Title: "The Abyss"
Director: James Cameron
Producer: Gale Anne Hurd, Van Ling
Editing: Conrad Buff, Joel Goodman
Composer: Alan Silvestri
Starring:
- Ed Harris as Virgil "Bud" Brigman
- Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as Lindsey Brigman
- Michael Biehn as Lt. Hiram Coffey
Plot and Critical Review: In 1984 James Cameron began work with Orion Pictures on a small and unassuming sci-fi film called "The Terminator." It became one of the most successful Orion films of all time, surpassing all box-office expectations. In 1986 Cameron did the impossible when he filled the shoes of Ridley Scott and directed "Aliens", the sequel to the unbelievably successful "Alien" of '79. When 1986 rolled around Cameron chose to develop an idea that had been running around in his head since high-school; the story of a group of underwater oil riggers who discover creatures from another world. That idea became "The Abyss" which Cameron wrote and directed.
"The Abyss" is the story of a group of underwater oil riggers that are sent on a top secret mission to rescue the crew of the USS Montana, a U.S. submarine that mysteriously disappeared near the Cayman Trough, an enormous fault zone in the Caribbean Sea. A team of Navy SEALs are sent to aid the wayward crew (all with their own unique and likeable quirks). Along with the SEALs come Lindsey Brigman, the almost-ex-wife of Virgil Brigman (Harris) who helped "Bud" design the "rig" (drilling apparatus). One of the two subplots in this film is the fragile relationship between "Bud" and Lindsey that takes many turns over the course of the film.
The other subplot which demands much more attention is the developing intention of the SEAL team's commander, Lt. Coffey. The SEALs are originally sent along to secure the nuclear warheads in the wreckage of the Montana but when Coffey begins to suffer from High Pressure Nervous Syndrome (due to the depths at which they must work to secure the submarine and warheads, of course) he begins to act without reason and logic, slipping into a paranoid state. The tension begins to mount when Lindsey encounters something in the darkness of the sea, a life form moving at incredible speeds. The crew begins to experience many encounters with the "non-terrestrial intelligences" (NTIs), including the popular "water snake" scene that influenced much of how computer graphics are used in films today. Coffey, in a fit of growing madness, determines the only right thing to do is to use one of the warheads recovered from the Montana and send it to the bottom of the Trough, to where he believes the NTIs reside.
The crew tries to call for help but has lost all contact with the surface due to a gathering storm. The only thing left to do is for them to take measures into their own hands and stop the SEALs themselves. Driven by utter madness and insanity, Coffey will do anything to destroy the beings he cannot understand. In several feats of strength and bravery the crew respond with similar courage to stop him.
I simply can't give any more of the plot to you now, for the ending (indeed, the final 1/4 of the film) must be seen. I reckon i've already spoiled the two movies reviewed thus far; ought to leave something to be desired.
"The Abyss" is as dark as it's title. Ever foreboding there are few moments of joy as the film is designed to keep us in the dark. Indeed, only shots on the surface of the ocean or in the more-lit rooms of the rig give us any sense of the "whole picture." The rather long (but never belabored) scene in the wrecked submarine is a perfect example of the mystery Cameron wove into every scene of this film. There is constant confusion, wondering, and doubt. We do not even understand who or what the NTIs are until the very end of the film in a revelation that can justly be defined as "classic."
Harris is still a young man here and his acting is full of an energy we probably won't see from him in the future. The power of the ensemble (once again) is made well known as no one ever "leads" the film until the very end when there are only a few characters standing in the spotlight. The most important character is, of course, the Abyss itself. We only ever learn as much about it as the floodlights will show us in front of the submersible vehicles used by the oil rig crew.
I have always loved submarine films for the constant tension that is presented to the viewer. Somehow the idea of deadly pressures all around the actors keep me in suspense, even more so than space films for space ships seem so much more protected our frail submarines. "The Abyss" is a great submarine film that has been married to a suspenseful sci-fi plot. It is absolutely worth the watching and certainly worth the buying. Thus...
My Rating: 8/10
The "Reel Revelation": "Under Pressure"
The moment we see that Lt. Coffey is suffering from HPNS we know the plot is going to take a turn from the worse. It begins with his hand shaking after he arrives at the rig. By the end of the movie he is lost in complete lunacy. Coffey was told to report any signs of HPNS. He didn't, and his actions influenced the lives of every person around him. All he had to do was tell one person he was beginning to experience the symptoms and he could have been treated. Instead he kept to himself as his ailment worsened.
