Blog Pick Week #15

   You know when someone recommends a movie for you to watch, you then watch it and walk away thrilled you saw it (hopefully you get that same reaction here). This scenario came about after I saw the movie which is ironically the pick for this week. The brilliant 1981 comedy, "Arthur".
   "Arthur", starring the late Dudley Moore as the title character, is an unambitious heir to a vast family fortune. His main goal in life is to basically enjoy life to the fullest. For Arthur that means partying and drinking excessively, and having some fun with the ladies in the evening.
   It all seems like fun and games until he realizes there is one thing that money can't buy, true love. Cue Liza Minnelli who plays Arthur's love interest, Linda. No this is not a mushy love story but rather a great film and a fantastic performance by Dudley Moore, (who was nominated for an Academy Award for this role). Along with Arthur is his butler Hobson, played by John Gielgud (who won the Academy Award for his performance).
   In order to get the keys to the fortune Arthur must marry a woman named Susan in an arranged marriage. Will he go for the money or with his heart?
   Dudley Moore gives an unforgettable performance as Arthur in addition to the supporting cast. Arthur is a movie that will make you crack up but not just laugh, also entertain you in a wonderful film. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"Arthur" trailer

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Blog Pick Week #14

   Occasionally you come across a movie that was critically acclaimed. After watching it, you thoroughly enjoyed it but found out not everyone shared your opinion. I am not sure if that is exactly the case with this weeks pick but it might be similar. The movie in question is Paul Thomas Andersons "Magnolia".
   "Magnolia" boasts a cast that may not rival the all star ensemble of "Ocean's 11", but still impressive enough to turn some heads. When you have Philip Seymour Hoffman, William H. Macy, Tom Cruise, Julianne Moore, John C. Reilly, Jason Robards and others, how can you go wrong? As good as this cast may be, oddly enough this wasn't the strength of the film. Carrying this picture was a favorite of mine, the interlacing characters and storylines. Situations where characters from various locations in a given city, may not know each other but somehow are connected. "Magnolia's" web of stories contain everything from a resentful son towards his dieing father, a former game show wiz kid spiraling out of relevance, and a good cop looking for a wife, and many more. It's brilliance is what makes "Magnolia" a great film, in how its many characters come together, but also it's execution. A well made film that has it all.  
   This isn't a sappy emotional tearjerker, nor is it a dark film. "Magnolia" is a film that was for the most part critically acclaimed, considering it was nominated for three Academy Awards. Without question take the time to watch this movie. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"Magnolia" trailer

Blog Pick Week #13

   The Holidays are spent sharing quality time with friends and family, but also getting the chance to see some great films. I saw one movie during our time off that really stood out among the crowd. The little film that could get buried in the library of movies. Which is more ironic than anything considering that is the title for our pick this week, "Buried" starring Ryan Reynolds.
   "Buried" takes place in present day Iraq. Paul Conroy (Ryan Reynolds), is an American citizen working as a truck driver, when his convoy is ambushed and attacked. Few, if any from his company survive. We don't know what happens to everybody else because essentially Paul doesn't know either. "Buried" is a very unique thriller in the fact that the entire movie from the opening to the closing credits, takes place inside a wooden box, which is the home of Paul Conroy. Inside with Paul is a bag that contains a lighter and cellphone. Throughout the film, Paul goes through the range of emotions while trying to seek answers how he went from getting ambushed to waking up buried alive.
   As I stated before, this is the only scene in the movie. Since he is the only one in the box, he is the only person we see, but not the only character. Equipped with a cellphone, Paul reaches out to family and the government not to mention calls from the kidnapper who wants him to make a video plea for help.
   "Buried" really takes a bold step in pushing the limits of filmmaking. To have such a minuscule set and make a movie that is so grand, is a heck of an achievement. Lets start this year off right and watch "Buried". Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"Buried" trailer