Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Life of Pi

1.5 Paws
Seen recently at Regal Omaha Stadium 16

I passed on seeing this one the first time around - it seemed like a guy flick to me (special effects and a Robinson Crusoe-like storyline). But we're in the movie doldrums, that time of year after awards season and before the first summer blockbuster. Plus it won four Oscars, and director Ang Lee has made some pretty fabulous films (The Ice Storm, Crouching Tiger - Hidden Dragon, Brokeback Mountain).

I should have trusted my gut. The only thing I warmed to is the performance of Irrfan Khan, the actor who plays an adult version of the boy who survives a shipwreck that claims his family and the zoo animals that are their livelihood. The rest I could have lived without. I was horrified by the actions of the animals in the lifeboat, metaphoric or not.

It also confirmed one of my absolutes - never travel by sea, for business or for pleasure.

Bonus Bones: 1

A walk-on dog makes a brief street scene appearance before the family sets sail.

Sunday, March 17, 2013

Side Effects

2 Paws
Seen recently at Aksarben Cinema

This isn't a thriller, as the trailer sneakily implies. This isn't the type of movie where you can run out and buy Junior Mints when you start feeling a little peckish, as you're apt to miss something pivotal. This isn't the best choice for Channing Tatum fans, as he doesn't make it very far into the film.

This is, however, a pretty good psychological exercise, a twisty-turny tale that shows viewers the seedy side of the pharmaceutical business - any more said will ruin the intricately-woven plot.

On a side note, it's nice to see Polly Draper - Ellyn from the thirtysomething gang - looking fine in a small role as the lead character's boss. I think it's time for a fiftysomething reboot.

Bonus Bones: 0
No dogs, not even any in need of meds.