Wednesday Oscar Watch

Welcome to a newly-restarted feature here at Movies with Abe, Wednesday Oscar Watch with Abe. It’s a bit early to be able to accurately predict the eventual Oscar nominees, but around this time, plenty of likely contenders are being released. I’ll be looking every Wednesday at the awards chances for all of the films released the previous week. Chime in with your thoughts on the Oscar chances for these films in the comments section. Also, if I’ve missed any films from the previous months, please say so!

A few awards bodies have started announcing nominations and giving out prizes. Head over to Shockya to read my thoughts on the Independent Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, and New York Film Critics Circle picks.

Films released November 18-25, 2011

The Artist
This film is sure to be an immense crowd-pleaser, and I suspect that it’s going to get nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor (Jean Dujardin) at the very least. Bérénice Bejo is a good bet if they really love the film, and Best Original Screenplay will probably happen as well. In the technical categories, I imagine it will make a dent in Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Costume Design, and maybe Best Film Editing as well. This is going to be a popular film, already having won the NYFCC Best Picture prize!

A Dangerous Method
The last two David Cronenberg films released, “Eastern Promises” and “A History of Violence,” have netted one acting nomination apiece. If it were up to me, Viggo Mortensen would earn his second nod for playing Freud. Michael Fassbender and Keira Knightley might contend as well, and the film could pop up in Best Costume Design or Best Original Score.

The Descendants
Alexander Payne’s hit film is a lock for Best Picture, as well as Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Actor George Clooney. That could be it, but I think Shailene Woodley will put up a good fight for Best Supporting Actress, and the film could also manage a Best Film Editing or Best Original Score mention.

Happy Feet Two
This film’s predecessor won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature back in 2006, and it may face off against two sequels to other Oscar-nominated animated films this year. A Best Original Song nomination isn’t out of the question either.

Hugo
I have no idea how to evaluate this film’s chances, since it could well make it into the top races since it’s directed by Martin Scorsese. I think that, at the very least, it will be nominated for Best Cinematography and Best Art Direction. Best Costume Design is likely as well, as are Best Original Score, Best Sound, Best Sound Editing, Best Visual Effects, Best Makeup, and Best Film Editing.

My Week with Marilyn
It’s a good bet that Michelle Williams will be nominated for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe, and despite his Independent Spirit Awards snub, Kenneth Branagh is a strong contender for his performance as Laurence Olivier. The film might merit a Best Costume Design or Best Art Direction mention, but I think that’s it.

The Muppets
This family adventure is likely to pop up in the Best Original Song category, which I’ll be taking a closer look at as we get closer to the announcement of Oscar nominations.

Tuesday’s Top Trailer: Titanic

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies with Abe, Tuesday's Top Trailer. One of my favorite parts about going to see movies is the series of trailers that airs beforehand and, more often than not, the trailer is far better than the actual film. Each week, I'll be sharing a trailer I've recently seen. Please chime in with comments on what you think of the trailer and how you think the movie is going to be.

Titanic – Opening April 6, 2012



I usually utilize this feature as a way to express my anticipation for upcoming films, but what it’s really about, more often than not, is a trailer that’s simply superbly made. There’s no denying that this preview, which was shown before "Hugo," for the rerelease of the 1997 Oscar Best Picture winner makes the movie look incredible, and it makes me want to go see the film again though I don’t think I’ll actually make the effort. A rerelease trailer like this presents the intriguing opportunity to credit James Cameron as the visionary director of “Avatar,” a film made twelve years ago this one and presumably financed and approved because of his work on “Titanic.” It’s clear from this brief snapshot that the technical qualities of “Titanic” aren’t any less impressive than they were a decade ago, and I’m sure that presenting the film in 3-D will enhance the experience greatly. What the trailer does best is that it frames the love story, perhaps the least objectively impressive part of the film, in a formidable way, making it seem entirely irresistible. Some once-praised classics don’t hold up on a second viewing years later, but something tells me that this one will, and its rerelease will be wholly worthwhile.

Movie with Abe: Hugo

Hugo
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Released November 23, 2011

There’s a certain magic to movies that exists in no other art form. Looking back on cinematic history, it’s staggering to recognize the tremendous impact of things that seem infinitely archaic now at the time of their invention. Some of the best movies are glorious celebrations of cinema itself. Martin Scorsese’s most unconventional film to date is a love letter to the history of film and one of its most prominent figures, demonstrating not only an appreciation for early milestones in cinema but also taking full advantage of the wondrous technology at his disposal in creating the newest entry in film history.

One thing that “Hugo” indisputability does not run short on is imagination. Its protagonist lives within a railroad station, secretly tweaking the clocks to ensure that they operate properly. His central perch allows him a perspective on everyone in the station but also puts him in a position of extreme loneliness, surrounded by people but never afforded the opportunity to talk to anyone. A botched theft presents him with the chance to practice his love for building and fixing machines, and leads him to make a friend and begin a new adventure with her.

“Hugo” is fascinating for the way in which it presents its concepts, but it isn’t in any rush to get to its revelations. Its style is reminiscent of a Jean-Pierre Jeunet film, somewhat less sweet and charming but about as whimsical and colorful. Its themes of young hopefulness are similar to those showcased in this summer’s “Super 8,” minus the supernatural slant. The story is appealing and ultimately irresistible, but the film isn’t without its dull moments, and isn’t entirely effective in its path towards its resolution. It’s most enthralling when its characters’ sense of wonder permeates the film’s entire being.

An intriguing cast of players is on hand to fill this magical universe. In the lead is wide-eyed Asa Butterfield, whose enthusiasm and energy shows through with every look he wears on his face. Chloe Moretz continues to demonstrate her talents as Hugo’s precocious young fried Isabelle. The adult cast is populated by the likes of Ben Kingsley, Christopher Lee, Helen McCrory, Emily Mortimer, Frances de la Tour, Richard Griffiths, Jude Law, and Sacha Baron Cohen, lending a good deal of gravitas to this particular tale. The cinematography, art direction, and sound truly make the experience, and this is certainly not a typical Martin Scorsese film. It’s a marvelously interesting voyage to another world, which, more often than not, is extremely pleasant and gratifying.

B

Movie with Abe: A Dangerous Method

A Dangerous Method
Directed by David Cronenberg
Released November 23, 2011

It’s difficult to argue that the theories and methodologies of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung are anything but extraordinarily interesting. Though their approaches were and in some cases still are controversial, they make for great material for both storytelling and thematic purposes. It stands to reason, then, that a film about Freud, Jung, and Sabina Spielrein, one of Jung’s most prominent patients, should be enthralling, especially when brought to the big screen by visionary director David Cronenberg and adapted from the novel by John Kerr by “Atonement” screenwriter Christopher Hampton. Yet something just doesn’t carry through from the idea stage to its execution.

To call “A Dangerous Method” a film about Freud is inaccurate. The main character is really Jung (Michael Fassbender), whose main fascination is his mentally disturbed patient Spielrein (Keira Knightley), who demonstrates magnificent progress as the film progresses and makes incredible bounds towards sanity and psychoanalytic education of her own. Jung’s life is presented only as it relates to two people, Spielrein and Freud, with his long-suffering wife Emma (Sarah Gadon) entering the picture only occasionally. It’s a narrow snapshot, but for the purposes of the film, it’s better that it remains focused and determined to mete out the importance and benefits of psychoanalysis.

