Movie and Television Reviews

I enjoyed all of the Oscar nominated films. Two of the five, No Country for Old Men and There Will be Blood are heavy, brilliant films, but ultimately nihilistic and cynical. Still, up until their depressing ends, I'll give them the first two spots. Michael Clayton is of similar mass- not as compelling throughout- but with a "just" ending. Here is my "pocket" opinion. I'll review them at length tomorrow.

1. No Country for Old Men:

The best villain since Darth Vader. Great regional "color." I thought it was going to be Pulp Fiction with a happy, life affirming ending. Instead, it's like Pulp Fiction. That is, terrific dialog, amazing situations, dry humor, and a fearless, swerving plot. It has a good guy for whom I rooted, but alas...

2. There will be Blood:

Like NCOM, TWBB has a novel, fascinating setting- turn of the century California (I also live in turn of the century California). The lead is more of an anti-hero, but still mesmerizing. Like Citizen Kane in that we see the rise and fall, spiritually, of a mysteriously self-driven man. Great acting by Lewis.

3. Michael Clayton:

Non-traditional suspense movie in that we know who all of the bad guys are as soon as they appear. As morally reflective as the above two, but with a societal angle. "Happy" ending.

4. Atonement:

A Masterpiece Theater-type traditional love story. Straightforward with clever twists (some may think them gimmicky). Still, very good and the only one appropriate for a fun evening with the life partner.

5. Juno:

The goofy and not-too-dramatic experience of a pregnant teen, but with little societal approbation in 2008, Juno doesn't really have too tough a time. The fact that she chooses to have the baby upset Maureen Dowd, which makes me hope that it wins.