FP4 pick of the week

Treasure Island for the new generation... and yes, it is possible to I.M. from the jungle...

PICK #20: “Nim's Island” (2005) Director: Jennifer Flackett and Mark Levin

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/browse/catalog/movieDetails/353178

OR

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Nim_s_Island/70084792?lnkctr=srchrd-sr&strkid=233180646_0_0

ENTRY: This movie was a big surprise to me... it's a sleeper hit in my opinion but not for everyone. Granted, I have children and watch way too many bubble gum fad flicks. However, this one caught my interest quickly. I expected a "Disney-Dokota-Fanning-ish" type of movie... no way, not even close. A little fantasy edge in a very entertaining action theme. I just wanted to spend time with my kids and watch a movie not expecting to find another potential FP4 classic.

SYNOPSIS: Based on a book by Wendy Orr, a girl and her dad reside on a beautiful island in paradise. She spends her days learning about nature and science while her dad explores and writes research papers on ocean creatures. Through a series of events, her father is capsized at sea and leaving her alone... all while an email of the daughter beckons an unlikely rescue by one of her favorite action novelist. Suddenly, the island isn't as private as it once was. (Jodie Foster, Abigail Breslen [little miss sunshine], and Gerard Butler)

Scope: This is one for the whole family to enjoy. May want to sit everyone down on a rainy fall evening and watch this together. It may be a stretch to name this movie beside "Treasure Island" but with all the crappy movies for kids in the last several years, it's great to see some respect for intelligent rhetoric and clean cinema for children. Enjoy!

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FP4 pick of the week

Your best opponent is the one who is smarter and more experienced than you...

PICK #19: “REVOLVER” (2005) Director: Guy Ritchie

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/256125

OR

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Revolver/70040694?lnkctr=srchrd-sr&strkid=1990489764_0_0

ENTRY: Jason Stathman is a genius at creating believable characters in his roles. This one won't disappoint if you are a fan of his. However, the sizzle behind this movie is not the character development but the segue of the movie's content from Tarantino-ish plot build-up to something Socrates might teach in philosophy.

SYNOPSIS: I can tell you about the plot and the setting but nothing can really prepare you for the core content of the movie. Our main character, Mr. Green, finds himself released from incarceration after many years in solitary confinement. Adjacent cell-mates were able to communicate to Mr. Green and prepare him for his transition back into the public life. Mr. Green comes back prepared to control his destiny and settle old scores. However, fate has a very different role in mind for his purpose in life.

Scope: If you don't like the artist/director manipulating you into a vulnerable position as a viewer, you won't like the movie. If you don't like Aronofsky like cinematography (Requiem for a Dream), you will perhaps be annoyed by some of shots. However, I can assure you, it isn't a David Lynch type ending - there is closure... just not the predictable closure most lazy movies give into.

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FP4 pick of the week

Seek and ye shall find

PICK #18: “THE APOSTLE” (1997) Director: Robert Duvall

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetials/114907

OR

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/The_Apostle/1180104?lnkctr=srchrd-sr&strkid=466754514_0_0

ENTRY: Robert Duvall stars and directs this spiritually complex but externally simple character sketch of a fallen clergy.

SYNOPSIS: The story line centers on a character sketch of a simple Texas minister, "Sonny." It starts out with his simple and fulfilling lifestyle. However, due to the sins of the earth, we see the weakness of humans. Sonny goes through turmoil and is forced under harsh conditions and then family & personal dysfunctions surface... all leading to regrettable actions. It's evident that the movie's focus is not about religion but about life, trials and tribulations. We may not be able to stop the things that happen to us (sickness, transgressions, etc...) but we can try to control our reactions and attitudes towards these situations. Our character, Sonny, reacts the way a majority of humans and animals would react but then transforms into something else. For example, have you ever meet someone who has a terminal illness and knows death is around the corner? Or someone who has been treated horribly and abused? A small few group of these victims possess the ability to be anything but a "victim." This small group of people are at complete peace and possess a power of self-fulfillment and are a testament to the fact that humans have the ability to rise above situations and deny normal, primitive and savage behavior. That is why we differ from the animals that roam the earth Mr. Darwin.

Scope: You don't have to believe or have like-minded faith of "Sonny" to enjoy this movie and reap it's intended rewards... Seek and ye shall find.

