We have all heard
and read movie quotes here and there which have affected us in some way or
another. We have tried to find and even make situations so that we could just
say that particular quote verbatim. We try to remember and mimic them so that
we could share the same feeling that the actor in the character of the movie
felt. Every movie quote becomes a cinematic incantation because the
actor's delivery and the movie's plot gave impetus to it.
In this article, I am going to mention some of my favorite quotes taken from "AFI's 100 Years...100 Movie Quotes" (American Film Institute - AFI) and what I felt as the significance behind them. I will be mentioning some elements of the plot as well, so proceed at your own risk. But they won’t be any major spoilers.
This famous line
was said by Clark Gable in his portrayal of Rhett Butler to Vivien Leigh's
character Scarlett O'Hara almost at the end of the movie. Gone with the
Wind is an American epic historical romance film based on the 1936 novel by
Margaret Mitchell set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and
Reconstruction Era. If adjusted for inflation, then it is still the highest
grossing film in film history. What makes this line a memorable quote is
Rhett's struggle in the movie for Scarlett's love and how he got disappointed
at every turn. When he finally prepares to leave for good, she tells him how
much she loves him and he says these words to her. You can feel the joy and
sadness for both the characters concurrently. To understand the gravity of his
words, one must see the movie.
This memorable
quote was spoken by Marlon Brando in his iconic portrayal of Vito Corleone to
his godson Johnny Fontane played by Al Martino. The Godfather is an American
crime film based on Mario Puzo’s novel of the same name. It is regarded as one
of the greatest films ever made in the gangster genre. This quote comes almost
at the beginning of the movie and it shows the power and charisma of Brando’s
character in the film. His role as The Godfather to Fontane is exhorted by this
line and coerces the spectator to realize the command of Vito Corleone in the
film as the Don of New York. The acting and direction of the movie is brilliant
and is a must watch for any movie aficionado.
3. Quote: “You talking to me?”
This was spoken by Robert De Niro in his portrayal of Travis Bickle while practicing drawing a gun in front of the mirror. Taxi Driver is a masterpiece of directing legend Martin Scorsese set in New York City after the end of the Vietnam War. This line is said multiple times by Travis, who turns a vigilante after being disgusted by crime and prostitution that he witnesses throughout the city. His character is an honorably discharged U.S. Marine who becomes a taxi driver to cope with his insomnia. This dialogue gives the viewer insight into the mind of Travis, a person who is not highly educated, a war veteran and doesn’t understand the propriety of social beings. You can fathom the workings of a mind whose thoughts are devolving into chaos and violence. You can’t be an idolater of Scorsese or De Niro if you haven’t experienced this film.
This eerie line
was spoken by great Anthony Hopkins in his portrayal of a psychotic
cannibalistic serial killer psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter to Clarice
Starling played by Jodie Foster. The Silence of the Lambs is an American
thriller directed by Jonathan Demme based on the Thomas Harris’ 1988 novel of
the same name. The novel was the second to feature Hannibal Lecter in the
series. This film won Academy Awards in all the top five categories. This
dialogue depicts the brilliance of the psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter in the
manipulation of Starling’s mind. Simultaneously, it brings a horror mien to the
movie giving a shudder and thrilling sensation to the watcher. One of the key
points which I noticed was the close up head shots of Hopkins throughout the
movie through which Demme showed the audaciousness of Lecter.
This was spoken
by magnificent Jack Nicholson in his portrayal of Colonel Nathan R. Jessup to Lieutenant Daniel
Kaffee played by Tom Cruise. A Few Good Men is an American courtroom drama film
directed by Rob Reiner adapted from the play of the same name. It is one of the
best courtroom drama films I have ever seen. Each scene in this film is a
chef-d'oeuvre especially the last half an hour of the movie. The dialogue
delivery of Jack Nicholson has always been peculiar, the way he acts and speaks
is dynamic. This dialogue reflects the antithetic veneer of moral wisdom and
leaves you to think about virtues of life and honor. This movie is a must watch
for any cinema lover and fans of Nicholson.
You can see all the quotes by going through this link:
AFI'S 100 GREATEST MOVIE QUOTES OF ALL TIME
Do let me know any of your favorite quotes not mentioned by AFI in the comments below...
In this article, I am going to mention some of my favorite quotes taken from "AFI's 100 Years...100 Movie Quotes" (American Film Institute - AFI) and what I felt as the significance behind them. I will be mentioning some elements of the plot as well, so proceed at your own risk. But they won’t be any major spoilers.
1. Quote: "Frankly, my
dear, I don't give a damn."
