Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium.
Okay I know this movie is a little silly for an adult woman to say she loved but well I just loved it with a capital L. And I don't care who knows it!
Sure there are some little things here and there that bothered me a bit (Dustin Hoffman's eyebrows, they way they made Natalie Portman wear her hair, the contrived "Chapters"). Yet there is a sweet, light-hearted magic in this movie that is just too overwhelming to get caught up in that, even for a critical critic like myself.
Just watching the magical toy store come to life and all of the trials and tribulations that come with being a child (and adult) are touching. I don't really think I have smiled that much over one thing in such a long time. I would even venture to suggest I might have giggled a bit when the wall of stuffed animals hugs Mutant at the end.
Such a wonderful family movie and a nice detour from the serious movies for "adults". Take a chance and get back in touch with your inner child. It feels fabulous.
<3
3.17.2009
Raunchy Roles in Abundance
Role Models.
I think they hype got the best of this movie. In the series of raunch and low brow fueled comedies that have come out in the past 5 or so years this one actually seemed particularly promising because of the concept. Yet at times while watching it I was feeling a little bit jipped. If we are being honest here I was much more pleased with Pineapple Express and laughed much harder and longer than I did with RM.
Certainly it had its high points. The return of Seann William Scott to something (anything) mainstream. Bobb'e J. Thompson as Ronnie was just gut busting. Watching Paul Rudd grow a heart as he battles in the army Kiss my Anthia. I am not saying it was without laughs. I would just say that only about 60% of it had good laughs. The rest of the laughs were ill executed, timed, or in poor taste (even for a comedy of this nature). Also the wrap up of all the characters story lines seemed a little contrived and since you weren't laughing that much you actually were able to take note of it.
While I had high hopes for this comedy to be the high point of the comedies I've seen in recent months it was not even close. Please see some of the other comedic movies I've recently recommended and after you have watched those then consider Role Models.
<3
I think they hype got the best of this movie. In the series of raunch and low brow fueled comedies that have come out in the past 5 or so years this one actually seemed particularly promising because of the concept. Yet at times while watching it I was feeling a little bit jipped. If we are being honest here I was much more pleased with Pineapple Express and laughed much harder and longer than I did with RM.
Certainly it had its high points. The return of Seann William Scott to something (anything) mainstream. Bobb'e J. Thompson as Ronnie was just gut busting. Watching Paul Rudd grow a heart as he battles in the army Kiss my Anthia. I am not saying it was without laughs. I would just say that only about 60% of it had good laughs. The rest of the laughs were ill executed, timed, or in poor taste (even for a comedy of this nature). Also the wrap up of all the characters story lines seemed a little contrived and since you weren't laughing that much you actually were able to take note of it.
While I had high hopes for this comedy to be the high point of the comedies I've seen in recent months it was not even close. Please see some of the other comedic movies I've recently recommended and after you have watched those then consider Role Models.
<3
Literary Choices Leaping to Screen
The Secret Life of Bees.
Well this movie was kind of a snore. Now admittedly the actual novel by Sue Monk Kidd is on my eternally long list of things I need to read at some point in my life but has not been read yet. Generally I wouldn't watch something based on a literary work before I had read said work but this was an exception.
If this is the adaptation of the novel I'm a little less inclined to read it. The film itself was a little dry. I certainly appreciated the story points about women's, especially African American, rights and the whole coming of age while grappling with your identity. It was pretty well acted for the most part. They don't call her the Queen for nothing, Ms. Keys made a nice transition from music to movies and Ms. Fanning isn't as nauseating as she was in her younger years.
Overall it was a nice drama. I know other viewers have particularly enjoyed it. While I found it enjoyable to watch I also found it wanting at times, varying between too dry and too hokey for my own tastes. Not a bad one to try on though, see how it fits.
<3
Well this movie was kind of a snore. Now admittedly the actual novel by Sue Monk Kidd is on my eternally long list of things I need to read at some point in my life but has not been read yet. Generally I wouldn't watch something based on a literary work before I had read said work but this was an exception.
If this is the adaptation of the novel I'm a little less inclined to read it. The film itself was a little dry. I certainly appreciated the story points about women's, especially African American, rights and the whole coming of age while grappling with your identity. It was pretty well acted for the most part. They don't call her the Queen for nothing, Ms. Keys made a nice transition from music to movies and Ms. Fanning isn't as nauseating as she was in her younger years.
Overall it was a nice drama. I know other viewers have particularly enjoyed it. While I found it enjoyable to watch I also found it wanting at times, varying between too dry and too hokey for my own tastes. Not a bad one to try on though, see how it fits.
<3
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?
Changeling.
Holy cow. This was NOT what I expected. Luckily it was still a good movie but about half-way through its like "hey whoaaa what are we watching now?"
First Jolie dazzles, as always, as the distraught mother of a missing child. Her mix of vulnerability and edge is unmatched by anyone else in the business now. This truth inspired portrait was no exception. Her screams and her cries put you on the edge of discomfort because it just feels so real that is rattles you. With any other leading lady the twists and rough subject matter of this film would have been completely lost but she is completely the anchor.
Again Malkovich pops up as a nice touch as the one public persona on Christine Collin's side. Plus if you like names, like I do, they you can appreciate that he has such a dignified name like Gustav. Its a shame he isn't more present in the piece because he was another strong holding point. On a more personal note I had a total issue with Ms. Collin's never thanking him for all of his help in the piece. I mean he pretty much saves her and helps her through and like not one thank you. That just still irks me about the story especially if its based on a true story. . .did she really never thank him?!?!
