There are some movies that stay with you for some time to come and this movie is one of them. Even now days after having watched it, the story lines, the dialogue stays with me. I know I'm not perhaps in the great majority with my love as my brother and cousin who watched it with me found it below average, but for me, I loved it more than I could have imagined.
Young Adult follows the life of a late thirties former prom queen current young adult writer who loves to drink and finds out that her exboyfriend in her small town has gone off and gotten married and had a baby. She is determined to win him back. This is not a funny zany love story as some of the trailers promise. This is a story far deeper than that with a subtle twist at the end, that helps tie everything together. What moved me about Young Adult was not the dark comedy storylines because at the end of the day this movie wasn't particularly hilarious, but that this movie was the sincere examination of loss. Loss of beauty, of life, of hopes and dreams. And the power of self-denial. This is a movie I will definitely see again. One of the best movies I've seen in a long time.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
Monday, January 10, 2011
The Other Guys
five out of ten
This is probably meant to be a guy-flick which is why I am only giving it a 50% review. While it had its funny moments to be sure and I did laugh out loud at least once, the jokes got old fast. It wasn't a film as much as it was a series of skits that did not really tie together in a way I genuinely believed. Still- it was funny because Will Ferrell makes it hard for a film to be anything else, at least for pockets of time.
This is probably meant to be a guy-flick which is why I am only giving it a 50% review. While it had its funny moments to be sure and I did laugh out loud at least once, the jokes got old fast. It wasn't a film as much as it was a series of skits that did not really tie together in a way I genuinely believed. Still- it was funny because Will Ferrell makes it hard for a film to be anything else, at least for pockets of time.
Motherhood
four out of ten
Such potential this movie had! A film about well, motherhood, and how it is a challenging and often thankless job is the sort of movie I want to love to watch. Unfortunately, the acting seemed half-hearted, the editing not done quite enough, and the plot was as dull as dull could be. Worth a watch as long as you hold the remote in hand to keep the pacing going.
Such potential this movie had! A film about well, motherhood, and how it is a challenging and often thankless job is the sort of movie I want to love to watch. Unfortunately, the acting seemed half-hearted, the editing not done quite enough, and the plot was as dull as dull could be. Worth a watch as long as you hold the remote in hand to keep the pacing going.
Real Women Have Curves
seven out of ten
I've been meaning to watch this movie for a very long time since I am a fan of America Ferrara the heroine in this film. The movie is about a chubby girl who is pressured to lose weight, not go on to college despite great potential and instead work at her sister's 'sweat shop' where she sews dresses too expensive for any of the workers to ever dream of owning. Its a story with heart about body acceptance, and the struggles that are inherent when you are the children of immigrants but one that I did not feel was directed or told as best as it possibly could- still it was good and there is a sequence in the dress shop where America encourages all the women to love herself that is worth watching the entire movie for anyways!
I've been meaning to watch this movie for a very long time since I am a fan of America Ferrara the heroine in this film. The movie is about a chubby girl who is pressured to lose weight, not go on to college despite great potential and instead work at her sister's 'sweat shop' where she sews dresses too expensive for any of the workers to ever dream of owning. Its a story with heart about body acceptance, and the struggles that are inherent when you are the children of immigrants but one that I did not feel was directed or told as best as it possibly could- still it was good and there is a sequence in the dress shop where America encourages all the women to love herself that is worth watching the entire movie for anyways!
The Town
eight out of ten
There is a town, Charlestown, in Boston where the most bank robbers are from. Its a trade passed down from father to son. This is how we begin this movie about friends who are bank robbers, who have always been so as their forefathers before them. We witness a bank heist where the wild card robber kidnaps a girl takes her around the city and drops her off at the beach. Later when the robbers discover she is from the same area they are from and getting interrogated by the FBI, the wild card wants to off her with Ben Affleck's character determined to find another solution, falling in love with her along the way. This is a good film that keeps you watching, but **minor spoiler alert** the ending sequences kind of fell into oh jeez this is too cheesy territory for me to give it a full ten. Still, worth a watch!
There is a town, Charlestown, in Boston where the most bank robbers are from. Its a trade passed down from father to son. This is how we begin this movie about friends who are bank robbers, who have always been so as their forefathers before them. We witness a bank heist where the wild card robber kidnaps a girl takes her around the city and drops her off at the beach. Later when the robbers discover she is from the same area they are from and getting interrogated by the FBI, the wild card wants to off her with Ben Affleck's character determined to find another solution, falling in love with her along the way. This is a good film that keeps you watching, but **minor spoiler alert** the ending sequences kind of fell into oh jeez this is too cheesy territory for me to give it a full ten. Still, worth a watch!
Post Grad
five out of ten
I rented this movie because I'm a sucker for Alexis Bledel of Gilmore Girl fame. She does a decent enough job in this movie about life after college in economically difficult times. i.e. its hard to get the jobs you think you'll get when jobs are scarce and your experience is too. It's predictable down to the last second, and while there were some moments of sincerity and laughter- overall it was too predictable and cliche to be anything beyond mediocre, if even.
I rented this movie because I'm a sucker for Alexis Bledel of Gilmore Girl fame. She does a decent enough job in this movie about life after college in economically difficult times. i.e. its hard to get the jobs you think you'll get when jobs are scarce and your experience is too. It's predictable down to the last second, and while there were some moments of sincerity and laughter- overall it was too predictable and cliche to be anything beyond mediocre, if even.
The Road
eight out of ten
A haunting film based on the novel by the same name about a post-apocalyptic world where a lone man and his son travel south in the hope of finding 'other good people' and simply surviving. It is a well done, well acted movie and perhaps I should give it a perfect ten since there is nothing technically wrong with it in any way- but it truly drove terror into my heart. The way they had to survive- the fear- the anarchy- the ending. . . definitely a good movie but not for the faint of heart, especially when you have children of your own.
A haunting film based on the novel by the same name about a post-apocalyptic world where a lone man and his son travel south in the hope of finding 'other good people' and simply surviving. It is a well done, well acted movie and perhaps I should give it a perfect ten since there is nothing technically wrong with it in any way- but it truly drove terror into my heart. The way they had to survive- the fear- the anarchy- the ending. . . definitely a good movie but not for the faint of heart, especially when you have children of your own.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Repo Man
one out of ten
What if organs cost money and if you took out a loan to get one implanted but didn't make the payments they came to repo it? What on earth? As if the premise isn't dumb enough- they manage somehow to make it even dumber as it goes along. I do not know what mechanisms are missing in the Hollywood industry that let a movie as horrible as this sneak through. Forrest Whitaker- I expected better from you.
What if organs cost money and if you took out a loan to get one implanted but didn't make the payments they came to repo it? What on earth? As if the premise isn't dumb enough- they manage somehow to make it even dumber as it goes along. I do not know what mechanisms are missing in the Hollywood industry that let a movie as horrible as this sneak through. Forrest Whitaker- I expected better from you.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Couples Retreat
two out of ten
A movie about a couple who wants to work on their marriage and decides to bring their friends with them to a couples retreat. The friends go thinking it will be a fun vacay, but little do they know the hijinks to come. The scenery in this movie is absolutely stunning- hence the two stars. On blue ray? It looks fab. The rest of the movie? Predictable. Cliche. No real heart whatsoever.
A movie about a couple who wants to work on their marriage and decides to bring their friends with them to a couples retreat. The friends go thinking it will be a fun vacay, but little do they know the hijinks to come. The scenery in this movie is absolutely stunning- hence the two stars. On blue ray? It looks fab. The rest of the movie? Predictable. Cliche. No real heart whatsoever.
Death at a Funeral
six out of ten
A man's father dies and everyone is attending the funeral. Lots of crazy hijinks happen. Ha. Ha. It made me laugh a handful of times so for that it gets a 6/10 but I'm quite sad at the dearth of good movies new to DVD.
A man's father dies and everyone is attending the funeral. Lots of crazy hijinks happen. Ha. Ha. It made me laugh a handful of times so for that it gets a 6/10 but I'm quite sad at the dearth of good movies new to DVD.
I Love You Beth Cooper
one out of ten
Why did I rent this? I dont know. Nothing good out these days and I thought I remembered hearing this was good. I thought wrong. This move is horrible to the nth degree. A romantic comedy about a nerdy highschooler who tells the whole graduating auditorium of his love for Beth Cooper, the most popular girl in school. They go on an adventure together thanks to her jealous boyfriend- and what happens? Jee, I wonder. Pardon me while I go puke.
Why did I rent this? I dont know. Nothing good out these days and I thought I remembered hearing this was good. I thought wrong. This move is horrible to the nth degree. A romantic comedy about a nerdy highschooler who tells the whole graduating auditorium of his love for Beth Cooper, the most popular girl in school. They go on an adventure together thanks to her jealous boyfriend- and what happens? Jee, I wonder. Pardon me while I go puke.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Hot Tub Time Machine
one out of ten
In an attempt to watch "The Wire" we netflixed it. Instead of "The Wire" we were sent "Hot Tub Time Machine". Easy to confuse the two, really. It's annoying, cliched, and I really wish the Wire had actually arrived. GRR.
In an attempt to watch "The Wire" we netflixed it. Instead of "The Wire" we were sent "Hot Tub Time Machine". Easy to confuse the two, really. It's annoying, cliched, and I really wish the Wire had actually arrived. GRR.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Inception
This is a movie about dreams. Leo is a dream thief. He breaks into people's dreams and steals information. He is approached to undertake a new assignment: Don't steal, implant an idea in someone's head.
I think I expected way more out of this movie so initially when I walked out of the movie theater I was a little disappointed. I thought it was going to explore the meaning of our dreams, etc. The narrative is mostly expository and I miss the emotional punch to the gut that I got in Shutter Island, but once I realized that I was expecting too much and this is just a typical heist movie with a sci fi twist, and when I look at it like that- its sheer brilliance [though perhaps a teensy bit too long]. I want to watch it again with my lowered expectations and see how I find it then.
Shutter Island
Brilliant. Brilliant. Brilliant. I have to say this might be one of my favorite fun movies to watch. It left me thinking for days about perception. The story begins with a police officer sent to a mental institution situated on an island to investigate a missing person. As the cop investigates he learns that not everything is as it seems. I don't know how else to describe this movie without giving too much away. It looks like a scary movie but its not! It's suspenseful and engrossing every step of the way!
