Here's MetaCritic's numerical rank of this week's films (xx/100 - the higher the number, the better the critics liked the film). The national critics don't appear to be overly thrilled with anything opening in Wichita this week. I agree with them on the Zelwegger/Connick film but feel they were harsh on the Neeson pic. Since there's no real rating standout I guess what you see depends on whether you prefer a romantic comedy, an action thriller or a horror thriller.
30 New in Town,
48 Taken,
45 Uninvited, The
Click on the title links to see if the ratings change as more reviews come in, and to read your favorite national critic's review.
My reviews of NEW IN TOWN and TAKEN will be on this site after 4:30 pm.
Here are the films scheduled for Friday, 2/6: CORALINE, HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU, PINK PANTHER 2, PUSH.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Opening 1/30/09
For show times select your theatre under the SHOWIMES AT: header in the left column. Weekend times normally start appearing on Wednesday.
NEW IN TOWN [PG] 1 hr. 35 min. Comedy/Romance Trailer Cast: Renee Zellweger, Harry Connick Jr., J.K. Simmons, Siobhan Fallon Hogan, Frances Conroy, Mike O'Brien, Rashida Jones. Plot: an ambitious, up and coming executive living in Miami is offered a temporary assignment to the middle of nowhere. She jumps at the opportunity, knowing that a big promotion is close at hand. What begins as a straight forward job assignment becomes a life changing experience as she discovers greater meaning in her life and most unexpectedly, the man of her dreams. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, 13th Ave. Warren, 21st St. Warren.
TAKEN [PG-13] 1 hr. 30 min. Thriller Trailer Cast: Liam Neeson, Famke Janssen, Maggie Grace, Katie Cassidy, Goran Kostic. Plot: when his estranged daughter is kidnapped in Paris, a former spy sets out to find her at any cost. Relying on his special skills, he tracks down the ruthless gang that abducted her and launches a one-man war to bring them to justice and rescue his daughter. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, 13th Ave. Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st St. Warren.
THE UNINVITED [PG-13] 1 hr. 30 min. Horror/Thriller Trailer Cast: Emily Browning, Elizabeth Banks, Arielle Kebbel, David Strathairn. Plot: after spending time in a psychiatric facility following her mother's tragic death a young woman discovers her mother's former nurse has moved into their house and become engaged to her father. Visited by her mother's ghost, she is warned the nurse has evil intentions, resulting in her joining with her sister in a lethal battle of wills between stepdaughters and stepmother. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, 13th Ave. Warren, 21st St. Warren.
What's Leaving 1/29/09
Derby Plaza - Defiance, Marley And Me, Bride Wars
Movie Machine - Bedtime Stories
Northrock 14 - Bolt, Tale Of Despereaux, My Bloody Valentine, Bride Wars
Palace West - The Dark Knight
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - Seven Pounds, Yes Man
Warren Old Town - Defiance, My Bloody Valentine, Yes Man
Warren West 21st - Bedtime Stories, Seven Pounds, Yes Man
Movie Machine - Bedtime Stories
Northrock 14 - Bolt, Tale Of Despereaux, My Bloody Valentine, Bride Wars
Palace West - The Dark Knight
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - Seven Pounds, Yes Man
Warren Old Town - Defiance, My Bloody Valentine, Yes Man
Warren West 21st - Bedtime Stories, Seven Pounds, Yes Man
Friday, January 23, 2009
INKHEART ***½
Iain Softley produced and directed this adventure/fantasy starring: Brendan Fraser, Paul Bettany, Helen Mirren, Jim Broadbent, Andy Serkis, Sienna Guillory, Eliza Hope Bennett, and Rafi Gavron. Rated PG for fantasy adventure action, some scary moments and brief language. Running time is one hour and forty-six minutes. Filmed on locations in England and Italy.
A father (Fraser) and his 12-year-old daughter (Bennett) share an extraordinary gift for bringing characters from books to life when they read aloud. But, when a character is brought to life from a book, a real person disappears into its pages, as the daughter's mother (Guillory) did years ago. Determined to rescue his wife, the father assembles a small group of friends and family--some from the real world (Mirren, Broadbent), some from the pages of books (Bettany, Gavron)--and embarks on a daring and perilous journey to set things right and save our world from an evil storybook tyrant (Serkis).
