NORBIT *½

On the heels of his role in DREAMGIRLS, Eddie Murphy falls back on the multiple character shtick he used in THE NUTTY PROFESSOR. This time he plays three characters, Norbit, his grossly overweight wife, Rasputia (don't y0u love that name?), and Mr. Wong, who owns an orphanage/restaurant. Murphy is also listed as a producer and as one of the writers of the script. The rest of the cast includes Thandie Newton, the real love of his life; Cuba Gooding Jr. as Newton's fiancé; and Eddie Griffin and Katt Williams as a couple of retired pimps who can't quite give up their business.

The plot has Norbit trapped in a marriage with Rasputia because he's afraid of her and her three strapping brothers (so is the entire town for that matter). When his childhood sweetheart comes back to town with a desire to buy and run the orphanage they once lived in, he begins thinking of ways they can be together again, while Rasputia and her brothers plot to obtain the orphanage and turn it into a topless bar.

Here's the problem, the film just doesn't have enough laughs to fill 100 minutes. The characters are all stereotypes and that gets very tiresome in short order. Murphy disappears into his characters very well but those characters become boring long before the ending of the film. Newton is lovely as usual but you can't understand what she could possibly see in Norbit. The real star of the film is Rasputia's fat suit, and it's hard to recommend a film on that alone.

Opening 2/9/2007

HANNIBAL RISING [R] 2 hrs. Thriller Trailer Cast: Gaspard Ulliel, Gong Li, Rhys Ifans, Richard Brake, Kevin McKidd. Plot: for the first time in the award-winning series, best selling author Thomas Harris ("Red Dragon," "Silence of the Lambs") writes the screenplay – reaching back to explore the origins of Lecter's rage, terror and savagery. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, Warren Theaters: Warren East 13th, Warren Old Town, Warren West 21st.

THE HISTORY BOYS [R] 2 hrs. Comedy/Drama Trailer Cast: Richard Griffiths, Clive Merrison, Frances de la Tour, Stephen Campbell Moore, Sacha Dhawan, Samuel Anderson, Dominic Cooper, Andrew Knott, Samuel Barnett, Russell Tovey, Jamie Parker, James Corden. Plot: the story of an unruly class of bright, funny history students in pursuit of an undergraduate place at Oxford or Cambridge. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.

THE LAST SIN EATER [PG-13] 2hrs. 20 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Louise Fletcher, Henry Thomas. Plot: based on the award winning novel by Francine Rivers about a young girl's quest for deliverance. Showing at: Northrock, Warren Theaters: Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

NORBIT [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy Trailer Cast: Eddie Murphy, Thandie Newton, Eddie Griffin, Terry Crews, Clifton Powell, Cuba Gooding, Jr. Plot: abandoned on the steps of a Chinese restaurant/orphanage, a young man becomes engaged to a mean, junk food-chugging queen. But, when his childhood sweetheart moves back into town, he decides she's the one he really wants to marry. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, Warren Theaters: Warren East 13th, Warren Old Town, Warren West 21st.

Leaving 2/8/2007

Derby Cinema - The Queen, The Hitcher
Movie Machine - Charlotte's Web
Northrock 14 - Blood And Chocolate, Catch And Release, Eragon, Freedom Writers, The Queen
Palace West - Alpha Dog, Flags Of Our Fathers, Employee Of The Month
Premiere Palace - Eragon, The Holiday, Perfume
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East 13th - Children Of Men, We Are Marshall, The Hitcher, Blood And Chocolate
Warren Old Town - The Departed, Dreamgirls
Warren West 21st - The Good Shepherd, Blood And Chocolate, Arthur And The Invisibles, Children of Men, We Are Marshall

Worthwhile (and not) 2/2/07

Nationally, the critics liked PERFUME the best with 2½-3 stars. BECAUSE I SAID SO averaged 1½-2 stars and THE MESSENGERS wasn't screened for the critics so you can figure 1-2 stars when their reviews start showing up.

