patricklewallen Reviews

The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

Very Big Disappointment

[1/10 · 18 September 2008]

I went into this movie very excited to see a film with three very talented actors. I had no idea that I was going to be seeing the most painfully boring movie made all year. There is no action in the movie. Actually, there is hardly a plot. The fact that this movie is classified as a comedy is an abomination. For something to be a comedy, there must be humor. However, this movie seems to lack any type of humor. If you want to see a depressing film, this is the film for you. Keep in mind though, there is no substance to the movie. I would not recommend this movie to anyone, because I don't want them to undergo the suffering I went through. Did I mention that the film is boring? Rating = F

Ironweed (1987)

One time's the charm

[8/10 · 9 September 2008]

After seeing the two starring actors listed as the top billings in this high rated film, I felt intrigued to view it... so I did. Little did I know I was in for one of the most depressing films of all time with some of the strongest acting ever put forth. Jack Nicholson, as always, puts on a performance for the ages, earning him his well deserved Oscar Nomination. The sinful part, however, is that Meryll Streep did not win her Oscar Nomination. With flawless ease, Streep carried her character through triumph (the one or two we see) and tragedy, letting every moment live inside each viewer. After speaking so highly of this film, you would think I would strongly recommend it. Yet, I would not recommend this film simply because it is just too dark with far too few bright spots. This incredible film deserves to be seen, and if you are just a movie-goer who enjoys a film with more to offer than meets the eye, this is the movie for you. Don't expect to be happy after the film, though - despite the beautiful performances put on by all. Brilliant movie on all accounts. With a few more bright spots, this would be a guaranteed 10/10 film. B+

Interview with the Vampire: The Vampire Chronicles (1994)

Thank God for Tom Cruise

[6/10 · 8 September 2008]

I was beyond excited about this movie. Everyone I have talked to just loved it, which is understandable. However, the fact is - it is a vampire movie. It is lame in that respect. If you love vampires, this is the movie for you. If you're like me, I'm not a huge fan of them. Brad Pitt put forth a forgettable performance, but it did not hinder the plot in any way. On the contrary, Tom Cruise put down the performance of a lifetime. He never seems to have trouble capturing the exact core of his characters. He was funny, serious, dark, malicious, and haunting. Because of him, this movie was enjoyable for me. Also, Kirstin Dunst did a very fine job in this film. For such a young girl, it's surprising she did not win the Golden Globe she was nominated for. Overall, I give the movie a 6.4, but I would recommend it to any vampire movie lover. It's more tolerable than a bunch of the junk out there. I was disappointed to not see a ten-star movie.

Disturbia (2007)

Predictable, but well executed

[7/10 · 30 June 2008]

Yes, I did enjoy the movie. BUT, let's just say the bad stuff up front to get it over with so we can focus on why I gave this movie such a strong rating. The Bad: First off, the story line is predictable - plus, it has strong resemblance to a classic horror movie which will remain unnamed to avoid any spoiler. Second, the last fourth of the movie threw all creativity to the wind (which, contrary to many others' beliefs, is perfectly fine with me - It compensates for this by including intense action and energy during this time). The killer, who has spent countless years planning and perfectly executing his murders, seemingly snaps?... Not likely. Fortunately, it works anyway. The Good: The movie was entertaining. So often, I hear people speaking of how terrible a script was, but they still enjoyed the movie. Where is the problem? Why do we see movies? We seek entertainment! This movie will give that quality. Second, the acting, while occasionally dependent on powerful camera angles, computer tricks, is good. The characters are likable, and the acting choices are justified. I would recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys a good, clean thriller. It is rated PG-13, so there is no fear of unnecessary nudity or desperate attempts to obtain shock value through vulgarity in language or gore. It's a clean, well depicted thriller. Overall rating - B/B+

The Strangers (2008)

This film might be too real for what I wanted

[7/10 · 30 June 2008]

Going into the film, I was excited to see a horror flick that seemed to have a little more potential than others, including Liv Tyler, who has proved that her acting is above that of a typically cast female in a horror film. She did not disappoint. Both leading characters acted their parts with absolute ease and committed to their roles. As with any horror movie, there are occasional holes in the script, including questionable motivation, victim idiocy, unmentioned villain sloppiness, etc. However, these aspects of the film can be easily dismissed, because they do not hold enough water to matter in this type of film. The film begins in a very unique fashion, different than most films of a similar genre. The part for me was found towards the ending scenes of the film. This is the type of film that can become far TOO REAL. Normally, I'm all about realism used in horror pictures, but for some reason, this one had an undesired effect on me. Just be warned that this movie might strike you in a way you were not expecting, which might be good for some, but for the crowd I was with, it was not a good thing. It almost forced me to give a poor star rating on IMDb because I didn't like the feelings I was having. I held off though. After a week, I have decided to post my rating and write the words that I thought would be appropriate having reflected on the film. Would I recommend this film to someone? Despite the above average rating I gave this movie, I feel I must be honest. No. I do not recommend this film. It's a good movie, but just a little too brutal. Overall rating: B-/C+

