Leaving 12/28/2006

Derby Cinema - Nothing
Movie Machine - Nothing
Northrock 14 - Blood Diamond
Palace West - A Good Year
Premiere Palace - Nothing
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Nothing
Warren Old Town - Nothing
Warren West - Nothing

DREAMGIRLS **

DREAMGIRLS, a Broadway musical , opened in 1981 and earned a Tony. It's been adapted for the big screen by writer/director Bill Condon, the person responsible for Chicago's screenplay.

The film is about three black girls who start in motown but aspire to crossover (acceptance by white audiences) musical stardom. Their successes and failures are shown during a ten to fifteen year period in the 60's and 70's. The prettiest of the three goes on to achieve stardom with the help of her manipulative manager/husband. The most talented one, who's something of a diva, gets booted out of the group, looses her husband, and lives a hand-to-mouth existence until finally achieving a measure of success.

Unlike most of the mainstream critics, I'm not impressed with this film. While there is a lot of talent on the screen (Hudson and Murphy especially), none of the music is particularly impressive, nor is it familiar. This is a musical more like an opera, with many of the songs being dialogue that is sung. The story is not a happy one and most of the characters are greatly flawed by a burning desire for fame and money. There are elaborate costumes and choreography but there isn't a single memorable tune for you to hum or whistle on your way out of the theatre. When I go to a musical, I expect to be really entertained, as I was in Chicago. This one didn't do that for me.

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM ***

The Christmas/New Year holiday season is upon us, which means the kids are out of school and entertainment is needed. A couple of films released earlier for this purpose have already faded from sight so Museum's release is most fortunate. It's based on a children's book by Milan Trenc and imbued with a fortune in computer graphics plus a cast of well known names.

Ben Stiller plays a divorced man sharing custody of a son with his ex-wife. He's a dreamer who's never achieved financial success and is constantly being unfavorably compared to the bond trader to whom his former wife is engaged. Desperate for an income, he takes a job as the night watchman at the Museum of National History where he soon discovers the display characters come alive every night due to the presence of an ancient Egyptian scroll.

Considering the money the producers had to have spent on cast salaries and computer graphics, it's a shame they couldn't have invested more in the screenwriting. The plot's about as thin as the 32 page book it's based on. Still, if you're looking for a Jumanji style action picture the kids will love and adults will at least mildly enjoy, this will fill the bill. And the chance to see Dick Van Dyke and Mickey Rooney in a film again is a real treat (you can see a little more of them if you stick around for the first half of the ending credits).

Worthwhile (and not) 12/22/2006

According to the major critics there are three Worthwhile films opening this week: DREAMGIRLS (doesn't open here until Monday), THE GOOD SHEPHERD and ROCKY BALBOA. The rest of the opening films are hovering in the **½ star range although BLACK CHRISTMAS doesn't appear to have been screened, and you know what that means.

THE GOOD SHEPHERD **½

Director Robert DeNiro has been trying to get this film made for several years. The studios weren't all that interested because they didn't see a boxoffice winner. With the signing of Jolie, Damon (although he wasn't DeNiro's first choice) and DeNiro himself to the cast, the film has finally been produced.

Damon is the son of a wealthy family who goes to an Ivy League school, Yale in this case, joins a secret organization, Skull and Bones (as did Bush and Kerry), and joins the OSS during WWII. At the end of the war he is asked to join the successor to OSS, the CIA. During his career he becomes head of Counter Intelligence (the spies) to the detriment of his family relationships. Jolie is his wife, aggressive as a young woman but basically ignored in the marriage.

I suspect that most in this part of the country will have trouble relating to the characters in this story. They're interesting to watch but they don't seem real. While the story covers a lot of ground, it never shows you much about the inner workings of the CIA. Consequently, there isn't much tension and you won't find yourself on the edge of your seat. I wasn't yawning during the two hours and forty minutes but a bit more excitement would have been nice. Damon and Jolie's characters are so withdrawn and repressed it's hard to care what happens to them. The rest of the cast and production values are first rate but when all is said and done, the overall impact is very muted.

WE ARE MARSHALL **

Every year or so Hollywood releases a film like this; a team with no chance to win, does win, and the townfolk (along with you, hopefully) are thrilled to their very core. This is one of those films and it's based on the true story of the 1970 Marshall University plane crash that killed most of the team and coaches as well as a few of their important supporters. In order to continue with the football program a new coach is found, the previous assistant coach returns, the college president does his best to bend a few rules, and wonder of wonders the new team manages to win a couple of games.

Matthew McConaughey is the new coach, Matthew Fox (Lost) is the returning coach, David Strathairn is the college President, and Ian McShane (Deadwood) is the father of one of the players killed in the wreck and the president of the college board. All of them do fine jobs although McConaughey acts like he's high on something (and really, really hyper) for the first 45 minutes.

This isn't as good as Hoosiers but if you liked that film you'll probably enjoy this also. I personally found it to be overly emotionally manipulative and I never got involved enough for it to make me want to stand up and cheer. Still, the holidays provide plenty of time for movie going and you could do far worse.

ROCKY BALBOA ***

ROCKY first hit the screen in 1976, followed by four sequels released every three to five years (V came out in 1990). Sixteen years later he's back again. This time Adrian's dead, his son is embarrassed by their relationship, Pauly's even grouchier than he used to be, and Rocky spends his time running a restaurant and retelling old stories that everyone already knows.

The first three quarters of this film is spent with Rocky reminiscing about the life he had with Adrian. He spends so much time at her gravesite he keeps a folding chair there so he can visit in comfort. On the anniversary of her death he tours their old haunts. When a TV program runs a computerized fight between Rocky and the current champ, he decides to go back into training and do a little fighting in order to brighten up what has become a dull existence. Then the champ decides to put on a sparring exhibition with the 'Rock' in order to help the champ's career.

While this sounds pretty dull, the time passes rather quickly. The pace picks up when we first hear the Rocky theme music and the fighting action begins. The fight is relatively short but well enough staged to be exciting. Stallone looks to be in excellent physical shape for 60. The rest of the cast is fine with Geraldine Hughes doing a superb job portraying a potential future love interest. Fight fans and those who admire the earlier productions should enjoy this film. It is not at brutal as earlier versions so women may enjoy it more.

Opening 12/22/2006

DRIVING LESSONS [PG-13] 1hr. 35min. Comedy/Drama Cast: Rupert Grint, Laura Linney, Julie Walters, Nicholas Farrell, Oliver Milburn, Michelle Duncan, Tamsin Eggerton. Plot: a shy, bookish 17-year-old begins a very unpromising summer vacation, which is turned upside down when he gets a job assisting an eccentric retired actress. Showing at: PP exclusively

THE GOOD SHEPHERD [R] 2hrs. 50min. Espionage Drama/Thriller Cast: Matt Damon, Angelina Jolie, William Hurt, John Turturro, Robert De Niro, Alec Baldwin, Billy Crudup, Michael Gambon, Gabriel Macht, Tammy Blanchard, Vladimir Mashkov, Joe Pesci. Plot: the tumultuous early history of the Central Intelligence Agency is viewed through the prism of one man's life. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM [PG] 1hr. 50min. Action/Adventure/Comedy Cast: Ben Stiller, Carla Gugino, Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney, Bill Cobbs, Ricky Gervais, Kim Raver, Robin Williams. Plot: the brand new night guard at the Natural History Museum is about to discover when visitors go home at the end of the day, the real adventure begins. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WO, WW

WE ARE MARSHALL [PG] 2 hrs. 5 min. Drama/Sports Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Matthew Fox, David Strathairn, Ian McShane, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty, January Jones, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Huntley Ritter, Kate Mara. Plot: when 75 members of Marshall University's football team and coaching staff are killed in a plane crash, those left behind struggle to cope with the devastating loss of their loved ones, and find hope and strength in the leadership of a young coach determined to rebuild the football program. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WO, WW

Opens Christmas Day, 12/25/06:

BLACK CHRISTMAS [R] 1hr. 35min. Horror/Thriller Cast: Michelle Trachtenberg, Lacey Chabert, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Katie Cassidy, Andrea Martin, Jessica Harmon, Oliver Hudson. Plot: a sorority house is terrorized by a killer who makes frightening telephone calls before murdering the sorority sisters during the Christmas break. Showing at: NR, PP, WW

DREAMGIRLS [PG-13] 2hrs. 10min. Drama/Musical Cast: Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé Knowles, Eddie Murphy, Danny Glover, Anika Noni Rose, Jennifer Hudson, Keith Robinson, Bobby Slayton. Plot: twenty-five years after first bringing Broadway audiences to their feet, the Tony Award-winning musical sensation comes to the big screen. Set in the turbulent early 1960s to mid-70s, it follows the rise of a trio of women who have formed a promising girl group called The Dreamettes. Showing at: WE exclusively

Leaving 12/21/2006

Derby Cinema - Happy Feet, Unaccompanied Minors
Movie Machine - Unaccompanied Minors
Northrock 14 - Casino Royale, Deja Vu, Santa Claus 3, (Unaccompanied Minors and Blood Diamond ends Sunday)
Palace West - Let's Go To Prison, Flyboys, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, POTC:Dead Man's Chest
Premiere Palace - A Good Year, The Prestige, Facing The Giants, For Your Consideration, Flags Of Our Fathers
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Unaccompanied Minors, Santa Clause 3
Warren Old Town - Apocalypto, Casino Royale
Warren West - Stranger Than Fiction, Santa Clause 3

Worthwhile (and not) 12/15/2006

CHARLOTTE'S WEB is the only Worthwhile film as far as the mainstream critics are concerned. THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS isn't far behind though while ERAGON had some worthwhile reviews but in general wasn't all that warmly received.

