Shooter is an action-packed thriller starring Mark Wahlberg as Bob Lee Swagger, a former Army sniper who leaves the military after a mission goes bad. After he is reluctantly pressed back into service, Swagger is double-crossed again. With two bullets in him and the subject of a nationwide manhunt, Swagger begins his revenge, which will take down the most powerful people in the country.
This movie is your typical action/revenge movie a la Steven Segal in the 80s. Dude gets screwed and he wants payback at all costs. Conveniently all of his bullets hit the target while all the ones aimed at him miss. All kidding aside, the movie wasn't that bad. It was totally formula but it was watchable. The only thing that I wasn't a really big fan of was that it was 2 hours long. This easily could have been an hour and a half or an hour and 45 minutes and it would have been much better.
I would recommend this to people. It's nowhere near a must see but it is definitely watchable if you are in to these kinds of movies.
Reign Over Me
In Reign Over Me, two former college roommates Charlie Fineman (Adam Sandler) and Alan Johnson (Don Cheadle) run into each other years later and rekindle their friendship. Charlie, who recently lost his wife and children in 9/11, has retreated from his life, while Alan is overwhelmed by his family and professional responsibilities. Their chance meeting becomes a lifeline for Charlie and Alan, both of whom are in need of a trusted friend at this pivotal moment in their lives.
This was a very heartwarming movie. I have never remotely thought of Adam Sandler as a legit actor, but he was great in this one. I would have loved to just cut his mop of a hairdo, but I digress. Don Cheadle was also great, but when is that man not awesome? This movie really did a great job of showing how something as traumatic as 9/11 can hit people and effect those around him that are trying to help. The other two things that I really liked about this movie was the music and the shots of Manhattan. When used right, music can make you actually feel like you are a part of a movie and I love when that happens. It usually makes me come home and download a bunch of the songs. The shots of Manhattan while Adam Sandler was riding around on his Go-ped were phenomenal. They were done so well that I remembered the last time I had walked past that particular spot.
I would fully recommend this movie to everyone. Unfortunately, it didn't open too wide and probably won't be out that long so checking it out of video might be a little more realistic.
This was a very heartwarming movie. I have never remotely thought of Adam Sandler as a legit actor, but he was great in this one. I would have loved to just cut his mop of a hairdo, but I digress. Don Cheadle was also great, but when is that man not awesome? This movie really did a great job of showing how something as traumatic as 9/11 can hit people and effect those around him that are trying to help. The other two things that I really liked about this movie was the music and the shots of Manhattan. When used right, music can make you actually feel like you are a part of a movie and I love when that happens. It usually makes me come home and download a bunch of the songs. The shots of Manhattan while Adam Sandler was riding around on his Go-ped were phenomenal. They were done so well that I remembered the last time I had walked past that particular spot.
I would fully recommend this movie to everyone. Unfortunately, it didn't open too wide and probably won't be out that long so checking it out of video might be a little more realistic.
The Hills Have Eyes 2
This is the sequel to the 2006 horror re-make, The Hills Have Eyes. The storyline follows a group of young National Guard trainees who are attacked by mutants during a training mission in the New Mexico desert.
Basically, what happens in Hollywood with horror movies is that if a low budget gore fest makes 40 million dollars - the studio is so psyched that they decide to cast a bunch of craptastic actors, have a bunch of senseless gore, and don't bother with a screenplay just so that they can get a putrid sequel out in theaters as fast possible to try and make another 40 million dollars. Hence . . . . The Hills Have Eyes 2. The first movie was silly, but at least it was a witless, lost family against the mutants. In this one they are up against a troop of OUR NATIONAL GUARD . . . . with proper training . . . . and machine guns. As if that alone wasn't demoralizing enough, the senseless gore is so outrageous. For example, the movie starts off with the grossest child birth scene I've ever seen and there is even one scene where a guys climbs out of porta-potty . . . . FROM INSIDE THE TOILET! This movie was absolutely horrid.
I wouldn't recommend anyone seeing this. Not even horror buffs. They will leave the theater just as annoyed as the rest of us.
Basically, what happens in Hollywood with horror movies is that if a low budget gore fest makes 40 million dollars - the studio is so psyched that they decide to cast a bunch of craptastic actors, have a bunch of senseless gore, and don't bother with a screenplay just so that they can get a putrid sequel out in theaters as fast possible to try and make another 40 million dollars. Hence . . . . The Hills Have Eyes 2. The first movie was silly, but at least it was a witless, lost family against the mutants. In this one they are up against a troop of OUR NATIONAL GUARD . . . . with proper training . . . . and machine guns. As if that alone wasn't demoralizing enough, the senseless gore is so outrageous. For example, the movie starts off with the grossest child birth scene I've ever seen and there is even one scene where a guys climbs out of porta-potty . . . . FROM INSIDE THE TOILET! This movie was absolutely horrid.
I wouldn't recommend anyone seeing this. Not even horror buffs. They will leave the theater just as annoyed as the rest of us.
The Last Mimzy
The Last Mimzy tells the story of two children who discover a mysterious box that contains some strange devices they think are toys. As the children play with these "toys," they begin to display higher and higher intelligence levels. Their teacher tells their parents that they seem to have grown beyond genius. Their parents, too, realize something extraordinary is happening. Emma, the younger of the two, tells her confused mother that one of the toys, a beat-up stuffed toy rabbit, is named Mimzy and that "she teaches me things."As Emma's mom becomes increasingly concerned, a blackout shuts down the city and the government traces the source of the power surge to Emma's family's house. Things quickly spin wildly out of their control. The children are focused on these strange objects, Mimzy, and the important mission on which they seem to have been sent. When the little girl says that Mimzy contains a most serious message from the future, a scientific scan shows that Mimzy is part extremely high level electronic, and part organic and the children's destiny is to get Mimzy back to where she belongs.
This movie was like a lower scaled E.T. You find yourself immediately liking the two kids and hoping that things work out for them . . . . . and Mimzy. It's the type of movie where you don't even realize you are watching very heavy science fiction. That is the best kind of science fiction as far as I'm concerned. The story moved along very well and the adults were great in their supporting roles. WW and I liked this movie just as much as my future stepdaughter and "niece" . . . . . actually we probably enjoyed it even more than them so this movie definitely reaches to all audiences. It was just a simple, enjoyable ride of a movie.
I would recommend this movie for everyone. It's a feel good/great family movie and you should all check it out.
This movie was like a lower scaled E.T. You find yourself immediately liking the two kids and hoping that things work out for them . . . . . and Mimzy. It's the type of movie where you don't even realize you are watching very heavy science fiction. That is the best kind of science fiction as far as I'm concerned. The story moved along very well and the adults were great in their supporting roles. WW and I liked this movie just as much as my future stepdaughter and "niece" . . . . . actually we probably enjoyed it even more than them so this movie definitely reaches to all audiences. It was just a simple, enjoyable ride of a movie.
I would recommend this movie for everyone. It's a feel good/great family movie and you should all check it out.
TMNT
After the defeat of their old arch nemesis, The Shredder, the Turtles have grown apart as a family. Struggling to keep them together, their rat sensei, Master Splinter, becomes worried when strange things begin to brew in New York City. Tech-industrialist Max Winters is amassing an army of ancient monsters to apparently take over the world. And only one super-ninja fighting team can stop them—those heroes in a half shell—Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello and Raphael. With the help of old allies April O'Neil and Casey Jones, the Turtles are in for the fight of their lives as they once again must face the mysterious Foot Clan, who have put their own ninja skills behind Winters' endeavors.
I was a big fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT in today's world for some reason) when I was younger. I loved the first movie even though it was a bunch of guys in birthday party entertainment suits. I was a little bit skeptical about this one since it was going to be animated, but the animation was awesome. It was done so well that when you are watching the fight scenes you actually felt like you were watching a real movie. The storyline was interesting enough to keep the adults attention, but the bottom line is that this movie is for the kids. Even though the story seemed a little too thick at the beginning - the kids will love this movie.
I very strongly recommend that anyone with kids take them to see this. It's one of those movies that isn't an absolute horror for the adults to sit though as well.
I was a big fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT in today's world for some reason) when I was younger. I loved the first movie even though it was a bunch of guys in birthday party entertainment suits. I was a little bit skeptical about this one since it was going to be animated, but the animation was awesome. It was done so well that when you are watching the fight scenes you actually felt like you were watching a real movie. The storyline was interesting enough to keep the adults attention, but the bottom line is that this movie is for the kids. Even though the story seemed a little too thick at the beginning - the kids will love this movie.
I very strongly recommend that anyone with kids take them to see this. It's one of those movies that isn't an absolute horror for the adults to sit though as well.
Dead Silence
Newlyweds Jamie (Kwanten) and Lisa Ashen have established a new life for themselves far from their hometown of Ravens Fair--a sleepy, near-forgotten blip on the map haunted by late-night whispers and ghost stories from generations past. But when his wife is gruesomely murdered, Jamie reluctantly returns to Ravens Fair for the funeral, intent on unraveling the mystery surrounding her death. Once back under his family's roof, reunited with his ill father (Gunton) and his father's new young bride (Valletta), Jamie begins to explore the creepy town and encounters the legend of Mary Shaw, a famous murdered ventriloquist whose presence still casts a pall over Ravens Fair. Himself the lead suspect in his wife's murder, Jamie is forced to dig deep into the town's bloody past for answers, where he soon uncovers the truth behind the curse that ended Lisa's life...and threatens to take his as well.
The preview for this movie was the scariest thing I've seen since The Grudge. I was literally afraid of the preview. I had super high expectations for the movie because of this, and I'd have to say that the movie didn't really meet them. However, the movie was still plenty good enough for me to have loved it. That's a pretty rare occurance and I must give kudos to the filmmakers for being able to pull that off. There were plenty of moments in the movie that made both WW and I jump or cover our eyes because let's be honest people that there are few things scarier than creepy old people and creepy dolls.
I fully recommend people checking this out . . . . . especially horror buffs. The best part is the last five minutes when it all ties together. I actually want to go see this again because of that.
The preview for this movie was the scariest thing I've seen since The Grudge. I was literally afraid of the preview. I had super high expectations for the movie because of this, and I'd have to say that the movie didn't really meet them. However, the movie was still plenty good enough for me to have loved it. That's a pretty rare occurance and I must give kudos to the filmmakers for being able to pull that off. There were plenty of moments in the movie that made both WW and I jump or cover our eyes because let's be honest people that there are few things scarier than creepy old people and creepy dolls.
I fully recommend people checking this out . . . . . especially horror buffs. The best part is the last five minutes when it all ties together. I actually want to go see this again because of that.
Premonition
Linda Hanson (Sandra Bullock) has a beautiful house, a loving husband and two adorable daughters. Her life is perfect, until the day she receives the devastating news that her husband Jim (Julian McMahon) has died in a car accident. When she wakes up the next morning to find him alive and well, she assumes it was all a dream, but is shaken by how vivid it felt. She soon realizes it wasn't a dream, and her world is turned upside down as the surreal circumstances lead her to discover that her perfect life may not have been all that it appeared. Desperate to save her family, Linda begins a furious race against time and fate to try and preserve everything that she and Jim have built together.
I'm not really sure what to think about this movie. There were points in the movie where I really liked it, there were parts where I thought it was kind of blah, and there were points where I wasn't completely sure what was going on. It was a little bit too all over the place. If they would have tightened it up a bit - this could have been a really kick ass movie. WW and I didn't hate it, but definitely thought it could have been better. I can't really say too much more without giving stuff away so I will leave it at that.
I don't fully recommend everyone checking this one out, but if you don't have anything to do and want to see it - it's worth the trip.
I'm not really sure what to think about this movie. There were points in the movie where I really liked it, there were parts where I thought it was kind of blah, and there were points where I wasn't completely sure what was going on. It was a little bit too all over the place. If they would have tightened it up a bit - this could have been a really kick ass movie. WW and I didn't hate it, but definitely thought it could have been better. I can't really say too much more without giving stuff away so I will leave it at that.
I don't fully recommend everyone checking this one out, but if you don't have anything to do and want to see it - it's worth the trip.
The Host
Gang-du (Song Kang-ho) works at a food-stand on the banks of the Han River. Dozing on the job, he is awakened by his daughter, Hyun-seo ( Ah-sung Ko), who is angry with him for missing a teacher-parent meeting at school. As Gang-du walks out to the riverbank with a delivery, he notices that a large crowd of people has gathered, taking pictures and talking about something hanging from the Han River Bridge. The otherwise idyllic landscape turns suddenly to bedlam when a terrifying creature climbs up onto the riverbank and begins to crush and eat people. Gang-du and his daughter run for their lives but suddenly the thing grabs Hyun-seo and disappears back into the river. The government announces that the thing apparently is the Host of an unidentified virus. Having feared the worst, Gang-du receives a phone call from his daughter who is frightened, but very much alive. Gang-du makes plans to infiltrate the forbidden zone near the Han River to rescue his daughter from the clutches of the horrifying monster.
I don't know if anyone has even heard of this movie, but I happened to check out the trailer for it because it was attached to my blog (FEEL FREE TO CHECK OUT ANY OF THESE AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE, PEOPLE!), so WW decided to go and check it out. This movie is the dictionary definition of a tale of two halves. The first half of this movie was awesome. The monster attack scenes were great, and let's face it that besides Aliens and Predator - those types of scenes usually screw the pooch. This movie nailed it though. Also, you find yourself falling totally in love with the goofy/dysfunctional family that has decided to find their taken young one and the monster. Unfortunately, about half way through the movie it goes from being totally kick ass to completely boring and assinying, and I found myself staring more at my watch than the movie wondering how much longer was left.
