TITLE
The Departed
STARRING
Mark Wahlberg, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Martin Sheen, Alec Baldwin, Vera Farmiga
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Honestly, I only scanned the box because I saw this movie when it hit the theaters. I think there is no one possible way to quantify this, but it is probably the best Martin Scorsese film ever! I know some would argue that Casino, Goodfellas, The Color of Money are all equally worthy of distinction. He's probably not turned out a movie I wouldn't watch twice, but this film is so unlike most Academy Award-nominated films that I was glad to see both director and picture pick up the Oscar at Sunday's award ceremony. It's intense, sometimes gruesome and entirely enjoyable.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
The time will come where I will likely succumb to the purchase of this movie. Let me first say this, Leonardo DiCaprio was excellent and I think in the past he has all but ruined many of his other films, notably Gangs of New York. He is definitely not a period-style actor (uggh, Titanic) but this role was well-suited for him. The other actors in the movie were the reason I decided to see the movie and they are excellent, but is as if Jack Nicholson is less a draw in these later years and more a solid mentor-type. It's unthinkable that Nicholson is washed up-he's still a great actor; we're just starting to see a lot of the same good action and some definite typecasting. I would recommend seeing this movie before they ruin it with a sequel that will only star one of the above actors (because all of the others die, horribly). I won't ruin which one survives. The movie is well written, well cast and superbly executed.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Ladies might cringe, but this one's for everybody.
SPECIAL FEATURES
There has to be something.......as I said, I saw this in the theater, not on DVD, still, I bet there is a great commentary.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Sunday, February 25, 2007
UNHITCHED (2005)
TITLE
Unhitched (US-DVD), The Best Man (International /US - TV title)
STARRING
Stuart Townsend, Seth Green, Amy Smart, Kate Ashfield, Steve John Shepherd
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
This movie never quite gets there, it takes a lot of hits, but never manages a homerun. It's certainly charming in ways, but the description on the back of the box would lead you to believe the storyline is about Seth Green's character, Murray. As luck would have it, it is very much about the love triangle between Olly (Townsend), Sarah (Smart) and James (Shepherd). Seth's attempt at an english accent is a bit much at times and I was severely disgruntled with Townsend's character for not realizing what a dope his "second best friend" was until the very end.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It feels like a first attempt at writing or directing, but there are some cute exchanges and in the right mood, I would watch it again on TV.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Chick flick time.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Just the movie on this disc.
Unhitched (US-DVD), The Best Man (International /US - TV title)
STARRING
Stuart Townsend, Seth Green, Amy Smart, Kate Ashfield, Steve John Shepherd
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
This movie never quite gets there, it takes a lot of hits, but never manages a homerun. It's certainly charming in ways, but the description on the back of the box would lead you to believe the storyline is about Seth Green's character, Murray. As luck would have it, it is very much about the love triangle between Olly (Townsend), Sarah (Smart) and James (Shepherd). Seth's attempt at an english accent is a bit much at times and I was severely disgruntled with Townsend's character for not realizing what a dope his "second best friend" was until the very end.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It feels like a first attempt at writing or directing, but there are some cute exchanges and in the right mood, I would watch it again on TV.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Chick flick time.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Just the movie on this disc.
THE PRESTIGE (2006)
TITLE
The Prestige
STARRING
Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Michael Caine, Rebecca Hall, Scarlett Johansson, Piper Perabo, David Bowie, Andy Serkis
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Apparently, we cannot have just one movie about magic in a calendar year! What The Prestige doesn't know is that even though you cast David Bowie as Nikola Tesla, along with a lot of other high-priced actors who typically generate solid performances, it doesn't necessarily afford you a good show. There's virtually little if any chemistry in this tale of deception and retribution. Our dueling magicians, Robert Angier (Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Bale) make it difficult to decipher who is on the side of good or evil, leaving us with the unfulfilling conclusion that both are out for self and there probably isn't anything good about characters, or in this case, the movie.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
I wouldn't. Check out The Illusionist - for my money, it was a much better rental.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
It's average and for all adult audiences.
SPECIAL FEATURES
None.
