Movie Reviews

North Country - Movie Review ***

2005-11-06T12:14:00.000-06:00

North Country(2005)
Directed: Niki Caro
Written: Michael Seitzman (screenplay)
Clara Bingham (book)
Genre: Drama
Main Cast:
Charlize Theron .... Josey Aimes
Elle Peterson .... Karen Aimes
Thomas Curtis .... Sammy Aimes
Frances McDormand .... Glory
Sean Bean .... Kyle
Woody Harrelson .... Bill White
Richard Jenkins .... Hank Aimes
Sissy Spacek .... Alice Aimes

North Country

Other critics are failing to see the truth told in this film. I agree that there was a possibility of greatness that was missed in the movie. I'm not sure how that could have been achieved though. Perhaps more touching scenes. Doing so you might have a total 'downer' film. North Country is a solid film very well worth watching.

It is a reminder, especially for women, showing how far and even not far we have come. I saw this movie with a male friend and after bouncing back comments about the film I clearly see how the gender perspective of the film varied. I took more scenes to heart and I think appreciated the movie more. There were many scenes where I heard my self react to that my male friend I don't believe really got the point of the intended statements and/or actions. I give credit to the screen writer and director for recognizing and including them in the film.

The cast on this movie was amazing, three academy award winners. Charlize Theron, Sissy Spacek and Frances McDormand perform at their academy winning level. Charlize Theron, scaling back her beauty, not to the extent she did in 'Monster' plays Josey Aimes. A woman that has dealt with many hardships including an abusive husband and still has the courage and rage to fight the entire male dominate community for herself and her unwilling female co-workers.

Plot Summary: When Josey Aimes (Academy Award winner CHARLIZE THERON) returns to her hometown in Northern Minnesota after a failed marriage, she needs a good job. A single mother with two children to support, she turns to the predominant source of employment in the region - the iron mines.

When Josey speaks out against the treatment she and her fellow workers face she is met with resistance - not only from those in power but from a community that doesn't want to hear the truth, her disapproving parents and many of her own colleagues who fear she is only making things worse. In time, even her friendship with Glory will be tested, her already difficult connection with her father, a lifelong miner, will be pushed to its limit and elements of her personal life exposed to scrutiny. The fallout from Josey's battle to make a better future for herself and her children will affect every aspect of her life, including her relationship with her young daughter and her sensitive teenage son, who must first cope with the embarrassment of his mother's sudden notoriety and then face harsh details of her past she was hoping he would never have to know.

Through these struggles Josey will find the courage to stand up for what she believes in - even if that means standing alone.

Inspired by a true story, North Country follows Josey's journey on a road that will take her farther than she ever imagined, ultimately inspiring countless others, and leading to the nation's first-ever class action lawsuit for sexual harassment.

'The Break-Up' Movie Trailer Premiere

2005-11-04T21:14:00.000-06:00

The clip looks promising for this comedy film. Vince Vaugh, typical speed talker seems to be course for making us laugh. The plot line seems like it's easy enough for everyone to relate to. After a break up one must sometimes choose side, who will you choose? See the trailer: moviephone.com

Movie Review - Mr. & Mrs. Smith ***1/2

2005-06-26T22:11:00.000-05:00

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Directed: Doug Liman
Written: Simon Kinberg
Genre: Action/Adventure/Comedy/
Romance/Thriller
Main Cast:
Brad Pitt .... John Smith
Angelina Jolie .... Jane Smith
Vince Vaughn .... Eddie
Adam Brody .... Benjamin Diaz

mrandmrssmithmovie.com

I must admit that I was surprised at how much I enjoyed watching this movie. The star cast pulled me in to see the film and I am glad it did. Angelina Jolie, beautiful as ever, convincingly demonstrated once again how well she looks handling a gun. The hunky Brad Pitt also proves himself as an action star. An added bonus is Vince Vaugh, friend to John Smith. You can always count on Vaughn for laughs. This movie is packed with many action shots, explosions after explosions, car chases, gun shots, falling buildings, climbing, hanging, running, fighting what more can one expect. My favorite scene was the main fight scene with Jolie and Pitt - look out for it very nice touch.

