My Movie Reviews

Release Date: 20 March 2009
Time: 2 hr 5 min
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Clive Owen, Julia Roberts
Grade: B-

Synopsis: DUPLICITY is a slick, Soderberghian comic caper in which it’s never exactly clear who is being conned. It’s easy to see that ex-CIA agent Claire Stenwick (Julia Roberts) and former MI6 member Ray Koval (Clive Owen) have a heated history together when they embark on an elaborate mission of corporate espionage. Two rival CEOs (played by the always fantastic Tom Wilkinson and Paul Giamatti) are battling for the top spot in their industry, and a top-secret new product would determine who would wear the crown. But this isn’t just about business innovation and profit: Claire and Ray have a plan that would help them get the prized formula and walk away with millions. Tony Gilroy’s previous work as screenwriter and director--namely the Jason Bourne films and MICHAEL CLAYTON--didn’t give any indication that he could create something this bouncy and light. But while DUPLICITY is fun, it’s never dumb; it jumps back and forth in time with style, playing an elaborate game that its scheming lead characters would be proud of. As Ray and Claire, Owen and Roberts display the same fiery chemistry that they showed in the gut-punching romantic drama CLOSER, but this time, they play (mostly) nice. If DUPLICITY can draw comparison to the classic genre bender CHARADE, then it’s not a stretch to liken Owen to Cary Grant--he has an easy charm that ensnares not only each woman in the film but everyone in the audience as well.

My Review: I was expecting more from this film with the excellent cast. They did do a good job but the film was a bit of a dissapointment. It kind of dragged along at times and I was wondering if it was ever going to end. Clive and Julia have a fun little relationship going and they do a great job. I liked the fun twist at the end as well.

Recommend: This film probably wouldn't be a good one for kids. It would be a suitable date night film.

Release Date: 26 October 2007
Time: 1 hr 38 min
Distributor: Touchstone Pictures
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG
Starring: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dianne Wiest
Grade: B

Synopsis: Just as LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE did in 2006, DAN IN REAL LIFE reveals that Steve Carell is an actor who can do more than just comedy. He's won both accolades and awards as bumbling boss Michael Scott on THE OFFICE, but there's a greater depth to this performance as a single father and man in love. Advice columnist Dan Burns (Carell) has his hands full with three daughters that he's not willing to let grow up. The girls still grieve for their mother who died four years ago, and Dan hasn't made any attempts to date. So he's pleasantly surprised when he meets Marie (Juliette Binoche) at a bookstore when he goes to his parents' Rhode Island home for the annual family reunion. But his joy is short-lived when he discovers that she is dating his brother (Dane Cook), forcing Dan to hide his feelings and chemistry with Marie. Carell adeptly balances his role's humor and heartache, while Binoche (CHOCOLAT) is radiant as ever. Comedian Cook (GOOD LUCK CHUCK) shows surprising talent as the third leg of their love triangle. Through his duties as director and co-screenwriter, Peter Hedges deserves much of the credit for creating a film that is sweet without being sappy. Even though he's working with a far bigger budget than he did for his directorial debut, PIECES OF APRIL, he still maintains the feelings of intimacy and honesty that made that film such a critical favorite. What could have been a standard romantic comedy of errors turns into a strong film that goes deeper than many of its peers in the genre. DAN IN REAL LIFE also succeeds thanks to its soundtrack from Norwegian indie pop musician Sondre Lerche. The singer's compositions, both originals and favorites from his career, perfectly suit the film's tone and moods.

My Review: This movie was a decent film about Dan's lack of a love life after his wife passes away. The film has its moments but I was hoping that it would be funnier than it was. Steve Carell kind of let me down with this one.

Recommend: This is a fun date night film.

Release Date: 15 August 2008
Time: 1 hr 36 min
Distributor: The Weinstein Company
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Javier Bardem, Rebecca Hall, Scarlett Johansson, Penélope Cruz
Grade: D

Synopsis: Two young Americans spend a summer in Spain and meet a flamboyant artist (Javier Bardem) and his beautiful but insane ex-wife (Penelope Cruz). Vicky (Rebecca Hall) is straight-laced and about to be married. Cristina (Scarlett Johansson) is a sexually adventurous free spirit. When they all become amorously entangled, the results are both hilarious and harrowing.

My Review: This movie was too long and had no point. A movie only and all about sex and that is really all. Dubbed as a comedy but there were practically no funny moments at all in the film. Literally the film was about Juan Antonio and sleeping with all kinds of different women and all of the women ruining relationships. I didn't give it an F because I did watch the entire film and not turn it off.

