************WARNING: THE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW! I REPEAT, BECAUSE THE ENDING IS A LOAD OF CRAP, THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW*************************ONE AGAIN, THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW! IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO NOT HAVE HAPPY MEMORIES OF THE FILM, PLEASE VENTURE ELSEWHERE*****************
In case the giant warning at the top wasn’t enough for you, I am going to spoil Remember Me (though if you don’t want that, here’s Erik’s review). Partially because that horse manure of an ending deserves to be spoiled, but also because it’s near impossible to not talk about the movie without discussing the ending. In this abortion the film calls a conclusion, Robert Pattinson’s Tyler is standing in his father’s (played by a lovely Pierce Brosnan) office waiting for him to come have breakfast with him. This all sounds swell, except for this building happens to be the World Trade Center, and this is also the morning of September 11th, 2001. That’s correct, Tyler is killed in the attacks, and everyone he knew is devastated. It’s a ballsy call, no doubt, but too bad the film tries to pass it off as some form of a twist instead of some kind of accident (then again, this movie isn’t exactly subtle about anything) like they did in the beginning with Aly’s (Emilie de Ravin) mother being murdered. The director also seems to be going for shock value to evoke an emotional response, as if he didn’t trust his actors to do so.
Which leads to this shocking revelation: Robert Pattinson can act.
Yes, I’ll say it again. Robert Pattinson can act.
Now before asteroids start destroying us and chaos erupts, this isn’t some Academy Award performance or anything of the sort as Pattinson does dip into ‘Twilight-mode’ a couple of times. However, for the majority of the time the man is actually putting on a damn fine performance, and also making this film lover fall into a state of shock. It’s because of his work here we can now assume he’s just laughing at us with Twilight, as if he’s playing the role of Edward Cullen with a “do I really have to sell this material?” kind of attitude. In fact, this is the thing I’m taking away most from the picture is that Pattinson is an actual good actor and will have a decent future for himself when this Twilight nonsense is over.
He’s countered very well by a more than captivating Emilie de Ravin, who has more chemistry with him in this movie than Kristen Stewart did in all three Twilight movies combined (even the one that’s not out yet.) Her Alyssa isn’t presented as some outcast, or some super, mega-bitch, but rather as a capable college student who’s intrigued by this mystery man. She’s there to play off Tyler, yet de Ravin is able to give some dimensions to Aly that some actresses stoned all the time might’ve fumbled. Their relationship feels real, and takes a natural course. True, there are times the script tries to be boneheaded with it’s choices, but de Ravin nor Pattinson allow it to become straight drivel.
As much credit as I do give Pattinson for actually proving he’s got good acting chops, he’s only number two behind Pierce Brosnan. He’s Charles Hawkins, Tyler’s lawyer father who is too busy for his children, and coolest cat in this movie. He too also has a solid clicking with Mr. Pattinson whereas one would think the seasoned veteran would be carrying the heartthrob throughout the picture. Brosnan is suave, reserved and everything the role requires him to be as a father who doesn’t quite understand or care about his children. He also gets the best scene and line when Tyler storms in on a meeting after Charles misses a art gallery for his daughter Caroline, portrayed by Ruby Jerins (who also is on the right career path for being in a Martin Scorsese movie at her young age.) Special note should be given to her too for actually giving a convincing performance as the misunderstood and almost alone little girl who really has a brilliant mind.
Which spells bad news for the usually reliable Chris Cooper, who is a mixed bag as Sgt. Neil Craig. At times, he’s actually on par with the aforementioned actors. Other times he’s having a tough time selling his thick New York accent and being outshined by a ten year-old. Also being schooled by said third grader is Tate Ellington as Aidan Hall, Tyler’s best friend and all around douche. He excels at the latter part, but at times tends to go a little too overboard with it. We’re not really supposed to like his character, and Ellington makes sure that never happens, so I suppose mission accomplished.
For a film acted so well, one wishes it was directed better and had a more solid script. Director Allen Coutler isn’t subtle about anything in the film, and pretty much thinks his audience his so dumb that he has to emphasize the importance of Chris Cooper in the opening scene by shooting him from behind. He also needs a lesson or two when it comes to actually shooting a film as his eye for shots is pretty atrocious. For instance, in a two-shot with Aidan and Tyler, the center of focus is some random person in the background, not the two people the dialogue was written for. But again, the ending displays how poor his talents really are, as he treats it like it’s some form of big revelation the movie was leading up to. He ultimately sucks any good will the film had out with that, and not because he wants it to be a gut-punch. Had it been handled better, my reaction to it might’ve been more friendlier, but as it stands it destroys not only Pattinson, but the film.
