The Burrowers
Definitely a solid little monster movie. I liked how it had more going for it than your typical monster flick, and I like how they used the background of the 1870s to tell this tale very well. The acting was fantastic and the direction done well. It dragged a bit in the middle; I found myself getting bored at times, but overall it had some great scares and good gore scenes. Great little gem that's worth a watch. Thanks to all here who recommended this one.
3/5.
...
Atonement
Absolutely stunning with incredible performances from Keira Knightley, James McAvoy, and the young Saoirse Ronan. I was particularly engaged in the first 1/3 of the film, which builds the atmosphere, relationships, and background to the lie that will entangle our characters through the latter 2/3. The sets and costumes are lush and beautiful and the heated passion between Knightley and McAvoy is so thick you can feel it... The music is interesting and intriguing, though at some times a little too much, but I have to hand it to them for incorporating the typewriter into the score.
However, the latter 2/3 drags a bit once our star-crossed lovers are separated, though I have to admit that the movie very well captures the alienation, loneliness, and pointlessness of war (the war scenes are brilliantly sad and lost). I almost wish that I had read the book; I can see that this is a rather rich canvas to work with that I'm sure the movie only touched on the highlights.
Regardless of my boredom, I cried at the end, being the big sap that I am, so ultimately the movie creates two characters whom I honestly feel for.
It's definitely worth a look if you love period pieces, love stories, and drama... I ultimately enjoyed it and am glad I watched it.
3/5.
...
I also took my Nana to see...
Julie & Julia
What a ridiculously delightful film!! I found myself laughing and sighing along with our main characters, more audibly than I usually do while watching movies. Not much of a surprise, but Meryl Streep is utterly brilliant as Julia Child, and Amy Adams is just utterly charming. It was fantastic to see the lives of these two women brought to screen and especially the food - THE FOOD!! I never knew that Julia Child lead such an interesting life (and was so incredibly in love with her husband - what an amazing relationship)... This movie is sweet, well-acted, well-directed, funny, charming, and as I've said, utterly delightful. It's the kind of film that I want to own and watch on days when I'm blue. I highly recommend it.
4/5.