Occasionally, and rarely, a film gets it all right, resulting in a picture like this one. The story is intriguing and imaginative, the pacing is just right, the actors are great, the special effects are superb, the locations are eye catching, and there's even a sequel to the original book, INKSPELL, so perhaps there will be a film sequel also. The rating is accurate although I don't think you'd have any problems with any school aged child and in fact I think most children with be entranced by this film. Parents will find the film just as enjoyable. The photography and special effects are such that you will enjoy this most on a large theatre screen.
A father (Fraser) and his 12-year-old daughter (Bennett) share an extraordinary gift for bringing characters from books to life when they read aloud. But, when a character is brought to life from a book, a real person disappears into its pages, as the daughter's mother (Guillory) did years ago. Determined to rescue his wife, the father assembles a small group of friends and family--some from the real world (Mirren, Broadbent), some from the pages of books (Bettany, Gavron)--and embarks on a daring and perilous journey to set things right and save our world from an evil storybook tyrant (Serkis).
Occasionally, and rarely, a film gets it all right, resulting in a picture like this one. The story is intriguing and imaginative, the pacing is just right, the actors are great, the special effects are superb, the locations are eye catching, and there's even a sequel to the original book, INKSPELL, so perhaps there will be a film sequel also. The rating is accurate although I don't think you'd have any problems with any school aged child and in fact I think most children with be entranced by this film. Parents will find the film just as enjoyable. The photography and special effects are such that you will enjoy this most on a large theatre screen.
THE WRESTLER ***
Darren Aronofsky directed this drama which stars: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood. Rated R for violence, sexuality/nudity, language and some drug use. Running time is one hour and fifty-five minutes. Both Rourke and Tomei have been nominated as Best Actor/Actress for this year's Academy Awards.
A battered wrestler (Rourke), despite himself and the odds stacked against him, dreams of being a hero once again in the only place he considers home - inside the ring. The only people other than wrestlers he really cares about are an aging stripper (Tomei) and the daughter he abandoned (Wood).
Who would have thought Rourke had a performance like this one left in him. His performance an "an aging piece of meat" shows he still has the talent that once made him a star. Tomei's character is a lot like Rourke's in that she's way over the hill for her line of work and is going to have to figure out something else to do for the rest of her life. Wood is underused but has a pivotal role. This is not Rocky, you won't be on "top of the world" after seeing it, but it is a solid work deserving of your time.
A battered wrestler (Rourke), despite himself and the odds stacked against him, dreams of being a hero once again in the only place he considers home - inside the ring. The only people other than wrestlers he really cares about are an aging stripper (Tomei) and the daughter he abandoned (Wood).
Who would have thought Rourke had a performance like this one left in him. His performance an "an aging piece of meat" shows he still has the talent that once made him a star. Tomei's character is a lot like Rourke's in that she's way over the hill for her line of work and is going to have to figure out something else to do for the rest of her life. Wood is underused but has a pivotal role. This is not Rocky, you won't be on "top of the world" after seeing it, but it is a solid work deserving of your time.
Worthwhile (or not) 1/23/09
Here's MetaCritic's numerical rank of this week's films (xx/100 - the higher the number, the better the critics liked the film). This is a week where you see the difference between reviewing for art and for entertainment. I'm really disagreeing with the major critics this week. While WRESTLER is a great artistic film, it's not at all entertaining. INKHEART is really entertaining and one the whole family will enjoy and think they got their money's worth.
47 Inkheart,
69 Revolutionary Road,
49 Underworld: Rise of the Lycans,
81 Wrestler, The
Click on the title links to see if the ratings change as more reviews come in, and to read your favorite national critic's review.
My reviews of INKHEART and THE WRESTLER will be on this site after 4:30 pm.
Here are the films scheduled for Friday, 1/30: NEW IN TOWN, TAKEN, and THE UNINVITED.
