7th Heaven (1927)

A street cleaner saves a young woman's life, and the pair slowly fall in love until war intervenes. [imdb]

Nominated for 5 Oscars:

Best Picture
Best Director, Dramatic Picture: Frank Borzage (WINNER)
Best Actress: Janet Gaynor (WINNER)
Best Writing, Adaptation (WINNER)
Best Art Direction

It's true, I might've had high expectations for this film, because people tend to write only good things about it, and it's easy to see it came very close to winning Best Picture on Oscar's 1st edition. As it usually happens, the film just didn't do it for me. It started nicely, with a good story and character introduction and the first half an hour or so really worked. But after that, for me it turned uxpectedly boring.

The problem is in the screenplay, which goes silly in the 2nd half: in one continuous scene Chico asks Diane to marry him, someone comes and tells Chico the war has just started and they have to leave in 15 minutes :))), Diane puts the wedding dress on, Chico informs Diane he has to go, they change vows, Chico leaves, 30 seconds later Diane is attacked by her abusive sister, Diane wins. All this in 15 minutes :D kills believability like you can't imagine and turns from romantic and easy-going into soap-opera that's hard to rally behind.

Janet Gaynor turns the little she has to do into something nice, but this is yet another Frank Borzage film that sinks in misogynism and often poor choices. It has its charm, that's for sure, but the story lacks consistency and I just can't justify the Writing & Director wins. I'm very happy Wings won Best Picture, because it's a far superior film.

My rating for the film: 6/10. Why do the fans ignore the major flaws?!

Hey, guys! I'm on twitter now, because I'm tired of reading so much stuff and not being able to reply! :)

So tell me: who else is outthere. Let me know! :D

If interested, you can click on the right or just go at my link here:

http://twitter.com/#!/AlexInMovieland

Sadie Thompson (1928)

Sadie Thompson arrives in Pago-Pago on her way to a new life, but extremist missionary Davidson lashes out against her lifestyle. [imdb]

Nominated for 2 Oscars:

Best Actress: Gloria Swanson
Best Cinematography

The film seems to be considered today a great classic from the silent era. That's of course because of Gloria Swanson, and the much-deserved popularity that Sunset Blvd. has nowadays. I'm not gonna say Sadie is not a good film in some ways, and Gloria truly is wonderful to look at, but this is hardly a classic.

The attraction towards the film must come from the 2 leading performances. As I said, Gloria is quite likeable and gives a strong performance (she might've won had it not been for Janet's 3 different films) and just as intriguing is Lionel Barrymore, veteran Hollywood actor, very convincing as the fanatic missionary. Those who've seen it might recall that unforgettable devilish look in his eyes.

While it doesn't really have to do with judging the film, you might know that the last 8 minutes of Sadie Thompson are completely lost, and what they did was to recreate the ending using the screenplay and some production stills. It's a pitty, considering it was the ending above all and Gloria seemed to look smashing in the photos of the final scenes. But putting that aside, the ending itself is disappointing and doesn't live up to the tension created up to that point.

My rating for the film: 6.5/10. It has its good, intense moments, but misses opportunities just as often.

All the King's Men (1949) (2nd time)

The rise and fall of a corrupt politician, who makes his friends richer and retains power by dint of a populist appeal. [imdb]

Nominated for 7 Oscars:

Best Picture (WINNER)
Best Director: Robert Rossen
Best Actor: Broderick Crawford (WINNER)
Best Supporting Actor: John Ireland
Best Supporting Actress: Mercedes McCambridge (WINNER)
Best Writing, Screenplay
Best Editing

I would've probably not have seen this again, had it not been for my desire to catch up (again) with all Best Picture winners and write about them here. It's been a very VERY slow project, but it's rewarding in its own way. For example, I discovered that All the King's Men is not as ok as I remembered it to be: it's actually messy and inconsistent in many ways.

The highlights are the 2 Oscar winning performances, especially Crawford's - he's very energetic and convincing in the role, a scene stealer and way above his acting company. Mercedes is also fine, though seeing all nominees from her category, I might say one of the ladies from Pinky would've made for a worthier winner.

The lowest points in this film come from the screenplay which has no focus on dialogue or character motivations and, of course, the acting of some of the cast members. John Ireland is actually a co-lead and he was nominated for an Oscar here, but it's gotta be one of the WORST acting nominees I had ever seen. He brings nothing to the character, nor to the film, he just floats around with no ability for emotion. Also, the actress playing Anne Stanton: awful.

My rating for the film: 6/10. The beginning is much much better than the second half; and someone should've taken the Costume Designer aside: I've never seen such poorly fitted clothes in a film.

Special Best Picture Ranking

Once every film decade, I update this list. I hope it will go a bit faster from now on. :) In bold, the Best Picture winners of the 40s. Some predictable love (Casablanca), some very low-ranked shockers (Best Years... , Hamlet). To get to them, look for the film's name on the Tag list on the right.

There we go:

1. Gone With the Wind (1939)
2. Casablanca (1943*)
3. Rebecca (1940)
4. Mutiny on the Bounty (1935)
5. All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)
6. Mrs. Miniver (1942)
7. Wings (1927-1928)
8. Gentleman's Agreement (1947)
9. It Happened One Night (1934)
10. You Can't Take It With You (1938)
11. The Lost Weekend (1945)
12. Grand Hotel (1932)
13. The Great Ziegfeld (1936)
14. The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
15. All the King's Men (1949)
16. How Green Was My Valley (1941)
17. Going My Way (1944)
18. Hamlet (1948)
19. The Life of Emile Zola (1937)
20. The Broadway Melody (1929)
21. Cimarron (1931)
22. Cavalcade (1933)


Is there anyone who doesn't think Casablanca is the best of the 40s winners?!

She Done Him Wrong (1933)

New York singer and nightclub owner Lady Lou has more men friends than you can imagine. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Picture

This film was a delight and it opened my appetite for Mae West and her work - unfortunately, she didn't get to do as many films as she would've wanted. Boy, was she something; no one came close in matching the combination of outrageous and classy and feminine.

Of course, she was a better writer than an actress and that applies to She Done Him Wrong too. The film is just 66 minutes long (making it the shortest film ever nominated for Best Picture), so we don't get to see enough of Mae. But when she's on screen, it's hard to match that dialogue. Her lines are always funny, smart, seductive.