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Extract
seven out of ten
I give this a seven because its not a bad movie. It's just not great. Made by the Mike Judge, director of my favorite movie Office Space I guess I just expected more. The movie follows the main guy who is trying to sell his factory and has a marriage he wishes was more passionate. There is a con artist girl, a guy who she tries suckering in. . . eh. . . it was just kinda dull.
I give this a seven because its not a bad movie. It's just not great. Made by the Mike Judge, director of my favorite movie Office Space I guess I just expected more. The movie follows the main guy who is trying to sell his factory and has a marriage he wishes was more passionate. There is a con artist girl, a guy who she tries suckering in. . . eh. . . it was just kinda dull.
The Lovely Bones
four out of ten
A young girl is raped and murdered and we watch this movie through her narrative as she watches the aftermath of her murder unfold on earth while she sits in some sort of an in between land. This was a disturbing movie and not well told. It seemed to almost make it okay that she was murdered since she was in such a 'happy' place now. Just a weird, weird movie.
A young girl is raped and murdered and we watch this movie through her narrative as she watches the aftermath of her murder unfold on earth while she sits in some sort of an in between land. This was a disturbing movie and not well told. It seemed to almost make it okay that she was murdered since she was in such a 'happy' place now. Just a weird, weird movie.
Precious
eight out of ten
This is a movie about a young girl named Precious, who at 16 already has two children, both fathered by her own father who raped her since she was three years old. She lives with her cruel mother in a tough neighborhood and is merely struggling to survive. This is one heck of a powerful movie and some scenes are strong, not for the faint of heart. In any case its a good insight into a life that at least I have never lived and could not fathom. Movies like this help me better understand other people and for that this movie must be watched.
This is a movie about a young girl named Precious, who at 16 already has two children, both fathered by her own father who raped her since she was three years old. She lives with her cruel mother in a tough neighborhood and is merely struggling to survive. This is one heck of a powerful movie and some scenes are strong, not for the faint of heart. In any case its a good insight into a life that at least I have never lived and could not fathom. Movies like this help me better understand other people and for that this movie must be watched.
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Men Who Stare At Goats
six out of ten
This movie is based on a real life operation in the military where psychics were used to try to bend spoons and do other metaphysical things. The movie follows a journalist in Iraq who runs into one such psychic and wanders with him as he goes on a mission. It's sort of funny, but very weird. It held my attention though once we reached the end, I was left unsatisfied.
This movie is based on a real life operation in the military where psychics were used to try to bend spoons and do other metaphysical things. The movie follows a journalist in Iraq who runs into one such psychic and wanders with him as he goes on a mission. It's sort of funny, but very weird. It held my attention though once we reached the end, I was left unsatisfied.
Up In the Air
six out of ten
Maybe this movie was too hyped up or me but I finished it wanting more than I got. This is a movie starring George Clooney who plays a consultant who travels every weekday helping companies fire their employees. He is training an underling with spunk and having a relationship with a woman with whom he may realize he wants more despite his determination to be single and not have baggage. I guess I thought the movie was going to be heavier on plot. If you like character assessment movies this is one of those. It's 'a day in the life of' and its well acted and makes you think, but its not a plot driven film by any means.
Maybe this movie was too hyped up or me but I finished it wanting more than I got. This is a movie starring George Clooney who plays a consultant who travels every weekday helping companies fire their employees. He is training an underling with spunk and having a relationship with a woman with whom he may realize he wants more despite his determination to be single and not have baggage. I guess I thought the movie was going to be heavier on plot. If you like character assessment movies this is one of those. It's 'a day in the life of' and its well acted and makes you think, but its not a plot driven film by any means.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
The Invention of Lying
three out of ten
A good concept. A place where no one lies because it has not been invented yet. We follow a loser who learns how to lie and the results are what the movie is about. It sounds interesting but there were so many logic holes I could not properly enjoy it. An example is a 'funny' scene where the hero says he wants to withdraw $800 when he knows he only has $300. Because no one lies, the teller sees he only has $300 but presumes the machine must be broken and gives him $800. Huh? So no one makes mistakes or miscalculates in this world? It's not a lie if you make a mistake. There were other things that just didn't ring as they should have. Gervais did good with the Office, too bad he can't write or act in a funny movie.
A good concept. A place where no one lies because it has not been invented yet. We follow a loser who learns how to lie and the results are what the movie is about. It sounds interesting but there were so many logic holes I could not properly enjoy it. An example is a 'funny' scene where the hero says he wants to withdraw $800 when he knows he only has $300. Because no one lies, the teller sees he only has $300 but presumes the machine must be broken and gives him $800. Huh? So no one makes mistakes or miscalculates in this world? It's not a lie if you make a mistake. There were other things that just didn't ring as they should have. Gervais did good with the Office, too bad he can't write or act in a funny movie.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Zombieland
four out of ten
It seems lots of people love this movie but I guess its just not my thing. The movie takes place at a time when everyone is a zombie save a few people and they are trying to survive and hopefully find a zombie-free place to live. It's a comedy-horror film and it just wasn't funny save for Bill Murray's cameo which was priceless, but he's Bill Murray- so there's that.
It seems lots of people love this movie but I guess its just not my thing. The movie takes place at a time when everyone is a zombie save a few people and they are trying to survive and hopefully find a zombie-free place to live. It's a comedy-horror film and it just wasn't funny save for Bill Murray's cameo which was priceless, but he's Bill Murray- so there's that.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Up
nine out of ten
A beautiful animated film that is more than just a simple children's movie but a touching story of love and loss and living your dream. I found the film absolutely gorgeous in its colors and creativity and I think its one of my favorite animated movies of late!
A beautiful animated film that is more than just a simple children's movie but a touching story of love and loss and living your dream. I found the film absolutely gorgeous in its colors and creativity and I think its one of my favorite animated movies of late!
17 Again
six out of ten
It's a lighthearted movie about a guy who becomes 17 again and could possibly redo the mistakes he thinks he made in his life. Instead he finds a different purpose behind this freak circumstance: helping his kids. It's a comedy and its silly but you should expect that going into it. For what it is, its fine.
It's a lighthearted movie about a guy who becomes 17 again and could possibly redo the mistakes he thinks he made in his life. Instead he finds a different purpose behind this freak circumstance: helping his kids. It's a comedy and its silly but you should expect that going into it. For what it is, its fine.
Donkey in Lahore
nine out ten
This is a documentary I saw recently and found absolutely fascinating simply because its an unlikely concept: An Australian white goth guy falls in love with a traditional Pakistani girl in Pakistan. He converts. He marries her. Then they spend two years apart trying to get her sponsored. It's a very powerful documentary that is very realistic and shows how difficult a long distance relationship is, and the pressures and regret that the young Pakistani girl now feels to have married this man despite her brother's begging her not to. Overall just very real and very raw. Worth seeing.
This is a documentary I saw recently and found absolutely fascinating simply because its an unlikely concept: An Australian white goth guy falls in love with a traditional Pakistani girl in Pakistan. He converts. He marries her. Then they spend two years apart trying to get her sponsored. It's a very powerful documentary that is very realistic and shows how difficult a long distance relationship is, and the pressures and regret that the young Pakistani girl now feels to have married this man despite her brother's begging her not to. Overall just very real and very raw. Worth seeing.
Twilight
two out of ten
Oh boy. I know many people love Twilight and that's cool. I hated the book. I hated the movie. I did think the scenery was beautiful and there was a Pakistani flag in the cafeteria opening sequences which is kind of cool. Other than that, I couldn't stand it. Bella blinks a lot and the actress did a bad job, and the writing, well. . . just not for me.
Oh boy. I know many people love Twilight and that's cool. I hated the book. I hated the movie. I did think the scenery was beautiful and there was a Pakistani flag in the cafeteria opening sequences which is kind of cool. Other than that, I couldn't stand it. Bella blinks a lot and the actress did a bad job, and the writing, well. . . just not for me.
Memento
eight out of ten
This is an older movie that I just saw again and I don't remember feeling as confused on the first watch as I did years later, watching it for the second time. I enjoyed the fast paced story telling but I did have to do some google searching for perspectives on it to fully understand exactly what happened. It's an older movie but worth watching if you haven't caught it.
This is an older movie that I just saw again and I don't remember feeling as confused on the first watch as I did years later, watching it for the second time. I enjoyed the fast paced story telling but I did have to do some google searching for perspectives on it to fully understand exactly what happened. It's an older movie but worth watching if you haven't caught it.
Moon
nine out of ten
This movie is the type that leaves you thinking for days. A man is alone on the moon working for a corporation that mines a resource on the moon which provides energy back home on earth. He has a three year contract ending in two weeks and is looking forward to seeing his wife and young daughter. As the days get closer to going home he gets sicker and sicker and that is when the true story really begins. . .
I don't want to give away too much but this movie really was awesome. It's science fiction but the sort that you can foresee happening someday. I thought the movie was well acted and enjoyed it very much.
This movie is the type that leaves you thinking for days. A man is alone on the moon working for a corporation that mines a resource on the moon which provides energy back home on earth. He has a three year contract ending in two weeks and is looking forward to seeing his wife and young daughter. As the days get closer to going home he gets sicker and sicker and that is when the true story really begins. . .
I don't want to give away too much but this movie really was awesome. It's science fiction but the sort that you can foresee happening someday. I thought the movie was well acted and enjoyed it very much.
The Hurt Locker
nine out of ten
This is a movie about the current war in Iraq, set in 2004 about a unit that finds and diffuse bombs. They have less than a month to go before their tour ends. And we literally, follow them as they do their job. In particular there is one soldier, the one who actually diffuses the bombs and we see him take risks to do what he does with a strange pleasure that mystifies his colleagues. The movie almost felt like a documentary to me. Though its not the sort of movie I would normally watch, it gave an interesting perspective and had no real agenda that I could make out except to show a day in the life of a soldier.
