Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Eagle vs Shark



Not that this movie needs any more press since it's already got quite a fair amount. Not to mention that it's already been picked up by a big studio. So I'll try and make this quick.

I saw this film tonight. It was an entirely sweet love story between two social misfits, Jarrod and Lilly.

In addition to the obvious theme, the movie explores themes such as a son attempting to win his father's approval too.

And of course, what would an already bizarre romantic comedy be without a tale of revenge to boot?

It goes without saying that Eagle vs Shark is not by any means the greatest love story ever filmed. Nor the greatest offbeat love story ever filmed -- which at any rate, for my money, would go to Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. In fact, it's eccentric enough that it might not appeal to some people at all (e.g. comparisons have been made to a more adult or mature Napoleon Dynamite).

Anyway, you can probably figure out if it'll be to your liking simply by watching the trailer. It captures enough of the film's quality without giving away too many of the funny and endearing bits.

I should also note that there's a parallel stop-motion animation alongside the main story that's quite neat to watch. Personally, I'm not sure it was entirely relevant, or necessarily added to the story, but it was still neat to watch. I don't think it hurt the film.

Speaking of which, maybe the filmmakers should've titled it Apple vs. Apple or Apple vs. Tangerine (after the song) instead? Just kidding.

And as a Yank, I gotta say, I love those accents from Down Under! The accents definitely made the movie a bit more charming to me.

Overall, I'd give it three out of four stars. Or grade-wise, a solid B or perhaps B+ if you're as fond of quirky flicks as I am.

Eagle vs Shark is not a fight, er, I mean, flick you should miss!

Although I won't mind if you miss this review. It's pretty poor. But in my defense, I just got back from the after-party, it's late, and I'm a volunteer. You get what you pay for.

4 comments:

jasmine said...

When is this showing again? I don't see it on the festival website and I really want to see it! Have you heard of Flight of the Conchords? This leading actor is a singer in that folk band, they are hilarious!

Newport Beach Film Festival said...

Hey Jasmine. I'm so sorry! It's not showing again at the festival. I believe it'll be released on June 1st, though. Sorry about that. :-(

jasmine said...

Thanks though. I'll try to catch it on June 1st! :)

Anonymous said...

actually, the film is being release on June 15th