Movie Diary 12/16/2008

Azur and Asmar (Michel Ocelet, 2006). Even for a non-cartoon fanatic, it’s hard to deny the sheer delirium of Ocelet’s imagery, especially with the full-bloom exoticism of this Arabian tale. (full review 1/9)

Gran Torino (Clint Eastwood, 2008). When Eastwood’s movies really click these days he manages a blend of graceful, classical style with big, sometimes downright blunt ideas; this one is the closest he’s come to doing a Sam Fuller picture — not in style, that is, but in attitude. (full review 12/25)