Movie Review: Thor: The Dark World

When I was younger, I was never really into comics, but now with each Marvel and DC movie, I find my inner nerd coming out. While there are many types of superheroes and superhero movies, the genius behind Marvel movies is that with each passing movie it leaves you a series of clues and “easter eggs” that send you on endless Google and Wikipedia searches. Nerd Alert, indeed.

 

Thor: The Dark World
Directed By: Alan Taylor
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Renee Russo, Kat Dennings, Stellan Skarsgard, Christopher Eccleston, Idris Elba, Jaimie Alexander, Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano

Premise: Centuries ago, Odin and other warriors of Asgard battled with Malekith the leader of the Dark Elves over control of the Aether, a weapon that could destroy the universe. Upon Malekith’s defeat Odin has his people hide the Aether so no one could find it. Cut to present day on the cusp of the alignment of the Nine Realms, Jane Foster stumbles upon the Aether and becomes infected by it. The release of the Aether alerts Asgard, enlisting Thor to bring her home and to find out how to get the dark energy out of her before it kills her. At the same time, it also awakens Malekith and his people who set course to obtain the Aether and exact vengeance on Asgard.

I’d admit, Thor: The Dark World definitely has its problems, but for me the pros outweigh the cons and Thor’s problems are easily fixable. Though waters may not run completely deep and Tom Hiddelston’s Loki does a lot of the heavy lifting, the movie is exciting, fun, and miles above its predecessor.

 

**Minor Spoilers below, if you haven’t seen the movie, tread carefully!**

 

Top Things I Loved About Thor 

It doesn’t take itself too seriously:
Many movies take themselves too seriously, the dark Batman franchise, the excruciating, bleak Man of Steel, even the new X-Men is on the verge of becoming way too aware of itself. That’s where – pardon my use of nerd term – the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) comes in. [Note: I know X-Men is technically Marvel, but we’ll cross that nerdy bridge in another rant.] The MCU movies built around the Avengers stay true to the comic book aspect of the franchise. The movies are campy, over the top, action packed, funny, with crazy characters that don’t take themselves too seriously. From putting its characters in comical situations, to giving you one of those romantic movies you can get swept up in even though it’s slightly cheesy, these movies deliver and Thor: The Dark World was all of the above and more.

Character Development
What also helped was the fact that we were able to learn more about the characters. The first movie set them up a bit, but aside from Thor good, Loki bad, we didn’t get to know too much about the human world, which let’s face it is the more interesting world seeing as how it’s easy to relate to. This movie we were allowed to spend more time on Earth with Jane Foster and her scientific crew. Jane actually became a character and we were able to see why Thor loves her so much. Natalie Portman and Chris Hemsworth actually had some chemistry this time around.

The Humor:
The one thing Marvel does well is seamlessly add humor into their movies. And with Kat Dennings, you just know every word out of her mouth is going to be gold. Say what you want about 2 Broke Girls, but Kat Dennings sure knows how to deliver a one liner. Stellan Skarsgaard was also in his comedic element this movie. His change in character from The Avengers, was a nice change of pace and a little…unsettling.

Loki:
Tom Hiddleston has been a great asset to the Marvel Franchise. Loki is a happy, charismatic villain, basking in everyone’s misery. He is malevolent but he’s not sadistic. He’s deliciously evil and as crazy as it seems that is what makes him so likeable. In fact, he became such a fan favorite they filmed additional sequences with him before the film’s release. I love being able to see two sides to a villain, it creates a back and forth with your emotions that is rare in a lot of “popcorn” movies. All of these things make Loki interesting. He is a great yang to Thor’s yin (Or is Loki the yin? I don’t know, I’m Asian, I should probably know these things.) The brothers play off of each other well, their eternal sibling rivalry at the heart of their love and detest for each other

 

Things That Can Be Improved

Where the heck was Thor?
While this movie delved deeper into Loki’s psyche, isn’t this movie called Thor: The Dark World? Not Loki: The Bad Seed. The problem is, without Loki and without Jane Foster, Thor had nothing to do. In this movie we learned, yes, Loki does have a conscious, but what did we learn about Thor we didn’t already know? He loves Jane. Great…also…boooorrrrriiinnnggggg. Thor is supposed to be the hero of the story but it’s as if no one knew what to do with him. They should have put Thor on Earth. I would have LOVED to see him interact more with Natalie Portman and Kat Dennings. What if when Portman absorbed the Aether, Loki kidnapped her and Thor was forced to work with Darcy? I totally would have watch that.