I wouldn't really recommend this movie to anyone in theaters. Not that it really matters anyway because it's barely playing anywhere. It's somewhat worth checking out on rental though because the first half of the movie really was great. Damn them for not finishing it that well!!!
I don't know if anyone has even heard of this movie, but I happened to check out the trailer for it because it was attached to my blog (FEEL FREE TO CHECK OUT ANY OF THESE AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE, PEOPLE!), so WW decided to go and check it out. This movie is the dictionary definition of a tale of two halves. The first half of this movie was awesome. The monster attack scenes were great, and let's face it that besides Aliens and Predator - those types of scenes usually screw the pooch. This movie nailed it though. Also, you find yourself falling totally in love with the goofy/dysfunctional family that has decided to find their taken young one and the monster. Unfortunately, about half way through the movie it goes from being totally kick ass to completely boring and assinying, and I found myself staring more at my watch than the movie wondering how much longer was left.
I wouldn't really recommend this movie to anyone in theaters. Not that it really matters anyway because it's barely playing anywhere. It's somewhat worth checking out on rental though because the first half of the movie really was great. Damn them for not finishing it that well!!!
300
Based on the epic graphic novel by Frank Miller, 300 is a retelling of the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. Facing insurmountable odds, their valor and sacrifice inspire all of Greece to unite against their Persian enemy, drawing a line in the sand for democracy. The film brings Miller's acclaimed graphic novel to life by combining live action with virtual backgrounds that capture his distinct vision of this ancient historic tale.
This movie is pretty much worth going to see just because of how it looks visually. It was so well put together from a sight standpoint. The fight scenes are also very well choreographed. Gerard Butler was awesome as King Leonidas. His delivery (while blatantly overdramatic most of the time) was great and his occasional sarcastic comments made you laugh your ass off. Unfortunately, after you get past the visual feel of the movie and the main character, there really wasn't much else. The movie lacked the necessary flow that make movies like Gladiator or Braveheart classics. There was too much dead space because of the lacking flow and you find yourself asking historical questions that, for me, make me end up laughing at the movie instead of taking it seriously. Were the Persians card carrying members of Mr. T fan club? Were the Persians basically a bunch of circus freaks that fought wars with the 10 foot tall king, the crab clawed man, the charging rhinos that looked like they were borrowed from The Lord Of The Rings, and the turncoat hunchback? Can anyone say Sparta or Spartans without yelling? Did the Spartans really think that the best way to go in to battle was with bright red banana hammocks and capes? . . . . . no protective armor? . . . . . . or even a top for that matter? Anywho, I digress.
The movie was by no means horrible. It was pretty watchable, but nowhere near the level of great epic classics. I would lukewarmly recommend people checking it out based on its phenomenal visual appearance, but be warned that the story might bore you a bit.
This movie is pretty much worth going to see just because of how it looks visually. It was so well put together from a sight standpoint. The fight scenes are also very well choreographed. Gerard Butler was awesome as King Leonidas. His delivery (while blatantly overdramatic most of the time) was great and his occasional sarcastic comments made you laugh your ass off. Unfortunately, after you get past the visual feel of the movie and the main character, there really wasn't much else. The movie lacked the necessary flow that make movies like Gladiator or Braveheart classics. There was too much dead space because of the lacking flow and you find yourself asking historical questions that, for me, make me end up laughing at the movie instead of taking it seriously. Were the Persians card carrying members of Mr. T fan club? Were the Persians basically a bunch of circus freaks that fought wars with the 10 foot tall king, the crab clawed man, the charging rhinos that looked like they were borrowed from The Lord Of The Rings, and the turncoat hunchback? Can anyone say Sparta or Spartans without yelling? Did the Spartans really think that the best way to go in to battle was with bright red banana hammocks and capes? . . . . . no protective armor? . . . . . . or even a top for that matter? Anywho, I digress.
The movie was by no means horrible. It was pretty watchable, but nowhere near the level of great epic classics. I would lukewarmly recommend people checking it out based on its phenomenal visual appearance, but be warned that the story might bore you a bit.
Music & Lyrics
Alex Fletcher (Hugh Grant) is a washed-up 80s pop star who's been reduced to working the nostalgia circuit at county fairs and amusement parks. The charismatic and talented musician gets a chance at a comeback when reigning diva Cora Corman invites him to write and record a duet with her, but there's a problem—Alex hasn't written a song in years, he's never written lyrics, and he has to come up with a hit in a matter of days. Enter Sophie Fisher (Drew Barrymore), Alex's quirky plant lady, whose flair for words strikes a chord with the struggling songwriter. On the rebound from a bad relationship, Sophie is reluctant to collaborate with anyone, especially commitment-phobe Alex. As their chemistry heats up at the piano and under it, Alex and Sophie will have to face their fears—and the music—if they want to find the love and success they both deserve.
This was a pretty good date movie. It's beyond predictable, but more than worth watching anyway. Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore are actually really good together. His quick wit and delivery suit this movie very well and some of the supporting characters (Brad Garrett and Kristen Johnson) are also very funny. The constant references to the 80s has been stuff are priceless and the actual music video from the group Pop shown at the beginning and end of the movie are totally worth the price of admission by itself.
I would recommend this movie to all. It's a cute date movie and there are some really huge laughs in it.
This was a pretty good date movie. It's beyond predictable, but more than worth watching anyway. Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore are actually really good together. His quick wit and delivery suit this movie very well and some of the supporting characters (Brad Garrett and Kristen Johnson) are also very funny. The constant references to the 80s has been stuff are priceless and the actual music video from the group Pop shown at the beginning and end of the movie are totally worth the price of admission by itself.
I would recommend this movie to all. It's a cute date movie and there are some really huge laughs in it.
Wild Hogs
Tim Allen, John Travolta, Martin Lawrence and William H. Macy hit the road in this comedy-adventure about a group of middle-aged friends who decide to rev up their routine suburban lives with a freewheeling motorcycle trip. Taking a long dreamed-of breather from their stressful jobs and family responsibilities, they can't wait to feel the freedom of the open road. When this mis-matched foursome, who have grown far more used to the couch than the saddle, set out for this once-in-a-lifetime experience - they encounter a world that holds far more than they ever bargained for. The trip begins to challenge their wits and their luck, especially during a chance run-in with the Del Fuegos, a real-life biker gang who are less than amused with their novice approach. As they go looking for adventure, they soon find that they've embarked on a journey they will never forget.
This movie was just plain fun. I remember when movies like this used to come out more often. I truly miss them. Today's comedies either rotate around sophmoric humor, T&A, or holier than though sarcasm. Simple comedic writing has so sadly faded away. This movie brings it right back. It was just a whole lot of fun watching and laughing to this movie. You find yourself loving the four characters and pulling for them as if they were your actual friends. As far as the level of funniness, I haven't belly laughed like this in a movie theater in a long time.
I truly loved this movie and couldn't possibly recommend it more to everyone. It's simple, it's fun, and it's hysterical. Go see it right now!
This movie was just plain fun. I remember when movies like this used to come out more often. I truly miss them. Today's comedies either rotate around sophmoric humor, T&A, or holier than though sarcasm. Simple comedic writing has so sadly faded away. This movie brings it right back. It was just a whole lot of fun watching and laughing to this movie. You find yourself loving the four characters and pulling for them as if they were your actual friends. As far as the level of funniness, I haven't belly laughed like this in a movie theater in a long time.
I truly loved this movie and couldn't possibly recommend it more to everyone. It's simple, it's fun, and it's hysterical. Go see it right now!
Zodiac
Based on the actual case files of one of the biggest unsolved crimes in the nation's history, Zodiac is a thriller from David Fincher, director of Seven and Fight Club. As a serial killer terrifies the San Francisco Bay Area and taunts police with his ciphers and letters, investigators in four jurisdictions search for the murderer. The case will become an obsession for four men as their lives and careers are built and destroyed by the endless trail of clues.
I really think that David Fincher is one of the best directors in Hollywood. He is able to keep you glued to the screen in every one of his movies (including The Game and Panic Room) and Zodiac is no different. The movie wasn't as jumping out of your seat thriller as the commercials may have made it seem, but it was very thrilling from an intellectual point. I found myself as interested in them finding the killer as the detectives and reporters were themselves. The movie was a tad bit long, but the performances by everyone were awesome.
I very stronly recommend this movie to everyone. It is well worth the trip to the theater.
I really think that David Fincher is one of the best directors in Hollywood. He is able to keep you glued to the screen in every one of his movies (including The Game and Panic Room) and Zodiac is no different. The movie wasn't as jumping out of your seat thriller as the commercials may have made it seem, but it was very thrilling from an intellectual point. I found myself as interested in them finding the killer as the detectives and reporters were themselves. The movie was a tad bit long, but the performances by everyone were awesome.
I very stronly recommend this movie to everyone. It is well worth the trip to the theater.
The Abandoned
An American film producer named Marie returns to her homeland, Russia, where her Mother's dead body has been found under bizarre circumstances. She never knew her, having been adopted and brought to America as a baby. The only clue to what might have happened is an isolated, abandoned farm in the mountains that supposedly belonged to her natural parents. Being the only next of kin, she inherits the place, but no one will take her there as local superstitions state that the area is haunted. Only one man will help her, a stranger that oddly seems to know quite a bit about her history. But once arrived, the guide mysteriously disappears, forcing Marie to explore the derelict location alone. She discovers someone else on the property, Nikolai, who claims to have been lured there exactly in the same manner, so he could discover the truth behind his unknown past as well. They become stranded in the immense compound, plagued by terrifying ghosts and visions.
I'm going to go out on a limb and say that the only way that anyone knows about this movie is because of the movie posters and numerous internet ads with the baby doll head with different colored eyes and blood trickling out of one of them. I should mention that the massively advertised doll has nothing to do with this movie and is not featured at any point. I digress. This movie overall was decent. The beginning was brutally boring. The middle with the two people trying to figure out what is going on and the ghostly visions was awesome. Then, the end seemed a little bit too choppy to me with the going back and forth between the past and present before everything finally came together. Average out the three parts of the movie and you get a pretty decent suspense/thriller. I definitely think it could have been better, but it could have been a whole lot worse. For the record, WW liked this movie a lot more than I did which would make me think that horror/thriller movie buffs would probably really like this one.
I would moderately recommend this movie. Not that it really matters though because it's playing very limited in theaters. Hell, we actually had to pay to see this one because it was playing at so few theaters.
I'm going to go out on a limb and say that the only way that anyone knows about this movie is because of the movie posters and numerous internet ads with the baby doll head with different colored eyes and blood trickling out of one of them. I should mention that the massively advertised doll has nothing to do with this movie and is not featured at any point. I digress. This movie overall was decent. The beginning was brutally boring. The middle with the two people trying to figure out what is going on and the ghostly visions was awesome. Then, the end seemed a little bit too choppy to me with the going back and forth between the past and present before everything finally came together. Average out the three parts of the movie and you get a pretty decent suspense/thriller. I definitely think it could have been better, but it could have been a whole lot worse. For the record, WW liked this movie a lot more than I did which would make me think that horror/thriller movie buffs would probably really like this one.
I would moderately recommend this movie. Not that it really matters though because it's playing very limited in theaters. Hell, we actually had to pay to see this one because it was playing at so few theaters.
The Astronaut Farmer
Dismissed from NASA's space program, former astronaut-in-training Charles Farmer (Billy Bob Thornton) pursues his lifelong dream by building his own rocket in the family film The Astronaut Farmer. On the eve of his launch, he must battle foreclosure on his ranch, a small-town community of disbelievers, the FAA, and FBI agents who want to shut him down in the name of Homeland Security – but remains determined to reach his goal and instill in his children the courage to pursue their own dreams, no matter the odds.
The first hour of this movie was firmly entrenched in snooze city. Both WW and I, along with the three kids, were visibly bored out of our minds. Usually something like that will kill a movie and put it way beyond the point of no return in terms of being able to bring the audience back. However, the last 40 minutes of it somehow managed to literally perk up the whole theater and suck you back in to the point where you are really rooting for this thing to work out, getting choked up at certain points, and wanting to clap at the end. Very strange movie going experience here.
I would recommend this movie to everyone (especially with kids), but must heavily warn you that you have to drudge through the first hour. The ending of the movie makes it worth it but I'm not going to lie to you. It's a pretty rough first hour.
The first hour of this movie was firmly entrenched in snooze city. Both WW and I, along with the three kids, were visibly bored out of our minds. Usually something like that will kill a movie and put it way beyond the point of no return in terms of being able to bring the audience back. However, the last 40 minutes of it somehow managed to literally perk up the whole theater and suck you back in to the point where you are really rooting for this thing to work out, getting choked up at certain points, and wanting to clap at the end. Very strange movie going experience here.
I would recommend this movie to everyone (especially with kids), but must heavily warn you that you have to drudge through the first hour. The ending of the movie makes it worth it but I'm not going to lie to you. It's a pretty rough first hour.
The Number 23
The Number 23 stars Jim Carrey as a man whose life unravels after he comes into contact with an obscure book titled The Number 23. As he reads the book, he becomes increasingly convinced that it is based on his own life. His obsession with the number 23 starts to consume him, and he begins to realize the book forecasts far graver consequences for his life than he could have ever imagined.