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS ***

This is Will Smith's picture from start to finish, and it's a drama at that. Aided by his real son, Jaden, the film attempts to show us what's it like to be poor in America and just how high you can rise if you're willing to work hard enough. Political conservatives will no doubt love this premise while others may be a bit dubious.

Smith is the father in a family consisting of his wife, Thandie Newton, and a son. In an attempt to go into business for himself he invests in a medical device he hopes to sell. Unfortunately, the device is a slow mover and economic pressures start to rise. In an attempt to build a better life for his family his manages to get an intern position at a brokerage firm, not realizing the six month internship has no salary and there's no guarantee of employment after its completion. The drama involves providing food, clothing and shelter while training every day without a steady income.

This is a very well made film and Will and Jaden are believable throughout. What you're going to have to decide, though, is whether you want to watch a story that's an absolute downer for 95% of it's length. There's very little ho, ho, ho in this holiday film.

ERAGON **½

Most science fantasy is pretty predictable. Someone is evil, someone is good, and the two battle with horrific results until good finally wins. LOTR was like that and so is this film It is also based on a book (a rather thick one I'm told) and it's part of a trilogy, with the third one yet to be written.

Eragon is a strapping young lad (aren't they all) living a dirt poor life in a land ruled by an evil King. He got to be King by betraying his fellow dragonriders and basically wiping them all out. All but his own dragon and an unhatched dragon egg. The egg chooses the strapping young lad to be her rider and they set out to bring peace and happiness to the Kingdom.

Other than the rather standard fantasy plot, whether it's a good picture depends on the quality of the cast and how spectacular the computer graphics are. This cast is certainly adequate, although basically unknown, with the exception of the King (John Malkovich) and an aging former dragonrider (Jeremy Irons). Djimon Hounsou is also in the cast but his role is very limited. The CG effects are also adequate, with the dragon appearing very realistic. While I enjoyed the film (and the granddaughter who accompanied me absolutely loved it) it isn't up to LOTR quality. I'm sure it's boxoffice won't rise to the same heights either. If you want to see a sequel, I'd see this one quickly, before it leaves. A big theatre screen and sound will greatly enhance the experience.

What's new for 12/15-22/2006

CHARLOTTE'S WEB [G] 1 hr. 30 min. Family Drama Cast: Dakota Fanning, Julia Roberts, Steve Buscemi, John Cleese, Oprah Winfrey, Cedric the Entertainer, André Benjamin, Thomas Haden Church, Robert Redford, Reba McEntire, Kathy Bates. Plot: Fern is one of only two living beings who sees that Wilbur is a special animal as she raises him, the runt of the litter, into a terrific and radiant pig. When the word gets out that Wilbur's days are numbered, a determined Charlotte spins words into her web in an effort to save him. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

ERAGON [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Adventure/Fanasy Cast: Ed Speleers, Jeremy Irons, Sienna Guillory, Robert Carlyle, Djimon Hounsou, Garrett Hedlund, Joss Stone, Rachel Weisz, John Malkovich. Plot: Eragon, a Dragon Rider, is swept into a world of magic and power, discovering that he alone has the power to save – or destroy – an Empire. Showing at: DC, NR, MM, WE, WO, WW

PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS [PG-13] 2 hrs. Drama Cast: Will Smith, Thandie Newton, Jaden Smith. Plot: a bright and talented, but marginally employed salesman, lands an internship at a prestigious stock brokerage firm. He and his son endure many hardships, including living in shelters, in pursuit of his dream of a better life for the two of them. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WO, WW

Starts Wednesday, December 20

ROCKY BALBOA [PG] 1 hr. 45 min. Drama Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Burt Young, Milo Ventimiglia, Tony Burton, James Francis Kelly III, Antonio Tarver, Geraldine Hughes. Plot: Rocky Balboa steps out of retirement and back into the ring, pitting himself against a new rival in a dramatically different era. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WO, WW

Leaving 12/14/2006

Derby Cinema - Casino Royale, Deck The Halls, (Santa Clause 3 and The Nativity Story end Tuesday)
Movie Machine - The Nativity Story, Santa Clause 3
Northrock 14 - Bobby, Deck The Halls, Van Wilder: Rise Of Taj, Stranger Than Fiction, Turistas, (Santa Clause 3 ends Tuesday)
Palace West - Jet Li's Fearless, The Marine
Premiere Palace - Dixie Chicks: Shut Up And Sing, The Departed
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Borat, Flushed Away, Turistas, Van Wilder 2, (Stranger Than Fiction and Deja Vu end Tuesday)
Warren Old Town - The Nativity Story, Happy Feet, (Deja Vu ends Tuesday)
Warren West - Flushed Away, Bobby, Van Wilder 2, Turistas, The Fountain, (Casino Royale and Deja Vu end Tuesday)

Worthwhile (and not) 12/8/2006

According to the critics only APOCALYPTO, BLOOD DIAMOND and DIXIE CHICKS: SHUT UP AND SING are Worthwhile (3 stars and up). As you can tell from my reviews below, I don't completely agree with that assessment. I can't find GUADALUPE listed on any of my usual sources so I'm assuming it's a very limited release

APOCALYPTO ***½

Whatever you may think about Mel Gibson, he knows how to make a film that will hold your attention. He even manages to do that when only an ancient language is spoken (Mayan in this case) and you have to read subtitles to understand what's being said. That turns out to be less of a problem than you might expect since this is basically an action film that doesn't require a lot of dialog.

The story is about a reasonably happy village of Indians whose lives are shattered when they're attacked by another group who basically want them as slaves and for sacrifices to their Gods. One of the tribe manages to escape and head back to the village to rescue his pregnant wife and child, whom he managed to hide before being captured. He is pursued by a small band of men, determined to kill him in revenge for the death of one of their own.

The picture will leave you with several images that will stick with you after it is over. This is not a film for the queasy or faint of heart. There are numerous rapes, killings, and disembowelments and the carnage is unrelenting throughout. It is, however, a powerful film that is going to be talked about and may be up for some awards next year (depending on what Hollywood thinks of Mel at that time). This should be seen in a large theatre for best effect.

UNACCOMPANIED MINORS *½

The premise of this movie is that a number of unaccompanied children are stuck in an airport that's been closed by a blizzard. Five of them join together to make sure the sister of one of the group gets a Christmas present from Santa. If you've seen a lot of movies (or even family TV shows) you should be able to develop the plot and most of the dialog from the above description.

There's just nothing original in this film. It's a collection of familiar plots, stitched together to allow a group of reasonably appealing young actors to be seen on the big screen. Of course, all of them are above average, which contrasts nicely with the adult buffoons who are supposed to be in charge.

This is advertised as a family comedy. I'm guessing that kids may get some enjoyment from this juvenile plot but I can almost assure you that any adult attending will be bored to tears. I chuckled once during the film and that was the extent of the comedy as far as I was concerned. Save your money and rent this one in a few months (if you must). There's nothing here that requires a big screen.

THE HOLIDAY **½

In this film Diaz and Winslet are women with romance problems who decide a change of scenery would be nice for Christmas. Through the miracle of an internet house swapping site, their desires are met and off they go, one to Los Angeles and one to rural England.

The Diaz/Law romance feels most realistic...young couple meet, fall in love, then try and make the relationship work. Winslet and Black are something else. When Winslet is in Europe she almost appears to be a hermit. When she hits L.A. she exudes charm, soon making friends with the entire neighborhood, including a former screenwriter who's never going to see 80 again. Had she been this outgoing at home she would never have had to make the transcontinental trip. She also meets Black and a romance ensues. This romance doesn't feel right and I think it's Black's fault. He just doesn't come across as a romantic lead, even though his character is allowed to be a bit zany.

Had they decided to take out an unnecessary subplot or two, reducing the time to under two hours, this could easily have been a three star picture. It doesn't really matter what I think about this film, though. It's a chick flick and the women are going to make the decision to see this one, and I suspect a lot of them will do just that. For those who are interested, this film will do just about as well in your home theatre as in a real one. So if you want to wait for the DVD, that's an acceptable option.

