Ryan Jay Reviews

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 +0000

RYAN: There's only one new movie opening this week and it's the most anticipated film of the year so far - The Hunger Games!

CAROLINE: I'm lit'rally dying to see this movie! You and I were both relatively late to the party, having just read the book recently; but I flew through it and have been excited for this event ever since.

RYAN: I liked, didn't love, the book but I'm also very excited for this. The trailer makes it look pretty much how I imagined it in my mind's eye while reading... with the exception of Elizabeth Banks' character.

CAROLINE: Yeah she kinda looks like a clown.

RYAN: But Lionsgate's really building the tension for this one. It's the next big franchise film in Hollywood so I'm on board with all the hoopla.

CAROLINE: It's certain to open big and possibly even break records. Here's the trailer:

21 JUMP STREET

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 13:00:00 +0000

RYAN: The TV series made Johnny Depp a star. I never watched the show in the late 80s/early 90s so I can't compare it.

CAROLINE: I didn't ever really see it either. And I didn't see this film. How was it?

RYAN: It's good, not great.

CAROLINE: I can't say I'm all that surprised. Was it even funny?

RYAN: Yeah there is some decent comedy. And I much prefer Jonah Hill in this kind of role versus what he did in Moneyball. LBH, I still can't believe he was nominated for an Oscar.

CAROLINE: I know. It's actually hard to believe. How was Channing? Was his shirt off the whole time?

RYAN: Actually not even once.

CAROLINE: I'm shocked! I figured he has that written into his contract at this point.

RYAN: He's fine but never really an amazing actor. He's no Ryan Gosling. But you know who was in this but I didn't realize till the end?

CAROLINE: Who?

RYAN: James Franco's younger brother Dave. He plays the drug dealer at the school.

CAROLINE: Gee, I wonder how he got in the business.

RYAN: Exactly. He's good though; so talent runs in the family.

CAROLINE: It's billed as an action comedy. How's the action?

RYAN: It's tame. There are no OMG Mission Impossible-like action moments. And the comedy is always played before the action. It is a bit cheesy at times and other times outright crosses the line for a laugh.

CAROLINE: How was the scene where Jonah has the blond hair?

RYAN: It's funny. It's fine.

CAROLINE: You sound kinda middle of the road on this.

RYAN: I think the young boy demographic will like this, though it is rated R. It's just a total bromance comedy. Jonah and Channing have decent bro-chemistry but I just wasn't completely roused by this the way we are by, like, Steve Carel comedies, you know?

CAROLINE: Oh honey, I know.

RYAN: There is one fantastic surprise at the end of the film that makes for a great moment but I don't wanna give anything away for those who want to see this.

CAROLINE: Please don't.

RYAN: This film is relatively enjoyable. The audience I screened it with seemed to be enjoying it a lot more than me I just think compared to other comedies, like Bridesmaids, or Wanderlust, currently out, this isn't as good. Where I recommended those, this one can be more of a rental.

-- RATING --

JEFF, WHO LIVES AT HOME

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 13:00:00 +0000

RYAN: This movie screened for critics on the same night as another R-rated comedy opening Friday, called Casa de mi Padre, starring Will Ferrell. I chose to see Jeff, Who Lives at Home instead.

CAROLINE: Any regrets?

RYAN:I hope that question is rhetorical!

CAROLINE: [laughs] I know, we tend to not love Will and his brand of wink-wink comedy.

RYAN: I have no regrets.

CAROLINE: Score! So break it down. How's the cast?

RYAN: Jason Segel and Ed Helms are both terrific. Their timing and chemistry as brothers totally clicks.

CAROLINE: And the chicks?

RYAN: Susan Sarandon is enthralling - I, personally, couldn't relate to what her character was feeling but she was nonetheless completely engaging. And Judy Greer gives a performance akin to that in The Descendants. She must really be focusing on flexing her dramatic muscle lately.

CAROLINE: I'm so proud of her, if that makes any sense.

RYAN: Another good performance comes from - wait for it - Rae Dawn Chong.

CAROLINE: Whoa. Talk about a blast from the past! Where's she been since the 80s?

RYAN: I know. She hasn't done much since, like, 1997. But it's nice seeing her again.

CAROLINE: Good for her.

RYAN: The writing is really strong. It's a character study that's funny and compelling and really sweet. It's co-written and directed by the Duplass brothers who did that Cyrus movie in 2010 with Marisa Tomei and Jonah Hill.

CAROLINE: I remember that one.

RYAN: They're good, indie talent and they certainly have their own brand, style and tone. As for this film - it centers on four people who are all going through an identity crisis. It kind of begins at their "mayhem ensues" moment and while it never gets, like, Coen brothers crazy, it's still very interesting and well done.

CAROLINE: I do want to see this.

RYAN: This film also very creatively references M. Night Shyamalan's Signs, which is coincidentally my favorite of his films. I always recommend seeing that movie anyway; but if you have seen it before Jeff, Who Lives at Home, it just provides a little more context... and subtext, if you will.

CAROLINE: I certainly will, honey. And of course I've seen Signs though it's not my fave M. Night flick.

RYAN: If you like indie movies and you're in the mood for great writing, excellent performances and a sweet story, this is definitely it. It's only an hour and a half and the casting is terrif! If you're open to an alternative to the big, splashy movies coming out now, this is absolutely the best option.

-- RATING --

DOROTHY AND THE WITCHES OF OZ

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 13:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Join me this Friday night at the 7pm showing of Dorothy and the Witches of Oz in Milwaukee, WI at AMC Mayfair Mall 18 as I host a special Q&A session with the writer/director and the cast of this film. Hope to see you there!

CAROLINE: Just when I thought you wouldn't make it after the Harry Potter series came to an end, there's a veritable onslaught of new Wizard of Oz films on the horizon!

RYAN: I am obsessed with both topics so it really is perfect timing. Three new Oz movies coming out over the next thirteen months and the first is from Leigh Scott, a writer/director who, coincidentally, is from my hometown, Milwaukee.

CAROLINE: There's no place like home.

RYAN: [laughs] I'm actually proud of his achievement. I haven't properly met him yet but it's quite ambitious to take on a sequel to The Wizard of Oz. And then to please the fans really says something. All the diehard Oz fan groups on Facebook and Twitter are abuzz about this movie. Plus it's already done well overseas where it appeared as a two-part TV miniseries.

CAROLINE: Clearly you've done your homework. Is anybody famous in it?

RYAN: Christopher Lloyd plays The Wizard.

CAROLINE: OMG I loved him in Back to the Future!

RYAN: Sean Astin and Billy Boyd from The Lord of the Rings are also in it. Sean plays a funny tiny person.

CAROLINE: Like a munchkin?

RYAN: No. More like an itty bitty person and he's comical. Billy is Dorothy's romantic interest. Then there's, wait for it... Mia Sara as one of the more interesting Oz characters L. Frank Baum ever wrote about in his 13 sequels to The Wizard of Oz.

CAROLINE: Mia Sara? What rock did she crawl out from? I only remember her from Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

RYAN: C'mon. And Legend with Tom Cruise?

CAROLINE: Never saw it.

RYAN: She's a treat. Eliza Swenson as the Witch of the West is evil-brewing-under-the-surface fabulous and then there's one actor who really stole the show for me.

