Saturday, December 25, 2010

You're Mickey Ward.

The Fighter

A crowning achievement for Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale, The Fighter is the inspiring true story of boxer Mickey Ward and his back and forth relationship with his brother, fighter turned addict, Dickie Eklund.

The Fighter is a fantastic showcase for its actors, most notably Christian Bale. He chews the scenery and demands attention, much like his character. His performances are usually quieter and more reserved. Even as Batman he has a quiet control about him. But as crack addict Dickie Eklund, Bale lets everything hang out from the inside and outside. While he's causing trouble for his family or going through withdrawal, we can even see Dickie behind Bale's eyes. He always looks hungry, for a comeback or crack. There's an insanity behind those eyes that disappears when Dickie gets clean. You can see to the depths of Dickie's soul in Bale's eyes. He will get nominated for his first Oscar and he will win. This is one of the male performances of the year.

While Bale demands to be the center of attention as Dickie, Wahlberg stands quietly by. Though Bale gives the movie's top performance, Wahlberg is not to be missed and this is a milestone for him as an actor. Wahlberg is usually chewing the scenery and doing the most he can with the words. But in The Fighter, Wahlberg is much more reserved and quiet, really showcasing his talent. He tells the story with his face, whether he's looking at you with intensity or looking down in shame. It was great to see a bit of a role reversal for both Wahlberg and Bale. The two play well together and form a believable older brother-younger brother bond.

Amy Adams and Melissa Leo are excellent in their supporting but pivotal roles. Leo is infuriating as Eklund and Ward's mother. Her tunnel-vision and blindness are despicable. Adams is equally strong and Ward's love interest. She isn't afraid to throw punches and stand up for her man and herself, even if she's punching Ward's family.

The fight scenes are well shot and the true story is very compelling. It's an impossible situation Ward is in; one wants to trust their family, but something family can be toxic. But in the end, he needs both. The film is a little too drawn out but is an excellent portrayal of unique family dynamics. The Fighter is not to be missed, definitely one of 2010's best.

Ian Somerhalder in The Vampire Diaries

As the sassy, guarded, wounded and foxy Damon, Somerhalder is the best part about The Vampire Diaries. His combination of snark and sexy are a welcome addition to TV. He delivers excellent one-liners, moves audiences during dramatic moments, and is simultaneously sympathetic and despicable. Somerhalder has certainly grown since the Boone days. If The Vampire Diaries were on any other network, Somderhalder would score himself an Emmy nomination.

Netflix


Igby Goes Down-Have the soundtrack, but never seen the movie.
Despicable Me-Missed this in theaters.
Exit Through the Gift Shop-Netflix Instant. Not totally sure what it's about, but this Banksy character is intriguing.

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