47 Inkheart,
69 Revolutionary Road,
49 Underworld: Rise of the Lycans,
81 Wrestler, The
Click on the title links to see if the ratings change as more reviews come in, and to read your favorite national critic's review.
My reviews of INKHEART and THE WRESTLER will be on this site after 4:30 pm.
Here are the films scheduled for Friday, 1/30: NEW IN TOWN, TAKEN, and THE UNINVITED.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Opening 1/23/09
For show times select your theatre under the SHOWIMES AT: header in the left column. Weekend times normally start appearing on Wednesday.
INKHEART [PG] 1 hr. 45 min. Adventure/Fantasy Trailer Cast: Brendan Fraser, Paul Bettany, Helen Mirren, Jim Broadbent, Andy Serkis, Sienna Guillory, Eliza Hope Bennett, Rafi Gavron. Plot: a father and his 12-year-old daughter share an extraordinary gift for bringing characters from books to life when they read aloud. But, when a character is brought to life from a book, a real person disappears into its pages, as the daughter's mother did years ago. Determined to rescue his wife, the father assembles a small group of friends and family--some from the real world, some from the pages of books--and embarks on a daring and perilous journey to set things right. Showing at: Movie Machine, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Streeet Warren.
REVOLUTIONARY ROAD [R] 2 hrs. Drama Trailer Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Michael Shannon, Kathryn Hahn, David Harbour, Kathy Bates. Plot: based on the celebrated novel by Richard Yates, "Revolutionary Road" is the story of a young couple trying to find fulfillment in an age of conformity. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Streeet Warren.
UNDERWORLD: RISE OF THE LYCANS [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Horror/Thriller Trailer Cast: Michael Sheen, Bill Nighy, Rhona Mitra, Steven Mackintosh, Kevin Grevioux. Plot: delves into the origins of the centuries-old blood feud between the aristocratic vampires, known as Death Dealers, and the barbaric Lycans (werewolves). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Streeet Warren.
THE WRESTLER [R] 1 hr. 45 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood. Plot: a battered dreamer, despite himself and the odds stacked against him, lives to be a hero once again in the only place he considers home - inside the ring. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren.
What's Leaving 1/22/09
Derby Plaza - Bedtime Stories, Valkyrie
Movie Machine - Marley And Me
Northrock 14 - Marley And Me, Bedtime Stories, Yes Man
Palace West - High School Musical 3, Appaloosa, Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - Not Easily Broken
Warren Old Town - Seven Pounds
Warren West 21st - Doubt, Not Easily Broken
Movie Machine - Marley And Me
Northrock 14 - Marley And Me, Bedtime Stories, Yes Man
Palace West - High School Musical 3, Appaloosa, Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - Not Easily Broken
Warren Old Town - Seven Pounds
Warren West 21st - Doubt, Not Easily Broken
Friday, January 16, 2009
DEFIANCE ***
Edward Zwick directed this war drama which stars: Daniel Craig, Liev Schreiber, and Jamie Bell. Rated R for violence and language. Run time is two hours and 17 minutes. Filmed on location in Lithuania.
Based on an extraordinary true story which spans 1941-1945, three brothers (Craig, Schreiber and Bell), after escaping almost certain death, take refuge in the dense surrounding woods they have known since childhood. They turn a primitive struggle to survive into a way to avenge the deaths of their loved ones by saving thousands of others.
This is a well done, engrossing film which has even more impact because it's about events that really happened. Many of the children and grandchildren of the people you'll see portrayed in this film are alive and living in the United States and offered the filmakers details about occurances you'll see. Other than Craig and Schreiber, most of the cast are not well known in this country which also adds realism to the story. While the arc of the story is uplifting, many of the events shown are extremely, graphically brutal, making the rating well deserved. This will be best appreciated on a big screen with good sound
Based on an extraordinary true story which spans 1941-1945, three brothers (Craig, Schreiber and Bell), after escaping almost certain death, take refuge in the dense surrounding woods they have known since childhood. They turn a primitive struggle to survive into a way to avenge the deaths of their loved ones by saving thousands of others.