CAROLINE: Who?

RYAN: Ari Zagaris. He plays a guy who works with Dorothy and he and a couple other actors are just so brilliantly cast in very poignant roles... their casting is a nod to the original Wizard of Oz. I IMDB'd this Ari and he's also in the Oscar nominated Best Picture Moneyball.

CAROLINE: Oh that's cool.

RYAN: He's really amazing. Overall, for an independent film, without the backing of a major movie studio, this movie looks phenomenal. The creative team was going for a classic '80s blockbuster feel ala Ghostbusters and it looks even better than that. The effects and environments remind me of Alfonso Cuaron's A Little Princess, which is one of mine, and JK Rowling's, favorite films; which legend has it, inspired her to choose Cuaron as director for Harry Potter 3.

CAROLINE: That is quite telling.

RYAN: The other great thing this film has going for it is the story. It successfully blends some of L. Frank Baum's lore with a truly inspired new plot that grounds this sequel into a fantasy-meets-reality situation. The script excellently draws upon Baum's work and then takes Oz to new heights in NYC, of all places. CAROLINE: Was there anything you didn't like?

RYAN: Really no. Some edits were a bit erratic, but this is a cut-down from a longer piece. And the only narrative note that caught me off guard was the use of the Jabberwocky from Alice in Wonderland. But that's just me speaking as an Oz purist. I wouldn't want to squelch the filmmaker's creative instincts. At least it stays within the realm of fairy tales.

CAROLINE: So what's your bottom line?

RYAN: It's a truly magical film for all ages. It's colorful, fun, funny, appropriately dark at times, and ultimately fantastic entertainment. I'm super satisfied as an Oz fan and engaged as a critic so I have to urge you to catch this film on the big screen if you can. It's playing in select cities. Check the official website for showtimes.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:00:00 +0000

RYAN: It's all about the funny this weekend at the movies. Let's begin with the big screen adaptation of the late 80's/early 90's TV show 21 Jump Street comin' at us, with the likes of Oscar nominee Jonah Hill and former stripper Channing Tatum.

CAROLINE: I think you just said all that needs be said about this film.

RYAN: I'm not a huge fan of either actor; and I wasn't born yet when the show was on so I've never seen it.

CAROLINE: Haaaaaaaaa, as if! I never really watched the show either. The trailer is mildly amusing but it looks like a broad comedy so we'll have to see if audiences are in the mood this weekend. I also kind of wonder if all the good jokes are in the trailer.

RYAN: Will this movie do for Jonah Hill what the TV show did for Johnny Depp back then? Make him a sex symbol?

CAROLINE: Yeah, no. Is it me or has he already gained a lot of the weight back? Here's the trailer:

RYAN: Next we have Jeff, Who Lives at Home with Jason Segel, who we know is the modern man behind The Muppets.

CAROLINE: I didn't see that yet, but this one looks a bit more my speed. And we love Judy Greer and Susan Sarandon who costar.

RYAN: I like the theme of this film - it's an indie comedy about a coupla brothers and it looks like there's a lot of heart.

CAROLINE: It could be funny or boring, but the cast is promising. Check it out:

RYAN: Up next is another indie comedy, this one with Will Ferrell, Casa de mi Padre, which is Spanish for House of my Father.

CAROLINE: This just looks like the typical, over-the-top, cheesiness Will Ferrell keeps doing... but randomly in Spanish. It's a novel idea at least.

RYAN: I like the costars, Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna, who have worked together often; but this style of comedy is not really our thing.

CAROLINE: We have a low threshold for Will Ferrell in general. All the movies this week are rated R so it's not even like there's a more general audience option.

RYAN: The other options still look better than this one. Here's the trailer:

FRIENDS WITH KIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 13:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: I was so excited to see Friends With Kids since I have thoroughly enjoyed Jennifer Westfeldt's past endeavors. Plus the cast is awesome and it just seemed like a story that's totally up my alley.

RYAN: Me too! I'm dying to see this but couldn't make the screening. Please tell me it was good! People are even calling it a mini-Bridesmaids reunion since practically half the cast is in this movie too.

CAROLINE: This is true - it's got Kristen Wiig, Jon Hamm, Maya Rudolph and cutie Chris O'Dowd. But they're the supporting players here. The leads are Adam Scott from Parks & Rec and Jennifer W. herself, who also wrote and directed the film.

RYAN: I loved her in Kissing Jessica Stein. So how is her latest venture? I believe it's her directorial debut.

CAROLINE: It is, and I so wanted to love this movie; but alas, I could not. It's not a total dud, but it was disappointing.

RYAN: Oh no!! Why?

CAROLINE: Something didn't click. The dialogue wasn't snappy enough, it felt slow and they didn't use enough music. Some scenes were close to deadly and I was like, "Why is there no music here?"

RYAN: That's so Raven! Is it supposed to be a comedy?

CAROLINE: It's much more drama than comedy, but there are a few comedic moments. Given this cast, I should have been doubled over laughing at the funny parts, but I wasn't. Not even close.

RYAN: You're making me sad.

CAROLINE: I'm sad too, believe me. I thought I would love this movie. But something was missing. A lot of it had to do with the utter lack of chemistry between the two leads.

RYAN: But isn't the point that they're BFFs who aren't into each other but then decide to have a baby together?

CAROLINE: Yes, but even their friendship didn't work for me. I hate to say it, but Jennifer Westfeldt was the weakest link. Her acting just isn't all that awesome. I really like her and find her appealing, and I even loved that short-lived sitcom she was on, Notes from the Underbelly; but she didn't work for me in this. I wanted more. Better writing, more humor, better drama.

RYAN: You'd think they'd do some great ad libbing, at least with a cast of this caliber.

CAROLINE: Totally! The jokes were few and far between and when they were there, they weren't that funny.

RYAN: Isn't Megan Fox in it?

CAROLINE: Yes, and she's insanely gorgeous. Her acting's decent too. And Ed Burns has a small part. Again, an amazing cast; I just didn't love the final product. And it's a total rip-off of When Harry Met Sally in parts. I can certainly understand wanting to tip your hat to that incredible movie, but this was too much.

RYAN: Should I at least watch it on cable when it comes out?

CAROLINE: Oh totally! It's worth seeing if you like these actors, and it explores a topic that many people can relate to, albeit from the POV of wealthy Manhattanites and Brooklynites. I certainly didn't hate it, but I was expecting so much more.

-- RATING --

JOHN CARTER

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:00:00 +0000

RYAN: This is the new, big, 3D, early-summer blockbuster from Disney. It's based on a super-popular sci fi novel written almost 100 years ago which is credited with inspiring everything from Avatar to Star Wars. As a result, it reminds me of those movies, with a hefty dose of Conan the Barbarian.

CAROLINE: Wow. I'm falling asleep just listening to you talk like that. This is so not my cup of tea. I skipped it. How is it?

RYAN: Well you'll be glad you skipped it. You would have either been completely lost between all the crazy names of planets and characters and intergalactic politics, or just full on sleeping. But as for me, I liked some things about this movie.

CAROLINE: Such as?

RYAN: The effects are awesome. The action scenes are all good and the last hour of the movie pretty much rocks. But it's two hours and fifteen minutes long, so the majority of the film is not rockin. In fact, some if it outright stinks - beginning with Taylor Kitsch as John Carter. He's so damn wooden! It's like he's doing his best Christian Bale as Batman voice sometimes.

