ADAM
Director: Max Mayer
Cast: Hugh Dancy, Rose Byrne, Peter Gallagher
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I just saw this, and I can tell you one thing - it’s charming, beautiful, funny, and has one of those endings that you don’t expect but it’s okay, because you don’t hate the way it ended.
Hugh Dancy, is lovely and really shows just how capable he is of different genres. He is an actor with great range, and he still manages to be sweet and funny despite the fact that there is very little physical comedy, and even less jokes and sarcasm. For those of you that don’t know, Hugh’s the centerpiece - Adam - a character who has Asperger’s Syndrome, and therefore not entirely capable of functioning in society quite like he others. He does it the way we’re supposed to - he’s upfront and honest. That being said, he tackles emotional departure so well, and yet still reserves warmth, character and love to his character.
This is an entirely touching film, and one which sparkles, truly, in a manner that is subtle, warm, and utterly human. There aren’t many films out there that are capable of doing that, and even less that feel the need to communicate that type of story. In its entirety, Adam is a film that captures human emotion, relationships, and perhaps above all - heart.
Rose Bryne does a fabulous job at walking the audience through thoughts and actions with her, understanding the character of Adam and what he’s really about. Through her, we begin to see Adam in a loving light, and cheer for them to make it in the end. But be fore warned however, this is not a romantic film, nor is it a drama. To me, this is a film about life, and about love. It doesn’t focus on the development of a romance, it focuses on love and how it develops people and relationships in general.
There is a great lesson to be learned from films such as these, they are the kind of films that touch your heart when you least expect it, and the kind of film that leaves you with an impression, a feeling, not a story or a lesson. This is the kind of film that seeks to tell a small part of an ongoing story and of human nature. This film isn’t a fairy tale, in fact it is very much rooted in reality - and perhaps therein lies its real charm. It’s believable.
If you have the time, and feel like watching a genuinely good, engaging and gem of a film, watch Adam. You won’t regret it.
Bottom Line: B+ It’ll stay with you, and you’ll laugh, cry, and smile all the way until the very end.
(Source: marshall-green)
![17 AGAIN
Director: Burr Steers
Cast: Zac Efron, Leslie Mann, Michelle Tratchenberg, Thomas Lennon, Matthew Perry
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Let it be said at least once; Zac Efron is much, much more than a pretty face. We are all at least somewhat familiar with the dilemma of this film, and by dilemma I mean that the studio I’m sure, was somewhere holding their breath on opening day. There are several reasons why I say this. Firstly, this came out when Zac was the hottest thing since sliced bread and Leonardo DiCaprio all rolled into the later phenomenon of Twilight. Translated: Zac Efron was the man of the hour, for several years by the time this film was released. So there was no doubt that the studio got a great leading man, the question is - could he pull it off. That is where it became dicey. That is where I became skeptical. Now let me preface this by saying that I watched all 3 High School Musicals, and couldn’t care less if people laugh at me, because those films are happiness on screen. And throughout all 3 films, I liked Zac, I wasn’t crazy over him like tweens, but I enjoyed him. That being said, I didn’t really have much to judge his talent by.
Enter 17 Again. It opened at the top of the box office, courtesy of said tweens, and people actually loved it. By people, I’m guessing it was - you guessed it - the tweens. Now here’s the thing - critics loved it too. Of course it was probably just shallow praise I thought, but I was always curious about the film and wanted to see it, just not in theaters.
Finally, I rented it, and hot damn will I tell you one thing - Zac knows his craft, and he will go far. Why am I spending so much time talking about one man in this film? Well because he’s the main actor and he carries it. The film itself is funny, heartwarming, sweet, and teaches us all a about lost lessons and forgotten loves. It’s a modern day rom com, but in a very different light. Sure it may seem strange and cougar-ish to some that a 19 year old Zac is lusting after a gorgeous Leslie Mann, who let’s face it - we don’t care much for her age cuz she’s still amazing looking. And for those that see it that way, well then they’re missing out on a fantastic bit of acting and a rather touching story.
17 Again may border on cheesy for some, but this very scene in this photo will make you tear up - guaranteed, and it’s all thanks to Zac. I love this film, and it never fails to lift up my mood. It may not be for everyone, but it is a great comedy that deserves to be given your attention if your only reason for not seeing it is because of some preconceived notion that Efron is just being given parts because the world loves him. Wrong. This entire film teaches me, and the acting world no doubt that Zac can carry a film. He’s no Orlando Bloom [who I love, but let’s face it can’t carry a film to save his life], he is quite literally the real deal and somewhat of a gem.
Now I urge you to go watch this. Between the crazy Thomas Lennon, who pulls of the role of his best friend trapped in the body of a 12 year old nerd perfectly and a very sweet Alex Knight who plays the son, you’ll enjoy it. Screw what the critics say, this really is a fun and lovely ride.
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Bottom Line: B. Where else are you gonna find a film about being young again, and actually somewhat believe it?](http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ljibrytTUK1qbkb3no1_500.gif)
