This season sucks for new shows. I dropped No Ordinary Family, it was very ordinary. Only tow new shoes made it to my list, the ass kicking shows, Hawaii Five 0, and Nikita.
Everything else has been BORING and bad.
Of my old shoes...Chuck should be done this season and Parenthood may not make it through the season.
Still enjoying Modern Family and Cougar Town, and also Community. 30 Rock has improved over last season. Any of those "old shows" I would still miss. Fringe has also been quite good this season.
But overall, the season blows on network.
Mad Men finished its fourth season, and it is still just mind blowing. The enigma that is Don Draper continues to impress, and John Hamm is great in the role. As usual, an impressive season, and the show will be missed...A LOT!
Friday, October 22, 2010
More Mini Movie Reviews
Cirque de Freak: The Vampire's Assistant- 2009
Definitely a movie based on a tween book series. Not that it is all bad, actually somewhat interesting...but if they had been able to adult it up, it would have been much better. 3 of 5 stars.
Obsessed- 2009
Critics did not like this erotic thriller, but I liked it. Beyonce kicks some serious white slut ass as a wife whose husband is hit on by a Fatal Attraction type. She takes matters into her own hands eventually. Ali Larter is great as the conniving slut, and it is a fun, escapist movie. 4 of 5.
American Gun- 2002
This movie is a thoughtful piece on the life of a gun, who were the owners, how it travelled. the ultimate destination remains a surprise to the end, though you think you know. James Coburn is very good in one of his last roles. 4 out of 5 stars.
Amistad- 1997
Hard to believe I had never seen this Steven Spielberg directed historical saga. The journey of the shit, The Amistad, a slaver, is disputed all the way to the Supreme Court, with ex-president John Quincey Adams arguing the case. Great cast with Anthony Hopkins as Adams, and Morgan Freeman in a great role as an ex-slave. Not as good as Schindler's List, but very good. 5 of 5 stars.
The Secret in Their Eyes-2010
The winner of best foreign film these past Oscars, this is a fantastic Argentinian movie. Part detective story, a few parts love story, with a bit of film noir thrown in, it is really a enjoyable piece of film viewing. The two leads are perfect, and the ending is a bit unexpected, but almost inevitable. Really really good movie. Highly recommended! 5 of 5.
Definitely a movie based on a tween book series. Not that it is all bad, actually somewhat interesting...but if they had been able to adult it up, it would have been much better. 3 of 5 stars.
Obsessed- 2009
Critics did not like this erotic thriller, but I liked it. Beyonce kicks some serious white slut ass as a wife whose husband is hit on by a Fatal Attraction type. She takes matters into her own hands eventually. Ali Larter is great as the conniving slut, and it is a fun, escapist movie. 4 of 5.
American Gun- 2002
This movie is a thoughtful piece on the life of a gun, who were the owners, how it travelled. the ultimate destination remains a surprise to the end, though you think you know. James Coburn is very good in one of his last roles. 4 out of 5 stars.
Amistad- 1997
Hard to believe I had never seen this Steven Spielberg directed historical saga. The journey of the shit, The Amistad, a slaver, is disputed all the way to the Supreme Court, with ex-president John Quincey Adams arguing the case. Great cast with Anthony Hopkins as Adams, and Morgan Freeman in a great role as an ex-slave. Not as good as Schindler's List, but very good. 5 of 5 stars.
The Secret in Their Eyes-2010
The winner of best foreign film these past Oscars, this is a fantastic Argentinian movie. Part detective story, a few parts love story, with a bit of film noir thrown in, it is really a enjoyable piece of film viewing. The two leads are perfect, and the ending is a bit unexpected, but almost inevitable. Really really good movie. Highly recommended! 5 of 5.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
5 Mini Movie Reviews
So close to being caught up!
2012- 2009
This movie reminded me of those old disaster movies of the week that used to be around--The Towering Inferno, the Posieden Adventure, Airport. this was ALL those old movies rolled into one! LOL! And it weasn't bad, but for spending so damn much money making it, it wasn't good either. Still, a somewhat fun distraction. 3.5 out of 5.
Passengers- 2008
A like Anne Hathaway quite a bit, but even she can't save this movie...she saves it from being a total stinker though. The plot is something along the lines of "I see dead people," and is apparent early on, andjust plods the rest of the way, trying to convince you it is clever. 2.5 of 5, and that is because of Hathaway.
Drag Me to Hell- 2009
A friend of mine loves horror movies and thinks this is a great B movie. It is a B movie, but I was not as enamored of it. While at time suspenseful, it also was at times pretty dumb. 3 of 5.
Savior- 1998
This movie starts off a bit slow, but pays off big time as it gets rolling. Dennis Quaid stars as a military liason who loses his wife and kid in a terrorist bombing and joins the French Foreign Legion. He starts regaining his ideals and humanity when he saves a pregnant Serbian woman from being killed. Their journey together is moving and dangerous. 4 of 5.
Seraphine- 2008
I can't recommend this fabulous movie enough. The true story of an artist who spent most of her life as a working drudge, cleaning lady, washing woman etc., while finding time to still make her own paints, and then do spectacular work. The movie grows and grows on you, and it is really quite special. 5 of 5 for this French film.
2012- 2009
This movie reminded me of those old disaster movies of the week that used to be around--The Towering Inferno, the Posieden Adventure, Airport. this was ALL those old movies rolled into one! LOL! And it weasn't bad, but for spending so damn much money making it, it wasn't good either. Still, a somewhat fun distraction. 3.5 out of 5.
