Beautiful Creatures: Official Trailer

Happy Friday everyone! So I have discovered that there is now an official trailer for Beautiful Creatures (one of my favorite books EVER) so what do you guys think?

Honestly? I am so dissapointed.
Yes. I am very disappointed in this movie. It looks actually really good... with the exception of Ethan. I am completely fine with everyone else. (Did you see Link?? He's perfect!) But Ethan looks so old! And then it just makes Lena look way too old. I just imagined them both really young and innocent. I actually imagines Logan Lerman when I read these for Ethan.

Perfect right? Someone average but cute at the same time. He's young enough but not too young. Ugh, this just depressed me.

I don't like Ridley either... I'm sorry, but Emmy Rossum reminds me of the sweet girl in Phantom of the Opera, not a sexy siren.

But honestly, I'm going to see this movie the second it comes out. I'll probably yell at the screen every five seconds but I love these books so much, how could I miss it?

Based on the trailer, it looks as though the whole... theme of the movie is right. It's a bit dark but not too dark. I totally forgot that they all had the accents so that's pretty cool. Overall, I'm excited and I needed to tell someone (So that would be you guys) but I know they're probably going to mess it up big time. But then again, what movie doesn't ruin the books?

Sweet Daydreams,
Brooke

Review: Twilight Saga ~ Breaking Dawn, Part 1

Synopsis: The Quileute and the Volturi close in on expecting parents Edward and Bella, whose unborn child poses different threats to the wolf pack and vampire coven.


Plot: OH MY GOD. OH MY GOD. YES PEOPLE, BOYS AND GIRLS, MOTHERS AND FATHERS! HERE IS BREAKING DAWN PART UNO!! Seriously folks. This movie does, in fact, follow the novel quite well. Beautiful directed and created, acting superb, just... Ah. Seriously, but I'll put my latest opinion in the Overview. Now, basically if you've read the book, you know what happens. I won't shoot out any spoilers on how it ends or where it ends exactly in the book. For those who have not read Breaking Dawn then you will find yourself where Eclipse had let you drift off. Bella and Edward's wedding ensues, which is quite obvious to those who like to click the repeat button on Youtube when you watch the trailer or just happen to see it every time you change the channel on your TV. Bella and Edward go on their FREAKING AWESOME honeymoon that leads to... Well.. She is PREGGO. Yes. Bella, you're freaking 18. What the hecks!? Well, basically, Breaking Dawn shows the birthing process of the young child as well as the hardships about Jacob and his posse and Edward and the Cullens.


Characters: Okay, I'm not gonna list all the incredible actors and actresses within this film, but I will shine one star that seems to have had a hard time pleasing the fans. Can you guess?
KRISTEN STEWART! Oh god. She was.... FABULOUS! I can't even describe it. If you have been seriously annoyed with this chick for the last three movies, like moi, then you will DEFINITELY not be disappointed with her work in this film. Even though she has those stupid and annoying breathing parts and like awkward looks, she really has improved over the last three films. Although I am sad to say it took THREE FREAKING FILMS for her to improve, I think, as a young actress, she is doing much better with her acting. I would also like to point out Taylor Lautner. I have always liked Taylor in the Twilight Saga but sometimes, he just seemed stiff, like he wasn't comfortable. In Abduction, he actually wasn't that bad, but I'd have to say: Good job, Lautner! His emotions and his facial expressions were improved immensely from the other films, where he doesn't seem like a robot who seems to only be ANGRY and ANGSTY for more than half the movie. I'd have to say, a lot of the actors and actresses improved and seemed to have adjusted to this film. Kudos to you Mr. Director!


Poster: Like the other posters, I like it. Shows the three main characters, aka Bella, Edward, and Jacob, as well as the problematic bunch within this Part One, which is the wolf pack.


Overview: I'm just gonna gush right now.... OMGOMGOMGOMGOGMIWAHYJUGINE5THAENHJKJA I FREAKING LOVE THIS MOVIE! THIS IS THE BEST OUT OF THEM ALL SO FAR AND I AM FREAKING FREAKING FREAKING FREAKINGGGGG EXCITED FOR THE SECOND PART! *breathes*... Okay. Back to reality, the movie was incredibly well done with each scene seeming to be weaved well together. The emotions and actions of each individual beautifully creates a masterpiece. I sincerely believe this was the best so far. Even though there aren't a lot of action scenes like Eclipse, Breaking Dawn creates a wonderfully enriched world of fantasy, capturing the audience with a beautiful story and a cliffhanger that will make you desire more. I congratulate you, Twilight Saga; I give you a 4/4 polishes.

P.S. AT THE END OF THE MOVIE, DO NOT LEAVE YET!!!! THERE IS A SPECIAL SCENE THAT WILL LEAD YOU TO THE NEXT MOVIE AND SEE THOSE YOU HAVEN'T SEEN FOR A WHILE NOW. ;)

Inked with Brilliance, Love, and Apologies for being so un-punctual with my reviews,

Sara

Movie Review: Conan the Barbarian (2011)

Synopsis: The tale of Conan the Cimmerian and his adventures across the continent of Hyboria on a quest to avenge the murder of his father and the slaughter of his village. Source


Plot: Everyone knows about the original Conan the Barbarian (1982) that had Arnold Schwarzenegger, right? Well... Honestly, I've never seen it (I know... bad me.. /depression corner..), but I'm grading this movie solely as a movie on its own. Regardless of the fact that this was a remake, I'm treating as its own.
With that said, let's begin! This movie was... interesting? The plot was fairly easy to follow. It began with the origins of Conan and following into the story line of Conan seeking vengeance for the death of his Father and his tribe. Tainted by the fact that his first victim was his Mother, there was never any... relations to the fact that his Mother had died to give birth to him, yet is there any back plot of resent from the Father? Was this typical during that [possible] time frame? Maybe. Maybe not. Anyways, back to the point, the movie was easy to follow, and even with a potty break near the beginning, I followed it quite easily.
Somewhat, spectators might get confused by the fast-paced story because sometimes things just... happened? For the lack of a better word. I was not impressed by the plot, and a lot of things seemed a bit cliched. Eh...


