Sherlock Holmes (2009) (Film Prediction)

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

Sam Barnett Ryan McDermott

Sherlock Holmes (2009), is the exciting new film based on Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes stories. Sherlock Holmes is set to be released on the 25th of December this year, (2009) and will feature Robert Downey, Jr. and Jude Law as Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson respectably. Guy Ritchie was appointed director fueling the Madonna divorce media flames.
Sherlock Holmes is framed in 1891 four years after his inception in the literary world. Sherlock Holmes, melded various stories arriving, (of course) at a conspiracy to destroy Britain. Mark Strong plays the villianous, Lord Blackwood, who just by hearing his name, I would roundly assume is represented in a sickening hollywood manner whilst clasping to classy nostalgia of the 1891 plastic surroundings. Lord Blackwood is subsequntly sent to the gallows following a host of murderous profanities directed at the young detectives.
In May this year, (2009), Warner Bros. released an official plot summary.

"In a dynamic new portrayal of Arthur Conan Doyle’s most famous characters, Sherlock Holmes sends Holmes and his stalwart partner Watson on their latest challenge. Revealing fighting skills as lethal as his legendary intellect, Holmes will battle as never before to bring down a new nemesis and unravel a deadly plot that could destroy the country.”

Robert Downey, Jr. of course plays Sherlock Holmes. Apparently Ritchie initially felt Downey was too old for the role because he wanted the film to show a younger Holmes on a learning curve. Ritchie though decided to roll back his decision for better or worse. Downey told the BBC that

"I think me and Guy are well-suited to working together. The more I look into the books, the more fantastic it becomes. Holmes is such a weirdo.”

Although appearing entirely ignorant of the novels themselves Downey wants to focus more on Holmes' patriotic side and his bohemianism (a contridiction to the larger degree) . For some reason Downey feels his work on Chaplin and miraclous adoption of an English accent gives him a passport to dictate the infinately more tangible words of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, (the author of the afore mentioned novel). Both Downey and Ritchie are martial arts enthusiats meaning the same barage of softcore violence and shitty humour as hollywood usually throws up. Downey lost weight for the part, because during a chat he had with the “messiah”, Chris Martin, recommended that Holmes look "gaunt" and "skinny" instead of practicing his role and script. Id say his character is aiming as far down the toilet as his career was 10 years ago.
Perhaps saving some credibility Guy positioned, Jude Law as Dr. John Watson playing of course, Holmes' ally, a surgeon and a injured war veteran. Law is not portraying the bumbling fool that actor Nigel Bruce popularised in the 1930s–40s films instead focusing on his conventianal intelect . Law previously appeared in the Granada Television series The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, in an episode based on The Adventure of Shoscombe Old Place.
Having at least a vague idea of the literature constructing the script, Law recognised there was material unexplored in other adaptations and was, intrigued by Downey's casting (always a good sign). Law was cast because he had a positive meeting with Downey and concurred the film would have to explore Holmes and Watson's friendship smelling like a vein and desperate favour to get Downey’s career booming again. Downey believed by emphasising Watson's qualities as a former soldier, a doctor, a womaniser and a gambler, (all highly charged and contentious words) would make for a more interesting, monotomous 2 and a half hours.
Rachel McAdams seems to be popping up around the way and played budding journalist in the critcally, (but not audience) acclaimed, state of play. She represents,Irene Adler, the, femme fatale from Jersey who once outwitted Holmes in one of his far less noteworthy adventures. Downey convinced Ritchie to cast McAdams, arguing she would not look too young to be his love interest and probably wanted to juice on her, (just my, sole, opinion).
Overall the film sounds mediocre but Guy’s choice of Jude Law calms the risk of trickling in to the shameless DVD promotions category. There is also the sturdy and dependable foundation the movie is based on. Hollywood studio films can have their positives namely that the promotion of Sir Arthur Conan Doyles timeless classics might encourage reading something other then the back page of the newspaper.