Recommend: Don't waste your time. This film isn't worth it.

Release Date: 1 September 2006
Time: 1 hr 50 min
Distributor:
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessica Biel
Grade: A

Synopsis: 'The Illusionist' stars Edward Norton and Paul Giamatti as two men pitted against each other in a battle of wits: Norton as mysterious stage magician Eisenheim, and Giamatti as Vienna's shrewd Chief Inspector Uhl, with Jessica Biel sharing the screen as the beautiful Sophie von Teschen. When word of Eisenheim's astounding illusions reaches the powerful and pragmatic Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell), the ruler attends one of the magician's shows in order to debunk Eisenheim during the performance. But when the Prince's intended, Sophie von Teschen, assists the magician onstage, Eisenheim and Sophie recognize each other from their childhoods and a dormant love affair is rekindled. As the clandestine romance continues, Uhl is charged by Leopold to intensify his efforts to expose Eisenheim, even while the magician gains a devoted and vocal public following. With Uhl doggedly searching for the reasons and the man behind the trickery, Eisenheim prepares to execute his greatest illusion yet.

My Review: This movie was great. It kept my interest from the very beginning with the excitement of the magic tricks and carried all the way through to the surprise ending. Ed Norton does a superb job and the storyline is very good. Too be honest, it was quite different from what I was expecting but that didn't mean it was bad. I actually really enjoyed the basic plot and storyline.

Recommend: This is a fun film for everyone. The kids may lose interest mid-way through because it does turn a little more to the story than magic, but they should still enjoy it.

Release Date: 9 January 2009
Time: 1 hr 29 min
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Rating: PG
My Rating: PG
Starring: Kate Hudson, Anne Hathaway
Grade: B

Synopsis: A clerical error tests the lifelong friendship of two brides-to-be by scheduling their respective weddings at the famed Plaza Hotel on the exact same date in this romantic comedy starring Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson. Ever since they were little girls, Liv (Hudson) and Emma (Hathaway) have bonded over planning their weddings down to the very last detail. Now, both in their mid-twenties, Liv and Emma have each found the men they want to spend the rest of their lives with. But while most of the details regarding their respective weddings don't overlap, the one thing that both Liv and Emma have always dreamt of is holding their ceremony at the legendary Plaza Hotel -- New Your City's ultimate bridal destination. Unfortunately, a simple clerical error has scheduled both of their weddings on the exact same date, at the exact same place. As a high-powered lawyer who's used to getting her way, Liv simply isn't willing to settle for anything less than perfection. And though simple schoolteacher Emma has always placed the needs of others above her own, the prospect of making any sacrifices on her big day brings out her inner bridezilla in ways that shock her unsuspecting friends and family. There was a time when Liv and Emma would have done anything for each other, but now that the two best friends are at odds over who will get their dream wedding and who will have to settle for second best, the lacy gloves are off and it's all-out war. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide

My Review: This movie was just what I was expecting. It was a cute chic-flick and it had it's moments. I have always enjoyed Anne Hathaway in films and she does a great job here again. This film had its moments and I laughed a few times. Nothing great but it was fun.

Recommend: This is great for a date night or girls night. Guys will enjoy it as well.

Release Date: 26 December 2008
Time: 2 hr
Distributor: Fox Searchlight Pictures
Rating: R
My Rating: PG-13 (almost PG)
Starring:Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Anil Kapoor
Grade: A-

Synopsis: Jamal Malik, an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, is just one question away from winning a staggering 20 million rupees on India’s “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?” But when the show breaks for the night, police arrest him on suspicion of cheating; how could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika, the girl he loved and lost. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show’s questions. Intrigued by Jamal’s story, the jaded Police Inspector begins to wonder what a young man with no apparent desire for riches is really doing on this game show? When the new day dawns and Jamal returns to answer the final question, the Inspector and sixty million viewers are about to find out.

My Review: Excellent film and very intriguing. The film kept my attention the entire time and I loved it. The thing that bothered me the worst about this film is its rating. Why in the world did it get an R rating? They don't swear at all (at least that I recall), there is no sex or anything of the nature, and the violence that there is shows practically nothing (there is one scene with some eyes that is kind of disturbing, but if it wasn't there then it would have been a PG rated film). All the same, this film was very well done and it brought a lot of light and knowledge to my eyes about how the people in India live and what lives people in those situations live. I thought the children actors in this film did an excellent job acting. This film is truly inspiring and a great love story.