This is a movie about the current war in Iraq, set in 2004 about a unit that finds and diffuse bombs. They have less than a month to go before their tour ends. And we literally, follow them as they do their job. In particular there is one soldier, the one who actually diffuses the bombs and we see him take risks to do what he does with a strange pleasure that mystifies his colleagues. The movie almost felt like a documentary to me. Though its not the sort of movie I would normally watch, it gave an interesting perspective and had no real agenda that I could make out except to show a day in the life of a soldier.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Inglorious Bastards
nine out of ten
This movie is Quentin Tarantino's latest and one of his better movies as of late. It takes place in Nazi Germany and focuses on a few characters who are all interesting, compelling, and in Tarantino style, absolutely bizarre. I found myself on the edge of my seat for most of the movie. If you can't handle violence then avoid this movie, but if like me, you're cool with closing your eyes once in a while, this movie is worth checking out.
This movie is Quentin Tarantino's latest and one of his better movies as of late. It takes place in Nazi Germany and focuses on a few characters who are all interesting, compelling, and in Tarantino style, absolutely bizarre. I found myself on the edge of my seat for most of the movie. If you can't handle violence then avoid this movie, but if like me, you're cool with closing your eyes once in a while, this movie is worth checking out.
Public Enemies
Six out of ten
I was very excited to see Public Enemies as I am a fan of Johnny Depp. Though he did a good job acting in this movie I found the movie as a whole to be rather disappointing. The movie follows the life of Johnny Dillinger who robbed banks in the 30's. We don't get into why he does what he does, we just watch what he does. In this way it felt almost like a bizarre documentary. Still, it was well acted and though I would not consider it my favorite movie, it was interesting.
I was very excited to see Public Enemies as I am a fan of Johnny Depp. Though he did a good job acting in this movie I found the movie as a whole to be rather disappointing. The movie follows the life of Johnny Dillinger who robbed banks in the 30's. We don't get into why he does what he does, we just watch what he does. In this way it felt almost like a bizarre documentary. Still, it was well acted and though I would not consider it my favorite movie, it was interesting.
Wanted
two out of ten
How incredibly . . . *yawn*. This movie meant to be important but it was simply boring. Just your average chase and duck movies. Angelina Jolie was incredibly vapid in this role and I just found myself wanting the movie to end as soon as possible.
How incredibly . . . *yawn*. This movie meant to be important but it was simply boring. Just your average chase and duck movies. Angelina Jolie was incredibly vapid in this role and I just found myself wanting the movie to end as soon as possible.
Towelhead
two out of ten
This movie about a young girl sent to live with her Arab father after her mother feels she can't handle her is a movie that I watched from beginning to end but felt horrified and disgusted throughout. The acting is mediocre at best and the subject matter, the exploitation of a young girl is explored into such fine detail that it makes you nauseous particularly as in my opinion, most of it was unnecessary. I felt dirty after finishing this movie and I might never look at Aaron Eckhart the same way again.
This movie about a young girl sent to live with her Arab father after her mother feels she can't handle her is a movie that I watched from beginning to end but felt horrified and disgusted throughout. The acting is mediocre at best and the subject matter, the exploitation of a young girl is explored into such fine detail that it makes you nauseous particularly as in my opinion, most of it was unnecessary. I felt dirty after finishing this movie and I might never look at Aaron Eckhart the same way again.
Whatever Works
four out of ten
Eh. Another Woody Allen movie featuring a much older man (Larry David) in a relationship with a much younger woman told in one of those quirky over-acted ways. I watched it because I rented it but I was sorely disappointed but if you like Woody Allen I'm assuming you'll like this.
Eh. Another Woody Allen movie featuring a much older man (Larry David) in a relationship with a much younger woman told in one of those quirky over-acted ways. I watched it because I rented it but I was sorely disappointed but if you like Woody Allen I'm assuming you'll like this.
The Uninvited
six out of ten
The heroine of the movie is released from a mental ward after dealing with issues surrounding the death of her mother to a house fire. She comes home to find that her mother's nurse is now living with her father and seems to have a past that may be shadier than anyone suspects. I'm not usually one for scary movies but this one was interesting and I enjoyed the ending which I did not see coming.
The heroine of the movie is released from a mental ward after dealing with issues surrounding the death of her mother to a house fire. She comes home to find that her mother's nurse is now living with her father and seems to have a past that may be shadier than anyone suspects. I'm not usually one for scary movies but this one was interesting and I enjoyed the ending which I did not see coming.
The Hangover
six out of ten
I think sometimes when people hype up a movie too much you're bound to be disappointed. This is a comedy about friends who run off to Vegas for a bachelor party and things get crazy. It's a funnier twist than I expected and enjoyable for one of the usual raunchy comedies out lately.
I think sometimes when people hype up a movie too much you're bound to be disappointed. This is a comedy about friends who run off to Vegas for a bachelor party and things get crazy. It's a funnier twist than I expected and enjoyable for one of the usual raunchy comedies out lately.
Invictus
seven out of ten
This movie is very well acted and focuses on Nelson Mandela's first years in office as he tries to help rescue a losing rugby team. The rugby team symbolized racism for many in South Africa and after Mandela came to power there was a strong push to shut down the losing team. Mandela, however, chose to use the rugby team as a symbol of the country uniting, forgiving the past and moving forward together. Its a good movie but it was more sports focused than I expected. Perhaps the movie in truth deserves to be an 8/10 but because of my expectation that it was going to focus more on Mandela I was a touch disappointed.
This movie is very well acted and focuses on Nelson Mandela's first years in office as he tries to help rescue a losing rugby team. The rugby team symbolized racism for many in South Africa and after Mandela came to power there was a strong push to shut down the losing team. Mandela, however, chose to use the rugby team as a symbol of the country uniting, forgiving the past and moving forward together. Its a good movie but it was more sports focused than I expected. Perhaps the movie in truth deserves to be an 8/10 but because of my expectation that it was going to focus more on Mandela I was a touch disappointed.
Avatar
nine out of ten
Many years into the future America is trying to extract precious resources from a faraway planet of Navi's who regard the resources as spiritual treasure. America doesn't care and they have a team of scientists seeking to understand the elements of this planet and the military and private corporations set on exploiting these very elements.
I saw this on IMAX 3-D and I found it a very enjoyable experience though the movie is a touch long. The movie is a very obvious political allegory to what happened to the Native Americans and the current "war on terror" that is going on. It's heavy handed but I still liked it. It really brought home to me how much the Native Americans went through. Outside of the story, the special effects and graphics were beautiful.
Many years into the future America is trying to extract precious resources from a faraway planet of Navi's who regard the resources as spiritual treasure. America doesn't care and they have a team of scientists seeking to understand the elements of this planet and the military and private corporations set on exploiting these very elements.
I saw this on IMAX 3-D and I found it a very enjoyable experience though the movie is a touch long. The movie is a very obvious political allegory to what happened to the Native Americans and the current "war on terror" that is going on. It's heavy handed but I still liked it. It really brought home to me how much the Native Americans went through. Outside of the story, the special effects and graphics were beautiful.
District 9
six out of ten
This movie felt like a veiled analogy to the Is.rael/Pal.estine conflict. Aliens landed in South Africa two decades earlier and their spacecraft won't work. They are relegated to refugee camps and treated poorly. A task force set up to deal with them goes to work and a spill on one of the workers causes unexpected results. I thought the lead actor was okay, perhaps a different actor and the movie would have been better. The aliens were disgusting looking. They looked like large roaches, in the movie they were given the slur of "prawns" because they look like . . . prawns. It's an interesting suspenseful movie clearly set up for a sequel. I liked it, but it could have been much better.
This movie felt like a veiled analogy to the Is.rael/Pal.estine conflict. Aliens landed in South Africa two decades earlier and their spacecraft won't work. They are relegated to refugee camps and treated poorly. A task force set up to deal with them goes to work and a spill on one of the workers causes unexpected results. I thought the lead actor was okay, perhaps a different actor and the movie would have been better. The aliens were disgusting looking. They looked like large roaches, in the movie they were given the slur of "prawns" because they look like . . . prawns. It's an interesting suspenseful movie clearly set up for a sequel. I liked it, but it could have been much better.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
He's Just Not That Into You
six out of ten
I heard lots of bad things about this movie but I actually thought it was a cute lighthearted girlie romance flick. I read the movie and it is a true "how to" advice book for women about men and how if they aren't making an effort or are giving you hints of disinterest well, they're just not that into you. The movie follows four or five women. Some are in love and married, some are living together, some are single and yearning. We follow each woman and their search for Mr. Right, or keep Mr. Right. I enjoyed it. It made me laugh and I thought the acting was very cute. I thought the ending was too neat of a bow, but still overall it was enjoyable.
I heard lots of bad things about this movie but I actually thought it was a cute lighthearted girlie romance flick. I read the movie and it is a true "how to" advice book for women about men and how if they aren't making an effort or are giving you hints of disinterest well, they're just not that into you. The movie follows four or five women. Some are in love and married, some are living together, some are single and yearning. We follow each woman and their search for Mr. Right, or keep Mr. Right. I enjoyed it. It made me laugh and I thought the acting was very cute. I thought the ending was too neat of a bow, but still overall it was enjoyable.
Paul Blart Mall Cop
four out of ten
I think if I was ten I would have loved this movie. Paul Blart is a would be police officer except he is hypoglycemic and passed out in the final portion of the police exam. As a result he is now a mall cop on one of those one wheeled scooters patrolling the mall and getting absolutely no respect. He also has a poor love life and is hopelessly in love with the girl who runs the wig shop pagoda but knows he stands no chance. Then right around the holidays a bunch of thieves take over the mall and hold people hostage including his lady love. Paul Blart decides to show what he's made of. Will he succeed? I rented this movie because I like Kevin James from his show King of Queens. This movie was okay. The laughs were predictable, the storyline was boring, but it was still not so hideous as to cause me to throw my television against the wall.
Movies suck these days it seems. My standards are getting low.
I think if I was ten I would have loved this movie. Paul Blart is a would be police officer except he is hypoglycemic and passed out in the final portion of the police exam. As a result he is now a mall cop on one of those one wheeled scooters patrolling the mall and getting absolutely no respect. He also has a poor love life and is hopelessly in love with the girl who runs the wig shop pagoda but knows he stands no chance. Then right around the holidays a bunch of thieves take over the mall and hold people hostage including his lady love. Paul Blart decides to show what he's made of. Will he succeed? I rented this movie because I like Kevin James from his show King of Queens. This movie was okay. The laughs were predictable, the storyline was boring, but it was still not so hideous as to cause me to throw my television against the wall.
