Since I was in the mood for a drama and thriller type film, I decided to check this one out. Going into it, I had no idea what this movie was about — I based my decision mostly on the poster cover as well as the cast. And, let me just say — I made a good decision.

From the very opening, I knew this was going to interest me. Let’s just say, this is not your typical type of movie. It has a very unique storyline with interesting characters. Though, it’s not for everyone — it’s a very dark movie similar to this one.

This is a film with a timeline. Certain events that happen in the past affect the future and the development of characters portrayed. It’s one of those movies where the characters seem to lead separate lives but in the end something comes back to tie them all together over a period of time. And, that is one thing I enjoyed about it.

(Note: For those who saw the movie, you’ll know what I’m talking about.)

Throughout the film, there are a series of events with twists and turns. Sometimes I felt like I was on the edge of my seat not knowing what to expect. These were the thriller type moments. I especially enjoyed the major twist at the end — something that I expected to happen did not. And, that surprised me.

To be honest, it’s really hard to describe this movie. Let’s just say, it’s one of those dark and eerie films filled with drama with some thrills. There were themes of revenge, forgiveness, love and loneliness rolled into the movie. And, this made it all the while more intriguing and entertaining.

(Note: I don’t want to spoil it for those who did not see it but I will say it’s definitely similar in nature to this one.)

All in all, I really enjoyed the film. It’s hard to explain what the movie is about without ruining it for you. But, let’s just say — it’s just not your typical type of movie which is one of the reasons that drew me to it.

If you’re in the mood for a drama and thriller type of film, you may just want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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Being that I was in a comedy type of mood, I decided to check this film out. From the trailer, I knew there were some serious moments but also could give me a few laughs. And, guess what? I was right.

I will admit, when I first saw the trailer I knew this was a movie I’d have to wait until I was in the mood to see. It seemed more of those types of films you can enjoy when the mood catches you just at the right time — I’m definitely glad I waited.

To be completely honest, this film has both a light side as well as a dark side. Sure, there are your usual laughs as in any type of comedy. Though, it does have a bit of drama that makes it all the while interesting. It’s one of those films that gives you a laugh but also makes you think about life and where our future can take us.

At it’s heart, this movie depicts the strengths as well as the weaknesses of those who come and go in our lives at our lowest points. Sure, there are those who are around us during the good times. But, it’s the ones that are there for us through the bad times (as well as the good times) that count the most.

It makes us think about life — our present, our past, and of course our future. And it begs the question, what is it all for? What is the meaning of life?

Though, this only makes us think about this during the low points in our lives. At the high points, it’s as if we seem to forget as if we don’t have a care in the world. And, this is exactly what happened to Adam Lerner (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt).

It wasn’t until tragedy struck Adam that he began to think about his life. Being at such a young age, the bad news and changes in his life was a lot for him to handle. Even worse, it was hard for those who was closest to him.

(Note: I won’t ruin it for those who haven’t seen the film, but let’s just say his predicament could definitely be classified as a “life and death” type situation.)

As with life, the movie had it’s ups and downs. Adam had his low points and his high points. And, it was at his lowest point where those who cared about him the most shined through. Without them, he probably wouldn’t have made it.

Overall, I enjoyed the film very much. Not only did it give me a few laughs but it also gave me a lot to think about. And, this is a recipe for success in my book.

If you’re in the mood for a comedy type of film with a lot of heart, you may just want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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Since I was in the mood for a political type thriller, I decided to check this one out. And, I have to admit — it really did not interest me the first time I saw the trailer. Though, I was intrigued that it was up for so many Oscar nominations including Best Picture for 2012. And, guess what? It did not disappoint.

Before I go into the film, I will say this is one for those who enjoy political type thrillers and have somewhat of an interest in politics. If you’re not very keen on these kinds of pictures and/or do not have much of an interest for the subject matter, it may not be for you.

In any case, the basic premise of the movie attempts to depict the events leading up to Osama Bin Laden’s capture. It explores the various methods used to find him including the obstacles and the failures that obstructed and prolonged his eventual capture.

To be honest, this is not only an action type of movie. There are a lot of clues and dialogue leading up to the climax of the film which happens near the end. Though, I think this was necessary in order to show the whole picture and how the story of his capture unfolds.

(Note: There have been others who disagree who did not enjoy the majority of the film due to the amount of dialogue and scarcity of action. Though, I believe it worked out well in the end to give the audience a better understanding of the events that took place up until his capture.)

For me personally, the most enjoyable part of the movie was towards the end. I won’t ruin it for those who haven’t seen it, but I will say I was on the edge of my seat the whole time — it was like being in a video game.