All of that being said. . .lets talk about the actual content of this piece. If you think this is merely a kidnapping period drama, oh are you sorely mistaken. I hate to be too much of a scene spoiler here but this drama runs the gauntlet of disturbing images you will see or be left to imagine. Now again since there is fact behind much of this that is what makes the major points so difficult to swallow. The fault in the film is in Eastwood's direction. As much as I love good ole' Clint and respect his illustrious career in cinema I have to say I was a little disappointed with the layout of this piece. Certainly he got his points across but I didn't feel that it was always in an artistic way. This left the film in a strange limbo, where it was more artful than a straight docu-drama but less fluid than an artistic interpretation. At times I felt he showed us much too much and yet at other moments he squandered an opportunity to develop his story further. It seems there was such rich content for the story, the setting, the corruption, kidnapping, psychology wards for women, murder, abuse of power. . .the list goes on. The execution of this content made the film feel over drawn and uneven in many sections.
Still overall it was a stellar selection but not necessarily for the faint of heart. Or the optimists on human history and behavior. Excellent acting, excellent base for the script, some faulty executive execution but not enough to make it unenjoyable. More than worth the watch.
<3
Post Script. Kudos to Amy Ryan. She is just such a clever chameleon actress, one of the best women in that capacity currently working. Another brief but nice surprise in the middle.
Holy cow. This was NOT what I expected. Luckily it was still a good movie but about half-way through its like "hey whoaaa what are we watching now?"
First Jolie dazzles, as always, as the distraught mother of a missing child. Her mix of vulnerability and edge is unmatched by anyone else in the business now. This truth inspired portrait was no exception. Her screams and her cries put you on the edge of discomfort because it just feels so real that is rattles you. With any other leading lady the twists and rough subject matter of this film would have been completely lost but she is completely the anchor.
Again Malkovich pops up as a nice touch as the one public persona on Christine Collin's side. Plus if you like names, like I do, they you can appreciate that he has such a dignified name like Gustav. Its a shame he isn't more present in the piece because he was another strong holding point. On a more personal note I had a total issue with Ms. Collin's never thanking him for all of his help in the piece. I mean he pretty much saves her and helps her through and like not one thank you. That just still irks me about the story especially if its based on a true story. . .did she really never thank him?!?!
All of that being said. . .lets talk about the actual content of this piece. If you think this is merely a kidnapping period drama, oh are you sorely mistaken. I hate to be too much of a scene spoiler here but this drama runs the gauntlet of disturbing images you will see or be left to imagine. Now again since there is fact behind much of this that is what makes the major points so difficult to swallow. The fault in the film is in Eastwood's direction. As much as I love good ole' Clint and respect his illustrious career in cinema I have to say I was a little disappointed with the layout of this piece. Certainly he got his points across but I didn't feel that it was always in an artistic way. This left the film in a strange limbo, where it was more artful than a straight docu-drama but less fluid than an artistic interpretation. At times I felt he showed us much too much and yet at other moments he squandered an opportunity to develop his story further. It seems there was such rich content for the story, the setting, the corruption, kidnapping, psychology wards for women, murder, abuse of power. . .the list goes on. The execution of this content made the film feel over drawn and uneven in many sections.
Still overall it was a stellar selection but not necessarily for the faint of heart. Or the optimists on human history and behavior. Excellent acting, excellent base for the script, some faulty executive execution but not enough to make it unenjoyable. More than worth the watch.
<3
Post Script. Kudos to Amy Ryan. She is just such a clever chameleon actress, one of the best women in that capacity currently working. Another brief but nice surprise in the middle.
Can Scarlett find any other role than sexy skank?
Vicky Christina Barcelona.
Sometimes I just have to wonder why Woody Allen continues to make movies. I just did not see the point of this one at all. Sure its Allen's typical look at relationships blah blah blah. . .
VCB didn't seem fresh or new at all, however. The plot was obviously contrived. Johansson was pitch perfect as the bisexual point that holds two dysfunctional exes together. I'm sorry, I know you are hot Miss Scarlett but you have no acting talent beyond your breasts and the lucky choice of Lost in Translation. Otherwise your always the hyper-sexualized woman that we don't really want to root for, well from the woman's point of view.
And whose idea was it to cast Javier Bardem? I mean I know he's an Oscar winner and all but ugh. Sure a step up from like Woody Allen trying to cast himself as the male lead making us believe women do find him attractive but well its not a big step up lets just leave it at that.
Now lets talk about the Oscar this one won for Ms. Cruz. She was certainly the bright spot in the piece, believable yet quirky. . .well crazy. I'm not sure though after seeing the movie as a whole if an Oscar can be deserved for one performance when the rest of the movie was flat. She certainly made this piece enjoyable and was a great twist throughout. I suppose it depends on seeing the other supporting actress performances...it just seems like the performance was perhaps enhanced by the poor supporting cast. But I will not say anymore until I'm able to watch the comparative pictures.
Overall this wasn't anything we haven't seen from Allen before. The narrator was a nice touch, a refreshing way of making a movie. Still with nothing to narrate of interest that also just seemed to fall flat. If you want to see Scarlett do her skankalicious thing or Penelope as a likable crazy then check it out. If not you might be better off with something else.
