REVIEW: MANDELA: LONG WALK TO FREEDOM

Another critically-acclaimed film comes to Malaysian cinemas. Released in the United Kingdom on November 29, 2013, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom has garnered widespread for the performance of its actors and storyline depicting former South African President, Nelson Mandela.

Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom is a British production written William Nicholson and adapted from the biography Long Walk to Freedom written by Nelson Mandela himself. The film is directed by Justin Chadwick (The Other Boleyn Girl) which stars Idris Elba (Thor, Pacific Rim) in the title role and Naomie Harris (Skyfall) as Winnie Mandela.

How will this ‘based on a true story’ film fare up with other films? Do read on…

Idris Elba as Mandela doing his trademark fist in the air punch.

SYNOPSIS:

This is the true story of former South African President Nelson Mandela’s early beginnings, his resistance towards the apartheid treatment in his country, his relationships, his love life, his time in prison, and his determination to unite his beloved South Africa.

SCRIPT:

Quite good. The film had a well-structured 3 act storyline. It starts of with his reasons for struggles, his prison time as price for his rebellion, and his continuing ambition to unite South Africa as an old man. However, the story tends to sway off-topic from time to time which makes it annoying to follow but eventually, It pulls you back in, The dialogue was quite simplified. It does feel historically accurate.

Mandela fighting for freedom

ACTING:

Powerful performance from both the leads Idris Elba and Naomie Harris. You can feel the sympathy from the characters they are portraying. Even some of the supporting cast gave a stellar performance. Both Elba and Harris gave award worthy performances.

FILMING:

Pretty well done. Director Justin Chadwick manages to capture the atrocities of the apartheid movement in South Africa. Nice camera angles and good editing in making it fast-paced and interesting. Although the movie tends to sway in many direction, Chadwick managed to construct a powerful half an hour of the film. There are some nice shots portraying the scenic beauty of South Africa.

Idris Elba as Mandela being locked in jail

PACING:

A little slow in the beginning and middle but powerful towards the end.

TONE (MOOD):

Going against authority in order to seek independence and equality.

Mandela after being freed.

DOWNSIDE:

Slow drama, slightly messy plot, and lacked the uplifting spirit I was hoping for.

UPSIDE:

Good lessons in learning the history of Nelson Mandela and the apartheid movement in South Africa.

Halfway through the film, Mandela returns to his home in the Africa countryside

OVERALL:

Decent drama with strong performance from the lead actors. Worth a watch

RATING:

8 out of 10.

REVIEW: 12 YEARS A SLAVE

Firstly, I would like to wish my blog readers a Happy New Year 2014. Thank you for reading my movie reviews on this blog since I started it in April 2013.

Kick-starting my first review of 2014 is a film that has garnered praises from critics for the past few months. Released in the United States in October 2013, the historical drama 12 Years A Slave finally comes to Malaysian shores. As of this posting, the film has been nominated for 7 Golden Globe Awards and has also received many other accolades.

12 Years A Slave is directed by British director Steve McQueen. The film’s star-studded cast consists of Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Sarah Paulson, Alfre Woodard, Paul Giamatti, Lupita Nyong’o, and Brad Pitt. The film is written by John Ridley, who adapted it from the memoirs of Solomon Northup titled Twelve Years A Slave.

Will the filmmakers honour the true story this film is based upon? Do read on…

 

Chiwetel Ejiofor (3rd from right) as Solomon Northup

 

SYNOPSIS:
In the middle of the 18^th century, slavery of African-Americans in the United States was still widespread. White slave owners employ black African-Americans to work in their plantation which harvests cotton, corn, and many more. These slaves are often mistreated and held captive by their owners. However, not all African-Americans are subjugated to slavery and they are some who are free men, such as Solomon Northup. Northup is a family man with a wife and two kids, He makes his living as a carpenter and fiddle (violin) player. One day, Northup was enticed by two individuals to partake in musical exhibition. He was drugged and sold into slavery against his will. This is the story of his 12 years as a slave.

Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor) reluctantly being force into slavery

SCRIPT:
For a movie that is based on a true story, the script is pretty solid and strong. The plot outline is clear and does not stray away too much from the main character as it is adapted from his memoirs. Good chronological structure from start to finish, though I would have liked some time indications on screen. The film could have done without flashbacks but still did not disrupt the story. Some of the dialogue maybe difficult to understand as it focuses specifically on a country’s history. Despite this, eventually you will get the gist of the story. I like how the story always touches on the many discriminations a slave receives. There were some parts where the gruesomeness of slavery was showcased and this could be a good lesson for the global audience.

Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor) talks to a slave merchant played by Paul Giamatti

ACTING:
The performance by the ensemble cast were extremely superb. The actors carried their roles well and I could feel the tension and despair of the protagonist. I found myself hating the antagonist (villain) of the film which translates to good performance by the actors. Chiwetel Ejiofor (2012, American Gangster) gave his best performance yet as the lead Solomon Northup. Michael Fassbender (Inglorious Basterds, X-Men: First Class) as one of the plantation owners was ruthless in his role. Special mention should be given to newcomer Lupita Nyong’o as Patsey who gave a sterling performance. This film has some of the best acting I have seen in awhile.

Top notch performance from Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong'o, and Chiwetel Ejiofor

FILMING:
I don’t know much of the history of slavery in the United States but judging my this film, you can feel that the filmmakers tried to bring authenticity whenever possible on screen. And the filmmakers managed to do an excellent job doing so. From the plantations to the slave quarters, and from the wardrobe to the make-up, the production design really excelled in this ‘period’ film. I also liked the music score which was composed by the maestro Hans Zimmer.

Director Steve McQueen (standing) briefing Lupita Nyong'o and Chiwetel Ejiofor

PACING:
Good start to the film and then it comes slow throughout the movie with a good escalation towards the end. It is a heavy drama and the pace is slow. However, it is not draggy as the story is engaging from scene to scene.

TONE (MOOD):
Overcoming multiple obstacles and seemingly small odds but clinging on to hope as a means of survival.

Left to right: Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup, Benedict Cumberbatch as William Ford, and Paul Dano as Tibeats

DOWNSIDE:
The subject matter might not be a universal subject, therefore not many people might fancy it. The heavy drama and slow pacing could be a turn-off to some.

UPSIDE:
Extremely great acting performances from the cast. The film could be a lesson for those unfamiliar with the history of slavery in the United States.

An intense scene from the film between Michael Fassbender as Epps and Chiwetel Ejiofor as Northup

OVERALL:
The story might not be for all but this film has some of the best acting I have seen in awhile. Be warned that the movie moves slow but well-worth the ending.

RATING:

8.5 out of 10

 

 

REVIEW: THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY

When I first heard about this film, it was in the late 1990s. I was a university student back then in the United States. Famous directors attached to the project were Steven Spielberg and Ron Howard. Jim Carrey was long rumoured to play the title role of Walter Mitty. I didn't realize that the project received a revival as I was really intrigued by the storyline.

The revival is directed by Ben Stiller (Tropic Thunder, Reality Bites). The film stars Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Adam Scott, Kathryn Hahn, Shirley MacLaine, Patton Oswalt, and Sean Penn. It is written by Steve Conrad (The Pursuit of Happyness) and adapted from a short story in 1939 written by James Thurber. The story has already once being adapted into a film in 1947.

How will this second movie remake fair up? Do read on...

Ben Stiller as the title character Walter Mitty

SYNOPSIS:
A day-dreamer named Walter Mitty has a liking for an office colleague named Cheryl. When the company he works for is being bought over, he struggles to cope with the new 'boss' and constantly gets bullied. Then comes a time where he has to face a monumental task to save his company. This is his adventure.

Ben Stiller as Walter Mitty and Kristen Wiig as Cheryl Melhoff, the love interest.

SCRIPT:
Not too bad though could have been slightly better. There was good characterization for all roles. Dialogue was a quite funny and hit the right notes with the audience. The constant back and forth between drama and comedy could have been worked on a little better because I felt it was a little overdone. I liked the ending though I felt it could be better otherwise.

One of Walter Mitty's daydream scenes in the film

ACTING:
Nice performance by Ben Stiller as Walter Mitty and Kristen Wiig as Cheryl Melhoff. A particular praise to Adam Scott as the 'quintessential' a-hole in the film. Great to see film legend Shirley MacLaine on film.

Great performance by Ben Stiller in the title role

FILMING:
Kudos to Ben Stiller for making the movie vibrant and exciting enough. It could easily be a boring material to adapt from. Stiller made it adventurous and likable. Another particular praise is to the cinematography which showcased exotic locations and magnificent shots. At times, it could have been like a feature-length film for National Geographic. Look for the graphic 'text' in the shots.

Ben Stiller wearing three hats as director, producer, and actor

PACING:
Good start, a little slow in the middle, but picked up well towards the end. Decent pacing.