Characters:
Jason Momoa (Conan): To begin, the viciousness of his eyes! Wow. He really had the look of a killer and a barbarian. It was nice to see his facial expressions, and he did fit the image of Conan: a ruthless, vengeful killer, who was hellbent on killing a man. Jason Momoa isn't really a name I've heard of, but he is seen in the 2011 TV series, Game of Thrones (playing Khal Drogo). He is featured in a few other TV series before, but hopefully, we can see him in some more movies. This man's facial expressions and viciousness that glinted in his eyes brought something... interesting to the table.
Stephan Lang (Khalar Zym): Playing the main antagonist, I just.. didn't feel the hatred or emotions of power. If anything, all I felt from his man was the sadness in his eyes when he would mention his wife. That was about it. He was dressed and looked the part of the antagonist, but honestly, I didn't feel threatened by him. Not one bit. I felt more scared of him in 2009's James Cameron's Avatar, when he played Colonel Miles Quaritch.

Rachel Nichols (Tamara): Playing the obvious "damsel-supposedly-in-distress-but-can-really-kick-butt-sometimes," Rachel Nichols is also featured in the currently running TV series, Criminal Minds (playing Ashley Seaver) and also seen in 2009's G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (playing Scarlett). She was... alright? I mean, she was very tough and reckless (like any other woman in this kind of movie), but she just didn't have a lot of depth. She was a huge pile of baggage for the main character, Conan, but she just didn't impress me. There was a naughty scene between Tamara and Conan, but the "romance" never actually lasted. OMGSPOILERSPOILERSPOILER Hedoesn'tevenstaywithher OMGENDOFSPOILERSPOILEREND I honestly didn't like her character. BE A WOMAN! KICK MORE BUTT! FIGHT!!! Gah!...

Poster: I actually liked the poster. It is very interesting and unique. The words from the movie that both "Fire and Ice are important" resonates with the poster, yet if you didn't even see the movie, saw the poster, and didn't even think as deeply as I did, then it might seem just interesting. It includes the three main characters, Conan, Khalar Zym, and Tamara. As another supporting character, it includes the Witch.


Overall: I give this movie a 2/4 polishes. Sorry Conan the Barbarian fans, but this movie just didn't flow right with me. It seemed too crushed together, and honestly, I'd feel a bit embarrassed if I was part of the original COB cast from 1982. I know I am grading this movie as its own, as if there was no "original" to begin with. Yet, I find myself somewhat not enjoying this movie one bit. Maybe because I put a high expectation for it since the trailer made it look so cool? There was action, but it just didn't seem too real. It all made it glorify the fact that Conan is supposed to look "bad-arse!" or whatever young audiences are looking at. So... Sorry y'all...

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

P.S. I apologize for not writing up more reviews!! :( I love you all!

Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows ~ Part 2 (2011)

Synopsis: The final chapter begins as Harry, Ron, and Hermione continue their quest of finding and destroying the Dark Lord's three remaining Horcruxes, the magical items responsible for his immortality. But as the mystical Deathly Hallows are uncovered, and Voldemort finds out about their mission, the biggest battle begins and life as they know it will never be the same again. Source


Plot: The epic conclusion to an epicly amazing series. I don't say the word "epic" loosely like others of our society, but this movie was FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC! I seriously want to go see this again. We all know what's up with this movie: Harry, Ron, and Hermione have to find the rest of the Horcruxes and kill Voldemort. This movie was beyond amazing. I cannot stress how much this movie made my night, day, week, month, year! This was the perfect movie to end it all. The plot was simple, and the movie didn't mess around with the twists and turns of hatred, despair, romance, action, and plot twists that pretty much answers all the questions some Harry Potter movie fans yearned for.


Cast:
Okay, everyone should know the cast. I won't get into too much depth with it all because I'll pretty much say the same exact thing for each person. Daniel Redcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Alan Rickman, and everyone else were a blast to watch. Every single cast member was perfect, and through all the hatred, madness, and love, there was enough joy to fill your hearts at the end of the movie, that every character's sacrifice was not in vain.


Poster: There are several series of posters for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. I'll do the two that include the most, such as the one above that includes Harry, Ron, and Hermione. This poster also includes other cast within the background, and the destruction and mayhem of their somewhat civil war between Wizards and Witches. Fantastic facial expressions and poses make this poster something I would hang on my wall.
The second poster below features Harry and Voldemort with the Elder Wand in between them, which all three are key points within the movie. I actually like this poster of Harry and Voldemort, giving a feeling of uneasiness and strife between the two characters.

Overall: As you can probably tell with my typing and wording, I am giving this movie a 4/4 polishes. Personally, if I could give more, I would! This movie was the amazing, filled with chaos and emotions that ran as deep as regret and mourning to excitement and laughter, giving the movie depth. Betrayal, love, and inner-plights make this movie a Harry Potter that we have been waiting for. This was a perfect movie to end it all. I promise you that you will not regret purchasing tickets and sitting there to watch it. The movie wrapped you in and kept you seated. If you're a die-hard Harry Potter fan and you have yet to see it, GO SEE IT NOW!

Inked with Brilliance and Love, and with peaceful adieu to our final Harry Potter,
Sara

Review: Horrible Bosses (2011)

Synopsis: Three friends conspire to murder their awful bosses when they realize they are standing in the way of their happiness. Source

Plot: With a wide, funny and serious cast, this movie was a blast! I loved it so much, my stomach was hurting when we left the theater for laughing so hard. My sister's stomach was even hurting, and she was out of breath from watching. The plot was very different, and there were enough parts in the movie to make you giggle and want more. The bosses were hilarious to watch because they were all familiar faces that I was used to them being complete jerks, idiots, or... well, you get it (Bosses: Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Aniston, & Colin Farrell)

Cast:
Nick Hendricks (Jason Bateman): I've seen this guy in a lot of movies. A lot of them are pretty serious, but in the funny ones, he doesn't even have to try to be funny. His serious faces and antics make him all the more funnier (kind of like Johnny Depp in Sleep Hollow. I know that wasn't even a funny movie, but I still laughed at his facial expressions.). His boss (Kevin Spacey) fulfilled the requirements to push the character over the edge.
Kurt Buckman (Jason Sudeiskis): Recently, Jason Sudeiskis was in Hall Pass, a 2011 movie also starring Owen Wilson. This guy was a swinger funny. He'd hit on random woman, do.. certain things that I was dying of laughter from, and his hatred of his new boss, Bobby Pellit (Colin Farrell) was funny. Jason was a funny man to watch, and his antics and hilarity rode on facial expressions and gestures he made.
Dale Arbus (Charlie Day): Star of the comedy show, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Charlie Day was absolutely, no refund, my favorite out of the three. His hilarity rode on stupidity, antics, facial expressions, and his (noted in the movie) hamster voice. In several parts, I was just laughing my butt off because of his kid. He is hilarious in this movie and in his show. I seriously hope he is in more movies soon, because he just makes my day!

