WE SEE MOVIES

THE MEN WHO STARE AT GOATS

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

RYAN: "The Men Who Stare at Goats" is the new George Clooney flick, but the real star is Ewan McGregor, my favorite actor ever.

CAROLINE: I'm sorry, honey, but Ewan was so wrong for this movie. I didn't buy his character at all. And he needs to polish his American accent.

RYAN: What? I'm shocked! I thought his accent was great, and the whole time I watched him, I was thinking, "This is exactly how I want to see him." I loved him in this role.

CAROLINE: Well if it's any consolation, I didn't love George Clooney either. Basically, I didn't like the movie at all. I dozed a few times, in fact.

RYAN: I thought the other stars, Jeff Bridges and Kevin Spacey, were great; did you like them at least?

CAROLINE: Totally. They felt very right in their roles. And the movie does have some funny moments. I just thought the story was weak and disjointed. I know it's based on real events, but they weren't strung together well.

RYAN: I thought it was really funny, especially knowing these ludicrous things the military was doing are true. That made it have much more of an impact for me.

CAROLINE: But they handled it in such a jokey way that it felt like a farce. They should have been exposing the absurdity of it all in a serious way.

RYAN: That's a really good point. I'm not sure why they handled it that way. But everyone just looked like they had so much fun making this movie. And George Clooney is known to be fun on set.

CAROLINE: Part of my issue is probably because I caught an early screening of George Clooney's other fall movie, "Up in the Air," the day after seeing this, and I liked it so much more that it's beyond comparison.

RYAN: I don't know if it's fair to compare two movies just because they share the same star; however, if you just didn't enjoy "Goats," I'll just have to accept it.

CAROLINE: It's definitely a very different movie, but if you're going to see a Clooney film this year, "Goats" is not the one to see. It was just lame. I felt like they took a cool, interesting premise and made a bad movie out of it.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's a light, comical view of something that really happened in our military and it's pretty shocking. I normally can't stand war or army movies, but this one is a comedy about the paranormal as opposed to a full-out battle movie.

CAROLINE: I thought I would be into it too, but it really disappointed me. It was only half well cast and the story just didn't work. We're gonna have to agree to disagree on this one.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I'm simultaneously excited and scared to see "2012," the new disaster movie from Roland Emmerich. It looks so nightmare inducing.

CAROLINE: I couldn't agree more. The special effects look incredible, but I'm not sure I need to see another apocalypse movie. They're always depressing and they make me have dreams of buildings collapsing.

RYAN: I mean, are we all really supposed to believe that the world as we know it is ending on December 21, 2012?

CAROLINE: It's one of those silly old Mayan prophecies, and if they're as accurate as Nostradamus's predictions, then we should be just fine. Since 2012 is only three years away, I'm sure Hollywood thinks it's a good time to capitalize on the world's fear of The End.

RYAN: I'm not sure we need another disaster movie.

CAROLINE: Totally. I like that John Cusack is in it; but haven't we seen "I Am Legend" already?

RYAN: [laughs] It's a little strange that this movie is coming out during Oscar season; to me it has the look, feel and tone of a summer blockbuster. But I'm psyched to see it nonetheless, even though I don't think John Cusack is a Will Smith type. Check out the trailer here:

CAROLINE: Next up is "Pirate Radio" starring Philip Seymour Hoffman and a bunch of Brits including Bill Nighy. For some reason, this movie doesn't really appeal to me.

RYAN: I'm not interested either. Maybe it's a boy movie.

CAROLINE: [laughs] It's about DJs who broadcast from a boat after their radio station bans rock n' roll, and it should appeal to us given our radio experience. But it's got zero buzz and there are too many other good movies out for me to care about it, even though it's directed by Richard Curtis.

RYAN: I enjoy Philip Seymour Hoffman but he's not the kind of actor I love so much that I'll see anything he's in.

CAROLINE: Apparently this movie has been reworked and re-titled since coming out in the U.K. That doesn't seem like a good sign, but judge for yourself. Here's the trailer:

PRECIOUS

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: The much anticipated Mariah Carey/Mo'Nique movie, "Precious," is out in theaters in limited release, and it's been endorsed by none other than Tyler Perry and Oprah herself. This movie has been causing quite a stir in the film community ever since Sundance.

RYAN: I really wanted to see this movie and had heard so much about its dramatic effect, but it's very disturbing. What Precious goes through is absolutely horrendous.

CAROLINE: We've all heard by now about how Oscar worthy Mo'Nique is, which I didn't really see until the very end of the movie. After that, I was like, "Someone hand this woman an Oscar."

RYAN: I thought she was phenomenal throughout.

CAROLINE: Fine, but the other actors were just as good. The girl who plays Precious, Gabourey Sidibe, was great, and Paula Patton as her teacher was simply fabulous, not to mention breathtakingly gorge. Even Mariah was really good.

RYAN: I'll give you Paula Patton and Mariah but I thought Precious was only fair. She has no real acting experience, LBH.

CAROLINE: Exactly my point. She did a great job considering it's her first movie ever.

RYAN: I just thought Mo'Nique was riveting from her very first line. I will be angry if she doesn't get nominated for Best Supporting Actress.

CAROLINE: This movie is a disturbing look at poverty, abuse, incest, illiteracy, teen pregnancy, welfare, you name it.

RYAN: It's such a sad story. It's aggravating, frustrating and terrifying all at once. Can you just please confirm for me that it's not based on a true story?

CAROLINE: It's not; it's based on the novel, "Push." But I think the director, Lee Daniels, is arguing that there are girls like Precious everywhere even though no one wants to acknowledge or accept it.

RYAN: After seeing this movie, I definitely feel like my life has been wonderfully sheltered and protected. It makes you feel pretty lucky that you don't live like this poor girl. This movie goes to deep, dark places.

CAROLINE: It really stays with you. We saw this over a week ago and I still think about it a lot. The overall message of the film is uplifting though, so there is some happiness. But it takes a while to get there.

RYAN: It's definitely not for people who want escapism.

CAROLINE: This movie was actually more well made than I expected. I kept hearing about how it's this small indie with an unknown actress in the lead, etc... but it's quite well done. It looks good and it's shot well.

RYAN: I loved the soundtrack too.

CAROLINE: My only quibble is that it's about twenty minutes too long. It felt like it ended a few times. I thought it was over, but then it kept going.

RYAN: I got a little restless too, about three-quarters of the way through.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: Seeing a movie like this makes me realize why I love sci-fi and fantasy so much. I'd rather see a movie about a magical world than such a depressing one. I don't think I'd elect to sit through this movie if I didn't have to. I'm glad I saw it, but I don't want to go out of my way to recommend it because it's just painful to watch.

CAROLINE: Yes, but it's such quality film-making, and the acting was stellar. If there were an Academy Award for Best Ensemble, this would have to win it. Maybe it'll win the S.A.G. Award in that category. I agree that it's hard to watch, and if you went into this movie not knowing what it was about, you would be appalled. But even though it's about abuse of almost every kind you can imagine, it's ultimately such a wonderful story that I think it's worth seeing if you can handle it.

-- RATING --

Box Office Results

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:40:00 +0000

1. "A Christmas Carol," $31 million.

