Thursday, April 12, 2012

LORAX!! #4


I plan to discuss the dark, gloomy tale of the Lorax, written by Dr.Suess (of course) simply because it's the most recent film I have seen! So here it goes…..

This first review I choose was written by Clarissa Meffan, from Movie Fix.  Clarissa describes the movie as a less than faithful tribute to the true message behind the story.  She asks how the dark somber tale of consumerism’s effect on the environment could turn into a no-holds-bars kid’s movie, full of bright animation, loud musical numbers, and suited bad guys. Clarissa argues that it was these elements that gave a “synthetic feeling” to a story that preaches the opposite.  However she does acknowledge the animation of the overall movie as being very Sues’ inspired.  There is little mention of the characters in the movie, however she does state that Betty White( Teds grandmother) offers a few laughs for the adults, while Ted (Zach Ephron) and Audry (Talor Swift)  bring plenty of kiddie-appeal to their characters. http://yourmovies.com.au/movie/42730/the-lorax/review

                The second review I looked at was by Roger Moore, from McCLATCHY TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE.  The author does something very different from Clarissa, his lead begins with a political edge that he uses in several different paragraphs.  He briefly discusses the politics surrounding the message behind the film and states that “the message is as obvious and irritating to those who resent the Clean Air Act.” He then continues with a very lengthy summary of the film, then ending the review with a quote from the Lorax himself, while taking a jab at the Lou Dobb’s of the world. http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/ae/movies/s_784370.html

                In comparison the two had very different analytical approaches one suggested the film as being almost irritating, and a poor portrayal of what the story is about.  The first reviewer focuses mainly on the negative aspects of the film, as the other reviewer had more positive things to say.  I did enjoy having a little less summary in the review Clarrissa wrote, I felt that Roger went on to explain too much of the movie, SPOILER ALERT!!  However I liked that Roger brought in a more political view, and used real world events in conjunction to the movie.  Overall I preferred the writing style of Clarissa as she used witty diction, and strong sarcasm to criticize the film.   Her approach was well thought and she gave just the right amount of summary.  Roger had a strong lead, with a “mouth load” of summary and made several connections to other classic films.  His tone throughout his writing is lightly sarcastic at times, but overall upbeat.  You can tell immediately that he enjoyed this film and the message behind it.

I definitely plan to do the film review after reading so many I have been inspired to try it!

1 comment:

This Must be the Place . . . said...

Orianna,

Some really well-put statements throughout, especially: "She asks how the dark somber tale of consumerism’s effect on the environment could turn into a no-holds-bars kid’s movie, full of bright animation, loud musical numbers, and suited bad guys. Clarissa argues that it was these elements that gave a “synthetic feeling” to a story that preaches the opposite."

You nicely describe the ideological, "real-world" connection in the second film.

Always refer to authors by their last names only (you can use the full name the first time you reference someone): "very different from Clarissa"; " However I liked that Roger"

Glad to hear you're reading multiple reviews and are interested in taking the review on!