I didn't care too much about the supporting cast, Cary Grant included - trivia break: Mae discovered him while looking through the window and she cast him in this film, his big breakthrough. The direction itself is shaky. But I can't be tough on this film, it's ahead of its time in many ways.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. Why don't you come up some time and see me? I'm home every evening. :))

Outside the Law (2010)

A drama about the Algerian struggle for independence from France after WWII. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Foreign Language Film: Algeria

There are so many bad things to say about this film, I have to take a deep breath before starting. First of all, allow me to be shocked that THIS made the list of 5 nominees for Foreign Language Film - do we need a bigger proof the system is flawed? Who from the committee sat through 135 minutes of this film and thought: I want Outside the Law to be nominated because it's so good?!

Don't get me wrong: it's not Country Strong bad, which takes the crown by far. But at least there was some unintentional humor with that one and I was curious how bad the screenplay will continue to be... With this one is pure boredom. Maybe one good scene, but boring boring boring.

Its biggest sin: it takes itself too seriously. Also, it's completely narrow in perspective, anti-French till it becomes ridiculous, historically inaccurate, old fashioned and not in a good way, filled with silly writing, directed in an amateurish way, cheesy and much more. Ok cinematography and maybe one good performance, but otherwise from messy to mediocre.

My rating for the film: 3/10. Too generous am I. The nomination is a sad shocker.

The Purple Rose of Cairo (1985)

In 1930s New Jersey, a movie character walks off the screen and into the real world. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Original Screenplay

In bed with high fever again, so it seemed like a good opportunity to sit and watch a classic. The Purple Rose of Cairo was the only BIG Woody Allen film I never saw, so I kept it there because I knew it would be special, and I just wanted to save one from his good ol'days. The film is a great achievement in many ways, but maybe not my type of film.

On the good side: the direction which is creative, impressive, and also the dialogue with a lot of smart one-liners. I know there are many people who think it's his best: it wouldn't really get close to a top 5 for me, because I just couldn't fully connect to it and the silliness. I loved the scenes in the movie, but the real-life just felt flat at times. I also am not a fan of the ending, even thought I can guess what he was going for.

Mia Farrow gives a good performance, not the year's best, but she sure gets the character and as always works out well with delicious, complicated dialogue. Jeff Daniels is just fine, and I loved the supporting players: Dianne Wiest, plus all those actors in the film.

It's ridiculous to have Witness win Original Screenplay, with both Purple and Back to the Future way better. I have yet to see Brazil and The Official Story - but I suspect them to be interesting and highly creative.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. A must-see, but give me Annie Hall, Interiors or Husbands and Wives over this.

Biutiful (2010)

Connected with the afterlife, Uxbal is a tragic hero and father of two who's sensing the danger of death. [imdb]

Nominated for 2 Oscars:

Best Actor: Javier Bardem

Best Foreign Language Film: Mexico

First of all, why was this film nominated for Mexico, when it all takes place in Spain? I get it: the director is Mexican, but otherwise there's hardly a connection. On the film itself: it's a special one that I'm sure it gets better in time. I understand why some don't like it, but I fell for it, especially for the second half.

Javier Bardem is, of course, fantastic! He starts on the right foot giving a subtle, quiet performance that turns spectacular as we're heading towards the end. There's a scene with him giving the two magic stones to his children - really touching and emotional and beautifully acted. The film itself is slow at first, but after the first hour I was really engaged. Inarritu does a good job afterall, with an incredible care for details; the cinematography also stands out.

My rating for the film: 8/10. The scenes with the wife were uncomfortable, I wish there were less of those.

Barney's Version (2010)

The story of the politically incorrect, fully lived life of the impulsive, irascible and fearlessly blunt Barney Panofsky. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Makeup

The films I have to see to stay connected to Oscar... :) I'm exagerating a bit, Barney's Version is not one of the year's worst. But I would've probably not have given it 130 minutes of my life. It has its good moments, but it's really uneven throughout, going from bad to fine, from mediocre comedy to sometimes relevant drama.

I don't think the Oscar nomination for makeup is worthy, there were notable mistakes especially is Rosamund's aging makeup. Its other big award recognition was the Golden Globe win (Comedy/Musical) for Giamatti: it seemed like a pretty weak category in the funny department and I'm sure he won more for the dramatic scenes (which is called cheating!) than for the more funny ones which are rather superficial. And he does give a good performance, but boy is that character dislikeable. There's always a problem when I don't give a damn if my lead character lives or dies, is happy or not.

Dustin Hoffman is a scene-stealer, in a small but very effective role. Rosamund has her good moments but nothing terrific, while Minnie brings the comedy to the film. There are some bad casting choices with the grown-up kids, the direction is shaky: never deciding if we're seeing a comedy, a drama, switching too suddenly from one register to another. But there are also a couple of key scenes that do feel powerful: if I'd mention them, I'd spoil the story...

My rating for the film: 5.5/10. It needed a better grip on the story, and I could never really call myself a Paul Giamatti fan, even when I admit his successes.

Incendies (2010)

A mother's last wishes send twins Jeanne and Simon on a journey to Middle East in search of their tangled roots. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Foreign Language Film (Canada)

I've actually seen this film days ago, but because it's so difficult to rate and because I had little free time, I had to postpone writing about it. Incendies is quite an unusual film and it gives me stuff to think about: what the hell was going on with this year's Best Foreign Language Film category?! I didn't think I'd see something more outrageous than in Dogtooth... :)

The idea in Incendies is a great one, but the subject is poorly developed; even so, it would make for a good film, if it weren't for the biggest WHAT THE F*UCK moment of them all. Those who've seen it know I'm talking about "the twist" - I myself thought it would be too kinky to be used, but they went there. Even if we put that aside, it's something so hard to believe that it destoys any believability from there on. This is because the biggest problem with Incendies has to be the casting; it's the WORST casting I've seen in a while because it completely takes away from the believability of the story (those who've seen it know I'm taking about the age of some actors).

My rating for the film: 7/10. 7 was randomly chosen. The film has a couple of powerful scenes, the idea is great, but bad casting caused by bad directorial decisions make for a messy ending.

