Friday, December 31, 2010

Little Fockers

I finally made it to see Little Fockers. My friend Jeanne came with me for an afternoon showing. I was looking forward to this show, as I knew I would get some laughs and I wasn't disappointed. I did laugh, but I would have liked to have laughed more. At the end of the movie, I turned to Jeanne and said "I did not think this is as good as the other two", and she replied. "I thought it was the best".  So there it is, different strokes for different folks.
In reality, is it worth seeing? Oh yes of course. Some of the scenes, especially with Dustin Hoffman (who I wished had a bigger part in this one) and the faces of the ever cycnic Robert DeNiro are priceless. The introduction of the twins was also great. Both so different, the 'smart' girl and the 'feeling' boy. Loved that. Also Jessica Alba, looking great in her bikini type underwear. One always has to mention the ever lovable Barbra Streisand, who again it would have been great to see more of. But perhaps that will happen in the inevitable number four - after all they are moving two houses down.  I loved the look on Teri Polo's face when Barbra announced she and Dustin (oh never mind their movie names) were moving two houses down and then Blythe Danner and Robert DeNiro announce they could move too....yes I will go see it. You can depend on laughs and Robert DeNiro is definately priceless as the father-in-law. The Focker world rocks on! If you are a Focker fan, you do not want to miss this one.
I give this 3 1/2 out of 5.

Monday, December 27, 2010

True Grit

Just got home from seeing True Grit.  I thoroughly enjoyed it. I vaguely remember John Wayne and Kim Darby in the original. This version was hilarious in places. It was watching the credits at the end that I realized the Cohan Bros wrote produced and directed it. No wonder it was funny. The seem to get better and better. The only problem I had with it was I had to listen really hard due to the accents they were using. Jeff Bridges is phenomenal in this role, (perhaps another Oscar nomination) the young girl was great....she really pulled the role off (but off the top of my head I can't remember her name - age, I worked to remember it off the screen too). Matt Damon I'm not sure of, but he is Matt Damon, I think other kinds of roles suit him better. Josh Brolin was great as the villain (although there were many villains).  Yes, go see this movie, it is definitely worth seeing, for the laughter. If you have a strange sense of humor like I do, you will laugh often even when no one else is. I give this movie 4 out of 5. 

Friday, December 24, 2010

movie review - The Tourist

Just in case you are reading this movie review before Tron: Legacy I went north to watch two movies, Tron: Legacy and The Tourist.
The Tourist was my second movie of the day and as I'm a huge Angelina Jolie fan (not so hot about Johnny Depp) I was looking forward to it. I had been disappointed in Tron: Legacy (but please read what I wrote) and as I sat down to see this movie I was hoping for the best. The last movie I had seen Angelina in was Salt, which I loved. But, once again this afternoon brought some disappointment. Angelina played the mysterious lady, and luckily she is so beautiful so the shots of her face and wondering on the miracle of make up to hide her numerous tattoos during different shots, did not thoroughly disappoint. But this woman is a phenomenal actress and I felt like she was walking through the part, hardly any movement except to walk and drive a motor boat (oh yes the dance scene - that was good) but she came over mysterious but cold.  Which was her part, it just seemed so one dimensional. I only found a little bit of this movie I could get my teeth into.  Everytime the movie would 'take off' it stopped.
I'm also a fan of Paul Bettnay (must not forget him) and even he seemed to play this role stiffly, while Johnny Deep seemed out of his league somehow. Regardless of my disappointment, there were some great moments. On the dance floor, then the twist at the end (which by this time I had figured out) after all there were several hints along the way.  I don't know who the director was, but I think a different director might have produced a different movie. one in which we all would want to pour in to see, after all the scenery of Venice is always a treat and the suspense as different peoples were chasing each other could have produced more tension than it did.  The question I ask myself is The Tourist worth seeing. Probably yes, which is why I give it a 3 out of 5, but you don't want to have to travel to far to go see it.
Over all, although I enjoyed my day off to go see two movies I wanted to see, I was disappointed but still glad I had seen them.  Now onto the Fockers. At least I will laugh there.

