Stars to Watch: Part 13 – Movies Spotlight – November 2013

Domhnall Gleeson

What He Has Been In:

Domhnall Gleeson, 30, is the son of Irish actor Brendan Gleeson. He went to the Dublin Institute of Technology where he studied Media Arts. After graduating, Gleeson began taking roles in shorts, small British films, and TV series. His first big film came with a small role in the sci-fi drama Never Let Me Go.

His next big break came in the Harry Potter Series, winning the role of Bill Weasley (his father plays Mad-Eye Moody in the series as well). Gleeson appears briefly in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I and has a slightly bigger role in Part II (but still rather small overall). He also has a great, but small role in True Grit playing one of the bandits caught in the crosshairs.

Other British films of note that Gleeson has appeared in include the fantastic comic-book action film Dredd, in which he appears as a criminal, and the IRA drama/thriller Shadow Dancer.

Breakthrough:

Gleeson’s breakthrough, if you even want to call it that, as the film was not widely seen and he plays the third or fourth lead, came with 2012’s Anna Karenina (directed by Joe Wright), giving him his largest role to date in a major motion picture. The film stars Keira Knightley in the lead, while Gleeson plays Levin, a wealthy farmer looking to court the lovely Kitty (played by Alicia Vikander). Gleeson is quietly very good as Levin, and has great chemistry with Vikander. The film is utterly stunning and a must-see for those looking for a film that is as much art as narrative.

November Film:

In November, Gleeson stars opposite Rachel McAdams and Bill Nighy in the time-travel romance About Time. The film, written and directed by Richard Curtis, is about Tim, a young man who is told by his father that he has genetically inherited the ability to travel through time. Tim then uses this gift to try and win the heart of Mary. The film mark’s his first true leading role in a big film. Trailer: Here.

Upcoming:

Gleeson has five upcoming projects slated for 2014. First, he is set to star with his father, Chris O’Dowd, and Kelly Reilly in John Michael McDonagh’s Calvary. Next, he stars opposite Michael Fassbender and Maggie Gyllenhaal in the strange dramedy Frank. Then he stars with Oscar Isaac and Alicia Vikander in writer Alex Garland’s feature directorial debut Ex Machina. Gleeson then stars in Angelina Jolie’s next film as a director Unbroken about an Olympic runner who is taken prisoner by the Japanese during WWII. The screenplay is by the Coen Brothers. Finally, he is set to star opposite Saoirse Ronan in the film Brooklyn about Irish immigrants in New York during the 1950s. He certainly has a fantastic slate upcoming.

Career Highlights:

1)      Never Let Me Go (2010)* – cameo (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

2)      Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010)* – cameo (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

3)      True Grit (2010)* – supporting (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

4)      Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011)* – supporting (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

5)      Dredd (2012) – supporting (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

6)      Anna Karenina (2012)* – lead (Blu-ray, Trailer)

*Editor’s picks

Tom Hiddleston

What He Has Been In:

Tom Hiddleston, 32, started his career, as many British actors do, on television, appearing in such things as, Conspiracy, The Gathering Storm, and Cranford. After graduating from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he began to get more roles and bigger roles in Brittan, including a sizable one on the BBC (remake) detective drama Wallander.

After appearing in Thor, Hiddleston began booking even bigger films (including some outside England), including: a great supporting role as F. Scott Fitzgerald in Midnight in Paris, taking a leading role in the drama The Deep Blue Sea, and a supporting role in Steven Spielberg’s War Horse.

Breakthrough:

Hiddleston’s breakthrough came as the character Loki, appearing first in 2011’s Thor. The film was a success, but not overly so, yet it got his name and face out there as he was one of the best parts of the film – his performance being equal parts villainous, slimy, and charming.

However it is Joss Whedon’s The Avengers that really has made him a star, and a favorite among the fans of Marvel’s cinematic universe. The film was a massive hit, and Hiddleston clearly enjoyed his role as its central villain – basking in his own glory. Maybe more so than any other actor in the film, Hiddleston emerged as a new talent to regard.

November Film:

Turning in his third performance as Loki, Hiddleston is back with this month’s Thor: The Dark World (directed by Alan Taylor). This time, however, Loki is not the central bad guy, rather Thor must battle Dark Elves set on returning the Nine Realms to darkness. But, that does not mean Loki cannot have his fun as well. The film is highly entertaining, and among the better films to come from Marvel Studios so far. Trailer: Here.

Upcoming:

Hiddleston has a few upcoming projects. First he is set to feature in a supporting (possibly cameo) role in 2014’s Muppets Most Wanted, starring Ricky Gervais and Tina Fey. The sequel sees James Bobin returning in the director’s chair, helming a European jewel-heist Muppets caper. Next he stars in the animation fantasy The Pirate Fairy, and finally he stars opposite Charlie Hunnam and Jessica Chastain in Guillermo del Toro’s new horror film Crimson Peak (slated for 2015). In all likeliness (and hopefully) he will also appear in the inevitable Thor 3 (though, sadly, he is not scheduled to be in The Avengers: Age of Ultron – at least as far as we know at present).

Career Highlights:

1)      Thor (2011) – lead (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

2)      Midnight in Paris (2011)* – supporting (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

3)      The Deep Blue Sea (2011) – lead (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

4)      War Horse (2011) – supporting (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

5)      The Avengers (2012)* – lead (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

*Editor’s picks

Elizabeth Olsen

What She Has Been In:

Elizabeth Olsen, 24, got her start appearing in a number of her twin-big-sisters’ projects. However, it was somewhat tough for her early on, always in their (notorious, some might say) shadow. Finally, in 2011, she was able to make a career for herself on her own name.

