Viewed At Home 2009


  1. Macgyver911
  2. Dave

A list of all the films I saw at home in 2009. Just for myself really to have a rough tally at the end of the year

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1
Mamma Mia! (2008,  PG-13)
Mamma Mia!
Young cast is a bit of a let down, but the grown ups make up for it. The plot takes leaps, has holes (and bears similarities to the Three Men and a Baby/Lady arc) and Pierce's singing is a bit dodgy. Plus its a bit long. But I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this film. Worth a look. But trim the music numbers and make them less obviously music video... Oh, and it needs a better Choreographer
2
Eraserhead (1977,  Unrated)
Eraserhead
BEYOND weird. Extremely strange film, but I found myself entertained for most of it. Mainly because of Jack Nance's performance though Allen Joseph was great too. Really not sure what to say about this one tbh...
3
Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer (2007,  R)
Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer
Good old fashioned rubber practicle effects. Modern day cheesy B movie nonsense, and just as enjoyable as that sounds. Looks and feels like it was made in the late 80's and there's nothing wrong with that. More please.
4
Anaconda III (2008,  Unrated)
Anaconda III
Inconsistent charaters, dodgy special effects and bad acting. So an Anaconda movie then. And there's a B movie ending so the crapitude can continue. I love me some cheese, but this franchise can't even muster Easy Cheese
5
The Incredible Hulk (2008,  PG-13)
The Incredible Hulk
If Marvel keep putting out films of this calibre it's going to be a very good couple of years. This is basically the best Hulk film I could have hoped for, and the fact that it's the start of tying the universe together makes it even better. Can't wait to see what's next!
6
Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008,  PG-13)
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Didn't really do much for me, just felt kind of half assed
7
Tropic Thunder (2008,  R)
Tropic Thunder
You can smell the Coen on this one. Great satire of the movie business wrapped in a good comedy war movie in the style of Three Amigos etc. Everyone brings A game stuff to this one, particularly Downey who is on form at the moment. Not that he's ever off...
8
Pineapple Express (2008,  R)
Pineapple Express
Great stoner comedy wrap in the most messed up action movie you'll ever see. Fantastic stuff. More please.
9
Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay (2008,  R)
Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay
Initially not as clever as the first one, but has its moments. No where near as good as Pineapple Express, but still above what you'd expect from a stoner comedy
10
Black Sheep (2006,  Unrated)
Black Sheep
Hilarious and great SFX by Weta. Feels like an 80's horror, or an early Peter Jackson. Brought to mind Bad Taste for me really. Definetly worth a look
11
Milk (2008,  R)
Milk
Fantastic film about a slice of history I knew nothing about. A must watch for pretty much everyone, and the best film that Gus Van Sant has lensed since Good Will Hunting.
12
Vals Im Bashir (Waltz with Bashir) (2008,  R)
Vals Im Bashir (Waltz with Bashir)
Apart from looking amazing, I'd believe it was rotoscoped, this is powerful look at some senseless war through personal stories. An animated documentary following a mans quest to regain some memories. Comparisons of what the Israelies did is in the film itself so I needn't reiterate. Reminds me of a nam film a lot of the time too. Harrowing, brilliant, essential and very important
13
Hunger (2009,  Unrated)
Hunger
Slightly disgusting tale of prison protests. While the middle reel is good, the discussion between Don and a priest, the film as a whole didn't do much for me. I had trouble feeling sympathy for the prisoners as they seemed to be protesting petty stuff from my stand point, and in the worst possible ways for themselves. Obviously the guards and cops were complete bastards but it takes more than that to give me proper empathy for their cause...
14
Journey to the Center of the Earth (2008,  Unrated)
Journey to the Center of the Earth
The cool dad from My Two Dads and a bunch of hot girls in a very dodgy B movie rip off designed to cash in on a big budget version of the same story? Nice!

Greg Evigan reminds me of Bruce Boxleitner in this, and he's the best thing about the movie. Dedee Pfieffer sounds like she's on speed or something, half the plot is a rip off of The Core and there's HUGE amounts of technobabble that means nothing. Add in some dodgy special effects, though I've seen worse, and you've got a modern B movie. But I was entertained so it's not all bad
15
30 Days of Night (2007,  R)
30 Days of Night
I haven't read the source material but from what I've heard it's better than this. Which wouldn't be hard. Could have used some more set up, and should have been a tense character piece. The vampires were rediculously animalistic and their dialogue was atrocious. Just very meh. Has a few moments though
16
Black Snake Moan (2007,  R)
Black Snake Moan
Damned fine film. Christina Ricci and Sam Jackson turn in A game performances of a couple of tortured characters trying who fix each other. To an extent. Even Timberlake turns in a good game in this one. And the music is fantastic.
