book ends movie list: Avatar

2. After the surplus of praises for Avatar, I very curious to see what all the fuss was about. So I strapped on some 3D glasses and braced myself for IMAX goodness. First off, the movie started without any previews, or even any hint that it was the feature film--which I blame on the theatre (Navy Pier). So the movie started, and for the first five minutes I was thinking that it was an extended preview for a different movie. But soon enough I was enthralled by the special effects and the floating 3D flower petals and such. Unfortunately, watching a 3D movie for 3 hours gave me more than a bit of a headache. Aside from the dull ache behind my eyes, the movie was very fun to watch. And I wish I could say that the plot was as entertaining as the effects. But in all honesty, I found the plot to be very predictable, and full of one-dimensional characters. While the film had a good message about humanity and our earth, I found myself a little bored without any surprises whatsoever. If James Cameron had given Avatar's plot even half the effort he gave to its effects and cinematicness (this may not be an actual word?), then I think I would have more fully enjoyed the film as a whole.

L. Stacks

book ends movie list: Up in the Air

It's still January, I think that it's perfectly fine that I still am making New Year's resolutions. So I have one more to add to my list (which I'm actually doing okay with so far!): watch more movies (in theaters). I figure that since movies, too, deal with the writing industry, I need to make sure that I am up-to-date on what's going on out there.

So, since my installation of my book ends book list posts, I've decided to start another list for the year--my 2010 "book ends movie list." So first up for the year: Up in the Air.

1. I really enjoyed this movie--the plot was fresh and interesting, and I felt invested in the characters. I thought Anna Kendrick's performance in this movie was much better than in both Twilight and New Moon, and I adored George Clooney. What I liked the most about this film was the thoughtfulness behind it. What's it's about, really, is the coldhearted feel of many businesses today (especially with all of the layoffs and cuts), and also about baggage: the people and things that are important to us, and why. While I wouldn't exactly call this movie cheery, I did leave the theater feeling hopeful, which is always a plus in my book.

Also, I'm finally going to get around to seeing Avatar on Friday and I can't wait!

L. Stacks