Movie Loner

I offer this as a companion piece to my review of Indochine. Vietnam in the 1950s was, to the say the least, a powder keg of political turmoil. The French were engaged in a desperate fight to maintain their colonial rule against the burgeoning Communist influence. Caught in the middle was an innocent populace unaffiliated with either side. Then there was America, not confident in the French’s staying power and vehemently opposed to Communist rule. America’s initial role was both subversive and coercive, but ultimately would become one of history’s biggest political blunders. Too bad we can’t learn from our mistakes.

Saigon, 1952, British journalist Thomas Fowler (Michael Caine) has built himself a comfy little existence, complete with a beautiful young mistress named Phuong. However, a lack of relevant stories means Thomas’s days in Saigon are numbered. Then Thomas meets young American Alden Pyle (Brendan Fraser), a mysterious fellow supplying economic aid to the embattled Vietnamese people. The two men form a quick bond, but their budding friendship is tested once Alden is introduced to the enchanting Phuong. Alden falls hard, preying upon Thomas’s insecurities as they both vie for Phuong’s affections.

Romantic conflict gives way to military conflict with the French vs. Communist war escalating. Thomas and his local informant Hinh begin to craft hard-hitting journalism which provides Thomas and extended stay. As Thomas digs he discovers a third-party ascending with covert American support. Violence increases and Alden’s identity is brought into question. Alden’s association with a CIA presence as well as his vigorous pursuit of Phuong leads Thomas to become untrusting of his new friend. Thomas’s little world starts to collapse, sending him into a tailspin that ends in betrayal and murder.

Director Phillip Noyce weaves an incendiary plot based on Graham Greene’s acclaimed novel. A tumultuous love triangle morphs into an intriguing chronicle of America’s early involvement in Vietnam. Eventually, everyone must choose a side and deal with the consequences which are often dire. Michael Caine hits another home run playing the disillusioned, forsaken Thomas Fowler. High praise for Brendan Fraser, an underrated actor, for his convincing portrayal of the enigmatic Pyle. The Quiet American is a compelling look at the complex puzzle that was Vietnam in the 1950s.

The trailer for The Quiet American:

No Comments »

If you want to make a great epic film you have to include three basic components. First, it has to take place in the past. Ideally, at some significant point in history: Ben Hur at the time of Jesus Christ or Gone with the Wind during the Civil War. Second, it must be set in an exotic locale. Sorry, New York City won’t due. Lawrence of Arabia had the desert, 2001: A Space Odyssey had space. Thirdly, it has to be tragic. Not a lot of puppy dogs and ice cream in epics. Out of Africa and All Quiet on the Western Front both contain tragic elements. How does Indochine stack up? Not too bad.

In 1930s Indochina, Eliane (Catherine Deneuve) owns one of the country’s largest rubber plantations. She lives with her father and adopted daughter Camille, a native girl who lost her parents in infancy. Eliane’s existence is one of luxury but her relationships are few. Loneliness turns to passion when she meets Jean-Baptiste (Vincent Perez), a handsome young French Navy Lieutenant. The two begin an affair but Jean-Baptiste’s adventurous ways are not conducive to commitment. Eliane’s attempt to forget Jean-Baptiste is derailed once Camille reveals her love for him after he rescues her from an act of street violence. In order to protect Camille, a jealous Eliane uses her connections to banish Jean-Baptiste to a remote outpost. Her actions drive a rift between her and Camille.

Angry and bitter, Camille agrees to an arranged marriage. Shortly after the wedding she turns her back on an affluent life and sets off to find Jean-Baptiste. A romantic reunion becomes fatal and the lovers are forced into exile. A massive manhunt by the Navy and police is unleashed to capture Camille and Jean-Baptiste before they reach China. Meanwhile, Eliane must deal with her tarnished reputation while hoping for her daughter’s safe return. As time passes Camille and Jean-Baptiste’s story takes on mythic status, inciting the growing Communist populace to accelerate its removal of the French sympathetic regime. Birth, death, and the transformation of a nation are crucial parts to a powerful conclusion.

As epics go Indochine meets the necessary criteria. It takes place in the 1930s, set against a lush SE Asia backdrop, relating a tragic story. Director Regis Wargnier unfolds a sweeping romance that spans close to twenty years, while documenting the last days of Indochina prior to its conversion to Vietnam. The beautiful Catherine Deneuve delivers a standout performance as the proud, forlorn Eliane. She carries the film admirably as only an actress of her standing can. Indochine won a deserving Best Foreign Language Film Oscar and belongs on the epic list. It fails to reach greatness but it makes for fine Saturday night viewing.

