The pen is blue! “Liar Liar” (1997)

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directed by Tom Shadyac
© 1997 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Let’s finish the week with a smile on our faces, shall we? And who’s a better guy to make us laugh than Jim Carrey. In this film he plays a workaholic named Fletcher. He’s a lawyer in Los Angeles, so I guess that explains a lot. His work and high interest in many women caused the divorced with Audrey (Maura Tierney), but they are still in touch because of their son Max (Justin Cooper). Unfortunately, Fletcher is not only a horrible liar at work, but also when it comes to relations with his child. Little boy is done with it so when his father misses his birthday, Max makes a wish that Fletcher won’t be able to lie for a whole day. And as you can be guessing – his wish becomes true. And how to be a lawyer without the ability to lie? Well, that’s a real circus, I swear. I remember watching this film when I was younger and absolutely loved Jim Carrey’s performance. This man is so talented and has no barriers, it seems. Each time he makes me believe in his character, whoever he plays. Besides, he’s a real entertainer with a lot to show. “Liar Liar” is a bit of an oldie, but still goldie. I bet it’s a very good choice for a Friday evening.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Knot enough. “Blue Miracle” (2021)

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directed by Julio Quintana
© 2021 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

Today I have a very sweet story for you, which is one of those that remind me why we may need cinema sometimes. It’s about an orphanage called Casa Hogar in Mexico. The director, Omar (Jimmy Gonzales), makes sure that a lot of young boys have a place to sleep, eat and stay safe. Unfortunately, good will is not enough. One day, a hurricane hits their house and in order to save the place, they need to get money. Way too much money. Everyone is slowly losing hope when an unusual opportunity appears. There’s a fishing competition about to be organised and the winner may be prized with a nice amount. Omar is not a fisherman, but they’re lucky to meet Wade (Dennis Quaid), a grumpy double champion of that exact competition. Wade cannot take part himself, but if he takes Omar and a few boys from the orphanage, his participation will be approved. The story is actually not 100% true, but it’s still based on a real miracle, if I may say. Casa Hogar exists and they indeed survived a hurricane, and later, to earn money, they decided to try winning a fishing competition. But it’s for you to find out whether they managed or not. And getting back to what I said at the beginning, this film isn’t spectacular or a must-see. Not at all. I would say it’s slightly naive, to be honest. But it is enjoyable and thanks to it I’ve found out about Casa Hogar. Shouldn’t cinema be useful as well? Exactly. So I recommend you to see the film and then visit the real Casa Hogar’s website.

My rating: 6/10
S.

There is no such thing as a secret. “An Officer and a Spy” (“J’Accuse”, 2019)

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directed by Roman Polański
© 2019 Gaumont. All Rights Reserved.

I don’t know how it happened that I watched this film 2 years after the premiere. One thing is that the cinemas had been closed, so I needed to wait for it to appear on one of the streaming platforms. But still, I feel a bit embarrassed that I didn’t decide to see it earlier. In the end, Polański is one of my favourite directors and I’ve seen every film by him. Anyway, I’ve finally seen it and I can write my recommendation. So the story is based on real events from the 19th century. If Dreyfus affair doesn’t ring a bell, let me explain. Alfred Dreyfus (Louis Garrel) was a member of the French Army’s general staff. One day he was convicted of treason and imprisoned. When Georges Picquart (Jean Dujardin) became the chief of the army’s intelligence section, he decided to investigate Dreyfus’ case and find the proof whether the man is actually a spy or not. If you know a bit about the French history, you probably already know how it ended. If you don’t, I will let you discover it watching the film. What can I say about it from my side? It’s an important production for Polański for sure. Firstly, because he’s very much interested in history and adapting crucial events for the screen is something he loves doing. Secondly, a lot of people have noticed that this story is somehow a metaphor of what Polański has been going through in his life. I don’t want to start this topic as I believe each person sees it differently, but it seems like using this film he wanted to show that sometimes it’s worth not to give up on someone, even if we believe there’s no hope. I found this production very well-done and amazingly directed, but I also reflected a lot about its meaning. And what can I say? I wish it’s not his last film, because he’s a visionary.

My rating: 7/10
S.