Movie:
"Gone with the Wind (1939)"
AFI
Rank: 1
2. Quote: “I’m gonna make him
an offer he can’t refuse”
Movie:
"The Godfather (1972)"
AFI
Rank: 2
3. Quote: “You talking to me?”
Movie:
"Taxi Driver (1976)"
AFI
Rank: 10
This was spoken by Robert De Niro in his portrayal of Travis Bickle while practicing drawing a gun in front of the mirror. Taxi Driver is a masterpiece of directing legend Martin Scorsese set in New York City after the end of the Vietnam War. This line is said multiple times by Travis, who turns a vigilante after being disgusted by crime and prostitution that he witnesses throughout the city. His character is an honorably discharged U.S. Marine who becomes a taxi driver to cope with his insomnia. This dialogue gives the viewer insight into the mind of Travis, a person who is not highly educated, a war veteran and doesn’t understand the propriety of social beings. You can fathom the workings of a mind whose thoughts are devolving into chaos and violence. You can’t be an idolater of Scorsese or De Niro if you haven’t experienced this film.
4. Quote: “A census taker
once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti.”
Movie:
"The Silence of the Lambs (1991)"
AFI
Rank: 21
5. Quote: “You can’t handle
the truth!”
Movie:
"A Few Good Men (1992)"
AFI
Rank: 29
You can see all the quotes by going through this link:
AFI'S 100 GREATEST MOVIE QUOTES OF ALL TIME
Do let me know any of your favorite quotes not mentioned by AFI in the comments below...
I would like to mention
some movies which had beautiful Christmassy moments in them and they are
definitely a nice watch for anyone this Christmas. These movies have made
Christmas more elegant and heartwarming and they remind us about the importance
of family, love and laughter which rests in the kernel of this eve.
Home Alone
(1990)
This is an American
family comedy directed by Chris Columbus (Harry Potter 1 and 2) starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin
McCallister who is an eight-year-old boy who is mistakenly left behind when his
family flies to Paris for their Christmas vacation.
We have all seen this movie a
number of times and it never ceases to make us laugh. Till 2009, it was the
highest-grossing comedy of all time. This movie made Culkin as the most
successful child star since Shirley Temple and he then went on to appear in
films like Home Alone 2 (1992) and Richie Rich (1994). This movie shows the
beautiful love between a mother and a son.
The most Christmassy moment in the
film is when the mother takes a lift home with The Kenosha Kickers so that she
can be with her son on Christmas Eve.
Love
Actually (2003)
This is a British
romantic comedy written and directed by Richard Curtis. The movie stars a number
of great actors like Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Kiera Knightley,
Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Bill Nighy, Billy Bob Thornton, Rowan Atkinson and
many more who are spread over ten separate stories with some of them linked to
each other.
The movie depicts different aspects of love through varying
perspectives and generations in the countdown to Christmas Eve.
There are many
Christmassy moments in this film from grand family gestures to quite family
bonds to love proposals.
In Bruges
(2008)
This is a
British-American crime-black comedy film written and directed by Martin McDonagh. It stars Colin Farrell, Brendan
Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes.
The film is set in the Belgian city of Bruges.
Farrell and Gleeson are two Irish hitmen who are hiding in the city after a
shooting went wrong with Fiennes playing their gangster boss. The film has
repartee and esprit dialogues with dark humour which makes it an entertaining
watch. The movie is notable for its screenplay and beautiful music.
The most
Christmassy moment is the film is the
picture-postcard look of Bruges itself.
Eyes Wide
Shut (1999)
This is an American
erotic thriller loosely based upon Arthur
Schnitzler's 1926 novella Dream Story directed, produced and co-written by
legendary filmmaker Stanley Kuberick. This was the last film directed by
Kuberick and he died six days after showing the final cut to Warner Brothers
Studios which distributed the film. The movie stars then husband-wife Tom
Cruise and Nicole Kidman as a couple struggling with their sexual relations.
The film spent a long time in production
and it holds the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous film shoot period at 400 days.
The film is notable for its screenplay and direction and the masked orgy scene
is one of the famous scenes of the movie. The film is set during the time frame
of Christmas which gives a dynamic setting to the film.
With a Christmas tree in every scene, the movie provides
an ironic reflection on gift-giving as even a man who has everything wanders
off to find a little extra.
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
This is a crime-comedy film written and directed by Shane Black (Iron Man 3). It stars Robert Downey Jr., Val
Kilmer, Michelle Monaghan and Corbin
Bernsen.
Downey plays a crook who stumbles into an
audition for a mystery film while running from the cops and wins the part and
lands up in Hollywood. The story then wraps itself in a murderous conspiracy
involving Kilmer, Monaghan and Bernsen. The film has tongue-in-cheek satire
with sharp and clever comedy performances delivered by Downey and Kilmer.
The
most Christmassy moment in the film is Michelle
Monaghan in a Santa suit.
For this No Shave November, I have compiled a list of a few characters from
the movie world whose facial hair are a symbol of something profound. So, hold
on to your beards and read on...
