Reviews [Lady in the Water]

It will capture your imagination though it will take some time to let it sink in. There is too much talking in this film which is unlike M. Night Shyamalan films. And though this may be somewhat of a giveaway, there is no twist ending.

Lady tells the story of a narf who comes upon Paul Giammati's character who is a super of The Cove apartment building. With the help of a woman who has heard of a fairy tale regarding narfs from a very young age, Giammati tries to uncover the secrets of this sea-nymph creature. As we begin to meet all the different characters living inside of the apartment complex, some of them seem like they should have been eliminated. (brief spoiler alert) The critic character delivers lines like a zombie-robot on anti-depressants. One can understand that this is done in order to make a point, but it is truly just a poorly played out joke.

There are hair-raising moments in the film though not where one would expect them in an M. Night movie. The film works best when the dialogue is not cheesy or too convoluted. In a few scenes you have characters deliver messages through another person. The reasoning becomes a bit more clear once you leave the movie but keeps you annoyed while you're watching.

There are some acting snafus here and there, but M. Night surprisingly pulls his biggest role off well. How much you like the movie will dependent very much on what is left to your imagination. Usually M. Night is successfully able to grab our attention from the very first frame, in this one it takes a bit longer.

The music is perfectly chosen, the CG is very well done, and the fairy-tale film definitely creates a world all its own with a set of morals which are easy to appreciate. The film will haunt you in a good way and with all its faults still will keep you interested.

3 out of 5.

Reviews [Dave Chappelle's Block Party]

Do not expect this to be a comedy or a plot-driven film. Block Party draws attention by way of making us realize the power that good hip hop music can have on several people. It was director Michel Gondry's idea to actually bring the music acts back to a gritty part of Brooklyn (Bed-Stuy) and just give the people what they wanted. Awesome hip hop music.

The Roots crew serves as the band for nearly all the performers and features Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Erykah Badu, (the lady) Jill Scott, Common, Dead Prez, the Fugees, Kanye West and a couple of other soulful, meaningful, beautiful and vivacious acts in hip hop today. The best part of the documentary are the performances and the one-on-one conversations that Chappelle has with many of them.

It's a very relaxed experience and some great jokes are peppered in with positive messages. The film succeeds because you're given both sides of the people involved; you see them as down to earth, personable, friendly individuals and also as talented individuals who are very cognizant of their skills and know just how to use them in order to uplift a crowd. It's truly wonderful to witness the artistic culture which is not so mainstream be represented in an accurate and entertaining way.

4 out of 5.

Reviews [M]

Fritz Lang's first talkie is a widely regarded classic. There is a murderer about town and he's killing little girls. This causes wide panic and disarray. There is absolute fear in the hearts of the general mob-like public. It is so intense that if anyone so much as walks next to a girl on the street, he becomes a suspected murderer.

A well-thought out thriller with elements of social commentary that could only exist and thrive under the hands of genius. It is a timeless story with a great deal of suspense, drama, and sometimes unexpected comedy.

3.5 out of 5.

Reviews [The Greatest Game Ever Played]

Directed by Bill Paxton, there are two protagonists in this wonderfully vibrant golf movie. One is a young American who comes from a poor family and the other is an older (but not too old) poor British man who despite his multiple championships in golf is unable to ascend the British social ladder. Those goddamned British have always treated people like crap. They imperialized the world and in this film they pulverize the older gentleman's cottage when he was a young lad in order to make way for a golf course. "What's golf?" he asks the devilish looking man in the top hat, "It's a gentleman's game" he responds.

And there you have it, the setting for a film with two underdogs trying to make it. The opening sequence alone is enough to give those with a thirst for great imagery more than they could have asked for. There are moments of pure originality and brilliance in the cinematography and direction. Special effects are used to create an otherwise boring game of golf into an invigorating tale of chasing a dream while living in reality. A definite crowd-pleaser.

3.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Oliver Twist]

Please sir, can I have some more? Yes you freaking may! Roman Polanski's take on the Charles Dicken classic is a delightful watch. Despite negative or ambivalent reviews; the movie is perfectly directed and recreates the world of Oliver Twist with great care and beauty. The story is well-known; Oliver Twist is an orphan who has a streak of bad luck ever since his parents die.

The 10-year-old has seen more trouble in most likely a year or two than the rest of us would ever see in an entire lifetime. He leaves a Christian slavehouse for a funeral owner's home. From here he decides to run to London where he hopes to find a better life; and that he does . . . in a strange way. Oliver runs into the artful dodger, a boy who is most likely a year or two older than Twist, but acts as his godfather. Stealing a loaf of bread and guaranteeing a space to live; Dodger takes Twist into his wing - which is the senile thief-master, (don't know a better term for him) Fagin's headquarters. Fagin is a kind-hearted man who refers to his entire crew of boys with "dear" and is a strange sort of father figure. Played admirably well by Sir Ben Kingsley; Fagin represents both good and bad for Oliver's future.

As they run into different street crime sort of ordeals, Twist encounters a few unruly characters from the underworld and also has his run-ins with the well-to-do London folk. We watch Oliver as if he was our own and care for the outcome till the very end. Polanski has captured the imagination of the novel very well and translated it into beautiful images that are likely to leave you with a delightful taste.

4 out of 5.

Reviews [Superman Returns]

Superman returns after much hype and a Tuesday night (Wednesday) early opening. The Man of Steel returns to the big screen and Brandon Routh for all you doubters was the perfect choice to play the iconic role. The cast was solid, the music was superb, the story was interesting though not intricate. After landing on Earth 5 years after he disappears, everyone greets the return of the great hero as if he was reborn.

Lois Lane with boyfriend and son is very unavailable to Clark let alone Superman. Her Pulitzer Prize winning article, "Why the World Does Not Need Superman," is the talk of the town until of course you know who returns. Luthor and Kittie (Parker Posey) make a nice pair on screen and some antics are laughworthy while others are a miss. The antics at the Daily Planet are not too intricate, the relationship of the super-couple is what takes center stage in Bryan Singer's baby. The minor rescue and crime-stopping adventures are still shown, but very mildly. Luthor's plan in this one is similar to Costa del Lex from the original version - but just like the rest of the movie, bigger & special effects heavy.

There are a few interesting action sequences, a lot of flying sequences which is particularly nice since the problem with many superhero movies is that they don't give you more than a mere glimpse at who you want to see the most. In this case, Singer nails it by giving us a generously large dose of Superman flying shots. A movie that won't get boring even after the fourth or 40th watch just for the pure spectacle and reminiscence factor.

3 of 5.

Reviews [A Prairie Home Companion]

It is hard to dismiss Garrison Keiller's slow moving, folky, never kitschy, always entertaining and always genuinely American radio program A Prairie Home Companion. So why not attach Robert Altman to this radio show and have it acted out entirely on stage with great actors and entertaining music? No reason not to. A very entertaining film, Prairie is best when dirty, quick-witted, and funny. The parts that lag are when Virginia Madsen's white-clad Dangerous Woman character float about the stage as the shows characters interact with each other discussing the final episode.

Meryl Streep is by far the most outstanding performer out of the entire bunch and it's hard to pick out of this group of talented individuals. She plays a hippie-like mother who does not really have it all figured out but knows one thing; making music is her passion. Opposite Lindsay Lohan's young and confused teen who has a questionable need to express herself through suicide poetry; Streep shines as she has never before. She holds that Prairie home charm; something you cannot learn but always just have inherent within you.

Garrison Keiller is entertaining to watch on the stage as we see that the show is very much an extension of himself. He does not need to worry about missing a beat because the program is his existence. Quite an interesting and entertaining movie.

3 out of 5.

Reviews [Wedding Crashers]

The trailer for this film tells you that Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn are two guys who really love crashing weddings to meet women. It's practically all they do for about the first half hour of the movie and most of it is carried out in one single montage. The rest of the film, we follow Owen Wilson's character who falls for a Senator's very attached daughter.

As he tries to leave his crashing ways, Vaughn finds himself a victim of the youngest daughter of the same senator. A cast of other colorful characters are present on the screen making the film outrageous at times. But there are parts which are just plain and simple difficult to understand (their words, not necessarily their actions). But this is not a movie you watch to gain something in your life. Watch it to laugh and it will pretty much accomplish that goal with ease.

2.8 out of 5.

Reviews [Mission Impossible III]

Quick paced with little character development great explosions, hectic aerial shots and some truly incredible stunts. An action movie with little heart but one that continues to thrill and excite. A non-stop rollercoaster ride and much better than Mission Impossible II. The acting with Tom Cruise progressively seems to get worst with each film he does, he has lost the ability to differentiate between real life and acting. It always seems like you're watching Tom Cruise the personality more than anything else.

Philip Seymour Hoffman does not get much of a chance to explore his villainous character in the film. Supposedly a man who provides the world's terrorists with weaponry and other destructive devices. There are holes in the plot, but when Maggie Q (pictured above) is on the screen no one seems to really care for anything else. The film is packed with big names like Laurence Fishburne, Jonathan Rhys-Meyers and Ving Rhames. Again though, do not go to this film looking for depth or the meaning of life. Some great shots were taken in Shanghai and most of the stunts or all were performed by Cruise himself. Some cool gadgetry is involved too. No brilliant plot, but it's very quick, does not allow you the chance to breathe. It's not that bad.

3 out of 5.

Reviews [An Inconvenient Truth]

Al Gore presents this film which really should not be a film for the world to ingest. The movie is 1 really informative Powerpoint presentation mixed in with a few minutes here and there of Gore sitting behind his computer in a car, in a hotel room, or on the phone giving bits and pieces of personal narration.

The movie is basically the presentation of global warming which Al Gore has given literally thousands of times on tape. He's on a stage surrounded by an attentive audience talking about how our world is getting really hot and that by the time our children grow older, much of what used to be will not be. The scary aspects of the film show the world's sealevels rising 20 feet within a really quick time period.

Though the information is riveting and the content is provocative, the film really is not that entertaining. Wait for it on video and watch it along with those who care to learn about how to slow down the negative effects we already have caused.

2.5 out of 5.

Reviews [The Bicycle Thief]

This classic 1948 Italian film won several awards at the Oscars when a category for best foreign film did not yet exist. The film showcases poverty in post-war Italy through a small family whose entire means for survival is represented through a bicycle. The man of the house needs a bicycle for his new job of gluing posters in various parts of the city. So the good wife sells off their bedsheets and receives enough money to get him a bicycle and save 100 lire. As the film's title would suggest the bicycle gets stolen. And it is really heart wrenching to watch the struggle of the man and his son go out on the town trying to find the bicycle around town.

They run into the thief or suspected accomplice initially and wave through churches, psychics, and the generally angry and hostile public. The picturesque piazzas that we see in Italian postcards and travel ads are nowhere to be found in this film. Instead we see a gritty, dark, and overall disturbed environment. A non-stop and tiring journey, we really do feel like we're looking for the thief along with the protagonists in the film.

An interesting watch. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Nobody Knows]

A really long and depressing film, Nobody Knows revolves around four children of the same mother who discreetly leads the life of a prostitute/escort of sorts. We never see any particularly egregious behavior displayed the mother in full light but the subtle hints are as obvious as the poverty these children live under.

The claustrophobia does not bother the children in the film, but it will leave you with an accurate idea of what it is to live a life in secrecy. The film starts with the mother moving into a new apartment with two visible children and two suitcases. When she enters the apartment a young boy and young girl pop out of their individual suitcases. Clutching a tiny doll and a smile, the young girl who emerges is proud to have kept silent and accomplished this covert operation. They now can live in peace and only in peace - they are forbidden to go outside the apartment or onto the balcony which overlooks a quiet Japanese neighborhood. The oldest son is given the responsibility of watching over the children while the immature and apparently selfish mother goes to earn money.

The children do not go to school. Their daily lives consist of eating, playing games with each other, and going to sleep. There is no type of interaction the only one who is educated is the oldest son and that through a book called "Beginner Level Japanese" As the film continues we see the son take on more responsibility and face monumental decision making. The film is shot mostly in the same neighborhood through its entirety leaving images of sadness that will linger for a while. A well composed film with gripping reality and minimalistic tones.

4.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Al Gore Documentary]

Spike Jonze's short 13 minute Al Gore Documentary surfaced first on the Wholphin DVD periodical by McSweeney's. Shot more like a home video than a documentary, the doc goes through Al Gore's family farm where we get a chance to see the man behind the madness. A calm introspective look before the storm. It's more casual than anything I expected because in the doc the former vice president of the United States says that he goes to the farm to be calm before prepping for the Democratic National Convention. He just goes with the flow sort of and it's damn relaxing and home-like to watch.

Politicial documentaries are always one of two things controversial or agreeable. I think it's simply because of the reason that if any politician is worth his/her weight in gold they know how to gain people's confidence and make themselves seem like they are more right than the other candidate. What better way to do that then show Gore at his most comfortable, most calm, most uninhibited self. He is really funny, charming, sweet, endearing, intelligent, rich in content and everything else we never thought he was. There is no controversy in this political documentary because there are no opponents; only clear, concise, and well presented opinions.

The documentary starts out by Spike Jonze going out to the former presidential candidate's home. There we are introduced to Gore through his parents, his wife, and his daughters. Gore seems like a down-to-earth man with an extensive collection of VHS tapes. In one scene we see him deciding along with his daughters which movie to watch for the evening. Like any good documentary we see the human side of the subject; a side that we had not seen before. Gore seems interesting and captivating. His knowledge of the world seems to be sound and he seems to be a genuinely good person. A very refreshing watch and one that will convince you that Al Gore is supposed to lead this country out of depression and into glory.

4 out of 5.

Reviews [Nine Lives]

Nine Lives is a brilliantly and logically titled film which has managed to get the best performances out of each of its cast members. Each performance is what acting students could cling onto as their guiding light and resource for how to draw something out of very little. The film's focus is telling 9 painful and emotionally driven character stories. It feels like something will interconnect all these stories but that never really hapen aside from some characters appearing in more than one storyline. This is where Nine Lives gets annoying.

To pool together such a rich cast with heart-wrenching, cold, and often times compelling stories and not have them connect into at least a minimalistic plot ruins the film experience for the audience. There is not a single strand of information or satisfaction that you receive. You're constantly rewarded with moments of different characters who are in pain and suffering due to imprisonment, abandonment, sex, drugs, sickness, and death. But at the end you're sitting there and mulling over why the hell you had to be put through such misery for no purpose. What was the underyling theme? Aside from the first tenant of Buddhism; Life is Suffering, not much else. Nine Lives stops at just this first introducing us to pain and various forms of it. This results in a depressing after-taste with no therapeutic elements. I would advise for those who were thinking of watching this film to just stop and not bother; unless of course you're in need of a great acting lesson from masters of the art.

2.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Brazil]

Brazil is the explosion of Terry Gilliam's thoughts onto film. He does not hold back. Everything and anything he has thought of in his lifetime is jam packed into this 2 hour and 22 minute film. It's an absolute crazy combination of a world and place that is beyond strange and yet it still somehow is very applicable to current political and social issues.

We do not know why the film is called Brazil although Mr. Gilliam does start rambling on in the DVD's commentary about why - though he never completely does. The film was originally supposed to start with a rainforest where a beatle is flying in the air and all of a sudden a machine comes and uproots the rainforest in Brazil and the beatle flees the horrible mess. Then we see those trees transferred into a plant where they're turned into paper. The next scene, according to Gilliam is the one that is included in the film where a ton of bureaucratic paperwork spews out of a machine and as one man begins to do his daily drone-like duties a beatle comes into his room fluttering about and making some noise. This, in turn, causes the man to stand up with that stack of paper in hand and kill the beatle. Hence, Brazil.

From here we are transported into one of the only sensible or easily recognizable plot-portions of the film. A man is mistaken to be another man and arrested. This false arrest is witnessed by a woman who lives in the apartment above that man's family. Incidentally the folks who arrest people in Brazil - the bureaucratic enforcers of the Ministry of Information - do so by breaking down every possible escape route and also sometimes drill holes in surfaces above the place of attack to penetrate. So this arrest is the beginning of the world we see Gilliam set up. It resembles a machine infested city similar to that of the Martian terrain portrayed in Total Recall, but not as organized. Large ducts invade the entire land and this is how information and other things are transported. The team of bureaucrats also have warned society about "terrorists" but whether or not they truly exist is questioned by a handful including Jonathan Pryce's character.