She has since appeared in the horror film Silent House, the mystery thriller Red Lights, the romantic drama Liberal Arts, and the indie drama Kill Your Darlings.

Breakthrough:

Olsen’s breakthrough, however, came in Sean Durkin’s Martha Marcy May Marlene. Not only did she take the lead role in the film, but she also gave one of 2011’s most intriguing and brilliant performances. It is really a challenging character, requiring Olsen to exhibit a vast emotional range, and yet she beautifully (and tragically) captures each beat.

November Film:

In what may potentially be cool or completely ill-conceived, Olsen stars in Oldboy coming Thanksgiving weekend opposite Josh Brolin and Sharlto Copley. The film is a remake of the wonderful 2003 Korean film by Chan-wook Park (and both are adaptations of the manga comic). The film, directed by Spike Lee, is about a man who is trapped in a room for twenty years and then set free. The man then dedicates everything he is to figuring out: A) who trapped him and B) why.

Upcoming:

Olsen has some big projects upcoming. In 2014, she is set to star opposite Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Bryan Cranston in Gareth Edwards’s remake of Godzilla (hoping to undo all the ill will that 1998’s Godzilla has brought about). Edwards is a perfect fit – see Monsters. Then, in 2015, she stars as Scarlet Witch (Wanda Maximoff) in The Avengers: Age of Ultron. In addition to Olsen, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and James Spader join the franchise. Although she has primarily done indie films to date, her future looks to make her a big name.

Career Highlights:

1)      Martha Marcy May Marlene (2011)* – lead (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

*Editor’s picks

Hailee Steinfeld

What She Has Been In:

Hailee Steinfeld, 16, has been acting since the age of eight, but is relatively unknown. She has primarily lent herself out for short films. While her breakthrough came in 2010, she then took a break until 2013, filling her schedule. Her first film to come out this year was Romeo and Juliet.

Breakthrough:

Auditioning among 15,000 other girls, the Coen Brothers chose Steinfeld to play Mattie Ross in their remake of True Grit. She is fantastic in the role playing opposite Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon, in many ways stealing the film despite the very good work from all involved. She gives such a strong performance that she essentially became a star overnight, which makes it all the more surprising that she then took two years off. It is the best western of this decade so far.

November Film:

In November, Steinfeld features in a supporting role in Ender’s Game, which stars Asa Butterfield and Harrison Ford (and is written and directed by Gavin Hood). She plays Petra, a friend and potential romantic interest to Ender. The film is about a future version of Earth that has narrowly survived an alien invasion. In an effort to counterstrike any future attack, the military has turned to training children to be heartless killers due to their gift for strategy and susceptibility to brainwashing – Ender is their most promising candidate to lead their fleet of warships. Trailer: Here.

Upcoming:

Steinfeld has been very busy since returning to Hollywood. Coming in 2014 she has a supporting role in the music dramedy Can a Song Save Your Life? starring Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo. It is John Carney’s follow-up to his brilliant and terribly under-seen musical Once. Next, she features in support in Tommy Lee Jones’s second feature film The Homesman, which Jones also stars in opposite Hilary Swank. Then, for a change of pace, she stars in McG’s Hollywood action film Three Days to Kill with Amber Heard and Kevin Costner. Keeping with the variety of projects, Steinfeld will also star in the Civil War drama The Keeping Room opposite Sam Worthington and Brit Marling. Kyle Newamn, who also directed Fanboys, is back with a new comedy Barely Lethal, in which Steinfeld plays a 16-year-old assassin who just wants a normal life (it is like the American, watered-down version of Hanna). And finally, Steinfeld is set to star opposite Sam Worthington in the action thriller For the Dogs (also centering on an assassin character, making it three upcoming projects to do so with Three Days to Kill and Barely Lethal). All six of these films are slated for 2014, but likely a few will be pushed back.

Career Highlights:

1)      True Grit (2010)* – lead (Blu-ray, Video On-Demand, Trailer)

*Editor’s picks

Thor: The Dark World (2013) – Review

Review: Thor: The Dark World is a joyously entertaining sci-fi adventure film, proving that with Phase II Marvel has its stride, making great superhero films. The film is about a nefarious plot by the Dark Elves to cloud the Nine Worlds in total darkness. It is up to Thor, Dr. Jane Foster, and the Warriors Three (plus Sif) to stop them and thereby save the worlds.

Continuing the trend of The Avengers and Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World comes off extremely entertaining due to the great mixing of action, comedy, and drama. Director Alan Taylor brings grittiness to the film, but still keeps the overall tone on the lighter side (fitting with Marvel’s cinematic style). This would seem like a difficult task, the grittiness of the film clashing with the lighter tone. However, Taylor is able to find a good balance by keeping the spirit of the characters light (and jovial) and then plunging them into more serious dramatic situations. Thus, there is gravity to what is happening; there are real consequences for the characters, and yet there is still a place for levity.

Taylor also does a great job with his characters. The levity does a lot in this respect too. The audience is enchanted by the lighter, funnier character moments leading them to really like these characters (building off their feelings coming into this film based on the previous Marvel films). The audience is more-or-less invested in these characters coming in, but the great fun character moments only amplifies that positive feeling towards them, which then leads to drama that resonates to a higher extent. And this is really where Thor: The Dark World excels over its predecessor. The audience actually cares about these characters, and not just about the big action set pieces.