This is a well done, engrossing film which has even more impact because it's about events that really happened. Many of the children and grandchildren of the people you'll see portrayed in this film are alive and living in the United States and offered the filmakers details about occurances you'll see. Other than Craig and Schreiber, most of the cast are not well known in this country which also adds realism to the story. While the arc of the story is uplifting, many of the events shown are extremely, graphically brutal, making the rating well deserved. This will be best appreciated on a big screen with good sound
MY BLOODY VALENTINE 3D **½
Patrick Lussier, a director who's specialized in horror movies of late, is at the helm of this horror film which stars: Jensen Ackles, Jaime King, Kerr Smith, and Betsey Rue. Rated R for graphic brutal horror violence and grisly images throughout, some strong sexuality, graphic nudity and language. Run time is one hour and 41 minutes.
Ten years after an inexperienced coal miner (Ackles) caused an accident in the tunnels that trapped and killed five men, he returns to the town on Valentine's Day, still haunted by the deaths he caused. But, after years of peace, something from the town's dark past has returned to kill again. His old girlfriend (King) is now married to the sheriff (Smith), who thinks he's the killer. The sheriff's old girlfriend (Rue) is one of the first new victims, but certainly not the last.
This is a pretty typical horror/slasher film that younger audiences seem to enjoy. It's a little better than a lot of these films, plus it's one of the new breed of 3D films (if you see it in a digital theatre). The 3D effects are getting better as the cinematographers gain experience and for the most part the 3D effect doesn't distract from the film as it easily can if not done properly. The depth effect is put to good use on several occasions and a couple of them will cause many to jump. If it weren't for the 3D this would basically be just another horror film, but the 3D is a plus. You cannot see the 3D effect properly from a home DVD so if you're interested in experiencing it, a digital theatre is your only choice.
Ten years after an inexperienced coal miner (Ackles) caused an accident in the tunnels that trapped and killed five men, he returns to the town on Valentine's Day, still haunted by the deaths he caused. But, after years of peace, something from the town's dark past has returned to kill again. His old girlfriend (King) is now married to the sheriff (Smith), who thinks he's the killer. The sheriff's old girlfriend (Rue) is one of the first new victims, but certainly not the last.
This is a pretty typical horror/slasher film that younger audiences seem to enjoy. It's a little better than a lot of these films, plus it's one of the new breed of 3D films (if you see it in a digital theatre). The 3D effects are getting better as the cinematographers gain experience and for the most part the 3D effect doesn't distract from the film as it easily can if not done properly. The depth effect is put to good use on several occasions and a couple of them will cause many to jump. If it weren't for the 3D this would basically be just another horror film, but the 3D is a plus. You cannot see the 3D effect properly from a home DVD so if you're interested in experiencing it, a digital theatre is your only choice.
LAST CHANCE HARVEY ***
Joel Hopkins wrote and directed this romantic drama which stars: Dustin Hoffman, Emma Thompson, Kathy Baker, James Brolin, Eileen Atkins, and Liane Balaban. Rated PG-13 for brief strong language. Run time is one hour and thirty-two minutes. Filming location: London, England.
A divorced (from Baker) jingle writer (Hoffman) flies to London for his daughter's (Balaban) wedding only to learn his she has chosen to have her stepfather (Brolin) walk her down the aisle instead of him. When he misses his flight home, he's fired from his job. Then he meets a slightly prickly, 40-something woman (Thompson) whose life is limited to work, the occasional humiliating blind date, and endless phone calls from her smothering mother (Atkins).
This is a well cast, low key comedy that most adults should find entertaining and teens will avoid like the plague. Hoffman and Thompson feel very natural in their roles and the rest of the cast acquit themselves nicely. It's a joy to see a real pro like Atkins again. Production values are fine and travelers who've been to London will appreciate the location filming. The plot is fairly conventional and the ending is preordained, but I found the trip to be enjoyable. While the crowd reaction my enhance your enjoyment this film doesn't require a large screen, so if you must you can wait for the DVD or its appearance on Starz sometime in the future.