Jonathan Pryce plays the son of a great bureaucrat whose mother insists on using their connections to get him a position higher within the bureaucracy. Pryce is a smart man but one who does not like the society he lives in. He primarily lives in a dream world where he's constantly flying and meeting with a beautiful woman - the ubiquitous woman of his dreams. He also fights monsters made up of unrecognizable machine parts and while in reality is constantly trying to get normal answers out of everyone who seems to be incapable of the task. We follow his adventures along with others as he battles bureaucracy and has trouble keeping sanity.

The film is weird. Beyond weird. Beyond the weirdest thing you have ever watched in your life. It's truly abstract. You think that abstract film is impossible? Watch this film and you will change your mind. Though there is a definite message encompassed within the film, its texture, images, timeline, organization, methods, and anything else that usually has some order are either non-existent or beautifully twisted. A hell of an experience. One that every person alive should indulge in at least once. A philosophical piece of art with cathartic over-the-top delivery. I am not going to give this film a rating, to do so would be an act in lunacy.

Reviews [Akeelah and the Bee]

Akeelah is a smart young woman from Crenshaw. She has a lot going for her but is afraid to stand out in a place where such a thing could lead to seriously negative repercussions. We see Akeelah face challenges of being smarter than the other kids at school with reluctance at first. When she receives coaching and guidance through a semi-broken down professor is when Akeelah realizes that she was meant for greater things. The great thing in this case happens to be the Scripps National Spelling Bee competition.

A series of cliched circumstances including death of her father, a single mother with no free time, a juvy bound brother and bullies at school are at the base of the plot of Akeelah. But what makes them interesting is that the film never dwells on one part for too long. The lack of depth is clear in the film, but being that it is the story of the underdog, you will find yourself holding back tears at portions of the film. It's a well-acted and sometimes even bold testament to reality in the life of an 11-year old at school. Best when it keeps to the spelling bee competition and away from cliches. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Dial M for Murder]

The reason Alfred Hitchcock is still respected and admired today is because he never gives you the entire story until he feels the audience has been challenged enough. Dial M for Murder will keep those who are not used to unlocking puzzles clueless until the very end. For those with a knack for puzzle, murder, and mystery solving prowess, you may figure it out a little bit before he gives you the answers, but you will still enjoy the unraveling plot very much.

A very nice watch, Dial M for Murder is based on a play. The tale is that of conspiring deceipt and planning the perfect murder. The tale is that of an adulterous woman, a jealous husband and a lover. When the wheels start turning and the murder is ordered, you never realize the surprise and fun that lies ahead of you. The story is just the perfect length with brilliant direction and often hilarious dark moments. We see new characters introduced into the picture just when we think everything has been said and done. A very unorthodox yet palatable structure makes M a very juicy film. The kissing does not hurt the luscious factor of the film either. Though very discreet and from modern standards conservative kisses are exchanged in the movie; they leave a sense of indulgence that Cinemax could not come close to relaying. The kisses require almost an essay of their own.

The film must be watched. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Down in the Valley]

Edward Norton is back and he has not lost his touch. Mr. Norton plays a very complicated character in this still unrated film. Evan Rachel Woods is what else but Lolita once again. She's really got this role down, I'd like to see Ms. Woods expand her on her excellent acting abilities to other roles. Nevertheless, both Norton & Woods' characters are at the center of the film. A well-directed and twist-filled plot leaves you biting your nails and uneasy throughout its entirety.

Norton plays a man who may or may not be slightly off-key. He walks into the valley where Woods and her brother live with a corrections officer who is rarely home to do any parenting. The problems are clear from the beginning - there is a constant struggle between the father and the children due to generational and emotional gaps. They lack love with each other and therefore have issues to deal with.

Norton befriends Woods while he is working at a gas station. The two of them hit it off and begin a loving relationship that is forbidden by Woods' father. Though we see clearly what is going on, the movie unfolds to reveal a few twists and turns that keep it interesting. A bit over the top in some cases and even a bit unbelievable. But, overall the film keeps your attention.

2.9 out of 5.

Reviews [Criminal]

John C. Reilly as a lead character is difficult to get used to considering he plays mainly "you know who I'm talking about . . . that guy" in every movie you've ever watched. But the plot of Criminal though a bit bland at times works just well enough to make Reilly believable as the lead. The dialogue delivered in the film tries hard to have an edge like that of Quentin Tarantino, but they do not flow very naturally. Same could be said for the camera movement which tries to be fluid but ends up just looking disturbed.

Diego Luna is very convincing and likable in the film. Maggie Gyllenhaal is next to invisible though the small part she has, she plays well just like any other that she has in the past. There is not too much originality at play in Criminal, especially since it's the remake of a Spanish film called "Nuevas Reinas." But on a night when you don't have much to do, eh why not. 2.3 out of 5.

Reviews [Notorious]

Alfred Hitchcock's non-mystery masterpiece. So what's the intrigue? It's Alfred Hitchcock, stupid! Do you expect this guy to make movies that don't suck you in from the first moment you set your eyes on the screen? Notorious is the story of a woman hired to uncover the secrets of a group of Nazi friends in Rio. It helps the story that the woman is an alcoholic with a history and knack for depression. It also helps that Cary Grant is a cigarette smoking charmer.

A group of U.S. spies with Grant as one of their point people ask Ingrid Bergman's character to spy on the Commies in South America. But when love conquers Grant & Bergman as any South American getaway would a most unlikely love triangle falls into place. The kissing scenes are something that will leave you interested in the film, as well. They are very up close and extremely personal. And not in a gross way.

The directing is masterful and though not a mystery, Notorious is still curiosity driven. You are always nibbling your nails waiting in anticipation for what happens next. Notorious is short, interesting, and will definitely leave you satisfied. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Wallace & Gromit: Curse of the Were-Rabbit]

Claymation at its finest. Voice acting is superb. A great family film, Wallace & Gromit is about a cheese-loving English inventor and his clever dog, Gromit. The two run Anti-Pesto, a veggie-protecting organization that fights rabbit infestation. When a mysterious monster, the Were-Rabbit, is seen by the town's minister and his menace of ravaged veggies experienced by the townspeople, it's up to Wallace & Gromit to solve the case. A beautifully made film with unique techniques and super-cute rabbits. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Brokeback Mountain]

There is no doubt that Ang Lee is a gifted director; he is one of the best. Brokeback Mountain as we all know by now is a movie about gay cowboys. Just how gay are these cowboys is in question though. The two men love each other and yet carry on different lives in which they seem content, as well. I honestly felt at junctures in the film that they were not really in love with each other. But that changed when I realized that the film takes place in 1963 and that the men had no other option. Still, there is a slight miss between the pain that is supposed to be perceived by the audience and the actualization of this distress through the film. To the same point, however, the first encounter that the two men; Jack & Ennis have is just as mysterious if not utterly disturbing.

We do not see the love affair that is about to take place coming until it does - and that only because we've been bombarded with the huge marketing campaign behind this film. But then you realize that the hints were there the entire time; subtlety in the acting is a part of the reason that Brokeback Mountain is a captivating film.

Should you watch this film? Definitely. It is very slowly paced and allows for the scenery to leave you in awe of shepherding, Wyoming, and quiet depression and just how cool it looks on screen. The music is poignant to a degree which if it was missing, the film would lot of its character and value. A perfect blend of great talent and a subversive plot made the film popular. The end results were satisfactory and watchable. That they were cowboys and expressed their love for each other differently than one would anticipate might have been a part of the reason the film was not that emotional for me.

The truth is that better love stories have been told many times over. But because of the haunting direction, a mesmerizing soundtrack, and good acting, Brokeback will leave you thinking you've just experienced a revolutionary picture. 3.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Water]

A carefully created film, Water is one of Deepa Mehta's most powerful films to date. This is the third and second-to-last in her series of "matter" pictures - she has already made Earth & Fire, Wind is next. In any event, the film revolves around 1938 pre-independence India. It's about widowed women who are forced to live in solitude; away from normal society; without any pleasures or indulgence in life - at least that is what is prescribed.

The show-stealing character is a 7-year-old girl named Chunia. Her equally adolescent husband meets death at a young age and she is forced to leave home, family, and relatives and go into this Ashram for widows. A quiet place run by a widow that looks like an aged-man at first; she is miserable here. The story then goes into a forbidden meeting between one of the other widows (Lisa Ray) with a revolutionary who has just begun to hear buzz about Mohandas Gandhi - a principled man whose only religion is Satya or truth.

The film's rich character is derived through a dreamy journey back into a monsoon season India. Water plays the symbolic matter with which life, love, devotion, and revolution begin and end. A very moving film. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Inside Man]

A sonorous and familiar voice to Bollywood movie watchers claims stylish authority over New York City's well-filmed structures from the minute the movie begins. Working with AR Rahaman's amazing melodies, the song is "Chhaiya Chhaiya" performed by Sukhwinder Singh. A playful, entertaining, and head bopping tune the song truly sets the flow of the film off on the perfectly inclined notes. A thriller with minor flaws and some confusion, but a movie in a class all its own. One like it has not been released in quite a while.

Spike Lee with the assistance of first time big screen scribe Russell Gewirtz tells the story of a perfect bank robbery. A perfect bank robbery as Clive Owen's determined face and accented English tells us. The detective to stop him is Denzel Washington; a man with little work and who is put up to the challenge due to his senior being out. A laid back yet cunning man, he also has the dubious rumors floating about him, a coke deal, and some $140K.

Jodie Foster plays what I am going to call a facilitator. She facilitates the impossible and gets paid large sums of money for it. Her stake in the film comes into play because the owner of the bank has something he does not want to be taken from the vault. These minor conflicts all come together when a hostage situation begins in the bank and each character's roles play out in a stylish, entertaining, and comedic ways.

You will find yourself rolling off the floor laughing and also just trying to figure out the meaning behind the actions in the film. Again, a movie with New York style that no other director could pull off but Spike, he truly has created one of his best films. There is great chemistry with the camera and each one of the stars; hats off to Spike for an entertaining night. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Serenity]

A television turned into a film and it shows in the acting. But a television show turned into film also translates pretty well for the plot of Serenity. Sci-fi fans have gathered around this movie as if it were the second coming. Seriously, there's a huge cult following.

Sometime in the very distant future where people just hang out on ships and the universe is just a flight's question away a group of intergalactic thieves have a ship; Serenity. They have a rebel leader of a ship that floats around space robbing people, but also is in the bad habit of having a conscience. He has some love story unresolved with a woman from another planet. The rest of his crew is filled with a horny female techie, an idiot jock with not many lines, a nerdy yet devoted brother and a 17 year old assassin who was created this way by the government. The girl's powers are displayed only when there is a code word that when uttered, she loses all control and becomes a machine bent on killing or disabling every person on sight.

In the film, we follow the crew as they slowly unravel why exactly it is that they are chasing the girl. It's not just the fact that she's been created by them to destroy in a universe that is focused primarily on spreading the message of peace. The villain in the film is by far the strongest actor and intriguging character to explore. He has all of his faith put into the government's system of peace. He acknowledges that he himself is a sinner, but that he is committing actions that are necessary to protect the overall plan of peace. It rings themes that we can connect with and overall is executed well.

There isn't always a nice gelling between scenes in the film and the fact that the screenwriter had to pack 3 or 4 season's writing into one film probably had something to do with it. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [The Ice Storm]

An American Graffiti of sorts, The Ice Storm is directed by Ang Lee and stars Kevin Kline, Tobey Maguire, Elijah Wood, Sigourney Weaver, Christina Ricci, and Katie Holmes. An ensemble cast that could almost never occur now; The Ice Storm is cinematic opera at its best. Two neighboring families in suburban Connecticut deal with their marital and family dysfunction in various ways. The main out being drugs, infidelity, and alcoholism.

In a time when Richard Nixon was under great scrutiny through the Watergate scandal, we witness the very personal scandals of these two families in their anti-establishment ways. The film delivers a message about imperfection, tackling a point of view of social drift between mainstream and subversive cultures and how equally unstable they are. There is quite a bit of controversial material in the film in that the children of these neighbors do not act any differently than their adult counterparts. In no other part is this clearer than when Christina Ricci's teen character is found with Elijah Wood - sans pants by Kevin Kline's character. The reaction by Kline, "look, I'm not angry . . . I just don't think he's right for you."

There are ironic twists and hereditary symptoms shown in the film like no other I have watched before. There is a cause and effect for every action and a deep sense of discomfort by the end of the film. Through its dark analogous tone, The Ice Storm reaches its conclusion with the help of its titular natural disaster and it connects effectively with the audience. A silent and depressing film. 5 out of 5.

Reviews [Tsotsi]

Tsotsi, we quickly find out, is the South African word for "thug." The lead character is known by no other name by his peers and fellow thugs other than Tsotsi. He's often quiet and conveys emotion mainly through his facial expressions and actions. Many times though, there seems to be a not so clear indication of his mood or why he's compelled to do certain things, which leaves you frustrated.

Tsotsi starts out in a very gritty manner; we see the gang orchestrate a somewhat designed attack to rob a man of his cash. It seems they have practiced this routine before because each of them has his role perfectly executed, until something goes wrong. They go too far. This kickstarts Tsotsi's arch of change. In haste after an altercation with one of his gang members who utters the value of decency, Tsotsi seems scared or maybe he's angry, or perhaps he regrets his actions. Whatever he feels, his uncertainty leads him to carjack a woman and half way through his haphazard drive away, Tsotsi realizes that the woman's baby is in the car.

Tsotsi's discovery of the baby is what we follow now throughout the film, as he finds ways to take care of it. There are some graphically disgusting and sad scenes portrayed as the baby is kept inside of a paper bag cuddled with blankets. He is incapable of taking care of the baby, but tries very hard to do so. There is little sympathy in Tsotsi but his journey is somewhat interesting to watch.

There is an amazing soundtrack in the film. But the primary problem is the lack of coherence between the violence and grittiness with the plot of the film. There is severe violence, an ordinary plot, and no compelling emotional connection developed with the characters. 2 out of 5.

Reviews [The Squid and the Whale]

1986 Park Slope, Brooklyn is the setting for this domestic dramedy about separation and divorce. There's a greater focus in the film on the children's viewpoints about the separation and that's what makes it enjoyable. The dialogue is truthful, constant, and wild. The greatest character is the younger son who favors the mother; his reaction to the separation is in support of his mother and her new beau (William Baldwin). The older son is a little more favorable towards his arrogant, has-been father (Jeff Daniels). And Laura Linney gives one of her best performances as the mother and wife who is constantly seeking growth in her career and personal relationships.

Between the two new houses, a new girlfriend, and problems at school, the two young boys are directly impressed upon by the events and people around them. Noah Baumbach (writer/director) is successful in creating a perfect cause & effect scenario with as we watch the actions of the children. Some very memorable shots of Park Slope, Brooklyn add credibility to the home video like cinematography of the film.

The Squid and the Whale is often times laugh out loud funny - epsecially when we're watching the younger son rebel in his own way to the situation. There is a lot of sexual tension that develops between the older son and his father's live-in student/girlfriend. We also watch him deal with his own relationship with a first-time girlfriend as the distance between his parents grows and as his father constantly bad-mouths the mother. A varied stream of actions combine to make each individual character in the film very unique and complex. There is no traditional hero present, but that's exactly the reality we're longing for. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Rififi]

A classic French film noir, Rififi is based on a novel that concentrates on the fighting between Nazi Germany and Arabic & North African men. The film, however, is very loosely based on the book. The heist that a few skilled thieves pull is almost a throwaway in the novel - according to the film's production notes - and that heist and everything leading up to it and after is the film's focus. And with good intention and a heartwarming eye to detail in the production design. Just what is Rififi? Well, it's not exactly clear still to me, but I think it means that urge to do something evil. And the film revolves around a group of hoods.

The crew's members consist of a playful Frenchman, an old and serious thief who has just finished doing time and been betrayed by a woman he probably once cared for, a family man with a child, and an Italian who is a lover of women. Each has their own specialty and their target is a jewelry store. When they first meet inside of a coffee shop to discuss the target, it is impossible to miss the tiny details of their meeting. The way they drink their coffee, the subtlety with which they maintain themselves in a public space while discussing what will end up being one of the biggest thefts to date in France.

There is a nice melee of suspense, finesse, and noir beauty in Rififi that is hard to resist. It seems like we are actually on the job itself since the job itself moves in Kubrick like pace. It raises the stake for the audience and is nothing like a modern heist movie which usually moves pretty fast. One would t hink, as well, that security systems would not be a match for today's Las Vegas styled casinos, but one would be very wrong in making that assumption. The alarm which occupies the jewelry store matches the intense sensitivity of modern-day security systems.

