Film Review #18

           After hearing about the success of Magic Mike I had to see what the fuss was about. I have to admit Magic Mike is indeed magic. I’m not surprised that this $7 million dollar film grossed over $150 million at the box office. The acting is solid, the story progresses smoothly, and you’re constantly becoming more and more engrossed. Towards the end of the film I was dying to know what was going to happen to the main characters. Steven Soderbergh directs a talented cast that includes Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, Cody Horn, Matt Bomer, Olivia Munn, and Joe Manganiello.

          The film focuses on the entrepreneurial Michael Lane (Tatum). At age 30, Michael has dreams of owning his own business and leaving behind his numerous jobs. Until that happens, Mike has no choice but to keep on trucking. One of his jobs includes being a male stripper at the Tampa club Xquisite. When the sun goes down and the stage lights come on he becomes “Magic Mike.” Through pure happenstance Mike meets and befriends 19-year old Adam (Pettyfer). The two quickly become close as Mike introduces Adam to the world of stripping. Adam reaches success quickly with the help of Mike and the rest of the Xquisite dancers. As the film evolves the audience is given an inside glimpse to the good and bad of prosperity. Regardless of the occupation context the character’s problems and insecurities are incredibly relatable.

          Channing Tatum character is engrossing. You are really able to feel Mike’s struggle. He is trying his best to start a new path but all the odds seem to be against him. Alex Pettyfer portrays Adam’s reckless youth perfectly. It’s very fun to see Adam change from an insecure boy to a desirable sexpot.  His lessons in overindulgence are interestingly shown as well. Matthew McConaughey may deserve the most praise in Magic Mike. He is particularly convincing as the eccentric Dallas, the owner of Xquisite and Mike’s boss. In thinking back to the film, I have to say, his lines are quite memorable. The rest of supporting cast deserves praise too. I didn’t feel like anyone was miscast.

One of the best scenes in the film

          A timeline of sorts was used in Magic Mike to help the audience understand that the events of the film took place in a mere 3 months. Countless close-ups and medium shots were used to bring to light and define the actors’ physiques. A series of two-shots and close-ups was also used to create a more inviting and warm tone for the dramatic moments of the film. Music is a big part of the film. Countless songs from American pop culture can be heard in the film. I thought the music was appropriate because it was able to convey the raunchiness that often occurred.

          Unquestionably, I would suggest Magic Mike to all of my readers. My decisive factor for doing so is simple. You are going to be enthralled by the depth of the characters as the story unfolds. Soderbergh did an amazing job with this script. All I have to say is, if there is a sequel I will definitely be in line to watch.

8.5 out of 10

Film Review #17

Are you a patriot or a vampire?

          With great apprehension I sat down to watch Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Slayer. I wasn’t quite sure how I felt about the 16^th President of the United States hunting down vampires. Much to my chagrin I was slowly drawn in by the film’s charm. Timur Bekmambetov is the director. His most notable film for American audiences is probably Wanted. The cast is a group of talented but relatively unknown actors. Benjamin Walker stars as Abraham Lincoln. His supporting cast includes Dominic Cooper, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Anthony Mackie, Jimmi Simpson, Rufus Sewell, and Marton Csokas.

          The movie is a fictional account of the life of Abraham Lincoln (Walker). As a boy his mother is killed by a vampire named Jack Barts (Csokas). Abraham grows up knowing who his mother’s killer is and one day decides to strike. Abraham’s attempt to kill Jack is a failure. Young Abraham would be dead if it were not for Henry Sturges (Cooper) seeing potential. Henry inevitably trains Abraham to kill vampires. After a period of slaying countless vampires Lincoln decides that he wants a real life with personal attachment. He retires from assassinating vampires and his life progresses. It would seem that Lincoln’s life as a vampire slayer was over. Not quite! While serving as President of the U.S. during the Civil War, Abraham’s past life comes back to revisit him. Facing the extinction of human America President Lincoln decides to pick up his axe and slay once more.