CAROLINE: Gawd that's torture! We hate that.

RYAN: And Lynn Collins as the princess it almost as laughable. They're only partly to blame though since the script is so cheesy - especially in their dialogue together. I may be a bit more cynical than the target Disney audience, but this one is PG-13 after all, so I figure I can be.

CAROLINE: Honey, you don't have to convince me. How's the 3D?

RYAN: It's some of the worst 3D. If you have the option to see this in 2D, save the cizash and do so. It's barely noticeable and so annoying to wear the glasses in these cases.

CAROLINE: Sounds like I really dodged a bullet here.

RYAN: For you, yes, but I must admit I don't regret seeing it. I had a lot of fun screening with my pal Cecily and we sort of laughed together at the bad moments and then were engaged during the action, climax and ending. But the biggest problem is its pacing and length. I think some kids will zone out for much of this film, and some adults too.

CAROLINE: Who else is in it?

RYAN: Mark Strong, who I just abba-solutely love as the villian, Dominic West, Ciaran Hinds, and the voice talents of Willem Dafoe, Thomas Haden Church and Samantha Morton.

CAROLINE: Anything else?

RYAN: There's one, like, alien/dinosaur/dog animal in it that's so friggin' adorbs, I wanna go to Mars and get one.

CAROLINE: Why don't you? What's your bottom line?

RYAN: It's by no means a total loss - and you certainly get bang for your buck in this film. It is epic. It's transporting (lit'rally to Mars). It's a blockbuster. But it's just not perfect and it's soooo slow to start. If you're in the mood for the other-worldliness of it, get out and see it. But if sci fi isn't your bag, go see The Lorax instead.

-- RATING --

SILENT HOUSE

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: This is the new thriller starring the Olsen twins' younger sis, Elizabeth, who gained a lot of buzz last year with Martha Marcy May Marlene.

CAROLINE: I'm so bummed I didn't get to see this with you!!

RYAN: Wait... you actually wanted to see a scary movie?

CAROLINE: I know, it's totally uncharacteristic of moi. But I'm really curious to see Lizzy Olsen in another role. And I've heard interesting things about this movie. For starters, it's a remake of a Uruguayan movie. How random is that?

RYAN: Not quite, considering the screening I attended in LA featured a Q&A session with the directors after the film where they explained its origins. It's also, get this, based on a true story.

CAROLINE: How is that even possible? Isn't it a movie about a haunting?

RYAN: I'm not gonna give anything away because that's really the largest delight of this film - it's a horror/psychological thriller/mystery and the fun of figuring it out, or letting the plot unravel at the perfect moments is wonderful. It's juicy.

CAROLINE: There were also some innovative technical aspects, right?

RYAN: The entire film - all 90 minutes - is just one shot, no editing, no cuts, etc...

CAROLINE: That is both ambitious and bananas!

RYAN: Where most scary movies rely so heavily on editing, this team had to be really creative to invent the jumps and the suspense since they could not create it in post, in the edit room. What they shot they had to keep. It's fantastically risky in filmmaking but they freakin' pulled it off.

CAROLINE: That is fascinating.

RYAN: Inherently, because of that style, it is a little slower moving, but I really didn't care because it's just such a brilliant achievement - and on top of that, they had to shoot in a 360 degree environment, moving from inside to outside and everything - and while never cutting, imagine the challenges that poses for lighting and all.

CAROLINE: I can't even begin to imagine.

RYAN: Some aspects were explained by the directors after the screening and in many cases, in the dark house, the actors had to do their own lighting by strategically carrying their flashlights or lanterns in certain ways. It was so choreographed and clever; almost mind blowing.

CAROLINE: Sounds like a rave review.

RYAN: Well, the technical achievement is beyond and absolutely worth seeing for any true fan of thrillers. If that's you, by all means go see this. If you don't like suspenseful, scary movies, you won't be into this - but for the movie buffs out there, you'll really appreciate it.

CAROLINE: And how's Lizzy?

RYAN: She's really good and a better actor than her castmates; especially the actor who played her father... he was bad. I didn't love the film until about half way through and then I just appreciated it on so many levels... even where it's sometimes predictable, I still think the plot unfolded at the right pace. I dig this movie.

-- RATING --

SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I was somewhat looking forward to this film because of the cast. Ewan McGregor is my favorite actor... or was.

CAROLINE: I'm sorry, exsqueeze me?

RYAN: I’m kinda over him for some reason.

CAROLINE: What?!! Because of this movie?

RYAN: I’m just coming to terms with the reality that I loved him in Moulin Rouge! but haven’t really adored him as much since then. There have been a few roles he's charmed in, but I'm just not all about him anymore.

CAROLINE: I never thought this day would come! He’s still a talented actor.

RYAN: Oh clearly, but I don’t think he’s completely brilliant - he’s becoming a bit self-aware which is really the worst thing an actor can be. And he's also beginning to repeat himself in the tone of his roles. I'm seeing much similarity. It’s like he’s so in his head while he’s acting and just not as natural as those around him - and this film is a good example of that kind of performance.

CAROLINE: I loved him in Beginners last year though.

RYAN: That was a sweet film. But enough exposé about McEwan. This movie is a snoozer!

CAROLINE: Oh no. Really?

RYAN: For starters, who cares about fishing?

CAROLINE: Well you and I may not, but there’s certainly a community who does.

RYAN: There are some components to this movie which are actually really nice, if you break them down - the cinematography, the casting, some of the writing and witty banter between the lead characters; but, when it all comes together, it just doesn’t work. And the movie is bore-ring!

CAROLINE: I’m so sorry to hear that, but especially glad I didn’t waste my time seeing it. How was Emily Blunt?

RYAN: I like her. She’s fine, whatever. This movie is veeeery British; and not, like, Harry Potter British or different-funny British. It’s a British political tale meets rom com meets drama meets one of the super-cheesiest endings of any movie ever.

CAROLINE: Eek, it sounds like a bit of a wreck.

RYAN: Yeah, it’s pretty bad. There is one major highlight though - not enough to justify seeing this film - but there is a beacon, if you will, in the shape of Kristin Scott Thomas.

CAROLINE: She’s so good.

RYAN: She’s such a ham and a total scene stealer and there’s just something almost deliciously Faye Dunaway as Mommie Dearest about her in this movie. She doesn’t have a humungo role but her presence looms large.

CAROLINE: That’s interesting. Do Em & Ewan at least have chemistry?

RYAN: Minimal, but the story is awkward anyway. It's adapted from a novel that I can't imagine anyone would wanna read either. Overall like the stakes are never high enough for anyone I would know in the audience to really begin to care about what’s going on. The politics in the film actually work against any empathy we’d begin to develop for the characters and its pacing is very lethargic.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: It happens earlier and earlier each year, and summer movie blockbuster season technically begins this month with the Disney release of John Carter.

CAROLINE: This movie just looks like an excuse to use some special effects and make you wear 3D glasses. All those beasts in the trailer? Ugh, I couldn't be less interested.

RYAN: It looks like it has potential to me. It kind of has that Clash of the Titans vibe, but should be even better than that.

CAROLINE: You’re optimistic. I think I’ll let you take on this one.