TONE (MOOD):
It is an 'underdog' movie where someone who thinks is incapable tries to achieve the impossible.

Actor Sean Penn 'invites' you to watch the film

DOWNSIDE:
Melancholy and sweet type of movie. May not fit the 'macho' people.

UPSIDE:
One of those sweet and heart-warming movies. A popcorn movie for the family.

Walter Mitty (Ben Stiller) in one of his adventures

OVERALL:
Nice and easy film. Recommended by me.

RATING:
7.5 out of 10

REVIEW: THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG

Sorry I am a little late on this review. I've been a bit busy with work. However, it is going to be a fun review because I watched an enjoyable film which I think you would like it.

Around this time last year, New Line Cinema and Metro Goldwyn Mayer presented us with The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey to big screens. It is the beginning of a series of three films adapted from a book written by J.R.R.Tolkien titled The Hobbit. Tolkien is known for writing the three novels Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and Return of the King which is part of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. This trilogy of books was also adapted into a trilogy of films from 2001 to 2003.

Returning to the helm is director Peter Jackson, who was responsible for the Lord of the Rings trilogy films and the first Hobbit film. The second film in The Hobbit film series is titled The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. The film reunites Jackson with actors Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Benedict Cumberbatch, Lee Pace, and many more. Orlando Bloom joins the cast by reprising his role as Legolas from the The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Also adding to the cast is the beautiful Evangeline Lilly and actor Luke Evans. Jackson co-wrote the film with his real-life wife Fran Walsh, Jackson regular Philippa Boyens, and established director Guillermo Del Toro.

How adventurous is this film and will it disappoint? Do read on...

Bilbo, the 13 dwarves, and Gandalf reach a climactic point of the film.

SYNOPSIS:
The adventures of Bilbo Baggins, the 13 dwarves led by Thorin, and the wizard Gandalf continues as they journey to the Lonely Mountain to reclaim what rightfully belongs to the dwarves. Along the way, this band of misfits encounter various obstacles that would challenge their courage and spirit. As a group, they will face the greatest villain of all, Smaug the dragon.

Martin Freeman as the hobbit named Bilbo Baggins

SCRIPT:
Strong and solid. Enough to garner attention towards the storyline. Good character development. Multiple plot lines were well outlined and enough to sustain interest. Please do note that the inclusion of Legolas and Tauriel, portrayed in the film by Orlando Bloom and Evangeline Lilly respectively, were added by the writers and was not in the book it was adapted from. Just like the previous Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Hobbit films explores the themes of brotherhood, teamwork, courage, and determination. Good insertions of comedy.

Benedict Cumberbatch voices the villainous dragon Smaug.

ACTING:
Despite the majority of actors being under heavy make-up and prosthetics, I find their acting to be reasonable good. A good blend of nice performances from an ensemble cast where no one actor tries to outdo another.

Actor Luke Evans (left) brings more acting credibility to the film

FILMING:
Excellent. Director Peter Jackson manages to incorporate new angles and creative action sequences to make the film interesting. The amount of dramatic moments and action are well balanced. Visual effects was awesome. He did all this while still retaining some of his trademark shots (45 degree angles moving constantly) and still is interesting. Stay for the song at the end by Ed Sheeran who sings "I See Fire".

Orlando Bloom reprises his role as Legolas from the previous Lord of the Rings trilogy films

PACING:
For a film that runs for 161 minutes, it was not boring at all. Though there were some scenes that require a lot of talk and explanation, it did not feel boring.

TONE (MOOD):
An adventure on an epic scale told from the eyes of those considered  a 'minority' in a fantasy world.

Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins enjoying a moment in the film

DOWNSIDE:
Non-fans of adventure film might not find this suitable. Quite a long film.

UPSIDE:
Great adventure film. Strong underlying themes of the human spirit is clearly evident. Good for kids.

Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel and Orlando Bloom as Legolas in a scene from the film

OVERALL:
A must-watch for film-goers. Good popcorn film. Please note that you HAVE to watch the previous film, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, before watching this film in order to understand key points of the plot.

RATING:
8.5 out of 10.

REVIEW: CAPTAIN PHILLIPS

Tom Hanks has almost never failed to deliver good performance on film. So does director Paul Greengrass (The Bourne Supremacy, The Bourne Ultimatum, United 93, The Green Zone). Now, both this auteurs are collaborating on a project which was brought to the world's attention in 2009. I think this is the first time I am reviewing a film based on true events.

