Stay on the path

The Book of Eli is one of those interesting hybrids between faith and the post-apocalyptic; set in a vague future of loss, Denzel Washington walks.

My first response to the movie came about early in the movie; with no credits, no voice-over, and very little in the way of distraction, the first ten minutes set the tone for the rest of the movie.  These moments capture how alone, how driven, and uniquely equipped the protagonist is his mission.

The story is well paced, the material is interesting (if a bit dark), and it is at times shallow and intriguing; although I enjoyed the movie, I was ultimately disappointed in the story arc as well as the resolution.

This is not a movie I would encourage the whole family to watch; some more adult themes, a bit too much violence, and a resolution that offers a vague hint of a sequel.

The most redeeming aspect of the movie is that it captures a very realistic depiction of what walking in faith looks like under relatively realistic conditions.

Being thankful

Invictus is one of those movies where you have a strong idea about the ultimate conclusion but don't care because you just know the telling is going to be amazing.  Starring an amazing Freeman and well-cast Damon, this tells the story of Nelson Mandela's attempt to unite Africa during his first term as president.

Bonus Points for conveying the ugliness of racism, the value of nationalism, a meaningful and plot-appropriate moment of prayer, and a true heart-warming story about a country divided by pain and united through shared experience.

Rating: A

I heartily endorse this movie!
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[Link] to poem; of interest is that the poem was originally without title and became entitled when included in the Oxford Book of English Verse (to which the link points).

It's never too late

The Caller is one of those movies that feels like a foreign film but fits like a comfortable old shoe. It answers the question "Can you go home again" in a way that is both sad and realistic. The center of the story revolves around the relationship between a retired policeman who has turned his bird-watching habits into a profitable hobby and a corporate executive who has one last important communique (hence the name).

Frank Langella reprises his role as the voice of eventual integrity in a position of authority and his experience playing many roles, as recently as that of President Nixon, serve him well here. He brings a weight and authority that would be missing in many of today's popular performers.

Elliot Gould performs well as well, adding nuance and realism to a potentially two-dimensional role. It is to Gould's credit that his role is flushed out well and the result is the presentation of two high-caliber actors who have been given a solid script.

Ultimately, this is one of those movies that doesn't fill in all the blanks - this type of movie does not appeal to all movie goers, so will likely reduce the overall perception of the quality.

This is also one of those movies I will enjoy discussing with my son when he reaches the age of reason and it is full of potential discussion topics.

Note - There are some scenes that may require a filter, to include:
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I encourage you to choose ClearPlay. As a father, I am always on the look-out for tools that allow me to enhance my movie viewing experience. ClearPlay allows you to filter out various components or aspects of movies without diminishing the story line.

Intended Audience: Pre-Teen to Adult

Rating: B+

Links:
NetFlix
ClearPlay
Redbox

If you have truth, you have to pursue it

City of Ember is a return to those movies I used to watch as a child - with humor, suspense, and an interesting premise, the main characters develop into believable and identifiable people, with the result that we easily find ourselves rooting for them, even while knowing that they will win the day.

I also took away a renewing of my faith; there is a suggestion throughout the movie that, even in the face of adversity, your goal is to stay true to what is right.

As a new father, I really appreciate this kind of movie being available, and I am considering owning my own copy.

Intended Audience: Kids, but most will enjoy

Rating: A

Links:

     ClearPlay

     Netflix

     Redbox