Public Enemies
Public Enemies – 3 out of 5 – Michael Mann’s gangster film about the Great Depression outlaw John Dillinger may be called an epic by some. To me, it was just a tad bit too long. Plenty of loud shootouts were mixed with quiet dialogue (I hate to have to “rewind” and turn on the subtitles). And it was difficult at times to distinguish the criminals from the feds; they all dressed the same. And there’s no real character development. Despite all this, Johnny Depp is convincing as Dillinger. I think Mann’s Heat is a much better crime drama.
Gran Torino
Gran Torino – 5 out of 5 – A cranky old man takes on some “boyz n the hood”. Clint Eastwood is outstanding as Walt Kowalski, an angry, retired widower who’s alienated from his family and despises the Asian immigrants who’ve taken over his neighborhood. A relationship then develops between Walt and the Hmong family next door after a gang incident pits Walt right in the middle. I cannot believe this film was left out of the Oscar race in 2009.
The Day After Tomorrow
The Day After Tomorrow – 3 out of 5 – When this first came out 6 years ago, I called this Independence Day with weather instead of aliens. I chose not to see it based on that. I finally watched it Friday night. Impressive special effects make up for the dull, predictable story. But what gets me the most is the reality that this can happen.
best picture showcase 2010 – day 2
Saturday was Day 2 of AMC’s Best Picture Showcase. Daniel, however, was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict at work. I met my friend and his sister at the First Watch restaurant for breakfast in Chesterfield. I had myself a Far West omelette; pretty tasty, and if I may add, no upset stomach this week.
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