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Items tagged "friendship":

  1. Dear Wendy (2005)

    A young boy in a nameless, timeless American town establishes a gang of youthful misfits united in their love of guns and their code of honor.

    Written by Lars Von Trier -> boom! 

    There was something about this that captivates… and whispers responsible gun use?

    Dick develops a dark obsession with firearms and later on creates a secret club called “The Dandies”. Oddly enough they practice pacifism??? Yes, the inevitable will happen. The group of young outcast find their calling and jump head on to destiny.

    Jaime Bell did a great job at the helm. His (loser) buddies were superb! I remembered a few childhood “friend” films. They all had something viewers can hold on to. Bill Pullman plays the crooked lawman. 

    The reason why our partners could only be fired in the darkness of the old mine and could never be exposed to full light and thereby be woken up. Because once awoken nothing could stop them from following their true nature and killing.”

    Guns make the world an evil place… 

    TRIVIA: In Lars von Trier’s script, the main characters were in their 20s. Director Thomas Vinterberg decided to change it, so they became children instead. Lars von Trier later stated that he thought the age change was a brilliant idea. 

    Principles versus rules versus friendship versus life. There’s a time to fight, and it is now. Responsibility and accountability revolve around this tale of fantasy, dependability and teen angst. 

    The OST was good too! The Zombies?!?!? - hell yeah! “She’s Not There”

    I was tremendously impressed with the story and visual accompaniment. The narrative aspect is always a tickler for me. The suspense and tension was delivered well. Weapons reassure holders, but ultimately the choice is (literally) in their hands.

    What name would you give your gun?

    “Wake up…”

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  2. Bellflower (2011)

    Two friends spend all their free time building flame-throwers and weapons of mass destruction in hopes that a global apocalypse will occur and clear the runway for their imaginary gang “Mother Medusa”.

    Directed, Written and Starring Evan Glodell. Bravo!

    “Lord Humungus cannot be defied.” - Lord Humungus.

    Woodrow and Aiden are best buds who love Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981). So much so, that they make their own flame-throwers and ride a modified “Mother Medusa” mobile. The apocalypse is nigh!

    And then… the end begins… One falls madly in love with a quirky and fun blonde. The dynamic duos friendship is put to the test. Love is a BITCH.

    TRIVIA: No functionality of the Medusa car was faked during filming. The real life the car is equipped with two flamethrowers, smoke screen, a bleach drift-kit, adjustable rear suspension, and 3 surveillance cameras; all controlled from the dashboard.

    So why the love? This film hit my gut in a way i could never have imagined. A wicked apocalyptic journey with lessons on love and… Friendship - The key element in this fantastic indie fantasy.

    I loved the car and the texture of the film. Gritty and gnarly. Badass, and yet carries a torch for romance and life.

    Physical and Emotional devastation! The acting, script and overall production was superb. The use of words like “dude” and “awesome” made it easier for (me) audiences to relate to the content.

    Women can be the end of all things men know. Portrayed in this film with violence and ruthlessness of love. The tattoo bit was harsh! Sometime we need to listen to our friends, they may just save us from impending doom.

    “You are Lord Fucking Humongous: the Master of Fire, the King of the Wasteland.”

    Imagine being trapped in a gray world between friendship and love. What would you choose?

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  3. 50/50 (2011)

    Inspired by a true story, a comedy centered on a 27-year-old guy who learns of his cancer diagnosis, and his subsequent struggle to beat the disease.

    Inspirational! You can do it, don’t die… live… live! Liiiiive!

    A funny take on life, death and love… nothing can get you through the bad times like a good friend. “I told you so!”

    I had mixed emotions that ran from sad to happy. This had it’s fine moments, that would make people think about their own lives.

    Joseph Gordon-Levitt is our poor old hero facing the ultimate adventure… death. The always cotton mouth, Seth Rogen plays his reliable wingman. And Anna Kendrick is the ray of sunshine. While Bryce Dallas Howard was the bitch. Rogen and JGL made an awesome pair of average joes/goofs. Behind the humor there was truth.

    TRIVIA: Joseph Gordon-Levitt actually shaved his head during filming. Gordon-Levitt and Seth Rogen were improvising in character while the cameras kept rolling since the scene was not in the script.