2. "Michael Jackson's This Is It," $14 million.
3. "The Men Who Stare at Goats," $13.3 million.
4. "The Fourth Kind," $12.5 million.
5. "Paranormal Activity," $8.6 million.
6. "The Box," $7.9 million.
7. "Couples Retreat," $6.4 million.
8. "Law Abiding Citizen," $6.2 million.
9. "Where the Wild Things Are," $4.2 million.
10. "Astro Boy," $2.6 million.

CAROLINE: As expected, the big animated spectacle, "Disney's A Christmas Carol" took the #1 spot this weekend.

RYAN: I thought it would be a lot higher though.

CAROLINE: It's just so entirely too early for a Christmas movie.

RYAN: But it's never too early for an amazing movie.

CAROLINE: You really need to settle down. Not everyone is as gung-ho about this director as you are.

RYAN: I do wanna see it again in the theater.

CAROLINE: Well you have plenty of time until Christmas.

RYAN: 'Tis true.

CAROLINE: Meanwhile, "This is It" hasn't made $100 million yet.

RYAN: I wonder if it will. It should. People really need to see both of these movies in the theater.

CAROLINE: Barely anybody got out to see "The Box," regardless of Cameron Diaz.

RYAN: Now I'm curious to see it just to find out how bad it really is.

CAROLINE: I think I'll trust the bad B.O. to speak for it.

DISNEY'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

RYAN: After seeing "A Christmas Carol," all I can say is, "Now that's a movie!"

CAROLINE: Well, it's an animated movie. I'll give you that. It's in 3D and the animation itself is pretty incredible.

RYAN: It's phenomenal! Robert Zemeckis's technique is so fabulous. The characters look real, and you can see the actors' facial expressions in them. And Jim Carrey gives an amazing performance. If the goal of a movie is to transport you into another world, then this one really does it.

CAROLINE: I don't usually like animated movies, but this one is good. A lot of it has to do with the story; it's such a classic that no one will ever tire of it. I wish they'd gotten to the ghost part quicker. The beginning dragged a little for me.

RYAN: It didn't drag for me at all, but I'm biased because this is from my favorite director, Robert Zemeckis. I appreciate and study every shot.

CAROLINE: Any thoughts on the 3D? It was cool but it didn't wow me.

RYAN: I thought it would be a little more impactful. It was good in the scary moments though, which there are a few of. I think we just get desensitized to the 3D when we're watching movies like this.

CAROLINE: I'm glad you mentioned the scary parts because there are definitely some scenes that would freak out little kids. It's a creepy movie, especially when those Ignorance and Want kids come out from under the ghost's skirt.

RYAN: I loved that about this movie. There were parts that scared me just as much as "Paranormal Activity." But it's a delightful kind of creepy. I think if Charles Dickens were alive to see this movie, he'd be bursting with joy.

CAROLINE: It stayed very true to the story and reminded me of seeing the live-action version when I was younger. I'm a little confounded at this movie's release date though. Don't you think it should be coming in three weeks or something? I'm not ready to hear Christmas carols just yet.

RYAN: That's a good point. I guess they're getting on the bandwagon with all the department stores who are marketing Christmas earlier and earlier every year.

CAROLINE: I just don't want people to resent it. I think I would have liked this movie a little more if I'd seen it in December and was already feeling the Christmas spirit.

RYAN: I, for one, am going to see it again in the theater and I can't wait. Can we talk more about Jim Carrey for a sec? He was so good. And I love that the same actor has now played Scrooge, the Grinch and the evil Count Olaf in the Lemony Snicket movie.

CAROLINE: He voices several of characters in this movie; Scrooge at every age plus all three ghosts. It must have been a lot of work for him.

RYAN: Especially considering Robert Zemeckis's technique of filming the actors and then animating over them. I also really liked Gary Oldman as Bob Cratchit. Robin Wright Penn has a little part too.

CAROLINE: Also listen for Cary Elwes and Colin Firth.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's a spectacular movie and a must see on the big screen in 3D. I can't say enough good things about it. It's a perfect movie.

CAROLINE: I think you're taking it a little too far. It's enjoyable, but to me no animated movie can compete with a live-action one. They even have a whole separate category at the Oscars.

RYAN: I just think this is the kind of movie they could re-release around the holidays every year. I'd totally go back to the theater and see it again ten years from now. How many movies can you say that about?

CAROLINE: I obviously didn't enjoy it as much as you did, but I did like it and I thought it was quite good as far as animated movies go. But it had the built-in great story already, so that helped. The animation is incredible; it's amazing what they can do these days. So, as much as I'm capable of enjoying an animated film, I enjoyed this one.

-- RATING --

THE FOURTH KIND

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I was so excited to see the new sci-fi thriller, "The Fourth Kind," because I love both this genre and Milla Jovovich.

CAROLINE: When I first saw the trailer for this movie, I thought it looked intriguing; especially the way she addresses the camera and talks about how the movie is based on real stories, etc. It looked so freaky that it kind of grabbed me. But then I decided it was too freaky for me to see, so I sent you to the screening alone.

RYAN: I was so ready to see an über scary movie for a change, but sadly this isn't it. It made me jump twice, but other than that, it's just stupid.

CAROLINE: I can't say I'm shocked. They're trying to do that whole "This is based on real events" thing and it's hard to buy it - especially since it's about alien abduction. It seems like they're trying too hard to scare us or something.

RYAN: I am totally willing to suspend my disbelief and contemplate the possibility of alien abduction, and I'm sure there are people who truly believe that aliens have taken them in the night. But could have made this movie truly terrifying, and instead it's just cliché and cheesy.

CAROLINE: How's Milla?

RYAN: She's pretty good. But the weird thing is that she comes out as herself at the beginning, just like in the trailer, and announces that parts of the movie is re-enactments and that other parts are actual recordings and footage... but it's clearly not true. I think they were trying to pull a Blair Witch on us and "sell" to the audience that this was the real footage of people who claim they've been abducted. Practically the whole movie is split screen with Milla and the so-called real footage. I was like, "Why not just make a documentary then?"

CAROLINE: It sounds like a cheat.

RYAN: It's such a cheat. You can tell how fake the "real" moments are. There's no way this stuff was really caught on tape because if it was, it would be all over the news and we'd all be afraid to go to sleep at night. It's a total hoax of a movie and I don't think anyone's going to buy it.

CAROLINE: Let's be honest, the scary movie of choice right now is "Paranormal Activity." Poor Milla doesn't stand a chance.

RYAN: If this movie had come out before "Paranormal Activity," maybe it could have stood a chance. But it's so bogus; I just can't see anyone liking it.

CAROLINE: Are there any cool special effects at least?

RYAN: The effects are OK, and there are a couple of genuinely creepy moments where I jumped out of my seat. But most of the parts are just trying to be scary with music and editing. At the end of the day, "Misery" is still scarier.

CAROLINE: I love that that's your yardstick for scary movies.

-- BOTTOM LINE--

RYAN: High school kids might like this, but for anyone who's a true fan of sci-fi or is really looking to be scared, this movie is a total waste of time.

-- RATING --

PARANORMAL ACTIVITY

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

RYAN: We've finally seen the greatly hyped "Paranormal Activity." It only took us a month.

CAROLINE: I was trying to avoid it since I really don't enjoy horror movies, but we just couldn't ignore this one. Maybe it's just because we've heard over and over how scary it is, but... it wasn't that scary.

