Overall Impression — A well-crafted movie that tries to do everything right and succeeds from a structural viewpoint, but is ultimately undone by some unclear character motivations. THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who’s the main character? — Christian Bale’s Dan Evans. What’s he trying to accomplish? — Save the family ranch by getting the outlaw Ben Wade (Russell… Continue reading 3:10 TO YUMA
Tag: screenwriting
KNOCKED UP
Overall Impression — Crass, rude, and I loved it. THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who’s the main character? — Seth Rogen’s slacker-stoner, Ben. What’s he trying to accomplish? — Ben’s trying to figure out how to be a good boyfriend and potential father. Who’s trying to stop him? — To an extent, his slacker buddies as well… Continue reading KNOCKED UP
MARTIAN CHILD
Overall Impression — A feel-good movie that tries a little too hard, with a seriously misplaced antagonist. THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who’s the main character? — John Cusack’s character of David. What’s he trying to accomplish? — He’s trying to adopt a troubled child. Who’s trying to stop him? — His own personal doubts, his sister,… Continue reading MARTIAN CHILD
TRANSFORMERS
Overall Impression — Odd, inconsistent tone that veers between cartoon comedy and serious violence. Cool effects, though. THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who’s the main character? — Sam Witwicky. What’s he trying to accomplish? — Save the world by enabling the good robots to defeat the bad robots. Who’s trying to stop him? — Megatron, as well… Continue reading TRANSFORMERS
MARGOT AT THE WEDDING
Overall Impression — Interesting in the way watching a car crash is interesting. THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who’s the main character? — Nicole Kidman’s character, Margot. What’s she trying to accomplish? — To stop her sister from marrying the wrong guy. Who’s trying to stop her? — The guy, Margot’s son, and Margot’s sister. What happens if she… Continue reading MARGOT AT THE WEDDING