Movies suck these days it seems. My standards are getting low.
PS I Love You
one out of ten
This movie is about a young window dealing with her husband's loss and following his post-mortem letters urging her to take unique adventures each month as she learns to heal and move on. I tried reading the book this movie was based on and could not get past the clunky cheesy writing. The movie was also clunky and cheesy. I feel it could have been so much more but it wasn't. Such a shame.
This movie is about a young window dealing with her husband's loss and following his post-mortem letters urging her to take unique adventures each month as she learns to heal and move on. I tried reading the book this movie was based on and could not get past the clunky cheesy writing. The movie was also clunky and cheesy. I feel it could have been so much more but it wasn't. Such a shame.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Taken
seven out of ten
A divorced father looks to have a relationship with his teenager daughter by moving close by and pushing away his dangerous CIA-like past. His daughter decides, against his will, to go on a trip to Paris where she gets kidnapped and possibly sold off into slavery. This short action packed film is about the father getting his daughter back. Though I knew how the story would play out the acting and the fast paced editing kept me hooked. I would highly recommend this movie to you if you're looking for a fun thriller superficial but entertaining.
A divorced father looks to have a relationship with his teenager daughter by moving close by and pushing away his dangerous CIA-like past. His daughter decides, against his will, to go on a trip to Paris where she gets kidnapped and possibly sold off into slavery. This short action packed film is about the father getting his daughter back. Though I knew how the story would play out the acting and the fast paced editing kept me hooked. I would highly recommend this movie to you if you're looking for a fun thriller superficial but entertaining.
Yes Man
one out of ten
It seems I've hit a spate of bad movies. This is a comedy starring Jim Carrey. He says no to all opportunities in life until a friend convinces him to attend a seminar where he learns to always say yes to every opportunity. He does. Predictable funniness and finding true love (with a woman ridiculously young for him) ensues and the ending is so boring it makes me yawn just to recall it now.
It seems I've hit a spate of bad movies. This is a comedy starring Jim Carrey. He says no to all opportunities in life until a friend convinces him to attend a seminar where he learns to always say yes to every opportunity. He does. Predictable funniness and finding true love (with a woman ridiculously young for him) ensues and the ending is so boring it makes me yawn just to recall it now.
Obsessed
one out of ten
A movie with the lovely Ali Larter, Beyonce and Idris should have made for an interesting movie I thought but this was a shallow poorly acted and directed movie that was a complete waste of 100 minutes of my life that I will never get back. An executive at a law firm (I think) gets a temp girl who becomes obsessed with him and is determined to have him though he rebuffs her every attempt. She becomes crazier and crazier as the movie goes on but you can't help but yawn since you know how things will end. Fatal Attraction was at least fresh and new, this is the same old same old boring tripe.
A movie with the lovely Ali Larter, Beyonce and Idris should have made for an interesting movie I thought but this was a shallow poorly acted and directed movie that was a complete waste of 100 minutes of my life that I will never get back. An executive at a law firm (I think) gets a temp girl who becomes obsessed with him and is determined to have him though he rebuffs her every attempt. She becomes crazier and crazier as the movie goes on but you can't help but yawn since you know how things will end. Fatal Attraction was at least fresh and new, this is the same old same old boring tripe.
The International
two out of ten
K finds the movie interesting but I thought it stunk to high heaven. This is a movie about an evil bank and two people determined to put them out of business. The bank deals in international arms weapons as a means to give out lots of debt so they can make loads of money and only a few people know the truth. They are determined to do anything to stop the bank. This movie is like a million movies before it, same old hack. It plays out like a made for TV movie. I'd give it one out of ten stars but for the fact that K liked it alright so I figured I should bump it up one to be polite.
K finds the movie interesting but I thought it stunk to high heaven. This is a movie about an evil bank and two people determined to put them out of business. The bank deals in international arms weapons as a means to give out lots of debt so they can make loads of money and only a few people know the truth. They are determined to do anything to stop the bank. This movie is like a million movies before it, same old hack. It plays out like a made for TV movie. I'd give it one out of ten stars but for the fact that K liked it alright so I figured I should bump it up one to be polite.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Gran Torino
nine out of ten
This movie about an aging racist korean war vet widower living in an ever growing shadier neighborhood in detroit would have been perfect but for the acting of a few of the performers in the film. The movie like many Clint Eastwood movies, is a character development film and focuses on Walt's relationship with his Hmong neighbors who are dealing with conflicts from a Hmong gang. The movie is very powerful and I enjoyed the nuanced performance of Clint Eastwood very much.
This movie about an aging racist korean war vet widower living in an ever growing shadier neighborhood in detroit would have been perfect but for the acting of a few of the performers in the film. The movie like many Clint Eastwood movies, is a character development film and focuses on Walt's relationship with his Hmong neighbors who are dealing with conflicts from a Hmong gang. The movie is very powerful and I enjoyed the nuanced performance of Clint Eastwood very much.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Role Models
two out ten
Two guys get in trouble for indecent behavior in front of a room of high schoolers and are forced to be "big brothers" to troubled youth. This movie tried way too hard and ultimately in my opinion came out unfunny and unnecessarily crude. I don't like films where little kids are cursing and saying obscene things. These were designed to get laughs, but they simply offended me.
Two guys get in trouble for indecent behavior in front of a room of high schoolers and are forced to be "big brothers" to troubled youth. This movie tried way too hard and ultimately in my opinion came out unfunny and unnecessarily crude. I don't like films where little kids are cursing and saying obscene things. These were designed to get laughs, but they simply offended me.
Rachel Getting Married
one out of ten
This movie was not good. I expected a great indie flick about a young mentally unstable woman returning from the institution for her sister's wedding and a good introspection of her life and the family dynamics. Maybe this happened, I didn't see it. What I saw was a home video of Rachel. Getting. Married. Yeah, that's what this is. Someone needed to seriously edit this film as some scenes went on far too long. I felt like the director was in love with how they were directing instead of focusing on the story itself and the fact that there hardly was any.
This movie was not good. I expected a great indie flick about a young mentally unstable woman returning from the institution for her sister's wedding and a good introspection of her life and the family dynamics. Maybe this happened, I didn't see it. What I saw was a home video of Rachel. Getting. Married. Yeah, that's what this is. Someone needed to seriously edit this film as some scenes went on far too long. I felt like the director was in love with how they were directing instead of focusing on the story itself and the fact that there hardly was any.
Wall E
ten out of ten
I loved this movie. I did not expect to. This is a sweet love story and a statement of how we use our resources and how technology perhaps could turn us into mindless zombies. But really, its a fun story. I loved it.
I loved this movie. I did not expect to. This is a sweet love story and a statement of how we use our resources and how technology perhaps could turn us into mindless zombies. But really, its a fun story. I loved it.
The Wrestler
eight out of ten
This was a great movie about an aging wrestler who does not have the success of Hulk Hogan. This wrestler was famous in his own right. He still gets recognized on the street. He still wrestles in smaller venues trying to make a living, but he is a broken man. This movie was very deep. It was a reflection on growing older and how this changes things. About opportunities lost, that we deeply regret, but somehow continue to act in ways that deepen this regret. Very thought provoking.
This was a great movie about an aging wrestler who does not have the success of Hulk Hogan. This wrestler was famous in his own right. He still gets recognized on the street. He still wrestles in smaller venues trying to make a living, but he is a broken man. This movie was very deep. It was a reflection on growing older and how this changes things. About opportunities lost, that we deeply regret, but somehow continue to act in ways that deepen this regret. Very thought provoking.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Fracture
Anthony Hopkins rocked this movie, he plays an eerie character very well. In this movie he stands trial for attempted murder of his wife and plays cat and mouse with the prosecutor. Some things in the story are a bit implausible, however, all in all very interesting and well acted.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The Ex
Dumb movies are popular lately. Stepbrothers, Walk Hard, etc. This is in that genre but its actually funny in a dumb way. A couple moves to the 'burbs to start a practical life after the birth of their baby. The hubby works for his dad at an ad agency, and the mom deals with being stay at home. In the midst is an ex-boyfriend of hubby's wife who still loves her and covets to get her back while sabotaging hubby at work. Let me be clear: This is dumb, but its funny. If its on TV, worth a watch.
August Rush
This film is about an 11 y/o boy in an orphanage waiting for his parents to claim him. They are musicians and the rhythm of the beat courses through his veins ultimately uniting him to them. This is a cloying mushy film that could have been better than it was. It tried way too hard to get to me, and most of the plot was unbelievable. I think younger children, maybe the same age range as the film's protagonist would likely love this film, its a very cartoon-esque fairy tale.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Pan's Labyrinth
What a fantastic beautiful heart wrenching movie. This movie is beautiful because it is open to so many interpretations and the cinematography is superb.
Changeling
Angelina did a good job in this haunting movie based on a true story about a woman who lost her son and was given a child not hers and forced to pretend it was indeed her lost son. The movie is a bit too long, perhaps in need of some editing, but the story was still very good and I recommend it!
Mamma Mia!
I love musicals like West Side Story, Grease, and Sound of Music and with Meryl Streep playing the lead in this musical I thought I would love this one! The music was nauseating, the acting was awful and the storyline was BAD BAD BAD. Though we fast forwarded as much as we could, I still wish I had never seen it. Greece looks pretty though.
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Visitor
This is an unexpected movie. Richard Jenkins, the main character is nominated for an Oscar and after watching the movie I can see why. What an exquisite, haunting movie. This movie is like a novel focused on character development. We see an older professor dissatisfied with his life and sent to present at a conference at NYU. He unlocks his Manhattan apartment which he's owned for 25 years and finds a couple living there! What follows is unpredictable with twists and turns and leaves you thinking for days. Particularly in a time of detention camps for illegal immigrants, this is a must see film.
Pineapple Express
This is not the sort of film I thought I'd really enjoy, but it was hilarious. The main character gets caught up with his drug dealer in a misunderstanding with the biggest drug dealer in town and they are now running for their lives. It's so funny, we watched it twice!
