American Gangster (2007)

Not God(father) like, but still worth a watch.

American Gangster stars 2 heavyweight actors, the charismatic Denzel Washington and the brooding Russell Crowe. Both are the recipients of the Best Actor Academy Award, Washington for the edgy Training Day and Crowe for the brutal tale of Gladiator. They are both character actors in their own right, and with the direction of Ridley Scott, expect lots of drama and electrifying intensity from both the leads.

Washington stars as Frank Lucas, one of the most notorious drug lord of the 70s. The story tracks the rags to riches story of Lucas and how it all ended with the unwavering determination of a single detective, Richie Roberts, played by Crowe. Interestingly enough, both leads share little screen time together. The two stars finally clash near the end of the film and boy, it sure makes the women go gaga.

This film is not all about the story but also the principles and morals of the decision makers. There is a fine line between black and white and the characters in this movie shows a dark and good side in them. For a moment, you might wonder who is the criminal and who is the police. It questions our conscience and what is morally grey. That is what makes the movie so human and such a struggle for the actors and the audience.

3.5/5
txq

It's not in my best interest to say this Frank, but quitting while you're ahead, is not the same as quitting.

Cloverfield (2008)

Oh my god, its a love story!!!

It's amazing how many times the sentence "oh my god" was repeated by the civillians during the course of the entire movie. It's almost like watching a hysteric version of Superbad, with Seth ditching his Fs for Him. Well, I can't blame the New Yorkers from screaming that. Because they really need all the divine intervention they can get.

I think I have the duty of reporting to you dear i know-my-hollywood-monster-rampaging-around-city movie fans. The entire movie is captured on a video cam. Thus, cue The Blair Witch Project's amateur, shaky and dizzy shots. Sure, people might feel dizzy but I haven't see another monster movie that builds up the suspense as splendidly as Cloverfield.

It is refreshing to see it from the point of view of the commoners. The helplessness they felt are real. The pain they felt is real. The fear they felt is real. Hell, I even thought I am with them running around Manhattan for my dear life.

Though only a mere 87 minutes, the intensity of this film is amazing. And by that, I mean you will be at the edge of your seat, hands clutched to popcorn, gasping and even swearing with the survivors.

I hope you guys are still interested in Cloverfield. I know, this review reveals nothing on the plot and character developments. Well, you don't need to know because, remember, you are just a commoner like them. And if you only see negative aspects of the movie (ie: the shaky camera, short running time), boy you are wrong. Those negative aspects are the factors contributing to the authentic feel of the film.

Since we are talking about point of views in this movie, I would like to give my own view on this film. Yes, this is a monster movie. But i believe that it is only secondary to the plot. Truth to be told, it is essentially a love story- an earth shattering one that is.

4/5
txq

P.S: Watch out for the easter eggs and stay till the end of the credits.