<3
Sometimes I just have to wonder why Woody Allen continues to make movies. I just did not see the point of this one at all. Sure its Allen's typical look at relationships blah blah blah. . .
VCB didn't seem fresh or new at all, however. The plot was obviously contrived. Johansson was pitch perfect as the bisexual point that holds two dysfunctional exes together. I'm sorry, I know you are hot Miss Scarlett but you have no acting talent beyond your breasts and the lucky choice of Lost in Translation. Otherwise your always the hyper-sexualized woman that we don't really want to root for, well from the woman's point of view.
And whose idea was it to cast Javier Bardem? I mean I know he's an Oscar winner and all but ugh. Sure a step up from like Woody Allen trying to cast himself as the male lead making us believe women do find him attractive but well its not a big step up lets just leave it at that.
Now lets talk about the Oscar this one won for Ms. Cruz. She was certainly the bright spot in the piece, believable yet quirky. . .well crazy. I'm not sure though after seeing the movie as a whole if an Oscar can be deserved for one performance when the rest of the movie was flat. She certainly made this piece enjoyable and was a great twist throughout. I suppose it depends on seeing the other supporting actress performances...it just seems like the performance was perhaps enhanced by the poor supporting cast. But I will not say anymore until I'm able to watch the comparative pictures.
Overall this wasn't anything we haven't seen from Allen before. The narrator was a nice touch, a refreshing way of making a movie. Still with nothing to narrate of interest that also just seemed to fall flat. If you want to see Scarlett do her skankalicious thing or Penelope as a likable crazy then check it out. If not you might be better off with something else.
<3
So good it hurts your heart
The Pianist.
This was part of a Psychological film series my college sent me in an email so I checked it out. Fabulous.
Literally my heart ached while I was watching it.
It is hard to say what makes the Pianist so poignant. Is it Brody's haunting portrayal taken almost straight out of the pages of Wladyslaw Szpilman's memoir? Is it the diligent sound mixing taking you between the beautiful magic of Szpilman's music and the deathly quiet of isolation? Or is it the fact that Roman Polanski had such a personal connection with the Warsaw ghetto experience it couldn't help but ooze onto the film?
No matter the reason this film is genius in such a genuine way I think you would be hard pressed to ever forget it. The haunting way the isolation and silence sweeps Warsaw. Watching a family, a country, a people torn and tormented by the most horrible of horrors. When the smallest glimmers of hope underscore the events that unfold. I would probably just cheapen the actual experience of this movie by trying to define how I felt about it. It was one of those rare movies that changes your view on the human spirit and makes you remember the power of cinema in bringing that spirit to the masses.
<3
This was part of a Psychological film series my college sent me in an email so I checked it out. Fabulous.
Literally my heart ached while I was watching it.
It is hard to say what makes the Pianist so poignant. Is it Brody's haunting portrayal taken almost straight out of the pages of Wladyslaw Szpilman's memoir? Is it the diligent sound mixing taking you between the beautiful magic of Szpilman's music and the deathly quiet of isolation? Or is it the fact that Roman Polanski had such a personal connection with the Warsaw ghetto experience it couldn't help but ooze onto the film?
No matter the reason this film is genius in such a genuine way I think you would be hard pressed to ever forget it. The haunting way the isolation and silence sweeps Warsaw. Watching a family, a country, a people torn and tormented by the most horrible of horrors. When the smallest glimmers of hope underscore the events that unfold. I would probably just cheapen the actual experience of this movie by trying to define how I felt about it. It was one of those rare movies that changes your view on the human spirit and makes you remember the power of cinema in bringing that spirit to the masses.
<3
1.29.2009
Sexy Sexy. . .Earnest?
The Importance of Being Earnest.
I absolutely adore this Oscar Wilde play so I was on the fence about seeing the adaptation. Like many other wonderful literary and theatrical pieces that take the leap to film I was afraid that this one would be lacking. I was oh so pleasantly surprised.
All of the wit and fun of the play was infused into the film. In addition it was a treat to see some of the extravagance mentioned in the play up on screen. If anything this adaptation added something for those who have read the piece. The cast was pitch perfect in their roles and it would just be difficult to try and describe how they were almost exactly as they were written in the play. I feel like Wilde would have been proud to see his characters brought to life in such a way. This little romp was as much fun to watch as the play itself is to read.
Perhaps people not familiar with Wilde's works or who are interested in more period specific comedies might find it difficult to get into. Still if you give it a chance its easier to follow than say a Shakespearean adaptation, and much more fun.
Again an admirable adaptation that stayed as true as possible to the work that inspired it.
<3
I absolutely adore this Oscar Wilde play so I was on the fence about seeing the adaptation. Like many other wonderful literary and theatrical pieces that take the leap to film I was afraid that this one would be lacking. I was oh so pleasantly surprised.
All of the wit and fun of the play was infused into the film. In addition it was a treat to see some of the extravagance mentioned in the play up on screen. If anything this adaptation added something for those who have read the piece. The cast was pitch perfect in their roles and it would just be difficult to try and describe how they were almost exactly as they were written in the play. I feel like Wilde would have been proud to see his characters brought to life in such a way. This little romp was as much fun to watch as the play itself is to read.
Perhaps people not familiar with Wilde's works or who are interested in more period specific comedies might find it difficult to get into. Still if you give it a chance its easier to follow than say a Shakespearean adaptation, and much more fun.