Recommend: I would recommend this film to all, especially adults. I was intrigued every minute and think everyone will enjoy the storyline here.

Release Date: 19 September 2008
Time: 1 hr 42 min
Distributor: DreamWorks Pictures
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG
Starring: Ricky Gervais, Greg Kinnear, Tea Leoni
Grade: B+

Synopsis: Bertram Pincus (Ricky Gervais) is a man whose people skills leave much to be desired. When Pincus dies unexpectedly, but is miraculously revived after seven minutes, he wakes up to discover that he now has the annoying ability to see ghosts. Even worse, they all want something from him, particularly Frank Herlihy (Greg Kinnear), who pesters him into breaking up the impending marriage of his widow Gwen (Téa Leoni).

My Review: This movie was pretty funny. Dr. Pincus was great. His personality was absolutely hilarious and at times it reminded me too much of myself. I guess the big difference is that I don't act the way that he does, I just think the same things. The film was pretty funny, but some of the jokes didn't go over so well, and there were a couple of times where you wanted the movie to move along. Dr. Pincus definitely made this movie. There wasn't really anything that bad in the film at all. Fun stuff.

Recommend: This is a great date night film, or just when you want to watch something funny and lighthearted. Feel free to let the kids join in, but they probably won't be too interested.

Release Date: 19 December 2008
Time: 1 hr 58 min
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Will Smith, Rosario Dawson
Grade: B

Synopsis: Academy Award nominee Will Smith reunites with the director and producers of The Pursuit of Happyness for this emotional drama concerning an IRS agent whose quest for redemption is unexpectedly complicated after he inadvertently falls in love. Ben Thomas is an IRS agent with a fateful secret. Assuming the identity of his younger brother, Ben sets out in search of redemption. Instead, Ben discovers true love while forever changing the lives of seven complete strangers. Woody Harrelson, Rosario Dawson, Michael Ealy, and Barry Pepper co-star. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide

My Review: This film was too slow. It certainly was drawn out at the beginning and felt much too slow. The plot and movie idea were excellent and I enjoyed the basic flow of things a lot, but it felt like this movie went on for several hours. Will Smith does a good job, but sometimes his character made me upset because it was as if he had no emotions when someone else did. It was certainly not what I was expecting from this film, but I still enjoyed it.

Recommend: You need to be in the mood for a serious film and be ready for some pretty big shockers. This film can be an emotion drain so be ready for that as well. As long as you are then you should check out this film. Don't take the kids to this one. They will be gone fast.

Release Date: October 24, 1997
Time: 1 hr 46 min
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Jude Law
Grade: A-

Synopsis:In the 21st century, genetic engineering makes possible the creation of biologically superior human specimens ("valids"), who then grow to positions of power and prestige. Would-be astronaut Vincent (Ethan Hawke) born the old-fashioned way, can only hope for a janitorial position at the elite Gattaca Corporation--until he buys the blood, urine, and identity of a perfect but paralyzed athlete. But a murder in the company's ranks attracts the attention of a detective who threatens to sniff Vincent out.

My Review: This film never ceases to amaze me. I have watched this movie before - the last time was about 5 years ago. When we decided to watch it, I thought it was going to be a real snoozer, but it turned out to be just the opposite. I think that my favorite character in the film is the one played by Jude Law. He does an excellent job with showing his disability, but the film as a whole is very intriguing. I am usually not a big fan of Uma Thurman, but she does an excellent job here as well. Probably the thing I like most about this film is just that it makes you think about life and what you are really like on the inside, as well as about the equality of everyone.

Recommend: I don't think this one is for the little ones. There is one scene that is a bit bloody, and another that has some strong language. Just the theme of the movie is a little darker than a lot and I think the kids will become lost fast. However, this one is perfect if you want a serious (drama) film. Check this out if you haven't, or we'll lend it to you.

Release Date: May 2, 2008
Time: 1 hr 41 min.
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Patrick Dempsey, Michelle Monaghan, Kevin McKidd
Grade: B

Synopsis: For Tom (Patrick Dempsey), life is good: he's sexy, successful, has great luck with the ladies… and knows he can always rely on Hannah (Michelle Monaghan), his down-to-earth, charming best friend and the one constant in his life. It's the perfect setup until Hannah goes overseas to Scotland on a six-week business trip… and Tom is stunned to realize how empty his life is without her. He resolves that when she gets back, he'll ask Hannah to marry him -- but is floored when he finds that she has become engaged to a handsome and wealthy Scotsman and plans to move overseas. When Hannah asks Tom -- the one person she feels closest to -- to be her “"maid"” of honor, he reluctantly agrees to fill the role,… but only so he can attempt to woo Hannah and stop the wedding before it's too late.