Evan Almighty (2007)

Far exceeded my expectations

[7/10 · 20 May 2008]

I loved Bruce Almighty. I thought it was brilliant. Knowing this movie lacked Jim Carrey prevented me from seeing the film for a long time. I wish I hadn't done so. Though this film has a very weak IMDb rating, I completely stand by my 9/10 rating. Though the film lacked the comparable humor to Bruce Almighty, and often times any actual humor at all, the plot was creatively written, and the story moved at a very good pace. I am glad I finally got around to seeing this film, and would heavily encourage others to see the film as well. Is it the best film I've seen? No. Is it a film to go out of your way to see? No. But it is not a film worthy of anything below a seven rating. I would watch this film again. I did not see it in theaters, and am more thankful for that. Theatre prices are extremely expensive, and this movie is worth the price of a rental movie. Personally, I do recommend the film!

Misery (1990)

A flawless performance

[10/10 · 23 April 2008]

Misery is a movie that will remain with you forever. With a dynamite script and brilliant direction, Misery stands out as one of the strongest suspense movies of all time. I found myself sitting at the edge of my seat, nervous for the safety of James Caan, who captures the spirit of his character with seemingly effortless acting. Richard Farnsworth plays the lovable man we all want him to be and sets forth an inevitably lovable character. Kathy Bates stands out as one of the most frighting, outlandishly memorable female antagonists of all time. Her mannerisms and edgy approach to her character show the extreme ability and range of this Award Winning actress. Without any hesitation, I can say Kathy Bates deserved her Oscar. She is known for her brilliance because she lets herself be completely vulnerable to her audience, ensuring that we will see no uncertainty with her characters. She commits to every moment, as does James Caan in this film, and stands out as an actress superior to many others.

Overall Rating: 9.8/10 - A+

Recommended: Yes

Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

A Shining Picture

[9/10 · 23 April 2008]

From the previews I saw, Little Miss Sunshine did not look like a film that would have the ability to grasp my attention. I never planned on seeing the film. Tonight, I was looking around at movies to rent, and it caught my eye. I had seen it's high markings on IMDb and decided to go against my original gut instinct and go for it! Thank God I did. This film is a rare gem. With such extraordinary characters, it's no wonder this film is in the Top 250. Upon rare occasion am I comfortable granting a 10 rating to any film. It has to be earned! This film simply took hold of my attention and refused to let go. I was captivated by the plot, the characters, and the outstanding risks this film took, using a story centered around a dysfunctional family. I am beyond thrilled I took a chance tonight, and I urge those who have any hesitation about this film to do the same. Would I recommend this movie to people? There is no question. Absolutely. Thank you to all those involved with the film for putting together a masterpiece of brilliant direction combined with the FLAWLESS (not a common word for me) cast.

Film rating: 9.6/10 - A+

Recommended: Yes

Into the Wild (2007)

I could have turned it off, but I had to finish it.

[3/10 · 22 April 2008]

Do not let my 3/10 rating tell the story. It is not what it seems. After reading many positive reviews on the film, I was more than anxious to see it! So I did.

First, the film began somewhat slow, which, as any brilliant film director will agree, is absolutely essential for the development of both plot and characters. However, the pace of this film never evolved. There was no build. At times, in defense of the director, a drowsy feel seemed entirely necessary. I just think a little mix-up in the pacing would have helped this film immensely. Second, although the character developments were strong, especially on the part of the outstanding William Hurt, the plot was comparable to a weakly translated Odyssey. Homer would be disappointed. The numerous different "players" met throughout the story were well acted, but I could not empathize with their lives. Third, I found the main character to be far too rebellious . His character was completely one-sided, and I never got to see both sides of him. Truth, Independence, Alaska... Truth, Independence, Alaska... Truth, Independence, Alaska; We get it. We know what you want. Let's see what you plan to do about it. He was far too irritating as a person for me to get involved in his struggle for independence

Finally, my biggest problem with the film rested in the lack of climax. The ending of the film options were two-fold. Either he lives and becomes bettered from the experience, or he dies at the hand of the experience. The slow and predictable pattern of the film made me apathetic toward the ending, so there's no point in mentioning which route the film takes.