Have you ever felt under pressure? I don't have to know who you are (for there are some reading this who I may not know) to know that you've felt just like Lt. Coffey. Perhaps you've fallen under pressure in a certain situation (or pressured by a particular person) and felt like you couldn't tell anyone how you were suffering. How did you react? How did you cope? Did you cope at all?
In this life we are constantly under pressure. Indeed, we are being pushed upon from all sides (or pulled, as was the sentiment in the "Reel Revelation" for 21) to become someone, or to achieve a certain way of life that the world determined to be acceptable, something to be desired. How often are those contrary to what we know of the will of God?
When you feel pressured to become or do anything that you know will not be of benefit to the Family of God, don't sit on that feeling! Be forthcoming with God that you desire his ways over the ways of the world! Be forthcoming with others that you need help in remaining focused on the will of God. This is why we've been placed alongside one another, to help relieve the tremendous pressures that are pressing upon our lives.
See you tomorrow - E.T.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
"50 First Dates"
Title: "50 First Dates"
Director: Peter Segal
Producer: Michael Ewing
Editor: Jeff Gourson
Composer: Teddy Castellucci
Starring:
- Adam Sandler as Henry Roth
- Drew Barrymore as Lucy Whitmore
- Rob Schneider as Ula
- Dan Akroyd as Dr. Keats
Plot and Critical Review: On the island of Oahu lives Henry Roth (Sandler), a marine-life specialist who spends his time enjoying the company of "main-landers" looking for a good time while on vacation. When he's not chasing skirt Henry is pursuing the dream of sailing to Alaska. While he is committed to his work something is lacking in his life, something of true value; a relationship. Although his best friend Ula (Schneider) gives him plenty of wild adventures he is clearly seeking after companionship; something Ula cannot give him and the sea-life he works with can't provide. Enter Lucy Whitmore, a beautiful island girl who is full of life, energy, and joy. She possesses everything Henry is seeking and Henry falls for her awfully quick. But it's Hawaii, so why not?!
The catch: Lucy has "Goldfield Syndrome", an ailment that doesn't allow her to retain any short-term memory. This terrible ailment comes as a result of a car accident Lucy was in. Lucy and Henry hit it off from the beginning but when Henry returns to meet her for breakfast (at the same diner Lucy has been eating breakfast at every day since her accident, for she believes it is the same day every day when she wakes up) Lucy doesn't recognize him. Henry is beside himself until it is explained to him that Lucy can't retain any short-term events, but only remembers her life before October 13th of the year before. "She has no idea it's more than a year later," says Sue, an exceptionally kind woman who works at the diner and watches over Lucy.
Henry's commitment to his Alaska voyage is echoed in his commitment to winning Lucy. After proving himself to Lucy's Dad (Blake Clark) and Brother (Sean Astin, who is exceptionally funny as a steroid-addict-body-building-freak) Henry enters into a relationship with Lucy. His love for her is innocent, pure, and a joy to behold. Because of "Goldfields" Henry has to continually conjure ways of reminding Lucy that 1) they are in a relationship, 2) she does love him (and he loves her), and 3) that she won't remember a thing once she wakes up the next morning. Henry even goes as far as to give up his dreams of sailing to Alaska to tend to Lucy. When Lucy understands this (she keeps a journal which she reads each day to remind herself) she leaves Henry, telling him that there's no way she can ask him to give up his dreams for her. He gives up for a moment but as is the case in all great romances, he goes after her and they most certainly live happily ever after. The film ends with Henry, Lucy, their daughter, and Lucy's father on a boat in Alaska. Sure enough, Lucy has to re-learn the reality of her life (via videotape) every single day.
50 First Dates is a story of perseverance in the face of overwhelming opposition and a tale that proclaims once great truth; that two people are able to maintain a relationship no matter what terrible forces are working against them.
Filmed almost entirely on location in Hawaii this movie is a delight to behold. Adam Sandler (and his ensemble) take their method of comedy to a new level as they implement genuine intelligence and emotion alongside the hilarious antics we're use to. Schneider is exceptionally funny and Dan Akroyd's cameo is classic to his own style of comedy. Astin's "Doug" is a character caught in severe contrast to "Samwise Gamgee", the Lord of the Rings trilogy Astin had just finished portraying in early '04. While Sandler and Barrymore carry the story with enjoyable acting as they develop a passable (although extreme and unlikely) relationship it's the ensemble which really causes the movie to shine.
