50/50

Movie Name: 50/50
Language: English
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Slice-of-life

After a long time, I got to watch a movie with right combination of elements that is essential for a great movie. This movie does not have extraordinary cast, plot, dialogues or special effects. But this movie does have all the right pieces at right place to make a perfect fit.

The plot is pretty simple. The story revolves around a young guy, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt who is informed about the vicious tumor that is growing within his spinal cord. Rest of the plot follows the ordeal of the protagonist and effect of his disease on his family, lover, and friends. There is nothing unique about the plot, yet the movie portrays the issue in a different light. The movie neither is overflowing with overly sentimental dialogues nor is making a mockery of the fragility of human existence. The movie depicts various genuine characters whom we encounter in our daily life be it doctors who work mechanically without emotions or be it lovers who leave your side when you are down.

The acting is great by everyone be it Seth Rogan, who is playing the friend who is more concerned benefiting with friend’s disease or Anjelica Huston, who is playing the mother of a young guy suffering with cancer. Joseph has impressed once again with his acting prowess. He has potential of becoming a great actor. The movie makes perfect sense unlike various others in its category. It treats a social cause and all related aspects with complete respect without being smothering or sarcastic. In a way, the movie treats the issue of cancer in the same way as "Thank You for Smoking" treated the issue of smoking. This movie is a must for all the movie lovers who seek some meaning or message from the cinema.

My ratings are 4.5/5.0

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Movie Name: Rise of the Planet of the Apes
Language: English
Genre: Drama, Action, Sci-fi

I saw Planet of the Apes long time back. I did not enjoy that movie much and I was not much enthusiastic about its prequel either. Yet I decided to watch it for the lack of any other fiction.

The story revolves around a genetics scientist named Will Rodman played by James Franco who is experimenting with drugs to cure Alzheimer diseases. He takes one newborn chimpanzee at his home and names it "Caesar" as its mother dies in an accident. The chimp retains the effects of the drugs that were administered to its mother. It evolves physically and mentally. Due to certain situation, Will is forced to leave Caesar with the animal care facility. There Caesar encounters firsthand human - cruelty and loneliness. His trust in humanity is destroyed. It uses its enhanced capabilities to save other apes and takes the role of their leader. The movie ends with the portrayal of spread of an infectious disease which affects only humans. In such way it demonstrates the start of a new era when Apes are destined to rule the planet.

I liked the movie due to great direction and script. It was way better than the first installment. The main cast is Caesar. Animation and graphics has done really great to show the inner turmoil and emotions of the animal which has far greater abilities than human, yet is being treated like a pet. Tom Felton has performed the despicable character of cruel animal care attendant very well. Others do not have much to do. Graphics sequences are great. This movie is a must for all cinema goers.

My ratings are 4.5/5.0