Street Angel (1928)

A woman on the run from the law finds her past catching up to her just as she is on the verge of true happiness. [imdb]

Nominated for 3 (1+2) Oscars:

Best Actress: Janet Gaynor (for 1928) (WINNER)
Best Cinematography (for 1929)
Best Art Direction (for 1929)

I'm looking at the official poster on the right: the girl there looks nothing like Janet Gaynor :)) oh, Hollywood, using "photoshop" even back then. :) Getting back to the film: this is of course one of the 3 films for which Janet collectively won Best Actress in Oscar's first edition. I have no idea why the film was also nominated for 2 categories in the following year, but those mentionings are worthy.

The cinematography and the art direction are both quite interesting, especially the set decoration which is efficiently used to tell the story. Frank Borzage also directed the big hit of 1928: 7th Heaven - also starring Janet, and I'm very anxious to see that one. Street Angel makes for no big breakthrough in silent films and it's mostly carried by Miss Gaynor lovely emotional performance and the incredible use of music, with a very distinctive main theme. The story could've been worse, but it's really her charm that makes the film a bit more believable and attractive to the audience.

My rating for the film: 6.5/10. Its biggest problem is the general misogynistic tone of the story.

Death on the Nile (1978)

A murder is committed on a Nile steamer, but Hercule Poirot is on board to discover who did it. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar: Best Costume Design (WINNER)

This was mostly campaigned as connected to Murder on the Orient Express (1974); even the poster wears a striking resemblance. Yet, while Murder itself is not considered a great success, this one is even less. What it does share with its Agatha Christie predecessor is a just-as-impressive allstar cast: Peter Ustinov, David Niven, Bette Davis, Maggie Smith, Angela Lansbury, Mia Farrow, George Kennedy and a couple more names.

As a murder mystery, it's a weak film. It's not that well directed, the screenplay is shaky and I guessed who the killer was as soon as the first murder happened. That's not because I'm a genius at such things, but because all the others were too less-striking to earn the title of the murderer. The performances are ok, none spectacular (Lansbury is the highlight) and the costume design win is pretty worthy. Bette Davis was fine, but she had already reached the age where she lost a bit of her acting hunger.

My rating for the film: 5/10. Nice to see the actors together, but not an interesting film.

A Ship Comes In (1928)

It tells the story of a family of immigrants coming to the United States. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar: Best Actress: Louise Dresser

Not much to say about this film, nominated in Oscar's first edition. It's a silent film with a lot of clichés, no character development, no interesting plot, just a series of actions and the way the characters are reacting.

Watching it nowadays, it's difficult to sit through, because, unlike Sunrise or Wings, it brings nothing interesting to the table. Louise Dresser gives a short, ok performance mostly based on the intelligence in her eyes and not on anything that the screenplay might offer her.

My rating for the film: 3/10. Recommended to Oscar fans only.

The Way Back (2010)

During WWII, Siberian gulag escapees walk 4000 miles overland to freedom in India. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar: Best Makeup

In the summer of 2010 people were already talking about this film. I myself thought at that time that, based on what we knew about it, it was a serious contender for Best Picture and Best Director. I had it for months on my prediction chart, but as nobody was picking it up, embracing it, etc, it just faded away. In the end it scored a Makeup nomination, and might I say a worthy one.

But it wasn't just the poor film distribution/campaign stopping The Way Back from making it big at the Oscars. It was also its poor quality to blame for the lack of success. I didn't like it. I might've enjoyed short scenes and some beautiful landscape, but I thought overall it was messy. Peter Weir is a good director, sometimes an incredible director, but definitely not successful as a writer. The dialogue is plain stupid at times, there are some casting mistakes and simply put the film just goes nowhere.

I thought Jim Sturgess's performance was awful at times and one of the 2 Romanian actors didn't do great either. Harris is fine, Saoirse is ok, Colin is cool - but nobody is great. And also: this film would've been much better in Russian; it feels confused and undecided and it lacks believability everytime the actors open their mouths and throw in some silly accents.

My rating for the film: 4.5/10. Way too long.

Dogtooth (2010)

A husband and wife keep their teenage children imprisoned on their property, creating an alternative, abusive reality for them. [wiki]

Nominated for 1 Oscar: Best Foreign Language Film: Greece

As some of you might remember, I have a special relationship with Greece, as I had lived here for a while and I still come with work once every couple of months (actually, as I'm writing, I'm in Athens for 2 weeks). So I was hesitant to see Dogtooth, first because it's my first Greek film (and what a way to start) and mostly because I had heard of the controversy surrounding it and I didn't want to completely tear it apart, because of the respect I have for the people here - who were super excited it got nominated.

I was happy to discover it is not that bad. Dogtooth is a pretentious, arrogant, in many ways imature film, with a subject that will definitely not please everybody. On the bad side there's also the screenplay - taken too far and for no real reason, the ending which could've been much more powerful and, most of all, the unnecessary nudity. Keep in mind: it's not a film to watch with your parents: lots of vaginas, breasts, a penis in erection, and other forms of nudity. :) Also, an explicit sex scene which I suspect wasn't even simulated or acted. Why do I have a problem with this?! Because I don't think big-screen films should make you either horny or show excessive, unnecessary-for-the-story nudity just in an attempts to shock - for that we have porn. I don't want to be distracted while I'm focusing on a serious, cinema-related film.

On the good side: well, the direction. This guy is a much better director than a writer. Sure, he needs to tone it down a bit, stop showing off, but I swear: there's at least a scene I have no idea how he managed to film it!!! Either there was real torture involved, or he has a technique that is terribly surprising at times - those who've seen it probably know I'm referring to the dogtooth scene towards the end. How did he make it so real? Visual effects maybe? No idea.

My rating for the film: 7/10. Because it makes no sense at times, but it surprises in others. I will remember it more than I'll remember In a Better World, but I'm lowering the grade as I was annoyed by the nudity.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010)

As Harry races against time and evil to destroy the Horcruxes, he uncovers the existence of three most powerful objects in the wizarding world: the Deathly Hallows. [imdb]

Nominated for 2 Oscars:

Best Art Direction

Best Visual Effects

The confusion called Harry Potter continues. To say that it's hard to follow would be unjust: because they never even bother to give you enough info to put it all together. Talk about screenplay gaps! This might make sense for those who are reading the books, but the rest of us: we got lost a couple of episodes ago.

