Thursday, December 26, 2013

The Wolf of Wall Street

This is a film riddled with corruption, vulgarities, unethical behavior and sex. Yet, DiCaprio's performance as Jordan Belfort took over and the audience could instantly feel as if they were living the life of multi-millionaire, Belfort. However, it was unsettling to watch DiCaprio play a role that differs so much from his other great characters. If he has not won an Oscar for any of his past roles, this role would not be my choice for him to win such a prestigious award after. 3 out of 4 stars.

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Saving Mr. Banks

As heartfelt and imaginative as anything I've watched all year. This is the year of Tom Hanks as he keeps churning out brilliance. Most things he touches turn to gold, and this story of the woman behind Mary Poppins is as pure and sincere as they come in the age of remakes and book adaptations. 3 and a half out of 4 stars.

Thursday, December 19, 2013

American Hustle

David O. Russell's latest film is not as genius as its predecessor, but there were moments of brilliance sprinkled into this comedy-drama filled with intense moments that are washed away with comic relief from Louis C.K. and Jennifer Lawrence. Bale and Adams were the true stars of the film, and the audience leaves the theater wondering whether anything they believe in is in fact, genuine... 3 out of 4 stars.

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Anchorman 2

This was one of the biggest letdowns that I've experienced in a movie theater. The story was flat, the jokes were tired and the writing was horrendous. Even more horrendous than the writing was the pathetic sub-plots used in the movie in an effort to squeeze out extra laughs by means of using familiar faces. 1 out of 4 stars.

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Frozen

This adorable animated film brought me back to my childhood in the 90's when films like The Lion King and Pocahontas were in the height of their popularity. The musical numbers were stunning and the story was heart-warming-- enough to melt a snow queen's cold heart. 3 and a half out of 4 stars.

Sunday, December 1, 2013

Delivery Man

Vince Vaughn delivers his usual, egotistical and self-centered performance in Delivery Man, where he actually has to care for someone other than himself. The movie isn't all laughs, in fact there was very little actual comedy, however it has one of those predictable Hollywood endings. 2 out of 4 stars.