Tom Hanks
(Cast Away – 2000 film) - Chuck Noland
This movie was one of the most brilliant
performances by the legendary actor Tom Hanks. He is the kind of actor who can
make you feel the humanness of the soul. In this movie, he starred as a FedEx
employee who got stranded on an uninhabited island after a plane crash. It is
directed by Robert Zemeckis of “Back to the Future” film series fame. The whole
movie is carried by the remarkable acting of Hanks who is the solitary
character. The insanity, silence, chaos and forlornness are some of the
heartfelt emotions portrayed in the movie. This beard depicts his castaway from
civilization and the straw to hold onto reality. It is one hell of a movie.
Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover – 2009 film) - Alan Garner
As hard as it is to pronounce this weird comic’s
unusual name, his beard is one eye-catcher. We all know him as that disgusting,
socially inept and an eerie maniac from “The Hangover” film series. He has
portrayed a lot of funny roles over his career like in Due Date (along with
Robert Downey Jr.) and The Campaign (along with Will Ferrell) but his beard has
been a constant. He is an amazing comic whom we won’t ever miss by any chance.
Shahid Kapoor (Haider – 2014 film) - Haider
Shahid Kapoor was magnificent as the titular
protagonist in this ardent tragedy by
Vishal Bhardwaj. Every once in a while, Bollywood churns out a notable film and
this is it. This movie is set amidst the insurgency hit Kashmir conflicts of
1995 and civil disappearances. The story, music, acting, directing and cinematography
is sensational. This look of Haider gives us the insight into mind which is
devolving into chaos at the thin line between saneness and insanity. It gives
us an insight into the mind of a son who cannot control the circumstances, his
force to find his father and the irateness of the revenge from his uncle. This
is one of the bold looks and character portrayed by Shahid Kapoor.
Daniel Day-Lewis (Lincoln – 2012 film) – Abraham Lincoln
This was one of the iconic roles
portrayed by the marvellous Daniel Day-Lewis in his role of President Abraham
Lincoln directed by genius Steven Spielberg. Day-Lewis is considered to be a
method actor who spends months preparing and researching for his roles. His
devotion to the character often becomes so strong that he remains completely in
character during the shooting of his films often leading to ill-health. He is
the recipient of three Academy Awards for Best Actor, a feat that makes
him the only male actor in history to garner
three wins in the lead actor category. Even being an English actor of Irish
descent, he portrayed the role of an American President with utmost passion and
dynamism. He has established his work as a paragon and is one of the most
acclaimed actors of his generation. This beard is a symbol of the great work
done by Abraham Lincoln who preserved the Union,
abolished slavery, strengthened the federal government and modernized the
economy. He was one of the greatest U.S. presidents.
Rating:
7.8 out of 10
Conviction is an American 2010 legal drama
film based on the true story of Betty Anne Waters, a single mother trying to
free her wrongfully convicted brother, Kenny indefatigably. The film is
directed by Tony Goldwyn and stars Hilary Swank as Betty Anne Waters, Sam
Rockwell as Kenny Waters, Minnie Driver as Abra Rice and Melissa Leo as Nancy
Taylor. Kenny is screwed by the justice system in a brutal murder case and his sister,
Betty works tirelessly to free him. She pushes herself through law school to
become a lawyer and handle the case herself.
The film is driven by the two major
performances given by Swank and Rockwell along with a compelling story. Hilary
Swank portrays the character with sleek humanness and makes you ascertain the
hardships, struggle and labours of a person battling against a flawed system.
Her character attends law school, works in a bar and ministers her two sons
while her family life suffers and the marriage falls apart but her devotion and
allegiance to her brother remains mettlesome. Rockwell portrays a person who is
hackneyed over the false hope of his freedom over the course of 18 years of a malfeasant
sentence. He shows the frustration and dejection of such a person intelligibly.
Driver and Leo supply the crucial support to the story candidly.
The direction of the movie is smooth with a
well written script by Pamela Gray. The sequence of scenes along with the flashbacks
are placed befittingly. The cinematography by Adriano Goldman is eyeful.
Overall, the movie is a must watch for legal
drama lovers and fans of Swank and Rockwell. It has a heartwarming and
beautiful true story with undying and eternal brother-sister love at its heart.
The marrow of the movie is its ending scene which satiates your heart with
ardor.
Rating: 7.8 out of 10
State of Play is a 2009 American political
thriller film adapted from the six-part British television show of the same
name which aired on BBC One in 2003 with the plot’s location changed to
Washington, D.C. It is directed by Kevin Macdonald and stars Russell Crowe as
Cal McAffrey, Ben Affleck as Stephen Collins, Rachel McAdams as Della Frye,
Robin Wright Penn as Anne Collins and Helen Mirren as Cameron Lynne. The story
is about Cal, a journalist and his investigation into the suspicious death of a
woman related to the Congressman Stephen Collins. It explores topical subjects
like politics, power, media, journalism, war related contracts with private
companies and privatization of American Homeland Security.