More Dramatic Character Moments
This problem also existed in the first Thor movie, where the moments to get to know the characters are few and far between. Thor and Loki have a wonderful moment in the middle of this movie where we get to see a rare moment of vulnerability. Unfortunately, it’s for Loki not Thor. Thor needs his own vulnerable moments (maybe a crisis of faith?). How about a sit down with Jane where they actually get to know each other and talk about something real instead of the Nine Realms or the Cosmos, or what not? How about Thor confiding with his Warriors Three? He  had a brief moment with Sif and in the Comics they eventually get together. How about a moment where Sif tries to kiss him or touches him arm? I know that they are “gods” but I wanted more human moments in the movie. (Kudos, though, on giving Frigga more to do, more things like this, please.)

 

I have always been a fan of Marvel movies and will continue to watch them and Thor: The Dark World has vastly improved from the first. I just hope with the next inevitable movie they will find a way to bring Thor back into it. Chris Hemsworth is so pretty. And he’s a great actor too. (See: RUSH, no seriously see it. ) Give him more to do, TPTB. Also, find a villain that’s as formidable as Loki. Thanks.

Rating: 3 ½ Stars

 

UPDATE: [11:27am, 11/20/2013] I don’t know how I forgot about talking about THAT ENDING. *SPOILER ALERT!* If you continue reading and read something you didn’t want to read, it’s your own fault! ** That scene that set up the Guardians of the Galaxy was a definitely WTF moment for me, in a good way. That is another thing about Marvel movies, they always leave me going WTF. And Benicio Del Toro dressed up like a goth clown mated with David Bowie definitely made me wonder what was going on. He is called The Collector by Volstagg and Sif and he plays him like a psycotic version of Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow mixed with one of those guys who probably eats his own finger nails. After watching this so crazy it’s so good scene, I immediately went home and spent more hours than I’d like to admit googling and wikipedia-ing everything I could about this dude and his island of colorful misfit toys. I also just love that all Marvel movies make you sit through the very end of the credits. There’s something cool about a movie theater filled with people who stay until the very end.

Read more about that ending here: http://popwatch.ew.com/2013/11/09/thor-dark-world-ending-post-credits/ A fantastic article written about it.

 

 

 

SYTYCD Season 9: Top 10 Perform

All Stars are back y’all! And I could not BE more excited! (Did you have Chandler’s voice in your head when you read that? Because I had his voice in my head when I wrote it.) Hopefully these All Stars will ignite some much needed fire into our season 9 dancers.

So You Think You Can Dance
Season 9

Top 10 Perform avec All Stars

 

The show opens with The Top 10 Performance. It’s Broadway. Hey, is that Tyce out there dancing? Where’s Cole? Ruh-Roh. Someone got injured. I’m worried. Cole comes out at the end. What happened? Cat calls him slightly injured, hopefully he’s able to perform tonight (Spoiler alert: he is!) 

Guest judge for today is Ben Millepeid, otherwise known as Natalie Portman’s new hubby. He’s also a ballet dancer, so he knows a lot about dancing. Then again supposedly so did the Ballet Boyz. Let’s hope Natalie Portman’s New Hubby did his homework.

Cat tells us there are only 3 weeks left till the finale. Really? I thought we’d have more time. But there’s No time! There’s never any time! Because it’s time for the Top 10 performances with some of our favorite All Stars. I’m so excited. I’m so scared!

Routine #1
Who: Tiffany with All Star Brandon (from Season 5)
Style and Choreographer: Doriana Sanchez, Disco
Rehearsal: They talk about all the lifts (there’s 11) and I’m excited. I love lifts! And SYTYCD has had some awesome disco routines.
Song: “You Make Me Feel” by Cobra Starship feat. Sabi (Disco Remix)
Performance: Okay, I can’t help thinking of Tiffany as a little pageant girl with that sparkly outfit, her high Texas-style hair, and her cheesy face pulling. But then she does this awesome move where she leaps into splits grabbing one foot as Brandon catches her and spins her around and I forget all about that…for a while. They do a lot of lifts, and perform most of them seamlessly. There are a few lifts where you can see them struggling, but for the most part they pulled it off. (I say as I sit on my couch debating whether or not I have the energy to get up and get a glass of water.) Grade: 7/10
The Judging: Mary and Nigel think they had a great connection, though Nigel can’t judge the dancing since Tiffany’s feet was barely on the ground. Mary thought Audrey held her own against Brandon and Benjamin was impressed by their ability to maintain their energy throughout.

