Take Shelter - Movie Review

Take Shelter

Rated R for some language

Filmmaking: ★★★★★

Moral Rating: ★★★☆☆

While I enjoy a good blockbuster film as much as any average viewer, independent films are what really interest me in the entertainment world. Generally deeper and more poignant films, independent films are required by lack of budget to rely on acting and story-telling for success. In "Take Shelter", a surprise hit from the 2011 Cannes Film Festival, Michael Shannon delivers a stunning performance as a mentally tortured construction worker named Curtis. Shannon has recently appeared on the celebrity radar with his terrific supporting role in "Revolutionary Road" and his upcoming appearance as General Zod in "Man of Steel" - the Zach Snyder directed Superman reboot.

In "Take Shelter", Curtis and his wife Sam live a simple life in an unspecified rural American town raising their deaf daughter Hannah and trying to make the most out their circumstances and surroundings. Things begin to change when Curtis starts having intense dreams of an oncoming apocalyptic storm. As the dreams become more frequent and more realistic, Curtis' behavior towards his family and coworkers rapidly changes. As Curtis tries to sort through these freakish visions he begins to build a storm shelter in his back yard in preparation. The catch is, he isn't sure that it is actually coming or not. Tensions mount as Sam, portrayed by 2011's hottest new actress Jessica Chastain (also seen in The Tree of Life and The Help), begins to doubt her husband's motives. The audience discovers that Curtis's family has a history of mental illness, so we are always uncertain of the validity of these dreams. I cannot reveal too much more without giving away the plot, but "Take Shelter" slowly builds until an incredibly emotional and intense climax.

Without a doubt, Michael Shannon is the star of this show. Under the direction of Jeff Nichols ("Shotgun Stories") Shannon builds a sense of paranoia in a very real way. Upon viewing "Take Shelter" I could see why he is quickly becoming a hot commodity in Hollywood. Shannon often says more in scenes without dialogue than those containing it. As a character who is trying desperately to protect his family, we see the turmoil in Curtis' eyes as he battles his own mind. The struggle is rooted in the question 'Do I protect my family from an apocalyptic storm that I believe is coming, or from myself?' I found myself switching sides quite often throughout the film, thanks to Shannon's incredible performance. The dreams, horrific in their loud sound editing, shocking violence and darkness, are effective at shaking up the audience in addition to Curtis. And indeed, we can see that something is amiss by the intensity of these visions!

Another shout out belongs to the score composer David Wingo. Cleverly utilizing minimalist strings and percussion, he often creates the effect of wind chimes in his score. Never loud or prominent, the score is just active enough to get under your skin. Subtle enough that you don't notice its presence, perhaps to give us that constant sense of dread that Curtis experiences in the film. While it reminded me at times of James Newton Howard's score to "Signs", Wingo is a fresh face in the movie music world and a good match for the thematic material of "Take Shelter".

In conclusion, you'll notice that I did not reveal many plot points. And this is something important to note! If you are looking for a thought-provoking drama/thriller, then "Take Shelter" is for you - but it is best to enter the theater knowing nothing more than what I've told you. Much of the tension and effectiveness of this film is in the audience's own doubts and perceptions. While not for children (there are a handful of f-words towards the middle of the film) I DO recommend "Take Shelter" for older audiences. Refreshing in a market awash with cinematic cliches, Michael Shannon's award-worthy performance in "Take Shelter" is not to be missed!

Signing out,
The REAL Bowman

The Muppets - Movie Review

The Muppets
Rated PG for mild rude humor
Filmmaking: ★★★★★
Moral Rating: ★★★★★


Thank you Walt Disney Company for getting it right!


When I first heard that Disney was planning a so-called 'reboot' of their lagging Muppets property, I was a bit skeptical. After all, the man who had pitched the idea to the studio and was attached to star was not exactly family friendly. Jason Segel, as likeable an actor as he is, comes from the Judd Apatow raunch-comedy troupe, has written and starred in "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and is a current favorite character on tv's "How I Met Your Mother" - which is also not exactly for the kids. I can happily tell you however that Segel's take on "The Muppets" is far from offensive. The film reintroduces The Muppets to a 21st century audience, yet never compromises the character and humor that the long-lived franchise is known for.