A scene from Indochine:

No Comments »

Hmm, Euro Pudding. Who doesn’t love a big bowl? Actually, I don’t know anyone who likes pudding of any kind, but I do know that L’auberge Espagnole translates to Euro Pudding in English. Truth be told this movie has more damn titles than Robert Evans has ex-wives. Heyoh!! Where’s my rimshot? Sorry. Anyway, Pot Luck, Casa de locos, and The Spanish Apartment are all alternate monikers to this romantic French farce. Whatever you want to call it, L’auberge Espagnole is a pretty darn good film.

Xavier, a straight-laced economics student, is traveling from Paris to Barcelona for grad school. He leaves behind his longtime girlfriend Martine which only adds to his homesickness. After his accommodations fall through Xavier crashes with young French newlyweds he met at the airport. Not wanting to inconvenience Anne-Sophie and Jean-Michel, Xavier sets out to find a place to stay before classes begin. He survives a probing interview and is accepted at an apartment with five international roommates: an English girl, a German guy, a Spanish girl, a German guy, and a dude from Italy. It’s what Xavier refers to as Euro Pudding, an eclectic mixture of European personalities.

Despite obvious language barriers, Xavier adapts to the Spanish lifestyle. He and his merry band of roomies form fast bonds with the aid of booze and pot while battling for precious refrigerator space. When not carousing with the gang, Xavier struggles to keep Martine which is hampered by his growing attraction to Anne-Sophie whom he accompanies on long walks exploring Barcelona. Romantic entanglements ensue and new-found friendships are tested as Xavier’s personal journey of self-discovery in a foreign city comes to an end. He will leave Barcelona a little wiser and armed with the knowledge that life can take you to unexpected places.

Writer/director Cedric Klapisch captures the folly of youth perfectly. Facing responsibility for the first time can be maddening, but it can also be wicked fun. Klapisch never forgets this important fact as he allows all his characters to find themselves in their own way. Watching Xavier navigate the trial and error process of becoming an adult is both amusing and fascinating. We’ve all been there or one day will be, so if you’re looking for a trip down memory lane or a glimpse into the future kick back and watch L’auberge Espagnole. Or whatever you call it.

The trailer for L’auberge Espagnole:

No Comments »

I started this site to call attention to lesser-known films and films I felt have been unjustly overlooked or ignored. However, I think it only fitting to express my adulation when a movie is so good it reaffirms my belief that filmmakers haven’t completely lost their hearts and their souls. Juno, the multiple Oscar nominee and box-office sensation, is one such movie. Despite all its deserved accolades I still think last year’s little movie that could is supremely underrated. It is yet another sterling member of the Class of 2007, a year that gets better with every film I watch.

Sixteen year old Juno MacGuff (Ellen Page) just found out she’s pregnant. A one time sexual encounter with best pal Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera) proves more fertile than Juno planned. After considering an abortion, young Juno decides adoption is the best way to proceed. She nervously breaks the “good” news to her dad (J.K. Simmons) and stepmom (Allison Janney) whom both accept her condition and offer their support. Juno’s search for willing parents ends in the pages of the local penny saver where she finds the perfect couple, Vanessa and Mark Loring, who have been wanting children for five years.

Juno meets the Lorings and quickly takes a liking to them, so she cuts a deal to give them her impending bundle of joy. She especially bonds with Mark (Jason Bateman) who shares her joy for rock music and bloody horror films. As Juno’s belly grows so does her loneliness. She hides her true feelings for the nebbish Paulie while developing an improper relationship with the Lorings, in particular Mark. Tension between Mark and Vanessa mounts as Mark reveals his apprehension about fatherhood, which puts the adoption in jeopardy. Juno begins to question the validity of love as she struggles to find her identity in a world where she increasingly feels out of place.

I found very little wrong with this movie. Director Jason Reitman pushes all the right buttons in this simple yet emotionally complex story. He treats his characters with respect, placing the kids and adults on equal footing, revealing that neither has all the answers. Diablo Cody’s Oscar-winning script deftly balances big laughs and poignant moments; its lighthearted approach to the serious subject of teen pregnancy never rings false or crass. But what makes Juno memorable is the convincing performance delivered by Ellen Page. Her riotous portrayal of the sarcastic outcast Juno is as good as it gets in the comedy genre. Also worth noting is J.K. Simmons, a fantastic character actor who once again shines playing Juno’s caring father Mac MacGuff. I’m sure everyone has seen this movie by now, but if you haven’t, what the hell are you waiting for?