Poster: In the poster, it pretty much sums up the entire bosses personalities. From each boss, underneath them is the friend working for them. I liked the movie poster because, personally, it made me laugh.

Overall: It's hard to rate this movie, simply because of all the different things. In general, this movie just wasn't rated R for nothing. It did have a lot of dirty jokes and innuendos thrown into the mix, giving the movie a more "Be mature to watch this movie!" This movie was both predictable and unpredictable. I honestly liked it because of the fact that there were enough, and more, funny scenes to make this movie a comedy, and the plot twists and never knowing when the hilarity will end. So, all in all, besides the fact that the movie was, in fact, Rated R, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I give it 4/4 polishes. BEWARE: IF YOU ARE OF THE FAINT OF HEART ON CERTAIN JOKES, DO NOT SEE THIS MOVIE! THERE ARE A LOT OF EXPLICIT WORDS, SCENES, AND EXCHANGES BETWEEN CHARACTERS! Other than that, go see it!

Inked with Brilliance and Love,
Sara

Review: Monte Carlo (2011)

Synopsis: Three young women vacationing in Paris find themselves whisked away to Monte Carlo after one of the girls is mistaken for a British heiress. Source

Plot: [This movie was based loosely on the book, Headhunters, by Jules Bass.] The movie follows the soon-to-be graduate high school senior, Grace Bennett, who has always dreamt of going to Paris, the city of love. A waitress in a small town in Texas, her best friend, Emma, another waitress at the restaurant, tags along for the joyride. During Grace's graduation, her step-sister, Meg, interrupts the ceremony and takes her place near her father (Grace's step-father). A day after her graduation, Meg is whisked away to Paris alongside Grace and Emma, who are not too happy to bring the spoilsport with them. After several bad lucks and distraught feelings, Grace then is mistakenly taken for Cordelia Winthrop Scott, a British heiress. By unlikely circumstances, the trio is then taken to Monte Carlo where Grace then impersonates Cordelia at the behest of Emma, telling her (in a nut shell) that this is once in a lifetime opportunity. Love is in the air as their travels ensue. In a tale of romance, passion, and lies, Monte Carlo is the city of dreams.

Characters:
Grace/Cordelia Winthrop Scott (Selena Gomez): You know, for my first Selena Gomez film, I was actually impressed. She did fantastic at doing both roles, and her facial expressions would both give off and keep inside her emotions. She is both serious and funny with her antics, and even if people might say her fake British accent was... well.. fake, I thought it was great! Selena did fantastic, and honestly, I wouldn't mind seeing another movie from her (And I used to not like her for dating Taylor Lautner! Ack!)
Emma (Katie Cassidy): She was straight up girl-power! She told it like she meant it, and even as the (mostly) self-centered best friend, she was a joy to watch. Some might recognize her in the movies: Click, Nightmare on Elm Street (2010), or Taken. Either way, I did like Katie Cassidy in the movie, and you see a lot of character development inside. She learns to not take things for granted.
Meg (Leighton Meester): Ah. Our dear (The) Roomate. As creepy as she may have been in that movie, Leighton did great for this film. She was the tied down girl, who never took chances. She kept to herself, and through all the pain, she could still end up with a smile. When she finally got a man, she changed a lot. In the film, her character showed the possibilities of taking chances.
Riley (Luke Bracey): HOTTIE WITH A BODY NUMERO ONE! When I say that, I mean it. This guy was awesome. Playing as an Australian tourist within the movie, he romances Meg after Emma's failed attempt. He was a cutie, and he did have some depth to him rather than being eye-candy for the lady viewers. He did wonderfully, and he showed loyalty within the characters as well. He was a bit of a comic relief at some points (I actually laughed at him during a serious part.. oops...) I haven't seen him in any movies before, so let's cross our fingers to see him again!
Theo Marchand (Pierre Boulanger): HOTTIE WITH A BODY NUMBERO TWO! Playing in his American-film debut, Pierre was fantastic. His (real) French accent was amazing when he actually played a French teenage boy. He was a bit cynical at the beginning of the movie, but he began to grow on me. He was very cute, cheesy, and sweet. Amazing job, Pierre! Keep making films for America!

Poster: I like the poster. It has the trio, and the background contains Monte Carlo. Although the poster is great enough, it would have been cooler/better if it contained more of the characters from the rest of the film.

Overall: I give this movie 4/4 polishes. I don't care if you like Selena Gomez or not, GO SEE THIS MOVIE! I'm not a huge Selena Gomez fan, but this movie was fantastic! Some parts were really cheesy and predictable, but I think all movies are like that. It was filled with great love stories, and in the end, everyone was happy.

 Check out the trailer below!

Inked with Brilliance and Love,
Sara

Movie Review: The Green Lantern (2011)

Synopsis: A test pilot is granted a mystical green ring that bestows him with otherworldly powers, as well as membership into an intergalactic squadron tasked with keeping peace within the universe. Source

Plot: The story follows Hal Jordan, a pilot who works with a life-long friend, Carol Ferris. The story begins showing the Green Lantern that passes the ring to Hal, Abin Sur, an intergalactic humanoid who crash lands into Earth after being attacked by the main antagonist, Parallax. Parallax uses the emotion of Fear to drive his powers, which goes against the Green Lantern Corps' energy/emotion of Will. Parallax had escaped his prison after being locked in the Lost Sector after trying to tap the powers of Fear within Oa, the planet of the Green Lantern Corps.
After Hal receives the ring, he is taken to Oa to learn training exercises. He meets Tomar-Re, a fish-like humanoid, and Kilowog, a large brute. They teach him many things, which he refers to later on as the story progresses. Hal then meets Sinestro, whose mentor and friend was Abin Sur. After Sinestro meets Hal, calling him a disgrace and that a Human was unfit to be a Green Lantern, Hal then "quits" the Green Lantern Corps, returning to Earth. Yet, we earlier see a scientist named Hector Hammond. He was called upon to inspect the found body of Abin Sur. Unknowingly, Hector attracts the powers of Fear from Parallax's influence upon Abin Sur's body, thus changing him forever.