Plot over twist over plot over twist... I hope they can glue them for the final part. Really, know, why do they make them so complicated, not to mention those silly screenplay solutions. Otherwise, the film is nicely done from a technical point of view, the Art Direction is fine, the Visual Effects are fine, and Ralph and Helena BC are both cool to watch. Hope we'll get a lot of Ralph Fiennes in the next one.

My rating for the film: 5.5/10. And I still feel like I'm being too generous.

In a Better World (2010)

The lives of two Danish families cross each other, and an extraordinary but risky friendship comes into bud. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Foreign Language Film: Denmark (WINNER)

I have to admit this is the first Susanne Bier film I'm seeing, as I've never got the chance to see After the Wedding, Brothers or not even Things We Lost in the Fire. The main reason I saw it of course is because it was nominated and moreso: it won! It's also the first film I'm seeing out of the 5 nominees, so for now I cannot compare them.

In a Better World is a serious film, quite well put together, with no obvious flaws in both screenplay & direction. Even so, due to its subject, I found it hard to enjoy and it really became a bit difficult to watch at one point. It's not a feel-good movie, it's quite slow at times and it didn't make me curious until the very last end.

On the very plus side: the beautiful cinematography that captures both African landscape and also magnificent close-ups with the characters. The actors all give very good performances, especially the men. Watch out for the kid named William Johnk Nielsen, in his first role - he's got both the looks and the talent to have a great career in the following years.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. It could've been a 7, but some scenes are too honest and well acted to be ignored.

Country Strong (2010)

A drama centered on a rising country-music songwriter (Hedlund) who sparks with a fallen star (Paltrow). [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Original Song

I don't remember the last time I saw such a bad Oscar nominated film, and it's not like I suspected it: it came out of nowhere. Because Country Strong is almost unwatchable in its first hour: the screenplay is one of the worst that ever came my way, with dialogue and scenes that go beyond cliche, and so badly put together that they don't even create a cheesy enviroment, but an ambitious yet failing mess.

The one decent scene is with the sick child, but other than that: pure nonsense. Gwyneth has lost any real hunger for acting, and if I would've been in the Razzie judging group I would've definitely considered her for a nom. The rest of them are just floating around, because there's no real direction to this film. The songs are ok, none that seemed spectacular to me, but they couldn't save this trainwreck anyway.

My rating for the film: 2/10. I was considering a 2.5 or 3, but that wouldn't be fair to Alice in Wonderland, which seems quite thrilling by comparison.

Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans (1927)

A married farmer falls under the spell of a woman from the city, who tries to convince him to drown his wife. [imdb]

Nominated for 4 Oscars (as a 1927/28 film):

Best Picture, Unique and Artistic Production (WINNER)

Best Actress: Janet Gaynor (WINNER)

Best Cinematography (WINNER)

Best Art Direction

Don't get fooled by its "Best Picture" win, the Academy doesn't recognize it today as the standard BP winner, as this was a second category to a more relevant one, which was won by Wings (1927), which now stands as the officially first Best Picture winner in Oscar history.

But the voters at that time clearly liked Sunrise, and there are a lot of elements to enjoy, especially the technical part: the cinematography is impressive even today and I got a feeling that Sunrise was a road opener with a lot of technical aspects. The direction is very effective, even when the screenplay goes dry in its more uneventful scenes.

While the acting is ok, I can't help but look at it as a very dated film in story and acting. I'm sure it was a hit back then with the critics, but there's something uncomfortable about the story and it did lose my interest at one point. Technically beautiful, but overall I prefer Wings.

My rating for the film: 7/10. Good ending, though.

The King's Speech (2010)

Seen on January 18th, 2011

The story of King George VI of Britain, his impromptu ascension to the throne and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch become worthy of it. [imdb]

Nominated for 12 Oscars:

Best Picture (WINNER)

Best Director: Tom Hooper (WINNER)

Best Actor: Colin Firth (WINNER)

Best Supporting Actor: Geoffrey Rush

Best Supporting Actress: Helena Bonham Carter

Best Original Screenplay (WINNER)

Best Cinematography

Best Original Score

Best Editing

Best Art Direction

Best Costume Design

Best Sound Mixing

It has nothing to do with he fact that it won Best Picture: King's Speech is my least favorite film of the 10 nominees. I don't think it's a bad film and I'm not one of those haters... but Social Network, its obvious runner-up for the win, was a better film and while I'm not the biggest fan of TSN, it's good to call it like I see it. My biggest problem with The King's Speech is that it didn't really keep me interested throughout, and I needed a bit of a suspense - because it was so damn predictable, even to the last shot. It would've been more uplifting, had it had a less cheesier ending.

On the good side there's definitely the acting. Colin Firth gives a good, difficult performance, but Geoffrey Rush is best in show, bringing unexpected humanity, while Helena Bonham Carter makes the best of her character and I actually cared for these 2 more than for the king itself, a character which kind of bored me. The screenplay is fine, but nothing groundbreaking; the win for Best Director is ridiculous given the competition and I still found it hard to believe even though it was obvious to happen. Tom Hooper's directing style definitely has its good moments in creating scenes that work properly, but often enough it's too flat to be worthy of Oscar praise.

The film is easy to watch, nothing to hate, but I didn't get much excited either.

My rating for the film: 7/10. Not one of those winners to make film history, but definitely not one of the worst.

127 Hours (2010)

Seen on January 16th, 2011

A mountain climber becomes trapped under a boulder while canyoneering alone near Moab, Utah and resorts to desperate measures in order to survive. [imdb]

Nominated for 6 Oscars:

Best Picture

Best Actor: James Franco

Best Adapted Screenplay

Best Original Score

Best Original Song

Best Editing

127 Hours is the kind of intense experience I would probably never watch twice; even so, it was hardly as brutal as I expected it to be. I thought Danny Boyle made a smart choice with that: keeping the difficult to watch scenes as short as possible and allowing us to spend enough time with the character so that the hand-thing becomes just an aspect of the film and not the defining one.