movie review - Tron: Legacy

Yesterday I decided to take a day off and travelled north to catch two movies. The first one I saw was Tron: Legacy.  Now I loved the first Tron. I always figured it was way before its time, but it had lots of action (which I enjoyed) and the story line was intriguing.  I can't say the same for this one. I thought the story line was slow, and yes the computerization was phenomenal, but I do like personality and the characters in the main were like the computer programs they represented. Dull. The think men would like looking at Cora and the other spandex/plastic glad gals. To say I was disappointed would be correct. Was it worth travelling north for - no, but on the other hand, I can say I've seen it, and it did have a couple of moments which were worth seeing. I just wish somehow they were able to make the characters more believable.  Therefore I give this 2 1/2 stars out of 5.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

movie review - The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Last night I went to see The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. I had heard a review where the person gave this movie a one star, so it was with some trepidation that I went. Well I give it much more. I liked this one more than the last Narnia movie and although I'm not sure if it is totally on par with the first which was so delightful, but it most certainly held its own. The only thing I did not enjoy (well I guess there was two) was I thought the scene with the sea serpent went on too long (I'm picky) and the horrid cousin, could have transformed sooner. He was a bore, I could not help sitting there wondering where his voice came from, I wonder what it will be like when his voice changes (or perhaps he just looks young and his voice already had changed). For an evening of entertainment, dotted with wonderful phrases of philosophy with the usual fight on Narnia between good and evil I think it is worth viewing. I found the quotes delightful, and wished I had a pen to write them down so I could remember them. Mind you, I have not read the books, so not sure if the movie reflected the book. From the movie I gather this is the last one, although they did leave the door open for the cousin. Not sure about that, a movie without the delightful Lucy acted by Georgie Herley. would not be the same. Aslan, with his wisdom will be missed though. 
I give this movie 3 out of 5.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Unstoppable - movie review

Denzel Washington - no matter what movie you see him in he is good! In fact in Unstoppable he gives his role this basic calm yet speaks volumes. A master of the understatement, is the understatement. He is great in this role. Chris Pine (of the new Star Trek fame) with those wonderful eyes complemented him well. They were able to play off each other - whoever casted this did a great job. Beginning with tension between them, they end up working well together as they undertake the 'job' of stopping the runaway train. I enjoyed this movie, caught up in the drama of these two. I nearly did not go and see it, due to the promotion I thought someone was going to get killed. Luckily a friend told me she had seen it so I asked her if anyone died. I was not in the mood to see death on the screen. When she told me no, no one died and it was a good movie, I made the time to go see it, and I'm happy to report I did enjoy it.
It truly is a two man movie. With the other actors playing bit parts, even Rosario Dawson, who is listed as a 'star'. She did a great job, although I picked up an editing issue, which is unusual for a large budget film. In one scene she is tying her hair up, in the next it is back down on her shoulders. It would not have fallen that fast. As you know I'm a editor fan.  Good editing makes the movie. Mind you the editing was not Rosario's fault. Regardless of the small editing slip, this is a movie, if you like, tension, drama and great exchanges between twos great actors, then go see this movie. Unstoppable is unstoppable.
I give this 4 out of 5 stars for an enjoyable ride.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Tangled movie review

Last night I went and saw Tangled the Rapunzel story. I dashed out the door after a client and managed to get into my seat just before the movie began. Was I ever glad that I went. For some reason I really wanted to see this movie, which seems crazy when you think its a Disney animated one. Yet, I laughed. One would never think that a cartoon horse Maximilian, a chameleon sidekick and an iron frying pan could make you laugh. But they did. The antics of the Max alone was worth the trip to the movie. I am a huge fan of the TV show Chuck and so wanted to see Zachary Levi in his role (well hear him) and Mandy Moore made a wonderful Rapunzel. Those big eyes which were so expressive. This movie is for adults as well as kids. If you want to laugh and be entertained. I recommend you take whoever adult friends, your children or grandchildren. There is something in this movie for everyone.
I give this movie 4 out of 5. Well worth the rush to get there. Came home with a smile on my face.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I