A divorced (from Baker) jingle writer (Hoffman) flies to London for his daughter's (Balaban) wedding only to learn his she has chosen to have her stepfather (Brolin) walk her down the aisle instead of him. When he misses his flight home, he's fired from his job. Then he meets a slightly prickly, 40-something woman (Thompson) whose life is limited to work, the occasional humiliating blind date, and endless phone calls from her smothering mother (Atkins).
This is a well cast, low key comedy that most adults should find entertaining and teens will avoid like the plague. Hoffman and Thompson feel very natural in their roles and the rest of the cast acquit themselves nicely. It's a joy to see a real pro like Atkins again. Production values are fine and travelers who've been to London will appreciate the location filming. The plot is fairly conventional and the ending is preordained, but I found the trip to be enjoyable. While the crowd reaction my enhance your enjoyment this film doesn't require a large screen, so if you must you can wait for the DVD or its appearance on Starz sometime in the future.
Worthwhile (or not) 1/16/09
Here's MetaCritic's numerical rank of this week's films (xx/100 - the higher the number, the better the critics liked the film). Looks like the distributor (Lion's Gate) decided not to screen the 3D film for the critics. It doesn't really make any difference since the younger crowd will be there no matter what the critics say. As far as I'm concerned, DEFIANCE is the best of the week but LAST CHANCE HARVEY is a very close second and will certainly entertain a broader audience.
58 Defiance,
52 Hotel for Dogs,
58 Last Chance Harvey,
61 Notorious,
xx My Bloody Valentine 3-D,
42 Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Click on the title links to see if the ratings change as more reviews come in, and to read your favorite national critic's review.
My review of DEFIANCE, LAST CHANCE HARVEY and MY BLOODY VALENTINE 3D will be on this site after 4:30 pm.
Here are previews of films scheduled for Friday, 1/23: INKHEART, REVOLUTIONARY ROAD, UNDERWORLD: RISE OF THE LYCANS, THE WRESTLER.
58 Defiance,
52 Hotel for Dogs,
58 Last Chance Harvey,
61 Notorious,
xx My Bloody Valentine 3-D,
42 Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Click on the title links to see if the ratings change as more reviews come in, and to read your favorite national critic's review.
My review of DEFIANCE, LAST CHANCE HARVEY and MY BLOODY VALENTINE 3D will be on this site after 4:30 pm.
Here are previews of films scheduled for Friday, 1/23: INKHEART, REVOLUTIONARY ROAD, UNDERWORLD: RISE OF THE LYCANS, THE WRESTLER.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Opening 1/16/09
For show times select your theatre under the SHOWIMES AT: header in the left column. Weekend times normally start appearing on Wednesday.
DEFIANCE [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Daniel Craig, Liev Schreiber, Jamie Bell, Alexa Davalos, Allan Corduner, Mark Feuerstein. Plot: based on an extraordinary true story which occured in 1941. Managing to escape certain death, three brothers take refuge in the dense surrounding woods they have known since childhood. They turn a primitive struggle to survive into a way to avenge the deaths of their loved ones by saving thousands of others. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
HOTEL FOR DOGS [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Family Trailer Cast: Emma Roberts, Jake T. Austin, Kyla Pratt, Lisa Kudrow, Kevin Dillon, Don Cheadle. Plot: when their new guardians forbid a brother and sister to have a pet, they have to use quick wit to help find a new home for their dog, Friday. They stumble upon an abandoned hotel and using the boy's talents as a mechanical genius, transform it into a magical dog-paradise for Friday – and eventually for all Friday's friends. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
LAST CHANCE HARVEY [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Drama/Romance Trailer Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Emma Thompson, Kathy Baker, James Brolin, Eileen Atkins, Richard Schiff, Liane Balaban. Plot: a jingle writer flies to London for his daughter's wedding only to learn his she has chosen to have her stepfather walk her down the aisle instead of him. When he misses his flight home, he's fired from his job. Then he meets a slightly prickly, 40-something woman whose life is limited to work, the occasional humiliating blind date, and endless phone calls from her smothering mother. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
MY BLOODY VALENTINE 3D [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Horror Trailer Cast: Jensen Ackles, Jaime King, Kerr Smith, Betsey Rue, Edi Gathegi, Tom Atkins, Kevin Tighe, Megan Boone. Plot: ten years after an inexperienced coal miner caused an accident in the tunnels that trapped and killed five men, he returns to the town on Valentine's Day, still haunted by the deaths he caused. But, after years of peace, something from the town's dark past has returned...to claim him. Showing at: Northrock 14 2D, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
NOTORIOUS [R] Drama/Music Trailer Cast: Jamal Woolard, Angela Bassett, Derek Luke, Anthony Mackie, Antonique Smith, Naturi Naughton, Dennis White, Julia Pace Mitchell. Plot: about the life of rapper Christopher Wallace a.k.a. The Notorious B.I.G. Showing at: Northrock 14 exclusively.
