Open Windows (2014)

Every once in a while I need to kick back and watch something that is different than my normal selections. Last night I decided to throw one of those into my weekend rotation. While I love straight horror, sometimes a little Crime/Thriller action is needed. Next up for review is the 2014 thriller Open Windows.

Plot/ A jilted fan soon finds himself pulled into a deadly game of cat-and-mouse after he accepts the opportunity to spy on his favorite actress via his laptop.

This movie is perplexing to review. While there were some interesting moments early on, but the final act was a twist that was not truly needed. Couple that with some decent performances, an intriguing storyline, and this was something that was different and thought provoking. Yes, there were some head scratching moments, pacing issues, and some scripting moments (not to mention the ending) that hurt the overall feel. In the end, this was decently entertaining and a movie that will definitely fall into the love/hate category of cinema. If you are looking for something to help pass some time on a slow evening, give it a shot.

1984 (1984)

 

 

As 2012 comes toward an end, it is clear that there is an assault-taking place on open-minded thought and free speech. Everywhere you turn, there is censorship to the highest degree. On top of that, the social networks, computer companies and governments are admitting that the track your every move, manipulate your viewing exposure and read your emails. We are truly in the Big Brother era. With that in mind, I decided to re-watch the classic 1984.

 

 

Plot/ George Orwell's novel of a totalitarian future society in which a man whose daily work is rewriting history tries to rebel by falling in love.

 

 

In looking back at my youth, one of the books that left a lasting impression on me was Orwell’s masterpiece. I not only loved the book, it was the first old-time radio cassettes that I bought. This outline of totalitarian society is a necessary read for everyone and this adaptation is a must see. This movie captured everything in the book in the perfect manner, with a dark, depressing and foreboding atmosphere.  The acting was tremendous, the cinematography amazing, and the scripting was on the mark. If there was a slight flaw, it was that it did not utilize the characterization to its fullest potential, but even that is nitpicking. However, like with the novel, it did capture the message, a significance that every person around the world should take to heart during these dark days of rising tyranny. Just one look at mainstream media in the world today demonstrates exactly what Orwell talked about and what makes this tale one of the most important literary and cinematographic endeavors out there. This is not a conspiracy about Big Brother watching, it is truth. If you have never read this book or watched this film, you must. I can honestly say, if you watch and digest the meaning of this film and apply that knowledge to everything that is happening around the world, your opinion on the direction of society may change. Some people may be turned off by the amount of nudity, but who cares; I highly recommend this for everyone.