You got a pose called yoga guy gets his ass kicked? “Couples Retreat” (2009)

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directed by Peter Billingsley
© 2009 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

One of those comedies I like getting back to. Recently I rewatched it again and I was laughing like crazy. It’s really the kind of humour I adore and I can relax to. In this story we get to know several couples. First one is Dave and Ronnie (Vince Vaughn & Malin Åkerman), who are a sweet couple, have two little children and not that much time for each other. Then Joey and Lucy (Jon Favreau & Kristin Davis), a couple that wish to get divorced as soon as possible, or rather as soon as their teenage daughter leaves home. Then we get Shane (Faizon Love), who has recently divorced his wife and is now dating a way younger Trudy (Kali Hawk). Last but not least, Jason and Cynthia (Jason Bateman & Kristen Bell), who are a very hard-working couple and are having difficulties with conceiving a baby. And they are the ones who decide to sign up for a couple therapy at some mysterious resort called Eden. However, they cannot afford going there on their own, but they’ve found the Pelican Package, which means that if they bring 3 other couples, all of them will pay half price. Obviously, the 3 other couples don’t even want to hear about it, but Jason and Cynthia beg them to help as it could be their last chance to save the marriage. Their friends finally agree but only if they could skip the therapy sessions and enjoy the goods of that magical Eden. How surprised they are when the rules of Eden say differently… I guess I love this film so much because each actor and actress in it is a magnificent individual, who can play their role very well. Very good casting. Plus Jean Reno as the leader of Eden and Peter Serafinowicz as that annoying manager forcing everyone to attend the sessions. Even that yoga guy, Salvadore (Carlos Ponce) made me cry with his character. Seriously, I love this comedy and no matter what you say, it’s my guilty pleasure and I recommend you to spend an evening with it.

My rating: 7/10
S.

When you’re hanging on by your fingernails, you can’t go waving your arms around. “The Abyss” (1989)

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directed by James Cameron
© 1989 20th Century Fox. All Rights Reserved.

Who wants some Monday drama? Actually, today’s film is a sci-fi production, but there was a lot of drama going on on the set. First things first, it tells the story of a submarine crew that sinks near the Cayman Trough and, in order to help them, the US government sends a SEAL team (special operations force). The task is not that easy since there’s a hurricane on the way and another kind of hurricane called “Soviet ships” slightly too close. What’s more, deep down there the crew encounters some unidentified object and start to believe it’s not coming from our planet. Doom, doom, doom. To be honest, I didn’t feel that excited watching this film. I would say the screenplay was way too long and complicated, but in the end I find it a worth-your-time production. Why? Because of the visual effects. I bet a lot of people wouldn’t be able to make such a good film that takes place underwater, even today. Mind the fact that “The Abyss” was made in 1989, which is something I was forgetting while watching. That’s something worth appreciating for sure. However, you may read that the actors didn’t enjoy making this film as the production wasn’t well-organised. They were often wasting their time, or performing quite dangerous actions, or simply weren’t treated with respect. Hard to say who’s right here, as I wasn’t there so I cannot judge, but seems like some drama took over the whole production. Too bad they have such bad memories about it, because the film is decent and definitely to watch if you’re into the technical side of filmmaking.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I’m just getting started, darling. “Cruella” (2021)

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directed by Craig Gillespie
© 2021 Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

We’re finishing the week in style. Do you remember the story of 101 Dalmatians and that mean woman who forgot to dye half of her head? So we’ve got a film about her now. Yay! I couldn’t care less, I swear. No idea why they decided to make this film but I watched it, specially for you, dear readers. We get to know the beginnings of Cruella, or I should rather say Estella (Billie Gadson, Tipper Seifert-Cleveland, Emma Stone). When she was a little girl, her mother was killed and Estella had to take care of herself. She met two little thieves, Jasper (Ziggy Gardner, Joel Fry) and Horace (Joseph MacDonald, Paul Walter Hauser), who welcomed her to their little gang and from that moment they’ve been inseparable. Estella begins to steal like her two friends, but she also keeps doing what she loves the most, which is fashion design. Jasper and Horace manage to get Estella a job at one department store, which would be her first big step. And I guess I don’t want to tell you more because this screenplay is so ridiculous I’m already tired. Seriously, the screenplay is messy and full of very strange ideas, and I still don’t understand for whom this film is. I would definitely not take my children to see it, but personally, as an adult, I found it irrational and… well, boring. So how come I’m recommending it? Well, two Emmas are there – Emma Stone and Emma Thompson. Two marvellous actresses who will make every film shine. Besides, since Estella wishes to be a fashion designer, you may expect gorgeous costumes in this production. If they don’t get a nomination for costumes next year, I don’t know who should. I’m not really into fashion, to be honest, but I couldn’t stop staring at all those incredibly creative dresses. So is this film worth your time? I don’t know. The only three things I can promise are fantastic costumes, great acting and very good music. Oh and puppies, there are puppies.

My rating: 5/10
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You need to be strong for both. “Paper Spiders” (2020)

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directed by Inon Shampanier
© 2020 Entertainment Squad. All Rights Reserved.

