Feb 7: Chronicle

"Three high school friends gain superpowers after making an incredible discovery. Soon, though, they find their lives spinning out of control and their bond tested as they embrace their darker sides."

     Chronicle is what would happen if you mixed Cloverfield with X-Men. The film follows three kids who gain telekinetic powers and, over time, grow stronger and lose control. Andrew (played by the incredible Dane DeHaan), is the main character. He is the loner kid at his high school. He's bullied, ignored, and his life at home is just as bad. He has an abusive father and a terminally ill mother. Now imagine what would happen if you gave this kid insane power. It's a lot like Carrie, but without the gross "blood in the shower" scene.  

Yuck.

  One of the best things that Chronicle has going for it is the special effects. The entire movie is shot through handheld cameras and footage from security and traffic cameras. It's similar to the "found footage" genre that's become popular (Paranormal Activity, Quarantine, Cloverfield, etc). It's because the movie was filmed in this style that the special effects are highlighted even more. So much of what happens looks and feels real and the way the movie is filmed gives the characters, especially Andrew, much more depth. 

All attempts to give Wolverine a camera to record his life were failures. 

  Chronicle is fresh and original, and makes you really want your own superpowers. The characters move stuff with their minds, withstand damage to their bodies, and even fly. A part of me, when I left the theater, really wished I could jump in the air and take off myself. But alas, I am a mere human. Chronicle has a terrific cast of young actors who are sure to become household names sooner than later and an equally tight and smart script. With The Amazing Spider-Man, The Dark Knight Rises (OMG) and The Avengers all coming out this year, Chronicle is the perfect jump-start to The Year of the Superhero. 

The Good:

incredible special effects with an epic climactic battle

The Bad:

the length... at only 84 minutes you really want to see more. The ending, however, does hint at a possible sequel. 

The Ugly:

realizing you will never gain any superpowers, and moving stuff with your mind will never happen... so depressing

Overall: 8.5/10

Best Quote:

Andrew Detmer: "I am an Apex Predator. Does the lion feel bad killing the gazelle? Do people feel remorse when they kill a fly?"