Love & Mercy (2014)

Directed by Bill Pohlad
Written by Oren Moverman and Michael A. Lerner, based on the life of Brian Wilson
Starring John Cusack, Paul Dano, Elizabeth Banks and Paul Giamatti

In the 1960s, Beach Boys leader Brian Wilson struggles with emerging psychosis as he attempts to craft his avant-garde pop masterpiece. In the 1980s, he is a broken, confused man under the 24-hour watch of shady therapist Dr. Eugene Landy.

A film about a person I was unaware of from a band I don't particularly care for, yet somehow found myself deeply invested in his story. Being director Bill Pohlad's first film in the captain's chair since 1990, there was some obvious rust that he had to shake off, but did so all the while creating a heart wrenching story of a man trapped by his own illness.

With valiant performances from the entire cast, most notably Paul Dano and John Cusack, an unexpected problem arose. John Cusack is so impressive as the aging rock star that he distracts from the rest of the cast.

There was one scene in particular that was mostly shot over his shoulder to Elizabeth Banks. His reflection is scene out of focus just behind her, but I couldn't take my eyes off of his blurry face. His performance was so powerful that I was drawn to it, even when he was barely on screen.

Another thing that was obvious was Paul Dano's voice. He matched Brian Wilson's voice so well that I couldn't tell which scenes were Paul singing and which were the original recording.

The film, overall was decent. I had some issues with the editing, but most of you wouldn't even notice it if I pointed it out. The acting, of course was top notch and the story was beautifully tragic. I would definitely not call this one of the top ten movies of the year, but it is worth the watch.

My Rating: 7/10

Pitch Perfect 2 (2015)

Directed by Elizabeth Banks
Written by Kay Cannon, based on characters created by Mickey Rapkin
Starring Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow and Hailee Steinfeld

After a humiliating command performance at Lincoln Center, the Barden Bellas enter an international competition that no American group has ever won in order to regain their status and right to perform.

This film did not miss a single beat, no pun intended, from it's predecessor. Where many sequels try to explain where the group has been since their last journey, and bore the audience with unnecessary back story, this movie just jumps right into the plot without hesitation.

In her feature length directorial debut, Elizabeth Banks shines at the helm of this film. She created a fun and humorous sequel to the 2012 film in which she had a small, bit part. Her talent as a director is unquestionable in my mind after witnessing this enjoyable musical ride.

What else is there to say about this movie? I mean, it doesn't have any deep, well thought undertones. It doesn't have any kind of agenda or opinion to give. It is just a fun, enjoyable movie. Despite my disdain for watching people sing solos (it makes me very uncomfortable), I found myself laughing and tapping my feet after those solos were over. And that's all this movie really wants to accomplish.

My Rating: 7/10