jalvarad Reviews

War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)

Another Ape Movie with plenty of special effects and little substance

[4/10 · 13 August 2017]

War for the Planet of the Apes is another modern reboot of a sci-fi series that has entertained generations of moviegoers since its beginning in 1968. So, it is no surprise that the new reincarnation has done remarkably well at the box office. However, unless you main criterion for watching movies is the pure fascination that comes from special effects, you will certainly be disappointed by it. The movie starts basically where the previous one left it off. From that point forward, it is hard to grasp the main story-line since bits of distracting scenes are poorly woven in the fabric of the plot. Moreover, the intractable plot comes across as being too dark with themes such as revenge, punishment, and mercy killings (and suicide) that hardly make the movie entertaining unless one is easily distracted by the special effects and battle scenes that continuously take over the movie.

In the end, it basically becomes clear that director Matt Reeves has little appreciation for structure and is more interested in pleasing those that have short-term memory spans and/or easily excited by eye-catching specials effects of apes' facial expressions and combat scenes. Let's hope that the next Apes' movie would have more things to offer, at least for entertainment purposes.

The King and I (1956)

Beautifully told story about the King of Siam and a fine English Lady

[9/10 · 28 August 2016]

The King and I, the everlasting tale of friendship and kind love that many around the world have been able to enjoy over generations. The story is loosely based on events that took place in the middle of the 19th century, when modern-day Thailand was the Kingdom of Siam. The whole story evolves around the relationship that the King Mongkut of Siam (Yul Brynner, who was destined to play the role) and Anna Leonowens (played by Deborah Kerr), the English teacher hired by the Kingdom to educate the royal children about the world around them. At the beginning of the movie, a clash of civilization could not be more evident as the King of Siam with his own peculiarities confronts his disguised personal teacher. As things evolve, a unique chemistry develops between the two characters, which transcends cultural lines. In their own subtle ways, the actors display a wide-range of emotions which is difficult to capture in any film. The film also provides a rare view of Rita Moreno's artistic range in her beloved character of Tuptim, the always faithful lover.

The movie is indeed not a biopic of true events or an accurate depiction of the Kingdom of Siam at the time, but rather a display of well-crafted cinematography weaved with beautiful songs by Rodgers and Hammerstein and superb choreography by the masterful Jerome Robbins.

The King and I will remain as a lasting testament of a generation of producers who saw their jobs as setting cultural references and bringing together all the necessary artistic elements to make masterpieces, who many still enjoy.

Ben-Hur (2016)

Ben Hur for the 21st century?

[5/10 · 20 August 2016]

The new reincarnation of Ben-Hur takes us back to the 1st century but with less fanfare and artistic value than the 1959 version. The story has certain twists and turns that many will not find artistically appealing, though the depiction of Jesus Christ is more direct and less ambiguous than in the 1959 version. However, the Jewish-Roman conflict which has been part of the story since its inception is also on full display in the movie.

Needless to say, this time technology is in full command throughout the story but at the expense of a well-crafted, believable, deeply emotional script. Obviously it is always difficult to compare a modern remake with a master piece, that is so well-known by some many moviegoers around the world. Also, the chariot race is fascinating but messy and hard to follow from the emotional point of view. Given its presentation and editing peculiarities, it is clear to see why the producers decided to make it a summer movie, which characteristically involves a lot of action and special effects.

The Legend of Tarzan (2016)

Muscular, hectic but empty movie

[3/10 · 27 July 2016]

The Legend of Tarzan is another cinematographic reincarnation of a well-known character, who is supposed to be the hero of children around the world. Like most recent summer flicks, the movie lacks authenticity, character development, and hopeful excitement that most would like to see in a good-feel movie. In return, the moviegoer gets poorly weaved flashback scenes and basically forced to watch a plainly chaotic film. Furthermore, the characters seem to have come out of a sitcom or reality TV show, with no interest for dramatic structure. Moreover, the level of violence is simply too much for small children to watch.

Here is the bottom line: This is not a good family movie, but rather an action one with plenty of special effects that many will still enjoy.

Hail, Caesar! (2016)

Unflattering and burlesque representation of Hollywood's past

[3/10 · 7 February 2016]

The latest movie from the Coen brothers 'Hail, Caesar!' is another Hollywood invention that may resonate with some, for reasons that I still don't understand to this day. It originally appeared to appeal to a broad swath of moviegoers before its release, due in part to a strong marketing campaign. So, just like many moviegoers convinced by the ads, I decided to watch the latest inventions of the Brothers. To my dismay, the movie did not waste any time to mockingly dismiss the artistry and cultural legacy of the golden age of Hollywood. So, it is natural to try to understand the underlying motivation for a movie that had so much potential, but so incoherent that only those with unique sensibilities could enjoy and laugh from time to time. It is indeed hard to agree with New York Times' film critic Manohla Dargis, who believes the script was "written to amuse only the Coens and the Turner Classic Movies (TCM) crowd." Perhaps she watched a different version of the movie before she wrote her favorable review. Perhaps her perception of what moves and delights the TCM crowd is up for revision as well.