BECAUSE I SAID SO **½

Valentine's Day is almost here so you know what that means...it's time for the chick flicks! The plot for this holiday bon bon is about average but the cast has real quality, and they blend nicely. Diane Keaton is the mother, Mandy Moore, Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls), and Piper Perabo (Cheaper By The Dozen 1-2) are her daughters and Gabriel Macht (The Good Shepherd) and Tom Everett Scott are Moore's love interests. Steven Collins (7th Heaven) is a double threat as both the father of one of the boyfriends and a potential love interest for the mother.

The plot has Keaton buying an online ad in an attempt to find a husband for her youngest daughter, without the daughter's knowledge. She finds what she thinks is a real winner and sets the two up. But an onlooker to her matchmaking is intrigued and asks the daughter out also. The mother as well as the two other daughters get involved in the romantic proceedings with the mother's romance adding some additional plot twists.

This is an enjoyable piece of fluff but it's the cast that makes it so, not the plot. This is one of those films whose ending you can predict five minutes after it starts. It's not going to win any awards and you'll forget it shortly after seeing it, but you will have a good time as well as a few laughs while it's showing.

THE MESSENGERS **

This horror film has the advantage of a better than average cast for a movie of this genre. The father is Dylan McDermott, the mother is Penelope Ann Miller, the daughter is Kristen Stewart (Zathura and The Panic Room) and the hired hand is John Corbett (Northern Exposure). There's also a little boy but he hardly speaks and is portrayed by twins in any event.

The plot is fairly predictable. A city family moves to an isolated farm to get a fresh start but discovers country life isn't all they thought it would be. The small boy sees ghosts but is too young to appreciate that might not be a good thing. The daughter senses something is wrong but can't convince her parents to listen to her and hit the road. The farm hand is the solid, dependable type who fits right in with the family.

If I go much further I'll give away the entire plot. The production values and directing are fine. There are several scary moments which should make for a good date picture. Plus, any film that has both a raven trainer and a bug wrangler has something going for it. Still, it's a by-the-book horror film so don't get your hopes too high.

PERFUME: THE STORY OF A MURDERER ***

This film is based on a 1985 historical fantasy novel by Patrick Süskind and was finally turned into a film last year by German director Tom Tykwer, who also wrote the score. The novel explored the idea that scents have an emotional counterpart so human response can be manipulated by them. The cast is basically unknown here with the exception of Dustin Hoffman and Alan Rickman, who play important but secondary roles.

The murderer of the film, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, is born in a fish market to a mother who doesn't want him. He is sent to an orphanage where he is treated brutally and then sold to a tanner when he's old enough to work. He discovers his sense of smell is unmatched by others and he is driven to experience every odor and mentally catalog them. He begins working for a perfumer (Hoffman) and creates many new perfumes for him, an extremely simple task for Grenouille. Since he has no personal odor and is abused rather than loved, he begins searching for a scent for himself that will make people desire him. He determines that the scent of young women is closest to the scent he is looking for and begins collecting the scent of various young women, who unfortunately die in the process. He finally zeros in on one last woman, Rickman's daughter, who's scent he feels will complete the ultimate scent he's been searching for.

As you can tell by my rating, I was impressed by this film. But, for most of the film I would not have rated it this highly. While the production values and acting are immaculate, the story is so depressing it's hard to sit through two hours of it, until you reach the last twenty minutes. But, it's the ending that makes it all worthwhile. I was not expecting what happened (that's unusual for me) and it totally changed my opinion of what I'd seen. I saw people walk out of the screening I attended before the film was over and I'm aure others who decide to attend will also. I'm quite sure some who watch the entire film still won't like it. All I can say is, stick it out if you want the full impact...it worked for me. Tykwer's music score is quite beautiful in a classical sense, with a performance by the Berlin Philharmonic, Simon Rattle conducting. While you won't get the same impact that a large theatre provides, many may be better served by the DVD version, where an occasional break from the story can be taken.

Opening 2/2/2007

BECAUSE I SAID SO [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy/Romance Cast: Diane Keaton, Mandy Moore, Gabriel Macht, Tom Everett Scott, Lauren Graham, Piper Perabo, Steven Collins. Plot: the proud mom of three daughters decides to set her youngest up with the perfect man by placing an ad in the online personals. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, Warren East 13th, Warren Old Town, Warren West 21st.