Fassbender is a terrific actor, having demonstrated his capacity for excellence in films such as “Inglourious Basterds” and “Fish Tank.” This is a role at which he should excel, but unfortunately, it’s much like his portrayal of Magneto in “X-Men: First Class,” intriguing, committed, and ultimately unfulfilling. Knightley’s portrait of the unstable Spielrein also leaves something to be desired, as she never feels wholly real. Vincent Cassel brightens the film with his brief performance as a fellow patient, Otto Gross, presenting, as usual, an odd, entertaining, memorable character. The strongest turn in the film comes from Viggo Mortensen as Freud, playing him as an impossibly humble, reserved, brilliant scientist with a noel perspective on life.

“A Dangerous Method” suffers mostly from a lack of consistency, often darting from one interaction between Jung and Spielrein to a conversation between Jung and Freud without much regard for timeline or steadiness of thought. The story arc feels incomplete and full of holes, yet somehow the plot is told in full. Howard Shore’s foreboding score indicates the tone of a thriller, but the film never picks up its pace enough to reach that status. Somewhat similar to the early perception of psychoanalysis, it’s a decent start that is hardly proven or finished.

C+

Saturday Night Movie Recommendations with Abe

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies With Abe. I'm going to be providing a handy guide to a few choice movies currently playing in NYC as well as several films newly released on DVD. I’ll also aim to comment on those films I have not yet had the chance to see, and I invite you to add in your thoughts on any films I haven’t seen in the comments below. Understandably, some weeks will have considerably fewer releases to address than others.

Now Playing in NYC

The Artist (highly recommended): This delightful black-and-white, silent film is wonderfully creative and entirely charming, using its antique form to excellent effect. French performers Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo are magnificent, and the film is fully entertaining from start to finish. Now playing at the Paris Theatre and the Angelika. Read my review from the New York Film Festival.

My Week with Marilyn (mixed bag): This film is most reminiscent of “Me and Orson Welles,” presenting a fleeting, inevitably doomed look at one bright-eyed young director’s experience with one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. The film presents intriguing turns from Michelle Williams and especially Kenneth Branagh as Laurence Olivier. The film as a whole is less satisfying and impressive. Now playing in limited release. Read my review from the New York Film Festival.

A Dangerous Method (mixed bag): David Cronenberg’s latest film hardly feels like something from the auteur, instead presenting a fairly straightforward history of Carl Jung and his involvement with Sigmund Freud and Sabrina Spielrein. Viggo Mortensen’s Freud is terrific, but the rest of the film leaves much to be desired, proving less than creative. Now playing at the Landmark Sunshine and Lincoln Plaza. My review will be up tomorrow.

I’m planning to see Hugo tomorrow, so more on that soon. I’m happy to skip The Muppets.

New to DVD

Super 8 (recommended): J.J. Abrams’ super hit is a great throwback to films like “E.T.” that focus on children and their fascination with extraterrestrial occurrences. It contains some terrific effects, makeup, acting, and action, and it’s a hugely enjoyable and engrossing picture.

Now on Netflix Instant Streaming

LOTR: The Two Towers (highly recommended): Arguably the best of the Oscar-winning fantasy trilogy, this second installment has plenty of action, plot development, and drama, and also includes, most importantly, a whole lot of Gollum. It’s a fabulous fantasy outing.

Elizabeth (recommended): This regal drama and 1998 Best Picture nominee features a powerhouse performance from Cate Blanchett and a handful of strong supporting turns from actors such as Geoffrey Rush and Vincent Cassel. It’s not perfect, but it’s certainly enthralling.

The Romantics (recommended): This ensemble drama takes place on the eve of a wedding, and it’s interesting mainly for some of its supporting players, notably Adam Brody and Malin Akerman. Its leads, Katie Holmes and Josh Duhamel, are hardly as compelling.

Golden Globe Musings: Best Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Alice in Wonderland
Burlesque
The Kids Are All Right
Red
The Tourist

After last year’s nutty lineup, I’m not sure what to expect. I noted in the corresponding drama category that it’s possible that The Artist, The Descendants, and The Help could all be classified there rather than here, but I’ll stick with them in this race for now. Presuming they all get in, that leaves two spots, but I suspect there will need to be room for three. Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris is a strong contender, as is Roman Polanski’s Carnage. A fresh and likely popular choice is Bridesmaids, and it should beat out other contenders like The Hangover Part II and Horrible Bosses. Relationship comedies Friends with Benefits and No Strings Attached will likely cancel each other out. Crazy Stupid Love will garner some votes, and indie comedies Beginners and Cedar Rapids might have an outside shot as well. Jason Reitman’s Young Adult and Tom Hanks’ Larry Crowne may also contend.

Current predictions:
The Artist
Bridesmaids
Carnage
The Descendants
Midnight in Paris

Golden Globe Musings: Best Motion Picture – Drama

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Black Swan
The Fighter
Inception
The King’s Speech
The Social Network

In the midst of making my predictions, I’ve read conflicting reports that make me think that The Descendants and The Help might end up here, and The Artist could too. For the sake of consistency, I’m going to continue predicting with those three in the comedy race, and in my final predictions, I’ll revisit that and make a final choice. At the forefront of this race is The Ides of March, a film that probably won’t make it all the way to the Oscars but should do just fine here. Moneyball is a strong bet, and so is Clint Eastwood’s J. Edgar. Without knowing how it will be received, I’m not positive about the chances for Steven Spielberg’s War Horse, but I think it will find a place here. Beyond that, the race is wide open, with some independent dramas like Shame and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy fending off more mainstream releases like Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and We Bought a Zoo. Ralph Fiennes’ Coriolanus and The Tree of Life are also in the mix. For the final slot, however, I’ll predict A Dangerous Method, considering that, despite little support in other races, David Cronenberg’s last two films, A History of Violence and Eastern Promises, both found themselves here.

Current predictions:
A Dangerous Method
The Ides of March
J. Edgar
Moneyball
War Horse

Golden Globe Musings: Best Director – Motion Picture

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Darren Aronofsky (Black Swan)
David O. Russell (The Fighter)
Christopher Nolan (Inception)
Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech)
David Fincher (The Social Network)

More so than with the Oscars, Golden Globe voters like to recognize popular directors. If the movie is highly acclaimed enough, there’s the potential for breakthroughs, but they’re not entirely common. This year’s new name is sure to be Michel Hazanavicius (The Artist), and he’ll likely join four previously nominated directors. Some will have an easier time with voter-friendly films, such as Steven Spielberg (War Horse), Roman Polanski (Carnage), Clint Eastwood (J. Edgar), and Alexander Payne (Sideways). Other possibilities include Tomas Alfredson (Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy), George Clooney (The Ides of March), David Cronenberg (A Dangerous Method), Cameron Crowe (We Bought a Zoo), Stephen Daldry (Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close),
David Fincher (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), Ralph Fiennes (Coriolanus), and Terrence Malick (The Tree of Life), depending mainly upon how the films are received. This is one place where comedy and drama categorizations don’t matter, and familiar names will likely prevail.

Current predictions:
Clint Eastwood (J Edgar)
Michel Hazanavicius (The Artist)
Alexander Payne (The Descendants)
Roman Polanski (Carnage)
Steven Spielberg (War Horse)

Golden Globe Musings: Best Screenplay – Motion Picture

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
127 Hours
Inception
The Kids Are All Right
The King’s Speech
The Social Network

Unlike the Oscars or the WGA, the Golden Globes have only one catch-all category for screenplays. It often favors surprisingly light inclusions, such as “Love Actually” or “It’s Complicated,” while also highlighting some creative choices such as “District 9.” Sometimes it’s about the movie, and others it’s about the screenwriter or director. Carnage, Midnight in Paris, J. Edgar, Young Adult, and We Bought a Zoo could fall under the latter category. Their main competition will be The Artist, The Descendants, and The Help. The Ides of March seems like a good-feeling Globe movie, and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy or A Dangerous Method could also factor into the race. I’m pulling for Beginners to place, but sadly, I don’t see that happening.