He’s not completely to blame for the decision though, as screenwriter Will Fetters mucks up some key moments as well. He’s ultimately trying to make this another crappy teen romance flick, but somewhere along the way he messed up and actually wrote characters with struggles and some decent drama. Granted, his actors are raising most of the material, but it was pretty refreshing to not have these people come off like the common stereotypes they often would. Fetters isn’t as talentless as his director, but he could still learn a thing or two when it comes to pacing the film. At times it flows along, then it’ll hit a cliche, then continue to flow again. Perhaps that’s Coutler’s fault more than Fetters, or I’m just trying to not tear Coutler a new butthole.
It’s a shame Remember Me ends up being the film it is, because before the final moments happened the cast and crew really had something good on their hands, even with Coutler’s misgivings. The biggest thing to take away from this movie is the revelation that Robert Pattinson has talent buried beneath that drivel that is Edward Cullen. The guy is legitimately good to the point I feel bad for criticizing his skills for so long. It also helps most everyone around him is giving solid work as well. They just happen to be in a film that’s content with destroying any good will it set forth by introducing a pure cop out of an ending. Would a different direction have helped? Absolutely, but alas this is what happens when you go for the cheap shot. Your film suffers. Take note for next time.
4/10
Related Posts:
Review: ‘Remember Me’ Packs in an Absurb Amount of Drama
Kristen Stewart Says Robert Pattinson is ‘Strong’ in ‘Remember Me’
Robert Pattinson Calls Romantic-Comedies Scripts ‘Rubbish’, May Still Explore Genre
Aw snap: ‘New Moon’s’ Robert Pattinson calls Twilight fans “virus”
Robert Pattinson Says ‘New Moon’ Criticism Unfair, Explains How He Manages Crazy Fans
The ending most definelty ruined the movie it was sad but also depressing and i will prob never see this movie again! and if i do i will stop it before the ending because it absolutley ruins the movie!
That's the right way to see this movie.
What?are you blind?you didn’t see the chemistry bet Rob/Kristen,lol..is that a joke..i think it’s time for you to visit your optho.Their chemistry is the reason that the first movie make lots of money…tsk…tsk..wonder how much Summit pay you!!i’m wasting my time on your blog..Better go watch RM!!!Don’t forget to visit your optho or phsycologist!
WHAT? Are you blind,really!!you didn’t see the chemistry of Rob/Kristen well i think you need to visit your optho or perhaps phsycologists.Their Chemistry is the reason why it become box office and the reason why their are so many twihard.I’m just wasting my time on your blog..I better go watch RM!Your not credible writer.
What?Are you blind?You didn't see the chemistry bet Rob/Kristen,srsly?!Are you insane.it's their chemistry why Twilight got box office sale and the reason why they are so many twi-hard.It's time for you to visit your optho better visit your phsycologist.I'm wasting my time reading your blog.I should go watch RM instead wastin my time on you
People don't want to be reminded that everyone who died on September 11 had their own story. Remember Me was just an example on one family's story.
I am really amazed at the bad reviews this movie is getting. I think Robert Pattinson portrayed his character exactly as it was intended, proving that he can act. The ending did not offend me, it was disturbing, but not as disturbing as 9/11 was. I was born and raised in NY, and I believe everyone should be reminded of 9/11 and never forget what happened. I saw the movie opening day, and I intend to see it again. I would recommend this move to everyone. Let's please give Rob Pattinson some credit and stop comparing him to Edward Cullen. As Tyler he was truly amazing as Edward he was even more amazing. His fans span several generations, and I hope he will be around for a long time.
Of course Robert Pattinson has some serious acting chops! During the movie, I found myself furious, when he was furious; sad when he was sad; relieved/happy when he acted as that also! I was utterly moved by his performance and I believe he acted well because I was sold by his performance and was definitely in the moment with his acting.
I just saw this movie and it was amazing. It may have been a little too long but the ending absolutely made you forget all about the bad parts. I cried, i dont know how you couldnt feel emotion to the ending. Robert's acting was pretty good, I'm a twilight fan (more so the books like most book to movie cases) and i wasnt sure if i would like him in another genre. But I have to say he did an exceptional job. You must see it, and ignore all the people that say it was bad. And he definently did have way more chemistry with Emilie de Ravin then he ever will with kristen. NOW
SHE is a bad actor compared to robert pattinson in twilight.
This is a good movie regardless of what most media reviewer said about it. If you have not seen it, I suggest that you give this movie a chance. It is been a while to have such movie played at the cinema, what with all the fuss with the 3D and all the visual graphics and all. Thanks Summit and the crew for bringing this type of movie back to the cinema.
I love how our friend Philip cruelly rakes "Remember Me" over the coals with a review peppered with typos. Far be it for me to expect a writer to actually be able to write. As for this film (and I say film rather then movie because there is a profound difference). I don't believe the end is a cop out. Its true that the writer and director were looking for the shock factor, however it has an emotional quality that draws a person in. Its all tied together quite nicely. This movie will not be winning any awards, but that's not because it doesn't deserve them. Quite honestly I think everyone needs a reminder about 9/11/01. People have become a little too complacent about it. This film is a two handed shoulder shake, a reminder to wake up and do something.