THE MESSENGERS [PG-13] 1 hr. 30 min. Horror/Thriller Cast: Kristen Stewart, Dylan McDermott, Penelope Ann Miller, John Corbett. Plot: the children of a family who have recently moved to a secluded farm begin seeing ominous apparitions that no one else can, and try desperately to warn the rest of the family before it's too late. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Northrock, Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

PERFUME: THE STORY OF A MURDERER [R] 2 hrs. 30 min. Drama/Thriller Cast: Ben Whishaw, Alan Rickman, Rachel Hurd-Wood, Dustin Hoffman. Plot: a story of murder set in 18th-century France driven by the obsession to create the world's most powerful fragrance, the elusive aroma of young womanhood. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.

Leaving 2/1/2007

Derby Cinema - Freedom Writers, The Pursuit Of Happyness
Movie Machine - Arthur & The Invisibles, Children Of Men
Northrock 14 - Code Name: The Cleaner, The Hitcher
Palace West - The Fountain, Stranger Than Fiction, Saw III
Premiere Palace - Borat, The Bridge, The Good Shepherd, Casino Royale
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East 13th - Arthur & The Invisibles, Blood Diamond, Alpha Dog
Warren Old Town - Pursuit Of Happyness
Warren West 21st - Alpha Dog, Primeval

Worthwhile (and not) 1/26/2007

According to the national critics there are only two three-four star films, NOTES ON A SCANDAL and VOLVER. Something tells me neither of those will draw major crowds in Wichita. CATCH AND RELEASE looks to be in the two-three star range and everything else is coming in even lower.

This would be a good weekend to catch one of the Oscar nominated films you missed earlier. THE DEPARTED is back again as well as THE QUEEN. Several other nominated films are still in their initial release.

SMOKIN' ACES *

Every so often Hollywood makes a caper/crime feature. The better ones feature some A list stars, a witty script, and a plot twist at the end that clears everything up and makes you leave the theatre happy.

This time the plot is relatively simple. A dying mob boss wants a 2nd rate Las Vegas magician killed and he wants his heart brought to him as proof the deed was actually done (although how he'd know one heart from another is beyond me). He sets a price of a million dollars for this accomplishment which of course draws every ne'er-do-well to Tahoe where the magician is hiding (although everyone seems to know he's there so his magical skills are somewhat questionable).

As you probably surmised from the one star, I didn't think much of this film. There are no real A list stars. There are way too many B and C list stars. The plot is confusing beyond belief. It's virtually impossible to keep track of everyone, what they're doing, and whether they're a good guy or bad guy (or girl). There is a twist at the end but it adds nothing to the film and I can guarantee you're going to leave the theatre regretting the loss of your cash. There is plenty of mayhem if that will suffice but otherwise, skip this one.

BLOOD AND CHOCOLATE *

Frankly, this film isn't worth the time it would take to write a full review. The synopsis on Coming tells you the plot and I will just say this film isn't going to make anyone happy. It looks like a horror film made for the Disney channel. Not nearly enough blood and gore for the horror fans but the subject matter isn't going to attract anyone but gore fans. Almost no CG so the werewolves are shown as humans leaping about like an acrobatic troupe and then, slow blur, they're wolves. Production values are a little weak with sloppy cuts throughout. The cast is mostly unfamiliar although reasonably competent. This isn't worth even the cost of a DVD rental. Skip it.

Opening 12/26/2007

BLOOD AND CHOCOLATE [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Drama/Romance/Horror/Thriller Cast: Agnes Bruckner, Hugh Dancy, Olivier Martinez, Katja Riemann, Bryan Dick, Chris Geere, Tom Harper, John Kerr, Jack Wilson, Vitalie Ursu, Bogdan Voda, Kata Dobó, Rodica Mandache, Lia Bugnar, Mihai Calin. Plot: in modern day Bucharest a nineteen year old girl who has spent her life on the run from the truth... that she is a werewolf... must choose between her love for an outsider and betraying the secret vows of her family. Showing at: Northrock, Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

THE BRIDGE [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Documentary Cast: Kevin Hines, Pat Hines, Carolyn Pressley, Dave Williams, Matt Rossi. Plot: glimpses into the darkest, and possibly most impenetrable corners of the human mind as the fates of the 24 people who committed suicide at the Golden Gate Bridge in 2004 are linked together by a 4 second fall. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.