Current predictions:
The Artist
Carnage
The Descendants
The Help
The Ides of March

Golden Globe Musings: Best Foreign Language Film

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Biutiful
The Concert
The Edge
I Am Love
In a Better World

There are only a few films at this point that have accrued a good amount of buzz for placement in this category. Usually, there are different finalists for the Globes than for the corresponding Oscar race, but I haven’t yet been able to find a list. The big film not on Oscar’s list is Pedro Almodovar’s The Skin I Live In (Spain), and Angelina Jolie’s In the Land of Blood and Honey (USA) may get a spot thanks to its Bosnian dialogue. I’ve seen only two other films that may contend in this category, and I’m not sure that it’ll make the cut, but I’d love to see Happy, Happy (Norway) get in. Otherwise, word is good for Le Havre (Finland), Pina (Germany), A Separation (Iran), Where Do We Go Now? (Lebanon), Miss Bala (Mexico), In Darkness (Poland), and Once Upon a Time in Anatolia (Turkey). There are always a few surprises here, but here are my guesses for now.

Current predictions:
Le Havre (Finland),
A Separation (Iran)
Where Do We Go Now? (Lebanon)
Miss Bala (Mexico)
The Skin I Live In (Spain)

Golden Globe Musings: Best Animated Feature Film

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Despicable Me
How to Train Your Dragon
The Illusionist
Tangled
Toy Story 3

This category has only existed for five years, with the first three years featuring three nominees, and five ever since then. This year will feature five as well. The Oscar pool has eighteen finalists, and it’s likely that they’ll be drawn from that list. Rango is probably the best bet, and it’s likely that Steven Spielberg’s inventive The Adventures of Tintin will make the cut as well. Three sequels of films nominated in this category over the past five years are eligible – Cars 2, Happy Feet Two, and Kung Fu Panda 2. Additionally, Puss in Boots and Winnie the Pooh, new entries in classic franchises, may contend. After that, the strongest contenders are Arthur Christmas and Rio.

Current predictions:
The Adventures of Tintin
Cars 2
Happy Feet Two
Kung Fu Panda 2
Rango

Golden Globe Musings: Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Amy Adams (The Fighter)
Helena Bonham Carter (The King’s Speech)
Mila Kunis (Black Swan)
Melissa Leo (The Fighter)
Jacki Weaver (Animal Kingdom)

This category has had two actresses from the same film nominated four out of the past five years, and that trend is likely to continue this year. The film is “The Help,” though the identity of the actresses is still uncertain. Octavia Spencer is a lock, Viola Davis is probable, and Bryce Dallas Howard and Jessica Chastain could theoretically join them as well, though Chastain is also a contender for both “Take Shelter” and “The Tree of Life.” Though it would be astonishing if she earned an Oscar nomination, Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids) is a good bet here. Being a French actress almost completely unknown to American audiences, Bérénice Bejo (The Artist) may face an uphill battle, but her performance should speak for itself, and voters are sure to love the film. Shailene Woodley (The Descendants) is younger and fresher than most of the other contenders, but she’ll probably be able to make it in if her film is as well-received as most expect to be. A number of past nominees are also in the running this year for their supporting roles, including Sandra Bullock (Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close), Carey Mulligan (Shame), Vanessa Redgrave (Coriolanus), Naomi Watts (J. Edgar), Kate Winslet (Carnage), and Evan Rachel Wood (The Ides of March).

Current predictions:
Bérénice Bejo (The Artist)
Viola Davis (The Help)
Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids)
Octavia Spencer (The Help)
Kate Winslet (Carnage)

Golden Globe Musings: Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Christian Bale (The Fighter)
Michael Douglas (Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps)
Andrew Garfield (The Social Network)
Jeremy Renner (The Town)
Geoffrey Rush (The King’s Speech)

This category is really tough because it’s hard to tell what contenders will actually make it to the final stretch without some of the films having been released yet, considering that hyped-up roles with notable actors often end up being smaller than initially reported. Christopher Plummer (Beginners), nominated in this category two years ago, is perhaps the best bet and only sure thing. Kenneth Branagh (My Week with Marilyn) is a likely nominee for his portrayal of Laurence Olivier. Armie Hammer (J. Edgar) should make it in, given this organization’s love for Clint Eastwood and all of his films. Category placements are iffy, but 2009 winner Christoph Waltz (Carnage) may find himself with a nomination. Some films have a slew of contenders in this category, like “The Ides of March” and “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy,” with George Clooney and Philip Seymour Hoffman, both from the former, at the head of the pack. Brad Pitt (The Tree of Life)’s chances will depend on how his film is received, and I think that’s true also for Albert Brooks (Drive), and Viggo Mortensen (A Dangerous Method), and Max von Sydow or Tom Hanks (Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close). Rounding out the category, watch out for Jonah Hill (Moneyball), who would be a fun choice from an easy-to-like movie.

Current predictions:
Kenneth Branagh (My Week with Marilyn)
George Clooney (The Ides of March)
Armie Hammer (J Edgar)
Christopher Plummer (Beginners)
Christoph Waltz (Carnage)

Golden Globe Musings: Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Annette Bening (The Kids Are All Right)
Anne Hathaway (Love and Other Drugs)
Angelina Jolie (The Tourist)
Julianne Moore (The Kids Are All Right)
Emma Stone (Easy A)

This category seems fairly devoid of contenders, which means that there are sure to be some major surprises in store. Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids) should earn her first Golden Globe nod for starring in one of this year’s most successful comedies. Julia Roberts (Larry Crowne) is a good bet since she’s well-liked by this organization and she has a fun role in Tom Hanks’ film. Nominees for “Black Swan” last year, Mila Kunis (Friends with Benefits) and Natalie Portman (No Strings Attached) are now facing off in the same category for similar roles in similar movies. Nominated in this category last year, Emma Stone (The Help) is hardly the most memorable actress from her film, but she could end up here, as could Viola Davis if she is classified as a lead rather than a supporting actress. Cameron Diaz (Bad Teacher) is a four-time past nominee, and Charlize Theron (Young Adult) will probably get nominated for her role in the forthcoming film penned by Diablo Cody of “Juno” fame. It’s hard to tell how it will be received and which categories its thespians will be placed in, but Jodie Foster (Carnage) has a good shot.

Current predictions:
Jodie Foster (Carnage)
Mila Kunis (Friends with Benefits)
Julia Roberts (Larry Crowne)
Charlize Theron (Young Adult)
Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids)

Golden Globe Musings: Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Johnny Depp (Alice in Wonderland)
Johnny Depp (The Tourist)
Paul Giamatti (Barney’s Version)
Jake Gyllenhaal (Love and Other Drugs)
Kevin Spacey (Casino Jack)

Assuming that Jean Dujardin (The Artist) and George Clooney (The Descendants) have their films classified as comedies, they’ll be here for sure. Tom Hanks is likely to be rewarded by this group that loves here, and watch out for Johnny Depp in either “The Rum Diary” or “Pirates of the Caribbean 4,” since they’ll nominate him for almost anything. Robert Downey Jr. (Sherlock Holmes 2) won for portraying the part in the original film and may well be back again. There a slew of other contenders whose films may either be too small – Paul Giamatti, Will Ferrell (Everything Must Go), Ed Helms (Cedar Rapids), Ewan McGregor (Beginners), and John C. Reilly (Carnage) – or less impressive than the mainstream movies in which they starred - Justin Timberlake (Friends with Benefits) and Owen Wilson (Midnight in Paris). If there is room, both Steve Carell and Ryan Gosling (Crazy Stupid Love) will be nominated, and I think that, either way, the final slot will go to past nominee Joseph Gordon-Levitt (50/50).

