Had high hopes for this one - considering it was Jim Sheridan and from what I understood, a fairly dark plot of 2 brothers coming face to face with new realities. Tobey Maguire, the elder brother, returns from Afghanistan with a secret that he can't possibly live with. Brothers had none of the intensity of Daniel Day Lewis (in this brilliant film) or the brilliance of Paddy Considine (in In America) on show. The story was inspired by the original and highly rated Danish movie. But Brothers came across horrendously flat and lacking soul. The trio of Tobey Maguire (desperately trying to shake his Peter Parker image), Natalie Portman (who is no Hilary Swank; more like Anna Kournikova of Hollywood) and Jake Gyllenhaal (who plays the usual goofy character that he specialises in) were poor. Immensely forgettable.
Rating: * +
Based on an episode in Director Jim Sheridian's early life in America. In true tradition of his other masterful movies (like, In the Name of the Father), he gets the best out of his cast to tell a human story. Paddy Considine (this bugger is a talent), Samantha Morton and the Bolger sisters provide some real performances as they come face-to-face with their weaknesses, overcome their fears and ultimately redeem their faith in hope. Emmanuel Eboue look alike Djimon Hounsou also checks in with a strong performance.
Rating : * * *
Over the past few days, I came across couple of movies that drew me to cinema a long time back. And fortunately, even after many years, the inherent strength of the movies remain intact. Or, probably even further enhanced. Which is not true of many other movies that I had thought was brilliant at one point in time.
Would be a pity if they dont get a mention here, and therefore.. I see a worrying trend here - there are going to be many a blast from the past. Anyways..
In The Name of the Father
Powerful is the word that comes to mind when one watches the movie - starting with the opening Belfast street riot scene and right until the end. And an excellent soundtrack to boot.
Rating: * * * *
Stand By Me
A road trip of sorts, which becomes a character building experience of a lifetime for all involved. 'Dead Poets Society'esque. Took me back to Madras.
Rating: * * *