With all that said, let it be known that I felt something compelling me to finish the film, even though I could have shut it off. I am glad I did, but can guarantee I will not watch the film again.

Film Rating = D+

Recommended = Yes, but only due to it's reputation - not my opinion.

Notes on a Scandal (2006)

What happened to the rest of the script???

[7/10 · 30 March 2008]

Let's start this off with the good. The acting was beyond exceptional. However, with the two dominant actresses, we were expecting nothing less than exceptional. For that reason alone, this film is one worth the time. Here's the negative - the script left much to be desired, but only because it was too short. The ending came to a sudden halt, and resolutions/disputes were far too quickly exclaimed. I would have been willing to stand for another thirty minutes to this film just to see a little more action and excitement. What I did see was so great that I wanted more to be there. The second negative was the young boy chosen. I thought he was irritating to watch. I didn't like the confidence he portrayed, but not because it was a bad character choice. It was the right character choice. He just wasn't believable. That's all. Even though I gave the film a 7, I would still recommend it, because for the script that was present, I LOVED it. Overall, this movie deserves a B-.

21 (2008)

It's Kevin Spacey... what more do you need

[8/10 · 30 March 2008]

I just recently saw this movie and was more impressed than I thought I was going to be. The best part of the movie was the pacing. It jumped right into the action that everyone wanted to see after giving a very brief set-up of the main characters, and then jumped straight into the action! The actors did an exceptional job with their roles, including even the minor roles, portraying exactly what was necessary. Kevin Spacey, of course, stole the movie with his absolute command of every situation, both as the commanding character and the obviously experienced actor. Because of his amazing ability, other actors stepped up to the plate, taking risks that I believe would have otherwise not been taken. I would recommend this movie for about anyone. Don't look for an ending, just let it happen for you. Overall, this movie deserves an A-. Very great film!

Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)

Irony, Exaggerated Humor, and Jim Carrey strike gold!

[10/10 · 30 March 2008]

Jim Carrey turns a typical underdeveloped script into a comedic masterpiece with his absolute brilliance for comedic timing and his obvious love for the screen. If you do not like movies that are highly imaginative, over-the-top in body language and humor, and just a joy, this is not the movie for you. Ace Ventura is a character who is so strongly developed that his tone, body movement, and hairstyle are immediately identifiable by anyone who has seen the film. With countless quotable one-liners, it is a film that can be watched again and again. You'll capture something new each time. Would I recommend the film? Yes. To whom? Everyone. This film is an absolute A with no exception.

American Beauty (1999)

It all fits perfectly

[10/10 · 28 January 2008]

The fact is true - Premiere voted this movie as one of the top twenty "Overrated films of All Time." HOWEVER, included in that same list is Forrest Gump, Good Will Hunting, A Beautiful Mind, Mystic River, The Wizard of Oz, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and Gone With the Wind. How much respect should be granted to a list that knocks some of the greatest films of all time? Truly NONE. American Beauty is one of the few films that gives every element, including drama, romance, comedy, and suspense. The acting performances of Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, and even the supporting roles of Thora Birch and Wes Bentley were absolutely astounding. This is a film that cannot be overlooked for any movie fan. Spacey gives a dynamite performance that displays just how powerful one actor can be. Flawless in every aspect of the word. If you have not seen this movie, it belongs at the top of the list. There is a reason people have ranked it as one of the greatest movies on IMDb - remember that. I give the film a 9.7/10. A+

Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story (2007)

Tries a little to hard sometimes

[5/10 · 28 January 2008]

I thought the film was really entertaining, though not everything was good. Meadows is hilarious, bringing an excellent element to his character. Unfortunately, the full male frontal nudity wasn't funny, but rather just disturbing. With the exclusion of that scene and a better built-up ending, the film would have had a much stronger punch for me. I would like to add that I had no expectation going into the film. I was curious, but did not expect good or bad things from it. I was overall pleasantly surprised. I don't know if I would recommend the film to people, but it is good for some quick laughs. Overall rating - C+

Halloween (2007)

Let's Consider All Elements

[3/10 · 27 January 2008]

