Here’s what to watch in film and television:
Film Releases for Mar. 28:
“Noah”
One of my most anticipated films of the year, Darren Aronofsky’s artistic take on the story of Noah and his ark has been praised for its brave new look at a classic tale. One word keeps appearing in the critics’ reviews: ambitious. Adapting an ancient, biblical tale for today’s generation of moviegoers is “ambitious” enough as it is, but Aronofsky has taken this task even further with his artistically audacious talent. “Noah” stars Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, and Ray Winstone. This is a beautiful, inventive, and often brutal vision of the epic Bible story everyone knows.
See it or skip it? See it!
“The Raid 2”
The 2011 film “The Raid: Redemption” was one of the best films of its year. Swift, brutal and fast-paced, it’s easily one of the best action films of the developing decade. Now, with the sequel to the original film upon us, I can say that “The Raid” is one of the best action franchises of the developing decade – not just the best film. Whereas the first film was set in one place with a rather simple storyline, the second film broadens the scope, opening the setting to an entire city, and introducing to us more complex characters while still sticking with our main character from the first. Hailed for its inventive choreography, “The Raid 2” is the action/thriller of the year, thus far.
See it or skip it? See it, if you’re in the mood for one insane thriller.
“Sabotage”
Perhaps everyone spoke too soon when we were (more or less) excited about Arnold Schwarzenegger’s return to film acting. He’s produced more duds in the last three years than the rest of his acting career. “Sabotage” is no exception. Although directed by David Ayer, the man who brought us the great police drama “End of Watch,” this film lacks the essentials of the “police procedural,” expecting us to become invested in characters we are hardly even acquainted with.
See it or skip it? Skip it in theaters, but rent it if you’re in the mood for some mindless action.
DVD/Blu-ray Releases for Apr. 1:
“Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues”
The Channel 4 News Team is back in “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues,” and they’re better than ever. Going against the ongoing tradition of comedy sequels normally being atrocious, this sequel goes above and beyond the call of duty and delivers a film even better than its predecessor. Keep in mind, however, Will Ferrell and Adam McKay (the team behind the “Anchorman” franchise, among other films) have a very particular sense of humor that blends sheer goofiness with shades of obscenity and downright awkwardness – in other words, it’s not for everyone. For those who “get it,” though, it’s a great film.
See it or skip it? Rent it, if you’re in the mood for an obnoxious night.
“47 Ronin”
This was the worst film I saw in 2013. “47 Ronin” suffered many delays throughout its tedious production – and you can tell. The samurai film starring the world’s most-unlikeable-worst-actor-ever, Keanu Reeves (Sorry Keanu, Nicolas Cage holds the title of world’s most-likeable-worst-actor-ever), lacks any sense of pacing with its story and action. Ultimately, it’s a film that tries to be something it’s not – good.
See it or skip it? Skip it.
