Black Swan

Thoroughly enjoyed my second viewing. Marvelled in Barabara Hershey’s performance again, and noticed more closely the nightclub scene when everything changes.

Cedar Rapids

A funny variation of The Hangover, if it took place in Iowa. The ensemble cast (Ed Helms, Anne Heche, John C. Reilly, Alia Shawkat, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Sigourney Weaver) is genuinely likable and organic. Even though a lot of what's in the screenplay feels typical, Ed Helms nails the quintessential sympathetic dork perfectly, and his sex-and-drug-induced flight from his ordinary world mines a lot of laughs. It's the best comedy I've seen since Machete.

Biutiful

Yeah, yeah. It’s a master class in method acting. Blah, blah, blah. This was by far the most depressing movie I’ve ever seen. This makes Shindler’s List look like Mamma Mia. How many times do we need to see Javier Bardem urinate blood? He’s dying. I get it! And does there have to be a crying baby or a ringing phone in every single scene?! This movie is an exercise in joylessness. I can’t recommend it to anyone for any reason. Have someone kick you in the balls a few times -- you’ll have a better night.

The Mechanic

Jason Statham is at his best when he’s kicking and punching. He’s not quite as poised when he’s shooting, running and or/repelling. Also, it’s fun to hear his soccer hooligan accent as he mouths off, but as they say in life and in screenwriting, don’t let your mouth write checks your butt can’t cash. So that’s my feedback, Jason Statham: more punching.