Movie Review: Captain Phillips

Captain Phillips is a must-see, and here's why:
 


Captain Phillips is the true story of the Maersk Alabama, a container ship that was distressingly hijacked by Somali pirates in 2009.  Directed by Paul Greengrass (The Bourne Supremacy, The Bourne Ultimatum, United 93), this film expresses such urgency and desperation that it wasn't until the end of the film that I could finally breathe again.  But the breathlessness is good.  It's really good.  The entire film is thrilling and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Not once did I feel there was a boring part or a lull of any kind.  The pace of the film is what helps provide that feeling of constant continuation, along with the superb acting carried by the cast of the film.

Tom Hanks plays Captain Richard Phillips and does so amazingly (when doesn't he?).  He is incredibly believable in this role: a normal man, going to work like it is any other day.  He reaches such depth with this character that I felt like I was watching it happen in real time and with the actual captain of the ship.  Hanks is truly one of the best actors of our time, if not the best, and this film proves it.  (Just wait for the ending scene with the doctors).  There's really nothing more I can say about him.  I love the guy.



The rest of the actors in the cast are virtually unknown compared to Hanks.  They are actors that you may have seen "here and there," but none that have as much professional "stature" as Hanks.  Which, if you ask me, was ideal for this film.  Hanks had to be seen as the one in charge and the primary person in the story.  But, just because they aren't necessarily recognizable, does not make them any less remarkable.  The supporting cast was tremendous.  They played "average joe's" who were suddenly thrust into an unbelievable tragedy with such authenticity that I saw them not as actors who were acting, but real people who were experiencing a devastation.



  Barkhad Abdi plays Muse, the Somali man heading the hijacking.  We see not only a man who is trying to prove himself, but a man who is desperate as well.  Desperate for money, recognition, and accomplishment.  Abdi does a fine job making us dislike him and feel sorry for him at the same time.



This film reminded me that nothing in life is certain, nothing in life is predictable, and nothing in life is perfect.  But, that we have the opportunity to stand up and be brave.  We have the opportunity to be the bigger person and to choose which side of the tracks we want to represent.

Number of stars I give it: ***** (5/5)

Movie Review: Saving Mr. Banks

 For my very first review, I am pleased to present: Saving Mr. Banks!

Saving Mr. Banks is a must-see, and here's why: 

This film was deeper and more emotional than I thought it was going to be. It was also more serious than I expected, which is in no way a bad thing.  The seriousness of the film is matched by incredible heart and paired with Disney magic!  The story of P.L. Travers and her relationship with her father is unforgettable. So much so, that I don't think it's possible to watch Mary Poppins the same way again. It will change your view of the story, but it does not take away the magic of the original film. 

The casting of this film was brilliant. Tom Hanks plays Walt Disney with complete perfection, making me feel like I actually knew the man. When you see the film, you will know what I mean. You'll feel like Walt is your close friend!

 Emma Thompson does a wonderful job playing Travers; exuding propriety and dripping with sarcasm.  By the end of the film, you will fall in love with her.

 The supporting actors of the film are remarkable as well. B.J. Novak and Jason Schwartzman play Dick and Bob Sherman, the composers of Mary Poppins. It's a fun walk down memory lane watching them come up with well-known songs from the film and you'll want to sing along! Bradley Whitford does a delightful job playing Don DaGradi, the screen writer of Mary Poppins, and brings a lot of fun to the film. 

And then there is Colin Farrell's incredible portrayal of P.L. Travers' father.  I was blown away by Colin's acting in this film. Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge fan, and I've always been impressed by his talent, but, this film in particular opened my eyes to just how talented he really is. He will tug at your heart strings and make your cry (if you're not a robot).  His performance in this film should not be over-looked. 

So, what I'm saying is, stop what you're doing and go see this film right now! It's a beautiful film and if you're a Disney nut like me, you will be pleased with the amount of Disney history inside the film! If you're a die-hard Mary Poppins fan, don't let this movie scare you. It will not change your feelings towards the original movie, it will only enhance them as you learn more about the real story!

This film is definitely worth the money and I'm ready to go see it a second time! 

Number of stars I give it: ***** (5/5)