nevillesamuels Reviews

Nobel's Last Will (2012)

A Nicely Paced Swedish Thriller from Beginning to End

[6/10 · 10 June 2012]

In Stockholm, it's icy cold outside, while inside, a people-filled Nobel Banquet's warm air is punctuated by two 'poof' sounds that come from a silencer of a stealth assassin.

A crime reporter, Annika Bengtzon, unwittingly becomes part of the news herself after witnessing the murder up close. And that's just the beginning.

'Nobel's Last Will' is a nicely paced thriller from beginning to end.

Although the film was produced by Yellow Bird Productions, the same people behind Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy, 'Last Will' is not as gritty, but very slick. The production look is almost sterile, which must be intentional, since it's largely based around scientists who work in pristine cell research labs. Even the offices of the tabloid Kvällspressen, where reporter Bengtzon works, is squeaky clean.

Still, this is a Swedish film that has a lot going for it. Based on the best selling novel by Swedish author, Lisa Marklunds, it's well cast. The assassin is as icy as the frozen Lake Mälaren in Stockholm. And, especially Malin Crépin, playing the lead character, is a warm, determined, and smart woman as we follow her both at work, and at home with her family.

It's refreshing to watch a crime-thriller with a distinctly Swedish touch, not only visually, but also with the right amount of suspense and humanity.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011)

Remarkable Finale

[9/10 · 16 July 2011]

There was a lot of wand waving going on in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2. Although I haven't read any of the books, or seen all the eight movies, this film was remarkably well done.

Except… for the 3D. Watching this movie in an IMAX format was great, but since the film is mostly in a dark, shadowy setting, seeing it in the third dimension makes it look more dim.

Superb performances that didn't disappoint. Especially from the older members of the British acting fraternity.

After ten years, in this final film, the evolving maturity of the characters seemed natural, especially since all the actors have steadfastly committed themselves to the franchise, playing their characters right to the end.

A good mix of serious dramatic moments, action, humor and sadness. Sad that the story comes to an end, and that maybe we'll never see these three famous wand wavers together again.

Recommend seeing this movie, one of the best of the year, and in 2D.

Rio (2011)

A Domesticated Macaw Looks Just as Good in 2D

[8/10 · 23 April 2011]

A domesticated Macaw (bird) visits Brazil, unexpectedly finding adventure and love.

And it's OK to watch Rio, an animated movie, in 2D. The graphics, color and scenery are still spectacular. Almost like the real thing.

The film grossed over $40 million for it's opening weekend. More than any other movie so far this year.

Why are animated features becoming more popular these days? According to the LA Times, one reason is film industry talent are migrating like a flock of birds to animation. Like Anne Hathaway and Jesse Eisenberg did for Rio.

And "most live-action films need to choose between adults and kids. But come up with an animated movie with, say, some exotic beauty and clever wordplay and you instantly double your demographic."