A scene from Juno:

No Comments »

Radio host extraordinaire and comic genius Ron Bennington was quoting Lost in America a couple weeks ago compelling me to pull it from my shelf and rewatch this unappreciated laugher. By the way, that’s Ron and Fez, noon to three on XM Satellite Radio channel 202. I had forgotten just how damn funny Albert Brooks was in the 80s with Broadcast News and Defending Your Life among his comedy credits. However, this streamlined road movie about “checking out” may be his best.

David Howard (Brooks) is awaiting a well-deserved promotion from his advertising firm. With plans of moving into a new home, David and wife Linda (Julie Hagerty) are entering the next chapter of their life together. David’s rise up the economic ladder hits an unexpected snag when his vice-president job is given to someone else. Naturally, he flips out and gets canned. Rather than delve into depression, David spins the positive and convinces Linda it’s time to ditch their predictable existence and go find themselves. So the Howards’ buy a Winnebago and hit the road resting atop a comfy nest-egg of $140,000. Oh, the best laid plans…

A quick stop in Vegas to renew their vows and then they can begin their frugal journey to self-discovery. Before the nuptials, Linda suggests one last night of luxury at the Desert Inn Hotel and Casino. Seems harmless enough until meek Linda turns wild and gambles away the nest-egg while David sleeps. Linda’s high stakes foray leaves them with a hearty sum of $800, putting their anti-society lifestyle in jeopardy. The cross-country expedition lands them in a desolate Arizona town where high-paying jobs are scarce. How long can the Howards’ survive before caving under the pressure to desire the finer things life has to offer?

Simply put, Albert Brooks is hilarious. Watching him lose it in separate tirades aimed at his boss and Linda are examplary of what makes a great comic performance. Brooks boasts precise timing and rare wit, two attributes severely lacking in many comedic actors. Holding her own is the underrated Julie Hagerty, who nails the role of straight woman as she did in the Airplane movies. Brooks’ and Hagerty’s chemistry sells the story as they play off one another brilliantly. Although some of the 80s references prove dated, Lost in America doesn’t lose any luster considering the dreck that passes as comedy today. If you want some smart, genuine laughs give Lost in America a view.

No Comments »

Ever watch a movie and afterwards find yourself muttering, “What the hell was that?” Personally, I love when that happens. Some of the coolest films I’ve seen are head-scratchers. Slacker, Donnie Darko, and David Lynch’s Lost Highway and Mulholland Drive have all baffled me despite repeated viewings. Movie puzzles that force you to exercise your brain are often misunderstood and dismissed due to their ambiguities. Well, not by the Movie Loner. Add The Nines to the list of films that will leave you with more questions than answers.

Story 1: The Prisoner. Ryan Reynolds plays Gary, a hunky young TV star who just got dumped by his girlfriend. His reaction is to burn down her house then delve into a day-long booze and crack bender that ends with his incarceration. Bailed out by bubbly publicist Margaret (Melissa McCarthy), Gary is placed under house arrest at the abode of one of Margaret’s friends. Gary’s confinement soon gets weird, complete with strange noises and hallucinations. Making things odder is Gary’s new neighbor Sarah (Hope Davis) whose over-friendly behavior hints at her knowing him. The chapter concludes with Margaret telling Gary he’s not who he thinks. She reveals he is a 9, a higher being that can destroy existence with a single thought.

Story 2: Reality Television. Episode two has Reynolds playing Gavin Taylor, a TV writer attempting to launch his own series while being followed by a reality TV crew. Gavin casts his best pal Melissa (McCarthy), an overweight actress, in the starring role. Network exec Susan (Davis) loves the show but tells Gavin that Melissa will be a tough sell. Gavin’s loyalty to his friend collides with his desire for success. His decision proves costly both personally and professionally. Once again the number 9 appears bringing into question Gavin’s true identity.

Story 3: Knowing. The final segment puts Reynolds in the role of Gabriel, a video-game creator married to Mary (McCarthy) with a daughter named Noelle. After a hike in the hills, a dead car battery leaves the family stranded. With no cell phone reception, Gabriel runs up to the highway for help. He reaches the road and meets Seirra (Davis), who reluctantly decides to lead Gabriel to her car. An innocent walk in the woods turns bizarre as Sierra confronts Gabriel and tells him it’s time to leave this world and return home.