Passengers- 2008
A like Anne Hathaway quite a bit, but even she can't save this movie...she saves it from being a total stinker though. The plot is something along the lines of "I see dead people," and is apparent early on, andjust plods the rest of the way, trying to convince you it is clever. 2.5 of 5, and that is because of Hathaway.
Drag Me to Hell- 2009
A friend of mine loves horror movies and thinks this is a great B movie. It is a B movie, but I was not as enamored of it. While at time suspenseful, it also was at times pretty dumb. 3 of 5.
Savior- 1998
This movie starts off a bit slow, but pays off big time as it gets rolling. Dennis Quaid stars as a military liason who loses his wife and kid in a terrorist bombing and joins the French Foreign Legion. He starts regaining his ideals and humanity when he saves a pregnant Serbian woman from being killed. Their journey together is moving and dangerous. 4 of 5.
Seraphine- 2008
I can't recommend this fabulous movie enough. The true story of an artist who spent most of her life as a working drudge, cleaning lady, washing woman etc., while finding time to still make her own paints, and then do spectacular work. The movie grows and grows on you, and it is really quite special. 5 of 5 for this French film.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
More Minis
Beyond Rangoon- 1994
Despite Patricia Arquette's acting being a bit stilted, this was still a good movie because of the subject matter. Arquette plays an American woman caught in Burma during a political crackdown on protests, a Burma that has no free press and no way to tell the story of the brutality of the regime. Her escape to Thailand along with many Burmese in fear of their lives is harrowing and compelling. 4 of 5 stars.
Ajami- 2009
This nominee for best foreign film is quite good. Telling a few stories of the lives of Palestinians, and the confusing arragnements they must make to try to live a normal life---arrangements with family heads, tribal leaders, other clans, neighborhood gangs and the overriding presence of Israel, the story can be confusing. But that goes hand in hand with the confusion many of the characters feel. 4 of 5 stars.
Last Holiday-2006
It is not a great film, but very humorous, and I tell you, Queen Latifah has old movie star charm. She can bring it! It shines from her. She makes this film better than pedestrian. 4 out of 5 stars.
Underworld: Evolution- 2006
This is a terrible film...how Kate Beckinsale got caught in this dog, I don't know. The acting? Bad. The lines? Bad. the plot? Terrible. The special effects? Laughable. 1 star out of 5...and barely that.
Firewall- 2006
Ehhhh...very so-so. Really, Harrison Ford has to give up the action hero gig. It is just becoming ludicrous. The story was barely passable, but the acting was OK. Skip it unless you have run out of other options. 3 of 5.
Despite Patricia Arquette's acting being a bit stilted, this was still a good movie because of the subject matter. Arquette plays an American woman caught in Burma during a political crackdown on protests, a Burma that has no free press and no way to tell the story of the brutality of the regime. Her escape to Thailand along with many Burmese in fear of their lives is harrowing and compelling. 4 of 5 stars.
Ajami- 2009
This nominee for best foreign film is quite good. Telling a few stories of the lives of Palestinians, and the confusing arragnements they must make to try to live a normal life---arrangements with family heads, tribal leaders, other clans, neighborhood gangs and the overriding presence of Israel, the story can be confusing. But that goes hand in hand with the confusion many of the characters feel. 4 of 5 stars.
Last Holiday-2006
It is not a great film, but very humorous, and I tell you, Queen Latifah has old movie star charm. She can bring it! It shines from her. She makes this film better than pedestrian. 4 out of 5 stars.
Underworld: Evolution- 2006
This is a terrible film...how Kate Beckinsale got caught in this dog, I don't know. The acting? Bad. The lines? Bad. the plot? Terrible. The special effects? Laughable. 1 star out of 5...and barely that.
Firewall- 2006
Ehhhh...very so-so. Really, Harrison Ford has to give up the action hero gig. It is just becoming ludicrous. The story was barely passable, but the acting was OK. Skip it unless you have run out of other options. 3 of 5.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Movies- More Mini Reviews
Catching Up---
A Prophet- 2009
A Prophet is a good movie, nominated for best foreign film at the Oscars, but it took me awhile to get into it and figure out who everyone was. After that it caught on. But patience is needed. 4 of 5
The African Queen- 1951
A film by the legendary John Huston, this movie, a classic remains such in its BluRay release. Bogie is in a great role here, and Hepburn is the symbol for strong women before the age of women's lib. The film is a classic for a good reason, it is just great! I has seen parts of the film before, seeing the whole thing, just not at once. It was great seeing it all as one piece. 5 of 5 easily.
Night of the Iguana- 1964
Another just terrific John Huston film. Starring Richard Burton and Ava Gardner and set on a peninsula off Puerto Vallarta, this film is funny, and the acting is stellar. Burton is a defrocked minister leading a religious tour group in Mexico. As he comes to the end of his line he pulls the bus into an inn run by an old friend, Gardner. And the fireworks begin! 5 of 5, again, easily!
Winter Passing- 2006
This is an odd film, where everything does not quite work, but what does work, works really well. A daughter comes home to her hermit-like author father (can you say JD Salinger) trying to get his hidden works published for some quick cash. But he has some other agendas in mind, and new friends who now occupy his house. Strange but pretty good 3.5 of of 5.
Prime-2005
This film was marketed as more of a comedy, but it turns pretty damn serious and so it is unexpected. It is good, but not great. As usual Meryl is great, but the plot, of a shrink whose patient starts going out with her son, is not strong. Uma is Uma!!! 3.5 out of 5.