As has been the case in so many island-based films, 50... only requires the magnificent backdrop of the Hawaii to draw us in and keep our eyes fixed on the splendid beauty of Barrymore set against ever-blue skies and rolling seas.
My Rating: 7/10 (Without Schneider it'd be a 5.5)
The "Reel Revelation": "I Love To Tell The Story"
Henry's love and absolute commitment to Lucy is inspiring. He dedicates an enormous amount of his life, love, and personal energy to reassuring her of his affections. Indeed, it is obvious that his love for her is worth telling over and over and over again. How much greater is the love of God toward us? How much greater is the everlasting Word of God made manifest in Jesus? So much greater, of course.
We all need help remembering many things. We write ourselves notes, make lists, even send ourselves e-mails (at least I do) to remind ourselves of the important things we have to on a daily basis. How often do we take the time to remind ourselves of the love God has for us, of the forgiveness from sin we've achieved through the sacrifice of Jesus? A dear friend of mine who is serving in an ELCA church in southern Washington said this: "Each day when I step into the shower and feel the water on my face I remind myself of God's promise to me in Holy Baptism; the promise of God's love for me." What a wonderful thought.
This very sentiment is beautifully reflected in the early 20th century gospel hymn "I Love To Tell The Story". The third verse reads as follows:
Director: Peter Segal
Producer: Michael Ewing
Editor: Jeff Gourson
Composer: Teddy Castellucci
Starring:
- Adam Sandler as Henry Roth
- Drew Barrymore as Lucy Whitmore
- Rob Schneider as Ula
- Dan Akroyd as Dr. Keats
Plot and Critical Review: On the island of Oahu lives Henry Roth (Sandler), a marine-life specialist who spends his time enjoying the company of "main-landers" looking for a good time while on vacation. When he's not chasing skirt Henry is pursuing the dream of sailing to Alaska. While he is committed to his work something is lacking in his life, something of true value; a relationship. Although his best friend Ula (Schneider) gives him plenty of wild adventures he is clearly seeking after companionship; something Ula cannot give him and the sea-life he works with can't provide. Enter Lucy Whitmore, a beautiful island girl who is full of life, energy, and joy. She possesses everything Henry is seeking and Henry falls for her awfully quick. But it's Hawaii, so why not?!
The catch: Lucy has "Goldfield Syndrome", an ailment that doesn't allow her to retain any short-term memory. This terrible ailment comes as a result of a car accident Lucy was in. Lucy and Henry hit it off from the beginning but when Henry returns to meet her for breakfast (at the same diner Lucy has been eating breakfast at every day since her accident, for she believes it is the same day every day when she wakes up) Lucy doesn't recognize him. Henry is beside himself until it is explained to him that Lucy can't retain any short-term events, but only remembers her life before October 13th of the year before. "She has no idea it's more than a year later," says Sue, an exceptionally kind woman who works at the diner and watches over Lucy.
Henry's commitment to his Alaska voyage is echoed in his commitment to winning Lucy. After proving himself to Lucy's Dad (Blake Clark) and Brother (Sean Astin, who is exceptionally funny as a steroid-addict-body-building-freak) Henry enters into a relationship with Lucy. His love for her is innocent, pure, and a joy to behold. Because of "Goldfields" Henry has to continually conjure ways of reminding Lucy that 1) they are in a relationship, 2) she does love him (and he loves her), and 3) that she won't remember a thing once she wakes up the next morning. Henry even goes as far as to give up his dreams of sailing to Alaska to tend to Lucy. When Lucy understands this (she keeps a journal which she reads each day to remind herself) she leaves Henry, telling him that there's no way she can ask him to give up his dreams for her. He gives up for a moment but as is the case in all great romances, he goes after her and they most certainly live happily ever after. The film ends with Henry, Lucy, their daughter, and Lucy's father on a boat in Alaska. Sure enough, Lucy has to re-learn the reality of her life (via videotape) every single day.
50 First Dates is a story of perseverance in the face of overwhelming opposition and a tale that proclaims once great truth; that two people are able to maintain a relationship no matter what terrible forces are working against them.
Filmed almost entirely on location in Hawaii this movie is a delight to behold. Adam Sandler (and his ensemble) take their method of comedy to a new level as they implement genuine intelligence and emotion alongside the hilarious antics we're use to. Schneider is exceptionally funny and Dan Akroyd's cameo is classic to his own style of comedy. Astin's "Doug" is a character caught in severe contrast to "Samwise Gamgee", the Lord of the Rings trilogy Astin had just finished portraying in early '04. While Sandler and Barrymore carry the story with enjoyable acting as they develop a passable (although extreme and unlikely) relationship it's the ensemble which really causes the movie to shine.
