Despicable ME!

Comical, but is it too funny?

Now, you're probably sitting there with a WTF expression-let me explain. There are films that are 'naturally' funny-the humour in these films are delivered naturally. Meaning, they're not in your face EVERY SECOND SECOND DOING SOMETHING STUPID TO MAKE YOU LOL! Even when that thing they're doing basically adds nothing more to the character or plot because these 'moments' have been used so many times. It's as though the director of the film just sat down and said 'uhmmm, how do I make them constantly LOL!'

Despicable Me wasn't in anyway a bad film, it just feels like a generic animated film for kids. A little more focus on the plot and it could have easily escaped this. It, of course, uses the idea of villains vs. villains and 'good at heart'. The 'good at heart' theme never gets old and there are little awwww moments in the film that really wrenches your heart. The villains' idea... old news, and THE INCREDIBLES did a much a more 'exciting' job.

The cast is wonderful. Steve Carell and Julie Andrews as the Russian villain and his mother, the three loveliest orphans and Russel Brand as Steve Carell's sidekick (I think...'cause he has a British accent). What the film does do right is creating connections. It neatly explains why Carell's character is evil-his mother is worst (in a different way). Even though Andrews is this horrible character, you can't help but like her and that's good casting.

The relationships are the best part of this film, and I truly wish that it'd focus less on humour and more on these profound relationship. However, the little orphans are probably three of the most adorable characters of this year. The way the evil protagonist bonds with these children is the sweetest thing. The humour that comes from these orphans and the antagonist (one of the funniest villain ever) actually genuinely entertained me. The little yellow minions-cute and funny... OR DISTRACTING and not that special!

I am VERY HARSH on this film because I expected so much more with it garnering both critical and commerical SUCCESS. I am sure I've made it sound like a bad film, it isn't. It is good not great, but good nevertheless. Well, great for kids or people with brains like my cousin... not judging! What I mean is, if you just want a good laugh GO ahead!

Easy A!

Most comedies these days (especially teen-com) are funny, but STUPID. The only reason they're funny is because they're so ridiculously brainless. EASY A, of course, is an exception.

Now, it isn't a film where you will LOL constantly, but you will CHUCKLE constantly. The humour is very smart, with plenty of sharp dialogue. There are scenes that will evoke loud laughter from you; the fake-sex scene is just... TOO FUNNY. There are also heart-wrenching moments where we can't help but vocally utter AWWWW.

I love Emma STONE. She plays this awkward teen role very well, it's almost like she's being herself. She's funny, but it's the supporting cast that is hilarious. Stanley TUCCI and Patricia CLARKSON are unbelievably charming and perfect as Emma's parents. Everyone gasped when Lisa KUDROW appeared, and she does not dissappoint!

The young supporting cast is also strong. Penn BADGLEY looks much hotter in the film than he does in GOSSIP GIRL. Amanda BYNES has her moments. The great thing is that the supporting cast complements Emma quite well, and she basically has chemistry with everyone on set.

The plot is actually filled with substance, and I have to say I didn't completely predict the outcomes. There are twists that will leave your jaws hanging on the ground... trust me. The only problem is that at times I'm confused at what the film is trying to do. It stands on the edge of 'cute AND meaningful' and 'trying TOO hard', but it's only a slight problem. The director does a wonderful job at bringing the story and characters together.

Easy A is a rare treat. It's almost impossible to find a contemporary teen-com that uses intelligent humour and substance, and still manages TO entertain us all. BRAVO!