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Burn After Reading
I didn't know what to expect with this movie but I really enjoyed it. This is a movie about a group of workers at a gym who come across some irrelevant CIA material and get caught up in a strange drama that was totally unnecessary and so very very bizarre and hilarious. The directors call it a tragic comedy. That is indeed the best way to describe it.
Love In The Time of Cholera
Didn't like the book and ditto for the movie. The cinematography is gorgeous but otherwise this is a boring adaptation of a boring novel and I wish I could take back those 2 hrs 20 mins of my life back.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Slumdog Millionaire
A story of a boy on a game show trying to win the heart of his love but winning the gamea s he goes along. Each game show question delves deeper into his life as we see the reality of being a slumdog in India and witness another Indian love story told in anything but the usual way.
One of the best movies of all time. If you haven't seen it go watch it.
One of the best movies of all time. If you haven't seen it go watch it.
Revolutionary Road
Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio knocked my socks off with this fantastic film. This is a story about a couple dissatisfied with their lives in suburbia hoping to make a break for it and live in Paris and try to be more than their current surroundings. I was riveted from start to finish, and thought it was one of my favorite movies. It is dark, but the acting and the message of the story spoke to me.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Mr. Woodcock
Four out of ten
A former chubby middle schooler tormented by this PE teacher grows into a successful attractive best selling writer and returns to Nebraska to see his mom and accept an award the small town gave down to him. He returns to find his mom is marrying his PE teacher who still seems every bit the jerk he always was. What happens next? Isn't it obvious? The movie takes an interesting twist but its not good. Billy Bob Thorton does a good job I think as the mean PE coach, but Stiffler sucked and kind of ruined the whole movie, though the premise and the plot weren't stellar to start with anyways.
A former chubby middle schooler tormented by this PE teacher grows into a successful attractive best selling writer and returns to Nebraska to see his mom and accept an award the small town gave down to him. He returns to find his mom is marrying his PE teacher who still seems every bit the jerk he always was. What happens next? Isn't it obvious? The movie takes an interesting twist but its not good. Billy Bob Thorton does a good job I think as the mean PE coach, but Stiffler sucked and kind of ruined the whole movie, though the premise and the plot weren't stellar to start with anyways.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
nine out of ten
I loved this movie! I know it was a bit vulgar, and perhaps I could only watch it in the company of only my husband without dying of embarrassment, but still, it was a really funny movie. I looove the leading actor in the movie, he's hilarious in "How I met your mother" and here as well. Plus it was set in Hawaii, and if you know me, then you know I'm biased to anything filmed there. I just wish they did away with all the nudity.
I loved this movie! I know it was a bit vulgar, and perhaps I could only watch it in the company of only my husband without dying of embarrassment, but still, it was a really funny movie. I looove the leading actor in the movie, he's hilarious in "How I met your mother" and here as well. Plus it was set in Hawaii, and if you know me, then you know I'm biased to anything filmed there. I just wish they did away with all the nudity.
Vantage Point
six out of ten
This movie isn't bad, the problem with it is that it could have been way better, and I can't help but hold this fact against it. This is a movie about an assassination attempt on the life of the US President, told from several different vantage points. You have to figure out what's going on as the story pieces together from different points of view. Unfortunately I figured out the "twist" early on so the rest of it played in "color by numbers" format. Still, the acting wasn't bad, and it was an entertaining flick from start to finish.
This movie isn't bad, the problem with it is that it could have been way better, and I can't help but hold this fact against it. This is a movie about an assassination attempt on the life of the US President, told from several different vantage points. You have to figure out what's going on as the story pieces together from different points of view. Unfortunately I figured out the "twist" early on so the rest of it played in "color by numbers" format. Still, the acting wasn't bad, and it was an entertaining flick from start to finish.
What Happens in Vegas
Let me give you the premise: A girl and guy both fed up with life rush to Vegas, meet, marry while drunk and in the process win 3 million dollars which results in the ensuing divorce to become a bit more complicated. A judge freezes the funds and orders them to live together for six months which they angrily decide to do just so they can finally get that 3 million bucks. Can you predict how this will end? If not, you've never seen an Indian movie in your entire life. This is an American Indian Movie. If you like Indian Movies, then this is the standard Cheese-Plus Indian Comedic Romance. Break out the cheesy puffs and enjoy!
Meet Bill
Bill is a nice guy who gets walked all over by everyone in his life. This movie is about him coming to terms with that and figuring out what he wants out of his life. In the meantime he's volunteered to mentor some kids on the practice of his family banking business. One of the kids sticks and then promptly helps "change his life." Eh. The movie was mediocre, it could have been so much better. I didn't think it was very funny, or believable. And in my opinion, the ending, sucked.
Drillbit Taylor
This is a lighthearted comedy about an Owen Wilson character, playing himself as all Owen Wilson character's do. He's a beach bum trying to get a plane ticket away from where he is. Meanwhile a group of misfits keep getting picked on and decide to put an ad out for a bodyguard to protect them against the roughest bullies. Owen Wilson volunteers for a bit of cash, and then some, but ultimately things take a different turn. It's a silly comedy that I enjoyed only because I paid $1 to rent it. I recommend it on TBS or some other cable network, but if you like Owen Wilson, this one isn't his best, but not completely bad.
The Sensation Of Sight
This is a film about a man struggling to escape despair (PTSD) after witnessing one of his students commit suicide. The film follows him, the dead student's brother, and a random dude. Its an indie flick and I feel a) it was too incredibly slow b) trying really hard to be deep c) the characters, several of them like Dylan and his sister were so annoying I would get distracted when they got on the screen. Thumbs Down.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
The Dark Knight
Well written. Well acted. Both beautiful and tragic in the same breath.
Things I loved: Christian Bale because he's just super awesome in so many many ways. Heath Ledger rocked it as the Joker, he left me terrified. The cinematography was amazing, the action sequences mesmerized me, and Michael Cain... how much does he rock?
Things I loved not so much: ***warning- spoilers**
They didn't do a good job showing Dent's transformation from DA to Two-Faced. I felt the transition was too quick as opposed to in the comic version where they allude to Dent feeling jealous of Batman and having evil tendencies in his heart of darkness.
Maggie Gyllenhaal might be better than Katie Holmes as Rachel but still, neither character really felt like they should've been the love object for two of the most eligible bachelors in town. Plus, I just felt the acting wasn't *that* great. I also feel that when she died, Batman's reaction was a little iffy.
The ending wasn't really one. Sure Joker is caught, but he's still there.... you know he'll escape. I wanted more closure.
Things I loved: Christian Bale because he's just super awesome in so many many ways. Heath Ledger rocked it as the Joker, he left me terrified. The cinematography was amazing, the action sequences mesmerized me, and Michael Cain... how much does he rock?
Things I loved not so much: ***warning- spoilers**
They didn't do a good job showing Dent's transformation from DA to Two-Faced. I felt the transition was too quick as opposed to in the comic version where they allude to Dent feeling jealous of Batman and having evil tendencies in his heart of darkness.
Maggie Gyllenhaal might be better than Katie Holmes as Rachel but still, neither character really felt like they should've been the love object for two of the most eligible bachelors in town. Plus, I just felt the acting wasn't *that* great. I also feel that when she died, Batman's reaction was a little iffy.
The ending wasn't really one. Sure Joker is caught, but he's still there.... you know he'll escape. I wanted more closure.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
The Bee Movie
six out of ten
This is a movie about bees and one bees quest to reclaim the honey exploited by the MAN! Its cute, light hearted and quite appropriate to watch with kids. I think I liked it because I saw it with a kid. On my own, not sure if I would have been intrigued.
This is a movie about bees and one bees quest to reclaim the honey exploited by the MAN! Its cute, light hearted and quite appropriate to watch with kids. I think I liked it because I saw it with a kid. On my own, not sure if I would have been intrigued.
Baby Mama
six out of ten
This is a movie about a 30 something corporate single woman who decides she wants a baby amidst her busy life but finds she cannot have them on her own due to deformed fallopian tubes. So she searches for a surrogate mother to carry her child for her. The surrogate mama and the bio mama live together and an odd couple sort of fiasco follows with a bit more of an emotional twist.
You have to go into this movie with the understanding that it will be somewhat predictable and the things that will make you laugh will be very obvious. If you are in the mood for a light hearted comedy that is fine. Just fine. Then this is a movie for you.
This is a movie about a 30 something corporate single woman who decides she wants a baby amidst her busy life but finds she cannot have them on her own due to deformed fallopian tubes. So she searches for a surrogate mother to carry her child for her. The surrogate mama and the bio mama live together and an odd couple sort of fiasco follows with a bit more of an emotional twist.
You have to go into this movie with the understanding that it will be somewhat predictable and the things that will make you laugh will be very obvious. If you are in the mood for a light hearted comedy that is fine. Just fine. Then this is a movie for you.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Harold and Kumar escape from Guantanemo
six out of ten
This is a HILARIOUS movie if you see it as a series of skits. As a whole its not really wonderful but I think the point of the movie is that its the sum of its part rather than the whole.
All this being said- DO NOT watch this movie with your baby brother. Also, you might want to just make sure you are prepared for extreme nudity and other very embarrassing moments that you might want to hide under a blanket and blush furiously.
Minus those scenes- great flick.
This is a HILARIOUS movie if you see it as a series of skits. As a whole its not really wonderful but I think the point of the movie is that its the sum of its part rather than the whole.
All this being said- DO NOT watch this movie with your baby brother. Also, you might want to just make sure you are prepared for extreme nudity and other very embarrassing moments that you might want to hide under a blanket and blush furiously.
Minus those scenes- great flick.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
There Will Be Blood
seven out of ten
This is a very well acted movie by the great Daniel Day Louis set in the early 1900's about a man who finds his wealth through oil. The story shows him as he sets up camp to drill for oil at a small town on the West Coast after purchasing land on the cheap from the Sunday family whose son had come to tell Plainview of the oil that bubbled to the surface around their home. The movie trails Plainview and his adopted son, and Eli, the Sunday's son an ambitious pastor set on making his church an incredible creation. The story shows the characters of the two men and the story of their lives.