A Prophet- 2009
A Prophet is a good movie, nominated for best foreign film at the Oscars, but it took me awhile to get into it and figure out who everyone was. After that it caught on. But patience is needed. 4 of 5
The African Queen- 1951
A film by the legendary John Huston, this movie, a classic remains such in its BluRay release. Bogie is in a great role here, and Hepburn is the symbol for strong women before the age of women's lib. The film is a classic for a good reason, it is just great! I has seen parts of the film before, seeing the whole thing, just not at once. It was great seeing it all as one piece. 5 of 5 easily.
Night of the Iguana- 1964
Another just terrific John Huston film. Starring Richard Burton and Ava Gardner and set on a peninsula off Puerto Vallarta, this film is funny, and the acting is stellar. Burton is a defrocked minister leading a religious tour group in Mexico. As he comes to the end of his line he pulls the bus into an inn run by an old friend, Gardner. And the fireworks begin! 5 of 5, again, easily!
Winter Passing- 2006
This is an odd film, where everything does not quite work, but what does work, works really well. A daughter comes home to her hermit-like author father (can you say JD Salinger) trying to get his hidden works published for some quick cash. But he has some other agendas in mind, and new friends who now occupy his house. Strange but pretty good 3.5 of of 5.
Prime-2005
This film was marketed as more of a comedy, but it turns pretty damn serious and so it is unexpected. It is good, but not great. As usual Meryl is great, but the plot, of a shrink whose patient starts going out with her son, is not strong. Uma is Uma!!! 3.5 out of 5.
Movies- More Mini Reviews
It's Complicated- 2009
While there are many things I liked about It's Complicated, I did not like that the characters had no insight into themselves, or each other. I did like that it showed somewhat older people with passion! That is refreshing from the young and perfect in much of Hollywood. And it was funny. But I could not help thinking, "C'mon, how is she falling for that?!?!" 4 of 5 stars.
The Producers- 2005
Felt a little too much like the play at some points, meaning that in screen it was a bit stilted. BUT, the stars are fabulous, who woulda know Matthew Broderick was quite such a song and dance man. And UMA! Va va VOOOOOM! Despite the play like tendencies, still a fun evening watching this musical. 4 of 5.
The Merchant of Venice- 2004
Al Pacino as Shylock?? Whoever came up with that casting should be knighted. He was a PERFECT Shylock! And he plays the role with his heart. This movie was a great take on the Bard's classic play, and I ended up feeling like Shylock was the hero, and the others were assho*&s. 4 of 5 stars.
The Invention of Lying- 2009
I think Ricky Gervais is just out and out funny. And this movie, which he also directed, is a great vehicle for him. Set in a world where there are no untruths, everybody says what they are thinking, you realize how nice filters are. Some great lines, including Jennifer Garner, as she answers the door for their date, as she chides him for being early. She says, "I was just masturbating." His response, "That makes me think of your vagina." I was rolling! Me too Ricky! LMAO! 4.5 of 5 stars.
The Informant!- 2009
This movie was just lame. Matt Damon played it as well as he could, but the whole plot was just uninteresting. I could barely keep watching it. 1.5 out of 5.
While there are many things I liked about It's Complicated, I did not like that the characters had no insight into themselves, or each other. I did like that it showed somewhat older people with passion! That is refreshing from the young and perfect in much of Hollywood. And it was funny. But I could not help thinking, "C'mon, how is she falling for that?!?!" 4 of 5 stars.
The Producers- 2005
Felt a little too much like the play at some points, meaning that in screen it was a bit stilted. BUT, the stars are fabulous, who woulda know Matthew Broderick was quite such a song and dance man. And UMA! Va va VOOOOOM! Despite the play like tendencies, still a fun evening watching this musical. 4 of 5.
The Merchant of Venice- 2004
Al Pacino as Shylock?? Whoever came up with that casting should be knighted. He was a PERFECT Shylock! And he plays the role with his heart. This movie was a great take on the Bard's classic play, and I ended up feeling like Shylock was the hero, and the others were assho*&s. 4 of 5 stars.
The Invention of Lying- 2009
I think Ricky Gervais is just out and out funny. And this movie, which he also directed, is a great vehicle for him. Set in a world where there are no untruths, everybody says what they are thinking, you realize how nice filters are. Some great lines, including Jennifer Garner, as she answers the door for their date, as she chides him for being early. She says, "I was just masturbating." His response, "That makes me think of your vagina." I was rolling! Me too Ricky! LMAO! 4.5 of 5 stars.
The Informant!- 2009
This movie was just lame. Matt Damon played it as well as he could, but the whole plot was just uninteresting. I could barely keep watching it. 1.5 out of 5.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Movies- Minis
More minis---starting to catch up!
Che- 2008
I have heard it was a labor of love for Benicio del Toro, and Che needs to be because it is long, with the second half feeling longer than the first. The first are of his Cuban exploits, and the second, his acts in Bolivia trying to overthrow that government. While both are good, and make excellent companion pieces, if you only have time for one, take the first. 4 of 5 stars.
Cyber Wars- 2006
Unwatchable...terrible, could not watch the whole thing. 1 out of 5.
Pandorum- 2009
It is not a bad sci-fi/horror film, but it wasn't great either. Finding themselves the only ones around as they come out of suspended animation, two astronauts have to discover how their ship has been taken over by aliens. 3 out of 5.
The White Countess- 2005
There are a lot of faults you can find with The White Countess, but if you just let it sweep you along, it works. The acting of the late Natasha Richardson and Ralph Fiennes help this film get through some bad plotting. A historical, romantic saga that gets to the heart. 4 out of 5.
Date Night- 2010
You know the pairing of Steve Carrell and Tina Fey could either be very good, or turn very bad. Luckily it turned very good in this very funny, and surprisingly endearing comedy. As a married couple who are trying to make time for each other, the movie lets both shine in their own peculiar way. 5 out of 5 stars.