Last night I decided to go see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I. After all, I have seen all the others and can't let this one go unseen.  I had hoped to see it in Calgary, but with the cold and snow I did not venture out to view it. Then Monday night I was going to head out to the local theatre here, when it snowed and once again decided I would stay inside. So when last night there was no snow I decided third was a charm and off I went.
I had heard that some critics were very critical, I guess that's what they do, but for the most part I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I shut my eyes at the snake scenes, I jumped sometimes with the noises of the sudden changes as the 'three kids' were harassed. I enjoyed watching Ron and Hermione began their relationship dance. After all, I had read the book and do know what happens, but I still enjoyed being reminded. It amazes me how much we forget of a book we read, then when it appears on the screen its as though your mind goes, "oh yes, I remember now".
Even knowing there is one more film to go, I already felt sad at the loss of these three characters we have all come to love, Harry, Ron and Hermione have been with us for a long time. And the same as when I finished reading the book Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows I felt sad when the movie came to an end, although what an ending. Oh yes I'll be waiting for the next and sadly the last installment of this series, even if it takes me three goes to get three.
I give this movie 4 stars out of 5.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Burlesque

I read a report that said Burlesque was mild and dull and I could not help wondering if he saw the same movie I did. I loved it. So much in so, I want to see it again. It was full of singing and dancing that your senses were almost overwhelmed by the action, color and sound. It had the feeling the Cabaret had many years ago. It was great to see Cher sing her two numbers (yeah only two). All of us Cher fans were disappointed in only two songs, but it was good to see her back on the screen. It really is Christina Aguilera's movie. I can't say I'm a fan of Christina, but she sure can belt out a song, and she kept up with the dancers really well. The criticisms, if any, would come in the story content and the dialogue. But heh, with all the beauty and fast moving, mostly, dance and song numbers that did not seem so important. The predicable love story, the close to be taken over due to debt, the lovely young ingenue saving the day, well it was perhaps predicable, but on the other hand the five of us who saw the movie were all thrilled with it. 
I would give it 3 1/2 out of 5, just on the dancing and singing alone.
Go see it, enjoy it. Stay home if you don't like dancing and singing.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

RED

I did not realise I had not given my review of RED yet. In fact I've seen it twice, once here in Penticton and once while in Vancouver. I loved it and will see it again I'm sure. What fun to watch these great actors all together responding, in satarical style to them being anialiated by the "who?". Each actor was great in their part, like it was written for them. Mary Louise Parker was the surprise. She was wonderful and some of her lines were delivered so well, I think I laughed the hardest with her transition from a kidnapped phone worker to "lets get 'em" person. Yes, want a laugh, see great acting, this is the movie for you.
4 1/2 stars out of 5.

Friday, November 5, 2010

movie review - Hereafter

Last night my friend Anne and I went to see Hereafter.  I had read a couple of reviews which said this movie was slow and did not catch on till near the end. I totally disagree. I thought, it was carefully constructed so that you really understood the characters contained within the main story. Bit by bit it took your through their struggles, pain and then the ending where the three stories merge. As a working psychic I totally related to Matt Damon's character George. The different between him and myself, is he can't turn it off. Whenever he touches someone he immediately sees who is on the other side who is close to the person. Whereas I'm a trained psychic and turn it on to work, and off when I'm not.
The script though, truly showed George's dilemma It is not always easy to give people information that they may not want to hear. So although I work as a psychic, my work is very different, but I could relate and empathize. It is really a gentle movie, a movie which shows people's frailties, of people coping with disappointment and heartbreak and it is also a movie of hope. Hope of the hereafter, hope of people being in the right place at the right time to support and love. I found one scene which I thought could have been done better and that is when he is talking to macus's brother and says he is leaving, and when George sees Marcus is upset has him returning to give him more message. That did not ring true to me. Something was out a bit, but otherwise I thought it was well done.
I give this movie 4 out of 5. A movie to be seen because it makes on ponder, think and question what is the hereafter and there is someone for everyone.

