For those of you who don't live in the L.A. area, it really is a big deal around here. I had to laugh when I was new here a few years ago and the evening news signed off by wishing me a happy Oscar Weekend. Melissa and I decided to really get into it this year and we've filled out our Oscar picks. Move over March Madness.
I thought it would be fitting for tonight's blog post to review the movies I've seen lately. I'm actually a little behind and have 19 movies to do, so to keep it interesting I'm restricting all my reviews to 10 words. That should be enough to let you know how I felt about each film. If you'd like me to elaborate just say the word!
It is worth noting, in true Oscar fashion, that I am wearing a "VF Imagewear" Philadelphia Eagles t-shirt and a pair of "Finish Line Athletics 365" basketball shorts. This outfit was really a fabulous choice for me.
Ladies and Gentlemen, my reviews:
Australia
Well done but too long. Would be better as miniseries.
Serenity
Good movie, better TV show. Watch "Firefly" for free here.
Wanted (edited)
Like a superhero movie but not. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Valkerie
Like watching favorite team lose close one to bitter rivals.
Traitor
FBI vs. Terrorists from terrorist point of view. Really good.
Tropic Thunder (edited)
Offensive and wrong but I couldn't stop laughing. Nicely done.
Burn After Reading (edited)
Disappointment. Expected more from such big names. Wasn't very funny.
I am Legend
Will make you jump. Can't go wrong with Will Smith.
The X-files: I want to believe
Wondering if it was this crappy when I was younger.
Swimfan
Free on hulu. Better than expected. Thought of better ending.
Max Payne
Don't give up. Gets really good after a certain point.
Ghost Town
Funny Dentist movie I would recommend to just about anybody.
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist
I must be old. Asking where parents were. Darn kids.
Lars and the Real Girl
Really weird. Melissa shared my thoughts on her blog here.
Beverly Hills Chihuahua
Dogs wear people clothes. Glad I fell asleep on plane.
Taken
Holy cow, this movie was freaking awesome! Intense and violent.
Lakeview Terrace
Like "Meet the Parents" but drama, not comedy. Somewhat irritating.
Smokejumper
Laughed so hard, but not supposed to be funny. Fail.
Henry Poole is Here
Redbox description was wrong. Made boring and stupid movie confusing.
Benji's Blog Movie Review Archive
Showing posts with label movie reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label movie reviews. Show all posts
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Thursday, October 2, 2008
A bunch of movie reviews
It's been a while since I've reviewed movies, but here's what I've seen lately. Just to save you some reading, here's the summary. Do see: Baby Mama, Leatherheads, and Run Fatboy Run. Don't see: Never Back Down, Prom Night, and Jeepers Creepers. Maybe see: Hancock, The Mummy 3, Hunt for Red October, The Eye, The Abyss, and 10,000 BC. Here's the details:
Never Back Down
Meh. I didn't really like this because the whole time I was watching it I kept thinking "I hope this isn't what teenagers are really like now." I guess that means I'm old. The problem was that this movie glorifies the somewhat new practice of fighting and then posting the footage online. I'm not really sure who this movie was meant for - kids shouldn't be watching it but adults probably wouldn't enjoy it. If you want a real fighting movie see Fight Club (edited version, of course) or just watch UFC - it's real and it's more entertaining.
Recommendation: Obviously I had issues with the movie as a whole, but it was entertaining enough that I wasn't bored or anything. I'd keep this in mind as a plan B or C (or D).
Hancock
I liked this show but have to point out that there were lots of swears in it. Probably the most you can put into a PG-13 movie, so that wasn't cool. It was interesting and less predictable than your typical Super-Hero movie. I would put this in the same boat as "Friday Night Lights" and "The Kingdom" as far as the overall feel of the movie, probably because they were all directed by Peter Berg.
Recommendation: I liked it but again, there's a lot of swears so don't let the kids see it, unless of course you want your kids swearing - in which case, go for it.
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
When I was a freshman in college, my astronomy teacher (who frequently strayed from the topic of astronomy) introduced me to the concept of a "popcorn movie". A popcorn movie is one you don't take seriously, but you just enjoy with popcorn. The first mummy movie was what he used as an example. I found the Mummy III to be every bit as much a popcorn movie. There were some super cheesy lines but that's what you should expect from this type of movie - it wouldn't be the same without them.
Recommendation: Used the first two Mummy movies to gauge how you'll like it, otherwise, see it with low expectations.
Hunt for Red October
Blast from the past! I remember this movie being on at my house when I was a kid but all I got from it was the desire to never ever be on a submarine. Interesting thing - I had just finished playing the video game Splinter Cell, which was also written by Tom Clancy, and I could totally see the writer's style coming through in similarities I noticed.
Recommendation: I really enjoyed it. If you haven't seen it in the past decade, maybe it's worth a re-visit.
Jeepers Creepers
The kid who always says "Hi I'm a Mac" is driving home from college with his sister and they cross paths with a monster who chases them. He freaks out a lot and people don't believe him and in the end lots of people die but I think he's ok. I just saved you a couple of hours. This movie was lame and the only reason I watched it is that I was bored on a Saturday afternoon (this was before football season) and it was on TV. Eventually I found something better to do - that's why I said I think he was ok in the end. I didn't actually finish the movie.