Routine #2
Who:  Witney and Nick Lazzarini (Season 1 Winner)
Style and Choreographer: Jazz with Travis Wall
Rehearsal: They are ghosts, which explains Nick’s zombie make up, haunting an abandoned lounge. This routine will allow Witney to bring out the “ballroom” and be sexy.
Song: “Sing It Back” by Moloko
Performance: I can always find things to like about Travis Wall’s routines, even when he has pieces that I’m not that big of a fan of. I liked this piece, but I felt like Witney was weak. There was no connection between her and Nick and I feel like she almost brought too much “ballroom” to her face with all the dramatic inhaling and not enough to her dancing. Nick’s moves were fluid where she was more angled and sharp (if that makes sense). There was a move where they both collapsed into each other and she does this kick off him before they fall to the ground that was pretty amazing. But overall, it wasn’t haunting enough. I felt like it could have been sexier and sadder. I’m mean they’re ghosts right? Rating: 7.5/10
The Judging: Benjamin loved the release and tension. He said it was fun to watch. Nigel felt she was committed and sexy. Mary says “Lord have Murphy!” Someone is on the crazy train and I love it!

Routine #3
Who:  Cole and All-Star Anya (from Season 3)
Style and Choreographer: Cha-Cha by Dimtry Chaplin
Rehearsal: That was Dimtry I saw in the audience next to Travis! God he’s hot! But I digress. This rehearsal is kicking Anya’s butt, which means it’s difficult because Anya is a rock star. Cole wants to make the hot tamale train. Can he do it? He has an open shirt on so there’s a good chance.
Song: “Glad You Came” by The Wanted
Performance: Anya tries to make him look good, but it feels a bit AWKWARD. Not awkward, but like he’s trying too hard. I feel like he needs to bend his knees more. He’s trying his hardest, but maybe being “slightly injured” is hurting him. There was a move where he kicked his leg at Anya and she caught it bent back. At the end of the routine, I see my boy Matthew in the audience. He should be up there. Grade: 5/10
The Judging: Mary says his moves were clean, but his feet are a bit sloppy and the chemistry was not very believable. For Benjamin, Cole needed to show more variety in his movements. Nigel said he was trying to connect with the audience more than he was with Anya, but that it wasn’t bad for his first cha-cha.

Routine #4
Who:   Lindsey with All Star Jacob (Season 6)
Style and Choreographer: Broadway with Spencer Liff
Rehearsal: Jacob is Lindsey’s shadow, but they can’t see each other. I’m very intrigued. If they can pull it off, this could be amazing.
Song: “Dancing Dan (Me and My Shadow)” by Fosse Original Soundtrack
Performance: It’s cool, but the whole time I’m just thinking how good Jacob is. I mean boy is really, really good. He looks so agile and flexible, while she looked stiff. The shadow sequence was pretty darn cool. I thought the timing worked well, but overall the energy level was a bit off. Maybe it was too simple? (I say as I still have not been able to get off the couch to get that glass of water). This felt more like Jazz than Broadway. Rating: 7/10
The Judging:  Nigel calls Jacob’s feet fantastic. He’s such a neat dancer. He calls her magnificent, which I disagree. Jacob overshadowed her, figuratively and literally! He says she needs more extension (that I agree with). Mary puts Lindsey on the hot tamale train. (Really she hasn’t even broken a sweat!) Benjamin says Lindsey executed it well and was on top of the beat.

 

Routine #5

Who:  Will and All Star Kathryn (Season 6)
Style and Choreographer: Bollywood with Nakul
Rehearsal: Kathryn is a snake, Will is her charmer. And he’s enamored with Kathryn. Will is doing Bollywood, guys. I can hardly contain myself. This is going to be great! Hopefully.
Song:” Ooh La La”, by The Dirty Picture Soundtrack
Performance: Will is so awkward. And I mean that in a totally awesome, endearing way. He looks like one of those guys that have absolutely no rhythm but you know when you get him to the club you will have the best time dancing with him because he doesn’t have a care in the world. Only, Will has rhythm. He’s a big, loveable, dancing teddy bear, that I can’t help smiling goofily at. I wish Kathryn were smiling a bit more because Will just looks like he’s having so much damn fun. But she’s a snake and snakes can’t smile. Right? Anyway, as for technique, dare I say Will was out dancing Kathryn? He just had so much energy but he took every movement seriously. Their chemistry was spot on. Despite a few awkward moments, they more than pulled it off. Rating: 9/10.
The Judging: Mary mentions Step Up 4, as she should. Mary calls Will the most likeable guy of the competition. Ben says Will has a unique style. He took advantage of expressing himself throughout the routine. Nigel says such great things to Will I have to give the whole quote: “Will there are times when I want to say to you just calm down a little bit. Take things a bit more seriously. But then I think oh shut up Nigel, because what you do is bring personality to everything you do and that is a blessing in itself.” (Sweet.)