Rififi's title makes it seem that we will wind up rooting for the bad guy and we do. We want the thieves to succeed as we do in any good film or story about robbers. But Rififi adds a few tiny scenes that assure you that it is undoubtedly wrong to steal, but if you, for some reason are not paying attention, you may miss them. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Mrs. Henderson Presents]

Judi Dench's best comedic performance is sometimes deflated by the script which tumbles in and out of cheesiness. The wife of a deceased general, Mrs. Henderson is forced to find something to pass her time after two of the most important men in her life have passed; her son being the other. Unlike her friends, Mrs. Henderson, in 1937 England does not have the taste for jewelry and purchasing items for herself. Instead, the absolutely eccentric 70-something purchases a theater in which to show a combination of a Revue and Vaudeville.

Since Mrs. Henderson does not quite know how to tackle the creative ends of running a stage, she hires Vivian Van Dam, a legend in the England theater world who just happens to be out of work. The two hit it off on the wrong foot from the beginning and their opposing viewpoints are laugh out loud exchanges. The humor is dry - often racist and imperialistic in its tones - and the delivery by Dench is beyond perfect. She is Mrs. Henderson in the film.

The problem Mrs. Henderson Presents encounters is not in anything except that it is very difficult to make patriotism be backed up through nudity. The film tries very hard to justify certain unmentionable actions as giving to the greater good, but ultimately it fails in convincing. There are great laughs, but also, a huge slowdown right from the middle up until the unremarkable ending. 2.8 out of 5.

Reviews [Match Point]

A film that literally had people talking before, through, and after the screening; Match Point is a very entertaining movie. A Woody Allen expert, I am not, but what Match Point offers is a mixture of good conversational writing, subversive plot twist, and a classic look and feel to the entire piece.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers plays a social climber who comes from a poor background. But, with the ability he has with a tennis racket, he is able to get a teaching position at an upper class tennis club. From here, he enters the life of a very wealthy family who, as a visual treat, manages to own prime real estate spots around London and the countryside. Scarlett Johannson is amazing as the to-be sister-in-law who tries her hardest to resist the charm of her evil, ladder climbing counterpart, but simply fails.

Woody Allen properly allows the characters and plot to saturate in your mind before carrying out one of the spookiest endings out of any other love triangle film I have seen. The sound and music in the film are superbly orchestrated and compliment the overall classic tragedy feel of this wonderful film. 5 out of 5.

Reviews [Born into Brothels]

A photojournalism project of sorts, this documentary follows the lives of children photographers learning the techniques and art of the photograph while trying to take a step out of their daily lives in the red light district in Calcutta, India. We travel through narrow alleyways and filthy backyard stones. The life of an Indian slum dweller is by no stretch of the imagination glamorous or artistic - it is very sickening - yet these children manage to smile daily as they take photographs.

There is real hope and talent possessed in the group of children we watch and the subjects of their photographs range from their family members to the people on the streets. A few of the kids stand out and it's great to see their faces light up with excitement when they are watching their work being hung at a Sotheby's gallery. All the photographs were auctioned off to pay for the childrens' educations.

The film is well edited and there are truly grand qualities in the emotions and depth of what we are shown on screen. There is plenty of great light in India and the film captures it well. The music matches up well with the film, as well as we are treated to primarily religious hymns and even some Bollywood tunes.

What stands out about this documentary is the care the filmmakers take to actually do something positive with the childrens' lives. They do not merely teach them photography - they give them an out. A chance at something they would have never otherwise come in cotact with. Rarely do we see the journalist get involved in their story in such a positive way. It's delightful to watch yet also heartbreaking because not all the children are able to take advantage of a better life, some by choice others because of their parents or guardians. An absolutely touching film. The DVD is a great rental because it follows the children's progress since the documentary was released and won an Oscar. You also get to see what the kids plan on doing with their lives and even their reactions to the documentary. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [King Kong]

From the beginning, King Kong sets a path of expectations. Peter Jackson clarifies that we are not living in modern times by scoping New York City from a vaudevillian perspective. We see street performers, beggars, and middle class America. Poverty is so rampant that actors and actresses do not get paid and once her theater closes, Naomi Watts is left with no choice but to beg a producer for a gig. We do not see Kong until well into this 3 hour and 22 minute Peter Jackson remake.

Jack Black is possibly the worst choice to play the Orson Wellsish character of a no holds barred filmmaker who will go through illegal means to get his picture shot. He tricks the screenwriter, Adrien Brody, to stay on the boat and writes fake checks to set sail on his excursion to find Skull Island - the undiscovered land where his film will take place. Upon discovery of the island, immediately there is havoc as the natives are not welcoming of the newcomers. They take Anne Darrow, played very well by Naomi Watts, as prisoner/food for Kong. And even if you have not watched the film you know that this film is about a love between Kong and Anne and the protection that Kong develops for Anne.

The film does touch a couple of emotionally true points but mostly it loses credit in Jack Black's acting, the poorly written script, and the overhyped but sub-par special effects. The entire film is practically shot on green screen and a few enormous soundstages. Though these elements could be used to the advantage of the film; Kong fails in creating anything remotely realistic save some Andy Serkis magic via Kong's facial expressions. Production notes from the film indicate that Serkis stayed on set even when he was not needed to help Watts and the rest of the crew to get the right reactions to Kong, but Andy Serkis cannot do everything. The film will leave you extremely bored if you are not willing to accept the fake effects as real. 2.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Munich]

By far Steven Spielberg's most complete, thrilling, frightening, and absolutely painful work to date. Munich is based on the real events of the 1972 Olympics hostage crisis when Israeli athletes were taken as hostages and subsequently murdered by a group of Arabic men. Munich is based on the book Vengeance by George Jonas and written for the screen by Tony Kushner and Eric Roth, with a score by John Williams. An all-star team put together the film and it shows. There are rarely moments of lightheartedness in the film and that is with good reason. You are not given a chance to blink an eye in the film due to the constant action.

Lynn Cohen plays an amazingly written Golda Meir, Kushner who penned Angels in America seems to know exactly how the mind of a politician operates. After the events of the Olympics, the Israeli Prime Minister calls in one of her favorite old bodyguards, Eric Bana to carry out a mission to assassinate every single Arab that was responsible for the Olympics event.

Bana transforms from a loyal, almost cherubic and innocent do-gooder into one of the most wanted assassins on international grounds. But every person besides the typical innocent bystander in the film is a sniper; with the tongue or with a weapon. There is absolute disloyalty, cruelty, and a lost sense of purpose amongst the ranks of international espionage and terrorism, according to what Spielberg shows us. No man or woman is innocent in the war between Israel and Palestine - and those who are not directly involved, somehow stand to profit from the mess.

There is no doubt in my mind that this is the best movie of 2005, no matter how depressing or realistic it is. Spielberg takes us behind the rifle and makes us feel the pain of an assassin through his quick paced directing and up close look at war. A brilliant movie; one of Spielberg's greatest accomplishments. 5 out of 5.

Reviews [March of the Penguins]

A lot of squabbling, mating calls, and baby chirps of penguins are heard in March of the Penguins. This definitely is not a feel good film; there is too much reality involved for it to be any more uplifting.

We are taken through the ancient mating rituals of the Emperor Penguins in Anatarctica begin. Above ground, they are one of the only animals to survive in sub-zero temperatures without food for sometimes over four months. The documentary takes us through how they pick a mate, the nurturing of their egg, and finally the birth of a new batch of penguins. Through it all the penguins face very real enemies in predators as well as survival in the cold. An interesting question many will no doubt find themselves asking is why the penguins continue to mate even though the chances of survival of their offspring is so little. And as you're taken in by the white frozen mass and the brotherhood shared by these cute animals, you'll find yourself asking a bunch of other questions as they relate to survival.

Although very entertaining; the documentary is often times lacking in the scientific data you would hope for it to issue. The DVD features an even better documentary on how the two French filmmakers made it through 9 months of filming the penguins in their natural habitat. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [The Big Empty]

Directed and adapted from novel form by Lisa Chang and Newton Thomas Sigel; The Big Empty is an insightful, often times hilarious, and a cozy 20 minute short film. It starts out with several doctors inspecting Selma Blair (Alice) from a lower vantage point. The Big Empty refers to her vagina. One gynecologist thinks that it is a rash, another offers no solution, still others think a prescription is in order. Finally, what better way to solve a problem than to broadcast it nationally on a television talk show studio - in front of a live audience. The height of excitement in this film is the amazing job that the duo of Chang and Sigel have done in directing the film. An absolutely beautiful 20 minutes of film of 2005. The Big Empty, when explored, reveals a tundra, a chilling place that many enter and then are spit out at any given time. Many enter, all come out, except for 1 that is. To find out what happens, you'll have to watch the film. It is currently available in Wholphin; a DVD periodical. 5 out of 5.

Reviews [Syriana]

There are a lot of plot lines in this film and they cover political and newsworthy topics that we are all familiar with. Big oil, big government, big terrorists, and big lawyers. It's difficult to gauge the film-related topics of Syriana because of it's extremely political and almost documentary like nature.

We travel the globe following individuals involved in every single aspect of the circle that is involved in forming our daily lives - knowingly or otherwise. There is the big oil company who wants to merge with another to make oil cheaper for Americans to consume. There is no more oil left in the United States, so we go to Iran. In Iran we encounter an old king and two sons. One son wants to reform his country and actually create opportunities for the citizens in the Middle East. He wants to give women the right to vote, he wants to see expansion within his own society - an idealist. The other prince wants to be rich and powerful. Then we have members of the CIA who are given orders to keep them in trouble, there are investors who turn into economic advisors, and a law firm that seems to be controlling everything.

Though a bit convoluted, the film captures the process of how it sees why there is currently a war in Iraq and why past wars existed. It is stated clearly as day that the events are fictional, but the absolute logic of it will leave you trembling at the possibilities. An uneasy film to swallow, Syriana is engaging, thought provoking, and well acted. And in the end, things do make sense, but you will find yourself being lost at moments.

An outstanding score helps the film's subtlety remain its course. It is never didactic and therefore easier to watch than if it were just a rant of sorts. There is a reason behind terrorists, the birth of one is seen in the film. There is a reason for joint ventures, the dealmaking is seen in this film, there are corrupt politicians, government officials, and powerful lawyers. We see these people carrying out actions that become a part of the headlines and we see what they were doing before they made it next to your morning coffee. It brings you full circle. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [The Shape of Things]

A play first and then a film, Neil Labute's The Shape of Things is a defining moment in screenwriting. The power of the film comes from its ability to portray realistically a world which has never until the play been captured on screen. We start out with 4 main characters, a bullying best friend, a new girlfriend, and a former love interest who is now engaged to the bullying best friend. Then we have the perceived main character - a nerdy security guard at a museum who falls hard and madly in love with the liberal art grad student.

Rachel Weisz plays Evelyn Ann Thompson; a whimsical free spirit who completely transforms and brings about huge change in Paul Rudd's Adam. The film lacks seriously in the proper use of the medium. There is nothing spectacular about the actual movie; if it weren't for Weisz and Rudd, and one of the best screenplays ever written, the film would fall flat.

The screenplay is a twisting love story. A love of things, a power struggle, and the ultimate question of morality is addressed. The film does not go back like a Sixth Sense or similar fare to show you the twists; you simply understand it at the very last moment. You are left stunned and your heart sinks. It is well carried out, with questionable execution in the direction as well as some casting snafus. A flawed masterpiece. 2.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Sea of Love]

Al Pacino, John Goodman, Ellen Parkin and a lively script make this sea of love a smooth ride to sail on. A great rental, you get a defining feel of the 1980s through this 80s crime drama that takes place in New York City. A killer is on the loose and all the victims are men who enter personal ads. John Goodman and Al Pacino as good detectives decide that setting themselves up on dates with half of New York is the way to catch the female assailant.

The conversations are so immersed in the colloquial and big on minor details that you get lost in the eighties. A couple of steamy scenes and off-beat allusions also make the script a viable one. The film dares to cross a few lines and does not worry about being politically correct.

Al Pacino is superb and this is one of the few movies in which he does not have his now trademark soliloquies. John Goodman has to date be in a movie that is not entertaining. The man is a great film picking genius. He is superb, as well. As we creep into the dates and the alcoholism and New York City in 1989, the movie has a lot of tension going for it. There is a lot of fun to be had while on a murder case and even more interesting are the little wrongdoings of otherwise good men. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Merchant of Venice]

The anti-semitism is strong in the canals of a spotless Venice city. Jews are treated like scum but are necessary to carry on daily business. Oh come now, you've all read the Shakespearean classic in high school or a humanities class somewhere, have you not? Well the story goes that being in the business of loaning money is dirty and it's only meant for people who aren't very good people at all - and that is in this case - the Jews. Al Pacino plays Shylock, the man who has only one thing on his mind - interest with a side dish of vengeance. He feels that he has been betrayed long enough and that he should take a man's flesh pound for pound, for the money he is owed.

A nice journey through Venice with incantations of sweetness mingling with filthy racist slurs make for a nice jambalaya of dialogue. And of course, as is the case with any film based on Shakespeare's work, many times you will hear the dialogue rhyming but at other times, it will not make any sense.

A lowly man with a rich noble of a friend asks for money from Shylock. With this money, he plans on courting a beautiful princess, whom he must win only with his pure heart and not the gold he used to impress her in the first place. For those of you who this is getting confusing for - think of Aladdin when he pretends to be Prince Abubu to win the hand of princess Jasmine in marriage. And just like Princess Jasmine, the princess in Merchant is a wise one (much wiser as you see towards the end) and cares not for all the riches in the world, but a heart pure and a love true. Things of that sort.

In the midst of the romance comes a slap back to reality; that being the merchant's conquests on the seas have failed and Shylock wants a piece of his flesh. Definitely a crescendo of a film. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Walk the Line]

Enigmatic from front to start, the man in black captures us all. That was intentional rhyming. Johnny Cash is portrayed as the original bad boy. His antics - however "un-Christian" are fun to watch and his love affair with June Carter is the sweetest when acknowledged and violent when unrequited. "Ring of Fire" the song Cash sings and the one that is written by June Carter Cash - a twice divorced Country Hall of Fame Superstar (The Carter Family) - explains their love affair perfectly. They fall deeper and deeper into the ring of fire and the flames keep getting higher.

What many will be surprised by is the amazing job with which Reese Witherspoon has captured the essence of June; a truly Oscar worthy performance. Joaquin Phoenix delivers Cash with utmost sincerity from the moment we see him waiting to go on stage at Folsom prison to the crowd of adoring convicts.

The film covers several songs - all which are sung by Phoenix & Witherspoon - and add a bit of "Behind the Scenes" feel to it all. Undoubtedly a great watch. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire]

Director Mike Newell's Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire brings to the audience the darkest film yet in the series. A seriously terrifying adventure ride that will leave you in the center of the conflicts Harry faces in the fourth year. We get a good glimpse of the tournament and everything else takes second place.

The Triwizard tournament is a competition that guarantees "eternal glory" in the Wizarding world. The contestants face challenges such as fire breathing dragons and various sea creatures. Harry Potter who does not meet the age-requirements of the tournament finds out that his name has been entered into the Goblet. In a rare moment we see Harry actually frightened when his name is pulled from the Goblet.

The year at Hogwart's also features a bunch of romantic developments amongst our favorite wizards and witches. There are priceless and quite charming moments of innuendo exchanged between several of the usually more conserved characters. Ron, Harry, & Hermione all have their shares of crushes & first encounters with love in quite entertaining form. The Goblet gets a 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Capote]

The reason art exists is mainly for two reasons, the audience's demand and the artist's burning desire to create. Capote was a writer who worked to achieve greatness, who wrote to keep his ego burning. Philip Seymour Hoffman as Capote shows us an author who worked by having a cognizance of self better than most of his closes critics, friends, and admirers. It was his massive self centered nature - during the premiere party of the film "To Kill a Mockingbird" penned by his close friend Nelle Harper Lee (Catherine Keener), Capote says "frankly I don't know what the fuss is all about" while wasting away in another gin and tonic.

A quiet and mostly unevenful biographical motion picture event, Capote reaches few points of absolute chilling climaxes which make the rest of the film seem like the quiet before the storm.

The film takes place at the juncture of Capote's life as he embarks on writing his most famous novel, "In Cold Blood." A creative non-fiction - many say he popularized or even invented the genre - about a small town murder. In order to get close to the murderers, Capote goes as far as hiring a new lawyer to delay the death sentence on the heads of the two men accused of the gruesome murder. Capote befriends one of the criminals (Clifton Collins Jr.) who at a point thinks his friend Truman is there to save his life. As the story unravels the friendship fades into a grey area which is one of the most interesting dynamics in the film to watch.