The Matrix (Film Review)

The Matrix
Sam Barnett Ryan McDermott


1996 was a great year for independent films with 4 out of the 5 Acedemy award nominations produced outside a mainstream studio setup. It was also the awakening of Andy and Larry Wachowski’s talent with the realease of their sophomore effort, The Matrix. Shot in Sydney, with a budget of around $60 million, The Matrix features some of the most stunningly original special effects, complemented perfectly with a complex plot and a multitude of intense action packed drama scenes.

For the first hour or so the audience is left baffled as to when the action will actually begin, (as that is what tends to stick in viewers mind the most about this movie). After careful setup of the various plot and story elements of the film the movie definitely lives up to its reputation and the portrayal of violence is artistic to put it at its simplest. The over hype of the action scenes caused my intial reaction to be somewhat disappointed when I first left the theatre however on second review I realised what a truly remarkably original film The Matrix actually is.

The Matrix begins with Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), a stunning, leather-clad warrior, being chased around the city by three men in black suits and earpieces, known as Agents. Her goal is to contact Thomas Anderson, a.k.a. Neo (Keanu Reeves), a seemingly normal computer programmer by profession but secretly an infamous hacker. She is to bring him to the mysterious Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne), one of the most famous hackers in the world of web. Neo jumps at the chance to meet such a highly distinguished figure oblivious as to the implications of his decision. Soon after Neo is propelled in to the stratosphere becoming the, “chosen one” destined to save humanity from the enslavement of the machines.

The Matrix, draws from a multitude of different literary and visual sources namely containing a number of biblical references most notably the main character Neo many claim is a reprsentation of Jesus Christ. The Matrix was criticised for stealing plot details. However the movie makes no secret of its borrowed elements making them explicitly obvious at every turn. In my opinion the film is further augmented by adding various elements from other sources and adds an additional dimension to the plot.

Keanu Reeves has been lambasted for his role in, The Matrix some even going so far as to call him a hack. However Reeves has managed to make over thirty films, something even a talented actor would find difficult to accomplish. Keenau is by no means Oscar worthy however The Matrix, was a defining role for him and probably Reeves at his best. Laurence Fishburne is electric in his first role since his performance in the underated, Event Horizon. Fishburne playing Morpheous talks in a cryptic, profound style never saying enough however he is utterly beleiveable and delivers a stellar performance. Carrie-Anne Moss' athleticism is very assured and she effortlessly shapes the character into her own. She also manages to blend feminity perfectly with her tough, out of my way persona. Hugo Weaving stars as one of the best villains since Stephen Dorff in Blade. Weaving's monotonous tone augments his already well shaped character and Weavings dynamic portrayal is astonishing as he is essentially a computer program. Weaving also attributed the monotomously haunting phrase, “Mr Anderson”.

To add to all the afore mentioned, the effects were absolutely breathtaking. The Matrix utilised the revolutionary 'Bullet time' technique which allows the appearance of ultra fast speeds. The Matrix appitimises what special effects were made for, enhancing the story whilst inpiring awe at the images they produce. The Matrix features effects so effortlessly integrated into the story they become routine and ordinary however it is important to note the originality of them and the legacy they created. Special effects though can only achieve limited amount, that is why the Wachowskis brought in martial arts experts teaching the basics in fighting techniques. This resulted in amazingly realistic fighting scenes blowing even John Woo out of the water. The Wachowskis also proved masters of the camera as they don't simply put the camera in one spot instead moving the camera in dynamic angles, giving us jaw dropping images adding to the excitement and fast pace of the film.

Just imagining the amount of work that went in to making this film is exhausting and, The Matrix , definately ticks all the right boxes. The screenplay is clever and even Don Davis' musical score complements perfectly the atmosphere of the film. The Matrix is a first-rate production that never lets down.

In a decade where studios loved to produce special-effect laden productions with virtually no plot, it was refreshing to see a film like this. If your after excellently produced, action-packed science fiction then do your self a favour and watch this film.

