Derek A (DerekA101)

Harrowing, realistic story about something supernatural that is disturbing a young couple at their suburban home in the early hours of the morning. Another hand held camera film that follows in the cult success of films such as The Blair Witch Project, REC, and Cloverfield. The "realism" of these types of films leaves the viewer with an overwhelming sense of creepiness because it's eerily realistic. Paranormal Activity is no different.

This film is sure to divide moviegoers, but if watched in a dark room late at night, it's is undoubtedly chilling! Director Oren Peli does an excellent job conjuring up some truly chilling and creepy moments. This is one of those films that hindered my sleep the night after I watched it. Paranormal Activity was made for next to nothing and has made tons of money based off a good word of mouth reputation and a very effective marketing campaign... so in that sense, the film is immensely successful.

In a year that was lacking in good horror flicks, Paranormal Activity is easily the scariest movie of 2009.

It should also be noted that the alternate ending on the DVD is MUCH better than the theatrical ending. Check it out if you get the opportunity.

Another story about a group of young people in search of love. This time around, He's Just Not That Into You is from the best-selling, Oprah featured book noted as a self-improvement handbook that helps people identify the cliches in relationships. Initially, the idea seems trite and rehashed... but surprisingly, this film is effective. I found it to be realistic, relatable, and enjoyable.

The story is told through several different story lines that are intertwined and serves as an effective narration that helps maintain interest. There's no ground-breaking performances here, but most of this all star cast did excellent jobs. I especially enjoyed the performance by the lesser known of these stars: Ginnifer Goodwin, who's character was silly but infectious. And, I'm sorry, but it's hard to take Justin Long seriously as a relationship guru. Regardless, this film is enjoyable for guys and is pretty damn accurate. Not a bad watch at all.

Christopher Nolan continues the new dark Batman saga with one of the best all around movies I have ever seen. Everything about this movie was flawless: acting, directing, music, cinematography, camera angles, everything. Nolan perfectly blended light hearted humor with suspense and action. It scared you, may have even traumatized some... it toyed with your emotions, made you question your morals. This movie made you think! I have never, and probably will never, see a comic book movie that brought so much character emotions to the forefront as the Dark Knight did.

Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker makes me forget all about the iconic Jack Nicholson version. It's no contest really... Ledger's portrayal is probably my all time favorite movie character. He literally stole every scene he was in... he was crazy!

Overshadowed by Ledger was a brilliant performance by Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent aka Two Face. Christian Bale and the others did a great job, but Eckhart and Ledger really stole the show.

I can't say enough good things about this movie, it's one you have to see for yourself.

Gladiator is an epic, action-packed spectacle from the very first scene to the last.

It's visually stunning, and it's one of the most memorable movies of all time. The acting was top notch, with exceptionally strong performances by Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix. The heart-wrenching plot was amazing, and served to move and thrill the audience. The cinematography is great, and even the score was perfect. This film was more than deserving of the Best Picture Oscar of 2000.

The story is inspiring, and the protagonist Maximus (Crowe) is someone everyone can idolize. The opening scene is one of the best of all time. The epic battle scenes are well shot, and still hold high merits even against today's technology. The fight scenes in the Coliseum were breath-taking as well.

When the popular Gladiator reveals himself to the young Emperor and says:

"My My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, General of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next.''

This is one of the most moving, inspirational scenes/quotes in cinema. It was perfect.