In "The Muppets" we are introduced from the very beginning to Gary (Jason Segel) and his brother Walter, a die-hard Muppets fan. We are never given the reason or opportunity to question how or why a puppet and human are brothers, but are asked to simply accept it in the whimsical spirit of The Muppets. Even though Walter is a new character, he is a welcome addition to the franchise and is according to Segel "the crazy, crazy, Muppet fan who grew up with them and they meant so much to him." (screenrant.com) Walter gets the chance of a lifetime when Gary takes him and his girlfriend of 10 years Mary (Amy Adams) to Los Angeles. While Gary intends for the trip to be a getaway and Mary hopes it will lead to a proposal, Walter is simply set on seeing the historic Muppet Studios. Once in LA Walter overhears a plot by the film's villain, Tex Richman (played perfectly by Chris Cooper), to raze the Muppet Studios once their contract expires, giving him access to an oil reserve beneath the property. The only way that this plan can be stopped is for the Muppets to reunite and put on a fundraiser show to raise the 10 millions dollars necessary to renew their contract and save The Muppet Theater.

Walter and Gary share a moment...

While certainly not an original story idea, "The Muppets" pulls off this plot better than any other film I've seen. The entire time I was watching, I was reminded of a much-lesser Disney movie from 2002 based on their "Country Bears" Disney World attraction. Where that film floundered in its own stupidity, Segel's script is witty, fun, and constantly paying homage to "The Muppet Show" and the early years of these characters. Old time fans will be touched by Kermit's song "Pictures in my Head" as he reminisces over the old days, or the presence of "The Rainbow Connection", a classic Muppets musical number. The new songs here start off a bit campy (the audience wasn't sure what to do when Jason Segel burst into song within the first 5 minutes) but as the film progresses, so does the quality of the songs. Bret McKenzie (of Flight of the Conchords fame) did an excellent job writing songs that fit the style of The Muppets. (Check out my personal favorite "Man or Muppet" on iTunes)

While the plot and songs are fine, what audiences truly care to see is the return of their much-loved characters! We discover that Kermit and Miss Piggy have been separated when we first see them, so much of the film is devoted to their (interspecies) relationship. Fozzie Bear and Gonzo fans never fear though, for we see ALL of our favorites in "The Muppets"! While I would have preferred to see more of Beaker, Rizzo the Rat and The Swedish Chef, each character has a role in the fundraiser show. In a wise move, the human characters never overshadow the Muppet characters, with both Gary and Mary moving into supporting roles once our heroes are re-established on screen. Granted, there is something amusing about seeing Jason Segel carry on an earnest conversation with puppets as if they are human. This childlike attitude seems to more than qualify Segel for the job as producer, writer and actor. As a long-time fan of "The Muppets" he treats them fairly, giving the characters the respect they deserve- never having to "reinvent" them. 


On a slightly random note, while you are viewing "The Muppets" keep your eyes open for the many, many celebrity cameos. Some are more prominent (such as Jack Black in a hilarious supporting role) and others are blink-and-you-miss-em fast (Mickey Rooney, Sarah Silverman, Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg, John Krasinski, Selena Gomez among others). Back in the days of "The Muppet Show" the guest celebrities were always a delight, and this proves true today. 


In conclusion, "The Muppets" is a surprise hit at the cinema this Thanksgiving. Jason Segel has created a hilarious, heartwarming film is already receiving rave reviews from critics and movie-goers alike. I commented to my friend as I left the theater that I couldn't remember the last time I had been to a movie that I enjoyed so much where kids made up the majority of the audience. This is indeed one of the great things about "The Muppets" - it is good, clean fun for all ages. Truly funny, touching and definitely worthy of repeat viewings, this movie is a must see. 


