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We Need To Talk About Kevin

Released January 13, 2012

Rated R

Directed By Lynne Ramsay

Starring Tilda Swinton, Ezra Miller, and John C. Reilly

112 Minutes

We Need To Talk About Kevin is a dark, genuinely disturbing drama revolving around the psychologically and socially troubled Kevin Katchadourian (Miller), son of Eva (Swinton). It is based on the novel of the same name written by Lionel Shriver. The movie focuses mainly on Eva, living in present day, alone in an old run-down house. In a deeply depressed state, she looks back on memories of her old life and family. I refuse to go any further due to spoilers.

The acting in We Need To Talk About Kevin is superb. Tilda Swinton gives a witty, emotionally deep, mesmerizing, Oscar-worthy performance. Ezra Miller is the perfect fit for the demented Kevin. John C. Reilly is like a cherry on top of a bowl of ice cream, playing the loving father and husband. Kevin was doomed from Day 1. We learn that from a very early age, he was socially and psychologically out of touch, and we soon find out, as he grows older, the things he is capable of. It is one of the most disturbing characters I’ve seen in a while. The acting sends the film over the top, and with Ramsay’s clever directing, it’s beautiful.

The script is fantastic. It tells such an emotionally rich, but very dark tale that you won’t soon forget. As the film progresses, you become engaged in the plot and characters. It really does a good job of keeping you interested, from start to finish, despite being on the quiet side. The slow pace meshes well with it’s quiet feel, making for a very mellow viewing experience. It’s dark nature sets the tone, leaving you wondering what will happen next around every turn.

Overall, We Need To Talk About Kevin sets itself apart, with unique characters and very smart acting and directing. It’s one of those little films that doesn’t get much attention, but it’s truly a gem and something everyone needs to check out. It boasts one of the scariest characters in Kevin, a superb performance from Swinton, a witty script and fine directing. We Needs To Talk About Kevin is a film I need to stop ranting and raving about and one you should be watching as soon as possible.

Score:

4.5 out of 5


We Bought A Zoo

Released December 23, 2011

Rated PG

Directed By Cameron Crowe

Starring Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson, and Thomas Haden Church

124 Minutes

We Bought A Zoo surprised me on so many different levels. First things first, the premise may sound cliché, but the film’s heartfelt ambition sets it apart from the rest. It is a deeply moving, tear-jerking affair. The film’s emotional depth is simply amazing, with subtle smiles and warm conversations between people who love each other. It’s what makes this film stand in front in a world full of cheaply made, cliché family flicks. In the acting department, all is well and good. A stellar cast consisting of Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson and Thomas Haden Church give the movie a nice charm. This isn’t necessarily Damon’s cup of tea, but he pleasantly surprised me, delivering a fantastic performance.

Although We Bought A Zoo is loosely based on a true story about a real zoo, there are many differences. The term “loosely” is fitting, because the real zoo is located in England, not California, and Matt Damon’s character in the real world is British, not American. There are many other differences that I won’t get into because of spoilers, so refer to the web if you are interested. The story line in general is very family friendly and family oriented. The plot makes complete sense and is easy to understand. The film is directed by Cameron Crowe (Jerry Maguire) and overall, delivers a great production. The main flaw of the film is the overall purpose. Sure, the film has a good story and it’s a moving tale, but the fact that it’s so simple brings down the “wow” factor quite a bit. There are no surprises and it tends to be linear and sometimes directionless.

All in all, We Bought a Zoo is great, with a stellar cast, solid acting, top-notch direction, and most of all, a spectacular presentation of human emotion, with a whole lot of heart to go with it.

Score:

4 out of 5



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