PAUL BLART MALL COP [PG] 1 hr. 30 min. Comedy Trailer Cast: Kevin James, Jayma Mays, Keir O'Donnell, Bobby Cannavale, Stephen Rannazzisi, Shirley Knight. Plot: a single, suburban dad, trying to make ends meet as a security officer has to become a real cop when a heist shuts down the megaplex. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
What's Leaving 1/15/09
Derby Plaza - Tale Of Despereaux, Yes Man, Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Movie Machine - Valkyrie, Yes Man
Northrock 14 - The Day The Earth Stood Still, Seven Pounds, Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Palace West - Body Of Lies, Nights In Rodanthe, Eagle Eye
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - The Tale Of Despereaux, The Spirit, Bolt, Australia, Four Christmases, The Day Earth Stood Still
Warren Old Town - Bedtime Stories, Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Warren West 21st - The Tale Of Despereaux, Four Christmases, Day The Earth Stood Still
Movie Machine - Valkyrie, Yes Man
Northrock 14 - The Day The Earth Stood Still, Seven Pounds, Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Palace West - Body Of Lies, Nights In Rodanthe, Eagle Eye
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - The Tale Of Despereaux, The Spirit, Bolt, Australia, Four Christmases, The Day Earth Stood Still
Warren Old Town - Bedtime Stories, Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
Warren West 21st - The Tale Of Despereaux, Four Christmases, Day The Earth Stood Still
FROST/NIXON ***½
Ron Howard directed this drama which stars: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen, Kevin Bacon, Matthew Macfadyen, Oliver Platt, Kevin Bacon, and Sam Rockwell. Rated R for some language. Running time is two hours and two minutes.
An electrifying battle between Richard Nixon (Langella), the disgraced president with a legacy to save, and David Frost (Sheen), a jet-setting television personality with a name to make, in the untold story of the historic encounter that changed both. Macfadyen, Platt and Rockwell portray aides to Frost while Bacon portrays Nixon's aide.
I can't say I've been looking forward to this film. I lived through the history and I admire the cast and crew of this film but I just couldn't imagine this was something I could sit through happily. I was wrong. This is an intriguing, engaging film that never lets you get bored even if you do think you already know the entire story. I can't say that Langella or Sheen are dead ringers for Nixon and Frost. Langella does a little better job of it, especially with the voice. Sheen's Frost isn't as urbane and polished as I remember Frost as being. But the story is the focal point of this film and it turns out it's a very interesting one. A big screen isn't necessary so a DVD will be fine if you're willing to wait.
An electrifying battle between Richard Nixon (Langella), the disgraced president with a legacy to save, and David Frost (Sheen), a jet-setting television personality with a name to make, in the untold story of the historic encounter that changed both. Macfadyen, Platt and Rockwell portray aides to Frost while Bacon portrays Nixon's aide.
I can't say I've been looking forward to this film. I lived through the history and I admire the cast and crew of this film but I just couldn't imagine this was something I could sit through happily. I was wrong. This is an intriguing, engaging film that never lets you get bored even if you do think you already know the entire story. I can't say that Langella or Sheen are dead ringers for Nixon and Frost. Langella does a little better job of it, especially with the voice. Sheen's Frost isn't as urbane and polished as I remember Frost as being. But the story is the focal point of this film and it turns out it's a very interesting one. A big screen isn't necessary so a DVD will be fine if you're willing to wait.
