Bruce Campbell craziness from Nukethefridge!

Bruce Campbell's Expendables?

Check out the link to get a hold on what could be "The Expendables" of Horror, a project by Horror super actor: Bruce Campbell.

Movie Review: Greenberg

            One thing I adore when it comes to the film industry is when an actor surprises me with an alternative, outside-of-the-box role. It happened last year with Mo’Nique in “Precious” and it happened this year in a Noah Baumbach directed flick called “Greenberg.” The role I am referring to is that of the title character: Roger Greenberg; played by Ben Stiller. Hollywood continues to surprise me with sudden outbursts of talent. This is one of those moments where I say that is why that person is an actor; and I savor the moment, because I never know when they will continue the trend and provide us with, hopefully, continually better films.

           

            The film begins not with the title character, but with a young twenty-something girl named Florence, played by Greta Gerwig, who works for the title character’s brother. She is immediately established as the likable, caring character of the film, however, this isn’t all sunshine and daisies. It is also clear that due to her warmhearted nature she is constantly being stepped on. One just can’t help but feel bad for her at times, especially when she interacts with Roger Greenberg. While Florence is the happy, hopeful youth character, Greenberg is the opposite. He’s in his mid-forties and hates the world just as much as he hates himself. Greenberg ends up staying with his brother to do what he thinks is best for him at this stage of his life: nothing. That’s when he meets Florence and the two begin to connect because of their shared loneliness. This gives a new meaning to the phrase opposites attract. Both actors do a great job of employing on screen chemistry and I would go as far to say Ben Stiller and Greta Gerwig could both potentially grab Oscar nods. Ben Stiller’s comedic experience is showcased in a better light. It becomes evident that dark humor is a better outlet for him to showcase his talent. Although a lot of his past characters have been jerks who don’t realize they are, this is something more real and dire. Greenberg acts as a catalyst to show us how far Ben Stiller can go being the oblivious jerk; and it’s only strengthened by the acting performance of Greta Gerwig. Her portrayal is no joke; it’s so well acted that one wonders why she even bothers to be with Greenberg. This is the driving force of the film: the fact that maybe we will see what she sees in him, to realize why she goes through all of what Greenberg brings to the table.

            Other notable acting performances include Rhys Ilfans as Ivan and Jennifer Jason Leigh as Beth. Ivan was a solid character overall, contributing to the enhancement of Greenberg’s jerk status. He was a former band mate who was hurt the most when Greenberg didn’t want to sign with a record label. Beth is Greenberg’s ex-girlfriend and is also solidly acted by the woman who helped by producing and writing for the film.

            Greenberg’s script is soundly composed; and it’s scenes skillfully directed. It’s one that, if acted correctly, which it was, will lead to a fantastic blend of humor and sadness. Even when a humorous line arises, it is immediately quelled by the sorrow that engulfs the characters of this film. I admire it when films showcase strength in both the tragedy and comedy aspect. Cue applause for Noah Baumbach’s direction and script-writing ability.

            This film comes highly recommended from me. It’s misanthropic main character might turn some viewers off, but it’s certainly rewarding when you realize you’re witnessing an excellent turn in Ben Stiller’s career. It also helps that the film is riddled with amusing dialogue and an overall well-rounded cast.