True Grit

English(U/A)

Cast: Hailee Steinfeld, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin

Directors: Ethan & Joel Coen

This western flick based on Charles Portis’ novel by same title is about 14-year-old girl Mattie Ross (Hailee Steinfeld) quest to kill her father’s murderer Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin). Let down by court she finds the unlikely companion in one-eyed gunslinger US Marshal Rooster Cogburn (Bridges). They are joined by Texas Ranger LeBeouf (Damon), a known talker but reliable man with his gun.

The film lives up to its title -powdered revenge story with love, humour and action since the start. The landscapes look wild and rusty. The cast has acted well. The unlikely story of 14-year-old girl who wanted to avenge her father is itself odd but Steinfeld makes its realistic with two well know actors Damon and Bridges by her side.  This film will appeal to both new age and old cowboy film fans.

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The Fighter

The Fighter English (A) Cast: Christian Bale, Mark Wahlberg, Amy Adams Director: David O Russell

Based on a true story, Dicky Eklund (Bale), local boxing hero of Lowell in Massachusetts, after beating Sugar Ray Leonard is trying to make a “comeback”. But taken over by drugs he finds it difficult to meet responsibilities towards himself and his younger brother Mickey Ward (Wahlberg) who wants to become a champ himself. So, Mikey, as suggested by girlfriend Charlene (Adams), left his family and  strikes a deal with other trainers. Even as Mickey leaves his family to concentrate on his career a question lingers on as to whether he make it on his own, or does he need the help of his rather unreliable older brother? This action biopic has a number of surprises. It begins like a documentary which ultimately merges into main storyline partly to give an impression that this story is for real. Director Russell employs a standard action format. Mark Wahlberg  and Christian Bale showcase their acting prowess. Each of the characters from their parents to other family members are not just standbys. They all played their role in making a champion. Go, meet The Fighter.