BLOOD DIAMOND **½

This is a film whose heart's in the right place but whose desire to educate gets in the way of entertaining. It purports to be an action thriller set against the backdrop of the civil war in Sierra Leone. The trouble is, the backdrop overwhelms the thriller, making for an overly long and underwhelmingly entertaining picture.

There's no doubt the aforementioned civil war is important, but I think discussing it would be better done in a PBS special, etc. The pic also has an unbelievable love affair. It just doesn't ring true that two people whose goals in life are so opposed would fall so quickly in love. In addition to the above, we also get a lesson in how European diamond traders get their product and how the money they pay for the diamonds is used to continue the civil war. All well and good, but what I wanted was what I saw in the preview...an action flick.

This is an expensive looking film, shot basically in Africa with a first class cast. But, by trying to do too much, this is a film where the final product is less than the sum of the parts.

Opening 12/8/2006

APOCALYPTO [R] 2 hrs. 20 min. Action/Adventure Cast: Rudy Youngblood, Dalia Hernandez, Jonathan Brewer, Morris Birdyellowhead, Carlos Emilio Baez, Ramirez Amilcar, Israel Contreras, Israel Rios, María Isabel Díaz, Espiridion Acosta Cache, Iazua Larios. Plot: a mythic action-adventure set against the turbulent end times of the once great Mayan civilization. Showing at: NR, WE, WO, WW

BLOOD DIAMOND [R] 2 hrs. 20 min. Action/Drama Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, Jennifer Connelly, James Purefoy, Arnold Vosloo, Stephen Collins, Michael Sheen. Plot: set against the backdrop of the chaos and civil war that enveloped 1990s Sierra Leone, the fate of two men becomes joined in a common quest to recover a rare pink diamond. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

DIXIE CHICKS: SHUT UP AND SING [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Documentary Cast: Martie Maguire, Natalie Maines, Emily Robison, Simon Renshaw. Plot: traces the lives and careers of the Dixie Chicks over a period of three years during which they were under political attack and received death threats, while continuing to live their lives, have children, and of course make music. Showing at: PP exclusively

GUADALUPE [PG] 1 hr. 45 min. Religious Drama Cast: Ivana Miño, Gemma Guilemany, Pedro Armendáriz Jr., Eric del Castillo, Sandra Estil. Plot: a group of 20th century pilgrims are drawn to Mexico by the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe. In Spanish. Showing at: PP exclusively

THE HOLIDAY [PG-13] 2 hrs. 15 min. Comedy/Romance Cast: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black, Eli Wallach, Edward Burns, Rufus Sewell. Plot: desperate for a change of scenery, two women meet on the internet and swap houses for the Christmas holiday, discovering that a change of address really can change your life. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

UNACCOMPANIED MINORS [PG] 1 hr. 30 min. Comedy/Family Cast: Lewis Black, Wilmer Valderrama, Tyler James Williams, Dyllan Christopher, Gina Mantegna, Quinn Shephard, Brett Kelly, Rob Corddry, Jessica Walter. Plot: five kids who have been snowed in at the airport try to outwit a disgruntled airport official and reunite with their families. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

Leaving 12/7/2006

Derby Cinema - Deja Vu, Flushed Away, Stranger Than Fiction
Movie Machine - Deck The Halls, Deja Vu
Northrock 14 - Borat, Flushed Away, The Fountain, Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny
Palace West - The Illusionist, Man Of The Year, School For Scoundrels
Premiere Palace - Running With Scissors, The Fountain, Babel, One Night With The King
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Bobby, For Your Consideration, Tenacious D in The Pick Of Destiny, Saw III
Warren Old Town - Borat
Warren West - Tenacious D in The Pick Of Destiny, Borat

Worthwhile (and not) 12/1/2006

Unfortunately, none of the pics opening today are in the Worthwhile group according to the critics. THE NATIVITY STORY got a very limited number of Worthwhile reviews but the majority were decidedly Not. Surely, something better will be arriving this month and in the meantime check out one of those you've been meaning to see, but haven't.

Sneaks 12/2, 4

For those who like to be the first to see new pics, there are 3 sneak peeks this week. On Saturday, 12/2, you have your choice of either THE HOLIDAY or BLOOD DIAMOND. Both films sneak at 7:00 p.m. at both WE and WW. Monday you have a chance to see THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS, 7:30 at WO. The first two open on 12/8 while HAPPINESS opens 12/15. There will be limited seating for these so get your tickets early.

Opening 12/1/2006

THE NATIVITY STORY [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Drama Cast: Keisha Castle-Hughes, Oscar Isaac, Hiam Abbass, Shaun Toub, Alexander Siddig, Said Amadis, Ciaran Hinds, Shohreh Aghdashloo. Plot: chronicles the arduous journey of two people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, and the history-defining birth of Jesus. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WO, WW

TURISTAS [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Mystery/Thriller Cast: Josh Duhamel, Melissa George, Olivia Wilde, Desmond Askew, Beau Garrett, Max Brown, Raul Guterres, Andréa Leal. Plot: a terrifying bus accident maroons a diverse group of young adventure travelers in a remote Brazilian beach town, where they slowly discover the white sand beaches and lush jungles are concealing a darker, unsettling secret. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

NATIONAL LAMPOON'S VAN WILDER 2: THE RISE OF TAJ [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy Cast: Kal Penn, Lauren Cohan, Daniel Percival, Glen Barry, Anthony Cozens, Tom Davey, Holly Davidson, William de Coverly, Shobu Kapoor, Ashley Rae, Steven Rathman, Amy Steel, Beth Steel. Plot: Taj, Van Wilder's assistant in the first film, heads out on his own to England's prestigious Camden University to further his studies. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

Leaving 11/30/2006

Derby Cinema - Borat
Movie Machine - Casino Royale
Northrock 14 - A Good Year
Palace West - The Grudge 2, Cars, Jackass Number 2
Premiere Palace - U.S. vs John Lennon, Fast Food Nation
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - A Good Year, Let's Go To Prison
Warren Old Town - Stranger Than Fiction
Warren West - A Good Year, Let's Go To Prison, Flags Of Our Fathers

Worthwhile (and not) 11/23/2006

Of the seven new films for this holiday period, three are in the Worthwhile category: CASINO ROYALE, DEJA VU, and FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION. All the rest are in the 2½ star range except for the lowest rated film. DECK THE HALLS, at 2 stars.

DEJA VU ***

I've been a science fiction fan for years so I've read a number of novels about time travel. It's too bad the screenwriters of this film haven't also done so. The might have been able to tie up a few of the logic problems in the plot.

Still, most won't notice those, preferring to gaze upon Denzel and Paula Patton as they go through the motions. The story concerns a horrible bombing and the effort of an elite group of scientists and law enforcement types attempting to change history in order to stop the carnage. The first third of the film introduces you to most of the cast and covers the bombing. The middle section rather slowly shows you the whole time travel concept. And, the final third covers once again the first third, but with the possibility the original outcome can be avoided.

Action fans will love the virtually endless stream of auto accidents, massive explosions, and shootouts. The supporting cast is just fine, although Val Kilmer looks as if he's given up all hope of being anything but a character actor. Production values are also good, as you'd expect from a Bruckheimer film. Seeing this in a large theatre with good sound will be necessary if you want to fully appreciate the explosive effects it offers. One with very comfortable seats should also be sought since the length is a tad excessive.

DECK THE HALLS **½

Those who know me are already aware of my "Bah, Humbug" attitude toward Christmas. But, I'm well aware that most really look forward to the holiday, the gifts, the time off, etc. I can tell you up front, the critics are going to hate this film but there will be a fair number who go to see it just because it has a Christmas theme. And many of them will like it just fine.

There's absolutely nothing original in this plot. Within minutes of the opening you will already be aware of what's coming next and how it will eventually end. Both DeVito and Broderick play to character type. DeVito as the mouthy hustler and Broderick as the stiff prig. Davis and Chenoweth are fine as long suffering wives, and we even get to hear a little (not nearly enough) of Chenoweth's lovely voice.

The film is a little tasteless for a Christmas pic but there's probably nothing in it the kids aren't already familiar with. Since the director had the sense to limit the length to less than 2 hours, I'm adding half a star (only seems fair since I regularly deduct for excessive length). Even so, you'd be better off saving your money for something better, like Happy Feet.