The crux of the movie lies in its plot with impetus by superb
acting and fine direction. Russell Crowe portrays the character of a journalist
swiftly dealing with the ambiguity of balances of life of a journalist and his
main task of being an objective professional. Ben Affleck plays the moral
politician too well to be sure and drives the suspense of the movie. Rachel
McAdams shows the enthusiasm of an aspiring journalist. The direction by
Macdonald of ‘The Last King of Scotland’ fame with the precise camera positions
and handling gives the movie credibility of a thriller. The plot of the movie
deserves acclaim for the surprises and the suspense it builds up.
Although, it was not as lauded as its original, but condensing
a six-hour plot in a two-hour format has been done fairly well by Matthew Michael Carnahan, Tony Gilroy, Peter
Morgan and Billy
Ray, who wrote the screenplay for the movie and did a
nifty job. They did not leave out substantial points and made a dandy thriller
story.
Overall, the movie is gripping and provides for an amazing thrilling
experience. It is a must watch for people who enjoy political or corporate
conspiracies, journalistic investigation and are fans of Crowe, Affleck or
Macdonald.
My Rating: 3.2 out of 10
Runner Runner is a 2013 American crime thriller film directed
by Brad Furman. The film stars Justin Timberlake as Richie Furst, Ben Affleck
as Ivan Block, Gemma Arterton as Rebecca Shafran and Anthony Mackie as Agent
Shavers. It follows Richie, who tries to make his tuition fees online playing poker,
but after losing all the money, goes to Costa Rica to confront the online king
of poker, Ivan, whom he believes has swindled him. Eventually, he becomes a
part of his operation, but uncovers criminal and devious plots in his business.
Runner Runner has an impressive cast but the tedious direction
and bland acting ruins the whole movie. The story in the beginning is intriguing,
but eventually emanates as a haphazard thriller with poorly congregated pieces.
In the first twenty minutes only, you might feel like scramming from the movie
and doing something useful with your time. Timberlake is just moving around in
the scenes portraying minimal expressions possible and giving nothing new other
than his smart-ass attitude gained from Sean Parker’s character in ‘The Social
Network’. Gemma Arterton doesn’t have a substantial role and you’d expect a lot
from Anthony Mackie after seeing him in ‘The Hurt Locker’.
The only reason why I started watching this movie was Ben Affleck,
but it turns out that it was just a bad decision made by him. His character is
weak, he portrayed it dimly and definitely does not hold up his reputation
garnered from State of Play, The Town and Argo like intense and brawny
performances. Although, very few moments can be noted where he does try to grip
his character. The direction from Furman of ‘The Lincoln Lawyer’ fame is gloomy
and becomes slackened.
The movie is said to be inspired by the life of Nat Arem, a
professional poker player and a former accountant who helped uncover cheating
in online poker using statistical methods by analysing thousands of games. Concluding,
I’d say that those were ninety-one minutes of my life that I would not get
back. If you don’t have anything to do and want to desperately pass your time
then go for this movie otherwise find something better to do.
.If you have fun watching...do let me know your reviews !!
“Sometimes,
acting is a really private thing that you do for the world.”
-
P. S. Hoffman
On
February 2, 2014, world lost a profound and prolific actor. Philip Seymour
Hoffman was an American actor and director, who appeared in nearly 50 films during
his career spanning more than two decades. He directed and acted in numerous
stage productions throughout his career. He received an Academy Award for Best
Actor for his performance in ‘Capote
(2005)’ and was nominated three times for Best Supporting Actor for ‘Charlie Wilson’s War (2007)’, ‘Doubt (2008)’ and ‘The Master (2012)’. He received three Tony Award nominations for
his Broadway performances, two for Best Leading Actor in ‘True West (2000)’ and ‘Death
of a Salesman (2012)’, and one for Best Featured Actor in ‘Long Day’s Journey into Night (2003)’. His
only film as a director has been ‘Jack
Goes Boating (2010)’ which was a romantic-comedy and starred him in the
title role.
He was
a highly versatile actor who brought profoundness and humanity to his roles. He
scarcely ever appeared in leading roles in his movies and mostly did supporting
work. Initially, he appeared in minor, but seminal roles and but gained
recognition through his invigorating and gaping performances. However, short
his role was, he would always leave an indelible print on the spectator’s mind.
He had a riveting screen presence that would make you jump and espy. The
characters that he portrayed were not customary. He would choose roles that were
flawed and would accomplish them with utter flawlessness. Be it an egotistical
student in Scent of a Woman (1992), a
pornographic film hustler in Boogie
Nights (1997), a smug assistant in The
Big Lebowski (1998), a phone-sex rogue in Punch-Drunk Love (2002), an immoral priest in Cold Mountain (2003), a disgusting friend in Along Came Polly (2004), a psychotic dealer in Mission: Impossible III (2006), a committed manager in Moneyball (2011) and The Ides of March (2011) or a nascent cult
leader in The Master (2012), he
portrayed all of them and more resplendently. He was highly engaged in theatre
work throughout his career. He would keep himself grounded as an actor by
appearing on stage almost annually as a break from the big screen. His last
film is yet to be released which is The
Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 and 2 where he portrays a judge of the
games Plutarch Heavensbee, is
produced posthumously and some of his scenes have been generated using
live-action computer animation. He has worked very closely with wunderkind
director Paul Thomas Anderson starring in five of his six features and all of
them are noteworthy, enticing and exquisite.