17
Kung Fu Panda (2008,  PG)
Kung Fu Panda
Great stuff. Felt a lot like a 70's Jackie Chan Kung Fu comedy in tone, had some great action and good voice acting (that's my business so I know what I'm talking about). The animation was also very beautiful. Entertaining for all ages.
18
Man on Wire (2008,  PG-13)
Man on Wire
A good documentary about a pretty remarkable feat, but I never really felt invested in the tale. I couldn't get as excited as the players about a wire walk really. The guy has some charisma though, and its quite an achievement. Also their planning phase has some sinister connotations after what happened 27 years later, that might just be me though
19
Bolt (2008,  PG)
Bolt
essentially a twisted remake of The Incredible Journey story, with a deluded dog, a damamged cat and an insane hamster. Has plenty of laughs, the cat ISN'T just a bad guy for once and the transition for talking hamster to squeeks cracked me up. One for the family, though the kids might get a bit antsy 80 or so minutes in. I know it choked me up!
20
Frozen River (2008,  R)
Frozen River
While it's nice to see a story set on the US's other border, this tale is pretty dull and packed with half assed performances. The lead is fine, everyone else isn't. Nothing special really
21
Encounters at the End of the World (2007,  G)
Encounters at the End of the World
Great stuff. Covering the wonderfully and weird people, things and environment of our most mysterious continent. And the choral score is haunting and very fitting. Well worth a look, although it's kind of like Planet Earth's strange cousin.
22
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008,  PG-13)
23
Doubt (2008,  PG-13)
Doubt
a very tricky subject handles perhaps a little too delicately as I could have done with a bit less ambiguity. BUT does include some great sparing between Hoffman and Streep so is worth a look for at least that.
24
The Visitor (2008,  PG-13)
The Visitor
Essentially a mid life crisis/immigrant character piece with not so subtle political commentary. Nothing special, but not bad either
25
Wanted (2008,  R)
Wanted
Very good action movie, but not quite great. A bit too over produced, particularly the final big action sequence which could have been up there with The Matrix and The Crow. Also, it's a bit too similar to Spider-man in structure. But a sequel to this could be a truly epic action movie if handled properly
26
In Bruges (2008,  R)
In Bruges
A very quick witted, but very dark film. The laughs are fast in coming, but so are the serious and sad moments. Great performances by all, the Farrell appears to be playing Dougal from Father Dead a lot of the time. First time I've liked Fiennes in ages though. Well worth a look
27
The Duchess (2008,  PG-13)
28
Rachel Getting Married (2008,  R)
Rachel Getting Married
A great character piece, with a stunning performance by Anne Hathaway. Not easy stuff at times, but very real. You'll both love and hate half the characters
29
Revolutionary Road (2008,  R)
Revolutionary Road
Harsh, brutal and not an easy watch. Very well acted though. Probably a more honest film about life in the 50's than most, though on the bad side of that. Tough stuff
30
The Wrestler (2008,  R)
The Wrestler
Great character piece with some brilliant performances. I wonder what some of the Wrestlers I used to watch are up to now...
31
Slumdog Millionaire (2008,  R)
Slumdog Millionaire
Brilliantly structered and well acted through out, with a thumping soundtrack. Great, harsh story intercut with the game show works very well. Deserves all the acclaim it's been getting
32
Frost/Nixon (2008,  R)
Frost/Nixon
Very powerful performances by Langella and Sheen. I never thought I'd feel sympathy for Nixon! Strong supporting cast as well. Has made me want to hunt out the original interviews (won't take much hunting as they're on DVD). Brilliant stuff
33
The Reader (2008,  R)
34
Defiance (2009,  R)
Defiance
Robin Hood set in world war II. Except it's a true story. However, I'm willing to bet that both myths also have some glossing in common. I expected to not like this, not a big Craig fan generally, but it's was very good. Glad to see Alexa Davalos in something too as she's a very good actress who doesn't get enough work.

