True Grit (2010)

“True Grit” is an American Western film directed by Joel and Ethan Coen brothers. It is based on Charles Portis’ same name novel written in 1968. The story was previously filmed in 1969 by director Henry Hathaway (1898-1985). Unfortunately, I cannot compare this film to previous version as I have not seen it. But, since the story is good, this version of film is good as well.

The story is narrated by an elderly woman Mattie Ross. When she was 14 years old, her father was murdered by his hired worker Tom Chaney. He ran away to Indian territories with Mattie’s father’s horse and two California gold pieces. Young Mattie (Hailee Steinfeld) is the main character of film. She is quite intelligent and confident for her age. Using her wit, Mattie easily manipulates adults around her to get what she wants.

Seeking for revenge, teenager hires U.S. Marshall Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges) to find Chaney and bring him for hanging. Rooster is known as having “true grit”. Another person, who wants to catch Chaney, is Texas Ranger LaBoeuf (Matt Damon), who claims that Chaney killed the senator in Texas. Though Mattie, Rooster and LaBoeuf start this adventure together, they twice split up and take different routes.

Despite Hailee Steinfeld’s young age and the fact that this was her first role, in my opinion she perfectly delivered her role. Bridges makes film better by excellently performing his strong and ignorant character. Damon’s performance is also flawless. His character is not that likeable and moustache makes him somewhat different from his usual roles.

The film leaves positive impression in spite of numerous gunshot and dying-people scenes. Once more Coen brothers have done a good job. Though, I have to say, they could film a better ending.

“True Grit” is a great watch in the company of friends especially if they like Western films. Enjoy!

Reviewer’s rating: 7.5 out of 10

The Adjustment Bureau (2011)

The film was directed by George Nolfi starring Matt Damon and Emily Blunt. First time ever on my blog, I have to say this about a film: it is a complete waste of time. The film is not convincing. It does not have a proper plot. It is boring and based on weak statements made by characters.

Overall the old idea of angels helping with our lives is great and I believe this is true. But in The Adjustment Bureau some people (their identity remains unclear to me), who claim that they were called angels in the past (so they are not even humans), and now they are the adjustment bureau, control human lives. They change things according to the plan written by ‘Chairman’.

This Chairman thing as well remains unclear to me.  Did they mean the God by Chairman? Most probably yes.  Then why on earth these fake-angels say ‘son of a bitch’ every now and then? Is this director’s understanding of angels and God?

They refer to the fact that humans had free will for some time in history and it never ended well. The wars are result of human’s free will. Therefore, free will is taken from humanity. This, in my opinion, sounds ridiculous. The creatures of Bureau use doors to travel faster through the city. It reminded me of Monsters, Inc., 2001 animation and their doors.

There was one thing that I think I liked. This was second part of David Norris’ (Matt Damon) speech when he said that he did not even choose his own tie. I do not think in our real world politicians can have the courage to make such speeches.

I think success of film depends on story (40%), director of film (30%) and actors (30%). The story of this film is feeble and acting or directing skills cannot save it. I do not think this film is a good way to spend your time.

Reviewer's rating: 5.5 out of 10