Did you get all that? Probably not, but The Nines isn’t easy to break down. Writer/director John August creates a metaphysical journey chock-full of religious connotations, from names like Gabriel and Mary, to the concept of a god-like being. Basically, the movie poses this idea: What if God lived as a human in the world HE created? It then asks this question: Is God real, or is HE a product of human imagination? Weighty stuff for sure, but well worth exploring. Reynolds, Davis, and McCarthy deserve high praise for portraying multiple characters whom to varying degrees are all interconnected. The Nines will stay with you awhile even if you fail to completely decipher all its mysteries.

The trailer for The Nines:

No Comments »

Are you satisfied with your life? Ever wonder if you had taken a different direction if things would be better? What if you hadn’t left that job offer on the table, or ended a certain relationship? What if you had pursued your dreams a little while longer before settling for the ordinary? Would you be happier? Or is living a normal life the best it ever gets? To ponder these essential questions let’s take a trip to the quaint suburban streets of a place called Metroland.

Christian Bale plays Chris, husband to Marion (Emily Watson), father to newborn daughter Amy, who calls the London suburb of Eastwood home circa 1977. His predictable existence as a young professional is thrown for a loop when his oldest pal Toni (Lee Ross) blows back into town. Toni’s free-spirited and reckless nature awakens Chris’s wildside, leading Chris to assess his role as husband/father. Toni’s presence also stirs memories in Chris of his idealistic days in Paris when he dreamed of being a photographer.

Paris also revives Chris’s feelings for his first girlfriend, the sexy Annick, who represented his first real sexual conquest. Toni’s constant prodding adds to Chris’s frustrations over his unrequited ambitions and puts a strain on his marriage to Marion. His early-thirties crisis pushes him to the brink of infidelity and forces him to choose between a life of imprudent behavior or the responsibilities of family. Leaving Eastwood proves difficult because it’s the one place Chris has always been able to call home.

Metroland is one of those movies that easily gets overlooked. It’s not heavy on plot but does serve as an interesting character study. Bale, who is compiling an impressive body-of-work, is excellent playing Chris from age 16-30, effectively capturing a string of traits from teenage naivete to adult trepidation. Watson also stands out as the understanding Marion, and Lee Ross steals scenes as the indifferent Toni, who is stuck in a state of arrested development. I think we’ve all evaluated ourselves at one time or another which makes Metroland a film everyone can relate to.

The trailer for Metroland:

No Comments »

The Movie Loner returns from vacation without a tan but brimming with renewed vigor. In keeping with my newfound pep, I offer an adrenaline shot film from the outstanding movie year that was 1999. I caught Go a few days back and had forgotten what a fantastic joyride it is. To call it a guilty pleasure would somewhat denigrate its merits. It won’t answer life’s enduring questions or solve the world’s complex problems, but it will give you a fun, trippy movie experience filled with laughs and quotable characters.

Bored with life Ronna (Sarah Polley) is going to get evicted from her place. Desperate for cash she accepts co-worker Simon’s shift at the grocery store so he can shuffle off to Vegas with his pals. While working the shift Ronna is approached by TV stars Zack and Adam looking to score some drugs from Simon. Still in need of money, industrious Ronna decides to pay Simon’s dealer a visit to purchase some Ecstasy for Zack and Adam. Drug dealer Todd Gaines agrees to sell Ronna the pills but because she’s short $100 he requires collateral. So Ronna leaves best-friend Claire (Katie Holmes) in Todd’s possession while she completes her transaction.

Zack and Adam’s overeager “friend” Burke arouses suspicion in Ronna, so she flushes the Ecstasy down the toilet, thus hampering her masterplan. But the ever-clever Ronna devises a scheme to fool vindictive Todd Gaines and land her the necessary dough she needs. Meanwhile, Simon’s excursion to Sin City provides a few lasting memories such as a heated menage-a-trois, food poisoning, a stolen Ferrari, gunplay at a strip club, and being pursued by low-rent hoods down the Vegas strip. Whew! Had enough? I haven’t even mentioned the rave. Go keeps going, and going.

Director Doug Liman and writer John August tell this frenetic odyssey through three different POV’s: Ronna, Simon, and Zack and Adam all act as plot tour guides helping to unwind the interconnected story. Living life on the edge and to the extreme is what Go is all about. Sharp dialogue and cool characters highlight an energetic script that Liman steers with reckless abandon leaving no chance for lulls. The film also features a terrific young cast speerheaded by Polley and Timothy Olyphant who plays the crude yet charming Todd Gaines, one of my favorite characters of the last ten years. If you’re looking for a little maniacal fun at the movies buckle up and check out Go.

The trailer for Go:

No Comments »