FilmMonthly » Alicia Ayoub

Jay and Silent Bob Get Irish

Alicia Ayoub — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 23:13:48 +0000

Jay and Silent Bob Get Irish is a comedic tour- de- force. That’s ironic, considering it’s not a movie proper and Jay and Silent Bob aren’t in it. Instead, it’s over 3 hours of the brainchild behind the notable characters; the incomparable Kevin Smith; and his trusty straight man Jason Mewes; talking, just talking. It is literally the two of them sitting at a table conversing, sharing experiences and stories in a casual and engaging manner. The two took this show to both Dublin, Ireland and, in a great bonus show, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Two guys just having a long chat may not sound like a desirable way to spend money on a DVD, but it is absolutely worth it if you like laughing. Using the familiarity of the title characters may bring audience in, but the natural, comedic elements keep the audience enthralled. As with directing his movies, Smith is the genius pulling the strings with his uncanny wit and Mewes is the perfect straight man, accentuating Smith’s bite with his own humorous physicality and responses.

As they weave their way through a myriad of topics, from personal topics like Mewes’ drug abuse and rehabilitation to the meeting of his wife, and then to more universal subjects like the origin behind Pancake Day, Ash Wednesday, and other religious rituals, the two utilize incredibly comic dichotomies. They approach each with such irreverence while maintaining sensitivity that a viewer feels that he is not witnessing a show but is merely part of a jocular conversation. And there is a ton of blue language, gestures, and crass concepts, but Smith and Mewes have a sincerity and comic chemistry that transcends the baseness. While some people may be turned off by the vulgarity and seemingly sacrilegious nature of the dialogue; one only has to sit back, relax, and realize these two are just having fun at everyone’s expense and there is no malice involved. Underlying the glamor of the show is a genuine friendship which lends an endearing sensibility to their chemistry. The end result is that these two can make people roar by simply being themselves.

Spotted throughout the constant amusement are bits of comedic genius. In Ireland, Smith has written a “Happy Birthday” tribute to an attending fan and its execution kept me in stitches. He pulled in enthusiastic, yet ridiculous audience participation while using Mewes as a lame excuse for a “drummer boy.” Then there are the games they play: “Let us f#*k” and “Let Us Act.” The former is again a great example to pull in the audience as willing fans join Mewes onstage for lewd acts. It really needs to be seen to be appreciated. “Let Us Act” was amazingly hilarious as the pair reenact a scene from “American Beauty” with two retired porn stars as the leads. This last bit was a complete laugh riot as Smith chastises Mewes’ inept turn at directing his actresses.

The 3 shows and awesome bonus time of more “Let Us F#*k” are not to be missed! While their humor may be too offensive for some, if one can realize it’s not for shock value but is a natural component of their banter, then their comedy can be appreciated. Not to mention that anyone who can deftly incorporate such diverse subjects as the meaning of religious holidays, hiring hookers, and anime into one conversation, deserves an open- minded viewing. Jay and Silent Bob Get Irish is merely a fantastic compilation of unscripted, innate comedy of two good friends sharing their laughs and having a good time.

Roseanne – Still Relevant and Entertaining!

Alicia Ayoub — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 18:37:44 +0000

I must admit, reviewing the Roseanne show, Seasons 3 and 4, has been one of my favorite assignments thus far. Every episode is a delight, whether it’s on the light- hearted or the more dramatic side.

She’s loud, she’s brash, she’s strong, she’s Roseanne Barr (Arnold)! Starring in the self- titled sitcom from 1988- 1997, she leads an extremely talented cast. John Goodman, Michael Fishman, Sara Gilbert, Lecy Goranson, and Laurie Metcalf complete the “Connor” family. The Connors are a hard- working, blue collar family who deal with the mundane issues of a lower- income family. While the show is over 20 years old, many of its topics can translate to the contemporary economic hardships many Americans are facing. Foreclosure, surprise pregnancies, juggling multiple jobs, bank loans with exorbitant interest rates, and layoffs are just a few of the obstacles they not only encounter, but do so with either caustic wit or heartfelt poignancy. (It also dealt with issues that remained taboo at the time- homosexuality and abortion.)

Besides the significant social portrayals, the show delved deeply into personal issues, with sincere drama overlaid by a touch of comedic grace. Dealing with daughters entering teenagedom, dating less- than- desirable boys, and the necessity of the “talk,” are just some examples of intimate situations the show broached. Throw in a young boy discovering hormones and you have the makings of parental nightmares. The parents have plenty of their own issues- making their marriage work when the mundane world has grown too stressful, tedious in- laws, and addiction (food and cigarettes) to contend with. Add to the brew a neurotic aunt who can’t maintain a relationship or a career and you have the ingredients for a very realistic and lovingly dysfunctional portrayal of a working class family.

