Monday, December 23, 2013

Week 51 in film

Inside Llewyn Davis (Coen Brothers, 2013)
I didn't really like A Serious Man, by some considered as the best Coen-film. This film has many similarities. It is about a guy who doesn't have luck on his side, but can somehow blame himself by being an ass at times. He is a charismatic guy, a good musician, but he can't really control what happens to him and if luck is on his side faith manages to interfere. Coen territory for sure. The scenes with John Goodman, who gained a lot of weight again, are gold and extremely funny. It is a highlight in a film that is mostly a bit of a drag if you ask me. There is a lot to discover (the cat...) but some of it is not that interesting or urgent, like in A Serious Man. I like this one a bit better. 7/10



Mouchette (Robert Bresson, 1967)
I liked L'Argent and Pickpocket from Bresson. His minimalistic acting and showing events worked in those films and make him a unique filmmaker in the good sense. In this film, about a girl who has a horrible life, to say the least, it didn't work for me. Somewhat dull I am afraid, a state I also experienced when I was watching Au hasard Balthazar.  6/10

Runner Runner (Brad Furman, 2013)
Contender for worst film of the year. Totally ridiculous story, horrible acting (Ben Affleck...).  2/10

Last Vegas (John Turteltaub, 2013)
The Hangover for over 60? Yes, a bit. A group of four childhood friends in their sixties are going to Vegas because one of them (Douglas) is getting married. Of course there are some unresolved issues between the guys, and of course they win a lot of money, and of course they end up partying in Vegas. Actually quite funny at times and the cast makes it worthwhile. The lazy script and cheesy ending doesn't. 5/10



The World's End (Edgar Wright, 2013)
Not as funny as Hot Fuzz or Shaun of the Dead. Basically the same setup. Instead of zombies we now have aliens...sort of. Some of the action scenes are directed very well and I liked the social criticism. Not too good, not too bad. 6/10

The Blues Brothers (John Landis, 1980)
Never seen this classic before. Not much of a plot really, a lot of good music and A-team-like car chases, which are done pretty well. Has a nostalghic 80's vibe on which I can't really lay a finger. It does help me appreciate this film. 6.5/10

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