          I thought Benjamin Walker did a great job of playing Abraham Lincoln. During the beginning I felt his character was rather ordinary but I suppose that was the point. After all, the actual Abraham Lincoln struggled with defeat and failure for quite some time. I’ve failed at various things in my youth and have been left questioning myself. Dominic Cooper is charismatic as Henry Sturges, Lincoln’s mentor and middleman. You really feel his presence when he is on screen. Marton Csokas is utterly convincing as a plantation owner and murderous vampire.  Rufus Sewell is an integral part of the film as the story unfolds and Lincoln ages into his fifties. Sewell is perfect for playing the mastermind vampire who is behind the Confederate’s flawless victories. Anthony Mackie and Jimmi Simpson deserve praise for their roles as well. Overall, the cast is an extremely talented one and my expectations were fulfilled.

Walker & Cooper

          With a title like Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Slayer you can imagine that special effects are essential. Thanks to Tim Burton producing the film the vampires as well as the combat choreography were very well done. I really enjoyed seeing Lincoln swing his ax. The fact that this film is set in the 1800s required skilled set design. These ingredients all combined to make the key scenes in the film very believable. I never felt like I was watching something cheap or too over-the-top. The music used in the film is fantastic. It sets the mood perfectly. The score matches up great with Lincoln’s narration in the film.

          I would recommend this film to my readers because it’s well balanced. The film does not try to be something that it is not. The director carefully balanced horror, drama, and fantasy into something cohesive. Add to this an exceptional cast from the bottom-up and you have yourself an entertaining piece of cinema. As long as you’re not going into this film expecting gold you will probably enjoy it for what it is.

6.5 out of 10

Film Review #16

        Today I decided to watch a movie that I have been avoiding for quite some time. I took it upon myself to finally view Fast Five. The film was directed by Justin Lin and grossed more than $600 million dollars worldwide. Vin Diesel and Paul Walker star alongside a huge supporting cast. Some of the names include Jordana Brewster, Joaquim de Almeida, Tyrese Gibson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Matt Schulze, Sung Kang, and Dwayne Johnson. Let me make this clear: I have disliked the majority of the films in this franchise. But… I am willing to see any movie where Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson plays a complete badass. With that said, I’ll do my best to be unbiased.

Sorry Vin. You are nowhere near as tall or badass as Johnson.

The plot of the film is multifaceted. After helping Dominic Toretto (Diesel) break out of prison Mia Toretto (Brewster) and Brian O'Conner (Walker) go “on the lam” with him. Eventually they all arrive in Brazil where they accept a “job” stealing cars to make some fast cash. The job goes wrong but the trio manages to escape- and with one of the stolen cars no less. Eventually they discover a microchip in the car. The chip contains details on Hernan Reyes’ illegal operations. Reyes (de Almeida) is a wealthy but shady businessman who also happens to be a drug trafficker. When he finds out that they have his chip and are aware of the location of $100,000,000 he wants them eliminated. To make things worse the trio have Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) agent Luke Hobbs (Johnson) chasing them. Under duress the trio hatches a plan to steal Reyes' $100 million dollar fortune and evade the resourceful Hobbs. This sets the stage for a bevy of action-packed encounters and a climactic ending!

Vin Diesel and Paul Walker play close friends in the film and their chemistry seems as such. Between the high adrenaline action sequences they share insecurities and hope for a better future. While the dialogue between them is less than stimulating both actors do their best with what the writers gave them. Joaquim de Almeida plays his part to a T. He’s totally convincing in his role as a ruthless drug dealer who wants any threats crushed immediately. Speaking of convincing Dwayne Johnson is as well. He was smart, intimidating, powerful, and above all scene stealing. I thought his performance should be applauded. Although, I don’t see Vin Diesel beating him up in a fight… sorry I had to add that last part. My expectations were definitely met for this film and the actors’ portrayals.

The genre of this film really has an effect on the film techniques used. Special effects and stunts are a necessity for Fast Five. The action sequences are first rate; they’re certainly on par with filmmakers like Jerry Bruckheimer and Michael Bay. It’s just a pity they couldn’t use their big budget to give more depth to the actors. Establishing shots are a big part of this film. Rio de Janeiro is a jewel and many times we are treated to breathtaking aerial views. The music is modern, lively, and speaks to an international audience. The song “Danza Kuduro” by Don Omar & Lucenzo is a great example. It sums up what Fast Five is… a fast-paced carnival selling sexuality, violence, and commercialism. With that said, the music is well placed and very appropriate.

