Red Eye

Wes Craven brings us a story of a seemingly circumstantial encounter between two beautiful people, both dedicated to their jobs (perhaps to a fault). Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy look more like brother and sister in this movie, what with the blue eyes and dark hair.

Of course, it wasn't circumstantial, but planned very carefully, as most Wes Craven films tend to be. McAdams's character, Lisa, has been hurt before and that, combined with the love of her father, gives her the motivation to go to any lengths to thwart Jack's (Murphy's) plan to assasinate a political figure. If she doesn't cooperate, as I'm sure anyone who has seen the previews can figure out, her father will be killed.

The movie was not bad, keeping the audience interested, but it wasn't anything earth shattering either. It was another Craven movie and he rarely disappoints. Red Eye is no exception. It was a pretty good movie.

One I would rent, but I can't say that I would rush right out to see it at the theater.

The Shawshank Redemption

Last night I had the distinct pleasure of watching The Shawshank Redemption once again. I haven't actually seen the movie in a few years, and every time it's on television, I refuse to watch it because of the editing and commercials.

What a beautiful piece of art this film is. Stephen King's story, fantastic ensemble and acting by every cast member, and gorgeous cinematography all blend together to make this a trifecta of perfection.

I have often said that this movie is in the top 10 of my most favorite movies, and even after having watched some masterpieces throughout the past year and a half, I cannot deny that this movie still holds a place in my heart. For me, it's difficult to sit down and watch the film without devoting an entire night to it. From the point that Morgan Freeman opens up the box to the very end, the tears flow and flow. It brings me to the point where I want nothing more than just to crawl into bed and sleep. Tim Robbins is so beautiful, and I cheer every time I see him in the rain.

Everything about this film is wonderful, from the soundtrack (which sounds distinctly like American Beauty's score), to the twist and turns of the plot, from the beginning to the very end. I believe that it is one of the best movies made in the 1990's.