Among
a few movies of Hoffman which I have seen, I would like to share some funny and
memorable moments which are still embed in my mind as I am writing this
tribute:
In the
light hearted romance, Along Came Polly
(2004), in the art gallery, Hoffman walks up to Ben Stiller and says to him,
“I think I just sharted”. Stiller asks him, “What is sharted?” To which he
replies, “I tried to fart and shit came out”. I laughed so hard that I think I
did the same.
In
P.T. Anderson’s Punch Drunk Love (2002),
there is an amazingly aggressive phone conversation between Adam Sandler and Hoffman
which was outstanding. Also, in Anderson’s The
Master (2012), there is a similar vigorous scene in the jail cell between
Joaquin Phoenix and Hoffman.
The
following are some notable quotes from his various interviews:
“Ultimately,
my main goal is to do good work. If it doesn't pay well, so be it.”
"I
think deep down inside, people understand how flawed they are. I think the more
benign you make somebody, the less truthful it is."
"It's
hard. The job isn't difficult. Doing it well is difficult... just because you
like to do something doesn't mean you have fun doing it; and I think that's
true about acting"
Hoffman
rarely talked about his personal life in interviews, stating in 2012 that he
would "rather not because my family doesn't have any choice. If I talk
about them in the press, I'm giving them no choice. So I choose not to."
David
Fear of Rolling Stone remarkably said about Hoffman –
"No
modern actor was better at making you feel sympathy for fucking idiots,
failures, degenerates, sad sacks and hangdogs dealt a bum hand by life, even as
— no, especially when — he played them with all of their worst qualities front
and center. But Philip Seymour Hoffman had a range that seemed
all-encompassing, and he could breathe life into any role he took on: a famous
author, a globetrotting party-boy aristocrat, a German counterintelligence
agent, a charismatic cult leader, a genius who planned games of death in
dystopic futures. He added heft to low-budget art films, and nuance and
unpredictability to blockbuster franchises. He was a transformative performer
who worked from the inside out, blessed with an emotional transparency that
could be overwhelming, invigorating, compelling, devastating."
Lastly, I would urge all of you
to see the following epic video tribute by filmmaker Caleb Slain who says, “A
post-script journey through Philip Seymour Hoffman's lifetime in cinema. 200
hours of work went into breaking down 47 of Hoffman's films. Compiling his
legacy has been one of the most challenging experiences I've ever faced as an
editor, and yet indescribably rewarding. I can assure you that after 22 years
on screen and nearly fifty films, we now look at the work of an actor who never
had a single dishonest moment on camera. I know because I've seen them all.
Please take a breather and raise your glasses to one of our greatest."
P.S. Hoffman - A Tribute
P.S. Hoffman - A Tribute
P.S.
Hoffman was one of the most widely admired actor and his passing is a syncope
to the world of cinema for which there exist no panacea. His position can never
be filled and satiated. His work will always remain classic and eternal,
leaving indelible impressions throughout.
My Rating:
8 out of 10
The
Master is an American 2012 psychological drama film written, directed and
co-produced by Paul Thomas Anderson. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix as Freddie
Quell, Philip Seymour Hoffman as Lancaster Dodd, Amy Adams as Peggy Dodd, Ambyr
Childers as Elizabeth Dodd and Jesse Plemons as Val Dodd. The story follows Freddie,
who is a World War II veteran into the post-war world trying to adapt to the
changes of life. He meets Lancaster, who is the leader of a religious movement
called “The Cause” and he sees something in him and accepts him into his
movement. Freddie begins travelling with him and his family, spreading their
teachings and battling with his own problems.
This
movie is an epitome of sensational acting by both leading actors – Phoenix and
Hoffman. Joaquin Phoenix gives his character immense depth and portrays it with
utmost passion. One can percept his preparation for the role through his physical
stature, body language and amazing dialogue delivery. I have seen a lot of
movies of Philip Seymour Hoffman and he never disappoints. Here as well, he
finds the driving force of his character and delivers it exceptionally well.
These two actors portray antithetical men who complete each other but at the
same time are independent in their world. Amy Adams makes a place for herself
beside these two actors and becomes the impetus for Seymour’s character. You
might know Jesse Plemons from AMC’s Breaking Bad fame as blonde Todd, who becomes
Walt’s replacement for Jesse Pinkman in the show.