Signing out,
The REAL Bowman


Side Note: "The Muppets" had one of the most brilliant ad campaigns that I have seen in a long time, spoofing other major film events of 2011 such as "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo", "Breaking Dawn" and "Green Lantern". Check out the preview below....

Prodigals and Hipsters

"Hipsters are 'older brothers' pretending to be 'younger brothers'" - Ben Wolaver

What is it about the hipster movement that has so gripped pop-culture in the past few years? As someone who is constantly labeled a hipster, I tend to notice this more than your average American, yet most people can tell you to some degree what a hipster is. I personally love wearing plaid, have a pair of horn-rimmed glasses, enjoy listening to obscure indie music artists, am a conneuseur of coffee, and love literature. This seems to be enough to group me with the much more liberal "Hipster" hipsters that are generally more cynical, atheist existentialists. That, I DON'T relate to. Hipsters are also generally concerned with environmentalism, social justice and equal rights - even at risk of personal jeopardy or alienation from the masses.

Interestingly enough, there seems to be a movement growing more and more in the American church to be a "Christian hipster" - to skirt tradition and go off on our own to enact change we believe in.
So what exactly gives hipsters that 'sex-appeal', that desire to be a self-designated outsider that so attracts us?

I believe it lies in the same reasoning behind why many people sponsor children through World Vision and Compassion International, the same reason behind why many people volunteer at the local homeless shelters and food banks. Don't get me wrong, I am by no means discouraging this form of generosity. I am simply pointing out the fact that it is now attractive to associate with the lowly. Humility out of pride. Showing up to volunteer in the ghetto with our Starbucks and desire to help, because it is, well, COOL.

Instead of true humility and service out of a genuine love for God and our neighbor - an attitude like Jesus - we find many people with the attitude of a Pharisee parading as an inner-city Jesus. A desire to do right simply out of arrogance and self-importance. THIS is one thing that bothers me about the modern-day "Christian Hipster" movement.

Many times Jesus would use parables to expose the Pharisee's hypocrisy in public, and in Luke 15 we see one of the most obvious criticisms of the religious leaders. As he associated with 'sinners' the Bible says that the religious leaders "grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.”" (Luke 15:2 ESV). Immediately Jesus told 3 parables, finishing with The Prodigal Son. (If you want to read it click HERE.) Most pastors focus on the younger brother, how he squandered his father's wealth and in humility came back to his Father, who received him with open arms. And indeed this is a glorious reception for the son, who lost everything.


 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. (Luke 15:17-24 ESV)


The younger brother realized his error, humbled himself, and came to his father as a servant. Adopting an attitude as a servant is certainly no strange concept to the Christian faith. Christ himself humbled himself by becoming human to live and die among us. And we are even encouraged to imitate Him in this humility. (read Philippians Chapter 2 for this!)

The older brother in this story is often overlooked, unfortunately. Even though he lived in his father's house and had everything he needed, he still couldn't rejoice when his brother was restored to the family. All he saw was his brother's sin, not the fact that he had returned. "...he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’" (Luke 15:28-30 ESV)

Up until this past century it was an extremely attractive thing to be a squeaky clean Christian. In other words, people looked up to you and considered you better than others if you went to church, knew scripture, abstained from drinking, sex, cursing etc. In the 21st century we find ourselves in a world where the exact opposite is true. Public views of the church are increasingly more and more negative, and the world criticizes and ridicules Christians who isolate themselves in the confines of the church using words like "legalistic" and "judgmental". This is where the "Christian hipster" music finds its roots. It is a fact that people like to be accepted and their actions approved. By criticizing the body of believers and setting out to associate with those who need help - being something of a prodigal Christian - we find that the world accepts us more and what we do. At what cost though? This facade of humility, acting like the prodigal son while we are nothing more than an older brother, is ripping at the foundation of our faith! What is that foundation? LOVE. Pure, unadultered, selfless, genuine LOVE - straight from the heart of our heavenly Father and intended to be shared with the world out of the overflow of our hearts.

