Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Movies.  Films.  The Silver Screen.  There is no shortage of words to describe modern day cinema, nor are there any shortage of critics dropping in their two cents on any given flick.  Now I can assure you there will be an even smaller shortage as I toss in my two Lincolns now.   I am Alexander Petit.  I watch movies, not obsessively and not lazily.  I watch films in an effort to dissect them, deeply understand them and most importantly, get my $7.50 worth at the theater.  I enjoy all genres of the screen although I won't deny I do favor some over others.  I enjoy a good stand-alone film that requires neither a sequel or a prequel.  I also love trilogies and sagas that stretch the imagination and provide hours upon hours of entertainment.  I'm here for it all. 

What am I looking for in a "good" movie?  Rhythm, pace, timbre and flow - all essential to a movie's overall feel.  Add some convincing acting, intelligent yet believable dialogue, an original plot and maybe a twist worth waiting for and I'll be a fan.  In a world where most films these days are adaptations, reboots, sequels or rip-offs - it can be very refreshing to find a smart, clever and groundbreaking film that has it all.

My reviews will grade movies of five categories that will be averaged on a five point scale.  These categories are all pillars of a good film, despite the genre, and are as follows:

1. Flow
2. Performances
3. Script
4. Originality
5. Cinematography

Although seemingly broad here, the basis of these will be dug into deeper as I go on with the reviews.  I'll try and update as frequently as possible with as many interesting films I see that deserve a review or opinion.  I find no better way to start than with my own top five favorites of all time.  These movies are golden to me, all watchable many times over and offer the same rewarding experience.  In a very particular order they are as follows:

5. The Jerk
4. Die Hard: With a Vengeance
3. The Empire Strikes Back
2. Matchstick Men
1. A Few Good Men

Join me as I explore what I am sure you will find, a very odd taste in good movies.  Join me in watching the classics again and again.  Join me in any theater, with any movie, and follow me to the edge of your seat.