The BC Review: Salt

I'm sorry to say that after several months of consistent (and certainly, persistent) media hyping, I was sadly disappointed in the latest addition to the spy-family flicks; Salt.

To be sure, the plot line is intriguing... American CIA officer, blond hair, blue-eyed, Evelyn Salt, is surprised by an alleged Russian defector's arrival and subsequent accusation that she is a Russian spy.

Yes, you read that correctly. Salt hijacks us; bringing us kicking and screaming back to what can largely be considered, an easier, less confusing time - The United States vs. Russia. To the film's detriment, the old adage that it is the democratic powerhouse vs. the red communists, is almost laughable. Of course as eloquently stated in one of my all-time favorite spy thrillers, Sneakers, we all know "They still spy on us, we still spy on them", but must we revert to this premise? Surely, in this day in age, there are more intriguing stories to pen?

Despite taking us on one thrilling action scene after another (really, it is one after another, after another to the point of exhaustion), the film fails to really deliver. For many reasons, but most poignant is its lack of humanity. All of the characters are stiff to the point of robotic. This is particularly apparent when compared to predecessors such as the Bourne Identity (even a trained assassin with amnesia expresses a nominal amount of emotion).

This is especially true with our supposed "heroine". Salt is gruff, to the point of grating. So much so, that it is impossible to believe she would exist in reality, let alone maintain a functioning marriage (being some one's wife is intended to lend credibility to her cover story). Jolie's attempt to portray a strong, intelligent woman comes off as a robotic (yes, I'm using this descriptor once again) imitation of what a strong, intelligent woman, would look and act like. And it is just that; an appalling imitation.

Despite her efforts (and admitted, successes) in transcending so-called "traditional" gender roles; Angelina Jolie falls victim once again to, well, her own fame and fortune. That is, Angelina has become such a force in Hollywood and the world at large (see her ongoing humanitarian efforts across the globe) that it is nearly impossible to see her in any acting role and get past the fact that we are watching Angelina and instead be able to focus on the character she is portraying. Maybe it is her larger-than-life lips? Or just her classically beautiful face? In either case, Evelyn Salt would have fared better played by a lesser-known femme fatal.

The supporting characters, played by Liev Schrieber and Chiwetel Ejiofer, contribute some redeeming qualities. Schrieber plays a tough-as-nails officer with a passion for the mission (and really little else), while Ejiofer gives us a nice portrayal of humanity in the midst of nearly robotic colleagues.

As if this interminably drawn up flick was not enough, the "ending" (if you can really call it that) leaves us on a cliff-hanger with Salt running through the woods of Northern Virginia. Indeed, a Salt 2 is more than an idea; it's a promise.

Salt leaves much to be desired, but for fans of the espionage drama it will acquire at the very least, a luke-warm reception. However, in this reviewer's opinion, you might be better off renting one of several markedly better flicks to include, Spy Game, Breach, and Mission Impossible (the 1st installment).

The BC Review Rating: C-

The BC Review: Knight and Day

The latest expected Hollywood “blockbuster” helmed by Hollywood heavy-weight Tom Cruise and his unexpected female co-star, Cameron Diaz, though apparently failing to live up to its studio’s expectations, far succeeded in not only reaching, but surpassing this reviewer’s expectations.

Catching Knight and Day at our local AMC theatre this past Friday night, my husband and I were pleasantly surprised at the significant audience turn out (though certainly not to the scale of our Twilight Saga: Eclipse premier a couple weeks earlier) as well as our overall enjoyment of the film. Knight and Day gave us exactly what we wanted; a light-hearted, if not completely un-realistic, action thriller with a bit of comedic repartee between the two leads.

The story centers on the mysterious Roy Miller, a super-cool and always composed American secret agent. From the opening scenes, Roy is charming, drawing us in early as fans, willing him to succeed in his mission and ultimately "get the girl". Love him or hate him (I think many of us may fall in the latter category), Tom is undoubtedly perfect in a role like this (think back to his performance in Jerry Maguire). In films like these Tom is his best; simply playing his cocky, smooth, exceedingly over confident self. His portrayal of Roy is no different and is frankly perfect. Roy is everything we believe a secret agent should be: daring, sexy, a bit cocky, and always one step ahead of the bad guys.

Following poignantly bad publicity of late (recall Oprah’s couch jumping incident, assorted pro-Scientology sermons, and his latest flop as the Nazi turncoat in Valkryie) at this point it should surprise no-one, Cruise desperately needs this film to succeed. I’m not sure to what level he expects Knight and Day to revive his career, but it seems a good start.

