The Holiday (2006): Mormon Movie Review

Quality: 

 Working on a Blog Post about Family Friendly Holiday Movies on Netflix.  In the background my adorable wife is watching The Holiday.  Regrettably it wont make the list because it not streaming on Netflix and not too Family Friendly.  But it is a great movie. And right now it is only $4.75 at Amazon.com!

   I just wanted to give a few notes though because it is on my mind. In London, Iris Simpkins, Kate Winslet, writes a wedding column in a newspaper and nurtures an unrequited love for her colleague Jasper Bloom, Rufus Sewell (who always seems to play some sort of slimy character). Near Christmas, she is informed that Jasper is engaged to marry another colleague, and her life turns upside down.

   Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, the movie-trailers maker Amanda Woods, Cameron Diaz, has just split with her unfaithful boyfriend Ethan, Edward Burns, and wants to forget him. Through a house exchange website, Amanda impulsively swaps her mansion for Iris' cottage in Surrey for the holidays. While in Surrey, Amanda meets Iris' brother and book editor Graham, Jude Law.  Meanwhile, Iris meets her new next door neighbor the ninety year old screenplay writer Arthur, Eli Wallach, who helps her retrieve her self-esteem.  She also meets film composer Miles, Jack Black, who is in a dysfunctional relationship of his own.

   We watch it once a year just because it is a cute Holiday movie about romance, both young and old.  There are some tender moments when Arthur speaks with devotion about his long past wife, and the new romantic relationships that develop between the characters.  Because the women in the movie are a bit neurotic; what is meant to come off as quirky seems just corny (which Iris refers to herself as during the film).

   The men really shine out though.  Jack Black has found the happy medium between the over the top physical comedy of Nacho Libre, and the laughably serious role he play is King Kong.  He is charming and endearing, but still gets a laugh in each scene.  It is also great when he explains his love for movie score (which I share).  It is easy to buy into his passion because he is actually a musician, but I wouldn't recommend his Tenacious D music unless you get a radio edit.  This movie's soundtrack was written by Hans Zimmer and is a great extra set piece to the film.  Jude Law is as fetching as usual.  I am sure my wife would have married me 6 months sooner if I had an English accent.  While his character comes off as a bit of a playboy, we soon learn he has a softer side that he plays very well.  

 Content:
 The Holiday is a great date movie for adult couples, but be warned that some of the characters pursue inappropriate relations.  Although nothing is shown, they talk about wanting to do it openly, then it cuts to them lying in bed afterward.    They do go for the obligatory F-bomb, which really bugged me because it really wasn't a bit moment.  Almost as if it slipped out, but it was a really good take so they kept it.  There is a touch more milder obscenities, but not many.  There is a great deal of the use of the name of deity though.  Character drink to deal with problems, in social settings, and get completely "knackered" with little consequence. 

Well, this was meant to be a short review, but I got a little long winded.  I'll try to add some photos tomorrow and spruce it up.

So check it out!  If you order today, you will probably get it by New Years.

Here Comes the Boom (2012): Mormon Movie Review

   It's Mormon Movie Guy Monday! He writes a great blog similar to ours reviewing movies from a Latter-day Saint Perspective. The review was written by him, but the star ratings were applied based on my interpretation of his review. We got invited to a screening of Here Comes the Boom, but we couldn't get there in time and missed it. Now I am not as bummed about it. I didn't love Paul Blart: Mall Cop, but I respected that it was PG. Here Comes the Boom seems to follow that same vein. It is in Theatres now, but you might want to wait for the DVD or Dollar Theatre. 

Quality:

Here Comes the Boom, the just-released inspirational romantic sports dramedy (got that?) asks audiences to believe two preposterous notions. The first is that Kevin James, the portly fellow who amused us in Hitchand TV's King of Queens, could be competitive in mixed martial arts. The second is that Kevin James could have a chance with Salma Hayek. Does it succeed? Not quite, though it comes surprisingly close on both counts. 