Friday, January 09, 2009
GRAN TORINO ***
Clint Eastwood stars in and directs this drama which also features: Bee Vang, Ahney Her, and Christopher Carley. Rated R for language throughout, and some violence. Running time is one hour and 56 minutes.
A retired auto worker (Eastwood), an iron-willed veteran living in a changing world and estranged from his children, is forced by his immigrant neighbors (Vang and Her) to confront his own long-held prejudices. Asked by his late wife to look after him, his Parish priest (Carley) tries to understand and help him.
You could almost call this Dirty Harry Retires. He doesn't say "make my day" but the implication is certainly there. It takes most of the picture to explain why he's such an unhappy person and why that has cost him any meaningful family relationships, but eventually you do understand. I thought he got friendly too quickly with his neighbors to be really believable but that's a minor point. The ending is telegraphed so it doesn't come as a surprise but it's still a meaningful and satisfying one. This is not a film that depends on a big screen for effect so you can wait for the DVD if you're not in any real rush to see it.
A retired auto worker (Eastwood), an iron-willed veteran living in a changing world and estranged from his children, is forced by his immigrant neighbors (Vang and Her) to confront his own long-held prejudices. Asked by his late wife to look after him, his Parish priest (Carley) tries to understand and help him.
You could almost call this Dirty Harry Retires. He doesn't say "make my day" but the implication is certainly there. It takes most of the picture to explain why he's such an unhappy person and why that has cost him any meaningful family relationships, but eventually you do understand. I thought he got friendly too quickly with his neighbors to be really believable but that's a minor point. The ending is telegraphed so it doesn't come as a surprise but it's still a meaningful and satisfying one. This is not a film that depends on a big screen for effect so you can wait for the DVD if you're not in any real rush to see it.
BRIDE WARS **½
A relative newcomer to the field of directing, Gary Winick, helmed this comedy/romance which stars: Anne Hathaway, Kate Hudson, Candice Bergen, and Kristen Johnston. Rated PG for suggestive content, language and some rude behavior. Running time is two hours and ten minutes.
When a clerical error causes a clash in wedding dates, two women (Hathaway and Hudson) and their lifelong friendship are put to the ultimate test. Bergen is the highly rated wedding planner and Johnston portrays the friend you'd rather not have.
I was expecting more from this film. It's more mean spirited than you'd expect and doesn't have enough laughs to properly be called a comedy. You've already seen most of what passes for comedy if you've seen the trailer. Hudson is OK in her role but doesn't seem to have the sparkle you expect from her. Hathaway outshines Hudson which I found interesting in what's supposed to be a light comedy, which is Hudson's forte. Bergen is fine as usual but I never could figure out why the Johnston character was even involved. I'm sure women will be more drawn to this film than will men and it's OK for a date movie. But if times are tough, you can easily wait for the DVD.
When a clerical error causes a clash in wedding dates, two women (Hathaway and Hudson) and their lifelong friendship are put to the ultimate test. Bergen is the highly rated wedding planner and Johnston portrays the friend you'd rather not have.
I was expecting more from this film. It's more mean spirited than you'd expect and doesn't have enough laughs to properly be called a comedy. You've already seen most of what passes for comedy if you've seen the trailer. Hudson is OK in her role but doesn't seem to have the sparkle you expect from her. Hathaway outshines Hudson which I found interesting in what's supposed to be a light comedy, which is Hudson's forte. Bergen is fine as usual but I never could figure out why the Johnston character was even involved. I'm sure women will be more drawn to this film than will men and it's OK for a date movie. But if times are tough, you can easily wait for the DVD.
Worthwhile (or not) 1/09/09
Here's MetaCritic's numerical rank of this week's films (xx/100 - the higher the number, the better the critics liked the film). I didn't think BRIDE WARS was quite as bad as the numbers would indicate but it's sure no gem. FROST/NIXON will have a hard time finding an audience which mean the Eastwood pic will probably be your most likely choice this week.