Of course, as this is a Tom Cruise vehicle, I will not lie to you and tell you there were not several actions scenes involving motorcycles, planes, trains, and automobiles featuring death-defying stunts (in the truest sense of the phrase). But in the vain of his Mission Impossible movies (at least the first and second installments), we found ourselves delighting in every minute of it!

In all fairness, Cameron Diaz’s contributions should also be noted. As my husband can attest; a fan of Ms. Diaz’s I am not, surprisingly, she is able to hold her own in this flick. She gives a charming performance as June Havens, the, at first, unwilling participant in Roy’s assorted spy games. I will echo other movie review critics and say, Diaz is starting to show her age (and the obviously over-done spray tan in this flick is certainly not helping), but she still exudes natural beauty and does appear to be growing into herself more of late (I can say I actually enjoyed her in The Holiday and My Sister’s Keeper).

Akin to notable comedies like Wedding Crashers and American Pie, it is difficult to say what kind of staying power the film may have on its own if viewed in the comfort of one’s home (I find the success of comedies are often at the mercy of the live audience viewing experience). Therefore, this reviewer recommends making a trip to the theatre to catch this one in its full glory (if not for the $11.00 or $12.00 evening ticket, at least the $8.00 matinee price).

The film, Knight and Day, provides a fun-filled, action-packed, and comically-proficient summer film and is recommended for fans of both the Action and Romantic Comedy genre. Fans of Tom Cruise should also be pleased with his return to the big screen in a comfortable role.

The Bee Charmer Review Rating: B+

The BC Review: Valentine's Day

Despite being the subject of some utterly toxic critical reviews, the Garry Marshall directed, Romantic Comedy (RomCom), Valentine’s Day offers a delightful compilation of short vignettes depicting intertwining relationships in various stages. Although similar to the British Romantic Comedy, Love Actually (Valentine’s Day also goes for the built-in popular appeal utilizing a heavy star-laden cast), the film also shies away from the sugary sweet RomCom-style and shows a darker side of love and relationships.

Set on the day of all days for lovers, boyfriends and girlfriends, fiancées, husbands and wives, and in one case, a mother and her son, Valentine’s Day gives us an at times amusing (and at times depressing) story of individuals experiencing the Hallmark-created and singleton-shunned holiday.

In the first scene we are introduced to two young lovers, Reed Bennett (played by Ashton Kutcher) and Morely Clarkson (played by Jessica Biel). As the sun rises Reed excitedly hops out of bed and prepares himself for the biggest question he will pose to someone else in his life; “Will you marry me?” to his still sleeping fiancée. Fortunately for Reed, Morely graciously accepts. Soon after, Reed runs to his best friend Alphonso (played by a somewhat comedic, George Lopez) to proclaim his joy. Much to his (and our) dismay, Alphonso appears surprised upon learning of Morely’s acceptance (this then becomes a recurring theme throughout the film).

Fast forward to another couple, we see two people sharing a shoulder and an armrest on a plane. It is not long before we learn the man is Holden (played by Bradley Cooper), a well-dressed and charismatic sulking soul suffering the remnants of a broken affair and the woman (expertly using his shoulder as a pillow) is Kate Hazeltine (played by Julia Roberts) a soldier making a 14-hour trip home to see someone very special for Valentine’s Day .

A third couple gives us two young people in the midst of no-less-than two-week old relationship. Liz (played by Anne Hathaway) and Jason (played by Topher Grace) demonstrate the utter awkwardness of celebrating a holiday built around the public expression of love. Additionally, of course, as this is a romantic comedy, there is something peculiar (and quite funny) about Liz. I won’t spoil that one for you – just suffice it to say, she is a struggling actress who utilizes her talent for impersonations in the evening hours.

For the sake of brevity, the three scenarios above are just the tip of the ice-burg. The film includes several more vignettes; each complete with its own unique twists and turns.

As I mentioned earlier, Valentine’s Day is jam-packed with stars, giving us no less than nineteen "A" Listers, including: Julia Roberts, Patrick Dempsey, Shirley MacLaine, Bradley Cooper, Topher Grace, Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway, Kathy Bates, Ashton Kutcher, Emma Roberts, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Eric Dane, Taylor Swift, Taylor Lautner, Jamie Foxx, George Lopez, Hector Elizondo, and Queen Latifah.

Reviewer’s Note: Keep an eye out for the impressive comedic performance of Country singer/songwriter, Taylor Swift. The novice actress gives quite a performance as a giddy love-sick teenager fawning over real-life teen heartthrob Taylor Lautner (Twilight Saga’s Jacob).