The film sheds light on the selfish nature of the process of creation. And we are given an Oscar-worthy performance by both Philip Seymour Hoffman and Clifton Collins Jr. Capote is not a cursory look at an author, but an honest stare at a man creating his career defining piece. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [The Ballad of Jack and Rose]

There's a touch of realism in this film that cannot be faked. It is a truly daring movie in the subjects it addresses and a very difficult one to swallow at times. But portrayed absolutely beautifully, the two main characters are a daughter and a sick father (Daniel Day Lewis) who live on what used to be a commune of idealists. A touching yet sometimes disagreeable piece about a man and his daughter who live on the memories of a commune.

The memories that remain are the only good things left for these two, being that their mother and wife are dead and their commune is now almost non-existent. A truly revolutionary couple, they take on villains in the form of developers who plan on building land around their picture perfect coastal habitat. But the heart of the conflict comes when someone tears in between their love; in the face of a woman and her two sons.

A very isolated life has made the daughter into what you could see the father have being at a younger age, when he was still a stronger man and one with support on his side. But she is strong, luminous, and also cunning. These traits combined with childlike innocence and unquestioned determination bring a very aggressive and never before seen presence to the screen. A well written and thought out emotional conundrum. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [Good Night, and Good Luck.]

George Clooney as director shows that he is very eager to get his hands behind the camera, but he also shows the telltale signs of a kid let loose in a candy store. In this, a beautiful black and white film, Clooney takes us to an era where television had not become yet become one of the most trusted sources of news for the world. A time when Edward R. Murrow was seen as someone who would talk to puffy guests such as Liberace and other Hollywood celebrities, but not someone with substance.

David Strathairn plays the bold hero at the center of this documentary like film and he does so with an inspirational force. The film see-saws between fact, excitement, and poor excuses to show plumes of cigarette smoke in a black & white picture. Clooney goes out of his way to give us close-ups of television screens and to make the film raw and inspired, but in doing so, comes away with a script that could leave the average filmgoer in yawns.

The film is about the emergence of the junior senator from Wisconsin, McCarthy. It's about McCarthy's lies and his power. We are witness to his campaign to find Communists living in the United States and holding Congressional hearings to denigrate and punish them for their rumored acts of treason. While many in that era stood up against McCarthy, Edward R. Murrow is credited, at least according to this picture, as the man who really lights the match to McCarthy's downfall. The film, while great for historians and those who enjoy black and white films can be extremely boring if not interested in the subject matter to begin with. An unenthusiastic 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Oldboy]

A stylistic, violent, psychological thriller, Oldboy is one of the most disturbing movies I have seen to date. The content which cannot be disclosed without revealing some plotline is a combination of a daytime talk show and something ancient Greece could produce. The film starts out with our very comedic protagonist locked up in a drunk tank. Cursing the police officers, talking to them indignantly, flipping them off, and trying to physically harm them. Finally, a friend helps him get out of this mess and he phones home to his daughter whose 3rd birthday it is that Daddy's on his way home. We turn around and he has vanished. On a rainy night, he is gone and the next we see him, he is imprisoned in an apartment, hypnotized perhaps, and has his life snatched away from him for a period of 15 years, when he is finally released.

Who? Why? These questions are answered through the remainder of the film and are done satisfactorily enough - though a bit of stretching maybe required for certain viewers. The sequences of fights is very naturally done, it's reminiscent of Mean Streets - though the protagonist is always seen as the strongest - the fighting is believable and nothing like Asian cinema of the Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon type.

The film truly works every muscle in your mind by not revealing everything, but slowly unfolding into what finally turns out to be an uncomfortable denoument. The acting is of the finest degree and the editing and direction take you through a warped world filled with elements you do not want to have revealed. A beautifully composed nightmare. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [House of D]

David Duchovny's first film as a director is a flashback story with some great highlights and interesting moments. The film has more bicycles in a movie than a documentary about Lance Armstrong, and appropriately starts out on a Paris night. The struggle of a man who has a hidden past and the excitement of finally being able to share his secrets with those he cares about is clearly portrayed in that first bike ride. As the book opens on Tommy, played by Duchovny as an older man, and played even better by Anton Yelchin in the flashback, we start to learn about life in Greenwich Village in the 70s.

A series of cold events in Tommy's life lead to his eventual breakdown, but with the help of his friend Pappas, a retarded janitor (Robin Williams) & a woman who speaks to Tommy from her prison cell (Erykah Badu), Tommy learns about love and life. It is definitely not a typical film about the popular subjects that movies tend to be about, but sometimes it feels like we're given a gloss coat with an empty shell. The film does not delve as deeply into the soul of conflict as it could.

But, Duchovny does a fine job of showing us the Village in 1970s and a good feel for why the story needs to be told now. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [3 Iron]

Korean writer and director Ki-duk Kim presents us with one of the most original pieces of storytelling in cinema since his last Western success, Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter And . . . Spring. 3 Iron revolves around a young post modernist, humane, and symbolic man who makes himself a guest in strangers' homes while they are away on vacation.

Obviously he encounters a multitude of different experiences, and to add to the innocuous nature of his breaking and entering, he washes the clothes of all those whose houses he inhabits. Staying in this course, he winds up befriending a lovely young woman and she becomes his accomplice. The only problem - she is married.

Truly engaging sequences of adventure and intrigue will infect your mind as you watch the film. The directing is charming and haunting. The protagonist is faced with some harsh challenges but the way in which he handles his conflicts is one of the most inventive and sublime manners of attacking a problem to date in any film I have watched.

I realized that I loved this movie when the following became clear; 3 Iron will make you think that you, personally, as a human being can accomplish much more than you may have tried to; and maybe even inspire you to become more agile. When a film can convince you to get up off your ass and do something (very similar to SSFWAS), then it's definitely worth a peek. 5 out of 5.

Reviews [Les Choristes]

A beautiful French countryside and a plot similar to a combo of Heaven Help Us & Sister Act 2 make Les Choristes, while entertaining and enchanting, overall nothing thrilling. We follow the story of a group of boys in boarding school with a strict headmaster. Strict, but often times, extremely hilarious in his hatred and dismissal of all things pure and sweet.

To the rescue is a kind old man who has an interest in singing. Through songs and an organized chorus, he is able to shake up the establishment's misguided entirehe is able to manipulate French countryside who all have parents that pretty much want to distance themselves from their children - or in some cases - just no parents at all. The singing is especially beautiful and some of the conflicts that these boys deal with are very simple, but make it all the more fun to watch. For once, you're not expecting grave tragedy to fall upon your favorite characters. But, while mostly generic and predictable in plot, there are still some surprises and laughs that make Les Choristes very enjoyable. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [A History of Violence]

Tom Stalls is your average heartland citizen. He owns a diner, knows everyone around town, and likes to live the quiet life. David Cronenberg's documentary-like title is appropriate for the film because while you feel for the characters, the title constantly jabs at your skull - reminding you that a tremendous act of violence will be followed by the intervals of conversation. Everything leads up to the violence in the film and it is interesting to watch. But from the first cruel death in the scene to the gruesome and gory ones - one reaction was common - laughter.

When Tom Stalls is attacked by two "badmen" at his diner, he commits serious acts of violence by killing them both; in turn protecting the patrons and employees of the establishments and also ruining his entire life.

The film will have you laughing throughout because it is so intense at points, that it will be the only reaction you can draw upon. Though it is common for one to leave reality behind when entering the movie theater, the scene that is painted is so normal and Partridge family like, that you cannot but help laugh when the mob comes to town and wants Tom Stalls to admit to a past life he wants to leave in his past.

Viggo Mortenson and Maria Bello do a tremendous job of acting, but the script sometimes lends itself to be completely ridiculous. When Tom's son finds out that he may have used to be a part of the mob, he asks him, something along the lines of "Oh, what are you going to wack me if I tell [sister] that you're in the mob?" Though it's there for obviously comedic reasons, parts of the film just become unintentionally hilarious.

The movement of the film is in a very late 80s, early 90s feel, though it revolves around the characters, it's almost as if these characters are big symbols walking around trying to prove Cronenberg's point that violence has a cause and effect. It is painful to watch the acts of violence being committed, but you also will just be thankful that the film had some resolution to it. 2.7 out of 5.

Reviews [Proof]

This John Madden film about mathematicians and their tendencies to be a bit off the rocker is a silent triumph. It weaves intricate plot with questions of trust and sanity. We are taken into the life of a man who constantly claims that intelligence, as it relates to the scholarly world of mathematics peaks at 23 and everything is down hill from there. Anthony Hopkins does a tremendous job but it is Gwyneth Paltrow, who plays Hopkins' daughter in the movie, whose issues the film revolves around.

A brilliant, passionate, and deeply caring person, Gwyneth's character has a tremendous amount of conflict within her and that's what makes it intense. She has to ward off her own sister and prove her sanity to those around her. Many also doubt her credibility since she has lived for 5 years with her insane and dying father.

The city of Chicago is shot in way that has not been seen before. In order to get all the math proofs that are discussed, a lot of angular, quick-paced, pans in motion take place. It leaves you with a complete feeling of engaging inside the world of Gwyneth Paltrow's mind. She takes on her role with great accuracy as we see a fragile, unstable, post-graduate genius trying to maintain a balance between academia and the world. We see her at her most vulnerable stage in life and it is endearing. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Junebug]

Junebug is a sweet film with great heart and has a homegrown feel to it. Director Phil Morrison's film revolves around a newly married couple who go to visit the husband's family down south. George seems a bit more refined than his hillbilly family down south and his art-gallery owner wife, Madeline is ironically the reason of their visit back to his home in North Carolina. While Madeline is down scoping a new emerging artist, deep rooted family troubles that have never quite been resolved emerge - all capped with a very pregnant and about to burst Ashley (Amy Adams).

Amy Adams is wonderful in the film. Ashley is a neurotic, hyper, talkative, self-doubting, and incredibly sweet and understanding woman. She talks like a teenager in love and has the innocence of one. Ashley's purity is shown through her actions and selfless acts. And you realize that you're watching a film only when you realize that we all wish we were like Ashley but somewhere along the way, we grew older, and our values fell apart.

The film is filled with great music too - an original score by Yo La Tengo and Christian hymns portrayed in a non-sarcastic manner. Junebug makes you feel like you're sitting down south, sipping a glass of sweet iced tea while watching life from an old creaky chair on the front porch. 4 out of 5.

Reviews [The Constant Gardener]

After the success of City of God, director Fernando Meirelles brings to life an authentic thriller with The Constant Gardener. There is a global conspiracy that has caused many deaths and plaguing the African content. The film gains its momentum through the journey of Justin Quayle (Ralph Fiennes) who will stop at nothing to expose the dirt that becomes the reason for his wife's (Rachel Weisz) murder.

The sound and music of the film throb as we are taken through African slums and vast desert planes. The shooting style Fernando Meirelles uses is very similar to City of God and we are left questioning whether what is on screen is a documentary or a film. Add to that an extremely fine-tuned group of actors, and you have an intelligent thriller. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [The Brothers Grimm]

The genre of a movie is something that should be paid close attention to, because if you're not sticking to it in a certain graded fashion, chances are you'll come out with an array of different genres all working against one another. The Brothers Grimm has a specatcular story at its base, but with the screenplay being cheesy and too colloquialized for the American palette, the film falls apart.

Heath Ledger's attempt at acting comes off as a poor impersonation of Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean. Matt Damon has nothing to work off of and never reaches a point where we can see him as the hero of the film. Brothers Grimm tried to mix comedy, with horror, drama, and romance. None of the genres worked because it seemed that the actors were just throwing out lines instead of being involved with the film.

The film's sets were interesting and there were some great sequences with the use of crows and geese. But, as the age old saying goes; birds don't make good movies, people do. We start off by seeing the Brothers Grimm practicing their trade, which is bringing to life mythical witches and creatures through stagecraft to supersitious villagers and then of course exorcising that which they create.

Matt Damon's character is a firm believer in science and Heath Ledger is attached to folklore. With their powers of imagination and science, they move from town to town hoodwinking the 18th century populace in Germany. To the backdrop of this story is added French occupation in Germany [read: confused genre]. We have conflicts between the French and Germans addressed and they are given no justice or attention whatsoever. What results are a terrible combination of incoherent French & Italian accents and characters that are more annoying than Jar Jar Binks from Star Wars.

A wonderful idea at the heart of it, but I don't think director Terry Gilliam had a clue as to what he wanted the end result to look like. 2 out of 5.

Reviews [The Aristocrats]

A documentary about one joke that has circled the comedy world for ages, this film has a one track mind that lasts for its entirety. It works. The joke is about a man going into an agent's office and telling the agent, "Hey, I've got a great act for you." The agent asks, "Well, what is it?" The man replies, "Well it's a family act, myself and my wife and our children go on stage and take off our clothes." The agent says, "Well, that's one hell of an act, what do you call yourselves?" The man replies, "The Aristocrats."

This joke has full reign when it comes to adding your own scatalogical to it. We see comedians like George Carlin, Gilbert Gottfried, Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, and Phyllis Diller give their versions of the joke. To hear comedians like Bob Saget and characters like Cartman from South Park do this joke is absolutely enchanting and disturbing on so many levels. The film is a definite stay-at-home kind of thing, but if you want to laugh with a big audience on your side, it will add to the fun. Even though the punchline is not that hilarious, the Aristocrats is a feel good movie that will have you in a good mood, for sure. 3 out of 5.

Reviews [The Reception]

Writer and Director James G. Young's entry into the Tribeca Film Festival had great potential that was dissolved mainly because of the performances. An estranged mother and daughter re-unite in a snowy setting. But, things are not as clear as they seem. A part of the charm of the film's clean and wintry canvas. But the primary focus is on the secrets that lie within each person's life. An interesting aspect that is brought out in the film is that of an alcoholic divorceé who has turned into a man hating machine. She spews forth vile insults towards all men in an atrocious French accent - all the while living with a gay man to feel comforted.

The story takes many turns as the week progresses and a great drama and some controversial scenes definitely make the movie something to talk about. An interesting story, weakened by the performances. 1.2 out of 5.

Reviews [Broken Flowers]

Jeffrey Wright gives an excellent comedic performance as Don's (Bill Murray) fertile Ethiopian neighbor, Winston in Jim Jarmusch's Broken Flowers. The film is about Don - a bachelor who has made a fortune from some business dealing with computers. His latest fling has left him alone sitting on a couch, when all his questions regarding life are answered, in the form of a pink letter with red writing - and a typed letter saying that he has a son.

The quest to find the son's mother begins appropriately with a burned CD whipped up by Winston, who is playing detective and sympathetic neighbor. The soundtrack of the film is absolutely perfect featuring what seem to be two tracks from an Ethiopian band's collection. The music of the film moves us along for an interesting ride, but then is cut off abruptly by several fade to blacks. There are chops of Broken Flowers where I'm confused as to what Jim Jarmusch wants us to see if anything. A lot of it seems to be filler material with no purpose.

In the middle of some great performances, a lacking script drags the film along and a choppy edit job does even more damage. A good weekend rental when it comes out on DVDs, 2.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Pretty Persuasion]

Satanic ritual abuse refers to the belief that an organized network of Satanists engages in brainwashing and abusing victims, especially children. In the 1980s hundreds of cases of satanic ritual abuse popped up in America. Children from California to New Jersey were accusing adults of engaging in organized Satanic ritual abuse. When they told the prosecuting parties involved for the cases, there was not a doubt raised that these children would be lying. To date, many prosecutors will defend the children. But all along, as the cases continue to be overturned in favor of the less lovable looking defendants, it was proven that the children were lying. In one form or another, we have all seen cases of sexual harassment displayed in the media. Most of the time, we are sympathetic with the victims and rightfully so, but sometimes we're shown how our sympathies are completely uncalled for. When we think about the prosecutions that occurred in the Salem Witch trials because a town full of people called some women witches, we are quick to forget that the Satanic Ritual Cases happened just in the last decade or so.

And the reason in addition to sociological, psychological, and historical circumstances of why we're prone to believing the lies, however incredulous they may seem? The harbingers of such atrocious news are nearly perfect beings whom we love to protect. People who can do no wrong. People - who when looked upon - bring apple pie to your mind. Take that innocence, douse it with the sex appeal of Lolita on aphrodisiacs, and splash it with a Beverly Hills address and a neat pink bow on the hair and you have the lead character of Kimberly played by Evan Rachel Wood in Pretty Persuasion.

