Seven Pounds

When I think of the wording ‘Seven Pounds’, it reminds me of an old children’s fable about paying harshly for your sins/ mistakes.

The movie ‘Seven Pounds’ is about Ben Thomas a man tormented by a secret which provokes him into doing kind and generous acts.  But his motive for the kindness is driven by sadness and as a result leaves you feeling unsatisfied and questioning why?

For much of the film, I kept thinking ‘this is weird’ and wondering where the heck it was going.  The director has done this on purpose, with the end skillfully tying up all the loose ends.  But unfortunately this style of storytelling mostly felt really long and slow, if not boring in places.

The director is the same as ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ and unfortunately this film leaves you with that sad, unsatisfied feeling.

Steph’s rating: 6/10

I Am Legend

An exciting, apocalyptic style movie.

Will Smith is perfect for the sole survivor, scientist, hero. You quickly are immersed in the story and then at the edge of your seat. Dog ‘Sam’ also soon becomes a loved central character of the film.

It was brilliant how they made New York into a desolate wasteland.

Scary, yet brilliant. Must see for 2008.

Steph’s rating: 7/10

The Pursuit of Happyness

This is a really, sad movie. Maybe too sad…

It has some wonderfully moving scenes, but I was hoping for more inspiration and hope. At the end of the movie I just felt like crying, the struggle was just too heartbreaking and painful to watch.

Will Smith’s acting was realistic and heartfelt. Although this is not your typical, feel good, inspirational, ‘overcome the odds’, type movie; it was insightful into human struggle and suffering to a level I had not imagined before. At the end of the movie, I came out thinking how important it is to look out for signs that friends and family need support and to act quickly. No one should have to carry the burdens of life alone.

A heavy movie, slow in places. But worthwhile seeing.

Steph’s rating: 6.7/10