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Monday:
The Queen (2006)

…you will be captivated…

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Families are a peculiar thing. It doesn't matter if you are poor, rich, or even royalty. You are always going to have bickering amongst each other, and you must accept it to live [somewhat] happily with each other. That may be one The Queen's best qualities. All of the characters feel human. At certain points, you may even feel like you were in the film. I found myself getting uncomfortable in the Queen's presence, and I found often caught myself thinking of the proper protocol. During the intro, Helen Mirren unflinchingly looks into the camera and gives you a look that says, "I am the boss. This is my movie. I am in control."

After Princess Diana's death, Queen Elizabeth II (Mirren) sits in her cozy palace while she watches the world around her mourn. Since Diana was no longer a part of the royal family, she cannot fathom why anyone would ask her to give her the funeral that would top anything ever done before. As she is stuck in the past, Tony Blair, the new Prime Minister must convince the Queen that the public deserves to be a part of a memorial service. The film allows you to go behind the scenes as they both deal with their own feelings while pleasing the public.

The Queen has a few clips here and there of Princess Diana which are surprisingly well-edited. The only scene with Diana that isn't real footage is the actual moment of her death. You don't see her body, but you do see the car crash. This has to be one of the best scripts ever written. Helen Mirren really doesn't care if you like her or not even though by the end you will be captivated. Her elegance is amazing and after seeing her interviews in real life, I realize how much work actually went into this role. If you are afraid of a dull movie about government this is not it. You are probably referring to a documentary of some sort. This is, after all, a fictional account of what was going on behind closed doors. So, for anyone who likes gossip this is for you.

My Rating =

Rent

Wednesday:
Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

...pacing is incredible...

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A fairy tale aimed at an adult audience? That would be ridiculous! Well, that is what one might say before watching Pan's Labyrinth. The film is definitely fantasy, but those who like war films and dramas will finds something to enjoy also. Even monster lovers will enjoy the appearances of numerous creatures throughout the show. I wouldn't advise that you let small children watch this though. Some of the gore and language are a bit extreme for that age group. Also, before you continue, be advised that the entire film is in subtitles. Dubs would have ruined its natural charm so I am confident it is for the better.

Ten year-old Ofelia comes across an ancient labyrinth hidden deep in one of Spain's forests. Pan, the guardian (and creepiest faun ever), gives her three nearly impossible tasks before he can grant her entry into the kingdom that was once hers. Her new home is far from what she would consider comfortable which only makes things worse. She is expected to call a ruthless, abusive man her "father" while staying on his good side. He makes sure that her life is harder than it needs to be as she races against the clock to complete her tasks before the next full moon.

If you want to see how fantasy should be, watch this film. If you want to see how any movie should be, watch this film. It is the perfect example of creativity, story telling, drama, and adventure. Also, one thing that got me from the beginning were the supporting roles. Ofelia receives a great amount of help from these characters and you just wish you could hug them for their kindness. The pacing is incredible and you will not leave the edge of your seat. Anyone with doubt should see it anyway. Afterwards, you'll feel sorry that you hadn't already seen it.

My Rating =

Rent

Friday:
Clue (1985)

...better than you might think...

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A movie based on a board game may not sound promising, but this 80s film is better than you might think. All of your favorite characters from the game are present. From Miss Scarlet's attitude to Col. Mustard's seriousness they will immerse you from the start. The butler is my personal favorite though. His swiftness is what makes him so hysterical. He will jump from one event to another only to occasionally slow down to let you catch up on the jokes. The pacing at times can be a bit fast, but after a while you get adjusted to it.

On a stormy night, the butler greets all of your familiar color inspired characters into a vast mansion. They have all been invited to a dinner, but no one knows why...until they do. The butler informs them that they are all being black mailed. During his talk, the power goes out, and a man appears dead on the couch. Everyone is shaken up yet they pull together to solve the murder mystery.

This film appeals a little to everybody. It has drama, comedy, mystery, and even a little bit of horror. Yes, it's age does show a little, but you will get every bit of what you paid for. After all, you could probably find this gem in a bargain bin, right? With three endings, an amazing cast, imaginative script, and so many twists and turns that your head will spin, how could you even dream of not seeing this classic?