Star Wars (1977)

Posted on May 4, 2013 by 4 Star Films

Arguably one of the most successful franchises ever, it is easy to understand how Star Wars became so popular. This galaxy far far away and the characters that graced the screen were so intriguing. You had Luke Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Han Solo, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, C3PO, R2D2, and of course Darth Vader. The idea of George Lucas which seemed laughable at first, quickly became a hit. I have always been enthralled with Star Wars like many others before me. However, after watching the original saga again it became clear how wonderful these films were because the tales they told were so fun and entertaining. The relatively simple story of this small time farm boy deciding to fight against evil in the galaxy has always been enjoyable. On top of that the action was great and the characters were even better. This is still one of my favorite films all time easily.

5/5 Stars

http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/9gvqpFbRKtQ&source=uds

Skyfall (2012)

Posted on April 8, 2013 by 4 Star Films

Starring Daniel Craig as James Bond and Judi Dench as M, this was the 50 anniversary installment of the franchise. The film opens as Bond is on assignment to track down a mercenary who stole a vital computer hard drive. However, before he can complete his assignment Bond is wounded and seemingly falls to his death. Meanwhile M is under political pressure and she also receives a threatening message that culminates in a giant explosion. Bond comes back from the dead and must struggle to pass his examinations to be cleared for duty. Finally, he goes out again to track down the mercenary and his investigation leads him to a shady casino. He helps out a women in trouble and accompanies her to a remote island. However,, they are captured and Bond comes face to face with the mastermind behind all the chaos. Bond is able to save himself while capturing Silva to take back to England. But Silva has one last trick up his sleeve allowing himself to escape. Realizing M is in danger, Bond rescues her and heads for his childhood home. There he prepares for the final showdown with Silva and his henchmen. Although he prevails it was not without sacrifice. This film was intriguing because both Bond and M had to set out and prove they were not washed up. Also, Adele’s title song is probably the most memorable Bond theme in quite sometime.

4/5 Stars

Seven Samurai (1954)

Posted on March 22, 2013 by 4 Star Films

Directed by Akira Kurosawa, this is often considered one of the greatest films of all time. The story begins in a small Japanese village that is constantly being tormented by marauders. The bandits are about to strike again but decide to return after the harvest. The village elder advises the people to find some samurai in the time they have. Although they have no money, several men go to a town to look for help. There they witness the skill of an experienced samurai. He agrees to help them and also gathers five other skilled men who have no allegiance. They are followed by a seventh, wild samurai. The rest of the film follows the difficult relations between the anxious villagers and their protectors. The samurai fortify the village and also train the farmers for combat. Three samurai make a raid on the enemy and then later the bandits attack. They are hindered by the fortifications but still wreak havoc. The following day the climatic battle takes place. After the showdown, the village is safe but only 3 of the 7 are still alive.

4.5/5 Stars

Gladiator (2000)

Posted on February 25, 2013 by 4 Star Films

Starring Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, and Connie Nielsen, with director Ridley Scott, this film is set during the waning days of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelias. General Maximus is a great and loyal warrior who the old man wants as his successor. However, his jealous son will not have it, killing his father and then ordering the execution of Maximus. He escapes but is mad a slave and then a gladiator. Through this he gains the respect of the masses and is able to defy Commodus. Over time, Maximus is part of a plot to remove Commodus. Once again the enraged emperor wishes to quash the legend of Maximus forever. He does not win in the end and Maximus has aided Rome. This action-epic had a lot of exciting scenes and a good hero. The score was good too but sometimes it seems as if the cinematography could have been better. This film is reminiscent of the classic epic Spartacus and it was a pretty good in it’s own right.

4/5 Stars

Throne of Blood (1957)

Posted on December 20, 2012 by 4 Star Films

Directed by Akira Kurosawa, this film is an adaption of Macbeth placed in a Japanese setting. Two great warriors come before their lord to be honored but before they arrive a spirit gives them a prophecy. One of the men who was initially loyal, decides to take the throne for his own after hearing the prophecy and being goaded by his wife. Soon he has become an overconfident madman bent on defeating everyone. Again the spirit in the forest gives him a prophecy that all but ensures his victory. However, all too soon his good fortune ends and that’s not all. This film has some slow parts but many of the images are very striking and atmospheric while the ending is also enjoyable. This is arguably the best adaption of Macbeth to film.

4/5 Stars

The Dark Knight (2008)

Posted on July 13, 2012 by 4 Star Films

In honor of the release of The Dark Knight Rises next week, the last installment of Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, I would like to review The Dark Knight.

Starring a great cast of characters including Christian Bale and Heath Ledger, this is a great incarnation of Batman. In this film Bruce Wayne, alias Batman (Bale), faces his biggest challenge to protect Gotham City yet in the form of the villainous Joker (Ledger) With the help of Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Dent, Lucius Fox, and of course Alfred, he works to bring peace. However, the Joker is not your everyday criminal. This psychotic villain’s only goal is to create utter chaos and he forces the Batman into difficult choice after difficult choice. By the end, the lines are so blurred it is hard to tell who actually won. Ledger’s performance alone makes this movie a good one. His unpredictable and chilling portrayal has the audience constantly intrigued. Thus your everyday action packed, superhero film becomes an unconventional showdown between good and evil.
5/5 Stars