Other than that, of course the film is a bit over-directed, just like Slumdog was, and I've also had a bit of a problem with the cinematography - it gives an unique touch to the film, but everything is too colorful at times, too eye-popping that it distracts from the story and gives it an unnatural feeling.

The material is very good, so the film could've been better. But when it comes to the acting, I thought James Franco was sensational, making it look as believable as possible and definitely bringing some humanity in a couple of key scenes. A terrific performance, in my opinion.

My rating for the film: 8/10. And I still love If I Rise, it should've been a much stronger contender for Best Song.

The Fighter (2010)

Seen on January 15th, 2011

A look at the early years of boxer "Irish" Micky Ward and his brother who helped train him before going pro. [imdb]

Nominated for 7 Oscars:

Best Picture

Best Director: David O. Russell

Best Supporting Actor: Christian Bale (WINNER)

Best Supporting Actress: Amy Adams

Best Supporting Actress: Melissa Leo (WINNER)

Best Original Screenplay

Best Editing

This is a film that could've actually won Best Picture in a less complicated year. I didn't think it was very challenging when it came to the writing or the directing (though they're both fine), but it has a nice story people can relate to and it has some terrific acting.

I know many who appreciate Mark Wahlberg's performance, I thought he was just fine and it was a smart and generous choice for him to step back on the acting and let his co-stars really shine. Christian Bale is quite terrific, another character for him to get lost into - from the 5 nominees, I think he definitely deserved the win; he grabs all the attention everytime he's on screen. The 2 ladies are also great: Amy Adams delivers an unexpectedly bitchy performance, but always vulnerable and relatable. Melissa Leo is loud, but never cartoonish on screen and I thought overall she did a fantastic job, even though I would've voted for Jacki.

The film has its slow moments, but it's generally entertaining and it's always nice to see great actors giving some of their best performances.

My rating for the film: 8/10. Nothing more to add.

Inception (2010) (2nd time)

In a world where technology exists to enter the human mind through dream invasion, a highly skilled thief is given a final chance at redemption which involves executing his toughest job to date: Inception. [imdb]

Nominated for 8 Oscars:

Best Picture
Best Original Screenplay
Best Cinematography (WINNER)
Best Original Score
Best Art Direction
Best Sound Mixing (WINNER)
Best Sound Editing (WINNER)
Best Visual Effects (WINNER)

When I first saw it on the big screen last summer, I was a bit confused, but definitely impressed - of course it works best when seen in a theatre, because it's such a visual & sound experience, and it deserves to be enjoyed the right way. But once the haters started to show up, I knew I had to give it a second look, in case I missed something; and I've watched it again on the small screen - and while it didn't get better, it was definitely quite fabulous.

Yes, I think not nominating Christopher Nolan is quite stupid; today nobody's doing action films like he does - his attention for detail when it comes to directing is breathtaking, and he's such a visionary, at least admit that. Never boring. Getting to the writing: of course it has its flaws, and it's a complicated structure (how could Mal have kidnapped Robert Fischer??), but I liked the idea, the fact that he really tried to make it clear yet never pushing it too hard (seriously!), and I loved the twist and the emotional love story.

Ellen Page shouldn't be in this movie, other than that: they're all great. I had a thing for Marion of course, I though Joseph was just right for the part, Cillian Murphy gives a fabulous limited performance, and Leo is not bad at all. I think the Cinematography definitely deserved the Oscar win, and I consider Hans Zimmer's music to be best in show and no doubt one of the most haunting, perfectly used scores of the past years. Genius.

My rating for the film: 8.5/10. Just because the 3rd act goes a bit too long, but it was closer to a 9, and what an achievement it is, in my opinion.

Animal Kingdom (2010)

Seen on January 5th, 2011

Tells the story of seventeen year-old J (Josh) as he navigates his survival amongst an explosive criminal family and the detective who thinks he can save him. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Supporting Actress: Jacki Weaver

Animal Kingdom is a good film. I liked it, I respected, I admired it. I was also a bit annoyed by the emotional blackmail, but other than that: it's such an enjoyable film to see. The screenplay & direction are smart & interesting, and the actors are quite great, so let's just go to Jacki Weaver. She is what makes the film so fascinating for me, because it's such a subtle, original performance.

Yes, I think she should've won the Oscar, but the nomination itself was a pleasant surprise, I admit I didn't think she'd make it. Because unfortunately not many people had seen Animal Kingdom, but the voters from the acting branch made justice and gave her the chance to compete. While I love the ending of the film (I do, I know some don't, I do), the final chapter is all about Jacki. She's fascinating, she's mesmerizing, she knows where the camera is, she knows how to keep you connected, how to make the performance special & unique, how to subtly show the vulnerable side of the character and how to fabulously deliver every.damn.line.

My rating for the film: 8/10. I hated the psychotic brother; but this is top 10 material.

The Town (2010)

Seen on December 27th, 2010

As he plans his next job, a longtime thief tries to balance his feelings for a bank manager connected to one of his earlier heists, as well as the FBI agent looking to bring him and his crew down. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Supporting Actor: Jeremy Renner

I don't think I've ever written this, though I've surely thought about it: Ben Affleck is definitely a better director than an actor. Both The Town and Gone Baby Gone were executed with a certain degree of easiness, both so focused on the story, which made for a surprisingly subtle, efficient direction. The Town has its share of problems, but some elements of greatness really stand out.

From the point of an action movie, it's constructed the right way. The 2 or 3 big action scenes are entertaining, dynamic, impressive, and I still remember them with a lot of admiration. Jon Hamm is fine, Rebecca Hall is pretty good, Blake Lively is surprising, but the best performance comes by far from Jeremy Renner, who seems perfect for this role and gives a certain likeability to a more of a villain character. His performance is worthy of the nomination. Ben Affleck, on the other side, keeps his acting a bit too low-key and the writing choices he makes with the ending of the film are confusing to me: he should've ended it on a much more meaningful note.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. A good action flick.

Tangled (2010)

The magically long-haired Rapunzel has spent her entire life in a tower, but now that a runaway thief has stumbled upon her, she is about to discover the world for the first time, and who she really is. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:


Best Original Song

If you see me giving a 5/10 to an animated feature, than you know I must've really really disliked it; because I'm generous with this genre, and it so happens I think Toy Story 3 is one of the year's best movies, so I'm very opened to such entertainment. And I was anxious to see Tangled, but it truly felt like a disappointing, rather boring experience.