Staying with the humor in the film, it is not explicitly clear which scenes Joss Whedon came in to punch-up, but one can assume he likely brought some of the wonderful funny character moments. This might be the funniest of the Marvel films to date (though, The Avengers has its moments, as does Robert Downey Jr. across the Iron Man movies). Even though the mandate for Phase II has seemed to be taking the Marvel Cinematic Universe to a darker place after the events of The Avengers – the stakes have certainly been raised – Taylor and Whedon have remembered that humor is essential in this type of film (even if the overall tone is heavier). It allows the audience to catch their breath amongst all the drama and action (which, I have said over and over, is vital) and only heightens the overall enjoyment of the experience. After all, the main goal of these films is to entertain.

The visual style is also brilliant. Kenneth Branagh (the director of Thor) set up the style of Asgard, but Taylor takes it to another level. Thor: The Dark World feels more epic, like a combination of The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones (which is exactly what Marvel wanted when they hired Taylor) with sci-fi overtones, which seems to fit the character perfectly. While Iron Man 3 took on the persona of a 1990s action movie, Thor: The Dark World visually and tonally became much more an adventure epic (and Captain America: The Winter Soldier looks like a good spy thriller). It is nice to see each character find his place and appropriate tone/style, while still feeling apart of the same bigger universe.

The only downside of the film is that the main villain is a bit under developed. Malekith is basically just a generic revenge-driven enemy from the past (which we have never seen before in a Marvel film…oh wait…forgot about almost every villain so far). The villain here, though, is secondary (as is the general plot, which is also rather generic). The main point of this film seems to be the further development of the principal characters (prominently focusing on Thor’s relationships with those around him – Jane, Loki, Odin, and Sif). Malekith is just an enemy that brings all of them together, escalating the fiction in their relationships. So while he is utterly forgettable, the characters the audience do care about grow and change. Malekith is just the catalyst. However, a weak villain has been a complaint in many of the Marvel films, with really only Loki rising to the heights of the great bad guys seen in other superhero films (Magneto, Dr. Octopus, the Joker, and Bane). Loki’s presence in the film also takes away from Malekith. Loki is a fan-favorite, so well played, and very charismatic. It is impossible for another villain to seem as engaging or substantial when Loki is also in the film.

Throughout Phase I, Marvel Studios proved that they could make entertaining, fun superhero films, but until The Avengers (and really, that film only becomes amazing in the third act with the battle of New York) they had struggled to replicate the overall quality of the top tier films in the genre. Iron Man 3 and now Thor: The Dark World see them one step closer: entertainment that is also dramatically engaging and aesthetically compelling. Thor: The Dark World if nothing else is a highly entertaining sci-fi adventure fantasy romp, but for those delighted by the genre (as I am) it offers a rich visual style, great characters, exciting action, and maybe best of all infectious laughs.

Technical, aesthetic & acting achievements: Alan Taylor is best known for directing episodes of many of the best series on television (notably: Deadwood, Rome, The Sopranos, Mad Men, and Game of Thrones – being one of that show’s principal technicians during the first two seasons). With Thor: The Dark World, he shows his ability to bring a strong sense of visual style to a film and franchise that is already impressive. These are the same characters we have seen before, but in this film they just feel bigger and their world grander. Should there be a Thor 3, I hope Taylor returns to helm it.

Scoring this film must have been a very enjoyable gig, composing pieces of music for what is basically a heroic poem (or at least the modern pop-culture version of a heroic poem). Brian Tyler delivers a great score that booms and thunders (sure, maybe I could have been more creative, but those puns were just sitting there), entirely fitting the tone and visuals. Cinematographer Kramer Morgenthau (who came onto the project with Taylor from Game of Thrones) also does great work. The lighting in the film is excellent, giving it a look that while feeling somewhat gritty and realistic on Earth (though still with a certain fantasy glean) absolutely pops when the narrative finds itself in the other worlds. Working hand-in-hand with Charles Wood’s brilliant production design, the photography gives each world its own style and feel. The design in grandiose and beautiful (and on par with the best fantasy films), but the lighting just adds this great grittiness that seems to emphasis everything as being much more vital. All in all, it is a very strong film aesthetically (probably more so than was to be expected – but that said, there is more to play with in Thor than other Marvel films stuck on Earth).

In addition to the wonderful visuals, the performances in Thor: The Dark World are fantastic. The film has a ton of characters, most appearing in smaller supporting roles. The best among them belong to Chris Evans, Chris O’Dowd, Stellan Skarsgard, Kat Dennings (these four all provide hilarious moments), Idris Elba (who seems to bring weight to everything he does), Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, and Jaimie Alexander (these three play Asgards other notably warriors and are a lot of fun). Christopher Eccleston plays Malekith, the leader of the Dark Elves. While he does not really have much to do, he does bring a great seriousness and calm to his villain. He is not theatrical or big in his performance (which is often the way villains are played). Malekith is not even so much evil, just determined (his villainy arising from his ideas opposing those of our hero). Anthony Hopkins plays Odin (Thor’s father) with the weathered, battle hardened edge of an aging leader, and it works well (and is right in his wheelhouse). Natalie Portman has maybe the most difficult role in the film. As Dr. Jane Foster, she must play the typical love interest needing rescuing at some point, but she also sort of escapes that stereotype by really being a big part of the solution as well, rather than just one of the many things for the hero to save. Portman does a good job playing the wonder of Asgard and the strength/charm/goofiness that won her Thor to begin with. Tom Hiddleston steals the film as Loki. He just has such a gleeful love of himself and his own villainy. Every scene he is in is better for it (and it is easy to see why he is a fan favorite). It is a shame his great work will never get any critical recognition come awards season. Chris Hemsworth embodies Thor completely; when you see him, you see the character. What else can one ask from a performance?