The dominant voice of the show belongs to Roseanne. While she is not the strongest actress, she delivers with force and sincerity. Her larger- than- life persona serves as the anchor of the family. The rest of the cast possess solid acting chops and provide a great support for her. Every character feels so real and relatable that an audience can easily empathize with the emotions and struggles while appreciating the wit.

Recurring characters also lend much to the show’s credentials: Shelley Winters, Ned Beatty, Johnny Galecki, Glenn Quinn, Brad Garrett, George Clooney, and Martin Mull are a few of the familiar faces that frequent the series.

The show was rich in socio- economic commentary, comic relief, pushing boundaries, and solid writing. Seasons 3 and 4, which were my specific assignment, also had the introductions of such key characters as Mark and David Healy as well as the notable “Halloween” episodes. The “Roseanne” show constantly delivered with its outlandish over- the- top costumes which were always amazing.

I highly recommend this show for a myriad of reasons- for performances, writing, commentary, comedy, and sentimental moments. Roseanne is a force to be reckoned with and made such a great contribution to television history.

Joe Maddison’s War

Alicia Ayoub — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 16:26:00 +0000

World War II serves as the backdrop for one man’s struggles and how these affect those close to him in the wonderful film Joe Maddison’s War. The year is 1940, and as the war breaks out, Joe, a British Everyman and WWI veteran, finds his sense of reality turned inside out. While constantly being reminded of his proud past but informed that he is “too old” to fight again, he must also contend with his wife’s desertion. Fortunately, Joe has Harry, a loyal yet jaded friend and fellow WWI veteran, to accompany him in on his journey to reassemble his life and identity.
The film has so many artistic high points that it would be a shame to miss what is being offered here. Patrick Collerton’s direction is fluid and his cinematographic choices are superb. The movie is filmed with mellow hues that feel not only real and period-appropriate, but also resemble the dreariness of Joe’s situation. Throughout the film, the editing choices were well-conceived and kept the story tight. News clips were inserted throughout the movie, strongly paralleling Joe’s own troubles. Kevin Whately’s portrayal of Joe and Robson Green’s performance as Harry were sublime and sympathetic as the audience observed and empathized with their turmoil. Occasionally, the accents were a bit hard to decipher, but the whole cast’s solid performances more than make up for it.
Overall, the film is a wonderful piece of inner turmoil and growth, displaying the importance of bravery, camaraderie, understanding, and affection. Both dramatic and poignant, this darling film deserves accolades.

The Wind Journeys

Alicia Ayoub — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 11:01:06 +0000

The Film Movement Series delivers two South American gems, Ciro Guerra’s award- winning drama “Los Viajes del Viento” or “The Wind Journeys” and the Peruvian short “Danzak,” directed by Gabriela Yepes. Both are ripe with lovely cinematography and displays of various regional cultures.
The “Wind Journeys” describes the tale of Ignacio, played by Marciano Martinez, a troubadour who leaves his town and encounters an eclectic array of people as he embarks on returning his accordion to his master. Ignacio is not alone on his journey as Fermin (Yull Nunez), a passionate teenager from his hometown, joins him, fueled by a zeal to learn from his elder. The plot is enriched by a wonderful display of different cultural practises, such as a tribe’s drumming initiation ceremony; gorgeous cinematography; clever, beautiful shots; and teems with opportunities for interpretation.
There are several explanations for the viewer to bestow upon Ignacio and Fermin’s relationship and the complexities underlying their dynamic. They seem to be perfect foils for one another, representing: hope versus optimism, eager student versus unwilling mentor, or a love for music in contrast with having a life’s purpose devoid of passion.
Also broached are mystical undertones. Ignacio’s instrument is known as “The Devil’s Accordion.” There are a few instances where supernatural influences are suggested, another feature which strengthens the film’s artistic merit.
Overall, “The Wind Journeys” is a treasure from Columbia, in its visual and aural sensibilities, its cultural magnificences, and yet is more plentiful in its intellectual quandaries which lend potential for personal and collective knowledge. Its reception of the “Award of the City of Rome” at the Cannes Film Festival is well deserved.
“Danzak” is a film short inspired by “The Agony of Rasa Niti,” a short story by Peruvian writer Jose Maria Aguedas. While being a short, it has much to offer on a variety of levels. It is a beautiful story about a young girl “fulfilling her father’s last wish” that gives a brief glimpse into a rich culture, hinted at by the mythos and a vivid costume. This costume’s significance parallels the film’s profound insight into the cycle of the life of a dancer. There is also an interesting contrast of values as new world medicine may interfere with the natural cycle and old world tradition. In short, the film conveys interesting points about evolution, on both a personal and on a social level.
“Danzak” as well as “The Wind Journeys” are well worth watching as they provide beautiful material to indulge the mind and the heart.