RYAN: The cast is phenom: Mark Strong, Ciaran Hinds, Willem Dafoe, among others... including the hottie cast as John Carter. Here’s the trailer:

CAROLINE: Next is a thriller staring the Olsen twins’ younger sister, Elizabeth, who received awards season buzz last year for Martha Marcy May Marlene, though not enough for an Oscar nod.

RYAN: That movie was a lil' cray cray.

CAROLINE: Indeed but I loved it! This one looks like a pretty straightforward horror flick.

RYAN: All I can hope for is that it’s actually scary. Check out the trailer:

CAROLINE: Then there's an interesting movie with some actors we like called Salmon Fishing in the Yemen.

RYAN: Say that ten times fast.

CAROLINE: Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor star and I can't tell if it's a comedy or a drama or what.

RYAN: If there's Ewan, that's all I need to know...

CAROLINE: Lastly is Friends with Kids, by writer/director/actress Jennifer Westfeldt who we've appreciated ever since Kissing Jessica Stein.

RYAN: That movie is brillz. Sadly, she's probably best known today as the arm candy for Jon Hamm, who's also in the movie.

CAROLINE: This movie looks sooo good and LBH, we love Maya Rudolph, Kristin Wiig, cutie Chris O'Dowd... it's a great cast!

RYAN: Bring it!

DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 10:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I know you're not into family films but over the years you have seen a couple animated films that you actually like in spite of yourself.

CAROLINE: This is true. Extremely rare, but true.

RYAN: I know you'd like this one.

CAROLINE: Why?

RYAN: It's just excellent across the board. For starters, and I didn't going in... but it's a musical! And two of the songs are as great as some of the best Disney songs from their animated canon.

CAROLINE: Wow. That's quite the compliment.

RYAN: I was so surprised. I didn't know from the trailer that it would be and the singing and dancing was faboosh.

CAROLINE: I'm glad of it. Who are the featured voices in this besides Danny DeVito at the titular Lorax?

RYAN: Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Betty White and Ed Helms.

CAROLINE: Ok, there's some talent. Did Zac and Taylor duet?

RYAN: Sadly no, there wasn't that; but it's okay.

CAROLINE: That's surprising though.

RYAN: I really loved the colors and the Seuss design and it's almost Tim Burton-ish that way, with all the random shapes and exotic hues. And all the little animals in the movie have such personality and character and are super cute and comical.

CAROLINE: It does have that look. Did you see it in 3D?

RYAN: Yeah and it was pretty decent. And I took along my 11-year-old niece and 9-year-old nephew to the screening and they both were completely mesmerized. At lunch following, my niece was commenting on the environmental theme so it really is effective that way.

CAROLINE: Another kids' movie with a message.

RYAN: Well some of the best tales do have a moral to the story and this one is quite specific and unique. It's An Inconvenient Truth for the grade school set.

CAROLINE: [laughs] Well put.

RYAN: I thoroughly enjoyed this film. It's a delight to watch with a brilliant score and terrific talent from all aspects. There isn't, like, innuendo humor for adults the way Shrek had, but I think it will absolutely appeal to all ages who attend along with the intended audience.

-- RATING --

PROJECT X

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: I can't believe you went to see this. I would and did boycott this movie, just from the trailer alone.

RYAN: I was seriously dreading going to the screening. These are the times when seeing movies really is much less a labor of love than usual.

CAROLINE: So how bad is it?

RYAN: Well it's bad but not as all-bad as I'd expected; however, that's gotta be because my expectations were so low.

CAROLINE: So break it down for me.

RYAN: It's kiddie porn.

CAROLINE: What?!?!

RYAN: [laughs] Well there is like a lot of underage nudity of the bosom variety. I can only imagine the creepy old men this film will appeal to.

CAROLINE: I'm disgusted.

RYAN: It's a very loose story... about the high school party to shut down all high school parties: the epic party. And it's a bit wannabe Risky Business meets Kids but without edge, wit, good writing or even good acting. It was like watching a high school play rehearsal.

CAROLINE: That sounds atrocious.

RYAN: That being said, I didn't want to walk out and I didn't sleep at all during it. I was kinda waiting for someone to die or something super dramatic and while there is some climax it's not that.

CAROLINE: This is the opposite of a glowing review.

RYAN: Well it's a very cliche movie. The nerdy boy, the girl crush, the parents go away, the out of control party, the family dog, dad's nice car... the cheesy best friends. I suppose if you're currently in high school there may be some appeal.

CAROLINE: We're clearly not the target audience.

RYAN: The audience I screened with didn't really react either. It's just a cheap, cliche film.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I feel like I've been seeing this trailer for a while and I think it looks good. Danny DeVito is the perfect choice to voice The Lorax.

CAROLINE: I rarely like a kids' movie but this actually looks like it might not suck.

RYAN: [laughs] You're so generous with your words.

CAROLINE: Well, Dr. Seuss is well-rounded entertainment. Doesn't mean I'm gonna see this movie though, lest you get any big ideas. I don't think I can listen to Taylor Swift's voice for that long.

RYAN: I like how colorful this looks and it should be fun for the whole fam. Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: Next there's something new from the director of The Hangover, Todd Phillips. He produced this one though, didn't direct.

RYAN: Project X. I dunno. Clearly we're not the target audience for this one but if it's funny like Superbad or something, we could get jiggy with it.

CAROLINE: It looks a bit Girls Gone Wild meets American Pie though, doesn't it? I'm not impressed by the trailer at all. I suspect I'm way too old for this one.

RYAN: Yeah, it does appear out of control. Let's hope it appeals to a wider-than-high-school audience. Here's the trailer:

The 84th Academy Awards - Live Review

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 01:30:00 +0000

8:35pm
RYAN: Seeing Billy back as host is like getting back into your own bed after a long vacation away.

CAROLINE: OMG I know. He's just the perfect fit for host. And nothing is better than when he inserts himself in the movies. I'll never get tired of it. But what's with the funky audio?

RYAN: Totally. It's random. But thank God he's doing a musical number! It may be the only one we get all night so I'm savoring it!

8:43pm
CAROLINE: Hugo wins for Cinematography! Take that The Artist.

RYAN: Well they were both gorgeous-looking and they're the top nominated films of the night, so...

CAROLINE: And for Art Direction, it's Hugo again!

RYAN: Holy Shizz! Could it win Best Picture tonight?

CAROLINE: Nary a chance.

8:52pm
RYAN: And it's time for the first movie montage of the night. Let's brace ourselves. So far the show seems like a really safe, classy production - celebrating the community experience we share as an audience going to the movies.

CAROLINE: Yeah, I like it, but they better not push it with the cheese factor. Whoa, Cam and J.Lo match! You know they didn't plan that. It looks nice though.

RYAN: And the winner for Costume Design is... The Artist.

CAROLINE: Ew, I'm already tanking in my office Oscar pool. Oh well.

RYAN: And for Best Makeup, we have The Iron Lady. Not a shock; they really transformed Meryl for that role.

CAROLINE: This was a tight race this year. Lots of amazing makeup jobs, including your fave of the year, HP, bien sur.

RYAN: The Iron Lady winning over Harry Potter 7 Part 2 is just the perfect example of the majority of Oscar voters being old men. That frustrates me a lil bit.