(Note: For those who saw the film, you’ll know what I’m talking about. Getting to the end was definitely worth the wait!)

Apart from the story, this movie also shows us the different layers of bureaucracy that exists within government systems as well as how different government agencies can sometimes work for and/or against each other. This is something we do not witness much as civilians.

(Note: I found the end very fascinating as it showed exactly what happens when two different governments work on the same ground. I won’t ruin it for you, but let’s just say my adrenalin was rushing as I watched each side attempting to race to the finish line.)

Overall, I enjoyed the film very much. It’s a very good political thriller with just enough dialogue and action to make it worthwhile. If you enjoy political type thrillers, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the movie, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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“Fight. Dream. Hope. Love”

— Les Misérables

From time to time, I do enjoy a good musical every now and then. Unfortunately, many of the musicals that have been turned into films in the past have not really made much of an impression on me such as this one.

Though, I decided to check this film out since I’m a fan of the musical. And let me just say, it did not disappoint.

Before I go into the review, I will say — musicals that are turned into films are more for those who enjoy them than those who do not. Let’s face it, the majority of the time there is singing done in musicals. And, the same is true of movies that have been brought to life that stem from musicals. So going into any Hollywood production created from a musical, you can expect a lot of singing (and probably some dancing as well).

From the very first scene, this movie based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel definitely was a treat to see. As one who has scene this story adapted many times before, I can honestly say — this one was spot on in terms of action, music, casting and last but not least, the storyline.

Personally, I enjoyed the movie. But, perhaps that may have been due to my interest in the story as well as the musical. For those who may be unfamiliar with the storyline and/or the musical, it may be somewhat of a different experience.

At it’s heart, this story tackled so many issues that can stem generations. It it not only a story about the struggle of those who lived in the past. But, rather it is a story that people can relate to in the present and perhaps the future.

These same issues can and probably will occur over and over again. And, that is the beauty of the story — it’s timeless.

For those who have not seen the musical and/or read the book, I won’t ruin the storyline for you. Though I will say, if you do enjoy musicals and a good story — this one is worth checking out.

(Note: Depending on the types of genres you prefer, it may be a good idea to check out the trailer first before deciding if this one is for you.)

All in all, this was an enjoyable film to watch. It’s amazing to see this great story come alive and do so well on the big picture. And let me tell you, that’s rare in my experience!

If you enjoy musicals and period pieces, I definitely do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

(Note: For another perspective on the movie, check out the following review from my Film Girl Force pal Just Chick Flicks. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the film and/or read the book, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

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Every now and then, I get in the mood to see a fun and quirky romantic comedy. So, this time around I accidentally stumbled upon this one — I’m glad I did.

At its heart, this movie is about regrets and letting go of the past and moving on to the future. Let’s face it — we’ve all done things that we’ve regretted. And, in doing so — we wish we could change the past thus altering the future.

But, we can’t. And, learning how to deal with the choices (and perhaps the mistakes) we have made is what makes life interesting.

In the story, Celeste (played by Rashida Jones) begins to wonder if she made the wrong decision in splitting up with her former husband, Jesse (played by Andy Samberg).

On the surface, it seems like all is well with Celeste and Jesse. Despite their break-up, they still seem inseparable. In fact, they still consider each other as best friends.

However, like the saying goes “All good things must come to an end.” And, “an end” it did when Jesse meets another and confides in Celeste of his new found relationship.

On the outside, Celeste brushes it off as “no big deal.” But, on the inside — she is in agony wondering if she made the right decision.

Even more so, she questions whether Jesse made the right decision in starting a new found relationship with someone other than her. And, this is where the conflict arises.

This is a film that starts out very funny and lighthearted. Though, as the movie progresses — it begins to take more of a dramatic and emotional toll. I found Rashida Jones‘ performance entertaining at times with her light and witty jokes but also very honest and humble as the drama ensued.

What I enjoyed about the film were the ups and downs — it was a comedy and a drama rolled into one. There were a few times where things were a bit slow but there were other moments that made up for it.

(Note: For those of you who saw the movie, I especially enjoyed Rashida Jones’ speech at the end — it was both uplifting and inspiring to say the least.)

Though, I will say — this is not a film for everyone. It’s more for those who enjoy romantic and quirky comedies. For those who do not, it may not have as much entertainment value.

Overall, I enjoyed the film very much. It made me laugh, it made me care and it definitely had a lot of heart. And, that is always a plus in my book.

If you’re in the mood for a romantic and quirky comedy, you may just want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the film, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

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Being I was in the mood for a period piece, I accidentally stumbled upon this one. At first, I was a bit apprehensive about it but also a little curious. So, I decided to check it out — I’m glad I did.

