Monday, October 20, 2008

The Bank Job (2008)

Really enjoyed this tightly knit crime caper that's aimed at the older crowd. It's a smart and engaging heist tale that gets entwined in a greater complexity than the thieves originally envisage. The plot is tight and complemented with well developed characters. The cast, led by Jason Stratham are all dependable, right down to the bit players. And Saffron Burrows looks really hot. Doesn't shy away from sex, nudity and violence when the minute occasions calls for it, although these are never gratuitous. Makes for a good piece of entertainment for the grown ups.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

My Magic (2008)

Went in with low expectation 'cos local reviews weren't exactly glowing, but got reminded why I connect better with Eric Khoo's films. He's always spot on when presenting the lives of those who are down and out. With this film, he's basically done it again with this tale of a drunk father and his resentful son. Like-able characters that drew me in. Love the way the story was told. Cinematography was generally cool but basic, though the fact that it looked more video than film did show with the bright crisp day shots. Not sure I would've ended the film the way it did, but this is Eric's film and it seems that's how he has chosen to end it. Could see why this film got into competition at Cannes. 

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)

Left me with a smile on the face after the movie. 

Friday, October 3, 2008

The House Bunny (2008)

Essentially mainstream fluff, but it's not without its charms and moments (many of which actually are in the trailer), and a positive moral message that may not be all that dismissive. Ana Faris has a hot bod and Katherine McPhee is smokin'!

Monday, September 15, 2008

Mamma Mia! The Movie (2008)

This movie is entertaining enough, due mostly to the songs. However, the plot sure is paper-thin and does nothing to enhance the songs and is just a device to string them all together.  

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Kallang Roar: The Movie (2008)

Had low expectations but was pleasantly surprised. For one thing, I'm not a fan of football, nor any of the cast. But the debut feature by Cheng Ding An did get one thing right, IMHO, and that is giving the audience a story that they can care about. No doubt the acting and lines can get a little clumsy here and there, but overall this is pretty much a sweet and heartwarming drama about pursuing your dreams and achieving the seemingly hard to achieve goals in life. Lim Kay Siu pretty much anchors the story with a fiery and passionate performance. And the ra-ra moments don't come across as too heavy handed to me either.     

Friday, September 5, 2008

The Days (2008)

For a feature debut, the technical departments comes across as more than competent. However, the storytelling is pretty flat and dull.