The movie tries rather unsuccessfully to showcase the different vices and nonsensical nature of the Hollywood's of the 1950s. Oddly enough, 'Hail, Caesar!' implodes on itself by all the nonsensical silliness packed in almost 2 hours, which few can understand, appreciate and enjoy. If you think the movie falls in the category of wise and insightful entertainment, you will certainly be disappointed. The whole plot is disjointed, so the only thing that one can do is to try to laugh from all the silliness and pointlessness taking place in each scene. Also, moviegoers should write letters to the Coen brothers to remind them that movies need an ending.

At a deeper level, the movie tries to indict the Hollywood's past for its political correctness, without taking the time to explore and understand the cultural and social underpinnings of its time. Luckily, the movie will soon fall into the category of cult following, in which ideas are only rehashed and regurgitated among those with no desire to see beyond the horizon.

Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015)

Buffet of special effects and disjointed drama plot that many people still like

[5/10 · 10 January 2016]

The new Star Wars episode, The Force Awakens has broken box office records around the world in ways that even the producers had not anticipated. Undoubtedly, the whole saga is part of our modern cultural phenomenon, in which parents and kids can enjoy together. So, it should be expected that ingrained perceptions have filled multiple thematic voids in this latest version of Star Wars.

Artistically, acting in the movie is ordinary at best, in which the old guard of actors does not seem to be fully convinced of their roles in it. The plot is quite disorganized and poorly edited to the point that one could not find a seamless story to hold on to. Certainly, the whole plot lacks structure, so it is up to each moviegoer to use his or her imagination to create an individual perception of the story based largely on the previous sequel. Furthermore, the director tried unsuccessfully to follow the same patterns established by the first three movies more than 30 years ago. Honestly, this latest version shows that it is time to move on and develop new ideas beyond the rehashed and revived Star Wars cultural phenomenon. When is Hollywood going to come up with movies that have the same cultural impact as Star Wars did over 35 years ago? Should the current generation of moviegoers deserve the opportunity to create its own cultural legacy? I think and hope so, but time will tell.

War Room (2015)

Appropriate Christian film for current times

[8/10 · 14 September 2015]

This is a film with a single purpose in mind: The Power of Prayer is indeed powerful.

The movie is about an ordinary family with the daily struggles and temptations so common in today's culture. The movie was made taking into account modern sensibilities and situations that many of us face routinely and sometimes unexpectedly. The acting was not over the top, and the director with his cast were able to make a compelling case of the need of prayer in our daily lives. The movie has indeed resonated with a core of the American public tired of the same old thing that Hollywood loves to promote and regurgitate.

In many ways, the movie is a breath of fresh air, which portraits the eternal battle between of good and evil in a refreshing and uplifting manner. This is indeed a good movie for the whole family, especially teenagers who are constantly bombarded with subtle negative messages about the ultimate purpose of life.

Please encourage family members to watch the film with open minds and hearts.

The Imitation Game (2014)

A disjointed and incomplete story of WWII code breakers, spies, and mathematical geniuses

[6/10 · 24 January 2015]

The Imitation Game is a movie about code breaking, intrigue and personal sexuality that should resonate with some moviegoers of today. It brings to the forefront themes not fully explored and presented in most WWII movies. Artistically, the movie is told in a rather disjointed manner with bits and pieces of emotional drama. So, it is up to the spectator to create his or her own sense of the story as scenes come and go. The lead character, Alan Turing -- played by Benedict Cumberbatch -- is portrayed in a way that his personality might come across as being somewhat conflicted and troubled by his own circumstances, which -- unfairly -- is not a full reflection of his true character or own circumstances near the end of his life. Moreover, the movie tries to portrait him as a war hero, tech pioneer, social martyr, or troubled man in an incomplete and unconvincing manner. It is true that code breakers including Alan Turing played a decisive role during WWII, but others also made lasting contributions in so many ways during those terrible years. The movie's focus is more about the character's personal life than the events and circumstances that affected his society at the time, which was markedly totalitarian in the impositions of social norms. The movie has certainly gained considerable appreciation in certain circles of society, which routinely invoke and promote earthly (sometimes hollow) co-existence as the ultimate and indisputable way (and purpose) of life regardless of others' philosophical underpinnings or endless desire for the pursuit of universal truth. Therefore, we should expect more movies with similar themes as the informal debate about the ultimate purpose of life continues to unfold implicitly or explicitly in an already highly accessible art-driven medium.

