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Sunday, December 2, 2007
The movies I can’t wait for you to see
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
For the longest time it seemed like 2007 was going to be one of the worst years ever for outstanding movies. It may still turn out to be that way. It’s not like we’ve been drowning in great movies.
But this month and next will bring at least a handful of films that warrant consideration on just about anybody’s Top 10 list for the year.
“ATONEMENT (opening Friday) — This English drama, set before, during and after World War II, is a good bet to be a contender for Oscar’s best picture. Keira Knightley. James McAvoy. About a young girl (the wonderful Saoirse Ronan) who misconstrues something she sees and makes accusations that destroy lives. This film might break your heart. It sure broke mine.
“JUNO” (opening Dec. 21) — Fresh-faced actress Ellen Page is a little firecracker. In this vibrant teen pregnancy comedy/drama she matches wits with Michael Cera (“Arrested Development”). I’ve already heard insiders call this the better “Knocked Up.” I might not go that far. But I still say mark your calendar.
“THE SAVAGES” (opening Christmas Day) — Philip Seymour Hoffman and Laura Linney are dysfunctional (is there any other kind in the movies?) siblings dealing with their estranged father’s Alzheimer’s. Sad, witty, funny and moving.
“THERE WILL BE BLOOD” (opening Dec. 26 in New York and Los Angeles for Oscar consideration; opening in metro Atlanta sometime in January) — Daniel Day-Lewis delivers the male performance of the year in Paul Thomas Anderson’s long, precise, bookish look at a turn-of-the-20th-Century golddigger who strikes oil and casts his spidery business web across America’s dusty West. And get ready for supporting actor Paul Dano, who plays a scheming preacher. He’s the guy who wouldn’t talk in “Little Miss Sunshine.” Trust me, he’s talking now and at times he’ll mesmerize you.
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Special holiday videos — Watch No. 1 now
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
How best to get December started? I say watch a movie. All this month I’ll be bringing you various holiday videos worth watching — and hearing.
Up first is this high-concept work called “I CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S CHRISTMAS” done with stop-motion filming and a nice, original song. Talk about being merry and bright!
Permalink | Comments (2) | Categories: Mr. Smithee's Megaplex
