The Book of Eli

One of my favorite holiday films, "The Book of Eli," creates mixed emotions amongst most critics. Only receiving a 68% on Rotten Tomatoes instead of a deserving, at least, 98%, "The Book of Eli," is religiously based. This is the reason why the film received such a mediocre rating. This exquisite film was written and directed by the Hughes Brothers and starred mega-superstar film actor, Denzel Washington, who played the lead role of Eli. On his westward journey during an post-apocalyptic era, Eli is hunted for a possession that every survivor desires for, a special book. Eli and many other characters, such as Solara (Mila Kunis), who later joins Eli on his quest, symbolizes a plethora of religious ideas and concepts concealed within the "Holy Bible." Even though this film does not have scenery filled with snow, Christmas lights, nor any other characteristic that one may find in most traditional christmas films, this film is filled with faith and hope. Faith and hope are major conceptual idealizations of the holiday season. This allows the film to be a holiday movie. "The Book of Eli," will keep you on the edge of your seat, from the time it starts until the time it ends, in anticipation of the next scene to come. The end will blow your mind and leave you wanting more. This film, overall, is a well-done film and should influence one to rethink and reestablish their ideas and morals for the improvement of society.

The Dark Knight

In similarity to its title, Christopher Nolan’s, “The Dark Knight,” had many night scenes. Without the help of the sun, many filmmakers find it difficult to light up night scenes, but not Christopher Nolan. Nolan’s professional lighting throughout the film is the most impressive part of the movie, especially since there was a lot of movement within these scenes. Since, “The Dark Knight,” is a super-hero movie, Nolan provided more authenticity in the crime fighting than most of the other super-hero movies. In addition to the super-hero aspect of the movie, Nolan provides hidden secrets within his characters, which naturally adds suspense to the film. Batman (Christian Bale) must decide whether to turn himself into justice, allowing the joker (Heath Ledger) to stop killing the citizens of gotham. However, if Batman does this, the world will know his secret identity. Throughout the 2 hour 30 minute movie, there is suspenseful music as well as dark, shadowy settings. This movie is indeed the best superhero movie due to its gothic elements.