The movie’s story has been said to be partly
based on L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Church of Scientology. There can be
many interpretations of the movie and its characters according to the
perception of the spectator. Overall, the marvellous acting and peculiar
direction with the help of eerie score make for a thought provoking experience.
The appropriateness and interpretation of the title of the movie is also a food
for thought. The Master is a must watch for drama lovers and cinema critics and
fans of Phoenix, Hoffman and Anderson.
To watch the movie, you can get the amazing print at The Master
.Have fun watching...do let me know your reviews !!
My Rating:
7.6 out of 10
The Great
Gatsby
is a 2013 Australian-American 3D drama film. The movie is an adaptation of F.
Scott Fitzgerald's 1925 classic novel of the same name. The film was co-written
and directed by Baz Luhrmann and stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey
Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Elizabeth Debicki, Isla Fisher, Jason Clarke and
Amitabh Bachchan. It follows the life and times of millionaire Jay Gatsby
(DiCaprio) and his neighbour Nick (Maguire) who recounts his encounter with
Gatsby at the height of the Roaring Twenties. The time in which the story is
set is called the “Jazz Age” which is the term coined by Fitzgerald himself. If
anyone knows about the life of Fitzgerald, then they would definitely find a lot
of similarities between his life and the novel. He used his life as the
inspiration for some of his material.
DiCaprio plays the role of Gatsby with utmost streak of style.
The acuity with which he plays certain scenes in the movie is just remarkable
like in one in which he says pointing to the sky – “My life has got to be like
this. It’s got to keep going up.” Tobey Maguire gives a great support to the
plot as the movie is narrated by his character. Carey Mulligan tries to actuate
her character but I guess her role isn’t just that strong as it was in “An
Education”. Joel Edgerton as Tom Buchanan does an excellent job of depicting
the character’s gruffness, despite the one-dimensionality given to him. The
screen time of Amitabh Bachchan isn’t much but still he makes a place for
himself in the movie. The direction by Baz Luhrmann is as beautiful and subtle as
his previous movies with the elegant style of showing stories larger than life.
Cinematography by Simon Duggan and visual effects by Chris Godfrey give an exquisite
and gorgeous blend of images to the movie. The screenplay by Baz Luhrmann and
Craig Pearce is very well written and does justice by the novel. The music by
Craig Armstrong and the soundtrack by various artists punctuate the romance. A
special mention to the song “Young and Beautiful” performed by Lana Del Ray is
definitely needed here.
Even though having a budget of $105 million and Luhrmann’s
direction the movie lacks the in-depth chemistry between the main characters. It
emphasizes visual splendour at the prick of its source’s vibrant heart. The
story being a classic may not go well with the sympathetic people but it points
out some very delicate virtues of life.
Concluding, I would like to say that it’s a must watch for
people who love Luhrmann’s style and have read “The Great Gatsby”. People who
expect a thick plot might be disappointed but they should watch it for DiCaprio and
Edgerton’s performance as well as the photography of the movie.
Now, to watch the movie, I personally don't prefer the 3D because it inhibits the brightness. 2D is amazing, so you can get the gorgeous print at The Great Gatsby.
You can also buy the book at The Great Gatsby (Collins Classics)!!
Have fun watching and reading...do let me know your reviews !!
Now, to watch the movie, I personally don't prefer the 3D because it inhibits the brightness. 2D is amazing, so you can get the gorgeous print at The Great Gatsby.
You can also buy the book at The Great Gatsby (Collins Classics)!!
Have fun watching and reading...do let me know your reviews !!
My Rating:
6.8 out of 10
"Cherish your life". This is the motto behind the
film series "Saw". Tobin Bell stars as the perfect villain "John
Kramer aka Jigsaw" in this franchise. The series is created by James Wan and Leigh Whannell, they
being the main story writers. The series was initially directed by James Wan
and further sequels were followed by Darren Lynn Bousman, David Hackl and Kevin Greutert. Other actors include Shawnee Smith, Cary
Elwes, Costas Mandylor, Danny Glover and Betsy Russell. It can be termed as a
horror/ thriller.
The
series mainly focuses on death nearing games. This series can be gross for some
people, some people may remark it disgusting as flesh tears off from the body,
people scream, muscles lacerate, blood spilling off and body parts being pulled
out. But as these games progress, the story mainly focuses on the reason behind
these games. The past of Jigsaw killer is related with the story as the sequels
progress. The plot involves police department and FBI with all addicted people,
criminals, cheaters and greedy people feeding off others.