9:00pm
CAROLINE: Excuse me, Cam & J.Lo... what was with that over-the-shoulder turn.

RYAN: Fail. How embarrassing. This isn't the VMAs, ladies.

CAROLINE: I am loving how tight the acceptance speeches are so far.

RYAN: Usually there's a Supporting Actor category announced by now... the suspense is killing me!

9:06pm
RYAN: Whoa who died Sandy B?

CAROLINE: Oh, it's a joke. [laughs]

RYAN: Nice foreign language! She doesn't look fabulous though. That dress makes her look very first trimester.

CAROLINE: [laughs] And the Oscar for Foreign Language film goes to A Separation. And Christian Bale is pulling off the black on black so much better than Jonah Hill. Take note, Jonah!

9:12pm
RYAN: It's the first major category of the night - Supporting Actress... Octavia Spencer! She looks phenom.

CAROLINE: This is no surprise. She won every award this season.

RYAN: I'm just gonna say it. I think the actors should be allowed more time than other categories during their acceptance speeches.

CAROLINE: I'd allow that.

RYAN: I'm not really feeling this outro commercial violin/percussion music.

CAROLINE: It is random. Is that Sheila E.?

9:20
RYAN: OMG I'm dying! A Wizard of Oz moment! And it's the Christopher Guest people!

CAROLINE: Love them!! Fred Willard is hilar.

RYAN: That made my night.

8:24pm
CAROLINE: OK, how much is Tina Fey loving presenting with B. Cooper?

RYAN: Honey, who wouldn't? But his dye job is hein.

CAROLINE: And the mustache! Best Film Editing goes to Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Totally deserved.

RYAN: That's interesting. I bet no one had that in their Oscar polls.

CAROLINE: Clearly, the winners weren't expecting it either. These guys do excellent work.

RYAN: But c'mon.... if you're nominated, you have to prepare a speech. Oscars 101, seriously.

9:26pm
CAROLINE: Hugo wins another one for Sound Editing.

RYAN: And Hugo wins again for Sound Mixing. The team of The Artist has to be feeling a bit down at this point.

CAROLINE: Honey, these are the two sound categories.

RYAN: Oh, that's right.

9:34pm
CAROLINE: And the much blogged about Muppets appearance is here.

RYAN: I love them. I'm a Piggy fan. Does Kermit have a head cold? Wait - here's the Cirque du Soleil moment. It's brill!

CAROLINE: Wow, amazing! My jaw is hanging open.

9:42pm
RYAN: OMG I'm loving RDJ - He's clearly making fun of Sacha Baron Cohen. And he has great chemistry with Gwyn. Love them as costars in Iron Man too.

CAROLINE: Yeah - they're doing schtick but it's working.

RYAN: Undefeated wins Documentary.

CAROLINE: Isn't that a football movie? Sorry, but I couldn't care less.

9:53pm
RYAN: Rango wins Best Animated Feature... but meanwhile I love Melissa McCarthy's silver shoes!

CAROLINE: OMG Emma Stone, hilarious! At first, I was like, "What is she doing?!" But then I was dying laughing. That was ballsy and brilliant.

RYAN: I love her.

9:56pm
RYAN: Noooooo! How does Harry Potter not win Visual Effects!?!?! I'm profoundly angered!

CAROLINE: Honey, consider the voters and their elderly-ness... it's Hugo again.

10:00pm
RYAN: And Supporting Actor goes to Christopher Plummer, of course.

CAROLINE: Just like Octavia, he's also won every award this season. It's so deserved. No upsets yet...in the major categories anyway.

RYAN: It's nice Melissa Leo kept it classy tonight. Congrats Christopher! And for a gay role... I'm happy for our Captain Von Trapp.

CAROLINE: So happy! But Melissa Leo looked like she was wearing bedazzled pajamas.

10:10pm
CAROLINE: I'd like to pause and say Billy Crystal is doing a great job; not that I'm surprised. He's a natural.

RYAN: He's fab. He is just so funny! And his face isn't even as scary as usual.

CAROLINE: I'll also take a moment to say how glam and gorge Meryl looks! It's a rarity for her; she's usually frumpy.

10:16pm
RYAN: Best Score goes to The Artist and that's a good one.

CAROLINE: Will and Zach are hilar. I'm hit-or-miss on both of them, but this is funny.

RYAN: So far, all the presenters are amazingly entertaining!

CAROLINE: And the Original Song winner is Man or Muppet. I didn't see that movie, but I love me some Bret from Flight of the Conchords.

RYAN: That was my least favorite song in the movie but what can we do about that now? [laughs]

9:29pm
CAROLINE: As predicted, The Descendants wins for Adapted Screenplay. And if Angelina doesn't start eating soon, I'm staging an intervention.

RYAN: I know! But that pose she struck was fierce! She's my best dressed at the show. I liked Gwyneth best on the carpet, but Angie takes it on stage.

CAROLINE: And also as expected, Original Screenplay goes to Midnight in Paris.

10:37pm
RYAN: Milla Jovovich looks gorge and I'm actually glad to see how real and nervous she looks.

CAROLINE: LBH, she's lucky to be there.

RYAN: OK, how smart of them to have the Bridesmaids girls present the Short Film to The Shore, since no one cares about these categories.

CAROLINE: They're funny, of course, but I wish Kristen Wiig would stop wearing flesh tone dresses.

10:44pm
CAROLINE: Animated Short is The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore and now it's time for the final four biggies! And someone please tell Rose Byrne to eat something!

10:50pm
RYAN: Michael Douglas looks great. I'm very excited for his Liberace biopic in 2013.

CAROLINE: Eek, I feel like I can hear a little rasp in his voice from the cancer. He does look good though, all things considered. And the award for Best Director goes to Michel Hazanavicius for The Artist.

RYAN: Like the Leading Actor categories, there were really two frontrunners here. It was between Michel and Scorsese.

10:58pm
CAROLINE: Well done, Meryl, but Oprah doesn't even get to go on stage to wave? How embarrassing.

11:05pm
CAROLINE: Ah, the dead people.

RYAN: Argh, this is just another speed bump preventing us from getting to the big ones! Let's move it, people. I have to get up early to review this shizz.

11:14
CAROLINE: OMG here it is - Best Actor. I'm so essited. Geez, I almost forgot Natalie won last year; she's been so under the radar since having a baby.

RYAN: She clearly hasn't struggled to lose the baby weight.

CAROLINE: Yay, Jean Dujardin! I would have been thrilled for a Clooney win too but Jean was just so charming in The Artist. And excusez moi, but he's kind of zexy.

RYAN: Finally, a surprise! Quel relief.

CAROLINE: Seriously? Jean was a shoo-in. He won the BAFTA and the SAG. It was a done deal.

RYAN: I know it was between him and George but I still thought George was the favored.

11:25pm
CAROLINE: And Best Actress... It's between Viola and Meryl.

RYAN: Meryl wins! Wow! Now that is a bit more of a surprise!

CAROLINE: I totally thought it would be Viola. I'm in shock.

RYAN: I think most people bet on Viola, but 17 nominations! And though The Iron Lady wasn't anyone's favorite movie, when you see it Meryl really does just shut it down.

CAROLINE: OMG Meryl's shout-out to her husband was the sweetest thing I've ever heard.

11:35pm
CAROLINE: And finally, Best Picture - The Artist! Quel surprise - just kidding.