This is the type of movie that totally explains how my movie going experiences are dictated by expectations. I was really psyched to see this movie because I love Jim Carrey and the previews for it looked awesome. Then I read a bunch of reviews that said the movie was absolutely horrible. I'm talking about like one star reviews here. I was disappointed by that and ended up going in to the movie expecting it to be pretty crappy. I'm usually not one to buy in to the critics' point of view but when 5 or 6 people say the same thing about it - I might tend to be swayed. Luckily, because of the low expectations going in I ended up thinking that the movie was pretty good and not nearly as bad as everyone had said it would be. The movie wasn't quite as suspenseful as I thought it would be. I was expecting a lot more of an edge of my seat type feeling. However, it was one of those Sixth Sense type movies and I don't really see why people would have thought this was so bad.
I would casually recommend people checking this one out. It's not worthy of must see status but it's worth the trip to theaters if you are up to it.
This is the type of movie that totally explains how my movie going experiences are dictated by expectations. I was really psyched to see this movie because I love Jim Carrey and the previews for it looked awesome. Then I read a bunch of reviews that said the movie was absolutely horrible. I'm talking about like one star reviews here. I was disappointed by that and ended up going in to the movie expecting it to be pretty crappy. I'm usually not one to buy in to the critics' point of view but when 5 or 6 people say the same thing about it - I might tend to be swayed. Luckily, because of the low expectations going in I ended up thinking that the movie was pretty good and not nearly as bad as everyone had said it would be. The movie wasn't quite as suspenseful as I thought it would be. I was expecting a lot more of an edge of my seat type feeling. However, it was one of those Sixth Sense type movies and I don't really see why people would have thought this was so bad.
I would casually recommend people checking this one out. It's not worthy of must see status but it's worth the trip to theaters if you are up to it.
Bridge To Terabithia
Bridge to Terabithia is a fantasy/adventure story of friendship, family and the power of imagination. Jess Aarons (Josh Hutcherson) is an outsider at school and even in his own family. Jess has trained all summer to become the fastest kid in his middle school class but his goal is unexpectedly thwarted by the new girl in school, Leslie Burke (AnnaSophia Robb) who competes in the "boys only" race and wins. Despite their awkward introduction, the two outsiders quickly become best friends. Leslie loves to tell stories of fantasy and magic. Jess loves to draw, but until he met Leslie it was something he kept to himself. Leslie opens a new world of imagination for Jess. Together they create the secret kingdom of Terabithia, a magical place only accessible by swinging on an old rope over a stream in the woods near their homes. There, the friends rule the kingdom, fight the Dark Master and his creatures and plot against the school bullies. Thanks to his friendship with Leslie, Jess is changed for good.
Very rarely will a movie be so completely misadvertised and still be so incredibly good that you end up loving the movie anyway. The bottom line is that I thought I was walking in to a Chronicles Of Narnia type movie and ended up getting My Girl in return. However, like I said, it was so incredibly well done that I didn't care that much and totally loved the movie. The filmmakers did such an amazing job at catching the awkwardness of childhood. The movie is a perfect one to take your kids to so that they can see the power of imaginiation instead of the power of a wireless controller for their new video gaming system. Just a heads up for all parents who don't want to be blindsided by the incredibly depressing conversations that may ensue with your child on the way home - a major character dies. I couldn't imagine anything worse that thinking you'll be talking about the cool effects on the way home and end up having to try to explain death. Even with that stomach punch of a character killing, I absolutely loved this movie.
I fully recommend this movie to children and adults alike. Just be forewarned that its nothing like the Narnia-ish commercial. It's has some occasional fantasy elements, but is honestly an amazing character drama about growing up and the power of your imagination.
Very rarely will a movie be so completely misadvertised and still be so incredibly good that you end up loving the movie anyway. The bottom line is that I thought I was walking in to a Chronicles Of Narnia type movie and ended up getting My Girl in return. However, like I said, it was so incredibly well done that I didn't care that much and totally loved the movie. The filmmakers did such an amazing job at catching the awkwardness of childhood. The movie is a perfect one to take your kids to so that they can see the power of imaginiation instead of the power of a wireless controller for their new video gaming system. Just a heads up for all parents who don't want to be blindsided by the incredibly depressing conversations that may ensue with your child on the way home - a major character dies. I couldn't imagine anything worse that thinking you'll be talking about the cool effects on the way home and end up having to try to explain death. Even with that stomach punch of a character killing, I absolutely loved this movie.
I fully recommend this movie to children and adults alike. Just be forewarned that its nothing like the Narnia-ish commercial. It's has some occasional fantasy elements, but is honestly an amazing character drama about growing up and the power of your imagination.
Ghost Rider
From Marvel Comics, comes a new hero... Ghost Rider. Long ago, superstar motorcycle stunt rider Johnny Blaze made a deal with the devil to protect the ones he loved most: his father and his childhood sweetheart, Roxanne (Eva Mendes). Now, the devil has come for his due. By day, Johnny is a die-hard stunt rider... but at night, in the presence of evil, he becomes the Ghost Rider, a bounty hunter of rogue demons. Forced to do the devil's bidding, Johnny is determined to confront his fate and use his curse and powers to defend the innocent.
When it comes to comic book movies, I seem to always put them on a sliding scale. There are the Spider-Man movies, the X-Men movies, and the original Batman (as well as Batman Begins) in the upper tier. Then there are the middle of the road comic book movies like Batmans two and three from the orginal franchise, Fantastic Four, and the Blade franchise. Then there are the stupid ones like Daredevil and The Punisher. I would put Ghost Rider in the middle of the road category. It wasn't good enough to be considered one of the greats but was far from being a steaming pile of dung. They developed the character enough in the beginning, the effects on Ghost Rider were really cool, and the action/fight scenes were pretty good. I think the biggest thing holding this movie back was the villian. He wasn't a big name villian and he really didn't seem like much of a match for Ghost Rider.
I would recommend this movie as being worthy of checking out. It's not totally awesome, but it is definitely above average.
When it comes to comic book movies, I seem to always put them on a sliding scale. There are the Spider-Man movies, the X-Men movies, and the original Batman (as well as Batman Begins) in the upper tier. Then there are the middle of the road comic book movies like Batmans two and three from the orginal franchise, Fantastic Four, and the Blade franchise. Then there are the stupid ones like Daredevil and The Punisher. I would put Ghost Rider in the middle of the road category. It wasn't good enough to be considered one of the greats but was far from being a steaming pile of dung. They developed the character enough in the beginning, the effects on Ghost Rider were really cool, and the action/fight scenes were pretty good. I think the biggest thing holding this movie back was the villian. He wasn't a big name villian and he really didn't seem like much of a match for Ghost Rider.
I would recommend this movie as being worthy of checking out. It's not totally awesome, but it is definitely above average.
Breach
When young Eric O'Neill (Phillippe) is promoted out of his low-level surveillance job and into the headquarters of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, his dream of becoming a full-fledged agent is on the verge of becoming reality. Even more impressive, O'Neill is hand picked to work for renowned operative Robert Hanssen (Cooper) within "information assurance," a new division created to protect all classified FBI Intelligence. But O'Neill is quickly confronted with the true reason behind his hire: Hanssen is the sole subject of a long-term, top-secret investigation, a suspected mole made all the more dangerous by the sheer global import of the information he is charged with protecting. The Bureau asks O'Neill to use Hanssen's growing trust and slowly draw the traitor out of deep cover. Engaged in a lethal game of spy-versus-spy without the benefit of a cover story or backup, O'Neill finds himself fighting to bring down Hanssen before the treacherous double-agent can destroy O'Neill, his family and the nation they are both sworn to serve.
I liked this movie a lot. Chris Cooper is probably the most underrated actor in all of Hollywood. I don't think that this guy has ever been bad in any role he has portrayed. The same can be said for Laura Linney who plays the FBI agent that is running the investigation case against Hansenn. The two of them even managed to make Ryan Phillipe look like an awesome actor. That's how well done and acted this movie was. The only slight knock that I would make against it is that the advertising made it seem like it would be more edge of your seat suspense, which there really wasn't any of that. It was more of a smart thriller and definitely kept you interested, but not in a surprise thriller kind of way.
Regardless, I would fully recommend everyone checking this movie out. It is by far one of the better movies in theaters right now.
I liked this movie a lot. Chris Cooper is probably the most underrated actor in all of Hollywood. I don't think that this guy has ever been bad in any role he has portrayed. The same can be said for Laura Linney who plays the FBI agent that is running the investigation case against Hansenn. The two of them even managed to make Ryan Phillipe look like an awesome actor. That's how well done and acted this movie was. The only slight knock that I would make against it is that the advertising made it seem like it would be more edge of your seat suspense, which there really wasn't any of that. It was more of a smart thriller and definitely kept you interested, but not in a surprise thriller kind of way.
Regardless, I would fully recommend everyone checking this movie out. It is by far one of the better movies in theaters right now.
Hannibal Rising
In Hannibal Rising, we find out the origins of Hannibal Lecter. The story begins in Eastern Europe at the end of World War II. A young Hannibal watches from only steps away as his parents' violently die, leaving his cherished young sister in his care. This horrific moment will soon pale in comparison to the atrocities he is forced to witness and perhaps survive as a result of.Alone and without any means of support, he is forced to live in a Soviet Orphanage that once served as his family's beloved home. He flees to Paris to find his uncle has died but his beautiful and mysterious Japanese widow, Lady Murasaki (Gong Li) welcomes him. Even her kindness and love cannot soothe the nightmares and sorrows that plague him. Showing a cunning aptitude for science he is accepted into medical school, which serves to hone his skills and provide the tools to exact justice on the war criminals that haunt him day and night. This quest will ignite an insatiable lust within a serial killer who was not born, but made.
I had read this book and didn't think that it was nearly as bad as the critics who relentlessly bashed it did. I had said to WW that how good the movie will be will depend on how good the younger Hannibal Lecter is. I was wrong. The younger Hannibal Lecter wasn't that bad, but the complete lack of tension stunk. What made the other Hannibal Lecter movies so good was that you were sitting on the edge of your seat. This movie basically plodded along for the most part and even the scenes where Hannibal is killing people for revenger were pretty blah. The movie wasn't horrible . . . . . but it really wasn't all that good either.
I wouldn't really recommend people rushing to see this. You might be better off just waiting for it to be available via rental.
I had read this book and didn't think that it was nearly as bad as the critics who relentlessly bashed it did. I had said to WW that how good the movie will be will depend on how good the younger Hannibal Lecter is. I was wrong. The younger Hannibal Lecter wasn't that bad, but the complete lack of tension stunk. What made the other Hannibal Lecter movies so good was that you were sitting on the edge of your seat. This movie basically plodded along for the most part and even the scenes where Hannibal is killing people for revenger were pretty blah. The movie wasn't horrible . . . . . but it really wasn't all that good either.
I wouldn't really recommend people rushing to see this. You might be better off just waiting for it to be available via rental.
Norbit
Norbit (Eddie Murphy) has never had it easy. As a baby, he was abandoned on the steps of a Chinese restaurant/orphanage and raised by Mr. Wong (Eddie Murphy). Things get worse when he's forced into marriage by the mean, junk food-chugging queen, Rasputia (Eddie Murphy). Just when Norbit's hanging by his last thread, his childhood sweetheart, Kate (Thandie Newton), moves back to town.
This is basically just another chance to watch Eddie Murphy play as many characters as possible in one movie. It worked amazingly well with The Nutty Professor because I still think that when he played the whole family at the dinner scene is one of the funniest scenes in a movie ever. As far as Norbit goes, there are some really funny moments and you find yourself laughing really hard from time to time. Unfortunately, the overall story is beyond lame and kind of holds the funniness back at times. Eddie Murphy is still one of the funniest people alive though.
I would recommend people checking this movie out if they're looking for a laugh. It's not a great movie, but there are definitely some really worthy funny moments.
This is basically just another chance to watch Eddie Murphy play as many characters as possible in one movie. It worked amazingly well with The Nutty Professor because I still think that when he played the whole family at the dinner scene is one of the funniest scenes in a movie ever. As far as Norbit goes, there are some really funny moments and you find yourself laughing really hard from time to time. Unfortunately, the overall story is beyond lame and kind of holds the funniness back at times. Eddie Murphy is still one of the funniest people alive though.
I would recommend people checking this movie out if they're looking for a laugh. It's not a great movie, but there are definitely some really worthy funny moments.
Letters From Iwo Jima
Sixty-one years ago, U.S. and Japanese armies met on Iwo Jima. Decades later, several hundred letters are unearthed from that stark island's soil. The letters give faces and voices to the men who fought there, as well as the extraordinary general who led them, Tadamichi Kuribayashi (Ken Watanabe). With little defense other than sheer will and the volcanic rock of the island itself, Gen. Kuribayashi's unprecedented tactics transform what was predicted to be a quick and bloody defeat into nearly 40 days of heroic and resourceful combat.In an effort to explore an event that continues to resonate with both cultures, Clint Eastwood was haunted by the sense that making only one film, "Flags of Our Fathers," would be telling only half the story. With this unprecedented dual film project, shot back-to-back to be released in sequence, Eastwood seeks to reveal the battle of Iwo Jima--and, by implication, the war in the Pacific--as a clash not only of arms but of cultures.