There's no real villain, there no funny supporting character (no, the horse is not enough). The storyline is too simple and definitely not worthy of the Disney tradition, and the animation looked just a bit strange to me. How boring is the ending and, with the exception of one scene, I hardly cared for these characters. Of course, I see the light is the best moment, and I still believe it should've clearly won the Oscar for Best Original Song. But other than that: not much.

My rating for the film: 5/10. They should start making them smarter, or at least funnier.

Hereafter (2010)

A drama centered on three people - a blue-collar American, a French journalist and a London school boy - who are touched by death in different ways. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Visual Effects

I know people have kicked this a lot, and I understand it: the film is wrong in so many ways. But the beginning of the film is so powerful, I still had it in my mind once the film was over. When it's good, Hereafter is pretty awesome: the one single most important visual effect is great, even if it doesn't justify a nomination; truth be told: those 5 minutes are very cool.

And also functioning quite ok is the Matt Damon storyline, especially in the beginning, when he's trying to build this character out of so little - and bringing some emotion and managing to create a believable person. But the other aspects of the film are quite messy: the screenplay, especially, becomes really stupid at one point, and I was so sick of hearing the word weightlessness every 5 minutes. Seriously: even in the lines of a 7 year old.

My rating for the film: 6/10. One of the year's best opening scenes, but clearly downhill from there. Bryce Dallas Howard is quite fabulous though, in a limited but perfect performance.

Another Year (2010)

A look at four seasons in the lives of a happily married couple and their relationships with their family and friends. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Original Screenplay

I've waited quite a while to see this film, but that was not my choice. At one point, it was actually one of my most anticipated films of 2010 as all the raves about Lesley Manville made me curious. Also, I've really enjoyed Mike Leigh's 2 previous films and I wanted to see if he can continue making intriguing, believable, well acted motion pictures.

To me, Another Year is a bit of all that. The performances are the highlight: Lesley Manville is really something, but no wonder she didn't get a Best Actress nomination, because to me she's a supporting character in the film, and should've been campaigned as such. Ruth Sheen is quite great herself, in a subtle performance, and the other actors also deliver good, natural performances.

I know some people had issues with the story and the way it's constructed, I thought it was fine, some scenes slower than others, but overall good writing and nicely constructed dialogue. It IS a depressing film, but he surely didn't go too far with it. My favorite part has to be the final chapter and the film has a good ending. I don't think it's a brilliant film or a must-see, but it definitely kept me curious throughout.

My rating for the film: 8/10. Imelda Staunton is fabulous in a very limited role.

Black Swan (2010) (2nd time)

A ballet dancer wins the lead in "Swan Lake" but slowly loses her mind as she becomes more and more like the Black Swan. [imdb]
Nominated for 5 Oscars:

Best Picture
Best Director: Darren Aronofsky
Best Actress: Natalie Portman (WINNER)
Best Cinematography
Best Editing

You can write a lot about Black Swan and indeed, it's a film that you should maybe watch twice to fully appreciate it, especially the technical part, which is quite superb. The cinematography seemed even more fabulous the second time, and I'm happy it received a much deserved Oscar nomination. The editing is just what the film needed, and the sound & sound editing would've definitely been worth some recognition.

And still, I didn't change my grade for it. While it looked better, I still had some problems with the screenplay, which I consider to be the one problematic element of the film. Maybe it's because it doesn't dig deep enough into the characters, maybe it's because of the over-explaining (poor Vincent Cassel, he gets the worst lines) or because of the ending, which is disappointing to me. As always, Darren Aronofsky's direction is above the material, and he fabulously puts the film together in a manner that few would've managed. I'll write tomorrow about Natalie, Barbara Hershey is quite cool and, sorry lovers, but I am still thrilled that Mila Kunis didn't get nominated, it would've been a coaster.

My rating for the film: 8/10. It's pretty cool, so I understand the passionate fans. Also worth mentioning: the entire collection of film posters for Black Swan is incredible!!! Some of the best I've ever seen.

Exit Through the Gift Shop (2010)

Seen on January 6th, 2011

The story of how an eccentric French shop keeper and amateur film maker attempted to locate and befriend Banksy, only to have the artist turn the camera back on its owner. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Documentary Feature

I blame Kris Tapley of incontention.com for me seeing this film. I knew nothing about it, then, suddenly, it was his number one film of 2010... and I said: oh, shit, then it must be good. I knew already that it was the cool [eyes rolling] film of 2010, because people kept writing about it. And truth is: it's an interesting experiment, but I'll be damned if this is a real documentary. Plus, not to be ignored: it had the most annoying person/character on screen that anyone could ask for.

Those who've seen it know who Thierry Guetta is; didn't that asshole just annoy you? :) how can you watch a documentary when its center person is such a loser. That's why I never watch Jackass. The good stuff about Exit is that to me it felt more like a film than a documentary, and if you look at it as a film, Banksy's direction is pretty awesome.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. Yes, I think the second part is quite directed and this is not a documentary about art, it's a directed experiment about how to trick people. That's why it shouldn't win Documentary Feature, in my opinion.

Inside Job (2010)

Takes a closer look at what brought about the financial meltdown. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Documentary Feature (WINNER)

I sometimes watch documentaries because they make me feel smarter. That's true: except when I see them for pure fun, like The September Issue or Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work - both of them terrific stuff. But back to Inside Job: I don't usually follow the Oscar race in this category, but this documentary caught my attention and I'm glad I saw it. It made me furious, but I'm happy it opened my eyes.

Someone called it the best horror film of the year or the scariest, and he was right. It's a terrifying documentary telling the truth about how American bankers fucked-up the world, and they're still doing it (yes, with Obama's approval). Nothing has changed, nothing will change towards better. What I appreciated about it is that it hits on both sides, Democrats and Republicans and that it was a very insightful material. It will probably win, but I can't judge on its competition, because the only other one I saw is Exit Through the Gift Shop.

My rating for the film: 8/10. Good stuff, especially in the second part.