Opening 11/22-(23)/2006

(BOBBY) [R] 2hrs. Drama Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Demi Moore, Sharon Stone, Lindsay Lohan, Elijah Wood, William H. Macy, Helen Hunt, Christian Slater, Heather Graham, Laurence Fishburne, Freddy Rodriguez, Nick Cannon, Emilio Estevez, Martin Sheen, Shia LaBeouf, Jacob Vargas, Brian Geraghty, Joshua Jackson, Joy Bryant, Svetlana Metkina, Kip Pardue, David Krumholtz, Harry Belafonte, Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Plot: revisits the night Robert F. Kennedy was gunned down at the Ambassador Hotel in 1968. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

DECK THE HALLS [PG] 1hr. 35 min. Comedy/Family Cast: Danny DeVito, Matthew Broderick, Kristin Davis, Kristin Chenoweth, Alia Shawkat, Sabrina Aldridge, Kelly Aldridge. Plot: A family comedy about one-upsmanship, jealousy, clashing neighbors, home decoration...and the true spirit of the holidays. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

Déjà Vu [PG-13] 2 hrs. 10 min. Suspense/Thriller Cast: Denzel Washington, Val Kilmer, Paula Patton, Bruce Greenwood, Adam Goldberg, Jim Caviezel. Plot: called in to recover evidence after a bomb sets off a cataclysmic explosion on a New Orleans Ferry, an ATF agent discovers what most people believe is only in their heads is actually something far more powerful – and will lead him on a mind-bending race to save hundreds of innocent people. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WO, WW

THE FOUNTAIN [PG-13] 1 hr. 35 min. Fantasy/Sci-Fi Cast:Hugh Jackman, Rachel Weisz, Ellen Burstyn, Sean Gullette, Sean Patrick Thomas, Donna Murphy. Plot: an odyssey about one man's thousand-year struggle to save the woman he loves. Showing at: NR, PP, WW

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION [PG-13] 1 hr. 25 min. Comedy Cast: Carrie Aizley, Bob Balaban, Ed Begley, Jr., Jennifer Coolidge, Paul Dooley, Ricky Gervais, Christopher Guest, Rachael Harris, John Michael Higgins, Michael Hitchcock, Don Lake, Eugene Levy, Jane Lynch, Michael McKean, Larry Miller, Christopher Moynihan, Catherine O'Hara, Jim Piddock, Parker Posey, Harry Shearer, Deborah Theaker, Fred Willard, Scott Williamson. Plot: focuses on the making of an independent movie and its cast who become victims of the dreaded awards buzz. Showing at: WE

RUNNING WITH SCISSORS [R] 2 hrs. Comedy/Drama Cast: Annette Bening, Joseph Cross, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jill Clayburgh, Brian Cox, Joseph Fiennes, Evan Rachel Wood, Alec Baldwin, Gabrielle Union, Kristin Chenoweth, Heather Clark, Beth Grant, Colleen Camp. Plot: When his parents divorce, a boy's mother sends him to live with her wildly unorthodox psychiatrist. Showing at: PP

TENACIOUS D IN THE PICK OF DESTINY [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Comedy/Musical Cast: Jack Black, Kyle Gass, Will Ferrell, David Koechner, Jason Reed, Ronnnie James Dio. Plot: the story of how "The D" became the self-proclaimed greatest band on earth. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

Leaving 11/21-(22)/2006

Derby Cinema - A Good Year
Movie Machine - The Departed, Flushed Away
Northrock 14 - The Prestige, Flags Of Our Fathers, The Return, Saw III, (Facing The Giants)
Palace West - Gridiron Gang, Wicker Man, Invincible, The Devil Wears Prada
Premiere Palace - The Guardian, Man Of The Year, Horrorfest, Open Season, Marie Antoinette, The Illusionist
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Babel, The Prestige, The Departed, The Return, Harsh Times, Flicka, (Flags Of Our Fathers)
Warren Old Town - Flushed Away
Warren West - Saw III, The Return, The Prestige, Flicka, The Departed, Facing The Giants, Man Of The Year, (Babel)

Worthwhile (and not) 11/17/2006

This week virtually everything is worthwhile. With two exceptions, all of the new films are in the 3-4 star range. What doesn't have the seal of approval are the Horrorfest films and LET'S GO TO PRISON. The latter wasn't shown to critics in advance of today's opening which means the critics will hate it. And the Horrorfest films appear to be the type that were made to go directly to DVD or Cinemax. With so many highly rated films opening this week why waste your money on anything else?

CASINO ROYALE ***

Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan have both played Bond as a playboy with cool tools and a slight edge. That's not the Daniel Craig version of Bond. There's hardly a gadget to be found in this film and the car equipment is minimalist to say the least. And while Craig's Bond can toss off the occasional quip, there's no doubt he's all business...definitely a person you'd want as a friend rather than as an enemy.

There are other changes from previous Bond films. The opening credits are different in style and the Bond musical theme is not heard, at least not until the end. Also, I don't recall that earlier Bonds ran all that much. This one runs so much you'd think it was his favorite mode of transportation.

All in all, I liked this new Bond and the steely edginess he brings to the character. If the director had just seen fit to trim the film down to two hours, this would easily have gotten an even higher rating.

Opening 11/17/2006

CASINO ROYALE [PG-13] 2 hrs. 25 min. Action/Drama Cast: Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen, Jeffrey Wright, Giancarlo Giannini, Caterina Murino, Simon Abkarian, Tobias Menzies, Ivana Milicevic, Clemens Schik, Ludger Pistor, Claudio Santamaria, Isaach de Bankole. Plot: James Bond's first "007" mission leads him to Le Chiffre, banker to the world's terrorists. In order to stop him, and bring down the terrorist network, Bond must beat Le Chiffre in a high-stakes poker game at Casino Royale. Showing at: DC, NR, MM, WE, WO, WW

FAST FOOD NATION [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama Cast: Patricia Arquette, Bobby Cannavale, Luis Guzman, Ethan Hawke, Ashley Johnson, Greg Kinnear, Kris Kristofferson, Avril Lavigne, Esai Morales, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Lou Taylor Pucci, Ana Claudia Talancon, Wilmer Valderrama. Plot: a marketing director leaves the cushy confines of his company's Southern California boardroom for the immigrant-staffed slaughterhouses, teeming feedlots and cookie cutter strip malls of Middle America, and discovers a "Fast Food Nation" of consumers who haven't realized it is they who are being consumed by an industry with a seemingly endless appetite for fresh meat. Showing at: PP exclusively

HAPPY FEET [PG] 1hr. 50 min. Animated/family/comedy/adventure Voices of: Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brittany Murphy, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Hugo Weaving, Anthony LaPaglia, E.G. Daily, Miriam Margoyles, Magda Szubanski, Carlos Alazraqui, Johnny Sanchez III, Jeff Garcia, Lombardo Boyar. Plot: in the great nation of Emperor Penguins, deep in Antarctica, a young penguin and his friends set out across vast landscapes and, after some epic encounters, prove that by being true to yourself, you can make all the difference in the world. Showing at: DC, NR, MM, WE, WO, WW

HORRORFEST [NR] various times. Horror There are nine horror films in this collection which will be showing Friday through Tuesday. Three different films on Fri, Sat, and Sun with selected repeats on Mon-Tue. Separate admission for each film. Check the title link for more details. Showing at: PP exclusively

LET'S GO TO PRISON [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Comedy Cast: Dax Shepard, Will Arnett, Chi McBride, Dylan Baker, Steve Dahl, David Koechner, Michael Shannon. Plot: felon John Lyshitski has figured out the best way to get revenge on the now-dead judge who sent him to jail: watch the official's obnoxious son, Nelson Biederman IV, survive the clink. Showing at: WW, WE

THE U.S. vs JOHN LENNON [PG-13] 1 hr. 45 min. Documentary Cast: John Lennon, Yoko Ono. Plot: a little-known chapter of modern history, when a president and his administration used the machinery of government to wage a covert war against the world's most popular musician. Showing at: PP exclusively

Leaving 11/16/2006

Derby Cinema - The Prestige, Saw III
Movie Machine - Operation Stormbreaker, Flags Of Our Fathers, Man Of The Year
Northrock 14 - Man Of The Year, Flags Of Our Fathers, The Guardian, The Departed
Palace West - The Last Kiss, All The King's Men
Premiere Palace - Operation Stormbreaker, This film Is Not Yet Rated, Employee Of The Month, Infamous, Keeping Mum, Little Miss Sunshine, Jackass 2, POTC:Dead Man's Chest
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Marie Antoinette, Man Of The Year, One Night With The King, The Guardian, Facing The Giants
Warren Old Town - Saw III, The Departed
Warren West - Open Season, The Guardian

Worthwhile (and not) 11/10/2006

Based on the reviews I'm seeing, this week's Worthwhile (3-4 stars) group include STRANGER THAN FICTION, BABEL, THIS FILM NOT YET RATED, and THE QUEEN. The Not (1½-2½ stars) group includes HARSH TIMES, A GOOD YEAR, and ALEX RIDER. THE RETURN was evidently not screened for reviewers so you know what the film company thought the reviews would be!

STRANGER THAN FICTION is the only comedy in the Worthwhile group and will no doubt be the leader of this week's films. The other Worthwhile pics all tend to fall in the art house category, although if you like to see all the Academy Award nominated films you may want to see THE QUEEN since the buzz on it is quite good.