Current predictions:
George Clooney (The Descendants)
Jean Dujardin (The Artist)
Joseph Gordon-Levitt (50/50)
Ryan Gosling (Crazy Stupid Love)
Tom Hanks (Larry Crowne)

Golden Globe Musings: Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year's nominees:
Halle Berry (Frankie and Alice)
Nicole Kidman (Rabbit Hole)
Jennifer Lawrence (Winter’s Bone)
Natalie Portman (Black Swan)
Michelle Williams (Blue Valentine)

This category has three sure things and then things get considerably more unpredictable. Meryl Streep (The Iron Lady) is a lock, and Glenn Close (Albert Nobbs), a recent nominee in the TV categories, should be too. Elizabeth Olsen (Martha Marcy May Marlene) is this year’s big breakout, and a snub here would be truly shocking. Michelle Williams (My Week with Marilyn) is a strong possibility, as are Kirsten Dunst (Melancholia) and Keira Knightley (A Dangerous Method). Other actresses whose films may fly too far under the radar are Helen Mirren (The Debt), Anne Hathaway (One Day), Tilda Swinton (We Need to Talk About Kevin), and Rachel Weisz (The Whistleblower). If the film is a hit, Rooney Mara (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) may well join this list.

Current predictions
Glenn Close (Albert Nobbs)
Kirsten Dunst (Melancholia)
Elizabeth Olsen (Martha Marcy May Marlene)
Meryl Streep (The Iron Lady)
Michelle Williams (My Week with Marilyn)

Golden Globe Musings: Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama

Golden Globe nominations for this year will be announced in just a few weeks, so here’s a survey of the contenders and the most likely predictions at this time. Weigh in with your thoughts, and let me know if I’ve left off anything important. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is still a bit early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point.

Last year’s nominees:
Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network)
Colin Firth (The King’s Speech)
James Franco (127 Hours)
Ryan Gosling (Blue Valentine)
Mark Wahlberg (The Fighter)

It’s important to say that if either “The Artist” or “The Descendants” ends up being classified as a drama, stars Jean Dujardin and George Clooney will surely be here. In their absence, however, there’s more room for others. Leonardo DiCaprio (J Edgar) is the only sure thing, and he’ll likely be the winner. Ryan Gosling (The Ides of March) is a good bet given it’s the kind of role that often gets recognized in this category, and he could even find himself with two nominations thanks to his role in “Drive,” which is an artsier choice. Brad Pitt (Moneyball) is a likely contender since it would be hard to find anyone who didn’t find him entertaining in the film. Then we get to the more performance-based contenders, like Woody Harrelson (Rampart), Michael Shannon (Take Shelter), and Gary Oldman (Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy). Michael Fassbender could earn his first nomination for either “A Dangerous Method” or “Shame.” Other popular actors vying for a spot in this category are Ralph Fiennes (Coriolanus), Matt Damon (We Bought a Zoo), and Daniel Craig (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo).

Current predictions:
Leonardo DiCaprio (J Edgar)
Woody Harrelson (Rampart)
Ryan Gosling (The Ides of March)
Gary Oldman (Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy)
Brad Pitt (Moneyball)

Saturday Night Movie Recommendations with Abe

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies With Abe. I'm going to be providing a handy guide to a few choice movies currently playing in NYC as well as several films newly released on DVD. I’ll also aim to comment on those films I have not yet had the chance to see, and I invite you to add in your thoughts on any films I haven’t seen in the comments below. Understandably, some weeks will have considerably fewer releases to address than others.

Now Playing in NYC

The Descendants (recommended): This somewhat light drama stars George Clooney as a Hawaiian businessman whose wife is in a coma and who has to figure out a way to put his life together. It’s somewhat slow to start, but gradually picks up the pace to become both compelling and entertaining by its end. Now playing at AMC Lincoln Square and Regal Union Square. Read my review from the New York Film Festival.

Happy Feet Two (recommended): This animated sequel is very similar to the first, and those who enjoyed the original will enjoy its follow-up film about as much. Brad Pitt and Matt Damon steal the show as two crustaceans thinking outside the box. Now playing in wide release. Read my review from yesterday.

I’m not sure exactly why I’d feel the need to start watching any entry from the Twilight saga at this point.

New to DVD

Beginners (highly recommended): This wonderfully endearing comedy features exceptional performances from the likes of Mélanie Laurent, Christopher Plummer, and Ewan McGregor, with a fresh script and beautiful style, currently ranking as one of my top ten films of the year. A must-see!

Griff the Invisible (highly recommended): This superhero film is the exact opposite of what “Super” was and does a marvelous job crafting a fun movie about a delusional man who thinks he’s a superhero. Ryan Kwanten from “True Blood” and Maeve Dermody turn in magnificently charming performances.

Larry Crowne (mixed bag): This film is exactly what the trailer indicates: a perfect movie for those who love stars Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts and have always wanted to see them together in a movie that wasn’t “Charlie Wilson’s War.” Unfortunately, it’s nothing more, so it’s highly forgettable but not a terrible way to spend 100 minutes.

Now on Netflix Instant Streaming

The Last Kiss (recommended): “L’ultimo bacio” is the Italian original on which the not-so-great 2006 Zach Braff film was based. This one is excellent, featuring wacky, deranged characters, a terrific script, an energetic score, and a great crazy performance from Giovanna Mezzogiorno. See this one!

Take Me Home Tonight (recommended): This 80s parody starring an actor formerly grounded in the 70s, Topher Grace, is harmless fun that’s surprisingly better than might be necessitated by this kind of movie. It’s enjoyable to listen to, and its characters are amusing enough that it’s engaging if not memorable.

The Birth of a Nation (mixed bag): This 1915 landmark film is considered a classic for reasons related to its cinematic importance, but its content – the triumphant rise of the Ku Klux Klan – isn’t terribly rosy. It’s a lengthy instance of old, groundbreaking cinema, but that’s about all it’s worth.

Bombay Beach (anti-recommended): This documentary from this past year’s Tribeca Film Festival doesn’t work at all, featuring what could be an intriguing premise warped by the entirely known presence of the camera and the focus of its subjects of its existence rather than the actual development of some thesis.

Movie with Abe: Happy Feet Two

Happy Feet Two
Directed by George Miller
Released November 18, 2011

Animated films can run the gamut from kid-friendly fare with absolutely no appeal for anyone over the age of three to fully competent pieces of cinema appropriate and engaging for all ages. The first “Happy Feet” film, which trumped “Cars” for the Best Animated Feature Oscar back in 2006, was somewhere in the middle of those two, proving amusing and endearing for those who find singing penguins impossibly cute, and less exciting for those unimpressed by such antics. Its sequel, released nearly five years after the first film, is exactly what one might expect based on its predecessor, and just about as enjoyable.

“Happy Feet Two” is the prototypical sequel , especially for an animated film, revisiting the original’s awkward characters as they have grown to be more accepted in their communities and introducing a whole new world of people and adventure. Dancing penguin Mumble is now a father, and his son Erik is now the societal outcast unable to figure what his place is. A public humiliation sends Erik and his friends gallivanting off to another penguin community with the memorable Ramon, where they encounter a flying penguin named Sven, who instills hope and energy in the nervous Erik. Ultimately, environmental and weather-related threats put Erik and Mumble in a position that may enable them to be the sole saviors of their penguin people.

The incorporation of environmentalism in the first film was quite intriguing, and while it’s not as present here, it’s still there in the background of the plot. As tends to be the case with animated films made for children, there are a number of jokes and pop culture references made that only adults could understand, so parents chaperoning their children to see this movie shouldn’t despair. Particularly amusing for both children and adults alike are Will the Krill and Bill the Krill, voiced by Brad Pitt and Matt Damon, two adventurous crustaceans that realize there may be more to life than just swimming with the school. Their bantering and perception of the world are easily the most appealing and hilarious parts of the film.