Valentine’s Day is not for the faint of heart (as the film depicts, not all love stories are meant to be), but is recommended for fans of compilation films (i.e. Coffee and Cigarettes, Love Actually) and the romantic comedy.

The Bee Charmer Review Rating: B

The BC Review: The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

For those of you who are not previously aware, I am happy to report that indeed, I have fallen victim to the latest teeny-bopper craze; Stephanie Meyer's Twilight Saga. I've read all four books and up until the other night, saw the first film adaptation of Book 1 via Netflix (and subsequently purchased the DVD), and took my husband along with me for the ride opening night of Book II: New Moon.

For the recently released third adaption, Twilight: Eclipse, we really went out of our way and made an entire evening/night/morning out of it. As it were, on opening night of Eclipse (for an extra special treat) Regal Cinema theatres played a double feature of Twilight and New Moon at 6:30pm, followed by the premiere of Eclipse with a 12:01 am start time. Needless to say (as I'm quite sure you've already surmised), my husband and I were indeed included in this group of so-called "Twihards" and made our way to the theatre for the triple feature.

As the storyline goes, the third in the series brings us back to the love-sick Bella. We continue to follow our heroine through her struggles to hold onto her life's love; Edward Cullen (a literally blood-sucking, but "vegetarian" vampire) while at the same time desperately trying to figure out her feelings for her best friend, Jacob Black (an attack-driven, vampire-hating Werewolf). Throughout the film Bella is torn between the two and of course, must ultimately make a choice (of course, it is pretty obvious who she favors as she desperately tries to persuade Edward into "changing" her, but we go along for the ride!).

As we watch the three struggle through an intense love triangle, an interesting sub-plot develops. When scenes are directed away from the three love-stricken teenagers, an old enemy; a flame-haired, vengeful vampire by the name of Victoria, serves to complicate things... eventually breeding an army of vampires set to destroy the Cullen coven (or at the very least, make a dent) in her desperate attempt to kill Bella. The sub-plot and accompanying battling vampire scenes are perhaps the best of the film and achieve minimal anticipation from the audience. But as this is not the primary storyline, it is no surprise as all ends well at the film's conclusion.

Fans of the Stephanie Meyer books will always see something worthwhile in the film adaptions. Although, despite no-less-than-three different directors for each theatrical adaption, the films pale in comparison to the riveting and utterly indulgent written words of the originals.

However, to rate the three adaptions that have been released so far, Eclipse is decidedly the best. This may be the result of a couple key factors:

1. The "characters" portrayed by the film actors (Kristen Stewart as Bella, Robert Pattinson as Edward, and Taylor Lautner as Jacob) appear to have grown into their roles and thus present a more authentic/organic depiction of the heroine and her two heros

2. The Eclipse storyline itself lends itself better to big screen adaptation than the prior films due to its intense action scenes (vampires not only fighting werewolves, but other vampires makes for some intense reading/viewing)

3. A bigger budget/more "hype". It is very apparent in the newly released film that more money has been thrown at this project (better action sequences, better make-up, etc).

Of course, the less-than-stellar film does not lessen this reviewer's anticipation of the fourth and final adaption of the series. Much to a "Twihard's" delight, Twilight: Breaking Dawn is slated for release as two separate films (Fall of 2011 and undetermined in 2012).

Twilight Saga: Eclipse comes recommended for fans of the series. This point I cannot stress enough. For those uninterested in teen romance and epic battles, this one is best left for the self-described (or as the case may be, self-denied)"Twihards".

The Bee Charmer Review Rating: B-

The BC Review: City Island

With all of the supposedly (at least marketed to be) Hollywood blockbusters making their way to the theatre during the summer season it's often difficult to find a shining "diamond in the rough". That is to say, the smaller Indie jewels unfortunately tend to fall by the wayside. One such flick is the recently released comedy, City Island. My husband and I had a chance to see this one over the weekend and we were beyond pleasantly surprised!

Starring Andy Garcia as Vince Rizzo, a City Island (for those of you not as familiar with New York City like me, City Island is a small historic fishing village in the Bronx) corrections officer with a secret dream he desperately (and ultimately fails) to hide from his wife and two kids.

Born and raised on City Island (which means he is a bonefide "clam digger"), Vince seeks a life away from the small-town expectations and difficult work of prison guard. His real dream? To become an actor in the likeness of his hero; Marlin Brando. Not wanting to embarrass himself, he uses the guise of evening "poker games" as a cover for his real activities; acting classes. Of course, as the old adage goes, "What a Tangled Web We Weave When First We Practice to Deceive"!