First of all, James shed a lot of fat and put on a good deal of muscle, training for 14 months to play a biology teacher who takes up UFC fighting to save his friend's job (a music teacher played by Henry Winkler). Despite James' physical transformation, it's still tough to believe that he could compete against seasoned fighters, no matter what his determination level. The far-superior Warrior (one of 2011's very best movies) had a similar storyline; that film barely got away with it, and actor Joel Edgerton was in phenomenal shape. I must admit, however, that James surprised me with his athleticism here, both as a "fighter" and as a physical comedian. As for the romance, James and Hayek have far more sparks between them comedically than chemically. Their scenes together provide some of the film's funniest dialogue.

Speaking of humor, Here Comes the Boom never quite decides whether it wants to be a comedy or an inspirational sports drama. It veers unevenly, back and forth, between the two. As a drama, it pales in comparison to the superior films it imitates (the aforementioned Warrior and the Rocky series, most obviously). Nearly every plot point is wholly predictable, as sports film cliches are trotted out one after the other. A school principal comes across as a one-note villain whose inevitable change of heart feels inauthentic and unearned.

As a comedy, however, it fares much better. There are quite a few belly laughs here, including one moment that had me chuckling until my sides hurt and tears streamed down my cheeks. There's quite a few great one-liners, as well as some expertly-played physical comedy. The supporting characters are mostly solid; retired UFC Heavyweight Champion Bas Rutten is particularly likable in a warm and funny role. On top of that, it's PG and clean (see content overview below). Despite its flaws, Here Comes the Boom is a worthwhile excursion for those looking for inoffensive fun. It also portrays Christianity positively, which is always a nice bonus. 

Content:

 Here Comes the Boom is rated PG. It has plentiful mixed martial arts fighting and a pair of mild obscenities. A woman reveals some cleavage in a tank top and men fight shirtless.

Messages to Discuss: The story of Jacob wrestling a messenger of the Lord and earning a blessing, as referenced in the film, is found in Genesis 32: 24-30. With  hard work, faith, and unity we can restore atrophied things, people, communities, and systems to their former lustre and beyond (Words of Mormon 1:16-18). 

Pitch Perfect (2012): Mormon Movie Review

Quality: 

  We got to see an advanced screening of Pitch Perfect tonight.  It is midnight, but I wanted to make sure we got this out to you.  If you see any typos, just let us know, but I will probably proof read tomorrow.  You might want to see if there are any screenings in your area as they are really trying to promote this movie.  If there aren't, Fandango has a buy 3 get 1 free deal for advanced ticket sales!

   Beca, a freshman at Barden University, is cajoled into joining The Bellas, her school's all-girls singing group. Injecting some much needed energy into their repertoire, The Bellas take on their male rivals in a campus competition.

   I am of the firm opinion that Glee is destroying America's young vocal talents.  But there is something about collegiate a Capella music gives me hope.  It is an original style that takes a vocal skill and a keen ear.  It can't just be produced in a studio with a beat machine and auto tune.  With TV shows like "The Sing Off" and groups like BYU's Vocal Point gaining national attention it was only a matter of time before it became a feature film.  Pitch Perfect even takes a few jabs at Glee which made me happy.

   The music in Pitch Perfect is such a pleasure.   Covering popular tracks like Kelly Clarkson's "Since You Been Gone" (I refuse to spell i with a "U") and Miley Cyrus' "Party in the U.S.A." keeps the music relevant.  Pitch Perfect is also timeless as it takes some hits from the 80's like Ace of Base's "The Sign" and breathes new life into them.  Music is a magical thing and several times during the movie I left goosebumps as chords would build or keys change.  The singing is done very well and the ladies and gentlemen of the film have proved they can do more than dance.  You will want to pick up the soundtrack!

   When I was walking out of the theatre I heard a comment from the girls behind me; "Pitch Perfect is the PG-13 Bridesmaids."  I have to say they had a lot in common.  The ensemble cast is all very talented.  There wasn't a weak link in the group.  Anna Kendrick's "Beca" is very fluid and likable.  The balance of being aloof and guarded is struck in a way where we see she is a bit of a loner, but she is likable to the audience so her character progression seems natural.  Her friendship with rival group member Jesse, played by Skylar Astin, is real and heartwarming.  

