Film Files: “The Master”

Photo: The Weinstein Company

Note to self: never take the little sister to indie films that happened to be R-rated.

Paul Thomas Anderson’s The Master was an interesting experiment in mind games, manipulation and preying on the weak. Poor Freddie (Joaquin Phoenix), seduced by the liveliness and positivity dripping off of Master’s (Philip Seymour Hoffman) tongue.

Freddie Quell is a World War II war vet with quite a few screws loose, strolling around completely zonked off of homemade paint-thinner based liquid poison when he wakes up on Lancaster Dodd, or Master’s yacht for his daughter’s wedding. At first we see a skeptical Freddie making fun of the hypnosis being performed on members of seemingly high-society, but not too soon after Master finds an in with Freddie, using his liquid poison to drive Freddie deep into his thoughts in a way that appears as Master accessing some part of Freddie himself. Who knows, maybe he was the reason for Freddie’s discovery, on some level, but the film slowly unfolds Freddie’s constant struggle to commit to The Cause and his ultimate physical break from it when he takes off on a motorcycle during one of Master’s exercises.

We learn that Master’s followers start to doubt his credibility when he changes the fundamental principle of The Cause and is confronted by his new choice of words, changing the basic question from “Can you recall?” to “Can you imagine?”. He snaps at his follower and it is only then that viewers see something honest; Master really is just making it up as he goes along.

Several comparisons of this film to Scientology have been made and I will admit I went in expecting a docudrama about cults in the US, but it turns out that much of the similarities to Scientology did not actually make the final cut of the film [read more on Slate about L. Ron Hubbard and The Master's writer-director's inspiration here]. Instead, I found myself sympathizing with everyone, from Freddie, to Master, to Master’s wife (Amy Adams) and Master’s son (Jesse Plemons). Everyone has their own flaws, and while some are less apparent than others, one case reasonably relate to everyone stuck in this world. Master, who truly believes he is helping people, even if his method of “processing” is completely made up; his wife who questions his reasoning for investing so much time in Freddie; Freddie for letting his curiosity get the best of him temporarily (and also his boredom); and Master’s son for struggling to trust his father’s teaching wholeheartedly until the very end of the film.

There are so many story lines in this film that it seems an injustice to discuss them all, but I highly recommend it to viewers with an interest in incredible filmmaking, character development and storytelling. Anderson’s film may be criticized for uncomfortable sex scenes and disturbing interactions between its characters, but there is something beautiful in the director’s ability to paint a picture so complex in one of the most simplest of forms.

 

Revolution: Pilot

Courtesy of NBC

Giancarlo Esposito is making the rounds in primetime. Last season he impressed as the mirror in Once Upon a Time now we get to see him in a more arrogant, villainous role as “Captain Tom Neville”. Whether on horseback or not, Esposito appears on the tele with this air of grandeur that you can’t help but appreciate despite his current task at hand. He will make for an entertaining villain if the show can add some structure to the rest of the cast and the overarching plot.

 

That being said, it’s not clear to me who will have the lead role. Is it “Charlie Matheson”, on a quest for her brother, or the delinquet ex-militia uncle, “Miles”, who is exceptional at handling a sword? We’ll find out soon. For my take on our introduction to “Charlie”, visit Sway: the blog .

The Return of the Real Primetime

Again my hands are tied. Fall is approaching, and the shows we all love to miss are on their way. Aside from the countless returning shows I’m anxiously awaiting, there are a few new and noteworthy to expect. While the problem still exists there are only seven days in the week, 3-hour time slots every nights, and one of me, I will do my best to keep up with all of our primetime obsessions. Parenthood returned last week, you can read my recap on Sway. In the meantime, here’s a look at the shows I can’t wait to dig into.

Boardwalk Empire (Season Premiere September 16th, 9pm eastern, HBO)

I’ve been slowing catching up on season 2 in preparation for season 3. Curious to see how the story unfolds from here on out and anxious for the surprise I’m sure last season’s finale and this season’s premiere will offer. Luckily, I’ll get to watch them back to back!

 

[Pilot]: Revolution (Series Premiere September 17th, 10pm eastern, NBC)

I’ve been dying for a new ‘Lost’-esque show to escape into, and with stars like everyone’s favorite blonde island “other” (Elizabeth Mitchell) appearing in the first five minutes, I will start the rumor that a contender has finally arrived. [Review to come at Sway: The Blog]

Bones (Season Premiere September 17th, 10pm eastern Fox)

Promo photos show a blonde Temperance, perhaps it’s part of her on the run disguise? Booth must be pretty salty after she left him high and dry outside of the courthouse. I hope those two work it out this season. At least for the baby!

 

Dancing With the Stars: All Stars (September 24th, 8pm eastern ABC)

Before this season was announced, I’d been thinking for a while how great it would be to see all of the DWTS champs come  back to duke it out against each other. I was beyond excited that ABC was on the same page of me, but then I was a bit disappointed at who was called back (I mean Bristol, really?). There are very few I’m excited about: Shawn Johnson and Kirstie Alley (mainly because she’s entertaining) but I can’t say I’m excited for anyone in particular to with the Mirror Ball. I sincerely hope that DWTS is not just something to watch until Castle comes on at 10pm.