Routine #6
Who:   Cyrus with All Star Jaimie (Season 3)
Style and Choreographer: Contemporary with Travis Wall
Rehearsal: The world has ending and Cyrus and Jaimie are the only survivors. The story is epic, the partnering is major. I’m interested and excited to see Cyrus pull it off. Let’s hope all the saving the producers did for Cyrus that he lives up to it. This could be his breakthrough moment, or a big disaster. I want to be blown away.
Song: “Outro” by M83
Performance: There was some very striking imagery in this piece. The beginning and ending were so dramatic with images that were everlasting. The routine, or rather the choreography was amazing. Travis out did himself, but I couldn’t help thinking, I really wish Allison Holker and Twitch were performing this piece. Honestly, Allison would have KILLED. Not to say Jaimie didn’t do a good job. There was this move where Jaimie brought Cryus to her with just one leg that was pretty cool, but Cyrus didn’t do much dancing. He did a lot of carrying, a lot of lifting, and he had one leap where he jumped in the air and brought his legs together, but it wasn’t fluid enough. I feel like he wasn’t dancing with enough confidence or hitting all of Travis’ lines. However, he did better than I expected.  He dances with a lot of humility and he’s very likeable. Rating: 8/10
The Judging: Benjamin says Cyrus has compelling raw energy that is very exciting. Nigel says a lot of things, complementing a lot of people, but he basically says Cyrus with a lot of help, did great in this routine. Mary says Travis didn’t hold back and really challenged him. He had great transitions and reminds me these dancers only have a few hours really to work on the routine. It’s true. And now I feel bad. I’m going to get my water….

Routine #7
Who:   Chehon and Lauren (Season 3)
Style and Choreographer: Lyrical Hip Hop with Dave Scott
Rehearsal: Chehon is neeeervous.
Song: “Pretty Things” by Maxwell
Performance: Chehon really just let it all loose. You know he said time and time again he went on this show to learn other dance styles and really to just let himself go and see what else is out there. And I think, with this routine, he’s finally doing that. He still had such a joyous smile on his face, but he was able to break himself down and not be so stiff and controlled. He just danced and it was lovely to watch. I’m not a big fan of Lauren. Personally I think she showboats a lot and she’s too smiley, but I feel like she brought something out of Chehon. She kind of took the lead and she brought something new out of him. It was a great routine, with a lot of isolations, something Cryus would have killed in. I think, the fact he was nervous, the fact it was new, he had no choice but to let it all go. Rating: 9/10
The Judging: Nigel –  “I’ve gotta thank Dave because he’s sort of taken that stick out of you.” (OH NIGEL! Cringe That was mean. It’s not a stick. It’s control!) Nigel said it was warmer, and lovely to see that smile on his face. Mary said it could have been funkier, but that Chehon accomplished a lot. Benjamin (who says “and all that” a lot) says he brought a lot of looseness to the routine and that he is very charismatic.

Routine #8
Who:   George with All-Star Allison (from Season 2)
Style and Choreographer: Broadway with Tyce D
Rehearsal: Something about a train. Something about Paris. George is distracted by Allison. Tyce says the phrase “breaking all the rules” mixed with the word “raunchy” and I black out.
Song: “Bahamut” by Hazmat Modine
Performance: George has a lot of control, whereas Allison just dances with abandon. Even when he scissors his head with her legs, he still can’t let go. Then near the end of the routine something just changes and he starts acting more and letting the music move him. Strong routine, great dancing, but George needs more personality. Rating: 7/10
The Judging: Mary though the routine was a lot of fun as Allison looks for her friends in the crowd. Benjamin calls George and amazing mover and that he has a good connection with Allison. Nigel is not as big a fan of it as everyone else. He says George has good technique, but he didn’t bring enough character into it (I agree). He wasn’t raunchy enough. I think Nigel just likes the word raunchy and the crowd seems to agree as Mary has to FORCE them to BOO Nigel.

