is important. Sometimes, we discover that those least likely to be judged appropriately may in reality, be something or someone much better than we expected. Of course there is always danger and we have to have a leader who will lead in life, live by example, and show the reality of our surroundings. It is important to have a leader, like The Doctor who will understand the reality of the situation they and others who follow them face. Just as Doctor Who doesn’t guarantee an easy time in following him, neither does Jesus guarantee an easy time or perfection when his followers follow him, in fact, there are certainly at times difficulties we face, some we will make it out of, others we may not, but having a deliverer there like either Jesus or Doctor Who can improve our chances. There may be fear all around us, but there are those who can, and do overcome fear and difficulty, even with the monsters that would do us in.

I’ll be honest; these aren’t my favorite years of Doctor Who. While there is something special about the quirkiness of the shows, that doesn’t mean they are easy to watch. The special features however, including the episode commentaries and the making of features are quite special and a must for fans of the series. While I don’t think there is anything special enough here to generate new fans, there is ample material to please old and lasting fans of the show, even the fans of the most recent years, younger fans. The only recommendation I would have had, is if having a series focusing on the late Patrick Troughton, there should have been far more in the features that focused on him. Unfortunately there is surprisingly little. While I honestly don’t know if I would purchase the DVD’s at the price they are listed, I suspect there will be many who will and enjoy it thinking it is worth it. For those who do, enjoy, for those who just don’t know, but take the chance, good luck and hope you enjoy it, but don’t say you weren’t fairly warned.

To see the video below, just click on it, if for some reason the video doesn’t appear or is distorted or not in full frame, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuFCofFGSSk

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Monday, October 17, 2011

ABC's V Season 2 on Blu-Ray

What happens when a much heralded and praised television series decides to go long on special effects and short on respect from the studio releasing it? It goes the way of V, and turns from one of the most enjoyable shows on television to live a life that turns to disappointment and only 2 seasons of television. The program based on the 1983 miniseries that turned into a television series in 1984 where aliens come to various locations around the world to ultimately take over the human race by intermingling among them as humans until their ploy is ultimately discovered. The series was reinvented in 2009 and 20010. Much like the original series, it unfortunately continues to a place where there is no real ending. It is a shame because this well acted, well conceived program had much promise and I believe the story, although week at parts it would have succeeded if ABC gave it an opportunity, including a consistent time slot and programming hours but as of now, there are no plans to my knowledge to renew the series, in fact if it is renewed, it appears it will be on a network other than ABC as they have officially canceled the series. This isn’t unusual for ABC though; there were no less than 4 shows I really enjoyed this year that went the way of cancellation, all unresolved and open-ended.

The DVD version of the series actually works much better than the television series itself. There are not the interruptions and we know when the next episode will air. It airs when we play it, ABC was so inconsistent in the programming of V it is a wonder it went as far as it did. It had no options but to lose viewers because when tuning in from week to week, one may find anything airing that particular week, except for V.

Technically, this program was fun to watch and the special effects were most of the time on par with theatrical releases. Unfortunately special effects alone won’t carry a television series. I was also pleased with the acting in this program, ranging from the beautiful Alien Mother Anna played by Morena Baccarin, now appearing on Showtimes, Homeland, to the equally beautiful and talented Erica Evans played by Elizabeth Mitchell, noted for her role in Lost. There was also an abundance of other characters in the story line. The real beauty was the science fiction concepts and the special effects. They were on par with most movies and certainly beyond the realm of expectation for a television series.

V takes time to develop the characters. I found myself rooting for some, and wanting justice for others. We follow the exploits of Erica Evans, a single mother who also works for the FBI. Evans suspects and later discovers the plot of the Aliens, led by Anna to destroy the human race, eventually stripping the earth of her nutrients and leaving the human population for dead. Season 2 picks up where season 1 left off, one needs to watch season 1 to fully understand season 2. This is especially so in the understanding of the characters which are developed in season 1. The characters are well developed though and we see and discover the backgrounds of each which helps us understand and appreciate the show even more so.

One of the things I especially appreciated about the program V is its incorporation of contemporary social issues such as nationalism, health care, the role of religion in society and more. It takes on each of these areas in what I believe to be a fair an impartial way. If anything it takes on a position which addresses the need of society to be aware of the political ploys of those in power. There are those who promise things when in reality there is no intent to deliver the things promised. I was reminded of Biblical concepts which warn of such things. We see a beautiful angel of light, which will promise the world, yet in reality, has no desire to do anything more than steal the soul of those it pretends to love. In that intent to do harm is the message of peace, perfect health care, an acceptance of all people, yet in reality, manipulation and greed drive those making the promises. Just like in V, there is a warning that those things which take us away from family and faith, in reality will ultimately destroy us. Just like in the Bible, that enemy comes to devour and destroy. These images along with current events show us V, like all good science fiction was ahead of its time and should have been embraced and supported. This is true especially regarding people of faith as there are so many parallels brought forth in this program that relate to contemporary society.

