Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2011)

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close is one of the most touching films released in 2011. I am thoroughly puzzled as to why such an emotional story and well made film garnered a 6.9/10 rating on IMDb. The only thing sadder than parts of this film is that rating.

The story follows Oskar, a young boy with autism. Oskar's father just passed away during the September 11th terrorist attacks, so in order to keep the memory of his father alive, Oskar goes on a quest throughout New York to find the keyhole of a key his father left behind. Through this quest, Oskar is assisted by the renter, a mute who happens to be his grandfather. In the end, Oskar is forced to realize that not everything is an adventure and that not everything has a meaning.

Well this film had meaning. Beautifully directed by Stephen Daldry, emotions run high in this film as the audience is drawn to sympathize with this troubled character. The poor kid was exposed to real life in an unrelenting, forceful manner and we can't help but sympathize. Conclusion: Worth A Watch

Rating: 8.5/10

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

Dragon Tattoo is a brutal and unrelenting film that stays true to the book. That being said, this film was nearly identical to the original adaptation, making this movie nothing special at all.

The plot to this film is complex and disturbing as a journalist is aided by a young computer hacker in search for the whereabouts of a girl who disappeared 40 years ago. Daniel Craig's performance in this film was better than most anything he has displayed on screen before. Rooney Mara, a newcomer on the scene, may have had better fortune if she had a different early role. Nonetheless, she performed extremely well, delivering an equally convincing performance compared to Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth Salander.

This film is not for everyone. It is dark and has its moments of extreme brutality. If you can put up with that, the film has an intriguing plot that is different and original. So if you don't like subtitles (I actually like them) and want to see what all the fuss is about with the book series, I'd suggest this film. Conclusion: Worth A Watch

Rating: 7.75/10