All About Eve (1950)

Dramatic masterpiece for the ages, with all the classical dramatic features that still resonate today

[9/10 · 18 January 2015]

If for some the glamour of the Hollywood of the late 1940s and early 1950s could not transcend the first page of the entertainment magazines of the day, think again. This is probably one of the most intelligent movies ever made for mass appeal. Firstly, the cast of actors not only represent the golden age of Hollywood, but a unique artistic tapestry, which it is hard to find or even put together these days. Secondly, the script is as intelligent and compelling as one could find in any Shakespearean library. And thirdly, the film does a superb job presenting a range of human dimensions and complexities that after 65 years after its release, we still have not fathomed to explain entirely.

During the first half of the film you would appreciate the artistic range and savviness of one of the best Hollywood actors ever, Bette Davis. Her uncanny ability to tear up the silver screen is more than palpable and compelling, but simply astounding. She really deserved the Oscar that year, for a performance that put her on a pedestal for generations to come. The rest of the cast simply exceeded expectations. Anne Baxter simply proved that she had the skills and range to showcase herself as a multilayered actor, which is hard to find these days. Celeste Holm certainly held her own by bringing the audience into the movie in a measured and sensitive way, and George Sanders could not have been a more intelligent choice for the role. His portrayal of theater critic Addison DeWitt was as amalgamated and compelling as ever. On the lighter side, if one would like to see an upcoming and untainted Hollywood star, this is probably the best movie to see the enchanted, glamorous and extremely beautiful Marilyn Monroe.

The movie is certainly a must-see for any person wishing to explore the unexplained nature of unchecked and untamed personal ambitions. It is simple a clever study of human psychology, when the word psychology was still in its infancy. Yes, the unexplained world of human emotions is presented in this timeless classic in a way that takes us a step closer to understanding our core nature.

Into the Woods (2014)

"Children" movie with disdain for structure

[3/10 · 27 December 2014]

This is one of the strangest movies I have ever seen. It started by intertwining a collection of well known fairy tales, which are characterized by having happy endings. The musical aspect of the movie commands respect; however, its dramatic structure is very loose and incoherent, especially in the last 45 minutes of it.

The movie introduces adult themes like infidelity, death, justified killing, which are probably more apt for a different genre, but not for a children movie during the Christmas season (parents watch out). It also difficult to understand why the fairy tale nature of the movie was so distorted near the end of it. The cast members are true professionals, who should have challenged the director and screenwriter every day of production (just like Alec Guinness did when working with David Lean); otherwise, they should have rejected the roles out of respect for the genre.

In summary, the movie is a bit hard to follow because it is rather incoherent and badly edited, which should not be expected from Disney. I hope the movie generates more discussion to help film plot developments in the future.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)

A story of disciplinarians, technically-apt professionals and social custodians vs. the carefree and unfortunate ones in society

[9/10 · 9 November 2014]

When One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest came out in 1975, it undoubtedly left an impression on moviegoers that still lasts to these days. It clearly was a direct and frontal indictment on the mental health care system of the day, when antiquated and primitive methods of treating patients with mental illness were still being used. The movie indeed had a lasting effect on the study and treatment of mental illness afterward.

The movie presents a difficult subject for many to comprehend and appreciate given the natural perception of many towards mental illness. The movie was a complete success thanks in great part to a well assembled cast of actors, who played complex and vulnerable individuals trapped in circumstances not of their own making. The movie portraits very well the conflict between stern disciplinarians, technically-apt (impractical and unwise) professionals and social custodians vs. the carefree and unfortunate individuals in society, that still is relevant today.

Cantinflas (2014)

Entertainingly untold story of one of the most beloved comedians from Latin America

[8/10 · 30 August 2014]

Encapsulating and portraying the life and talent of Mario Moreno "Cantiflas" on the big screen is indeed a challenge that probably most producers would like to avoid. Nonetheless, knowing full well the challenges ahead of them, the director and producers of the film managed to put together a compelling story that resonates with moviegoers of today. Cantiflas is simply the story of a poor and humble Mexican in the early 1930's when mostly talent, inheritance and luck were the only ways out of poverty. The story is told in such a way that those unfamiliar with Cantiflas can quickly recognize and appreciate the breadth and depth of the golden age of Mexican cinema and one of its most shinning stars, Mario Moreno.

It is obvious that the lead actor, Óscar Jaenada spent a considerable amount of time watching Cantinflas movies to be able to imitate his voice and mannerism. He does a decent job portraying one of most intricate comedians of all time, which in itself is a very arduous task.