Again an admirable adaptation that stayed as true as possible to the work that inspired it.
<3
Schizophrenic Obsession Is a Trip
I Love Your Work.
Hmmmmmmm. Are we over the whole "boo-hoo I'm a celebrity my life is horrible?" yet? Maybe it only feels that way when largely unknown celebrities (Adam Goldberg who?) make movies about it.
At first I did like this piece, its whole psychology of what is real what is imagined, seemed like it was really going places. But then well it just didn't.
Things I liked about this film:
Giovanni Ribisi's performance. Overall the character's and plot line left a lot lacking in the interest department yet he went full out and tried to make it better. I appreciate his trying because with anyone else in that role this would have been unwatchable.
Joshua Jackson's scruff. I'll admit it when a movie sucks I'll go for the superficial. It was nice to see Jackson in a decent role especially all tortured artist and scruffy. Again it made the boring end semi-enjoyable.
Marisa Coughlan. I have to again give proper recognition to her and Jackson because Gray's mental breakdown is interesting but it causes the whole movie to fall apart. Coughlan's performance is an anchor in that part of the movie. Not a very good one but there are highlights like when she is trapped by Gray and has to ask what his intentions are with her. Good enough.
So if you are interested in psychological breakdowns or you like how obsessed celebrities have become with themselves check it out. If not you can just keep on living like you'd never heard of this movie, which most of you probably haven't.
<3
Hmmmmmmm. Are we over the whole "boo-hoo I'm a celebrity my life is horrible?" yet? Maybe it only feels that way when largely unknown celebrities (Adam Goldberg who?) make movies about it.
At first I did like this piece, its whole psychology of what is real what is imagined, seemed like it was really going places. But then well it just didn't.
Things I liked about this film:
Giovanni Ribisi's performance. Overall the character's and plot line left a lot lacking in the interest department yet he went full out and tried to make it better. I appreciate his trying because with anyone else in that role this would have been unwatchable.
Joshua Jackson's scruff. I'll admit it when a movie sucks I'll go for the superficial. It was nice to see Jackson in a decent role especially all tortured artist and scruffy. Again it made the boring end semi-enjoyable.
Marisa Coughlan. I have to again give proper recognition to her and Jackson because Gray's mental breakdown is interesting but it causes the whole movie to fall apart. Coughlan's performance is an anchor in that part of the movie. Not a very good one but there are highlights like when she is trapped by Gray and has to ask what his intentions are with her. Good enough.
So if you are interested in psychological breakdowns or you like how obsessed celebrities have become with themselves check it out. If not you can just keep on living like you'd never heard of this movie, which most of you probably haven't.
<3
1.23.2009
Holy Hell Batman. . .Where is the storyline?
Mulholland Drive.
It is honestly hard to know how you feel about this movie.
On the one hand I want to say I loved it because it was a brilliant work in misdirection, non-linear plot lines and outrageous psychology. On the other hand I want to say "What the hell did I just waste 2 hours watching?"
David Lynch does a perfect job of keep you guessing throughout this entire flick. Perhaps too good a job. Its a perfect cult movie because it is one of those pieces that people either love to death or hate to pieces. Incalculable speculation over the point of the story, the meaning of it, character analysis and anything else you could think of have come out of this one little movie. In fact it is still generally a no-name flick to most of the mainstream.
I could go over and over my own thoughts and utilize my well paid for Psychology piece up and down every second of this movie. Yet that doesn't seem right in the setting of Mulholland Drive. It is easy to over speculate or dissect something to the point you throw your hands up in frustration and say "I don't' get it". Instead maybe its even better that there was some sort of magic in this movie, a sense of "I DON'T GET it but that is life". That may just be the point after all. And for that reason I would highly recommend you watch this movie.
Mostly though kudos to Lynch and the cast and crew for never publicly revealing the secret or "key" if you will, to this movie. Whether you like it or hate it you do have to admire that commitment.
<3
It is honestly hard to know how you feel about this movie.
On the one hand I want to say I loved it because it was a brilliant work in misdirection, non-linear plot lines and outrageous psychology. On the other hand I want to say "What the hell did I just waste 2 hours watching?"
David Lynch does a perfect job of keep you guessing throughout this entire flick. Perhaps too good a job. Its a perfect cult movie because it is one of those pieces that people either love to death or hate to pieces. Incalculable speculation over the point of the story, the meaning of it, character analysis and anything else you could think of have come out of this one little movie. In fact it is still generally a no-name flick to most of the mainstream.
I could go over and over my own thoughts and utilize my well paid for Psychology piece up and down every second of this movie. Yet that doesn't seem right in the setting of Mulholland Drive. It is easy to over speculate or dissect something to the point you throw your hands up in frustration and say "I don't' get it". Instead maybe its even better that there was some sort of magic in this movie, a sense of "I DON'T GET it but that is life". That may just be the point after all. And for that reason I would highly recommend you watch this movie.
Mostly though kudos to Lynch and the cast and crew for never publicly revealing the secret or "key" if you will, to this movie. Whether you like it or hate it you do have to admire that commitment.
<3
1.11.2009
Oh the poor cinematic choices of Anna Farris.
The House Bunny.
Now I was actually pretty excited for this comedy. Even the fact that it was put on my the knuckleheads at Happy Madison was overlooked on my part because I have always really enjoyed Anna Farris' work. She is always a beacon of comedic hope in otherwise overly-rauchy, under-thought comedies (um hello Waiting?!?!? I rest my case). So to have her lead a movie this time and a movie where she plays an out of date (at the ripe old age of 27) Playboy Bunny just seemed too good to be true.
