Movie Review - Slumdog Millionaire

Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
Director: Danny Boyle & Loveleen Tandan
Actors: Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Anil Kapoor, Irrfan Khan

Overall:
I thought this movie was really great! It had everything I look for in a legitimate Oscar contender. A great story, dramatic cinematography, good acting, a little suspense, and a lot of passion. It's not often that we're confronted with the harsh realities of life in the slums of India and it's truly shocking to see all the poverty, but out of this hellish environment comes a beautiful love story. One which overcomes tremendous obstacles and reminds us how powerful love can be.

Plot:
This film centers around a teenager, Jamal, who grew up in the slums of Mumbai, but now finds himself on the Indian version of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" Following his remarkable run on the first night of the show, he's arrested under suspicion of cheating and interrogated about how a poor "slumdog" could know the answers to the questions. It's during this interrogation that events from his life history are shown which explain why he knows the answers and why he's ventured onto the show in the first place.

Setting/Mood:
The cinematography in this film was truly spectacular. There were several points throughout this film that I was simply in awe. The juxtaposition between wealth and poverty, greed and sacrifice, and love and hate was very well done. There's a lot of beauty in India that's just underneath the surface and I think this film did a great job of peeling back the layers to reveal something really special.

Acting:
Although not recognized by the Academy, I thought the acting in this film was also really good. I was immediately drawn into the story by the child actors used to portray the lead characters when they're young and it carried right through 'til the end.

Recommendation:
I would highly recommend this film to everyone and I think it has a good chance of stealing the Best Picture category at the Oscars.

Movie Review - The Dark Knight

The Dark Knight (2008)
Director: Christopher Nolan
Actors: Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart, Maggie Gyllenhaal

What a great film! Christopher Nolan has done an amazing job reinventing this struggling superhero franchise and long past are the days of 'pretty boy' Batman's like Val Kilmer and George Clooney. Christian Bale has given Batman back his toughness and his edge. Then throw in an excellent storyline and a chilling performance by Heath Ledger as The Joker and you've got a real winner! It can't be overstated what a tremendous loss Heath Ledger's death has caused. He was a brilliant young actor who was only beginning to show his true talent on the screen. He'll be missed for a very long time. But his performance is only part, albeit a big part, of what makes this film so good. Everything from the constant darkness to the powerful soundtrack make you feel completely wrapped up in the world of Gotham City. I could watch this movie over and over again and would highly recommend it to everyone.

Movie Review - Juno

Juno (2007)
Director: Jason Reitman
Actors: Ellen Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Gardner, Jason Bateman

One of the most enjoyable films of the year, this witty comedy walks a fine line between the serious issues of teenage pregnancy and adoption, while still being light-hearted and genuine. Ellen Page's performance is noteworthy and deserving of an Oscar nomination. You can't help but like her unique character, even if you don't always agree with the decisions she makes throughout the film. Cleaver characters and dialogue keep this film moving along nicely. This years Little Miss Sunshine, Juno holds up over multiple viewings and should become a classic. I would recommend it for everyone!

Movie Review - No Country for Old Men

No Country for Old Men (2007)
Director: Joel & Ethan Coen
Actors: Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem, Tommy Lee Jones

Best film of the year! That's pretty much all that needs to be said. Incredibly well written, well acted, & generally well done! It should win several Oscars at this year's Academy Awards. In this film, once again we're reminded that trying to steal large quantities of drug money is never a good idea. In one of the most tremendous performances of the year, Javier Bardem portrays a disturbed hitman in pursuit of a cowboy, played by Josh Brolin, who's trying to make off with 2 million dollars in cash. Unpredictable from beginning to end, this film delivers in every way an Oscar-worthy film should. Even if you don't like films with violence, this one is definitely worth it. I would highly recommend everyone see it.