The penguins themselves are obviously at the forefront of the film, and dancing, though not as prominent as in the first film, still proves to be crucial and entirely helpful in the grand scheme of the story. The dancing now seems presumed to be normal without much explanation, and that’s not such a problem since it’s still cute. Its novelty is diminished slightly, but there’s still enough heart and soul in the film to make up for it. There’s also a compelling father-son story reminiscent of, if not quite as strong as, “Finding Nemo.” In addition to Pitt and Damon’s standout contributions, Robin Williams steals the show in a dual role, and Hank Azaria also delivers a fun performance as the extravagant Sven. It’s hard not to smile at least every once in a while during this movie, and those who liked the first film will certainly enjoy its sequel.

B

Movie with Abe: 50/50

50/50
Directed by Jonathan Levine
Released September 30, 2011

Sometimes the more serious topics in life are best handled with levity. Comedies can be laced with tragedy and end up being both funny and extremely moving. “50/50” is an appropriate title for director Jonathan Levine’s film, released six weeks ago but still playing in select theatres. Half the film is a comedy about two buddies, Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Seth Rogen (Kyle), navigating the ups and downs of life, and the other half is the more sober story of Adam’s untimely cancer diagnosis. Strong writing and affecting performances help mold the two halves together into one charming and powerful dramatic comedy.

Casting Seth Rogen in a film usually means the opportunity for a decent level of ridiculousness and a hefty amount of swearing, sometimes in sweeter moderation (“Knocked Up”) and others in full-fledged offensiveness (“Observe and Report”). When he was relegated to a supporting role in “Funny People,” he wasn’t actually that funny, but in this case, he’s perfectly cast as Adam’s unserious best friend whose comments are almost entirely lewd and who supports his friend in a manner that can hardly be deemed conventional. Rogen does exactly what a supporting actor should do – make the most of the scenes in which he appears and not distract from the film’s subject, which is decidedly Adam.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt has demonstrated enormous promise over the past few years, proving that he is more than just a teenage TV star from his time on “3rd Rock from the Sun.” His role in “50/50” can be described as a more sedated, nerdy version of his excitable romancer from “500 Days of Summer,” content just to get through life without ever getting too agitated about anything. Adam is given some memorable personality tics, most notably his refusal to drive because it represents one of the greatest risks of death. Gordon-Levitt is genuine and believable, and he handles the film’s dramatic moments exceptionally well. “50/50” is also a great vehicle for two talented young actresses, Bryce Dallas Howard, recently seen in “The Help,” as Adam’s girlfriend Rachael, and Anna Kendrick, from “Up in the Air,” as his therapist, Katherine, who is several years younger than Adam. The ensemble includes Angelica Huston and Philip Baker Hall as well, and these characters certainly feel like real people. Debut screenwriter Will Reiser’s script knows just when to be funny and when the mood should be more serious, creating a balanced and endearing story filled with humor and heart.

B+

Wednesday Oscar Watch

Welcome to a newly-restarted feature here at Movies with Abe, Wednesday Oscar Watch with Abe. It’s a bit early to be able to accurately predict the eventual Oscar nominees, but around this time, plenty of likely contenders are being released. I’ll be looking every Wednesday at the awards chances for all of the films released the previous week. Chime in with your thoughts on the Oscar chances for these films in the comments section. Also, if I’ve missed any films from the previous months, please say so!

Films released November 11, 2011

J. Edgar
Of the last eight films Clint Eastwood has directed, six have netted Oscar nominations. The film wasn’t entirely warmly received by critics, but Leonardo DiCaprio is almost certain to hear his name called for Best Actor. If the film does well, Eastwood will earn a directing nod and the film could compete for Best Picture. Armie Hammer is a possibility for Best Supporting Actor as well, and the film’s costumes, art direction, and editing have a shot.

Melancholia
Lars Von Trier films have earned a total of two Oscar nominations, “Dancer in the Dark” for Best Original Song and “Breaking the Waves” for Best Actress. His latest film is among his best reviewed, and its strongest contenders are Kirsten Dunst for Best Actress and its gorgeous cinematography and art direction. I’m not sure it will make the cut in the end, though.

Into the Abyss
It’s not certain yet whether it will be eligible, but this Werner Herzog films could compete in the Best Documentary category.

Tuesday’s Top Trailer: 21 Jump Street

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies with Abe, Tuesday's Top Trailer. One of my favorite parts about going to see movies is the series of trailers that airs beforehand and, more often than not, the trailer is far better than the actual film. Each week, I'll be sharing a trailer I've recently seen. Please chime in with comments on what you think of the trailer and how you think the movie is going to be.

21 Jump Street – Opening March 16, 2012



I noticed this recently-released trailer for this upcoming spring release online, and I come at this project without any knowledge of the original 1980s series other than that it featured a younger Johnny Depp. It’s the trend these days to remake classic TV shows into either new TV shows or films, and something tells me that this film is going to be a heck of a lot different than its source material. The two actors in the lead, whose actual ages are thirty-one and twenty-seven, seem perfect for their roles. Channing Tatum is actually a good actor, though sometimes his parts don’t showcase his non-physical talents all that much. From the looks of the trailer, I suspect he’s capable of being quite funny. It’s fitting that Jonah Hill’s second truly adult rule, following “Moneyball,” would have him pretending to be a teenager. I’m pleased to see Nick Offerman, Ellie Kemper, and Rob Riggle in the supporting cast as well. The setup here has the potential for plenty of laugh-out-loud humor, with Tatum and Hill’s characters being given enormous opportunity to act juvenilely. The requisite drug-taking scene is featured in the trailer, but the two of them, especially Hill, plays it out so well with his tongue sticking out that it looks like it will be hilarious for sure. The best line from the trailer is delivered by Offerman, dryly repeating Tatum’s description of Miranda rights as explaining that you have the right to be an attorney. The red band trailer is embedded above, but the regular preview is just as funny.

Movie with Abe: London Boulevard

London Boulevard
Directed by William Monahan
Released November 11, 2011

Gangster movies have a distinctive feel, yet there are a number of different types of films that fall under that category. Perhaps one of the most memorable in recent years is “The Departed,” which offered a stylized take focused on characters, both good and bad, either trapped in or trapping others in, the mob life in Boston. After penning the screenplay for that film and for the Ridley Scott action thriller “Body of Lies,” William Monahan now presents his directorial debut, which moves over to London and showcases a similar tale about one particularly smooth mobster trying to get out of the game. It’s an enthralling, moody film that may not be terrific but is still immensely watchable.

What distinguishes “London Boulevard” most from other films like it is a spectacular ensemble. The usually excitable Colin Farrell is reserved and effortlessly cool as Mitchel, recently released from jail and finding himself pulled back to the old life he no longer desires to be a part of following his time spent inside. Keira Knightley takes a subtle and seductive role as a withdrawn actress pursued endlessly by paparazzi, and David Thewlis provides a good deal of the film’s comic relief as her companion and confidante Jordan. Eddie Marsan and Anna Friel have fun small parts as a corrupt cop and Mitchel’s promiscuous sister, respectively, and the role of hardened mob boss Gant is wisely saved for “Departed” and “Sexy Beast” star Ray Winstone. The cast is clearly having fun, and that makes the film enjoyable without diminishing its seriousness.