This is one of those movies that I might have liked a lot more if I would have seen it under different pretenses. The bottom line is that since this was a subtitle movie, I planned on waiting to rent it instead of going to theaters to see it. Then it got nominated for Best Picture and I wanted to make sure to see it before the Academy Awards. Unfortunately, I was then stuck watching this movie for two plus hours thinking nothing other than why in the blue hell was this movie nominated for best picture over Dreamgirls and Children Of Men? It's not that the movie was bad. It actually ended up being better than average. But definitely not good enough to warrant a Best Picture nomination. Again, I probably would have really liked this a lot more if I would have seen it without the imbedded bias in my brain.
I would still recommend people checking this movie out because, again, it's not a bad movie. Just be sure to keep your expectations in check.
This is one of those movies that I might have liked a lot more if I would have seen it under different pretenses. The bottom line is that since this was a subtitle movie, I planned on waiting to rent it instead of going to theaters to see it. Then it got nominated for Best Picture and I wanted to make sure to see it before the Academy Awards. Unfortunately, I was then stuck watching this movie for two plus hours thinking nothing other than why in the blue hell was this movie nominated for best picture over Dreamgirls and Children Of Men? It's not that the movie was bad. It actually ended up being better than average. But definitely not good enough to warrant a Best Picture nomination. Again, I probably would have really liked this a lot more if I would have seen it without the imbedded bias in my brain.
I would still recommend people checking this movie out because, again, it's not a bad movie. Just be sure to keep your expectations in check.
Because I Said So
Keaton stars as Daphne Wilder, a mother whose love knows no bounds or boundaries. She is the proud mom of three daughters: Maggie (Graham), Mae (Perabo) and Milly (Moore)-who, when it comes to men, is like psychotic flypaper. In order to prevent her youngest from making the same mistakes she did, Daphne decides to set Milly up with the perfect man. Little does Milly know, however, that her mom placed an ad in the online personals to find him. Comic mayhem unfolds as Daphne continues to do the wrong thing for the right reasons...all in the name of love. In a hilarious battle of strong wills, the mother-daughter dynamic is tested in all its fierce, wacky complexity. The girls help Daphne finally discover the truths and impossibilities of motherly love, all while trying to answer the questions: where does it begin and where should it end?
I went in to this movie with lukewarm expectations at best. I ended up completely loving it. I was laughing out loud numerous times throughout the movie and thought that everyone contributed great acting performances, especially Diane Keaton. This is one of the best date movies to come out in a while and there is nothing better than leaving a theater having so thoroughly enjoyed the movie you just watched.
I very strongly recommend this movie to everyone. Even guys who put on that macho front and don't want to see a "chick flick" . . . . . . suck it up and take your significant other. You'll end up liking it just as much as them.
I went in to this movie with lukewarm expectations at best. I ended up completely loving it. I was laughing out loud numerous times throughout the movie and thought that everyone contributed great acting performances, especially Diane Keaton. This is one of the best date movies to come out in a while and there is nothing better than leaving a theater having so thoroughly enjoyed the movie you just watched.
I very strongly recommend this movie to everyone. Even guys who put on that macho front and don't want to see a "chick flick" . . . . . . suck it up and take your significant other. You'll end up liking it just as much as them.
The Messengers
There is evidence to suggest that children are highly susceptible to paranormal phenomenon. They can see what adults cannot, they believe what adults deny. And they are trying to warn us. In The Messengers, a thriller starring Kristen Stewart, Dylan McDermott, Penelope Ann Miller and John Corbett, the Solomon family has left big city life for a secluded farm in North Dakota. Soon after they arrive at their new home, 16 year-old Jess and her 3 year old brother begin seeing ominous apparitions that no one else can see, and are repeatedly attacked by something from the other side. Now they must try desperately to warn the rest of the family before it's too late.
This movie was really really good for 9/10 of it. As usual with these types of spooky, make you jump out of your seat movies it is very hard to cross the finish line. They always seem to be the right amount of creepy and has you sitting on the edge of the seat and then it's time for the grand finale and you are kind of left staring at the screen like a confused dog with your head to the side thinking "what?" Even though this movie made WW (she lives for these kind of movies by the way) and I both feel that way, the movie was still very enjoyable. Even as the movie was winding down in a mostly lame way, we were both still sitting on the edge of our seats and jumping out of them. Well, WW was jumping out of her seat. I was merely jumping out of the way of her elbows of death that she likes to throw towards my ribs when she is scared during a movie.
I would recommend this movie regardless of the off ending. It's very much worth viewing especially if you like these kinds of movies.
This movie was really really good for 9/10 of it. As usual with these types of spooky, make you jump out of your seat movies it is very hard to cross the finish line. They always seem to be the right amount of creepy and has you sitting on the edge of the seat and then it's time for the grand finale and you are kind of left staring at the screen like a confused dog with your head to the side thinking "what?" Even though this movie made WW (she lives for these kind of movies by the way) and I both feel that way, the movie was still very enjoyable. Even as the movie was winding down in a mostly lame way, we were both still sitting on the edge of our seats and jumping out of them. Well, WW was jumping out of her seat. I was merely jumping out of the way of her elbows of death that she likes to throw towards my ribs when she is scared during a movie.
I would recommend this movie regardless of the off ending. It's very much worth viewing especially if you like these kinds of movies.
Epic Movie
In Epic Movie, the story centers on four not-so-young orphans: one raised by a curator at the Louvre (where an albino assassin lurks), another a refugee from Mexican "libre" wrestling, the third a recent victim of snakes on her plane, and the fourth a "normal" resident of a mutant "X"-community. The hapless quartet visits a chocolate factory, where they stumble into an enchanted wardrobe that transports them to the land of Gnarnia. There they meet a flamboyant pirate captain and earnest students of wizardry – and join forces with a lion to defeat the evil White Bitch of Gnarnia.
Why do these movies keep getting made? Yes, Airplane was a classic. Yes, the original Scary Movie was actually pretty funny. However, the 3 sequels to Scary Movie, Date Movie, and now this are so beyond not funny. It's like you watch them praying for something as small as a chuckle. I might have laughed 2 to 3 times throughout the hour and a half that these piece of dung was on the screen. This one is by far one of the worst parody movies ever and they really need to stop making this crapola.
Needless to say, I wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. Ever. Don't see it in theaters. Don't rent it. Change the channel if it's on your tv, people!
Why do these movies keep getting made? Yes, Airplane was a classic. Yes, the original Scary Movie was actually pretty funny. However, the 3 sequels to Scary Movie, Date Movie, and now this are so beyond not funny. It's like you watch them praying for something as small as a chuckle. I might have laughed 2 to 3 times throughout the hour and a half that these piece of dung was on the screen. This one is by far one of the worst parody movies ever and they really need to stop making this crapola.
Needless to say, I wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. Ever. Don't see it in theaters. Don't rent it. Change the channel if it's on your tv, people!
Pan's Labyrinth
Pan's Labyrinth is a story set against the backdrop of a fascist regime in 1944 rural Spain. The film centers on Ofelia, a lonely and dreamy child living with her mother and adoptive father; a military officer tasked with ridding the area of rebels. In her loneliness, Ofelia creates a world filled with fantastical creatures and secret destinies. With post-war repression at its height, Ofelia must come to terms with her world through a fable of her own creation.
This is one of those movies where I think I heard too much about how great it was before seeing. I literally felt myself sitting through big portions of the movie asking myself why would people think this was so good. The movie wasn't bad at all. I actually liked it alot. It just wasn't nearly as good as everyone had said it was. The only real downer for me was that I was all psyched about the fantasy part of this movie and as it turns out - that is only half of the movie. The other half took place in 1944 real time. I wish that a lot more of the movie would have taken place in the fantasy realm. I should probably also specifically note that this is a foreign movie with subtitles. I know that I would hate myself if I was a reader and went to see the movie not knowing that.
I would recommend this movie to all, but with no rush whatsoever. If it's playing near you and have the time, check it out. Otherwise, it's a good rental.
This is one of those movies where I think I heard too much about how great it was before seeing. I literally felt myself sitting through big portions of the movie asking myself why would people think this was so good. The movie wasn't bad at all. I actually liked it alot. It just wasn't nearly as good as everyone had said it was. The only real downer for me was that I was all psyched about the fantasy part of this movie and as it turns out - that is only half of the movie. The other half took place in 1944 real time. I wish that a lot more of the movie would have taken place in the fantasy realm. I should probably also specifically note that this is a foreign movie with subtitles. I know that I would hate myself if I was a reader and went to see the movie not knowing that.
I would recommend this movie to all, but with no rush whatsoever. If it's playing near you and have the time, check it out. Otherwise, it's a good rental.
The Queen
When news of the death of Princess Diana, undoubtedly the most famous woman in the world, breaks upon a shocked and disbelieving British public, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II retreats behind the walls of Balmoral Castle with her family, unable to comprehend the public response to the tragedy. For Tony Blair, the popular and newly elected Prime Minister, the people's need for reassurance and support from their leaders is palpable. As the unprecedented outpouring of emotion grows ever stronger, Blair must find a way to reconnect the Queen with the British public.
I thought that this was a pretty good movie with great acting performances by all. Unfortunately, I was never really in to the whole Princess Diana thing so I'm thinking that kind of took the wind out of the movie's sails for me. However, Wonder Woman loved the movie and I'm going to allow her to do the review on this one . . . . .
I got to tell you that when the whole Princess Diana thing happened I was very annoyed at the Royal family for how they handled everything. I thought that they were so wrong for basically not bothering to acknowledge anything regarding the death of someone so important. This movie was so well done that it actually made me come out understanding the queen's thinking and respecting her that much more. I enjoyed the movie very much.
Wonder Woman recommends this movie to all who liked Princess Diana and/or knows about the whole original story. Mr. Cinco agrees. Never doubt the opinion of Wonder Woman, people!
I thought that this was a pretty good movie with great acting performances by all. Unfortunately, I was never really in to the whole Princess Diana thing so I'm thinking that kind of took the wind out of the movie's sails for me. However, Wonder Woman loved the movie and I'm going to allow her to do the review on this one . . . . .
I got to tell you that when the whole Princess Diana thing happened I was very annoyed at the Royal family for how they handled everything. I thought that they were so wrong for basically not bothering to acknowledge anything regarding the death of someone so important. This movie was so well done that it actually made me come out understanding the queen's thinking and respecting her that much more. I enjoyed the movie very much.
Wonder Woman recommends this movie to all who liked Princess Diana and/or knows about the whole original story. Mr. Cinco agrees. Never doubt the opinion of Wonder Woman, people!
The Hitcher
The Hitcher tracks Grace Andrews (Sophia Bush) and Jim Halsey (Zachary Knighton), a collegiate couple who are tormented by the mysterious hitchhiker John Ryder, a.k.a. The Hitcher (Sean Bean).The young couple hit the road in a 1970 Oldsmobile 442, en route to spring break. But their pleasure trip soon turns into a waking nightmare. The initial encounters with Ryder are increasingly off-putting for Grace and Jim, and they bravely fight back when he ambushes them. But they are truly blindsided when he implicates them in a horrific slaying and continues to shadow them.The open road becomes a suspenseful, action-packed battleground of blood and metal as, in trying to elude not only Ryder but also New Mexico State Police Lieutenant Esteridge's (Neal McDonough) officers, Grace and Jim must fight for their lives and face their fears head-on.
I certainly didn't go in to this movie could never have been an amazing film. I figured it would be a cheesy horror movie. How this movie managed to be lamer than I expected is beyond me. The movie was completely pointless. The worst part of it all was that Ryder kept telling people to "figure it out" when they asked him why he was doing this and then they never told you why. What the hell is that about!?! Besides the fact that if you are almost killed by a hitchhiker and manage to elude him - why do you not drive far far away? The dude pulled over and took a nap after escaping from the psycho. I wouldn't be able to sleep for a week after going through something like that. This movie is the dictionary definition of absurd.
I wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. Ever. Seriously. It's poop.
I certainly didn't go in to this movie could never have been an amazing film. I figured it would be a cheesy horror movie. How this movie managed to be lamer than I expected is beyond me. The movie was completely pointless. The worst part of it all was that Ryder kept telling people to "figure it out" when they asked him why he was doing this and then they never told you why. What the hell is that about!?! Besides the fact that if you are almost killed by a hitchhiker and manage to elude him - why do you not drive far far away? The dude pulled over and took a nap after escaping from the psycho. I wouldn't be able to sleep for a week after going through something like that. This movie is the dictionary definition of absurd.
I wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. Ever. Seriously. It's poop.
Alpha Dog
In the sprawling, privileged neighborhoods around L.A., bored teenagers with too much time and too much money string one hazy day into another. When you're living without any consequences, anything can happen. And in the hot California summer six years ago, something did. Inspired by true events, Alpha Dog follows three fateful days when the lives of a group of Southern California teens suddenly dead-ended. Johnny Truelove (Emile Hirsch) controls the drugs on the well-manicured streets of his neighborhood. Where Johnny goes, the party, the girls and his loyal gang follow. When he's double-crossed over missing deal money by raging hothead Jake (Ben Foster), Johnny and his gang impulsively kidnap Jake's little brother, Zack (Anton Yelchin), holding him as a marker and heading to Palm Springs. With no parents in sight, they grow used to having the kid around, and Zack enjoys an illicit summer fantasy of drinking, girls and new experiences. Out in the desert, Johnny and his boys lose sight that the kid is a hostage who can't just be neatly returned. As the days tick by, the options of how to get themselves out of their situation start to disappear. Good times turn bad and bad turns worse as Johnny finds himself out of his league and with no idea how to fix it...leading all these players toward a shocking conclusion they never saw coming.