Plot Summary: John & Jane Smith (Pitt&Jolie) have been living together as husband and wife for over five years when they notice that space has been wedging itself between them. Their little secrets have come to a close where running away from it, or each other is not an option. Hired assasins from different sources are now hired to kill each other. This action packed charmingly witty film will take you for a ride. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt will amp you up and energize the screen with their mega watt celebrity power and charm.
Summary Written by Araceli Arroyo

Movie Review - Cinderella Man ***

2005-06-23T22:13:00.000-05:00

Cinderella Man (2005)
Directed: Ron Howard
Written: Cliff Hollingsworth
Genre: Drama / Romance
Main Cast:
Russell Crowe .... Jim Braddock
Renne Zellweger .... Mae Braddock
Paul Giamatti .... Joe Gould
Craig Bierko .... Max Baer
Paddy Considine .... Mike Wilson
Bruce McGill .... Jimmy Johnston

I haven't written a movie review in quite some time. It wasn't because I haven't seen any movies, trust me I am an avid movie junkie. I just hadn't had any time or inspiration to do so. That having said I wanted to make sure I allotted myself time to recommend this movie.

Cinderella man is a good hearty movie to go see. I am not a fan of Russell Crowe. With the exception to 'Gladiator' and 'A beautiful Mind' I have not followed his acting history. However I must commend his performance in this movie. He sold me and I actually like the guy in this movie. The story of course helps his case. An Irish hard-luck guy in the midst of the great depression maintains his integrity and shines. I do like boxing I must admit that. The boxing shots in this movie were intense like a true good match should be. Ron Howard was able to capture that fighting spirit and determination of a fighter. Go ahead watch the movie I promise you will like it.

Plot Summary - courtesy of the Internet Movie Database
During the Great Depression, a common-man hero, James J. Braddock--a.k.a. the Cinderella Man--was to become one of the most surprising sports legends in history. By the early 1930s, the impoverished ex-prizefighter was seemingly as broken-down, beaten-up and out-of-luck as much of the rest of the American populace who had hit rock bottom. His career appeared to be finished, he was unable to pay the bills, the only thing that mattered to him--his family--was in danger, and he was even forced to go on Public Relief. But deep inside, Jim Braddock never relinquished his determination. Driven by love, honor and an incredible dose of grit, he willed an impossible dream to come true.
...Summary written by Sujit R. Varma

Rental Movie Review - Little Black Book ***1/2

2005-01-07T00:53:00.000-06:00

Little Black Book (2004)
Directed: Nick Hurran
Written: Melissa Carter
Genre: Comedy / Romance
Main Cast:
Brittany Murphy .... Stacy
Holly Hunter .... Barb
Kathy Bates .... Kippie Kann
Ron Livingston .... Derek
Julianne Nicholson .... Joyce

I just watched Little Black Book and I must say I really enjoyed seeing it. I like Brittany Murphy, yes I'll admit to that. She just seems to have the fun free spirit that reflects on camera. I had seen the trailers but figured it to be just another romance comedy chick flick, so I waited for it to come out on DVD. This wasn't the case, I think men would really enjoy seeing this movie as well. It has a nice twist and pace that can be appreciated by both sexes. What guy hasn't had a snooping girl friend look through his stuff?

Oops, I really don't want to give away any details this time for this movie. Don't read anything about it! Don't even read the little paragraph behind the rental box, just watch it. If you really must just read the plot line below. The movie is light but entertaining. Like many films, most of what you see can't really happen in real life. Don't expect a factual story to tie up the loose ends. For instance, I'm not sold on Ron Livingston for the Derek character. He performs well, but a better casting call would have fit for someone who dated very beautiful professional women. The point is I had fun watching this movie, and I hope you will too. Tell me if you agree after watching it.

Plot Summary - courtesy of the Internet Movie Database
Stacy Holt (Murphy), an associate producer for a daytime talk show, is confounded by her boyfriend Derek's (Livingston) unwillingness to talk about his previous relationships. Egged on by her co-worker Barb (Hunter), Stacy sneaks a look at his Palm Pilot, scores the names and numbers of his exes, and sets up interviews with them -- all in an effort to get closer to her man. Her plan starts to unravel, however, when she becomes friends with one of the women.
Summary written by IMDb Editors

Movie Review - Ocean's Twelve ***

2005-01-03T14:48:00.000-06:00

Ocean's Twelve (2004)
Directed: Steven Soderbergh
Writen: George Nolfi & George Clayton Johnson, Jack Golden Russell(characters)
Genre: Action / Comedy / Crime
Main Cast:
Brad Pitt .... Rusty Ryan
Catherine Zeta-Jones .... Isabel Lahiri
George Clooney .... Danny Ocean
Julia Roberts .... Tess Ocean
Andy Garcia .... Terry Benedict
Casey Affleck .... Virgil Malloy
Bernie Mac .... Frank Catton
Don Cheadle .... Basher Tarr
Matt Damon .... Linus Caldwell

