This movie was a delightful romp through absolutely impossible scenario's, an well worth the price of a ticket to see Eddie Murphy have fun again. (Doesn't just his laugh make you ant to laugh too?) Keep in mind that Brett Ratner did direct, and thus, there is very little social merit to be gleaned from this two hour junk-food fest, it was still a good time.
I suggest you see it with your twenty-year-old son, and just don't expect Shakespeare!
The ensemble cast includes the always spot-on straight man in the body of Matthew Broderick, a sleazeball in the form of Alan Alda, and the charms of the requisite hot F.B.I. agent done splendidly by the too-little-used Ti'a Leone. Rounding out the cast is the barely mentionable Ben Stiller who did just enough to take home a paycheck (probably not HIS paycheck, but maybe the key grip's).
Better yet, don't buy a ticket, but definitely see it on DVD!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Trust
First of all, kudos to David Schwimmer (yes, oh yes, that is "Ross" of "Friends" fame...) for creating a film that made me wildly uncomfortable, grateful for healing, and glad that I hung in there for the end.
This movie stars Clive Owen, Catherine Keener, and delightful newcomer Liana Liberato. The subject matter is the chronic abuse of the Internet by unscrupulous people, and how very unaware even the most aware parents can be to the dangers facing our children. The writing and acting both showed respect for said subject matter, and while the "breakthrough with the therapist" scene had more than a whisper of Timothy Hutton in "Ordinary People", at least Schwimmer had the class to steal from an Oscar-winning scene.
So, watch this with a box of kleenex and a good friend. You are going to need both. But...watch it!!!
This movie stars Clive Owen, Catherine Keener, and delightful newcomer Liana Liberato. The subject matter is the chronic abuse of the Internet by unscrupulous people, and how very unaware even the most aware parents can be to the dangers facing our children. The writing and acting both showed respect for said subject matter, and while the "breakthrough with the therapist" scene had more than a whisper of Timothy Hutton in "Ordinary People", at least Schwimmer had the class to steal from an Oscar-winning scene.
So, watch this with a box of kleenex and a good friend. You are going to need both. But...watch it!!!
Friday, November 4, 2011
"Crazy, Stupid Love"
If you don't want to watch this movie for the sheer brilliance of Steve Carell at his comic best, then rent it for the neurotic likability of Julianne Moore. If those things don't spark your interest, then perhaps the sheer brilliance of Emma Stone's performance will be your tipping point.
Barring all of the aforementioned incentives, if Ryan Gosling's perfect abs don't do the trick, perhaps you should be declared legally dead.
Great laughs from start to finish with just enough tugs at the old heartstrings so as to not have this be just a big old entertaining piece of fluff.
The entire cast all the way down to the wee rug rats were wonderful. I had a great time escaping from "Heidi's World" for a couple of hours. Even more than that, I didn't have to nail my Husband to the seat beside me to keep him from fidgeting, or duct-tape his mouth to keep him from sighing at regular intervals.
Kudos to all!
Barring all of the aforementioned incentives, if Ryan Gosling's perfect abs don't do the trick, perhaps you should be declared legally dead.
Great laughs from start to finish with just enough tugs at the old heartstrings so as to not have this be just a big old entertaining piece of fluff.
The entire cast all the way down to the wee rug rats were wonderful. I had a great time escaping from "Heidi's World" for a couple of hours. Even more than that, I didn't have to nail my Husband to the seat beside me to keep him from fidgeting, or duct-tape his mouth to keep him from sighing at regular intervals.
Kudos to all!
"Win Win"
This amazing film stars Paul Giamatti and a understated shot of new blood in the form of Alex Shaffer. Paul Giamatti has been bugging the hell out of me lately--over-acting is balls off for fear he won't get noticed. In this performance he lets the story have the limelight, and just acts like a human being. (And not one you feel you have to pity, or get serious therapy for).
The cast truly acts as as ensemble with the common goal of keeping Alex Shaffer's character, Kyle safe and happy.
The cast, writers and production people succeed on all levels. It was uplifting without being manipulative, and felt very much like what is happening in homes across the country. The definition of "family" has changed, and this motion picture applauds all of those various forms.
Don't be a loser. Rent "Win Win" tonight!!!
The cast truly acts as as ensemble with the common goal of keeping Alex Shaffer's character, Kyle safe and happy.