I remember seeing the preview for this movie over a year ago and thinking that it looked awesome. The movie has been held up for a long time because the real life trial of Johnny Truelove is yet to have taken place and his attorneys didn't want the movie to distort the opinion of potential jurors. However, I was very disappointed with this movie. While the story is great and the preview looked awesome - the acting across the board in this movie was beyond horrid. To emphasize my point on this, Justin Timberlake plays Johnny's best friend and while he is an horrible actor - he was probably the best one in the movie. Nuff said? I thought so. Even Bruce Willis and Sharon Stone playing parents of some of the kids were really bad. And what is the deal with the fat suit on Sharon Stone at the end of this movie!?! Worst makeup job ever! You could actually see that one of her arms was inflated and it looked like her face was going to fall off or something.
This movie was a real stinker and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I had such high hopes for this movie and was really disappointed.
I remember seeing the preview for this movie over a year ago and thinking that it looked awesome. The movie has been held up for a long time because the real life trial of Johnny Truelove is yet to have taken place and his attorneys didn't want the movie to distort the opinion of potential jurors. However, I was very disappointed with this movie. While the story is great and the preview looked awesome - the acting across the board in this movie was beyond horrid. To emphasize my point on this, Justin Timberlake plays Johnny's best friend and while he is an horrible actor - he was probably the best one in the movie. Nuff said? I thought so. Even Bruce Willis and Sharon Stone playing parents of some of the kids were really bad. And what is the deal with the fat suit on Sharon Stone at the end of this movie!?! Worst makeup job ever! You could actually see that one of her arms was inflated and it looked like her face was going to fall off or something.
This movie was a real stinker and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I had such high hopes for this movie and was really disappointed.
Arthur & The Invisibles
From Luc Besson, comes a family adventure about a boy who, after his grandfather disappears, sets out to save his family home from emerging real estate developers. Arthur learns that he must follow his grandfather's ancient clues to a vast treasure – and unlock the passageway to a spectacular new world filled with mysterious little people, so tiny they are considered invisible, and enlist their help. But once in the magical land, Arthur must join swords with a beautiful princess and a reckless army of defenders to save the land from the evil wizard.
I loved this movie! I took my future stepdaughter to see this and the two of us couldn't have enjoyed it more. It made me think back to how much I loved movies like "The Dark Crystal" and "Labyrinth" when I was a kid. There's something about those kind of family fantasy films that completely take you in to the world they have created and you thoroughly enjoy the ride. I really enjoyed the back and forth between the real world where the farm is close to being taken and the animated world of the Mimimoys. The animation was also phenomenal and the voices were so appropriate. Snoop Dogg as the dj at one point had me laughing my ass off.
I fully recommend this movie to anyone with kids or anyone who has a soft spot for fantasy movies like this. I'm giving in the Cinco stampo of Must See. Be sure to check this one out.
I loved this movie! I took my future stepdaughter to see this and the two of us couldn't have enjoyed it more. It made me think back to how much I loved movies like "The Dark Crystal" and "Labyrinth" when I was a kid. There's something about those kind of family fantasy films that completely take you in to the world they have created and you thoroughly enjoy the ride. I really enjoyed the back and forth between the real world where the farm is close to being taken and the animated world of the Mimimoys. The animation was also phenomenal and the voices were so appropriate. Snoop Dogg as the dj at one point had me laughing my ass off.
I fully recommend this movie to anyone with kids or anyone who has a soft spot for fantasy movies like this. I'm giving in the Cinco stampo of Must See. Be sure to check this one out.
Primeval
In one of the most remote places on earth, a bloodthirsty serial killer has claimed over 300 victims, and is still at large to this day. Now, inspired by the true story of the world's most prolific killer, comes Primeval, a horror-thriller that follows an American news crew determined to capture this terrifying murderer alive. The danger begins as producer Tim Freeman (Dominic Purcell, "Prison Break"), cameraman Steven Johnson (Orlando Jones) and their rag-tag team set out on a journey up-river in search of their subject. But the deeper they probe into the mystery of this elusive assassin, the deadlier their trip becomes.
Does anything in the above summary lead you to remotely believe that the most prolific serial killer of all time is NOT a human being? I didn't think so. Because of that, this movie will go down in the history of advertising as one of the most falsely advertised movies ever! WW and I went in to this one expecting a Texas Chainsaw Massacre type thing with some sort of a serial killer in Africa. I expected cheesiness, but never in a million years thought that the most prolific serial killer in the history of the world would be . . . . . . . . a big alligator with ninja like skills named Gustav. No - I'm not kidding. I wish to God that I was, people! The movie was basically "Lake Placid" but they were trying to take themselves seriously. How in the blue hell can an alligator be considered a serial killer!?! Isn't a serial killer supposed to plan out its kills and be vindictive or something? It's an alligator! Um . . . . . . don't go near the water? The only slightly redeeming quality about this movie is that once you start to come to grips with being so incredibly duped, the alligator actually does look pretty cool when its chasing people down and stuff. Usually, filmakers screw the pooch when they try to capture that kind of stuff.
I wouldn't recommend anyone seeing this movie. Not even knowing about the whole serial killer/alligator thing. It's basically a really big pile of steaming poop . . . . . serial killing alligator poop.
Does anything in the above summary lead you to remotely believe that the most prolific serial killer of all time is NOT a human being? I didn't think so. Because of that, this movie will go down in the history of advertising as one of the most falsely advertised movies ever! WW and I went in to this one expecting a Texas Chainsaw Massacre type thing with some sort of a serial killer in Africa. I expected cheesiness, but never in a million years thought that the most prolific serial killer in the history of the world would be . . . . . . . . a big alligator with ninja like skills named Gustav. No - I'm not kidding. I wish to God that I was, people! The movie was basically "Lake Placid" but they were trying to take themselves seriously. How in the blue hell can an alligator be considered a serial killer!?! Isn't a serial killer supposed to plan out its kills and be vindictive or something? It's an alligator! Um . . . . . . don't go near the water? The only slightly redeeming quality about this movie is that once you start to come to grips with being so incredibly duped, the alligator actually does look pretty cool when its chasing people down and stuff. Usually, filmakers screw the pooch when they try to capture that kind of stuff.
I wouldn't recommend anyone seeing this movie. Not even knowing about the whole serial killer/alligator thing. It's basically a really big pile of steaming poop . . . . . serial killing alligator poop.
Happily N'Ever After
Happily N'Ever After is an animated satirical retelling of the classic story of Cinderella. Once upon a time in Fairy Tale Land, the age-old balance between good and evil has been thrown out of whack. Frieda, Cinderella's power-mad stepmother, has formed an unholy alliance of evil to take on the good guys. With her own fairy tale spinning wildly out of control, Cinderella (a/k/a Ella) is forced to shed her damsel-in-distress trappings in order to seize control of her own destiny and lead the resistance without her Prince Charming. In a world of happy endings gone wrong, the race for control of the kingdom is on.
This was a great movie for younger kids . . . . . maybe 9 years old and under. My future stepdaughter loved the movie. Unfortunately - Wonder Woman and I were completely ready to leave about 30 minutes in to the movie because it was such a snooze fest. I'm not even really that sure what happened towards the end because I chose to get so engrossed playing Bejeweled on my cell phone. Great game by the way and you should so download it if you don't have it. Anywho, I digress. The bottom line is that this is one of those textbook movies that kids love but the adults are ready to run out of the theater asap.
I would recommend this to anyone willing to suffer for their younger daughters, but outside of that - stay clear, people!
This was a great movie for younger kids . . . . . maybe 9 years old and under. My future stepdaughter loved the movie. Unfortunately - Wonder Woman and I were completely ready to leave about 30 minutes in to the movie because it was such a snooze fest. I'm not even really that sure what happened towards the end because I chose to get so engrossed playing Bejeweled on my cell phone. Great game by the way and you should so download it if you don't have it. Anywho, I digress. The bottom line is that this is one of those textbook movies that kids love but the adults are ready to run out of the theater asap.
I would recommend this to anyone willing to suffer for their younger daughters, but outside of that - stay clear, people!
Children Of Men
Children of Men takes place in a world one generation from now that has fallen into anarchy on the heels of an infertility defect in the population. The world's youngest citizen has just died at 18, and humankind is facing the likelihood of its own extinction. Set against a backdrop of London torn apart by violence and warring nationalistic sects, the movie follows Theo (Clive Owen) as he becomes an unlikely champion of Earth's survival. When the planet's last remaining hope is threatened, he is forced to protect her from certain peril.
I thought this movie was phenomenal. The bottom line is that any time you are watching a textbook science fiction and don't even realize that it is science fiction - that's amazing. This movie takes place in a completely pretend future, but you feel as if it's all real. You watch the movie as if this world exists one town over or something. The also thing that I absolutely loved about this movie was that it was so original. Today's movies are chock full of remakes, sequels, and retreads that you can usually watch a commercial for a movie and decide ahead of time whether or not you liked the movie. This movie was so genuinely unique and kept you on the edge of your seat for the most part the entire time.
I fully recommend that everyone see this. I'm giving it must see status, people. Get out there and see it!
I thought this movie was phenomenal. The bottom line is that any time you are watching a textbook science fiction and don't even realize that it is science fiction - that's amazing. This movie takes place in a completely pretend future, but you feel as if it's all real. You watch the movie as if this world exists one town over or something. The also thing that I absolutely loved about this movie was that it was so original. Today's movies are chock full of remakes, sequels, and retreads that you can usually watch a commercial for a movie and decide ahead of time whether or not you liked the movie. This movie was so genuinely unique and kept you on the edge of your seat for the most part the entire time.
I fully recommend that everyone see this. I'm giving it must see status, people. Get out there and see it!
Notes On A Scandal
When Sheba Hart (Cate Blanchett) joins St. George's as the new art teacher, Barbara Covett (Judi Dench) senses a kindred spirit. But Barbara is not the only one drawn to her. Sheba begins an illicit affair and Barbara becomes the keeper of her secret in the most obsessive of ways.
This movie featured one hell of an amazing performance by Judi Dench. She played a lonely, obsessive, bitter old lady looking for female companionship. She befriends Cate Blanchett's character and then stumbles on to the fact that she is having an affair with one of her fifteen year old students. Judi Dench's character then masterfully manipulates the power of having that secret in to having total control over Cate Blanchett. I haven't seen Helen Mirren in The Queen but putting that aside, Judi Dench should definitely receive an Oscar for Best Actress. You find yourself totally entranced in her creepy obsessiveness and manipluation.
I wouldn't recommend anyone running out to see this one right away, but it is definitely worth the price of admission and should be checked out.
This movie featured one hell of an amazing performance by Judi Dench. She played a lonely, obsessive, bitter old lady looking for female companionship. She befriends Cate Blanchett's character and then stumbles on to the fact that she is having an affair with one of her fifteen year old students. Judi Dench's character then masterfully manipulates the power of having that secret in to having total control over Cate Blanchett. I haven't seen Helen Mirren in The Queen but putting that aside, Judi Dench should definitely receive an Oscar for Best Actress. You find yourself totally entranced in her creepy obsessiveness and manipluation.
I wouldn't recommend anyone running out to see this one right away, but it is definitely worth the price of admission and should be checked out.
Freedom Writers
Freedom Writers is inspired by a true story and the diaries of real Long Beach teenagers after the LA riots, during the worst outbreak of interracial gang warfare. Hilary Swank stars as Erin Gruwell, whose passion to become a teacher is soon challenged by a group of Black, Latino, and Asian gangbangers who hate her even more than each other. When Erin begins to listen to them in a way no adult has ever done, she begins to understand that for these kids, getting through the day alive is enough. Erin gives them something they never had from a teacher before -- respect. For the first time, these teens experience a hope that maybe, they might show the world that their lives matter and they have something to say.
This is one of those movies where if you saw the preview/commercial - you basically saw the movie. It's also a textbook teacher who reaches out to hurting kids movie. The last two times I saw this movie, it was called Lean On Me with Morgan Freeman playing the teacher and Dangerous Minds with Michelle Pheiffer playing the teacher. Although the movie was totally formula and choc full of cliches, it was still pretty enjoyable. These movies are either made or broken by the cast of kids and this one had some pretty good characters involved. I also liked that they let a bunch of the different kids narrate what was happening at different times. I'm a big fan of narration and this movie had a lot of it.
I wouldn't recommend that anyone rush out to theaters to see this. It is by no means a must see, but if you want to or have the time it is worth it.
This is one of those movies where if you saw the preview/commercial - you basically saw the movie. It's also a textbook teacher who reaches out to hurting kids movie. The last two times I saw this movie, it was called Lean On Me with Morgan Freeman playing the teacher and Dangerous Minds with Michelle Pheiffer playing the teacher. Although the movie was totally formula and choc full of cliches, it was still pretty enjoyable. These movies are either made or broken by the cast of kids and this one had some pretty good characters involved. I also liked that they let a bunch of the different kids narrate what was happening at different times. I'm a big fan of narration and this movie had a lot of it.
I wouldn't recommend that anyone rush out to theaters to see this. It is by no means a must see, but if you want to or have the time it is worth it.
2006: The Best
10. V For Vendetta
Some might think that this movie was a little too politically charged and that there was a lot more action advertised. However, I thought that the movie was very well done and proof that the creators of The Matrix might actually have a pretty good future outside of The Matrix. If anyone in the North Carolina area might have a burned copy of this movie (we shall call him "How" and that must me prounounced as if you were a dumbstruck Chinaman), feel free to watch this great movie and send it back.