Mitchel is quickly established as both an endearing and intimidating figure, firmly positioned as the hero in the story. He explains that, were he to actually immerse himself in the gangster life, he wouldn’t be able to stop, and therefore he’s chosen not to be a gangster any longer. The conversations between the non-gangster characters, including Mitchel, are frank and honest, and people actually say what they mean, which is refreshing. The screenplay, based on Ken Bruen’s novel and adapted by Monahan, is smart and full of wit, enabling a fully entertaining cinematic experience. The film does lose some steam towards it end, choosing to wrap up its plotlines in a somewhat removed fashion, making them feel fleeting. That’s not to say that everything else up until that point is invalid, but rather that it loses its lasting impact, leaving the film enjoyable but not entirely memorable.

B

Movie with Abe: J. Edgar

J. Edgar
Directed by Clint Eastwood
Released November 9, 2011

In the past two decades, Clint Eastwood has proven himself to be an enormously talented director. His films consistently feature strong storytelling, top-notch performances, and excellent aesthetic qualities. Even his less impressive films, such as “Hereafter” and “Flags of Our Fathers,” are compelling cinematic presentations. Eastwood’s 2009 biopic “Invictus” was an excellent portrait of one prominent historical figure, and for his latest film, he returns to his home country to tell the story of J. Edgar Hoover, the first director of the FBI. Hoover’s story in itself is enthralling, yet there’s something that feels incomplete about the film as a biography of his life.

“J. Edgar” chooses to take a double vantage point, with an elder Hoover narrating the events of his career to young agents, with frequent flashbacks and other details filled in along the way that he might not recall proudly. Time passes as Hoover continues his service to the FBI after many decades, and care is taken to find parallels between developments occurring in both periods of his life. It is quickly clear from both the beginning and end of his career that Hoover is a singular personality, making more waves than friends, and dead set in his ways, determined to serve his country and protect it from all enemies, foreign and domestic.

Technically, “J. Edgar” is extremely strong, highlighting extensive makeup to ensure that stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Armie Hammer, and Naomi Watts look the parts when their characters have aged many years from the current ages of the actors. Accents and dialects seem just as important, with special emphasis given to Hoover’s speech and a hearty attempt by “Burn Notice” star Jeffrey Donovan as Robert F. Kennedy. The characters feel authentic, and a host of talented actors inhabit brief supporting parts, including Judi Dench, Josh Lucas, Stephen Root, Geoff Pierson, and Christopher Shyer. This is the movie that could well win DiCaprio his first Oscar, as his performance involves a full immersion in Hoover’s mental and physical mannerisms.

The characters and their setting certainly feel real, but the story as it’s told and unfolded never quite proves gripping in the way that it should. There are standout moments in which Hoover reveals much of himself and offers a glimpse into his psyche, but overall, the film lacks such moments. Nonetheless, the cinematography helps greatly to establish the mood, and the film remains genuinely interesting from start to finish. Though it may not be Eastwood’s best work, it’s still an engaging and worthwhile biopic of an entirely fascinating American.

B

Saturday Night Movie Recommendations with Abe

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies With Abe. I'm going to be providing a handy guide to a few choice movies currently playing in NYC as well as several films newly released on DVD. I’ll also aim to comment on those films I have not yet had the chance to see, and I invite you to add in your thoughts on any films I haven’t seen in the comments below. Understandably, some weeks will have considerably fewer releases to address than others.

Now Playing in NYC

Melancholia (recommended): This end-of-the-world drama comes from the mind of Lars von Trier, which means it’s understandably unusual. In many of its moments, however, it’s entirely gripping and fascinating, and certainly worth a viewing if its subject matter isn’t too unsettling. Now playing at the Angelika and Lincoln Plaza. Read my review from yesterday.

J. Edgar (recommended): This J. Edgar Hoover biopic comes from director Clint Eastwood, featuring a likely Oscar-winning lead performance from Leonardo DiCaprio. It’s an intriguing, worthwhile film that never quite reaches the heights that the talent involved suggests it could. Now playing in wide release. My review will be up tomorrow.

London Boulevard (recommended): This gangster drama marks the directorial debut of “The Departed” scribe William Monahan and features a superb cast working with an entertaining script full of humor. Now playing at the IFC Center. My review will be up on Monday.

I’d really rather not see Jack and Jill or Immortals.

New to DVD

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (mixed bag): This finale to the epic saga suffers from an extreme case of finale fatigue, proving useful mostly for a marathon of the eight films of the series but failing miserably, especially absent the hype of its initial theatrical release, as a saga capper.

The Change-Up (mixed bag): This comedy earns its status mainly because it’s not nearly as terrible as it could have been. The setup and the ensuing plot doesn’t make any sense, but there are funny moments sprinkled throughout thanks to the talents of Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds being used to decent effect.

Now on Netflix Instant Streaming

Rabbit Hole (recommended): Nicole Kidman’s Oscar-nominated performance wasn’t the only terrific element of this harrowing and moving drama. Its upsetting subject matter may deter some, but the rest will find it heartbreaking and extraordinarily powerful.

The Yellow Handkerchief (anti-recommended): This 2010 road movie starring William Hurt, Kristen Stewart, and Eddie Redmayne of “My Week with Marilyn” doesn’t have much to offer, and is a paler version of other films that are much better.

Some Oscar classics from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s are now available, including Big, Gods and Monsters, Midnight Express, and Bugsy.

Movie with Abe: Melancholia

Melancholia
Directed by Lars Von Trier
Released November 11, 2011

“Melancholia” is a unique film in many ways. Coming from the mind of noted director Lars Von Trier, it’s no surprise. The film is divided around the halfway mark into two explicitly separate parts, but even before the narrative begins, the entire story is told through a mesmerizing outer space view of a planet, later revealed to be called Melancholia, eclipsing and ultimately destroying Earth. That forthcoming event hangs over the film like a shadow, barely present in its first half and nearly omnipresent in its second. Both parts follow what might otherwise be ordinary life cycle events, yet everything here is anything but ordinary. It may not be entirely exciting, comprehensible, or normative, but it certainly is magnificently hypnotic and intensely captivating.

In the first part, titled “Justine,” one sister (Kirsten Dunst) arrives nearly two hours late for her wedding party with her new husband Michael (Alexander Skarsgard) at the large estate of her sister’s husband, angering both her sister Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg) and her husband John (Kiefer Sutherland). What ensues is one of the most bizarre, disconnected post-wedding festivities ever conceived, which finds new bride Justine wandering off multiple times, drawing herself a bath and having sex with stranger in the middle of a golf course, among other things. Von Trier enlists several esteemed heavy hitters to portray the parents of the couple, eliciting marvelously memorable speeches and toasts from Charlotte Rampling, Stellan Skarsgard, and John Hurt. It’s an experience comparable to, but infinitely more detached and never-ending than, the wedding in “Rachel Getting Married,” though in this case even the happy couple isn’t happy.

Once all the wedding celebrations are over, the film retreats into a sort of solitude, reframing its story through a new protagonist in its second segment, titled “Claire.” The theme of apocalyptic doom returns as Claire nervously anticipates and fears the approach of Melancholia while John reassures her that it won’t hit the Earth. Kiefer Sutherland delivers a particularly strong performance, making John’s scientific curiosity fully believable and reassuring. When certain doom arrives, the look on John’s face is more powerful than any expression Claire gives, and Gainsbourg delivers an exceptional turn as well. Justine remains firmly apart from the world, lost in her own mind and not eager to make any connections, and Dunst has the perfect demeanor to play the part. The gloomy music reminds of the greater threat, and the sweeping cinematography offers a beautiful picture of these characters and their actions. “Melancholia” is an intimate, mesmerizing, agonizing, and depressing experience all at once, difficult to process but just as difficult to forget.