Che- 2008
I have heard it was a labor of love for Benicio del Toro, and Che needs to be because it is long, with the second half feeling longer than the first. The first are of his Cuban exploits, and the second, his acts in Bolivia trying to overthrow that government. While both are good, and make excellent companion pieces, if you only have time for one, take the first. 4 of 5 stars.
Cyber Wars- 2006
Unwatchable...terrible, could not watch the whole thing. 1 out of 5.
Pandorum- 2009
It is not a bad sci-fi/horror film, but it wasn't great either. Finding themselves the only ones around as they come out of suspended animation, two astronauts have to discover how their ship has been taken over by aliens. 3 out of 5.
The White Countess- 2005
There are a lot of faults you can find with The White Countess, but if you just let it sweep you along, it works. The acting of the late Natasha Richardson and Ralph Fiennes help this film get through some bad plotting. A historical, romantic saga that gets to the heart. 4 out of 5.
Date Night- 2010
You know the pairing of Steve Carrell and Tina Fey could either be very good, or turn very bad. Luckily it turned very good in this very funny, and surprisingly endearing comedy. As a married couple who are trying to make time for each other, the movie lets both shine in their own peculiar way. 5 out of 5 stars.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Movies- Minis
Amelia- 2009
A biopic of Amelia Earhart, the movie is pretty tepid. I think Hilary Swank is pretty good, but the script left a lot to be desired, including some fire...all in all it plays it too safe, unlike Earhart herself. 3 of 5 stars.
Chloe-2009
An erotic thriller, this one was pretty good and pretty steamy (and I mean that in a good way!). Julianne Moore thinks her hubby (Liam Neeson) is cheating so hires a call girl to "test" him and his loyalty to their marriage. What ensues is deceit, but where those lies originate is the question. 4 of 5.
Little Fish- 2006
I love Kate Blanchett, and she of course was good in her role as an ex-junkie trying to turn her life around. But the rest of the acting fell way behind, and the script itself could not keep up with the star. 3 out of 5.
A Single Man- 2009
The movie received several, well-deserved Oscar nominations. Colin Firth is his best here, and Julianne Moore is top of the line too. Firth is a man dejected by the death of his lover, and though he puts on a good outward appearance, he is dying inside. Touching and very moving, the film is not dreary, and sometimes very funny. 4 of 5.
Nixon- 1995
Another Oliver Stone mega-size film of a politician. But Nixon has always been an intrigue and a cypher...balancing between brilliance and abject darkness. And while Anthony Hopkins does not imitate Nixon, somehow he captures so much of that essence that it is scary. Brilliant delving into the mind of a paranoid man. It is the stuff of literature, the fatal flaw that does in a powerful man. 5 of 5.
Spread- 2009
This Ashton Kutcher starring vehicle turned out to be pretty good. Erotic, he plays a man who uses his sexuality with women to get a nice lifestyle...he has nothing if not for that. But what happens when that goes away. Anne Heche is also hot as the cougar who takes him in. STEAMY! 4 of 5
A biopic of Amelia Earhart, the movie is pretty tepid. I think Hilary Swank is pretty good, but the script left a lot to be desired, including some fire...all in all it plays it too safe, unlike Earhart herself. 3 of 5 stars.
Chloe-2009
An erotic thriller, this one was pretty good and pretty steamy (and I mean that in a good way!). Julianne Moore thinks her hubby (Liam Neeson) is cheating so hires a call girl to "test" him and his loyalty to their marriage. What ensues is deceit, but where those lies originate is the question. 4 of 5.
Little Fish- 2006
I love Kate Blanchett, and she of course was good in her role as an ex-junkie trying to turn her life around. But the rest of the acting fell way behind, and the script itself could not keep up with the star. 3 out of 5.
A Single Man- 2009
The movie received several, well-deserved Oscar nominations. Colin Firth is his best here, and Julianne Moore is top of the line too. Firth is a man dejected by the death of his lover, and though he puts on a good outward appearance, he is dying inside. Touching and very moving, the film is not dreary, and sometimes very funny. 4 of 5.
Nixon- 1995
Another Oliver Stone mega-size film of a politician. But Nixon has always been an intrigue and a cypher...balancing between brilliance and abject darkness. And while Anthony Hopkins does not imitate Nixon, somehow he captures so much of that essence that it is scary. Brilliant delving into the mind of a paranoid man. It is the stuff of literature, the fatal flaw that does in a powerful man. 5 of 5.
Spread- 2009
This Ashton Kutcher starring vehicle turned out to be pretty good. Erotic, he plays a man who uses his sexuality with women to get a nice lifestyle...he has nothing if not for that. But what happens when that goes away. Anne Heche is also hot as the cougar who takes him in. STEAMY! 4 of 5
Movies- More Mini Movie Reviews
The White Ribbon- 2009
A nominee for best foreign film, The White Ribbon is a film about power and fear. But sometimes it is too subtle for its own good, and needed to be a bit more forthcoming sooner in the movie. 4 of 5 stars.
Body of Lies- 2008
Really good cast, with Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe, the movie feels like a "been there done that" sorta thing. Nothing really original here, and sometimes goes a bit far on the believability front. If you are going to be gritty, you have to have some basis in believability. 3 of 5.
Bee Season- 2005
What a dud! Richard Gere plays a total crap head father who does so much harm to his kids while thinking himself this loving, supportive man...it is just a bad movie over all, I got sick of him and it. 2 of 5.
