(c) TimeWarner

Where does one begin to evaluate a movie from a critical perspective with such a fabulous work of cinema?!? This movie will take you by surprise. Regardless if you grew up playing with the original lego sets (1980s), as this critic did, you are a lego contemporary, or you just like well written, produced, and directed movies, you will thoroughly enjoy this movie. TimeWarner out-Pixars Pixar with “The LEGO Movie.” Look out Pixar, it may not be DreamWorks you need to watch for, TimeWarner Animation is hot on your trail. Essentially, the themes of this movie are the value of individualism, the creative genius, and non-conformity. Although, this movie does employ the “be yourself” (or Disney) mantra, it does it in such a way that is unique and refreshing. The writing was excellent and the dialog was well-balanced between the serious and the humorous. Direction and cinematography were also orchestrated brilliantly. One of the elements that stands out the most is the fact the visual effect artists used the legos themselves to create explosions, lazer blasts, and water. String is even used to make a ghost levitate. All the things one would use if playing with his or her own legos. Highly recommend this movie for all ages! Who knew that a summer movie would premiere in the dead of winter.

A fantastic gem of a film that is not to be missed! Although many critics did not like the movie, this critic finds it to be an excellent movie. Leave it to Kate Winslet’s warmth, intelligence and sincerity to bring us out of the winter doldrums of January holiday leftovers with Director Jason Reitman’s brilliantly adapted romantic drama. It resonates with delicacy, passion and restraint, touching the heart in places where cynics fear to go. As good as it is, the timing of the movie release is questionable. Although it premiered at two major film festivals in late 2013 (Telluride and Toronto), it did not get a nationwide release until January 31. Is this a Valentine’s movie? Labor Day movie? It certainly would’ve made more sense to have premiered it, for the nationwide release, during Oscar season (typically the fall time through the holidays) because it bears many Oscar qualities. Everything from the writing to the cinematography was excellent. Direction was quite good as well. Director Reitman seamlessly adapts the Joyce Maynard novel to the screen, and paints a beautiful picture for the audience, and the chemistry between Brolin and Winslet is incredible. Winslet shines as Adele, the love-starved single mother who is all but a recluse, with only her adolescent son to keep her company. And, Josh Brolin delivers an excellent performance as Frank, the good-hearted fugitive. Central to the film is Henry (or Hank) played by Gattlin Griffith, the adolescent son of Adele who is at the age where he begins to wrestle with ideas of love, sex, and companionship. Griffith brings real emotion to his character, and has the audience fully convinced of his commitment to Henry. Even though there is very little verbal exposition, the visual exposition is executed very well. This film is definitely one that is easy to pass over due to the lack of publicity and the far-from-stellar opening weekend; but, don’t pass over this movie that is a perfect fit for a date with your significant other.

Another reboot to add to the barrage of reboots/origin stories in the last several years. Although never before had the character of Jack Ryan been considered a franchise, in the same way that Batman, Bourne, or Mission Impossible is, it is safe to assume now that this is the new direction for Paramount in the wake of the recent passing of Tom Clancy. In short, this movie is about Jack Ryan, a young former marine turned covert CIA analyst, who uncovers a Russian plot to crash the U.S. economy with a terrorist attack on New York City and the stock market to create a second great depression. First off, let’s take a look at the release date. This action-packed espionage movie was released in January, a traditional burial ground for major studio releases. Prior to “Wolf of Wall Street” moving from a 2014 release date to the coveted Christmas time slot(s), “Jack Ryan” was slated to have a Christmas release date all of its own. Is this an example of a Park Avenue movie slumming in the Bronx? Or, a ‘tastes great, less filling’ “Bourne”? You be the judge. Clearly, Paramout is grooming Chris Pine to be the actor to whom the torch of Jack Ryan is being passed. Kevin Coster’s character got it right when he asked Pine’s Ryan if he was going to keep that “boy scout on a field trip” look on his face. All-in-all, Pine’s acting is acceptable for a role such as this–nothing remarkable. The plug for Manhattan’s Film Forum was nicely woven into the film’s plot. With the Russians being the bad guys again, and in light of recent events in the news, are we returning to Cold War era movies? Although the cinematography is well executed, the editing often times included too many quick cuts which became more of a distraction than helpful in advancing the plot. At the end of the day, the first two acts are weak, followed by a decent third act. For purposes of an entertaining action film, it does its job.

“The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” is an excellent film for the whole family. Whether you want a love story, mystery, or high-flying adventure, you will find it in this movie. Unknown to many, this is a remake of a 1947 film starring Danny Kaye, but the new version goes in a different direction. Ben Stiller’s performance as the lead actor is one of his best, and his direction is even better. One aspect of a film that is particularly important, and is often overlooked, is character development; and the writers did a fantastic job with the character of Walter Mitty. Probably the most impressive part of this film was the cinematography. Easily a candidate for Best Cinematography this year. The combination and variety of shots, including still photography, was captivating. The film also showcases a wonderful symphonic score, which matches perfectly with the film. Outside of a few plot holes, which are essentially minor in nature, the plot was well written and executed. If you have yet to see it, this is one not to miss, and be on the lookout for when the Oscar Nominations are released.

A refreshing return to classic Disney animated musicals that are both heartwarming and entertaining. There is a little something for everyone. However, the movie relies upon excellent lyrics and commanding score to help support an otherwise weak and predictable plot that suffers from a lack of exposition and character development. By the end of the movie, there are many unanswered questions which, if answered, could help the audience to better understand the backstory and plot. Sadly, if one were to take away the amazing songs from the movie, there would be little left to enjoy. But, it is exciting to see that Disney can still produce a movie with memorable music that could easily join the ranks of “A Whole New World,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” “Reflections,” “Colors of the Wind,” and others.