9. Little Miss Sunshine
The family in this movie is by far the poster family for dysfunction. The acting was phenomenal across the board and on top of being well written and acted, this movie produced some of the biggest belly laughs of the year by far.
8. Dave Chappelle's Block Party
I love Dave Chappelle. He is one of those people that I can die laughing just from watching him have a conversation. He was hysterical in this movie as he wandered around inviting people to his block party. I even ended up liking the music, but even if you aren't in to that type of music you end up loving this movie anyway.
7. Blood Diamond
Even with the graphic violence, this movie was completely phenomenal. The acting was great all around - especially Djimon Hounsou. He really doesn't get the respect he deserves. The pace and story barely let up and the few times that it slowed down a bit, it came roaring back in the blink of an eye.
6. Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow is one of the greatest film characters ever. Even if the story was a bit wishy washy and all over the place, this movie was still awesome just because of Captain Jack. Not to mention that I'm a big sucker for a mega-blockbuster movie like this.
5. Cars
When I saw that Pixar was making a movie about talking cars I figured that they would finally have a bomb on their hands. There's no way that could end up being entertaining. However, I ended up being dead wrong. This movie ended up being one of Pixar's better movies and Larry The Cable Guy became one of the best animated voices ever.
4. The Pursuit Of Happyness
Even though I could understand some people could think it's too sappy and pulls heart strings too much, I thought this movie was phenomenal!!! Will Smith was awesome as always. This is also the type of movie that makes you realize that no matter how bad you have it - it could always be much worse and that you just have to keep pushing through no matter what. It was a perfect feel good movie.
3. Miami Vice
Michael Mann (Heat, The Insider, Collateral) is one of my favorite directors. He seems to do something special with the look of his movies and that alone seems to suck you in that much more. I was a huge fan of the television series, but thought that this movie was so much better than the show ever was. Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx were both awesome and the action scenes were beyond intense.
2. Dreamgirls
I absolutely loved this movie. I wasn't quite sure what to expect going in. Basically I never really am when it comes to musicals. However, this movie was phenomenal. The acting performances were great all around - even Beyonce and Eddie Murphy. I could see all of them getting Oscar nominations, especially Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Hudson. I actually think that Jennifer Hudson is a lock for Best Supporting Actress. She sang one song in the middle of the movie that actually had the whole crowd applauding after it was done.
1. The Departed
Every once a while a movie comes out that is pefectly made in every way. This is one of those movies. The casting was top notch with Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson. The script was great and the direction of Martin Scorsese was so good that I actually even thought that Alec Baldwin and Mark Wahlberg were great actors. This is one of those classic cops and robbers/good guys vs bad guys movies and by far the best movie of 2006.
Some might think that this movie was a little too politically charged and that there was a lot more action advertised. However, I thought that the movie was very well done and proof that the creators of The Matrix might actually have a pretty good future outside of The Matrix. If anyone in the North Carolina area might have a burned copy of this movie (we shall call him "How" and that must me prounounced as if you were a dumbstruck Chinaman), feel free to watch this great movie and send it back.
9. Little Miss Sunshine
The family in this movie is by far the poster family for dysfunction. The acting was phenomenal across the board and on top of being well written and acted, this movie produced some of the biggest belly laughs of the year by far.
8. Dave Chappelle's Block Party
I love Dave Chappelle. He is one of those people that I can die laughing just from watching him have a conversation. He was hysterical in this movie as he wandered around inviting people to his block party. I even ended up liking the music, but even if you aren't in to that type of music you end up loving this movie anyway.
7. Blood Diamond
Even with the graphic violence, this movie was completely phenomenal. The acting was great all around - especially Djimon Hounsou. He really doesn't get the respect he deserves. The pace and story barely let up and the few times that it slowed down a bit, it came roaring back in the blink of an eye.
6. Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow is one of the greatest film characters ever. Even if the story was a bit wishy washy and all over the place, this movie was still awesome just because of Captain Jack. Not to mention that I'm a big sucker for a mega-blockbuster movie like this.
5. Cars
When I saw that Pixar was making a movie about talking cars I figured that they would finally have a bomb on their hands. There's no way that could end up being entertaining. However, I ended up being dead wrong. This movie ended up being one of Pixar's better movies and Larry The Cable Guy became one of the best animated voices ever.
4. The Pursuit Of Happyness
Even though I could understand some people could think it's too sappy and pulls heart strings too much, I thought this movie was phenomenal!!! Will Smith was awesome as always. This is also the type of movie that makes you realize that no matter how bad you have it - it could always be much worse and that you just have to keep pushing through no matter what. It was a perfect feel good movie.
3. Miami Vice
Michael Mann (Heat, The Insider, Collateral) is one of my favorite directors. He seems to do something special with the look of his movies and that alone seems to suck you in that much more. I was a huge fan of the television series, but thought that this movie was so much better than the show ever was. Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx were both awesome and the action scenes were beyond intense.
2. Dreamgirls
I absolutely loved this movie. I wasn't quite sure what to expect going in. Basically I never really am when it comes to musicals. However, this movie was phenomenal. The acting performances were great all around - even Beyonce and Eddie Murphy. I could see all of them getting Oscar nominations, especially Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Hudson. I actually think that Jennifer Hudson is a lock for Best Supporting Actress. She sang one song in the middle of the movie that actually had the whole crowd applauding after it was done.
1. The Departed
Every once a while a movie comes out that is pefectly made in every way. This is one of those movies. The casting was top notch with Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson. The script was great and the direction of Martin Scorsese was so good that I actually even thought that Alec Baldwin and Mark Wahlberg were great actors. This is one of those classic cops and robbers/good guys vs bad guys movies and by far the best movie of 2006.
2006: The Worst
10. The Nativity Story
I can't believe that J.C. didn't use divine intervention to keep this movie about his birth from hitting theaters. How can you make the birth of Christ this boring!?!
9. The Black Dahlia
The movie was advertised to be about the grizzly murder of an actress some years back. However, what I watched for two hours was this all over the place movie about two detectives and the women that they were sleeping with with a dash of the worst overacting I've seen in a long time.
8. The Fountain
It has been over a month and I still have no clue what this movie was about. I can't get the image of Hugh Jackman talking to a tree that is supposed to be the only "living" extension of the love of his life inside a bubble flying in space.
7. Ultraviolet
Who in the blue hell thought that making a low-budget version of The Matrix starring the girl who keeps saying "Multipass" in The Fifth Element as the lead was a good idea? I've never seen a more idiotic action movie in my life.
6. The Wicker Man
Why, Nicolas Cage, Why? This movie tried so hard to be like The Ring or The Grudge, but I guess that unless the Japanese make these kinds of movies first - they are horrible! It's been a long time since I left a theater so annoyed at the movie I just watched.
5. The Return
See above but change Nicolas Cage to Sarah Michelle Gellar.
4. Crank
Every once and a while you see a movie and the only thing that you leave thinking about it is what made the people at the studio sitting around their big table think that this was a good idea? I'm not even sure that they were following a script in this one. It was so random that I wouldn't be a bit surprised to find out that the whole movie was improv.
3. The Covenant
When I first saw the commercial for this movie, it had a car seperating in to pieces to avoid getting hit by a truck and then reconfiguring after passing it to continue driving. Honestly, I thought that the commercial was for a new car or something and had no idea it was a movie. I now really wish that it was. This movie would have been lame even if it was a made for TV movie on FOX.
2. Running Scared
I forgot that this movie came out this year and it was a tough call between this movie and the biggest loser for this list. This movie was so scatterbrained words can really do no justice. It had an undercover cop investigating the mob, a guy from Russia that was obsessed with John Wayne, that creepy kid who took a bath with Nicole Kidman in "Birth", a pimp that wants revenge for a broken head light on his car, people getting beaten by getting hockey puck slapshots to the face, and a woman taking down a child porn ring while looking for her aforementioned husband (the undercover cop). The really crazy thing is that this is one of those movies that is so bad, I actually recommend that everyone see it. It's so brutal that you are laughing your a$$ off by the end even though the movie couldn't be less funny.
1. Deck The Halls
This will go down in the history books of Hollywood as the worst holiday movie ever. Holiday movies are supposed to be cheesy by nature, but this one was the stinkiest, most rotten cheesy ever. It was about a guy who wants his house to be seen by a space satelite and used decorating for Christmas to be the fuel for his awesome goal. COME ON NOW! Not to mention that the movie also stars Matthew Broderick and it kills me to think how much I idolized him when I was younger. What the hell happened to Ferris Bueller!?!
I can't believe that J.C. didn't use divine intervention to keep this movie about his birth from hitting theaters. How can you make the birth of Christ this boring!?!
9. The Black Dahlia
The movie was advertised to be about the grizzly murder of an actress some years back. However, what I watched for two hours was this all over the place movie about two detectives and the women that they were sleeping with with a dash of the worst overacting I've seen in a long time.
8. The Fountain
It has been over a month and I still have no clue what this movie was about. I can't get the image of Hugh Jackman talking to a tree that is supposed to be the only "living" extension of the love of his life inside a bubble flying in space.
7. Ultraviolet
Who in the blue hell thought that making a low-budget version of The Matrix starring the girl who keeps saying "Multipass" in The Fifth Element as the lead was a good idea? I've never seen a more idiotic action movie in my life.
6. The Wicker Man
Why, Nicolas Cage, Why? This movie tried so hard to be like The Ring or The Grudge, but I guess that unless the Japanese make these kinds of movies first - they are horrible! It's been a long time since I left a theater so annoyed at the movie I just watched.
5. The Return
See above but change Nicolas Cage to Sarah Michelle Gellar.
4. Crank
Every once and a while you see a movie and the only thing that you leave thinking about it is what made the people at the studio sitting around their big table think that this was a good idea? I'm not even sure that they were following a script in this one. It was so random that I wouldn't be a bit surprised to find out that the whole movie was improv.
3. The Covenant
When I first saw the commercial for this movie, it had a car seperating in to pieces to avoid getting hit by a truck and then reconfiguring after passing it to continue driving. Honestly, I thought that the commercial was for a new car or something and had no idea it was a movie. I now really wish that it was. This movie would have been lame even if it was a made for TV movie on FOX.
2. Running Scared
I forgot that this movie came out this year and it was a tough call between this movie and the biggest loser for this list. This movie was so scatterbrained words can really do no justice. It had an undercover cop investigating the mob, a guy from Russia that was obsessed with John Wayne, that creepy kid who took a bath with Nicole Kidman in "Birth", a pimp that wants revenge for a broken head light on his car, people getting beaten by getting hockey puck slapshots to the face, and a woman taking down a child porn ring while looking for her aforementioned husband (the undercover cop). The really crazy thing is that this is one of those movies that is so bad, I actually recommend that everyone see it. It's so brutal that you are laughing your a$$ off by the end even though the movie couldn't be less funny.
1. Deck The Halls
This will go down in the history books of Hollywood as the worst holiday movie ever. Holiday movies are supposed to be cheesy by nature, but this one was the stinkiest, most rotten cheesy ever. It was about a guy who wants his house to be seen by a space satelite and used decorating for Christmas to be the fuel for his awesome goal. COME ON NOW! Not to mention that the movie also stars Matthew Broderick and it kills me to think how much I idolized him when I was younger. What the hell happened to Ferris Bueller!?!
The Good Shepherd
The early history of the Central Intelligence Agency is viewed through one man's life in The Good Shepherd. Edward Wilson (Matt Damon) understands the value of secrecy-discretion and commitment to honor have been embedded in him since childhood. As a student at Yale, he is recruited to join the secret society Skull and Bones, a brotherhood and breeding ground for future world leaders. As one of the covert founders of the CIA, Edward's' idealism is steadily eroded by a growing suspicious nature, reflective of a world settling into the long paranoia of the Cold War. However, his steely dedication to his country comes at an ever-increasing price. Not even his wife Clover (Angelina Jolie) or his beloved son can divert Wilson from a path that will force him to sacrifice everything in pursuit of this job.
Before saying anything about what I (or movie going life partner Wonder Woman and special guest The Good German . . . not the movie - the man, people!) thought about the movie, I must give the warning that this movie is 2 hours and40 minutes long. That kind of a running time can float for the Lord Of The Rings, Titanics, and Harry Potters of the world, but outside of those kind of mega movies a running time like that can kill a movie . . . . . not to mention your a$$ and back. The running time didn't kill this movie by any means, but it definitely hurt it.
The movie was actually pretty good. It was interesting to watch everyone completely not trusting each other. I thought that Matt Damon actually did a really great job and was by far and away the most emotionless person I've ever seen. The movie did a good job of showing how the CIA evolved. The only thing that really held this movie back from total greatness was that kept jumping back and forth between the 40s and the 60s at inopportune times. You would finally start following what was going on in the 60s and they would take you back and your head would have to play catch up again.
I would recommend readers checking this one out. It's not a rush to theaters type movie, but it's worth the price of admission and the running time will give you ample time to take advantage of the free refills on the drinks and popcorn.
Before saying anything about what I (or movie going life partner Wonder Woman and special guest The Good German . . . not the movie - the man, people!) thought about the movie, I must give the warning that this movie is 2 hours and40 minutes long. That kind of a running time can float for the Lord Of The Rings, Titanics, and Harry Potters of the world, but outside of those kind of mega movies a running time like that can kill a movie . . . . . not to mention your a$$ and back. The running time didn't kill this movie by any means, but it definitely hurt it.