            My decisive factor for going to see Fast Five is simple. It’s a badass movie with one badass hombre named Dwayne Johnson. I thought he was the heart and soul of the film. He adds depth to a script that suffers from cheesy one-liners and a world where feminism never existed. People who are going to see this movie are not expecting Shakespeare. It’s like a Die Hard film on some levels. Audiences don’t always want caviar. Sometimes a deliciously greasy cheeseburger is satisfying and what we want. This is that cheeseburger.

8 out of 10

Film Review #15

Great casting choices for Dark Shadows

         A few days ago I sat back and decided to view Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows. I have to admit I was impressed. I was expecting a disaster similar to Burton’s Charlie & the Chocolate Factory. Thankfully this was not the case. I watched a horror comedy that was smart, hilarious, and above all interesting. The flick stars Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Eva Green, and Jackie Earle Hayley.

            In my opinion, the plot of the film is appealing. Barnabas Collins (Depp) is a 200 year old vampire that has been asleep since the 18^th Century. When he is released from his chains it is 1972 and much has changed in the fishing port of Collinsport, Maine. Not thinking twice about it Barnabas returns to his old home. He quickly realizes that his descendents are quite dysfunctional. Barnabas and his relatives have been cursed for his actions as a young man. During the 1760s Barnabas seduced and later rejected the family maid of the manor- Angelique Bouchard (Green). Little did he realize, Angelique was a witch and his refusal to love her would cost him everything he cared for. After seeing the Collins name in shambles the recently awakened Barnabas decides that he will rejuvenate their reputation and family business. There is only one little problem however. Angelique has been living in Collinsport for centuries and she has made it her life’s cause to see that the Collins suffer for her pain. This sets the stage for a memorable reunion and a volatile ending.

Depp is a delight

           Depp is too believable in his role as Barnabas Collins- even with that horribly distracting haircut. His manner of speech and line delivery is perfect. Don’t believe me? Perhaps this quote will make you reconsider: “Fifteen, and no husband? You must put those child-bearing hips to good use, lest your womb shrivel up and die.” Eva Green as Angelique is quite convincing too. You really believe that her character is heartbroken and that this drives her to the point of obsession. Michelle Pfeiffer is fun to watch in the film. While her role is not particularly enticing she certainly has presence. Helena Bonham Carter is scene stealing as the alcoholic Dr. Julia Hoffman. She and Depp have some very memorable scenes together. Overall, my expectations were more than fulfilled. I thought this film was going to be painful to endure but it was the complete opposite.

          Like any other Tim Burton film the visuals you see are amazing. His sense of style is so well conveyed in this film. It was fun to see Burton’s gothic yet quirky style on screen. I had no complaints with his chosen aesthetics. The music provided by Danny Elfman is perfect and well placed. The score is creepy, menacing, and extraordinarily sad at times. A whole range of emotions can be felt. I hope the YouTube link that I’m providing below proves this.

           I could list a few different reasons for my readers to go see Dark Shadows. If I can only give one decisive factor to see this film I’d say go for a fun ride. While this film is not going to change your life it is entertaining. If you’re a fan of comedy definitely watch it. The balance scale tips in favor of comedy rather than horror. I hope you enjoy the film as much as I did. That’s all folks!

7 out of 10

Film Review #14

           Prometheus is a 2012 science fiction film from acclaimed director Ridley Scott. His résumé includes Alien, Gladiator, and American Gangster.  The cast is a mix of famous faces and those that are less known.  Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green, and Charlize Theron star in the film. Aside from being an opponent of science fiction I have to say I really enjoyed this film. The plot of the film is thought-provoking to say the least. Add that factor with convincing performances and first class special effects and you are in for one hell of a ride.

Scott's latest exploit is a prequel to the Alien franchise

             Prometheus begins with archaeologists Elizabeth Shaw (Rapace) and Charlie Holloway (Marshall-Green) uncovering a 35,000 year old painting in a cave. The portrait depicts an image of human beings pointing to the stars. This finding predates all other similar works of art. Suddenly we are whisked away to outer space. Several people (in stasis) are aboard the Prometheus- a spaceship funded by Peter Weyland (Pearce) and watched over by an android named David (Fassbender). The deep space exploration was devised to find alien life forms. The archeologists onboard intend to find and question “the engineers” who are responsible for the creation of mankind. Intentions change as the foreign environment becomes more and more hostile.  Exploration turns into a game of survival!