The
first part involves a cheating doctor and an ungrateful person who interferes
with people's privacy. The twisted ending at the end of the first part paved
the way for the other parts. The second part includes eight people trapped in a
gas infecting chamber where they need to find the proper antidotes within time
limit. The third part involves a man who is coping with the death of his son
and it involves people who imparted him injustice in his son's death case. The
fourth part involves a twist in the series and it is when police entirely comes
in the story. It involves detectives and officers being played in the game. The
fifth part brings about a lot with the past of Jigsaw and five people trapped
in a game due to their greedy deeds which destroyed people's lives. The sixth
part involves a health insurance executive
being trapped in a game due to his company's unjust policy. The seventh part is
the final instalment in the series and it involves a man who claimed to the
world of falsely being trapped in the jigsaw's trap. Jigsaw finally traps him
and makes him realize about some true commitments.
"Game
Over" as the main dialogue ending each part, the movie finally brings
everything forward and it gives the seven years series an amazing ending. The
direction of the movie is satisfying with visual effects and cinematography
taking the main place. The lacerating of the body is amazing shown with some
overwhelming effects. The movie at some point becomes a little boring with
games going on repetitively but the suspense at the end pulls the movie off.
All
the seven parts are so intermingled with each other that if a person loses some
focus, the movie may become a little complex. But more or less it provides a
great watch for people who are not scared by body tearing and enjoy a great
thrilling suspense. If the series had been pulled more it may had cause loss of
interest in the people, but the franchise people understood that and ended it
at the right moment. Overall, I suggest that viewers should watch this series
and enjoy the experience.
My Rating:
8 out of 10
The highly acclaimed American thriller, "The Silence of
the Lambs" is based on a novel by Thomas Harris. The novel as well as the
movie is about a psychiatrist and serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter and his
confrontation with a FBI trainee/agent Clairence Starling. The movie is
directed by Jonathan Demme. It stars Jodie Foster as Clairence Starling and
Anthony Hopkins as Dr. Hannibal Lecter. The film also features Ted Levine as "Buffalo
Bill" as a skin peeling killer of women, in whose investigation, Clairence
demands help of Dr. Lecter.
The acting by Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster is outstanding.
The psychotic mind of Lecter is well understood by Hopkins and Foster is
amazing at depicting as a scared but courageous woman who wants to silence the
lambs from her past. The horror and crime blend in the movie is remarkable and
the screenplay is subtle. How well the direction is, is remarkably shown by the
actors and camera angles in the movie.
Although the movie is very well made but the Oscar for best
picture could have had better receiver. Maybe the other movies nominated that
year were not better than it but the prestigious award should have had more
competition. As it became one of the only three movies to win "Big
Five" at Oscars, my expectations of the movie were a little high.
You can watch the movie in amazing Blu ray at Silence of the Lambs.
Also, read the book as it got the Best Adapted Screenplay at The Silence Of The Lambs Book.
Do let me know your reviews in the comments space...
My Rating:
5 out of 10
Like other novels of Nicholas Sparks which have been turned
into movies, "The Last Song" joins the very collection. The movie is
a coming of age romantic drama and depicts the same emotions and story as of
the other Nicolas Sparks' writings. The story deals with death, love and
disease. The movie is set in Georgia at a house at the beach.
The movie is a directorial debut of Julie Anne Robinson. It
stars teen pop star Miley Cyrus as Veronica "Ronnie" L. Miller, an
angry, rebellious eighteen year old forced to spend a summer with her estranged
father. Greg Kinnear as Steve Miller, Ronnie
and Jonah's father and former Juilliard School professor and concert pianist
who moved to Georgia after his divorce. Liam Hemsworth as Will Blakelee, a popular and skilled beach volleyball player, Will
aspires to attend a top university and volunteers at the Georgia Aquarium. He is Ronnie's love interest. Kelly Preston as Kim,
Ronnie and Jonah's mother who raised her children in New York City after her
divorce. Bobby Coleman as Jonah Miller, Ronnie's
younger brother sent along with his elder sister to Tybee Island.
The
movie starts with Ronnie and his brother being sent to their father in Georgia
to spend the summer. She used to play piano but after her father's divorce, she
had not played since. It's been three years and she is still angry with her
father. After arrival, Ronnie becomes miserable, defiant, and defensive towards
all those around her. Including handsome, popular Will Blakelee whose
introduction involved crashing into her during a volleyball match, and
accidentally spilling Ronnie's strawberry shake on her. Later on, Ronnie
discovers a Loggerhead Sea Turtle nest at the beach by her house and while protecting it, she
meets Will again on his volunteer work for the aquarium. After a night of
staying up to defend the turtles with Will, she discovers he is deeper than she
believed, and begins to have feelings for him. As Ronnie falls in love with
Will, she also manages to form a better and stronger bond with her father. As
their relationship deepens, Will invites her to his sister's wedding.
Meanwhile, she helps a girl Blaze with her problems which resembles the kind
and delicate side of Ronnie behind all her estranged behaviour. Her father was
given the name "arsonist" after as people and he believed that he
accidently burned down the church. Later
that day, the turtle eggs hatch and her father collapses with a coughing
seizure that evening. Ronnie immediately has Steve rushed to a hospital.
