When I first decided to write a blog, I figured a big part of the content would be made up of book, video game, and movie reviews. So far I have yet to touch on a single movie, which seems odd to me considering how much I love that particular art form. Regardless, here goes nothing, my first movie review.
Sat down tonight with a rental copy of Moneyball because I wanted to see what all the hype is about. After all it got 6 Oscar nods including Best Picture, Best Actor - Brad Pitt, and Best Supporting Actor - Jonah Hill.
I should start this by admitting that I am a HUGE Brad Pitt fan. I like him in everything I have ever seen him in and honestly think he can do no wrong. Yes, I even liked him in Meet Joe Black, and Seven Years in Tibet. Early work, recent work, I love it all. The dude just exudes a suave charm and charisma. He can't help it, he's Brad Pitt.
Needless to say, Pitt is very good as the never say never General Manager of the down and out Oakland A's. There is enough back story, and a dynamic relationship with his young daughter, that you get a pretty vivid picture of what its like to be in his shoes.
The story is not one that I knew alot about. I am a guy, therefore I like sports, and thus movies about sports, but I don't follow baseball closely enough to know the back story surrounding the events depicted in the film. What's great about this movie is that doesn't matter.
They have focused so much time and effort on the human relationships that the meat of the picture, all the stats and standings, take a back seat to the characters.
Speaking of characters, kudos to Jonah Hill, for his portrayal of the clubs Assistant General Manager. It is the first serious role I have seen him tackle, and he gets a nod of approval. He may just be a contender for the Oscar.
Overall, I enjoyed the film, but I have a hard time seeing it take the Oscar for best picture.
I would like to see Pitt take home best actor, but it's a pretty tough field, especially with George Clooney in the running.