Recommendation: Not only will you not enjoy this movie, the annoying "Jeepers Creepers" song will be stuck in your head for 2 days, and you'll be reminded of the time you wasted.
The Eye
I have a personal interest in a concept this movie explains: cellular memory. It's the idea that cells in the body (other than the brain) can store information such as memories, habits, tastes, interests, etc. There isn't any credible science to support the theory but I'm sure you've all heard the urban legend of someone receiving an anonymous organ and suddenly having a desire to smoke or something like that.
As many of you know, I had a bone graft in my left knee a few years ago from an anonymous organ donor. If there is such a thing as cellular memory, then whoever's knee I got was pretty awesome because when I woke up from surgery I couldn't stop thinking about how awesome I was. In fact I still can't. AWESOME!
Back to the movie- it was a psychological thriller from the same mold as The Ring and The Grudge. It was well done, kept me on edge, and made me jump once (but no screaming).
Recommendation: If you're into scary movies, this is a good clean one you shouldn't miss.
Prom Night
Kind of disturbing. It wasn't really scary and won't really make you jump, but people get killed. I didn't really like it.
Recommendation: I can't imagine who would enjoy this movie.
The Abyss
Another old submarine movie! This one was interesting but it seemed really really long. I've got to be honest, I'm still not done with it because I had to go to bed and haven't gotten back to it, but I feel like I'm almost done. If the ending drastically changes my opinion I'll let you know.
Recommendation: If you're going to see one old submarine movie this year, make it The Hunt for Red October. If you already saw that one and want more old submarine movies, this would be a good #2.
10,000 BC
I haven't heard anyone say anything good about this movie but thought to myself, "aw, what the heck, there's nothing else in the Redbox this week." Here's something good - it inspired my staycation hairstyle. I copied the look of the character known as One-Eye played by Marco Kahn. Otherwise, I think I went into this movie with such low expectations that I liked it. I should admit that I fell asleep watching it twice so it took three days to finish.
Recommendation: It's bad, but it's not that bad.Baby Mama
I've never seen anything with Tina Fey or Amy Poehler that didn't really make me laugh. This movie rocked.
Recommendation: Everybody see it.
Leatherheads
This movie was awesome! John Krasinski did awesome, George Cloony was great, and Renee Zelleger didn't totally annoy me - what more could I ask for? I think the reason this was such a good movie is because of all the different elements that went into it. It integrated romance, sports, comedy, and history. It's like Oh Brother Where art Thou meets Rudy meets Cinderrella Man.
Recommendation: I think most people would really enjoy this. I did.
Run Fatboy Run
Another great show. The thing I thought was most interesting was the role of Hank Azeria - you probably know him best as the voice of various Simpsons characters (16 to be exact). I've seen interviews with him and he's a pretty funny guy, but he plays a serious role in this movie and he does it well. When I read the premise of this movie - a guy trying to run a marathon to impress his ex - I was expecting it to be really cheesy but the writing/acting was so good that they made it work. 5 stars for this one.
Recommendation: Definitely see this one too.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Movie reviews, just in time for the weekend!
Here's what I've seen lately, and what I thought:
Fools Gold
I reluctantly rented this one because there's not a huge selection in the redbox these days, but it was better than I thought it would be. I worried that with Kate Hudson and Matthew McHandsome back together it would just be an extension of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Truth be told, there was a lot more adventure involved. It was more than a cheesy chick flick. I can't really give an accurate re-cap because it was late and I fell asleep somewhere in the middle and missed 10 or 20 minutes, but what I did see I liked.
Recommendation: Not bad, I would recommend it if there's nothing else you'd rather see.
The Great Debaters
The story of a debate team from an all-black college in Texas in the 1920's. I'm torn on this movie. It had an interesting storyline, great acting, and of course those moving dramatic moments that come with movies like this, so I normally would give this one a good recommendation. However, I have two issues with this movie. First, a problem with the plot - as a debate team, they were never asked to debate anything that goes against what they believed. It was always them arguing something they were very passionate about (desegregation, civil disobedience), and that's not what true debating is, although it made for a better story.
Second, and this is the kicker, this movie is available exclusively at blockbuster. Not cool.
Recommendation: If everyone rented this movie, what would we be telling the film industry? That it's ok to make movies available exclusively at certain stores. Picture for a second a world where you have to go to Blockbuster to get a certain movie, and Hollywood Video to get another. For this reason I recommend not renting this movie. But, if you know someone who has it, it's worth watching.
Last of the Mohicans (edited)
Yeah, I know, this is an old one but I'd never seen it. Normally I don't like historical epic movies like this because the people talk differently and sometimes it's hard to follow all the details of the story. I liked this movie though. The thing that tips the scales for a positive recommendation is the music.
Recommendation: I do recommend this movie. Edited. I highly recommend this soundtrack.
The 5th Element
This was available free at hulu.com so I thought I'd check it out. Guess what? It's not worth free. If I got paid for my time watching the movie, it'd maybe be ok. Some Sci-Fi movies are ok but this one was just too weird for me. The opera scene actually made me laugh out loud at how stupid it was.