I have been too lazy and busy to post the reviews from some of the movies I went to see. I like writing these for my own benefit. It's fun to come back and see what I thought of the movies. I tend to forget plot lines, cast members, and general tidbits and putting them into writing helps me remember. Lets see I went to see this movie like three weeks ago my memory of it is already limited. Here's what I do remember from it:

It's true what they say... You can tell the cast of Ocean's Twelve had fun while filming the movie. The camaraderie and chemistry is visible all through out. Sadly the story wasn't as entertaining. Beyond unbelievable it felt forced. There wasn't enough time and plot to support giving 'airplay' to the entire cast. Needless to say the first movie was better. Even the original with the original rat pack was better. Another rumor that was true was how Julia Roberts looked. Her eyes gave her pregnancy away, she looked exhausted. Anyway that part is irrelevant to the movie. The movie itself wasn't all that bad. How can you not want to watch it when Brad Pitt, Matt Damon & George Clooney are in it? I loved seeing the different parts of Europe that they went to, and some scenes were really funny. Overall this was an average movie, still worth seeing.

Plot Summary - courtesy of the Internet Movie Database
Set three years after "Ocean's 11," this sequel shows us Danny Ocean gathering up his complete gang of con artists and thieves from the first film in New York City before they all jet off to Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris to pull off three seperate heists. All the while, the boys must deal with increasing pressure from a very mad Terry Benedict, a dedicated Europol agent with a link to Rusty's past, and a mysterious French rival known as the "Night Fox." Will Ocean's crew reach their full potential and become the greatest thieves the world has ever known, or will they fall victim to Benedict's revenge? All bets are off.
Summary written by Ken Stauffer

Movie Review - The Incredibles ***1/2

2004-11-09T17:36:00.000-06:00

The Incredibles (2004)
Directed: Brad Bird
Written: Brad Bird
Genre: Animation / Family / Adventure / Action / Comedy
Main Cast:
Craig T. Nelson .... Bob Parr/Mr. Incredible (voice)
Holly Hunter .... Helen Parr/Elastigirl (voice)
Samuel L. Jackson .... Lucius Best/Frozone (voice)
Jason Lee .... Buddy Pine/Syndrome (voice)
Sarah Vowell .... Violet Parr (voice)
Spencer Fox .... Dashiell 'Dash' Parr (voice)

The creators of Monster's Inc and Finding Nemo have done it again! Pixar's The Incredibles was a very cute and entertaining movie with a real story line that an adult will not be annoyed by. There were actually real issues underlying the storyline of The Incredibles. Mr. Incredible voice of "the Coach" Craig T. Nelson - refusing to give up his super hero life with angst of midlife crises sneaks around behind his wife's back seeking the glory days of rescuing people. Former Elastic girl, voice of Holly Hunter, attempting to conform to the society expectations gives up her hero days. Sensing deception, while battling with her withdrawn teenage daughter and overactive middle son, and apparently only normal toddler, is brought back from her hero hibernation and piece her family together. With subtle jokes for adults and colorful entertainment for the youngsters no wonder why this animated film scored $60 million it's opening weekend.

Plot Summary - courtesy of the Internet Movie Database
Mr. Incredible is a superhero; or he used to be, until a surge of lawsuits against superheroes submitted by the people they've saved forced the government to hide them in witness protection programs so they could lead normal, anonymous lives. Now known exclusively by his secret identity, Bob Parr, he lives with his wife Helen, formerly Elastigirl, and their three children Violet, Dash, and Jack Jack. He works as an insurance claims specialist, and he's fed up with his pushy boss and his immoral profession, but his wife's worked too hard to build a normal life for her family to abide his nostalgia for heroism. When Mr. Incredible's offered the chance to play the role of hero again by a mysterious informant, he jumps at the opportunity, but when it turns out to be a trap set by an old nemesis he had a hand in corrupting, the whole family must reveal themselves to save Mr. Incredible and countless innocents.
Summary written by Michael Loughrin

Movie Review - Ladder 49 ***

2004-10-16T09:56:00.000-05:00

Ladder 49 (2004)
Directed by: Jay Russell
Writing credits: Lewis Colick
Genre: Action / Drama / Thriller
Main Cast:
Joaquin Phoenix .... Jack Morrison
John Travolta .... Captain Mike Kennedy
Jacinda Barrett .... Linda Morrison