Cast:
Hal Jordan/Green Lantern (Ryan Reynolds): One of my favorite male actors! I was so happy he got to be the iconic Green Lantern for the movie! I thought that he wouldn't really be fit for it because I have seen him in more comedy movies rather than serious movies (Movies: Waiting & The Proposal), yet he did a fantastic job. He really shaped what the Green Lantern was about. He alone took on Fear and shaped his own future.
Carol Ferris (Blake Lively): Blake Lively isn't someone I thought of immediately. Playing in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (1 & 2) and Accepted, Blake Lively did personify Ryan Reynolds' character's fear and finding himself. She was the real pusher, and in the end, she helped save the world too.
Hector Hammond (Peter Sarsgaard): I remembered him in the Orphan! Not only that but he also played in The Skeleton Key (hated that movie's ending..). Peter Sarsgaard played a great sub-antagonist to Ryan Reynolds, and he personified the acceptance of Fear, all the while ambition and jealousy drove him to do what he did.
Sinestro (Mark Strong): Oh man.. I love Mark Strong. When I figured out that Sinestro played him, I squeed like a little fangirl. He played in Robin Hood (2010), Sherlock Holmes (As Lord Blackwood), and Babylon A.D. Mark Strong did well in his role (even if he only appeared in small portions *sad face*) which is the role of desperation and somewhat bigotry as a fellow Green Lantern to Ryan Reynolds. Desperation because he turns to use Fear against Fear, which would eventually consume the Green Lanterns, and bigotry because of his assumption that Humans were a primitive race compared to any others within the galactic system. As a somewhat small antagonist to Ryan's character as well as an ally, it's easy to see what Fear will drive people to do, as seen by Sinestro.

Poster: I liked the movie poster a lot. Personally, I'd hang one up in my room (teehee!). It shows another part of being a Green Lantern: Unity.

Overall: This movie was fan-freaking-tastic! Seriously folks, go and see it. It was great. I may not be a huge Sci-Fi fanatic, but I loved this movie a lot. The graphics were great, and the story was easy to follow, even if you don't know anything about the Green Lantern. I think this move was simply awesome. I give it 4/4 polishes! Check out the trailer above!

Inked with Brilliance and Love,
Sara

Review: Dorian Gray (2009)

Synopsis: A corrupt young man somehow keeps his youthful beauty eternally, but a special painting gradually reveals his inner ugliness to all. Source

Review
Plot: I had to watch this movie because it was based off of a classic novel and it starred Ben Barnes. I did love the movie; I wasn't expecting it to scare me, but it did. It was so beautifully horrifying. Dorian comes as a pure and beautiful man but ends up emotionless and destructive. Even after all the things he does, I felt pity for him. Each character points out that he has the world for his taking, but he takes it for granted and the portrait of him reflects that. The movie was fast-paced in some ways. When he fell in love the first time, I didn't really get to connect with his love, Sibyl. It went from them meeting to them wanting to get married. The plot was very solid and interesting though. I wanted to see how Dorian turned out and what his fate would be.

Actors: Ben Barnes (Dorian Gray) - Barnes is incredibly good-looking, so he automatically fit the role. He did an amazing job with going from a naive boy to a cynical man. He looked the same, but his demeanor and behavior changed which made people not want to be around. I did have pity for him, but I hated him in some situations. He wanted rise above the pressure and when he did, it was too late.
Colin Firth (Lord Henry Wotton) - Firth was amazing. He had such horrible qualities, it was hard to see that he was ever nice. I love when actors are able to make me hate their characters because that shows how good their performance was. I've always loved Colin Firth, so that gave me even more reason to watch this. He is a very essential character and I'm glad he played the part because I could not see anyone else doing a better job.

Poster: I do like the poster. It gives the feel of the movie, going from purity to destruction. Also, the colors that the poster and the movie play with are very compatible: blue, white, and black.

Overall Rating: I give this movie a three out of four. I would have given it a four out of four if it wasn't some of the fast-paced scenes. However, the performances and the scenery were beautiful and well-done. The plot was very unique and rare, it's hard to just come up with this. It isn't for the faint of heart though. It is rated R for a reason, so please only mature watchers see this movie. There are a few sexual situations. But, other than that, this movie was enjoyable and I would watch it again.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Catfish

Synopsis: In late 2007, filmmakers Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost sensed a story unfolding as they began to film the life of Ariel's brother, Nev. They had no idea that their project would lead to the most exhilarating and unsettling months of their lives. A reality thriller that is a shocking product of our times, Catfish is a riveting story of love, deception and grace within a labyrinth of online intrigue. Filmmakers Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost document a story involving Ariel's brother, Nev, a 24-year-old New York-based photographer, and Abby, from rural Michigan who contacts Nev via Facebook, asking for permission to make a painting from one of his photographs. Source

Plot: The story begins as Nev Schulman with his brother, Ariel Schulman and friend, Henry Joost. Nev is an amateur photographer, who has recently been receiving pictures from a little girl named Abby, who lives in Michigan. Abby paints Nev's photos, which begins an online friendship with the two corresponding people. Soon enough, Nev reaches Facebook with Abby and her family. He then meets Abby's sister, Megan. Nev begins to fall for Megan, and soon, everything becomes spiraling down. While I watched this documentary with my sister, it was interesting. It wasn't an all too surprising ending, but it was good enough for this speculated 'real' time documentary, which is claimed by Ariel Schulman to be "completely real." This movie didn't seem all too interesting at first, but it got quite a good amount of reviews. I was skeptical as I watched this relationship blossom into something much different. The ending wasn't very surprising, but I did enjoy the movie because of the naivety that we see into today's cyber-society.

Characters:
Nev - Oh I felt so bad for this man... Falling in love, being deceived along the way. Everything begins to just spiral down for this guy. He was the main center of attention, and I did enjoy his character. He did very well in the documentary, and I was glad they followed him around because he does personify the misled trust and naivety.
Ariel and Henry - Both of these characters weren't really mentioned, but they did play an important role during Nev's time on this film. Ariel is the one that suggests (SPOILERSSPOILERSSPOILERS) to Nev that he visits Megan in Michigan. Henry, as well, is a pusher of the film. Honestly, without them, Nev probably wouldn't have done what he did.
Abby and Megan - Both mysterious girls. Abby isn't as hidden and quieted as Megan. Abby didn't play as big as a role as I thought she would've, but when she was on screen, she was the great finisher of the mystery. Megan is mysterious; that's all I can really say without spoiling the movie for everyone.

Poster: I do enjoy the promotional poster because that's honestly what drove me to rent the movie in the first place! You get to see a snippet of both Nev and Megan, which gives a little mystery to me, honestly, because I see the Facebook friend request thing (Confirm or Ignore) and also the sentence in between, "Think before you click." That is the whole slogan of this movie.

Overall Rating: This movie receives 3/4, simply because of the unique aspects of it balances out the somewhat cliche and predictable storyline that came with it. For a movie that was suspected as 'actual events,' it was a great watch. I recommend it for those who like documentaries or open-minded movie watchers, but if you're a specific genre watcher, I'd be iffy about buying this. Rent it!