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FP4 pick of the week

Napoleon Dynamite meets the Gilmore Girls

PICK #17: “JUNO” (2008) Director: Jason Reitman

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/307406

OR

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Juno/70077553?lnkctr=srchrd-sr&strkid=307434067_0_0

ENTRY: This little gold nugget is quite the movie. Most people have probably seen it since the reviewers and awards are spewing accolades to this independent film. If you are one of the few people who haven't seen it yet, you are in for a treat.

SYNOPSIS: Starting out, I would say simply "WOW." This will be one of my favorite movies of all times. At the surface, it is a story about an unplanned, teenage pregnancy with a young girl named Juno (Ellen Page). She plays a wonderful roll and delivers the script with snappy but sarcastic remarks (which are familiar to Napoleon Dynamite's memorable & strange humor). The characters interactions with Juno only show off her witty personality of her character to a larger degree. "Juno" was made for Ellen Page's talents - the character fits her like a glove. The movie has an almost "dark humor" approach to this very serious matter - you may find yourself laughing at certain lines and scenes that don't seem politically correct or find your self amused at inappropriate times and be chuckling to one's self with a little embarrassment. However, at one very specific moment in the movie, Jason Bateman's character causes a strange tide change to the feeling of the movie. The movie seems to lightly bring you into a teenager's naive view of parenthood and then into her head during a very heavy moment. It's a moment in time when the realization of the awesome responsibility of bringing a child into the world (even with the plan of giving the baby for adoption) and her one small decision could greatly affect this future of a person's life.

Scope: Please don't approach this movie with thoughts of pro-life or pro-abortion issues. Thank you very much. You'll be missing the point. It is a coming of age movie for a character that shouldn't have to come of age in her maturity level. You will like this movie if sarcasm and witty humor fits your taste. The reviews lend the thought that a wide audience range could enjoy this movie. I agree. I would warn that some of the dialog and situations could be offending to some. However, take a chance, this could become one of your favorites too!

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FP4 pick of the week

Dog Lovers, get ready to laugh

PICK #16: “Best In Show” (2000) Director: Christopher Guest

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/162409

OR

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Best_in_Show/60002428?lnkctr=srchrd-sr&strkid=763440513_0_0

ENTRY: Looking to suggest a movie for the lighter side this week as we all need a good laugh.

SYNOPSIS: The movie takes a documentary & chronological approach to several dogs and their owners as they prepare to go to a national dog show in Philadelphia. The film gives a small glimpse of the world of championship dog breeding and training. However, this is only the canvas for Christopher Guest to portray the personalities of the dog owners... the cast all play some neurotic, crazy or simply silly personalities. There is a story line as all the dogs (and their crazy owners) prepare to participate in the coveted "best in show" prize. But it is a crazy train right up to the end. My favorite character is the announcer for the show played by Fred Willard.

Scope: This movie is my favorite "mock-u-mentary" film. It has a great cast of very talented actors and actresses. If you like dogs, ever owned a dog, there is a good chance you love this film. *Please note that there is SOME crude and sexual humor... even in the opening scene. However, it is not over bearing in the movie-depends on your tolerance level. The humor is also very dry so if your looking for stand up comedy type of delivery, this is not for you. Let me know what you think.

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FP4 pick of the week

A journey through mortality and transcendentalism

PICK #15: “Into the Wild” (2007) Director: Sean Penn

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/288216

OR

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Into_the_Wild/70075064?lnkctr=srchrd-sr&strkid=304615976_0_0

ENTRY: This is a little of the beaten path of my other FP4 picks. The plot is not light by any means and has some very deep and emotional aspects that you would expect from a philosophy book. HOWEVER, it is based on a true story which has a draw in itself. I am highly recommending the book also as it fills in the blanks much better than the movie does.

SYNOPSIS: The movie centers around our main character, Chris McCandless (a.k.a. Alexander Supertramp). Chris gives up his material life after graduation and disappears from his former life to explore nature at it's finest. Though he left to escape human contact, he finds himself still very drawn to relationships with people that take him trustingly into their lives along the way. However, his ultimate goal, was to spend a summer in Alaska and living off the land... alone, very alone. This is the physical journey. There is a sub-plot that follow a philosophical view of survival, mortality, religion and, off course, a heavy dose of social psychology/dysfunction mixed in.