Friday, October 15, 2010

The Secret in their Eyes

It seems funny to me that again I read a book and see a movie which has the same theme. Yesterday I went to see the movie The Secret In Their Eyes. This is an Argentina/Spain collaboration set in Argentina and therefore was in subtitles. To think I would sit through a subtitled movie for over two hours and think nothing of it contributes to the magnificence of this movie. Within the first few frames I had the thought "this is an ART movie". In other words not the usual movie we are subjected to.  The cast, Ricardo Darin, Soledad Villamil and Guillermo Francella did an absolutely wonderful job of displaying this story of unrequited love, coupled with a murder mystery and everything else thrown in. Shot in present day, plus their memories back 25 years, the story holds you enthralled wondering what is coming next. It slowly builds the characters, but somehow you don't mind because the photography, the editing, the direction is all working towards some dramatic conclusions. My friend Jeanne and I just sat after it was finished while the credits (in  Spanish) rolled by. Yes another magnificent movie, where one is left wondering the conundrum of life.
Now to the book which is completed this morning. The House at Riverton, by Kate Morton. Again working in two times, a 99 year old remembering her years at Riverton House where she entered service when she was 14 and all that happened in between. Again unrequited love,  mystery and intrigue set in a Victorian, yet also modern time, as she jumps between the time periods, filling in the gaps of what happened to the main characters, but the subcharacters all play a huge part of the story. Well worth the read.
So two magnificent pieces of art. One in movie form, one in written form. Both speaking how opportunities not taken or misread lead to other events. The book is easy to get, its Kate Morton's latest. The movie, look for it, I'm sure it will come in DVD form soon, and it is worth the just over two hours, after all you don't see a full frontal male in full bloom too often these days.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Secretariat

Last night I went to see Secretariat and loved every moment of it. It was a wonderful film, filled not only about a great horse but the photography and the sense of well-being portrayed was great. The editing was wonderful as you were kept up with the adventure of Secretariat and his owner. I think this is one movie I will definitely have to see again, if only to see the wonderful horse races. My friend Suzanne was telling me she got to visit him at his home and pat him. Of course this was after his racing days and he spent his time as a stud. The underlying theme of this movie, listen to what you know is correct for you and go for your end result you want no matter what to me gave this movie even more depth. Also, at a time when women were supposed to be in the home, here was a woman who believed in her horse and her childhood home to keep it going, even though for three years she travelled back and forth between Denver and Virginia. Oh yes, lots of secondary stories of belief, loyalty and support.  If you have a chance, go see the movie. My friend who came with me was not as interested in horse racing as me (coming from racing New Zealand, where I grew up listening and going to horse races) she was surprised as to how much she enjoyed it.  4 1/2 out of 5.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Our Town

Last night I ventured out with the wind whistling away, like a storm was going to come, but it didn't, or if it did it was when I was asleep. Asleep I wasn't during the movie Our Town. Ben Affleck has always been a favorite of mine, even when Hollywood seem to be dissing him. He was smart, took a break from movies, got his personal life sorted out and came back with some great acting and directing. In Our Town he does both, it most certainly had action, yet the acting from the main characters was really good. Last year's Oscar winner certainly did his role proud. His was the harder part to play, I thought, in order to convince us of his complicated character. I definitely got it, all the complexity of growing up in a certain neighbourhood, believing certain 'honor' is the way to do things. Ben himself was his excellent self and his directing skills are certainly as good as many.
The question is "did I enjoy this movie?" Well can't say I enjoyed it, with all the guns blazing and people dying, but the story was told well, the acting was good with the characters believable. On that level yes, and of course my usual complaint about editing seemed fine too.  All in all a well done movie. The question for me is it a 3 1/2 or 4 stars.  I think 3 1/2. Well worth seeing if you can take guns blazing, shootouts with a love story. But no happy ever after ending, but then that is what made it a good movie.  Still 3 1/2 stars out of 5.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Mao's Last Dancer

Yesterday I was treated to a most wonderful movie. Mao's Last Dancer.  I enjoyed the movie so much I want to go buy the book and read more of this main characters story. Expect for Bruce Greenwood, I did not recognize any of the actors, mainly because they were dancers. What dancers and what a story. A story of a young boy chosen from a village to go to Beijing to train as a dancer. This young boy had no interest in ballet, but had the flexibility and therefore was sent to the school. He came from a large family, his name being sixth son (of seven) and was known as Li (Lee). The editing was wonderful as it wove the story of his early years with what happened when he came to the U.S. on a three month visa to study with the Huston Ballet. The sensitivity, the creative dancing, the story of relationships were all wonderfully directed and woven and photographed.  Plus it shows a little of the regime at the time of Mao and the Cultural Revolution. As you can tell I cannot say enough about the quality of the movie. Tears at the end of course helped, as the show came to a conclusion. And I loved, as usual, the end notes that tell you what happened to the main characters.  This one I give 5 out of 5.  A must see!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Going the Distance