I don't know why anyone is saying that the ending ruined the movie. How could it?? I think the entire film was wonderful, and filled with phenomenal acting, but the ending truly brought it all home.
Why would a reference to September 11 be a bad thing?! We talk about that event all the time as a one-time event – this big collective thing. But the truth is, September 11 is made up of 4000 different stories. Each person who died had a story and a family left behind. Why everyone is crucifying this film, particularly because of the ending, is beyond me.
I thought it was a powerful film on a multitude of levels, and the ending was no exception. It simply tied up a movie wrought with emotion and drama.
And I guess film critics think they are way above the average consumer, and are always looking for hidden depths of "suckiness" in a film, but as an average consumer, I loved it. And so did everyone else in our theater. A middle aged man next to me, and his wife, were bawling, as were half the people in the theater. And at the end, the film got a standing ovation.
Oh, and this was my second time watching it in 4 days because I was so affected by it. So there, film critics.
I totally agree with your opinion!
Just seen it and I must say it was pretty good. Yes people Pattinson can act! The cast was awesome. And what the hell are you talking about saying the ending ruined the movie? All I have to say is the childish 'DID NOT!!' It was shoking, yeah, but I think that made the movie, without that endind this would have been just another regular drama..
Like someone above me allready said, every person who died that day had a story. My friend say to me after the movie: 'Would of been better if it was a true story'. But this really could be, a life ended just like that. It's just one of those movies (no not films jeez!) that stays in your memory. I respect everyones opinion but really don't get how you can wipe the floor with this beautiful story…
And seriously 4/10? Trying to be a critic doesn't mean you have to give bad scores you know ^^
I thought the ending was amazing, if you watch the film then you will understand how the ending fits in nicely with the rest of the story. The ending just adds to the brilliant acting and dramatic storyline portrayed throughout! I honestly dont see why this has been critiqued as it has been.. I would honestly recomend this to anyone and would definately see this again. This definately rates as one of my all time favourite films. Its utterly mind blowing and has quite honestly left me speechless.
i loved this moviee, it went through a lot of thngs like bullying and neglect my heart broke for the wee girl when her hair got cut off. I can see why people might be annoyed at the ending about being reminded that on september 11th every person who died had a family or people who cared it makes it easier if we dont think about that but the truth is that tragic day will be with us who lived throught it and saw it and evan people who arent born forever . I just mean to say dont go about trashing the movie because of the ending if you didnt like the story then fair enough but dont criticise thee ending.X.X
The whole point of the film was to show 9/11 from the point of view of a normal NY family who lost a loved one in the attacks. 9/11 is an event taht came out of of the blue, no one had had foreseen it. RM gives the collective tragedy an individual, human dimension. Its goal is to make you experience the tragedy in a way which is as close to the reality of that day as possible. Its is a film about 9/11, only it does not say so explicitly. If you entered the theater knwoing it beforehand the experience would be vastly different, you would be expecting it all along and your approach of the ending would probably be different in this article. But you do have clues all along: from the very first shot (with the Twin Towers in the background) and the date (1991, then "10 years later" = how hard is it to do the math?); the action takes place in NY, in the summer of 2001; you have visual landmarks (the red Noguchi cube, the coffee shop in Wall Street, the elevator going past the 90th floor, the view from Charles' office, the Labour Day's holiday vacation, Caroline going back to school…), you can hear GW Bush on the radio…
(had to split in in 2, sorry) if you still think the ending is a twist and a contraption, then you didn't get what the film is about at all. It's a tribute to 9/11 families, done with respect and taste. The film is true to reality: as in real life, you get emotionally invested in the characters (kudos to all the cast) and as in real life, as if you had lost someone, the normal, human reaction is to be angry and devastated at the ending. But we have brains as an audience and your job as a viewer or a critic is to get past the raw feelings and start thinking : wny are we left angry or stunned or devastated or in tears when the film ends? Because this is what happened when 9/11 happened. Because this is what happens when such unexpected, tragic events – be it a terrorist attack, an accident, a murder – suddenly occur in our life. Don't you get it?
Exactly, Kim! It's not a "twist" or "cop-out" ending. It set out to recreate the shock of 9/11 and it did it. And it really makes me suspicious of critics — how could they not see this? Aren't they supposed to be experts in understanding what a film is about? To go beyond the obvious or at least understand it? Or maybe we don't have educated critics anymore. They're just reviewers, but hell, anyone can review a movie. Or have they gotten too cynical and just can't recognize a sincere attempt at drama anymore. Well, "Remember Me" has made $53M worldwide… some people "got it."
I absolutely agree with you Kim! I just watched Remember Me and boy did it leave a lasting impression on me. I rented the film but I definitely plan to add it to my collection. Robert did an amazing job. I too caught on to the examples you stated and…I just thought it was great!