Ladder 49 will hit home for many Americans. This sad movie whether it intended to or not reminded you of the difficulties that the firemen go through, in particular the tragedy of September 11th. This movie on its own right, without the recollection of the terrorist attack on the empire state building, saddens you. Waiting to see if Joaquin Phoenix’s character is rescued from the burning building, you can help to imagine real firefighters in that same situation. I think we all need this remembrance, we can't forget to honor our brave and heroic civil servants from that day and those who risk their lives everyday. This blockbuster is a tear jerker and worth seeing.

Plot Summary - courtesy of the Internet Movie Database
Under the watchful eye of his mentor Chief Mike Kennedy (Travolta), probationary firefighter Jack Morrison (Phoenix) matures into a seasoned veteran at a Baltimore fire station. Jack has reached a crossroads, however, as the sacrifices he's made have put him in harm's way innumerable times and significantly impacted his relationship with his wife and kids. Responding to the worst blaze in his career, he becomes trapped inside a 20-story building. And as he reflects on his life, Chief Kennedy frantically coordinates the effort to save him.

The 40th Anniversary Chicago International Film Festival

2004-10-12T16:22:00.001-05:00

If you are in the area don't forget to check out The 40th Anniversary Chicago International Film Festival, which is currently running until October 21. The Chicago Film Festival is the oldest competitive film festival in North America. This year it will bring 110 feature films and 54 short films from 44 countries.
See schedule

Hollywood Movie Of The Year Awards Nominations

2004-10-12T16:22:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the following movies for being nominated in this years Hollywood Movie Of The Year Awards. I have added my ratings for them, check them out and submit your vote

Collateral by Michael Mann | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating ****
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind by Michel Gondry | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating N/A
Fahrenheit 9/11 by Michael Moore | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating N/A
Hero by Zhang Yimou | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating ****
Napoleon Dynamite by Jared Hess | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating N/A
Shrek 2 by Andrew Adamson | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating ***1/2
Spider-Man 2 by Sam Raimi | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating ****
The Bourne Supremacy by Paul Greengrass | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating ***1/2
The Motorcycle Diaries by Walter Salles | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating N/A***1/2
The Passion of the Christ by Mel Gibson | Cinemacritic.blogspot Rating ***1/2

Movie Review - The Forgotten**1/2

2004-09-26T15:00:00.000-05:00

The Forgotten - 2004
Directed by: Joseph Ruben
Writing credits: Gerald Di Pego
Genre: Thriller / Sci-Fi / Drama / Mystery
Main Cast:
Julianne Moore ..…… Telly Paretta
Gary Sinise…………. Dr. Jack Munce
Dominic West .…….. Ash Correll

I have been criticized to be too lenient on this movie. The reason I say this is because I don't believe this movie sucked. I know I usually do enjoy many movies, more than I should. However, I have low expectation for all alien movies anyway. Most of them are usually goofy and completely unbelievable.

That being said, this was the first time I was pleased with the plausibility of an alien movie. I don't want to give any of the storyline away but the way the story unfolded, if you give in to the idea that aliens can control our thoughts the movie makes sense. Granted that is a HUGE if, but nonetheless not as weak as other hilarious theories attempted in other movies. What makes sense is the strength between a mother and child. The movie did drag on just a bit longer than it should. Overall This movie would be a decent rental, wait until it comes out on DVD. If you rent it you won't hate it.

Plot Summary - courtesy of Sony Pictures
Nine-year-old Sam Paretta is dead, killed in a plane crash. Even though it's been fourteen months since the accident, his mother Telly (Julianne Moore, "Far From Heaven"), still grieves over the loss. But suddenly, her husband (Anthony Edwards, "ER") swears they never had a child and her psychiatrist (Gary Sinise, "C.S.I.: NY") insists she's delusional. But worst of all, there is absolutely no evidence to prove Sam ever existed. Haunted by the memories of her son, Telly's search for the truth propels her into a dark mind-shattering conspiracy of unearthly terror.