Praxis: A Painful, Yet Beautiful Lesson

Alicia Ayoub — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 18:11:32 +0000

Praxis is beautiful: exquisite in its pain, intimacy, and simplicity of style. It illustrates the struggles of Brian, a young writer who is lost amidst the turmoil of his depression, desperation, and identity crisis. He is plagued by scattered thoughts which lead to a complete shutdown and inability to differentiate between his mind and reality. He is conflicted with his decision to take psychotherapeutic medicine and attempts to cling to reality by musing on the intricacies of astronomy and its stability. His strongest tie to sanity is Joe, his supportive friend and perhaps philosophical mentor, who tries to offer Brian a grasp of his ability to change.
The film is shot simply, utilizing many techniques to take the audience into Brian’s warped perspective. Playing with color and black and white, blurred visions, and snippets of images convey Brian’s own fragmented sense of reality. The images sometimes appear so quickly that they are impossible to hold onto. This may put off some film watchers but it seems like a great display of Brian’s shards of fleeting memories. The storyline is also very disturbing as the story is told out of sequence. The shots and cinematography are stark in appearance which are jarring and in contrast with a glossy, mainstream film. It is not conventionally entertaining but is rich in its artistry and presentation of the depth of the human struggle for awareness and identity.
Praxis is not for the lighthearted or the conservative. It is explicit in its nudity, which is done tastefully in its portrayal of intimacy and also of the soul which is left bare when one is stripped of his ego. It is reminiscent of Charlie Kaufman as it delves into the mind’s distortions and emotional turmoil. It explores a bit of philosophy and, briefly, spirituality as it melds one man’s inner struggles with the solidity of his interaction with others. Praxis is satisfying artistically, emotionally, and intellectually.

Justin Time

Alicia Ayoub — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:24:50 +0000

Justin time is the cute family action adventure movie which tells a tale of magic and the struggle between good and evil. The teenager Justin (Chris Laird) is given an ancient amulet for his birthday. It has been passed down through the generations until it ends up with Justin as he is half Shoshoni Indian. Justin soon discovers that it contains the power to stop time. Then the beautiful Angelique (Shareece Pfeiffer) enters his life, and not coincidentally. Her father holds the other piece to the amulet’s power- a magical disc. He knows that the two objects combined will bestow upon the owner immense powers and, so, he will stop at nothing to attain the amulet.
The concept behind the movie is neat, fresh, and takes the audience on an unique journey which combines reality with a hint of the magical. The movie itself is clean, wholesome, and contains good messages for kids. It explores the importance of heritage and having pride for one’s family as well as the complications and importance of doing the right thing. Also, the film is well- polished with entertaining performances by the cast.
The movie did feel a bit dull after the opening sequence and could have used a bit more comedic relief but the fun, likable characters kept it interesting. Kids may find it funnier; but it seems only appropriate for kids 12 and up. There is no graphic violence but a couple of conflicts have mature violence and may be too realistic for little kids. I hope that the young adolescents can appreciate the fantastic concept of magical heirlooms because the movie is definitely worth it. The morals are important and, unlike afternoon specials, they are presented more subtly and so are easily digested. The denouement is great; the film picks up pace and gets more intriguing as it progresses. Justin Time is good family fun!