CATCH AND RELEASE [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Comedy/Drama Cast: Jennifer Garner, Timothy Olyphant, Kevin Smith, Sam Jaeger, Fiona Shaw, Juliette Lewis. Plot: After the sudden death of her fiancé, a woman comes to see new sides of the man she thought she knew, and at the same time finds herself drawn to the last man she ever expected to fall for. Showing at: Northrock, Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

EPIC MOVIE [PG-13] 1 hr. 20 min. Comedy Cast: Kal Penn, Adam Campbell, Jennifer Coolidge, Crispin Glover, Tony Cox, Héctor Jiménez, Carmen Electra, Darrell Hammond, David Carradine, Kevin McDonald, George Alvarez, Fred Willard, Jayma Mays, Crista Flanagan. Plot: four not-so-young orphans visit a chocolate factory where they stumble into an enchanted wardrobe that transports them to the land of Gnarnia (with a "G"). There they meet a flamboyant pirate captain and join forces to defeat the evil White Bitch of Gnarnia. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

NOTES ON A SCANDAL [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Drama Cast: Judi Dench, Cate Blanchett, Bill Nighy, Andrew Simpson, Phil Davis, Michael Maloney, Juno Temple, Max Lewis. Plot: When a new art teacher joins St. George's , an older teacher senses a kindred spirit. When the new teacher begins an illicit affair the older one becomes the keeper of her secret. Showing at: Warren East 13th exclusively.

SMOKIN' ACES [R] 1 hr. 50 min. Action/Comedy Cast: Ben Affleck, Andy Garcia, Alicia Keys, Ray Liotta, Jeremy Piven, Ryan Reynolds, Peter Berg, Taraji Henson, Chris Pine, Martin Henderson, Jason Bateman. Plot: When word of a price on Buddy Aces' head spreads into the community of ex-cons and cons-to-be in Tahoe, bounty hunters, thugs-for-hire, smokin' hot vixens and double-crossing mobsters collide in a comic race to hit the jackpot and rub him out. Showing at: Northrock, Warren East 13th, Warren Old Town, Warren West 21st.

VOLVER [R] 2 hrs. Comedy Cast: Yohana Cobo, Penélope Cruz, Carmen Maura, Lola Dueñas, Blanca Portillo. Plot: three generations of women survive wind, fire and even death, thanks to goodness, audacity and a limitless vitality. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.

Leaving 1/25/2007

Derby Cinema - Charlotte's Web, We Are Marshall
Movie Machine - Happily N'Ever After, Curse Of The Golden Flower
Northrock 14 - Curse Of The Golden Flower, Primeval, Charlotte's Web, Good Shepherd
Palace West - Santa Clause 3, Facing The Giants
Premiere Palace - Deja Vu, Thr3e
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East 13th - The Good Shepherd, The Holiday, Curse Of Golden Flower, Primeval, Rocky Balboa, Happily N'Ever After, Apocalypto
Warren Old Town - Children Of Men, The Queen
Warren West 21st - Eragon, Thr3e, Curse Of Golden Flower, Happily N'Ever After, The Holiday

Worthwhile (and not) 1/19/2007

All of the films released in Wichita this week are considered ***+ films by the national critics, with one exception, THE HITCHER. That one was not screened for the critics so you know what its distributor thought the reviews would be.

LETTERS FROM IWO JIMA **½

The battle of Iwo Jima was fought during February and March of 1945. The U.S. wanted the island for its airplane runways which could be used to launch planes in the final assault on the Japanese homeland. For the same reason, the Japanese were determined to hold the island. The Japanese lost about 21,000 soldiers in the battle while the Americans lost around 7000.