My Review: This is another chick flick that has been made a hundred times before. Standard story line of a guy and a girl trying to get together, but for one reason or another they can't. So you may be wondering why I gave it a B then. Probably the main reason is because I still enjoy films like this even though they have been done before. Patrick Dempsey does a good job. One of the other characters that I liked was his black friend who was one of the only people to have a lot of sense - and good morals for that matter.

Recommend: Sure, if you are in the mood for a chic flick, then this should fill your need. It has humor and it's "cute" moments. You will lose the kids fast though, so leave this one for you and someone special to watch together.

Release Date: December 24, 1990
Time: 1 hr. 45 min.
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG
Starring: Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest
Grade: D+

Synopsis:A modern day fairy tale which tells the story of Edward, the man created by an inventor, who died before finishing him and left Edward with scissors where he should have hands. One day when the local "Avon" representative calls at the historic mansion where Edward has been living alone, she takes him home to stay with her family. He has to adapt to the new life and environment that he isn't used to. Soon he shows a talent in cutting hair and hedges, and wins every body's heart. But life isn't always so sweet...

My Review: This movie is very interesting. It has been a long time since I have seen this movie. Watching it again made me realize how different Tim Burton's films really are. Johnny Depp looks completely different (he is about 15 years younger too), and the scissors on the hands look very real. The film however does not seem to flow. The beginning of the film seems very childish and sounds like the story is completely made up and unbelievable.

Recommend: Probably not. If you use to love this film when you were little, then it is better kept that way. You lose interest fast, and the story line does not keep your attention. Several of the actors are very amateur it would seem. Keep the happy memories of the scissors from when you were little, and don't ruin it by watching this movie again.

Release Date: March 7, 2008
Time: 1 hr. 32 min.
Distributor: Keylight Entertainment Group
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Frances McDormand, Amy Adams
Grade: A- (B+)

Synopsis:In 1939, Miss Guinevere Pettigrew (Frances McDormand), a middle-aged London governess, finds herself unfairly dismissed from her job. An attempt to gain new employment catapults her into the glamorous world and dizzying social whirl of an American actress and singer, Delysia Lafosse (Amy Adams).

Within minutes, Miss Pettigrew finds herself swept into a heady high-society milieu -- and, by the end of the day, discovers her own romantic destiny.

My Review: This was an interesting show, just a little slow at times. Other then that it was very entertaining. I couldn't help but feel bad for Miss Pettigrew at many points, but in the end you leave satisfied. Miss Pettigrew is a woman of high morals and there are many great lessons taught about lies and marriage that are wonderful.

Recommend: The kids will lose interest fast in this one. You're better off to enjoy this chick flick on a date. Other then the general story line of Delysia, the film is quite clean and suitable for anyone who is interested.

Release Date: February 14, 2008
Time:1 hr. 45 min.
Distributor:Universal Pictures
Rating: PG-13
My Rating: PG-13
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Abigail Breslin, Isla Fisher, Elizabeth Banks, Rachel Weisz
Grade: B+

Synopsis: From the makers of Notting Hill and Love Actually comes the charming and irresistibly funny romantic comedy Definitely, Maybe. When Will (Ryan Reynolds) decides to tell his daughter (Abigail Breslin) the story of how he met her mother, he discovers that a second look at the past might also give him a second chance at the future. Co-starring Elizabeth Banks, Rachel Weisz and Isla Fisher, it's the heartwarming story that makes you realize it's definitely never too late to go back…and maybe find a happy ending.

My Review: I enjoyed this movie more than I thought I would. When I first started watching it, I was wondering how this movie was going to be so long, but it actually didn't feel that long. In fact I got so into it, then when Will comes to the end of telling his daughter the story, I was hoping that we would have learned more. My biggest problem with this story is obviously how Will is so completely blind to what he really wants, but I guess that is what makes the movie.

Recommend: I would recommend this movie for your date night, or for the women. Men, don't watch this alone. This would be an okay movie for the kids, but I don't think they would really enjoy it.