I liked the story and I felt gripped despite its length (2.45mins). However, I felt the ending was incomplete and I needed more. I dont want to go into it as not to spoil it but I was sad to see the lack of compassion that Plainview ultimately showed his son... This disappointed me.
Still this is a movie that will certainly make you think, and for that it is worth it.
This is a very well acted movie by the great Daniel Day Louis set in the early 1900's about a man who finds his wealth through oil. The story shows him as he sets up camp to drill for oil at a small town on the West Coast after purchasing land on the cheap from the Sunday family whose son had come to tell Plainview of the oil that bubbled to the surface around their home. The movie trails Plainview and his adopted son, and Eli, the Sunday's son an ambitious pastor set on making his church an incredible creation. The story shows the characters of the two men and the story of their lives.
I liked the story and I felt gripped despite its length (2.45mins). However, I felt the ending was incomplete and I needed more. I dont want to go into it as not to spoil it but I was sad to see the lack of compassion that Plainview ultimately showed his son... This disappointed me.
Still this is a movie that will certainly make you think, and for that it is worth it.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Juno
seven out of ten
Perhaps I had too high hopes for this movie which got 100% positive reviews from Rotten Tomatoes. This movie is about a high schooler who gets pregnant and decides to give the baby up for adoption. It follows her dealing with pregnancy and also her interactions with the prospective adoptive parents. I thought she was kind of annoying. The baby daddy was not nearly as sympathetic to me as I think he was supposed to be. And Jennifer Garner did an okay job but every time I see her in anything, I always just feel her acting. I get taken out of the movie. The movie was okay. For a review that I agree with more read this.
Perhaps I had too high hopes for this movie which got 100% positive reviews from Rotten Tomatoes. This movie is about a high schooler who gets pregnant and decides to give the baby up for adoption. It follows her dealing with pregnancy and also her interactions with the prospective adoptive parents. I thought she was kind of annoying. The baby daddy was not nearly as sympathetic to me as I think he was supposed to be. And Jennifer Garner did an okay job but every time I see her in anything, I always just feel her acting. I get taken out of the movie. The movie was okay. For a review that I agree with more read this.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Dan in Real Life
eight out of ten
This is a film about a widower with three girls and his struggle to raise them and possibly find love. Dan is an advice columnist but this aspect of his life is not focused on. The focus of the film is on a long weekend visit to Dan's parents for what seems like Thanksgiving with all the children coming home for one of those family scenes of heartwarming football games and giggles that just makes you feel all warm and mushy. While visiting his parents he goes to a bookstore and meets a beautiful woman with whom he shares one of those life changing conversations where he feels like this woman might be "the one"... unfortunately when he returns home he realizes this woman is dating his brother. That's the premise of the story and we watch how these different themes unfold. I thought it was a great film though I could have done without the Soundtrack. Never have I been that distracted by a soundtrack, truly horrendous, but otherwise a good film.
This is a film about a widower with three girls and his struggle to raise them and possibly find love. Dan is an advice columnist but this aspect of his life is not focused on. The focus of the film is on a long weekend visit to Dan's parents for what seems like Thanksgiving with all the children coming home for one of those family scenes of heartwarming football games and giggles that just makes you feel all warm and mushy. While visiting his parents he goes to a bookstore and meets a beautiful woman with whom he shares one of those life changing conversations where he feels like this woman might be "the one"... unfortunately when he returns home he realizes this woman is dating his brother. That's the premise of the story and we watch how these different themes unfold. I thought it was a great film though I could have done without the Soundtrack. Never have I been that distracted by a soundtrack, truly horrendous, but otherwise a good film.
Premonition
three out of ten
This movie was a result of no other movies available in the dollar movie rental. This is a film about a couple who are growing apart but at the same time the wife wakes up each morning with premonition regarding her husband's death. At times she is in the future dealing with his death and at times she is in the present knowing that he will soon die and unsure what to do about it. This movie could have been interesting but it was simply an odd movie with a very "made for TV" feel. Sandra Bullock seemed truly bored and the guy who played her husband was also completely monotone. Very dull movie.
This movie was a result of no other movies available in the dollar movie rental. This is a film about a couple who are growing apart but at the same time the wife wakes up each morning with premonition regarding her husband's death. At times she is in the future dealing with his death and at times she is in the present knowing that he will soon die and unsure what to do about it. This movie could have been interesting but it was simply an odd movie with a very "made for TV" feel. Sandra Bullock seemed truly bored and the guy who played her husband was also completely monotone. Very dull movie.
A mighty heart
eight out of ten
This is a film based on the true life story of Daniel Pearl and his wife's search for him in Pakistan after his disappearance. Jolie does an amazing job in this film showing a range of emotions and acting abilities I did not know she was capable of. The one thing I was curious about was the long periods of scenes where only Urdu was spoken. Sure, I understood it, but most people would not and I felt that some of those Urdu scenes were necessary to understand what was happening. But still, it was a good movie and I was pleasantly surprised by that.
This is a film based on the true life story of Daniel Pearl and his wife's search for him in Pakistan after his disappearance. Jolie does an amazing job in this film showing a range of emotions and acting abilities I did not know she was capable of. The one thing I was curious about was the long periods of scenes where only Urdu was spoken. Sure, I understood it, but most people would not and I felt that some of those Urdu scenes were necessary to understand what was happening. But still, it was a good movie and I was pleasantly surprised by that.
We Own The Night
five out of ten
This is a film about a family of two brothers and a father, one brother and the father are high up in the NYPD [but are not corrupt] and the other brother helps a Russian mafia run their nightclub while he dates his girlfriend. The story unfolds when the police are seeking to trap some of the members of the Russian mafia which results in "bad brother" deciding to do the "right thing" and thus face the consequences that follow.
I thought the film was unrealistic and pointless. There was no twist, no clincher, it just went on and on and then it ended. Eva Mendez is gorgeous I will not deny you that, but I could not understand her point in the film. At one point I thought she might have a secret twist role at the end but she didn't, she was just his girlfriend who got a lot of screen time for apparently no reason besides she's beautiful....
If its on TV watch it... maybe...
This is a film about a family of two brothers and a father, one brother and the father are high up in the NYPD [but are not corrupt] and the other brother helps a Russian mafia run their nightclub while he dates his girlfriend. The story unfolds when the police are seeking to trap some of the members of the Russian mafia which results in "bad brother" deciding to do the "right thing" and thus face the consequences that follow.
I thought the film was unrealistic and pointless. There was no twist, no clincher, it just went on and on and then it ended. Eva Mendez is gorgeous I will not deny you that, but I could not understand her point in the film. At one point I thought she might have a secret twist role at the end but she didn't, she was just his girlfriend who got a lot of screen time for apparently no reason besides she's beautiful....
If its on TV watch it... maybe...
Into the Wild
seven out of ten
This was an enjoyable film based on the true story of a boy named Chris who upon graduating college donates his trust fund to charity, burns his money and abandons his car and sets off on a two year adventure through the US with the ultimate goal of reaching the Alaskan wilderness and spending some time living off the land with tragic consequences.
I thought the movie could have been edited a little better as it went on about 30 minutes too long. I also felt concern that it glamorized his decision though it seemed that Chris may have suffered from some type of mental illness. Knowing that this kid is now idolized by many others I hope that others don't make the tragic mistake that he ended up making.
This was an enjoyable film based on the true story of a boy named Chris who upon graduating college donates his trust fund to charity, burns his money and abandons his car and sets off on a two year adventure through the US with the ultimate goal of reaching the Alaskan wilderness and spending some time living off the land with tragic consequences.
I thought the movie could have been edited a little better as it went on about 30 minutes too long. I also felt concern that it glamorized his decision though it seemed that Chris may have suffered from some type of mental illness. Knowing that this kid is now idolized by many others I hope that others don't make the tragic mistake that he ended up making.
Gone Baby Gone
six out of ten
This is a film about a girl who gets kidnapped and the search to find out what happened to her. The film provides a very interesting concept and the twist at the end really does leave you thinking. I felt this movie could have been better had Casey Affleck not been the big star of the flick. I know many people rave about his acting abilities but personally I find his acting obvious taking me out of the film.
Basically, its a good plot told fairly well, but Casey Affleck's acting left much to be desired.
This is a film about a girl who gets kidnapped and the search to find out what happened to her. The film provides a very interesting concept and the twist at the end really does leave you thinking. I felt this movie could have been better had Casey Affleck not been the big star of the flick. I know many people rave about his acting abilities but personally I find his acting obvious taking me out of the film.
Basically, its a good plot told fairly well, but Casey Affleck's acting left much to be desired.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Black Snake Moan
seven out of ten
This is a story of two troubled souls. One, a girl in her twenties whose boyfriend is off at sea while she battles a lot of... issues. The other, an older man whose wife left him for his brother and is coping with the anger he feels. He finds the girl on his lawn one morning, nearly dead. He helps her heal and as he gets her help he learns she has a... reputation. He decides its his job to cure her and help her fix herself. What follows it the meat and potatoes of the film.
Its a good film, superbly acted and worthy of Oscar nods for Ricci though I'm unsure she'll be nominated so. Its not as deep as I thought it might be or as the movie thinks it might be, but its interesting, its different, and it does make you think.
This is a story of two troubled souls. One, a girl in her twenties whose boyfriend is off at sea while she battles a lot of... issues. The other, an older man whose wife left him for his brother and is coping with the anger he feels. He finds the girl on his lawn one morning, nearly dead. He helps her heal and as he gets her help he learns she has a... reputation. He decides its his job to cure her and help her fix herself. What follows it the meat and potatoes of the film.
Its a good film, superbly acted and worthy of Oscar nods for Ricci though I'm unsure she'll be nominated so. Its not as deep as I thought it might be or as the movie thinks it might be, but its interesting, its different, and it does make you think.
Monday, January 14, 2008
The Holiday
five out of ten
OH MY GOSH. Where was the editor when this movie was made? Wait- better question: WAS there an editor? This was a movie full of the most unnecessary scenes. So many that at times I noticed I was completely tuned out. The movie has a good concept: Two broken hearted women switch homes and cross continents for two week holidays to get away from it all, in doing so they fall in love with others much better for them. I liked the scenes with the elder gentlemen that Iris (Kate Winslet) got to know better. I think movies that show kindness to our elders and respect for them gets major points in my book. Those scenes were quite endearing.