JFK: Special Edition- 1991
I had never seen this movie from Oliver Stone and had wanted to. The special edition made it even longer, but it was worth the ride. While I don't know if I believe Stone's version of the events, I certainly do not believe the Mitchell Report either. A load of crap that they hoped all would buy. Kevin Costner is excellent in this intriguing and thoughtful film. 4 of 5 stars.
The Girlfriend Experience- 2009
Shot in about 2 weeks with a measly $2 million budget, this is an pretty good movie. Very explicit, starring real life porn star Sasha Grey (and she does an excellent job) as a high class call girl, it is an exploration of sex, love and how it is hard to keep the two apart always. 4 stars out of 5.
A nominee for best foreign film, The White Ribbon is a film about power and fear. But sometimes it is too subtle for its own good, and needed to be a bit more forthcoming sooner in the movie. 4 of 5 stars.
Body of Lies- 2008
Really good cast, with Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe, the movie feels like a "been there done that" sorta thing. Nothing really original here, and sometimes goes a bit far on the believability front. If you are going to be gritty, you have to have some basis in believability. 3 of 5.
Bee Season- 2005
What a dud! Richard Gere plays a total crap head father who does so much harm to his kids while thinking himself this loving, supportive man...it is just a bad movie over all, I got sick of him and it. 2 of 5.
JFK: Special Edition- 1991
I had never seen this movie from Oliver Stone and had wanted to. The special edition made it even longer, but it was worth the ride. While I don't know if I believe Stone's version of the events, I certainly do not believe the Mitchell Report either. A load of crap that they hoped all would buy. Kevin Costner is excellent in this intriguing and thoughtful film. 4 of 5 stars.
The Girlfriend Experience- 2009
Shot in about 2 weeks with a measly $2 million budget, this is an pretty good movie. Very explicit, starring real life porn star Sasha Grey (and she does an excellent job) as a high class call girl, it is an exploration of sex, love and how it is hard to keep the two apart always. 4 stars out of 5.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Movies- More Movie Minis
The Godfather Part III- 1990
The worst of the Godfather trilogy...but that is not too damning. Because the worst of the Godfather is still a great movie. Some people complained about Sofia Coppola, but seeing it again, I thought she was fine. Some people complained about the pope subplot. Again, it worked for me. 4.5 of 5.
I Love You, Man- 2009
This is a funny movie about a guy who is getting married, but realizes he has no close male friends to be in his wedding party. So he goes searching for a best friend. Paul Rudd is very funny here. 4 out of 5.
Burma VJ- 2008
Nominated for best documentary, this film focuses on the people who report, illegally, on the activities of repression inside of Burma. They are not objective, but they are telling the truth. The repression of the dictatorial state is horrible. And that these brave people still try to tell it is a testament to the need for a free press.
Waiting...- 2005
A tepid comedy about the food service industry, particularly the chain restaurant business. Though you can see that Ryan Reynolds is a budding star, the movie is so-so. 3 of 5 stars.
Incendiary- 2008
An unexpected film for me...I thought it would be more mainstream, but it feels VERY indie. MIchelle Williams is very good as a woman who lost her husband and son in a terrorist attack while she was having an affair. The emotional toll is strong. 4 of 5 stars.
The worst of the Godfather trilogy...but that is not too damning. Because the worst of the Godfather is still a great movie. Some people complained about Sofia Coppola, but seeing it again, I thought she was fine. Some people complained about the pope subplot. Again, it worked for me. 4.5 of 5.
I Love You, Man- 2009
This is a funny movie about a guy who is getting married, but realizes he has no close male friends to be in his wedding party. So he goes searching for a best friend. Paul Rudd is very funny here. 4 out of 5.
Burma VJ- 2008
Nominated for best documentary, this film focuses on the people who report, illegally, on the activities of repression inside of Burma. They are not objective, but they are telling the truth. The repression of the dictatorial state is horrible. And that these brave people still try to tell it is a testament to the need for a free press.
Waiting...- 2005
A tepid comedy about the food service industry, particularly the chain restaurant business. Though you can see that Ryan Reynolds is a budding star, the movie is so-so. 3 of 5 stars.
Incendiary- 2008
An unexpected film for me...I thought it would be more mainstream, but it feels VERY indie. MIchelle Williams is very good as a woman who lost her husband and son in a terrorist attack while she was having an affair. The emotional toll is strong. 4 of 5 stars.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Movies- More Minis
Two Lovers- 2008
A good but somewhat quirky drama about a man who is trying to decide between two women who are opposites...one offers a safe and secure alternative, the other a wild ride. Joaquin Phoenix and Gwyneth Paltrow star in the film. 4 of 5 stars.
Invictus- 2009
Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela...you cannot lose with that casting, now can you? Invictus is a really good movie about South Africa trying to heal the huge wounds caused by apartheid, and how their rugby team was part of that healing process. Freeman and Matt Damon both received Oscar noms for their roles here. 4.5 star out of 5.
The Godfather, Part II- 1974
The best of the trilogy and easily one of the top 20 films ever made. With De Niro playing a young Victor Corleone juxtaposed against the current story of Al Pacino's Michael Corleone taking over the family business, the movie is so good, it seems perfect!
It won best picture, best director and best actor for De Niro. All of which are richly deserved. Perhaps Pacino's best, most nuanced role. 5 of 5 stars. Dammit...6 of 5 stars!!!!
Easy Virtue-2008
I thought I would like this light-hearted romp through stuffy British nobles. But what starts as farce becomes drama, with no buffer. The film just devolves as a result. 2.5 stars out of 5.