Inked with Brilliance and Love,
Sara

Review: Prom (2011)

Synopsis: Intersecting stories unfold as high-school seniors prepare for their prom. Source

Review
Plot: Disney has pleased me with this movie. I wasn't expecting real teenage drama in the movie. I loved that it wasn't all happy go-lucky the whole time, even though Disney did give us it's sort of predictable "everything goes wrong and then it turns out spectacular" plot line. However, the actors were entertaining and had small quirks to keep you smiling through the whole thing. The plot line was a little corny at some points, where you knew this had to be a PG movie, but they did have to play it safe because of that. I liked the fresh faces for most of the cast and can't wait to see more of them.

Actors: Aimee Teegarden (Nova Prescott)-I loved her. She did play the all-around good girl, but she was a strong presence. She grew throughout the movie and played with the right emotions. I haven't seen her in anything else, so I can't compare her to past works. However, she is in Scream 4 from what I hear, so check her out. I do think she's got great potential though and she gives a great performance in here.
Thomas McDonell (Jesse Richter)-He was good about being the rebel. I did like him because it wasn't the obvious bad boy. He had reasons and a background for his behavior. He didn't play coy with his feelings for Nova and that was a nice progression to see throughout the film. Again, I haven't seen much of him either, but he is another actor to watch out for.

Poster: The poster reminds me of a 80s teenage film. It is so beautiful and puts most of the key points of the film into the poster. Your eyes see the feet, but you forget about the little pictures and don't see what some characters are wearing to prom and so on. One of the best posters I've seen this year.

Overall Rating: I give this movie a three out of four. It was a great film and a new development from Disney. I'll suggest anyone who wants a good summer film or cheesy romance to go see this. It was corny and predictable in a few areas, but was very enjoyable.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Water For Elephants (2011)

Looking for the book review? Click here!

Synopsis: Based on the acclaimed bestseller, WATER FOR ELEPHANTS presents an unexpected romance in a uniquely compelling setting. Veterinary school student Jacob meets and falls in love with Marlena, a star performer in a circus of a bygone era. They discover beauty amidst the world of the Big Top, and come together through their compassion for a special elephant. Against all odds -- including the wrath of Marlena's charismatic but dangerous husband, August -- Jacob and Marlena find lifelong love. Source

Review

Plot: I have read the book, so I went in with a good inclination of what the movie would have in it. I was a little sketchy on how some situations will be played out since it was PG-13, but I was ready for it. I did love the movie throughout. It was beautifully done and the location they chose was perfect for the backdrop of the film. I do have to say that each actor was phenomenal in their performances, but there seemed to be a lacking of chemistry in some scenes. I feel like the movie was rushed, even in two hours. I wish that it was longer, so Jacob's and Marlena's relationship could grow and you learned the real reasons behind August's actions, which they never do mention it. I will say that I did cry many times throughout the movie and it was very emotional throughout.

Actors: Rob Pattinson (Jacob)-Of course, I have too start with this guy first! I absolutely loved him. He embodied Jacob and wasn't really him I was looking at, but his character. I loved him in the scenes when he was ith Rosie. I couldn't help but smile through the whole scene because you could tell how happy he was working with her in the movie and as actors.

Reese Witherspoon (Marlena)-She was stunning as always. I felt such sympathy for her, she was stuck in an destructive manner. You knew when you were watching that one of them would have to die. It was too destructive. I wish that we could go deeper into her character's thinking and see what she was thinking. She was amazing in the scenes with August, you could see her love for him, but her longing to be free. She didn't want to hurt him, but she wanted to be happy.

Christoph Waltz (August)-I'm so glad he was in here. I didn't really know him at first, heard his name here and there, but never really knew him. After this movie, he deserves an Oscar for his performance. I'm not trying to be cruel, but he had the best performance in the whole movie. He grasped the character, August, so well and brought him to life. I hated him, but I felt his pain and sorrow for being able to control what he was doing. I cried for him because of what he was going through, but hated him for what he had done in some scenes. I loved him and want to see more of him.

Poster: Very beautiful. I love how they have the key characters. (Yes, Rosie is a key character.) It captures the esscence of what Marlena and Jacob want. A spectacular life, but it comes with a price.

Overall Rating: I give this movie a three out of four. That is a very good thing though. My only whining is over how fast paced the movie was and you go from them seeing each other to them expressing their love to one another. Other than that, the whole cast was perfect and amazing. The location was beautiful and it is an ending that leaves you satisfied. I would recommend anyone looking for a good flick to go see this movie. It is worth the money and it makes you think.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: Red Riding Hood

Synopsis: Young Valerie (Amanda Seyfried) feels torn between two men. She loves Peter, but her parents intend that she marry wealthy Henry. Valerie and Peter plan to run away together, but before they can put the plan into action, her sister is killed by a werewolf. The villagers call in Father Solomon (Gary Oldman), a famous monster hunter, to help, but when Solomon warns that the beast takes human form by day, Valerie begins to suspect that the werewolf is someone she loves. Source

Plot: Other than the Harry Potter movies, this is one of the few movies I've watched where I had not read the book. I was kind of upset at the book because it purposely didn't want to give the ending until the movie came out. I'm glad I saw just the movie though. Apparently, from my friends, the beginning was nothing like how the book was and some things were different. I was confused on some parts, like why everything had those little spikes on them. The movie was interesting though, you learned that someone in the village was the werewolf and much more. I was very impressed with Hardwicke with her use of the scenery and the actors were absolutely stunning. I was kind of disappointed in the climax and the ending. It was like an hour and half was spent with the villagers wondering who was the wolf and then at the end it's revealed who the wolf is and that's basically it. I wanted more action and more twists in the plot line.

Actors: Amanda Seyfried (Valerie)-I loved Amanda in here. She was just confused as I was on who was the werewolf because of one key trait and it seemed like EVERYONE around her had that same trait. She was on her defenses and still held her head up even when her village is against her. Amanda did a great job with Valerie and I'm glad she played the part.
Shiloh Fernandez (Peter)-Shiloh was great as his bad boy part. I loved him because he could be stern and scary, but at the same time, he was romantic and dreamy. However, he sometimes seemed like he was pissed off, even if he was looking at Valerie. I guess it's just his expression, but that's what scared me sometimes.

Poster: The poster is beautiful. I love how they made the poster stand out among the darkness. It also gives the movie a horrific tone to it.