Last night I took in the late movie of Going the Distance. There were five of us in the theatre, two couples and then older me. What surprised me with this movie was how much I laughed. I left the theatre with a good feeling which surprised me. I as not expecting to be so entertained. Now there is a definate generation gap with the movie. The use of the F word with both males and females should not longer surprise me, but it does. Is it really necessary? I don't personally think it adds to the movie, but heh I'm older and we did not speak like that when I grew up. But the laughs, the jokes, the inside relationship jokes were so well written and executed by the supporting actors. I though Justin Long was a bit stiff, like he was walking through the role.  Drew Barrymore was her usual Drew self, which is good. The guy who played Dan took the movie though. His lines were executed wonderfully well. For my age group though to enjoy this movie you have to look beyond the language and enjoy the great deliveries.  Surprise, surprise I give this 3 out of 5 for enjoyment. Its been awhile since I left a movie feeling warm inside.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Eat Pray Love

Last night several of us had supper and then went to see Eat Pray Love with Julia Roberts. Although one of us had to leave to attend a husband who was not well, the rest of us said how much we enjoyed it at the end. Personally, I found the first two sections a bit slow. The divorce and romancing the young actor for some reason (for me) did not 'take'.  Not sure what or why, perhaps the chemistry wasn't there, but I was glad when she left for Italy. This part of the book I had enjoyed, here it seemed disjointed at times and then she arrives in India. Here is where the movie took off for me. The scenes rolled together, and the storyline flowed. Humor was introduced and somehow I relaxed into the story. And then Bali. The beauty, the ease and the essence of the story line. Although my friends said how much they enjoyed it, I kept quiet in that I thought it could have been better. For instance, I would have liked (and was waiting for) the postscript that comes up at the end saying what happened to them (even though many of us had read the book and knew - I wanted to read it). I feel the movie could have been a bit better, if they had Julia Roberts act as a narrator transitioning the events, filling in some of the deeper emotional moments.  Oh well, what do I know. I just think it would have made it much better. I really wanted that postscript and I felt a bit let down when it wasn't there.  This movie was a person's life, not just a book and yet somehow the movie was made like it was just another made up book.
Therefore I give it 3 stars out of 5.  (nearly only gave it 2 1/2) but the scenes of the locals were great.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Expendables

I found it hard to write about this movie. What do I say?  Violence, yes, Lots of action actors, yes. Story line weak. Yes. Did I enjoy it, sort of. It was the 'sort of' which is the issue. I went to see this movie because I thought I needed to see it, plus it was very hot and the afternoon would be spent in a cool environment. Not much of a reason. As the movie began the first 10 minutes or so, I was wondering on my choice of the afternoon, after all I could have seen The Other Guys. But no, I had opted to go see Sylvester Stallone and the boys. Violence was the key, plus the coloring and how the movie was shot was not my favorite. My favorite bit was when Arnold 'the Terminator' was in a scene and Bruce Willis's character asks "what's his problem" and the answer from Sylvester is "He wants to be President".  I laughed out loud at that one. And that is what saves this movie, the humor. The writers, of which Sylvester was one had the humor quotient just right. (Except for the first 10 minutes). I found Jason Statham's character 'Christmas' was well done, and I enjoyed his character, but then he was the humor foil and the philosophy person. The other characters, well they were there, although Jet Li, looking older and larger in build was his usual self. I did not really realize he was so short, which a number of jokes were about. The most telling aspect about the movie was I was aware of myself through the movie, I was aware of my legs, reaching for my water bottle, of getting a snack. I am never aware of myself in a 'good' movie. I'm caught up in the action, the storyline, the acting.  So all in all Expendables is expendable. Not a movie I would recommend, but for the action, the humor, not the violence.  I would give this 2 stars out of 5.  Stay home, or go see something else.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Step Up 3D

Yesterday I drove nearly 1 hour north to go see Step Up 3D. Arriving just as the movie was beginning I  was able to find a seat (in the dark) and put on my 3D glasses and begin watching the story evolve. Mostly I was there for the dancing. After being a fan of So You Think You Can Dance in both the US and Canada I knew I would enjoy the movie and I did. Was it the classic of all time - no. But it was entertaining and the dancing is good. The story line was the usual boy/girl scenerio, so nothing new there and I actually laughed out loud once. I think they could have had a little bit more humor in the movie, but again the storyline held up and we were there mostly for the dancing. The final dance routine, with the lights going was worth seeing several times. Its probably made it to internet by now. It was good. Was it worth traveling to see it in 3D. I think so. I give it 3 stars out of 5 for dance entertainment. Not a movie I will rush out to see, but if its in my local theatre in 2D (we don't have 3D) I will go again.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Salt

