THE HURT LOCKER (Theatrical Release USA 2009)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.0|5.0 Starsìììì

The Hurt Locker—in 131 short minutes—sets the higher defining mark for war movie production. The inside of the warrior’s mind, the way wars are fought, and the dedication of soldiers during conflict—the movie quickly moves itself into a film that may be watched more than once as a great war movie. The Hurt Locker hits the jackpot for great acting with Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie. The great script by Mark Boal and outstanding direction by Kathryn Bigelow turn out a unique film that will be well appreciated by hardcore war movie fans.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

Staff Sergeant William James (Jeremy Renner), the new explosive ordinance disposal team leader, causes concern within the ranks due to his seemingly reckless behavior.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Kathryn Bigelow for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producer Tony Mark for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Sergeant JT Sanborn (Anthony Mackie), Specialist Owen Eldrige (Brian Geraghty), Sergeant Matt Thompson (Guy Pearce), Contractor Team Leader (Ralph Fiennes), Colonel Reed (David Morse), Connie James (Evangeline Lilly), Colonel John Cambridge (Christian Camargo), and Black Suit Man (Suhail Aldabbach).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. While war movies often run as B-grade entertainment, this movie pushes itself into higher level story telling.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

ANT-MAN (Theatrical Release USA 2015)

 Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.3|5.0 Starsìììì 

Ant-Man—surprisingly action-packed—works on an old idea, but presents it in a fresh manner. It’s great to see Michael Douglas in the movie. The script writing shows good timing and creativity. The ant animation is interesting and becomes one of the things that enhances enjoyment of the movie. Great movie that more than earns its watch. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

A scientist discovers how to shrink matter and develops a suit for that purpose. 

Additional Thanks                                                                                                                  

Thank you to Director Peyton Reed for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Kevin Feige for making the film possible. Cast includes: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll, Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, Tip "T.I." Harris, Anthony Mackie, Wood Harris, Judy Greer, Abby Ryder Fortson, David Dastmalchian, and Michael Douglas. 

Buy a Ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. This film starts the ‘all new’ Ant-Man Marvel movie series.

 

Ben Meyers