TRON: Legacy (2010)

Seen on December 18th, 2010

The son of a virtual world designer goes looking for his father and ends up inside the digital world that his father designed. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Sound Editing

If there was a 2010 film other than Inception that required a big screen experience, this was it. To fully appreciate its fabulous moments, you need to see it on the big screen, with crazy sound all around you. Because when it's good, TRON: Legacy is fantastic; when the screenplay drops the ball, it's still interesting.

Arguably, the first 30 minutes of the film are the best I've seen all year. There's a fabulous cool mystical easiness to the beginning that makes the experience really special. The visual effects (minus Clu), the art direction, the costume design, the cinematography - all are fabulous and would've deserved Oscar nominations. And the original score, oh the original score: I still get excited about Son of Flynn - Daft Punk did an AMAZING job, so stupid that they were snubbed.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. The film loses its focus in the second half, and I admit some might think I was too generous. But the visuals and the potential of the film - hard not to consider. Of course it deserves the Sound win, which will not happen.

Rabbit Hole (2010) (2nd time)

Life for a happy couple is turned upside down after their young son dies in an accident. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Actress: Nicole Kidman

Unlike in the case of Blue Valentine, watching this for the second time wasn't as difficult - which is part compliment, part not. Rabbit Hole is meant to be a film that moves you, something both heartbreaking and funny at times, a good character study and all of that. Unfortunately, I wasn't moved by it, not the first time, not the second time.

Nicole cries her eyes out, and while I can sense good acting all around, I wasn't touched by it and never really cared about the dead child storyline. What's to blame for that? I dunno, because I'm not sure what the purpose of the film is. John Cameron Mitchell's direction (I adored him in Hedwig) is quite special, quite subtle but, in my opinion, the pace that he sets for the film somehow stops it from being moving... something's too simple. Does that make sense? Rabbit Hole is like a beautiful painting for the most of it, and while I think the screenplay is quite smart, I didn't care for the film and the story as a whole, just for bits and parts.

Yes, Nicole is good. Aaron is ok and I was more impressed with him pulling off the perfect husband image - which I completely bought. The screenplay is ok, and the best scenes for me were easily the ones in the park. But Rabbit Hole is still difficult to rate, and I go back and forth, trying to figure out how I really feel about it.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. It was a 7 after the first viewing, but the dialogues between the teen and Nicole's character really are something. However, the film never gets the emotional punch it needs, in my opinion.

Blue Valentine (2010) (2nd time)

The film centers on a contemporary married couple, charting their evolution over a span of years by cross-cutting between two time periods. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Actress: Michelle Williams

I'm usually all for movies that make you think and are meaningful, but Derek Cianfrance's love child film is a bit too much for me; it goes too deep on the depressing chapter, making it terribly uncomfortable at times. For me, it's the classic example of a film that I much respect, but that I would never be able to love. Seeing it for the second time was even more difficult: yes, because it's real and on the spot, but so damn sad.

It's beautifully directed, the cinematography is lovely, the editing is efficient, the two performances are simply beautiful: Ryan especially, as he delivers one of his best. The screenplay is not the highlight, but there were scenes that I adored, most of them in the happy days part: "you always hurt the one you love" of course, their final love scene and the wise words of the grandmother. It's an honest film, but too pessimistic too often.

My rating for the film: 8/10. In all fairness, I think you need to be a bit of a snob to give this film an A. :)

Unstoppable (2010)

With an unmanned, half-mile-long freight train barreling toward a city, a veteran engineer and a young conductor race against the clock to prevent a catastrophe. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Sound Editing

Of course, I wouldn't have seen this film had it not been for the Oscar nomination, and not because it's an action film: but because it's that type of action film, with a plot that you can easily figure out from the trailer, and that is simply filled with cliches.

And I was right: however, the Oscar nomination is really worthy, and the sound is fascinating in its own way; I liked the small touches of weirdness, like giving the train a monsterous sound and making it a character of its own. There's also a lot of editing going on, so I wouldn't have been surprised with a nomination for that also. Other than that, there are few special elements. The screenplay especially is quite challenging: they could've stopped the train in many different ways, but then we wouldn't have had a film, right?!

My rating for the film: 6/10. The acting is decent, the final chapter has one or two thrilling moments, but the rest is just predictable.

Toy Story 3 (2010)

Seen on December 4th, 2010

The toys are mistakenly delivered to a day-care center instead of the attic, and it's up to Woody to convince the other toys that they weren't abandoned and to return home. [imdb]

Nominated for 5 Oscars:

Best Picture
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Animated Feature (WINNER)
Best Original Song (WINNER)
Best Sound Editing

The Toy Story trilogy was the best discovery I've made in 2010, and one that I am so very happy about. The first 2 films were fabulous: very creative and funny, and Toy Story 3 was no exception. The guys who wrote the screenplay are instant idols of mine, because I can only imagine how difficult it is to still make it sound fresh and create such wonderful dialogue.

This animated film is so well directed, there's not a single boring moment. Of course, I am subjective, because I was already a fan of the characters when I saw this - but when you get great writing and professionals working on it, how can you not be charmed. Its Best Picture nomination is one of the very few reasons I can accept a line-up of 10 films there, and of course: it will have an easy win for Animated Feature.

My rating for the film: 9/10. The almost-perfect, super funny animated movie.

How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

Seen on November 20th, 2010

A young Viking who aspires to hunt dragons becomes the unlikely friend of a young dragon himself, and learns there may be more to the creatures than he assumed. [imdb]

Nominated for 2 Oscars:

Best Animated Feature
Best Original Score

2010 seemed to be another good year for animated, at least on a nominee level. I was a bit skeptical while approaching Dragon, because I suspected (and I was right) that the story was gonna be rather predictable, at least on the humans level of the screenplay. But even so: the writing was never meant to be its strength; the success of the film is mostly due to the incredible visual effects.

As much as I adore Toy Story 3, nothing can compete with the visuals from Dragon, which are simply spectacular: those scenes with the flying and big battle scene make for some of the year's best film moments. The direction is great, the film is well-balanced, with mostly just the right amount of cheesy. It's a worthy nominee in the animated category and the score nom is a nice touch, even though it has no chance of winning for either.

My rating for the film: 8/10. An entertaining film experience.