The film says the story was based on a number of letters found buried in one of the caves the Japanese used during the battle. The letters describe the lives of the Japanese soldiers and their thoughts about the war and their desire to go home. The commanding general of the Japanese, played by Ken Watanabe, had spent several enjoyable years in the United States and admired this country. He was, however, very loyal to his country and determined to exact a price from the Americans for the attack. He was under no illusion he could win the battle, but simply surrendering was unthinkable to him and most of his soldiers.

This film is the flip side of FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS and is the better of the two. Eastwood's films tend to be too long and FLAGS simply didn't have enough going on to justify its length. To a certain extent the same problem applies here but there are more characters to become interested in so the length doesn't seem quite so interminable. There are significant cultural differences between the two countries and we are shown how those differences caused actions by the Japanese we found completely unacceptable. I suspect those who actually fought the Japanese in WWII will find this film far too sympathetic toward them, but everyone is entitled to their own viewpoint. I didn't find this film entertaining but it was interesting. It would have been just as interesting if it had been an hour shorter. A large theatre will be the best viewing venue for this film.

LAST KING OF SCOTLAND **

Idi Amin was the despotic ruler of the African country of Uganda for most of the 1970's. He purportedly was responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of his countrymen. After being forced to leave the country he lived in exile in Saudia Arabia until his death in 1993.

The story is about a young Scottish doctor, played by James McAvoy, who went to Uganda shortly after graduation from medical school to escape having to go into practice with his father, also a doctor. Through an accidental meeting with Amin, played by Forest Whitaker, he becomes an advisor to Amin as well as his personal physician. At first highly impressed by Amin, he slowly comes to realize his true nature. Along the way he becomes involved with one of Amin's wives, played by Kerry Washington, and tries to become involved with the wife of another doctor, played by Gillian Anderson.

Those of you who have been reading my reviews over the years know I basically rate a film for its entertainment value, thus my rating. The acting and production vales are fine but this film is not in the least entertaining. McAvoy's character is not at all admirable. He's personally responsible for some of the deaths that occur and for most of the film seems more interested in his status and the perks of power than in doing anything actually useful. Amin of course is a psychotic mass murderer and there's not much entertaining in that. Whitaker's performance is very good but I'm personally hard pressed to understand why it's being considered one of the best of the year. Gillian Anderson must have been added to the cast for her name value in the credits. Her role is very small and could have been done by any of hundreds of actresses. There's nothing in this film that requires a large screen so my suggestion is to wait for the DVD if you still think you want to see it.

Opening 1/19/2007

THE HITCHER [R] 1hr. 40min. Horror/Thriller Cast: Sean Bean, Sophia Bush, Zachary Knighton, Neal McDonough. Plot: an update of the 1986 film of the same name about a collegiate couple tormented by a mysterious hitchhiker who implicates them in a horrific slaying. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Warren East 13th, Waren West 21st.

LAST KING OF SCOTLAND [PG-13] 2hrs. 5min. Drama Cast: Forest Whitaker, James McAvoy, Kerry Washington, Gillian Anderson. Plot: a Scottish doctor on a Ugandan medical mission becomes irreversibly entangled with one of the world's most barbaric figures: Idi Amin. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.

LETTERS FROM IWO JIMA [R] 2hrs. 20min. Action/War Drama Cast: Ken Watanabe, Kazunari Ninomiya, Tsuyoshi Ihara, Ryo Kase, Shido Nakamura, Yuki Matsuzaki, Hiroshi Watanabe, Takumi Bando, Nobumasa Sakagami, Takashi Yamaguchi, Nae Yuuki. Plot: director Clint Eastwood felt 2006's Flags of Our Fathers would be telling only half the story of the battle for Iwo Jima. With this film, shot back-to-back with Flags, he seeks to reveal the battle, and, by implication, the war in the Pacific--as a clash not only of arms but of cultures. Showing at: Warren East 13th exclusively.

PAN'S LABYRINTH [R] 1hr. 50min. Drama/Fantasy/Horror/Thriller Cast: Ivana Baquero, Doug Jones, Sergi López, Ariadna Gil, Maribel Verdú, Álex Angulo, Roger Casamajor, Sebastián Haro, Mina Lira, Federico Luppi, Ivan Massagué, Chema Ruiz, Manolo Solo, Milo Taboada. Plot: set against the backdrop of a fascist regime in 1944 rural Spain, a lonely and dreamy child creates a world filled with fantastical creatures and secret destinies and must come to terms with her world through a fable of her own creation. Showing at: Warren 13th exclusively.