B

Other Israel Film Festival Spotlight: Homecoming

The 5th Annual Other Israel Film Festival begins tonight, and Movies With Abe is proud to offer you a spotlight on some of the films being presented. Visit the festival website for a complete schedule of screenings for the films.


Homecoming
Directed by Oma Ben Dor and Noa Maiman
Screening November 14 at 7:00pm and November 15 at 7:00pm

This engaging and thought-provoking documentary focuses not on religion or any Arab-Israeli conflict, but instead on three teenagers who have spent all of their lives living in Israel as the children of foreign workers. Their first trips back home takes them to the Congo, Peru, and the Phillipines, respectively, where they meet their families and contemplate their connections to Israel. There is a backdrop of political topicality related to the legality and ethics of deporting foreign workers and children born in Israel, but the filmmakers smartly choose to really get to know their three protagonists to ensure that the film is not just proving a larger point but actually discussing real people.

Other Israel Film Festival Spotlight: A Place of Her Own

The 5th Annual Other Israel Film Festival begins this Thursday night, and Movies With Abe is proud to offer you a spotlight on some of the films being presented. Visit the festival website for a complete schedule of screenings for the films.


A Place of Her Own
Directed by Sigal Emanuel
Screening November 14 at 8:45pm and November 16 at 8:45pm

This film follows several years of the life of Reut, an Israeli woman with three children, the first of which she had to give up when she was homeless and who ended up in a religious Jewish home. Reut’s story is intriguing but endlessly depressing, and the film proceeds generally without much of a focus, chronicling Reut as she spirals downward and only occasionally upward, particularly the beginning of her marriage to a Palestinian man. Her situation is certainly unfortunate, but it’s hard for her to become a sympathetic character given the way she acts and addresses the camera. She’s an extremely unstable protagonist, and the film isn’t able to decode or analyze her behavior and motivations successfully. Ultimately, her story is simply an unsettling and disturbing tale, and the film doesn’t enhance it with any added weight or meaning.

Other Israel Film Festival Spotlight: David and Kamal

The 5th Annual Other Israel Film Festival begins this Thursday night, and Movies With Abe is proud to offer you a spotlight on some of the films being presented. Visit the festival website for a complete schedule of screenings for the films.


David and Kamal
Directed by Kikuo Kawasaki
Screening November 12 at 4:00pm and November 13 at 3pm

Reading the summary for this film makes it sound like a shorter, tighter version of “Slumdog Millionaire,” but that’s hardly the case. This family drama centers on children, and as a result, its story and style lacks an adult perspective throughout most of its run time before suddenly bringing that perspective back at the end of the film. Taken as a film expressly for children, its events are overly simplistic and its themes too broad and sweeping, with less than dynamic characters at the center of what should be an exciting and adventure-filled story. As a film for all ages, it is sorely missing any sense of legitimacy for its adult characters, and presents an all-too-narrow vision of the world.

Other Israel Film Festival Spotlight: Naomi

The 5th Annual Other Israel Film Festival begins this Thursday night, and Movies With Abe is proud to offer you a spotlight on some of the films being presented. Visit the festival website for a complete schedule of screenings for the films.


Naomi
Directed by Eitan Tzur
Screening November 11 at 9:15pm, November 12 at 8:45pm, and November 13 at 1pm

This drama, loosely and only somewhat accurately described as a thriller, follows esteemed professor Ilan Ben Natan as he discovers that his young wife Naomi is cheating on him. It’s an extremely top-heavy film, creating its intrigue early on and then spiraling into mild incoherence as its events progress and become less interesting. Calling it a thriller is faulty since it moves at a rather slow pace and contains few truly memorable and exciting moments. As a drama, however, it succeeds decently in its first half, creating a three-dimensional, believable character out of Ilan. Its title character isn’t nearly as dynamic, and as a result, it peters out long before its end, its better moments all featured before its midpoint.

Other Israel Film Festival Spotlight: The Human Turbine

The 5th Annual Other Israel Film Festival begins this Thursday night, and Movies With Abe is proud to offer you a spotlight on some of the films being presented. Visit the festival website for a complete schedule of screenings for the films.


The Human Turbine
Directed by Danny Verete
Screening November 13 at 5:00pm and November 15 at 7:00pm

This chronicle of a groundbreaking use of solar energy in a Palestinian village is not best described as an environmental documentary. The focus is not on the wonder of being able to provide power and electricity thanks to the sun, though its impact and effectiveness is highlighted occasionally throughout the film. Instead, its central theme is a spirit of cooperation and collaboration between Palestinians and Israelis. This film stands out as one of the few at this or last year’s festival that actually underlines peaceful coexistence, with little to no conflict due to a shared interest in success and community. Their energy efforts may be impressive, but the general spirit of positivity and enthusiasm for this shared project is what’s truly inspiring.

Other Israel Film Festival Spotlight: 77 Steps

The 5th Annual Other Israel Film Festival begins this Thursday night, and Movies With Abe is proud to offer you a spotlight on some of the films being presented. Visit the festival website for a complete schedule of screenings for the films.


77 Steps
Directed by Ibtisam Mara’ana
Screening November 12 at 7:00pm, November 13 at 3:00pm and November 14 at 8:45pm

This documentary is directed by its star, Ibtisam Mara’ana, a Palestinian woman dating an Israeli man named Yoni. It follows their relationship and paints a picture of their dynamic, a Palestinian Arab running for office, as she describes herself, determined to fight for the rights of all in Israel, and a Canadian Jew who moved to Israel six years earlier. Normal interactions and events such as voting or celebrating holidays are divisive, stressful experiences, and Ibtisam often finds herself stifled by Yoni, who attempts to calm her down when she gets riled up about her beliefs. Yoni’s visiting grandfather takes to Ibtisam, but others aren’t as friendly or open-minded. Like other films about Arab-Israeli relationships, like Tribeca entry “Love During Wartime,” it represents a constant struggle to stay civil if actual peace is not possible. This is an intriguing glimpse into a complicated situation, but it doesn’t reach any productive or eye-opening conclusion.

Other Israel Film Festival Spotlight: Torn

The 5th Annual Other Israel Film Festival begins this Thursday night, and Movies With Abe is proud to offer you a spotlight on some of the films being presented. Visit the festival website for a complete schedule of screenings for the films.


Torn
Directed by Ronit Kertsner
Screening November 15 at 8:45pm and November 16 at 7:00pm

This extremely interesting documentary follows Catholic priest Romuald Jakub Weksler-Waszkinel, who discovers that he was born to Jewish parents in Poland during the Holocaust. Waszkinel is drawn to the State of Israel and his Jewish heritage, which prompts him to come live on a religious kibbutz. His request to leave on Sundays to go to church is denied, as is his citizenship request, which forces Waszkinel to struggle with the disconnect between his two faiths. The thing he finds most difficult to let go is his love for Jesus, since he claims that Jesus always loved the Jews, and was a Jew. The film includes a moving sendoff for Waszkinel as the nuns at his church bid him farewell and good luck, and his multiple visits to Yad Vashem are all very powerful. The subject matter is very enticing, and this exploration of his character and his religiousness doesn’t disappoint.

Seeing Double: This Year's Dual Oscar Contenders

The start of November means we're getting close to Oscar time, and any regular visitor to this site knows that the last couple of months of the year feature a whole lot of Oscar coverage. Monday Oscar Odds has kicked into gear, Wednesday Oscar Watch has been going for a while now, and Friday For Your Consideration popped up again this week in the absence of any new movies to review. In case you haven't gotten your fill of Oscar posts, head over to Shockya to read my latest entry, which profiles those actors and actresses in the running for Oscars for multiple films. Comment here or there if you think I missed or overestimated anyone.