           Michael Fassbender is captivating as David the android. His character is incredibly intelligent, creepy and detached but still somehow manages to display signs of jealousy. Charlize Theron’s performance should be applauded as well. She plays a very pragmatic, cold and uptight role. Right off the bat you don’t know whether she can be trusted. Rapace is solid as the lead. In my opinion, she represents the attribute of resilience. Her character faces many emotional and physical obstacles that would crush a normal human being. While there are some obvious standouts, the entire cast deserves praise. My expectations were definitely fulfilled.

            Special effects permeate the entire film. The first 5 minutes of Prometheus surely proves my point. Careful consideration had to be taken to costume design, scene set construction, alien aesthetics, and so much more. The alien encounters throughout the movie are effectively convincing. I appreciate that the director did not obtain these effects to simply overcompensate for the script or for poor performances. Everything fit perfectly together like a puzzle set. The music for this film is spot-on. The score is perfectly place so that you feel scared when you are meant to. The composer did a great job of fitting the music with very intense moments: Noomi Rapace’s impromptu surgery scene is a great example.

Case In Point

            I would definitely recommend this movie to my audience. Ridley Scott has created something that is on par with many successful films in the genre. Without giving too much away, fans of the Alien franchise will be please.  Prometheus serves as a smart prequel to those cult classics. My decisive factor for convincing my readers to view this film would be that it is more than just eye candy. The acting and events that occur in this film are memorable. Whether the scene is subtle or adrenaline-filled you will buy into the atmosphere. I never felt bored and the ending leaves you pleading for a sequel.

7 out of 10

Film Review #13

          I have a confession. I hate movies involving science fiction. I don’t know why. Perhaps it was all those nights I had to endure waiting to watch pro-wrestling; every Monday at 8PM I had to sit through an hour of my dad watching Star Trek (FYI: the Captain Picard version). Nonetheless, I decided to watch Men in Black III. The first and most influencing decision for me was that this was a Will Smith film. He is one of my favorite actors. I think Seven Pounds and I Am Legend are two of his best flicks. Reason number two was also pretty simple: Barry Sonnenfeld was returning- the director of MIB and MIB2. Sonnefield directed a star-studded cast that included Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin. With all that said, MIB3 is an entertaining ride that lives up to its predecessors.

                

        The plot of the film is smart. Agent J (Smith) has to go back in time to 1969 to stop Boris the Animal from killing Agent K (Jones). When Agent J finally does travel back in time it becomes obvious that 1969 America is not as welcoming as 2012. Lack of civil rights, technology and an abundance of other predicaments occur. Not to mention, Agent J has to convince a 29-year old Agent K (Brolin) that he’s from the future and trying to save his life. Thankfully, K and J have Griffin to rely on- an alien who occupies 5 dimensions and is able to see the outcome of the future, which can sometimes be based on a few simple gestures. Not to be too confusing, but the film turns into a ‘race against time’ to stop 2012 Boris and 1969 Boris from colluding and killing 1969 Agent K.

           Josh Brolin’s performance as a younger Agent K stands out! He played K remarkably similar to Tommy Lee Jones… but with one difference. We don’t see the old, bitter, jaded version of K. Brolin perfectly depicts a character with a sense of humor, enthusiasm, trust, and nose for curiosity. Brolin is very important to the film because the audience gets to learn why Agent K became so discontented. That discovery is by far one of the best parts of this movie. Jones and Smith are certainly likable and should be applauded for their performances but Brolin stole the spotlight. I was expecting powerhouse performances from Jones and Smith. Brolin was an afterthought for me. With that said, my expectations were exceeded.

           Special effects are an enormous part of this sci-fi comedy. Not to mention MIB3 was made to be presented in 3D. In my opinion the special effects were good. Not groundbreaking…. Not awe-inspiring…. Just good.  Not once could I say the aliens looked fake or something was too over-the-top. Although the jetpack scene was rather amusing; I couldn't help but think about the James Bond movie Thunderball when Sean Connery was 007. The music seemed perfectly placed in my opinion. I had zero complaints. The score is particularly effective when we meet a 6 year old J.