Routine #9
Who:  Eliana with All Star Alex Wong (Season 7)
Style and Choreographer: Contemporary with Stacey Tookey
Rehearsal: I’ve died and gone to heaven. Alex Wong is back. Speak of the devil. Two ballet dancers dancing contemporary? I would have LOVED to see them do a Pas De Deux with Desmond Richardson. What a missed opportunity. But that’s okay. I’m glad to have Alex back and glad Eliana is being partnered with someone besides Cyrus. This routine is about an on and off again relationship. Stacey wants Eliana to be less perfect.
Song: “Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)” by Nancy Sinatra.
Performance: Oh. My. God. She is fantastic. There’s something about this music and the slow dancing that just captivated me. I was mesmerized. Holding my breath practically. Eliana danced so gracefully slowly stretching all her limbs and muscles. I love the way she crumpled her legs to the music “bang, bang”. I would kill for her feet. Finally we got to see her dance, forreal. And Alex – it was just a joy to have him back. He has so much strength, and he has so much emotion in his face. Eliana needed a bit of that on her face. But really, overall, the performance was fantastic I could have watched 10 more minutes of that. Rating: 9/10
The Judging: Cat calls it kind of amazing. That’s how you know it’s great, when Cat says it first. And the judges, slowly get to their feet. It’s about damn time. Nigel says Eliana has great maturity in movement and is has favorite girl (Really Nigel? I thought that was Lindsey). Mary is talking in this high pitched voice, which is how we know she likes it. She calls Eliana the perfect tiramisu: a lot of layers and delicious. Benjamin says it was very passionate and everyone felt it.

Routine #10
Who:  Audrey with All Star Twitch (Season 4)
Style and Choreographer: Hip Hop with David Scott
Rehearsal: It’s about a 400 year old couple who love and hate each other. Audrey is scared and doesn’t have a lot of confidence. Twitch thinks all she needs to do is just let go.
Song: “Sincerely, Jane” by Janelle Monae
Performance: Audrey is too cutesy for this routine. She and Tiffany have the exact sae problem. Also Twitch is so dynamic and has so much personality. He over shadowed her. There were some moments she got down, and hit those hip hop beats, but she wasn’t on the same energy level as Twitch. It’s like they were dancing too different routines. That ending was cute. Rating: 7/10
The Judging: Benjamin says Twitch took over. He wanted more from her.  Mary was engaged, she says she held her own. Nigel wanted more character from Audrey and wished she was crazier.

 

The Bottom Four

It’s time for the bottom 4. I hate this part. In the DANGER ZONE is: Witney and Audrey. I’m pretty surprised by Witney honestly. I have a feeling its Audrey going home. The bottom boys are: Chehon and George. George is going home. Chehon can’t go home. He did so well today, and I really like him. It’s George’s time after being in the bottom so many times. (PS: I’m glad my favs Will and Eliana are safe).

 

The Solos

Solo #1: Witney
Song: “You’ll Find A Way” by Santigold
Performance: Like the dress, don’t like the song. Yuck. There’s no denying Witney isn’t sexy, I wish she brought what she’s bringing now to her earlier routine. Girl’s gotta be safe though. Less stripper moves, more depth please. Grade: C+

Solo #2: Audrey
Song: “And I Am Telling You” by Jennifer Holliday.
Performance: Really, any other version of this song besides Jennifer Hudson should never be played. But that rant is for another day…He routine shows a lot of technique and it crescendos perfectly. She really did dance for her life I think, more than Witney. And the song was fitting. She’s telling you she’s not going Nigel. Will you listen? Grade: A-

Solo #3: Chehon
Song: “Til Enda” by Olafur Arnalds
Performance: He shows so much height and power, and he does this cool leap that lands into a one legged pirouette of sorts. He showed a lot of control and also a bit of reckless abandon he learned. Amazing! This IS dancing for his life and if he goes home after this routine the judges are CRAZY! Grade: A-

Solo #4: George
Song: “Brotsjor” by Olafur Arnalds
Performance: Can’t help noticing this dude is being used a lot for solos. But I’m digging it and George is really showing his musicality. It’s very modern. And he does this cool roll from the floor into a handstand. Whoa. Grade: A-

 

