Michael's Weblog

Movie Review of "Underworld: Evolution"

Kate Beckinsale is back in skin tight leather to reprise her role of Selene in the movie “Underworld: Evolution”. That line itself is perhaps enough to make a lot of the targeted audience for this movie want to see it. Derek Jacobi plays Corvinus, the father of all vampires and werewolves. There’s really not much to this movie other than special effects.
It does give more detail to the history from the first movie: more about the brothers William and Marcus. More about their father, Corvinus. And finally more about Selene’s family.

The main plot is about Selene and Michael (Scott Speedman) trying to stop Marcus from awakening his brother. This chase brings them to a long forgetten castle where Williams is encased.

Of course, love plays a role as Selene and Michael’s love gets stronger. In the end, if you liked the first Underworld or are a fan of vampires and/or werewolf movies, this is a good movie to see. While it won’t win any Oscars, it’s certainly far from bad. I actually think it might be better than the first.

Overall, this is a good rental movie, although the special effects are nice on the big screen, B.

Movie Review of "Match Point"

Woody Allen is one of my favorite filmmakers. I can’t say that I have enjoyed everything he’s done, but when he succeeds, it’s as good as it gets. Even his mediocre films are above average. “Match Point” is about an Irish tennis pro who sees an easier way to a life of luxury through a wealthy family’s daughter. Jonathon Rhys-Meyers plays the Irish tennis pro, Chris. Emily Mortimer plays the daughter to whom he gets married. Scarlett Johansson plays Lola, the American temptress.

This complex look at love, marriage, lust, money and murder is at times disturbing. This is so not because it’s bad, but because it’s so believable. The film really delves into the depths of what lust and money can produce, even from the most unsuspecting sources. Finally, it is luck that bring about the climax. Just as in tennis, whether the ball that hits the net goes over, or comes back.

While the movie was a bit long, I can’t say there were parts that I would take out. It simply felt long. Other than that, I liked this movie a lot. Perhaps not Allen’s best, but certainly a well made movie with an interestingly told storyline. Among his best.

Director – A-
Acting – B+
Cinematography – B+
Writing – A

Overall, this is a first weekend movie, A-.