RYAN: Once again, tonight's show did not disappoint. It's the embodiment of glam. We're already looking forward to next year!

CAROLINE: I must say, the show this year was a little earnest... all that "magic of the movies" stuff. I mean, I agree, and I love going to the movies; but it was a little cheesy.

RYAN: Nonetheless, I enjoyed it. It's always my fave night of the year!

Fashion Police - 2012 Oscars

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 23:45:00 +0000

RYAN: It's always the biggest night of our year and sometimes the best moments happen on the red carpet. Here's how the stars worked it tonight...

CAROLINE: As Us Weekly Fashion Police, we like to take on the fashion almost as much as the awards and this is no disappointment! I'm loving Jessica Chastain from the chest up. Love the hair! She's gorge.

RYAN: She looks like a modern Renaissance Princess.

CAROLINE: It's McQueen.

RYAN: The first person who really stands out to me is Octavia Spencer. It's such a brilliant dress and actually maybe even more exciting that she'd making it look gorge as a plus-size woman.

CAROLINE: OK wait, The Dictator, aka Sacha Baron Cohen... I thought they weren't allowing movie promotion at the awards. It's been such a big stink in the press this week.

RYAN: Maybe the rule doesn't cover the red carpet? But seriously, could Ryan Seacrest have any less of a sense of humor!?! Please. He'll probably be in the new movie based on this moment... It's almost an honor.

CAROLINE: What are you thinking of Rooney Mara?

RYAN: I know everyone on TV is loving it but I think it's, like, a tame version of a Bjork moment. And enough with the Dragon Tattoo hair already. It's so severe and she's so awkward in her interviews.

CAROLINE: Yeah - I'm not impressed with her cleavage in this dress. Wouldn't it be great to hear her and Kristen Stewart interview each other?

RYAN: [laughs] That would be a nightmare!

CAROLINE: The dudes are all looking pretty good. But I'm sorry, what is going on with Jonah Hill?

RYAN: Yes! I've been a fan of the dark shirt and tie combo but it's outdated at this point and LBH, he's not the sexiest man alive, so why take a fashion risk?

CAROLINE: Plus, LBH, he's getting fat again.

RYAN: OK, is it just me or is Nick Nolte doing his best Jack Nicholson impression tonight? What's with the shades?

CAROLINE: I care not. But my favorite part of the night so far was catching a behind-the-scenes glance at P. Diddy get his coat lint brushed by an assistant.

RYAN: What do you think of Viola's hair? I know she's gotten press recently for going natural...

CAROLINE: Yeah, this surprised me. I'd seen some of the photos but didn't think she'd rock the au natural at the Oscars. To be honest, I prefer her with a weave - it's just more glam.

RYAN: Whoa Glenn Close. The jacket must be a nod to the androgyny of the role she's nominated for tonight. And that train!

CAROLINE: I think she looks good! She's working it for an older lady, and I love the color.

RYAN: We're getting close to the show. I think I'm ready to call my best dressed of the night - Gwyneth Paltrow, with Angelina a close second.

CAROLINE: Gwyneth does look great, and I'm hugely into Emma Stone's dress too. Love the red on her.

RYAN: And worst? Meryl doesn't look as ill-fitting as usual and she got the color right this year. Metallic is in, in, in. Viola's my pick for worst... it's not the right shade of green.

CAROLINE: I know it's probably un-P.C. to say this, but I just don't think Melissa McCarthy looks very good. Her dress makes her look like a Viking. I've seen her look much cuter.

WANDERLUST

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: I have been highly anticipating the new movie Wanderlust, largely due to its fabulous cast. I'm so happy I got to go to the advanced screening.

RYAN: I'm s'happy too. It's always one of my ain true loves, seeing a movie with you!

CAROLINE: This movie made me LOL several times. I really can't get enough of Paul Rudd. He's kind of perfect.

RYAN: He's always been quirky-funny; almost like the dude version of Zooey Deschanel and this role gave him even more opportunity to dole it out. He really works his facial expressions and voice into hilarity in this film.

CAROLINE: I also loved seeing all the old cast members from The State, which I used to watch on MTV all the time - Michael Showalter, Michael Ian Black, Ken Marino, Joe Lo Truglio, Kerri Kenney-Silver and of course the director of the film, David Wain, who has a cameo. And if you don't know those peeps, there are plenty of other faces you'll recognize.

RYAN: They're in it just a bit and are funny; but I was more impressed with the main supporting cast - Justin Theroux (and his chemistry with Jenny Ani), Malin Ackerman, and Paul Rudd's on-screen brother and sister-in-law. They were frickin' HIGH-larious! I actually was hoping for much more with them.

CAROLINE: LBH, the movie is a little formulaic and rom-com-esque. Of course, you can predict how it ends and what some of the gags will be. But watching these actors and enjoying them as I did made me not care at all if the movie was a tad predictable.

RYAN: I think it's a pretty original story and I fully enjoyed it. What did confuse me, however, was that at no point did either Jenny or Paul look at each other and question whether this group was a cult.

CAROLINE: That didn't occur to me. It was just a commune type place. What did you think of Jenny Ani's real-life main squeeze, Justin Theroux?

RYAN: He impressed me. He's as good of an actor as he is a writer.

CAROLINE: I think he's pretty funny, I must say. He seems like he doesn't take himself or his whole newfound fame as boyfriend of an A-lister too seriously.

RYAN: I like them as a couple. And he's been a Hollywood all star for quite some time, as a screenwriter and character actor.

CAROLINE: Lastly, I'd like to applaud the length of this movie - about 90 minutes. Even having Judd Apatow as a producer didn't prevent them from keeping it short and sweet.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: Once again, a comedy kissed by Judd Apatow delivers on so many levels. It's a terrifically funny, very adult comedy. I dare you to see it and not laugh.

CAROLINE: I really liked this movie. It's so much funnier than This Means War, the cast is great and it's a good little laugh in a season when there aren't very many good movies. It could probably be a rental but if you love this cast like we do, go check it out on the big screen and laugh with an audience.

-- RATING --

Oscar Predictions

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Shut it down! The Oscars are this Sunday night and for as long as we've been waiting for it, I can't believe it's just a couple days away!

CAROLINE: I know. It seems like all the other awards shows happened ages ago, so it's about time, Oscars!

RYAN: I'm beyond psyched Billy Crystal's back as host. He's just the best there ever was.

CAROLINE: He has traditionally always been great, but I'm scared of his receding hairline and recent plastic surgery face. Also, with him as host and Brian Grazer producing, this might be your grandma's Oscars.

RYAN: I am a bit saddened about the lack of musicality this year. We love a good musical moment and several at that; but with the lack of original song nominees, they're not being showcased this year.

CAROLINE: That might be a good thing though. Those musical numbers are rarely good, and they eat up so much time. But maybe Billy will do a number or two.

RYAN: I hope so. And there will be a Cirque du Soleil moment, so that should be cool.

CAROLINE: I'm looking forward to the red carpet, as always. It might be my favorite part of the night.

RYAN: I'm looking forward to your Rice Krispies treats!

CAROLINE: Honey, they're a tradition! So who do you think is gonna take home the gold?

RYAN: For Best Pic and Best Director, I predict The Artist and its leader Michel Hazanavicius.