RYAN: Thankfully, I suppose. We don't want nightmares. But remember those commercials where they showed footage of audiences watching the movie and they were all screaming? I don't really get it; we didn't scream once.

CAROLINE: True, but I definitely got nervous and grabbed your arm a few times. There are some genuinely freaky moments, but they are few and far between. The whole movie is a slow burn. It didn't get remotely scary till about an hour in. But I think a lot of that is because we were expecting to be super terrified.

RYAN: I just kept hoping to see something more happen. The anticipation is exciting, but things just didn't happen quickly enough. And when it gets scary, it's very fast. I'd say there were about two truly freaky moments.

CAROLINE: And they were freaky. But I found the ending a little unsatisfying. Like you, I wanted something more; a twist or a big reveal. More understanding of why this was happening to them, or what the cause of it was. It's clear early on in the movie that this girl is being haunted, but it doesn't go much further than that.

RYAN: I wanted to see something more physical. But the actors are all pretty good. You can tell there was no script and that they were improvising off an outline. At one point I thought I could see the girl almost laughing inappropriately, but mostly they were all very natural. And the lead guy is cute.

CAROLINE: No one in it is famous, but they were all believable. This movie was shot three years ago and after making a splash on the festival circuit, Paramount bought it and was going to remake it with big stars. But they didn't, which is really cool for the actors and the director. Steven Spielberg liked it so much that insisted the movie be released as it was; though he did change the ending.

RYAN: Too bad he couldn't help out Drew Barrymore's train wreck of a movie, "Whip It."

CAROLINE: Ouch. Seriously. I wouldn't say I didn't like "Paranormal Activity," but I was definitely expecting more. That's part of the problem with seeing a movie after it's been hyped for so long. I was expecting to be truly scared, and I wasn't.

RYAN: I love that it didn't rely on horror clichés though - there's no editing or music that's there just to make you jump.

CAROLINE: There's very little music in the movie at all. It's shot in a verité style, and is presented as real footage that the police found, even though we all know that's not true. But kudos to writer/director Oren Peli who came up with the concept and shot the movie in his own house for only $11,000. It's grossed more than $80 million!

RYAN: Some of the special effects were pretty good too, and as we watched it we were like, "How did they do that with no money?" I'm impressed.

CAROLINE: Yeah, the last few minutes were pretty cool, especially what happens on the second to last night. It's something you'd expect from a high-budget studio horror movie. But I didn't love the ending. I think it's better than the original ending, which I saw on YouTube, but there's an alternate ending I read about that would have been even better.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: I'm a little disappointed by this movie even though I know it's mostly because of all the hype... though I still don't think I would have screamed out loud like the audience members do in the ads. We've definitely seen scarier movies in the last couple of years, like "The Strangers." This movie more just makes you anxious. I liked it, but I didn't love the ending.

CAROLINE: I really don't enjoy horror movies, but it was fun to see this one because it's the Little Movie That Could for 2009. I was impressed by the acting; it felt very real. I'm glad we saw it, but I was expecting to be more scared. Maybe we needed to be surrounded by terrified fans in the audience to really feel the fear.

RYAN: Yeah, we only had a few people in our audience. But it's worth seeing in the theater for the surround sound and the communal experience.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

RYAN: It's a serious Trailer Tuesdays this week, people. It's November, and the big guns are coming out. I know we've already seen many versions of "A Christmas Carol," but this one is from my favorite director, Robert Zemeckis, so it's bound to be amazing.

CAROLINE: Yes, but it's animated. I'm so over it. But I know you're very excited.

RYAN: It looks absolutely incredible. It's in the same style as Zemeckis's previous films, "Polar Express" and "Beowulf," and it's in 3D. I'm so psyched for it.

CAROLINE: It stars the voice of Jim Carrey, doing his best Eddie Murphy in that he plays all four of the main roles. I love this story, of course, but the whole animated thing doesn't work for me. I've always liked Jim Carrey though, so maybe that will help me suffer through this.

RYAN: It looks like an animated movie on steroids. And they actually shoot the actors and then animate over them, so it's kind of like Jim Carrey is in the movie. I'm telling you, the effects are so cool you're gonna love it. Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: Next up is "The Fourth Kind," a thriller starring Milla Jovovich, who seems to be making a name for herself in this genre.

RYAN: I dig that about her. I think she's tough. This trailer is freaky and intense.

CAROLINE: I'm not sure I can see this movie because of how creepy the trailer is. I don't really want to put myself through it. I just saw "Paranormal Activity" with you, so that might have to be my horror movie for the week.

RYAN: I'm over scary movies that aren't that scary, so I'm hoping this one delivers. I challenge this movie to scare me, and I'm looking forward to seeing it. Check out the trailer here:

CAROLINE: Next we have "The Men Who Stare at Goats" featuring a cast of fabulous Oscar-winning types like George Clooney and Kevin Spacey along with Jeff Bridges and your favorite, Ewan McGregor.

RYAN: At first I was only into this movie because of Ewan, but now I think it looks really funny after seeing the goat fall over in the trailer.

CAROLINE: It's all about the bizarre paranormal techniques that the military has used over the years, and it's based on a true story. I'm hoping it's more funny than political. Here's the trailer:

RYAN: Lastly, we must mention "Precious," which has already generated a lot of Oscar buzz and comes out in limited release this weekend. Oprah said she couldn't even speak after seeing this movie. What more do you need to know?

CAROLINE: I'm excited for it, but I hope it's not over-hyped. It's based on a book about an obese illiterate girls in 1980s Harlem, and is apparently very graphic and sad. Everyone is surprised to hear that the comedienne Mo'Nique gives an Oscar worthy performance, but apparently she does.

RYAN: And it's also got Mariah Carey sans make up. I can't wait to see it. Here's the trailer:

THE BOYS ARE BACK

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: You know how I love Clive Owen, so I was very excited to hear he had a new drama out, "The Boys are Back." The beauty of it all was that I got to attend a screening with Clive himself doing Q&A afterward. He was great, but the movie... not so much.

RYAN: Oh no, really? Were you so disappointed?

CAROLINE: I'd hoped it would be great, but it was very slow and almost boring. It's certainly well made; it's from director Scott Hicks, who was also there for the Q&A. But I'd read so much about how it's such a heart wrenching, amazing film and I really didn't see that. It's not bad, but it's not great either.

RYAN: Clive plays a free-spirited dad or something?

CAROLINE: Yes, he's a dad who loses his wife suddenly and tragically, and I thought I would get really emotional about it, but I didn't. The movie just didn't grab me for some reason.

RYAN: I'm sorry, honey. Is Clive good at least?

CAROLINE: Of course! It's a well made movie and all that, but I just wasn't feeling it. Basically, Clive's character is left to raise his son alone, and then his other son from a previous marriage moves in. I was prepared for a touching, poignant and heart warming movie, and even though it had its moments, it wasn't all that. I didn't even shed a tear.

RYAN: Oooooh. That's not good. Let's be honest, you'll cry at Oprah.

CAROLINE: I know! It was a bad sign. It just didn't move me the way I'd expected it to. And given that this movie came out in limited release a month ago and has zero buzz, I'd say others are feeling the same way.

RYAN: How were the kids?

CAROLINE: One's really cute, and the other is sort of a moody teenager. It has all the elements of a good movie, including a potential love interest, but it didn't deliver. I'm not sure what was missing, but it kind of dragged. I hate to even say that about a Clive Owen movie, but I must.