25 Bride Wars,
80 Frost/Nixon,
72 Gran Torino,
42 Not Easily Broken,
33 Unborn, The
Click on the title links to see if the ratings change as more reviews come in, and to read your favorite national critic's review.
My review of GRAN TORINO and BRIDE WARS will be on this site after 4:30 pm.
Here are previews of films scheduled for Friday, 1/16: DEFIANCE, HOTEL FOR DOGS, LAST CHANCE HARVEY, MY BLOODY VALENTINE, NOTORIOUS, PAUL BLART MALL COP.
25 Bride Wars,
80 Frost/Nixon,
72 Gran Torino,
42 Not Easily Broken,
33 Unborn, The
Click on the title links to see if the ratings change as more reviews come in, and to read your favorite national critic's review.
My review of GRAN TORINO and BRIDE WARS will be on this site after 4:30 pm.
Here are previews of films scheduled for Friday, 1/16: DEFIANCE, HOTEL FOR DOGS, LAST CHANCE HARVEY, MY BLOODY VALENTINE, NOTORIOUS, PAUL BLART MALL COP.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Opening 1/9/09
For show times select your theatre under the SHOWIMES AT: header in the left column. Weekend times normally start appearing on Wednesday.
BRIDE WARS [PG] 2 hrs. Comedy/Romance Trailer Cast: Anne Hathaway, Kate Hudson, Candice Bergen, Kristen Johnston, Bryan Greenberg, Steve Howey, Chris Pratt, Michael Arden, John Pankow, Paul Scheer. Plot: when a clerical error causes a clash in wedding dates, two women and their lifelong friendship are put to the ultimate test. Showing at: Movie Machine, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
FROST/NIXON [R] 2 hrs. 2 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen, Rebecca Hall, Toby Jones, Matthew Macfadyen, Kevin Bacon, Oliver Platt, Sam Rockwell. Plot: an electrifying battle between Richard Nixon, the disgraced president with a legacy to save, and David Frost, a jet-setting television personality with a name to make, in the untold story of the historic encounter that changed both. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren exclusively.
GRAN TORINO [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Clint Eastwood, Bee Vang, Ahney Her, Christopher Carley, John Carroll Lynch. Plot: a retired auto worker, an iron-willed veteran living in a changing world, is forced by his immigrant neighbors to confront his own long-held prejudices. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
NOT EASILY BROKEN [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min Drama Trailer Cast: Morris Chestnut, Taraji P. Henson, Maeve Quinlan, Kevin Hart, Wood Harris, Jenifer Lewis. Plot: a drama about love and family adapted from the book of the same name by renowned pastor and author Bishop T. D. Jakes. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
THE UNBORN [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 Min. Supernatural Thriller Trailer Cast: Odette Yustman, Gary Oldman, Cam Gigandet, Meagan Good, Carla Gugino, Jane Alexander, Idris Elba, Rhys Coiro, James Remar. Plot: a young woman uncovers the source of a family curse dating back to Nazi Germany—a creature with the ability to inhabit anyone or anything that is getting stronger with each possession. Her only chance at survival is to shut a doorway from beyond our world that has been pried open by someone who was never born. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
What's Leaving 1/8/09
Derby Plaza -
Movie Machine - The Tale Of Despereaux, The Spirit
Northrock 14 - Four Christmases, The Spirit, Australia
Palace West - W., Igor, Saw V, The Dark Knight
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - Quantum Of Solace, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
Warren Old Town - Four Christmases, The Day The Earth Stood Still
Warren West 21st - Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
Movie Machine - The Tale Of Despereaux, The Spirit
Northrock 14 - Four Christmases, The Spirit, Australia
Palace West - W., Igor, Saw V, The Dark Knight
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until Spring
Warren East 13th - Quantum Of Solace, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
Warren Old Town - Four Christmases, The Day The Earth Stood Still
Warren West 21st - Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
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About Me
- Wichita, KS, United States
- I've spent most of my adult life in film exhibition management, from which I've retired. As a result of my work I've seen thousands of movies over the years and maintain a strong interest in movies and theatres.
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