Vince Rizzo's wife, Joyce (expertly played by Julianna Margulies) also has a few secrets to hide; most notably, her addiction to cigarettes (a running theme throwout the film that all four Rizzos share) and her lust for young mysterious house guest tasked to build a bathroom in a shed next to the house. Joyce is the cement that holds the family together, she is rough and tumble with uncharacteristically straight hair, well-worn jeans, and a grating New York accent. But inside her tough exterior, she is vulnerable. As the film continues, her insecurities soon get the better of her and she falls prey to her own unfounded suspicions that Vince's "poker game" is just another word for "affair".

The Rizzo's two kids are also included in the tangled family web, as they too play charades in an attempt to keep their private lives (and in one case; hidden obsession) far from the knowledge of their parents.

Vince's teenage son, Vince Jr. (played by Royal Pains' Ezra Miller), forgoes the usual angsty teenager with a quick wit and biting tongue routine and instead plays a still quick-witted, yet surprisingly humorous, teen with a passion for women. Of course, as this is Indie, Vince Jr.'s love for women is not just any ordinary love, it is a love for the Full-Figured-Woman. One of whom happens to reside next door, runs a 24-hour web cam, and has a passion for baking.

Not to be left out, Vince Jr.'s sister, Vivian Rizzo also has a few secrets to hide. Most notably, her new career; dancing at a club in the city appropriately named, the Hell Cat. Of course, this wouldn't be such a big deal if it wasn't for what she was supposed to be doing; going to college. And one notable piece of trivia, Vince's daughter, Vivian Rizzo, is played by Dominik Garcia-Lorido; Andy Garcia's real-life daughter. In her case the apple certainly did not fall far from the tree!

Finally, we come to one of the most interesting characters in the film; Tony Nardella (played by Steven Strait). At the start of the film, Tony is in lock down in City Island's prison. After a brief and mysterious encounter with a well-intentioned corrections officer, Tony is brought to the outside and tasked to construct a bathroom in an unfinished shed. Of course, he too is not without a few secrets (although he does not yet know what they are) and plays a key role in bringing the whole charade crashing down.

This review would be remiss without the mention of Alan Arkin as Vince's tough, grating, acting coach. In my book, the addition of Alan Arkin to any film almost always spells success (Little Miss Sunshine, America's Sweethearts, and of course, So I Married An Axe Murderer).

Don't be surprised to find yourself laughing out loud at the priceless comedic scenes in this one. Andy Garcia leads the talented cast, expertly adopting the lovable "every man" character and winning our undying adoration.

City Island is highly recommended for fans of the Indie comedy and those looking for something with a bit more substance than the average DC Comics summer blockbuster remake/Tom Cruise action-romantic comedy.

The Bee Charmer Review Rating: A

The BC Review: Robin Hood

I’ve been waiting to write this review foolishly entertaining the idea that I would sit down and watch Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (the rival Kevin Costner version) in it’s entirely and then compose a comparison of the two. Unfortunately, as no less than a full month has gone by and it is likely I may never find time to screen it. Therefore, I’m forgoing the original idea and replacing it with this; a standard review of the Ridley Scott version.

In Ridley Scott’s 2010 version of the legendary tale of the true “Prince of Thieves” we are introduced to Robin Longstride, fighting along King Richard the Lionheart (a term used rather loosely in this depiction) in a series of battles; slowly, but steadily plundering his way back home from the Crusades. Robin Longstride, as he was known prior to his days of merriment, is a worse-for-wear archer who takes his leave after the fall of the King.

Along with some notable friends, to include “Little” John, Robin makes his way to Nottingham wherein he meets Marion, albeit a somewhat less-than-we-are-used-to-seeing-her, glamorous version. In Scott’s rendering, Maid Marion is not a maid at all but rather a matron as she has married some ten years prior (and unbeknown to her, subsequently widowed).

In terms of story, this version veers only slightly from the story we all know, giving us a bit of a prequel to the legend. To his credit, Scott succeeds in giving us some minor surprises, i.e. throwing the French and some nefarious insiders into the mix, but in the end, leaves much to be desired. Although this is not entirely unexpected, it seems Scott took the safe route; deciding against giving us a completely new interpretation and instead providing a litany of action scenes. Of course, as this is a Scott film, the action scenes are as expected; fast-paced, gritty, and always bloody.

Scott’s use of dialogue also leaves much to be desired (Shakespeare, this is not!). But, perhaps in a nod to critics (and a gift to the audience?), Scott fortunately keeps the dramatic love scenes to a minimum.