Recommendation: Are you kidding me? It's a no.
You, Me, and Dupree
You know how some movies have one or two really crass parts, but the rest of the movie is so hilarious that you don't really mind? This wasn't that movie. I really like Owen Wilson, but this was probably the least funny Owen Wilson movie I've ever seen, and that's counting Behind Enemy Lines. (On a related note, for you single guys out there - a wise friend once told me that if you're ever in a situation where you don't know what to say or how to act around a pretty girl, just think to yourself, "What would Owen Wilson do?" and go with it. The characters he plays are always so smooth.)
Recommendation: Definitely no.
The Sentinel
Jack Bauer teams up with a Desperate Housewife to figure out who's trying to kill the President - what's not to like? This movie reminded me of Breach. If you like one, you'll like the other.
Recommendation: I liked it. I would especially recommend it to those of you who are going through withdrawals of the show 24.
and finally,
The Dark Knight
It sort of seems like this movie deserves it's own post, but I have a tribute to Batman in the works for this blog so I'll just go ahead and do my little review here.
I loved it. I've seen it twice now and would have to say I loved it more the second time. The first time through it was difficult to see where the story was going and therefore a little tougher pick up on all the little interweaving themes of the movie. Heath Ledger deserves all the praise he gets - he was amazing at convincing you he was both a genius and a psychopath at the same time. The only negative thing I've heard about this movie is that Batman's voice is annoying, but, (and I've said this over and over again) - Batman is a ninja who was trained by ninjas, and the art of ninjutsu is that of invisibility. If you were a famous billionaire, people would know your voice, so you have to do something to disguise it. I think the director had him do this in the most "Batman-way" possible.
Lastly, this is a disturbing movie. There are a lot of gruesome parts, but they are tastefully left to your imagination. If you don't like scary movies, this isn't for you.
Recommendation: I feel obligated to warn that it will scare you, and there are a number of scenes that could be better described as "twisted" than "enjoyable". That being said, this is one of the best made movies I've ever seen. I'll let you decide on the recommendation.
Fools Gold
I reluctantly rented this one because there's not a huge selection in the redbox these days, but it was better than I thought it would be. I worried that with Kate Hudson and Matthew McHandsome back together it would just be an extension of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Truth be told, there was a lot more adventure involved. It was more than a cheesy chick flick. I can't really give an accurate re-cap because it was late and I fell asleep somewhere in the middle and missed 10 or 20 minutes, but what I did see I liked.
Recommendation: Not bad, I would recommend it if there's nothing else you'd rather see.
The Great Debaters
The story of a debate team from an all-black college in Texas in the 1920's. I'm torn on this movie. It had an interesting storyline, great acting, and of course those moving dramatic moments that come with movies like this, so I normally would give this one a good recommendation. However, I have two issues with this movie. First, a problem with the plot - as a debate team, they were never asked to debate anything that goes against what they believed. It was always them arguing something they were very passionate about (desegregation, civil disobedience), and that's not what true debating is, although it made for a better story.
Second, and this is the kicker, this movie is available exclusively at blockbuster. Not cool.
Recommendation: If everyone rented this movie, what would we be telling the film industry? That it's ok to make movies available exclusively at certain stores. Picture for a second a world where you have to go to Blockbuster to get a certain movie, and Hollywood Video to get another. For this reason I recommend not renting this movie. But, if you know someone who has it, it's worth watching.
Last of the Mohicans (edited)
Yeah, I know, this is an old one but I'd never seen it. Normally I don't like historical epic movies like this because the people talk differently and sometimes it's hard to follow all the details of the story. I liked this movie though. The thing that tips the scales for a positive recommendation is the music.
Recommendation: I do recommend this movie. Edited. I highly recommend this soundtrack.
The 5th Element
This was available free at hulu.com so I thought I'd check it out. Guess what? It's not worth free. If I got paid for my time watching the movie, it'd maybe be ok. Some Sci-Fi movies are ok but this one was just too weird for me. The opera scene actually made me laugh out loud at how stupid it was.
Recommendation: Are you kidding me? It's a no.
You, Me, and Dupree
You know how some movies have one or two really crass parts, but the rest of the movie is so hilarious that you don't really mind? This wasn't that movie. I really like Owen Wilson, but this was probably the least funny Owen Wilson movie I've ever seen, and that's counting Behind Enemy Lines. (On a related note, for you single guys out there - a wise friend once told me that if you're ever in a situation where you don't know what to say or how to act around a pretty girl, just think to yourself, "What would Owen Wilson do?" and go with it. The characters he plays are always so smooth.)
Recommendation: Definitely no.
The Sentinel
Jack Bauer teams up with a Desperate Housewife to figure out who's trying to kill the President - what's not to like? This movie reminded me of Breach. If you like one, you'll like the other.
Recommendation: I liked it. I would especially recommend it to those of you who are going through withdrawals of the show 24.
and finally,
The Dark Knight
It sort of seems like this movie deserves it's own post, but I have a tribute to Batman in the works for this blog so I'll just go ahead and do my little review here.
