July 15, 2008

• Movies I've Seen Recently...

  
  Batman : Gotham Knight (2008)  B-

  This animated feature chronicles what's been going on in Gotham City, after the events of "Batman Begins" and before "The Dark Knight," "Batman : Gotham Knight" gives us a taste on several different point of views about the Batman. Directed by different Japanese Anime directors, the movie is done as an anthology film. Being that there are several story segments, the quality in animation and story unfortunately fluctuates. Some of the stories were very cerebral and moody, while others were exciting with action. You also might get confused at who is Bruce Wayne, since his character is depicted very differently every time. There are definitely certain segments that I cared for more than others, but I overall appreciated the additional insight into the world of Batman as recently revamped by Christopher Nolan.

  
  Hancock (2008) C+

  A little too ambitious for it's own good, is the best way I would describe "Hancock." I like the concept of a superhero who is down and out, and doesn't think about the consequences of his "super" actions. The cast of Will Smith, Charlize Theron, and Jason Bateman are also really good in their roles. The direction by Peter Berg and the screenplay however should have been much better for the potential this material can bring. The many plot holes in the story doesn't help either. "Hancock" had something going for it by adding realistic situations to a superhero story with an emphasis on drama and character relations. However, the film disappointingly ends up having the many flaws of a typical comic book fantasy superhero movie. Pretty much, this could have been great, but it's just average.

  
  Naruto Shippuuden : the Movie (2007)  C

  If you've seen the Naruto animated series, you really do not need to see "Naruto Shippuuden : The Movie." Although it starts off with an intriguing premise that the main character dies, the movie disappointingly just goes through the motions. It's pretty much an excuse of a film to show off Japanese Animated ninja action sequences, and honestly aren't really anymore exciting than what has been done on the TV series. There's a little bit of drama with one of the characters, but the emotion it's trying to get us to have is overshadowed by the lack of character development. Clearly a movie for hardcore fans only.

  
  Cellular  (2004)  B

  Recently I got a chance to rewatch "Cellular." This thriller about a man who is accidentally put in charge of helping a kidnapped woman who randomly dialed his cellphone number for help. The great thing about this concept is that it goes through a lot of things that we go through in everyday life with cellphones. Poor reception, low battery, drop calls, etc, so imagine having those problems when a persons life is at stake. "Cellular" is a fun movie to watch, that has great choreography with the stunts, an exciting pace, and with great performances by Chris Evans, Kim Basinger, William H. Macy, and Jason Statham.

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