3.5 out of 5

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Film Review)

The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Ryan McDermott and Sam Barnett


Director Jim Sharman’s 1975 cult classic, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”, has become one of the best known stage musical adaptations in modern film history. The film gained notoriety by pioneering the concept of a major production that openly displayed homosexuality on screen. An issue that was only beginning to find its way out of the back alley theater halls of Londons Eastend and on to the world stage.

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show”, tells the story of a young couple, (played by Barry Boswick and Susan Sarandon) stranded in the deserted country side due to car failure. The two proceed to search for a telephone eventually stumbling across an old building weathered by the sands of time. Out of desperation the two reluctuntly enter seeking a telephone. Once inside they meet a variety peculiar individuals adjourned in strange clothing. At this point the audience is introduced to Tim Curry playing Master Frank N, Furter a blatantly cross dressing lunatic. Henceforth the bold expressions of homosexuality begin.

The depiction of men in womens clothing made a loud statement about the arrival of such issues intentionally or not dawning a new age of Homosexual rights and liberation.
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show”, served an example to the homosexual community sending a message to be proud and open of their sexual preferences. Portraying men as women was a bold and daring move one which transgressed the confines of the screen. Most importantly it showed the entertainment world that a studio production can display controversial issues and still rein in a considerably large audince still eexpanding to this day.

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show”, is now a cult classic followed fastidously by a large range of people, (not just homosexuals). Many enjoy the film for its out there style and attitude completely revolutioning the entertainment industry and refreshing the boring conventionally lame range of movies that were created during the time period.

If you are after a loony plot packed with recitable lyrics sure to drive your workmates mad then you have to see this film. If you are to ignorant to get over your insecurities and predjudices then take a good look in the mirror and dive off a bridge.

4 out of 5

Godfather (Film Review)

Godfather

Sam Barnett Ryan McDermott

Most people feature the Godfather at the top of their all time favorite movie list and get quite upset if you refute this. I will not confirm nor deny the Godfather is the greatest film of all time however I will say it is an exceptional film and ranks well in the territory.
Marlon Brando (Superman, the Score) delivers one of the greatest performances as Don Vito Corleone, or more famously the Godfather, offering favors to those who ask with respect, (reciprocation is naturally expected). Corleone pulls strings everywhere morticians, police, judges, and politicians. The success enjoyed by the family curdles when narcotics, (which Don Corleone firmly objects to) begins to bring too much heat. A hit is then put out for Vito, who is very conservative in his ways, but the job is botched inciting vengeance ultimately pulling the family together in respect and defense.
There is no arguing the quality of acting in the Godfather notably Pacino, evntually to be known as one of the best actors in the business. You can see the aloofness to the business in the wedding scene, to the utter vengefulness when Don Vito is murdered, to the ruthless businessman he would later become.
Brando plays Don Vito, not as Americas most wanted, but as a caring family man who dies in protection and not out of vindictive hate. A realization occurs within the film realizing we actually care about the ruthless Godfather, a man who murderes and bribes time and time again, this is testament to what a excellently portrayed character he is.
Most of the credit however should go to the legendary Francis Ford Coppolla (The Rainmaker, Apocalypse Now) for his direction and unflagging instincts. Although the film is a gigantic three hours, there is a plethora of detail. Astonishing how he was able to fit so much in whilst taking time for significant moments like the wedding, the baptism, and a moving death.
The Godfather is film creation at its peak recommended highly for those seeking an intelligent drama with depth and emotion. Like the tales from Ancient Greece and Rome, this is a tale of the gods and mortals watching the titans battle for supremacy. This is a great, great movie and a definite must see.
5 out of 5

State of Play (Film Review)

