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

Lincoln (2012)

Posted on February 23, 2013 by 4 Star Films

Directed by Steven Speilberg and starring Daniel Day-Lewis with Sally Fields, and Tommy Lee Jones, the film focuses on Lincoln’s 2nd term as the Civil War comes to a close and he fights to pass the 13th amendment.

At home Lincoln deals with his temperamental wife, argues with his older son about joining the war, and plays with his younger boy Tad. At the same time he must work behind the scenes to get enough representatives while also facing the prospect of a Confederate surrender. His life is beyond stressful, with cabinet meetings, speeches, inspections, and tough decisions to make day in and day out. However, despite the toll, he copes and in the process does great things. Within the film we also become familiar with William Seward, Thaddeus Stevens, and other leaders who must make their own difficult decisions on the issue of slavery.

Ultimately, the landmark amendment is passed but it is short lived with the assassination of Lincoln. He truly was “a man for the ages” and Lewis does a wonderful job of portraying his every aspect. His voice, his features, his parables, his political savvy, and even his frailty give us a crystal clear picture of the man. The supporting cast and the cinematography were both very good. It proves that a film full of drama and some humor does not need action to make it excellent. It is all about the characters and more importantly our very history.

4.5/5 Stars

Ben Hur (1959)

Posted on September 25, 2012 by 4 Star Films

Ben Hur, directed by William Wyler and starring Charlton Heston, tells the tale of Christ in connection with the young nobleman-turned slave, Judah Ben Hur. We follow Hur as a friend turns against him and he and his mother and sister are imprisoned. Soon he is doomed to a life rowing on a galley but on the way there a kind , mysterious stranger gives him a drink to quench his thirst. It takes a few years but Hur’s fortune turns and he is no longer a slave but a great chariot racer. The time comes to seek revenge and he beats his former friend in the ultimate chariot race. However, his victory is shorlived since he learns his kin are now lepers and the man who showed him kindness years before is now to be crucified. Returning the favor, he gives the suffering man water before He is hung on the cross. Despite the man’s death, miraculously his mother and sister are freed from leprosy. This epic is monumental and tells a wonderful story intertwined with the Gospel.

5/5 Stars

All the President’s Men (1976)

Posted on September 15, 2012 by 4 Star Films

Starring Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman, this political thriller follows two young investigative journalists as they try to uncover the truth after a mysterious break in at the Watergate Hotel. The Washington Post is the only paper covering the issue that many have dismissed as an isolated event. These two men try to follow all the leads they have but they reach a dead end since no one seems willing to talk. However, with the help of the anonymous source Deep Throat, tireless searching, and a few witnesses, the pieces begin to come together. Little do they know the extent of what they have happened upon. Ultimately, their story about Watergate would lead to the scandal that ended in Richard Nixon’s resignation. This is not only an intriguing film, but it also holds tremendous historical importance.

4.5/5 Stars

Forrest Gump (1994)

Posted on July 23, 2012 by 4 Star Films

In the classic starring Tom Hanks as the slow-witted but kindhearted Forrest, we see him as he takes part in history. From the day we see him teach Elvis how to dance, up to the point he runs across country, he is constantly part of or making history. However despite everything he has accomplished whether it be in Vietnam, playing ping-pong, or in the shrimping business, Forrest still is humble and seemingly oblivious to it all. His innocence is heartwarming amidst all the turmoil around him in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Hanks is supported wonderfully by Robin Wright, Mykelti Williamson, Gary Sinise, and Sally Fields. This film is funny as well as touching, making it wonderful to watch. The soundtrack also helps to transport you back to the different eras.