I loved it. I've seen it twice now and would have to say I loved it more the second time. The first time through it was difficult to see where the story was going and therefore a little tougher pick up on all the little interweaving themes of the movie. Heath Ledger deserves all the praise he gets - he was amazing at convincing you he was both a genius and a psychopath at the same time. The only negative thing I've heard about this movie is that Batman's voice is annoying, but, (and I've said this over and over again) - Batman is a ninja who was trained by ninjas, and the art of ninjutsu is that of invisibility. If you were a famous billionaire, people would know your voice, so you have to do something to disguise it. I think the director had him do this in the most "Batman-way" possible.
Lastly, this is a disturbing movie. There are a lot of gruesome parts, but they are tastefully left to your imagination. If you don't like scary movies, this isn't for you.
Recommendation: I feel obligated to warn that it will scare you, and there are a number of scenes that could be better described as "twisted" than "enjoyable". That being said, this is one of the best made movies I've ever seen. I'll let you decide on the recommendation.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Summer Break Movie Review Roundup!
Between the three weeks without school, the free and willing babysitters at home (Jordan's Grandparents) and the Clean Flick's Edited movies, it was quite the cinematic break for me and Melissa. Don't feel like you have to read about every movie, these reviews are probably more for me than for you, but here's my quick recommendations:
Iron Man
This was tied for my favorite movie we saw. It had all the enjoyable elements of a typical superhero movie (the ones that are most enjoyable in the theater with the big screen and the surround sound) plus some funny parts. I thought Robert Downey Jr. did a great job.
Recommendation: Best seen in the theater, but I'd still watch it on DVD.
The Bucket List
Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman are both dying so they set out to do all the things they missed out on. Along the way they get into fights and stuff and help each other learn new things. The very last line of the movie was pretty funny. Seriously though, would you want to ditch your wife to hang out with some guy you just met if you were a dying old man? Freeman did, but they made it look like it was OK because his wife was annoying him and he needed some freedom. They probably should have worked that out earlier in life and he should have taken her on his bucket list.
Me? There's just one thing I'd change if I knew my time was limited. Hang gliding. It looks so incredibly appealing to me but I don't think I could stand before my maker with a clear conscience if I risked my life like that for a few thrills. Unless, of course, the life I was risking was almost over anyway! Melissa still isn't keen on me hang-gliding even if I'm dying, but I think I could convince her.
Recommendation: Nah, go do something outside instead. Better yet, start working on your own bucket list.
Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull
We brushed up on two of the original three movies before we saw this one. That probably helped me to appreciate Stephen Spielberg staying true to form with this one. Had I not seen the old ones recently, I might have thought that some of the scenes were kind of dumb with how far-fetched they were.
Recommendation: If you enjoyed the originals, you should see this one.
Stuck on You
My brother picked this one up from the video store and I watched it for the second time. It was really funny for about 3/4 of it, but then I felt like the writers stopped being funny and began trying to wrap up the story.
Recommendation: Watch it late at night so you fall asleep after an hour.
Prince Caspian
In anticipation of this movie, I re-read the book. I hadn't read any of the chronicles since I was a child and was amazed at how much wisdom CS Lewis managed to put into these "children's" books. The movie was a great adaptation. The plot was changed a little bit, but the storyline wasn't any worse for it. Melissa and I agree this was a much better movie than the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Recommendation: Great family movie, definitely worth seeing.
The Kite Runner
Think Hotel Rwanda but in Afghanistan instead of Rwanda. It was a good story that drew me in and helped me better understand what that country has been through. It's not really a feel-good movie but you might be better for having seen it.
Recommendation: See this one by yourself.
The Kingdom (edited)
Before I looked this up on imdb.com, I would have bet money that this was the same director/producer as the movie and TV show Friday Night Lights. I would have won some money. The man's name is Peter Berg. He used many of the same actors and the movies have the same type of musical montages and they both end with the same sort of feeling (but I won't give it away).
Recommendation: I can only speak for the edited version, but it was pretty good.
We Own the Night (edited)
Not really an upper, but it had a good story. Joaquin Phoenix is running around with a bunch of baddies who go after the cops. Problem is, his dad and brother are cops but nobody knows that so he finds himself torn between two worlds.
Recommendation: Meh. I dunno. I enjoyed it so you might too.
Get Smart
This was the other one that tied for my favorite movie we saw. Steve Carell was funny as usual. You have to go in expecting some corny humor. We had an enjoyable time because there was a middle-aged lady behind us that would repeat the jokes to her friends. One example is when Carell's character makes a play on words by saying "thinsk" she said, for all to hear, "ha ha ha, thinsk" to make sure all her friends got it. This actually wasn't annoying but made it more enjoyable because we would laugh at the movie and then laugh at her. Double the Fun!
Recommendation: I'd see it again.
Untraceable (edited)
There was one original element to this movie: the idea of a bad guy setting up a website where the more traffic it generates, the faster the victim dies. Other than that this movie was totally predictable and I felt like I'd seen it 5 times before. Maybe the un-edited version has some surprises.
Recommendation: It's stupid.