The cast, writers and production people succeed on all levels. It was uplifting without being manipulative, and felt very much like what is happening in homes across the country. The definition of "family" has changed, and this motion picture applauds all of those various forms.
Don't be a loser. Rent "Win Win" tonight!!!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
"Horrible Bosses"
Not since "Bridesmaids" have I laughed this much! Jennifer Aniston shatters her "good girl" image, and does it with delightful aplomb.
The cast, including Kevin Spacey, Jason Sudeikis, Jason Bateman, and Colin Farrell were all in top form, but none shone brighter than Charlie Day. His final monologue is worth watching the whole movie for, and will allow any of you who have wanted to hand their bosses their ass on a plate to live vicariously through him.
Just think of every boss you ever hated. Go see this. Laugh. Your. Ass. Off.
Simple instructions to follow. Let's see if you can do it.
GO!
The cast, including Kevin Spacey, Jason Sudeikis, Jason Bateman, and Colin Farrell were all in top form, but none shone brighter than Charlie Day. His final monologue is worth watching the whole movie for, and will allow any of you who have wanted to hand their bosses their ass on a plate to live vicariously through him.
Just think of every boss you ever hated. Go see this. Laugh. Your. Ass. Off.
Simple instructions to follow. Let's see if you can do it.
GO!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
"Bridesmaids"
RUN, DO NOT WALK, TO SEE THIS FILM!!!
I bow down to Kristen Wiig and her amazing comic talent! She wrote as well as stars in this amazing, so NOT just a chick flick, flick!
Not only does she achieve true comic genius, she hurdles over every barrier put in front of her. Part of her genius was to surround herself with other picture-perfect funny women. These include but are not limited to Maya Rudolph and Melissa McCarthy. All of these women were fearless, and therefore identifiable.
I have not had this much fun at a movie since I saw the first "Hangover".
Go see this movie today, and take someone of any gender that you like with you. If you already saw it--go see it again. Remember how much fun you had!?!
I bow down to Kristen Wiig and her amazing comic talent! She wrote as well as stars in this amazing, so NOT just a chick flick, flick!
Not only does she achieve true comic genius, she hurdles over every barrier put in front of her. Part of her genius was to surround herself with other picture-perfect funny women. These include but are not limited to Maya Rudolph and Melissa McCarthy. All of these women were fearless, and therefore identifiable.
I have not had this much fun at a movie since I saw the first "Hangover".
Go see this movie today, and take someone of any gender that you like with you. If you already saw it--go see it again. Remember how much fun you had!?!
"The Green Hornet"
This movie, written by and starring Seth Rogan, seemed at most times to be all about Seth Rogan and how amazingly self-centered and egotistical he can be. The only movie I've seen him him where he could carry the lead role was in "Knocked Up", and after that he lost his mojo.
The one scene that was worth watching the entire movie for was a scene where Rogan and his sidekick "Kato" played to less than perfection by Jay Chao, fight nearly to the death. That scene reminded me of "The Revenge Of The Pink Panther" when Inspector Clouseau and his Cato fight in order to keep Clouseau in fighting shape. This one scene was brilliant!
If you have two hours to do NOTHING ELSE then see this film. Otherwise, You-tube that one scene and be content with that.
The one scene that was worth watching the entire movie for was a scene where Rogan and his sidekick "Kato" played to less than perfection by Jay Chao, fight nearly to the death. That scene reminded me of "The Revenge Of The Pink Panther" when Inspector Clouseau and his Cato fight in order to keep Clouseau in fighting shape. This one scene was brilliant!
If you have two hours to do NOTHING ELSE then see this film. Otherwise, You-tube that one scene and be content with that.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
"The Mechanic"
This movie has it all--action, adventure, Jason Statham, Donald Sutherland, and the cherry on top of this non-stop thrill-ride, Ben Foster.
Statham has his action movie formula down to a science by now, and except for a misstep or three ("Crash 2", anyone....anyone...), he mostly hits his man (pun intended). This film delivered on the action level, but thanks to Foster also connected in an emotional way that rarely happens in this genre.
Be prepared to see the famous "Statham Stare" when the actor breaks the fourth wall to intimate intimacy instead of actually committing to the moment, but know that more important walls come down as soon as we are in the presence of the acting genius' of Sutherland and Foster.