Summary & score: With its eighth, Thor: The Dark World, Marvel’s films seem to only be getting better. 8/10

At the Movies – November 2013 – Part 2: Hollywood Films

Romance and Rom-Coms:

About Time (Richard Curtis) – Romance Sci-Fi – Nov 1

Plot Summary: On his 21^st birthday, Tim discovers that he can time travel – a family trait passed on through the men in the family. Using this newfound ability, Tim is determined to win the heart of Mary, a girl he fancies (but it is proving more difficult than he anticipated). Filmmakers: About Time is the new film from writer-director Richard Curtis, the master of the British romantic comedy who gave us such films as Notting Hill, Bridget Jone’s Diary, and Love Actually (he also wrote The Black Adder, Mr. Bean, The Girl in the Café, and War Horse). This will be his third time writing and directing a feature film (his first two were Love Actually and Pirate Radio). He is working with composer Nick Laird-Clowes (of The Dream Academy), cinematographer John Guleserian (Like Crazy), and production designer John Paul Kelly (Bloody Sunday). Cast: The film stars Domhnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams (veteran of many romance films). Bill Nighy (who frequently works with Richard Curtis), Lindsay Duncan, Tom Hollander, and Tom Hughes feature in support. Expectations: About Time looks like a lot of fun. Yes, the whole time travel romance thing has been down before (see The Time Traveler’s Wife, which also stars Rachel McAdams, coincidentally), but Richard Curtis is a great writer and should bring a fresh take to the material. The film already came out in the U.K. earlier this year. It played to strong reviews from moviegoers, but critics were a bit more mixed. In a month crowded with big adventure films, this might be a nice change of pace. Trailer: Here.

Serious Films:

The Book Thief (Brian Percival) – Drama – Nov 15

Plot Summary: Liesel is a young orphan girl living amongst the horrors of WWII Germany. The only way she is able to keep herself from being lost in the anguish of it all is to steal books that have otherwise been banded by the Nazis so that she can share them with others, including the Jewish refuge her adoptive parents are hiding in their house. Filmmakers: Director Brian Percival comes from a background in British television, including directing multiple episodes of Downton Abbey. The Book Thief is his second feature. He is working with genius film composer John Williams (Lincoln), cinematographer Florian Ballhaus (Red), and production designer Simon Elliott (Byzantium). Cast: The film stars newcomer Sophie Nelisse and co-stars Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson. Ben Schnetzer and Nico Liersch feature in support. Expectations: The Book Thief looks like the kind of drama that is trying to be an Oscar-made prestige film, but ends up missing the mark. That said, it does look like a decent drama that is probably worth renting for fans of the book and war dramas. The primary cast is very strong and Sophie Nelisse looks like she gives a potentially breakthrough performance. Trailer: Here.

Action/Adventure:

Ender’s Game (Gavin Hood) – Action/Adventure Sci-Fi – Nov 1

Plot Summary: Aliens attacked Earth, and the world just barely survived. In an attempt to be better prepared for a future invasion, the military begins training new young leaders whose brains are better situated to deal with the aliens. Ender Wiggins is one such recruit. He is sent to a military school in space, where he soon begins to separate himself from the rest of the class with his strategic brilliance. Will he be Earth’s saving grace? Filmmakers: Writer-director Gavin Hood made a name for himself with his breakout hit Tsotsi (which won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film), but has since struggled in Hollywood directing two underwhelming films: Rendition and X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Looking to finally capitalize on his potential, he is working with composer Steve Jablonsky (Pain & Gain), cinematographer Donald McAlpine (who shot X-Men Origins: Wolverine for Hood), production designers Sean Haworth (The Thing) and Ben Procter, and producers Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci (Star Trek Into Darkness). Cast: The film stars Asa Butterfield, and co-stars Harrison Ford and Hailee Steinfeld. Abigail Breslin, Ben Kingsley, Viola Davis, and Nonso Anozie feature in support. Expectations: Ender’s Game has potential to be good. Gavin Hood is a director with talent; he has just struggled within the confines of Hollywood. And, the cast features a good mix of solid young talent and quality veterans. But, I suspect it will be a throwaway blockbuster – entertaining and fun, yeah probably, but nothing special. The sour taste of Hood’s Wolverine movie (which is fairly terrible) serves as a hard-to-forget reminder of what happened last time he tried to make a big budget genre film. Plus, this feels like a weak attempt for Summit Entertainment to reenter the Young Adult Genre Film bonanza now that their golden goose (Twilight) has expired. For fans of summer blockbuster style films, this is probably worth renting, but for everyone else, there are other big genre movies to wait for (The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Thor: The Dark World). Trailer: Here. Review: Here.