The Prestige
STARRING
Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Michael Caine, Rebecca Hall, Scarlett Johansson, Piper Perabo, David Bowie, Andy Serkis
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Apparently, we cannot have just one movie about magic in a calendar year! What The Prestige doesn't know is that even though you cast David Bowie as Nikola Tesla, along with a lot of other high-priced actors who typically generate solid performances, it doesn't necessarily afford you a good show. There's virtually little if any chemistry in this tale of deception and retribution. Our dueling magicians, Robert Angier (Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Bale) make it difficult to decipher who is on the side of good or evil, leaving us with the unfulfilling conclusion that both are out for self and there probably isn't anything good about characters, or in this case, the movie.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
I wouldn't. Check out The Illusionist - for my money, it was a much better rental.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
It's average and for all adult audiences.
SPECIAL FEATURES
None.
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH (2006)
TITLE
Employee of the Month
STARRING
Dane Cook, Dax Shepard, Efren Ramirez, Andy Dick, Tim Bagley, Brian George, Jessica Simpson
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Thankfully, you will not have to endure many attempts at acting by Jessica Simpson, the focus remains, for the most part, solidly on Zack (Cook) and Vince (Shepard) who can easily carry a film of this caliber. As competitors for the title of Employee of the Month at Super-Club, a Costco-like wholesale store (sources say it was filmed at Costco and there was plenty of product placement opportunities for everything from food to shampoo) Zack, Vince, and their entourages become embroiled in a battle winner-take-all-style, including the girl. You might be surprised by how enjoyable this film is if you give it half a chance. Unlike a Britney movie, or the Dukes of Hazzard remake there is no Jessica Simpson soundtrack/single play to absorb.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
Should America, and the world, need a new Ryan Reynolds, (because after all, he's taking on the "more challenging roles" and veering widely away from the guy-comedy genre), I think Dax Shepard is a fantastic replacement.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Of course.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Gag reels, commentary by actors/directors - all advertised as funnier than they actually are.
Employee of the Month
STARRING
Dane Cook, Dax Shepard, Efren Ramirez, Andy Dick, Tim Bagley, Brian George, Jessica Simpson
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Thankfully, you will not have to endure many attempts at acting by Jessica Simpson, the focus remains, for the most part, solidly on Zack (Cook) and Vince (Shepard) who can easily carry a film of this caliber. As competitors for the title of Employee of the Month at Super-Club, a Costco-like wholesale store (sources say it was filmed at Costco and there was plenty of product placement opportunities for everything from food to shampoo) Zack, Vince, and their entourages become embroiled in a battle winner-take-all-style, including the girl. You might be surprised by how enjoyable this film is if you give it half a chance. Unlike a Britney movie, or the Dukes of Hazzard remake there is no Jessica Simpson soundtrack/single play to absorb.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
Should America, and the world, need a new Ryan Reynolds, (because after all, he's taking on the "more challenging roles" and veering widely away from the guy-comedy genre), I think Dax Shepard is a fantastic replacement.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Of course.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Gag reels, commentary by actors/directors - all advertised as funnier than they actually are.
TRUST THE MAN (2005)
TITLE
Trust the Man
STARRING
Julianne Moore, David Duchovny, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Billy Crudup, Eva Mendes, Sarah Knowlton
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Really wonderful performances are turned in by all the actors, nothing academy award worthy here, but a solid comedy nonetheless. Rebecca (Julianne Moore) and Tom (David Duchovny) are married with kids and have been together since college. Rebecca's brother Tobey (Billy Crudup) and his girlfriend Elaine (Maggie Gyllenhaal) have been stuck in the same stagnate relationship rut for about seven years, which is problematic since Elaine wants to get married and have kids. There's a lot of smart dialogue and some very unique comedic moments. The rest of the movie centers on the torments, conflicts and triumphs of the couples as they navigate towards and away from each other.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
This film, written and directed by Bart Freundlich is exactly like something I would write. It's your casual sentimental comedy, happy ending and all. In the end you will feel fulfilled. We already know we love the combination of Julianne Moore and David Duchovny, maybe because it reminds us of Scully and Mulder from the X-Files days, or perhaps because of a little forgettable film called Evolution, which also made the same pairing.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Sure, this one's for everybody.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The "usual" special features are included.