Homewrecker

Alicia Ayoub — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:06:39 +0000

What happens when a fame- starved parolee gets a free ticket to spend a week with a couple who happen to be Television producers? Yup, a lot of mayhem. Homewrecker follows the exploits of Boyd, better known as “Shawn” as he attempts any ploy he can devise to become their new TV star.
Unfortunately, the situational comedy is not as funny in execution as it may have been in conception. Granted, the movie is very stylistic in its bold colors, catchy music, and exaggerated performances. Most of the acting is done as if the people are portraying caricatures as opposed to actual characters. So perhaps this movie just doesn’t appeal to my sense of comedy but a leading character whom I don’t find likable, sympathetic, or even particularly disdainful leaves a blase taste in my mouth. Boyd, as played by Dylan Vox, is a bit demented, a fact that the director displays several times with creepy music and a creepy laugh to accompany a close up on his “crazed” eyes. Along with Boyd’s “psycho” moments are foreshadowing and repetitious dialogue; three techniques which seem a bit overdone and contrived. They are so in- your- face that they dictate the plot to the audience instead of simply portraying and progressing it. The plot itself is a bit weak in that this goofy character is able to cause infidelity and believes that sabotaging a show or relationships will grant him his stardom.
The movie does have its good aspects. Peter Szeliga who portrays Derrick, one half of the TV couple is a great contrast with his partner Collin, played by Bruce L. Hart. Derrick seems like a more realistic character while Collin is a bit extreme in his facial expressions and inflections. Ernest Pierce who portrays their neighbor Donovan also turned in a believable performance. Derrick and Donovan seem to have the most subtle characters and don’t seem to go for the caricature style. Rebekah Kochan deserves mention as Boyd’s fan who funds his exploits. She is definitely over- the- top but in contrast with Boyd’s “psycho” moments, her psychotic tendencies are more disturbing as they are sporadic. Also, while the movie follows a “twisted” individual, it doesn’t do what most psycho- thriller or dark comedies go for- dark, brooding ambience. This movie keeps it on the light, campy side with its bold colors and fun music. Boyd is demented, but not dark. Kudos for style but Boyd’s craziness is and much of the humor is lost to hyperbole and goofiness. I just wish the movie was as consistent with its comedic moments as it was with its style.
Homewrecker is not appropriate for kids under 17. There is a lot of eye candy, and a lot of flesh for the sake of it, combined with some adult content and language. The comedy was a bit lost on me but admittedly, I enjoyed it more the second time around. So if you are looking for a silly, but “twisted comedy” which runs about 100 minutes, Homewrecker may be a fun movie for you.

Clans of Scotland- A Journey into the Highlights and Low Points of Scottish History

Alicia Ayoub — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 23:15:35 +0000

Paul Murton takes the audience on an interesting trek, delving into the histories of 12 Clans of Scotland. He is very enthusiastic and knowledgeable as he learns from a slew of people and even participates a bit in sword fighting and kayaking. His journey is rife with impressive and deteriorating castles, magnificent landscapes, impressive artwork, unusual monuments and memorials, and beautiful songs. The movie, itself, is approximately 6 hours, comprised of 12 episodes for the BBC Scotland, and accompanied by original musical compositions.
Each episode is dedicated to a particular clan’s history- its events and some specific people- and its successes, trials, and sometimes devastation. The ordeals people went through are fascinating, enhanced by the several interviews Murton conducts. He encounters a motley selection of people, from professors and historians to clan chiefs and musicians. Each interviewee’s pride for their clan is palpable as they help to delineate their clan’s history, myth, and legend. Clan honor is in contest with clan betrayal, which is that much graver as the audience can comprehend the depth of one’s pride for his clan, as achieved by the movie’s excellent conveyance. Feuds, battles, and bloody history are described in depth. Positive things like agricultural reform to seemingly negative things like abduction are included as well. There is even a bit of reenactment that is portrayed to give the audience a taste of what clan life entailed centuries ago.
Overall, the movie is an interesting exploration of the facts and lore behind some of Scotland’s most notable clans. Murton and his interviewees are not short of the dramatic but the movie can get a bit dull, which can be helped by watching each episode separately. Also, occasionally, the imagery and the narration are non sequitur, but that is forgivable. The visuals are not graphic but the gruesome details of battles, torture, and executions may not be fun for the squeamish. There is something awesome to behold the beautiful, peaceful countrysides and to realize the courageous battles that covered that ground, or to visit a castle and know the terrible executions that occurred there. Yet, these are described and not shown, and so for the movie watcher who enjoys high action and effects, this is not the movie for him. But for the documentary lover and history buff, Clans of Scotland should be heartily satisfying.