Thor: The Dark World (Alan Taylor) – Action/Adventure – Nov 8

Plot Summary: A new enemy has come to the universe, one so menacing and powerful that not even Odin and the might of Asgard can withstand it. Thus, Thor must embark on his most trying adventure yet, looking to both Jane Foster and his troublemaker brother Loki for help. Filmmakers: With Kenneth Branagh not returning, Marvel engaged veteran HBO series director Alan Taylor to give Thor a much more grounded, gritty feel – using his work on Game of Thrones as a template. He is working with composer Brian Tyler (Iron Man 3), cinematographer Kramer Morgenthau (who shot Taylor’s season two episodes of Game of Thrones), and production designer Charles Wood (Wrath of the Titans). Cast: Returning are Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgard, Idris Elba, Kat Dennings, Ray Stevenson, Tadanobu Asano, Jaimie Alexander, Rene Russo, and Anthony Hopkins, while new to the series are Christopher Eccleston, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Zachary Levi, and Chris O’Dowd. Expectations: Thor is probably my favorite of the Marvel Phase One individual superhero films. It has a great mix of action, drama, and comedy, and Kenneth Branagh brought a fantastic tone and look to the world. Plus, Chris Hemsworth is phenomenal as Thor. Thus, Thor: The Dark World is a film I am really looking forward to seeing. Alan Taylor is on paper a very good and smart choice, as his work on Game of Thrones is wonderful (a darker style Marvel is very interested in bringing to Thor, as Phase Two overall seems to be darker tonally). However, Taylor is accustom to coming into a series with the main, strong creative force being someone else and just directing what is on the page (all the aesthetics and other big creative decisions already made). Here, he will need to step up and make those decisions (Marvel’s overall creative overseer, Joss Whedon, did need to step in to punch up a few scenes).  From what I have seen, the film looks visually fantastic and I think it will probably end up being about as good as the first Thor film (which would be slightly disappointing given that The Avengers and Iron Man 3 are both very good and elevated the expectations of future Marvel films). Trailer: Here. Review: Here.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (Francis Lawrence) – Action/Adventure Sci-Fi – Nov 22

Plot Summary: After winning the 74^th Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark have become symbols of hope in Panem, inciting rebellion in many of its districts. Thus, Katniss and Peeta are targets for a government desperate to retain their power – but how to deal with these national heroes? Filmmakers: Writer-director Gary Ross is not returning (which is probably not a bad thing), and thus Lionsgate hired Francis Lawrence to take over. His work on Kings probably best translates to what he will need to do with Catching Fire. Although, he has shown he can capably direct action too with Constantine and I Am Legend. He is working with composer James Newton Howard (who also scored the first film), cinematographer Jo Willems (Limitless), and production designer Philip Messina (who also worked on the first film). Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci, Willow Shields, Paula Malcomson, Lenny Kravitz, and Donald Sutherland all return. New to the series are Sam Claflin, Jena Malone, Jeffrey Wright, Toby Jones, Amanda Plummer, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Expectations: The Hunger Games, while entertaining, lacked a good story with a true dramatic arc for Katniss. Everything just felt too easy, as she never really has to make a tough choice, and thus the film is dramatically uninteresting. In an effort to correct this, Lionsgate hired two Oscar winning screenwriters to adapt Catching Fire for the screen: Simon Beaufoy and Michael Arndt (who is currently writing Star Wars VII). Francis Lawrence has never really made a good film (his best work coming on Kings), but Catching Fire does not need to be anything amazing. It just needs to be entertaining and create a more dynamic dramatic narrative arc for Katniss. From what I have seen, the film looks a lot more compelling than the first. I am interested to see how it turns out narratively (as its box office success is all but assured). Trailer: Here. Here. Review: Here.

Frozen (Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee) – Family Adventure Comedy – Nov 29

Plot Summary: The Kingdom of Arendelle has been plunged into eternal winter by the icy sorceress Elsa. Now, it is up to her sister Anna and her rag-tag group of friends (which includes a talking snowman) to save the kingdom, battling the harsh elements and beasts that await them. Filmmakers: Directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee have never worked together before, but each comes from an animation background within Disney. Buck co-directed Tarzan (and also Surf’s Up for Sony Animation) while Lee co-wrote Wreck-It Ralph. I think Buck will be focused on the animation and Lee the story aspects. They are working with composer Christophe Beck (The Muppets) and producer John Lasseter (Disney Animation’s head guy). Cast: The voice cast includes: Kristen Bell, Alan Tudyk, Josh Gad, Idina Menzel, and Jonathan Groff. Expectations: Disney’s Pixar film this year, Monsters University, while commercially successful did not really make the same type of impact that Pixar films usually do, leaving 2013’s Animation Oscar wide open (much like 2011 when Pixar released Cars 2, their worst film). Frozen looks good, in a safe Disney sort of way. Although, to me, it kind of looks like they are trying to just recapture the feel and general story ideas of Tangled (Disney’s best animated film in some time). In any case, this certainly looks like it should be in the running to compete for the Animation Oscar and parents taking their kids should not be too disgruntled at the prospect of watching it (as it looks funny). Trailer: Here. Review: Here.

Comedy:

Last Vegas (Jon Turteltaub) – Comedy – Nov 1

Plot Summary: Four friends in their sixties decide to get together for one last hurrah in Vegas to celebrate the final member of their group’s last days as a single man. Filmmakers: Director Jon Turteltaub is well versed in making forgettable Hollywood fair with films such as Cool Runnings, National Treasure, and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, and this looks like more of the same. He is working with composer Mark Mothersbaugh (21 Jump Street), cinematographer David Hennings (Horrible Bosses), and production designer David Bomba (The Company Men). Cast: The film stars Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Kline, and Michael Douglas. Mary Steenburgen, Jerry Ferrara, and Romany Malco feature in support. Expectations: Last Vegas is The Bucket List version of The Hangover – I mean, I guess this had to happen eventually right? Yes, it does have a strong group of actors, but this is essentially just a paycheck to them – they show up, say some lines, make some faces, and get paid (Dennis Quaid has been doing it for decades). And yet, there will probably be some laughs for those willing to use a rental on it. Trailer: Here.

