mp697 Reviews

Public Enemies (2009)

A surprising masterpiece

[6/10 · 10 August 2009]

Michael Mann is, regardless of personal opinion, one of the greatest directors ever when it comes to action films. His notion of pace, narrative, and perspective are top notch, and Heat, Miami Vice prove this without a doubt. Now, Public enemies, his greatest film since Heat, comes to prove something that the pacino/deniro confrontation had left in the air: his subtle but certain analysis of the idea of the "hero" versus the "anti-hero". Let's be clear: Mann creates tough, aggressive, larger than life characters, but, at the same times, gives them a great sense of humanity. But let's focus on the film: Public enemies is a precious work of art, a fast-paced, epic movie not only about Dillinger, but also about the other great robbers of its time (the so called "public enemies", that gave origin to the film's name) and the clash between them and the law (represented, mainly, by Christopher Nolan's character). The result is a gangster movie, with a powerful love story fueling the narrative into a very compelling and powerful outcome. Deep's performance is simply off the charts, Oscar worthy, and his supporting cast is exceptional (Marion Cotillard and Nolan being the best proof of that). That, along with remarkable action sequences, extraordinary shootouts, brilliant photography, original ambiance, and masterful directing, makes Public enemies the best movie of the year so far. If you liked Heat, you'll love this. If you didn't, go see it anyway: it's just a brilliant piece of cinema. Not everyone will like it, but if you allow yourself to be taken in by the story, you'll probably love it. All in all, a masterpiece of modern cinema.

Altiplano (2009)

Impressive

[7/10 · 25 July 2009]

There are films that, not being perfect, have some exceptional moments of cinematic wonder. Altiplano is one of those films. First of all, it's not for everyone. The film is actually a quite complex mix between fiction and documentary, which should't be a surprise considering it's the second feature film from Brosens and Woodworth, creators of Khadak, a film that also lies in this intriguing conception of cinema. But, unlike Khadak, Altiplano has a very strong and story oriented narrative, which is extremely good, since the constant allegorical images that the movie possesses are much more well timed and effective than in Khadak. Apart from the style issues, the movie is a intense journey in the fight between modernism and tradition, nature and city. I don't want to give away anything, because seeing this filme without any kind of expectations (storywise, that is) is the best way to enjoy it. Visually stunning, with a exceptional soundtrack, Altiplano is, despite his flaws, a movie that should be watched for anyone that likes cinema or, at least, original cinema. If you belong to that group, go see it. Don't expect action packed sequences, or determined heroes overcoming evil. Altiplano is about life. Slow, real, and unforgiving.A really good film with some brilliant moments. If you like cinema, take a chance on this one. It's worth it.

Tropic Thunder (2008)

What is it really about?

[4/10 · 20 September 2008]

First of all, Tropic thunder does have some funny moments, mainly thanks to Robert Downey Jr., which makes an exceptional performance here. However, the movie is just plain ridiculous. First of all, it attacks many movies and actors in Hollywood. Which sometimes is justified and, quite frankly, funny, but when you're making a movie using Ben Stiller in an over the top comic performance, and, quite honestly, using a lot of easy jokes, you really should know better than to make fun of movies that do exactly the same... first, because it just looks arrogant and damages your film. When I was watching the beginning of the film I did found it funny that they made fun of the kind of ridiculous movies that just use the same ideas once and again, but as you go in to the movie, you start seeing that you're watching exactly the same kind of movie... And just have this desire to leave the room. Let me put like this: My date was sleeping halfway in it, four people left. And leaving a comedy that lasts less than two hours can't be a good sign... Then, the movie doesn't focus on being a comedy, it just goes all over the place. It's action, it's drama, it's funny, it's apocalypse now turns platoon, it's just too much. And sure, there are movies that are not only comedies but also dramas ("as good as it gets", for example) but those movies focus on being a comedy and then evolve to other stages, they don't mix it all up, trying to be funny while trying to be serious. I actually wanted to see this film, and I wish I could recommend it. But my good taste just says different. It's a bad film. Bad jokes, no humor. Now, i'll be honest: If you're a hardcore fan of Ben Stiller, you'll probably still like this. But people who actually like good comedy, it's just no worth the ticket. Just rent on DVD, if you wanna take that risk.