Captain Phillips is directed by Paul Greengrass. It stars Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Faysal Ahmed, Barkhad Abdirahman, Mahat M. Ali, Yul Vasquez, and many others. The script was written by Billy Ray, who adapted in from the book A Captain's Duty: Somali Pirates. Navy SEALs, and Dangerous Day at Sea, which book in turn was based on true events of Captain Richard Phillips. For more on the incident involving Captain Richard Phillips and Somali pirates, you can read in here. This film was released in October in America but only reached Malaysian shores December 5th, 2013.

Can Paul Greengrass and Tom Hanks do justice to a story based on true events? Do read on...

Tom Hanks as Captain Phillips going about his normal duties on Maersk Alabama

SYNOPSIS:
In April 2009, the shipping vessel Maersk Alabama was hijacked by four Somali pirates. After some tactical struggle between the ship's crew and the pirates, the Somalians fled in a lifeboat but brought the ships leader Captain Richard Phillips as hostage. This is the story of that ordeal.

Captain Phillips notices approaching Somali pirates

SCRIPT:
Solid, simple, and straightforward. It does enough to sustain interest by not complicating it with maritime jargon. Good character development. At times we cheer for the heroism of those on the ship and at times we symphatize for the cause of the Somali pirates. Great rollercoaster of a drama.

The four actors playing Somali pirates. Barkhad Abdi as leader Muse is second from left.

ACTING:
Powerful performances from the actors. Despite many raving about the performance of Tom Hanks as Captain Phillips, I am more impressed by the performances of the four unknown Somali-Americans who made their debut in the film. After doing some research, I found out that the four of them live in the same building in Minneapolis, Minnesota and they attended the film's audition casting call together. Look out for the performance of Barkhad Abdi as the lead terrorist Muse (pronounced Musa).

Barkhad Abdi as Muse threatens Tom Hanks as Captain Phillips

FILMING:
Paul Greengrass is famous for his 'quesy-cam' shots (also know as shaky cam). In his earlier films, they were a bit excessive but for this film, he has toned it down a little bit, which is good. I liked the editing, in particular switching the story back and forth between the heroes and the villains. I liked how it got more intense towards the end. I noticed the audience started rooting for the hero. Good job Paul Greengrass.

Captain Phillips tries to negotiate with the terrorists.

PACING:
For a movie that has a running time of slightly above two hours, this movie was not boring at all. It had a nice pace to it and can garner intense interest from the audience

TONE (MOOD):
A hostage rescue operation where the odds are seemingly against the heroes.

Drama and tension aboard the shipping vessel Maersk Alabama

DOWNSIDE:
A cast of unknown supporting cast might be unfamiliar territory to some. Also, the heavy subject matter which some might find non-relatable.

UPSIDE:
Great acting performances and a good script.

The U.S. Navy in one of their many attempts to rescue Captain Phillips

OVERALL:
A must watch. This film 'smells' awards all over it.

RATING:
8.5 out of 10

REVIEW: ULAR - Malaysia

Watched another local Malaysian film the following day after Kolumpo. This time the film is of a different genre, suspense thriller. The title of film is called Ular, which is the Malay language translation for snake. Sounds scary.

Ular is written and directed by Jason Chong. The film stars Lisa Surihani, Yusry KRU, Izzue Islam, Harun Salim Bachik, Namron, Zarina Zainuddin, and many more. The film is produced and distributed by Showbiz Productions Sdn. Bhd. Here's a peek at the trailer:-

The poster suggests that this could be a re-imagining of the Hollywood film Anaconda (1997) but is it? Do read on...

Lisa Surihani (center) as Maira and Yusry KRU (right) as Remy

SYNOPSIS:
A young female reporter and her photographer is send to an island to do an article about a resort. Once they arrived, they meet a bunch of colourful characters. The reporter soon discovers that an electric fence is surrounding the resort. Her reporter instincts compels her to investigate and finds more than she bargained for.

SCRIPT:
Mediocre and cliché. It is not a re-imagining of Anaconda (1997) as what many people expected. Pretty original storyline. Good character development in the beginning but withered down as the movie progresses. Would have loved to have a little more backstory of the female reporter and photographer as it was touched upon only a little bit.

Yusry KRU as Reey getting tangled by a snake

ACTING:
The only good performance is Lisa Surihani. She does good work in the movie roles that she is given. I can't say much for the rest of the supporting cast. They were pretty stale.