Eliminations

The judges are not unanimous. They save Witney and Audrey knows it. I think Witney knows it too, but her reaction… “reaction” did not seem genuine. We are reminded of Witney’s neck farts (Yay) and the fact she sleeps in glasses and a retained (Yuck). Audrey is crying, but hopefully Matthew will comfort “comfort” her later. As for the boys, Nigel calls George’s solo, the greatest he’s danced. I agree. He talks about how they both have trouble connecting with the audience. They save Chehon and he seemed sincerely worried. I think George knew it was time though. The judges (and choreographers as Nigel reminds us) got it right this time. *Whew*

 

Routine Preferences

1. Eliana and Alex – Contemporary
2. Will and Kathryn – Bollywood
3. Chehon and Lauren – Lyrical Hip Hop
4. Tiffany and Brandon – Disco
5. Cyrus and Jamie – Contemporary
6. George and Allison – Broadway
7. Witney and Nick – Jazz
8. Lindsey and Jacob – Broadway
9. Cole and Anya – Cha-Cha
10. Audrey and Twitch – Hip Hop

Random Thoughts

• Love the way Will rubs Kathryn’s back and gives her a little supportive kiss on the forehead during judging.
• Anyone notice Benjamin’s fake standing O for Eliana and Alex’s routine. He was off in his own world till he noticed Nigel and Mary standing, then he stood with a cheesy grin on his face. Not. Subtle. At. All. Natalie Portman’s Husband.
• Cat mentions the Ballet boys calling Twitch Titch. Adorbs.
• Love how Kathryn and Twitch are so humble and grateful for everything the show has done for their careers. DON’T LOVE have Nigel rubs it in. Almost as if he’s saying, “Look how good we are, Ma.”
• The All Stars come out on stage to say goodbye as well– which is awkward. Lauren is  smiling – which is inappropriate. Sorry peeps, not a fan.

Quotes

• “Lord Have Murphy!” – Mary
• “That looked kind of amazing from where I was standing.”
• “There’s no reason you can’t out do him.” Bejamin about Audrey and Twitch. Best thing he said all night.

 

Well another one bites the dust. I enjoyed this episode much more than the last episode. What was your favorite routine? Who are you voting for? I cast my votes for Will, Chehon, and Eliana. 3 weeks left guys! Can you believe it? Until next week!

 

 

 

Movie Review: Friends With Benefits

So, I came into this movie with LOW expectations, and I was all set to despise it. However, what saved this movie for me (or rather who) was Mila Kunis. The girl is just so damn likeable that she makes up for the faults of her costars *cough* JT *cough*.

 

Friends With Benefits

Starring: Mila Kunis, Justin Timberlake, Jenna Elfman, Woody Haralson, Patricia Clarkson, Bryan Greenberg

Premise: Boy Meets Girl. Boy Befriends Girl. Girl is Emotionally Damaged. Boy is Done With Relationships. Boy and Girl Decide to Have Sex Without The Complications or Emotions. Things go well…until, they don’t.

My Review: The plot is very been there, done that. But I think the relationships the two characters have with their parents, help make this story slightly unique. They also serve the purpose of explaining why the characters, Jamie and Dylan are how they are.

First Mila’s character, Jamie: She’s just so damn likeable. I want a boyfriend just like her, if that makes sense. She’s just cool and sarcastic, and funny and she doesn’t seem like she’s high maintenance. Tip ladies, if a guy takes longer than you to get ready, dump him! Mila’s huge eyes are so expressive we could just tell how she was feeling from her eyes, no explanation necessary. Some actors can’t even pull that off. Speaking of which…

Justin Timberlake. Love his music. Love him as a singer. His “Sexyback” CD is probably one of my favorite CD’s of all time. And his skits on SNL are always hilarious, though nothing can compare to the first time I saw “D*** In A Box.” It just seems like he’s trying too hard. He’s acting. And I can tell he’s acting. But when you watch an actor, you don’t want to know that they’re acting. He’s trying really, really, really hard, I’ll give you that, but I just don’t want to see it. Some actors can be naturally funny and some actors it feels like they have to pull out all the stops in order to get a laugh. I feel like Justin as an “actor” falls into the latter category. (See Bad Teacher for example). Plus sometimes he brings a cockiness/arrogance to his characters that make them unlikeable in my eyes. It’s like he’s trying to be a nerdy dork because that’s cool and people think it’s cool, because he’s cool… “Yo”. Does any of this make sense or am I just crazy? And yes, the answer can be both. However, I will say, when he did the subtle scenes, like the ones where he interacts with Jenna Elfman, his sister, or Richard Jenkins, who plays his Dad, he was restrained and believable as his character. I bought it.