As has been the case in so many island-based films, 50... only requires the magnificent backdrop of the Hawaii to draw us in and keep our eyes fixed on the splendid beauty of Barrymore set against ever-blue skies and rolling seas.
My Rating: 7/10 (Without Schneider it'd be a 5.5)
The "Reel Revelation": "I Love To Tell The Story"
Henry's love and absolute commitment to Lucy is inspiring. He dedicates an enormous amount of his life, love, and personal energy to reassuring her of his affections. Indeed, it is obvious that his love for her is worth telling over and over and over again. How much greater is the love of God toward us? How much greater is the everlasting Word of God made manifest in Jesus? So much greater, of course.
We all need help remembering many things. We write ourselves notes, make lists, even send ourselves e-mails (at least I do) to remind ourselves of the important things we have to on a daily basis. How often do we take the time to remind ourselves of the love God has for us, of the forgiveness from sin we've achieved through the sacrifice of Jesus? A dear friend of mine who is serving in an ELCA church in southern Washington said this: "Each day when I step into the shower and feel the water on my face I remind myself of God's promise to me in Holy Baptism; the promise of God's love for me." What a wonderful thought.
This very sentiment is beautifully reflected in the early 20th century gospel hymn "I Love To Tell The Story". The third verse reads as follows:
"I love to tell the story, 'tis pleasant to repeat
What seems each time I tell it more wonderfully sweet
I love to tell the story for some have never heard
The message of salvation from God's own holy word."
We are all in need of the retelling of the story of our faith. For this reason we ought to gather around those who also believe in the Lord, those who can encourage and uplift us, those who can be Post-It notes for our personal (and communal) faith in the Son of God, Jesus. As you go through the season of Lent take time to remind yourself of all that God has done for you, all of the trials he has brought you through, and the gifts God has given you.
See you tomorrow - E.T.
P.S. - Trimmed it down, eh Shannon?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
"21"
Title: "21" or "21 - The Movie"
Director: Robert Luketic
Producer: Kevin Spacey, Brent Ratner
Editor: Elliot Graham
Composer: David Sardy
Starring:
- Jim Sturgess as Ben Campbell
- Kevin Spacey as Professor Mickey Rosa
- Kate Bosworth as Jill Taylor
- Laurence Fishburne as Cole Williams
Plot and Critical Review: Based on the best-selling book Bringing Down the House, 21 is the story of a group of MIT students who master the questionable process of "counting cards", a technique used to "beat" the game of Blackjack (or 21, as it is known in some countries). The movie begins with Ben Campbell (on the fresh side of 21) interviewing for a full-ride scholarship to Harvard Medical. The interviewer is impressed with Ben's academic record but asks him to produce something that will "dazzle." The rest of the film is set within the context of Ben's interview, although we don't hear Ben play the part of the Narrator until the end of the film.
After an impressive display of mathematical knowledge Ben is taken to a late-night meeting where he meets face-to-face with his Linear Equations professor, Mickey Rosa (Spacey). In that meeting Rosa and a group of four students (including Jill Taylor, for whom Ben has a significant yet unproductive crush) ask him to be part of their team that travels to Vegas to count cards, to beat the system. Ben is hesitant. He believes counting cards is wrong and tries to avoid getting involved in what he considers an illegal operation. The next day Taylor visits Ben at the coat and tie shop where he works. After a moment of foolish yet tolerable flirtation she encourages him to join the team. "Ben, you should feel the thrill of winning more money than you can possible imagine." He blows her off, once again refusing the offer, but we know there's no way he can stay away, especially after she sought him out on her own. Soon after he returns to one of the team's late-night meetings (which he learns are actually training sessions) and is introduced to the world of blackjack.
Cue the montage of Ben's training. He learns a very specific method of counting cards and is becoming more and more excited about the opportunity of making an enormous amount of money. He makes it clear, however, that he is only joining the team to pay for school ($300,000) and as soon as he has won the necessary amount of money will leave the team. Rosa accepts. Ben is involved in one real-life training exercise (which he passes, of course) and is off to Vegas.
