montejocarlo Reviews

Cloud Atlas (2012)

Weird

[6/10 · 29 September 2014]

I don't know what to make of it. It's the weirdest film I've ever seen. And it's way too long.

It's supposed to span 3 generations of people who are connected in some way. But I didn't really see the connection except the fact that the same actors played them.

The writer was trying to convey a message that the movie failed deliver. While I do not deny that it's a mind-boggling film, and I appreciate it, it's really ambiguous. There are too many scattered ideas. Although I must say, it's nothing short of brave and original.

Not great but a fairly good attempt.

Gia (1998 TV Movie)

Angelina's best on screen performance

[10/10 · 29 September 2014]

Gia was unbelievably good. It's both haunting and inspirational. And in my opinion, it holds Angelina Jolie's best acting performance.

I think the writer and the director stayed honest to everything they knew about Gia. They went all the way and smashed though many taboos including promiscuous sex, homosexuality and drugs. They didn't censor important details in order to play safe. And Jolie was so brave for taking this role. She completely absorbed the character so much so that you feel her baring her soul as you watch. The sheer honesty in the performance was magnificent.

Mercedes Ruehl's acting was also impeccable. She didn't overdo anything but she was just as true to the character as Jolie was.

Mature, daring, audacious. No sugar-coating, no romantic clichés. This is what a good movie looks like.

Girl, Interrupted (1999)

Not bad

[7/10 · 29 September 2014]

Girl, Interrupted is a film adaptation of a memoir so it's difficult critique the story.

The movie in itself was boring. I guess, the only thing that stood out was the stunning performance of the cast with special mention to Angelina Jolie. Her on screen charm was magnetic as she played a menacing sociopath. She delivered a believable and natural performance. She was responsible for making Lisa the most interesting character of the movie.

Brittany Murphy and was also convincing in her role.

Whoopi Goldberg was nothing short of amazing. The character she played wasn't as intense as that of the others but you can't look past her. She carried a strong presence on cam.

Honestly, I find it bit starry-eyed how the film made a mental institution look like a place for misunderstood people. It's very unrealistic. Then again, it's based on a book and I haven't read it so, I can't tell.