Thank you for smoking (edited)
To the extent that untraceable was predictable, this one was equally as unpredictable. Maybe unconventional would be a better word. The story follows the charming and suave spokesperson for big tobacco as he goes about his work while at the same time trying to be a good example to his son and hive him some fatherly wisdom.
Recommendation: I thoroughly enjoyed the edited version of this movie.
Little Miss Sunshine (edited)
I picked this one up because I wanted my parents to see it. We all watched it together. I had actually seen the original version before and it was interesting to see what they took out. They managed to make Steve Carell's character not gay. He wasn't really straight, but any reference to a boyfriend was taken out of the movie. This resulted in them taking out a later seen which in and of itself was entirely clean, but wouldn't have made sense without some key events that were removed. Anyway, I'm glad they edited the language and the not-so-good grandfatherly advice because with those parts missing, this was a really enjoyable movie with a good message about how un-important the world's opinions of us really is.
Recommendation: One of my all-time favorite movies. I'll probably order the edited version for my home library when I grow up and get a job.
12 monkeys
We watched this in Melissa's Fairview cabin. We decided what to watch by reading the back covers and picked the most interesting one. This was it. It was an interesting and original storyline, but it was really weird. I'm still mixed on my feelings about this movie. After watching it, I dreamed that I was in a similar situation as Bruce Willis (either from the future or crazy, but not sure) . I should point out that Brad Pitt did an amazing performance as a crazy guy. In fact, this may be the best role I've ever seen him play.
Recommendation: It's ok to see if you're in a cabin with nothing else to watch. Otherwise, watch something else.
Con-air
Also viewed in the Fairview Cabin, the next day. Interesting story, strong and convincing performance by Nicholas Cage and the bad guy, but too much bad language.
Recommendation: See it edited if you can.
Definately Maybe
I'm watching that right now and decided to blog instead. Ryan Reynolds looks like the love child of Ben Affleck and Dane Cook. Anyway, the movie has way too many failed attempts at humor for my liking.
Recommendation: If you like movies that try to be funny but aren't, then knock yourself out.
So there you have it. Now I'm home and have to go back to school. I'll post some other stuff about our vacation soon. Also, I'm too lazy to put in links or pictures now so if you really want to, use google and imdb.com and you'll find stuff.
Iron Man
This was tied for my favorite movie we saw. It had all the enjoyable elements of a typical superhero movie (the ones that are most enjoyable in the theater with the big screen and the surround sound) plus some funny parts. I thought Robert Downey Jr. did a great job.
Recommendation: Best seen in the theater, but I'd still watch it on DVD.
The Bucket List
Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman are both dying so they set out to do all the things they missed out on. Along the way they get into fights and stuff and help each other learn new things. The very last line of the movie was pretty funny. Seriously though, would you want to ditch your wife to hang out with some guy you just met if you were a dying old man? Freeman did, but they made it look like it was OK because his wife was annoying him and he needed some freedom. They probably should have worked that out earlier in life and he should have taken her on his bucket list.
Me? There's just one thing I'd change if I knew my time was limited. Hang gliding. It looks so incredibly appealing to me but I don't think I could stand before my maker with a clear conscience if I risked my life like that for a few thrills. Unless, of course, the life I was risking was almost over anyway! Melissa still isn't keen on me hang-gliding even if I'm dying, but I think I could convince her.
Recommendation: Nah, go do something outside instead. Better yet, start working on your own bucket list.
Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull
We brushed up on two of the original three movies before we saw this one. That probably helped me to appreciate Stephen Spielberg staying true to form with this one. Had I not seen the old ones recently, I might have thought that some of the scenes were kind of dumb with how far-fetched they were.
Recommendation: If you enjoyed the originals, you should see this one.
Stuck on You
My brother picked this one up from the video store and I watched it for the second time. It was really funny for about 3/4 of it, but then I felt like the writers stopped being funny and began trying to wrap up the story.
Recommendation: Watch it late at night so you fall asleep after an hour.
Prince Caspian
In anticipation of this movie, I re-read the book. I hadn't read any of the chronicles since I was a child and was amazed at how much wisdom CS Lewis managed to put into these "children's" books. The movie was a great adaptation. The plot was changed a little bit, but the storyline wasn't any worse for it. Melissa and I agree this was a much better movie than the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Recommendation: Great family movie, definitely worth seeing.
The Kite Runner
Think Hotel Rwanda but in Afghanistan instead of Rwanda. It was a good story that drew me in and helped me better understand what that country has been through. It's not really a feel-good movie but you might be better for having seen it.
Recommendation: See this one by yourself.
The Kingdom (edited)
Before I looked this up on imdb.com, I would have bet money that this was the same director/producer as the movie and TV show Friday Night Lights. I would have won some money. The man's name is Peter Berg. He used many of the same actors and the movies have the same type of musical montages and they both end with the same sort of feeling (but I won't give it away).
Recommendation: I can only speak for the edited version, but it was pretty good.
We Own the Night (edited)
Not really an upper, but it had a good story. Joaquin Phoenix is running around with a bunch of baddies who go after the cops. Problem is, his dad and brother are cops but nobody knows that so he finds himself torn between two worlds.