Plot Summary: Brett has fathered 533 children. How did he do this? A mix-up at a fertility clinic he made donations to twenty years ago. Now, 142 of them have filed a lawsuit to reveal his identity. Brett has always been an underachiever and must now decide if he wants to step up and take responsibility. Filmmakers: Writer-director Ken Scott already made this film in Canada and released it in 2011. It is called Starbuck. Apparently unafraid to rehash the same material again (I mean, what is the difference between remaking your own film and directing any other Hollywood movie that just recycles past narratives), he is working with composer Jon Brion (This Is 40), cinematographer Eric Alan Edwards (The Change-Up), and production designer Ida Random (No Strings Attached). Cast: Vince Vaughn stars (and will once again treat us all to his tired shtick), while Cobie Smulders, Britt Robertson, and Chris Pratt feature in support. Expectations: Delivery Man looks like a lot of Vince Vaughn’s comedies – an underachieving but mildly charismatic man-child who tries to finally put his life together. Vaughn plays this character pretty well (Dodgeball and Fred Claus – for the five people that enjoyed it, me included), and the supporting cast, particularly Chris Pratt (who is hilarious), should add some good stuff. More than likely, this film will just be a throwaway comedy, but maybe it will turn out to be funny and somewhat emotionally resonate. Maybe even worth renting. Trailer: Here.

Most Anticipated Films of 2013 – Part 1: Blockbusters

Blockbusters:

Title: Elysium

Release: August 9

Genre: Sci-Fi Action Drama

Plot: The year is 2159. Earth is ruined. The wealthy live on a space station called Elysium while the rest of humanity toils away below on Earth, forced to stay there by harsh anti-immigration laws that preserve the luxurious lifestyle of the citizens of Elysium. Backed into a corner, an ex-con, Max, agrees to take on a difficult mission to find a way into Elysium, one that could bring equality to the people of Earth.

Director: Neill Blomkamp

Main Cast: Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, and Diego Luna

Why It’s Anticipated: Neill Blomkamp became one of the most hyped directors in the sci-fi genre after his first feature District 9. He was attached to a Halo movie (based on the X-Box game) until that project fell apart, but now fans finally get to see a new film from him. Blomkamp is again working with his District 9 collaborators actor Sharlto Copley, cinematographer Trent Opaloch, and production designer Philip Ivy again (though, Peter Jackson is not involved on the production side this time).

Editor’s Thoughts: Elysium was initially scheduled to debut in March but was pushed back to August. Why is not completely clear, but here are two thoughts: 1) March is overcrowded with big releases like Jack the Giant Slayer, Oz the Great and Powerful, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, and The Host so maybe Sony wanted to place this in a different spot on their calendar and August is the month that District 9 opened in and succeeded. Or 2) the film is not as good as Sony was hoping so they moved it to August where summer blockbuster-like movies go to die (like Total Recall and The Bourne Legacy last year). Reviews of the script by online critics (take that as you will) have not been overwhelmingly positive. I am inclined to think it is more the former than the latter.

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: Gravity

Release: October 4

Genre: Sci-Fi Thriller

Plot: Two astronauts are the lone inhabitants of a space shuttle. However, after a piece of debris crashes into them leaving them adrift and alone, they desperately try to get back home to Earth.

Director: Alfonso Cuaron

Main Cast:  Sandra Bullock and George Clooney

Why It’s Anticipated: Alfonso Cuaron is one of the great directors we have today. He is coming off of two big critical and commercial successes in Hollywood with Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (arguably the best of the series) and Children of Men (to go with his two excellent Mexican films Love in the Time of Hysteria and Y Tu Mama Tambien). Gravity has also been hyped after Cuaron screened an early cut for a small audience last year to strongly postive buzz – talk of twenty minute fluid single takes where a buzz among those who saw the cut. Also, having Sandra Bullock and George Clooney will help bring in average filmgoers, which will help the box office (which is good, as if cool films like this do well then Hollywood will make more original content from great directors and not just the same generic nonsense).

Editor’s Thoughts:  Gravity was initially scheduled for release in November of last year (and was one of my most anticipated of 2012), but Warner Bros. decided to push it back because the holiday season became overcrowded. Then, they thought briefly about releasing it in early 2013 (like March), but they like the film and think it has awards potential, which is why it now has the October release date. Another thing to be excited about is that Cuaron is working again with cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki. Their work together on Children of Men is incredible, and this is supposed to feature amazing long-takes. This is the film I am most excited to see in 2013.

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Release: December 13

Genre: Adventure Fantasy

Plot: Part two of The Hobbit Trilogy finds Bilbo, Gandalf, and the Dwarves continuing their journey to get the Dwarves’ home back from the vicious dragon Smaug.

Director: Peter Jackson

Main Cast: Martin Freeman, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis, and Richard Armitage

Why It’s Anticipated: An Unexpected Journey was one of the biggest films of 2012, so it stands to reason that The Desolation of Smaug will be equally as big. Plus, this film should be more action-packed as it will drive deeper into the meat of the story’s drama (which was sort of the problem with part one). Another great aspect of this film is that Benedict Cumberbatch is voicing Smaug.

Editor’s Thoughts: It will be interesting to see if Peter Jackson releases this film with both the high frame-rate and regular versions. I was interested, but never got around to seeing An Unexpected Journey in high frame-rate 3D so I cannot speak to it from personal experience. However, most people who did see that version felt that the high frame-rate ruined the movie (#HobbitVomit was trending on Twitter). So, will Jackson stick to his guns and try to win people over or will he give in to the criticism? I did enjoy An Unexpected Journey (even with its pacing issues) and am very much looking forward to part two, because I think it will be much better as there will be more organically story driven action and drama (instead of action scenes being overly long, artificially extended because the story does not have that much action for a big blockbuster).