      Rebel Wilson really steals the show though.  You might remember her from the trailer as "Fat Amy."  Although Amy is a bit crude, she is also brutally honest.  as a credit to Wilson, most of her lines were just improvised and she kept the cast and crew in stitches and she would go on and on until they told her they had enough.  Hopefully the DVD has some outtakes.  (They saved one of the best ones for during the credits though.)

   Producer Elizabeth Banks also has a surprise cameo as one of the announces of the vocal competitions.  She is a delight on screen.  It reminds me of her performance in The Hunger Games.    

   The trailers for Pitch Perfect really focus on the comedy of the movie, but the solid vocal performances is what will keep your eyes glued to the screen and ears wide open!

   

Content: 

 Pitch Perfect is a great teen film.  There is some implied sexual content and a handful or excrement related curses.  Some of the rules of "The Bellas" is that they do not have sexual relations with the guys of their rival a Capella group.  The leader of The Bellas says the reason is to keep their dignity and to be taken seriously. There is also a scene of under 21 drinking.  Some of the dance moves and outfits are a little provocative, but I think what really makes the girls appear attractive is their ability to make beautiful music and the confidence they have in themselves as they perform stage.    

The Pirates- Band of Misfits (2012): Mormon Movie Review-

   Guest Post from the Mormon Movie Guy.  He writes a great blog similar to ours reviewing movies from a Latter-day Saint Perspective. The review was written by him, but the star ratings were applied based on my interpretation of his review.



Quality:  

There's a moment in Peter Pan, Disney's classic 1953 animated feature, in which Captain Hook shoots a fellow pirate whose singing annoys him. Though the actual death occurs off-screen, it's moment of dark humor of the kind that pops up occasionally in The Pirates- Band of Misfits, the delightfully rowdy new offering from Aardman Studios, the animation team that brought us Wallace and Gromit, Chicken Run, and Flushed Away. That type of dark humor, along with the glamorization of a plundering lifestyle, may be a concern to some parents while others will find it all to be harmless fun. After all, children have dressed as pirates for Halloween and enjoyed the Disneyland ride for decades without losing their sense of right and wrong. Whether this movie is appropriate for your kids is a choice I leave with you. As for the film's entertainment value, in approaching pirates as if they were the rock stars of the seas it displays a delightful wit and an infectious silliness. 

The impressive vocal cast of Hugh Grant, Salma Hayek, Jeremy Piven, David Tennant, Martin Freeman, and Imelda Staunton bring real personality to their characters (including a Charles Darwin plagued with romantic insecurity and Queen Victoria portrayed here with an explosive temper). Most impressive is the stop-motion animation. Taking years to realize, shot one-frame at a time, there is a texture to the sets and models that pops out nicely in 3D. The story isn't especially strong, but that matters little when there's so much fun to be had. Well-paced, frequently hilarious, and supported by a toe-tapping rock soundtrack, this Pirates film is far more enjoyable than any in the Johnny Depp series (except the first one [Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest], which remains the gold standard of pirate movies). 

Content:

   The Pirates- Band of Misfits is rated PG. There is one comical use of the "a-word" as well as some swordplay, punching, and gunfire. A pirate captain is shown drunk. A female pirate with an exposed abdomen swivels her hips seductively while walking, with male pirates ogling her. The only other concern parents may have is that the heroes are thieving pirates, and thus not very good role models. 

MESSAGES TO DISCUSS: We ought not to put the love of riches (Jacob 2:12-13) or the vain seeking of praise (Helaman 7:21) above loyalty to our friends.

Community (2009- ): Mormon TV Review and Autism Awareness

  

Quality:

NBC's Community is one of the most under rated shows on NBC right now.  It is based on a group of students who form a study group at a local community college.  The study group comprises students from all walks of life and backgrounds, but they mesh very well.  It has a strong ensemble cast with each one able to carry an episode story on their own.  Ever since the first season Community has seen declining rating, but the show is still making great TV.  I has already been picked up for syndication by Comedy Central. 

