Jesus Camp

There is no need to go to the movie-plex to see a horror film; Jesus Camp is probably more frightening than anything you could possibly see (out on DVD). You should really see it for yourself to try to wrap your head around the rapidly growing community of Christians that are anti-abortion, anti-science, and anti-anything that doesn’t have to do with Jesus. Basically, they’re “training” children to be God’s army. Umm, yeah – check it out, but don't tell me I didn't warn you.

United 93

This film just came out on DVD and I finally made myself watch. It wasn’t easy. It’s very emotional and there are obviously disturbing images in it, but it is absolutely captivating. It is very interesting to watch the portions with air traffic control and the chaos that was going on there, not to mention people’s baffled reactions at the thought of a possible hijacking. The portion on the United flight is by far the most difficult part to watch, but you see these actors become the real people who were actually there and it is a very surreal experience to watch since we all know how it ends. That’s what’s peculiar about the film, or any film based on real events; we know what’s going to happen, and in this situation it makes us sick to our stomachs, knowing that these people’s heroic and unimaginable actions aren’t going to end happily. Due to the sensitive subject manner and the respectable way in which it is presented, I think Paul Greengrass has a real shot at the Oscar for directing. Although it’s about time for Scorsese to finally get his, I wouldn’t mind seeing Greengrass win for his unbiased and undramatized work. Also, if you rent this, I recommend that you watch the special feature on the real families and their reactions to the film.

Letters From Iwo Jima

It’s not often that you see the Japanese perspective of WWII portrayed, if at all, by an American filmmaker. Part of Iwo Jima’s appeal is just that; it’s an untold story, and an unappreciated one at that. While the battle on the Japanese island is practically destined for defeat before it even begins, Clint Eastwood focuses on the loyalty the soldiers have to their country and their emperor. More than anything, the film is beautifully crafted and relies most of its storytelling on the reading of letters from the officers and soldiers to their loved ones. Ken Watanabe plays an honorable and committed general with ease. Another standout performance is that of Kazunari Ninomiya’s Saigo, a young and innocent baker that becomes an inept soldier. Overall it is a well-put together film that showcases the various ways in which people face defeat, whether with fear, grace, or hopelessness, when they have rigid orders to uphold to their country, as well as their dignity.

Directed by Clint Eastwood

Notes on a Scandal

Judi Dench is pure evil in this scandalously clad story about an adulterous teacher and an obsessed spinster (Dench is the latter, of course). It’s devilishly entertaining as Cate Blanchett’s free-spirited art teacher has an affair with one of her students while Dench comforts her, but not without hiding a few secrets of her own. The always impressive Bill Nighy is Blanchett’s husband in what seems like a perfect, loving relationship. This might be the biggest flaw of the film; the unconvincing motives behind Blanchett’s actions. However, the performances by the two leading ladies never feel forced and they are both so blunt, and even catty at times, that the film’s got a lot of edge. And that dame is truly scary – gold stars and all.

Directed by Richard Eyre

Children of Men

It’s always unsettling to see films set in the future, where the world is falling apart at the hands of radical revolutionists and relentless armies. Such is Children of Men. It’s quite difficult to watch at times as Clive Owen leads the only known pregnant woman to safety in an infertile world. It’s smart, thrilling, and straight-out depressing, but it really focuses on the importance of youth and the peace that child innocence brings to our lives.

Directed by Alfonso Cuarón