Ep 59. "Haywire" and "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" Reviews

Title: Maltin on Movies Season 1 Episode 59 - "Haywire" and "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" Reviews

In this 59th episode of Maltin on Movies, renowned film critic Leonard Maltin dives into the worlds of action and heartfelt drama as he offers his reviews for "Haywire" and "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close." Join him as he dissects these two films, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and overall cinematic qualities without spoiling the plot or ending for his viewers.

The episode kicks off with Maltin delving into "Haywire," a thrilling action flick directed by acclaimed filmmaker Steven Soderbergh. Starring the talented Gina Carano in her breakout role, the film follows the story of Mallory Kane, a highly skilled operative working for a private security firm. When she becomes entangled in a twisted web of betrayal and danger, Mallory fights to uncover the truth and seek justice, using her expert fighting skills to take down anyone in her way.

Maltin commends Soderbergh's directorial vision, portraying the action sequences with a raw and realistic style that sets "Haywire" apart from other films in the genre. He highlights Carano's exceptional physicality, praising her believable portrayal as a formidable action heroine. Maltin also notes the film's impressive supporting cast, including Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender, and Antonio Banderas, all delivering solid performances that amp up the intensity of the narrative.

Moving on, Maltin transitions to the thought-provoking drama "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close." Directed by Stephen Daldry, this emotionally charged film revolves around a young boy named Oskar Schell, brilliantly portrayed by newcomer Thomas Horn. After losing his father in the tragic events of September 11th, Oskar embarks on a sprawling journey through New York City, searching for a lock to match a mysterious key left behind by his father.

Maltin commends Daldry's delicate direction, effectively capturing the emotional turmoil and heartache experienced by Oskar and his family. He applauds Thomas Horn's remarkable performance, expressing admiration for the young actor's ability to convey complex emotions with authenticity and vulnerability. Maltin also praises the supporting cast, which includes Tom Hanks, Sandra Bullock, and Max von Sydow, for their remarkable performances that breathe life into the narrative.

Throughout the episode, Maltin provides a balanced critique of both films. For "Haywire," he acknowledges the film's high-octane action sequences and Carano's standout performance, but also comments on occasional narrative confusion and underdeveloped characters. As for "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close," Maltin commends the film's heartfelt exploration of grief and its portrayal of a young protagonist, yet acknowledges that some viewers may find the narrative overly sentimental or contrived at times.

Maltin ensures that his reviews remain spoiler-free, allowing viewers to form their own opinions and experience these films firsthand without having major plot points revealed in advance. He expertly analyzes both the technical aspects and the emotional resonance of each film, providing viewers with valuable insights to consider before deciding whether to watch them.

As the episode comes to a close, Maltin summarizes his thoughts on "Haywire" and "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close," ultimately leaving it up to viewers to make their own judgments. With Maltin's keen eye for detail and eloquent delivery, this episode of Maltin on Movies offers an engaging and insightful exploration of these two vastly different films, ensuring that viewers are well-informed and prepared for their cinematic journey.