Trust the Man
STARRING
Julianne Moore, David Duchovny, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Billy Crudup, Eva Mendes, Sarah Knowlton
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Really wonderful performances are turned in by all the actors, nothing academy award worthy here, but a solid comedy nonetheless. Rebecca (Julianne Moore) and Tom (David Duchovny) are married with kids and have been together since college. Rebecca's brother Tobey (Billy Crudup) and his girlfriend Elaine (Maggie Gyllenhaal) have been stuck in the same stagnate relationship rut for about seven years, which is problematic since Elaine wants to get married and have kids. There's a lot of smart dialogue and some very unique comedic moments. The rest of the movie centers on the torments, conflicts and triumphs of the couples as they navigate towards and away from each other.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
This film, written and directed by Bart Freundlich is exactly like something I would write. It's your casual sentimental comedy, happy ending and all. In the end you will feel fulfilled. We already know we love the combination of Julianne Moore and David Duchovny, maybe because it reminds us of Scully and Mulder from the X-Files days, or perhaps because of a little forgettable film called Evolution, which also made the same pairing.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Sure, this one's for everybody.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The "usual" special features are included.
Friday, February 23, 2007
SHERRYBABY (2006)
TITLE
Sherrybaby
STARRING
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Danny Trejo, Brad William Henke, Giancarlo Esposito
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Its more depressing than inspirational. Don't let the box kid you, this is every bit the kind of movie which begins as a writer/director/actor's labor of love. I saw this movie just before I had this blog, and I appreciated it, you cannot really say like or love with a movie like this. Liking or loving a movie like this might just be a little sick, because the part of you which is emotional and heartfelt cannot like to see a character go through the life experiences that Sherry (Gyllenhaal) encounters, and the part of you which is rational and intelligent, knows this is basically a pretty accurate adaptation.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
If you have the choice between Sherrybaby or Half Nelson, please, please pick Sherrybaby. It's wrought with grief, spirit, hopelessness and realism. I heard a fantastic interview with Gyllenhaal on an NPR program (www.npr.org) about this movie and it causing her disdain for sex scenes. After watching it, I knew exactly why she made that comment. The character of Sherry reminded me to be thankful for an ubernormal childhood, and what is turning out to be, a pretty good time as an adult.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Probably a movie for anyone - not children.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Are you kidding? This is low budget, be thankful the movie is included on the DVD!
Sherrybaby
STARRING
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Danny Trejo, Brad William Henke, Giancarlo Esposito
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Its more depressing than inspirational. Don't let the box kid you, this is every bit the kind of movie which begins as a writer/director/actor's labor of love. I saw this movie just before I had this blog, and I appreciated it, you cannot really say like or love with a movie like this. Liking or loving a movie like this might just be a little sick, because the part of you which is emotional and heartfelt cannot like to see a character go through the life experiences that Sherry (Gyllenhaal) encounters, and the part of you which is rational and intelligent, knows this is basically a pretty accurate adaptation.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
If you have the choice between Sherrybaby or Half Nelson, please, please pick Sherrybaby. It's wrought with grief, spirit, hopelessness and realism. I heard a fantastic interview with Gyllenhaal on an NPR program (www.npr.org) about this movie and it causing her disdain for sex scenes. After watching it, I knew exactly why she made that comment. The character of Sherry reminded me to be thankful for an ubernormal childhood, and what is turning out to be, a pretty good time as an adult.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Probably a movie for anyone - not children.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Are you kidding? This is low budget, be thankful the movie is included on the DVD!