Recommendation: Meh. I dunno. I enjoyed it so you might too.
Get Smart
This was the other one that tied for my favorite movie we saw. Steve Carell was funny as usual. You have to go in expecting some corny humor. We had an enjoyable time because there was a middle-aged lady behind us that would repeat the jokes to her friends. One example is when Carell's character makes a play on words by saying "thinsk" she said, for all to hear, "ha ha ha, thinsk" to make sure all her friends got it. This actually wasn't annoying but made it more enjoyable because we would laugh at the movie and then laugh at her. Double the Fun!
Recommendation: I'd see it again.
Untraceable (edited)
There was one original element to this movie: the idea of a bad guy setting up a website where the more traffic it generates, the faster the victim dies. Other than that this movie was totally predictable and I felt like I'd seen it 5 times before. Maybe the un-edited version has some surprises.
Recommendation: It's stupid.
Thank you for smoking (edited)
To the extent that untraceable was predictable, this one was equally as unpredictable. Maybe unconventional would be a better word. The story follows the charming and suave spokesperson for big tobacco as he goes about his work while at the same time trying to be a good example to his son and hive him some fatherly wisdom.
Recommendation: I thoroughly enjoyed the edited version of this movie.
Little Miss Sunshine (edited)
I picked this one up because I wanted my parents to see it. We all watched it together. I had actually seen the original version before and it was interesting to see what they took out. They managed to make Steve Carell's character not gay. He wasn't really straight, but any reference to a boyfriend was taken out of the movie. This resulted in them taking out a later seen which in and of itself was entirely clean, but wouldn't have made sense without some key events that were removed. Anyway, I'm glad they edited the language and the not-so-good grandfatherly advice because with those parts missing, this was a really enjoyable movie with a good message about how un-important the world's opinions of us really is.
Recommendation: One of my all-time favorite movies. I'll probably order the edited version for my home library when I grow up and get a job.
12 monkeys
We watched this in Melissa's Fairview cabin. We decided what to watch by reading the back covers and picked the most interesting one. This was it. It was an interesting and original storyline, but it was really weird. I'm still mixed on my feelings about this movie. After watching it, I dreamed that I was in a similar situation as Bruce Willis (either from the future or crazy, but not sure) . I should point out that Brad Pitt did an amazing performance as a crazy guy. In fact, this may be the best role I've ever seen him play.
Recommendation: It's ok to see if you're in a cabin with nothing else to watch. Otherwise, watch something else.
Con-air
Also viewed in the Fairview Cabin, the next day. Interesting story, strong and convincing performance by Nicholas Cage and the bad guy, but too much bad language.
Recommendation: See it edited if you can.
Definately Maybe
I'm watching that right now and decided to blog instead. Ryan Reynolds looks like the love child of Ben Affleck and Dane Cook. Anyway, the movie has way too many failed attempts at humor for my liking.
Recommendation: If you like movies that try to be funny but aren't, then knock yourself out.
So there you have it. Now I'm home and have to go back to school. I'll post some other stuff about our vacation soon. Also, I'm too lazy to put in links or pictures now so if you really want to, use google and imdb.com and you'll find stuff.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Movie Reviews: Blood Diamond (edited), Over Her Dead Body, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (edited)
I've got a few movies to catch up on reviewing. We have some neighbors who have a few DVD's they got from Flicks, a rental place that would clean up rated R movies. I believe the movie industry shut them down a couple years back.
Blood Diamond (edited)
I was curious about this movie because I one of the kids in my boy scout patrol (I'm a leader) is from Sierre Leone, which is the setting for this movie. I used to give him rides to scouts every week and would use this time to try to get to know him better and understand where he is coming from. He once told me that sometimes it was scary on Saturdays because they would line people up on the streets and if the area around their houses wasn't clean they would shoot them. When I asked if he felt a lot safer living in Loma Linda he said it wasn't that different because his grandma tells him that there are bad people down the street and if he gets too far from the house they'll take him away. He's only 12 now, but when he grows up I'm sure he'll have a greater appreciation for the safety and security here compared to his home land.
Alas, I digress. The movie was really captivating, told an important story, and told it well. I would imagine if I had seen it un-edited it would have made me sick to my stomach because there were many scenes involving armies of children engaging in urban warfare. I'm glad I watched it and would especially recommend it to any young couples who are deeply in love and think they are ready to spend a lot of money on a diamond.
Recommendation: If there's any way you can see it edited, go for it. Otherwise, you'd better have a strong stomach.
Over her dead body
Yup. I watched it. All of it. Based on the previews this looked like one of the stupidest movies ever. I think the only reason I enjoyed it was because my expectations were so low. It started out really rough and I seriously considered finding something else to do. I was so tired I just laid on the couch and figured if I fell asleep I wouldn't miss much. Eventually the plot picked up and it was kind of fun.
Recommendation: Probably a no, but don't get mad at me if you do decide to watch it and you don't like it.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (edited)
I had never heard of this movie. It says it's rated R for language, some drug and sexual content. Obviously seeing the edited version I didn't see any of that and, although the movie was a little wierd, I really enjoyed it. Basically this movie is a cheesy love story told in a really creative way.