Movie Review - Shaun of the Dead***

2004-09-20T13:18:00.000-05:00

Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Directed by: Edgar Wright
Writing credits: Simon Pegg, Edgar Wright
Genre: Action / Comedy / Horror /
Main Cast:
Simon Pegg .... Shaun
Kate Ashfield .... Liz
Nick Frost .... Ed
Lucy Davis .... Dianne
Dylan Moran .... David
Nicola Cunningham .... Mary
Peter Serafinowicz .... Pete

I had a good time watching this movie. Shaun of the dead was a great spoof of the zombie movies and in turn resulted in being a good zombie movie itself. The first half of the movie concentrated on the comical side of the characters. Whether you’re a fan of British humor or not I will find it hard to believe that a person will not laugh out loud at least once! I enjoyed the gradual change from the comedy to action horror, which I'll confess was much less horror than it was more gory. Look out for a very gory and graphic scene. I seldom look away from horror flicks, but in this one I had no choice. It was unexpected and disgusting, but understandably a must if one is too truly spoof a zombie film.

Plot Summary - courtesy of the Internet Movie Database
Shaun is having many problems in life. His long-time girlfriend has dumped him due to their almost daily expedition to Shaun's favourite pub, the Winchester. His temporary management job isn't going well at Foree Electronics, with his subordiantes not even giving him the time of day. His deadbeat flatmates, Pete and Ed, are at eachothers throats. And, oh yeah, London is overrun with multitudes of zombies. In the midst of this, he must save himself, Ed, his ex, his mom, and his precious record collection. There is a time when a hero must rise... from his couch.
Summary written by Matt Plenert

Rental Movie Review - Twisted ***

2004-09-19T01:29:00.000-05:00

Twisted - 2004
Directed by - Philip Kaufman
Writing credits - Sarah Thorp
Genre: Thriller
Main Cast
Ashley Judd .... Jessica Shepard
Samuel L. Jackson .... John Mills
Andy Garcia .... Mike Delmarco

Twisted is a nice twist of the expected. This film had me guessing and doubting all along. Even though there are clues all along and I did pick up on them, I questioned them. Ashley Judd doesn’t strike you as a tough cop inspector one-nightstand type of chic. Actually she still doesn’t. I think she is best fit with the quirky chic flick love sappy movies. She sold me for the while; actually the movie storyline saved it. Sam Jackson and Andy Garcia meet up to their character just fine. Without delving into detail and risking a spoiler when you watch the film there will be a limited choice of possible suspects. The end is not surprising however getting there is worth the ride. This was an entertaining rental.

Movie Review - Resident Evil **1/2

2004-09-13T10:48:00.000-05:00

Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004)
Directed by -Alexander Witt
Writing credits - Paul W.S. Anderson
Genre: Action / Horror / Sci-Fi / Thriller
Main Cast
Milla Jovovich .... Alice
Sienna Guillory .... Jill Valentine
Oded Fehr .... Carlos Olivera
Jared Harris .... Dr. Ashford
Matthew G. Taylor .... Nemesis

Disappointing Evil

This sequel was a different type of movie than the first. At no time was I ever scared of the walking dead. I did like s few effects, which is the only reason one might opt to see this movie at the theater. Other than I don't recommend spending those $9. The story was very predictable and worse had many cheesy lines. Of course that is to be expected in an action film, which is what the movie ended up being. I suppose it more closely relates to it's game originator, but if that's what we wanted we are better off playing the actual game.

Rental Movie Review - Godsend **1/2

2004-09-10T23:39:00.000-05:00

Godsend (2004)
Directed by - Nick Hamm
Writing credits - Mark Bomback
Genre: Drama / Fantasy / Horror / Thriller
Main Cast:
Greg Kinnear .... Paul Duncan
Rebecca Romijn-Stamos .... Jessie Duncan
Robert De Niro .... Richard Wells
Cameron Bright .... Adam Duncan

Decent performances were rendered by newly lead star Rebecca Romijn Stamos as well as fellow cast members Robert Deniro & Greg Kinnear. The kid did steal the lime light though. Cameron Bright plays Adam Duncan, the child of Paul & Jessie Duncan. (Kinnear/Stamos) After suffering through the death of their son Duncan Jessie and Paul are convinced to give up their normal life and move away with Dr. Richard Wells (Deniro) where he has promised to return their lost son through cloning. Things don't go as expected in fact things take a turn for the worse.