    This was definitely one of those 2011 surprises. Romantic in a way but focus was on the battle versus cancer. - a fight close to home. And this film showed the brighter side of… hope.

    Entertaining and based on the experience of the writer. It doesn’t get any personal than that. Love’s a bitch, and so is Life.

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  4. The Art Of Getting By (2011)

    George, a lonely and fatalistic teen who’s made it all the way to his senior year without ever having done a real day of work, is befriended by Sally, a popular but complicated girl who recognizes in him a kindred spirit.

    Another ‘11 teen romance flick… The 1st full length feature of writer/director Gavin Wiesen. Another cliche teen drama…

    Life, Love and the decisions we make for ourselves. Balancing grades and life ain’t that easy.

    “Awkward” would best describe the relationship of our leads Freddie Highmore and Emma Roberts. Cute but at times annoying and frustrating. WOAH! Alicia Silverstone as the wiser one! She’s back, but not as glamorous as you’d expect.

    Red State (2011) Michael Angarano is a good actor. Can’t wait to see more of the (just smoked pot faced) dude.

    The film felt dry at times, but had some stuff/lessons to offer audiences. I had low expectations coming in to this and i believe it’s the way this should be watched. And old story re-told again and again.

    It was “ok”, nothing grand or mesmerizing. Maybe i’m getting old for these types of flicks? maybe.

    Wise ass says: “Been there done that”

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  5. I Love You, Man (2009)

    Friendless Peter Klaven goes on a series of man-dates to find a Best Man for his wedding. But when his insta-bond with his new B.F.F. puts a strain on his relationship with his fiancée, can the trio learn to live happily ever after?

    IN YOUR FACE!!! Oh man look what i found in an old cd case!?!?! Glorious!

    Fuck yeah this was funny, and still is.

    “Dude! Rush is greatest rock band of all time!”

    Words cannot express how much this film made me feel good, and gave me that extra hop in my step. A chick flick for guys, literally. Perfect for a “man date”.

    I loved all the goofy banter and drops like: Joben, bro Montana, Totes McGotes, Broseph Goebbels, Tycho Brohe and Latress on the menjay.

    Paul Rudd is perfect as the hapless and friendless nice guy. He portrayed a kind of innocence like in The 40 Year Old Virgin (2005). Rashida Jones was smokin’ hot! Especially in the bedroom after the Rush concert *drools* Her girlfriends were MILFs! Jaime Pressly… i think i just came.

    Funny man Jason Segel does it again! He played the “i don’t give a fuck” buddy so well. The man is a comedic savant.

    Haven’t seen this chick flick for guys yet??? Grab a copy now!

    Never forget: “Slapping the bass! Slappa da bass! Slappa da bass mon! Slappa de bass mon.”

    This is one of THE BEST bromance films you’ll ever see!

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  6. Hachiko: A Dog’s Story (2009) aka Hachi: A Dog’s Tale

    A drama based on the true story of a college professor’s bond with the abandoned dog he takes into his home.

    Go Home! you stupid, stupid dog… go home… 

    This breaks my heart every time. What a tearjerker, brilliant from start to end. Excellent acting, cinematography, editing and animal training. This is as good and professional as it gets.

    Richard Gere was bright as day, a refreshing ray of sunshine… which has a sunset. His smile towards the dog felt “warm” and authentic. And the dogs reaction was complementary.

    The supporting cast was fun to see: Jason Alexander, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Erick Avari and Davenia McFadden added their little quirks to the story.

    Did i cry or tear up? The first time. Yes. I had an Akita named Maria Juana (R.I.P. 2008). That’s why i ask people “Have you seen Hachi?”, when they answer “No” i grin and say “let’s watch it”, eagerly anticipating the looks on their “boo hoo” faces.

    I’ve gotta see that statue of Hachiko that stands outside of Shibuya Station in Tokyo.

    Man’s best friend, indeed.

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  7. Hesher (2010)

    Hesher is a loner. He hates the world and everyone in it. He has long greasy hair and homemade tattoos. He is malnourished and smokes a lot of cigarettes. He likes fire and blowing things up. He lives in his van, until he meets TJ.

    Metallica had me at hello. A downer with great energy.

    After the long wait… I finally got to see this! And it did not disappoint… A retro tale of family, friendship, life and death.