I love the cliche and predictable comments. It's a true bloody story! That said I had the same complaints about Pursuit of Happyness...
35
Changeling (2008,  R)
Changeling
Pretty good movie that never fully sucked me in really. Surprised that the LAPD have been a cess pool for so long, not sure the current situation but they're not exactly short of controversy in modern times. Worth a look, but like I said didn't wow me.
36
Wake Up, Ron Burgundy: The Lost Movie (2004,  Unrated)
Wake Up, Ron Burgundy: The Lost Movie
Better than a movie made up of extra footage and a cut plot should be, but no where near as funny as the original. It does have its moments though, but could have used more Brick.
37
The Bucket List (2007,  PG-13)
38
A Mighty Heart (2007,  R)
A Mighty Heart
well acted recreation of a very small slice of the war on terror. Much respect for Marianne not giving in to the bastards
39
Speed Racer (2008,  PG)
Speed Racer
Extremely stylised movie, contained no real surprises whatsoever and its so bright I need a retina transplant. But damn it entertained the hell out of me. Never seen the original cartoon, but it was a hell of a two hours. Go Speed Racer, Go!
40
Jaws (1975,  PG)
Jaws
Well I should have seen this a long time ago, but I've finally seen the original Blockbuster. This Spielberg kid might go far, he's pretty good at shooting movies. Also, I want to be Quint when I grow up. Y'all know me. Know how I earn a livin. Sharkin!
41
The Hidden (1987,  R)
The Hidden
Dodgy 80's sci-fi B-movie, but you do get to see Ivanova from B5 wearing not much so its not all bad. Ending is a pile of arse. Nothing brilliant, but there's worse from the same era
42
Hancock (2008,  PG-13)
Hancock
Interesting take on the superhero genre, and they stay consistent to their own rules. Odd riffs on the themes of classic hero movies, and shots from them (Superman and Spider-Man are there is you listen as well as watch) are a nice touch. Will Smith knows how to do a good popcorn movie
43
Meet Dave (2008,  PG)
Meet Dave
Like many modern comedies, this one was one draft short. Has some great moments, but the rediculously gay guy, some of the toilet humour and a few un-needed scenes kill this. And the ending could be written on a napkin, in 10 minutes, and probably was. Could have been a return to form for Murphy, but ended up being the usual recent dissapointment
44
Babylon A.D. (2008,  PG-13)
Babylon A.D.
B-movie crap fest. Never really finds its feet plot or script wise, but has some decent action sequences. Smells like a late Arny flick that was reworked when he became governator...
45
The X-Files: I Want to Believe (The X Files 2) (2008,  PG-13)
The X-Files: I Want to Believe (The X Files 2)
I wanted to believe, but they should have come up with something actually truly weird for this instead of some messed up science experiments from 40 years ago (read Elephants on Acid) and a tacked on psychic priest. not terrible, but not great.
46
Sicko (2007,  PG-13)
Sicko
I live in the UK, so after watching this I feel very lucky. I don't have a dentist, but even private doesn't cost THAT much. It's dispicable that US Doctors take the hypocratic oath and still takke part in such a messed up system. He's hoping Obama fixes this mess
47
Futurama: Bender's Game (2008,  Unrated)
48
Lost Boys 2: The Tribe (2008,  R)
Lost Boys 2: The Tribe
Better than I expected but rips off too many elements of the original and doesn't have enough vamps for a truly great final act. Stick around about 30 seconds in to the credits though as I'd love this to become a trilogy
49
American Graffiti (1973,  PG)
American Graffiti
I still prefer it's 70's counterpart, Dazed and Confused, but American Graffiti is a great character piece. Bit of a slow burn to start with but the second hour picks it up. Dreyfuss really shines in this, with Paul Le Mat a close second
50
Zombie Strippers (2008,  R)
Zombie Strippers
Surprisingly smart script (though sometimes not as smart as it thinks) and good performances. There's a big dead spot between about 10 and 30 minutes, and a couple of dud scenes, but besides that I really enjoyed this. Best performance I've seen out of Englund in a while and it really doesn't take itself seriously.
51
Starship Troopers: Marauder (2008,  Unrated)
Starship Troopers: Marauder
Better than the second one, but it's like a bad two parter of a not great sci-fi show. This universe is a rich playground, but you have to play right. If they make a fourth a hope its a bunch of Mech action as that could kick ass. Better script, more tounge in cheek, and some better supporting cast and they'll do fine.
