As in their previous collaboration, 2011’s Unknown, Liam Neeson and director Jaume Collet-Serra effectively set up intrigue, mystery, and tremendous tension in the early going of Non-Stop. But the film’s methodical pace and emphasis on suspense rather than action will probably prove unsatisfying to viewers hoping for a Taken-like experience.
The new RoboCop is as ambitious a remake/reboot of a successful franchise as we’ve seen in years, because it dares to be different from its source. Rather than emulate the ultra-violence and dystopian themes of Paul Verhoeven’s 1987 sci-fi blockbuster, director José Padilha dares to focus on the drama in the story, on the man bonded to the machine. The result is a more well-balanced film, though purists and devotees of the original will no doubt miss some of its bloody, gory fun.
The Monuments Men is precisely the sort of film the industry is coming to expect from George Clooney when he’s not in “blockbuster superstar” mode, and when he opts to tackle writing and directing duties. Intelligent, character-driven, and entertaining from start to finish thanks to a fascinating story pulled from obscure World War II history and a cast delivering understated yet appealing and memorable performances, it’s a treat to watch, even if you don’t care for history or war films.
Clash of the Titans without the budget, Gladiator without the spectacle, Immortals without the style, God of War without the wicked fun, “The Legend of Hercules” imitates many much better sword and sandal epics in film and video games and exceeds none of them. It’s painful to watch, and not because of the fight scenes.