BABEL (2006)
TITLE
Babel
STARRING
Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Adriana Barraza, Gael Garcia Bernal, Rinko Kikuchi, Mohamed Akhzam, Mustapha Amhita, Elle Fanning
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
The guys who wrote (Guillermo Arriaga) and directed (Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu) last teamed up on 21 Grams, which I also liked, but that this film is more like last year's Syrianna or Crash. In fact, it reads like a Stephan Gaghan screenplay. There's a myriad of modern social issues, but at the heart of this movie is communication between people. In the spirit of full disclosure, which I obviously did not observe last night when I should have told my husband that this was going to be one of those deep movies, with lots of loose ends and unhappy lives, please don't expect a hunky Brad Pitt action film or something to unwind with. Movies like this are critically acclaimed because they confront, in extraordinary fashion, cultural concerns through our everyday lives.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
The performances are good. The story is more accessible than that of Syrianna, which I grew tired with after about 20 minutes. It's really difficult to piece together stories through one connection, in this case a gun, and that connection, as my husband said last night was loose. Still, its worth the rent if just to see what Brad Pitt would look like if he was an average person, aged, and less polished, even though he is upper-middle class.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Fans of film, especially the ones noted above from both genders will like this film.
SPECIAL FEATURES
None which set this DVD apart from the rest.
Babel
STARRING
Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Adriana Barraza, Gael Garcia Bernal, Rinko Kikuchi, Mohamed Akhzam, Mustapha Amhita, Elle Fanning
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
The guys who wrote (Guillermo Arriaga) and directed (Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu) last teamed up on 21 Grams, which I also liked, but that this film is more like last year's Syrianna or Crash. In fact, it reads like a Stephan Gaghan screenplay. There's a myriad of modern social issues, but at the heart of this movie is communication between people. In the spirit of full disclosure, which I obviously did not observe last night when I should have told my husband that this was going to be one of those deep movies, with lots of loose ends and unhappy lives, please don't expect a hunky Brad Pitt action film or something to unwind with. Movies like this are critically acclaimed because they confront, in extraordinary fashion, cultural concerns through our everyday lives.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
The performances are good. The story is more accessible than that of Syrianna, which I grew tired with after about 20 minutes. It's really difficult to piece together stories through one connection, in this case a gun, and that connection, as my husband said last night was loose. Still, its worth the rent if just to see what Brad Pitt would look like if he was an average person, aged, and less polished, even though he is upper-middle class.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Fans of film, especially the ones noted above from both genders will like this film.
SPECIAL FEATURES
None which set this DVD apart from the rest.
Monday, February 19, 2007
THE NOTORIOUS BETTIE PAGE (2005)
TITLE
The Notorious Bettie Page
STARRING
Gretchen Mol, Chris Bauer, Sarah Paulson, Jared Harris, Lili Taylor, David Strathairn
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Words cannot begin to express how dark this movie is at times. Just like the men in Bettie's life, it imposes on you without warning or consideration. I will say this, I've liked Gretchen Mol for a long time specifically because of her role in The Shape of Things. She pulls off the caliber of acting which would normally make the academy take note, but the field was ripe with talent in 2005 and 2006, plus the story of a pin-up cannot compare to that of uber sweetheart June Carter-Cash.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It's excellent, unapologetic, and is not without a peaceful ending where it seems Bettie Page (Mol) has come to appreciate her significance in american history, but peacefully chooses another route.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
This movie is for film fans, fans of they above mentioned cast members and is definitely not for the faint of heart.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Great old footage of the real Bettie Page and a commentary of note.
The Notorious Bettie Page
STARRING
Gretchen Mol, Chris Bauer, Sarah Paulson, Jared Harris, Lili Taylor, David Strathairn
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Words cannot begin to express how dark this movie is at times. Just like the men in Bettie's life, it imposes on you without warning or consideration. I will say this, I've liked Gretchen Mol for a long time specifically because of her role in The Shape of Things. She pulls off the caliber of acting which would normally make the academy take note, but the field was ripe with talent in 2005 and 2006, plus the story of a pin-up cannot compare to that of uber sweetheart June Carter-Cash.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It's excellent, unapologetic, and is not without a peaceful ending where it seems Bettie Page (Mol) has come to appreciate her significance in american history, but peacefully chooses another route.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
This movie is for film fans, fans of they above mentioned cast members and is definitely not for the faint of heart.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Great old footage of the real Bettie Page and a commentary of note.
THE GRUDGE 2 (2006)
TITLE
The Grudge 2
STARRING
Amber Tamblyn, Edison Chen, Arielle Kebbel, Jennifer Beals, Misako Uno, Sarah Michelle Gellar
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
That J-Horror, redone by Americans is crap and that it tends to be ever worse the second time around. Obviously Amber Tamblyn has become the poster child for Japanese horror movies when converted to American cinema. (Do you remember her? She was the first to die in the original Ring movie.) For folks hoping she will triumph in this movie, I promise not to write another word about her fate. Admittedly, I was entertained by the first Grudge movie, but never scared.
