A Serious Man

11/24/09

Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans

11/12/09

Made it to an early sneak of Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans last week, which is a film based on a character from the original movie Bad Lieutenant (1992), starring Harvey Keitel. Nicholoas Cage plays Terence McDonagh in this dark dramedy showcasing a horribly, yet effective unethical detective carrying numerous addictions including drugs and gambling. I was concerned about seeing Cage in this film after several sub par, predictable performances, but I found myself pleased overall his character. Yes, there is some Cage quirkiness, and the rest of the acting is very questionable, but somehow, I really enjoyed this movie. Also, this movie falls into my category of the uncomfortable "rooting for the protagonist even though that character does awful things," a la Godfather-esque rooting for Michael Corleone. Give this movie a chance and you will catch yourself enjoying and laughing and scenarios that you probably shouldn't.

Zombieland

10/31/09

Caught this comedy horror flick late on Halloween night, and to my suprise, I really enjoyed it. Yes, I dozed of one time, but that had more to do with the long day and late night because I found myself laughing during the parts that I was awake. Zombieland is pretty self explanatory as indicated by the title, but essentially you have a couple of guys that have figured out a way to survive in a land that has been overtaken by zombies. Originality alone gives this film a solid "B" for me, but when we meet Bill Murray playing himself in a cameo role, it is worth the price of admission alone. Have a good time and check out this film whether at the theater or on DVD.