Turns out it was.
The main tip-off again should have been that it was a Happy Madison production. Adam Sandler and co. are only good when they are just over-the-top comedy (Happy Gilmore) or full out serious (Reign Over Me). There is no middle ground. Unfortunately they tried to find a mix between low ball, obvious comedy and heartful sensitivity and that is The House Bunny. Colin Hanks was a nice surprise as the boy-next-door who captures Shelly's part girl heart but even his cute smirks could save this sinking ship. Hugh Heffner and co. also guest spot for some highlights and there are some actual good laughs hidden within here. Yet the whole ugly-unpopular-girls-dress-better-and-then-realize-their-true-potential and the vapid-party-animal-gains-a-brain storylines are so overdone already in comedy and The House Bunny does nothing to give them any new light.
Sure its a cute romp and much more girl friendly than most other mainstream comedy out but don't expect it to be anything different then any other girl friendly comedy you've seen before.
<3
Now I was actually pretty excited for this comedy. Even the fact that it was put on my the knuckleheads at Happy Madison was overlooked on my part because I have always really enjoyed Anna Farris' work. She is always a beacon of comedic hope in otherwise overly-rauchy, under-thought comedies (um hello Waiting?!?!? I rest my case). So to have her lead a movie this time and a movie where she plays an out of date (at the ripe old age of 27) Playboy Bunny just seemed too good to be true.
Turns out it was.
The main tip-off again should have been that it was a Happy Madison production. Adam Sandler and co. are only good when they are just over-the-top comedy (Happy Gilmore) or full out serious (Reign Over Me). There is no middle ground. Unfortunately they tried to find a mix between low ball, obvious comedy and heartful sensitivity and that is The House Bunny. Colin Hanks was a nice surprise as the boy-next-door who captures Shelly's part girl heart but even his cute smirks could save this sinking ship. Hugh Heffner and co. also guest spot for some highlights and there are some actual good laughs hidden within here. Yet the whole ugly-unpopular-girls-dress-better-and-then-realize-their-true-potential and the vapid-party-animal-gains-a-brain storylines are so overdone already in comedy and The House Bunny does nothing to give them any new light.
Sure its a cute romp and much more girl friendly than most other mainstream comedy out but don't expect it to be anything different then any other girl friendly comedy you've seen before.
<3
Jack Black is kinda an overweight panda in real life.
Kung Fu Panda.
I don't really like Kung Fu or animated animal movies but this one turned out to be worth watching. In an age dominated by Pixar/Disney it was nice to see such a strong Dreamworks pitch. The voicing cast was well done with an excellent mix of credible names (Dustin Hoffman, Angie Jolie) and pop culture points (Jackie Chan, Jack Black, Seth Rogan). In addition the animation felt well done with a nice mix of realistic and fictional elements that made it appealing not just to children but to the adults that watched it with them. The story line also had a lot of heart. While at times it boardered overall it managed to have a sweet undercurrent without being overly cliche. Plus that action sequences weren't bad! Underestimated because it came out in the year of the overly popular Wall-E, Kung Fu Panda was still a nice choice for young and the older-but-young-at-heart alike.
<3
I don't really like Kung Fu or animated animal movies but this one turned out to be worth watching. In an age dominated by Pixar/Disney it was nice to see such a strong Dreamworks pitch. The voicing cast was well done with an excellent mix of credible names (Dustin Hoffman, Angie Jolie) and pop culture points (Jackie Chan, Jack Black, Seth Rogan). In addition the animation felt well done with a nice mix of realistic and fictional elements that made it appealing not just to children but to the adults that watched it with them. The story line also had a lot of heart. While at times it boardered overall it managed to have a sweet undercurrent without being overly cliche. Plus that action sequences weren't bad! Underestimated because it came out in the year of the overly popular Wall-E, Kung Fu Panda was still a nice choice for young and the older-but-young-at-heart alike.
<3
Ron Howard was So cheesy in his younger years.
Grand Theft Auto.
I don't even really have a review for this because it was just not really even worth it. There was a lot of car crashes with no continuity and cheesy acting even for the cheesy time period it was created in. So horrible you just have to watch it to the end but skip it if you can.
<3
I don't even really have a review for this because it was just not really even worth it. There was a lot of car crashes with no continuity and cheesy acting even for the cheesy time period it was created in. So horrible you just have to watch it to the end but skip it if you can.
<3
Leonardo Dicaprio can make anything sexy. . .even global warming!
The 11th Hour.
This is a documentary. Apparently my mother didn't know this when she rented it so I thought others who don't read the back of movie covers should be warned.
If you like documentaries and are interested in the current event of global warming then this one is not bad. Its quite bare bones which is nice as far as a documentary goes. The text is quite small though and sporadic so it is quite hard to know who is talking or why you should care.
Worth checking out if you love Leo and are concerned about global warming but if you are like the rest of my family who really doesn't care for either it will put you sound out.
<3
This is a documentary. Apparently my mother didn't know this when she rented it so I thought others who don't read the back of movie covers should be warned.
If you like documentaries and are interested in the current event of global warming then this one is not bad. Its quite bare bones which is nice as far as a documentary goes. The text is quite small though and sporadic so it is quite hard to know who is talking or why you should care.
