Tag: andy

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Muni reviews: Cedar Rapids (2011)

Directed by: Miguel Arteta So as I’ve become a head writer on this wonderful website, I have been asked by Kazed to review at least one film every week. Generally this wouldn’t be an issue, as I would go to the cinema 2 to 3 times a week, but I’m not living in Birmingham anymore and there’s nothing like a Cineworld card in Leicester (which is a shame!!). Anyway, so Kazed has asked me to review new-ish films which I will do, also I hope to watch some films over the summer and concentrate on indie films as much as I can. Back to me reviewing this week’s film, which is Cedar Rapids. Ed Helms (Andy in "The Office") stars as Tim Lippe, the most sheltered, naive mid-western insurance agent ever captured on film. Lippe lives and works in Brown Valley, Wisconsin ... the most sheltered, naive mid-western town ever captured on film. His only real excitement is found through his "pre-engagement" to his 7th grade teacher played very well by Sigourney Weaver. When an embarrassing accident claims the life of the hotshot agent in Lippe's firm, the owner sends Lippe to the annual convention in Cedar Rapids. His mission is to win the coveted 2-Diamond Award presented by industry legend Orin Helgesson. Since a lone character can't generate many laughs, circumstances at the convention cause Lippe to find himself roommates with a very noble Ronald Wilkes and fast-talking poacher Dean Ziegler. These 3 are joined together by Nebraska agent Joan Ostrowski-Fox. Lippe is quickly introduced to the "real world" by his new friends and after the first 20 minutes of set-up, the lines and settings get funnier and funnier. As with most comedies these days, the trailer gives away much more than it should; but, unlike most, it leaves plenty of laughs and situations for the film. What really makes this work are that all characters are actually pretty nice people ... they are just a bit exaggerated in their traits. Lippe is a bit too naive. Wilkes is a bit too uptight. Ziegler is a bit too obnoxious, and Fox is just a little too lonely and adventurous. Still, their earnestness is what keeps the film grounded. Alia Shawkat’s portrayal of the prostitute and a lovely dimension to the film and brought uniqueness to the film, and I really enjoyed her brief yet screen grabbing performance. Ed Helms is really a comic force. He has the extraordinary ability to never hold back or worry how that he might not look cool. Even as the lead character, he knows when scene-stealer John C Riley should have the spotlight. This is a tremendous asset for a comic. Where the film does falter in my opinion is the story and at times the acting, don’t get me wrong as a cast they were fantastic, but individually there was something missing. Maybe I just didn’t find it at all believable or credible, but that is a small part in a well-rounded film. I won't give away much, but will warn that some of the humor is crude, especially some of Riley's rapid-fire one-liners. If you prefer your humor to be grounded with real people, then you might want to check this one out. I have only previously known this director, Miguel Arteta,as the guy who directed, “the good girl”  and “youth in revolt” both films which I really enjoyed. Now I look forward to his next project. My verdict, this is a wonderfully executed indie film that has a bright and appealing cast, the story is different and overall pleasurable. The film is worth watching and if you’re a fan of Ed helms and John C. Riley then I’d recommend this to you. This may not be everyone’s taste so let me warn you know but for those who would enjoy it you’re welcome. 6/10 Muni

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Toy Story 3 (2010) review

Synopsis: The toys are mistakenly delivered to a day-care center instead of the attic right before Andy leaves for college, and it's up to Woody to convince the other toys that they weren't abandoned and to return home. Eleven years after the last Toy Story outing, I would say that it was definitely worth the wait. Containing all the elements that made the past Disney/Pixar films a huge success, Toy Story 3 was a well-done, beautiful masterpiece that has joined the long line of films which have been both a financial and critical triumph. Onto the film. Toy Story 3 was equally as incredible as the previous two feats, but on another level; the story in this film is what made it that little bit more exciting. Toward the climax of the film, there was a moment where I foolishly thought it would abruptly end. How naive I was. Everything that took place in the film was extremely gripping, moving and I felt emotionally touched throughout, having grown up with the film. Although the previous plot involving Buzz Lightyear being recalled sounded more exciting, the new plot was still an exciting, and well-done replacement. The '3D' used in the film was adequate; very reminiscent of that used in the re-release of Toy Story back in January (Review HERE). Honestly, it wasn't required. It feels like the studios are literally slapping a '3D' label on anything to make that extra dollar(or pound, or whatever), and it really didn't work. There were some moments where you could really see the difference(Really just differences in depth of field), and some moments where it just wasn't needed at all. I couldn't help but notice the huge similarity between one of the characters in this film(no spoilers here) and 'The Prospector' from Toy Story 2. Wasn't a bad thing, just felt it needed to be pointed out. This, was a Pixar film, so it was difficult to pick out any flaws. If there were any, I didn't want to know. Toy Story 3 was well worth the 11-year wait, and whether they choose to make a sequel or not, I'll be happy watching the trilogy for years to come. 9.5/10 (Because nothing's perfect) Kazed

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Full Toy Story 3 Theatrical trailer ONLINE

Wow, I think I'm not alone here when I say that ALOT of people have been waiting for this for a LONG time. Here it is folks, the full Toy Story 3 Trailer, Courtesy of Trailer Addict

Oh yeah, this is gonna be utterly AMAZING. I have no words.

Kazed.