52
Bill Bailey: Tinselworm (2008,  Unrated)
53
Rocky (1976,  PG)
54
Futurama: Into the Wild Green Yonder (2009,  Unrated)
Futurama: Into the Wild Green Yonder
a fitting ending. Although its not an ending cause the show is coming back. And I'm glad of that
55
First Blood (Rambo: First Blood) (1982,  R)
First Blood (Rambo: First Blood)
extermely well crafted action movie, with a very good performance by Stallone
56
Get Smart (2008,  PG-13)
Get Smart
Great stuff. I have half remembered fond memories of the series so was looking forward to this. Max should probably have been a bit more incompetent but no major complaints. Hoping in a sequel there'll be more of Pat Warburton's robo agent, and maybe some more Bill Murray
57
Shoot 'Em Up (2007,  R)
Shoot 'Em Up
Crazy assed action film where they seem to have said "what can be done with some guns?" then did it. Very creative action wise, but some of the dialogue is rediculous. Worth a look for a laugh
58
My Name Is Bruce (2007,  R)
My Name Is Bruce
I'd heard bad things, and having read the comic I was willing to believe them but this is a very enjoyable movie. Doesn't take itself too seriously and Bruce does his usual great job. Might just be one for the fans, and Ted Raimi's rediculously stereotyped characters are a bit much, but if you love a bit of chin and a bit of Troma you should love this
59
Mutant Chronicles (2008,  R)
Mutant Chronicles
Sarts off as a kind of steam punky world war I movie (someone has to make one of those now as that was rather awesome) then becomes a kind of sci fi fantasy overblown epic. Decent stuff, but not great and kinda drags. Liked, didn't love
60
The Royal Tenenbaums (2001,  R)
61
The Foot Fist Way (2006,  R)
62
Bangkok Dangerous (2008,  R)
Bangkok Dangerous
For some reason Nic Cage looks like he's in a Bill Hicks bio pic, and the last act is lifted from a Seagal movie (bar the end). But Bangkok looks beautiful, and the deaf girl is lovely. The film has a strong middle, but Cage hams it up at the start and its too stylized towards the end. Worth a look though and might have been better with a different lead
63
Kamikaze Girls (2004,  Unrated)
Kamikaze Girls
This is about 70% embroidery so I probably shouldn't like it, and if it was made in the west I no doubt wouldn't. But this is a quirky, crazy comedy film about an odd couple friendship. And needlework. But that's fine.
64
Dead Space: Downfall (2008,  Unrated)
65
The Godfather, Part II (1974,  R)
66
Death Proof (Grindhouse Presents) (2007,  R)
67
Lost in La Mancha (2003,  R)
Lost in La Mancha
If your in the biz you'll totally get this. I'm an actor but I've AD'd before, and didn't have to deal with anything near this bad. Those French producers should be shot as they were extra cooks. And I live 10 miles from a nato range. Jets have ruined more voice recording sessions than I can count. This would have been a brilliant movie and I really feel sorry for Jean in the end as he probably feels guilty for something that he couldn't control. Could luck with the next try Terry!
68
Planet Terror (Grindhouse Presents: Robert Rodriguez's Planet Terror) (2007,  R)
69
No Country for Old Men (2007,  R)
70
Anaconda 4: Trail of Blood (Anacondas: Trail of Blood) (2009,  R)
Anaconda 4: Trail of Blood (Anacondas: Trail of Blood)
They just keep making these huh? Horrendous CGI, porn level acting and impossible to understand accents. Best watched if you riff in your head. Or not watched. Both would probably work.
71
Underworld: The Rise of the Lycans (2009,  R)
Underworld: The Rise of the Lycans
In this prequal to The Queen, Tony Blair is a slave werewo......wait. Never mind. This film is let down by Bill Nighy's mugging, Rhona Mitra's pouting and some dodgy werewolf effects. That said the wolf bit ARE pretty damned good, its a shame the Vampire's let it down...
72
Journey to the Center of the Earth (1959,  G)
73
JCVD (Van Dammage) (2008,  R)
JCVD (Van Dammage)
Many people might be surprised at JC's acting chops. I'm not as I've recognised his skill as an actor before. Nice to see a relatively quiet role, but some damned good action too

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