Undoubtedly, the film pays tribute to the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema of the 1940's and 1950's, with all its splendor and flair. Hopefully, it would serve as an inspiration for a new generation of filmmakers to appreciate the rich legacy given to them.

Gladiator (2000)

Timeless Modern Classic

[8/10 · 1 May 2014]

Who said that epic movies were out of vogue in 2000? Whoever had that thought was proved wrong by the modern reincarnation of a stereotypical sword-and-sandal motion picture called Gladiator. Gladiator has all the right elements of a big-screen epic, which certainly made the movie worthy of mass appeal around the world when it was released in the summer of 2000.

The storyline is filled with well interwoven subtle eternal themes that make the movie a compelling classic for generations to come. Even though some may perceive some of the scenes as grotesque and barbaric, the movie presents a well-balanced view of life in Roman times. It is certainly entertaining, artistic and thoughtful in its own way.

With an outstanding cast of actors, Gladiator has shown to the world that great movies can still be made when enough attention is given to every single detail of production. Certainly the movie was a success because of its script and seasoned and measured acting performances. It was also Oliver Reed's farewell performance, which fully encompassed his abilities as an actor. Perhaps it was pure fate that the casting director and production team chose him for the role. Nevertheless, it is hard to imagine someone else playing his role.

This is certainly a movie that must be seen on the big screen uninterruptedly. And once you have seen it, please grab a history book and learn few more things about the ancestral heritage of the Roman empire.

The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)

A movie for its own cult following

[4/10 · 6 April 2014]

When I came to the theater to watch the movie, I had no preconceived expectations about it. 20 minutes into the movie I realized that it was not a movie made for large audiences, but rather a movie created to please the sensibilities of those that view life in a peculiar way. It reminded me of "The Big Lebowski" and "Adaptation," which have their own cult following.

The movie does rely on a superb cast of actors that won't disappoint any moviegoer; but the problem with the movie is the story itself. In a unique way, it rehashes old themes of greed, intolerance, and obsession with the material world. It helps perpetuate the notion that humanity is flawed and that life has no ultimate purpose. It seems to reinforce those sensibilities generated or amplified explicitly and implicitly by individualistic life choices and humanistic thoughts within the confines of the human experience.

Artistically, it lacks the complete range of human emotions necessary for a wholesome movie. Nevertheless, in an uncanny way, it would certainly connect with those that already made up their minds about the meaning of life in a subtle and reaffirming manner.

Noah (2014)

More sci-fi than biblical story

[3/10 · 29 March 2014]

If you think this is a movie about a biblical figure, you will certainly be surprised by the twisted and incoherent nature of the script. I realize that making a purely religious movie in 2014 for mass appeal is a very risky proposition; however, the director and screenwriter could have organized the plot and script in a way that could have resonated more with most moviegoers, at least for artistic reasons. Artistically speaking, the movie is mediocre at best, and it is sad to see how such a talented cast ended up acting so badly, which makes me think the director should have been fired after the first week of shooting the movie. Yes, Hollywood producers are notorious for misreading or underestimating the sentiments of their customers, and this movie is a good example of that.

Simply put, this movie will be forgotten in less than 3 months, and will certainly join the list of movies that relied heavily on marketing to bring moviegoers to see an artistically-flawed movie.

Gravity (2013)

A Sci-fi movie with its own gravitas

[8/10 · 19 January 2014]

Within its genre,sci-fi,it has proved to be convincingly realistic and dramatic at the same time. It maintains a good "drama" pace keeping many on the edge of their seats for 90 minutes. The special effects are amazing but not for their own sake. The whole production and special effects make the plausible story possible, making the whole movie experience seamlessly entertaining and gripping. The use of a limited cast in the vastness of space is perplexing and mind-boggling to most moviegoers. Years from now, audiences will refer to this movie as a starting point when a new form of sci-fi cinematography was capable of capturing a range of human emotions in a rather effective way.

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

A movie with great promise falls short due to fractured plot

[2/10 · 6 January 2014]

This is certainly a movie with great promise that falls apart due to a rather incoherent and disjointed plot. The basic elements of film making seemed to have been ignored by its producers. As a result, the movie can easily lose its audience in the first 40 minutes. The movie is another example that the sum of its parts does not lead to a complete piece of art. I am even surprised that it has done well financially, perhaps due to its cast. Furthermore, its underlying themes do not make it a good family movie. Too much time is wasted on trivial pseudo-funny scenes that seemed to have been borrowed from a mediocre sitcom.

In summary, the storyline could have been handled better by savvy production designers.