Leaving 1/18/2007

Derby Cinema - Happily N'ever After
Movie Machine - Nothing
Northrock 14 - Happily N'ever After, Thr3e
Palace West - Deck The Halls, Flicka, The Prestige
Premiere Palace - The Queen, Stranger Than Fiction, Color Of The Cross, Black Christmas, Unaccompanied Minors
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East 13th - Thr3e, Charlotte's Web, Code Name: The Cleaner
Warren Old Town - Curse Of The Golden Flower
Warren West 21st - Happy Feet, Code Name: The Cleaner

Worthwhile (and not) 1/12/2007

It's been a long time since I've seen a week that had so little to offer. Hopefully, next week will have better fare.

Only two films got Worthwhile reviews from the national critics, CURSE OF THE GOLDEN FLOWER and THE PAINTED VEIL. ALPHA DOG and STOMP THE YARD were in the 2-3 star range. The 1-2 star rating was given to ARTHUR AND THE INVISIBLES and COLOR OF THE CROSS. PRIMEVAL doesn't appear to have been screened in advance which tells you what the distributor thinks of the film.

ALPHA DOG *

Nick Cassavetes both wrote and directed this fictionalized account of how Jesse James Hollywood, a L.A. drug dealer, became one of the youngest criminals (at age 20) to appear on the FBI's most wanted list. Hollywood is currently awaiting trial for his part in the 2000 kidnap and murder of one of his client's brother.

The film takes place over a three day period between the kidnapping and the murder. You're introduced to the various members involved in the crime and get a good sense of their purposeless lives and actions. While all the actors are good, the standouts are Ben Foster and Justin Timberlake. Bruce Willis and Sharon Stone bring some starpower to the proceedings although neither have much screen time.

The film is well written and directed but it's hard for me to give this a good rating. There's no one in this movie you can admire. None of the characters appear intelligent and their lifestyle is absolutely reprehensible. Any parent who had children like this would, or should, consider themselves a parenting failure. The language is mostly repetitive profanity and there's a fair amount of sexual activity. I'm sure the intent was to expose the viewer to the lifestyle of a group of amoral teens, and it does that well. But, unless you enjoy paying money for something most will find repulsive, I'd advise skipping this one.

What's new for 1/12/2007

ALPHA DOG [R] 2hrs. Drama Cast: Ben Foster, Shawn Hatosy, Emile Hirsch, Christopher Marquette, Sharon Stone, Justin Timberlake, Anton Yelchin, Bruce Willis. Plot: when the friend of a 19-year-old drug dealer welches on a debt, the dealer and his boys kidnap the welcher's 15-year-old brother and hold him as a marker. Showing at: Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

ARTHUR AND THE INVISIBLES [PG] 1hr. 35min. Animated family fantasy Voices of: Robert De Niro, Madonna, Snoop Dogg, David Bowie, Freddie Highmore, Harvey Keitel, Anthony Anderson, Chazz Palminteri, Jason Bateman, Jimmy Fallon, Mia Farrow. Plot: family adventure about a boy who sets out to save his family home from emerging real estate developers by locating hidden treasure. Based on the best selling children's book, Arthur and the Minimoys. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

COLOR OF THE CROSS [PG-13] 2hrs. Political/Religious Drama Cast: Jean Claude LaMarre, Debbi Morgan, Ananda Lewis, Johann Jean, Jesse Holland. Plot: presents the last 48 hours before the crucifixion of Jesus, who is portrayed as a black man. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.

CURSE OF THE GOLDEN FLOWER [R] 1hr. 55min. Action/Drama/Romance Cast: Chow Yun-Fat, Gong Li. Plot: love, intrigue and death in 10th Century China. Subtitled. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East 13th, Warren Old Town, Warren West 21st.