State of Play

Sam Barnett Ryan McDermott

State of Play delivers an entertaining two hours in and features enthralling performances from Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck and Rachel McAdams. The movie starts with Russell Crowe’s character Cal McAffery, a writer for the Washington Globe following the murder of a small time criminal and the attempted murder of a by stander. McAffery is a traditional journalist who enjoys, “ink on his hands” and also has a working relationship with his police contacts which offer, confidential information on the murder. Later in the film a young political researcher dies in, (seemingly) a subway accident.
Capitol Hill reins down and McAffery is forced into the affair due to his affiliation with Collins a friend from college. Political blogger McAdam, (Della Frye), incites fury in McAffrey due to the lack of checks and research that goes in to her work. McAffery takes Frye under his wing to show her how to find the real story and clear the name of his old friend.”
Russell Crowe is exceptional in the film carrying its passion and charge. The Oscar winning actor delivers a charming performance that’s filled with heart and soul. The Australian star portrays the character lacking in vanity with long greasy hair perfectly, it’s almost as if he’s playing the tabloid version of himself.
Affleck complements his role well also. Although the character could have been expanded, this is probably the downside of making a film adapted from a six hour series. Rachael McAdams comes well as the enviro-blogger who is groomed by Crowe to become “an old fashioned newspaper man.” The pair has great chemistry and they might have even gotten a sequel out of this film if not for the poor figures at the Box Office.
The major let down in the film is Helen Mirren. For an Oscar winning actress she just doesn’t show any passion, her concept of the role of an editor is to recite lines like “you’ve got a deadline.” Mirren appears insecure and out of place, which is confusing considering that the younger stars are so good.
Although the movie relies a little on coincidences it is still a top drawer movie worthy of critical acclaim. State of Play is so entertaining because it has a solid story and some great acting. If you are after Hollywood filmmaking at its purest then don’t waste a minute, go see this film.

Forest Gump (Film Review)

Forest Gump

Sam Barnett Ryan McDermott

From the genius which brought you, “Back to the Future”, Robert Zemeckis has topped himself with the creation of the masterpiece which is, “Forest Gump”. The movie stars a brilliant Tom Hanks as the blissfully ignorant Forest Gump who inspires the lives of millions with his simplistic view on life. Gifted with a distinct lack of intellect, Gump grows up happy, care free and leads a very charmed life. Gump enjoys countless blessings including, a girlfriend who remains faithful to him till the end, surviving Vietnam with a medal and being the luckiest soul on the planet.
From my perspective the movie insinuates that intellect can be as damming as it is, (seemingly) necessary. Also and perhaps more importantly, childlike innocence, which is often considered stupid, has its distinct rewards. Throughout the movie, Gump encounters people who constantly talk down to him and insult him however he never takes offense. He is indeed not completely stupid, even though he is portrayed as such, he can still re-assemble guns at high speed, run like Hussein Bolt, play ping-pong exceptionally, and he also firmly grasps the fundamental simplicity of life.
The fact that Gump doesn't care, (or know) what others think, is essentially what makes him such a beautiful person. He becomes a millionaire, but gives most of the money away. He is honest, open and along with his Alabama accent is nothing but likeable.
Thanks to computer technology Gump rubs elbows which, Nixon, Elvis Presley, Lydon Banes Johnson inspiring each and every one of them. Gump is contrasted to the famous males, who are idols (in some cases) in today's society, and it appears as though he is better off in comparison: Gump's choices in life seem to determine his affable nature , ("a promise is a promise"). Gump also harbors no ill-feelings or grudges, and is anything but greedy. Gumps life is in deep contrast to his girlfriend Jenny’s life who, (with a boundless intellect and aspiration) falls heavily in to drugs and is a very cynical and depressing person. The people she is surrounded herself with are all of a dubious nature, a sexually-abusive father and an abusive hippie-boyfriend compound her negative cycle.
Forest Gump is a truly amazing film one which everyone should go out and see if you have not already done so. As for negatives the film is quite long and drawn, however the movie does exceptionally well to retain attention for the entirety.

Wolverine (Film Review)

X-men Origins: Wolverine

Sam Barnett Ryan McDermott

For every exceptional movie made in Hollywood there are at least a thousand truly awful movies drowning the movie theatres and DVD rental establishments in excrement. Although enjoying sales success, topping the box office and making a huge profit to me Wolverine was a blatant waste of my time and money. There is no arguing the production values, marketability and the draw of rising screen star Hugh Jackman, (playing the central character Wolverine), at times drew myself in to the plot. However these positives were negligible compared to the plethora of faults I had to endure throughout the film.