The film crosses boundaries that I thought would not be touched for another 20 years or so, at least not in an R-rated movie. James Woods takes the cake for being a totally inappropriate, outrageously funny, and yet somehow rational man in the film. The sex talk is open, the accusations fly, the mud is slung, and boy oh boy is innocence completely shattered in so many levels within this movie. Evan Rachel Wood. Evan Rachel Wood. Evan Rachel Wood. The things she does in this movie make you forget that she is acting. It's amazing what her role called for and even more amazing that she pulled it off without a twitch and almost without a tear.

There was a bit of trouble convincing with some of the plot, but so what. The film has created a world that we have skirted in movies like Election & KIDS, but with the use of its Barbie's dream house exterior, Pretty Persuasion gets away with a lot and you'll like it for that reason. Beware, the movie may induce heart attacks in those who have daughters of their own. 3 out of 5. [to discuss this movie in further detail, do not hesitate to holler back]

Reviews [Mr. Deeds Goes to Town]

As a person who appreciates Adam Sandler's antics, I would like to preface this review by saying that I really enjoyed the Happy Madison production of Mr. Deeds. Frank Capra's 1936 original comedy, Mr. Deeds goes to town about that "jolly good Longfellow" was a bit too dated for my taste. But, that is not to say that there weren't humorous moments in the film. It is never wise to compare a remake to its original, especially since Mr. Deeds held a lot more meaning to the public watching it during the Great Depression.

Gary Cooper plays Mr. Deeds Longfellow, a postcard poet who has inherited $20 million. But instead of splurging it away, he thinks to invest it for the poor and give them the chance to develop on their own. There are great messages within the film and seeing that it was made during the Depression, it was probably received with great positivity and gave the suffering public much needed hope.

But, in this day in age, when looking at the film from a purely entertainment point of view - there are many moments that are given too much importance when they seemed to only be throw aways. 2.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Hustle & Flow]

It's hard out there for a pimp. It's hard for the masses to see any type of hero in the lead character DJay played by Terence Howard. DJay has a lot of rhythm and it was clearly portrayed in his southern hip hop twang, as he philosophized the street life to his prostitutes and anyone who he needed to sell. There was a lack of enough conflict in the meat of the film to create any tension in the audience.

The film is filled with excellent performances all around. Terence Howard is the obvious charmer, followed by Anthony Anderson as a 9 to 5 producer with a dream. But if awards were being handed out the clear winner would have to be Taraji P. Henson, who plays a pregnant prostitute with an amazing sweetness and loveliness about her. Julia Roberts couldn't have accomplished what Taraji P. Henson delivered with such ease in Hustle & Flow - which was making a pregnant prostitute the most likable person on screen.

But, in the end, the film just doesn't connect in the way that would make one get out of the seat and want to root for it. 2.3 out of 5.

Reviews [Brooklyn Bound]

While delivering a few realistic action sequences here and there, Rich Devaney's feature film debut is ultimately brought down by the stereotypically written script. The story is based on many urban and drug-related tragedies including a very lame crew of mobsters.

There are definitely some memorable shots taken, but there is a lack of chemistry between much of the crew. But, some of the action is very realistic, therefore intense and at times frightening. If the realism that was portrayed in the brawls was carried forward to the soul of the characters, Devaney's debut would have received much praise. 2 out of 5.

Reviews [Charlie and the Chocolate Factory]

We see Charlie's family living in a cartoonishly crooked house where there is not even a complete roof that covers their heads. For dinner, the mother prepares cabbage soup - an obviously unpleasant choice for dinner. A firm and audible "Ewww" came from the audience as this dish was served up to Charlie's family. The little girl in the theater was clearly not a fan - which induced even more laughter in the audience. Tim Burton's remake of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a place where imagination is truly brought to life. A place that has realized dreams that you've had.

An amazing composition of shapes, colors, effects, and music, Charlie is a spectacular achievement, even for Burton. What will shock most people is how funny this movie is. In the midst of the poverty and dreadful conditions Charlie is living in, Burton is able to make us laugh heartily and laugh throughout the film. Johnny Depp is fantastic as Willy Wonka. For all those people who say "Oh we've seen the original and are big fans of it." Give it a rest. You will not be angry at the remake, you will not be disappointed at the remake. You will love the remake and you will buy it on DVD and recommend it to family and friends.

Deep Roy is one of the keys of the many layers of freakiness. Johnny Depp is the other. Deep plays all of the Oompah Loompahs; little workers who crave nothing more for wages than cocoa beans. Depp plays a self-made chocolatier, an inventor, and a freaking weirdo. Many people have said that Depp played the character like Michael Jackson and I personally did not see an ounce of M.J. in the character. Depp's Willy Wonka is full of wonder, mystery, awkwardness, hilarity, and a stubborn child-like demeanor. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a true treat to watch. The special effects don't seem like they're effects at all and that's what makes them enjoyable. 4.5 out of 5.

Reviews [Modigliani]

Modigliani takes us into the fictionalized art scene of Paris when Picasso, Diego Rivera, Modigliani and a few other big shots were in it to win it, as they say. The center of the film is a gross and almost violent rivalry between Modi & Picasso. Not being an art connosieur, I was able to enjoy the cinematography and director's constant use of dark and light. There were also a few surreal touches added to the film that made it a cinematic success.

But there were also some flaws. One flaw was French actress Elsa Zylberstein, who just did not converse her feelings and emotions as strongly as some of the other actors in the film. She is an important part of the film because most of Modigliani's work are her portraits.

None of the characters are likable in Modigliani and there are some battles fought with drugs and alcohol that are almost pathetic to watch. Though at times Modigliani came off as a pretentious and almost stereotypical vision of the art world in Paris, it did have some notable scenes. 2.6 out of 5.

Reviews [Junky Punky Girlz]*

This 11-minute short film was made in 1996 by filmmaker Nisha Ganatra. There are several messages delivered in this black and white short, and looks like it was shot on 16 mm, but I could be wrong. An NYU student film, it achieves highly emotional and true moments within the 11-minute-running time. The camera truly captures every single important frame. An absolute joy to watch and superbly directed. 4.1 out of 5.

Reviews [Rope]

Rope is Alfred Hitchcock's first movie in color and his debut as an independent director and producer. The entire film was made on one sound stage in the Warner Brothers lot - shot in 10 minute takes - and meticulously planned so that Hitch could maintain his stylistic excellence.

Though the directing is great in the film and it is shot extremely well - it falls short of being a truly engaging thriller. Hitchcock has always been a fan of revealing the secret to the audience before the characters in the film themselves know the truth. In this film, he is no different and we are left guessing which character will figure out the crime.

Though it is true that you can do a lot with just one sound stage, a lot of different camera movements and angles, it does not make for a complete story. Rope was delicious to watch as a filmmaker, but lame to watch as a fan of mysterious thrillers. 2.8 out of 5.

Reviews [Crazy Like a Fox]

The Delphi Film Foundation brings to life a film that seems like it should be aired during sessions of the Congress when topics of historic preservation are on the agenda. It is a stirring and extremely unique film that focuses on one man's quest to save his historic Virginian farmhouse. He feels a natural bond to the earth and will do anything to stay on the land his ancestors grew up on - which becomes a part of the reason for the title.

Writer and director Richard Squires makes a bold statement with his debut feature. He has a very good eye and a genuine love of the landscape and topic he covers. Some of the acting was weak, but the strong performance by Richard Rees is enough to keep your attention. 2.9 out of 5.

Reviews [Elevator to the Gallows]

Louis Malle's 1957 film noir classic has been re-released and restored by Rialto Pictures and it is definitely a great treat for cinema-lovers. It is known as having catapulted Jeanne Moreau's career to international fame and it is a pleasure watching her ascension into the limelight.

The plot is in keeping with classic film noir, where a woman is at the center of all conflicts. Other aspects of film noir that fans of the genre will appreciate are the use of beautifully orchestrated music. The soundtrack is composed by none other than Miles Davis. As the plot thickens, the smoke rises, the tension rises, the music plays wonderfully with each frame. And the sound is very limited; you will only hear sound effects made in the studio and dialogue. There is absolutely zero ambient sound present throughout this very controlled experience.

There is a visually complex scene that takes place in the elevator which seems simple to the audience. But in it, you are witness to a man in an elevator. Just this one scene is so dynamic to watch and makes you not want to take any sort of a leave from the screen. You know from watching it, that this was a work of passion and care.

There is a sort of joy in letting yourself go at the movies. A joy of watching things unfold on a large screen where you have no control over what's happening, but yet want control of every decision made by the characters in the film. Elevator to the Gallows will make you forget everything and enter the lives of the characters it creates. That and it will turn you into a Louis Malle fan. 4.2 out of 5.

Reviews [War of the Worlds]

On October 30, 1938, there was a small scare and the power of the media was first felt by a part of the United States. Most Americans were turned into the radio listening to a show - but as they turned the dial - they heard what sounded like an emergency news report. The news report was actually Orson Welles' radio adaptation of the H.G. Wells novel, "War of the Worlds," in which martians attacked the earth. As a result hundreds of families in New Jersey fleed their homes in search for safe shelter thinking that the martians were actually coming.

On the July 4th long weekend in 2005, Steven Spielberg's adaptation of the H.G. Wells novel hit the theaters, starring Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning. Welles, Wells, Spielberg, and Cruise; these are all some heavy-hitting names and the only reason why millions of fans dished out their hard earned dollars at the box office this weekend. What did they see when they got there? A whole lot of special effects, an amazing job of narration by Morgan Freeman and a film with no heart. Nothing was scary about the movie, there were no new action sequences, no amazing special effects and yawn worthy acting.

I'll be the first to admit, I have not read the novel. I have, however, listened to the entire radio play that sent hundreds fleeing from their homes, clutching onto their loved ones in search for shelter. Spielberg's movie falls short of many people's expactations. With an epic and daunting title of War of the Worlds, I had expectations to be frightened and left googly eyed at the end of this summer blockbuster. Unfortunately, laughter, discomfort, and ambivalence were my immediate reactions.

There were several special effects in the movie and some of them were interesting, but they were not worth gasping over. A mediocre film - if that - War of the Worlds has a lot of flash and a lot of marketing without the heart. It is a sure miss. There is nothing praiseworthy about the film. Not the acting, not the special effects, not the screenplay, not the music, not the sound effects, not the lighting, not the sets, not the directing. Everything is average or far below. 1.2 out of 5.

Reviews [Batman Begins]

Batman Begins at the end of this film. He is officially reborn as you may have heard, read, or seen. Christopher Nolan has done an incredible job of reviving the character of Bruce Wayne and the Dark Knight. The Scarecrow as a villain in this film works like Darth Maul did in the Star Wars franchise; cool make-up, little to be afraid of ... even though he is the Scarecrow. But that makes sense when you look at the fact that Scarecrow was merely a pawn of the incredibly well-crafted villain Ras Al-Ghul.

Katie Holmes not only does not add to this film being good, the newest member of the church of Scientology almost takes away some of Batman Begins' well-deserved praise. Besides the one-liner jokes that seem a bit out of place in this well-crafted dark masterpiece, Batman Begins is what fans and non-fans of the DC Comics hero have been waiting for. An awesomely designed Gotham City, a truly well-executed origin story, you will leave the movie theater wanting to watch the sequel.

The music is not composed by Danny Elfman, which is one of my main qualms with the film. The Danny Elfman Batman theme has become so signature and so completely synonymous with the Caped Crusader that anything else seems almost demeaning. But while watching the film, you will not notice the absence of Elfman's score. Written & Directed to near perfection, with some inconsistent and odd edits, 3.9 out of 5.

Reviews [LOST - TV Show]

Appropriately titled television shows, films, and books make everyone happy. When you name something and the title does not reflect the content of that thing which has been produced, a lot of people become unhappy. Lost is very appropriately named and just as its name, it explores a bunch of stranded people on an island. Now, what many people would think by that scenario immediately is that "Oh, it's been done." If you think that, you would be more than wrong, you'd be commiting one of the gravest mistakes of your life and exposing your ignorance of television shows to everyone around you.

Over the past two weeks, I watched the entire season of LOST. There were nights that turned into mornings more often than I care to mention. I watched anywhere from 2-4 episodes each night and was always wishing to cover up my eyes out of fear. LOST captures the essential Hitchcock technique of keeping the audience in suspense by not showing but hinting at things. For the duration of the entire first season of the hit ABC-show, you are always waiting for another secret to be revealed or better yet, turned into yet another series of enigmas.

Lost has a lot of meanings as it relates to the show's characters which range from drug junkies, doctors, and people who do not speak English. The characters are all stranded on an island - lost from civilization. Many of the characters have a purpose and are lost as in they lack direction in life. They also experience loss of friends, family, and material things. Not only that, but there is loss of memory, loss of sensibility, loss of everything.

The show also has the ability to resonate an absolutely chillingly intense feeling of fear into the viewer. Even the "light" parts of this dark saga take an incredible amount of courage to watch. There are several sequences where you will surely jump out of your seat, but most of the terror stays within your mind hours after you've witnessed the scary events on screen. The people on the island are faced with terrible foes and what makes them even more daunting is that you never see them. You may hear them or hear of them or sense them - but you will not be able to see them.

LOST has captured within it, a distinct place in television. It respects the viewer and that is why anyone who has seen 2 episodes in-consequential order will agree that LOST gets a 5 out of 5.

Reviews [Me and You and Everyone We Know]

By A. Venesky

Multimedia artist Miranda July’s debut film seems to be either loved or hated, depending on how well viewers receive her attempts to bring a playful but artsy observational sensibility into the film.

The film is a series of loosely interwoven vignettes held sort-of together by the awkward romantic pursuit of a divorced shoe salesman named Richard by a struggling artist named Christine, played by July. While there are some amusing, funny bits, there’s no real motivation for why the characters do what they do, the relationship between Richard and his two sons who are afraid of him, is not clear. As a result, July’s characters don’t seem to be real. Rather, they’re vehicles that carry out her whimsical suspension of reality on screen. As a consequence, when July does try to evoke a more serious emotional tone, her characters look almost ridiculous.

Excellent performances, however, were put in by John Hawkes, who portrays the oddly-handsome but scruffy Richard, and by Brandon Ratcliff, who plays Richard’s 6-year-old son Robby— an unwitting participant in an online sex-chat flirtation (one of the more enjoyable
bits).

Finally, I’m fairly tired of female leads stirred mainly by dreams of a husband and a big house in the American suburban wasteland, as July’s Christine is. I was a bit disappointed that July, who I expected
to be a little more kiddie-porn-chic didn’t really challenge Hollywood’s
usual use of female leads. I give Me and You 2 out of 5. But I think that if you like chick-lit, you might give it a higher score than I did.

Reviews [Crash]

It is a shame that Crash came out the same time as Star Wars: Episode 3. Mostly because Crash could have been an Oscar contender if it was released closer to the Golden Globes. But that's all Hollywood politics.

Crash is a movie about humanity. People, living, breathing and thinking as you and me. People in America, people who see color, culture, and live from experience. It has real scenes, real locations, no gimmicks that play with time, special effects, or anything close to a summer blockbuster.

The movie deals with racism without fear, but there is no preaching. The message is delivered through actions and words. The ensemble cast is brilliantly put together and they carry the film with much respect for the words they speak.

As the lives of vulnerable people intertwine in Los Angeles, we have the absolute privilege of being drawn in, luckily from the safety of our seats. A soundly directed film which is unbelievably well written, Crash gets a 5 out of 5.

Reviews [A Love Song for Bobby Long]

In this housing bubble that we're living in currently, even the most amateur of real estate junkies will know that the value of the house is only as good as its location. The best location being by the water. What the tycoons don't realize is that women contribute just as much value to a house. And when you're around a bunch of raconteurs looking to write novels, the combination of water and women is a most ideal one.

John Travolta has given one of his best performances since Pulp Fiction in this little-heard of film. Scarlett Johansson's role is equally dazzling.

Besides the great acting, we are treated to beautiful vistas along the banks of many rivers with the sunlight as our guide. But, the matters of conflict which ideally drive films are sometimes misplaced and hence a bit too unbelievable. But the great acting will make you forget everything and swallow it all with a swig of bourbon. 3.5 out of 5.

Reviews [The Killing of a Chinese Bookie]

I watched this movie based on the recommendation of Christopher Moltisanti of the Sopranos. Better known in his non-fictional world as Michael Imperioli, he gave his seal of approval to this John Cassavetes classic.