As expected, he is a marvel at the game. Ben also comes to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle of a high-roller. Champagne, dancing girls, and tall stacks of high-value chips being pushed across the table in his direction intoxicate him. The more he becomes enamored with his Vegas lifestyle (where he and the rest of the students assume false identities) the more his lifestyle as a student and a friend suffers. His two best friends with whom he is working on an elite science project begin to suspect his wavering interests in all things school-related. It is convenient for Ben that Rosa is able to pull all sorts of strings at school and help him to avoid doing almost any academic work. During one of his weekends in Vegas Jill falls for him and they become intimate. Even though he is putting more and more money away, sleeping with his dream-girl, and living the dream-life in Las Vegas the quality of his life begins to slip.
When Ben's friends kick him off of their science project team Ben's descent into desperation begins. Before his first trip to Vegas Professor Rosa warns him about the dangers of gambling, reminding him they were not there to gamble but to count cards and win money. When Ben fails to stand by that guideline and bets and loses an enormous amount of money the team suspects his loyalty. Ben is caught counting cards, Rosa has his dorm ransacked (all of the money he saved is taken) and his relationship with Jill is fractured. It's a miss, but great loss must come before the ultimate victory.
The man who caught Ben counting was Cole Williams, a casino security agent nearly out of business due to increasingly powerful anti-cheating technology. After a generous beating he makes a deal with Ben that if Ben delivers Rosa (who Williams chased around Vegas before but never caught) he'll let Ben off, even allowing him to keep his winnings.
Ben returns to Rosa, asking for forgiveness and making it clear that he wants "back in" the game. Rosa never suspects the plot and is given right into Williams' hands, even though Williams doesn't permit Ben to keep his winnings, indicating that he isn't fortunate enough to have a pension plan. Ben is also fortunate enough to make up with his friends (who win the science project) and "get the girl." That should please us all. The movie ends on the front steps of Harvard (for we are meant to presume Ben got the scholarship, indeed) and, for a moment, in the office where Ben is interviewing for the scholarship. The final shot is that of the interviewer with his mouth open in shock. No doubt he was indeed dazzled.
21 is a movie full of life, youthful exuberance, and general fun. Through the antics of these young MIT students we are allowed a first-class pass into a world few of us will ever experience; that of the Vegas high roller. The movie's photographic director is clearly set in two worlds; that of the vibrant and exciting Las Vegas and the somber campus of MIT in Cambridge, Mass. Sturgess leads the ensemble well as the acting of his fellow students is nothing to mention here or anywhere. Bosworth is able to go transcend being the eye-candy of the film. Well done. Though they are the representation of everything Ben loses in his real life, Ben's friends serve as ample comedic relief. Spacey fills the shoes of an MIT professor as if he were always meant to be one. Fishburne's portrayal of a "good-guy" Vegas mobster is impeccable and never gets old.
The movie flows well and the viewer isn't required to sit through too much down-time. Ben's relationship with Jill is awkward and we wonder when it becomes "real" for the two characters. Their more serious scenes together could have been skipped altogether.
To enjoy this movie you must enjoy the following things:
- Las Vegas
- Mathematical genius
- Blackjack
- Young love
- Kevin Spacey
Although it doesn't belong on the shelf of every movie lover, 21 is a film that communicates a message of loss in the face of achievement, truth in the face of falsehood, and true friendship in the face of relational disappointment.
My Rating: 6/10
The "Reel Revelation": "Double Down on True Identity!"
21 features a typical "Pauper to Prince" story-line. Unlike most stories that exalt a character Ben ends up returning to the life of the Pauper, preferring a simple living (although not that simple for a Harvard student) over the glamour lifestyle presented to him in Las Vegas. Ben goes back and forth, struggling with finding true contentment in living two lives. It is obvious that he can't keep such a lifestyle up and eventually, as we knew he would, crumbles. Although 21 presents a story hard to believe, one most of us will never achieve, it is not at all unlike how most of us choose to live every day of our lives.
In this world we are constantly pressed to live a certain way, acquire certain things, and to become a certain person. And we're not simply pulled or pressed one way, but multiple ways! At times we may feel that we are being "drawn and quartered" on a daily basis by worldly powers we cannot possibly resist. What can be done against such overwhelming opposition? We ought to trust in God and find our true identity in what God says about us. We look to the Bible to learn these wonderful secrets. It's there, deep in the pages of Scripture, that we discover who God says we are, what we're to do with our lives, and that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made," made in the image of God, indeed!
As we begin this Lenten season let us join together to seek God and pursue a more definite sense of who we are; not only as individuals but as members of the Family of God.
See you tomorrow - E.T.
P.S. - My plot synopsis wasn't a synopsis. Will endeavor to shorten it up tomorrow night. Tryin' to give you a good idea of what the movie's about, etc.