Opening 11/10/2006

ALEX RIDER: OPERATION STORMBREAKER [PG] 1 hr, 35 min. Action/Family. Cast: Sarah Bolger, Jimmy Carr, Robbie Coltrane, Stephen Fry, Damian Lewis, Ewan McGregor, Bill Nighy, Sophie Okonedo, Alex Pettyfer, Missi Pyle, Andy Serkis, Alicia Silverstone, Ashley Walters, Mickey Rourke. Plot: based on the best selling young adult adventure book series about a 14-year-old orphan who has been unwittingly trained all his life by his uncle with the skills to become a secret agent, and then must use those skills. Showing at: PP exclusively

A GOOD YEAR [PG-13] 2 hrs. Drama. Cast:Russell Crowe, Albert Finney, Abbie Cornish, Marion Cotillard, Valeria Bruni-Tedeschi, Didier Bourdon, Tom Hollander, Freddie Highmore. Plot: an Englishman inherits a vineyard in Provence that an American woman claims is hers. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

BABEL [R] 2 hr, 25 min. Drama. Cast: Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Gael Garcia Bernal, Rinko Kikuchi, Adriana Barraza, Koji Yakusho, Michael Pena, Clifton Collins Jr., Elle Fanning. Plot: two Morrocan boys set out to look after their family's herd of goats and decide to test their rifle... but the bullet goes farther than they thought it would and in an instant the lives of four separate groups of strangers on three different continents collide. Showing at: WE, WW

HARSH TIMES [R] 1 hr, 55 min. Action/Crime/Drama. Cast: Christian Bale, Freddy Rodriguez, Eva Longoria. Plot: from the creator of "Training Day," a gritty look at friendship, loyalty and ambition set on the extremely rough streets of south central Los Angeles. Showing at: WE exclusively

THE QUEEN [PG-13] 1 hr, 45 min. Drama. Cast: Helen Mirren, Michael Sheen, James Cromwell, Sylvia Syms, Alex Jennings, Helen McCrory, Roger Allam, Tim McMullan. Plot: when news of the death of Princess Diana breaks, Queen Elizabeth II retreats behind the walls of Balmoral Castle, unable to comprehend the public response to the tragedy. Showing at: PP exclusively

THE RETURN [PG-13] 1 hr, 25 min. Drama/Supernatural Thriller. Cast: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Kate Beahan, Peter O'Brien, Adam Scott, Sam Shepard. Plot: a tough young Midwesterner determines to learn the truth behind her increasingly terrifying supernatural visions. She is guided by her nightmares to a town where she discovers some secrets can't be buried and some spirits never die. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

STRANGER THAN FICTION [PG-13] 1hr, 50 min. Comedy/Romance. Cast: Will Ferrell, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Dustin Hoffman, Queen Latifah, Emma Thompson. Plot: a novelist struggling to complete her latest book discovers her main character is inexplicably alive and well in the real world and suddenly aware of her words. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WO, WW

THIS FILM IS NOT YET RATED [NR] 1 hr, 25 min. Documentary. Cast: Wayne Kramer, Allison Anders, David Ansen, Darren Aronofsky, Jamie Babbit, Maria Bello, Kirby Dick, Atom Egoyan, Steven Farber, Martin Garbus, Mary Harron, Richard Heffner, Lindsey Howell, Kimberly Peirce, Kimberly Price, Bingham Ray, Kevin Smith, Matt Stone, Michael Tucker, Mark Urman, John Waters. Plot: a breakthrough investigation into the MPAA film ratings system and its profound effect on American culture. Showing at: PP exclusively

Leaving 11/9/2006

Derby Cinema - Open Season, Man of the Year, Flags of our Fathers, Flicka
Movie Machine - Saw III, The Guardian, Open Season
Northrock 14 - Catch a Fire, Flicka, Open Season
Palace West - Crank, Black Dahlia
Premiere Palace - Catch a Fire, The Grudge 2, The Marine, Factotum
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Employee of the Month, Open Season
Warren Old Town - Flags of our Fathers, Man of the Year
Warren West - The Marine, Catch a Fire, One Night With The King, Employee of the Month, The Grudge 2

Borat Adds More Theatres On Friday

Those of you who tried to see BORAT this weekend and couldn't get in...take comfort in the fact the film is expanding its runs in Wichita. I haven't seen the Northrock schedule yet but in addition to its run at WE, the film will be playing at DC, NR, WW and WO starting Friday.

Worthwhile (and not) 11/3/2006

Read my review below and you'll see what I think is the best film of the week. It's also averaging 3½-4 stars from the critics. For family oriented entertainment you have two choices, FLUSHED AWAY and SANTA CLAUSE 3. The first is the preferred critic's pic with a 3-3½ average while Santa only averages 2½. It sounds like Tim Allen should consider moving on to new roles. KEEPING MUM is also earning a 2½ average but those who really enjoy British humour should find it entertaining.

BORAT: CULTURAL LEARNINGS OF AMERICA FOR MAKE BENEFIT GLORIOUS NATION OF KAZAKHSTAN ***½

I thought I'd seen every possible plot, but I was wrong. This film is like nothing I've ever seen before and I'm betting the response to it will be wildly polarized. In other words, you will either laugh hysterically or be highly offended. Count me as one of the first.

The genius of the film is that Mr. Cohen stays in the character of Borat throughout the film as he visits various people and groups who are unaware he's a comedian and whose prejudice's make them perfect foils for his supposed ignorance of American customs and mores. We watch as he tries to buy a gun suitable for killing Jews (Mr. Cohen is Jewish), sings a different version of our National Anthem to a Southern rodeo crowd, starts speaking in tounges at a Pentecostal revival and wrestles nude in front of a crowd of investment bankers. That's just for starters!

If you feel political correctness is a virtue and you're offended by lots of full frontal male nudity and very graphic bathroom humor, you should stay far, far away from this film. If you enjoy ribald humor and don't have a PC bone in your body, you'll laugh yourself sick!

Opening 11/3/2006

BORAT: CULTURAL LEARNINGS OF AMERICA FOR MAKE BENEFIT GLORIOUS NATION OF KAZAKHSTAN [R] 1 hr, 25 min. Comedy. Cast: Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Peter Baynham, Dan Mazer. Plot: the outrageous Kazakhstani reporter character Borat comes to the big screen. In this hilariously offensive movie, Borat travels from his primitive home in Kazakhstan to the U.S. to make a documentary. On his cross-country road-trip, Borat meets real people in real situations with hysterical consequences. Showing at: WE Exclusively

FLUSHED AWAY [PG] 1 hr, 25 min. Animated comedy. Voices of: Hugh Jackman, Kate Winslet, Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis, Bill Nighy, Shane Richie, Jean Reno. Plot: a pampered pet mouse inadvertently winds up being flushed away into the bustling world below the streets of London. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WO, WW

KEEPING MUM [R] 1 hr, 45 min. Comedy. Cast: Rowan Atkinson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Dame Maggie Smith, Patrick Swayze. Plot:an absent-minded vicar of a rural parish is so distracted by the pressures of his job that he fails to notice his wife's dalliance with her brash golf instructor, his daughter's parade of new boyfriends, and his young son's regular trouncing by the school's bullies. Showing at PP exclusively

SANTA CLAUSE 3: THE ESCAPE CLAUSE [G] 1 hr, 30 min. Family comedy. Cast: Tim Allen, Elizabeth Mitchell, Judge Reinhold, Wendy Crewson, Eric Lloyd, Spencer Breslin, Liliana Mumy, Alan Arkin, Martin Short. Plot: Santa juggles a full house of family plus the mischievous Jack Frost, who is trying to take over the "big guy's" holiday. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

Leaving 11/2/2006

Derby Cinema - Grudge 2
Movie Machine - Grudge 2, Employee of the Month, The Marine
Northrock 14 - Grudge 2, The Marine, Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Palace West - The Covenant, Monster House, Talledega Nights
Premiere Palace - Half Nelson, The Science of Sleep, Jet Li's Fearless, Beowulf & Grendel
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Catch a Fire, Grudge 2, The Marine, Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Warren Old Town - Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Warren West - Texas Chainsaw Massacre

Worthwhile (and not) 10/27/2006

Of the two wide releases, CATCH A FIRE comes out ahead, averaging around 2½ stars. Of course SAW III wasn't screened for critics so there are no ratings yet, but the fact the film company didn't want critics to see it in advance tells you all you need to know about what they'll say. It won't make a bit of difference what they say, however, since this will be the number one new weekend film. FACTOTUM and INFAMOUS are both high on the major critic's lists with 3-3½ stars. Patrons seemed to like both of these also with FACTOTUM being the most favorably approved. People I know who have seen INFAMOUS liked it very much, even if it is the second pic in a year about Truman Capote. Who would ever have thought you could find two actors who both look and sound like Truman Capote? This one is supposedly more emotional and less cerebral than the first.

CATCH A FIRE **

This film is supposed to be a thriller but I didn't find it so. It certainly had the potential to be one, but I never had any "edge of the seat" moments.