RYAN: Maybe it was an issue with the screenplay.

CAROLINE: That's possible. Though it's not like Scott Hicks has directed anything that praiseworthy since "Shine" thirteen years ago, LBH.

RYAN: I just thought Clive would pick a better movie.

CAROLINE: I think they all thought they were making a good movie. There are definitely some sweet moments with the kids and it's shot really well. I just wasn't emotionally engaged.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: I really wish I could tell everyone to run to see this movie and that there's gonna be tons of Oscar buzz for it, but sadly I cannot. I think it's going to get lost in the shuffle of Oscar contenders this fall. It's not a tragic mistake for Clive Owen, but he needs to pick his roles more judiciously next time.

-- RATING --

Box Office Results

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 20:00:00 +0000

1. "Michael Jackson's This Is It," $21.3 million.

2. "Paranormal Activity," $16.5 million.
3. "Law Abiding Citizen," $7.3 million.
4. "Couples Retreat," $6.1 million.
5. "Saw VI," $5.6 million.
6. "Where the Wild Things Are," $5.1 million.
7. "The Stepfather," $3.4 million.
8. "Astro Boy," $3.04 million.
9. "Amelia," $3 million.
10. "Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant," $2.8 million.

RYAN: Though it only made $21 million this weekend in the US, "Michael Jackson's This is It" made over $100 million worldwide.

CAROLINE: Of course it did. And it should. I thought it would have done better even here but apparently not.

RYAN: It's such a great movie, a real celebration of his talent. I even feel like I could see it again.

CAROLINE: It was almost like being at a great MJ concert, without all the drama, fans screaming, passing out.

RYAN: [laughs] I know. What was up with that?

CAROLINE: Are you gonna get the DVD when it comes out?

RYAN: Probably.

CAROLINE: We finally saw "Paranormal Activity" to find out what all the hype is about and it scored well again this weekend.

RYAN: It has made over $85 million dollars already. That's bananas.

CAROLINE: Interestingly, "Amelia" is actually on the chart this week.

RYAN: I'm amazed no one is seeing that film. What a flop.

CAROLINE: Next weekend should be kicked into high gear with "A Christmas Carol."

RYAN: Can't wait!!

GENTLEMEN BRONCOS

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I knew basically nothing about "Gentlemen Broncos" other than it was directed by the same guy who did "Napoleon Dynamite" and "Nacho Libre." I thought it had no one famous in it and figured it was lame until I watched the trailer and saw that it has Sam Rockwell and is about a science fiction writer, which intrigued me.

CAROLINE: It has a few recognizable actors: Jemaine from "Flight of the Conchords," Jennifer Coolidge and the kid who played Jack's son on "Will & Grace." I had no interest in it other than the cast, which was basically the only good thing about this movie.

RYAN: We were lucky enough to attend a small premiere of sorts and we sat behind Sam Rockwell who was there canoodling with Leslie Bibb, who must be his girlfriend. Billy Crudup, who's hot, was there too. I guess they're all buds.

CAROLINE: The first fifteen minutes of the movie was very funny and I chortled several times... but then it just got odd. Knowing what I know about Jared Hess's previous films, I knew we were in for something random. But this was kind of beyond.

RYAN: I completely agree. I liked it for twenty minutes, but after that I so didn't care. I wasn't engaged at all. The only good part was watching Sam Rockwell's reactions to himself on screen. And watching him make out with Leslie Bibb.

CAROLINE: There are a few scenes with Sam that if I didn't know it was him, I would never have figured it out. He's almost unrecognizable. He and Jemaine are hilarious, but the movie isn't. As it went on, it got more and more random and less and less funny. I don't think I understand the mind of Jared Hess. And maybe I don't want to.

RYAN: I don't watch "Flight of the Conchords," but Jemaine was a total scene stealer. He was brilliant, even just the way he spoke. The voice he found for this character was fab!

CAROLINE: I loved it! He does an English accent but also puts on this random deep voice that's totally patronizing. It was awesome. But half the movie is an enactment of a sci-fi story, and it's almost like a B-movie. I know it's supposed to be like that, but it was just kind of silly.

RYAN: I know that the goal is to be silly, so I can appreciate that, but what's the point of watching a bunch of unattractive, awkward nerds run around? This movie also had several gross-out moments that I didn't need to see, like projectile vomiting, regular vomiting and poop jokes. We never like that in a movie.

CAROLINE: I'm not sure who's going to be interested in seeing this.

RYAN: Young boys, I guess.

CAROLINE: Not too young though. It's not appropriate for kids. I don't know where Jared Hess's ideas come from, but they're just weird.

RYAN: I did like the girls in the movie; Jennifer Coolidge, of course, and the other random girl from the sci-fi convention. There are some funny moments for sure, but they're few and far between. Even though it's a short movie, you were still asking me what time it was.

CAROLINE: Luckily when I asked you that, the movie only had two minutes left.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: I don't want to totally diss this movie because I really like the cast and I appreciate original ideas, but it just didn't work for me. I was bored and I couldn't find anything to relate to in it. I didn't get it. The best word to describe it is "random."

RYAN: It pays homage to cheesy sci-fi movies and novels which is fun. But it's not something I can recommend seeing in the theater.

-- RATING --

New on DVD

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: New on DVD this week is a direct to DVD, feature length film from Disney called "Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure." Since it's animated, you know I had little interest but can I predict you liked it?

RYAN: Yes. In fact, I saw the first one too.

CAROLINE: Oh, this was a sequel?

RYAN: Yes and I actually liked this one more than the first one.

CAROLINE: Why's that?

RYAN: It's a better story.

CAROLINE: That helps. Anyone famous in it?

RYAN: Yes. Anjelica Huston plays, like, the queen fairy and Lucy Liu and Kristin Chenoweth each voice one of Tink's friends; except Kristin only had three lines. Frown.

CAROLINE: I know you love her.

RYAN: The animation is wonderful and although it's geared toward a younger crowd, for those of us still young at heart, it's a really cute film. I was pretty into it. I remember watching the first one only loosely but this one holds your attention.

CAROLINE: Leave it to Disney to take a minor character from a classic film and delve into a new franchise.

RYAN: They've created a whole world - Pixie Hollow within Neverland. And there's plenty of merchandising tie-ins. One of the fabulous things that Disney's doing with their new DVDs is when you buy the DVD, it comes bundled with the Blu-Ray DVD too. So even if you don't have a Blu-Ray player yet, they're helping you start your collection.

CAROLINE: That's clever.

RYAN: I wish every DVD came with a complimentary Blu-Ray. There are some cute deleted scenes and fun outtakes that they made. It's also cool to see Tink get a makeover. She starts off looking the same but when the adventure takes off, she's more properly clothed - long sleeves, pants, etc...

CAROLINE: Is that really worth commenting on?

RYAN: Well there's been buzz about it. Instead of always sexing up characters for children, Tinker Bell dresses season-appropriate.

CAROLINE: [laughs] Ok. That's very progressive of her.

RYAN: It's not a musical - which may have made the difference between the direct to DVD release versus theatrical, but it's super sweet - for any Disney or animation fan.

CAROLINE: I'll take your word for it.

MICHAEL JACKSON'S THIS IS IT

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: We were lucky enough to attend the New York premiere of "Michael Jackson's This Is It," and it was more than a movie; it was an experience.