Watch this and know...barring some Lindsay Lohan-like meltdown, Ben Foster will have an Oscar one day.
Statham has his action movie formula down to a science by now, and except for a misstep or three ("Crash 2", anyone....anyone...), he mostly hits his man (pun intended). This film delivered on the action level, but thanks to Foster also connected in an emotional way that rarely happens in this genre.
Be prepared to see the famous "Statham Stare" when the actor breaks the fourth wall to intimate intimacy instead of actually committing to the moment, but know that more important walls come down as soon as we are in the presence of the acting genius' of Sutherland and Foster.
Watch this and know...barring some Lindsay Lohan-like meltdown, Ben Foster will have an Oscar one day.
"Just Go With It"
Excellent cast. Excellent Soundtrack. Excellent location.
This movie had all the makings for a delightful rom-com...except the writing could have been better.
Adam Sandler was much less angry, and therefore more lovable than he has been in past films, and his chemistry with Jennifer Aniston was not just undeniable, it was believable. The child actors, who, let's face it can often be downright irritating, were warm and lovable---and damn good actors to boot!
Still, the best of the bunch was Nick Swardson who ,with such amazing comic timing, successfully brought down the house that Sandler built. Amen to the man who will do anything to look like an ass, and keep us laughing as we applaud his risks!!
Not great, but just watch it!
This movie had all the makings for a delightful rom-com...except the writing could have been better.
Adam Sandler was much less angry, and therefore more lovable than he has been in past films, and his chemistry with Jennifer Aniston was not just undeniable, it was believable. The child actors, who, let's face it can often be downright irritating, were warm and lovable---and damn good actors to boot!
Still, the best of the bunch was Nick Swardson who ,with such amazing comic timing, successfully brought down the house that Sandler built. Amen to the man who will do anything to look like an ass, and keep us laughing as we applaud his risks!!
Not great, but just watch it!
Saturday, March 26, 2011
The Switch
Ben and I both enjoyed this light fare served up with enthusiasm by a delightful cast.
Interestingly enough, the biggest laughs were not to be delivered by the main characters, played by Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman. These two, who you would normally expect to be always on the verge of saying something funny were refreshingly low key. Bateman especially had to downplay his usually upbeat manner in order to be convincing as a neurotic everyman. Both Ben and I would like to see Aniston take a risk for a change; to be willing to play a comedic role that, in Ben's words, "is just out there, and doesn't give a fuck what anyone thinks". (That line was simply too good not to use...) My favorite character in the movie was Sebastian, Aniston's six-year-old son, played beautifully by Thomas Robinson. He was a wonderful mirror of Bateman's quirkiness and dark world view.
Also spicing up this offering were Jeff Goldblum, and Juliette Lewis. I always sit on the edge of my seat when these two appear on the screen. They are genuine risk-takers who clearly enjoy what they do for a living very much. (Hey Jen, take a cue from these two!)
See this movie if you want a few good laughs, and are willing to be touched at the end despite yourself.
Interestingly enough, the biggest laughs were not to be delivered by the main characters, played by Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman. These two, who you would normally expect to be always on the verge of saying something funny were refreshingly low key. Bateman especially had to downplay his usually upbeat manner in order to be convincing as a neurotic everyman. Both Ben and I would like to see Aniston take a risk for a change; to be willing to play a comedic role that, in Ben's words, "is just out there, and doesn't give a fuck what anyone thinks". (That line was simply too good not to use...) My favorite character in the movie was Sebastian, Aniston's six-year-old son, played beautifully by Thomas Robinson. He was a wonderful mirror of Bateman's quirkiness and dark world view.
Also spicing up this offering were Jeff Goldblum, and Juliette Lewis. I always sit on the edge of my seat when these two appear on the screen. They are genuine risk-takers who clearly enjoy what they do for a living very much. (Hey Jen, take a cue from these two!)
See this movie if you want a few good laughs, and are willing to be touched at the end despite yourself.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
"Morning Glory"
This movie made me feel good about knowing I can do something, and then going for it!
Rachel McAdams is Becky Fuller, the new senior producer on a morning show that is destined for doom. She is under-qualified as far as her schooling goes, but she knows her job, and is out to prove how hard she is willing to work. McAdams is her usual likable self, and even though Becky has some faults, the woman is all heart. She cares about her job, but she also cares about the people she works with.