It felt to me as if the director had pulled his punches...smoothed everything out to a somewhat bland middleground. I think in reality the South African government was far more brutal than portrayed here and I think the black citizens had it far worse than we're shown.

The actors and the production values are all very good. The plot moves along swiftly and never seems to lag. But I found it all pretty ho-hum. I'd hurry if you want to see this in a theatre because I doubt this will be around long. However, it will be just as good on a home system since it never takes advantage of what a big theatre can do.

Opening 10/27/2006

CATCH A FIRE [PG-13] 1 hr, 40 min. Drama/Thriller. Cast: Tim Robbins, Derek Luke, Bonnie Henna. Plot: the story of a South African hero's journey to freedom. The political thriller takes place during the country's turbulent and divided times in the early 1980s, and in the new South Africa of today. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

FACTOTUM [R] 1 hr, 35 min. Drama. Cast: Matt Dillon, Lili Taylor, Fisher Stevens, Marisa Tomei, Didier Flamand, Adrienne Shelly, Karen Young, Tony Lyons. Plot: the story of a man living on the edge; a writer who risks everything, tries anything, and finds poetry in life's pleasure and pain. Showing at: PP

INFAMOUS [R] 1 hr, 50 min. Biography/Drama. Cast: Toby Jones, Sandra Bullock, Daniel Craig, Peter Bogdanovich, Jeff Daniels. Plot: another film about author Truman Capote and how he was changed during the research for his book 'In Cold Blood.' Showing at: PP

SAW III [R] 1 hr, 45 min. Thriller. Cast: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, Angus MacFadyen, Bahar Soomekh, Dina Meyer. Plot: with his new apprentice , the puppet-master behind the cruel, intricate games that have terrified a community and baffled police, selects the latest pawn on his vicious chessboard. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WO, WW

Leaving 10/26/2006

Derby Cinema - The Marine
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 - nothing
Palace West - Beerfest, The Protector, Ant Bully, Superman Returns
Premiere Palace - School for Scoundrels, Flyboys, Gridiron Gang
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - The Illusionist
Warren Old Town - The Guardian
Warren West - nothing

Worthwhile (and not) 10/20/2006

The clear winner this week is FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS. It's averaging between 3½-4 stars from both mainstream reviewers and the general public. I got a chance to see about 45 minutes of this film and can tell you its violence approaches Saving Private Ryan but it appears to be more introspective in nature. It definitely is not a feel good film. HALF NELSON is getting between 3-3½ stars from all concerned but looks to me as if it will have a limited audience. MARIE ANTIONETTE and THE PRESTIGE are averaging 3 stars from the critics but the public doesn't find the former nearly as attractive as the latter. FLICKA is averaging between 2½-3 stars with both the critics and the public. It's the only family film for the week.

All in all this looks to be a better than average week. I think most of these films will be here for awhile so you have some time to make your plans.

THE PRESTIGE ***

This film has a terrific preview and if you've watched any TV at all in the past few weeks you must have seen it several times. For the most part the film lives up to the preview. As with any magic act, it's all about diverting the viewer's attention and the film warns you to watch closely right from the start.

The story is about two magicians who are friends but become bitter enemies after a tragic death. They each become as interested in destroying the other, both personally and professionally, as they are in developing their careers. The plot moves back and forth between the two as well as back and forth in time. That makes it somewhat confusing but also keeps your interest high.

I didn't have that much trouble figuring out the plot as clues are provided throughout, although I found the very last scene a little confusing. The actors do a fine job and the production values are impressive. This is a good couples movie but some scenes will frighten younger viewers.

MARIE ANTOINETTE ***

This was not a film I particularly wanted to see but I did, and it turned out to be better than expected. It's based on Antonia Fraser's Marie Antoinette The Journey, a non-fiction history of her life. According to it, Marie was a much different person than we have been led to believe.

The film begins with the teenaged Austrian princess being sent to France to marry the future king in an attempt to forge a strong alliance between Austria and France. She tries very hard to live up to the expectations of the two countries and you may be surprised how difficult that is. This is a period piece, filmed in France and using what appears to be clothing of the time. However, the film uses contemporary music for accompanyment which makes for an interesting dichotomy, as well as making the film more palatable for many.

The picture was a little slow for me, although not nearly as much as it's length might imply. Partly that's because the director obviously wanted to show the languid pace of the era, and partly because the film covers more than twenty years of history. If you want to learn a little history, this is an entertaining way to do so. There is some partial nudity but it's hardly worse than N.Y.P.D. Blue, and there's very little else that would bother anyone from a teen on up. Smaller children will be bored long before this film is over.

Opening 10/20/2006

FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS [R] 2 hrs, 10 min. War Drama. Cast: Ryan Phillippe, Jesse Bradford, Adam Beach, Paul Walker, Jamie Bell, Barry Pepper, John Benjamin Hickey. Plot: a human drama of friendship and love, sacrifice and manipulation, set against the violent conflict of the battle of Iwo Jima in WWII. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WO, WW

FLICKA [PG] 1 hr, 40 min. Family. Cast: Alison Lohman, Tim McGraw, Maria Bello, Ryan Kwanten. Plot: a contemporary motion picture adaptation of Mary O'Hara's beloved novel "My Friend Flicka," a 16-year-old girl dreams of fulfilling her family legacy by working on her father's ranch in modern-day Wyoming. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WW

HALF NELSON [R] 1 hr, 45 min. Drama. Cast: Ryan Gosling, Shareeka Epps, Anthony Mackie, Karen Chilton, Monique Curnen, Tina Holmes, Collins Pennie, Deborah Rush, Jay O. Sanders, Sebastian Sozzi, Nicole Vicius, Tristan Wilds. Plot: a young inner-city junior high school teacher's ideals wither and die in the face of reality and a growing drug habit. Showing at: PP

MARIE ANTOINETTE [PG-13] 2 hrs, 5 min. Drama. Cast: Kirsten Dunst, Jason Schwartzman, Judy Davis, Rip Torn, Rose Byrne, Asia Argento, Steve Coogan, Marianne Faithful, Molly Shannon, Shirley Henderson, Danny Huston. Plot: without guidance, adrift in a dangerous world, a young girl rebels against the isolated atmosphere at Versailles and becomes France's most misunderstood monarch. Showing at: WE

THE PRESTIGE [PG-13] 2 hrs, 10 min. Suspense/Thriller. Cast: Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall, Andy Serkis, Piper Perabo, David Bowie. Plot: a mysterious story of two magicians whose intense rivalry leads them on a life-long battle for supremacy full of obsession, deceit and jealousy with dangerous and deadly consequences. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WW

Leaving 10/19/2006

Derby Cinema - The Departed, Employee Of The Month, The Guardian
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 - Jackass Number 2, Love's Abiding Joy, The Gridiron Gang, Employee Of The Month, Jet Li's Fearless
Palace West - World Trade Center, Click
Premiere Palace - Devil Wears Prada, Hollywoodland, All The King's Men, Black Dahlia
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - School For Scoundrels, Flyboys, Jackass #2
Warren Old Town - Jackass Number Two
Warren West - School For Scoundrels, Jackass Number Two

Worthwhile (and not) 10/13/2006

There really isn't a lot to get excited about this weekend. The best reviewed film is THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP which got about 2½ stars. It's a French film that's been dubbed and looks as if it's aimed at the art house fans. I could find only one review for ONE NIGHT WITH THE KING. Variety thought it was pretty good and compared it to the Biblical extravaganzas that used to be popular 50-60 years ago. MAN OF THE YEAR is getting poor reviews, 1½-2 stars, but I've talked to people who've seen it at screenings and who thought it was hilarious. It's probably going to depend on how much of a Robin Williams fan you are. THE GRUDGE 2 and THE MARINE were not screened by their distributors, and that does not speak well for them. You already know what I thought of the horror film (see below if you don't) and the action pic looks like something that will be on Cinemax before you know it. Frankly, this looks like a week to save your money. It may come in handy next week when the new Clint Eastwood film and THE PRESTIGE both open

THE GRUDGE 2 *½

If you're looking for something to creep you out or to make your sweetie hold on tight, here's your pic. If you want anything more, you're out of luck.

Friday the 13th is as good a time as any to release a horror sequel but I wish this one had more substance. The plot doesn't make any sense, the editing is strictly from the MTV film school, and the scary moments are of the "boo" variety accompanied by screeching violins. Upper teens may enjoy this but I doubt anyone older will.

There is one great scene right at the beginning that frustrated wives might applaud, but it's all down hill after that. The ending leaves plenty of possibilities for another sequel so if this does any business expect number three next year at this time.