I liked this series a great deal and the DVD especially the Blu-ray is quite nice in its transfer and provides excellent sound. I was also pleased with the special features offered. While the special features are not the easiest to navigate they are there for the viewing of any fan. While I think the plot weekend somewhat during the 2nd season, it is still good. That said, it is not as weak as some have reported it to be and the DVD of season 2 where one can follow the series helps illustrate that. I would recommend for the fans of science fiction, as well as those who may be a little more conservative in their mind set (the positions V seems to take supports especially more conservative political positions) purchase both season 1 and season 2. See for yourself, and enjoy, this is a series I personally own all V episodes ever produced, from the television show and mini-series of the 1980’s through and complete through the last season on ABC, which should not have been its last.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OqasiTOnzw

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Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Planet 51

I wasn’t expecting a lot from the new animated release Planet 51, and that is exactly what I got, not a lot, but not bad either. One would think the voice talent in Planet 51 along with the story by Joe Stillman would lead to a exciting animated tale. Stillman has given us some great animated stories in the past such as Shrek and Shrek 2, along with episodes from King of the Hill, but even with the voice talents this movie just falls short.

Planet 51 comes with an interesting and fun story concept; a planet on the other side of the galaxy has a visitor with a strange alien. The alien happens to be Captain Charles T. Baker from the United States of America and voiced by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. He is eventually befriended by a young teenager named Lem played by Justin Long. Lem is at a stage of his life where he is starting a job and finally getting enough courage to go after a girl friend he likes, Neera voiced by Jessica Biel. Along the way, the two characters both learn about each other and ultimately themselves. In a world where the aliens, (humans) are seen as such potentially dangerous beings the world doesn’t know how to take those, fear rules the day. Leading the way in the fear category is General Crawl voiced by Gary Oldman, and the evil little scientist Professor Kipple voiced by John Cleese. These two see the aliens, (humans) as brain eating zombies and Charles Baker soon finds himself running for his life and hoping to get on his spaceship to return home and prevent certain death.

There are some terrific opportunities to address important themes in movies like this; Planet 51 succeeds quite well in some of those. Among those is the need to get to know people prior to passing judgment. We see this not only from an individualistic perspective but from a societal perspective. We see not only individuals change but a society that is willing to change. We are often so quick to pass judgment and seek our wisdom from the wrong sources. There are also the challenges of growing up that are addressed quite nicely. There is something else about Planet 51 that I appreciated, which is the theme of loyalty, even at the point of sacrifice. Each character, as they come to understand who they are comes to a point where they are willing to make sacrifices for others. Of course prior to making ones own decision there comes a time when those individuals have to think as opposed to just taking for granted either what society, the military or so called scientists happen to promote. It is often those individuals involved in the decision making process that in reality, do the greatest harm to society and the real opportunity to progress. We also see that sometimes, issues of faith, and science can come together, that is as long as any one side don’t fight against the honest and true search for meaning, and reality.

Planet 51 is a movie that had a lot of potential, there are some nice themes that are addressed but unfortunately it failed to deliver. There is also an incredible sound track to this film that is worth having with some great oldies and a few new tunes that are quite enjoyable. It wasn’t so much the story, the story and the humor came through. There are enough tributes to other films like Aliens, ET, Wall-E, and even some for adults like Singing in the Rain, American Graffiti and more, but the direction seems to provide little inspiration to the voice talents in the film, as a result, Planet 51 falls as flat as the old theories of a flat earth. That is a shame because while Planet 51 is a fun, cute film it could have been an exceptional film. Unfortunately, not only will the kids, but likely the adults find moments where they are bored and wanting more. With the cast, story, and animation in this movie, one would think that you would almost have to work to bring about a lackluster film, but that is exactly what we have, a seemingly uninspired, lackluster film.

On a Scale of 1 – 10, Planet 51 is a fun movie, in fact if you take that 51 and add it up you come up with the rating I give this film, a enjoyable but just a tad better than average 6

To see a video from the movie, just click the video below, if the video don't appear, just click the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wnsp93jIEIA

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Friday, August 21, 2009

Inglourious Basterds

If Quentin Tarantino were a politician, there would be no ifs, ands, or buts about it; he would be the unequaled king of sound bites. There is simply put, no single director or writer that in my opinion has the ability to write, or direct a more memorable short sequence in movies. I would go so far as to say, it is possible that there has never been anyone more skilled at creating short memorable scenes than Quentin Tarantino. Unfortunately, while those types of things make memorable movie scenes, while they make lasting memories, and incredible movie trailers, they don’t necessarily make great movies, and for many, that has been one of the criticisms of Mr. Tarantino by many of the movie going audience. Of course many of those have never sat through a full length Tarantino movie and for those who go expecting nothing but blood, gore, in your face language and shocking reality, they have missed out on an incredible talent Tarantino has, and in my opinion don’t get nearly enough credit for, he also knows how to tell a memorable story.