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: Iron Man 3

Release: May 3

Genre: Action Adventure Thriller

Plot: After attack is waged on Tony Stark, taking a huge personal toll, he sets off to find those responsible. His quest leads him to China where he faces his most powerful enemy yet, The Mandarin. Tony also wrestles with the question that haunts him: “Does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man?”

Director: Shane Black

Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Ben Kingsley, and Rebecca Hall

Why It’s Anticipated:  The Avengers was the biggest film of 2012, and Iron Man and Iron Man 2 were relatively well-received by critics and loved by fans (well, more Iron Man than its sequel). Iron 3 kicks off Phase II of Marvel’s Avengers’ film series, and it looks like a fantastic movie rising to the challenge that Joss Whedon set with The Avengers (which is easily the best film in the series so far).

Editor’s Thoughts: While I cannot know this for sure, I suspect that Robert Downey Jr. brought writer-director Shane Black in to make this film, as they have a strong relationship (Black directed Downey Jr. in his film Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, which helped resurrect Downey Jr.’s career leading to him being cast as Tony Stark), after Jon Favreau stepped down.  Black is one of the best action writers in Hollywood (he wrote Lethal Weapon, The Monster Squad, The Last Boy Scout, Last Action Hero, and The Long Kiss Goodnight before making his directorial debut and writing Kiss Kiss Bang Bang).  Iron Man 3 is only his second film as a director, but Kiss Kiss Bang Bang was brilliant so I have nothing but faith in his abilities. I would go further as to say that I am more excited for Iron Man 3 because Black is doing it. The film also boasts an impressive cast of new actors to the series including: Guy Pearce, Rebecca Hall, Ben Kingsley, and James Badge Dale. In all likeliness, it is between this film, Star Trek Into Darkness, and Man of Steel for best summer film.

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

Release: December 25

Genre: Action Thriller, Drama

Plot: Rebooting the Jack Ryan series (again), this adventure finds the young CIA analyst uncovering a Russian plot to crash the U.S. economy via terrorist attack.

Director: Kenneth Branagh

Main Cast: Chris Pine, Keira Knightley, Kevin Costner, and Kenneth Branagh

Why It’s Anticipated: Jack Ryan is Paramount Pictures’ Christmas blockbuster. The Tom Clancy Jack Ryan series has been a fan favorite since its first incantation in 1990 with The Hunt for Red October, only to be followed up with Harrison Ford’s (as Jack Ryan)very entertaining two films with director Phillip Noyce: Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger. Likely, this will be Paramount’s attempt to create another James Bond, Ethan Hunt, Jason Bourne like franchise and this will probably feature more action than past Jack Ryan films (but will also hopefully feature Ryan playing detective as well like the past films).

Editor’s Thoughts: The first reboot of the series, The Sum of All Fears, came too close to 9/11 and was just too much at the time. Paramount seems to have put together a good team for this rejuvenation (of a franchise I liked a lot in the 1990s). Kenneth Branagh did a good job with Thor and is otherwise a good filmmaker; it is also fantastic that he is playing the villain. The studio turned to Chris Pine as their new Jack Ryan. He is great in the Star Trek reboot, bringing a lot of swagger and energy, and should be a great Ryan. Keira Knightley brings a higher level of talent to the role of Ryan’s wife than past incarnations, so maybe she will be more involved in the drama as well. And, Kevin Costner is a really good choice to play Ryan’s mentor, as it is a role he does well. All in all, it is the cast, director, and my past nostalgia for the 1990s Jack Ryan adventures that have me very interested and excited to see how this turns out.

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: Man of Steel

Release: June 14

Genre: Action Adventure Drama

Plot: A retelling of the Superman origin story. Clark Kent is an alien infant raised on Earth. He grows up hiding his superhuman abilities. When his adopted world is threatened, he must decide if he should reveal his abilities to protect Earth.

Director: Zack Snyder

Main Cast: Henry Cavill, Russell Crowe, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, and Kevin Costner

Why It’s Anticipated: Superman is maybe the biggest and best known comic book character. Plus, the creative team that reimagined Batman starting with Batman Begins (David Goyer and Christopher Nolan – who’s latest film, The Dark Knight Rises, was one of the best of 2012) is now taking on Clark Kent, which should have you very excited. Goyer and Nolan will probably ground the character in a more realistic character driven environment (as realistic as an alien who fights crime can be) with characters who will emotionally resonate with the audience. While Marvel and Disney want to make really fun comic book movies, Warner Bros (with Goyer and Nolan, et al.) want to continue to make comic book films (with great action) that also appeal as satisfying dramas (like The Dark Knight Trilogy).

Editor’s Thoughts: Zack Snyder makes a lot of sense as the director for a Superman movie. He has a great grasp of wonderful cinematic visuals, and his style, which seems to get in the way of his storytelling sometimes, will likely be reined in Nolan (who is producing). Snyder has an overall strong filmography as a director. Dawn of the Dead was a good debut, and 300 showcased his ability to pull off stunning visuals. While Watchman was good, it suffered from overindulgence in Snyder’s style. Sucker Punch on the other hand was completely derailed by Snyder’s style over story and content. Based on the Man of Steel trailers, it appears that Snyder has given the film strong (if not iconic) visuals but has put the story first, which is great news for the film. It looks like it is going to be very good (another piece of good news: Nolan has brought in his frequent collaborator Hans Zimmer to score the film). I also really like the casting of Henry Cavill as Clark Kent. I think he will make a fantastic Superman (and Michael Shannon is going to be a great villain – he was born to be a comic book villain).

