Micmacs (2009)

Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Written by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Guillaume Laurant
Starring Dany Boon, André Dussollier, Yolande Moreau and Dominique Pinon

A man who lost everything after who suffered a brain injury from a stray bullet that hit him in the head is given a new life by a group of eccentrics who live in the junk yard. Together, they help him devise a plan to seek revenge on the weapons manufacturers who made the bullet as well as the landmine that killed his father when he was a child.

A not-so-subtle criticism of the weapons dealing industry, this film is a humorous and beautiful portrayal of how wars and violence can affect the lives of anyone. The characters, all of whom have had either emotional or physical scarring from some sort of weapon, create this brilliant plan to bring down two arms manufacturers without violence. It is definitely a revenge film unlike no other.

It kind of felt like "The Borrowers" but for adults. The way they would build things to fit their needs and would utilize the most random parts for their amusement, I cannot think of another film to compare it too. It is just so outlandish that I feel Tim Burton would even be impressed by it.

I want my own personal orchestra to follow me around!

"Micmacs" is a rare film that has strong political tones that are highlighted by the humorous way the story is told through the film makers. It's not often that a film will make a point without shoving it down your throat for the entire running time of the movie. But this one achieves in taking a stand without having you roll your eyes.

My Rating: 9/10

Dom Hemingway (2013)

Written and Directed by Richard Shepard
Starring Jude Law, Richard E. Grant, Emilia Clarke and Demian Bichir

A career criminal who was just released from prison returns to the boss whom he had been quiet about while in prison. The reward money the was given for doing so is stolen and Dom Hemingway's life begins to spiral out of control.

Neither a film about repentance or life change, "Dom Hemingway" is just about a criminal trying to get back his criminal life, yet attempting to regain the trust of his daughter. He never once apologizes for his actions and continues to break the law throughout.

While not a deep, meaningful story that we see so often in movies about gangsters, it is rather interesting. The character Jude law creates is so fun and eccentric that it is near impossible to turn away. With seemingly poetic threats and insults, he speaks his way through the film with such a force that it is difficult to dislike him.

Just look at this side burns!

"Dom Hemingway" has a lot of positives about it. It has great writing, acting and cinematography just to name a few. I enjoyed it. But this isn't a "must see" movie. Sure it was fun and comedic and I'm happy I watched it. It just wasn't mind-blowing or even heart-pounding.

My Rating: 5.5/10