Director: Robert Luketic
Producer: Kevin Spacey, Brent Ratner
Editor: Elliot Graham
Composer: David Sardy
Starring:
- Jim Sturgess as Ben Campbell
- Kevin Spacey as Professor Mickey Rosa
- Kate Bosworth as Jill Taylor
- Laurence Fishburne as Cole Williams
Plot and Critical Review: Based on the best-selling book Bringing Down the House, 21 is the story of a group of MIT students who master the questionable process of "counting cards", a technique used to "beat" the game of Blackjack (or 21, as it is known in some countries). The movie begins with Ben Campbell (on the fresh side of 21) interviewing for a full-ride scholarship to Harvard Medical. The interviewer is impressed with Ben's academic record but asks him to produce something that will "dazzle." The rest of the film is set within the context of Ben's interview, although we don't hear Ben play the part of the Narrator until the end of the film.
After an impressive display of mathematical knowledge Ben is taken to a late-night meeting where he meets face-to-face with his Linear Equations professor, Mickey Rosa (Spacey). In that meeting Rosa and a group of four students (including Jill Taylor, for whom Ben has a significant yet unproductive crush) ask him to be part of their team that travels to Vegas to count cards, to beat the system. Ben is hesitant. He believes counting cards is wrong and tries to avoid getting involved in what he considers an illegal operation. The next day Taylor visits Ben at the coat and tie shop where he works. After a moment of foolish yet tolerable flirtation she encourages him to join the team. "Ben, you should feel the thrill of winning more money than you can possible imagine." He blows her off, once again refusing the offer, but we know there's no way he can stay away, especially after she sought him out on her own. Soon after he returns to one of the team's late-night meetings (which he learns are actually training sessions) and is introduced to the world of blackjack.
Cue the montage of Ben's training. He learns a very specific method of counting cards and is becoming more and more excited about the opportunity of making an enormous amount of money. He makes it clear, however, that he is only joining the team to pay for school ($300,000) and as soon as he has won the necessary amount of money will leave the team. Rosa accepts. Ben is involved in one real-life training exercise (which he passes, of course) and is off to Vegas.
As expected, he is a marvel at the game. Ben also comes to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle of a high-roller. Champagne, dancing girls, and tall stacks of high-value chips being pushed across the table in his direction intoxicate him. The more he becomes enamored with his Vegas lifestyle (where he and the rest of the students assume false identities) the more his lifestyle as a student and a friend suffers. His two best friends with whom he is working on an elite science project begin to suspect his wavering interests in all things school-related. It is convenient for Ben that Rosa is able to pull all sorts of strings at school and help him to avoid doing almost any academic work. During one of his weekends in Vegas Jill falls for him and they become intimate. Even though he is putting more and more money away, sleeping with his dream-girl, and living the dream-life in Las Vegas the quality of his life begins to slip.
When Ben's friends kick him off of their science project team Ben's descent into desperation begins. Before his first trip to Vegas Professor Rosa warns him about the dangers of gambling, reminding him they were not there to gamble but to count cards and win money. When Ben fails to stand by that guideline and bets and loses an enormous amount of money the team suspects his loyalty. Ben is caught counting cards, Rosa has his dorm ransacked (all of the money he saved is taken) and his relationship with Jill is fractured. It's a miss, but great loss must come before the ultimate victory.
The man who caught Ben counting was Cole Williams, a casino security agent nearly out of business due to increasingly powerful anti-cheating technology. After a generous beating he makes a deal with Ben that if Ben delivers Rosa (who Williams chased around Vegas before but never caught) he'll let Ben off, even allowing him to keep his winnings.
Ben returns to Rosa, asking for forgiveness and making it clear that he wants "back in" the game. Rosa never suspects the plot and is given right into Williams' hands, even though Williams doesn't permit Ben to keep his winnings, indicating that he isn't fortunate enough to have a pension plan. Ben is also fortunate enough to make up with his friends (who win the science project) and "get the girl." That should please us all. The movie ends on the front steps of Harvard (for we are meant to presume Ben got the scholarship, indeed) and, for a moment, in the office where Ben is interviewing for the scholarship. The final shot is that of the interviewer with his mouth open in shock. No doubt he was indeed dazzled.