   Today is World Autism Awareness Day.  So in honor of this day I'd like to focus my review on one character.  Abed Nadir (Danny Pudi) seems to be a huge fan favorite.  Although it hasn't been made official, many believe Abed has Asperger's Syndrome.  Abed's character has difficulty in showing empathy with the other members of the study group and his love of cinema and television has caused people to make this assumption.   Asperger's is a part of the Autism Spectrum Disorder and can be characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction, alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

   Regardless if these things Abed becomes a sort of moral center for the show.  Many of the characters go to him for advice and council because he is can make logical decisions without appearing emotionally invested.  For that same reason character seem to write him off as naive, (and he sometimes is) but find out in the end he was right all along.  He is honest, kind and although not always visible has very deep feelings (Abed's Uncontrollable Christmas).  

   Abed reveals that he did not have many friends in school, but upon coming to college finds a Best Friend in Troy Barnes (Donald Glover).  During the first and second season it was so enjoyable to watch this friendship evolve.  The chemistry between the two is so remarkable the duo is almost exclusively used in the cold endings of each episode.

     

   I am curious about everyone else, but I came to the realization why I was such a fan of Abed last season.  He reminds me of my son Garren!  Last year my son Garren was educationally diagnosed to be on the Autistic Spectrum, particularly with behaviours indicating Asperger's.  We have not been very public about it, Garren doesn't even know.  It was really hard for us at first to hear it, but we are very fortunate.  We have friends with children on the spectrum to varying degrees, a few with cases that are very severe.  I felt today was a good day to make it known.

   Garren is very high functioning.  To spend 5 minutes with him, you wouldn't think twice about it.  An hour and you would notice something is a bit off.  The whole day and it would be pretty evident.  He loves reading and learning.  He can tell you about every Pokemon and about all the ships in Star Wars.  He can be oblivious to other people's feelings at times, then surprise us when he is moved to tears by an episode of "Phineas and Ferb."  He desperately wants to Choose the Right and takes correction very hard.  He loves to be funny and wants to have friends, and he does! 

   Our school has a wonderful Individual Education Program for him.  He is making great strides, but we still have hard times.  As his Dad, one of my greatest hopes is for him to fit in and feel loves.  "I'll Walk with You" moves me to tears every time I hear it.  He has reached the age where the kids are starting to notice he is a little different, and has caused some kids to avoid him.  Many times, he has no idea, but other times he does.  It is heartbreaking to hear him talk about a boy at school who doesn't want to be his friend any more.

   I love the story of Troy and Abed because Troy is friends with Abed because of his personality, not in spite of it.  In my favorite episode of season 2 (Early 21st Century Romanticism) Troy and Abed are enamoured with the same woman, the Librarian.   After she eventually chooses Troy she reveals that she thinks Abed is weird.  Troy instantly dumps her and rejoins his friend. 

   I can see something like that easily happening to Garren and instantly wanted him to have a friend who would love him that much.  Then I realized he does, his brother Greyson.  They are best friends!  They do everything together.   Just about anything Garren is doing Greyson is right behind him.  I now that is Garren grows up and has hard time, Greyson will be right there with him. 

   When we found out Greyson was going to be a boy baby, my wife shed a few tears.  Not that he was another boy or anything, but that we were hoping for a girl.  Now we would not have it any other way!  I am recalling now giving him his baby blessing.  I felt promoted to speak about his important mission of being a companion to his brother, and to support him in the challenges he would face in life (at that time we had no clue of Garren's condition).  Now it all makes sense and I can see the wisdom of The Lord. He truly is the Troy to our Abed.  

Content:
Did you forget this was actually a TV show review?  Obviously me too.  Community is a great show.  The language isn't crude, but exclamatory remarks are made.  There is no overtly sexual content, but characters do have intimate encounters that I tell myself they never go past first base.  Like when my wife makes me watch Doris Day & Rock Hudson movies.