Don't look for plot, don't look for any signs of intelligence when watching this movie. It's merely about the Strong, Silent Type. John Cassavetes is an impermeable man, so to speak. He owns a night club and has negotiating skills that could unite Arabs with Jews.

In the movie, he mainly uses his wit and haggling powers to steer away trouble from the mob. 2.9 out of 5. But 4 out of 5 if you're a fan of non-plot movies and tough-guy movies like Cool Hand Luke.

Reviews [Eat Drink Man Woman]

Are you familiar with a family in which most of the communication is done by feeding others and talking about food? No? Well, don't worry, Eat Drink Man Woman accomplishes this feat in an orchestral manner. A crescendo of madness ensues at the dinner table and the most serious parts of the movie are also the most hilarious.

Writer & Director Ang Lee did his homework before making this film. Parts of this 1994 independent film's score are actually the theme song from Sex & the City. Besides the music, which does not really ring any greater notes than the aforementioned salsa-like romp, we get a real good flavor of Taipei. Some may even book the next plane ticket over.

The movie's humor and depth are purest with the metaphors and between the line sequences. The analogies are unstretched and leave room for interpretation. The best part of the movie, and this does not ruin it for anyone is when the father says to one of his daughters "Daughter, I can taste your soup." A very touching 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith]

The ultimate battle of good versus evil has been the center of the Star Wars saga since its inception in the 70s. This George Lucas born phenomenon is an absolute pleasure to watch for avid fans as well as newly introduced audiences.

The excellent fight sequences along with unique planetary environments fills the movie with eye candy. The battle within one's own conscience fills the movie with truth. I found myself relating with young Skywalker himself more than any one of the characters. The man who becomes Lord Vader is someone we can all relate to.

It takes a very good film to be interesting even when you know how it all ends way beforehand. And Episode 3 accomplishes this. Yoda's dialogue is like hearing Buddha speak. Acting is terrible all around with the exception of Ewan McGregor's outstanding Obi Wan.

Episode 3 is the perfect beginning to this summer's line-up of flicks. The force hit me hard. 3.6 out of 5.

Reviews [Rounders]

Matt Damon, Edward Norton, John Malkovich, Martin Landau & my favorite John Turturro. They're all in Rounders. A movie about poker. At this time, it is a highly popular rental due to the fad of TV poker.

The script is weakly written, and though the stakes are high, it's nothing like Lock, Stock, & Two Smoking Barrels. The lacking part is a chemistry between all of the players.

2.5 out of 5.

Reviews [The Corporation]

Unlike Michael Moore's Fahrenheit 9/11, the Corporation is very just in its exploration of the corporate world. This film is an absolute must-see for individuals who respect businesses and the capitalistic way of life, but also maintain a strong sense of morality.

The entity of a Corporation is defined several times through this informative documentary, in the terms of different entities. The corporation, as seen by law, has the same rights as an individual. And as an individual, a corporation has the power to acquire and the power to multiply and diversify, the power to be sued and to sue. It even has the power to create, give birth to several things, to which life is not limited. The magnitude of power a corporation holds is public knowledge, but there are several hidden aspects, which this documentary illuminates that make it worth watching.

The Corporation defines best defines a corporation in terms of marine biology as a whale during feeding time. When a whale opens its giant mouth to intake a chunk full of seaweed, inevitably, it also engulfs within itself everything else surrounding and beside the seaweed. Marinate on that for 3 out of 5.

Reviews [Spanglish]

A lot of things happen in Spanglish. It is a family drama that reaches new levels of affection and beauty. But where it snatches your heart is with its absolutely fantastic realism. I was almost brought to tears from when the daughter of Adam Sandler's character was reading a restaurant review about her father.

Paz Vega and Adam Sandler are super cute. Every character is beautifully and wishfully well-spoken and neurotic. The ensemble works very well together. Some parts of the film are unnecessary and do not need to exist, but still you won't be angry for seeing them. The relationships are what make this movie believable and beautiful.

Adam Sandler's ability to be genuine is as great as his ability to make you laugh. Spanglish gets a Cuatro out of 5.

Reviews [Vera Drake]

Vera Drake is like watching a series of oil paintings come to life. It helps that human emotion is added to these oil painting like scenes. The film is absolutely a tearjerker, for those who cry at movies.

The acting is moving, but the directing is even more impressive. You are transported into 1950s England and if you weren't there for when it happened, you'll take this movie's depiction of it. There is something extremely cozy about the film that makes you feel that you've been invited to tea with the Drakes and the emotions are heightened because of it. Definitely a 4/5.

Reviews [The Interpreter]

Alfred Hitchcock did not gain permission from the United Nations to shoot on premises. So, Hitch went on without the real thing and engaged in what he did best, which was illumanating the screen with powerful cinematography and his personalized point of view on how landmarks and locations should look. That and he brought an eeriness & mystery along with exhilaration to the screen.

The Interpreter has within it, some very tense and curious moments, but they are very scarce. The rest of the movie is average. Though director Sydney Pollack gains full access to the United Nations to shoot this film, it feels like this movie went through 200 re-writes before finally coming up with a very predictable, glossy finish.

Sean Penn, one of the best actors Hollywood has to offer was not at the top of his game as a Secret Service agent. Someone should have reminded him that the top security men and women of the United States DO NOT CRY. They may do so in the privacy of their own homes while chopping onions with a machete, but outside of that, I doubt that secret service agents cry. 2.8 out of 5.

Reviews [The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy]

Zaphod, Trillian, Arthur, and Ford are all there. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is probably one of 5 books I've read in my life. So, to have it be made into a film was something I had looked forward to.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy started out as a radio program on the BBC, as developed by Douglas Adams. Due to its popularity, Adams decided to transport the show into a series of books. After the books, the BBC made a horrible television show with atrocious special effects based on the radio program and on the book.

Adams, before he passed away, started working on the screenplay of the film and wanted to see it be made. After watching the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, I feel that readers should go watch this film because it will be enjoyable to attach specific scenes to memorable goings-on in the book. Everyone else should probably just sit this film out and read the book. The missing factors in the film are chemistry & rhythm. The special effects are good and some scenes blew me away, but again, if you have not read the book, they won't mean much to you.

With all the vastness of the galaxy, this film is about as bright as 2 tiny dying stars out of 5, not even close to 42.

Reviews [The Assassination of Richard Nixon]

It's not fair to compare a play to a movie. So, it is definitely out of the question to say that The Assassination of Richard Nixon combines two plays, one is Oswald's Backyard (an off-Broadway production which was running in 2004 in NYC) and the other is Death of a Salesman.

All stories are different. Even though they may tackle the same subjects, the same emotions and the same themes, they all came about due to different reasons and differ in their execution. Of course if plagiarism took place, none of that would be true, and the similarities would be inappropriate, immoral, and vulgar.

Going back, an off-Broadway play entitled Oswald's Backyard was about the life of Lee Harvey Oswald before his successful assassination of JFK. The Assassination of Richard Nixon is about Sam Bicke's life as an aspiring salesperson who is going through a messy separation with his wife.

Penn takes on the persona of Sam Bicke with great conviction, which leaves the audience mesmerized. The plot is carried out very effectively due to his excellent performance. Each sequence of events is captured perfectly; it's akin to watching an amazing, gravely serious and nervewracking reality TV show. Don Cheadle is also in the film and has an equally natural manner about him. Naomi Watts is in the film, but her character is easily forgettable. An excellent film with superb acting, as most sales related movies tend to be, The Assassination gets 3.95 out of 5 stars.

Reviews [The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou]

Mark Friedberg should start a school for all of Hollywood's aspiring Production Designers and he should give a free scholarship to the most needy; whoever did the production design for Batman Forever. The beyond imagination production design makes The Life Aquatic visually unsurpassed by any film made in the past 5 years. The film's sets are sophisticated, genius, and super detail oriented. Wes Anderson, writer & director of team Zissou, should start a writing & directing course for how to utilize good actors and have them develop huge yet muted personalities. He should start by re-teaching Joel Schumacher everything about directing. Joel is best known for taking the Batman franchise and draining it down a massive toilet.

I would recommend Steve Zissou to all who have lost hope in original comedy films, as generated by the Hollywood machine. The Life Aquatic will restore your faith in the power of cinema and forever embed a solemn respect for the arduous art of subtle humor in your heart.

Bill Murray is supported on screen by an all-star cast, including Owen Wilson, Angelica Huston, Willem Dafoe and Cate Blanchett. And if these people weren't enough, everyone's favorite oddball, Jeff Goldblum also has a role.

Steve Zissou is subtle and respectful to the audience's intelligence. You watch this movie and immediately you're being made into a puppet, who is in very talented and capable hands.

You'll laugh at unexpected intervals and if you're eating a bag of candy shaped like stars, you'll throw the 5 up in the air to show your love for the film.

Reviews [In Good Company]

I watched a scene from this movie be shot on West 3rd and Broadway last summer. After that wonderful moment, when the shot was complete and all the actors and crew scrammed away, only one person was left, Scarlett Johansson. We exchanged eye contact and later on in the same day a photo was taken of the Village, "Birds perched in the Village" (gallery).

So, the movie was not too well-written. Some of the roles were conveniently one or two dimensioned, including Ms. Johansson's portrayal of a freshman college student. There were rarely any memorable moments in the film. If more time was given to its script development, In Good Company could have gotten more than a 1.5 out of 5 rating.

Reviews [What the Bleep do we Know!?]

Have you got a grip on your Quantum self? Yeah? Neither has 99.9% of the human population. "Quantum Physics is the physics of possibilities," says Amit Goswami, Professor of Physics, University of Oregon, Senior Scholar in Residence at the Institute of Noetic Sciences.

The film explores Quantum physics through cheesy montages of special effects and a fictional narrative. In that sense, the documentary is very unique in its execution. The plot of the doc would most likely be labeled a demonstration or re-enactment on television. The acting is poor and that doesn't take anything away from the movie. The movie is able to get you thinking about the several concepts of quantum physics from the get go. But, yes they are simplefied and made available for mass consumption with a handful of butter laced popcorn and so the most brilliant of students or those who really know all about the subject matter could end up hating the movie.

Nil G, a student acquiring his phD in physics at Stanford University says "I hated it because a lot of it was just plain wrong."

But what about those of us who really crave a thoughtful flick? What the %$@# about us!? You can explore the truths and non-truths of the film later on if your researching skills are at the top of their game. But the discussions of God & love, in particular, as they relate to science are the most engaging portions of the film. And nothing beats a good conversation and being indulged in a bit of deep intellectual pleasure. The equation 3/5 is perfect for describing What the Bleep do we know!?

Reviews [The Human Stain]

Based on a Philip Roth novel, The Human Stain boasts an all star cast, with Nicole Kidman, Anthony Hopkins, and Gary Sinise. It's a well-shot film, with a poor editing job. There is no flow and the spectacular performances by Sinise and Hopkins (notice the absence of Ms. Kidman's name) are left unsupported by the rest of the film.

It's sad really. This could have been an Academy Award winning film had it not been for the poor adaptation of the novel. If pressed, I'd have to give this movie 1 star out of a possible 5. But I have not been pressed.

Reviews [The Yes Men]

The Yes Men is a documentary about the people who started the Web site gwbush.com. The site exposed the real truths behind the George W. Bush's political and corporate career. The site was under great scrutiny by the Bush administration who actually attempted to shut it down. W actually has one of the biggest and most impressionable lines in the entire documentary, in which he says that people should not have too much freedom.

So, after making George W. Bush speak the truth, The Yes Men started another Web site, gatt.org, which is dedicated to exposing all the wrongs done by the WTO. The problem is, many people visit gatt.org and think that it is the official site of the WTO. This results in the Yes Men being invited to tons of conferences and lectures. So, they take these opportunities and present in front of large crowds in a manner that they think is truthful of the WTO.

Obviously this results in some pretty entertaining stunts. In one of the lectures, The Yes Men as WTO representatives suggest recycling human feces and feeding it to third world country's labor force. Tongue in cheek, they make a point against the WTO. I'd just visit their Web site, www.theyesmen.org and looking at what they do on a daily basis rather than watch this film. So this film would only get a 2 out of 5 on the sizzle scale, 5 being super hot and sizzling 1 being defrosting in process.

Reviews [8 1/2]

Forget the Sopranos and Tony's issues with his mother. Forget the Godfather and Francis Ford Coppola's beautifully constructed scenes. Forget Annie Hall and its stream of consciousness content and daydream sequences that wowed audiences. In fact forget any movie you have ever watched and loved in your entire life. Now watch Fellini's "8 1/2" and rewatch all your favorites. You are guaranteed to find something; a shot, a character, the conflict between good and evil, the relationship of men with their women, that will have been clearly influenced by Fellini's masterpiece.

The last time I saw Fellini was at the Guggenheim here in New York City. Short clips from different segments of 8 1/2 played on 2 television screens. His storyboards were pressed against the glass to which my nose stayed glued. These drawings were not only artistic, but they were exact in their technical details, like artistic blueprints for visual bliss.

8 1/2 was made in 1963 and has been called by critics Fellini's best work. It's about a director who is unsure of the topic of his film. He's unsure because he's not content with his own life. He's struggling with finding himself and a theme by which to drive the film. The most harrowing of these issues; women. The lead character has trouble with all types of women; his mother, his wife, and his several mistresses. These relationships are drawn out from different points of the director's life, giving them each a different perspective and meaning.

Fellini captures beautifully the frustration of creating art. In addition, this film proves indeed that filmmaking is an art form as much as any other. Made in 1963, this film carries an awesome significance today.

It's clear to decide after watching 8 1/2 that "Charlie's Angels" (the movie) director McG possesses no talent. It separates the truly genius directors of our time from the absolutely rubbish ones.

The ratings boards have spoken by giving 8 1/2, 5 stars and perfect scores all around. I'd give it a perfect grade, my highest rating to date for any movie made.

Reviews [The Aviator]*

After watching this biopic about Howard Hughes directed by Martin Scorsese, I know that Martin Scorsese must have shed a thousand tears when he did not win. This is a great film, definitely worth watching. There is serious directorial magic happening in this film. I actually believed Leonardo DiCaprio was older than 30, just barely though.

What can you say? Howard Hughes had a bigger-than-life existence in his glory days and Scorsese would be the only logical choice to capture it onto film. The score added very much to the flow of everything, in addition to excellent performances by musicians such as Rufus Wainwright. 5 out of 5.

Now, I need to speak with the man behind the film and give him a few pointers on how, I, a complete amateur and out of leaguer thinks Martin Scorsese can win an Oscar.

Dear Mr. Scorsese,

If you're reading, here's what I think. Don't go for the elaborate production design. This movie deserved to get an award for best director, but Million Dollar Baby deserved it more. Well, that's complicated, and it isn't. Dark elements, underdogs, and death were what resulted in MDB's award. And, well personally, I was rooting for it and still think it was the right choice by the Academy. But, let's say on a year that MDB isn't made, I bet you still would not have won the Oscar.

The thing is Mr. Scorsese, your dedication to the replication of history and your hyper attention to detail is holding you back. You're so damn good at transporting your audiences into an era that they forget to pay attention to everything else that you've done well. They see the 40s, they see the glam, the lights, the planes, the wonderful cinematography and they think, "oh, well ... this is just too Hollywood." Right right, I see the irony there too. But, this is exactly the crowd you have to please.

Marty, you're amazing at working with actors, we all know that. You've made big time ballers out of DeNiro, Pesci, Bracco, and now Leo. Your films always entertain the hell out of all who watch them. You're perfection. The trouble is people forget the effort it takes for a director to do what you do so easily. Since it comes so easy to you, they feel you shouldn't be awarded. And your editor takes the cake. They don't know that you've already mapped the entire film out in your mind before any inch of film hits the cutting room floor. How does that even happen? It's totally ridiculous.

Marty, baby, you're lovely. You should have been given an Oscar for Goodfellas & Taxi Driver and a Sundance Jury Prize for Mean Streets.

So, to summarize, my advice is to make a really low-budget film, cast an emerging actress as the lead, and let the characters do all the work, and don't worry about replicating the period. Make a movie that takes place in the present time. We'll see what happens.

My Best Wishes,

DM

Reviews [Shaun of the Dead]

King Kong ain't got nothing on SotD. Whatever that means. This movie is funny, it's sarcastic, it's British and the guts and gore are hilarious instead of disgusting.