Worth checking out if you love Leo and are concerned about global warming but if you are like the rest of my family who really doesn't care for either it will put you sound out.
<3
And WHY are we still letting Pierce Brosnan in movies?!?!?
Mamma Mia!
Honestly. Pierce Brosnan. Really?? At first I actually didn't really mind since the movie stank of cheese musical ooze already but once he attempted singing it just ruined the entire film for me. Its not too bad when you have a couple characters overacting or not hitting the right notes but when you have your male romantic lead just butchering it there is no recovery.
Which is terribly sad because there are such bright stellar spots like Amanda Seyfried who is a superb talent in acting but also has this booming beautiful voice as well!
Overall I was so highly disappointed in this flick and was quite happy when it was over. At least then I could enjoy the soundtrack (skipping over about half the tracks obviously).
<3
Honestly. Pierce Brosnan. Really?? At first I actually didn't really mind since the movie stank of cheese musical ooze already but once he attempted singing it just ruined the entire film for me. Its not too bad when you have a couple characters overacting or not hitting the right notes but when you have your male romantic lead just butchering it there is no recovery.
Which is terribly sad because there are such bright stellar spots like Amanda Seyfried who is a superb talent in acting but also has this booming beautiful voice as well!
Overall I was so highly disappointed in this flick and was quite happy when it was over. At least then I could enjoy the soundtrack (skipping over about half the tracks obviously).
<3
Vince Vaughn gets cheesy and chubby
Four Christmases.
It is no secret how much I adore Vince Vaughn as an actor. After some of my most recent viewings of his work I really think I would love any ole' thing he puts out there just because he is in it! Which may or may not be a good thing but we will see.
This movie was like Meet the Parents multiplied and set at Christmas time. While I found it MUCH more enjoyable than Stiller's grating rendition of mixing and mingling with the in-laws it was just as predictable. The whole "lets see how many horrible unrelated semi-funny incidents we can come up with for these 2 characters and then put them in them back to back for the duration of 1.5 hours" was incredibly predictable. Yet in a way that made it also delightful. Vaughn brings a sort of warmth to this type of role that other comedians like Stiller cannot draw to. He has the every man quality that is appealing to audiences. Also while he doesn't do as much of his typical fast talk jokester bits as his other comedies his physical and emotional humor is well received in the flick. Add to this the ever lovable and wonderful Reese Witherspoon and you just can't help but get in this festive spirit.
While at times contrived these two mains and a wonderful supporting cast makes the mundane storyline come to life, as much as possible. Worth a good chuckle especially in the giving mood of Christmas.
<3
It is no secret how much I adore Vince Vaughn as an actor. After some of my most recent viewings of his work I really think I would love any ole' thing he puts out there just because he is in it! Which may or may not be a good thing but we will see.
This movie was like Meet the Parents multiplied and set at Christmas time. While I found it MUCH more enjoyable than Stiller's grating rendition of mixing and mingling with the in-laws it was just as predictable. The whole "lets see how many horrible unrelated semi-funny incidents we can come up with for these 2 characters and then put them in them back to back for the duration of 1.5 hours" was incredibly predictable. Yet in a way that made it also delightful. Vaughn brings a sort of warmth to this type of role that other comedians like Stiller cannot draw to. He has the every man quality that is appealing to audiences. Also while he doesn't do as much of his typical fast talk jokester bits as his other comedies his physical and emotional humor is well received in the flick. Add to this the ever lovable and wonderful Reese Witherspoon and you just can't help but get in this festive spirit.
While at times contrived these two mains and a wonderful supporting cast makes the mundane storyline come to life, as much as possible. Worth a good chuckle especially in the giving mood of Christmas.
<3
Amanda Bynes should get a new agent
She's The Man.
Now I do think that Amanda Bynes is one of the funniest and most talented young actresses out there and have since my mother didn't let me watch her Nickelodeon sketch show. While her movies have really become my guilty pleasures I also have to hope that she will get her stuff together and get in some bigger, better things!!! Sure she had Hairspray! but lets get real she had no part until she blew you away in her last minute musical numbers.
Instead she continues to make pieces like She's The Man which while funny are starting to wane on her audience and really not show any sort of range. I do enjoy a good Shakespeare adaptation and I thought this one was more fun than say 10 Things (so angsty!) and was generally true to the overall play "As you Like It". Yet there is also something so juvenile and forced that it garners a half cringe at times. Perhaps that is just a part of her development as an actress, learning that even if you choose a predictable Hollywood force farce being able to balance going along with it and making it better. That line definitely becomes thinner the more fluff pieces you choose Ms. Bynes so I hope you choose wisely in the future. Because we are both getting a little too old to pass off enjoying these types of movies. Got me bra, brother, brethren???
<3
Now I do think that Amanda Bynes is one of the funniest and most talented young actresses out there and have since my mother didn't let me watch her Nickelodeon sketch show. While her movies have really become my guilty pleasures I also have to hope that she will get her stuff together and get in some bigger, better things!!! Sure she had Hairspray! but lets get real she had no part until she blew you away in her last minute musical numbers.
