If you're in the mood for some Government bashing, see:
The Plot: Shia Lebeouf and Michelle Monaghan are on the run after being targeted through their cell phones by a mysterious woman. Lebeouf's character (Jerry Shaw) discovers weapons and a small fortune in his name at his apartment just seconds before being taken into custody by the FBI, where Rachel Holloman (Monaghan) is forced by the voice to follow her orders otherwise her child will be killed. The two attempt to learn what is actually going on through car chases, interrogations, and assassination attempts.
Why the film doesn't work: Director D.J Caruso is given an $80 million budget, a hot topic in today’s culture, and Steven Spielberg as a producer. What could possibly go wrong? Well, the problem with Eagle Eye is that it tries to be too much at once. In order to nab young moviegoers, the film relies heavily on ludicrous action scenes, ultimately creating moments filled with implausible scenarios. Example: When Shaw is escaping custody, the film cuts to signs and electronic billboards telling what Jerry has to do. There is no possible way that Shaw could see all of these orders to follow as he is jumping off buildings and trains.
I usually never have problems suspending disbelief, but when an entire film relies on stunts like this, it gets a little frustrating. Especially when the material is trying to tackle a very important and very real problem in our country. I give props for its guts, but in the end, Eagle Eye goes for the entertainment factor. I didn't hate it by any means, but its potential versus the film itself is an absolute waste.
Review in a nutshell: An incoherent disappointment.
If your heart needs melting, try:
The Plot: A one-night trip through Manhattan surrounding two characters named Nick (Michael Cera) and Norah (Kat Dennings). Nick is coming off being dumped by his girlfriend Tris. He goes to a club to perform with his band "The Jerkoffs" where he meets Norah, who is forced into babysitting her drunken friend Caroline (Ari Graynor). The two connect, and spend a night arguing, gossiping, listening to music, discovering life, and learning the truth about love.
Why the film works: Did that sound corny for you? Sure does. Sounded corny when I wrote it. But when watching Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, I felt touched by its sincere portrait of young love. The way it unfolds does feel familiar, but that's only a disguise of what the film is really about. It's a story about finding yourself through someone else. We all need someone to bring our best side, and Nick and Norah show us that. The chemistry between the two leads is unavoidable.
Review in a nutshell: Even for you cold-hearted guys out there, this is the epitome of date movies. Best of luck.
If you want something brutal, witness:
The Plot: Pride and Glory raises the question of morality surrounding a family of cops. Edward Norton, Colin Farrell, Noah Emmerich, and Jon Voight lead this ensemble in a tale of corruption versus loyalty. Ray Tierney (Norton) investigates a case that involves his brother-in-law Jimmy Egan (Farrell). Ray is stuck between protecting the family legacy and protecting the law. The story follows his choices and the outcomes of his actions.
Why the film works: Directed with gritty style by Gavin O'Connor (Miracle), Pride and Glory is a powerful film that has moments of brilliance sadly trapped by
Review in a nutshell: We Own the Night's slightly stronger half.
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