Becky has some difficult personalities to deal with. Her two lead anchors are played by Diane Keaton and Harrison ford, and they were more than well-suited to their roles. I just wanted to take Keaton home with me, set her in the corner, and watch her like a television.
One of the more welcome surprises was actor Patrick Wilson who plays Becky's love interest. I kept thinking: "I've seen him so many times before", and yet did not know where from. You will recognize him from movies such as "The Full Monty", and "Little Children". He was very unaffected and supportive to the rest of the cast.
Do you want to feel good? Watch this!
Rachel McAdams is Becky Fuller, the new senior producer on a morning show that is destined for doom. She is under-qualified as far as her schooling goes, but she knows her job, and is out to prove how hard she is willing to work. McAdams is her usual likable self, and even though Becky has some faults, the woman is all heart. She cares about her job, but she also cares about the people she works with.
Becky has some difficult personalities to deal with. Her two lead anchors are played by Diane Keaton and Harrison ford, and they were more than well-suited to their roles. I just wanted to take Keaton home with me, set her in the corner, and watch her like a television.
One of the more welcome surprises was actor Patrick Wilson who plays Becky's love interest. I kept thinking: "I've seen him so many times before", and yet did not know where from. You will recognize him from movies such as "The Full Monty", and "Little Children". He was very unaffected and supportive to the rest of the cast.
Do you want to feel good? Watch this!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
"It's Kind Of A Funny Story"
This is one of the most well-written, moving films I have seen in a long time. After it was over, I turned to Ben and told him I intend to own it.
Keir Gilchrist plays a 17-year-old boy who has thoughts of suicide and, being afraid he will act on them, checks himself into a psychiatric hospital. Gilchrist is an amazing actor, and he keeps good company. Zach Galifianakis and Emma Roberts appear as patients as well, and for once Galifianakis doesn't steal focus. It remained throughout, a strong ensemble piece.
What I loved most about this movie is that it humanized mental illness, and that the conclusion was so hopeful. The surprising conclusion for Gilchrist's character is so simple and wonderful.
Do yourself a favor and rent or download this today!
Keir Gilchrist plays a 17-year-old boy who has thoughts of suicide and, being afraid he will act on them, checks himself into a psychiatric hospital. Gilchrist is an amazing actor, and he keeps good company. Zach Galifianakis and Emma Roberts appear as patients as well, and for once Galifianakis doesn't steal focus. It remained throughout, a strong ensemble piece.
What I loved most about this movie is that it humanized mental illness, and that the conclusion was so hopeful. The surprising conclusion for Gilchrist's character is so simple and wonderful.
Do yourself a favor and rent or download this today!
Friday, March 4, 2011
"City Island"
This film is truly a story you have not seen before. The writing was smart and brilliantly executed by the spot-on cast. Andy Garcia plays Vince Rizzo, a man who works as a prison guard but aspires to become an actor. He is a cracker-jack secret keeper, as is the rest of his family. Without giving up too much of the plot, the prison inmate Vince brings home ends up being the most functional character in the movie.
Julianna Margulies plays Vince's wife, and Steven Strait is the inmate with an interesting attachment to the family. Still, the best surprise had to be Ezra Miller, Vince's younger son. There are too many reasons to love him, and not enough words.
Rent this today!
Julianna Margulies plays Vince's wife, and Steven Strait is the inmate with an interesting attachment to the family. Still, the best surprise had to be Ezra Miller, Vince's younger son. There are too many reasons to love him, and not enough words.
Rent this today!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
"Due Date"
I wanted to like this more than I actually did. I make no secret of the fact that Robert Downey, Jr. is my favorite actor, but I didn't enjoy his character in this film. I do, however recommend watching it for the special moments in this film.
Zach Galifanakis (had to check that spelling TWICE by the way), was his usual, comically credible self. By the end of the film I did believe that in some universe these two people could actually be friends.
The premise of the film is that Robert Downey, Jr.'s character had to make it home in time for the birth of his first child by Cesarean section. Zach's character makes that very nearly impossible.
I sincerely look forward to Mr. Downey's next offing. Here's to hoping it has more depth and less masturbation jokes.