Justin and Mila did have some nice chemistry during certain parts. It wasn’t electrifying, but they bantered off of each other pretty well. Woody Haralson and Patricia Clarkson kept the comedy going in their small, but funny parts which was also appreciated.

I also felt like this movie was trying so hard to stray from, or make fun of the cliché, it ended up being exactly that. I mean meeting the family? That’s in almost every romantic comedy. I did enjoy, however, the awesome use of cliché’s in the beginning with Emma Stone and Andy Samberg stealing the show. That was classic.

Overall, I didn’t hate it. I mean I wouldn’t rank it up there with my favorite romantic comedies (While You Were Sleeping, Sleepless in Seattle, Sweet Home Alabama). But I liked it a lot better than I thought I would. There’s some good eye candy in here for everybody, some genuinely funny lines, and a flash mob. Two actually. Who doesn’t like those things?

 

Rating: 3 Stars

Random Thoughts:

• I didn’t realize by lover (not really) Bryan Greenberg was in this movie. That boy is so damn adorable!
• Mila used a butt double for some scenes, think that girl is gonna want her 15 minutes of fame like Natalie Portman’s dance double? Being naked with Justin should be payment enough…
• I want that Malibu house “Dylan’s” father lived in.
• I may slightly prefer No Strings Attached ending to the ending for this movie. It was less perfect (if you know what I mean).

Movie Review: Thor

THOR: I thought the plot was strong, the acting was strong, the special effects were extremely strong, and Asgard was beautiful, however…I also felt like the storytelling was a bit lacking, the editing jumpy disrupting the flow, and seeing it in 3D is completely unnecessary, if not distracting at times.

THOR

Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddelston, Anthony Hopkins, Natalie Portman, Stellan Skarsgard, Kat Dennings

Premise: At Thor’s coronation to become king, Frost Giants from the planet Jotenheim (who currently had a truce with Odin, Thor’s father) invade Asgard in order to steal a casket Odin took from them during a battle long ago. In an act of retaliation, Thor, his brother Loki, The Warriors Three, and Sif, travel to Jotenheim – Thor looking for revenge, and his friends coming along to help. As a result of the devastation he caused, Odin banishes Thor to Earth without his powers. Thor must work together with scientists, Jane and Selvig to find a way to get back to Asgard. Meanwhile, back on his home planet, Odin falls into Odinsleep thus making Loki the new king. Loki discovers a betrayal/secret and makes it his mission to see that Thor never returns home.

My Review: So, okay, the premise is not entirely original. And in fact, it’s somewhat predictable. But that doesn’t mean that it was bad.  I just think there were certain aspects that needed to be developed more. In fact, the movie runs at 1 hour 55 minutes and I think it needed an extra 15-20 minutes to flesh some of the characters out. More on that in a bit.

The scenes in Asgard were extremely well thought out. While the Warriors Three (Tadanobu Asano, Josh Dallas, Ray Stevenson) and Sif (Jaimie Alexander) were more sidekicks than anything, the relationship between Thor, his brother, Loki, and their father Odin was extremely strong. The funny thing, is watching Sir Anthony Hopkins on talk shows or interviews he seems like a sweet, old man. Sure he’s an extraordinary distinguished actor with many fantastic acting credits behind him, as well as a golden man to boot, but in real life, he looks someone you want to take by the hand and lead to protective safety. However as Odin, Hopkins was huge, and powerful, and he felt like a strong, confident, and also terrifying King. Also a stand out – Tom Hiddleston. Loki had a chance to be over the top, but Hiddleston’s acting was subtle, giving Loki a wide range of emotions and finding humanity behind his character. Yes, Loki was a villain, but he had good, if not completely selfish intentions.

However, the Earth scenes could have used more fleshing out, mainly the relationship between Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and Jane Foster (Natalie Portman). They didn’t spend enough time with each other for us to get the sense that they belong together – that Thor is in love with her. Sure they flirted, and Portman has that cute giggle, and who couldn’t/wouldn’t take their eyes off Hemsworth when he takes his shirt off, but that’s all purely surface things. I feel like this oversight could have been fixed with the simple act of Thor brushing Jane’s hair behind her ear when they were talking on the roof, or him grabbing her hand when they had breakfast the next morning. Even if when he *spoiler alert* fell to the ground after his battle with the Destroyer and Jane ran to be by his side. Thor could have reached up, stroked her face and tried to comfort her. But, no, everything just stayed at a lukewarm distance between them with just longing looks. We need more than longing looks people!

