Editor’s note: Although Kyiv theaters rarely show films in the original language, there are other ways of getting hold of movies without irritating dubbing or subtitles. Buy a film at an online video shop (some of them deliver to the door) or pick up a movie in DVD stores across Kyiv. Here’s a list of the latest releases.
TRUE GRIT
USA 2010 Directed by Joel & Ethan Coen
Starring Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin
Genre: Western
Where to buy: Yakaboo, Hr 69
A tough U.S. Marshal helps a stubborn young woman track down her father’s murderer.
That’s what trailers say about “True Grit,” and while it’s not a lie, this blurb is definitely an understatement of the latest movie by the Coen brothers.
These filmmakers became legends in Hollywood many years ago, and they still manage to produce top-notch movies. Based on the novel of the same name, “True Grit” got 10 Oscar nominations in 2010.
Matt Damon matured from his usual ex-CIA agent appeal for the role of Texas Ranger. And Jeff Bridges, now 61, as the tough Marshall tastes as good as an aged supreme wine.
127 HOURS
USA 2010 Directed by Danny Boyle
Starring James Franco
Genre: Thriller
Where to buy: Yakaboo, Hr 61
What would you do if you were stuck in a cave for 127 hours and had to cut off your right arm to get out? Perhaps, risk it and then celebrate your birthday twice a year. That’s exactly what the lead character of the latest Danny Boyle movie did.
“127 Hours” is based on the true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston who got trapped in an isolated canyon in Utah for five days.
He cut off his arm that was stuck under a fallen stone, climbed up a 60-foot wall and walked eight miles before he was rescued. Actor James Franco is on his own in this cinematic ordeal. The camera is on him most of the time.
“127 Hours” is much better than Boyle’s previous “Slumdog Millionaire.” It is sincere and truly touching. Watch it until the end, it’s a true masterpiece.
NO STRINGS ATTACHED
USA 2011 Directed by Ivan Reitman
Starring Minka Kelly, Leighton Meester
Genre: Stupid romantic comedy
Where to buy: Yakaboo, Hr 66
Natalie Portman is a serious actress, but sometimes she takes a break and stars in movies like “No Strings Attached.”
She plays a woman absorbed by her work and career and has no time for a serious relationship. So she chooses tall, handsome and stick-thin Ashton Kutcher as a “friend with benefits.
” Soon, however, the couple will evolve into something more than occasional flirts and sex.
It’s one of those romantic comedies that men hate and women like a lot.
The film instructs viewers to start looking for a serious relationship. And that’s what women want, not men, right?
Anyhow, Portman is as good as always, and Kutcher is traditionally boring.
Some funny scenes and a couple of nice jokes make up for a boring train ride or an evening at home.