21 is a movie full of life, youthful exuberance, and general fun. Through the antics of these young MIT students we are allowed a first-class pass into a world few of us will ever experience; that of the Vegas high roller. The movie's photographic director is clearly set in two worlds; that of the vibrant and exciting Las Vegas and the somber campus of MIT in Cambridge, Mass. Sturgess leads the ensemble well as the acting of his fellow students is nothing to mention here or anywhere. Bosworth is able to go transcend being the eye-candy of the film. Well done. Though they are the representation of everything Ben loses in his real life, Ben's friends serve as ample comedic relief. Spacey fills the shoes of an MIT professor as if he were always meant to be one. Fishburne's portrayal of a "good-guy" Vegas mobster is impeccable and never gets old.
The movie flows well and the viewer isn't required to sit through too much down-time. Ben's relationship with Jill is awkward and we wonder when it becomes "real" for the two characters. Their more serious scenes together could have been skipped altogether.
To enjoy this movie you must enjoy the following things:
- Las Vegas
- Mathematical genius
- Blackjack
- Young love
- Kevin Spacey
Although it doesn't belong on the shelf of every movie lover, 21 is a film that communicates a message of loss in the face of achievement, truth in the face of falsehood, and true friendship in the face of relational disappointment.
My Rating: 6/10
The "Reel Revelation": "Double Down on True Identity!"
21 features a typical "Pauper to Prince" story-line. Unlike most stories that exalt a character Ben ends up returning to the life of the Pauper, preferring a simple living (although not that simple for a Harvard student) over the glamour lifestyle presented to him in Las Vegas. Ben goes back and forth, struggling with finding true contentment in living two lives. It is obvious that he can't keep such a lifestyle up and eventually, as we knew he would, crumbles. Although 21 presents a story hard to believe, one most of us will never achieve, it is not at all unlike how most of us choose to live every day of our lives.
In this world we are constantly pressed to live a certain way, acquire certain things, and to become a certain person. And we're not simply pulled or pressed one way, but multiple ways! At times we may feel that we are being "drawn and quartered" on a daily basis by worldly powers we cannot possibly resist. What can be done against such overwhelming opposition? We ought to trust in God and find our true identity in what God says about us. We look to the Bible to learn these wonderful secrets. It's there, deep in the pages of Scripture, that we discover who God says we are, what we're to do with our lives, and that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made," made in the image of God, indeed!
As we begin this Lenten season let us join together to seek God and pursue a more definite sense of who we are; not only as individuals but as members of the Family of God.
See you tomorrow - E.T.
P.S. - My plot synopsis wasn't a synopsis. Will endeavor to shorten it up tomorrow night. Tryin' to give you a good idea of what the movie's about, etc.
The Grading Scale
Folk - I'll post my first review in just a moment. Before I get to that, however, here's a definition of my "out of 10" scale. I'll give every movie a certain number of points "out of 10" (e.g. 5/10, etc.) based on technical elements such as casting, editing, directing, and score. Here's the scale and how I determine how many points a movie deserves:
1/10 - A complete flop. A bomb. A film of no use to the world of cinema. A film to be avoided at all costs.
2/10 - A apple at the bottom of the barrel. Whatever value the film has is momentary and fleeting at best.
3/10 - A rebel film. What some might consider to have "cult" status. Worth renting but probably not buying.
4/10 - A film that is acceptable and generally enjoyed. A film that will be the topic of water cooler attention but never receive the Academy's recognition.
5/10 - An average film. Functional and worth the watching. Of value to serious film watchers and common movie-goers alike.
6/10 - A good film that just wasn't good enough to achieve the fame it might have deserved. Still worthy of praise for making it above movie mediocrity.
7/10 - A diamond in the rough. The sparkle of greatness is mixed with tolerable disappointment.
8/10 - A standard. Oscar-worthy and steady. A must-see and must-own.
9/10 - A classic. Timeless and easy to watch over and over. A spectacle of movie making.
10/10 - A movie of the highest preparation, production, and presentation. Without any noticeable flaws or moments of want for anything. Cinematic perfection. Though awards are not required to achieve 10/10, these films may be heavily rewarded by the Academy and cinematic community.
So, there you go. Enjoy the reviews - E.T.
1/10 - A complete flop. A bomb. A film of no use to the world of cinema. A film to be avoided at all costs.
2/10 - A apple at the bottom of the barrel. Whatever value the film has is momentary and fleeting at best.
3/10 - A rebel film. What some might consider to have "cult" status. Worth renting but probably not buying.
4/10 - A film that is acceptable and generally enjoyed. A film that will be the topic of water cooler attention but never receive the Academy's recognition.
5/10 - An average film. Functional and worth the watching. Of value to serious film watchers and common movie-goers alike.