Both Ring movies failed to live up to expectations as well. In fact, if you are looking for a decent american version of j-horror, rent Dark Water.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It would have to be free.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Teens will like it. Some horror fans may like it. Both groups would span the sexes, I can't believe men would like it over women, vice versa.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Didn't even bother to check.
The Grudge 2
STARRING
Amber Tamblyn, Edison Chen, Arielle Kebbel, Jennifer Beals, Misako Uno, Sarah Michelle Gellar
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
That J-Horror, redone by Americans is crap and that it tends to be ever worse the second time around. Obviously Amber Tamblyn has become the poster child for Japanese horror movies when converted to American cinema. (Do you remember her? She was the first to die in the original Ring movie.) For folks hoping she will triumph in this movie, I promise not to write another word about her fate. Admittedly, I was entertained by the first Grudge movie, but never scared.
Both Ring movies failed to live up to expectations as well. In fact, if you are looking for a decent american version of j-horror, rent Dark Water.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It would have to be free.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Teens will like it. Some horror fans may like it. Both groups would span the sexes, I can't believe men would like it over women, vice versa.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Didn't even bother to check.
MARIE ANTOINETTE (2006)
TITLE
Marie Antoinette
STARRING
Kirsten Dunst, Jason Schwartzman, Steve Coogan, Judy Davis, Rip Torn, Rose Byrne, Asia Argenteno
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
That despite dismal reviews, this film is more genius than anything Sofia Coppola has ever attempted before. Honestly, I mean that in a way which allows me to now say there are possibly 25 writer/director combinations that could get a greenlight on their current project with little, if any, effort. Among them, she is the only woman, and I really believe I would not have included her on the list if not for seeing this movie. The catchy music paired with appealing scenes, inclusive of lots of color and arguable history are deadly in the best of ways. Solid performances by Steve Coogan and Kirsten Dunst, both enchant and liberate the mind.
WHY I WOULD WATCH IT AGAIN
And again, and again; simply it is well cast, well shot, and well written. I cannot believe critics did not embrace this movie, it might be the most underrated film of 2006!
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Hard to imagine anyone not, but I couldn't manage to keep my husband in the room. Probably depends- women, history buffs, men who like Kirsten, anyone a fan of 80's music will enjoy!
SPECIAL FEATURES
Nothing as cool as the movie on this disc.
Marie Antoinette
STARRING
Kirsten Dunst, Jason Schwartzman, Steve Coogan, Judy Davis, Rip Torn, Rose Byrne, Asia Argenteno
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
That despite dismal reviews, this film is more genius than anything Sofia Coppola has ever attempted before. Honestly, I mean that in a way which allows me to now say there are possibly 25 writer/director combinations that could get a greenlight on their current project with little, if any, effort. Among them, she is the only woman, and I really believe I would not have included her on the list if not for seeing this movie. The catchy music paired with appealing scenes, inclusive of lots of color and arguable history are deadly in the best of ways. Solid performances by Steve Coogan and Kirsten Dunst, both enchant and liberate the mind.
WHY I WOULD WATCH IT AGAIN
And again, and again; simply it is well cast, well shot, and well written. I cannot believe critics did not embrace this movie, it might be the most underrated film of 2006!
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Hard to imagine anyone not, but I couldn't manage to keep my husband in the room. Probably depends- women, history buffs, men who like Kirsten, anyone a fan of 80's music will enjoy!
SPECIAL FEATURES
Nothing as cool as the movie on this disc.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
HALF NELSON (2006)
TITLE
Half Nelson
STARRING
Ryan Gosling, Shareeka Epps, Anthony Mackie
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
That this whas originally a short film by director Ryan Fleck, which should have remained a short film. I rented this film because Gosling's performance was well-heralded as something unique, but there were probably a hundred other young actors in Hollywood who could have given a similar performance. As you may know critics and film enthusiasits tend to regard movies of a serious or factual nature with one or more well-cast roles highly. Your average person calls this overrated. The problem with this movie was crealy one of content - not enough of it to merit 107 minutes.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN?
