| Movie | Rating | Review | Date | Your Rating | Match | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angels & Demons - PG-13 | This movie fits into a class of extremely average movies. Sure it's fun and a good date movie but what do I learn? Whenever I asked people whether or not they would see this film I frequently received the answer, "Well I haven't seen the first one." The first one being "The Da-Vinci Code." I would often respond with the fact that there is no correlation between the movies except that Tom Hanks plays Prof. Langdon in both films. This is partly true. I just realized, right before I began writing, that there is very little character development in this movie and the reason I was unaffected was because I'd seen it's predecessor. If you simply watched this film without viewing "The Da-Vinci Code" then you would have no idea of who Hanks' character really is (not that I'm saying TDVC is a great movie or anything - because it isn't). So with that being said I barely give this film three stars. Yes, I was very entertained and like the thrilling aspect of the film but this movie brings only an amusing aspect to its viewers. You will walk away from this film unmoved, unconvinced and simply pleased. The best way I can describe this film is: if you liked "The Da-Vinci Code", if you love Tom Hanks or you just like average movies then watch this film. Replay Value: 2 | June 5, 2009 | N/A | |||
| You Don't Mess with the Zohan - PG-13 | The extra half star comes from the fact that Adam Sandler doesn't suck in this film. Despite the dozens of penis jokes, terrorism jokes and stereotypes I did laugh a couple of times. If you like him, you'll like this film. If you're like me and don't like him you MIGHT be surprised but in reality, it's not worth it. Replay Value: 2 | June 1, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Cheung Gong 7 hou (CJ7) (Long River 7) - PG | So Stephen Chow is a pretty famous director and when I heard about "CJ7" I figured why not? While I can say I was not disappointed I can also say that I was unimpressed. This is an Asian comedy that follows Dicky, a poor elementary school boy with a new present. The present is an alien called CJ7. The story is classic and the acting is pretty good even for asian children but it's just so, so weird. The humor is hilarious because it's random and out of control, the plot is fine and some characters are memorable. If you've enjoyed Chow's other films then I'd say you can't miss this one. If you don't really like Chinese humor then skip over it quickly. If you don't know - watch it only to see the fat kids fight and Jiao Xu's expressions. Replay Value: 2 | June 1, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Star Trek - PG-13 | I'm giving this movie the extra half star because there is an in-production sequel and this movie has set the bar VERY high for the franchise. I can agree with the review that said, "This is not your father's 'Star Trek.'" Abandon all you know of Spock and Kirk and hold on tight for an original prequel that is lightyears ahead it's predecessors. The plot follows the enrollment and early career of James Kirk and his galactic mishaps. His rogue personality quickly crashes with the existing force but in the process of maturity we learn how most of the famous members of the Starship Enterprise came to be. The sound editing is omnipresent and the score is appropriate. The cinematography is great and the casting is pristine (Leonard Nimoy makes an appearance). I can't wait for more of this one of the 2011 sequel. You will not be disappointed in this movie I guarantee it. Replay Value: 4. | June 1, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Happy-Go-Lucky - R | My biggest draw to this film was that it's British and Sally Hawkins is in it. There is little plot to this film but it's story is as real as life itself. It follows Poppy (Hawkins) as an elementary school teacher learning to drive. She's a free spirit, open minded and sweet and no one could have been better casted. The characters are people we've all encountered and the movie makes our average events captivating. The cinematography is mentionable and everything else technical is solid. It's worth seeing if you like dramadies. Replay Value: 3 | June 1, 2009 | N/A | |||
| How to Lose Friends & Alienate People - R | I readily wanted to see this movie for one reason: Simon Pegg (Hot Fuzz, Shaun Of The Dead). The flick follows a British writer in New York trying to win friends, the eye of a woman and a promotion. Pegg's character is classic for the actor and the rest of the individuals are well casted for the appropriate role. The camera work is fine and the dialogue is that same ole' British humour. There is nothing technical that takes away from the film by any stretch... it's just not what you expect from a story by Simon Pegg. I mean, his humor surpasses my own... usually. I thought that the jokes were predictable but nearly as much as the story and character reactions. That which makes "Shaun Of The Dead" and "Hot Fuzz" so brilliant is their British zanity and chaotic hilarity. This