MOVIE: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005)

by benmweilertNo Comments
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Year: 2005 Rating: PG Length: 109 minutes / 1.82 hours For a book that has had so many adaptations in so many forms of media (radio drama, video game, TV series, etc.), one could argue that The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005) was merely the American adaptation that made it palatable to non-British audiences. While this may be the case, I think it does an excellent job of encapsulating this iconic piece of science fiction comedy with lots of high-profile actors and excellent CGI that enhances the otherworldly universe created by Douglas Adams. One of the challenges this film faces is all the different cutaway gags and bits required as the “Guide” provides exposition details for all the fantastical elements that are a staple in sci-fi. I love the style they used for the Guide and the bits with the whale were funny. The only problem is that they sometimes break the flow of the narrative—even if they...
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MOVIE: The Pirates! Band of Misfits (2012)

by benmweilertNo Comments
The Pirates! Band of MisfitsYear: 2012Rating: PGLength: 88 minutes / 1.47 hours I've always been a fan of Aardman Animation and I usually make it a point to watch the films they put out. And while not everything can be from my favorite Wallace & Gromit franchise, their movies can be a little hit or miss, depending on a variety of factors. I appreciate that they've been trying to improve their already impressive stop-motion visuals, and The Pirates! Band of Misfits (2012) shows off a lot of visual style. However, the plot itself felt just average. The most impressive visuals here are all the little details in absolutely everything. Characters. Settings. Backgrounds. All the little jokes sprinkled throughout that you'd likely have to pause to catch are a nice touch, but almost feel too hidden to be truly appreciated. The voice work is also quite good, as it relies on a ton of famous actors like Hugh Grant, David Tennant, and Martin...
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