Once was enough, thank you very much.
SPECIAL FEATURES
There's a director commentary, since Fleck wrote both the short and long film, as well as directed both, that might be of interest if you enjoy the movie. Get the special edition and you can see the original short!
Half Nelson
STARRING
Ryan Gosling, Shareeka Epps, Anthony Mackie
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
That this whas originally a short film by director Ryan Fleck, which should have remained a short film. I rented this film because Gosling's performance was well-heralded as something unique, but there were probably a hundred other young actors in Hollywood who could have given a similar performance. As you may know critics and film enthusiasits tend to regard movies of a serious or factual nature with one or more well-cast roles highly. Your average person calls this overrated. The problem with this movie was crealy one of content - not enough of it to merit 107 minutes.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN?
Once was enough, thank you very much.
SPECIAL FEATURES
There's a director commentary, since Fleck wrote both the short and long film, as well as directed both, that might be of interest if you enjoy the movie. Get the special edition and you can see the original short!
Saturday, February 17, 2007
THE DESCENT (2005)
TITLE
The Descent
STARRING
Shauna Macdonald, Saskia Mulder, Natalie Jackson Mendoza, Alex Reid, MyAnna Buring, Nora-Jane Noone
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
It's film made by the folks across the pond, so expect the leads (almost all of them) to be sporting british, irish, australian, or scottish accents. As far as horror and sci-fi movies go, this one is a cut above the rest. The crawlers, our mysterious misstep of evolution are actually people underneath all that costuming and polymer.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It's a decent flick for what is obviously not an americanized cast or budget; the latter probably causing the prior. My favorite part is at the core of all true horror movies - the promise of something decent and wholesome (in the past, virginal) being violated. Watch for clues regarding this betrayl evidenced in the interactions between Sarah (Macdonald), Juno (Mendoza), and Beth (Reid). Let's just say this, there's a plot.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Sure, but you both have to like mild gore and the possibility of an unahppy ending, or at the least unresolved.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Alternate ending; the original theatrical ending overseas.
The Descent
STARRING
Shauna Macdonald, Saskia Mulder, Natalie Jackson Mendoza, Alex Reid, MyAnna Buring, Nora-Jane Noone
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
It's film made by the folks across the pond, so expect the leads (almost all of them) to be sporting british, irish, australian, or scottish accents. As far as horror and sci-fi movies go, this one is a cut above the rest. The crawlers, our mysterious misstep of evolution are actually people underneath all that costuming and polymer.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
It's a decent flick for what is obviously not an americanized cast or budget; the latter probably causing the prior. My favorite part is at the core of all true horror movies - the promise of something decent and wholesome (in the past, virginal) being violated. Watch for clues regarding this betrayl evidenced in the interactions between Sarah (Macdonald), Juno (Mendoza), and Beth (Reid). Let's just say this, there's a plot.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Sure, but you both have to like mild gore and the possibility of an unahppy ending, or at the least unresolved.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Alternate ending; the original theatrical ending overseas.
THANK YOU FOR SMOKING (2005)
TITLE
Thank You for Smoking
STARRING
Aaron Eckhart, Maria Bello, Sam Elliott, Katie Holmes, William H. Macy, Rob Lowe, Robert Duvall
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Well, the box just does a crap job of describing this incredible movie. Watch the trailer and then rent this movie - if you enjoy comedies or any of the above actors, you're going to like this movie. Oh and please don't pretend for one minute this is political, or that you didn't know your everyday lives were owned and operated by lobbyists and their special interests groups. I think this might just be the best written movie I've ever seen.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
Rent it, heck, I own it. Aaron Eckhart as mega lobbyist Nick Naylor, steals the show. If you didn't know him before this movie or have just never heard of the guy, please let Thank You for Smoking introduce you! Rounding out the rest of the cast, don't overlook the essece of this movie, which is the relationship between Eckhart and his son, expertly played by Cameron Bright. Maria Bello and Sam Elliott round out the lobbyists we love to loathe.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
This is not a gender specific film, everyone should have the opportunity to see this jem.