Shaun of the Dead is a bloody hilarious stab at the comedy-horror genre. It's a great genre because after you've laughed and laughed throughout the movie, you still have an army of monsters to somehow defeat. You know, most drama/action/thrillers try to add comedy to make the film enjoyable.

Shaun of the Dead takes comedy, mixes it up with an end of the freaking world scenario, and takes you for a fun hour and 40 minute ride. No bumps! Seriously, it's awesome. I'd give it a 4 out of 5, if I did that kind of thing.

Reviews [Shaolin Soccer]

Kung Fu Hustle, the film brought to America by Miramax is out in theaters now. So we decided to write a review for those who dislike the razz of the multiplex. This review is for those who watch their films at home, 7 months after they've been released in the theaters.

The Godfather of Kung Fu Hustle, Stephen Chow's Shaolin Soccer is unique & comedic. The film's lead, played by Chow himself is dedicated to having everyone use kung fu to better their lives. It's quite a great principle and makes for some eyebrow twitching, but not so relevant, acrobatic martial arts.

The film could have been better executed, so don't prepare to laugh out loud for the entire duration of the flick. Nor should you be looking forward to a Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon type of martial art and wires feast. If grades were given to movies in this reviews section, Shaolin Soccer would get a solid 2.9 stars out of 5.

Reviews [Donnie Darko]

Everyone, as you may know if you're visiting this site, wants you to watch Donnie Darko. I did not want to watch Donnie Darko and was not interested in anything it had to offer me. So, I went to the Sci-Fi section of my DVD store and picked up a copy, reluctantly.

2 hours later, my heart was pounding with anxiety and anticipation as to what would happen on the final day. The film takes place progressively as the month of October comes to an end. There are many possible theories as to what happened at the end and why it happened, and that's why this movie is fun to watch.

Because when it's all said and done, if it has you thinking and talking, it's done the job, and done it well.

Reviews [Rushmore]

Wes Anderson's second film is about a high school wannabe nerd who has more ambition than Donald Trump. He's a wannabe nerd because his aspirations of going to an Ivy League college are bleak due to his lack of good grades. The twerp's too busy directing plays and heading up approximately 24 clubs and organizations. Studying is not his strong suit, nor is intelligence. He's simply driven to be successful.

Just when you think that his distractions could not loom any larger, he falls in love with an older woman. Bill Murray plays a tycoon who befriends the young twerp. The plays he puts on are amazing and it makes for great eye candy.

Funny movie, but can be highly annoying - mostly due to the bratty lead character.

Reviews [Bottle Rocket]

The Wilson brothers, Luke & Owen were put on the map with this Wes Anderson feature film debut. This film has gained quite a lot of notoriety as being very unique in plot and highly clever in comedic delivery.

The performances all around are hilarious, especially by the actress who plays the role of Ines.

And of course, Bottle Rocket is Kumar Pallana's debut onto the American big screen. Mr. Pallana is seen in other Wes Anderson features, such as Rushmore & The Royal Tenenbaums. His comedy and juggling skills were also captured beautifully in Steven Spielberg's "The Terminal."

But besides Pallana, a surprisingly excellent & hilarious performance by James Caan is just one of the additional treats you're in for.

Reviews [The Big Lebowski]

The Big Lebowski has a tremendous cult following. After watching the film, it's understandable why this cult mostly consists of filmmakers and stoners. Colorful and innovative direction, along with elaborate dream sequences and a damn good plot are what this movie consists of.

The most enjoyable aspect of the film is "The Dude" Lebowski who is the relaxed lead character that is put through a series of life altering conundrums one on top of another. If I write some of the events, I'd be giving away information. But realize that this is one of the funniest films ever made.

Reviews [Sin City]

Marv, played by Micky Rourke, in this stylized, violent, action, noir thriller, appears to the left. Sin City is a ride for all to enjoy. All except children, of course, who should be left out!

The best part of the film, according to me, is the storyline. But other experts seem very keen on the comic book page turning like cinematography and graphics that Rodriguez has created. Frank Miller's books are all very signature and his work has been praised by many as some of the best work of contemporary times. So, it easily makes for an entertaining movie.

The cool graphics and cinematography didn't really wow me. But, the story holds everything in place and keeps your interest until the very end, where more than likely, you'll be asking for more.

People, such as myself, your humble reviewer, were hoping that the new Batman film would be based on the one book done for the DC hero by Frank Miller. But, it appears that this is not the case, although the Batmobile in the film does look very much like the one Miller drew.

Sin City has everything in it to entertain you, but I felt cheated when the music from the trailers didn't appear in the actual film. A problem that occurs way too often and can easily be avoided.

Reviews [Tokyo Godfathers]

Three homeless people encounter an abandoned child on a snowy Christmas Eve in Tokyo. The trio is hilarious together and you'll often forget you're watching cartoons. The three are a homeless drunk, a runaway tween, and a gay queen who is ecstatic that his dream to be the mother of a beautiful daughter has finally come true.

A while back I was encouraged by a friend to watch AKIRA, a cult classic anime film made in the 1980's. Though, the futuristic layouts and impressive animation left my jaw in a dropped state for quite a while, I felt like ripping my eyes out towards the end of the film. There were just one too many plotlines unresolved and the film became absurd and boring. But, the Tokyo Godfathers is not like that.

It captures American sarcasm, or what I perceive to be American sarcasm and comfortable animation, without ever going over the top. When watching the Tokyo Godfathers, you'll never cringe at any moment. It is hilarious, the characters are well-developed, and the length is perfect.

Reviews [Autumn Spring]

The gangsta-retirees call this flick the Grand Master of About Schmidt. The film zooms in on the life of a Polish senior couple, preparing for their deaths. The wife is endlessly preparing for their funerals, while the husband is out having adventures, pretending that he has a fortune to be generous with.

There were two major themes in this film, friendship, which is played out between the main character; Fanda, and his accomplice in mischief, Ed. The other theme is the morbid yet unavoidable; death and how humans approach it.

The film is thought provoking and scary but at times, also yawn inducing.

Reviews [Bon Voyage]

Bon Voyage is a sarcastic thriller. This French film is hands-down the funniest movie ever made with the setting of Hitler's era. Because it takes place in France, it is easy to laugh at so much of the witty, well-written and well performed humor.

The studios and set design of Bon Voyage rivals any one of Hitchcock's immaculate sets. Unless you know French, the movie is difficult to watch without the subtitles. But even if you're in bed and reading this film, chances are, you'll bolt up and pay attention.

The laughs come in places you would least expect them, after a man is punched in the stomach from a spy, still catching his breath, he is called by his over-protective yet beloved mother. Brilliant stuff. The comedy does not take away from the drama. Bon Voyage is a satirical masterpiece with beautiful cinematography.

Reviews [Closer]

Closer has a tendency to make you blush, no matter who you watch the film with. It has enough innuendo to make Ron Jeremy cover his ears and get red in the face. Do not watch this with film with children.

The dialogue is simple and poorly executed. Julia Roberts gives one of her worst performances ever. How Natalie Portman received a nomination for best supporting actress is beyond me. She is simply plausible in the role, if that.

Jude Law and Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels star; Clive Owen, are equally pathetic in their roles. Maybe it was the mood of the entire film, but I saw no real point to it. There was supposedly some information revealed at the end that was supposed to wow me and cause my heart rate to exceed, but I merely was just left confused.

Closer is by no means a good film. It is a poor attempt at what We Don't Live Here Anymore portrayed quite successfully in the newfangled quadrangle love story genre.

Reviews [Waking Life]

The first Richard Linklater film I watched was Before Sunrise, starring Ethan Hawke. The plot of that movie was very simple and the rest of it consisted of simple conversations about life, as seen between two lovers.

Waking Life consists of a series of philosophical battles that take place in an animated reality. The film was shot entirely on Mini-DV and then edited into a live action feature, before a large team of animators took to creating, to me, a film that is worthy of the title "cinematic art."

Waking Life goes in-depth with philosophical debates on the meaning of life, there are Q&A sessions regarding dreams that take place within the REM cycle itself and also touches of incidents and human nature that are explored via a cycle of dreams. The film is delicious and the Special Features on the DVD give enough creative fodder to feed an army of Tisch undergrads.

Reviews [Millions]

Danny Boyle, the creator of Millions must love saints and sainthood. This movie is filled with references and facts about the life and deaths of saints and the miracles they worked. Saints often appear to the main character of the film, the boy pictured on the left. While it's definitely a morally charged film, Millions does not shove anything down your throat ... for the most part.

Damian, a grade schooler in Ireland or England, is a pure hearted philanthropist. He happens to find a bag of money which he intends to use to save the world with. While some will 'aww' at the cuteness, freckles, and childish voice, others will quickly realize that he represents good. Damian's nemesis, evil, is represented by most of the other cast members who play the role of a very frightening and greedy world.

A touch of outer-worldliness along with the collection of cool effects & shots makes this movie better than average. The music is soothing, as well.

Reviews [The Spanish Prisoner]

Call it Irish intuition, call it the luck of the Irish, call it a blue moon, call it a coincidence. I happened to watch The Spanish Prisoner, today, of all days, on St. Patrick's Day. The denoument of the film happens on the very same day!

The movie is very poorly acted and written by David Mamet. All of Mamet's movies have a stage-type of feeling to them even though they're supposed to take place in major cities around the world. Since he mainly writes for the character, all of the settings become very cozy with the actors. And that's why you need brilliant actors like Al Pacino & Jack Lemmon (read: Glengarry Glenn Ross) to breathe life into pages of snappy dialogue.

Unfortunately Mamet cannot make all his screenplays with the budget to bring in a super-talented crowd. The Spanish prisoner brings in an all C- list of thespians. The entire cast is awful. The only mildly engaging thing about the movie is the plot, and even that is majorly predictable. There was a critic who wrote: "if you liked The Usual Suspects, you'll like this." That's like saying, if you liked "The Godfather," you'll like "The Last Don." I'd stick with not renting this 1997 dud and watching The Usual Suspects 30 times over.

Reviews [Hellboy]

If I said Hellboy was the best comic book movie ever made, I'd be 96% right.

The right amount of time was taken for everything in this film to develop. Guillermo Del Toro is surprsingly also the director of my all-time most hated movie, Blade 2.

But, Del Toro has done everything right by Hellboy, even though, it is important to mention again how badly he sucked it up with Blade 2. I mean Wesley Snipes was practicing Monday Night wrestling moves on vampires and the graphics were just god-awful.

One aspect that sticks out about Hellboy that no other comic book movie has has been able to capture quite so well is the back-story. The origins of Hellboy are explained within the first 20 or so minutes of the film. The very first frame of the film takes place in Nazi Germany where one of Hitler's most evil assassins is trying to invite more evil to Earth.

That leads to the second best part about Hellboy. It makes sense for a villain so great and purely evil to emerge out of history's most gruesome carnage; the Holocaust.

You feel attached to Hellboy even if it's the first time you've seen the Red Monkey. Some additional fight scenes could have been deleted, but Hellboy still remains one of the best superhero movies ever made.

 Reviews [The Hound of the Baskervilles]

This 2002 version of the Arthur Conan Doyle classic fell under my eyes at precisely the right time. The Believer magazine has done a post-mortem interview with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in its latest issue through the use of a psychic medium.

As you may or may not know, Hound is immersed in the immortal world. There are seances, legendary tales of mythical creatures, escaped convicts, a moor and of course murders. This film captures a definite horror aspect along with the suspense. In addition, the dialogue is chock full of English idioms that will arm you properly for your next tea party in Trafalgar Square.

The script makes Sherlock Holmes & Dr. Watson a team as opposed to a leader and a chump sidekick. Some of the special effects are lacking and due to it, we are forced to see graphical representations of a countryside or rain, but still the BBC has done a fantastic job with the depiction of this often-told story.

 Reviews [Trade Offs]

This independent feature was shot in San Diego, CA by a bunch of folks who had the right idea but didn't execute too well on that idea. Making the movie you want is extremely difficult when your resources are limited. To overcome that problem many filmmakers choose to make short films. And even then, their artistic vision gets blurred due to the fact that they don't have one major thing; money.

The lead character in the film, Manu, is a penniless immigrant, and his genie's lamp is the stock market. Due to the bad acting, I felt like fast forwarding through a lot of this movie.

The main problem with the film was the lack of chemistry and the extremely poor acting all around, with one exception. Deypika Singh came out as the sole saving grace for "Trade Offs." She somehow managed to find a wonderful rhythm in this otherwise cacophonous disaster.

 Reviews [Scotland, PA]

Macbeth was my favorite Shakesperean play in high school and that may partly be the reason I enjoyed Scotland, PA.

The film is based on the famous tragedy and in this version, it takes place in the empire of fast food where a crazy young couple; the McBeths, conspire against a jester of a "King" Duncan.

Set in the 1970s with wild shirts and bad rock n' roll, the film boasts a kickass cast, including Christopher Walken in the role of Lieutenant Macduff.

The movie perfects the art of comic relief with hilarious quips and tiny unspoken visual & social jokes, including the 3 hippies that replace the 3 witches. The feel of the movie is very "independent" in nature, it is the anti-thesis of a James Cameron or Martin Scorsese blockbuster.

If you enjoy laughing and have read the play (even if it was in high school), you'll like this movie. If weeping like a schoolgirl is more your taste and you have not read Macbeth, chances are you'll still enjoy the film, but not nearly as much.

 Reviews [Hotel Rwanda]*

I watched this film quite a while ago but did not feel to write a review for it. The reason is simple, this movie should have been a documentary and not a film to begin with. Yes, it raises awareness of the tyranny and genocide in Rwanda, but that's not doing the situation any justice.

I think Don Cheadle has been neglected in his acting skills for a long while. It's too bad Hollywood does not recognize comedy as an art form, otherwise Cheadle would have won an award for his performance in Ocean's 11.

Hotel Rwanda is painful to watch due to the real horror that takes place. It's directed perfectly and everyone in the film is wonderful, but I would not recommend this as a movie to watch if you're looking to be entertained.

But, with that said, I think I also may be not realizing the difficulty of the task itself - the task of reenacting the occurences of the civil war in Rwanda with accuracy. My guest who is originally from Africa commented on the film being very genuine in its portrayal of the life there and everything that goes along with it; including the street fare, music, and day-to-day business.

 Reviews [Finding Neverland]*

Exquisite, magical, poignant, sweet, innocent, and wonderful.

Johnny Depp is great. The children are magnificent. With mild strokes of opulence, this movie has a wealth of eye candy, both in nature and in imagination.

Take your children, take your loved ones, take yourself. Watch the film, it's a good one.

The punch it delivers could be a bit more powerful. The amazing sequences could last a while longer. In the end, I felt for the characters, but something of me was very detached the entire time.

A wonderful job all around. Music was decent, but I would not purchase the soundtrack.

 Reviews [Swimming Pool]

Another movie I hadn't known of being European in origin, but also, another treat. (That comment relates to the review of Danny Deckchair, which is exactly below this one.)

The first clue of its European and English nature was the British accent, the second was the picturesque French countryside that the film takes place in. The third was the amount of wine consumed. The fourth was the terrible rave music that one of the characters danced to. The fifth was the style of dancing these people did. The sixth and final clue-in to the fact that this movie was created outside of America was the abundance of subtitles and the use of the romance language; French.

The soundtrack of this movie is enough to inspire another great screenplay all on its own. The rest of the movie is wonderfully paced. Most of it goes without incident, but the direction and outstanding acting allows us to see the hearts & minds of the characters. At times, you have to really stretch your imagination to believe what's going on, but I think that was the filmmaker's intention.

An excellent late night flick that has everything to make one's mind wander.

 Reviews [Danny Deckchair]

With a noble and innocent romance at the center of it, Danny Deckchair feels like a good American comedy. But, it's actually British!

That's the first thing that struck me about this inventive film; even though English because it takes place in England, every part of it feels American. Even the title character's job is something considered very blue collared American; he's a construction worker.

After a bit of thinking, I came up with the following reasoning: the people who made the film very badly wanted to have Jim Carrey or Mike Myers as their lead actor, but didn't have the money to pay them. So, they figured, let the script do all the work and let our actors be no-namers. And I'm glad they did it.

This movie is extremely hilarious, so-so on the love aspect of it, and definitely something different. It's family friendly too, except for the bit of cursing that goes on.

 Reviews [The Maltese Falcon]

Humphrey Bogart helped define an entire generation of actors, worldwide. His style is something that lends itself to be emulated and envied. Like other movies of the 40s, The Maltese Falcon has a very distinct flavor to it. The main attraction, Mr. Bogart, is portrayed larger than life; he's smarter, quicker, and more courageous than the average man and he's not modest about it either.