Further, the story deals with her love for her father after his ill health and
obstacles in her relationship with Will. Steve has been working on a piece of
music for quite a while and due to his ill health it remained incomplete. The
title of the movie comes from this last song.
The book from Nicholas Sparks is available at The Last Song !!
My Rating:
6.6 out of 10
The Da
Vinci Code is a 2006 American mystery psychological horror film produced
by John Calley and Brian Grazer and directed by Ron Howard. The screenplay is
written by Akiva Goldsman and it is adapted from Dan Brown's best-selling novel
of the same name. The film stars Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon, a professor of
religious iconography and symbology from Harvard University who is the prime
suspect in the grisly and unusual murder of Louvre curator Jacques Saunière. He
escapes with the assistance of a police cryptologist, Sophie Neveu played by
Audrey Tautou and they are embroiled in a quest for the legendary Holy Grail.
The movie also stars Ian McKellen, Alfred Molina, Jürgen Prochnow, Jean Reno,
and Paul Bettany in prominent roles.
The direction of the movie is satisfying and cinematography by
Salvatore Totino is remarkable. The camera's dollying effect with an effective
screenplay gives movie a good flow. The acting by Tom Hanks is as always
splendid and Ian McKellen and Audrey Tautou also give a great performance. The
score by Hans Zimmer is engaging. The movie as it says is based on Dan Brown's
novel of the same name but it is not entirely grounded on it. There have been
many differences in the plot. I initially read the novel and then watched the
movie. This does effect the movie watching. It becomes like a gift as well as a
curse for movie buffs because you know the suspense of the movie which ruins
the excitement but you can understand the dialogues and plot better which was a
great deal in this movie because of the content and history of religions and
symbols. You also know which parts have been left out in the movie. So, it gives
the impressions of both sides of the coin. As comparing to other movies based
on novels, it does far better justice to the novel. It includes main elements
and the suspense leaving out certain less important though interesting pieces. The
movie is less efficacious as mystery psychological horror and for a person who
hasn't read the novel; it creates difficulties to keep up with the story as it
keeps on dumping a whole load of information. Hanks could have been given more platforms
to show greater emotions of his character.
My Rating:
7.1 out of 10
Scoop is an American-British romantic comedy and a murder mystery written and directed by Woody
Allen. It stars Scarlett Johansson as a young journalism student and Hugh
Jackman as a rich aristocrat. Ian McShane acts as the late investigative reporter who from his afterlife contacts
ScarJo saying that Hugh might be the infamous Tarot Card killer. Allen himself
acts in this movie as a magician who comes in contact with ScarJo and helps her
out. The title refers to as one last scoop of glory for Ian and first big scoop
of ScarJo.
As
like any other Allen's movies, it has a very subtle humour in dialogues which
gives the movie a unique charm. The direction and screenplay give away an
impressionable quality. The acting of ScarJo has a distinct hint of a
journalism student which adds to the character. Jackman although was not given
much platform but he justifies the character well. Woody Allen is funny and
weird in his own way with an amazing sense of humour. The story is although a
little fantasy but it definitely belongs to the Allen world. The movie has its own
moments of laugh and a little mystery to it.
Concluding,
I would like to say that it does not overwhelm you but definitely surprises
you. The movie is light and has a queer sense to it. I loved the way Allen
gives the reason to his character's end in the movie. It is a fun watch for all
those who can handle Allen's humor and the way he presents a movie.
My Rating:
7.2 out of 10
The word 'Carnage' literally means “the savage and excessive
killing of many people". The movie can be related to the literal meaning
but it cannot be supposed as the exact definition. This movie is based on the play "God of Carnage" by French
playwright Yasmina
Reza. The film is directed by one of the most established directors 'Roman
Polanski'. The film shows two couples who meet at one couple's house to discuss
the matter of their two grade-school boys getting into a confrontation in the park that
results in one boy hitting the other in the mouth with a stick. It stars
Jodie Foster and John C. Reily as one couple and Kate Winslet and Christopher
Waltz as the other couple.
The acting of all four actors is remarkable. The screenplay by
Roman Polanski and Yasmina Reza gives movie flow which definitely helps the
plot. The dialogues and story shows a subtle black humour. The title depicts
the main meaning behind the story because as the evening goes on, the parents become
increasingly childish, resulting in the evening devolving into chaos which is
actually the work of the God Of Carnage. I have seen Polanski's "The
Pianist" which is a typical war survivor drama movie and Carnage although
a black comedy film depicts his amazing direction which is just the most
drawing aspect of the movie. Such kinds of movies show the importance of story,
direction and acting in a movie rather than high budget, action and background
score. The movie is picked from a very minimal point but it eventually develops
into something very more complex. It shows one of the true aspects of life.
Concluding, I would like to say that the movie offers a very different cinema for people expecting something different other than the usual movie stuff. It is definitely a great watch to understand the social and psychotic nature of people.