CAROLINE: Honestly, I was prepared to be kind of disturbed by this movie knowing how much Michael Jackson had diminished over the years. He'd gotten so painfully thin and freaky looking. But now, after seeing it, I cannot believe the fine form he was in as a performer. The quality of his voice and his amazing dancing in this movie was almost as it was in his heyday.

RYAN: We kept thinking we shouldn't expect too much since this was just rehearsal footage and not MJ full out performing, but his dancing was so on, his voice was incredible and he's totally with it and funny. He knew exactly what he wanted and he even directed people a little bit. It just makes me angry all over again that he's gone.

CAROLINE: I can't say Michael looks great in the movie; he's something between a skeleton and a scarecrow. But he really still had it. I'm in shock at how much I enjoyed this movie. The song choices were amazing and I was grooving along to almost every single one. They were so far along in the rehearsal process that you could really see what the concert would have been like. The flow of the show was going to be perfect and they were going to play every MJ hit you wanted to hear.

RYAN: I turned to you in the middle and said, "I don't want this to ever end." And if this was just the rehearsal footage, I can't imagine how freaking amazing the actual show would have been!

CAROLINE: I could almost hear the enormous applause that would have been at the end of every number. The energy was incredible. It would have been a stellar show, and a definite comeback for him. Even though he was so sick, he was still very capable. Fifty shows might have killed him, but he was ready to do it and really psyched for it. It's now even more shocking to me that he died.

RYAN: It's just so sad. I still can't get over how effortless his dancing was. We watch "So You Think You Can Dance" and we know how much work goes into dancing phenomenally, but watching him you can see how much better he is than everyone else. He wasn't just a dancer; he was dance. And he was music. The songs are lyrically beautiful and musically complex and have a great message. He truly deserved all his fame and recognition because he really was better than everyone else. They played his new song "This Is It" over the credits.

CAROLINE: He can still sing! Who knew? The movie is mostly rehearsal footage, and with each new number I was so excited to see what they were going to do with it. And they also delved a little into the musicians and dancers and their audition process, which I loved. The movie might have been 10 or 15 minutes too long, but that's OK.

RYAN: We could have done without that one nature song; I'd rather have seen "Remember the Time." But it was so fun to see him talking like a regular person who was actually funny and full of love and respect for his team. He never talked down to anyone. It was great to see him as a real person because as a culture, we totally dehumanized him. He was like a god or a king and we put him on such a pedestal, so it was neat to see the real man.

CAROLINE: I agree, but I'm a little torn since we know how incredibly troubled, sick and basically demented he was. I was able to put that aside while watching the movie, since it doesn't focus on any of the negativity, but it was the sad reality. This movie is a real love letter to Michael Jackson the entertainer, and it was such a treat. Fans and non-fans alike will be in awe.

RYAN: I never got emotional, even though I thought I would after seeing the trailer. Just realizing this is the last time we'll ever see him is so sad. But the movie is really a celebration of how fabulous he was.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: Your two weeks start now, people. Get your tickets!

RYAN: You must see this in the theater. It will have such a better impact than it would on TV. I absolutely loved this movie.

CAROLINE: It's incredible and thrilling and I highly recommend it. Even if you liked Michael Jackson only a tiny bit, you should see this movie. It's a reminder of what could have been.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: It's a little bit of a peculiar week for movie releases since it's full-on Oscar season but there's really only one big movie to discuss.

CAROLINE: And it's a concert rehearsal movie no less. We're talking about Michael Jackson's "This Is It," people. It comes out tomorrow and is only out for 2 weeks, so if you haven't bought your ticket yet, you might not be able to. Apparently it's selling out all over the place.

RYAN: It really has no competition this week, and I'm sure everyone's curiosity will get the best of them. I, for one, am really psyched for it.

CAROLINE: Halloween is, of course, Saturday and I'm sure the studios figured they shouldn't release anything big this weekend since everyone will be out celebrating. Plus all the usual horror movies are already out. I'm a little concerned this movie might be like a horror movie; Michael Jackson looks positively skeletal.

RYAN: I feel like this is the MJ version of Madonna's "Truth or Dare."

CAROLINE: Yeah, except he didn't even know he was making it!

RYAN: Seriously. It's all behind-the-scenes footage of his tour that could have been but sadly wasn't meant to be.

CAROLINE: It's very fortuitous that they happened to be filming all his rehearsals. Apparently they were doing it so Michael could watch the footage, see what needed to change or improve, etc. Little did they know it would become a feature film.

RYAN: As a big fan of Michael Jackson, I fear this movie is going to be bittersweet. I'm saddened by the fact that I never got to see him perform live, and never will, but I'm excited to see him perform on the big screen; even though he's not giving his all since it was just rehearsal.

CAROLINE: I'm a big fan too, and the trailer is definitely chill-inducing. The songs alone are so amazing that I might cry. But I also feel like Michael had become such a shadow of his former self that this movie might be disturbing. He'd gotten so emaciated and gross-looking. Not to mention that we now know he was going home every night and basically putting himself in a coma.

RYAN: LBH, when you're that famous you get a little crazy - hello Tom Cruise, Madonna, Oprah.

CAROLINE: [laughs] I know. It's like you don't live in the real world anymore.

RYAN: Exactly. Maybe this movie will show us some moments of humanity along with the freakishness. Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: There are a couple of very small movies also coming out this week. One is from the guy who directed "Napoleon Dynamite," Jared Hess, and the only reason it's on my radar is because it stars Jemaine from HBO's "Flight of the Conchords," who I'm obsessed with.

RYAN: The movie in question is "Gentlemen Broncos" and I must say I had zero interest in this movie... and then I watched the trailer. True confessions - I also used to write sci-fi stories in high school.

CAROLINE: You are a geek to Nth degree.

RYAN: I know. But this trailer totally hit home with me. It stars the kid who played Jack's son on "Will & Grace."

CAROLINE: He's in a lot of movies these days. I'm sorry, but this trailer is just downright odd. It's not very appealing to me. But I'll consider seeing it because of Jemaine. And Jennifer Coolidge.

RYAN: It is odd, but the sci-fi writing thing is so up my alley that now I'm dying to see it. Check out the trailer here:

CAROLINE: Finally there's also the "Boondock Saints" sequel, which I know nothing and care nothing about. Apparently the first one was a big DVD hit, but I've never seen it.

RYAN: I have no interest either. I'm sure the fans know who they are.

CAROLINE: Here's the trailer for the interested parties:

SAW VI

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I just saw "Saw VI." Did you saw it?

CAROLINE: Mercifully, I did not saw it. I saw the original "Saw" and vowed never to saw again. This franchise is way too gory for me.

RYAN: This movie didn't screen for critics, as usual, but Lionsgate did provide a courtesy screening for us. I've seen all the previous "Saw" movies so I figured I'd check this one out for free, even though I didn't really want to. Let's be honest, if you saw one "Saw" movie, you saw 'em all.

CAROLINE: That's what I figured.

RYAN: But after seeing this one, I have to say it's quite different.

CAROLINE: How is that possible? Doesn't every single one feature two people trapped in a room with an appendage shackled to a pipe and they have to figure out how to get free thus invariably winding up sawing a limb off?

RYAN: [laughs] That's exactly how this movie begins. And one of the girls featured is the winner of that VH1 show "Scream Queen." So for the opening scene, I was like, "Ugh, more of this again?"