Zach Galifanakis (had to check that spelling TWICE by the way), was his usual, comically credible self. By the end of the film I did believe that in some universe these two people could actually be friends.
The premise of the film is that Robert Downey, Jr.'s character had to make it home in time for the birth of his first child by Cesarean section. Zach's character makes that very nearly impossible.
I sincerely look forward to Mr. Downey's next offing. Here's to hoping it has more depth and less masturbation jokes.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Winters Bone
Actress Jennifer Lawrence is incredible as a young woman who has to handle all of the responsibilities in her poor family. Her father cooks meth for a living, and to support his own habit, and has put up the family's home to secure a bond. When he fails to show up for a court appearance it is young Ree's mission to find out what happened to him, while still trying to care for her younger siblings and her mentally ill mother.
See this before Sunday, as it is an Oscar contender. Jennifer Lawrence reminded Ben and I of a young Jennifer Jason Leigh. Amazing!
See this before Sunday, as it is an Oscar contender. Jennifer Lawrence reminded Ben and I of a young Jennifer Jason Leigh. Amazing!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
"The Social Network"
This is the smartest movie I have seen in a while--and not just because it was about a bunch of genius'. Aaron Sorkin deserved his Golden Globe for best screenplay, and I expect him to continue to show throughout the awards season.
Kudos also go to David Fincher for impeccable direction, and of course to the cast. It was a tight ensemble piece that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I do not buy as many movies as I used to, but this one is on my list.
Most of the techno-speak went over my head, but I was never made to feel less-than for it, and I am grateful for that.
Can't wait to see it AGAIN!
More than anything else, it put a human face on Mark Zuckerberg and the rest of the facebook gang. There were no villains, just young men on a mission. (Except for the twins I call the "Winklesnots"--they can just bite me, the privileged brats!)
Kudos also go to David Fincher for impeccable direction, and of course to the cast. It was a tight ensemble piece that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I do not buy as many movies as I used to, but this one is on my list.
Most of the techno-speak went over my head, but I was never made to feel less-than for it, and I am grateful for that.
Can't wait to see it AGAIN!
More than anything else, it put a human face on Mark Zuckerberg and the rest of the facebook gang. There were no villains, just young men on a mission. (Except for the twins I call the "Winklesnots"--they can just bite me, the privileged brats!)
Monday, January 10, 2011
"The Fighter"
This is one of the best movies I have seen this year. The script was wonderful, and the cast was spot-on! I know I just accused Mark Wahlberg of being just...Mark Wahlberg in every movie he does, but in this film he was so well suited to the role, and we were all impressed with the fact that he obviously learned how to box.
Christian Bale made me very uncomfortable in the role of Dicky. He played an addict at rock-bottom, and he completely wore his character. Amy Adams as Charlene was sweet and tough and knew exactly who she was. I see many Oscar nods for this incredible film.
Bottom line: I believed everyone in this film. I was emotionally involved from the first frame, and I was sorry when the credits rolled.
Christian Bale made me very uncomfortable in the role of Dicky. He played an addict at rock-bottom, and he completely wore his character. Amy Adams as Charlene was sweet and tough and knew exactly who she was. I see many Oscar nods for this incredible film.
Bottom line: I believed everyone in this film. I was emotionally involved from the first frame, and I was sorry when the credits rolled.
Friday, January 7, 2011
"The Book Of Eli"
What can I say? If you want basically the same story with a better plot, script and actors, rent "The Road" instead. Denzel Washington is not believable as a Savior. He is too angry to be carrying a book full of spiritual principles. Gary Oldman IS believable as the bad guy, but he has done this role before. I was not impressed.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
"Easy A"
This movie was reminded me a lot of "Mean Girls", except I liked Emma Stone so much more as the lead. She was just delightful, and proved herself more than capable of carrying a movie. The supporting cast was a riot! Thomas Haden Church as the favorite teacher is subtly amazing, and Lisa Kudrow as his wife shows a new not so nice side that is refreshing. I am so happy that Amanda Bynes reconsidered and decided to keep acting. I have love her since she was on "All that", and she proves her acting chops here.
Patricia Clarkson and Stanley Tucci play her parents to great success. It looks as if everyone is having fun, and you will too! A teen movie yes...and so much more. Moral lessons that won't want to make you hurl.
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