Drive (2011)

This is quite an interesting movie, with very few moments when you might think it is going nowhere. "Drive" is very compelling in a subtle way, although the violent scenes may cause you to shiver and wonder why you're looking at something so horrible. Ryan Gosling is completely different from most roles he ever played and Carey Mulligan brings back her childish looks and charm, playing a mother with very few options in life.

"Drive" is not the kind of movie that many would appreciate: It is slow, with engaging music and a steady pace, as a car running out of gas that never really dies. I was very surprised and must say that the experience was quite interesting. Check it out, with an open mind. ★★★

Director: Nicholas Winding Refn

We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)

I was glad I had the opportunity to see this movie as a preview. It is so devastatingly good that, to this moment, I cannot stop thinking about it. "We Need to Talk About Kevin" is probably dealing with nothing we haven't seem before. Nevertheless, the  depiction of such happenings will trouble your peace of mind and thrust you in a world of cold blooded situations that terrifies, touches and makes you wonder what you would do if the same happened to you.

Swinton is absolutely marvelous, leading a difficult role, mastered with talent and passionate performance. You will feel the pain, the pleasure and the despair of a character whose life is marked by the darkest tragedy, surrounded by evil in its most innocent embodiment. Simply outstanding. ★★★★★

Director: Lynne Ramsay 

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1 (2011)

Yes, like all good things, they always come to an end. Naturally we still have another year to feel anxious about the last installment of the saga, but "Breaking Dawn Part 1" will definitely leave the fans on the verge of despair. I love vampires stories and in spite of all the bad comments and judgments by those who can't steer away of corny bloody scenes, I still find the Twilight Saga's romantic approach very appealing. It's more of a love story than horror, serving us right in such a moment in time: if you want horror, just watch the news and you will have enough to quench your thirst.

"Breaking Dawn Part 1" is beautiful, romantic and emotional. And the soft touch and slow development, beautifully done since the very first movie keeps the pace at its natural. Those who are not drawn by the soft vampiric approach will probably skip it. But the fans should definitely enjoy it. I, as a matter of fact, did. ★★★★

Director: Bill Condon

The Adventures of Tintin (2011)

I still believe that the magic of 3D belongs in the world of animation. It brings everything to life and enhances the experience of the viewer. "The Adventures of Tintin" is quite beautiful as it takes you to a world full of mystery and excitement. Spielberg's touch is everywhere, making the bridge between animation and full fledged actors seem so small that, at a certain moment, you start imagining a future without the need of real actors in order to tell a story: everything is so perfectly done, with maximum attention to details, that is a real pleasure to watch.

The story is fast and well paced, with powerful music by the incomparable John Williams, who usually accompanies Spielberg in his adventures. Tintin and his buddy Snowy are fun, above anything else, and although I was never a fan of the famous strip, I did have a good time. Check it out. ★★★

Director: Steven Spielberg