CAROLINE: I guess that's sort of the premise of these movies.

RYAN: And it's so gory. I think I puked a little bit in my mouth, which I really don't appreciate. But this movie, unlike the others, really focuses on one man's story. It explains the pathology and history behind Jigsaw and all his craziness and evildoing. It actually felt like a real ending to the franchise, so maybe they're not planning a "Saw VII."

CAROLINE: Well, given that it couldn't beat "Paranormal Activity" this weekend, maybe that's not a bad idea. You have to pull the plug at some point. And the fact that they've even had six "Saw" movies is kind of a miracle to me.

RYAN: It's become a Halloween tradition to have a new "Saw" and they always make tons of money. But this is the first one in a while to not open at #1. I'm sure they're disappointed, but this movie just doesn't have the buzz that "Paranormal Activity" does.

CAROLINE: There's no one famous in it, right? I just remember Cary Elwes being in the first "Saw," and thinking, "What happened to his career?"

RYAN: No one really famous but I recognized one girl from several previous "Saw" movies.

CAROLINE: Is there any plot to speak of?

RYAN: Quite a bit, actually. Unlike the others, this movie has a lot of dialogue and real scenes. It has a little less of the torture stuff, but still enough to totally gross me out. It's kind of unbearable to watch. I'm not an advocate of turning away from the screen in movies, but if I was ever going to, it'd be here.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's gory and disgusting, but better than I expected it to be. It's actually watchable due to a more consistent plot and some dialogue. It's only 91 minutes, which is always a plus. But some of it's just not very good.

-- RATING --

Box Office Results

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 19:39:00 +0000

1. Paranormal Activity, $22 million

2. Saw VI, $14.8 million
3. Where the Wild Things Are, $14.4 million
4. Law Abiding Citizen, $12.7 million
5. Couples Retreat, $11.1 million
6. Astro Boy, $7 million
7. The Stepfather, $6.5 million
8. Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant, $6.3 million
9. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, $5.6 million
10. Zombieland, $4.3 million

RYAN: What the? What is going on here? "Paranormal Activity" is the little movie that could!

CAROLINE: Seriously. The word of mouth has just snowballed. This movie cost only 15 grand to make and is raking in the millions.

RYAN: I think I'm gonna have to see it this week. I can't believe it beat "SAW VI." That's just messing with tradition!

CAROLINE: It is a little shocking but also a matter of time, right?

RYAN: Yeah, this might be the end of the SAW franchise.

CAROLINE: I wonder if there will be a sequel to "Paranormal Activity" now.

RYAN: Of course there will be. And it will be lame. That's the way of the world.

CAROLINE: How on earth did "Amelia" not even crack the top 10?

RYAN: That is crazy! This whole weekend B.O. is out of control. What happened to the world this weekend?

CAROLINE: People were out getting ready for Halloween.

RYAN: And "The Vampire's Assistant" didn't do that well either. That's just such a shame cos it was so terrific.

CAROLINE: It looks like "Amelia' was #11 with just $4 million. It cost $40 mill to make so it's definitely struggling.

RYAN: Next weekend there's only the Michael Jackson "This is It" movie opening which is already sold out everywhere so that will probably be #1. Then it will be interesting to see how the rest of these play out again.

CAROLINE: Maybe "Amelia" will move up? Who knows.

AMELIA

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 10:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I licked it. I licked it a lot.

CAROLINE: [laughs] "Amelia" was good? I'd assumed it might be since it's an unabashed plea on behalf of one Hilary Swank for yet another Oscar. Which she'll probably deserve, LBH.

RYAN: Too true. And she serves as the film's exec producer as well as star so she's not kidding around here. She's fabulous in the role but maybe a wee bit understated; not in performance, but there should have been maybe one more meatier scene.

CAROLINE: She's such a good actress and actually fitting for this role since she actually kinda looks like the real Amelia Earhart - who was not a pretty girl. That wig sure is somethin'!

RYAN: Indeed. Hilary's no great beauty, she's very talented and endearing. And she and Richard Gere both do a fabulous job at nailing the American 1930s dialect.

CAROLINE: Seriously?

RYAN: Yes, consistently throughout the film they talk like Audrey Hepburn and Clark Gable.

CAROLINE: Interesting. They must have worked with a coach. How was the rest of the period setting?

RYAN: The sets and costumes are terrific and although this director made one of our least favorite films - ever...

CAROLINE: Wait, which one?

RYAN: "Vanity Fair."

CAROLINE: Oh gawd! The one with Reese Witherspoon. That movie was hideous!

RYAN: I know. We laughed through it, it was so heinous. But Mira Nair redeems herself with this one.

CAROLINE: GTK. Good to know. Was it too long?

RYAN: You know, it was a bit long and even slow-moving but then it really picks up dramatically and becomes suspenseful.

CAROLINE: I can't believe you're talking this much about the movie without having yet mentioned your favorite actor Ewan McGregor.

RYAN: OMG. I die. He is beyond in this movie. He's just the way you want him: dashing with a side of debonair.

CAROLINE: OK, settle down.

RYAN: I'm, like, Tori & Dean Inn Love with him.

CAROLINE: I know, honey.

RYAN: He has a pretty modest role though.

CAROLINE: Does the movie come across as distinctly feminist?

RYAN: I didn't pick up on that. But you know, what she accomplished as a woman in her time was great and although we saw the reaction to that and a bit of her challenges, I think they could have built up the challenges a lot more. It would have made the drama more compelling.

CAROLINE: But maybe she didn't struggle that much.

RYAN: Maybe. It seems her greatest struggle was finding the funds to continue flying.

CAROLINE: What about the love triangle aspect?

RYAN: Well the stakes never got very high, so that was a bit of a disappointment. It's overall a romantic drama with a lot more romance than drama. Oh, and Mia Wasikowska is in it, in a bit part.

CAROLINE: Who is that?

RYAN: She's playing Alice in Tim Burton's upcoming "Alice in Wonderland."

CAROLINE: No one cares about her yet.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's a first-rate biopic about a woman who really deserves one. It's enjoyable to watch and it even gets better as the movie goes along.

-- RATING --

CIRQUE DU FREAK: THE VAMPIRE'S ASSISTANT

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I remember when I first read about "Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant," the first thing I thought was, "seriously... another vampire movie?!?!" But then I saw the trailer and I couldn't wait to see it.

CAROLINE: I missed the screening. How was it?

RYAN: In a word... amazing!

CAROLINE: Really? I know there's a decent cast but I didn't think it would be that great.

RYAN: It's honestly the film I've enjoyed the most in the last 8 months.

CAROLINE: Wow, ok. What made it so great?

RYAN: The story is cool and unique for the vampire genre. It's like a fantasy vampire movie. They're not evil, people-killing vampires. And the make-up, costumes and color in this film is so vibrant, some scenes reminded me of "Moulin Rouge."

CAROLINE: That's cool. How was John C. Reilly as the vampire?

RYAN: You know, for an awkward looking dude, he's very charismatic. I really enjoy him as an actor. I think he and Paul Giamatti should either play brothers or lovers in a movie someday.

CAROLINE: [laughs] Random. I won't ask why. What about Salma Hayek?