The premise of the film is sound enough, exploring the origins of one of the main characters in the X-men franchise. Also from a businessman’s point of view the success of origins spells at least another three successful multi million dollar movies for your bank balance to look forward to. However having not been a financier of the film I can only contribute my opinion on the quality of the film.

X-men Origins starts off in a Nostalgic pre Civil War setting with two step brothers one from a so called respectable upbringing, (that being Wolverine) and one from a dirt poor family with an abusive alcoholic father. Wolverine is sick in bed tended to by his well to do father and mother, whilst ?, angrily broods. Suddenly ?’s violently alcoholic father is heard screaming downstairs. Upon answering the door the well to do father is shot dead, inciting Wolverines fury, subsequently morphing claws which are then rammed in to the alcoholic gunman. The plot thickens as it is then disclosed that the alcoholic he killed is in fact both the children’s fathers. Luchious then drags his now Brother in to the woods teaching him the ways of the world and how to look after yourself.

Both Brothers actively partake in every war in American history since the Civil War, (being invincible and all that). This is about when the plot lost all credibility and it soon became clear it was another one of those pro American war mongering films which are not worth the cost of the disc they were printed on. This pro American trend continued throughout the film sensationalizing violence at every point.

Wolverine then falls in with a rural farming community instigating a superfluity of PG 13 jokes designed to fry the intelligence whilst giving you a warm feeling inside. There is then a major conflict between Luscious and Wolverine, blah, blah, blah more of the same monotonous material that made Wolverine such a big box office hit.

To describe the rest of the plot would be a waste of everyone’s time and would require numbing my brain for longer than I feel comfortable with. I would recommend that you see this movie so you can get some insight in to the direction in which the Republican Party will get its future support.

2 out of 5

Scarface (Film Review) part 2

(If you have not yet read part 1 click on older posts)

Scarface

Sam Barnett and Ryan McDermott

Tony and Frank’s closest associate Omar (F.Murray Abraham) travel to Bolivia in order to orchestrate a large scale drug deal with plantation owner and kingpin Alejandro Sosa (Paul Shenar) . Tony quickly agrees to purchase way more than authorized. Omar contests the decision resulting in his early departure by helicopter. It is then disclosed that Omar is a undercover cop who is subsequently killed and a tight bond is formed between Sosa and Montana.

Tony returns to Frank’s absolute fury over what happened in Bolivia. Frank tells Tony that the business partnership is over because a man like Sosa can not be trusted. Tony aggravates the situation by making a blatant pass at Frank’s wife right to his face.

Soon after a corrupt cop offering his name as Bernstein, (Harris Yulin), shakes Tony down at the, "Babylon Nightclub" blackmailing Tony about the two murders at the start of the movie. Tony quickly correlates Bernstein with Frank Lopez, (the only one he can’t trust that knew about the murders).

While at the Babylon Tony is almost gunned down by two goons. Tony escapes unscathed quickly blaming Tony Lopez for the hit. Tony proceeds to Franks shop subsequently killing him and the cop who blackmailed him at the club.

Tony makes a cool 75 million off the 2000 kilos of cocaine shipped by now close business partner Sosa and soon turns a 15 million dollar profit each month all hauled in to the bank to be cleaned up. Soon after the success Elvira now Tony’s wife becomes heavily addicted to cocaine and Tony becomes increasingly paranoid and untrusting of those around him. To compound Tony’s woes the bank is charging him extra on transactions due to the increased heat from Federal officials.

After searching for a cheaper alternative to the bank Tony is soon caught for tax evasion. After posting bail Sosa presents Tony with a deal that would see him assassinate a Bolivian anti-Government activist in return for Sosa pulling a few strings pertaining Tony’s release from jail using Sosa’s Justice Department contacts.