Opening 10/13/2006

THE GRUDGE 2 [PG-13] 1 hr, 45 min. Horror/Thriller. Cast: Amber Tamblyn, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Arielle Kebbel, Jennifer Beals, Teresa Palmer, Takako Fuji, Ryo Ishibashi, Misako Uno, Shaun Sipos, Edison Chen. Plot: a terrifying supernatural curse is unleashed on a group of seemingly unrelated victims as it quickly moves from a burned-down house in Tokyo and spreads to everyone who crosses its path. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

MAN OF THE YEAR [PG-13] 1hr, 55 min. Comedy. Cast: Robin Williams, Christopher Walken, Laura Linney, Lewis Black, Jeff Goldblum. Plot: the comic tale of an entertainer's accidental rise to power. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WO, WW

THE MARINE [PG-13] 1 hr, 30 min. Action/Thriller. Cast: John Cena, Kelly Carlson, Robert Patrick, Jeff Chase, Jon Bennett, Abigail Bianca, Troy Brenna, Ashley Lyons, Anthony Ray Parker, Drew Powell, Kelly Steves. Plot: a heroic Marine who returns home after being discharged- against his will- from the Iraq War finds himself back in action when his wife is kidnapped by a murderous gang . Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

ONE NIGHT WITH THE KING [PG] 1 hr, 55 min. Drama. Cast: Tiffany Dupont, Luke Goss, Tom 'Tiny' Lister Jr., James Callis, Dilshad, Jonah Lotan, John Noble, Peter O'Toole, John Rhys-Davies, Omar Sharif, Denzil Smith. Plot: a young girl ( the Biblical Esther) rises from peasant to princess by going against the culture and seeking the King's heart rather than the riches of the kingdom. Showing at: WE, WW

THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP [R] 1 hr, 45 min. Fantasy. Cast: Gael García Bernal, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Alain Chabat, Jean-Michel Bernard, Emma de Caunes, Inigo Lezzi, Stéphane Metzger, Miou-Miou, Aurélia Petit, Pierre Vaneck. Plot: a man's dreams overtake his reality as he tries to romance his neighbor. Dubbed in English. Showing at: PP

Leaving 10/12/2006

Derby Cinema - Everyone's Hero, Gridiron Gang, School For Scoundrels
Movie Machine - School For Scoundrels, Flyboys
Northrock 14 - Flyboys, School For Scoundrels
Palace West - Everyone's Hero, How To Eat Fried Worms, Zoom, Little Man
Premiere Palace - Talledega Nights, Cars, Monty Python Double Feature, Invincible
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Jet Li's Fearless, Gridiron Gang, Hollywoodland, Love's Abiding Joy
Warren Old Town - School For Scoundrels
Warren West - Flyboys, Jet Li's Fearless, Gridiron Gang, The Illusionist

Worthwhile (and not) 10/06/2006

THE DEPARTED is the clear winner for this week, receiving virtually unanimous acclaim from the critics. The rest of the pack are hovering around the 2 star level so you'll have to decide if you're in really in need of a comedy (EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH) or a horror film (TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE: THE BEGINNING). If a good ogre film sounds good to you I should point out that BEOWULF & GRENDEL is already available on DVD and LOVE'S ABIDING JOY is already scheduled for DVD release in January, 2007.

THE DEPARTED ****

It's always nice when fall arrives since that means at least a few good films will make their appearance. No doubt this film will be up for Oscar nominations, as well it should be. Director Martin Scorsese has pulled out all the stops with a riveting story and a cast that doesn't have a weak link.

Before you get ready to rush to the cinema with the kiddies for a 4 star epic, be advised that the R rating is well deserved. The film is incredibly violent, with extremely graphic brutality and virtually non-stop profanity right from the start. You've been warned!

If you find it odd that those descriptions can apply to a 4 star film just be aware this is a picture about the Irish mafia and the brutality and profanity seem in character. This is a must see film for adults who appreciate top notch movie making.

Opening 10/06/2006

BEOWULF AND GRENDEL [R] 1 hr, 45 min. Action/Adventure. Cast: Gerard Butler, Stellan Skarsgård, Sarah Polley, Ingvar Eggert Sigurðsson, Benedikt Clausen, Tony Curran, Martin Delaney, Gunnar Eyjólfsson, Rory McCann, Ronan Vibert. Plot: based on the seminal 9th century Anglo-Saxon poem, "Beowulf," it tells the blood-soaked tale of a Norse warrior's battle against a great and murderous troll. Showing at: PP

THE DEPARTED [R] 2hrs, 30 min. Crime Drama. Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Mark Wahlberg, Martin Sheen, Ray Winstone, Vera Farmiga, Alec Baldwin, Anthony Anderson, James Badge Dale, Kristen Dalton, Gerard McSorley, David O'Hara, Mark Ralston. Plot: a young undercover cop is assigned to infiltrate a mob syndicate, while a hardened young criminal has infiltrated the police department as an informer for the syndicate. Each frantically tries to be the first to discover the identity of the other. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WO, WW

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH [PG-13] 1hr, 45 min. Comedy. Cast: Dane Cook, Jessica Simpson, Dax Shephard, Efren Ramirez, Tim Bagley, Andy Dick, Brian George, Marcello Thedford, Danny Woodburn, Sean Whalen, Harland Williams, Shirly Brener. Plot: two ultra competitive Super Club workers vie to win the coveted Employee Of The Month award in an effort to impress a beautiful co-worker. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

LOVE'S ABIDING JOY [PG] 1 hr, 25 min. Western. Cast: Stephen Bridgewater, Brianna Brown. Plot: almost no information available on this other than it's a film version of the 4th book in the "Love Comes Softly" series. It's being released by a new division of 20th Century Fox, Fox Faith, which I can only assume means it has a religious theme. IMDB also indicates it's a tv movie so I can also assume you'll be able to view it at home fairly soon. Showing at: NR, WE

TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE: THE BEGINNING [R] 1 hr, 25 min. Horror. Cast: Jordana Brewster, Andrew Bryniarski, R. Lee Ermey, Taylor Handley, Matthew Bomer, Diora Baird, Heather Kafka, Marietta Marich, Terrence Evans. Plot: a prequel which details the beginnings of the Hewitt clan and exposes their psychotic idea of family fun. Showing at: NR, WE, WO, WW

Leaving 10/5/2006

Derby Cinema - The Covenant, Talladega Nights
Movie Machine - Barnyard
Northrock 14 - The Covenant, Everyone's Hero, Step Up
Palace West - The Descent, Snakes On A Plane, Over The Hedge
Premiere Palace - The Last Kiss, Everyone's Hero, Barnyard, Only Human, How To Eat Fried Worms, World Trade Center
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East - Invincible, All The King's Men, The Black Dahlia, Little Miss Sunshine, The Covenant
Warren Old Town - Gridiron Gang, The Black Dahlia
Warren West - All The King's Men, The Black Dahlia, Everyone's Hero, The Covenant, Little Miss Sunshine, Pirates Of The Caribben: Dead Man's Chest, Invincible

Worthwhile (And Not) 9/29/2006

THE GUARDIAN, OPEN SEASON and SCHOOL FOR SCOUNDRELS are averaging ** by the national reviewers which means nothing is a "must see". I thought THE GUARDIAN was a little better than that and doubt you'll be too disappointed if you choose to see it.

FACING THE GIANTS is a little more difficult to pigeonhole. It apparently hasn't been screened for the national media. From what I can tell this is a very low budget film made by a church as part of their outreach program. Nothing wrong with that as long as you understand it up front. I don't think you'll find anything objectionable in this film but I suspect it's enjoyability will depend mostly on your religious persuasion.

THE GUARDIAN ***

This is another film (it's becoming more common) that would have been better if they hadn't added so much. As it is the pic is over two hours and it would have been much better, and easily possible, if it were 90 minutes.

The plot is the familiar: young buck meets older/wiser teacher and the two learn from each other, then work together to achieve the difficult. So far, so good. In fact the action scenes are very good and are the saving grace of the film. But in an effort (I suppose) to attract the ladies the director has added a couple of love subplots and a bonding sequence that seemed prefectly superfluous. There is also a second ending that seemed unneeded to me but some may find moving. Costner does a good job with his role but the real surprise is Kutcher, whose portrayal of the young cadet is very good and far better than what I've seen him do before.

With some trimming this could have been a ***½ action film but even with the unnecessary footage it will be enjoyed by most.

