Weeks 21-24
So, February/March is the time to test new or unproven directors, it seems. As one is unknown, one is brand new, and one is obscure. Ah, almost a half-year in. Which, yes, feels really bizarre—on one hand it’s “wow, only 24 movies in?” on the other it’s “damn, it’s been almost 6 months already?” But I haven’t missed a week yet, and there is a lot of awesomeness headed our way with the coming summer (THOR! X-MEN! HANGOVER! CAPTAIN FUCKING AMERICA!)
21) Cedar Rapids
Ed Helms is sort of a surprising guy. He plays straight and narrow, innocent guy all the way, and yet he can still carry a movie well. However, John C. Reilly’s wild character was more of a distraction than a wall for Helms to bounce off of. Helms actually had a better relationship with Anne Heche and Isaiah Washington. It definitely wasn’t the most groundbreaking comedy, but it was still fun. I look forward to seeing what director Miguel Arteta comes out with next.
22) The Adjustment Bureau
A political action-adventure romance about predestination? The trailers made this look lackluster, but it was pulled off really well. Damon and Blunt had surprisingly good chemistry together, and the various mad men—I mean angels—were all excellent, each adding more layers as they appeared. And like Arteta, I look forward to seeing more from George Nolfi; I think his skills will develop nicely as he works more.
23) Rabbit Hole
As a play, I was already impressed by the writing by David Lindsay-Abaire. As a film…it works, but not as well. It felt like the director wasn’t sure where to place the characters. But the performances were great. Eckhart is very underrated, and his performance here was no exception. As good as Kidman was, Eckhart was better. He is going to win an Oscar sooner or later—hopefully sooner.
24) Paul
For a stoner comedy, Paul has a surprising amount of heart to where it really isn’t a stoner comedy at all. Simon Pegg and Nick Frost always have a great relationship on screen, but they also have great chemistry with the CGI alien—which Seth Rogen voices incredibly. Paul was so wonderfully developed that it never felt like Rogen as an alien. Greg Mottola really brings everything together for a fun, heartfelt comedy.