film left me with an extremely average taste in my mouth. There was nothing bad about it BUT there was nothing good. Sure it had it's funny parts and it probably deserves more than 3 stars but I suppose my expectations were up so high that it let me down. If you haven't heard of Pegg then start with this movie and watch the others. My bet is that you won't be as disappointed in it as I. Replay Value: 3 | May 25, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Miracle at St. Anna - R | Let me first start out by saying that I respect Spike Lee while I do not always agree or understand his reasoning. That being said this movie was very average for such a famous director. The acting was great, even despite all the racial undertones. It's shot very well, it provokes thought, is scary at times and is an interesting take on racism and war. The film follows the Buffalo Soldiers in WWII - an all black brigade. Specifically it focuses on 4 soldiers who are on a mission in Italy. There is plenty of suspense and character development which leads the viewer to expect a concluding ending. The plot is well developed up until it's climax in which holes and loops become evident. There is no solid conclusion and every final element is an assumption. Sure the cinematography and sound are great and technically speaking this movie is solid. From a story stand point there is much to be desired. Enjoy this if you can but I wouldn't necessarily suggest it. Replay Value: 3 | May 17, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Paranoid Park - R | This film follows the story of a young boys involvement in a Portland murder. His skater attitude and age make him the perfect candidate for a coming-of-age film. We can tell his intelligence is superior of the stereotype and his willingness of morals is more mature than his appearance. I think we all see a little of ourselves in Gabe Nevins' performance. The story is solid, the plot is dependable and the characters are very real. What really makes this films shine is it's cinematography and editing. I would dare say that half of this movie takes place behind the character's emotions and appearances and into their form of living. There are several shots when the story is progressing, we are learning about the characters and then, all of the sudden, we are at a 6 minute slow motion shot of a skateboarder. The musik behind said shots is perfect. The movement is fluidly expert. The scenes are what makes this movie more than a film - it makes this film and artistic form of life. If you appreciate film - see this film. The average movie goer should stay away though. | May 14, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Sex and the City - R | This movie is exactly what it wanted to be. It incorporated every aspect that makes the show appealing. The characters are true and the story is typically pleasing. Even if you do not enjoy the show you will still find this love story of sister like comradery amusing - as long as you are a female. The story follows the strengthening relationships of the girls as they all reach climactic moments in their lives. It's exactly what Sex And The City is, but 2 hours long. Sure it's bearable but unless you are a die hard fan, you can miss it. | May 14, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Baghead - R | This movie quite possible made me doubt the reasoning behind its existence. It's not funny. It's not scary. The characters are predictable and uninteresting. The plot is somewhat intriguing as four friends decide to get away and write a movie at a cabin. The cabin is cozy and secluded and as the sexual tension rises their story develops more and more until eventually they decide to make a movie about a bag headed monster. It is mundanely boring from beginning to end and is not worth any sort of recognition. Avoid at all costs. | May 14, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Planet B-Boy - Unrated | This is an inspirational documentary that captures the very soul of the B-Boy (Beat Boy) scene. The concept is to film the greatest breakdancing crews in their aspirations to win "Battle Of The Year." This contest hosts multiple countries and is a representation of each nation's hip hop culture. The cinematography is great, the characters are real, the story is captivating, the moves are un-freaking-believable. This movie is one for any fan of dance or for anyone willing to learn about the experience. I'd easily watch it again. Replay Value: 4 | May 9, 2009 | N/A | |||