SPECIAL FEATURES
There's some deleted scenes worth watching and featurettes which round out the traditional "specail features" offerings. Commentary by writer/director Jason Reitman and some cast is also entertaining.
Thank You for Smoking
STARRING
Aaron Eckhart, Maria Bello, Sam Elliott, Katie Holmes, William H. Macy, Rob Lowe, Robert Duvall
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
Well, the box just does a crap job of describing this incredible movie. Watch the trailer and then rent this movie - if you enjoy comedies or any of the above actors, you're going to like this movie. Oh and please don't pretend for one minute this is political, or that you didn't know your everyday lives were owned and operated by lobbyists and their special interests groups. I think this might just be the best written movie I've ever seen.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
Rent it, heck, I own it. Aaron Eckhart as mega lobbyist Nick Naylor, steals the show. If you didn't know him before this movie or have just never heard of the guy, please let Thank You for Smoking introduce you! Rounding out the rest of the cast, don't overlook the essece of this movie, which is the relationship between Eckhart and his son, expertly played by Cameron Bright. Maria Bello and Sam Elliott round out the lobbyists we love to loathe.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
This is not a gender specific film, everyone should have the opportunity to see this jem.
SPECIAL FEATURES
There's some deleted scenes worth watching and featurettes which round out the traditional "specail features" offerings. Commentary by writer/director Jason Reitman and some cast is also entertaining.
MOZART AND THE WHALE (2005)
TITLE
Mozart and the Whale
STARRING
Josh Hartnett, Radha Mitchell, Gary Cole, John Carroll Lynch, Rusty Schwimmer
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
The movie will be hard to withstand in some parts purely because this is a movie about Asperger's Syndrome (a functional form of autism). If you are renting this movie because of either of the primary characters, Josh Hartnett and Radha Mithcell, be prepared for this to be a departure from those films. If you like the synopsis on the box, you'll like this movie.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
I like to pick quirky movies, which sit on the shelves by themselves, or with only one or two other copies. There's a uniqueness about this movie, and those like it. I am sure it has something to do with Ron Bass's (screenplay, Rain Man) intricately woven storytelling about persons with disabilities. Although I liked Josh Hartnett in other roles, this really sheds some light on his potential growth ability when it comes to acting.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
This movie is marketed as a love story and true story, both of which lend themselves to the female audience.
SPECIAL FEATURES
A commentary with Ron Bass is included. Enjoy the film and you've seen the best part!
Mozart and the Whale
STARRING
Josh Hartnett, Radha Mitchell, Gary Cole, John Carroll Lynch, Rusty Schwimmer
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
The movie will be hard to withstand in some parts purely because this is a movie about Asperger's Syndrome (a functional form of autism). If you are renting this movie because of either of the primary characters, Josh Hartnett and Radha Mithcell, be prepared for this to be a departure from those films. If you like the synopsis on the box, you'll like this movie.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
I like to pick quirky movies, which sit on the shelves by themselves, or with only one or two other copies. There's a uniqueness about this movie, and those like it. I am sure it has something to do with Ron Bass's (screenplay, Rain Man) intricately woven storytelling about persons with disabilities. Although I liked Josh Hartnett in other roles, this really sheds some light on his potential growth ability when it comes to acting.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
This movie is marketed as a love story and true story, both of which lend themselves to the female audience.
SPECIAL FEATURES
A commentary with Ron Bass is included. Enjoy the film and you've seen the best part!