Please don't misunderstand, I am glad that people recognize the flaws in legalism and judgment in the church. I am glad that young people are desiring to pour into the lowly, the poor and 'sinners' as Pharisees would call it. At least needs are being met!

The challenge is that we must remember who we were, and who we are. We are all unworthy of the Father's mercy. We are ALL called to LOVE those around us, and we are most importantly called to die to self. As it says in Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."


So who are you?
Do you have the heart of a younger brother, humbly returning to your Father?
Or do you have the heart of the older brother, unable to rejoice in other's joy because your eyes are turned inward?
Are you trying to look like a Prodigal? Or have you found yourself at the place of actually being a Prodigal?
Do we love because He first loved us?

Signing out,
The Buckland Fiddler

Coldplay - "Mylo Xyloto" Album Review

Artist/Band: Coldplay
Album: Mylo Xyloto
Rating: ★★★★☆

Just last year I was talking with a friend of mine about the constant evolution in the music industry when the comment was made that "People just don't understand that music changes!" And this is oh so true. Styles have subtly shifted into an electronic pop/based sound in the past couple of years, hearkening back to the 80's and incorporating techno and dubstep influence to create a style all it's own. Some of the aforementioned music is cliche and canned, yet there remain artists who can take the sounds of the times and craft them into something creative and accessible. While many people would say that if a band has a good sound they shouldn't change it, I would say that adapting sound is a sign of a band's maturity and ability to relate to the culture.

With all this being said, one could honestly say that Coldplay is a band without fear. It would seem that way, anyhow, after the release of "Mylo Xyloto", Coldplay's newest and definitely most ambitious project to date! After the popularity of 2008's "Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends" one would have expected Chris Martin, Johnny Buckland, Guy Berryman and Will Champion to continue in the art-rock vein of their music. Or at least the space-rock sound of 2005's "X & Y". Instead, Coldplay viewed their 5th record as an opportunity to start from scratch - seemingly delivering a metaphorical middle finger to all expectations. Already being praised by some and blasted by others, "Mylo Xyloto" is polarizing fans because of it's drastic departure from the Coldplay we've grown accustomed to.

Let's start with the good. On "Mylo Xyloto", Coldplay has created a hypnotizing sound unlike anything they have ever done. Tossing out the alternative and space rock riffs for techno beats and synth riffs, this new record is gaining the attention of the pop market that they had never quite had. "Viva La Vida" had a few hits that became popular in the pop saturated market, but "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall" and "Paradise" are two singles that have already crossed over, getting the attention of people who have never before liked Coldplay. The pop feel is strong, with auto-tuning used for effect (such as on the oh-so-catchy "Hurts Like Heaven"), catchy synth hooks and bass drops. Brian Eno is credited as having played on "Mylo Xyloto", and providing what the boys in the band like to call "Enoxification". Eno contributed to "Viva La Vida", and his presence on Coldplay's records certainly takes their music beyond what one might normally expect. Take for instance the electronic beeps and heavily distorted synth of "Princess of China." Speaking of "Princess of China", this tracks features the surprising yet fitting presence of Rihanna. If all this talk of electronics and pop singers is scaring you, don't fret! There is your fair share of classic acoustic-based Coldplay music on "Mylo Xyloto" - the contemplative "Us Against The World", the religious meets sci-fi "UFO" and even the paranoid "Major Minus."

Now the bad..... Sigh. Chris Martin has always been a deep writer; using metaphors, religious imagery and history to influence his lyrics. For "Mylo Xyloto" Martin was apparently inspired by NYC graffiti and the White Rose Movement, which was an intellectual uprising against Nazi Germany. Even though this comes through clear on some tracks, many of the lyrics on this record are shallow and weak. "Up In Flames" for example is one track that attempts to build up, but the lyrics (and the music) fail to ever reach a climax. "Don't Let It Break Your Heart" is another example of a song that just seems to try too hard using pads and riffs rather than focusing on building around lyrics. The songs on "Mylo Xyloto" are all catchy, very radio friendly, and for all purposes are good songs but the problem lies in the fact that they just never seem to ever reach the emotional impact that the previous 4 records achieved.