OH MY GOSH. Where was the editor when this movie was made? Wait- better question: WAS there an editor? This was a movie full of the most unnecessary scenes. So many that at times I noticed I was completely tuned out. The movie has a good concept: Two broken hearted women switch homes and cross continents for two week holidays to get away from it all, in doing so they fall in love with others much better for them. I liked the scenes with the elder gentlemen that Iris (Kate Winslet) got to know better. I think movies that show kindness to our elders and respect for them gets major points in my book. Those scenes were quite endearing.
Music and Lyrics
seven out of ten
This is a classic romantic comedy with Hugh Grant and Drew Berrymore. I admit it, I think Hugh Grant is pretty cool and so this movie review might be biased in my like for it. I love the 80s references, I love the cute predictable romance that develops between the two as they come up with the music and lyrics to make a comeback to the music world. The dialogue was quite and it was definitely funny at moments but I think its a movie that worked because of who the actors were.
This is a classic romantic comedy with Hugh Grant and Drew Berrymore. I admit it, I think Hugh Grant is pretty cool and so this movie review might be biased in my like for it. I love the 80s references, I love the cute predictable romance that develops between the two as they come up with the music and lyrics to make a comeback to the music world. The dialogue was quite and it was definitely funny at moments but I think its a movie that worked because of who the actors were.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Eastern Promises
eight out of ten
Viggo and Naomi Watts did a great job acting and in part this movie is great because they did a great job. This is a movie about the Russian Mafia and a midwife whose life somehow accidentally falls into their orbit. I like this movie very much because it plays on one of my favorite genres (gangster movies) but its different from the rest with its own twists and plot line. I also like that its 100 minutes. It keeps the movie moving without boring you. One of the cons of this movie is the excessive violence. If you watch it, brace yourself or like me, look away.
Viggo and Naomi Watts did a great job acting and in part this movie is great because they did a great job. This is a movie about the Russian Mafia and a midwife whose life somehow accidentally falls into their orbit. I like this movie very much because it plays on one of my favorite genres (gangster movies) but its different from the rest with its own twists and plot line. I also like that its 100 minutes. It keeps the movie moving without boring you. One of the cons of this movie is the excessive violence. If you watch it, brace yourself or like me, look away.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Evan Almighty
one out of ten
Some signs a movie is absolutely heinous: 1) You check the time remaining every three minutes 2) You start surfing the web and try to tune out the noise 3) You drank three cups of tea but are feeling sleepy 4) You want to take the DVD and break it in half so no one else will have to suffer through the misery you just endured.
Evan Almighty: Absolutely heinous.
Some signs a movie is absolutely heinous: 1) You check the time remaining every three minutes 2) You start surfing the web and try to tune out the noise 3) You drank three cups of tea but are feeling sleepy 4) You want to take the DVD and break it in half so no one else will have to suffer through the misery you just endured.
Evan Almighty: Absolutely heinous.
The Black Dahlia
three out of ten
With such a great cast you would think this movie would rock! Well if rock means how it sinks, then yes this movie was a rock. Its a fictionalized account of the 1940's sensationalized murder of a fledgling starlet whose murder remains unsolved. There were about ten different plots running through the movie. A corrupt cop, A love triangle, A murder, A crazy family and their issues, etc etc.... and they did not handle it well. It could have been good maybe, but I have a hard time figuring out how.
With such a great cast you would think this movie would rock! Well if rock means how it sinks, then yes this movie was a rock. Its a fictionalized account of the 1940's sensationalized murder of a fledgling starlet whose murder remains unsolved. There were about ten different plots running through the movie. A corrupt cop, A love triangle, A murder, A crazy family and their issues, etc etc.... and they did not handle it well. It could have been good maybe, but I have a hard time figuring out how.
Thank You For Smoking
eight out of ten
This movies follows a cigarette lobbyist as he sets out to counter the negative media coverage on the side effects to smoking. Its a satirical comedy and its GOOD. It wasn't moralistic as i thought it would be (and I saw from the deleted scenes that it almost did become a moralistic flick but all of those scenes were cut thankfully). I think with any of the execs having a moral bone develop would have been unrealistic. The way they kept it, absurd leaving ones eyes gaping with shock at some of the things said and done... thats the way to help you remember this movie and perhaps think about it for some time after.
This movies follows a cigarette lobbyist as he sets out to counter the negative media coverage on the side effects to smoking. Its a satirical comedy and its GOOD. It wasn't moralistic as i thought it would be (and I saw from the deleted scenes that it almost did become a moralistic flick but all of those scenes were cut thankfully). I think with any of the execs having a moral bone develop would have been unrealistic. The way they kept it, absurd leaving ones eyes gaping with shock at some of the things said and done... thats the way to help you remember this movie and perhaps think about it for some time after.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Ocean's Thirteen
Six out of ten
Its entertaining, it does the job. I wouldn't say its 100% believable or that I didn't roll my eyes at least twice. But its interesting, if you're going to see an entertaining Ocean's movie, it is what it is.
Its entertaining, it does the job. I wouldn't say its 100% believable or that I didn't roll my eyes at least twice. But its interesting, if you're going to see an entertaining Ocean's movie, it is what it is.
Kite Runner
seven out of ten
The book is better. That being said, this is an interesting movie and it shows the situation abroad in a way that makes it more real to those unaware of the reality. Still, the book is better and the movie brushes over some of the parts that made the book really come to life and touch my heart. I wouldn't say don't watch the movie, but I would say that the book is much more important.
AND- Im sorry but would it have been hard to give Amir the adult authentic hair? I knew just from looking at this dude he was Egyptian. I mean, a wig, how hard is this???
AND- I dont know if this will come out in the DVD but in one of the first sequences of the two boys sitting and talking... you can see that little Hassan has red and green braces. Hee!
The book is better. That being said, this is an interesting movie and it shows the situation abroad in a way that makes it more real to those unaware of the reality. Still, the book is better and the movie brushes over some of the parts that made the book really come to life and touch my heart. I wouldn't say don't watch the movie, but I would say that the book is much more important.
AND- Im sorry but would it have been hard to give Amir the adult authentic hair? I knew just from looking at this dude he was Egyptian. I mean, a wig, how hard is this???
AND- I dont know if this will come out in the DVD but in one of the first sequences of the two boys sitting and talking... you can see that little Hassan has red and green braces. Hee!
Night at the Meuseum
five out of ten
I think my rating of this might be a little unfair. This appears to be a children's movie and so I shouldn't expect its humor and storyline to engage me particularly. However, the movie was marketed to adults as well and so it was a little disappointing. I guess I'll say that from an adult's perspective its not worth a watch but from a child who is between the ages of 8-12 this might appeal to them very much.
I think my rating of this might be a little unfair. This appears to be a children's movie and so I shouldn't expect its humor and storyline to engage me particularly. However, the movie was marketed to adults as well and so it was a little disappointing. I guess I'll say that from an adult's perspective its not worth a watch but from a child who is between the ages of 8-12 this might appeal to them very much.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
The Heartbreak Kid
three out of ten
Another one of those, "this movie could've been funny but isn't because they totally missed the mark" movies. Stiller is a commitment phone who finds the girl of his dreams and marries her QUICK (Six weeks, not that fast to me, but the movie pushes it on you so you have to go with it) She goes from perfect to "crazy" as soon as the "I Do's" are exchanged, and the movie trails this "humorous" transformation. The kicker? He falls in love with Ms. Right on the trip and must balance a wife and a new found love interest.
OK this movie's premise could have worked but the story is faulty. She isn't THAT crazy... I mean she is annoying for sure and quite unlikable but it doesn't make you sympathetic to her hubby when he cheats on her. The "true" love interest and him seem just like two people interested in perhaps developing things further, not this great love connection that the movie ultimately makes it into. It could have been great but it wasn't great, it was in fact, horribly tacky and unjustified.
Another one of those, "this movie could've been funny but isn't because they totally missed the mark" movies. Stiller is a commitment phone who finds the girl of his dreams and marries her QUICK (Six weeks, not that fast to me, but the movie pushes it on you so you have to go with it) She goes from perfect to "crazy" as soon as the "I Do's" are exchanged, and the movie trails this "humorous" transformation. The kicker? He falls in love with Ms. Right on the trip and must balance a wife and a new found love interest.
OK this movie's premise could have worked but the story is faulty. She isn't THAT crazy... I mean she is annoying for sure and quite unlikable but it doesn't make you sympathetic to her hubby when he cheats on her. The "true" love interest and him seem just like two people interested in perhaps developing things further, not this great love connection that the movie ultimately makes it into. It could have been great but it wasn't great, it was in fact, horribly tacky and unjustified.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Blood Diamond
seven out of ten
This movie is about responsibility. About thinking about how you might contribute to the violence and bloodshed overseas. I went to Whole Foods a few weeks ago with Huda and she pointed out a cocoa product that was sold via fair trade. I didn't even know what that meant. It meant that it was a product that was made in such a way that the people who made it earned enough to live on. So that means, that the ones without this label are not sold in the fair trade market. That means they can't live off the work they do. Soy farming in Brazil causes murder and devastation and we unknowingly sip our soy lattes unknowingly contributing to the death toll. I say this to say that we contribute a lot to the harm in the world without ever knowing it.
If you watch blood diamond and then research the facts you will likely never buy another diamond ever again. The movie explores two characters, one a South African diamond smuggler and the other a resident of Sierra Leon whose world is shattered when his village is destroyed, his son is taken as a child soldier and his wife and daughters are shuttled off to refugee camps from which they cannot escape. The movie follows the villagers attempt to get his family back, and the smugglers attempt to get one of the most priceless diamonds ever discovered. Both are in their separate goals together to the end. Its one of those important movies like Hotel Rwanda that grabs us by the back of hair and yanks us to see the reality that our counterparts exist in and that though we may think we don't contribute to the devastation overseas, we unknowingly do.
