CRIMSON PEAK (2015)

Genre: Horror
Running Length: 1:59

Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Tom Hiddleston, Jessica Chastain,Charlie Hunnam

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Screenplay: Guillermo del Toro & Matthew Robbins

As one of the characters in CRIMSON PEAK quoted, this movie isn't so much a ghost story but more of a story with ghosts. In fact the sightings of apparitions are just red herrings to a tragic love story (not to say that the appearance of these "dead people" are Casper like because I actually had to close my eyes a few times and watched with my ears). 

I'm not sure if the filmmakers deliberately crafted this movie as a 100% homage to 19th century Gothic literature but everything from the dialogue to the production set somehow made me feel like I was watching a sweeping period piece. Strangely, there were moments I felt like I was watching a stage play but presented in a cinematic fashion. Perhaps it was the manner of the dialogue that was presented by the actors (at times, the dialogue sounds over-the-top silly), or perhaps it's because the majority of the film takes place in a lavish but run down English mansion set piece. No, it's not actually a bad thing because I was thoroughly engaged throughout. Although I must say, the occasional shocking violence and hardcore gore seemed a little out of place. 

As good as the lead actors are, they are somewhat interchangeable. Just like the Phantom of the Opera stage play, audiences are more invested in the characters rather than the actors playing these characters. So for example, Tom Hiddleston's character in this movie could have been played by say, Hugh Jackman (but Hugh Jackman wouldn't be able to play the character of Loki because Tom Hiddleston IS Loki). 

Lastly, from a technical standpoint, Crimson Peak is a spectacle. The set design is a treat for the eyes, the cinematography is breathtakingly beautiful and the score is perfect. The CGI is used very appropriately. Del Toro's distinctive style is very much evident here as demonstrated in his "creatures". His "monsters" are not just scary but they are usually soulful. And in this film, he doesn't really rely on boo moments to scare his audiences but prefers to allow dread and tension to build instead. 

This del Toro's dark and twisted fantasy is definitely worth the experience. 

Rating: 8.5/10

  

THE MARTIAN (2015)

Genre: Science Fiction
Running Length: 2:21
Cast: Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Michael Pena, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan, Aksel Hennie, Jeff Daniels, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kristin Wiig, Sean Bean

Director: Ridley Scott
Screenplay: Drew Goddard, based on the novel by Andy Weir

"You solve one problem and then the next. You solve enough problems and you get to come home." Mark Watney

THE MARTIAN is probably one of the most accessible films from Ridley Scott since Gladiator. This is Castaway for today's generation; where Damon's character spends the majority of his time talking to an "audience" aka. video blogging rather than talking to himself. And his best friend is Wilson the GoPro camera (several of them actually).

The science and maths in this film is easier to follow compared to Nolan's Interstellar. Apparently it was even fact-checked by NASA. The plot is easy to follow too. Damon's character is an astronaut where he was left behind on planet Mars by his fellow crew mates due to a freak storm. They presumed he was dead. So our protagonist must use his smarts to find a way to survive on the red planet until he is possibly rescued - several years away.

Although the narrative sounds depressing, the film's tone is actually pretty positive and upbeat. Eventhough the subject matter is serious, the film is approachable thanks to several light hearted moments peppered with appropriate low-key comedy. Also, it has a good balance of how Damon's character tackles both his physical limitations and psychological challenges. So, it's not emo all the way. From the trailers, audience may think that they are in for a boring time, seeing one man going up against one complication after another but it's actually more than that. There are several stories unfolding at the very same time but shares the same mission - to bring our astronaut back home safely, thus making this an interesting watch as we witness brilliant minds around the world coordinating and working together.

As good as Matt Damon is as our everyday hero, he is no Tom Hanks. Nevertheless, his performance here is arguably one of the best in his career. The supporting cast (with very big names) is equally impressive.

I'm glad the filmmakers use practical effects to enhance the look and feel, rather than hardcore CGI. Also, the smart editing coupled with an inspired choice of disco music gives the film a good pacing. Although the ending is a little too over-the-top (and the plot involving the Chinese government seemed forced and out of place), The Martian is still a feel-good cinematic experience.

Rating: 8.5/10