I think this drama will stay with me for a long time as I was absolutely speechless at the end. We get to meet Melanie (Stefania Owen), a teenager who’s soon about to finish school and start her college life. She’s living with her mother Dawn (Lili Taylor), who’s recently lost her husband and is raising Melanie on her own. The woman is heart-broken that her daughter will leave home and move away, but for Melanie it’s important to study at that one particular university since her father was also a student there. Anyway, the girl is still living at home for now and she starts noticing her mother acting very strange. Dawn believes that their new neighbour is a psychopath who’s constantly observing them. At first it seems like a temporary thing, but Melanie feels like her mother is slowly losing her mind. It’s an emotional story about a teenager who needs to deal with an unusual situation and still remember to take care of herself and her own life. She’s about to start a new chapter, but there’s a family member who needs her support. First of all, both ladies did a marvellous job. Fantastic casting and they both made me forget that I’m watching a film, to be honest. It was so real and full of real emotions, that I bet every person going through a similar life situation can relate. And I liked how they showed that Melanie keeps going to school, dating, preparing for college and doing other things that a teenager should be doing. I guess we don’t realise that people who are in such situation try to be living in a somehow normal way. They will keep going to work, meeting with friends, doing hobbies, and then get back home to their personal problems. I would just change few elements in the script and definitely get rid of the school psychologist character – very annoying. But the rest is brilliant, so make sure to find a moment for this film.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I was born game and I intend to go out that way. “True Grit” (1969)

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directed by Henry Hathaway
© 1969 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Do you know that in an alternative world this western was starring Elvis Presley and was directed by Roman Polański? I guess I’ve got your attention, so we can continue. Today’s recommendation is actually the first film adaptation of Charles Portis’ novel of the same name. The more modern adaptation you had a chance to learn about yesterday. However, I like watching all available versions so I can compare. In this case, I rate them the same as both are equally pleasant. I think I liked John Wayne as Rooster more, but then Hailee Steinfeld was way more interesting as Mattie. The story is the same and watching one of those films is enough. Still, if you’re like me and you enjoy comparing different adaptations, then go for both. If you’re curious about the plot, I’m inviting you to read my yesterday’s post. But what’s up with that question I put at the beginning. Well, it was like this: Mattie in the 1969 version is played by Kim Darby, but at first it was supposed to be Mia Farrow. However, she didn’t want to work with Henry Hathaway, the director, so she proposed changing him to Roman Polański. The producer refused, so Farrow resigned. And then when they were searching for the actor to play LaBoeuf, one of the characters, they thought of Elvis Presley, but he wanted way too much money and the role was given to Glen Campbell. But imagine if the producers agreed to both propositions. Polański directing a western with Presley. It sounds like the best joke of 1969.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I always go backwards when I’m backing up. “True Grit” (2010)

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directed by Joel & Ethan Coen
© 2010 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Today’s Children Day, so all the best to all children on this planet. May your day be full of joy and good films. On this special day I’ve decided to recommend a film about a very brave young lady, who deserves all the toys possible. Surprisingly, it’s not a comedy or animation, but a western – my least favourite genre. I guess one day it will stop being my least favourite one since I keep finding quite decent productions. Anyway, as I said we will be following a girl – her name is Mattie (Hailee Steinfeld) and she’s 14 years old living on a farm. One day, her father gets killed by a bandit named Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin). Mattie is furious but it would be difficult for a young lady to go after such criminal, so she decides to hire Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges), a very grumpy and merciless man, to help her get revenge. At first every adult is laughing, but soon they realise that little Mattie is not joking at all. She wishes to avenge her beloved father. And the reason why I like this film is actually because it’s very Coen’s style. The action is dynamic even if you wouldn’t expect it to be so. And the story is going quite smoothly, which makes it pleasant to follow. I still prefer to watch a documentary or drama, but such western isn’t the worst choice. I bet a lot of you may enjoy it. Unless you prefer older westerns, then stay tuned for tomorrow.

My rating: 6/10
S.

Way out of the comfort zone. “Kapp to Cape” (2015)

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directed by Reza Pakravan
© 2015 Samarcanda. All Rights Reserved.

I know it’s difficult to stay motivated and energised on Monday, but I’ll try to brighten up your day and perhaps inspire you with today’s film. One day two men decided to break a World Record. Biggest number of hog dogs eaten in 10 minutes? No… Longest knitted blanket? No… They wanted to go for a bike ride. A very long bike ride. To be exact, from Nordkapp in the Arctic Circle to Cape Town in South Africa. It’s about 18,000 km. By bike, let me remind you, by bike. You may think it’s a nice adventure, but let me add that it’s also about setting a new World Record, so the men planned to get to Cape Town in 100 days. When I found this film, I thought that they were insane, but so positively insane that I had to see their story. It’s not only physically draining, but mentally as well. They needed to go through dangerous regions, deal with the weather, omit meals and take care of their health. And all that with the constant pressure and the almost impossible goal. I had chills watching this documentary and I’m truly speechless about Reza and Steven’s bravery. It’s one of those films that really make you appreciate your bed, fridge and roof over your head, I swear. But the question is: did they succeed? Well, I will let you discover it on your own. Try not to check it before watching as the ending might be a surprise for you. Hope you feel motivated enough to start the week.

My rating: 7/10
S.