Last night I went to see Salt, and was I glad I did. It was the most enjoyable movie I've seen this summer. Angelina Jolie at her best. I loved it. The action, the story line (not a new one, but well done). My friend and I got up and looked at each other and said "that was really good".  Oh yes, it was. It you like action, with of course some violence, (that seems to be the usual mode these days) but the action and when you think Angelina does all her own stunts and the stunts are spectacular here you shake your head.
Want a good movie filled with action almost from beginning to end, and a great ending for a set up of a second to follow (I wonder?) then go see Salt.
I loved Prince of Persia, I enjoyed The Sorcerer's Apprentice and still thinking about Insense, but Salt - well Angelina (great actress she is) takes the cake.
5 out of 5 stars for pure enjoyment.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Inception

I just completed seeing Inception for the second time.  The first time I enjoyed it, but I was not sure what had happened at the ending. I realised I did not remember the piece of information which was given which would explain the last bit. Was he still in dreamland or reality? So today I went and saw it again with a friend who is visiting. I paid attention to the piece of information which was the key to the ending. And although the ending could be interpreted either way, I think you get to decide for yourself how you want that to be.
This is a fascinating story. Especially to me, who deals with the subconscious, and although not a 'dream' expert, I certainly appreciated the concept.
This movie is totally well acted, not one of the characters was weak. Everyone played their role well. The results of this is that the movie is believable. Yes, violence again, guns, shooting, but there was also lots of other actions, and the scenery sets were great too.  I just loved it when the people floating (as they were not in gravity in the earlier dream) had to be tied together and floated to the elevator. I'm sure I would never in 100 years figured out how to create gravity when they were not in any.
Another sub story to this movie about 'letting go' and not living in our memories I thought was also pertinent. Food for thought on so many levels if you are interested in the subconscious, dreaming and personal growth. I totally recommend this movie, in fact I ll need to add the DVD to my collection of self-growth movies.
Want to see a movie which has it all, action, romance, food for thought, then Inception is it!!
Four 1/2 stars out of Five. 

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Sorcerer's Apprenctice

I totally enjoyed this movie from beginning to end. In fact I did not want it to end. The story line was set up really well, so you knew what had happened and what the 'fight' with the sorcerers was about. The fast paced action, interjected with the love story of the two younger characters made for an even pace, and then the humor also delivered by Nicholas Cage, who seems to get only better with every movie he makes (I've become quite a fan over the years) I also appreciated.
Jay Baruchal was wonderfully cast for his role as the young, nerd apprentice who really did not want to be one, he just wanted his girl. I found it amusing that he even spoke the same way as Nicholas Cage. (I wondered if a bit of hero worship had not found its way into his speaking style).
If you want to have a couple of hours of really nice entertainment with a little bit of everything - even a car chase - you can't go wrong with this movie.  4 stars out of 5.
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Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Despicable Me

I took my granddaughter who is 9 years old to see Despicable Me.  Well the title says it all - despicable. I was not impressed with this movie at all. In fact, and yes I was tired from being up early watching the Tour de France, I fell asleep, twice. Mind you that was near the beginning of the movie which I found boring and could not keep my eyes open. Then I heard the laughter of the young kids in the theatre. Well Despicable Me is really for kids. The children enjoyed the antics of the main character, whose name I even forget right now - that's how much of an impression it left on me - I think it began with a C. My granddaughter as she chomped through her popcorn laughed often, and each time I looked closer to see what was funny -  Generation gap - maybe. I must admit the second half was better and I think I chuckled once or twice. The most adorable thing about the movie was the three girls -- they were interesting, cute and made the movie worthwhile - a little. I would give this movie 1 1/2 stars out of 5, the 1/2 because young kids really like it. But as an adult, I think you need to realise this is a sacrifice for the children.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Knight & Day

I was pleasantly surprised ho much I enjoyed this movie. Here the recurring theme of being drugged and ending up somewhere else, often exotic got to be funny. The stunts, which I expected and one reason I wanted to see this movie, were great and the chemistry between Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz surprised me - it worked.
If you like movies which have stunts, subtle humor and without a great story line but is entertaining then this is it. Definitely  worth it for me to drive an hour to see it. A nice afternoon entertainment. Four stars out of Five.