          I would definitely recommend this movie to my readers. MIB3 may be the best film in the entire franchise. You may think differently but at the very least you will acknowledge that MIB3 certainly deserves to compete for the title. My decisive factor for encouraging my audience to see the film is that a good story is told. The writer actually finds a subtle way to connect the films too. I was not expecting a lot from this film and I got much out of it. I hope you will have similar feelings when you view it.

7 out of 10

Film Review #12

This week I decided to take a walk down memory lane and watch Iron Man. The last time I saw this movie was May 2008, a week after its initial release. After viewing Iron Man for only the second time I have to say it may be Marvel’s crown jewel in terms of comic book films. Director Jon Favreau should be very proud of his work. Iron Man is smart, fun, action-packed, aesthetically pleasing, and loaded with great actors. Robert Downey Jr. is the star of the film but Terrence Howard, Jeff Bridges, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Shaun Toub are integral characters.

The plot of the film is quite interesting. Tony Stark (Downey Jr.) is a highly intelligent, egocentric playboy who inherited a weapons manufacturing company from his father. During a routine weapons demonstration overseas Stark is captured by terrorists. While being held captive he learns lessons in mortality from a fellow prisoner- Yinsen (played endearingly by Toub). Stark manages to escape his death sentence and decides that Stark Industries will no longer manufacture weapons because of the negative effect it has in the world. This causes a rift with his company partner Obadiah Stane (Bridge) whom Stark later finds out has been double-dealing to the United States’ foreign enemies. Shortly after that time Tony designs an Iron Man suit and does battle with a host of newfound enemies including Obadiah.

He's Pissed

Robert Downey Jr. is perfect in his role as Tony Stark. He embodies everything a sophisticated, billionaire playboy is and more. Terrence Howard and Gwyneth Paltrow do not get a lot of screen time but when they do their presence is definitely felt. Jeff Bridges deserves praise for his role as well. His metamorphosis from company pal to murderous, double-crossing cheat is quite convincing. Shaun Toub also deserves applause for his portrayal of Yinsen. He is probably in the film for ten minutes but his portrayal is heartfelt. It had to be. It was a big reason why Tony Stark decides to adopt a new philosophy on life. My expectations for this cast were fulfilled and then some!

Stark & Yinsen

Iron Man uses a variety of film techniques. Special Effects are a big part of the movie. With that said, the director went a long way to ensure this film had top-notch special effects. Examining Stark’s finished Mark III Iron Man suit is all the evidence you need to prove my last statement. Modern rock is a big part of the music. It helps to capture the ‘maverick’ that Tony Stark is [read: badass]. The instrumental musical scores are also very crucial for setting the tone of certain scenes.

If I could only offer one decisive factor for my readers to see this film I would say go because you will love everything about the film. It’s not your average comic book movie. It doesn't suffer from being unrealistic or too cheesy. The actors do a superb job with their depictions of the characters. I promise when you finish the film you will want more. And audiences did. The 2010 sequel to the franchise grossed over $600 million dollars.

9.5 out of 10

Film Review #11

            Countless memories of Arnold Schwarzenegger films caused me to take a gamble on watching the 2011 reboot of Conan the Barbarian. Jason Momoa plays the title character along with a cast that includes Rachel Nichols, Rose McGowan, Stephen Lang, Ron Perlman, and Bob Sapp. Marcus Nispel directed the action-adventure film. In the end, Conan simply lacked substance. I went into this film thinking it was going to be awesome. After all what movie where Morgan Freeman narrates, isn’t? This one apparently!

            This plot is modest. As a boy Conan’s entire village is destroyed by Khalar Zym (Lang) and his band of ruthless killers. Zym is attempting to reunite the pieces of the Mask of Acheron, a powerful relic that can bring back his dead wife and allow him to conquer the known world. Years pass and Conan has turned into a mountain of a man. He has traveled the world slaying beasts, freeing captives, and defying death. Remarkable tales exist about his adventures. Zym along with his daughter Marique (McGowan) need only one more thing to accomplish their dastardly plans: they must find the pure-blood descendant of the sorcerers of Acheron. By happenstance, Conan finds the pure-blood first. Her name is Tamara (Nichols) and by finding her the stage is set for a definitive encounter between Zym and Conan.