Castle (September 24th, 10pm eastern ABC)

Castle and Beckett. Caskett? No. Beckle? No. Whatever cheesy name we want to use for television most frustrating non-couple, we can finally take a breath. Couple (let’s hope) they are. At least that’s what I chose to believe with the steamy end to last season. I’m just saying.

The Mindy Project (September 24th, 9:30pm eastern Fox)

I cheated and watched the pilot on Hulu Plus–and yes I’m a bit biased to a healthy sized Indian female starlett. She will make you laugh, if not because she’s funny at least because her misery is.

 

Private Practice (September 25th, 10pm eastern ABC)

I’m still not sure exactly how I feel about a happy Addison as the star of this show, but we’ll give it another chance.

 

Grey’s Anatomy (September 27th, 9pm eastern ABC)

I was pretty P.O’d to learn that Eric Dane (Mark Sloane) was leaving Grey’s. I was finally getting into him and Lexie getting back together, but it looks like Shonda wasn’t. We’ll learn who lives and dies after the horrific plane crash last season in the first episode.

Scandal (September 27th, 10pm eastern ABC)

Self explanatory.

 

Fringe (Septembrer 28th, 9pm eastern Fox)

I am so scared for Walter! I hope he isn’t in limbo too long during this season, he makes Peter and Olive so much better.

 

Revenge (September 30th, 8pm eastern ABC)

I will admit. My mom is the only reason I started watching (as she spitefully monopolizes the television). But now I’m hooked. I don’t think I was prepared for the jagged edges that Emily apparently has. Can’t wait to see who gets offed next.

Dexter (September 30th, 9pm eastern SHO)

Deb knows. Kill or be killed Dex, kill or be killed?

Homeland (September 30th, 10pm eastern SHO)

Best show on television. Let’s see if the crazy lady remembers (No offense Claire).

I’ll update you on October after you wrap your head around September.  I know you’ll need it.

 

Apologies!! Life got in the way

Sorry I’ve been MIA, a lot has come up, but this week I’m back… With a new twist though.

Since there are so many shows that I already watch, and so many more that I want to start; I’ll be doing a weekly round up. Rating which shows I believe delivered the best content.

With shows like Alcatraz, airing tonight; Castle, Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, The Secret Circle, The Vampire Diaries, Fringe, Terranova, ALL airing in one week (and did I mention House of Lies? Game of Thrones, other HBO greats to come?) this would be the most efficient means of spreading the word on what’s what on television. And who knows, maybe this will help you decide how to spend your Monday-Friday nights, 8 to 11pm from now on…

Stay tuned!

T.

Homeland recap: ‘Marine One’

Source: Beyond Hollywood

I stick by my statement: SHO is taking it all. Awards, respect, viewers, Sunday night 10pm time slot…ALL!

And the lovely Claire Danes is taking some on her own. Who knew mental disorders that we all think we understand so well could unfold in a fascinating, and overly convincing way on a complicated tv show? So complicated in fact, that the story line allows for an ongoing discussion about the many directions the writers could take this show.

Option A: Brody is truly committed to the “long game” as Carrie suggested early on in season 1. His actions tonight, and suggestions to Nasir seemed sincere, but could is family be putting the pressure on?

Option B: Brody really does love America. And he loves life. Does he turn himself in and offer himself up as a an active operative, following the movements of Nasir and Al Qaeda while still obliging his new found master? [think Don Cheadle: 'Traitor']

Option C: He doesn’t know what on earth to do next. Think he kept the vest? I’m sure Dana will find it, and realize the crazy lady was right. Or maybe even the wife. Or the sun that keeps witnessing his father’s rage…

Option D: We need to go bigger. Brody can’t take the heat, and ends it all. For good.

Let’s just hope Carrie remembers her final thought after her barbaric treatment is complete. Maybe Brody won’t have to choose from all of his possible options. Because let’s face it, they’re all pretty shitty in the long run. Either way, he’ll be challenging his beliefs and commitments in every direction, and he now has no one to keep him on point. Except of course the voice of his savior guiding him to his destiny.

Which option would you go with?

Dexter Recap: ‘This is the Way the World Ends’

Source: TV Fanatic

Oh–em–gee! Dexter has had his fair share of run ins with Deb, Dokes, Jordan Chase, what have you, but this was most certainly the most unexpected. I honestly do not know where the show goes from here?

Will Deb be forced to push her feelings aside and do as Laguerta advised, put her career first and gain a new perspective?Or will Deb’s newly-discovered-though-forcefully-suggested emotions towards her ‘step-brother’ cause an irrational reaction, one that no one (and let’s face it, probably not even the writers) will be able to predict?