Overall Rating: I give this movie a three out of four. It was good, but I wish that there was more action and less speculating. Hardwicke did a great job and the actors were great, so I would give this movie a try if you're considering going to see it.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Beastly

Synopsis: Prone to mocking and humiliating "aggressively unattractive" classmates, Kyle zeroes in on Goth classmate Kendra, inviting her to the school's extravagant environmental bash. Kendra accepts, and, true to form, Kyle blows her off in a particularly savage fashion. She retaliates by casting a spell that physically transforms him into everything he despises. Enraged by his horrible and unrecognizable appearance he confronts Kendra and learns that the only solution to the curse is to find someone that will love him as he is -- a task he considers impossible. Repulsed by his appearance, Kyle's callous father banishes him to Brooklyn with a sympathetic housekeeper and blind tutor. As Kyle ponders how to overcome the curse and get his old life back, he chances upon a drug addict in the act of killing a threatening dealer. Seizing the opportunity, Kyle promises the addict freedom and safety for his daughter, Lindy, if she will consent to live in Kyle's Brooklyn home. Source

Plot: The movie was based off of the book by Alex Flinn. After reading the book, I found out that there was a movie. In my review, I kind of went on a rant when I saw the trailer. I'm still kind of in that rant mood. He was supposed to be a beast! Come on, a guy who looks like how Alex Pettyfer did in the movie in New York? Yeah, it'll draw heads, but not as much as how a true beast would. The movie is about how love is never ugly, but I feel like they tamed down Kyle's looks for the movie. And, the little rose tattoo on his arm, cute but cliche! However, it was good enough to make me cry and even "Aww", yes I "Aww"ed out loud, over the movie. It was a good movie and I'm glad I saw it.

Actors: Alex Pettyfer (Kyle)-Alex is on his way to becoming the new hottest thing. He was in "I Am Number Four", "Beastly", and a lot of MI fans want him to play Jace Wayland in the upcoming movies. I loved him in here and I can't wait to see what other projects her does.
Vanessa Hudgens (Lindy)-OK, so I like Vanessa, she's a pretty girl and does very well in her parts. However, the only reason I was iffy on her going into the movie was because her character had to be "average-looking" and had red hair. Vanessa did a great job though and made the movie seem genuine instead of cheesy.

Poster: I saw the poster days after I saw the movie. It is very beautiful and dark, which kind of undertones the themes of the movie/book. I like how Vanessa looks at Alex with love and affection. Plus, the phrase is a perfect fit.

Overall Rating: I give this movie a three out of four. I loved the acting and it had it's little quirks here and there, but I have to take away a nail polish when it comes to how Kyle should have looked.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: I Am Number Four

Synopsis: Three are dead. He is Number Four. D.J. Caruso (“Eagle Eye,” “Disturbia”) helms an action-packed thriller about an extraordinary young man, John Smith (Alex Pettyfer), who is a fugitive on the run from ruthless enemies sent to destroy him. Changing his identity, moving from town to town with his guardian Henri (Timothy Olyphant), John is always the new kid with no ties to his past. In the small Ohio town he now calls home, John encounters unexpected, life-changing events—his first love (Dianna Agron), powerful new abilities and a connection to the others who share his incredible destiny. John (Alex Pettyfer) is an extraordinary young man, masking his true identity and passing as a typical student to elude a deadly enemy seeking to destroy him. Three like him have already been killed…he is Number Four. Source

Review
Plot: This is probably the best movie of 2011 so far. It was based off a novel by Pittacus Lore. This is a different take on "aliens". I loved the setting of the movie; it was set about John being on the run from those who are sent out to kill him. They have already killed three and now they are on to him. It was very thrilling, I was definitely the only one who screamed at certain parts. There are very suspenseful parts where it keeps you waiting on the edge of your seat. By the ending of the movie, and by what my friend told me, there seems like there will be a seuqel. However, I thought that about Salt too and yet there has not been anymore talk about a sequel for that either. (Plus, Alex Pettyfer might be a little busy as the role for a certain hot Shadowhunter.)

Actors: Alex Pettyfer (John)-He is going to be a new up and coming actor. He is so versatile with his roles so far and he does an amazing job which each one. I loved him in this and can not wait to see more of him.
Dianna Agron (Sarah)-Dianna was beautiful in here. She has set herself apart from the Glee cast and has gave herself a nice push in her acting career. I can't wait to see more of her and she definitely has shown that she can do more than sing a note.

Poster: There isn't a whole lot you can do with a title like "I Am Number Four", so I can't eally criticize the artwork. However, if I hadn't seen the trailer, I probably wouldn't have seen it based on the poster.

Overall Rating: I give this movie a four out of four. The effects and cast were incredible. I'm honestly hoping that the actors and the movie get some MTV Movie Awards!

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: The Roommate (Rated PG-13)

Synopsis: An emotionally unstable college freshman (Leighton Meester) grows obsessed with her unsuspecting roommate in Danish director Christian E. Christiansen's English-language debut. Source 

Review
Plot: I will say that I was iffy with this movie because I've seen the plot before. The crazy roommate that wants to become like the other or be the only one's friend. It's always a girl and she's always crazy. This movie does not disappoint with the craziness! You see it in the first half hour of the movie! It seemed like the craziness would never stop...and that is a good thing. However, I've seen this kind of thing before, which made most of the antics predictable.

Actors: Leighton Meester (Rebecca)-Meester is definitely on her way for future roles. She scared me *excuse my language* shitless. All her stalker stares and actions were...oh my gosh! I can't even explain some of the craziness she did. She played the part very well, which I would have never guessed coming from her.
Minka Kelly (Sara Matthews)-Kelly was great. She was good when she had to play the clueless roommate. But, it was a nice breakout role for her. I loved her during the climax of the movie. She didn't play the victim, but the hero.

Poster: I will be honest...not a fan of the poster. It doesn't draw me in, it seems like something from the late 90s, early 2000s. However, Meester's expression scared the crap out of me.

Overall Rating: I give this movie a two out of four. The acting was good, but I need originality and you can not top Fatal Attraction!

 

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope

Rated:
PG for sci-fi violence
and brief mild language.

Director:
George Lucas

Writers:
George Lucas

Release Date:
May 25, 1977

Synopsis:
Part IV in Star Wars: A New Hope opens with a rebel ship being boarded by the tyrannical Darth Vader. The plot then follows the life of a simple farmboy, Luke Skywalker, as he and his newly met allies (Han Solo, Chewbacca, Ben Kenobi, C-3PO, R2-D2) attempt to rescue a rebel leader, Princess Leia, from the clutches of the Empire.

My Review:
I first saw this movie when I was about like 8 or 9. I really didn't understand this movie and could care less. When I was about 12 I saw this movie again. I fell in love with this movie. I think that this movie really made me the movie addict I am today.