CAROLINE: I'm with you. After seeing The Artist and its people clean up at the BAFTAs, I think they're headed for a big Oscar night.

RYAN: In the acting categories, I think it'll be uneventful - Viola Davis for Actress, George Clooney for Actor, Octavia Spencer for Supporting Actress and Christopher Plummer for Supporting Actor.

CAROLINE: I'm totally with you again - except I think it'll be Jean Dujardin over Clooney. But I'll be so excited if Viola wins! There's no one Meryl Streep would rather lose to.

RYAN: Wanna give it a go for the screenplay categories?

CAROLINE: I'm predicting The Descendants for Adapted Screenplay and Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris for Original.

RYAN: That sounds about right, I s'pose. Though I wouldn't hate it if The Ides of March won for Original Screenplay. I loved that movie.

CAROLINE: Don't forget to watch the Oscars this Sunday night on ABC! We will be glued to the couch.

RYAN: And check back here with us during the show while we review it live! See you then!!

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: I'm excited for the new Jeni Ani movie, Wanderlust, and all the more so because it co-stars Paul Rudd!

RYAN: They are a terrific on-screen match. And you know she's just praying to have a movie open at #1. It's the only major release this weekend, so it has that potential.

CAROLINE: We shouldn't have too high hopes for this one since it's kind of a movie no man's land right now. We're at that time... the quiet before the storm of summer blockbusters.

RYAN: I love that season. I'm so excited for The Hunger Games!

CAROLINE: Oh honey, you have no idea. I've read all three of the books and now I'm dying for it! But as far as Wanderlust goes, I think it looks cute.

RYAN: I actually think the supporting cast looks as funny as the stars do.

CAROLINE: Totally. Lest we forget, this movie has Jen's real life beau, Justin Theroux, in it.

RYAN: And Malin Akerman. I like her too. Here's the funny trailer:

RYAN: Also new this weekend is a thriller starring Amanda Seyfried and Wes Bentley.

CAROLINE: I could be interested in seeing this but it's not screening for critics, which is not a good sign.

RYAN: Wes hasn't really done anything too noteworthy since American Beauty but I think he's good lookin' so I like him.

CAROLINE: I like Amanda.

RYAN: It looks like a really suspenseful movie but like you said, we have to lower expectations since it's not screening. Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: There's also a new Tyler Perry this weekend but his movies never screen for critics.

RYAN: They're never very good either. I've seen many at courtesy screenings after opening and while they have moments and some decent casting, they usually just randomly blend genres and come across as melodramatic.

CAROLINE: Yeah I've never been a fan. Here's the trailer for his latest, Good Deeds:

Box Office Results

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

1. "Safe House," $24 million

2. "The Vow," $23.6 million

3. "Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance," $22 million

4. "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island," $20.1 million

5. "This Means War," $17.6 million

6. "Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace" in 3-D, $7.9 million

7. "Chronicle," $7.5 million

8. "The Woman in Black," $6.6 million

9. "The Secret World of Arrietty," $6.4 million

10. "The Grey," $3 million

RYAN: Two things happened I didn't expect this weekend. 1) The Denzel movie jumped to the #1 spot and 2) The new Reese Witherspoon opened at shanty #5... the week of Valentine's Day! ...so much for the rom com.

CAROLINE: Well I didn't like This Means War as much as you did so I'm not torn up about it but it is still lower on the list than it should be.

RYAN: And the Nic Cage sequel to Ghost Rider opened higher than Reese's. Let's collectively take this moment to scratch our heads.

CAROLINE: There was actually one point over the weekend experts were predicting Ghost Rider 2 would be higher but I'm surprised it even did as well as it did, to be honest.

RYAN: It was just that random weekend before the Oscars. There's sometimes speculation that garnering nominations help box office but you don't see The Artist or Hugo in the top 10 this weekend.

CAROLINE: This is your last week, people, to catch up on movies before the biggest night of the year... in our world anyway.

RYAN: I'm recommending to at least see The Artist and The Help.

CAROLINE: Yeah those are both required viewing for Sunday night.

THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Aren't you just beside yourself with joy there's a new cartoon movie opening today?

CAROLINE: I honestly hadn't even heard of this film until you told me you were going to the screening. How embarrassing is that?

RYAN: Well LBH, you're more than out of the loop when it comes to animated films, let alone Japanese animated movies. However, this one is voiced by American actors and distributed by Disney. And it's by the powerhouse team that made animated insta-classics like Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Ponyo, among others...

CAROLINE: No shocker, it's like you're speaking a foreign language to me.

RYAN: They're all great titles and this is another one to add to the bunch. When released in the UK, it was voiced by Mark Strong and Saoirse Ronan and I would have loooved to see that version but I'm also quite content with the American cast.

CAROLINE: Who's in it?

RYAN: Disney Channel stars Bridgit Mendler and David Henrie are the main voices.

CAROLINE: I'm still lost.

RYAN: But then there's Amy Poehler and Will Arnett.

CAROLINE: OK good.

RYAN: They play hubby and wife and she's comedic but his voice is very serious throughout.

CAROLINE: That's a bummer. Anyone else?

RYAN: Carol Burnett! And she's actually high-lar. She doesn't have a ton of scenes but the character she voices is quite shrill and comical and she brilliantly goes with it.

CAROLINE: We don't normally give away plot but what's this basically about?

RYAN: It's based on the popular children's' book The Borrowers about little people who live in the walls and beneath the floor and borrow things from the house to survive. It's also like the 80s animated TV series The Littles of which I was a fan as a kid.

CAROLINE: I can't say it rings a bell.

RYAN: Well the little people in this are different characters but it is very similar. There's actually a lot of heart to the story and the script gets kinda deep.

CAROLINE: So what age range would you say this is for?

RYAN: I was thinking it was a bit slow and tedious in some parts so I would have recommended this for the more mature child, if that makes sense; but there were kids of all ages at the screening and they weren't restless at all. So it must work on all levels. It's also refreshing seeing classic animation again.

CAROLINE: Yeah that's a rare treat for animation fans these days.

RYAN: It's a really sweet, nice movie for kids with enough depth to engage the adults in the audience. I'm a fan of this team so I'm saying see it though I don't think it would loose too much sparkle with a home screening on DVD.

-- RATING --

THIS MEANS WAR

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I saw this movie on Valentine's Day and it is the perfect date movie.

CAROLINE: I saw it the week before Valentine's Day and while I wanted to have high hopes for it, I didn't bother to after I'd heard all the drama about them switching the release date from V-day to Friday because the movie was tracking so poorly. And wow, is it lame.

RYAN: I couldn't disagree more. I'm actually surprised to hear you say that. Although I did find it over-the-top at times, it was all in good fun and I actually think it was a cute, complex and fresh approach to the rom com genre.

CAROLINE: The premise was definitely interesting and unique, and I thought it looked cute the first time I saw the trailer. But right from the first scene, I knew exactly what we were getting from this movie, and it wasn't pretty. I'm all for a willing suspension of disbelief, but this one took it way too far.

RYAN: It's a love triangle and I really liked how different each relationship was. It's almost like two rom coms in one. Most films in this genre are just so tired and predictable but I actually didn't know which of the two I was rooting for till near the end. That was awesome. And then the ending is fully satisfying.