Opening 9/29/2006

FACING THE GIANTS [PG] 1 hr, 50 min. Drama. Cast: James Blackwell, Bailey Cave, Shannen Fields, Tracy Goode, Alex Kendrick, Jim McBride, Tommy McBride, Jason McLeod, Steve Williams, Chris Willis, Ray Wood. Plot: drama about a Christian high school football coach who uses his undying faith to battle the giants of fear and failure. NR, WE, WW

THE GUARDIAN [PG-13] 2 hr, 5 min. Action/Drama. Cast: Kevin Costner, Ashton Kutcher, Neal McDonough, Melissa Sagemiller, Clancy Brown, Brian Geraghty, Sela Ward. Plot: after losing his crew in a fatal crash, a legendary Rescue Swimmer is sent to teach at "A" School, an elite training program for Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers. DP, NR, MM, SD, WE, WO, WW

MONTY PYTHON DOUBLE FEATURE [R] 3 hr, 30 min. Comedy. Reissue of LIFE OF BRIAN and MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL. PP

OPEN SEASON [PG] Animated Family Adventure. Voices Of: Martin Lawrence, Ashton Kutcher, Gary Sinise, Debra Messing, Billy Connolly, Jon Favreau, Patrick Warburton, Jane Krakowski, Gordon Tootoosis, Georgia Engel. Plot: a grizzly bear with no survival skills, has his perfect world turned upside-down when he meets a scrawny, fast-talking wild mule deer. DP, NR, MM, SD, WE, WW

SCHOOL FOR SCOUNDRELS [PG-13] Comedy. Cast: Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Heder, Jacinda Barrett, Michael Clarke Duncan, Sarah Silverman, David Cross, Horatio Sanz, Matt Walsh. Plot: a beleaguered New York City meter maid, plagued by anxiety and low self-esteem, enrolls in a top-secret confidence-building class. DP, NR, MM, WE, WO, WW

Leaving 9/28/2006

Derby Cinema - Step Up, How To Eat Fried Worms, Invincible
Movie Machine - Everyone's Hero, Gridiron Gang, The Covenant
Northrock 14 - Little Miss Sunshine, The Wicker Man, Crank, The Black Dahlia, The Protector
Palace West - Pulse, Miami Vice, You, Me And Dupree, The Lake House, Lady In The Water
Premiere Palace - Monster House, Trust The Man, Who Killed The Electric Car, Feast
Starlite Drive-In - Barnyard, Monster House, The Wicker Man, Beer Fest
Warren East - The Last Kiss, Everyone's Hero, Barnyard, The Protector, Crank. Accepted, The Wicker Man
Warren Old Town - The Last Kiss, Invincible
Warren West - The Last Kiss, Step Up, The Protector, Talledega Nights, Accepted, Gridiron Gang

Leaving 9/28/2006

Derby Cinema - Step Up, How To Eat Fried Worms, Invincible
Movie Machine - Everyone's Hero, Gridiron Gang, The Covenant
Northrock 14 - Little Miss Sunshine, The Wicker Man, Crank, The Black Dahlia, The Protector
Palace West - Pulse, Miami Vice, You, Me And Dupree, The Lake House, Lady In The Water
Premiere Palace - Monster House, Trust The Man, Who Killed The Electric Car, Feast
Starlite Drive-In - Crank
Warren East - The Last Kiss, Everyone's Hero, Barnyard, The Protector, Crank. Accepted, The Wicker Man
Warren Old Town - The Last Kiss, Invincible
Warren West - The Last Kiss, Step Up, The Protector, Talledega Nights, Accepted, Gridiron Gang

FLYBOYS **

Some judicious editing and a half hour of film on the cutting room floor could have easily turned this feature into one I could recommend. Sadly, what we get instead is a turgid plot with several subplots that could easily have been removed. The cast does fine and the production values are top notch. The aerial action scenes, and there are several, are exciting and save this production from being a disaster.

The story is about a mixed bag of Americans who fought as pilots for the French in the years before the United States entered WWI. While the setting is supposed to be in France, the production was centered in England and on a British soundstage.

To get the impact of the action scenes you need to see this on a big screen with top notch surround sound. Anything less and you've got a real snoozer.

Worthwhile (And Not) 9/22/2006

The best reviewed film from this week's selection is ONLY HUMAN. That doesn't mean it will attract much of a crowd but those who do go should be pleased. Next on the list in a virtual tie are JET LI'S FEARLESS and JACKASS NUMBER 2 (which are earning **½). I frankly don't understand that last one since I could only sit through half the first JACKASS and absolutely nothing could entice me to attend another. The crowd (and there probably will be one) will be dominated by teenage boys. That takes care of the WORTHWHILE entries for this week.

Next in the eyes of the reviewers is FLYBOYS which is averaging **. That's about right as you can read in my review. Coming in on the bottom (*½) are FEAST (which is being released as a midnight show in many parts of the country and is being released on DVD next month) followed by TRUST THE MAN. According to the consensus of the critics the worst film this week is ALL THE KING'S MEN, which is being slammed by almost everyone.

In case you missed it earlier, you can read the info about all these films in the Tuesday OPENING blog entry (right below).

Opening 9/22/2006

ALL THE KING'S MEN [PG-13] 2 hrs. 20 min. Drama. Cast: Sean Penn, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, James Gandolfini, Mark Ruffalo, Patricia Clarkson, Anthony Hopkins. Plot:based on Robert Penn Warren's 1946 Pulitzer Prize winning novel about an idealist's rise to power in the world of Louisiana politics and the corruption that leads to his ultimate downfall. WE, WW

FEAST [R] 1hr. 30 min. Horror. Cast: Navi Rawat, Krista Allen, Balthazar Getty. Plot: a motley crew of strangers find themselves trapped in an isolated tavern and must band together in a battle for survival against a family of flesh-hungry creatures. PP

FLYBOYS [PG-13] 2 hrs. 20 min. Action/Drama. Cast: James Franco, Martin Henderson, Jean Reno, Jennifer Decker, David Ellison, Mac McDonald, Ian Rose. Plot: World War I aviation film inspired by the American young men who became known as the Lafayette Escadrille. NR, MM, WE, WW

JACKASS: NUMBER TWO [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Stupid comedy. Cast: Johnny Knoxville, Bam Margera, Ryan Dunn, Steve-O, Jason "Wee Man" Acuña, Chris Pontius, Preston Lacy, Dave England, Ehren McGhehey. Plot: a mess of absurdity as the cast and crew participate in extremely crude and dangerous stunts. NR, WE, WO, WW

JET LI'S FEARLESS [PG-13] 1 hr. 45 min. Cast: Jet Li, Sun Li, Dong Yong, Nakamura Shidou, Nathan Jones. Plot: Li portrays martial arts legend Huo Yuanjia, who became the most famous fighter in all of China at the turn of the 20th Century. NR, WE, WW

ONLY HUMAN [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Comedy. Cast: Norma Aleandro, Guillermo Toledo, Maria Botto. Plot: when Leni comes home to introduce her fiancé to her Jewish family, everything goes smoothly until the lovers belatedly reveal that he is Palestinian. PP

TRUST THE MAN [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy. Cast: Billy Crudup, David Duchovny, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Julianne Moore, Eva Mendes, James LeGros. Plot: a sophisticated comedy about the challenges of love and marriage among modern day New Yorkers. PP

Saturday Sneak Preview

SCHOOL FOR SCOUNDRELS [PG-13] 1 hr. 55 min. Comedy. Cast: Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Heder, Jacinda Barrett, Michael Clarke Duncan, Sarah Silverman, David Cross, Horatio Sanz, Matt Walsh. Plot: a beleaguered New York City meter maid, plagued by anxiety and low self-esteem, enrolls in a top-secret confidence-building class. NR (7:05), WE (7:15), WW (7:30)

Leaving 9/21/2006

Derby Cinema - The Wicker Man
Movie Machine - Accepted
Northrock 14 - Crossover, Idewild, Invincible, World Trade Center
Palace West - Clerks 2, John Tucker Must Die, RV
Premiere Palace - Snakes On A Plane, Click, Miami Vice, The Ant Bully, Step Up, War Tapes, Prairie Home Companion
Starlite Drive-In - Crank
Warren East - How To Eat Fried Worms, World Trade Center, Talledega Nights, P.O.T.C.:Dead Man's Chest
Warren Old Town - The Wicker Man
Warren West - The Wicker Man, Crank, Barnyard, World Trade Center

Costner Finally Has A *** Winner

I haven't been all that impressed with Costner's films lately but THE GUARDIAN is pretty good entertainment. It sneaks tonight at the Northrock, Warren East and Warren West. For some reason the Warrens aren't showing up in the show schedules on the left but it is showing in each of those theatres at 7:00 tonight. The first evening showing of INVINCIBLE is being dropped in each theatre to make room for the sneak. I'll wait until the film oficially opens on September 29th before I write a full review but I'm giving it ***. You'll want to see this in a theatre on a wide screen and with good surround sound. The average home TV isn't going to be nearly as effective with the storm sequences as a big theatre can be.

GRIDIRON GANG *½

I'm not a football fan so I'm probably not the best person to review this film. But I don't think that's going to make much difference since this is more about jerking your emotional strings than football. The acting is as good as it needs to be and The Rock doesn't embarrass himself although I doubt he'll ever achieve "thespian" status. Production values are also fine.

But the plot is strictly FORMULA. You've seen this film before, probably many times. It's designed to provide some action, a few laughs and even some tears. But you will have forgotten all about it in half an hour.

Unless you're just really fond of cookie-cutter plots, my advice is to rent THE LONGEST YARD and save your money. The plot is virtually the same so you can use your savings for lots of Milk Duds and giant cold drinks and still have plenty left over.