Bravo to the writers this season. Losing faithful viewers all to stick to a story line that came full circle, in a way that made the season’s minimalist murder scenes all worth it with one hell of a bang. I won’t be the one to ruin the show for people only now tuning in, but let’s just say you may catch yourself choking on your gasp in about 49 minutes.

But Dexter…Dexter, Dexter, Dexter. Hasn’t Trinity taught him anything? No one is off limits, no matter how wrong the viewers think messing with societal norms is. It’s up to the writers to stay true to the mission of the show, and truth has sure come to light (eh hem).

What do you think our lonely crazy sister will do with her revelation(s)?

Homeland Recap: ‘The Vest’

Source: SHO episode promo

SHO is delivering the goods this season, although I can’t say I’m content with the 45-51 minutes of actual airtime my beloved Sunday night shows are giving me. In a recent family discussion, right before Sunday’s episode, I stressed that Carrie’s mental disorder needs to rear its ugly head since it was emphasized before the season officially started. And rear its ugly head it did!

While I’m sure she’ll be back behind agency doors soon enough, the shock and muted reaction to her termination was a somewhat respected decision. She was clearly off the walls and needed some perspective, even if she was on the right track. We all know Saul will trust her instincts, she’s the youth to his age!

Who isn’t excited about the 1 1/2 hour season finale next week? Sargent Brody is about to get in too deep, and Carrie’s about to break a thousand laws tipping off Saul, the VP might get executed, and Carrie’s falling for a terrorist.

Nice work Showtime, nice work.

Dexter Recap: ‘Talk to the Hand’

Source: Small Screen Scoop

It’s been a while since Dexter finds himself in any real trouble, and crazy Travis couldn’t be a better villain to attempt to take him down. Ah, memories, of a Colin Hanks turned slightly off by someone else’s evil nature [for the Roswell fanatics].

Dexter seems to be screwing up a lot though. Other than saving sister Deb Morgan, over and over again, he seems to be losing his touch. First with Travis, then with Travis again, could he really be a sound match for the Bay Harbor Butcher? I wouldn’t expect a mentally unstable person to be that powerful, but I guess the lesson is never underestimate the crazies…or something like that.

Deb’s therapist on the other hand, clearly has some hidden agenda. She’s way too interested in Dexter, and her insinuation about Deb and Dexter’s relationship only makes me more focused on what she’s up to.

In other news, what’s the deal with the Ice Truck Killer revival the crew can’t seem to shake? As if the clepto-intern stealing the prosthetic, putting it on eBay, and the ghost of killer past weren’t enough, now we have a video game geek obsessing over the very same prosthetic, and playing tricks on Dexter. I don’t know what he’s up to, but hopefully it comes to light before the season ends.

Think he’s some distant relative of the Mosers?

‘Hugo:’ Yet Another Feat for Mr. Scorsese.

Ever since Entourage made a huge deal of Vince being offered a part by Martin Scorsese himself seasons ago, I’ve become obsessed with his work. Particularly, the variation in his work. So, as tradition dictates, I treated my mother to a movie since I know she enjoys my appreciation for children’s and family films. We were both pleasantly surprised at how the movie played out, and realized rather instantaneously that Hugo is one of those tales with much, much more for adults than kids.

Quite the impressive filmography–including some of Leonardo Di Caprio’s and Robert De Neiro’s best films–Hugo is an entirely different beast from his previous trend towards mega-movies like ‘Shutter Island,’ ‘The Departed,’ and ‘Gangs of New York.’ But it definitely worked. In what I thought would be a tale of a little boy finding his way home, it turned out to be much deeper than that. ‘Home’ is an entirely new concept, and Hugo is only an avenue for an even more troubled character to find his own way home. In an attempt not to give away too much, watch the trailer and whatever your initial thoughts on what the film is about, forget them, you’re more than likely way off [unless, of course, you already know the story].

Cheers to man who can tell a story by telling several others, and adding a beautiful score that without which the movie may not have moved at all. And to taking creation to the next level, read Fast Company’s cover story on the man himself here: How Martin Scorsese Risked it All and Lived to Risk Again in Hollywood.

Castle Recap: “Cuffed”

Source ABC Network

Castle sure has had its intense, unexpected catastrophes this season. First with Castle getting himself stuck in back that blows, now he and Beckett are stuck in a hole in the ground, literally, cuffed to each other, with an exotic but vicious animal waiting to attack. Not exactly waiting, actually.

Something wasn’t quite right. Yes, Castle is known for its ability to make the most serious, life threatening situations a little more humorous, but last night it just didn’t flow well. If they’re going to introduce these overly dramatic plots, there has to be a dial-back in the humor. Isn’t this some common scientific law or something? Having to do with give and take? Maybe I just made that up, but you get the point.

It serves Beckett well to be more loose…her psycho act just a couple weeks ago was out of place, and definitely out of character. She’s finally getting back on track, and she’s always clawed to death by a tiger!!! Ah well, she’ll always survive. She has to.