    The mysterious and nonchalant Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Devin Brochu made a superb duo. An odd brotherhood topped off with dark humor. Rainn Wilson was great as the destroyed man/father/husband. Producer Natalie Portman was gorgeous as the casual and awkward “lady”. And veteran Piper Laurie was the sweetest grandmother ever.

    A roller coaster ride which plays with viewers emotions. Sad but true - is the main theme of it all and accepting what life is and seeing the bigger picture. The message of the film is quite strong and could be dissected and discussed for hours. Simple and yet complicated, interpretations may vary.

    This is also the 1st full length feature of directorSpencer Susser, who thrilled zombie fans with his short I Love Sarah Jane (2008). I loved how the film threw the “is he? isn’t he?” mind game that make things thrilling.

    I just love how the music played into the film. It really added that extra “Uuumph!” to this true to life story of a boy… and his special friend.

    I <3 Grandma

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  8. Never Let Me Go (2010)

    As children, Ruth, Kathy and Tommy, spend their childhood at a seemingly idyllic English boarding school. As they grow into young adults, they find that they have to come to terms with the strength of the love they feel for each other, while preparing themselves for the haunting reality that awaits them.

    Based on the novel by Kazuo Ishigur.

    Wild! I did not see that coming! Humanity has come a long way. A dramatic tale of donors and their struggle to live. I thought the idea was brutal and inhumane, which grabbed my attention instantly. I was expecting a romance, i got a lot more.

    Notable videographer Mark Romanek delivers the goods. Visually and emotionally, slow paced and yet packs a punch every now and then. The relationship between the three friends were believable, with a contrasting “crazy/unbelievable” reality. Having your destiny controlled by others…

    Keira Knightley and Carey Mulligan were PERFECT! Playing the positive and negative, in this story of a three-way friendship. Knightley was sexy and dark, while Mulligan was innocent and pure. What really impressed me acting-wise was the performance of the younger cast, they set the tone (as far as i was concerned). Solidifying the childhood friendship.

    On a side note: I got a bit/hint of the sci-fi horror bug, in regards to the donor program.

    Not a visual horror, something that makes you think. “Horrific to think of” would probably best describe the conflict in this film.

    “How could you???”

    Moving and tragic, life and friendship at it’s best and worst. Great film!

    http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1334260/

  9. Wild Target (2010)

    A hitman tries to retire but a beautiful thief may change his plans.

    Finally, a hitman comedy that brings both the action and laughs. Directed by funny man Jonathan Lynn, who’s responsible for such comedic classics as: The Distinguished Gentleman (1992), My Cousin Vinny (1992), Greedy (1994) & Clue (1985).

    Emily Blunt is the “sort of” damsel in distress being hunted down by ruthless killers. Aiding her is veteran actor Bill Nighy, who shows his suave-gentleman-killer vibe. It was awesome to see him portray a role, usually suited for younger male action stars. And trolling them is “all grown up” Rupert Grint. Yes that is Ron Weasley.

    And finally… joining the fray are “bad guys”, Rupert Everett and one of my favorite brit actors, Martin Freeman. Who’s popularly known as Arthur Dent in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005).

    Pretty decent flick, nice simple and light fun.

    http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1235189/

  10. Ondine (2009)

    The story of an Irish fisherman who discovers a woman in his fishing net who he believes to be a mermaid.

    Director Neil Jordan, famous for his disturbing film The Crying Game (1992), takes on a fairytale come true. 

    Colin Farrell is not his usual bad-ass self in this one, this time he plays a lovestruck fool. I don’t blame him. Alicja Bachleda looked delicious and suited her role perfectly. I’m gonna be keeping my eye out for this actress in the next few years. The little girl… i wanted to strangle… great job at being bratty.

    This story is based on the myth popularized by Mars Ravelo’s Dyesebel (1953), and the many other versions/stories of mermaids famous in Philippine cinema and television. We like mermaids.

    Sirena is a mermaid, a sea creature with a human upper body and a fish tail instead of lower extremeties. They attract fishermen and tourists. Sirenas are reportedly often seen ashore by fishermen, especially in the towns bordering the Pacific Ocean. -Wikipedia (Philippine mythical creatures) 

    This is a nice romantic tale that boarders on “is it? isn’t it?”. The girls liked it, it thought it was ok.

    http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1235796/