The Last Station- 2009
The film is about Tolstoy's last year of life, and the strife that his belief system causes with his wife. Acting greats Christopher Plummer and Helen Mirren star as the Tolstoys, and James McAvoy is Tolstoy's assistant who sees nobility in both of them. 4 of 5 stars.
A good but somewhat quirky drama about a man who is trying to decide between two women who are opposites...one offers a safe and secure alternative, the other a wild ride. Joaquin Phoenix and Gwyneth Paltrow star in the film. 4 of 5 stars.
Invictus- 2009
Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela...you cannot lose with that casting, now can you? Invictus is a really good movie about South Africa trying to heal the huge wounds caused by apartheid, and how their rugby team was part of that healing process. Freeman and Matt Damon both received Oscar noms for their roles here. 4.5 star out of 5.
The Godfather, Part II- 1974
The best of the trilogy and easily one of the top 20 films ever made. With De Niro playing a young Victor Corleone juxtaposed against the current story of Al Pacino's Michael Corleone taking over the family business, the movie is so good, it seems perfect!
It won best picture, best director and best actor for De Niro. All of which are richly deserved. Perhaps Pacino's best, most nuanced role. 5 of 5 stars. Dammit...6 of 5 stars!!!!
Easy Virtue-2008
I thought I would like this light-hearted romp through stuffy British nobles. But what starts as farce becomes drama, with no buffer. The film just devolves as a result. 2.5 stars out of 5.
The Last Station- 2009
The film is about Tolstoy's last year of life, and the strife that his belief system causes with his wife. Acting greats Christopher Plummer and Helen Mirren star as the Tolstoys, and James McAvoy is Tolstoy's assistant who sees nobility in both of them. 4 of 5 stars.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Movies- Even More Mini Reviews
I told you all I was behind on these!
Cinema Paradiso- 1988
I had always heard of this classic, but never had seen it....Now I know why it is spoken of with such reverence. Beautiful, touching, funny, heart warming, heart breaking, and simply wonderful. It is one of the best films I have seen. It is about a young boy who befriends a cinema projectionist, but really, it is about life. 5 of 5.
Everything is Illuminated- 2005
A bit strange, and strangely touching. A movie about how the past forms the present. Starring Elijah Wood in a very un-hobbit like role. 4 of 5 stars.
Sherlock Holmes- 2009
I am one who actually really liked this re-imagining of the Sherlock Holmes legend...and the bringing in of the darker parts of the Holmes stories...such as he was a drug addict. And hell, anything with Robert Downey Jr. in it automatically gets another star...he is that good! 4 of 5.
Paradise Now- 2005
While it does not try to justify suicide bombers, it does try to explain the process by which young men become these weapons of fundimentalism. Following two young men who are going to become bombers, the movie treads a fine line...but it works and gives thoughtful people pause. 4 of 5 stars.
The Godfather- 1972
Damn...I had forgotten how good this movie was! Brando was perfect. Pacino? Forget about it! Wow. No wonder it won the Oscar for best film. One of the best pieces of film making ever! 5 of 5. Wish I could give it more! Re-watch if you haven't seen it for a long time! GREAT movie!
Cinema Paradiso- 1988
I had always heard of this classic, but never had seen it....Now I know why it is spoken of with such reverence. Beautiful, touching, funny, heart warming, heart breaking, and simply wonderful. It is one of the best films I have seen. It is about a young boy who befriends a cinema projectionist, but really, it is about life. 5 of 5.
Everything is Illuminated- 2005
A bit strange, and strangely touching. A movie about how the past forms the present. Starring Elijah Wood in a very un-hobbit like role. 4 of 5 stars.
Sherlock Holmes- 2009
I am one who actually really liked this re-imagining of the Sherlock Holmes legend...and the bringing in of the darker parts of the Holmes stories...such as he was a drug addict. And hell, anything with Robert Downey Jr. in it automatically gets another star...he is that good! 4 of 5.
Paradise Now- 2005
While it does not try to justify suicide bombers, it does try to explain the process by which young men become these weapons of fundimentalism. Following two young men who are going to become bombers, the movie treads a fine line...but it works and gives thoughtful people pause. 4 of 5 stars.
The Godfather- 1972
Damn...I had forgotten how good this movie was! Brando was perfect. Pacino? Forget about it! Wow. No wonder it won the Oscar for best film. One of the best pieces of film making ever! 5 of 5. Wish I could give it more! Re-watch if you haven't seen it for a long time! GREAT movie!
Movies- More Mini Reviews
Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story- 2005
I'm not easily a sucker for these types of movies, kids and horses don't usually do it for me. But this one is really damn good, partially because of Dakota Fanning, who delivers just a terrific performance. Backing her up are Kurt Russell. Elizabeth Shue and Kris Kristoffersson, who act their hearts out in this flick. This is a terrific movie. 5 of 5 stars.
The Color Purple- 1985
I had not seen this since it first came out in theaters in 1985, and I wanted to see how it had aged. It is has aged pretty damn well. One of the first big films by then little knows Steven Spielberg, you can see him not quite as adept as he later became. But this one hits you right in the solar plexus emotionally, and it remains a film icon. Great performances by Whoopi and Oprah. 5 of 5 stars.
In the Mix- 2005
A vehicle to show start power to the singer Usher, this movie is pretty ordinary. Though he has appeal, the plot is poor, and the rest of the actors don't do a great job. Usher should stick to singing I think. 3 of 5.
Buffalo Boy- 2004
I usually really like this type of foreign film, about a young man in Vietnam trying to save his buffalo from the floods and ends up on a journey that is formative. But this one seemed to lack emotional resonance and dragged. 3 of 5 stars.