RYAN: She plays John C.'s girlfriend/the Bearded Lady at the freak show. She's really good and of course, I loved Jane Krakowski as well. And Willem Dafoe is a scene-stealer. Plus, Broadway's Michael Cerveris is in it.

CAROLINE: OMG I saw him in Sweeney Todd.

RYAN: There are others you'd recognize too; a really fab cast.

CAROLINE: How were the effects?

RYAN: Great. They're seamless and powerful. The stuff you see in the freak show part of the movie is just incredible. It's like Ripley's Believe It or Not on crack. I wanna see it again.

CAROLINE: That paints a picture.

RYAN: One of the things I like best about this movie is the transition it makes from "reality" into the fantasy. It starts out like a teen high school flick and then morphs into this fantastical, creepy, cool and even cute movie.

CAROLINE: Uh-oh, cute? Level with me, isn't this just you liking a kids' movie here?

RYAN: No. Listen. The screenplay was written by the guy who wrote "L.A. Confidential" and the director did "About a Boy" and the first "American Pie."

CAROLINE: Ok. Those are some more mature credits.

RYAN: It's pretty clever and there is some language that you definitely don't expect and it's funny. And then in parts it's dark too.

CAROLINE: Wow, you're sold.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: In many ways it's a perfect movie in the sense it's a strong beginning, middle and end. I was captivated the entire time and just sort of delighted by this film. I highly recommend. It's a fresh, fun take on vampires with its heart in the right place.

-- RATING --

Movie News - New Movie Musical

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: We love Adam Shankman as a judge on TV's So You Think You Can Dance, but aside from that, he's a well known choreographer and director.

RYAN: He directed the movie musical "Hairspray" and also last year's "Bedtime Stories," both which I liked.

CAROLINE: He's talented, funny and cool. We even talked to him on the red carpet at the "Hairspray" premiere in NYC and he was very nice.

RYAN: Well he's bringing another Broadway musical to the movies - Rock of Ages.

CAROLINE: I love it! I actually saw this show on Broadway and thought it was highlarious. It's filled with 80's rock songs which I loved then and now.

RYAN: I had no interest in the show until hearing you rave about it and now I really wanna see it.

CAROLINE: And Adam has said he'd been wanting to do another movie musical and decided on this one when he saw it. He reportedly thinks it will open up the movie musical genre to a wider audience since the songs appeal to more than the average showtune.

RYAN: That must be true. Isn't Constantine Maroulis from American Idol in it?

CAROLINE: On Broadway, yes. But I doubt he'd be in the movie. Adam has said he wants to cast movie stars, more apt since musicals are making a comeback.

RYAN: Well I can't wait. But we'll have to 'cos it starts shooting next summer for a 2011 release.

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Ok, no more messin' around here. We're getting the good movies starting this week. I mean I love movies all year 'round but this week we're revving up.

CAROLINE: Two-time Oscar winner Hilary Swank is going for the gold once again - this time as Amelia Earhart.

RYAN: I liked how Amy Adams portrayed her in the last "Night at the Museum" movie. She's so cute.

CAROLINE: I'm sure Hilary's doing the more factual portrayal. She takes her work very seriously.

RYAN: I'm just freaking out 'cos Ewan McGregor is in it and I love him. And he looks terrif in the trailer.

CAROLINE: I think he only has a small part. Richard Gere costars and it's nice to see him.

RYAN: Hilary just sounds a bit soft-spoken in the trailer which could be annoying.

CAROLINE: She's playing one of the strongest women in history so maybe she's just showing layers. Here's the trailer:

RYAN: Next is a movie I'm so excited about I'm almost surprised - "Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant."

CAROLINE: Well you love kids movies and vampires.

RYAN: But it's especially because of this trailer that I'm so psyched for it. It looks gorgeous and creepy and cool and fun.

CAROLINE: That's Salma Hayek and Jane Krakowsi in there and of course John C. Riley.

RYAN: It's a great cast and the color looks intense and I love how it starts out like just a regular teen movie then turns into fantasy. I can't wait. Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: Lastly we have "Astro Boy," an animated movie that I don't care about.

RYAN: The trailer didn't grab me either. You know I'm inclined to like animated films, whereas you're not. But this one doesn't look that inspired.

CAROLINE: The animation does look pretty good though and it stars the voice talents of Freddie Highmore, Nic Cage, Samuel L. Jackson and Charlize Theron, among others.

RYAN: I'd see it, so we'll see if we get invited to a screening.

CAROLINE: Here's the trailer:

THE STEPFATHER

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: "The Stepfather" did not screen for critics and after attending the courtesy screening, I can see why.

CAROLINE: I figured. We know horror movies don't often screen for critics, since the studios assume only the "niche audience" horror fans come out to see them.

RYAN: 'Tis the season for the scary flick and this one is a remake of a late '80s movie that I never saw.

CAROLINE: Did it really have to be remade?

RYAN: No. Especially not into this movie. It's terrible.

CAROLINE: Why?

RYAN: It's not scary. It's very poorly written. The acting is so bad and it's obnoxious.

CAROLINE: How is it obnoxious?

RYAN: All of the bikini shots of Penn Badgley's girlfriend.

CAROLINE: Some people like that. You're just not that demographic.

RYAN: [laughs] I know. It was just so blatant, even for this genre.

CAROLINE: So how was Penn from TV's Gossip Girl?

RYAN: Eh. He's fine. But the material is so bad I feel sorry for him. He looks good though. And his mom is played by one Sela Ward.

CAROLINE: Oh my God. Where's she been?

RYAN: Seriously, I thought she had retired but she looks phenomenal - Botox has made her look younger than I remember.

CAROLINE: [laughs] So were there any redeeming qualities to this film?

RYAN: Wait. The very worst offense is the stepfather, himself. For starters, his real name is Dylan Walsh.

CAROLINE: Well you cant hold that against him. He's very popular on TV's Nip/Tuck.

RYAN: He is the worst actor this side of a reality TV star.

CAROLINE: Wow. Ouch.

RYAN: No, really. I'm not just being dramatic. He sucks.

CAROLINE: Okay.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's not a complete waste of time but it's not thrilling, scary or even that interesting. I appreciate taking TV stars and giving them the chance to carry a movie but they have to have better material to work with than this. I like horror movies when they're smart or well-directed but this one just came across as a stupid made for TV movie of the week.

-- RATING --

Box Office Results

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 19:28:00 +0000

1. Where the Wild Things Are," $32.5 million.
2. "Law Abiding Citizen," $21.3 million.
3. "Paranormal Activity," $20.2 million.
4. "Couples Retreat," $17.9 million.
5. "The Stepfather," $12.3 million.
6. "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs," $8.1 million.
7. "Zombieland," $7.8 million.
8. "Toy Story" and "Toy Story 2" in 3-D, $3 million.
9. "Surrogates," $1.92 million.
10. "The Invention of Lying," $1.9 million.

RYAN: The new blockbuster in town took the tops o' the box, much to nobody's surprise.

CAROLINE: But I think most people were a little disappointed in this film, as you were.

RYAN: Other reviewers agree the movie's pretty heavy for what we all either wanted or expected to be an authentic children's movie.

CAROLINE: According to numbers, the audience this weekend was 43% adults and only 27% kids.

RYAN: "Law Abiding Citizen" did okay at #2. It's really sort of a paycheck for Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler.

CAROLINE: At least it was better than those movies that come out in January and February, right?

