I had a tough time keeping up with all the movies this month (which is good, I love when there are too many movies to see!), so to make up for lost time, I am going to shorten these reviews to a few sentences for each film.
Me and Earl and the Dying Girl
This film was a perfect blend of humor and heart. While the story deals with the difficult theme of cancer, it is unique because it doesn’t turn into a love story. It is a story about friendship. I found that it had a pretty realistic image of teenagers and all the awkwardness, fear, and confusion they face. I really enjoyed the performances from the three main young actors (plus the “me” character’s parents were two of my favorite adults; Connie Britton and Nick Offerman!)
Testament of Youth
This was probably one of my favorite films I’ve seen this year, even though it definitely is not a big summer blockbuster. The film had my heart pounding the entire time both because of the intensity of the story and the beauty of the scenes. Because I had never read the book the film is based on, the story was a complete surprise to me and had me choking back the tears many times. Up and comer Alicia Vikander (who will be appearing in many more films this year) was perfection in the lead role and I look forward to seeing much more from her.
Trainwreck
This movie personally just wasn’t really my type of humor, but I still enjoyed seeing Amy Schumer on the big screen and look forward to seeing her in more. I also really appreciated seeing Bill Hader, who was one of my favorites during his time on SNL, and hope he gets more roles where he is front and center. Lebron James actually got the most laughs from me!
Paper Towns
Surprisingly, I enjoyed this movie more than the book! I reviewed the book a year ago, and overall I enjoyed it, I just felt the movie came together a bit better (especially the conclusion.) Even though what propels the story forward is finding a mysterious girl, I found that the friendships of the main characters were the most important aspect and really made the story work. The three male actors were geekily hilarious together and made me wish I could go on a road trip with them.
The Gift
This movie was very intriguing to me, but I was a little let down because I was so…Throughout the film I was attempting to figure out what the big twist would be, but did not succeed. The twist is not simple, but it ends up being perfectly intense and ambiguous to the viewer (and a certain character.) While it maybe went on a bit long in a few parts, I did enjoy how strong the suspense was as the truth of the characters is slowly revealed. The film felt unique and acts as a good balance against the other films out right now. The performances were good as well, but I don’t think I will have the urge to see the film again.
Southpaw
This film was a bit too predictable (and a bit eye-roll worthy at times), but I still walked away pleased that I saw it. Jake Gyllenhaal plays a boxer who grew up in the foster care system and has risen to the top of the ring. As soon as tragedy strikes, and his life falls apart, I knew that the story would have to end in success and redemption. While nothing was really surprising in the film, what made the film for me were the scenes between the lead character and his daughter. Performance-wise, I found it very strong, and Gyllenhaal appeared very dedicated to the role. When I reflect on the film, it seems like one of those movies I would watch a portion of every time I caught it on television.
Ant-Man
I went into this movie with very low expectations, and almost felt it was an obligation to see it because of the connections to the other Avenger’s universe films, but it ended up being one of the most fun movies I have seen this year! Paul Rudd was great in the lead role of the newest superhero origin story. Michael Douglas was a welcome face and Michael Peña stole the show in the scenes he was in. While the villain seemed very typical and dull, the heist theme was exciting and different. I will be excited to see Ant-Man’s presence in future Marvel films.
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