Where is the newest "The Scientist" or "Fix You"? Where is a pounding anthem like "Viva La Vida"? While "Enoxification" certainly is helping Coldplay gain a new hold on the music market, it's complete 180 seems to be alienating their long-time fans who simply want the good old boys who wrote "Yellow" and "Clocks" back. While I am a huge fan of the new record, I see what they are saying. Electronic music is not a bad thing, but as soon as it becomes a gimmick rather than a tool, it has been abused - and Coldplay is dangerously close to this!

Still, "Mylo Xyloto" is definitely worth purchasing.

Must own tracks: "Hurts Like Heaven", "Us Against The World"

Mutemath - "Odd Soul" Album Review

Artist/Band: Mutemath
Album: Odd Soul
Rating: ★★★★★
Produced by Mutemath

Mutemath never ceases to amaze. Their self-titled debut was a solid indie-alternative record, featuring such fan favorites as Typical, Chaos, Stare at the Sun and Reset. Then there were the mind-blowing music videos! When Paul Meany, Darren King, Roy Mitchell-Cardenas and Greg Hill returned to the studio to record a follow up, the band was split on what musical direction to take. After much frustration and a near break-up, Mutemath decided to scrap everything they had done so far and start from scratch. Recorded in New Orleans, "Armistice" was a huge leap in musical maturity. Featuring a more prominent synthetic and electronic edge, this record was both innovative and accessible. Supported by a live show that is regarded by many as one of the best in the world, Mutemath held onto their position as one of the best alternative bands in the industry (and we'll ignore the fact that their song "Spotlight" was featured prominently on the Twilight soundtrack). Earlier this year however, Mutemath announced that guitarist Greg Hill was no longer with the band, and that the third record had been recorded as a trio. Needless to say, fans were a bit nervous as it was uncertain what was gong to happen next.

I am glad to say that "Odd Soul" is probably the most solid offering yet from the New Orleans rock group. While their previous efforts were more electronic in nature and held more of an alternative rock feel, "Odd Soul" goes back to the band's roots and incorporates soul, funk, blues, classic rock and 80's pop elements for a surprisingly diverse record. The title track, the launch single "Blood Pressure" and several other tracks such as "Tell Your Heart Heads Up", "Allies", and "Cavalries" feature a more raw, almost White Stripes-like, guitar presence. Definitely influenced by soul, funk and blues rock artists, "Odd Soul" is almost an ode to music of the past. Combine that with very soulful vocals, retro 70's drumbeats (Check out the song "Prytania") and the presence of organ and synthesizer, and you have a record that is closer to New Orleans jazz than a Mutemath record.

Lyrically, Paul Meany has always been very artistic and vague, disguising real life issues with rhetoric and metaphor rather than sticking to a particular them. This time around, however, Meany revisits his childhood growing up in a religious family and its impact on him as an individual. This is NOT from a Christian perspective though. Lyrically, Meany is very quick to talk about the problems he has with organized religion and his departure from it. While Mutemath DID come from the ashes of a former Christian band called Earthsuit, they will be quick to assure you that Mutemath is strictly a rock band. A self-proclaimed Universalist, Paul Meany conveys a message of frustration and cynicism on "Odd Soul". I was once a son, now I'm on my own. Wade through everyone, And I've got myself to show. The trials and tribulations seem to always track me down. Gonna ride off into the sunset and try me another town (Odd Soul). Haven't you suffered enough on the straight and narrow? Stand on your own (Cavalries). "Blood Pressure" seems to discuss the effects of legalism - Why can't you do a little more for Jesus? Why can't you? Blood pressure... keep rising. "Walking Paranoia" takes a different angle to the same idea. I am a nervous wreck. Jesus is coming back. Gonna catch me at a porno rack. I'm about to have a heart attack. Am I on hell's highway? Cause I'm walking paranoia. 