Friday, July 2, 2010

Eclipse

Today, I decided I would go and see Eclipse. Glad I've seen it, so I can say I've seen it, but I'm not sure what everyone is going on about it being the best of the three. I did not think so. I thought the love scenes were 'slow and drippy' (perhaps teenagers go for that - but not for this older lady) I thought Kristen was very 'dead' in her scenes (preparing for when she becomes a vampire no doubt) but thought Robert as Edward had more character than the other two films. He smiled more. But loved young Taylor Lauter - what a body, even I can appreciate that. The wolves were the highlights for me this time. They were lovable - all in all a way to spend a few hours away from the summer rain - but I could have waited to catch it on TV. Mind you I did not see it in 3D (our local theatre does not have that - and can only imagine what those wolves jumping out at you would look - now that might be worth another visit).
I found it only a 2 1/2 stars out of 5 for me. (Teens I'm sure are much higher).

The Last Airbender

I began to wonder if I was in the right movie house when I saw families with lots of children. I thought I was going to see a sci-fi movie. Yes, I knew there was a child actor, but I truly did not know it was considered a 'family' movie. When you think of the amount of fighting with fire and spears I guess its not that much different from what they see on TV. in fact, probably less.
I enjoyed this movie. I found the lesson of all elements earth, air, fire and water needing to live in harmony is appropriate for the time. Its a lesson which many of us forget. Plus the action scenes of the fighting with calling up the 'air' or the other elements fire, earth and especially at the end water. I just loved the water being pulled up to a giant wave and how it just hung there. Of course we know it is computer generated, but still it was wonderful to see.  I also enjoyed watching the lines of people doing what looked like tai chi. Yes the educational value of this movie, which I take is the beginning of at least two others (considering this was water and the avatar is the airbender, so the earth and fire still have to be dealt with).  I'm looking forward to the next adventure of the airbender.
I give this 3 out of 5.

Sunday, June 27, 2010

A - Team

I don't remember being a big watcher of the TV show A-Team. I know many people were, but the show was in my very busy years when I did not watch much TV. (Not like now). The other night, not knowing quite what to do with myself I decided to go see A-Team. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I like most 'guy type' movies, so I was not surprised, what surprised me was the humor and the great story line. Although an old, and proven, done wrong story, I felt it worked here.
Not knowing about the originals, I was happy to learn how they all came together as the A Team and the caption as the opening credits begin 8 years and 80 missions later (or was it 800 missions) no matter - it made sense that these guys (one them totally nuts) had been on a lot of missions together. How big Mister T was scared of heights, how Hannibal, always with his cigar not far away was truly the leader and of course Bradley Cooper to wow the ladies.
It flowed well (meaning good editing) and I enjoyed it from beginning to end. A movie worth seeing if you like action, things being blown up and some deceit never mind the sexual tension between Bradley Cooper and Jessica Biel (who was good too).
I look forward to the next movie
4 stars out of 5

Norma

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Killers

Saturday night came and I was restless. Looking at the four movies available at my local theatre I chose Killers. Luckily I knew inspite of the title that it was Ashton Kutcher and Katherine Heigel in a romantic comedy. By the amount of people in the audience, others did not. What a stupid title - whoever picked it should have been shot. With a different title the movie might have had more success. The title does not portray the movie at all - anyway I went.
I truly did not have any expectations of this movie, I just wanted out of the house where there as nothing on TV (which seems like every night these days.) I was pleasantly surprised.
I was surprised because I laughed often and I was hugely (is that a word) thrilled to see Magnum - Tom Selleck - he will always be Magnum to me, playing Katherine's Dad. He always bring such strength to the screen these days. Like a lot of men when they hit their 40's they seem to grow bigger all over -- well he is over 40 - but still looks, big, strong and Magnum.
Again the movie seems filled with craziness, but both Ashton and Katherine pull it off - somehow she does the dumb but beautiful, but not too dumb roles wonderfully well and Ashton always surprising pulls off his roles.
Yeah, hate to say it, I enjoyed this movie. I go to the movies for several reasons, one to be entertained, which this movie did. Two to enjoy the views, this one has wonderful views of Nice, France and then uptown subdivision and a construction site and office, but I sure enjoyed the views of France's coastline. Third I like to learn something from the movie, a moral, a mental or emotional connection. I did not in this movie, but I laughed and that is worth something when you are feeling tired and a bit out of sorts. Yeah I enjoyed it. Therefore it is worth 31/2 out of 5.