Recommendation: I'm glad I saw it but again, I can only speak for the clean version.
Blood Diamond (edited)
I was curious about this movie because I one of the kids in my boy scout patrol (I'm a leader) is from Sierre Leone, which is the setting for this movie. I used to give him rides to scouts every week and would use this time to try to get to know him better and understand where he is coming from. He once told me that sometimes it was scary on Saturdays because they would line people up on the streets and if the area around their houses wasn't clean they would shoot them. When I asked if he felt a lot safer living in Loma Linda he said it wasn't that different because his grandma tells him that there are bad people down the street and if he gets too far from the house they'll take him away. He's only 12 now, but when he grows up I'm sure he'll have a greater appreciation for the safety and security here compared to his home land.
Alas, I digress. The movie was really captivating, told an important story, and told it well. I would imagine if I had seen it un-edited it would have made me sick to my stomach because there were many scenes involving armies of children engaging in urban warfare. I'm glad I watched it and would especially recommend it to any young couples who are deeply in love and think they are ready to spend a lot of money on a diamond.
Recommendation: If there's any way you can see it edited, go for it. Otherwise, you'd better have a strong stomach.
Over her dead body
Yup. I watched it. All of it. Based on the previews this looked like one of the stupidest movies ever. I think the only reason I enjoyed it was because my expectations were so low. It started out really rough and I seriously considered finding something else to do. I was so tired I just laid on the couch and figured if I fell asleep I wouldn't miss much. Eventually the plot picked up and it was kind of fun.
Recommendation: Probably a no, but don't get mad at me if you do decide to watch it and you don't like it.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (edited)
I had never heard of this movie. It says it's rated R for language, some drug and sexual content. Obviously seeing the edited version I didn't see any of that and, although the movie was a little wierd, I really enjoyed it. Basically this movie is a cheesy love story told in a really creative way.
Recommendation: I'm glad I saw it but again, I can only speak for the clean version.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Movie Review: Cloverfield
No spoilers here - it's really best as a movie where you don't know what's going to happen. We watched it last night and I enjoyed almost everything about it - great storyline, great acting, lot's of detail went into making it seem realistic. My one complaint was how shaky the camera was. I know the director was going for the "realistic" approach, as though this movie was actually the recovered videotape it claims to be in the opening scene. After a while the shakiness started getting to me and I got the "here comes the headache" feeling, but by then I was so into the story that I stuck it out.
Recommendation: It's a good movie and worth seeing, but maybe take some ibuprofen or Dramamine before hand.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Movie Reviews: Vantage Point and The Ultimate Gift
Yesterday was a two-movie day. We once again had a free babysitter (Melissa's Mom) and funding for a movie. We saw vantage point and were home by 9:30 so we decided to rent The Ultimate Gift - Melissa had already seen it but she'd been wanting me to see it for a while now.
Vantage Point
Friends had given me mixed reviews about this movie, but I actually kind of liked it. The president gets shot in Spain, and his Secret Service guys try to catch the guys who did it. The events in the movie only take about 20 minutes, but we have the opportunity to see those events from 6 different perspectives - each time learning a little bit more about the key players. The movie only went 90 minutes, which was really refreshing because it seems like lately Hollywood has been putting out longer and longer movies.
Warning - There is some violence and one F-bomb towards the end.
Recommendation: This movie is worth seeing, if only for the unique approach they used.
The Ultimate Gift
It's been a while since I've seen a movie "cold" (having not seen a preview or heard anything about it). The movie starts with a greedy family learning how their deceased father has chosen to divide up his estate, and follows a series of tasks he set up for his grandson to follow in order to receive "the Ultimate Gift". Even though it was a little predictable and somewhat cheesy, the main character did a great job of transforming his character as he progresses.
Recommendation: Yeah, it's probably worth seeing, just don't see it if you're really tired because it has some slow parts in the middle. It's a good family movie.
Vantage Point
Friends had given me mixed reviews about this movie, but I actually kind of liked it. The president gets shot in Spain, and his Secret Service guys try to catch the guys who did it. The events in the movie only take about 20 minutes, but we have the opportunity to see those events from 6 different perspectives - each time learning a little bit more about the key players. The movie only went 90 minutes, which was really refreshing because it seems like lately Hollywood has been putting out longer and longer movies.
Warning - There is some violence and one F-bomb towards the end.
Recommendation: This movie is worth seeing, if only for the unique approach they used.
The Ultimate Gift
It's been a while since I've seen a movie "cold" (having not seen a preview or heard anything about it). The movie starts with a greedy family learning how their deceased father has chosen to divide up his estate, and follows a series of tasks he set up for his grandson to follow in order to receive "the Ultimate Gift". Even though it was a little predictable and somewhat cheesy, the main character did a great job of transforming his character as he progresses.
Recommendation: Yeah, it's probably worth seeing, just don't see it if you're really tired because it has some slow parts in the middle. It's a good family movie.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Movie reviews: Dan in real life, Drillbit Taylor, and Jumper
(In order to determine whether my movie reviews will be useful to you, you should check out my list of favorite movies in my profile. If you enjoyed these movies, my advice might be worth something. If you didn't like these movies, maybe don't bother reading the reviews.)