The movie was actually pretty good. It was interesting to watch everyone completely not trusting each other. I thought that Matt Damon actually did a really great job and was by far and away the most emotionless person I've ever seen. The movie did a good job of showing how the CIA evolved. The only thing that really held this movie back from total greatness was that kept jumping back and forth between the 40s and the 60s at inopportune times. You would finally start following what was going on in the 60s and they would take you back and your head would have to play catch up again.
I would recommend readers checking this one out. It's not a rush to theaters type movie, but it's worth the price of admission and the running time will give you ample time to take advantage of the free refills on the drinks and popcorn.
We Are Marshall
We Are Marshall tells an inspiring true story set in Huntington, West Virginia, a small town steeped in the rich tradition of college football. For decades, players, coaches, fans and families have come together to cheer on Marshall University's Thundering Herd. For this team and this community, Marshall football is more than just a sport, it's a way of life. But on a fateful night in 1970, while traveling back to Huntington after a game in North Carolina, 75 members of Marshall's football team and coaching staff were killed in a plane crash. As those left behind struggled to cope with the devastating loss of their loved ones, the grieving families found hope and strength in the leadership of Jack Lengyel, a young coach who was determined to rebuild Marshall's football program and in the process helped to heal a community.
As I've said previously in some postings - I am a total sucker for a good underdog sports movie. This one definitely landed right on my sweet spot. Add to the fact that it was based on a true story and had great performances by everyone (especially Matthew McConaughey as the quirky head coach) and the fact that the university is where the New York Jets Chad Pennington went to and he gets a shout out at the end of the movie (Sorry, people. My beloved Jets are in the playoff hunt . . . . J . . . . E . . . . . T . . . . . S . . . . JETS JETS JETS!), I give this movie a big thumbs up.
I recommend this movie for viewing at the local theater. It's not a must see, but worth the trip if you have the time/money.
As I've said previously in some postings - I am a total sucker for a good underdog sports movie. This one definitely landed right on my sweet spot. Add to the fact that it was based on a true story and had great performances by everyone (especially Matthew McConaughey as the quirky head coach) and the fact that the university is where the New York Jets Chad Pennington went to and he gets a shout out at the end of the movie (Sorry, people. My beloved Jets are in the playoff hunt . . . . J . . . . E . . . . . T . . . . . S . . . . JETS JETS JETS!), I give this movie a big thumbs up.
I recommend this movie for viewing at the local theater. It's not a must see, but worth the trip if you have the time/money.
Dreamgirls
Dreamgirls, the Broadway play, comes to the big screen. Set in the early 1960s to mid-70s, Dreamgirls follows the rise of a trio of women—Effie (Jennifer Hudson), Deena (Beyoncé Knowles) and Lorrell (Anika Noni Rose)—who have formed a promising girl group called The Dreamettes. At a talent competition, they are discovered by an ambitious manager named Curtis Taylor, Jr. (Jamie Foxx), who offers them the opportunity of a lifetime: to become the back-up singers for headliner James "Thunder" Early (Eddie Murphy). Curtis gradually takes control of the girls' look and sound, eventually giving them their own shot in the spotlight as The Dreams. That spotlight, however, begins to narrow in on Deena, finally pushing the less attractive Effie out altogether. Though the Dreams become a crossover phenomenon, they soon realize that the cost of fame and fortune may be higher than they ever imagined.
I absolutely loved this movie. I wasn't quite sure what to expect going in. Basically I never really am when it comes to musicals. However, this movie was phenomenal. The acting performances were great all around - even Beyonce and Eddie Murphy. I could see all of them getting Oscar nominations, especially Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Hudson. I actually think that Jennifer Hudson is a lock for Best Supporting Actress. She sang one song in the middle of the movie that actually had the whole crowd applauding after it was done. This movie is a definite must see by all.
I fully recommend this movie to all readers. As of right now it stands as number two on the Best of 2006 on the soon to be posted list. Get out there right now and see this one, people!
I absolutely loved this movie. I wasn't quite sure what to expect going in. Basically I never really am when it comes to musicals. However, this movie was phenomenal. The acting performances were great all around - even Beyonce and Eddie Murphy. I could see all of them getting Oscar nominations, especially Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Hudson. I actually think that Jennifer Hudson is a lock for Best Supporting Actress. She sang one song in the middle of the movie that actually had the whole crowd applauding after it was done. This movie is a definite must see by all.
I fully recommend this movie to all readers. As of right now it stands as number two on the Best of 2006 on the soon to be posted list. Get out there right now and see this one, people!
Night At The Museum
The halls of the Natural History Museum are lined with the most amazing things – wild-eyed prehistoric creatures, fierce ancient warriors, long lost tribes, African animals and history's legendary heroes – all frozen forever in time. Or... are they? In the action-adventure-comedy, Night at the Museum, the new night guard Larry (Ben Stiller) is about to discover that when the visitors go home at the end of the day, the real adventure begins – as the museum's residents come out to play.
I enjoyed this movie. I didn't absolutely love it but it was definitely worth watching. It was a lot like a Jumangi type thing where the effects alone keep you interesteted. You can never go wrong with something like that as long as the effects are cool enough. It's also one of those movies that you pretty much know exactly what you are going to get from watching the preview. People in the museum come to life . . . . something is going to get messed up . . . . new guy is going to have to fix it. You could just sit down and watch and not have to think too much at all. The only thing that kind of turned me off towards it was that I expected it to be funnier. However, the kids loved it and that alone is worth making the trip to theaters at this time of year.
I would recommend this movie to everyone . . . . especially someone with kids. It's the best family movie out there for the holidays right now.
I enjoyed this movie. I didn't absolutely love it but it was definitely worth watching. It was a lot like a Jumangi type thing where the effects alone keep you interesteted. You can never go wrong with something like that as long as the effects are cool enough. It's also one of those movies that you pretty much know exactly what you are going to get from watching the preview. People in the museum come to life . . . . something is going to get messed up . . . . new guy is going to have to fix it. You could just sit down and watch and not have to think too much at all. The only thing that kind of turned me off towards it was that I expected it to be funnier. However, the kids loved it and that alone is worth making the trip to theaters at this time of year.
I would recommend this movie to everyone . . . . especially someone with kids. It's the best family movie out there for the holidays right now.
Rocky Balboa
The greatest underdog story of our time is back for one final round of the Rocky franchise. Former heavyweight champion Rocky Balboa steps out of retirement and back into the ring, pitting himself against a new rival in a dramatically different era. After a virtual boxing match declares Rocky Balboa the victor over current champion Mason Dixon, the legendary fighter's passion and spirit are reignited.
I thought that it was a joke when I originally heard that they were making this movie. Then, when I found out it was true - I thought this would be one of the worst movies ever made. Wasn't Rocky V bad enough to kill the franchise? However, I was very surprised by this movie and ended up enjoying it very much. I'm not going to come close to saying that it was a great movie, but it was a hell of a lot better than I thought it would be. It dragged a little bit at the beginning and the tension between Rocky and his son was a tad on the annoying side, but once it all got going you feel like you are watching the first one (or Rocky IV - my personal favorite) all over again. You are completely sucked in and excited and find yourself wanting to clap at the end.
I fully recommend that everyone check this one out. It's not a must see but it is more than worthy of the trip to the theater.
I thought that it was a joke when I originally heard that they were making this movie. Then, when I found out it was true - I thought this would be one of the worst movies ever made. Wasn't Rocky V bad enough to kill the franchise? However, I was very surprised by this movie and ended up enjoying it very much. I'm not going to come close to saying that it was a great movie, but it was a hell of a lot better than I thought it would be. It dragged a little bit at the beginning and the tension between Rocky and his son was a tad on the annoying side, but once it all got going you feel like you are watching the first one (or Rocky IV - my personal favorite) all over again. You are completely sucked in and excited and find yourself wanting to clap at the end.
I fully recommend that everyone check this one out. It's not a must see but it is more than worthy of the trip to the theater.
The Pursuit Of Happyness
In The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris Gardner (Will Smith) is a bright and talented, but marginally employed salesman. Struggling to make ends meet, Gardner finds himself and his five-year-old son evicted from their San Francisco apartment with nowhere to go. When Gardner lands an internship at a prestigious stock brokerage firm, he and his son endure many hardships, including living in shelters, in pursuit of his dream of a better life for the two of them.
Even though I could understand some people could think it's too sappy and pulls heart strings too much, I thought this movie was phenomenal!!! Will Smith was awesome as always. It is really hard to believe that "The Fresh Prince" has ended up being such an amazing actor, but he performs so well in this movie that I couldn't look away from the screen and barely felt the two hours pass by while watching it. This is also the type of movie that makes you realize that no matter how bad you have it - it could always be much worse and that you just have to keep pushing through no matter what. I could not have seen this movie at a more perfect time in my life. This movie made me realize that no matter how tough things are or how hard of a time I could be having dealing with things - I have got my Wonder Woman (there are few people out there more wonderous than her, people!) , I have got my health, and I have got my kids/family.
I fully recommend this movie to everyone. I think that it should get a nomination for Best Picture this year and that Will Smith completely deserves the Best Actor award. What are you waiting for? Go see it!
Even though I could understand some people could think it's too sappy and pulls heart strings too much, I thought this movie was phenomenal!!! Will Smith was awesome as always. It is really hard to believe that "The Fresh Prince" has ended up being such an amazing actor, but he performs so well in this movie that I couldn't look away from the screen and barely felt the two hours pass by while watching it. This is also the type of movie that makes you realize that no matter how bad you have it - it could always be much worse and that you just have to keep pushing through no matter what. I could not have seen this movie at a more perfect time in my life. This movie made me realize that no matter how tough things are or how hard of a time I could be having dealing with things - I have got my Wonder Woman (there are few people out there more wonderous than her, people!) , I have got my health, and I have got my kids/family.
I fully recommend this movie to everyone. I think that it should get a nomination for Best Picture this year and that Will Smith completely deserves the Best Actor award. What are you waiting for? Go see it!
Charlotte's Web
The classic story comes to life in this live-action adaptation. Fern (Dakota Fanning) raises a pig named Wilbur, the runt of the litter. As Wilbur moves into a new barn, he begins a second profound friendship with the most unlikely of creatures – a spider named Charlotte – and their bond inspires the animals around them to come together as a family. When the word gets out that Wilbur's days are numbered, it seems that only a miracle will save his life. A determined Charlotte spins words into her web in an effort to convince the farmer that Wilbur is "some pig" and worth saving.
I couldn't wait to see this movie and I'm thinking that I let my expectations get the best of me. I was pretty disappointed in this movie and I really don't know why. It's not that the movie was poop or anything. I just basically didn't care about what was going on. In movies like this - there is supposed to be that emotional hook that grabs you, won't let go, and makes you leave feeling good. I wasn't hooked. That being said - my future stepdaughter and her best friend liked the movie a lot so maybe this is just one of those movies that is a lot more for kids than one of those movies that reach both the adults and the kids. Or maybe it was just Wonder Woman and I being too tired to truly enjoy the movie? I'm really not sure what to tell you here, people. Sorry.
Regardless, I would definitely recommend this movie to anyone with children because they seemed to like it. As for the adults - this might be one of those movies where you could grab a quick cat nap while the kids are distracted.
I couldn't wait to see this movie and I'm thinking that I let my expectations get the best of me. I was pretty disappointed in this movie and I really don't know why. It's not that the movie was poop or anything. I just basically didn't care about what was going on. In movies like this - there is supposed to be that emotional hook that grabs you, won't let go, and makes you leave feeling good. I wasn't hooked. That being said - my future stepdaughter and her best friend liked the movie a lot so maybe this is just one of those movies that is a lot more for kids than one of those movies that reach both the adults and the kids. Or maybe it was just Wonder Woman and I being too tired to truly enjoy the movie? I'm really not sure what to tell you here, people. Sorry.
Regardless, I would definitely recommend this movie to anyone with children because they seemed to like it. As for the adults - this might be one of those movies where you could grab a quick cat nap while the kids are distracted.
Eragon
This adventure centers on a young man named Eragon whose destiny is revealed with the help of a dragon. Eragon, now a Dragon Rider, is swept into a world of magic and power, discovering that he alone has the power to save – or destroy – an Empire.
I had read this book. It was one of the bazillion Harry Potter-ish books that came out after his popularity went through the roof. The book was actually really good and this movie - if done right - could have really been a scaled down Lord Of The Rings type epic (this movie is supposed to be the first one of a trilogy). Unfortunately, the filmmakers really rushed their way through the story and didn't put much effort into explaining the dynamic relationships between all the characters like they did in the book. At one point in the movie - one of the characters dies and nobody in the crowd could possibly care less. Unfortunately, that point in the book was one of the best parts.
Getting past the disappointment of what was lost in translation, the movie is not horrible. It is o.k. and watchable, but it just seems really watered down and instead of having that mass appeal that the Lord Of The Rings movies did - it ended up being directed towards young teenage boys. That group happens to be the hardest to reach for movie studios because it is next to impossible to pull them away from video games and what not. Because of this - I don't see the second and third chapters of this trilogy ever being made and that's pretty disappointing because the books really were pretty good.
I would lukewarmly recommend this to people. If you have kids that are teenager tweeners - they would like it. You might be better off passing on this though and waiting to rent it.