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: Pacific Rim

Release: July 12

Genre: Sci-Fi Action Adventure

Plot: Massive aliens attack Earth, threatening the very survival of the human race. In an effort to fight back, giant robots piloted by humans are used to wage the battle for Earth.

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Main Cast: Idris Elba, Charlie Hunnam, Rinko Kikuchi, Ron Perlman, and Charlie Day

Why It’s Anticipated: Enormous mechanized warriors fighting huge alien monsters, what is not awesome about that? It is like Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (only Mechagodzilla is good and piloted by humans to stop Godzilla – and there are lots of both).  This should be a highly entertaining huge action film.

Editor’s Thoughts: For the fans of Guillermo del Toro, this holds a whole different level of excitement and anticipation. He is responsible for some good stuff (the Hellboy films and Pan’s Labyrinth), especially when it comes to creating creatures.  Pacific Rim also has a great cast – who is not excited to hear the crazy stuff Charlie Day gets to spout off? Whether this is just a big fun summer movie or something that transcends the blockbuster genre (like say The Avengers and The Dark Knight Rises) remains to be seen, but certainly this is something to get hyped for if you like blockbuster action films.

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: Star Trek Into Darkness

Release: May 17

Genre: Sci-Fi Action Adventure

Plot: The crew of the Enterprise is called back to Earth, however when they arrive they find that a seemingly unstoppable force has devastated Starfleet and left the planet in chaos. Captain Kirk and his crew are tasked with going on a manhunt to bring the responsible man to justice.

Director: J.J. Abrams

Main Cast: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Alice Eve

Why It’s Anticipated: Despite hardcore Star Trek fans having issues with J.J. Abrams’ Star Trek, it brought the cherished sci-fi world to the masses of movie-goers and they loved it (as did critics). Star Trek Into Darkness looks to be an even bigger adventure. Chances are if you liked the first film you are going to really like this one too.

Editor’s Thoughts: J.J. Abrams is one of the best action-film directors in Hollywood right now. His films have a frenetic pace – always moving forward and packed with action. Yet, he still is able to develop great characters. Plus, they are extremely fun and entertaining. Star Trek into Darkness is his fourth feature film (following Mission: Impossible III, Star Trek, and Super 8). I am also interested and excited to see Benedict Cumberbatch play the film’s main villain. I think he is going to be fantastic (2013 very well could be his breakthrough year, as he is starring in an impressive list of films: August: Osage County, Twelve Years a Slave, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, and this).

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: This Is the End

Release: June 14

Genre: Action Comedy

Plot: A bunch of friends go to a party at James Franco’s house, and then the apocalypse happens and they have to deal with it.

Director: Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen

Main Cast: Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, James Franco, Danny McBride, and Jonah Hill

Why It’s Anticipated: The film features a ton of funny and otherwise great people on top of the film’s very funny stars in supporting and cameo roles, like: Jason Segel, Emma Watson, Paul Rudd, Michael Cera, Craig Robinson, and Mindy Kaling (among others). Plus, the writing team of Rogen and Goldberg is responsible for Superbad and Pineapple Express (and Rogen wrote on Undeclared and Da Ali G Show, while Goldberg also wrote on Da Ali G Show and co-wrote the criminally under seen Hockey comedy Goon with Jay Baruchel), so generally their stuff is funny and very entertaining. Basically, this has most of today’s best film comedians all together in a crazy action-horror-comedy premise – how is it not going to be awesome?

Editor’s Thoughts: Based on the short Jay & Seth versus the Apocalypse, this has the potential to be an amazing comedy, and certainly the best of the year. But, it is so ambitious that it reminds me of Your Highness (which I thought was going to be brilliant and hysterical but it was ultimately disappointing), so this could just as easily fall apart as be fantastic. That is what happens when you go big – either it works and is great, or it does not and falls flat, but at least it has the potential to be great. Most comedies now are just boring, tired narratives reusing ‘it’ jokes from past films. Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill, Danny McBride, Jason Segel, Paull Rudd, and Jay Baruchel are making the best comedies right now, so having them all in the same film playing themselves should be a lot of fun (and it helps that they are all real life friends and have wonderful chemistry, which is paramount in comedy). Plus, the premise sounds like a riot (I mean, there is a shot of Emma Watson with an ax in the teaser, so…).

Trailer (if available): Here

Title: Thor: The Dark World

Release: November 8

Genre: Action Adventure Fantasy

Plot: After the events of The Avengers, an ancient race of Dark Elves threatens to throw the universe back into darkness – that is, unless Thor can stop them.

Director: Alan Taylor

Main Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, and Christopher Eccleston

Why It’s Anticipated: Thor outperformed the expectations that Marvel had for it, and now after the huge success of The Avengers this new Thor adventure has many fans very excited (though, this is well below Iron Man 3). Marvel is also bringing back almost the entire cast of the first film. The Avengers essentially made all the Marvel Phase II films must-sees.

Editor’s Thoughts: With director Kenneth Branagh not returning, Marvel decided to make an interesting and timely choice for his replacement in Alan Taylor. He is one of the major creative forces behind HBO’s Game of Thrones, directing six of the twenty episodes in seasons one (2) and two (4) and serving as a co-executive producer for all of season two. While Branagh gave Thor a fantasy feel, Marvel wants Taylor to give Thor a much more gritty realistic feel, though still keeping some fantasy aspects – basically they want it to feel and look like Game of Thrones. I think it probably will work out very well for them. Christopher Yost is also one of the film’s writers, which is a great thing too given the material.

Trailer (if available): Here