6/10 - A good film that just wasn't good enough to achieve the fame it might have deserved. Still worthy of praise for making it above movie mediocrity.
7/10 - A diamond in the rough. The sparkle of greatness is mixed with tolerable disappointment.
8/10 - A standard. Oscar-worthy and steady. A must-see and must-own.
9/10 - A classic. Timeless and easy to watch over and over. A spectacle of movie making.
10/10 - A movie of the highest preparation, production, and presentation. Without any noticeable flaws or moments of want for anything. Cinematic perfection. Though awards are not required to achieve 10/10, these films may be heavily rewarded by the Academy and cinematic community.
So, there you go. Enjoy the reviews - E.T.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Welcome!
Folk - Hello and welcome to E.T.'s Film Review! I'll be reviewing motion pictures for the 40-Day season of Lent. My reviews will incorporate elements of critical review (directing, editing, sound design, scoring, etc.) and biblical review. For the latter I will attempt to study and review the film through the words and admonitions of the Bible.
In keeping with the many "God In The Movies" projects which have become so popular with contemporary theologians and entertainment aficionados I'll give fair treatment to both the technical and spiritual aspects of film review. The "Reel Revelation", however, will be the main focus and my goal. Thus I encourage you to visit daily and read as to discover Biblical truth in some of the movies you may have seen many times before. Watching a film so many times can cause us to develop "lazy eyes" (to go along with our "lazy ears", etc.) and we end up not watching at all. This 40-Day Review is an attempt to invigorate your love of film and the Word of God.
I won't be posting any sort of "schedule" of the films I'll be reviewing. I'll simply go down the list of the ones selected. Although I'll be able to look ahead we'll be "reviewing" with one another in real-time. I will say, however, that I am truly excited at the diversity and range of the films on the list. It's here I should offer a clarifying word about television shows. On my "DVD List" (the list from which the films were randomly selected) I included all of the programs I have on DVD format, motion picture or not. When a television series ("The Office - Season 3", for example) is up for review I will select one episode from that particular series and season at random to review.
I will endeavor to post each review in a timely manner for your reading pleasure. More often than not the reviews won't be available until the late afternoon/evening. The first review will be on Wednesday, February 25th (Ash Wednesday). I will not be posting reviews on Sundays.
You're encouraged to sign-up with Blogger (a free and easy process) and comment on my reviews. Do you agree, disagree? Have you learned something new that has encouraged or challenged your faith? Do you want to add something of your own? You're welcome to do so!
Although I can't say whether or not I will continue to review after Lent has ended this is very much a personal attempt to come nearer to the heart of Christ through one of my deepest loves; the world of film. I pray that he will meet me there and that you too will be encouraged by my observing and reviewing.
See you on Wednesday! - E.T.
In keeping with the many "God In The Movies" projects which have become so popular with contemporary theologians and entertainment aficionados I'll give fair treatment to both the technical and spiritual aspects of film review. The "Reel Revelation", however, will be the main focus and my goal. Thus I encourage you to visit daily and read as to discover Biblical truth in some of the movies you may have seen many times before. Watching a film so many times can cause us to develop "lazy eyes" (to go along with our "lazy ears", etc.) and we end up not watching at all. This 40-Day Review is an attempt to invigorate your love of film and the Word of God.
I won't be posting any sort of "schedule" of the films I'll be reviewing. I'll simply go down the list of the ones selected. Although I'll be able to look ahead we'll be "reviewing" with one another in real-time. I will say, however, that I am truly excited at the diversity and range of the films on the list. It's here I should offer a clarifying word about television shows. On my "DVD List" (the list from which the films were randomly selected) I included all of the programs I have on DVD format, motion picture or not. When a television series ("The Office - Season 3", for example) is up for review I will select one episode from that particular series and season at random to review.
I will endeavor to post each review in a timely manner for your reading pleasure. More often than not the reviews won't be available until the late afternoon/evening. The first review will be on Wednesday, February 25th (Ash Wednesday). I will not be posting reviews on Sundays.
You're encouraged to sign-up with Blogger (a free and easy process) and comment on my reviews. Do you agree, disagree? Have you learned something new that has encouraged or challenged your faith? Do you want to add something of your own? You're welcome to do so!
Although I can't say whether or not I will continue to review after Lent has ended this is very much a personal attempt to come nearer to the heart of Christ through one of my deepest loves; the world of film. I pray that he will meet me there and that you too will be encouraged by my observing and reviewing.
See you on Wednesday! - E.T.
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