Instead she continues to make pieces like She's The Man which while funny are starting to wane on her audience and really not show any sort of range. I do enjoy a good Shakespeare adaptation and I thought this one was more fun than say 10 Things (so angsty!) and was generally true to the overall play "As you Like It". Yet there is also something so juvenile and forced that it garners a half cringe at times. Perhaps that is just a part of her development as an actress, learning that even if you choose a predictable Hollywood force farce being able to balance going along with it and making it better. That line definitely becomes thinner the more fluff pieces you choose Ms. Bynes so I hope you choose wisely in the future. Because we are both getting a little too old to pass off enjoying these types of movies. Got me bra, brother, brethren???
<3
Snooze-Infused "Comedy"
How To Lose Friends and Alienate People.
I was genuinely excited for this one. Simon Pegg, generally a true comedic genius, Kirsten Dunst, all-American sweetheart and a title that seems humorous in itself. What could possibly go wrong?
Try everything.
The story line was just so cliche and even the fact that it was inspired by a true story didn't help make it the tiniest bit more interesting. The cast was not used to its strength. The vapid and untalented Megan Fox should have just been a silent figure in the piece since her attempt to portray a vapid, beautiful, overly worshipped actress was more unbelievable than her actual fame. Dunst's charm was completely lost in translation making it very difficult to care about any of her personal or professional struggles or cheer for any of her triumphs. Pegg was only given very obvious and low brow humor and even with that easy task it fell flat.
And can we just talk about how horrible Jeff Bridges hair was?!?!!? I mean luckily they gave him such an ugly style in the movie or I would have had to focus more on his unnoticeable performance.
The whole just tries to hard and the result is just a reminder that this is a typical, cheap comedy that your lose 2 hours of your life trying to stay awake.
<3
I was genuinely excited for this one. Simon Pegg, generally a true comedic genius, Kirsten Dunst, all-American sweetheart and a title that seems humorous in itself. What could possibly go wrong?
Try everything.
The story line was just so cliche and even the fact that it was inspired by a true story didn't help make it the tiniest bit more interesting. The cast was not used to its strength. The vapid and untalented Megan Fox should have just been a silent figure in the piece since her attempt to portray a vapid, beautiful, overly worshipped actress was more unbelievable than her actual fame. Dunst's charm was completely lost in translation making it very difficult to care about any of her personal or professional struggles or cheer for any of her triumphs. Pegg was only given very obvious and low brow humor and even with that easy task it fell flat.
And can we just talk about how horrible Jeff Bridges hair was?!?!!? I mean luckily they gave him such an ugly style in the movie or I would have had to focus more on his unnoticeable performance.
The whole just tries to hard and the result is just a reminder that this is a typical, cheap comedy that your lose 2 hours of your life trying to stay awake.
<3
12.25.2008
Nothing like a good Jane Austen adaptation.
Sense and Sensibility.
I love Jane Austen. People watch the Hills or soap operas but you just do not get much better than a good Jane jumble. Sense and Sensibility may just be my favorite of her tales because of the wonderful complexity and layers for all of the characters involved. Plus I mean you have all of the classics: Hugh Grant, Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman, and Emma Thompson. Cannot get much better than that. Plus keep an eye out for Hugh Laurie who makes a delicious appearance that is just soooooooo the highlight of the middle chunk of this drama. Ang Lee makes this a beautifully shot and nature central piece and the cast just brings it to life and more. Absolutely excellent. By far my favorite of all the adaptations I have seen.
<3
I love Jane Austen. People watch the Hills or soap operas but you just do not get much better than a good Jane jumble. Sense and Sensibility may just be my favorite of her tales because of the wonderful complexity and layers for all of the characters involved. Plus I mean you have all of the classics: Hugh Grant, Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman, and Emma Thompson. Cannot get much better than that. Plus keep an eye out for Hugh Laurie who makes a delicious appearance that is just soooooooo the highlight of the middle chunk of this drama. Ang Lee makes this a beautifully shot and nature central piece and the cast just brings it to life and more. Absolutely excellent. By far my favorite of all the adaptations I have seen.
<3
Simon Pegg is my British Comedian <3
Run Fatboy Run.
Well I had to start negative and work up to the positives. This was the least original and most predictable of all of Pegg's movies. Still it was nice to see a more sweet side of him. And the story and the comedy was still there so of course I still loved it. The concept was predictable but the comedy was still British brilliance, the sidekick kicked ass and there was all sorts of smiles and laughs throughout! Lots of love for Pegg and can't wait for him to keep making me laugh.
<3
Well I had to start negative and work up to the positives. This was the least original and most predictable of all of Pegg's movies. Still it was nice to see a more sweet side of him. And the story and the comedy was still there so of course I still loved it. The concept was predictable but the comedy was still British brilliance, the sidekick kicked ass and there was all sorts of smiles and laughs throughout! Lots of love for Pegg and can't wait for him to keep making me laugh.
<3
What are you writing in your little Pirate Pad?
Penelope.
Now THIS was a neat take on a fairytale. Setting the lead character as a little older and making a nice mix of modern/fantasy elements this was a very sweet and comical movie. Even my father said it was not that bad. . .a little predictable but it also had the right amount of surprise and intrigue. The typical components of the fairytale, beauty cursed, meets prince charming, obstacles, love prevails all were in place but some unique elements are thrown into the mix which I really just loved. Plus the patch-eyed little person just stole the show. I may be stereotyping or whatever but if you put a little person in your movie it just automatically makes it way better. Really liked this one even when James McAvoy was trying to sing.
