Public Enemies

The story is about John Dillinger (Depp) who is being hunted by Christian Bale, an agent of the new formed FBI.

This movie promised so much, Johnny Depp, fast cars, 1930’s style and gangster action.  While the cinematography was beautiful, the story and pace of the film were surprisingly weak.  This movie did not make an impact on me as I had hoped.  Throughout the film you are willing John Dillinger to outsmart the cops, as the FBI just wreaks of bad guy tactics.  But the speed of the film never generates that build up of adrenaline that a good gangster movie should.

Definitely a snoozer.

Steph’s rating: 6/10

BATMAN – THE DARK KNIGHT

WOW…this movie really re-invigorates the Batman franchise. At a cost of $US180m, it looks like Hollywood is going to make a mint on this movie. For instance, in the first couple of weeks in the US, the movie has already grossed $US190m. Not bad!

And why are people going? Well I can think of following reasons -

(1) Batman movies are always worth going to watch;

(2) Like any Hollywood movie there has been a lot of build up, publicity and word of mouth;

(3) Many will want to see how the franchise progresses after Batman Begins;

(4) Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker. For those who remember the original Batman movie (1989), it had Jack Nicholson play the part of the Joker. At the time I can remember thinking that no-one would come close to acting in that league in an equivalent movie. Well I guess I was wrong. This performance by Ledger easily matches the earlier movie, if not exceeds it.

3:10 to Yuma

I finally get the appeal of westerns! This movie worked.

Russell Crowe is magnificent as gang leader and robber Ben Wade. His messy good looks and squinty eyes are incredibly charming even for such a Bible quoting killer as he. Christian Bale plays the honourable farmer who brings him to justice in order to save his own family.

The Good:

Everything about this film is excellent. From the plot to the acting, to the scenery. An amazing modern western to say the least. The dialog was interesting and witty. Thankfully, it had amazing gun fight scenes without been too violent. It also didn’t really have any boring bits.