nomadreader

Day & Night  (6 minutes) Pixar's shorts are always delightful, and this one is no exception. Day meets Night and they are frightened by each other. Then they engage in an amusing game of one-upping each other with their wonders. It was a fast-pasted, funny, creative and touching short. It's a story I can't imagine being told without animation. Although the idea is solid, a book form of the tale wouldn't have the same emotional impact. Rating: 4.5 stars The Gruffalo (27 minutes) Even if you haven't read the children's book this short is based on, the story will be familiar. It's not really treading new ground, and while the animation was beautiful, it's really a short geared to small children. It does feature some famous voices, such as Helena Bonham Carter, Tom Wilkinson and John Hurt. Children will likely love it, but adults may find it goes on too long. Rating: 4 stars Let's Pollute (6 minutes) Done in the style of a science movi...

The Confession  (26 minutes) Basics: Two British boys prepare for their first confession. Sam frets because he doesn't think he has anything to confess, so he and his best friend Jacob set out to steal this scarecrow. My thoughts: It started funny with brochures featuring suggestions of things 9-year-olds might need to confess, but it quickly turned dark. The film didn't shy away from extremes, but none of the events were particularly shocking. The performance of Lewis Howlett at Sam kept this film from veering into the ridiculous. It's not the most unique film or script, but it was quite visually interesting and well acted. Rating: 3.5 stars (out of 5) Wish 143  (24 minutes) Basics: The film centers on the story of David, a teenager dying of cancer. When presented with the option of a wish (a la Make-a-Wish), he wishes to have sex. My thoughts: Wish 143  does a wonderful job dealing with serious subjects (cancer and death) and infusing them with humor. The...