Taken 2 is the mindless action movie we’ve been waiting for

Often when I criticize a movie like Skyfall for half-baked plots and shallow characterization, what I hear in response is, "Whatever, it's just a mindless action movie." But I don't believe that's true. A movie decides what it's going to be - Daniel Craig's Bond was a deviation from previous movies in that it wanted… Continue reading Taken 2 is the mindless action movie we’ve been waiting for

Why The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a Must-Watch

Every decade has a handful of coming-of-age stories that define a generation and tap into an emotional nostalgia of youth that becomes hazy as time passes. This decade’s coming of age story focuses on a high school freshman whose awkward, shy demeanor has become defined by the heavy past he’s trying to recover from.

The New Dredd

The first film adaptation of Judge Dredd, a British comic book set in a dystopian wasteland, is described on Wikipedia as "a critical and commercial disappointment." If you appreciate a high body count, Rob Schneider's comic relief, and cyborg cannibal mutants (plus that air of gravitas a Max Von Sydow cameo affords), as I do, you might find… Continue reading The New Dredd

Seven Psychopaths…one Shih Tzu

"I almost got killed today because you kidnapped the wrong dog" What do you get when you mix seven psychopaths, a supporting role by an expressionless Shih Tzu and over-the-top Tarantino-esque violence? You get a sharply penned script with killer dialogue and grade-A talent hysterically meshed together. But more importantly, you get Christopher Walken.  … Continue reading Seven Psychopaths…one Shih Tzu

Exploring Celtic Mythology in Film

While modern adaptations of Greco-Roman mythology abound, movies with direct links to the Celtic tradition can be difficult to find. King Arthur is obviously the most well-known figure of British mythology, but he'll warrant a post of his own. In the meantime, here are a few of the lesser-known stories with roots in Celtic legend:… Continue reading Exploring Celtic Mythology in Film