Brava Italia: Not Brava Three Hours

Alicia Ayoub — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 23:23:17 +0000

Brava Italia is a long documentary, presented as three separate parts. While these are separated by theme, the whole movie is a series of snapshots of Italy’s several provinces, with some interviews of locals. The actor Paul Sorvino narrates with a love, pride, and enthusiasm for Italy apparent. Occasionally he includes Italian phrases with an exquisite accent. However, even his zeal cannot withstand the exorbitant nearly three hours that the movie lasts. While his philosophical musings and explanation of facts are interesting, nothing is expounded on. After the second hour, it felt like going to a museum and having only a few seconds to absorb each piece of art in order to see everything.
The three divisions seem to want to capture different facets of Italy. The first part, “The Proud Tradition,” displays everyone from the fisherman and violin- maker to the violinist and opera singer. The concepts that Italians do not take life for granted and do live life to the fullest are displayed in their work, religious ardor, architecture, sports, and of course food and wine. “Simplicity” is a motif mentioned often as the significance of food, wine, and conversation are explained to be the stuff of life which makes life “extraordinary” when shared. There is much to be inspired by in this section as the combination of the stunning images and the profound philosophies of life stoke the heart.
“The Beautiful Life” is the second section which seems to focus on Italy’s art. Again, the emphasis is on living life to the fullest. There is much about the culture and the history of creativity explored here, and, as such, reasons for the great pride and cultural confidence that Italians may feel. This section remains stimulating and enticing. By the third section, “The Eternal Country,” the format of brief glimpses and occasional monologue grows a bit tedious. This section describes how modern Italy appreciates its past while embracing its future and technology. This segment feels a bit contrived and may have been sewn better into the earlier parts. Or perhaps it would be more easily digested if all three parts were watched individually and not straight through the three hour duration.
Admittedly, the cinematography is stunning, simply breathtaking, and there are some very informative bits on history, facts, and lore. But there is so much visually to absorb and the script is written so as to only offer brief snippets of information, thus, to the viewer, it may feel a bit overwhelming and tedious. Also, while there is much to admire about Italy, the narration does make a few bold statements which can seem a bit arrogant and a turnoff. The movie feels like a long advertisement, albeit if I could, I’d hop a plane to Italy immediately. As for the film, it is clean and appropriate for children, if a parent could get them to watch a documentary. For the Italy enthusiast or documentary lover, it is wonderful. For the lay movie watcher, it is best served as an accompaniment to a wine and cheese festa.

Pushing The Limits- The Four Minute Mile: A Brilliant Moment In Sports History

Alicia Ayoub — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 09:27:00 +0000

The Four Minute Mile depicts the historic moment of Roger Bannister’s triumph over the seemingly impossible. For several years, athletes attempted to complete the mile race in under four minutes. A figurative “brick wall” was erected in the minds of many as racers tried and failed to break the world record. This film outlines the physical and mental trials of the athletes vying for the same dream. Finally, through sheer endurance, perseverance, and willpower, Roger Bannister became the first to overcome the tribulations.
This British film has a very slow, dull exposition as it is more concerned with the plot as opposed to characterization. It picks up the pace, so to speak, as the dialogue grows wittier and the audience can relate with the British Bannister (portrayed sublimely by Richard Huw) and his obstacles. Beginning with naysayers who aren’t convinced of Bannister’s ability, the film traverses his journey as he encounters formidable rivals in Nique Needles’ stellar performance of the Australian John Landy and John Philbin’s convincing American runner Wes Santee. Spurred on by the British conquest in 1953 of having the first climbers to ascend Mt. Everest, Bannister endeavors on his dream, facing such challenges as the Helsinki Olympics and his personal goal of completing medical school. The film culminates in a last grueling race between Bannister and Landy, with each man dealing with his own personal obstacles.
This film was made in 1988 and depicts the long trek that occurred throughout the 1950′s. As such, it is refreshing in a plethora of ways. There is nothing explicit about it, all the language remains clean and the film is ideal for all ages. Also, it is wonderful to see how competition was pure, with rivals’ mutual respect and a disdain for sponsorship. The movie is shot in a somewhat gritty style; there is no present- day glamour of polished cinematography, all the glamour resides within the integrity of the athletes and the races. The movie clocks in at just over three hours but that is understandable as it spans several years in the lives of Bannister and Landy.
Bannister is accompanied by Chris Chataway, played by Adrian Rawlins, and Chris Brasher, played by Robert Burbage, who are fellow runners who stoke Bannister’s flame to succeed. The final grace which guides him invaluably is his coach Franz Stampfl, impeccably portrayed by Michael York.
This is an inspirational story about Bannister, Landy and their peers, and their personal and shared challenges as they nobly embark on their ultimate dream. Even more compelling than their historical accomplishments is the ability of man to endure all types of obstacles through belief in oneself, determination, and focus. Thus, The Four Minute Mile is not only a great story but also motivation for anyone who longs to manifest his passion in life.