I had read this book. It was one of the bazillion Harry Potter-ish books that came out after his popularity went through the roof. The book was actually really good and this movie - if done right - could have really been a scaled down Lord Of The Rings type epic (this movie is supposed to be the first one of a trilogy). Unfortunately, the filmmakers really rushed their way through the story and didn't put much effort into explaining the dynamic relationships between all the characters like they did in the book. At one point in the movie - one of the characters dies and nobody in the crowd could possibly care less. Unfortunately, that point in the book was one of the best parts.
Getting past the disappointment of what was lost in translation, the movie is not horrible. It is o.k. and watchable, but it just seems really watered down and instead of having that mass appeal that the Lord Of The Rings movies did - it ended up being directed towards young teenage boys. That group happens to be the hardest to reach for movie studios because it is next to impossible to pull them away from video games and what not. Because of this - I don't see the second and third chapters of this trilogy ever being made and that's pretty disappointing because the books really were pretty good.
I would lukewarmly recommend this to people. If you have kids that are teenager tweeners - they would like it. You might be better off passing on this though and waiting to rent it.
Unaccompanied Minors
It's Christmas Eve and five kids travelling alone have just been snowed in at the airport. Unaccompanied Minors follows awkward Spencer (Dyllan Christopher), rich-girl Grace (Gina Mantegna), tomboy Donna (Quinn Shephard), geeky Charlie (Tyler James Williams) and bashful Beef (Brett Kelly) as they try to escape a disgruntled airport official (Lewis Black) and reunite with their families. These kids are about to provide themselves with a holiday for the ages.
This is one of those movies that whether or not its good doesn't really matter. It's just a question of whether or not the kids liked it. My future stepchildren and our other adopted daughter loved it. They were laughing out loud throughout the movie so I ended up enjoying it just because of that. It's also finally a good movie that you can take your kids to that doesn't use questionable sexual humor. What is the deal with all of these "family" movies nowadays that you sit through wondering how in the hell things have degraded so much that your 8 year old is laughing at this stuff that you didn't see until you were 17 years old.
Anywho, I digress in to a rant (a necessary one!!!) and must get back to the movie. If you have kids - take them to see this and enjoy laughing at them laughing. It's not necessarily a good movie but it is a good time getting to enjoy moments like that.
This is one of those movies that whether or not its good doesn't really matter. It's just a question of whether or not the kids liked it. My future stepchildren and our other adopted daughter loved it. They were laughing out loud throughout the movie so I ended up enjoying it just because of that. It's also finally a good movie that you can take your kids to that doesn't use questionable sexual humor. What is the deal with all of these "family" movies nowadays that you sit through wondering how in the hell things have degraded so much that your 8 year old is laughing at this stuff that you didn't see until you were 17 years old.
Anywho, I digress in to a rant (a necessary one!!!) and must get back to the movie. If you have kids - take them to see this and enjoy laughing at them laughing. It's not necessarily a good movie but it is a good time getting to enjoy moments like that.
Apocalypto
From Mel Gibson, comes Apocalypto. This movie is an action-adventure set against the turbulent end times of the once great Mayan civilization. When one of the tribesman's existence is suddenly disrupted by a violent invading tribe, he ends up on a perilous journey to a world ruled by fear and oppression that will ultimately lead to his death. Through a twist of fate and spurred by the power of his love for his woman and his family he will make a break to return home and to ultimately save his way of life.
I went in to this movie thinking that there was no way that Mel Gibson could keep up with prior amazing movies like Braveheart and Passion Of The Christ and was very pleasantly surprised. Be warned - the movie is subtitled and it is very graphic at times (I'm just going to go ahead and warn all readers that a man eats a boar's testicles . . . . . . . I almost gagged!). However, my golden rule of whether or not a subtitled movie is great or not is if you forget that you are reading what the characters are saying. You totally don't realize it in this movie because you really are glued to what's going on up on the screen. Just the look of the film with the jungle action was amazing.
I really liked this movie a lot and strongly recommend it to anyone who would be in to a history channel type movie and can deal with subtitles. I know how that can be a real killer sometimes, but this movie is very much worth it.
I went in to this movie thinking that there was no way that Mel Gibson could keep up with prior amazing movies like Braveheart and Passion Of The Christ and was very pleasantly surprised. Be warned - the movie is subtitled and it is very graphic at times (I'm just going to go ahead and warn all readers that a man eats a boar's testicles . . . . . . . I almost gagged!). However, my golden rule of whether or not a subtitled movie is great or not is if you forget that you are reading what the characters are saying. You totally don't realize it in this movie because you really are glued to what's going on up on the screen. Just the look of the film with the jungle action was amazing.
I really liked this movie a lot and strongly recommend it to anyone who would be in to a history channel type movie and can deal with subtitles. I know how that can be a real killer sometimes, but this movie is very much worth it.
The Holiday
In The Holiday, two women on opposite sides of the globe, Amanda Woods (Cameron Diaz) and Iris Simpkins (Kate Winslet) find themselves in a similar situations of man hating. Desperate for a change of scenery, the two women meet on the internet and swap houses for the Christmas holiday discovering that a change of address really can change your life.
This movie was cute. There were some really good laughs and you find yourself enjoying the four major characters. Jude Law ends up playing Cameron Diaz's beau, while Jack Black fills that role for Kate Winslett. It was a nice holiday/date movie which everyone pretty much knew going in from the commercial/preview. The only problem I had with this movie is the same as every one of Nancy Meyer's movies (What Women Want, Something's Gotta Give). They are just too long. This movie was 2 hours and 15 minutes long. When you go in to a movie having a pretty dead on idea of where it's going to end up - you shouldn't have to watch for 2 hours and 15 minutes to see it get there. This could have easily been an hour and 45 minutes.
Regardless, I would recommend this movie to all. It's really not a bad movie. It's just a tad too long.
This movie was cute. There were some really good laughs and you find yourself enjoying the four major characters. Jude Law ends up playing Cameron Diaz's beau, while Jack Black fills that role for Kate Winslett. It was a nice holiday/date movie which everyone pretty much knew going in from the commercial/preview. The only problem I had with this movie is the same as every one of Nancy Meyer's movies (What Women Want, Something's Gotta Give). They are just too long. This movie was 2 hours and 15 minutes long. When you go in to a movie having a pretty dead on idea of where it's going to end up - you shouldn't have to watch for 2 hours and 15 minutes to see it get there. This could have easily been an hour and 45 minutes.
Regardless, I would recommend this movie to all. It's really not a bad movie. It's just a tad too long.
Blood Diamond
Set during the civil war that enveloped 1990s Sierra Leone, Blood Diamond is the story of Danny Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou). Both men are African, but their histories are as different as any can be—until their fates become joined in a common quest to recover a rare pink diamond that can transform their lives. More than a search for a valuable diamond, the journey could save Solomon's family and give Archer the second chance he thought he would never have.
Before reviewing this movie I feel that I should give any reader the same warning that the idiot gave WW and I throughout the entire movie . . . . it's very violent. Seriously though - they do not hold back at all. Connect the gruesome violence along with the fact that this stuff is absolutely happening and the movie really hits you pretty hard. Even with the graphic violence, this movie was completely phenomenal. The acting was great all around - especially Djimon Hounsou. He really doesn't get the respect he deserves. Leonardo DiCaprio continued to impress me as an actor (I was never a big fan of his until The Aviator). The pace and story barely let up and the few times that it slowed down a bit, it came roaring back in the blink of an eye.
I very strongly recommend this movie to everyone (I can still hear that annoying lady repeatedly saying how violent it is. Damn her!). This was a really great movie and should definitely garner some Oscar attention.
Before reviewing this movie I feel that I should give any reader the same warning that the idiot gave WW and I throughout the entire movie . . . . it's very violent. Seriously though - they do not hold back at all. Connect the gruesome violence along with the fact that this stuff is absolutely happening and the movie really hits you pretty hard. Even with the graphic violence, this movie was completely phenomenal. The acting was great all around - especially Djimon Hounsou. He really doesn't get the respect he deserves. Leonardo DiCaprio continued to impress me as an actor (I was never a big fan of his until The Aviator). The pace and story barely let up and the few times that it slowed down a bit, it came roaring back in the blink of an eye.
I very strongly recommend this movie to everyone (I can still hear that annoying lady repeatedly saying how violent it is. Damn her!). This was a really great movie and should definitely garner some Oscar attention.
Babel
Two boys set out to look after their family's herd of goats with a rifle. They decide to test the rifle, but the bullet goes farther than they thought it would. In an instant, the lives of four separate groups of strangers on three different continents collide. Caught up in the rising tide of an accident that escalates beyond anyone's control are a vacationing American couple (Brad Pitt & Cate Blanchett), a deaf Japanese teenager and her father, and a Mexican nanny who takes two American children across the border without permission. None of these strangers will ever meet. They will all remain isolated due to their own inability to communicate with anyone around them.
3/4 of the movie was phenomenal. The other extremely awkward 1/4 of it held this movie back more than any movie I can think of in recent years. Basically the two aforementioned kids accidentally shoot Cate Blanchett. Because of this: A - Brad Pitt is trying as hard as possible to take care of his injured wife . . . B - They are unable to get home to their children and relieve their nanny who had plans to go to her son's wedding in Mexico and is now going to take the children with her . . . C - The kids who shot Cate Blanchett are on the run trying to cover up what they have done . . . . D - There is some deaf/mute Japanese girl who is obsessed with having sex. Try and guess which 1/4 of the movie was holding it back.
Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett's story was awesome and you find yourself inadvertantly wondering what the heck you would do if you were in a similar situation. Watching the kids who did the shooting try to cover their tracks definitely kept you interested. The part with the nanny taking the kids over the border in to Mexico and trying to get them back was the best of the four stories in my opinion. And then there's the thing with the Japanese girl. Because the other three stories were so well done and ended up being interconnected, I tried to be as patient as possible with this one. In the end, the only tie to the other situations was that the rifle that was used to shoot Cate Blanchett was registered in the Japanese girl's father's name. I was so annoyed that was the only link to her story after I had to suffer through watching her for so long trying to offer herself to any Japanese man she saw. Her part was such dead weight in an otherwise phenomenal movie.
I would still recommend this movie to anyone, but strongly advise you to save all the bathroom trips or visits to put more butter on the popcorn for whenever the Japanese girl is on screen.
3/4 of the movie was phenomenal. The other extremely awkward 1/4 of it held this movie back more than any movie I can think of in recent years. Basically the two aforementioned kids accidentally shoot Cate Blanchett. Because of this: A - Brad Pitt is trying as hard as possible to take care of his injured wife . . . B - They are unable to get home to their children and relieve their nanny who had plans to go to her son's wedding in Mexico and is now going to take the children with her . . . C - The kids who shot Cate Blanchett are on the run trying to cover up what they have done . . . . D - There is some deaf/mute Japanese girl who is obsessed with having sex. Try and guess which 1/4 of the movie was holding it back.
Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett's story was awesome and you find yourself inadvertantly wondering what the heck you would do if you were in a similar situation. Watching the kids who did the shooting try to cover their tracks definitely kept you interested. The part with the nanny taking the kids over the border in to Mexico and trying to get them back was the best of the four stories in my opinion. And then there's the thing with the Japanese girl. Because the other three stories were so well done and ended up being interconnected, I tried to be as patient as possible with this one. In the end, the only tie to the other situations was that the rifle that was used to shoot Cate Blanchett was registered in the Japanese girl's father's name. I was so annoyed that was the only link to her story after I had to suffer through watching her for so long trying to offer herself to any Japanese man she saw. Her part was such dead weight in an otherwise phenomenal movie.
I would still recommend this movie to anyone, but strongly advise you to save all the bathroom trips or visits to put more butter on the popcorn for whenever the Japanese girl is on screen.
The Nativity Story
The Nativity Story chronicles the journey of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. Pretty simple summary on this one, people.
I'm going to pray to God that I don't get struck by lightning while reviewing this movie, but I think it would be worse to lie about it. This movie was horrible. Nice - no lightning. I guess even our Lord realizes how poopish this film was. I can't remember the last time that a movie dragged as slow as this one did. And it was about the birth of Christ! How can you make that story be this boring? And I still can't get over how the filmmakers decided to make the three wisemen be like the three stooges. It seemed like they were actually inserted in to the movie for comic relief. HELLO!?! One of the things that I had the hardest time wrapping my head around was that almost every major character was played by an actor or actress who has played a terrorist on tv against Jack Bauer on 24 or in a movie in the last year. I think that Osama Bin Laden might have actually been the guy that offered them the manger. Whew! Still no lightning.
All kidding aside though - I sadly - very very sadly - wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. Especially not those who put religion at a premium because the movie really comes across as insulting and boring.
I'm going to pray to God that I don't get struck by lightning while reviewing this movie, but I think it would be worse to lie about it. This movie was horrible. Nice - no lightning. I guess even our Lord realizes how poopish this film was. I can't remember the last time that a movie dragged as slow as this one did. And it was about the birth of Christ! How can you make that story be this boring? And I still can't get over how the filmmakers decided to make the three wisemen be like the three stooges. It seemed like they were actually inserted in to the movie for comic relief. HELLO!?! One of the things that I had the hardest time wrapping my head around was that almost every major character was played by an actor or actress who has played a terrorist on tv against Jack Bauer on 24 or in a movie in the last year. I think that Osama Bin Laden might have actually been the guy that offered them the manger. Whew! Still no lightning.
All kidding aside though - I sadly - very very sadly - wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. Especially not those who put religion at a premium because the movie really comes across as insulting and boring.
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