Blog Archives
Flash Movie Review: Cold Souls
Imagine the possibilities if you were able to swap out your soul for another or just have it removed to avoid some type of distress in your life. For example, maybe you are a lawyer about to go to trial and you want to have the soul of one of the top lawyers in the country. It is an intriguing concept and this dark comedy chose the perfect actor for the role: Paul Giamatti (The Illusionist, Win Win). Playing himself, Paul was struggling in rehearsals for a production of Anton Chekov’s Uncle Vanya. Seeing a magazine article about a storage facility for souls, Paul made an appointment to see Dr. Flintstein, played by David Strathairn (Heavens Fall, The Whistleblower). Mr Giamatti has a gift for quickly changing emotions, going from a humorous point to an intense frantic state with the simple use of his expressive face. The movie with its science fiction vibe had several funny bits throughout it. Paul went from being a soulless actor, much to the director’s chagrin, to a brillant actor with the aid of his temporary soul. I wish the writers would have stayed with this story line instead of bringing in the secondary story involving the Russians. It would have made for a stronger film. Fans of Paul Giamatti will certainly enjoy this movie. For those of you not familiar with his work, this DVD would be one to rent to see his excellent acting skills on display.
2 2/3 stars — DVD
Flash Movie Review: Shoot ‘Em Up
With the feel of a cartoon rivalry like the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote or Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd, this movie was an over the top thriller. From the imaginative fight scenes–delivering a baby in the middle of a gun fight–I was buzzed from this film. Clive Owen (Children of Men, The Bourne Identity), as the cool Mr. Smith, becomes involved with a gang of thugs, when they cross his path, chasing a pregnant woman. From a single act of kindness to protect the woman, a battle of wits ensues between Smith and Hertz, the leader of the gang, played by Paul Giamatti (Sideways, The Illusionist). Hellbent on stealing the baby, Paul does such a good job with his character, having been given some of the best lines from the writers. Now I have to tell you, check out your logic and common sense before viewing this crazy thriller. This film knows it is displaying everything to the max, including blood and violence, but not taking itself to seriously. Simply enjoy the rush as the story reveals more than you might have thought there would be, with such a movie title.
2 2/3 stars — DVD
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