That's the part that disappointed me with this film. They could have done much better with the story. I was especially irritated with the ending. "That's it?" 0 you will surely exclaim as I did when the credits role. Cameron Bright can play an evil kid very well; his eyes and looks help that out. I wish they would have given it more of an evil spin instead of a predictable occurrence

Movie Review - Suspect Zero **

2004-08-29T23:44:00.000-05:00

Suspect Zero (2004)
Directed by - E. Elias Merhige
Writing credits - Zak Penn (story), Zak Penn (screenplay)
Genre: Thriller / Crime / Horror / Drama
Main Cast:
Aaron Eckhart .... Thomas Mackelway
Ben Kingsley .... Benjamin O'Ryan
Carrie-Anne Moss .... Fran Kulok

Don't assume a scary thriller as I did after watching the trailer for this movie. It wasn't scary at all and was too slow paced to consider it a thriller. The storyline and acting were lacking and dull.

I'm not sure if the actual actors selected fit the movie though. I would have gone with a different casting. Ben Kingsley might have fit the role of a dark frightful serial killer, at least so it seemed in the first five minutes of the movie. However, as stated earlier the movie went a different direction. Aaron Eckhart, who plays the other main character of the movie, is bland. I found myself more irritated at his character more than anything else. The forced relationship between him and Carrie-Anne Moss, his partner seemed to be thrown and mixed together just to add some substance to the story.

This won't be the worst movie you'll see far from it, but wait until you've seen all the other movies you want to see. This one can wait. I'd say rent this one if it's the only one on the shelf.

Rental Movie Review - All About My Mother ***

2004-08-28T10:27:00.000-05:00

Todo Sobre Mi Madre - 1999
Directed by - Pedro Almodóvar
Writing credits - Pedro Almodóvar
Genre: Drama / Comedy (more)
Main Cast:
Cecilia Roth .... Manuela Coleman Echevarría
Marisa Paredes .... Huma Rojo
Candela Peña .... Nina Cruz
Antonia San Juan .... Agrado
Penélope Cruz .... Sister María Rosa Sanz
Eloy Azorín .... Esteban Coleman Echevarría

Most of Almodóvar's films have come to be expected as good rent worthy films for me. He has directed a few 'must see' films and the realism depicted in many of these films demand respect from this amateur critic. The bad thing from being a well known director is that viewers develop a sense of expectation based on the previous viewings. I am glad to report that this movie met my expectations. This small movie as with other Almodóvar’s films intertwines different lives and brings them together with one event. A well written story with interesting characters and nice plot is another must see movie.

There are charismatic characters that the actors portray, especially Antonia San Juan, who plays the transvestite loyal friend. This character was a delight to watch. I'm not a fan of Penélope Cruz. I think he acting is over hyped & can be replaced. Her face however does bring certain innocence about her. That look helped her with one of the film's characters. The true star of this film is Manuela's character (the mother)- Cecilia Roth. She performs well not overacting in scenes that could have easily taken her there.

Movie Review - Open Water **1/2

2004-08-23T09:47:00.000-05:00

Open Water (2003)
Directed by - Chris Kentis
Writing credits - Chris Kentis
Genre: Drama / Thriller
Main Cast:
Blanchard Ryan .... Susan
Daniel Travis .... Daniel

You are better off renting this movie, and only if you actually like shark movies and unique film style. The film was presented in documentary low budget style, gving you the genuine feeling of reality. This actually fits perfectly since the story is based on a true story. Do not expect your typical hollywood fairytale endings with this one. You will enjoy the reality of the film especially the interaction between the main actors. I was very pleased ith their acting and their lines within the story. It was exactly what you'd expect a couple to go through and relate to. Overall a decent film, but you could afford to wait until released for renting.

Movie Review - Manchurian Candidate **1/2

2004-08-14T14:46:00.000-05:00

Manchurian Candidate, The (2004)
Directed by - Jonathan Demme
Writing credits - Richard Condon (novel), George Axelrod (1962 screenplay)
Genre: Thriller / Mystery
Main Cast:
Denzel Washington .... Ben Marco
Meryl Streep .... Eleanor Shaw
Liev Schreiber .... Raymond Shaw

A Rental Candidate Instead

Was it because I was tired? Doubtful, this movie wasn't as good as I expected. I think some scenes went farther than they should have been, to the point of complete disbelief and irritation. I expected an edgy film dealing with government conspiracy in a realistic modern day scenario. After all this was a remake of much older film. Without giving too much information about the movie, the outcomes and behavioral changes in the platoon could have been achieved by drugs and hypnotism alone. Spoiler here - NO NEED for brain probing and implants. I can forgive the implants, but the cheesy lines that surrendered the characters into a trance were more idiotic and funny than serious.