SCHOOL FOR SCOUNDRELS (2006)
TITLE
School for Scoundrels
STARRING
Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Heder, Jacinda Barrett, Michael Clarke Duncan, Sarah Silverman, Todd Louiso
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
This is your pretty average ensemble comedy. Brought to you by the director of Old School it has that same polished feel, but is by far a comedy about guys, not a comedy for guys. The box advertises "Bad Santa meets Napoleon Dynamite," which is interesting because Bad Santa is a fairly dark comedy and Napoleon Dynamite follows in the footsteps of the first Bridget Jones Diary movie as being too painful in parts to watch and in other areas so hysterically absurd you can't help but love it. Ben Stiller, not credited has a small but worthwhile part as a failed former student of Dr. P.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
I probably wouldn't rent it again, but if it was already on basic cable I might be inclined to watch a few favorite scenes. Jon Heder is a comedic talent to be sure and Billy Bob is great at playing a scoundrel - so good, we might wonder when he is going to start acting. The real appeal of this movie comes in the form of the rest of the cast. For example Jacinda Barrett, (think Real World 4) who may be the actress I am most looking forward to watching expertly plays a sweetheart of a love interest without coming off as unbearably stupid. Not enough can be said about Luis Guzman who brings his own flair to the role of Roger's (Heder) boss. And of course we love Todd Louiso and Horatio Sanz as scoundrel-wannabes.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Yes.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Alternate ending, gag reel and trailers, all of which are not memorable, but possibly interesting on a slow day.
School for Scoundrels
STARRING
Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Heder, Jacinda Barrett, Michael Clarke Duncan, Sarah Silverman, Todd Louiso
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
This is your pretty average ensemble comedy. Brought to you by the director of Old School it has that same polished feel, but is by far a comedy about guys, not a comedy for guys. The box advertises "Bad Santa meets Napoleon Dynamite," which is interesting because Bad Santa is a fairly dark comedy and Napoleon Dynamite follows in the footsteps of the first Bridget Jones Diary movie as being too painful in parts to watch and in other areas so hysterically absurd you can't help but love it. Ben Stiller, not credited has a small but worthwhile part as a failed former student of Dr. P.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
I probably wouldn't rent it again, but if it was already on basic cable I might be inclined to watch a few favorite scenes. Jon Heder is a comedic talent to be sure and Billy Bob is great at playing a scoundrel - so good, we might wonder when he is going to start acting. The real appeal of this movie comes in the form of the rest of the cast. For example Jacinda Barrett, (think Real World 4) who may be the actress I am most looking forward to watching expertly plays a sweetheart of a love interest without coming off as unbearably stupid. Not enough can be said about Luis Guzman who brings his own flair to the role of Roger's (Heder) boss. And of course we love Todd Louiso and Horatio Sanz as scoundrel-wannabes.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Yes.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Alternate ending, gag reel and trailers, all of which are not memorable, but possibly interesting on a slow day.
Friday, February 16, 2007
THE QUIET (2005)
TITLE
The Quiet
STARRING
Elisha Cuthbert, Camilla Belle, Edie Falco, Martin Donovan, Shawn Ashmore
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
The truth, but that is meant as compliment in every way. Trailers and the less than extrodinary DVD case would have you believe you're renting another run of the mill thriller, which unapologetically casts its young beauties in roles they are more well known for centering around angst-ridden teen struggles situations of mild horror. Expect something different.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
There's some deep situations both girls encounter on their road back to friendship and their individual fight for emotional survival. The movie won't leave you feeling empty inside. Good direction by Jamie Babbit ensures you'll get from beginning to end without encountering weak segues.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Probably more for the gals than the guys; men might not be disappointed, but don't expect them to remain interested as the plot ramps up.
SPECIAL FEATURES
None worth noting, but there are some interesting trailers preceeding the film or available in the main menu.
The Quiet
STARRING
Elisha Cuthbert, Camilla Belle, Edie Falco, Martin Donovan, Shawn Ashmore
WHAT THE BOX DOESN'T TELL YOU
The truth, but that is meant as compliment in every way. Trailers and the less than extrodinary DVD case would have you believe you're renting another run of the mill thriller, which unapologetically casts its young beauties in roles they are more well known for centering around angst-ridden teen struggles situations of mild horror. Expect something different.
WHY I WOULD RENT IT AGAIN
There's some deep situations both girls encounter on their road back to friendship and their individual fight for emotional survival. The movie won't leave you feeling empty inside. Good direction by Jamie Babbit ensures you'll get from beginning to end without encountering weak segues.
WILL MY GIRLFRIEND/BOYFRIEND LIKE IT?
Probably more for the gals than the guys; men might not be disappointed, but don't expect them to remain interested as the plot ramps up.
SPECIAL FEATURES
None worth noting, but there are some interesting trailers preceeding the film or available in the main menu.
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