| JCVD (Van Dammage) - R | This movie attached itself to life. JCVD is somewhat of a cheese ball in my book. Never really made anything groundbreaking and always played the same action role. Naturally when I heard a movie was going to be made about the man JCVD in an dramedy style I was all over the idea. The movie follows Jean-Claud Van Damme's search for money in a custody battle. In his attempt to get the cash transferred he ends up stumbling into a robbery. While the public thinks he is behind it all, JCVD is simply trying to win his daughter. The plot is intriguing but mostly because of the esteemed editing job. This really is one of the best edited films I've seen in a while. It keeps the interest, it tells the story fully while leaving room for questions. The characters a typical - except for JCVD. His role takes on several throughout the flick. He's the action star, he's the dad, he's an average hostage, he's a star, he's the real JCVD in a monologue, he's great. It's a great movie if you're looking for a drama. There are some movies that you "have to get movies" to like. This is one of them. Not for the average theater hopper but definitely a must see for all critics. Replay Value: 3.5 | May 9, 2009 | N/A | |||
| X-Men Origins - Wolverine - PG-13 | So let's make a movie with no bounds and then make it exactly what you expect it to be. There is little known about Wolverine's existence, let alone his "Origin" so Gavin Hood had PLENTY of room to work with here. Sure you can blame the writers for wanting to please the crowd and not dig deeper, the producers for not stepping in, or even Hugh Jackman for being willing to make many of the same jokes and one liner's we've heard before but in the end my finger points to you Mr. Hood. Yes, this movie is a solid action film. If you know anything about action movies than you know every action movie ever made. The twists are expected, the plot is static and the characters are semi-accurately portrayed. The best part about this film was the editing. My oh my was that done well. The first 5 minutes of the movie (yes, while the credits were still rolling) were the best part of the movie. The green screen is extremely prevalent and obvious, the effects are slightly above marginal and the movie, overall, is a "hit." This means only that yes - you will enjoy it and guys will want to be super heroes even more. Will you be affected? No. If you're looking for entertainment - here it is. | May 9, 2009 | N/A | |||
| The Matrix Revolutions - R | May 5, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Earth (Disneynature's Earth) (Planet Earth) - G | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Fighting - PG-13 | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Notorious - R | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Ace Ventura Jr.: Pet Detective - PG | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Observe and Report - R | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Crank 2: High Voltage - R | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Hannah Montana: The Movie - G | So it's friday night and it's my girlfriend's turn to pick the movie. Last time I ever let her do that. We saw this. Well, she saw this, I starred at the back of the seat in front of me in order to try to distract myself. It's a lame story with an even worse plot. The music is chalk-awful, the "silly running with the cute music" scenes are childish and a mockery of the audience and the acting is par if not below. The dialogue is typical, the shots are easy and the sound is basic. This movie literally has nothing special about it. It's not worth seeing unless you like Hannah Montana. Yet, the probability of someone who likes Hannah Montana to read movie reviews is very low. Don't see it. | April 24, 2009 | N/A | |||
| State of Play - PG-13 | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| The Soloist - PG-13 | April 24, 2009 | N/A | ||||
| Ghost Town - PG-13 |
Dr. Pincus (Gervais) momentarily dies in a standard procedure. This happening allows him to communicate with remaining ghosts; ghosts who have unattended business. This selfish man must learn the ultimate lesson or suffer the penalties. Gervais' acting is hilariously exact. Everyone in the film is exactly who they need to be. The precise dialogue, the witty British humor and the story all add up to a hilariously entertaining flick that had me guffawing and crying through and through. It is a great film and I cannot wait to watch it again. If you like British comedy (Gervais, Pegg, etc.) then you can't afford to miss this one. Replay Value: 4 |
April 22, 2009 | N/A | |||
| Rachel Getting Married - R | I can agree with my colleague Brian Miele on this film: "It accomplished exactly what it wanted to. It was simple and real. I felt like it was the best representation of a father's love in cinema I may have ever seen." Sure, that's all very true and I love that aspect of it but that in no way makes it an entertaining film. Yeah, if you want a indie flick that will make you know you're alive then watch this movie. If you want a good date movie or a family film, steer clear. This is the perfect indie film though. Low budget, surprisingly phenomenal acting and captivating characters all within a striking story and plot. But it's just that, a low budget indie film; it can be beaten. The extra half star come from knowing that without a DOUBT Anne Hathaway delivers one of the best performances of the year. I love the repetition of the band and realness of this film though. "I felt like it was someone's home movies" - Zak. Yes, and that's awesome. The epitome of downfall. | April 18, 2009 | N/A |
1855 ratings
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