Tony then breaks up wife Elvira over a public spat at a restaurant full of distinguished guests. Tony, drunk and angry proclaims society need a “bad guy” to point the finger at and say, that’s who is the enemy all the while hiding behind their manners and polite etiquette.

On the day of the assassination Tony travels to New York with a skilled bombs expert. The plan is to detonate a bomb placed under the activists car upon his arrival at the UN building. However the activist makes an unscheduled stop at a hotel to pick his wife and kids up. Tony finds this too much and calls the hit off. The assassin far removed from what Tony is saying carries on as normal and in true Montana fashion shoots him in the head.

Tony then receives a stern and dire warning from Sosa who is now finding things exponentially more difficult in Bolivia. Tony then goes to Mannys house where Gina answers the door in robes. This incites Manny’s imminent death adding more shit to the pile.

Tony sits with his nose in a mountain of Cocaine awaiting the attack from Sosa’s men. Gina then comes in mocking Tony’s seemingly incestuous attitude towards her relationship with other men. She is then gunned down right in front of Tony. Rage ensues and Tony goes mental with an M16 eventually being shot in the stomach by the leader of the assault team.

Tony dies in his fountain displaying, “the World is Yours”. A suitable yet somber way to end the film.

Scarface is by far the best movie I have seen combining all the elements needed for a successful film.

5 out of 5

Scarface (Film Review) part 1

Scarface

Part 1

Sam Barnett and Ryan McDermott

Scarface demands recognition as one of the greatest films of all time. Deservedly reaching cult status it has inspired some of the worlds most successful people including rapper Brad Jordon alias Scarface, Curtis Jackson, (50 cent), and alternative rock band P.O.D just to name a few. Although never reaching any critical success the film garnered popular acclaim and features on a great deal of peoples top ten favourite movie lists. Success should not come as a surprise due to the fact that legendary Acedemy Award winning film director Oliver Stone, (director of Platoon and Born on the Fourth of July) wrote the script and Brian De Palma, (Untouchables, Mission Impossible) directed.

Scarface starts off exploring the mass exodus of the Cuban Population in the early 1980's after the Cuban leader Fidel Castro granted them safe asylum in the US. Seemingly a point scored for the US, it was later found out that most of the people fleeing the country were in fact prisoners many with particularly violent records. The most popular place of Asylum was sunny Miami due to the already established Cuban community and large Spanish speaking population, (also the closest port to Cuba).

Que the main character of the film Tony Montanna, (played by Hollywood legend Al Pacino), a convicted fast talking thug with the ambition of a champion. His first impression on US officials was less than flattering subsequently being sent to, "Freedom Town" a refugee camp under the freeway in Miami. His partner in crime Manny Ribera, (Steven Bauer) met during Montanna Cuban army days. Manny can secure two green cards pending the assassination of an ex top Cuban official responsible for thousands of tortures. A great riot ensues and, "Freedom Town", is closed down for good.

With Montanna and Manny's imminent release they quickly find work at a burger joint dreaming of greener pastures. Soon after half a shifts work Tony and Manny quit in their usual care less style instead opting to partake in a high stakes drug deal with Colombians, (Tony's pet prejudice). Tony quickly finds his feet coolly responding to an attempted stick up for the cocaine and money, unfortunately resulting in the death of Tony's cousin. However the dope and money is recovered and Tony quickly moves up the ranks.

Tony is soon invited to Frank Lopez', (the boss) lavish house. Frank quickly takes a shine to Tony's bold sense of humour and his credibility as a street hardman. Tony although agreeing on Franks affable and gregarious nature labels him immediately as soft and predicts his imminent fall in the cocaine game. Tony instead takes a fancy to Franks wife Elivra played by Michelle Phiefer. His affection is not soon reciprocated and she comes off as cold and weathered.

Tony proceeds to his mothers house offering money, (to his mothers dismay), and a heated argument ensues forcing tony to exit leaving his bitter mother to stew in her juices. It is evident of Tony's success soon making bigger purchases and living a far more lavish lifestyle however his life of crime has only just begun.