Inglourious Basterds is a story that takes in World War 2 France. In the opening sequences we see the German SS troops come upon a small country dairy farm where a father is questioned about harboring Jews. It doesn’t take long before we see the father give in and the Nazi “Jew Finder,” Colonel Hans played with evil delight by Christoph Waltz shows that he is not a man to be trusted.

One of the young Jewish girls hiding underneath the floorboards, Shosanna Dreyfus, escapes and we later see her in the picture as a theater owner.
Tarantino using an unusual style in having various acts, or stages in the movie goes next to a sequence featuring The Inglourious Basterds commanded by Lt. Aldo Raine played brilliantly by Brad Pitt. Let me make clear here, this role for Ptt, while not as long as I would have thought from the advance trailers of the movie, is by and far my favorite character for Pitt in any movie up until this film. He plays in a absolute terrifying comedic way the role of Tennessee native Aldo Raine. He has one goal, one purpose, to kill Nazis. In the process he wants 100 scalps from each of the men under his command, and he does mean real scalps, and for those very, very few, who live, he wants to make sure he and his men leave a lasting impression to let the whole world know they once served for the SS in the Nazi regime.

Eventually, while the characters portrayed in the two primary roles never meet, they do by happenstance have the same goals, which ultimately result in them taking part in some history changing movie magic. In the process, the viewer is taken through an almost operatic telling of not only part history, but part what if. In other words we have an impression of the brilliantly, twisted mind of Quentin Tarantino telling us what could have been if these characters and events had lived in the way he presents. It is what makes movies magical, and it is one of the things that make Tarantino brilliant.

Now before this gets to sounding like a Quentin Tarantino man crush, let me make clear a few things, while I have the utmost respect for Tarantino, while I enjoyed this movie, while I got caught up in the hype, I have to say, this isn’t my favorite Tarantino film as many have hyped. In fact I don’t even know if this is among the top 3 or four.

In typical, and for many, unknown, Tarantino style we see a lot of dialog in Inglourious Basterds. In most of Tarantino’s movies this leads to some interesting character development. For whatever reason, this doesn’t seem to occur here. We go through the movie not really knowing and having an understanding of the characters. This is especially true for Lt. Aldo Raine. There are other characters though where this is the case, remember it isn’t just Lt Aldo Raine, there are a number of Inglourious Basterds but unfortunately, we don’t really know that much about any of them. Only that they are Jewish and a few of them have a reputation. The jumping back and forth between stories didn’t quite work for me either, that is until the stories merged. On this point, let me make clear, I think that while Tarantino has done this type of thing before, I don’t think there were as many transitions in his films. I think one of the story arcs could have been left out to leave more room for character development.

Inglourious Basterds presents a side of evil that in many ways resembles real evil. I couldn’t help but notice that evil, when confronted with revenge and hate, even with the guise of justice, often becomes a blurred image confusing reality. I can’t help but think of Jesus teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. If someone is angry at their brother they are just as guilty as the murderer. I found myself having a hard time enjoying the evil being perpetuated against even the evil characters in the film. I think that is a part of what Tarantino tries to do though, that is to confront at times particular common notions of things like justice through violence. I am not sure as Tarantino marches to the beat of a different drummer, it is one of the reasons I like his work he is so hard to figure out, yet so dedicated to his work.

I liked Inglourious Basterds, it was worth the price of admission just to see Brad Pitt. Those sound bites, those short lines and scenes will be one of the enjoyable things about this movie that I remember. Seeing a scene where he speaks Italian in a Tennessee accent to a German officer is hilarious. There were a surprising number of scenes that had the audience laughing. Yet, I have to admit, I was disappointed, maybe it was the idiot sitting in front of me that kept using his cell, or if it was just the lack of character development, I am not sure, I just know that for me, compared to the other Tarantino films, either as an actor, writer, director or producer, I can personally think of several of them that I liked more. It was still worth it though, because even when a genius is off a little bit, you are still in for something special, and that is certainly the case with Inglourious Basterds.

On a scale of 1 – 10, start with a ten, take a way the three stooges which he loves, and you end up with a rather enjoyable 7.

The following is a trailer from the movie Inglourious Basterds, just click on teh video, if the video don't work, click on the link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02OD8YnzzmE

Interview with Brad Pitt on the Today Show from France
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YloLnrITsyw

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Monday, June 11, 2012

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Monday, October 17, 2011

ABC's V Season 2 on Blu-Ray

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Planet 51

Friday, August 21, 2009

Inglourious Basterds

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