Each song on "Odd Soul" follows this theme. While it is depressing to see such frustration coming from such a talented man, Meany certainly raises excellent questions. What kind of a church did he go to that disillusioned him so much? Why is it that Meany must sing I'm undecided if kidding or not. Under the smiling, you never know. Fall in a line if you're standing around. Let the harvester carve your soul (Quarantine)? Both a musically and lyrically intense record, "Odd Soul" makes you think. I can't begin to touch the surface when it comes to the lyrical depth. Each song carries weight and rawness.

I would suggest that "Odd Soul" is Mutemath's strongest work to date. While much darker lyrically, the musical ingenuity is refreshing in a market flooded with pop clones.

Track Listing:
1. Odd Soul
2. Prytania
3. Blood Pressure
4. Tell Your Heart Heads Up
5. All or Nothing
6. Sun Ray
7. Allies
8. Cavalries
9. Walking Paranoia
10. One More
11. Equals
12. Quarantine
13. In No Time

Switchfoot - "Vice Verses" album review

Artist/Band: Switchfoot
Album: Vice Verses
Rating: ★★★★★

It is difficult to put a band like Switchfoot in a proverbial box. With 7 full length records and a greatest hits collection since their debut in 1997, expectations have been enormously high for the follow up to 2009's Grammy award winning record "Hello Hurricane". While HH was a very well written record, it somewhat polarized fans. Those who loved it swore by it's clever instrumentation and more experimental vibes; yet there remained a fragment of the fanbase that longed for a return to a more guitar-driven-arena-rock record like Nothing is Sound" (2005). Even though "Oh, Gravity" (2006) and "Hello Hurricane" had a few songs that channeled the sound that made them famous with the song "Meant to Live", these records seemed more like fun side projects than an actual follow up to "The Beautiful Letdown" and "Nothing is Sound".

So now we have "Vice Verses", one of the best records Switchfoot has ever released. Building on the huge sound of "Nothing is Sound" combined with the emotional and lyrical rawness of "Hello Hurricane" and Jon Foreman's solo ep's; "Vice Verses" explores themes of death, life and renewal through the concept of the constant battles we face in life. "I am the war inside, I am the battle line, I am the rising tide, I am the war I fight." ("The War Inside"). Foreman's writing has never been so potent as now. "Restless" depicts a soul searching for God "Running hard for the other side, The world that I've always been denied, Running hard for the infinite, With the tears of the saints and the hypocrites../ I am restless, looking for you." "Thrive" and "Vice Verses" channel Foreman's solo writing style, while "Selling the News" is a welcome journey into new territory for Switchfoot as Foreman speaks rather than sings the verses. The album opener and closer "Afterlife" and "Where I Belong" bookend the record well, pondering life after death. And these are just a few that I chose to mention. The songwriting is solid from beginning to end.

"Dark Horses" was the first single released from "Vice Verses" and while I loved the song, I find that it gets overshadowed by vastly superior songs. This is one record that I had high expectations for, and Switchfoot has delivered. Every song is deep. Every song makes you think. Every song is well written, produced and performed. Don't miss out on one of 2011's best albums so far.