I also felt the editing was a bit jumpy. It was as if the editor (and director for that matter) had ADD. They were unable to finish a complete thought before we were moving on to the next plot point, or a new scene. Sometimes ending on a lingering look or giving the audience an extra beat to let the comedy of it all sink in, helps. Also, the soundtrack was a bit mellow dramatic and did not fit with the action during certain places (like the final confrontation with Thor and the Destroyer). They should have gotten the composer of the Sunshine Soundtrack to develop the soundtrack to Thor.

The action was pretty outstanding, which I think was helped with the spectacular costumes and special effects. And that Destroyer is BAD ASS. I want a 3 foot figure of that Destroyer and to display it on my front lawn for all to see. Yes, nerd alert, I know.

Here are some other subtle things I liked about the movie:

• Sif (Jaimie Alexander’s) look of contempt at Loki – She gives good burning rage.
• The way Hogan (Tadanobu Asano) and Fandral (Josh Dallas) grabbed Sif’s arms to stop her from pummeling Loki.
• The look in Loki’s eyes at Thor’s anger over,*spoiler alert*,the Frost Giants invading the weapons room to steal the casket. His eyes were so blue!
• In the scene where Loki and Thor are fighting and Loki is wondering if Thor’s change is because of Jane, I love the way Tom’s eyes are red, and tears are rolling down his face.
• When Odin (Anthony Hopkins) growls at Loki. (You know when you’re father is yelling at your brother and you try and help to defend him, but instead your father yells at you. So human and the godly world.)
• Selvig’s (Stellan Skarsgard) drunken smile.
• Kat Denning’s curtsey.
• Natalie Portman’s embarrassed/flustered giggle.
• The way Chris Hemsworth said, “I need a horse!”

Random Thoughts:

• Darcy needs a last name. It was awkward when Thor was thanking them and Darcy had no last name.
• Thor looked like the Brawny Paper Towel Man in that red plaid jacket.
• Loki in real world clothes, is so dashing!

Overall, this movie was a great way to kick off the Summer. It was action packed, special effects packed and there were so many pretty things to look at! (Chris Hemsworth for the ladies, and Natalie Portman for the men.) Make sure you stay till the end of the credits for an extra scene. And DO NOT see it in 3D. It was completely unnecessary in 3D. Just see it on the big screen and save your money.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Movie Review: Black Swan

Movie: Black Swan

Starring: Natalie Portman and…well really she’s all that matters.

 

My Review: The movie faded to white and I realized I’d been holding my breath for most of the movie. The first thing I thought was –

Whoa. That was intense.

The theater was packed for a 545pm showing at the arclight. In fact when we bout our tickets off the archlight sight at around 11AM in the morning that showing only had 3 rows of seating free. And when we arrived to the theater they were making the announcement that all showings of Black Swan were SOLD OUT, except for the front row of the 1130PM showing. Craziness.

Anyway, about the movie: Natalie Portman was amazing. Everyone is raving about how this will get her another Oscar Nomination. And I think it will. She was completely believable as the beautiful, delicate, if slightly naive, Nina. She was beautiful, fragile, and timid. And her ballet skills were fantastic. Watching her slowly slip into craziness was fascinating. And creepy. Like the Black Swan the movie starts out beautiful, daintly, light, and slowly slips into something CRAZY as Nina begins to unravel. Darren Aronofsky, who it’s crazy how young he is, uses some horror elements that made me jump a few times. More than most horror movies I watch out there. And without giving too much away, the ending frankly left me breathless. Nina just let herself go, something everyone had been trying to get her to do the entire movie. And the dancing was REAL. It was nice to see a movie that showcased ballet, and was not just ABOUT it.

 

The only thing wrong in this movie was Mila Kunis. Maybe I’m watching too much America’s Next Top Model, but I felt like the movie was independent, and editorial, while Mila Kunis was…well for lack of a better term, commercial. She was the exact same, carefree, wild spirit she is in every movie. She was cookie cutter, while the rest of the movie was not. Even crazy stage Mom, Barbara Hershey. Who I will still always remember, from Beaches.

Anyway, check this movie out. It’s not easy to watch, but Natalie Portman is amazing. I sure hope she at least gets nominated for that Golden Man.

 

Rating: 3 1/2 out of 5 stars.