Saturday Night Movie Recommendations with Abe

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies With Abe. I'm going to be providing a handy guide to a few choice movies currently playing in NYC as well as several films newly released on DVD. I’ll also aim to comment on those films I have not yet had the chance to see, and I invite you to add in your thoughts on any films I haven’t seen in the comments below. Understandably, some weeks will have considerably fewer releases to address than others.

Now Playing in NYC

I’ve got nothing to report on this particular week. I’ll pass on Tower Heist and certainly on A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas.

New to DVD

Crazy Stupid Love (highly recommended): This winning comedy doesn’t have a weak link, featuring great performances from Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Emma Stone. It’s hard not to like, and it’s definitely above average. I saw it in theatres twice and enjoyed it just as much both times.

Cars 2 (recommended): This Pixar sequel is just as fun as the first, though those who didn’t enjoy the 2006 original probably won’t care for this bigger, louder, showier film which incorporates some spy adventure into the familiar car-racing storyline. As tends to be the case with Pixar films, it’s just as fun for the parents as it is for the kids.

Now on Netflix Instant Streaming

In the Loop (highly recommended): This biting satire of British-American relations and winner of the 2009 AFT Award for Best Adapted Screenplay is absolutely hilarious. It’s a frantic, fast-paced film with frequent laughs and a terrifically zany plot featuring terrific performances from the likes of Peter Capaldi and the rest of the cast.

Friday For Your Consideration: Mélanie Laurent

Welcome to a returning seasonal weekly feature here at Movies with Abe, Friday For Your Consideration. As every year nears to a close, there are a number of actors nominated for Golden Globes, Oscars, and countless other awards. There are so many spots and there are so many deserving contenders, yet some inevitably get left out. Each week, I’ll be spotlighting one performance from this year which deserves a second look but might not get it. This doesn’t mean I’m not in favor of Elizabeth Olsen or Jean Dujardin getting their first nominations. They don’t need my help. As luck would have it, these actors do. I’ll be running this feature on a semi-regular basis until Oscar nominations are announced at the beginning of February, so leave your choices in the comments and I might feature them over the next couple of weeks! I’ve written at greater length about these performances in the reviews of the films, so make sure to read those for a more detailed look at why these actors deserve an Oscar nomination.

Mélanie Laurent (Beginners)

Where you’ve seen her before: The French actress should be universally recognizable to film fans as Shoshanna from “Inglourious Basterds.”

Why she deserves it: Though her character isn’t on the run from the Nazis under an assumed name, Anna isn’t exactly forthcoming with details about her life, making it hard for Ewan McGregor’s Oliver to get to know her. Somehow, Laurent is positively charming, seductive, mysterious, and mesmerizing all at the same time. In a way, Anna seems to exist only ethereally, a fleeting memory for Oliver to enjoy, yet Laurent makes her a permanent and unforgettable fixture of the film.

Standout scene: In her first appearance, a laryngitis-stricken Anna cleverly communicates with Oliver by writing her thoughts down on a pad. As with her portrayal of Shoshanna, Laurent effortlessly conveys so much with a blink of her eyes and a glance that she doesn’t even need to speak to make Oliver fall madly in love with her.

Why she won’t get it: It’s particularly unfortunate to me when a film is explicitly noted by an awards group but one particular performance is not (see “The Last King of Scotland” for a great example of this). Most Oscar pundits are predicting Christopher Plummer to get nominated for – and win – Best Supporting Actor, but I don’t think anyone will take notice of Laurent or McGregor. Laurent was looked over for “Inglourious Basterds,” snubbed in favor of costar Diane Kruger by SAG, and I can’t imagine that this will be her big breakthrough, though it really should be.

Thursday Token Themes

Welcome a weekly feature here at Movies With Abe. I’m a hugely enthusiastic fan of film scores, and music is far too often an element of cinema that goes unrecognized. Therefore I present a platform for a look – or rather, a listen – to some fantastic film scores. I’ll be selecting a composer and one or more of their film scores for your listening pleasure, embedded from YouTube.

This week’s featured composer is Trevor Rabin. The South African composer was a guitarist and musician long before he started scoring films in the 1990s. His selected works below are mostly very fast-paced and high-octane. Most recently, Rabin composed the part action, part sentimental score for the war film “5 Days of War.” His good beat for “Get Smart” helped make the film’s less comic moments thrilling, while the cool, furious music for “Bad Boys II” amped up the already-present excitement. The inspirational end titles for “Remember the Titans” are extremely memorable, as is the loud, angry car heist music from “Gone in 60 Seconds.” The epic, monumental score for “Armageddon” was probably one of the only good things about that film, whereas the aggressive “Con Air” score made that move even more fantastically ridiculous.

5 Days of War (2011)



Get Smart (2008)



Bad Boys II (2003)



Remember the Titans (2000)



Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)



Armageddon (1998)



Con Air (1997)

Wednesday Oscar Watch

Welcome to a newly-restarted feature here at Movies with Abe, Wednesday Oscar Watch with Abe. It’s a bit early to be able to accurately predict the eventual Oscar nominees, but around this time, plenty of likely contenders are being released. I’ll be looking every Wednesday at the awards chances for all of the films released the previous week. Chime in with your thoughts on the Oscar chances for these films in the comments section. Also, if I’ve missed any films from the previous months, please say so!

Films released October 28, 2011

Puss In Boots
The first two “Shrek” films were beloved by Oscar voters, whereas the last two were entirely ignored. Antonio Banderas’ character is one of the more beloved parts of the franchise, so it’s possible that this entry could be welcomed back into the Best Animated feature category.

The Rum Diary
At some point, Johnny Depp will once again be an Oscar nominee. I don’t think that’s going to be this year. Depp’s last Hunter S. Thompson project, “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” came out before he became an Oscar commodity, and if it’s taken seriously at all, this project may be seen as too out-there.

Janie Jones
I happen to think that Abigail Breslin is making great career choices and deserves another Oscar nomination at some point soon, but I’m sure no one will be watching this small film and noticing her.

In Time
This sci-fi release could be a contender for Best Visual Effects or Best Sound Editing, but I think it will be eclipsed by bigger movies.

Tuesday’s Top Trailer: Man on a Ledge

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies with Abe, Tuesday's Top Trailer. One of my favorite parts about going to see movies is the series of trailers that airs beforehand and, more often than not, the trailer is far better than the actual film. Each week, I'll be sharing a trailer I've recently seen. Please chime in with comments on what you think of the trailer and how you think the movie is going to be.

Man on a Ledge – Opening January 27, 2012



As I’ve discussed previously, planned January releases, rather than expansion or spillover, can be dangerous. It’s not often that an Oscar contender emerges at the very beginning of the year, and therefore it’s fortunate that this looks like an entirely different kind of film which could well do January proud. Instead of getting a haircut, action star Sam Worthington seems to have been thinking about what kind of film might be best for the next stage of his career, and while I’m not sure that a non-action part in an action film makes total sense, this certainly looks like a jam-packed thriller. The cast is rather staggering, with Ed Harris as the Big Bad Guy, Elizabeth Banks as the negotiator trying to talk him off the ledge, Jamie Bell as one of his accomplices on the inside, and Kyra Sedgwick as a reporter. “Billy Elliot” star Bell was even decent in “Jumper,” so I have faith that he’s going to be better than he needs to be in this supporting part. The last Man on a Ledge movie I saw, “The Ledge,” wasn’t great, but I think there’s much, more going on here to make it into an exciting and invigorating concept. I’ve been waiting for Ed Harris to have a really good role since “Gone Baby Gone,” and so I’m pleased to see him in a part like this. There’s a strong possibility of incoherence developing in the course of the plot, but I think this has the makings of a strong January release.