Release Date:January 18, 2013
MPAA Rating: R (for pervasive language, some sexual content and violence)
Runtime:1 hr 48 min
Director: Allen Hughes
Studio:20th Century Fox
Genre:Drama, Thriller
Stars:Mark Wahlberg, Russell Crowe, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Barry Pepper, Kyle Chandler
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You ever met what appears to be a hot chick at the bar? Then you talk to her and find out the best part about her was looking at her from far away? That’s how I felt about Broken City after watching it. I mean the trailers look awesome as if there’s to be all manner of action and intrigue. Ahh, how looks can be deceiving! There is little in the way of action and even less intrigue as the movie is more than predictable.
So here’s the premise: Cops and politicians do bad things because they have the power to decide what they deem right and wrong. Now when these people get caught, they do even more crooked stuff to cover each other’s backs. Mark Wahlberg is Billy Taggert, a cop that is on trial for murder. Mayor Hostetler (Russell Crowe) sees this as an injustice and makes the problem go away with the help of Jeffrey Wrights’ Carl Fairbanks. The Mayor promises to make the evidence disappear for Taggert if he resigns as an officer but lets him know that if he needs something that he’s good with him. Of course, Billy gets a call a while later from the Mayor enlisting him to use his new vocation as a private eye to look in on his wife. From there trouble ensues to ho hum results.
I mean sure there’s alright performances from the cast Wright and Crowe stand out in my mind. And the chemistry between Taggert and Katy his assistant at the private eye agency is awesome, comical and frankly one of the best parts about the movie. I just couldn’t really get to a point where I cared to keep watching this movie. The movie kept building and building and then the credits rolled before anything cool happened.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3HgYu1atOo&w=560&h=315]
There’s a sucker born every minute. I have to admit this film had me fooled from the trailers hook, line and sinker. So, now I feel like I’ve been duped by a pair of silicone double Ds, a butt implant, and Botox injections. The few bright spots couldn’t ever fix this broken movie for this viewer. I give this bland mess a 1.5 out of 5.
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‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a visually stunning addition to the beloved Lion King franchise, offering a fresh and emotionally resonant take on the origins of one of Disney’s most iconic characters. The film beautifully explores Mufasa’s journey, balancing heartfelt moments with touches of comedy that lighten the mood and make the story accessible to audiences of all ages. The animation is breathtaking, capturing the vibrant landscapes and lush environments of the Pride Lands, adding depth to Mufasa’s character and his relationships.
The storytelling is compelling, effectively pulling at the heartstrings while providing insights into Mufasa’s character before he becomes the legendary king. However, the setup for Scar’s betrayal feels somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the deeper motivation that could have enriched their complex brotherly relationship. This missed opportunity leaves a slight gap in understanding Scar’s actions, which could have elevated the dramatic stakes.
The musical score is impressive, featuring memorable songs that enhance the emotional impact of pivotal scenes. While there are several standout tracks, one song, in particular, resonates deeply and is sure to linger in viewers’ minds long after the credits roll. Overall, “Mufasa: The Lion King” is an amazing film and a worthy addition to the Lion King lore that manages to deliver both laughter and tears, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that fans will appreciate.
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Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?
“Kraven the Hunter,” directed by J.C. Chandor, aims to introduce a beloved Spider-Man villain to the big screen, but unfortunately, it falls short of expectations. The film suffers from noticeable issues, notably an overuse of ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), which detracts from the authenticity of the characters’ interactions and contributes to an uneven audio experience. This technical flaw is compounded by rough storytelling that feels disjointed and lacking in coherence, leaving viewers struggling to connect with the narrative.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a commendable performance as Kraven, showcasing the character’s gritty nature and complex motivations. His portrayal has potential, and it’s evident that he could elevate the character far beyond what is presented with a stronger script and direction. However, the absence of Spider-Man, a central figure in Kraven’s lore, leaves a void that the film struggles to fill. Without this critical connection, the plot meanders and fails to create the tension or stakes that fans of the superhero genre crave.
Additionally, including Rhino as a villain feels like a missed opportunity; he is presented more as a gag character with limited screen time, undermining any sense of threat or depth. For the average moviegoer, “Kraven the Hunter” might entertain but ultimately feels like a mediocre viewing experience. Comic book fans, however, may find disappointment in this lackluster attempt to create a solo character film. Instead of an exhilarating dive into Kraven’s world, the film presents a watered-down version, leaving audiences wishing for a more cohesive vision that honors its comic book roots.
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A Brief Review and History of A Year Without a Santa Claus
A Year Without a Santa Claus, the 1974 stop-motion holiday classic produced by Rankin/Bass, is a heartwarming and whimsical tale that has cemented its place in holiday traditions. Based on Phyllis McGinley’s 1956 book, the story revolves around a disheartened Santa Claus who, feeling unappreciated, decides to take a year off from his Christmas duties. It’s up to Mrs. Claus and a pair of well-meaning elves, Jingle and Jangle, to reignite the Christmas spirit and show Santa the world’s unwavering belief in him.
The movie is beloved for its unforgettable characters, especially the bickering Miser Brothers, Snow Miser and Heat Miser. Their catchy, vaudeville-style musical numbers, “Snow Miser Song” and “Heat Miser Song”, are so iconic they’ve become cultural touchstones, often parodied and celebrated decades later.
Directed by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, the film continues the duo’s tradition of stop-motion magic, blending heartfelt storytelling with quirky humor. The voice cast, featuring Mickey Rooney as Santa and Shirley Booth as Mrs. Claus, delivers standout performances. Booth’s warm narration was her final acting role before retirement, adding a layer of poignancy to the film.
Initially released on December 10, 1974, on ABC, the special didn’t immediately achieve the legendary status of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. However, it gained a dedicated following through annual holiday airings, nostalgic appeal, and its distinct charm.
The film’s themes of hope, unity, and rekindling joy remain timeless, making it a perennial favorite for audiences of all ages. Its blend of humor, catchy songs, and a touching message about believing in magic and goodwill ensures its enduring legacy during the holiday season.
For fans of holiday classics, A Year Without a Santa Claus is a must-watch that never fails to warm hearts and spread cheer.