Apart from an all-star cast (including Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson), this film had a great storyline depicting the way families rose to power in the Middle Ages. It showed how they would do almost anything to preserve money and power in the family despite the costs.

(Note: If you’re a history buff (like me), there are a lot of different elements presented that reflect how these aristocratic families managed their money and power — very interesting stuff.)

Throughout the film, there were many twists and turns. At first, I thought the characters and the outcome would be predictable. But, as the movie progressed — I soon realized I was mistaken.

At times, I was surprised at the outcomes of certain situations. I especially enjoyed the very end which had a slight twist explaining how the power shifted from family to family.

(Note: For those who saw the movie, you’ll know what I’m talking about — the last frame at the end was a bit of an “a-ha” type of moment for me. It explained so much. Great stuff for those who enjoy history!)

Now, I’ll be honest — this movie is not for everyone. If you’re not really into historical pieces, it may be a bit dry. I think to really enjoy the film and really understand it, you have to have an interest and passion for history. If not, it may not be as entertaining.

Overall, I liked the film. It had a great cast and storyline with many twists and turns — it captured my attention until the end. And, it taught me a little about history which is a plus in my book.

If you enjoy period pieces and you’re in the mood for a historical type of movie, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the film, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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“The journey of a lifetime.”

— Life of Pi

On my quest to see a unique kind of movie, I stumbled upon this one based on the book. And, let me tell you — I was pleasantly surprised.

At its heart, this film is about imagination and our ability to explain the unexplained. In the movie, we are faced with a story, so wild and so beyond imagination that we wonder if the story is true.

Consequently, we automatically question the validity of the story and learn of another story which is more realistic and more down to earth. But, at the end of the day it’s left up to us to decide which story we believe.

What I find interesting is that the story is told by the point of view of the main character, Pi Patel (played by Irrfan Khan), as an adult looking back through the eyes of a child when the story took place. I think this is really important to note because it seems like it’s making a statement about the way we view things as children versus when we become adults.

Somehow along the path from childhood to adulthood our imagination gets lost along the way. Many times adults can no longer see beyond what is right in front of their eyes — we can no longer see the unseen. In a sense, we lose our imagination in an attempt to become more practical and realistic.

On the surface, the film is about the adventures we have that stem from our childhood. As children, we live life everyday to its fullest through new experiences and new ideas.

When we grow up and become adults, we lose our sense of adventure and ability to imagine. In turn, as adults many live a life of status quo and practicality.

At its heart, I think this movie seeks to inspire the kid in us all — there is still hope for us to dream and live the kind of lives we imagined for ourselves as children. Life itself is an adventure and should be lived to its fullest. By living each day as it were our last, we find joy fulfilling our hopes and dreams.

Overall, I enjoyed the film. It had great visual effects and I especially liked seeing the variety of animals used which is always entertaining. Plus, it had a very strong and meaningful message that really makes you think which is always a plus in my book.

If you’re in the mood for an adventure type of movie, you might just want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the movie and read the book, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on how the two compared. Thanks for reading!)

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When this film first came out, I really wanted to see it. To be honest, the trailer really intrigued me. However, I was not able to see it due to its limited engagement in select cities. So, I was excited when it finally came out on DVD — it was well worth the wait.

Let me just start off by saying, this is not your typical kind of movie. There is not much action and it does not follow the regular linear formula of most movies. Though, it does have a good storyline that is very well told. And, that is what makes this film unique — it is not the kind of movie you think it is.

At first glance, I thought I had the movie all figured out after seeing the trailer. However, as I sat and watched the story unfold I found myself surprised and at awe at how different it was from what I thought — the way the story was told made this picture more enjoyable.

Without getting too much into the plot, I will say it is a movie about stories and stories within stories. Sometimes the lines between fact and fiction get closer and closer together causing us to question what is true and what is not. Though, who is to know the truth? The storyteller or the audience? It’s left up to you to decide.

(Note: For those who saw the film, I thought it was kind of neat how they kept us guessing towards the end. And even then, we were left to draw our own conclusions.)

Throughout the story, it explores the subject of morality — what is right and what is wrong. There are situations and chances given to the characters to choose a certain path. Many times we are left cheering for a certain side only to find out quite the opposite had happened. Though, I guess that is part of the experience of hearing a story.

At its core, this movie is about the power of storytelling and how really good stories can affect us. At times, we may feel so much for the characters that we want to believe and the lines between what is real and what is not real start to come together.