Weeds: Season 5- 2009
The show has gotten pretty bizarre, and though still entertaining, it is getting darker and darker. The season finale, though, blew my mind! Not sure where they go from here, but I hope it may lighten up just a bit. 4 of 5 stars.
I'm not easily a sucker for these types of movies, kids and horses don't usually do it for me. But this one is really damn good, partially because of Dakota Fanning, who delivers just a terrific performance. Backing her up are Kurt Russell. Elizabeth Shue and Kris Kristoffersson, who act their hearts out in this flick. This is a terrific movie. 5 of 5 stars.
The Color Purple- 1985
I had not seen this since it first came out in theaters in 1985, and I wanted to see how it had aged. It is has aged pretty damn well. One of the first big films by then little knows Steven Spielberg, you can see him not quite as adept as he later became. But this one hits you right in the solar plexus emotionally, and it remains a film icon. Great performances by Whoopi and Oprah. 5 of 5 stars.
In the Mix- 2005
A vehicle to show start power to the singer Usher, this movie is pretty ordinary. Though he has appeal, the plot is poor, and the rest of the actors don't do a great job. Usher should stick to singing I think. 3 of 5.
Buffalo Boy- 2004
I usually really like this type of foreign film, about a young man in Vietnam trying to save his buffalo from the floods and ends up on a journey that is formative. But this one seemed to lack emotional resonance and dragged. 3 of 5 stars.
Weeds: Season 5- 2009
The show has gotten pretty bizarre, and though still entertaining, it is getting darker and darker. The season finale, though, blew my mind! Not sure where they go from here, but I hope it may lighten up just a bit. 4 of 5 stars.
Movies- Mini Reviews
A few more minis:
Nine-2009
This may have been a great play, but it just did not translate well to the screen. They tried, especially with the all star cast, or which Penelope Cruz (sigh) was nominated for best supporting actress, but no emotion came through, no empathy. It felt empty.
3 of 5 stars.
The Messenger-2009
A moving story of two service men who have the job of telling families that their loved one died while in service to their country. The bond that grows between the two is touching as is the job they must do. Woody Harrelson was nominated for best supporting actor for his role, and though he did not win, he really was fantastic. 4 of 5 stars.
Network-1976
I had not seen this film since I took a film class at Mesa in the early 80s! Still entertaining, and still prophetic of what was to come, especially of how corporations take over coercive elements and make them part of the corporate structure. Also prophetic about how media would become entertainment. Still love the "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!" scenes. 4 of 5 stars.
Extract-2009
Starring Ben Affleck and Jason Bateman, this little comedy was funny and fairly well done. It did not get much play in the media, but Bateman always seems to deliver. 4 of 5 stars.
Game 6- 2005
It tries...it really does...it tries to be meaningful and insightful, and to use baseball as a metaphor for life...but it just is depressing. You want to shake some of these people, especially star Michael Keaton and wake them up...or at least score some anti-depressants for them! 3 of 5.
Nine-2009
This may have been a great play, but it just did not translate well to the screen. They tried, especially with the all star cast, or which Penelope Cruz (sigh) was nominated for best supporting actress, but no emotion came through, no empathy. It felt empty.
3 of 5 stars.
The Messenger-2009
A moving story of two service men who have the job of telling families that their loved one died while in service to their country. The bond that grows between the two is touching as is the job they must do. Woody Harrelson was nominated for best supporting actor for his role, and though he did not win, he really was fantastic. 4 of 5 stars.
Network-1976
I had not seen this film since I took a film class at Mesa in the early 80s! Still entertaining, and still prophetic of what was to come, especially of how corporations take over coercive elements and make them part of the corporate structure. Also prophetic about how media would become entertainment. Still love the "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!" scenes. 4 of 5 stars.
Extract-2009
Starring Ben Affleck and Jason Bateman, this little comedy was funny and fairly well done. It did not get much play in the media, but Bateman always seems to deliver. 4 of 5 stars.
Game 6- 2005
It tries...it really does...it tries to be meaningful and insightful, and to use baseball as a metaphor for life...but it just is depressing. You want to shake some of these people, especially star Michael Keaton and wake them up...or at least score some anti-depressants for them! 3 of 5.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Movie- Mini Reviews
More minis:
A Serious Man- 2009
A very different movie for the Coen brothers, this movie was really odd, about a man who longed to be good, serious and a decent person, but keeps being stymied. Very odd, but in a strange way, satisfying. Nominated for best picture and did not win. 4 of 5 stars.
King Kong- 2005
This was the movie that made my friend Sharon think I should be Jack Black for Halloween! LOL! Big, boisterous, this Peter Jackson remake of the classic story was not as bad as critics said. Should have been a bit shorter though...longer is not always better Mr. Jackson! (That's what she said!) 4 out of 5 stars.
House of Wax- 2005
Seriously, I don't know why I put this in my queue. Maybe to see just how bad Paris Hilton is---this schlock horror movie lives down to its reputation. Short on scares and even shorter on acting. Not even good for Halloween. 2 out of 5 stars.
Avatar- 2009
Holy crap what an amazing movie! I don't understand that people said it did not have a storyline. Must have seen a different movie than me! And the visuals...WOW WOW and WOW!!! Nominated for best picture among other, it did not win. Maybe he should have won best director though. 5 out of 5 stars!
9- 2009
This animated feature, co-produced by Tim Burton is a dystopian nightmare of a future, with humans eliminated from Earth, but our own doing. Really good animation and story. 4 of 5 stars.
