David O Russell is in top form, rejoined by his Silver Linings Playbook principals (Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence), plus further “it” actors of the moment Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner (plus more uncredited cameos). The film dramatizes the ABSCAM FBI sting operation of the late 70s/early 80s which nabbed several corrupt politicians including Congressmen, told from the viewpoint of the small-time conman (a nearly unrecognizable Bale) who was hired to be its brains. Though not as crowd-pleasing as Silver Linings (the characters are not as likeable and more one-dimensional, dialog not quite as sharp, and plot not as simple as a rom com), the movie will surely be a contender for top gongs, and thoroughly deserves its 7 Golden Globe noms so far. A lot of fun!
Tag Archives: Amy Adams
American Hustle (2013, dir. David O. Russell): a lot of fun!
Man of Steel (2013, dir. Zack Snyder): disappointing product which doesn’t live up to its brilliant marketing
I can imagine the conversation Christopher Nolan (Dark Knight Trilogy) had with the studio execs:
Execs: We’d really like to reboot Superman the same way you did Batman. Like for example a dark, gritty, realistic take on Richard Donner’s classic Superman 1 and 2 from the 1970s. Can you do it?
Nolan: How droll; been there done that. But can I recommend my mate Zack Snyder (300), he’s not as good (if I do say so myself) but he’s looking for a gig
Execs: OK, but can you at least take a producer credit? We’ll pay you a gazillion?
Nolan: Sure, why not?
The Muppets (2011, dir. James Bobin): fun nostalgia trip for Generation X
For those who grew up in the 70s and 80s, the Muppets are usually a fond memory of zany puppetry, colourful characters and occasionally uproarious skits. Disney’s revival of the franchise plays up the nostagia value with a simple story about “getting the band back together”, but doesn’t offer much else that would turn it into a classic for the older folk, nor a new hook for the younger generation. Entertaining for a while, but ultimately forgettable, and curiously enough, not one for the kids.
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