This movie is about responsibility. About thinking about how you might contribute to the violence and bloodshed overseas. I went to Whole Foods a few weeks ago with Huda and she pointed out a cocoa product that was sold via fair trade. I didn't even know what that meant. It meant that it was a product that was made in such a way that the people who made it earned enough to live on. So that means, that the ones without this label are not sold in the fair trade market. That means they can't live off the work they do. Soy farming in Brazil causes murder and devastation and we unknowingly sip our soy lattes unknowingly contributing to the death toll. I say this to say that we contribute a lot to the harm in the world without ever knowing it.
If you watch blood diamond and then research the facts you will likely never buy another diamond ever again. The movie explores two characters, one a South African diamond smuggler and the other a resident of Sierra Leon whose world is shattered when his village is destroyed, his son is taken as a child soldier and his wife and daughters are shuttled off to refugee camps from which they cannot escape. The movie follows the villagers attempt to get his family back, and the smugglers attempt to get one of the most priceless diamonds ever discovered. Both are in their separate goals together to the end. Its one of those important movies like Hotel Rwanda that grabs us by the back of hair and yanks us to see the reality that our counterparts exist in and that though we may think we don't contribute to the devastation overseas, we unknowingly do.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Waitress
nine out of ten
Jena loves making pies and is unhappily pregnant from a man she does not love: her husband. This movie is such a gem and its such a shame that the marketing for this movie did not reveal it for the fantastically fabulous film that it is. The movie trails the life of an unhappy married woman (legitimately so) as she learns to deal with this relationship and grudgingly deal with the pregnancy that has befallen her. The dialogue in this film is witty, its hilarious in subtle and not so subtle ways, and its touching and powerful. In some ways I find the story of this midwestern girl very similar to what many desi women probably go through daily in their married lives.... The trailers didn't hint to this at all.... what a gem, go out and rent it today!
Jena loves making pies and is unhappily pregnant from a man she does not love: her husband. This movie is such a gem and its such a shame that the marketing for this movie did not reveal it for the fantastically fabulous film that it is. The movie trails the life of an unhappy married woman (legitimately so) as she learns to deal with this relationship and grudgingly deal with the pregnancy that has befallen her. The dialogue in this film is witty, its hilarious in subtle and not so subtle ways, and its touching and powerful. In some ways I find the story of this midwestern girl very similar to what many desi women probably go through daily in their married lives.... The trailers didn't hint to this at all.... what a gem, go out and rent it today!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
What to do the ratings MEAN?
The method to my madness:
1/10: So heinous that everyone involved in this movie should be tarred and feathered and forever banished from ever appearing/producing/writing/watching a movie ever again.
2/10: Similar to the 1/10 except one redeeming value which prevented me from leaping out of a ten story building window (though the thought briefly crossed my mind) such as: a pretty actor, nice soundtrack and/or decent cinematography.
3/10: Similar to 2/10 except two redeeming values existed in the movie
4/10: Hm, this movie could have been GREAT but its not. It sucks. But I know what it could have been so I give the attempt some credit.
5/10: I get the storyline but there were so many holes/plot issues/poor acting that I couldn't get past it. I dont HATE it but I don't like it either.
6/10: Its good. It either made me think or laugh or kept me entertained. Acting/Plot could have been better. But overall good effort. Wouldn't say its a MUST SEE, but if you wanted to watch it, I wouldn't say don't.
7/10: This was a pretty good movie. Maybe a storyline didn't go the way I wanted, but overall good movie probably worth renting.
8/10: This was a good movie with good acting and good storyline. Perhaps there was something in it I personally disagreed with such as a choice a character made, etc. or perhaps it was a movie that was too long (editor asleep syndrome), but still good flick. Watch it in theaters if you are so inclined.
9/10: LOVED the movie.
10/10: LOVED it! WANT TO SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS! ITS PERFECT, JUST PERFECT! WATCH IT WATCH IT.
1/10: So heinous that everyone involved in this movie should be tarred and feathered and forever banished from ever appearing/producing/writing/watching a movie ever again.
2/10: Similar to the 1/10 except one redeeming value which prevented me from leaping out of a ten story building window (though the thought briefly crossed my mind) such as: a pretty actor, nice soundtrack and/or decent cinematography.
3/10: Similar to 2/10 except two redeeming values existed in the movie
4/10: Hm, this movie could have been GREAT but its not. It sucks. But I know what it could have been so I give the attempt some credit.
5/10: I get the storyline but there were so many holes/plot issues/poor acting that I couldn't get past it. I dont HATE it but I don't like it either.
6/10: Its good. It either made me think or laugh or kept me entertained. Acting/Plot could have been better. But overall good effort. Wouldn't say its a MUST SEE, but if you wanted to watch it, I wouldn't say don't.
7/10: This was a pretty good movie. Maybe a storyline didn't go the way I wanted, but overall good movie probably worth renting.
8/10: This was a good movie with good acting and good storyline. Perhaps there was something in it I personally disagreed with such as a choice a character made, etc. or perhaps it was a movie that was too long (editor asleep syndrome), but still good flick. Watch it in theaters if you are so inclined.
9/10: LOVED the movie.
10/10: LOVED it! WANT TO SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS! ITS PERFECT, JUST PERFECT! WATCH IT WATCH IT.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Blades of Glory
Eight out of ten
Dumb comedies meant to be dumb are usually not my cup of tea but this movie was funny! It follows two has been rival ice skaters banned from competing in the solo category of the olympics who are brought together to compete in the couples tournament. There's love, there's evil, there's inner battles overcome. And (surprise surprise) they learn to appreciate each other and be the best they can be. The conclusion is obvious, but the journey is hilarious.
Dumb comedies meant to be dumb are usually not my cup of tea but this movie was funny! It follows two has been rival ice skaters banned from competing in the solo category of the olympics who are brought together to compete in the couples tournament. There's love, there's evil, there's inner battles overcome. And (surprise surprise) they learn to appreciate each other and be the best they can be. The conclusion is obvious, but the journey is hilarious.
Stranger Than Fiction
Seven out of Ten
I think this movie would have been more appreciated if it wasn't billed as a comedy. There are some funny moments in the movie but I don't know if its necessarily a comedy. Its a very thought provoking film about a man who lives his life by a certain inner order and suddenly has to question what it is all for when he begins to hear a voice inside his head telling him the road his life will lead. I feel that if you go into this movie considering it to be an analogy type film, not a movie to be taken for face value but to be even deeper than that, and really think about it after you watch it, you will love it. Its the type of film that might make you reflect on your life and its meaning and purpose. Unfortunately, by marketing it towards the Will Ferrel fans as a silly comedy of a man who hears voices, its not going to be appreciated for the insightful human drama that it is.
I think this movie would have been more appreciated if it wasn't billed as a comedy. There are some funny moments in the movie but I don't know if its necessarily a comedy. Its a very thought provoking film about a man who lives his life by a certain inner order and suddenly has to question what it is all for when he begins to hear a voice inside his head telling him the road his life will lead. I feel that if you go into this movie considering it to be an analogy type film, not a movie to be taken for face value but to be even deeper than that, and really think about it after you watch it, you will love it. Its the type of film that might make you reflect on your life and its meaning and purpose. Unfortunately, by marketing it towards the Will Ferrel fans as a silly comedy of a man who hears voices, its not going to be appreciated for the insightful human drama that it is.
3:10 to Yuma
nine out of ten
This movie gave me a newfound respect for Russel Crowe who deserves an Oscar for his acting in this film. The movie is about a farmer who is struggling to make ends meet offering to help escort a convicted much sought after felon to 3:10 train to Yuma for his court date. There are some genres I do not like, and Westerns are one of those genres. Yet, somehow, Crowe made the movie sharp and fresh and funny. He is the reason this movie rocks. I would recommend it 100%.
This movie gave me a newfound respect for Russel Crowe who deserves an Oscar for his acting in this film. The movie is about a farmer who is struggling to make ends meet offering to help escort a convicted much sought after felon to 3:10 train to Yuma for his court date. There are some genres I do not like, and Westerns are one of those genres. Yet, somehow, Crowe made the movie sharp and fresh and funny. He is the reason this movie rocks. I would recommend it 100%.
I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry
four out of ten
Predictable? Yes. Politically Incorrect? Yes. Funny? Surprisingly, funnier than I thought.
This is the story of a fireman who might lose his benefits if he's not married. His state recognizes same sex unions so he asks his best friend (who owes him one) to marry him. The jokes are predictable as is the storyline but I did laugh a few times. Kevin James is one of my favorite comedians and he did what he could with the storyline... but at the end of the day, would I recommend it? If nothing else is in stock, and you're desperately in the mood for a quick fix comedy, this movie will do the trick.
Predictable? Yes. Politically Incorrect? Yes. Funny? Surprisingly, funnier than I thought.
This is the story of a fireman who might lose his benefits if he's not married. His state recognizes same sex unions so he asks his best friend (who owes him one) to marry him. The jokes are predictable as is the storyline but I did laugh a few times. Kevin James is one of my favorite comedians and he did what he could with the storyline... but at the end of the day, would I recommend it? If nothing else is in stock, and you're desperately in the mood for a quick fix comedy, this movie will do the trick.
Superbad
seven out of ten
Superbad is funny. Its not as funny IMHO as everyone says it is, but it is funny. Superbad is the story of two teens as they face graduation and battle the thoughts that weigh on their minds. (Seriously, trying so hard to stay PG here). I found it a little crude and at times I felt embarrassed by the lewd and lascivious behavior before me but what made it for me with this movie was the whole McLovin storyline. "McLovin" is a nerdy high schooler who gets a fake ID which results in one of the funniest story lines I've seen in quite some time. It's McLovin which made me like this movie enough to recommend it but just be warned that if you are not appreciative of the cruder sense of humor, then keep your finger on the FF button at all times.
Superbad is funny. Its not as funny IMHO as everyone says it is, but it is funny. Superbad is the story of two teens as they face graduation and battle the thoughts that weigh on their minds. (Seriously, trying so hard to stay PG here). I found it a little crude and at times I felt embarrassed by the lewd and lascivious behavior before me but what made it for me with this movie was the whole McLovin storyline. "McLovin" is a nerdy high schooler who gets a fake ID which results in one of the funniest story lines I've seen in quite some time. It's McLovin which made me like this movie enough to recommend it but just be warned that if you are not appreciative of the cruder sense of humor, then keep your finger on the FF button at all times.
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