CAROLINE: It's satisfying in that she does actually pick one dude over the other. But that last action scene was so ridiculous, and such a Speed rip-off, that I was practically rolling my eyes in the theater. The script is pretty ridiculous as a whole.

RYAN: Reese, of course, looks fantastic and plays her role effortlessly. And while I was initially annoyed by the outright ploy to appeal to dudes by mixing in the action elements, I really found they added to the movie's excitement and comedy.

CAROLINE: Reese does look fab, and I love that she's almost 36 and still playing the super hot chick role.

RYAN: I will say, however, the action scenes were not edited well. I was surprised that McG directed this since he previously did wonderful action in the Charlie's Angels movies.

CAROLINE: Totally! He also did a great job with Terminator Salvation, so I expected more from him. One person who did not disappoint though, was Chelsea Handler. Her acting is suspect - have you seen her horrible sitcom? - but she's absolutely hilar and pitch perfect in this.

RYAN: I totally agree! I was dubious about her casting in a big-screener and LBH, she kinda plays herself. She must have improv'ed a bit. But she was terrif.

CAROLINE: The casting of two lesser-known male actors in the lead roles was interesting to me. Chris Pine has no nose, so I can't find him that cute. Tom Hardy is kind of sexy in bad British teeth way.

RYAN: I liked both Chris and Tom in this. I think Tom is the better looking one too, but they actually had good chemistry both as friends and with Reese. I bought them in these roles.

CAROLINE: I guess I did, but their jobs were so unrealistic and the way they translated their CIA skills into wooing Reese was just so unforgivably over the top. And what was Angela Bassett doing in the movie for 2 minutes as their boss? Talk about a thankless, useless role.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: It's a super fun, funny and fresh romantic comedy. It's the best definition of a date movie. I was on a date, myself, and with another couple and we all really enjoyed it.

CAROLINE: We'll have to agree to disagree here. It's a very poorly written and poorly made movie that happens to star Reese Witherspoon. It's silly, not funny and unrealistic to the max. Chelsea Handler is awesome but with the exception of her and Reese's hotness, I was not feeling this movie at all.

-- RATING --

Movie News - Angelina Gets Disneyfied!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I'll take all the new fairy tale movies I can get, frankly, even though they're not all going to be winners.

CAROLINE: Yeah, last year's Red Riding Hood, anyone?

RYAN: Case in point. This year we have 2 Snow Whites and now Angelina Jolie has confirmed she'll play one of Disney's most ruthless villains, Maleficent, in a live action adaptation of Sleeping Beauty.

CAROLINE: Angie certainly has the arched brows for the role.

RYAN: [laughs] Indeed she does. I like the idea of her as a meanie.

CAROLINE: She does play action star and sympathetic roles rather well. I think the last baddy she played was in Girl, Interrupted.

RYAN: It is a very interesting choice for her. It certainly doesn't hurt to do a family film considering it's something her children can see.

CAROLINE: That's true. She's done her share of R-rated films.

RYAN: I'm already looking forward to it; hope it does well and inspires even more.

CAROLINE: You and your fairy tales, honey! You'll never get enough!

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Opening just in time for Valentine's Day - or actually a little late for it - is the new romantic action flick This Means War. This was scheduled to open today but got bumped to Friday at the last minute.

CAROLINE: From what I've read, they're trying to distance it from The Vow, which was tracking better than this movie was. And after its huge opening weekend, the people behind This Means War ought to be worried!

RYAN: Either way, Valentine's Day is one of my favorites.

CAROLINE: You always buy me candy on V Day. And I love it!

RYAN: We have been known to exchange a gift or several. And this year we both get some Elle Woods!

CAROLINE: [laughs] We really don't need a third Legally Blonde, and mercifully we're not getting one after that wretched sequel. But this looks pretty cute albeit formulaic. I can get on board with Chris Pine and Tom Hardy battling it out over Reese. She's hot property. Interesting choice of leading men though; I'm kinda psyched they're both up-and-comers and not well-established actors.

RYAN: You ain't just whistling Dixie! Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: Next up is a sequel I can barely stand the thought of. I pretty much despise Nicolas Cage, and I refused to see the first Ghost Rider, and I most certainly won't be seeing this one either.

RYAN: Settle down! I saw and actually really liked the first one. I haven't been champing at the bit for a follow-up, but I'll gladly take it anyway. Here's the trailer:

Box Office Results

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

The Vow, $41.7 million
Safe House, $39.3 million
Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, $27.6 million
Star Wars: Episode 1—The Phantom Menace, $23 million
Chronicle, $12.3 million
The Woman in Black, $10.3 million
The Grey, $5.1 million
Big Miracle, $3.9 million
The Descendants, $3.5 million

10. Underworld Awakening, $2.5 million

RYAN: I'm glad but also surprised that The Vow did so well this weekend.

CAROLINE: You are?! I'm shocked. It's not even a romantic comedy and it managed to beat the new Denzel action movie and Star Wars in 3D!

RYAN: It is quite the feat. I liked it more than you did and Channing Tatum must be thrilled; but it must really be due to the fact audiences loved Rachel so much in The Notebook and she just works brilliantly in this genre.

CAROLINE: Agreed, but I'm still dying to prove she can do something else at this point.

RYAN: As long as she keeps working, I won't complain. She is a very talented actress.

CAROLINE: Star Wars did ok. I, personally, don't know anyone who went to see it this weekend but I imagine George Lucas was hoping it would have done better.

RYAN: Yeah, it can't have been cheap to convert that to 3D but once it come out on 3D dvd, it'll sell to the diehard Star Wars fans, even the ones who don't yet own a 3D TV, I bet.

CAROLINE: Between that and Journey 2 in 3D, I guess the weekend proves 3D isn't the draw Hollywood hopes it would be.

RYAN: Safe House turned out to be the second biggest opening of Denzel's career.

CAROLINE: I still wanna see it.

SAFE HOUSE

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Jay) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:13:00 +0000

CAROLINE: I was actually really excited for this movie but unable to attend the screening. Please tell me it was good!

RYAN: OK, it was good; not great.

CAROLINE: Alright. Please expound.

RYAN: Well the action scenes are actually all quite good. And if you wanna munch some popcorn and go for that, I fully support. But as for Denzel, it's absolutely nothing new and certainly no Training Day.

CAROLINE: Well that's high expectations this time of year, isn't it?

RYAN: Yeah but you saw the trailer - this looked great, right?

CAROLINE: True. How's Ryan Reynolds? Does he have his shirt off at all?

RYAN: Only for a split second. The man-candy award this weekend really goes to Channing Tatum in The Vow.

CAROLINE: Yes it does! Is Ryan good though?

RYAN: Yeah I thought he was really good. I think he was even better than Denzel, don't shoot. The bigger problem for me was that this movie is very derivative of the CIA agent-goes rogue genre. It's just very straightforward that way.

CAROLINE: But the action was terrific.

RYAN: About three quarters of the way into this movie I was consistently thinking it's just a rental; but then, the last twenty minutes and the ending was so satisfying that I walked out saying I'd say "see it." However, over the last few days, it has settled in.

CAROLINE: And?

RYAN: My pal Brad, who joined me at the screening, put it best, "It's serviceable." The action scenes are great. The movie, overall, is okay. Denzel is fine.

-- RATING --