<3
Now THIS was a neat take on a fairytale. Setting the lead character as a little older and making a nice mix of modern/fantasy elements this was a very sweet and comical movie. Even my father said it was not that bad. . .a little predictable but it also had the right amount of surprise and intrigue. The typical components of the fairytale, beauty cursed, meets prince charming, obstacles, love prevails all were in place but some unique elements are thrown into the mix which I really just loved. Plus the patch-eyed little person just stole the show. I may be stereotyping or whatever but if you put a little person in your movie it just automatically makes it way better. Really liked this one even when James McAvoy was trying to sing.
<3
The Title Says Enough
Get Smart.
Now I thought this would be okay but the last full length Carrell flick I had seen was Bruce Almighty and well that sucked big time so I was skeptical. Get Smart was just wonderful. It got back an epic Carrell formula. . .a perfect mix of screwball comedy, wit and heart. The storyline for the actual movie was good, the supporting cast was good, the mix of action to comedy and pacing for the movie was good as well. Overall an enjoyable flick and a nice surprise overall.
<3
Now I thought this would be okay but the last full length Carrell flick I had seen was Bruce Almighty and well that sucked big time so I was skeptical. Get Smart was just wonderful. It got back an epic Carrell formula. . .a perfect mix of screwball comedy, wit and heart. The storyline for the actual movie was good, the supporting cast was good, the mix of action to comedy and pacing for the movie was good as well. Overall an enjoyable flick and a nice surprise overall.
<3
12.19.2008
Everyone loves a courtroom Drama.
Heavens Fall.
Another thing noticed while snowed in and enjoying a plethora of older DVD's is that I also have an affinity for based-on-a-true-story stories. Depicting a more somber, serious true story the whole north/south/black/white/true/false concept is not one new to the cinema or anything for that matter. Yet this piece was not predictable and while a little slower moving than a Hollywood hyped piece it was very well done. The acting was suitable, the plot was unique and the opening scene was one of the most interesting I have seen done in an extended period of time.
Overall well done drama with some interesting information about the real life happenings at the end.
<3
Another thing noticed while snowed in and enjoying a plethora of older DVD's is that I also have an affinity for based-on-a-true-story stories. Depicting a more somber, serious true story the whole north/south/black/white/true/false concept is not one new to the cinema or anything for that matter. Yet this piece was not predictable and while a little slower moving than a Hollywood hyped piece it was very well done. The acting was suitable, the plot was unique and the opening scene was one of the most interesting I have seen done in an extended period of time.
Overall well done drama with some interesting information about the real life happenings at the end.
<3
Shia Labeouf is Disney's lucky charm
The Greatest Game Ever Played.
I will be honest. I was not excited to see this movie. It has quite a long title and its about golf BUT my mom had rented it and it had Shia Labeouf who can make even a crappy movie (um Eagle Eye) watchable.
Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised when the film started rolling. The way it was shot, the interesting double and back stories made this a wonderful film. Shia was great in this movie showing the Disney appeal that made him such a megastar he is now. This movie did many things: helped establish Shia, made golf not boring and bordering on exciting, had a great inspirational/based on a true story message and was a all around excellent family film.
Totally worth checking out for all ages.
<3
I will be honest. I was not excited to see this movie. It has quite a long title and its about golf BUT my mom had rented it and it had Shia Labeouf who can make even a crappy movie (um Eagle Eye) watchable.
Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised when the film started rolling. The way it was shot, the interesting double and back stories made this a wonderful film. Shia was great in this movie showing the Disney appeal that made him such a megastar he is now. This movie did many things: helped establish Shia, made golf not boring and bordering on exciting, had a great inspirational/based on a true story message and was a all around excellent family film.
Totally worth checking out for all ages.
<3
Everyone loves a ghetto dance flick. . .full of white people.
Step Up 2: The Streets
So okay its no secret that I have a weakness for dance/art/musical movies in general. So I did like this one but only because I like these things. Actually I would even venture to argue that it was more interesting than the first one and that there certainly was more interesting dancing going on. THAT being said. . .in these cultured hip-hop dramas why is it always that the two lead characters are predominantly Caucasian with only the cultural folks only in the back drop?!?!?!? Anyways that is my rant that and the immature acting made it kinda dull in some sections. . . but the dance sequences and the higher ratio of dance to freshman acting made this actually a decent flick. Pretty good if you have an affinity for dance movies or pre-teen dramas with some light comedy thrown in.
<3
So okay its no secret that I have a weakness for dance/art/musical movies in general. So I did like this one but only because I like these things. Actually I would even venture to argue that it was more interesting than the first one and that there certainly was more interesting dancing going on. THAT being said. . .in these cultured hip-hop dramas why is it always that the two lead characters are predominantly Caucasian with only the cultural folks only in the back drop?!?!?!? Anyways that is my rant that and the immature acting made it kinda dull in some sections. . . but the dance sequences and the higher ratio of dance to freshman acting made this actually a decent flick. Pretty good if you have an affinity for dance movies or pre-teen dramas with some light comedy thrown in.
<3
12.14.2008
John Travolta was being punished for poor hairstyling
The Punisher.
The ONLY and I repeat ONLY good things about this movie:
1. When John Travolta's character was being dragged through the street with his crotch on fire
2. When it was over
Horrible.
Yuck and John Travolta has greasy hair.
<3
The ONLY and I repeat ONLY good things about this movie:
1. When John Travolta's character was being dragged through the street with his crotch on fire
2. When it was over
Horrible.
Yuck and John Travolta has greasy hair.
<3
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