Movie Review: Hysteria

 Last night, eOne presented an advanced screening for Hysteria. Directed by Tanya Wexle, this film was also screened at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival.

Courtesy of Insomnia and eOne (thanks!). Insomnia held an online contest where I was able to win the tickets. Who knew I'd get to enjoy free advanced screening from one of my favorite restaurants. 

 

The film Review: Hysteria

Coming into this film, I had no prior expectations. I only wanted to prepare myself of the baseline of the story, which was "a story about the man who invents/inspires the today's mechanism, the vibrator". It's also a comedy, so I knew it would be a great relaxing film to watch. I had no idea how much I would love it. This is a film that can be enjoyed in the theaters with dozens of others watching and laughing at all the subtle or not so subtle sexual innuendos. The film as a whole was beautifully done. I loved Hugh Dancy's character. He was so poised and gentlemen-like. Alongside him, his chemistry with actress Maggie Gyllenhaal was funny and beautiful. 

The story line itself was very nicely done. It moved smoothly in its development and they held their fair share of punches without going overboard. The sensitivity of the content was enjoyable. As a conservative myself, I didn't feel awkward or uncomfortable. The comedy produced in every scene seemed to play out perfectly. I think Tanya did a great job directing and using the actors' strong suits to drive this film to a success.

Rating it 4.5/5

It comes out in theaters this May. 

Movie Review: Edwin Boyd, Citizen Gangster

Starring one of my favorite actors, Scott Speedman (who also stars in many canadian films) as Edwin Boyd.

This film came to screen at the TIFF 2011 festival. It comes out to the public today. I was lucky enough to go to a special private screening and Q&A with the director, Nathan Morlando, producer, Allison Black and actor, Kevin Durand. Unfortunately, I had another event to attend to that night, so I only got to view the film.

Rating it 3.2/5

The story is about a WWII vet that returns home to his young 2.5 family and works as a bus driver. Unfulfilled feelings lies with a long lost dream of becoming a Hollywood actor. Putting two ideas together, he decides to rob local banks, Hollywood style. This film is based on true events of the life of Canadian Edwin Boyd. 

My thoughts were a little mixed. I enjoyed it (great acting from Speedman), but the story line was a bit bland. The story  felt like it was pulling from one story to another and then to another and not really giving greater attention for better development to Boyd himself. My most confused story was the one with Mary, Lenny's sister. I felt she had a bigger story to develop, but they just climax it with her breakdown and then left it without giving her scenes to show her reasons for her actions. The build ups were good but  it just felt like nothing followed through. The film is based on true events, so I guess one and only do so much. 

I admired Kelly Riley's performance as Mrs. Boyd. A woman who is torn between her love for her husband and children and his criminal acts (of love? selfishness?). What to do? How to feel? She portrayed a very exposed and torn woman. I loved her! I felt for her!

Lastly, my review rating went a little higher than I thought I should give it only because of my love and pride for Canadian films. I wish them all the best and hope they do well.

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Come out and a support Canadian films. Watch out, they're making waves! 

-theccgirl