Boys N the Hood (Film Review)

Boys N the Hood
Sam Barnett and Ryan McDermott

“Boys N the Hood” was created in 1991 subsequently being nominated for two academy awards, (best original screen play and best director). It is the exploration of masculinity and personal identity at the watershed year of seventeen. Aptly acted by Cuba Gooding Jnr, Lawrence Fisborne and the notoriously controversial rapper Ice Cube, this movie pushed all the limits during the very racially sensitive period of the early 90’s. The movie features the lives of 3 African-American youths trapped in the depths of poverty and institutional Racism. Following the central characters from as far back as the Reagan years this movie vividly paints the plight of the African American which is still, (even after the inception of President Obama) being gradually overcome.
Apart from being an exceptional film “Boys n the Hood” contained a number of important lessons for boys slowly learning to be a man. The movie shows that along the way a number of forces affect the men they are to become and the choices they eventually make. Many credible people have argued these factors, such as not having a mother or being the victim of violence primarily contribute to the exorbitant rate of crime in South Central, LA. This was an astonishingly open discussion of the problems and institutional controls the police sanctioned during the period of the LA race riots. The result of this discussion probably calmed a number in the community down and definitely challenged popular stereotypes a huge step forward for African-Americans embracing the seemingly new political climate of the Clinton administration.
Apart from mending African American relations the film explored the mystifying age of seventeen, eighteen. For most, golden years with the promise of a whole cartful to come, however more than that it signaled the start of life. “Boys n the Hood” captured this perfectly by utilizing the exceedingly intelligent central charter “Trey Styles”, (played by Cuba Gooding Jnr). Trey’s journey to manhood starts with his excessively violent tendencies portrayed as a problem for a young trey when early on in the film he instigates an altercation with a young boy after he insults Africa. He is then forced to live with his father a watershed moment for young Trey who is immediately put to work at raking leaves. After working all night he is made to wash the bath tub and clean his room instilling a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility staying with Trey until he grows in to a young man, queue part two of the film.
The last part of the movie depicts Treys good looks and his expensive dress sense (purchased from seemingly legitimate ends) making him a prime attraction for many of the girls in the neighborhood. Treys account of his, “first time” to his father is awkward and blatantly fabricated a clever and amusing way of portraying sexual discovery and the paramount importance of the condom. Treys friend Doughboy, (played by Ice Cube) attracts a large amount of plot importance throughout the film a testament to Ice Cubes acting talent as much as it is to the importance of the character. Doughboy who grew up without a mother ends up selling Crack Cocaine, (the key revenue earner of the location). This afforded him a gold plated Cadillac, gold chains and seemingly expensive clothing. Combined with his slick talking personality this attracted a large number of women who he flagrantly mistreats and disrespects. This notably occurs during a neighborhood Barbeque referring to the women as Bi**hes resulting in a tongue lashing from his mother. The last character Ricky explores a very different set of avenues fastidiously practicing his football skills from the age of seven always keeping a ball with him. His build also attracts a copious amount of women. However with all Ricky’s spare time spent playing football he probably never studied offering up a legitimate reason for his lack of general knowledge highlighted by Trey’s father when Trey and Ricky visit Furious at his workplace. It is because of this recklessness and lack of common sense, (supposed to be instilled by a father figure) that he knocks his teenage girlfriend up. Rick’s story deserves a little more mention as it highlights the story of a young poor athlete with a world of potential killed before his prime. In other words out of the thousand odd gun deaths in poverty stricken LA at least one could have served a world changing function.
In concluding words the film was absolutely exceptional. It detailed and mapped the trials and tribulations of a young adult whilst effortlessly drawing your brain in to the plot. The acting was brilliant; the writing was also, of course the Director John Singleton who attracted a huge amount of attention from his Oscar nomination. Overall for anybody who has not seen the film you should rent it out right now because whatever you are doing can not compare to the quality of this film.