Prince of Persia

I thought when I saw Robin Hood that it would be hard to beat. But Prince of Persia does just that. I enjoyed this movie on every level. My friend who I saw it with and I both agreed - It was great!!! What did I like - everything!
First of all I find that movies depend upon the editing of a movie. I think Editors are not rated high enough. I have seen movies which were really good destroyed by bad editing. The editing in this was wonderful. Scene followed scene in quick succession and you got to follow the story line easily. The director, playwright, whoever took their time setting up the story you got to understand who this Prince was. you got to understand the underlying tensions existing and then when the story finally kicks into high gear you get the full picture. It is exciting, it is colorful (the colors were wonderful) it is well acted, well directed, well everything and I cannot believe anyone would not enjoy this movie. The beautiful scenes of the desert, the colors were magnificent, never mind the body on Jake rippling away. I also loved the jumping (which reminded me of 007 0 Daniel Craig in Casino Royale at the beginning of the movie, jumping over buildings etc. Also some of the scenes reminded me of Indiana Jones movies. I did not care, because it was fun. This movie is worth seeing, once, twice, maybe every three times. Therefore it gets 5 out of 5 stars.

Karate Kid

Sometimes one goes to the movies just to be entertained. I thought going to see the movie Karate Kid I would be doing that. Entertaining myself for a few hours rather than watching TV or reading. Well it was more than that. It was entertaining, but the message of the bully can be overcome through discipline, hardwork and dedication and never giving up truly is relative today with all the bullying that goes on in schools and some communities. Plus its a life lesson for us who want to achieve things in life.
I especially enjoyed young Jayden Smith who definitely shows the skills of his father Will and mother Jada - he was delightful. But the scene stealer is Jackie Chan. Some of the shots of him walking along as the older, defeated man, shuffling along with stiff joints etc, your heart goes out to him and when his story comes out you understand and then you watch the transformation of him as well as his young student of Kung Fu Drey. I thought he did wonderfully well in the part and was well picked as the older maintenance man.
The scenery of when they visited the monastery climbing steps which go forever and seeing the monks of the temple in their different practices I found fascinating, especially the lady with the cobra and how the lesson that the cobra was following her dance, not the other way around. Also seeing the Great Wall of China in the movie was inspiring, but is the one part which had my brain doing a double take.
I think editing is such an important part of a movie. How a movie is edited can make or break it. Well they made a mistake here. When they went to the monastery it was explained why and you saw them on the train on the way there and back but all of a sudden the Great Wall of China appears with Drey doing his Kung Fu practices and then a shot of him back in the backyard doing his exercises and then back again to the Great Wall. "What"? I thought. There was no explanation of the great wall, there was no reason for it, except for us to see it (mistake) it took you away from the continuity of the movie, especially throwing a scene in between the other scenes of practice. Other than that momentarily craziness on part of the editors, the movie was cute. It was fun, sad and I found myself clapping at the fight scenes, which were very well done .... yes it was worth the couple of hours to go see.
3 1/2 out of 5.

Hurt Locker

Hurt Locker came out right when I as extremely busy getting ready to go to New Zealand. So I missed it at my local theatre. Therefore, when I saw the DVD available I snatched it up ready to watch the movie which took best picture. I was not disappointed. What a movie, the understanding of the characters feelings and what they go through in war I thought was really well done. The sensitivity of the subject matter - war - was displayed so well, you just got caught up in the 'horror' (the streets littered with debris never mind the bombs plus a young man being made into a human bomb). Then the interrelationships of the characters showed the many different types of personality are involved in war and ho they deal with the risks and the uncertainty of whether you life or die. You felt for the main character when he went home and felt overwhelmed just by choosing a box of cereal from the many displayed. This scene really brings home the post traumatic stress which most returning soldiers experience. Then the final scene when he is back for another year of going about his job of defusing bombs. Definitely a winner and one of the war movies to have in your collection.