You realize that when Humphrey Bogart enters the set, everyone else has to take a step back, and those who try to fight his over-the-top machismo on screen will no doubt get trampled. Even the most amateur of film watchers will notice how Mr. Bogart does not really pay attention to the actor opposite him, he merely concentrates on delivering his lines with a ferocious punch. This is what makes the film entertaining. Bogart can handle himself as the suave King Kong in the movie and everyone else just sort of enjoys the ride that he takes them on. The non-responsiveness to another actor's lines, being over-the-top, being overly masculine are not what good actors are taught to do; but these characteristics are definitely next to the word 'star' in the dictionary, and possibly also next to the word 'big shot' in a colloquial dictionary of sorts.

When modern-day actors (read: Brad Pitt in "Troy", Colin Farrell in any movie, Tom Cruise in "The Last Samurai") try to be smooth, it comes off as cheesy and embarrassing. When Bogart does it in any film, especially The Maltese Falcon, it becomes addictive.

Bogart is the definition of a classic Hollywood hero in this film. He has enough charm and wit to make women want him and men want to be him.

Right, yeah, this movie is highly recommended.

 Reviews [Mean Creek]

"Mean Creek" is too euphemistic of a title for the actual occurrences of this film. Cheesy movie critics may describe this film as a modern-day "Lord of the Flies," except on this creek, there is one girl present.

I'd describe it as a one-of-a-kind movie with excellent acting, realistic visuals and a musical score that blends in perfectly with each frame. Mean Creek is an excellent film and deepens our understanding of ethics through children's eyes.

 Reviews [Ray]*

Ray is not an independent film in the way "Transit" is; its budget is much larger than $650. In fact, the Academy Award nominated film was made for approximately $30 million. But, director Taylor Hackford and actor Jamie Foxx have taken a movie that was originally marked for the home theater market and turned it into a bona fide box office hit.

The use of color is vivid in Ray and it tells the story of Mr. Charles as he faces stardom and everything that comes along with it. A powerful drama with great music by Ray himself, this is a movie in which everyone will derive something different out of.

Ray is a good movie, but it is not Oscar-worthy. There are little to no flaws in the movie, but it just does not reach any intense bars of emotion, nor does it do anything drastically different.

 Reviews [The United States of Leland]

USL is uncomfortable from its very first frame. The film runs in a linear format, with several flashback sequences of many of the well-written characters. Uncomfortable because it questions the concept of good and evil through various acts of both.

The film is essentially about human nature and the purpose of existence. Though, a very difficult set of questions to answer, USL makes you think, but mostly it makes you cry. Do not ever let a child under the age of 17 watch this film. With the exception of the mild violence and drug abuse, it's not really gratuitous. I'm just afraid that if a child or an undeveloped mind watches this film, they'll have a miserable day afterwards and much difficulty coping with the world for at least a good week.

Though the message of the movie is positive, there is a gritty sense of realism portrayed, which in turn backfires on this good intention.

Reviews [Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman]

Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman is a smooth operator. The theme of revenge is at the center of this remake of a Japanese classic. The fight moves are extremely original. Like many of its music sequences, the style of Zatoichi is a combination of traditional and progressive. The Director of Photography and a couple of others involved in the film talk about their experience on set in the DVD Special Features section. This gives you more in depth information on how Zatoichi's achieved its unique and captivating scenes.

A pleasure to watch, Zatoichi's a carefully knit tale of vengeance, honor, humor, and the philosophies of life.

It has won several awards at film festivals and done well at the box office in Asia. Now Zatoichi can entertain you on a weeknight.

 Reviews [Million Dollar Baby]*

Not always a fan of Clint Eastwood films, I hesitantly entered one of the few theaters in New York City that was playing Million Dollar Baby, still in limited release. Eastwood's voice carries with it a deep emotion that none can imagine emulating. The movie is based on F.X. Toole's short story Rope Burns.

Boxing is a struggle and not always a sport that is universally liked due to all violence involved. The film's portrayal of the boxing gym, thanks to the brilliant direction of Mr. Eastwood, is somewhat like that of a theater with perpetual rehearsals. They are the relationships that develop between Morgan Freeman, Eastwood, and Hilary Swank that give the film its heart.

Even though I watched the film on a Monday night, with a scattered audience of about 10 people in 750 seat capacity theater, there were claps and gasps and audible sniffles as we watched. Done with a very modest budget, it is directed very well with great use of light, as it is seen through the dark.

A round of emotions are at the center of Million Dollar Baby and ultimately, the brilliant performances, with an award-worthy acting performance by Clint Eastwood, makes Million Dollar Baby one of my favorite movies of all time.

 Reviews [Spartan]

David Mamet has written some of the best roles for men; bar none, for film & stage. Ask an aspiring actor what his monologue is, and chances are Mamet will have written them. Spartan does the same, in which Val Kilmer's character is a man who is a "doer" more than a thinker, but that changes when faced with grave circumstances. It is here, at this critical point in the character's life where he decides and realizes things he never knew about himself. And he becomes something of a hero.

Mamet's screenplay is wonderfully written, although poor critics reviews along with very little marketing saw Spartan as being a failure at the box office. Released now on DVD, with exclusive commentary from Val Kilmer, Spartan is a good action thriller with a soul at its center. Kilmer's grasp on his character is not very strong, so you may see some monotone moments in his otherwise commendable performance.

Spartan's cool. Don't believe the C ratings on Yahoo! Movies.

Reviews [The Station Agent]

Ever been on a long journey on a train? I took one to Florida once from Grand Central, with my grandparents. It was quite a trek due to the 6-hour-delay. It was very enjoyable, ample legroom, a dining car which served pizza, TV monitors playing blockbuster movies, and finally the destination; Disney World.

Watching The Station Agent is very much like an enjoyable train ride. You are introduced to 3 different strangers; who grow closer together. As the film progresses, one can sense the comfort you get from strangers. But, there's also a sense of distrust that is inherent when meeting new people who pry a little too much into your insecurities.

Shot beautifully in New Jersey, the movie is very well made and even the deleted scenes looked like they deserved to be in the final cut. A subtle metaphor for a meaningful journey it showcases the railroad and everything that comes with it.

 Reviews [Noi]

While the cover suggested an intense and meaningful film "like Donnie Darko," Nói felt more like a silent that would have been better in black and white. Though well done, its hollow attempt at a profound message failed simply because of its lack of dialogue and inadequate plot development. While the visuals were impressive, and the characters, charming, Nói left me with rolling credits thinking, "did I miss something?" Although Nói won over 15 international prizes, I felt it was a delightful journey following a boy in Iceland, but nothing more. With all of that said, Nói was worth my 90 minutes, and geniusly filmed, but fell far short of my expectations for an insightful motion picture. -Marilana Rufo

 Reviews [Super Size Me]

Marketed as a movie of "epic proportions," Super Size Me is a decent documentary. Layered with several interviews with doctors, lawyers, and nutritionists, the documentary takes a deep look at the world of fat and how McDonald's rules it. It does not preach to the viewer what s/he should or should not eat, but it ends up suggesting moderation & exercise.

What it does reveal, however, are the similarities between the world of tobacco manufacturers and the world of fast food restaurants; mainly their relationship with product placement in relationship with children.

Not very entertaining, I found myself fast forwarding through some of the repetitive sequences in the film and turning away at some grotesque moments. I commend it for bringing the world of fat into perspective and revealing some interesting fatty tidbits.

Reviews [Harold and Maude]

The Grand Theft Auto series of video games should be remodeled and made to fit the content of Harold and Maude. This way, not only will players get to indulge in their wishes to steal automobiles, bikes, and trucks, but in addition, they will also discover the meaning of life through a close look at death.

Yes, the 1979 film is being reviewed today 26 years too late, but that's just the kind of practice the brilliantly written script suggests. Displaying more mock suicides and disorderly conduct than any recent film I've seen, Harold & Maude, at its heart is a purely genius comedy. Many will claim it to be spiritual in nature, and indulgent in a thick dose of philosophy. It has this too. But, mainly, Harold and Maude will make you laugh, until you will find nothing too shocking.

A great comedy worth watching multiple times. Since its a movie made in the decade of platform shoes, disco balls, and the white horse, H&M gets away with murder with a GP (what we now know as PG) rating. Good thing Janet Jackson was still in diapers (or was she?) at that age. Otherwise, the MPAA surely would have rated this film "R" or Restricted Due to Adult Content. Watch it today. Now. Seriously, go rent this.

Reviews [Lemony Snicket's: A Series of Unfortunate Events]

"It's like another Harry Potter franchise." "Do you think this movie will have sequels like Harry Potter?" "I hear this movie is based on a children's book, like Harry Potter."

Yes. Most likely, Yes. and Yes.

But, one thing that Lemony Snicket's has that Harry Potter has missed in all of its movies; great acting. Jim Carrey's performance is spectacular and not over the top as earlier written. His part is played exactly as one would picture the Count. Intense, undeniably evil, and a bit senile from surrounding himself in the atmosphere that he has.

The series of Unfortunate Events makes use of several special CG effects, which usually make me cringe, but instead they are used in a way that adds a touch of pop-up book fairy tales rather than futuristic holograms. The tone of the film is dark and the content is not suitable for children who are under the age of 7. That explains why I laughed through many of the sequences while the pair of 7 kids two rows ahead of me remained absolutely silent.

All of the children, including the baby, which was in one or two scenes also computer generated, did a great job of acting. The children are placed in dire situations with a dark undertone; unlike Looney Tunes & Home Alone where characters are put in a fatal spot with a light and upbeat mood.

Reviews [Sideways]*

It turns out wine connosieurs, alcoholics, nymphomaniacs, voiceover actors, and people with low self-esteems make a pretty damn good movie.

With all the problems faced by the lead characters in Sideways, one does not leave loving any of them. Each of them have flaws that grossly humanize them and make them, for the most part, unlikable. In a scene, the lead character, played by Paul Giamatti, an unpublished author, and professional wine taster, is comparing the superiority of Pinot over most wines with a love that develops over time. If this scene was the only one in the movie, I still would have loved it. Though, many of the people would have been angered at paying $10.50 for a 5-minute-scene.

So, director & co-screenwriter Alexander Payne, keeping the viewing audience in mind gave us a bottle full of explosive real life drama. We are given a free tour of the beautiful Northern California wine country, by way of debaucherous acts of promiscuity and a bit of self-exploration. Payne shows us a slow montage as a foursome gathers for an evening of food and wine. We see four people with different agendas slowly dwindling into the captivity of a wine generated buzz and then proceed to act out their wishes.

Sideways is one of the best movies of 2004 and whoever made the trailers for the film really didn't understand the themes of the film clearly. If it weren't for a friend who has horrible taste in movies telling me not to go watch Sideways, I would have never had the great pleasure of being thoroughly entertained by it.

Reviews [Huff]

Premiering Sunday with a good deal of marketing hype behind it, is Showtime's new series, "Huff." Starring Hank Azaria as psychiatrist, Dr. Craig "Huff" Huffstodt, who deals with death, family, and desire. Although, no Tony Soprano, and certainly no Dr. Jennifer Melfi, Huff is at best watchable.

The show's intro is something reminiscent of Six Feet Under's, but I will stop trying to compare Huff with any show on HBO, however difficult that may be considering it begs to be aired on the more popular subscription cable channel.

It's refreshing seeing Hank Azaria utilizing his acting skills as opposed to his ability to mimic and speak with any accent known to exist. He does a fine job of portraying an accomplished individual who is suffering from a mid-life crisis. Although it may sound like an easy task, any actor will let you know otherwise.

The other great part about the show is Izzy, Blythe Danner, who plays, what else but Huff's mother. Since I promised earlier, I will not mention which other show was highly addictive due to a strong personality in the lead character's mother. Izzy's constant bickering, and anger inducing poisonous drops of truth give the word bitter a completely new meaning.

The rest of the cast is pretty delightful and Huff is one of those shows you'll like to watch if it's on, but won't really want to TIVO.

Reviews [Maria Full Of Grace]

As a film lover, I would have to say that this movie is paced perfectly. It's not your average drug movie. The plot develops perfectly and goes in-depth to explore Maria and Blanca's desperation, as we see their physical journey from Colombia to New York.

Each character in the movie is fully developed. There is an actual sense of change felt through the very real acting. It's nice that the movie does not depend on dialogue to move the story along, but the actors move it along by knowing their characters inside and out.

The movie showcases "mules;" people that store pellets of heroin inside their bodies. I do not recall watching any other movie before that has captured the objectivity of a "mule." The painful and miserable process is just seen as a way to subsist or move up in the world. It humanizes drug traffickers and their indentured servant type role in the drug trade. Maria Full of Grace is one of the best movies of 2004.

Reviews [I Heart Huckabees]

If you enjoy brainy, logical, seemingly endless, and immensely engaging conversations or arguments about life, existentialism, and current events, you will enjoy this movie.

The cast does a masterful job of interpreting the brilliant script and being absolutely hilarious.

Some moments that lose their edge only exist because they are not carried out well by the actor (read: Marky Mark). But, even he has done a pretty damn good job in this film. Even if you hold tremendous non-heart like affection towards this clown, you will enjoy the movie. Dustin Hoffman is downright silly.

It's a great watch if you like to laugh, if you can follow quick-witted exchanges, and understand to some degree the concepts of post-modernism and existentialism.

Reviews [Re:Directing & Tim Burton]

Great performances have two main sources:

1. the actor
2. the director

Big Fish is filled with extremely talented actors playing roles that may or may not be similar to the ones they have tackled in the past. But, all of the performances in Big Fish are excellent. Performances from all actors in Tim Burton movies are great.

Is this a coincidence? No. A great director knows the strengths and weaknesses of his actors. Quentin Tarantino is a great director because of this unique talent. He showcased John Travolta in the best performance of his life. You take a look at Swordfish and Battlestar Galactica (or whatever it is called) and you realize, "man, Tarantino knew just what lines to feed this assclown; he knew how to draw a good performance from him."

Other directors could not. What does this mean? Travolta sucks, but Tarantino is great.

In a very similar way, Burton is capable of getting the best performances from his actors. He knows how to direct a scene so that it is absolute bliss to the viewer. He knows what will work and what will not, which is why he has consistently made films that people have enjoyed.

You can argue all day about how great a movie was or wasn't, putting crazy numbers and ratings, but in the end, the interpretation of a movie is very personal just like anything else you respect.

Reviews [Peanut Butter & Co.]

a satisfying & indulgent bite

If you have ever been to the West Village, you know that all the world's food is available within walking distance. And now a classic American staple has created its own niche in the international mix. Peanut Butter & Co. (240 Sullivan St.) is just quirky enough to be sane. With six different types of peanut butters, including a spicy variety, this small restaurant finds a great way to reinvent a classic in the heart of Greenwich Village.

Being a sucker for breakfast spreads, I went for the Cookie Dough Surprise (Cream Cheese, Peanut Butter, & Chocolate Chips) served on white. The meal arrived with a welcoming side of salty potato chips and carrots.

Upon first bite, my tastebuds were on high alert, the vanilla cream cheese was sweet, the peanut butter's texture was a smooth mesh; not sweet and not salty, and with the chocolate chips, this sandwich consistently delivered a very indulgent and satisfying bite. Be sure to have something cold to chug alongside your sandwich; a glass of cold milk kept me good company throughout this filling meal.

My guest ordered an "Elvis" without bacon; a combo of toast, peanut butter & bananas, glazed with honey.
Peanut Butter & Co. is satisfying, creative in its menu choices and gives a delicious protein filled chomp.

Reviews [The Motorcycle Diaries]

If you enjoy a movie with great visuals, a tangible and hair-raising story, and good acting, you will enjoy this film.

I was under the impression that this movie was creative non-fiction, but am told that it is based on the diaries of Ché, which makes it even better.

This type of film was started with Star Wars: Episode 1, in which you get to see the story behind the person.

Obviously no Darth Vader, Che's journey through South America shows us why a revolution was necessary in his eyes and the way the movie ends makes even non-believers of the Cuban revolution feel a connection with Che.

All parts are brilliantly acted, it's written well, and beautifully edited. Truly a wonderful experience.

Reviews [Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter ... And Spring]

It takes a very powerful movie to keep your attention without having much dialogue or violence. Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter... and Spring uses its beautiful setting to tell a story of the arduous path to liberation.

Not many films tackle this topic to begin with so watching that aspect alone is wonderful.