Hours movie review (2010)

127 Hours (2010)

Brief review: Based on the real-life story of the mountain climber Aron Ralston, who became trapped by a boulder in Robbers Roost, Utah, for more than five days in 2003, "127 Hours" is an emotional story of fate, hope and despair, that is sure to stay with you long after the credits roll. Despite its predictable climax, it's still a unique experience and unforgettable piece of filmmaking, that is as adventurous and entertaining, as it's claustrophobic and terrifying. Acting-wise, "127 Hours" is basically a one-man-show, but, oh boy, what a show! James Franco turns in an outstanding performance as the adrenaline-junkie climber, Ralston, who's not only physically trapped by a rock, between the canyon's walls, but also mentally "stuck" between harsh reality and dreamy illusions, in his fight for survival. Thanks to his magnetic charm and strong on-screen charisma, he carries the entire movie all by himself. Technically, "127 Hours" is nothing short of impressive! Danny Boyle's imaginative shooting style and vigorous camerawork are to be admired, as uses a very wide range of camera angles, and provide us with some breathtaking panoramic shots, as well as some impressive and intimate close-ups. The 'dream' sequence in particular is wonderfully-executed, and deserves a special mention. Moab's red rock canyon scenery is as stunning, as it's glorious, and it's beautifully-complemented by Chediak and Dod Mantle's sumptuously-saturated cinematography. The amazing music score fits perfectly with the absolutely arresting visuals of this real gem of a film.

Overall summary: A visual and technical tour-de-force, accompanied by James Franco's irresistible performance, "127 Hours" is one of Boyle's most remarkable achievements, and one of 2010's best films.

Mirrors movie review (2010)

Mirrors 2 (2010)

"Mirrors 2" is yet another straight-to-DVD horror sequel, that relies on the success of its predecessor and hopes to find an audience for the same reason. The first movie definitely wasn't great or very original, since its subject matter concerned one of the most overused and annoying horror cliches - mirrors. Nevertheless, "Mirrors" managed to deliver some chills, creepy images and decent story. If I'm being honest, I was somewhat pleased with the original movie, mainly because I quite like Alexandre Aja's shooting style and admire his ideas as a director. Also, last but not least, I absolutely loved the twist in the end - it was unexpected, creative and downright terrifying. "Mirrors 2" revoleves around Max Matheson, who after losing his fiancee in a car crash, for which he blames himself, he reluctantly takes a job as a night watchman at his father's Mayflower Department Store. When his co-workers are killed off in gruesome and horrible ways and Max begins to see a mysterious young woman in all the store's mirrors, desperate to communicate with him, he fears he's losing his mind, or that he may be the next victim. As expected, it repeats the formula form the first film, but adds a different plot. Sadly, a pretty terrible one. However, despite its tired ghost-of-a-murdered-girl-seeking-for-revenge scenario, "Mirrors 2" is quite well put together for a STV movie, as it offers an okay direction, fairly good lead performance, smooth pacing and some excellent gore effects. It's more gory than scary or creepy, but there are some really tense moments and it's not without suspense. Nick Stahl gives very credible performance as Max, and he successfully carries the movie on his shoulders. Unfortunately, he's the only good actor here. Emmanuelle Vaugier is naturally drop dead gorgeous, but her acting abilities are amazingly dreadful. Lawrence Turner, William Katt and Jon Michael Davis are just bad. Period. Spanish director Victor Garcia's directing skills are also questionable at times, since during watching I noticed three absolutely identical shots. It was kinda hilarious. Despite its cliched story, predictable conclusion, and some truly terrible supporting performances, "Mirrors 2" is quite watchable and surprisingly gripping at times. It falls into the 'mediocre at best' category.

• My Rating: 5.00/10
• Rotten Tomatoes: N/A
• IMDb: 5.1/10