Go into this movie expecting it to surpass the original and you will find yourself very disappointed. However, go into the movie without any expectations or comparisons, and you might be surprised by some of the strengths Rob Zombie put forth in his vision. Before anything else, let's get to the complaints. As expected from a Zombie film, the gore was beyond obscene. The beauty of the first Halloween was the simplicity of the plot over the unnecessary gore. This movie did NOT follow the same motto. Secondly, I found each episode of nudity to be entirely uncalled for. It was a typical, desperate attempt to gain the interest of adolescent boys. Guess what - I'm a twenty-two year old male, and it did nothing for me but cause an eye roll each time and take away from the power of the story. Cut the nudity. Very VERY rarely is it ever necessary in a film. Realize that. Finally, the story is entirely different from the original Halloween. The little Michael Meyers has a powerful role in this movie, and he gives an above average performance. The language was a tad overly vulgar for me in scenes, but that can be overlooked as the movie progresses. I give the movie a 6.5 out of 10, but wouldn't recommend putting it on the top of your list. It was alright though. Watch the original for a horror movie. Rating = C-

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

One of the Best Films of the Year

[10/10 · 8 January 2008]

With an expected slightly underdeveloped storyline to keep up with the typical musical-theatrical movie guidelines, Sweeney Todd offers something more than the typical Chicago or Hairspray. The ability to capture the attention of an audience without the flashy advantages of dance numbers (Hairspray) and memorable music (Chicago) is noteworthy as Stephen Sondheim's vocally besieging score is tackled with flawless performance singing. Johnny Depp plays his expected introverted character who attempts to overcome his struggle with inner resentment. However, as the movie develops, so develops his character, bringing forth acting moments not yet seen from Depp. Helena Carter, despite the occasional under-pitched tone (which can be expected from any Sondheim score), acts the part in a way that could not be paralleled by any currently known actress. The two create a thrill ride for the audience, often times leaving a spectator at the edge of his/her seat. The sound quality was a 7/10, but the story is so simple to follow that an occasional missed word is not essential. The film emulated the creativity of Tim Burton, leaving no light un-gelled with a tinted moonlight tone, creating the perfect atmosphere for this Gothem-like town. Direction - A, Action - A+, Technical Aspects/Special Effects - A+, Storyline/Music - A+, Overall A+. 10/10. See this film.

Knocked Up (2007)

Overrated

[5/10 · 10 October 2007]

I don't exactly know why this movie was so hyped up. I was beyond excited to see this "intelligent comedy." Needless to say, I was disappointed with the result. It is not a film I will never see again, because it did have a few good laughs here and there. However, The crude nature of the characters was unrealistic and humorless. Don't get me wrong - crude is hysterical to me - but this was not believable. Never, in all my years, have I seen grown men act the way these men did. It was unutterably sophomoric, just as 40-year-old virgin was at times. If you liked 40-year-old virgin, this might be up your alley of overplayed, lewd behaviors. It'd give this film a 4.5/10, and I feel I'm relying to much on my predetermined notion of how I wanted the film to be to even give it this rating...

The Village (2004)

I would rather watch a soap opera about square dancing

[1/10 · 31 May 2005]

As miserable to watch as it was to listen to, this film was by far the worst production I have ever seen. The general idea of the movie itself could not be more boring. The fact that the most action happens when the camera does a cheap shot of a rocking chair should speak solemnly for itself. The "creature" we are trained to be fearful of is less intimidating than Rex from Toy Story. I have never seen a film and actually wished I was trapped within a coffin of spiders (my biggest fear) as opposed to watching the television. If you are questioning seeing the film because it looks "fearful and intriguing," you are incorrect. It is fearless and uninteresting. I wish I would not have wasted perfectly good money on it. The acting of the production could be topped by high school students in a poor production of Hello Dolly. I was unbelievably disappointed. I really wanted this film to be good, and the plot line made it sound absolutely fascinating. I was wrong. I will never see this film again, and if a friend ever decides to watch this production, I will lay myself upon train tracks to prevent them from doing so. I have seen easily over 1,000 movies, and this one is within the worst ten I have ever seen. Terrible - terrible - terrible!

The Whole Ten Yards (2004)

The whole ten yards... no good

[2/10 · 10 April 2005]

The Whole Nine Yards was one of my favorite movies of all time! Absolutely hilarious. However, this movie was really a downfall. The characters were horrible. Bruce Willis' character becomes entirely too false. The new mobster group just irritated me every time I saw them on the screen. Matthew Perry is the only one to deliver a true performance. He's great! The plot line of this story is no good. It's incredibly dull, and not really fun. There were, as expected, a few really great parts to make the film alright. I did laugh here, and there, but I did regret renting the film. What a bummer. If you're looking for a movie that has nothing, you found it. However... But I, very regretfully..., would not recommend this movie.