Jack’s Best Picture Rundown

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Author: Jack Greenbaum

 

I’ve previously stated my opinions about the brilliance of the “The Social Network” and the shortcomings of the “The King’s Speech.” Before Feb. 27 — when the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences will deem what they consider to be the Best Picture — I thought I’d give my take on the other eight nominees.
“127 Hours”: Danny Boyle’s film about Aron Ralson’s struggle for survival while trapped under a boulder for over six days, culminating in the gruesome amputation of his own arm, shows the resolute determination of the human condition. James Franco’s characterization of Ralston is emotionally raw, and viewers will leave the film feeling as if they themselves have endured the disaster and come out with a greater appreciation for life.
“Black Swan”: Simultaneously terrifying and beautiful, this movie keeps you enraptured by the graceful choreography. Viewers are driven by the need to unravel the reality of it all as they watch a committed ballerina prove she ought to be committed. Natalie Portman convincingly embodies the schizophrenic danseuse, Nina, whose battle with her own delusions leaves audiences terrified.
“The Fighter”: A true against-all-odds film with all of the plot points of a good Cinderella story gets too bogged down in the turmoil of family conflict. The energy and intensity of the boxing scenes are reminiscent of “Rocky,” but the perpetual drama between protagonist Mickey Ward and his family turns the film into an episode of “The Jerry Springer Show.”
“Inception”: If you haven’t seen “Inception,” you’re missing out on a piece of pop culture that will be referenced for years to come. This Christopher Nolan film was this summer’s only blockbuster that kept audiences thinking long after they left the theater. It’s a heist film that takes place within the psyche, combining “The Usual Suspects” and “The Matrix.” With exciting action sequences, a complex narrative, mesmerizing visuals and vivid characters, it’s everything a summer action movie should be.
“The Kids Are All Right”: I appreciated this film because it adeptly portrayed the dynamics of modern families. However, I thought the actual plot was fraught with the contrivances of typical family dramas and left me ambivalent. It is a case of an intriguing premise coupled with a captivating cast that doesn’t go anywhere interesting.
“Toy Story 3”: This movie was everything a family comedy should be. Most family films these days are really movies for kids, but this is a movie that can be enjoyed by every age. With humor, adventure and scenes that will make even the grouchiest movie critic well up with tears, the final film in the “Toy Story” franchise makes you melancholy to bid farewell to these lovable toys.
“True Grit”: This western is not as entertaining as the original John Wayne film, as it is a much slower, more drawn-out tale of retribution. It is undeniable that the motley trio played by Hailee Steinfeld, Matt Damon and Jeff Bridges can be gripping to watch, but those moments seemed insufficient to satisfy my expectations.
“Winter’s Bone”: This Ozarks mystery is filled with unexpected turns and unsettling characters that keep viewers enthralled. This film is a dark and chilling indie. Jennifer Lawrence’s portrayal of the shrewd and audacious Ree is terrific, which makes her struggle absorbing and heart-wrenching to watch. A thriller that turns family drama into mortal peril, “Winter’s Bone” is a tale of one girl’s intense journey into the corrupt underworld of the backwoods in search for truth.

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