FILMING:
I think it was okay. Some creative use of angles but couldn't help thinking how a cheesy storyline brought the film down. Visual effects was mediocre but could have been better. One or two close-up shots of snakes were nice. Good utilization of sound effects. Some pretty good scare which got the audience and me shocked. Nice sets.

Multiple movie stills from the film. Click to enlarge picture

PACING:
For a film that runs under 80 minutes, it felt pretty draggy. Good start but slow till the end.

TONE (MOOD):
A group of unexpected individuals trying to survive animal threats in an isolated location.

Lisa Surihani as Maira in a scene from the film

DOWNSIDE:
Movie cliché after movie cliché which made the film a downer to watch. Predictable outcome too.

UPSIDE:
Good shock and scares. Nice use of sound effects.

OVERALL:
A popcorn movie. It has its nice moments despite being a mediocre storyline.

RATING:
6 out of 10

REVIEW: KOLUMPO - Malaysia

The Malaysian movie I am about to review has received much hype and buzz in the local entertainment industry. Therefore, I was intrigued to see what this movie had to offer. The title of the movie is called Kolumpo. The word 'Kolumpo' is a slang term meaning Kuala Lumpur, which is the capital city of Malaysia. Kolumpo is an anthology film, one of the first of its kind in Malaysia. An anthology film means a film which combines several short films into one feature length film. Directors like Quentin Tarantino and Martin Scorsese has had anthology films in their careers.

This anthology film consists of three stories. These three short films are directed by Bront Palarae, Sheikh Munasar, and Rozi Izma respectively. When reviewing this film, I will refer to each story as Story 1, Story 2, and Story 3. The film stars Azad Jazmin, Mano Maniam, Radhi Khalid, Soffi Jikan, and Sabri Yunus in Story 1. In Story 2, the stars are Nell Ng, Ruminah Sidek, and Emely Poon. Finally in Story 3, the stars are Sharifah Amani and Amirul Ariff. The film is produced and distributed by Otto Films. Here is the trailer for Kolumpo:-

 

 

Will this one-of-a-kind film be worth the watch? Do read on...

 

 

SYNOPSIS:

In Story 1, a young immigrant from India comes to Kuala Lumpur for work but only to find out that he has been tricked into making his dreams of making money a false hope. He slowly discovers that his way of life is not what he hoped it would be.

In Story 2, a Chinese lady befriends a Malay old woman after she accepts a hitchhiking offer at a shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur, As the Chinese lady drives the Malay woman to her destination, they form an unexpected friendship.

In Story 3, a young Malay girl spontaneously befriends a young Malay boy, who has never had a girlfriend. Together, they discover the of value of friendship and possibly love, as they walk the streets of Kuala Lumpur.

 

SCRIPT:

Each story has its own strength in the storyline. As you can tell that each story focuses on the three primary races in Malaysia; Malay, Chinese, and Indian. There is a theme going on which is obvious; all stories takes place in Kuala Lumpur. I liked the fact that this film tries to show the many layers of life among the races in Malaysia. The stories may be common but there were interesting enough for me to be engaged in it. The stories do not provide any sort of isolation but more tries to unite what is common between us. I like how each short story has a little twist to it, eventhough they were predictable.

 

Story 1: Azad Jazmin in blue and white sarong. Flanked by Radhi Khalid (left) and Mano Maniam (right)

ACTING:

Kudos to the filmmakers for mixing up the casting by hiring established and newcomers in this anthology film. Their performances were not memorable but just enough to serve the purpose of the story. I particularly liked how the veteran actors surrounded the newcomers.

 

FILMING:

Simple and effective for a film that is so obviously shot on a low budget. Creative use of angles which makes it interesting.

 

Story 2: Ruminah Sidek and Nell Ng

PACING:

A little slow but takes awhile to get used to. Story 1 had nice pacing. Story 2 was a little slow but made it up with some comedy. Story 3 was slightly draggy but sweet ending.

 

TONE (MOOD):

An adventure on the many racial facades of life in Kuala Lumpur.

 

Story 3: Amirul Ariff and Sharifah Amani

DOWNSIDE:

It is a drama anthology film. Can be draggy for some.

 

UPSIDE:

Good performances and nice stories.

 

Behind the scenes. Director of Story 1 Bront Palarae cameos in Story 2 with Nell Ng

OVERALL:

A heart-warming anthology film which could have been more better. Sweet feeling all-around.

 

RATING:

7.5 out of 10