Crazy Heart- 2009
Jeff Bridges totally deserved to win best actor here, and I am glad he did. That the song writers made these new songs seem like tried and true classics is a tribute to them and the creators of the film. Excellent movie. Excellent performance by Bridges. 5 of 5 stars!
A Serious Man- 2009
A very different movie for the Coen brothers, this movie was really odd, about a man who longed to be good, serious and a decent person, but keeps being stymied. Very odd, but in a strange way, satisfying. Nominated for best picture and did not win. 4 of 5 stars.
King Kong- 2005
This was the movie that made my friend Sharon think I should be Jack Black for Halloween! LOL! Big, boisterous, this Peter Jackson remake of the classic story was not as bad as critics said. Should have been a bit shorter though...longer is not always better Mr. Jackson! (That's what she said!) 4 out of 5 stars.
House of Wax- 2005
Seriously, I don't know why I put this in my queue. Maybe to see just how bad Paris Hilton is---this schlock horror movie lives down to its reputation. Short on scares and even shorter on acting. Not even good for Halloween. 2 out of 5 stars.
Avatar- 2009
Holy crap what an amazing movie! I don't understand that people said it did not have a storyline. Must have seen a different movie than me! And the visuals...WOW WOW and WOW!!! Nominated for best picture among other, it did not win. Maybe he should have won best director though. 5 out of 5 stars!
9- 2009
This animated feature, co-produced by Tim Burton is a dystopian nightmare of a future, with humans eliminated from Earth, but our own doing. Really good animation and story. 4 of 5 stars.
Crazy Heart- 2009
Jeff Bridges totally deserved to win best actor here, and I am glad he did. That the song writers made these new songs seem like tried and true classics is a tribute to them and the creators of the film. Excellent movie. Excellent performance by Bridges. 5 of 5 stars!
Movies- Several Mini Reviews
I am WAY behind on my movie reviews, so I will do several ultra mini reviews and see how far I get:
The Lovely Bones-2009
Hard book to make into a movie-but they did a credible job. Stanley Tucci was nominated for best supporting actor, and though creepy, did not deserve a win, and he did not get it. 4 stars out of 5.
Public Enemies- 2009
Johnny Depp did a excellent John Dillinger, and the movie did a nice job showing the changing culture in America, that at first idolized the outlaws, but then demonized them. 4 stars out of 5.
Get Rich or Die Tryin'- 2005
A showcase for 50 Cent, the movie is mediocre at best. Take a pass. 2.5 stars out of 5.
Sugar- 2008
Very good baseball movie, and also good in broader sense of showing how immigrants can get too caught up in the American dream, and without a good balance, don't always see the down side of it. 4 out of 5 stars.
Serenity-2005
The follow up to the fantastic Firefly series, this movie delivered for fans of the show. Don't know if general viewers would enjoy it as much, but I did! 5 stars!
The Lovely Bones-2009
Hard book to make into a movie-but they did a credible job. Stanley Tucci was nominated for best supporting actor, and though creepy, did not deserve a win, and he did not get it. 4 stars out of 5.
Public Enemies- 2009
Johnny Depp did a excellent John Dillinger, and the movie did a nice job showing the changing culture in America, that at first idolized the outlaws, but then demonized them. 4 stars out of 5.
Get Rich or Die Tryin'- 2005
A showcase for 50 Cent, the movie is mediocre at best. Take a pass. 2.5 stars out of 5.
Sugar- 2008
Very good baseball movie, and also good in broader sense of showing how immigrants can get too caught up in the American dream, and without a good balance, don't always see the down side of it. 4 out of 5 stars.
Serenity-2005
The follow up to the fantastic Firefly series, this movie delivered for fans of the show. Don't know if general viewers would enjoy it as much, but I did! 5 stars!
Monday, October 4, 2010
New TV Season- Update, Undercovers
Another week and another BORING episode of Undercovers! And after two episode I am dropping the new series. Despite a very attractive cast, great settings and really good production values...it still is a yawn-fest, so it is gone.
So far I have only picked up two shows, Hawaii Five-0 and Nikita, with the jury still being out on No Ordinary Family (though I am leaning no). That is not very many shows, way under my norm.
A returning show having terrible ratings is Parenthood, and I feel like it may be dropped if it continues to flounder.
So far I have only picked up two shows, Hawaii Five-0 and Nikita, with the jury still being out on No Ordinary Family (though I am leaning no). That is not very many shows, way under my norm.
A returning show having terrible ratings is Parenthood, and I feel like it may be dropped if it continues to flounder.
Friday, October 1, 2010
New TV Season- No Ordinary Family
No Ordinary Family debuted this week on ABC, and it could be a pretty good show. It has a Heroes touch to it, but much lighter and not as sinister. The premise is that this ordinary family, husband, wife and two kids go on a vacation and their small plane goes down in a storm. They crash into this lake, that is eerily green. When they get back home they each discover they have enhanced abilities...strength, speed, telepathy and computer like brain.
What keeps this from being just like Heroes is the family aspect of it. The show tries to keep the family relationships and turmoils on par with the super hero stuff. It is a really fine balance, and I don't know if they can keep it up. But I am willing to go along for a few episodes and find out before I make a decision.
BTW- Running Wilde is now off my viewing list. Second episode did not make me laugh at all, just a few smiles. There is too much other stuff on to keep it.
What keeps this from being just like Heroes is the family aspect of it. The show tries to keep the family relationships and turmoils on par with the super hero stuff. It is a really fine balance, and I don't know if they can keep it up. But I am willing to go along for a few episodes and find out before I make a decision.
BTW- Running Wilde is now off my viewing list. Second episode did not make me laugh at all, just a few smiles. There is too much other stuff on to keep it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