First off, my criteria for a good movie hinges on the believably of the movie. I'm not talking about how realistic the overall concept is - Sci-Fi movies can be really good even if they are a little far-fetched. The believability I'm referring to has to do with the dialog and acting - the way the characters interact with each other has to be realistic. For example, the movie "Charlie" is one of the worst movies I've ever seen because as the main characters are arguing it just doesn't flow like a natural argument; it rather seems like you can picture the argument taking place on the pages of the novel from which the film was adapted. It was a great story and might be a pretty good book, but the film version didn't do it for me.
Dan in Real Life
That being said, "Dan in real life" is one of the best movies I've ever seen. We finally got a chance to see it Thursday night when in was available in the local redbox. Many people had recommended it to us but we never got the chance in the summer. (Jordan was still so young we didn't dare hire a babysitter). It was one of the few movies where before it was over I knew it was going into my top 10 list. When I first realized Dane Cook was in it I thought, "Oh, great. Hopefully he isn't obnoxious like he is in any other thing I've seen him in" - but he did really well, as did everyone else. My favorite line of the movie? "This corn is an angel". If you've seen it, hopefully that made you laugh.
Recommendation: This is one of the movies you should not only see, but should own.
Drillbit Taylor
Based on the previews, we thought "yeah, that might be worth $1 when we can get in from Redbox". However, last weekend Melissa's Dad was here and he gave us some anniversary money and told us to go see a movie while he watched Jordan. We checked out what was playing right now and it was either this or "Miss Pettigrew lives for a day". That didn't appeal to me so we saw Drillbit.
It actually was a lot better than I was expecting. Most of the jokes made me laugh and, with the exception of the fat kid's hilarious rapping, it was pretty clean.
Recommendation: Not a bad movie. Get it from Redbox if you don't have anything else to do, or see it in the theater if someone else pays for it and offers to watch the kids.
Jumper
Wow. This seemed like an interesting concept for a movie. I saw it in DC at about 10:00 at night when there was nothing else to do. Basically, the young Darth Vader falls in love with the girl from the O.C. when they're in Jr. High. Bullies and a deadbeat dad make his life miserable - then he figures out that he can think himself places so he runs, er, jumps away. As a teenager he returns to woo her and that's when the movie really starts sucking. Amidst his attempts to get the girl, Vader must evade a Dennis-Rodmanesque Samuel L. Jackson who is trying to kill him because he's a "jumper".
Recommendation: Just don't see this one. Unless you find my taste in movies to be completely different from yours, you really won't enjoy this movie.
First off, my criteria for a good movie hinges on the believably of the movie. I'm not talking about how realistic the overall concept is - Sci-Fi movies can be really good even if they are a little far-fetched. The believability I'm referring to has to do with the dialog and acting - the way the characters interact with each other has to be realistic. For example, the movie "Charlie" is one of the worst movies I've ever seen because as the main characters are arguing it just doesn't flow like a natural argument; it rather seems like you can picture the argument taking place on the pages of the novel from which the film was adapted. It was a great story and might be a pretty good book, but the film version didn't do it for me.
Dan in Real Life
That being said, "Dan in real life" is one of the best movies I've ever seen. We finally got a chance to see it Thursday night when in was available in the local redbox. Many people had recommended it to us but we never got the chance in the summer. (Jordan was still so young we didn't dare hire a babysitter). It was one of the few movies where before it was over I knew it was going into my top 10 list. When I first realized Dane Cook was in it I thought, "Oh, great. Hopefully he isn't obnoxious like he is in any other thing I've seen him in" - but he did really well, as did everyone else. My favorite line of the movie? "This corn is an angel". If you've seen it, hopefully that made you laugh.
Recommendation: This is one of the movies you should not only see, but should own.
Drillbit Taylor
Based on the previews, we thought "yeah, that might be worth $1 when we can get in from Redbox". However, last weekend Melissa's Dad was here and he gave us some anniversary money and told us to go see a movie while he watched Jordan. We checked out what was playing right now and it was either this or "Miss Pettigrew lives for a day". That didn't appeal to me so we saw Drillbit.
It actually was a lot better than I was expecting. Most of the jokes made me laugh and, with the exception of the fat kid's hilarious rapping, it was pretty clean.
Recommendation: Not a bad movie. Get it from Redbox if you don't have anything else to do, or see it in the theater if someone else pays for it and offers to watch the kids.
Jumper
Wow. This seemed like an interesting concept for a movie. I saw it in DC at about 10:00 at night when there was nothing else to do. Basically, the young Darth Vader falls in love with the girl from the O.C. when they're in Jr. High. Bullies and a deadbeat dad make his life miserable - then he figures out that he can think himself places so he runs, er, jumps away. As a teenager he returns to woo her and that's when the movie really starts sucking. Amidst his attempts to get the girl, Vader must evade a Dennis-Rodmanesque Samuel L. Jackson who is trying to kill him because he's a "jumper".
Recommendation: Just don't see this one. Unless you find my taste in movies to be completely different from yours, you really won't enjoy this movie.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)