Many events were also too predictable. I mean common there was a woman who was overly friendly to Denzel's character. We later find out the reason, however no one is that assertive and persistant unless she's a hooker, even if it is Denzel. Movie dragged on, you are better off waiting to see this movie as rental instead.

Movie Review - Collateral ****

2004-08-09T00:51:00.000-05:00

A Must See Action Thriller that will THRILL you

To no surprise to me is the fact that Tom Cruise's charm transcends into his character. Playing a villain for the first time was a nice change of pace. You don't fall in love or have deep sympathy for him, but you can't help to chuckle a few times at his take for his profession. A hired assassin with a job of 5 people within a short period of time, Vince (played by Tom Cruise) hijacks a cab driver to transport him to these their various locations.

I enjoyed the pace of this movie. Some movies hit you off with action sequences off the bat - those are the action movies. Others build up the suspense till toward the last part of the movie, those would be the suspenseful thrillers. Now that brief lesson is over: Collateral eases you in developing the cab driver's character (Jamie Foxx) and builds a bond between you and him and then hijacks you as well in a smart impacting ride.

Jaime Fox adapted well to his character, although I can see why Cruise played the Villain in this film as his character has a stronger spark. This film hold it's plot and anchors it's story with great action sequences. This film has everything required in a summer block buster. The girl, the guy (although no cheesy romance - great omission in this film by the way) and superb action shots. Shooting, car chases, jumping, running, I was thrilled. If you like action go see this movie. If you like suspense movies, go see this movie. If you like either of the main characters go see this movie.

Visit this review & other movie reviews from me - celikins @ movies.com | Collateral

Movie Review - Bourne Supremacy ***1/2

2004-08-05T18:34:00.000-05:00

Bourne Again - Good Again

The story from this sequel was actually better than the first. It was an intense movie that had you and didn't give out it's entire plot as many blockbuster movies do within the firat 15 minutes of the movie. Within the first 15 minutes of this movie you actually get a surprise twist.

I agree with many of the other reviews for Bourne Supremacy. They story is Great the Acting is Great, Matt Damon NICE

The non traditional camera action could have been better if not used in the fighting sequences and the car chase. I can see how sometimes directors prefer this in order to get a closer look or a feeling that you are the one actually seeing things. When it comes to fighting and chasing cars though, I want to see everything, having snipets of the impact shots goes gar more instead.

Visit this review & other movie reviews from me - celikins @ countingdown.com | Bourne Supremacy

Movie Review - Spiderman 2 ****

2004-07-20T15:34:00.001-05:00

Lives Up to the Hype

I found this installment of the spiderman tales to be better than the first. The effects alone were worth the trip to the theater. As with any blockbuster type movie they are usually best viewed on the big screen. What makes the movie a truly must see is that the effects are supported with a solid story line. Knowing that spiderman super hero isn't a true everyday joe story, it somehow made me feel that way. Spidey 2 focused on the insecurities of our trusty super hero and his torment with dealing with the spidey responsibilities. Doc Oct received great reviews, I found him to be ok. Honestly I did prefer the Green Goblin better. I suppose the dark maniacal evil was portrayed better. Overall - Go SEE this movie on a GIANT screen!

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Movie Review - Anchor Man ***

2004-07-20T15:34:00.000-05:00

Best Comedy Film so far This Year

I must start off by informing you that this movie wasn't as funny as Old School, but had me chuckling more than a few times. I knew better than to walk into the theater and expect as many hilarious scenes as Will Ferrell's previous movie release. Those comedy films come once in a while. Anchor Man is genuinely funnier than the other regular comedy films that you see today.

This movie is definitely the funniest movie I've seen for this year so far!

Will Ferrell is the new Jim Carey but not as annoying. He sold me as a sensitive, dim witted macho like anchor man. You know I think he may well be like that in real life.

Christina Applegate's performance was charming. I couldn't get that comment out of my mind however. Where she said something along the lines that she wasn't attracted at all to that moustache wearing macho man. While I didn't believe that attraction portrayed on screen, I loved that interaction between them both.

The office fight scene - Now that's comedy ;) Surprise cameos from Will's previous movie's were a delight. That fight scene although TOTALLY unrealistic was hilarious.

I think I'm going to rent this movie when it comes out, I'm laughing at the recollection of some scenes. This was definitely better than starsky & hutch. Go SEE IT!

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