Scope: If you don't enjoy nature... if you don't see even small spiritual connections when you hiking, camping, etc... the movie may not be right for you. However, if you have a strong draw to be outdoors and view God's creation close up and see natural wonders and scenery, this could be a winner for you. It does take somewhat a light approach to "living of the land" and leaving society behind. However, it crosses over to a transcendental side that asks some probing questions about risk-taking, shutting society out, forgiveness for loved ones, finding yourself through nature, anger, connecting with nature and God. It is an awesome story simply because it is a true story... though not a happy ending...... I have known a few "Alex Supertramps" in my life... and there is a lot of parallels in this story to them and their lives.

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FP4 pick of the week

Bill Murray and Anjelica Huston again?

PICK #14: “The Darjeeling Limited” (2007) Director: Wes Anderson

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/309108

or

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/The_Darjeeling_Limited/70075312?lnkctr=srchrd-sr&strkid=1263684434_0_0

ENTRY: It seems like we keep seeing these two (Bill and Anjelica) in strange movies together... however, they are mere cameos in the movie. Close friends who know me would say this is one of my "bizarre" movies. But read on...

SYNOPSIS: Three brothers who have be estranged for over a year, meet, reunite, and find their spiritual center. Set in the backdrop of a juxtaposed area of India, the trio turns from meagerly associated brothers to trusting each other like brothers should. Though they take too many painkillers, cough medicine and engage in strange risks, they seem to come out ahead in the end. It seems like a heavy plot but really the movie's success is the quiet humor, the punchy script, awesome actors, well chosen cast members and ABSOLUTELY AWESOME CAMERA WORK!

Scope: If you liked the script and the story lines of "The Life Aquatic," "Rushmore," "The Royal Tenenbaums," then this may be a good match for you. The SMART camera work must be my biggest reason for the pick this week: So much attention to lighting, appropriate camera affects with zooming, slo-mo, rolling shots, etc... only enhanced the cinematic experience. The intriguing, conflict-creating dialog along with the juxtaposed visuals and colors only added to the curious draw I had to the movie. The characters that are built from the short intro story (which was awesome portrayal with Natalie Portman) in the beginning through the plot development towards the end of the film also become a plus. Kudos to Owen Wilson (who obviously was on his own personal journey in real life during this film), Adrien Brody and Jason Schwartzman (nephew of Francis Ford Coppola). Warning to anyone that can't swallow some experimental film making... don't waste your time.

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FP4 pick of the week

The Beatles music lives on...

PICK #13: “Across The Universe” (2007) Director: Julie Taymore

Info & Trailer:

http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/268731

or

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Across_the_Universe/70045863

ENTRY: A rock opera for the next generation. Just was released this week!

SYNOPSIS: The musical/movie has the backdrop of Beatles tunes. The movie's leading characters, Jude and Lucy, are the forefront of a movie that parallels the different stages of the Beatles music along the the political and cultural upheaval that happens in the 1960s. The actors were obviously chosen for their musical and singing capabilities. The story is moving in itself but is enhanced with the lyrical and musical influence of the Beatles. Don't expect a carbon copied version of the songs however. My favorite was Bono singing "I am the Walrus" as he portrays a Timothy Leary type character.

Scope: If you liked the WHO's "Tommy" or Pink Floyd's "The Wall" then this might be the movie for you. I think you also have to hold an affection for the Beatles and some of their earlier music. It is a musical but only in a light way. There is still lots of dialog but the action and plot mixes with the music and choreography in the movie. It's a must see if you are a Beatles fan. If you don't know if you are a Beatles music lover, I think you will still enjoy the movie from the plot and the political and social themes. Let me know what you think.

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FP4 pick of the week

"The Dude" has words of wisdom for one and all

PICK #12: “The Big Lebowski” (1998) Director: Joel Coen

Info & Trailer:
http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/115093

or

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/The_Big_Lebowski/1181532?strkid=694495589_0_0

ENTRY: Thought I would lighten it up with a smart comedy this week. A classic Coen film.

SYNOPSIS: Mistaken identity is the setting for this movie. "The Dude" gets pulled into a tangled web. He lives a simple life but get pulled further into the creepy and strange world of a rich man by the same name. It gets freaky from time to time with great character profiles.

Scope: I love the Coen's and this movie is on the top of my "Coen list." If you liked Fargo, O Brother Where Art Thou, Barton Fink, Raising Arizona, No Country for Old Men, etc... then this one needs to be added to your list. This is a comedy, yes. But be forewarned that it is considered by most a "dark-comedy" or at least a little off-color. There is some light violence and sexual situations. If you like suspense, mystery (with a healthy sprinkling of comedy) then this is combo for you. I know I have been picking some older movies recently but be assured, this one is worth the step back in time. A must see for the dark-comedy lovers. The cast has some incredible names: John Goodman,Jeff Bridges, Julianne Moore, Steve Buscemi, etc.... Let me know what you think!!!