The Social Network (2010)

Seen on November 14th, 2010

A chronicle of the founding of Facebook, the social-networking Web site. [imdb]

Nominated for 8 Oscars:

Best Picture
Best Director: David Fincher
Best Actor: Jesse Eisenberg
Best Adapted Screenplay (WINNER)
Best Cinematography
Best Editing (WINNER)
Best Original Score (WINNER)
Best Sound Mixing

This used to be the next Best Picture winner, but it sure isn't anymore. Had it reached that title, it would've been both a worthy one, but also quite the unusual film to make history. David Fincher has created another special film; David Fincher, in my opinion, is definitely one of the top 5 best directors working right now. The Social Network is not a favorite of mine, I don't see it as a classic, but it's damn well made.

As I said: the biggest strength is the direction, because otherwise how could you really sell Sorkin's screenplay (fabulous, but so difficult to do the right way); Fincher should've won 2 years ago for Benjamin Button imo, and I still hope he has a chance this year. The other nominations are more or less worthy, even though it's hard to believe they've ignored the best supporting male performance of the year: Andrew Garfield should've been there, he's the soul of the film and so good at it. I'm not that crazy about Eisenberg, but maybe it's just the type of character.

My rating for the film: 8/10. Not my favorite of the 10 BP nominees, but in the top 5 definitely. I'm not crazy about it because of its subject matter which didn't always grab my attention, because otherwise it's a fine film. And how cool are the visuals with Armie Hammer? :)

The Kids Are All Right (2010) (2nd time)

Two children conceived by artificial insemination bring their birth father into their family life. [imdb]

Nominated for 4 Oscars:

Best Picture
Best Actress: Annette Bening
Best Supporting Actor: Mark Ruffalo
Best Original Screenplay

The film definitely felt a bit better the second time around: it's because looking at it again made me appreciate the performances more. Of course, Annette is fabulous, Julianne delivers a good performance, but Mia Wasikowka's acting seemed much better & more touching to me upon a second viewing. Don't start me on Ruffalo, though, I don't understand the buzz around his performance.

The screenplay is quite good, with good dialogue and a nice story. While the direction is mostly subtle, you can notice small elements that make it special and the editing of the film is dead on. Had we had 5 BP nominees, it wouldn't have made it: but I'm glad it did, it'a a small, special movie - and it might just hold Annette's all time best.

My rating for the film: 8/10. It has a good pace, it's never boring.

Salt (2010)

A CIA agent goes on the run after a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Sound Mixing

Talk about getting surprised once in a while by an action flick... there's not a single break moment in Salt or a lazy scene, as the action never stops: one great scene after another. Of course, it's not always that believable, but it's a decent screenplay, with twists and turns all the way. Hardly what I expected from the trailer.

Angelina delivers an unexpectedly good, profound, touching performance and she's so damn cool in those chase scenes. While it's not really one of the year's best, Salt is still an underrated film, as it was one of the most enjoyable 2010 films I saw.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. Yes, it will get more than The King's Speech on my list :))

Iron Man 2 (2010)

Seen on October 24th, 2010

Because of his superhero alter ego, Tony Stark must contend with deadly issues involving the government, his own friends and new enemies. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Visual Effects

It sounds hard to believe, but I actually liked this film more than the original Iron Man; not that I'm that crazy about this movie, but I thought it was more entertaining and also more relevant & creative when it came to the special effects. It's a standard action movie, with some parts better than others, but the action scenes worked quite well.

Its visual effects, of course, cannot compete with Inception's, but it's a worthy nominee in this category. Robert Downey Jr. is just as fun as always and it's incredible how he can bring humanity and personality even in the most thin-written characters. The much underrated Sam Rockwell is a nice touch to the cast and all supporting players make the best they can.

My rating for the film: 7/10. You can't blame it for the action flick it is, and how exciting was the Grand Prix scene.

Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Seen on August 21st, 2010

19-year-old Alice returns to the magical world from her childhood adventure, where she reunites with her old friends and learns of her true destiny: to end the Red Queen's reign of terror. [imdb]

Nominated for 3 Oscars:

Best Art Direction (WINNER)
Best Costume Design (WINNER)
Best Visual Effects

Was this film bad, or what? :) Of course, I'd never adventure with it the second time around, but what was Tim Burton thinking... Even if it would've been technically successful, which it certainly isn't, how could anyone get past the bad presentation of the story and the lack of rhythm that the film has.

I don't care what it's based on, but the screenplay in its final print is Razzie-worthy; the cinematography is too colorful, too fake, the art direction hardly impresses and the visual effects... sure, the giant head looks nice, but how about that fake countryside sky: can't they even film regular trees in the part of the movie connected to reality?! The background was a mess all throughout the film. However, the 2 good achievements are worth mentioning: the beautiful costumes, and I hope Miss Atwood wins, and the makeup which went unrewarded.

Strangely enough, the acting was not the biggest problem for me. I thought Johnny was just ok, nothing terrible about his acting and Helena Bonham Carter really delivered a fabulous performance - the whole film should've been just about her, no doubt about it. :)

My rating for the film: 3/10. Boring, boring, boring; Burton should've known better and he should've cared more.

The Illusionist (2010)

A French illusionist finds himself out of work and travels to Scotland, where he meets a young woman. Their ensuing adventure changes both their lives forever. [imdb]

Nominated for 1 Oscar:

Best Animated Film

Coming back home from it last night, I wrote on the other blog: "The most beautiful animation I have ever seen; technically flawless. But it doesn't have enough soul" - and I stand by it, now, the day after. Because it did look gorgeous, like nothing I had seen before: the cinematography, if I can call it like that, it's incredible, the colors, the shots, the care for detail - hard to put into words.

But it still left me unsatisfied, especially the ending. Part of the fault, I think, is in the screenplay: I wish there would've been more of a story and I suspect it might've been an instant classic all around, had it had more dialogue and a writing I could relate to. The direction is great and I can only imagine the work that was put into the making of this film. Also, how silly it is that the Academy didn't recognize the marvelous music: which goes all throughout the film, without bothering at all.

My rating for the film: 7.5/10. How could I rate it? It's impressive, but I didn't emotionally relate to it. Hey, at least Despicable Me wasn't nominated.