For those of you who haven't seen this movie, I'll describe the plot. Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) is a young man who lives with his uncle and aunt on a desert planet. See. Luke's parents are dead. One day, as Luke is... outside, something crashes and he checks it out. It turns out there were two robots in there, namely C-3P0 and R2-D2. They have a message to give to some guy named Obi-Wan Kenobi (which turns out to be Alec Guiness!) from Princess Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher). Luke goes off to find old Ben, who lives close to his uncle. Old Ben gives Luke a long story about how his father was a Jedi and he will be one too, etc. When they come back, Luke's uncle and aunt are dead and now, he's not safe. So Luke and Ben and the robots head to Nar Shadaa, a hole, basically. There they meet up with Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and his big, uh, ape-like thing called a Wookie.

There's a lot more plot to this movie, and I would pass the limit of 1000 word before I could explain it all. The fact of the matter is, there's a lot of backstory to this movie.

George Lucas and John Hughes are probably my favorite directors of all time. I recently just re-watched this movie (yesterday) and I thought it was pretty amazing. Instead of really watching the movie I looked at the details. More of the special effects and the transitions. I thought it was really cool because most of the transitions or special effects that were used back then can be created just by a regular person today. For example I like making short movies with my friends on Final Cut Express and you can do laser/missile/explosion effects on it. For transitions there were a lot of cross dissolves and right wipes.

The cast of characters includes some of the coolest, funniest, and most tragic in film, and the actors who play them fit seamlessly into this new universe. Alec Guiness is flawless as Obi-Wan Kenobi, a Jedi on the run from the evil Empire. Harrison Ford is awesome as Han Solo, a smuggler and thief who helps the gang rescue the princess. But the my favorite character of all time is Darth Vader. Not only is he the coolest bad guy, but we learn in later films why he is evil and start to feel sympathetic for him. Not to mention that booming voice that can make ordering a pizza sound threatening. This movie was not only the beginning of the best movie series ever, but it was the beginning of my love for movies.

To wrap it up, I think that anyone who has a passion for sci-fi movies or movies should definitely watch this. I would probably suggest this for ages 11 or 12 and up because it might be confusing for children.

from,
madigan aka m@dz

Review: True Grit

Released: December 22, 2010
Rated: PG-13
Runtime: 2 hrs. 8 mins.
Cast: Jeff Bridges, Josh Brolin, Matt Damon, Hailee Steinfeld, Barry Pepper

Director: Ethan Coen
Synopsis: A 14-year-old girl (Hailee Steinfeld) joins an aging U.S. marshal (Jeff Bridges) and another lawman (Matt Damon) in tracking her father's killer into hostile Indian territory in Joel and Ethan Coen's adaptation of Charles Portis' original novel. Sticking more closely to the source material than the 1969 feature adaptation starring Western icon John Wayne, the Coens' True Grit tells the story from the young girl's perspective, and re-teams the celebrated filmmaking duo with their No Country for Old Men screenwriting partner Scott Rudin. Josh Brolin co-stars. Source

Review: I want to say that I am not a big Western fan...including when there is no romance. However, my dad is in love with them. You can see that when he watches a Rifle Men marathon. But, I saw that Rotten Tomatoes gave this a 96% rating, so I had to see what the big hype was about it.

True Grit is a remake of the 1969 movie that starred John Wayne, so I can't say that the plot was original. However, I will say that the plot was refreshing to watch nowadays. Instead of watching robots or horror movies, it was about a daughter who wanted to avenge her father's death. I loved that the plot was very serious but had quirks in between that made you laugh.

I absolutely loved Hailee Steinfeld in this movie. This was a great break-out performance for her. Her accent was phenomenal seeing as how she is originally from California. She was great when she had her parts with Matt Damon and Jeff Bridges. I will say that I thought there were a few romantic undertones between La Boeuf (Damon) and Mattie Ross (Steinfeld). She was amazing, however, and I can't wait to see more of her.

Jeff Bridges is making a comeback, I guess, since he has Tron: Legacy and now, True Grit. I agreed with my dad in that I'm not a big Jeff Bridges fan, but he was amazing in this movie. He is a versatile actor, which I love, and he brings his character, "Rooster", more edge than he already had. Bridges had his little lines throughout the movie that make you laugh, but sometimes they feel a little forces, like they're trying to make you laugh. Bridges was a great in this movie and I'm glad that he and most of the cast were nominated for awards.

I give this movie a four out of four. I have to agree with a lot of the critics and say that this movie was probably the best one of 2010. Even if you hate westerns or need romance, I would give this movie a try because it was absolutely amazing.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: Tron: Legacy

Opened: Dec. 17, 2010
Rated: PG
Runtime: 2 hrs. 7 mins.
Cast: Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde

Director: Joseph Kosinski
Synopsis: “Tron: Legacy” is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world that’s unlike anything ever captured on the big screen. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), the tech-savvy 27-year-old son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), looks into his father’s disappearance and finds himself pulled into the same world of fierce programs and gladiatorial games where his father has been living for 25 years. Along with Kevin’s loyal confidant (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a life-and-death journey across a visually-stunning cyber universe that has become far more advanced and exceedingly dangerous. Source


Review: I'm not a big Sci-Fi fan, but I decided to give this movie a try. (Part that, part dragged there.) It was based off of the original movie and it seemed to have amazing effects.

The plot is a good version of how the story behind the game would have been. I loved how the beginning starts the action right off the bat. However, the plot was confusing until the very end when everything was revealed. Questions wouldn't be answered until the end and sometimes you're left confused.

Garrett Hedlund is an amazing actor and I think this was a good role for him. I loved Hedlund, he was serious but funny at times. I saw him in Troy, Four Brothers, Friday Night Lights, and Georgia Rule. To me, he's a really great actor and I think Tron will be a good start for his career in the future.

Jeff Bridges and Olivia Wilde were amazing supporting actors. I missed Jeff Bridges and seeing him in this reminds me of what an amazing actor he is. He is also in True Grit, so go check that out when you can as well. Olivia Wilde is a lovely actress, she was great in House. I think this was also a good break for her film career, she was amazing as Quorra.

I give this a 3 out of 4 because it has great acting with a great cast, but some of the dialogue was a little cliche and full of puns.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Pretty in Pink

There's no better way to share Thanksgiving/or any other day then to watch a cute, funny movie!
(This movie maybe old, but it's a classic!)

Rated:
PG-13 for some sexual content,
language and some drug use.