            While none of the actors in this film are terrible there are zero defining moments. The script never allows Jason Momoa to display any depth to his character. The child actor playing Conan has a better role in my opinion- Ron Perlman lucks out because that’s the only time he is in the movie. As an adult Conan is only presented as a sword swinging, blood spilling, slave-freeing barbarian who happens to have a predisposition for performing good deeds. Rose McGowan and Stephen Lang have a very incestuous energy on camera but the dialogue is weak. In my opinion, the actors are not left with much to portray because the writers have every character in tunnel vision mode. While I did not have very high expectations coming into the movie, even my low expectations were not met.

            Special effects were important in this film. While they were not fantastic or groundbreaking they were more than acceptable; the film had a budget of $90 million dollars. Unquestionably Conan had some very cool action scenes. But well-choreographed fight scenes mixed with blood and gore can’t save a film that has no dimension for its characters. The music was correctly placed and added to the sense of awe and adventure when it was introduced. The YouTube trailer I've attached should support the opinions expressed in this paragraph.

Hasta La Vista Baby

            Honestly, I would not tell my readers to view Conan the Barbarian. It suffers from poor dialogue, tunnel vision, and a lack of character dimension. In my opinion, the best part of this film is the first 20 minutes. After that, you are whisked away on an adventure that’s not very memorable. To make matters worse. There wasn't even a giant snake in the film! Conan should almost always fight a giant snake…. because that’s cool.

3 out of 10

Film Review #10

This week I decided to check out the biographical drama J. Edgar. The film was directed by Clint Eastwood. It stars one of my favorite on-screen actors- Leonardo DiCaprio. His supporting cast is absolutely outstanding. Mr. DiCaprio shares time with Armie Hammer, Naomi Watts, Josh Lucas, and Judi Dench. Overall, I thought this movie was solid but it does feel ‘drawn out’ at times. The progression of the film is a bit hard to interpret as well.

J. Edgar examines the rise of one of the most powerful men in America during the 20^th century. The audience first meets John Edgar Hoover when he is working for Attorney General A. Mitchell Palmer at the United States Department of Justice in 1919. From the ‘get-go’ we see that Hoover is motivated, focused, and determined to be the best. This leads to his success of targeting, arresting, and sometimes deporting anti-radical groups. Achievement leads to reward and Hoover was appointed director of the Bureau of Investigation (the FBI’s predecessor). From here Hoover is able to reform police protocol and technology for crime science. He was an advocate for the centralized fingerprint system and forensic laboratories we use today. The film subsequently follows Hoover’s involvement in several high-profile events from 1920 until his death. What is more interesting however is the view into his personal life; in particular his interactions with his mother, trusted secretary, and friendship with Clyde Tolson.

DiCaprio’s portrayal of J. Edgar provokes emotion. As the story progresses you can’t help but dislike Hoover because of his egocentric behavior, lack of sentiment, and illegal methods for obtaining evidence. Armie Hammer is endearing as Clyde Tolson- Hoover’s ‘number-two man’ and rumored lover. Judi Dench’s performance as Hoover’s mother is spot-on. I must confess I despised her character. My opinion was cemented when the audience discovers how Hoover’s mother feels about homosexuals and the possibility of her son being one. With all that said, my expectations were definitely met. The cast is a desirable one and the acting in this film is first-class.

This film pays particular honor to the close-up shot. It allows us to interpret our character’s emotions so vividly. It is especially effective when DiCaprio is on the silver screen. The audience is able to feel so much of Hoover’s seriousness, frustration, egocentricity, and sadness. The music in the film becomes prominent towards the finish line of the film. The end of DiCaprio & Hammer’s fight scene is a great example; the finest instance may be Hoover after the death of his mother.

If I could only offer you one decisive factor to convince you to attend this film, I would say go for the fine acting performances. Each actor gives a truly memorable depiction of their character. While the film does have flaws and it is sometimes hard to grasp the timeline, the events in the film are appealing. Prohibition is not targeted but other happenings like the Lindbergh kidnapping case, the death of JFK, and MLK’s support for civil rights are present. Unless you know the title character’s history front and back J. Edgar will keep you curious I promise that.

7.5 out of 10