RYAN: That's true. I kinda liked it. But I won't run out and buy the DVD.

CAROLINE: Overall the numbers are strong this weekend for the top 5 movies.

RYAN: Even "The Stepfather" did well, considering it didn't screen for critics.

CAROLINE: The weather was pretty bad in many parts of the country so it was a good weekend to catch a movie.

RYAN: It's always a good time for that.

CAROLINE: Okay cheesy.

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:00:00 +0000

RYAN: "Where the Wild Things Are," based on the popular children's book, should be called loosely based.

CAROLINE: Well it had to be. The book is very short and it had to be turned into a feature length film.

RYAN: True but everything I read about the project prior to seeing the film stated it was true to the spirit of the book and author Maurice Sendak is even a producer on the film.

CAROLINE: Sadly, I missed the screening with you and I actually wanted to see this one. Why was it so off?

RYAN: The theme I guess. And the length. It's still "wild" but it just goes in some directions in the boy's home life and then also in the wild that disappointed me. I don't want to give anything away so I won't be specific.

CAROLINE: Thank you.

RYAN: It's a brilliantly visual film and the Things are achieved through a fabulous combo of puppetry, people in costumes and special effects.

CAROLINE: They do look incredible and they're right out of the book.

RYAN: And the soundtrack is phenomenal. The music really captures the emotional tone and spirit.

CAROLINE: It sounds fabulous - what about this movie didn't jive with you?

RYAN: It's just so sad. It's about loneliness and its just depressing. I didn't even realize it initially until my pal Vanessa pointed it out. I walked out feeling disappointed and underwhelmed and I think that's why.

CAROLINE: Ouch. That's rough considering most people have high expectations of the movie.

RYAN: Totally. But director Spike Jonze has said he didn't set out to make a kids movie or an adult movie and it does walk a fine line. Some moments are freaky.

CAROLINE: [laughs] What does that mean?

RYAN: I won't go there. The part of the movie in the wild is very fragmented. It sort of feels like chapters taped together. But the little boy, Max, is amazing. He'll be for boys what Dakota Fanning was for girls, I bet.

CAROLINE: We'll see. I love Catherine Keener - she plays his mom, right?

RYAN: Yes she's always great. And Mark Ruffalo plays her beau in a very bit part.

CAROLINE: Love him!

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's the kind of movie you want to see in the theater because it's such a visual experience - the Things are great. James Gandolfini and the rest do great voice work as those creatures, especially Paul Dano as Alexander. It's a fun movie but ultimately just know it's dark and you'll leave feeling down, empty and sad.

-- RATING --

LAW ABIDING CITIZEN

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: "Law Abiding Citizen" is the new action thriller starring Gerard Butler and Jamie Foxx.

CAROLINE: The trailer did look a little exciting but sadly, I had to miss this one. So how was it?

RYAN: It wasn't brilliant but it was entertaining. Of course, I love Gerry B. and he looks terrif in the film. But alas, he struggles with the American accent.

CAROLINE: ...in every movie! I swear he just can't do one.

RYAN: I thought the bigger offense in the movie would be the casting of the very annoying yet intense Jamie Foxx.

CAROLINE: Seriously, there must be something the matter with him. He must have attended The Will Smith School of Modesty.

RYAN: [laughs] I know! His ego is beyond. But thankfully he's not completely repellent in this movie. And it's helped by the casting of his wife - Regina Hall. I loved her on TV's Ally McBeal.

CAROLINE: How nice for you. So let's get to the meat - what's the deal with this movie?

RYAN: It's a bit bloody and violent at moments and definitely has some thrills and some intensity where I was drawing my legs up onto my seat and holding my breath, but there was also something lacking from making it great.

CAROLINE: What was that?

RYAN: I don't know. I feel like it could have been as great as, like, "Silence of the Lambs" except for the script and direction.

CAROLINE: Ok. That's absurd. You're comparing this to a best picture winner?

RYAN: Well in theme at least. And Gerry's character could give Hannibal a run for his money at one point.

CAROLINE: That's still saying quite a bit.

RYAN: I'm torn. On the other hand, my pal Eric, who joined me at the screening really thought it was lame, comparing it to that random Michael Douglas/Brittany Murphy movie "Don't Say a Word."

CAROLINE: Oh God! That horrendous "I'll never te-ell" flick? That's not good. At all.

RYAN: No. But I definitely liked it more than he did. And in the last quarter, we get Oscar nominee Viola Davis as Mayor.

CAROLINE: Oh she's fab.

RYAN: And she looks fab in this one.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's a fairly straightforward revenge film that keeps you guessing but really lacks the brainpower to put it in that over-the-top, must see category. I definitely enjoyed it for the filler that it is and think if you're in the mood for this genre, some excitement... you'll dig it if you go in with lowered expectations.

-- RATING --

NEW YORK, I LOVE YOU

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: We've now seen "Paris, je t'aime 2" also known as "New York, I Love You." Next up will be "Detroit, I Hate You."

CAROLINE: [laughs] That would be brilliant. Sadly, "New York, I Love You" is a serious downgrade from the adorable "Paris, je t'aime." As a New Yorker, I had such high hopes for this "sequel," but it really didn't deliver. I was so excited to see all the city streets and sites, but it didn't even deliver on that level.

RYAN: I really liked the first hour, and loved seeing all the different parts of the city. The cast is great - Natalie Portman, Christina Ricci, Andy Garcia, Robin Wright Penn, Bradley Cooper, Chris Cooper, Orlando Bloom, etc. But the big difference is that in the Paris version, each movie was very distinct with its own title and credit page, and in this one, each film is not well delineated. Some of them even overlap.

CAROLINE: I hated that. The great thing about the Paris version was how each short movie was its own vignette with different characters, and each totally reflected the style of its director. The New York version has characters interwoven throughout; which sounds cool in theory, but here it bugged me. And they didn't even tell you who directed what until the end credits.

RYAN: That bothered me too. And the one with Shia LeBeouf was very confusing.

CAROLINE: The cast was really fun, and it was a nice surprise to see who would pop up next. This just in - Hayden Christensen still can't act. But the rest of them are great. Most of the stories just weren't that satisfying though, and some were never resolved and just kind bled into the next one.

RYAN: A few were clever and interesting but looking back on the movie as a whole, I'm disappointed. By the end, I was so bored that I very well might have fallen asleep had I not fought valiantly against it.

CAROLINE: Please. I spent most of the movie in a near doze. And I'm bummed because I had really high hopes for this movie. I'm not sure why they made it so different from the Paris version. Apparently each director had only two days to shoot theirs and one week to edit, and it shows. They shouldn't even call this a follow up to "Paris, je t'aime." It's not worthy, and it felt amateurish in comparison.

RYAN: Some of the pieces did feel like student films. It does feature Natalie Portman's directorial debut, however, which was decent.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: I really wish I could say this is worth seeing especially for you NYC-dwellers out there, but this movie did not make my heart sing as "Paris, je t'aime" did. I liked a couple of the love stories, but that was it. The first fifteen minutes is OK, but after that it pretty much stinks. Maybe the caliber of directors they used this time just wasn't as good.

RYAN: I still appreciate the uniqueness of using many different directors in one film but ultimately, I was more bored than not. I think I liked it more than you did, but the second hour dragged big-time. If you're a New Yorker it might be worth seeing; but other than that, not so much.

-- RATING --