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FP4 pick of the week

Love for a woman, music, and the instrument

PICK #11: “The Red Violin” (1998) Director: Francois Girard

Info & Trailer:
http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/129368

or

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/The_Red_Violin/5670353?strkid=1620467862_0_0

ENTRY: After starting this blog a few months ago, I received several recommendations in return (which is a fringe benefit of the blog). This one, frankly, has been head and shoulders even above my own picks since FP4 started. This is a true winner.

SYNOPSIS: A long lost, hand-crafted violin from the Renaissance era is the central theme in this movie. The story follows the instrument from player to player... though the instrument carries a long held secret through the centuries that waits to be unearthed. The passionate and tremendous journey is a gripping tale. I can't give away more of this plot away... sorry. Let's just say that the scenes (along with the instrument) span the centuries well and across multiple societies.

Scope: I absolutely adored this movie. There is no other word for it. As far as a scope, you must be a romantic OR at the least, an aspiring Romeo/Juliet. If you have ever been in love, this movie is for you. It's not a overly sappy love story you might see in the theater. It's not that trite. If you don't mind the sub-titled during certain scenes in the film, you'll enjoy this film. It is shot partly in classical film during the "flash backs" and then jumps ahead to modern day scenes also. The story lines envelope themes of love, passion, obsession, music, and much more. It is a more than worthy of the academy award winner. Thank you for the person that recommended this to me! It is the best I have seen in quite a while. I hope you agree.

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FP4 pick of the week

War, peace, arms sales... what's your take?

PICK #10: “Lord or War” (2005) Director: Andrew Niccol

Info & Trailer:
http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/254719

or

http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Lord_of_War/70038796?strkid=1151747238_0_0

ENTRY: I recently recommended this movie to a friend for the surround sound and the cinematography. It's a winner on that note. Lord of War is a movie that you will love or hate. It tackles the personal profile and a side of a man who is deep inside the world of warfare. It tackles some tough issues but leaves the final analysis to you for to decide.

SYNOPSIS: Nicholas Cage was looking for a way to make a living. You might say he lived on the notion "find a need... fulfill it." He does that in a big way. And it he plays both sides of the war too. As you go through the movie and see him make arms deals, you may decide that some are more "ethical" than others... but why is that? You will have to decide. Not a huge surprising plot but lots of action and moderate violence. The movie is really a "profile" of a man that makes the world of war go round. I hope you like it.

Scope: This will sound a little generalized but if you love war movies and war technology, you will like this. Also, if you challenge the idea of warfare over peaceful resolution, you may also like this. This is because it raises tough questions like "why blame the gun or missile for war - it's the person pulling the trigger." I have mixed emotions on this subject so don't ask for my final analysis. It is a great movie for home theaters and has lots of great surround sound and great cinematography. If you can watch it on HD DV or Blue Ray, hold on to your seat because it will be good.

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FP4 pick of the week

A little Tim Burton for you...
...Tall tales tell no lies?

PICK #9: “Big Fish” (2003) Director: Tim Burton

Info & Trailer:
http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Big_Fish/60031268?strkid=1703699852_0_0

ENTRY: Welcome to week number 10. Sorry about missing last week but I will make up for it by doing one Monday and one on Friday. We have a story-telling type of movie. I am a Tim Burton fan, yes. However, I realize that a lot of people don't really go for his movies. This one is what I consider a little conservative for him (but conservative is a matter of opinion).

SYNOPSIS: This is a series of somewhat interconnecting tall tales that are threaded with "reality" and the "tall-tale" storyline. Ewan McGregor and Helen Bonham-Carter stand out as the strong actors in the movie who portray most of the "story-line." The movie starts with very separated boundaries between reality and the dream world. However, by the end, the two are meshed together.

Scope: Having recently viewed this movie, I realized how much of a potential classic it might become. I have been trying to work this into the blog at some point. If you have seen Tim Burton movies and hated them, this one is not for you. If you haven't seen any of his movies, this is a good starting point before moving in the bazaar world of Eraser Head or Nightmare Before Christmas. The storyline does have some great themes which are intertwined around a very intense love triangle. If you are going to connect to the movie, you will find it isn't exactly a comedy or a drama but a little of both. Enjoy.

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