Gravity

Gravity was simply, utterly and indisputably incredible. It has been awhile since I've been to the movies and seen a film so wonderful that my heart raced for 2 hours after. All the hype from critics and fans alike is totally substantiated. If you have not seen this movie yet, you're missing out. If you weren't planning on seeing this movie, change your plans. Immediately. Gravity is breath-takingly amazing.

A seemingly ordinary and simple first space mission for Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) turns into a nightmare scenario when disaster strikes that cuts off communication with Earth rendering the two stranded totally alone.

As you may have heard or seen from the trailer, the cinematography is STUNNING in Gravity. The film transports you to space in a way that hasn't been done before and certainly hasn't been done this beautifully. With all the destruction, chaos, and fear-inducing events in the movie, there is always the magnificent back drop of Earth wonderfully showcasing something that real-life astronauts get to marvel at everyday. 

The visual affects of Gravity were stupendous and the 3D quality was great. My biggest regret is not seeing this film for the first time in Imax 3D because this film is literally perfect for Imax theaters. Director Alfonso Cuarón's vision and camera work make Gravity a true work of cinematic art. As disaster is ensuing, the continuos camera shots give the film a highly realistic feel thus making the situations more horrifying to fathom. After watching the film, Cuarón's talent as a director will become obvious and understanding as to why this film took 3 years to finalize will quickly become evident. 

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                                                          Angela George                                      Eva Rinaldi

Despite the terrifyingly magnificent cinematography and awe-inspiring visuals, what really solidifies Gravity as an instant classic is the acting. Sandra Bullock is absolutely phenomenal in this film. Bullock is amazing in just about every role she takes (If you haven't seen The Heat, yet.. Well.. I'm just going to pretend you did see it because that movie was literally amazing with the Bullock-McCarthy cop combo) and she further proves herself as a herculean force in the industry. I'm making the early prediction now that Bullock will be nominated for Best Actress at the Oscars. If not, I don't know what's wrong with the world. 

While not having nearly as an important role as Bullock, George Clooney was great in this film. He not only provided Gravity with comic relief, but also a reassuring feeling of serenity and calmness desperately needed after the traumatic events unfolded. Without giving away any major spoilers, Clooney gave the film some of the happiest moments as well as one of the saddest. Pure brilliance. 

Before closing, some people told me how stupid Bullock sounded panting and screaming in the early trailers for the movie as destruction rages around her. What sound would you make as you drifted through space alone? Most people would sound like Dakota Fanning screaming through War of the Worlds or me crying when someone eats the last piece of cake.

Gravity is easily one of the best films of 2013. GO SEE IT!

If you have seen it, let me know what you think in the comments below.

Film Rating:

97/100

A+

Magnificent

Trailer:

Prisoners

"Prisoners" was easily one of the best films that I have seen this year. The plot will keep you on the edge of your seat, the acting will render you in awe, the cinematography will be a feast for your eyes,  the suspense will tear into you and every twist & turn of the story will have your heart beating faster and faster straight to the very end.

The film begins with the Dover family going over the Birches' house for a cheerful and average thanksgiving dinner. The families are forever changed when the families' young daughters go out to play and go missing. Detective Loki (Gyllenhaal) is assigned to the case. His only piece of evidence: A strange RV that was spotted in the area (and played upon by the girls) before the get together.

I refuse to give away any bit of the story within this review for  those who may have not seen the movie yet. If you haven't seen it yet, DROP EVERYTHING AND GO! I touched upon several of the aspects   in my first paragraph that really make this film spectacular. Obviously, one of the most important pieces of every movie is the plot (Duh). The plot and script for "Prisoners" was incredible and thoroughly planned out. There is foreshadowing all throughout the beginning of the movie to important events that occur toward the end along with backstories that further enrich and reinforce the story.

The acting in Prisoners is impeccable and truly brings this horrific story to life. Each actor brings their character to life, exposes different aspects of the human condition as the abduction of the two innocent girls transforms once seemingly happy people into ravaged, heart-broken, angry and grief-stricken people. The most explosive transformation occurs within Keller Dover played beautifully by the great Hugh Jackman.

Dover's change from a loving and caring father to a cornered animal, who takes out his anger on the RV driver whom suspects for taking the girls, is disturbing and cringe inducing. There is no questioning Hugh Jackman's talent as an actor considering he can do just about everything regarding to acting. From playing Wolverine in an action packed blockbuster to singing as the legendary Jean Valjean in Les Miserables to playing a shattered father here in Prisoners, Hugh Jackman can really do it all.

Another actor worth noting is Jake Gyllenhaal. The role of detective Loki is interesting because of its importance to the story and the emotional journey this character experiences while attempting to solve this case. Gyllenhaal doesn't just bring an experienced investigator to "Prisoners", he brings a character who is interesting, comical (a few one-liners), and passionate with his work. If you are a fan of Jake Gyllenhaal, this movie is a must see just to view his acting prowess in full action.

Two other actors who receive honorary mention are Paul Dano and Melissa Leo. After watching the movie, reasons behind their honorary mention will become obvious.

Director DenisVilleneuve's vision and cinematography is spellbinding as well as simply artistic. Screenshots are beautiful and audiences are exposed to endless imagery that reinforces the painful and riveting story that will consistently keep you on the edge of your seat.

The only complaint that I could think of giving this film is length. Certain parts seemed a tad too long but they certainly did not detract from the power of the film.
I highly recommend this movie to a more adult crowd. If you haven't seen it, drop what you're doing and rush to the movies. You will definitely not regret it.

Film Rating:
94/100
A
Intensely Thrilling