Director:
Howard Deutch

Writers:
John Hughes
(My favorite
screenwriter/director
of all time)

Release Date:
February 28, 1986

Synopsis:
Young Andie Walsh is one of the not-so-popular girls in high school. She usually hangs out with her friends Iona or Duckie. Duckie has always had a crush on her, but now she has met a new guy from school, Blane. He's one of the rich and popular guys but can the two worlds meet?

My Review:
I've seen this movie, so many times I basically know all the lines. PRETTY IN PINK is the tale of an original, but slightly outcast, girl named Andie Walsh (Molly Ringwald) who is from the poorer part of her town. She never minded this until one day when the rich, "preppy" Blane McDonnagh (Andrew McCarthy) asks her if she'd like to go out sometime. All of Blane's rich preppy friends immediately disapprove, and Andie gets caught in the middle when her own best friend Duckie (Jon Cryer) disapproves as well. Andie decides to go out with Blane anyway, although their first date ends up being somewhat of a disaster. Blane takes Andie to his friend Steff's (James Spader) house party, where nearly everyone snubs her, and Andie is embarrassed to let Blane see where she lives and what kind of house it is. In the end, Andie has to decide whether pursuing potential love is worth the humiliation she receives from everyone else for doing so.

PRETTY IN PINK is the last of the three famous Molly Ringwald-John Hughes collaborations. While its two predecessors dealt more with status and popularity issues, this movie deals with a more serious topic of class differences. However, I find this to be a pretty unrealistic scenario by today's standards and not very easy to relate to, in my case at least. However, the whole concept of two lovers dating despite their differences and everyone else's disapproval is pretty cool and receives my commendation. The ending, though, is a bit of a disappointment.

I felt that this movie really portrayed of what love is really like. It manages to show just how beautiful it can be at times, and just how destructive it is most of the time. Having experienced something similar to Andie's struggle, I have to say that that feature of the movie made it a lot more personable and relatable for me, taking on a deeper meaning than it probably would for others who haven't experienced such a battle.

As far as technical aspects go... well, what can you say. The acting is terrific, namely from the always-great Molly Ringwald and the spectacularly wacky Jon Cryer as the film's most memorable character by far, Duckie. Jon Cryer easily delivers the film's best performance, along with most of its best lines. Annie Potts is also wonderful and funny as Andie's coworker Iona. John Hughes was a great director, even though his area of expertise was '80s teen movies--but, let's face it, no one could have done them better.

To wrap it up, PRETTY IN PINK is a cute love story with fantastic acting and characters that manages to capture a bit of the true essence of love, even if it is a bit disappointing in the end.

from,
madigan aka m@dz
(P.S. This movie reminded me of the Outsiders book/movie-I'll be a doing a review of that next week-because of the class difference [ex: poor and rich])

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1

The one and only movie I've been waiting for is finally out! Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1!!!!

Rated:
PG-13 for some sequences
of intense action violence,
frightening images and
brief sensuality.

Director:
David Yates

Writers:
Steve Kloves and J.K. Rowling

Release Date:
November 19, 2010

Synopsis:

Voldemort's power is growing stronger. He now has control over the Ministry of Magic and Hogwarts. Harry, Ron, and Hermione decide to finish Dumbledore's work and find the rest of the Horcruxes to defeat the Dark Lord. But little hope remains for the Trio, and the rest of the Wizarding World, so everything they do must go as planned.

My Review:
It should be smart for people to at least watch the first six films in order before watching this one, if they haven't read the books already.

With this film, we are slowly but surely bidding farewell to one of cinema's most successful and imaginative franchises. The franchise, like Harry Potter himself, has grown and matured as the years (and films) progress. Part I of the "Deathly Hallows" is ultimately a strong build- up to what will be a triumphant, bittersweet finale for everybody.

I won't waste time trying to talk about the performances, because they are all great and powerful in their own way. Never mind that many of the cast members are very talented veteran British actors (try getting John Hurt, Alan Rickman, Ralph Fiennes, Brendan Gleeson, David Thewlis, Michael Gambon, Helena Bonham Carter, Imelda Staunton, Jason Isaacs and Bill Nighy in the same film again) - the three young actors who we have come to love and care for following the first film a decade ago, basically carry the franchise on their shoulders, and this film is no exception. Radcliffe looks handsome, Grint looks gruff, and Watson looks gorgeous. They've grown into fine young people.

Screenwriter Steve Kloves doesn't forget to add the mood and gloom to the story as it slowly unfolds, but then again he adds some light humor to the film when it needs it. Bonus points for making this not only a visual spectacle, but also a character-driven ensemble; there's some complex characterization here. Also there's some action which aren't seen on screen, but mentioned by the characters. It's OK, because it's necessary for the brisk pacing, and it's not really that important anyways. Besides, the human mind can imagine these images far more powerfully.

There are many themes in this film. Sacrifice, determination, (obviously) friendship, and above all - acceptance. As the films progressed the films started to gain an increasingly dark momentum - signaling that all hope may be lost. But in the end, will good triumph over evil? Like the film, real life isn't so sure. Also, the fact that the actors and crew are moving on after a decade of making these films - it's also another way of acceptance - the films have ended, they're moving on for the better of their lives/careers. It's real life, and I wish all these promising young actors brilliant lives and careers ahead of them.

"Hallows: Part I" is many parts thrilling, as there are quite a number of intense action sequences. Many of them, of course, are done with well-rendered visual effects, and in this one they just blend in at a natural level without being too jarring. However, the action sequences are perfectly blended in with the gripping, dramatic moments. They don't feel heavy handed and it's beautiful to look at. The animated sequence about the origins of the Deathly Hallows is an absolute masterclass and jaw-droppingly beautiful to both watch and listen. If separated by itself it can win an Oscar for best animated short.

The crew also get their due here. David Yates has gotten a firm grip on the film's direction since directing the fifth and sixth films years ago. The cinematography is stunning and exquisite, and it gives off a certain moody hue to the film. The editing is also crisp, it's not choppy when it doesn't need to be.

In short, I would have to say that this film is the best "Harry Potter: film yet in all honesty. I grew up with the series, and as per the actors, it will be an emotional goodbye. But rest assured, the finale will be grand.

One more thing. This interpretation of the novel is the best one yet. The novel is done justice, something not seen since the first three films. It's something for both the fans and novel-readers alike, as there are some pieces only book readers can discover while watching the film. It's definitely a huge improvement over "Half-Blood Prince"'s adaptation, which for me is the worst Potter film.

Harry Potter is a phenomenon. But, like all things, it most come to an end eventually. This is the beginning of the end, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

from,
maddie aka m@dz