Track Listing:

Afterlife (3:37) The Original (3:15) The War Inside (3:39) Restless (5:18) Blinding Light (4:17) Selling the News (3:35) Thrive (5:12) Dark Horses (3:54) Souvenirs (4:15) Rise Above It (3:33) Vice Verses (5:08) Where I Belong (6:53)

Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark - Movie Review

Katie Holmes stars in "Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark"

Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark
Rated R for violence and terror
Filmmaking: ★★☆☆☆
Moral Rating: ★★★☆☆


"Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark" could best be described as a strange hybrid between "The Others" and "Pan's Labyrinth". And Indeed this comparison is almost necessary, as "Don't Be Afraid" was written and produced by Pan's Labyrinth creator Guillermo Del Toro. Del Toro is also responsible for the "Hellboy" films and is currently working on a sci-fi picture called "Pacific Rim." If it seems as if Del Toro is all over the place, it is because he is! Long attached to the now in development film adaptations of "The Hobbit", Del Toro decided to leave the director's chair so he could pursue other projects, one of which ended up being "Don't Be Afraid". Generally speaking, Del Toro's projects are creative, well made, and somewhat scary. So his latest definitely arrives with high expectations. Would it live up to it's producer's reputation? Would it be as scary as the 70's original tv movie it was based on? Well let's examine the film, shall we?!

"Don't Be Afraid" stars Guy Pearce as Alex and Katie Holmes as his girlfriend Kim, who are in the middle of renovations at a huge mansion when Alex's daughter Sally comes to stay with them. Things begin to happen when Sally discovers a hidden basement where the former owner of the property, Mr. Blackwood, had died. Things begin to happen when Sally finds a grate blocking creatures that live under the house from  entering and wreaking havoc, however due to a highly illogical series of events, she ends up listening to them and letting them in. Without ruining anything, I can say that one thing leads to another and soon we discover the history of the place while Alex and Kim struggle with knowing what to do with Sally (is she crazy, or telling the truth?).

As you have probably already surmised, the plot (while simple) is FULL of the typical types of plot holes and illogical, nay, plain stupid behavior that gets our characters into these messes in the first place! While the scares are good, it is impossible to get over the fact that people in horror movies NEVER follow the rules of logic. (What do they teach in schools these days?) For instance, we discover that the creatures are trying to take Sally and that they can't stand the light. Despite this there are sequences in which Sally is left alone in the dark, scenes where everything would be fine if they would simply turn on the freaking light! And then of course, there are the photos. One major plot point of the movie was that Sally was able to capture the image of some of these creatures on film, leading to a scuffle (even killing one), yet the climax of the scene ends with a hug from daddy dearest, and the pictures (and the body of the dead creature) are never mentioned, or seen again. What is the point of a sequence like that if you don't get anywhere? Come on, Guillermo.

Despite the lousy story and script, this movie DOES have style. I mentioned in the opening paragraph a comparison to "Pan's Labyrinth". "Don't Be Afraid" shares many of the same fantastical views of nature and the property, much the same way "Pan's Labyrinth" did. The lighting and cinematography convey the idea that this movie is in fact a fairy tale, and not a thriller, and this IS the case. The story incorporates fairy tale ideas and character design by the half way point, and in this regard "Don't Be Afraid" is distinctly Del Torian. Rather than focusing on the horror of what the creatures might do to Sally, the film instead showcases the weirdness of them and the grotesqueness of their appearance. Rather than focusing on the characters at hand and leaving the antagonistic force in a shroud of mystery, Del Toro's approach makes us focus on the fairy tale aspect of the narrative. We see much of the so called "dark fairies" as they try to capture Sally (presumably to eat her teeth. Imagine THAT kind of a tooth fairy!) rather than experience suspense through the unknown like Hitchcock. Along with this fantasy treatment is a BEAUTIFUL score and some gorgeous lighting.

In conclusion, a beautiful design and musical score cannot save what is ultimately a cliche, un-scary horror film. Del Toro has an eye for design and fairy tales but for some reason "Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark" falls flat. Perhaps it is the undeserved R rating that led me to expect a better scary movie, or maybe it was the coldness and intensity of his previous works, but "Don't Be Afraid" is a bit of a paradox. On one hand if functions well as a fairy tale, utilizing a little girl and horrible creatures to tell it's tale. BUT on the other hand, it tells us that it is a horror movie - at which it really falls short. I would advise waiting to see this until it is out on DVD. But still, it's worth a rental!

Signing out, The Buckland Fiddler