The presumed (and well-marketed) star, Russell Crowe plays Robin as we would expect; an unrelenting warrior full of vengeance, yet, also a man of heart.

Cate Blanchett, though not originally cast for this role, provides a decent interpretation of Marion. By all accounts Blanchett is one of the few remaining Hollywood actresses not afraid to “let her hair down” as they say, and show a less-than-perfectly-manicured-and-done-up-heroine. She never fails to bring a certain reality to the big screen and usually succeeds in attributing to my ability to suspend my disbelief (check her out as the incomparable Katharine Heburn alongside Leonardo DiCaprio in The Aviator).

Blanchett’s talents aside, the best characters fall a bit farther down on the cast of characters list. Two favorites include Little John (played by Kevin Durand, previously seen in Wild Hogs) and Friar Tuck (played by Mark Addy of the television sitcom, Still Standing). These two, though not given a whole lot of on-screen time, give the audience excellent portrayals of inherently comedic characters.

Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood comes recommended for Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe fans. For those seeking a really creative interpretation of the legend, we suggest adding Robin Hood: Men in Tights to your Netflix queue! Additionally, as the film is billed as a prequel, the ending leaves us primed for at least one more (if not, several) follow-on features.

The Bee Charmer Review Rating: C

The BC Review: Killers

Fresh off of our good experience catching Get Him to the Greek, my husband and I set out to see another comedy. This time changing it up a bit, and catching the Katherine Heigl -Ashton Kutcher Romantic Comedy (RomCom), Killers.

Of course, as you can probably discern from its off-beat title, Killers, is a bit of a unique RomCom. It’s somewhat shocking, and includes what I believe is supposed to be, funny violence (thus, contributing to this characterization). However, it fails to break away from the mold completely, clearly utilizing the basic RomCom plot line, Boy Meets Girlà Boy Marries Girlà Boy and Girl Argue/Have Disagreementsà Boy and Girl Make-UpàBoy and Girl Live Happily Ever After.

The film opens with Katherine Heigl playing Jen, an attractive blond and the victim of a recent dumping on vacation in the south of France with her parents, Mr. Kornfeldt (played by Tom Selleck) and Mrs. Kornfeldt (played by Catherine O’Hara). Struggling to convince herself that she not a romantic dud, Jen tries to make the best of her situation.

Fast forward to five more minutes into the film and Jen (and we!) are introduced to a shirtless, bathing suit clad, Spencer Aimes (played by Ashton Kutcher) with a secret to hide.

Of course, as this is a RomCom, it is not long before the wooing is in full swing and Jen finds she is head over heels for Spencer. Fortunately for us, the director considerately employs a time-flashing-forward-mechanism and we do not have to sit through several minutes of witnessing various scenes depicting their wedding/ marriage. Rather we are transported to three years in the future, with Jen and Spencer living what appears to be a quiet suburban life.

Unfortunately, this relative domestic bliss is short-lived. Spencer’s sorted past as an employee of the “Blah Blah Blah” who gave him a license to “Blah,” comes spiraling back, resulting in a harsh reality check for Jen and some pretty shocking scenes for us. In an effort to keep the details of the film a surprise, I will cease to divulge any additional specific details, but be forewarned, the film’s title is not without meaning or consequence.

Killers is the latest Heigl-helmed RomCom in recent weeks/months (years?), following a line of hits to include: The Ugly Truth, 27 Dresses, and Knocked Up, and has 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 (yes, you counted correctly) films currently in production. Formerly Izzie Stevens on Grey’s Anatomy Heigl’s attained a substantial fan-base so her rise to movie stardom is not surprising, I just hope she does not go the route of those before her (i.e. Jennifer Aniston) and is quickly type-cast as the Romantic Comedy leading lady of choice for the next 10 years.

The additions of Tom Selleck and Catherine O’Hara to the cast are welcome. Selleck is reminiscent of his recent recurring television role as Monica’s boyfriend on Friends, giving us what we expect; a hyper-masculine, attractive older man with an impressive mustache.

Catherine O’Hara, playing Jen’s alcoholic mom, is arguably the best actress in the flick as she truly demonstrates what real comedic timing and characterization is. If you’re not familiar with her work, this reviewer highly recommends catching Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, Home Alone (although not as funny in that), and Away We Go.

Killers is an OK Romantic Comedy, but could stand some considerable improvement in character development and dialogue (a Quentin Tarantino flick this is not). Katherine Heigl and Ashton Kutcher make a good team in this film genre, but they fail to provide Oscar-winning performances.

The Bee Charmer Review Rating: C+