Overall, I enjoyed this picture very much. It had a good storyline and a powerful message about the art of storytelling. Though, it is not a film for everyone. It kind of leaves you at the end drawing your own conclusion on what to believe which is not well received by everyone. However, I think that was the point they were trying to get across — the power of stories and how they can really draw us in.

If you’re in the mood for a drama type of movie, you may want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the film, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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With Christmas coming very soon, I decided to write-up a review on another one of my favorite holiday movies. Feeling a bit nostalgic, I decided to watch and write about The Family Man.

What makes this movie so interesting is that it explores the present as it is today as well as the present as it could have been all at the same time. It challenges us to ask the question, “What if?” In a sense, it gives us a “glimpse” of what could have happened if we made different decisions in the past through the main character, Jack Campbell (played by Nicholas Cage).

Here’s a clip:

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This is a powerful film because we can all relate — we’ve all made decisions in the past that have affected and changed our future. Sometimes we think about these turning points in our lives and wonder how things might have turned out had we chose differently.

(Note: For those of you who have seen it, you’ll know what I’m talking about. Every time I see this picture I get a little bit nostalgic and wonder about the decisions I made in the past and how they’ve affected my life.)

Another clip with a powerful message (spoiler alert!):

(Note: Don’t watch this clip if you haven’t seen the film. Trust me, it will make the movie all the better if you decide to see it. Thanks for reading!)

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I have to admit, when I first saw this movie I thought it might be a lot like this one. But, I was wrong. To my surprise, it was different and showed a new way of looking at the time continuum.

(Note: Personally, I do enjoy films that go back and forth between time. Though to some it may be a bit confusing, I think these kinds of pictures are interesting when put together properly to make the story come together.)

At it’s core, this movie is about second chances — it’s about having the ability to change the future in pursuit of one’s true happiness. Sometimes we do not know what we have missed in life until we experience it ourselves. And, when we do — it changes our lives forever.

If you’re in the mood for a good and heartfelt holiday movie, you definitely should check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Merry Christmas!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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Being that I enjoy Oliver Stone pictures, I decided to check this one out. Lately, I have been on the hunt for good movies to watch from my favorite directors. This film did not disappoint at the end but was a bit slow in the beginning.

(Note: A good friend of mine in the film industry once told me that if I enjoy a director’s style and types of movies that in general I will probably enjoy their future work. I know this may not be the case all of the time but for me it has been for most of the time.)

Before I get into the review, I will say this is not a typical Oliver Stone type of movie — it’s not a period piece like many of his films. Though, his style did shine and made the movie worthwhile for me to see.

To be frank, this is an action and mob type of motion picture. So, I will warn you that it’s probably for folks who enjoy these kinds of flicks.

(Note: If there are any Scorsese fans out there, this one may interest you as you may be able to relate.)

In true Oliver Stone fashion, the movie is more of a narration. It is told by the point of view of the girl, O (played by Blake Lively), who is caught in the business tangles of the two loves of her lives, Chon (played by Taylor Kitsch), and Ben (played by Aaron Johnson) who both run a marijuana growing business.

Unfortunately for Chon and Ben (as in all business dealings), there is a lot of competition in their business which attracts the eyes of some very high profile Mexican cartels. To their dismay, both Chon and Ben find themselves trapped and at the mercy of one big group led by Elena (played by Salma Hayek) who enlists her henchman Lado (played by Benecio Del Toro) to strong-arm them into joining their alliance.

In turn, Chon and Ben are forced to enlist the help of Dennis (played by John Travolta), a DEA agent on their payroll. And so, the chase begins as a game of cat and mouse playing for survival.

This film is one that you really have to pay attention — there are a lot of details and characters involved. If you miss them, it may not make as much sense to you in the end. So, I found myself concentrating throughout the movie so as not to miss anything critical.

Some parts of the movie are a bit predictable. Yet, there are others that are not. At times, I found myself on the edge of my seat anticipating what would happen next.

(Note; For those who saw the film, you’ll know what I’m talking about especially towards the end.)

I found it interesting how the main characters of the movie (i.e. Chon, Ben and O) are fairly new and young actors/actresses. It was fascinating to see the dynamic between them, the young actors/actresses, and their interaction with the older and more experienced ones we have grown up with (i.e. Salma Hayek, John Travolta, etc). There was nothing bad about it — just different.

(Note: Though, I will say the talent of the more experienced actors/actresses in this film did shine and steal the show. Without them, it would not be the same.)

For the most part, I did enjoy the movie as it all came together at the end. Though it did start out a bit slow, it had a good storyline and interesting characters. Some parts kind of dragged but the action was good and kept my attention especially the twists and turns which is always a plus in my book.

If you’re in the mood for an action and mob type of film, you may want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: NEUTRAL

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

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