THE PAINTED VEIL [R] 2hr. 5min. Drama Cast: Naomi Watts, Edward Norton, Liev Schreiber, Toby Jones. Plot: based on the classic novel by W. Somerset Maugham about a middle class doctor and an upper-class woman who get married for the wrong reasons and relocate to Shanghai. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.

PRIMEVAL [R] 1hr. 35min. Horror/Thriller Cast: Dominic Purcell, Orlando Jones, Brooke Langton, Jurgen Prochnow. Plot: inspired by the true story of the world's most prolific killer, an American news crew determines to capture the terrifying creature alive. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

STOMP THE YARD [PG-13] 1hr. 55min. Drama Cast: Columbus Short, Meagan Good, Ne-Yo (Shaffer Smith), Darrin Henson, Brian White, Laz Alonso, Valarie Pettiford, Harry Lennix, Chris Brown. Plot: a troubled youth from Los Angeles moves to Atlanta to attend Truth University and discovers "stepping," the age-old style of dance traditionally done in African-American Fraternities. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East 13th, Warren West 21st.

Leaving 1/11/2007

Derby Cinema - Eragon
Movie Machine - The Holiday
Northrock 14 - Black Christmas, Happy Feet, The Holiday, Rocky Balboa, We Are Marshall
Palace West - Barnyard, The Guardian
Premiere Palace - Santa Clause 3, Flushed Away, Guadalupe, Riding Alone For Thousands Of Miles, Bobby
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East 13th - Eragon, Happy Feet, Casino Royale, The Nativity Story
Warren Old Town - We Are Marshall, Rocky Balboa
Warren West 21st - Rocky Balboa, Blood Diamond, Apocalypto, The Nativity Story, Black Christmas

Worthwhile (and not) 12/5/2007

The top new film's this weekend, 3-4 stars, are CHILDREN OF MEN and FREEDOM WRITERS. If you want the very best, I think the nod has to go to CHILDREN. CODE NAME: THE CLEANER and RIDING ALONE FOR THOUSANDS OF MILES look to be in the 2-3 star range. Bringing up the rear in the 1-2 star range are HAPPILY 'N EVER AFTER and THR3E. The latter doesn't appear to have been screened so I'd avoid it like the plague.

CHILDREN OF MEN ****

Director Alfonso Cuarón has given us films that vary from Y tu mamá también to Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Author P. D. James is best known for her Inspector Dalgliesh mystery novels, many of which have been filmed for the small screen and shown on PBS. With this film Cuarón's directing talent and James' writing combine to show us a not-too-distant future where all hope has been lost because Earth's population is infertile and there have been no births for eighteen years.

In this world Clive Owen is a minor British civil servant and Julianne Moore is the leader of a rebel group trying to bring down the repressive British government. She is also Owen's former lover and the mother of his child, who died in infancy. This is not a pleasant time to be alive. In Britain there is still some vestige of civilization but you are given to understand that in other countries chaos and destruction are the norm. Just in case things get too bad to bear, many people keep a suicide kit handy and you see advertisements for them on the telly. Then Moore contacts Owen and asks him to help get a young woman out of the country...a woman who is about to become a mother!

Like many good films this one will leave you with as many questions as answers. Would civilization really self-destruct in such circumstances? What caused the infertility and how is it possible that a pregnancy finally occurs? But, above all this is a film about emotion, from bleak despair to incredulous hope. There's no way to describe that, you'll have to see the film to experience it. And, this is one you'll need to see if you don't want to be left out of the water cooler conversations and talk about potential Academy Award winners.

Opening 1/5/2007

CHILDREN OF MEN [R] 1hr. 45min. Thriller Cast: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Charlie Hunnam, Michael Caine. Plot: in a near-future world fallen into anarchy on the heels of an infertility defect in the population, a disillusioned bureaucrat becomes an unlikely champion of Earth's survival. Showing at: WE, WO, WW

CODE NAME: THE CLEANER [PG-13] 1hr. 30min. Action/Comedy Cast: Cedric The Entertainer, Lucy Liu, Nicollette Sheridan, Elizabeth Hurley, DeRay Davis. Plot: a mild-mannered janitor with amnesia gets comically entangled in a government conspiracy. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

FREEDOM WRITERS [PG-13] Drama Cast: Hilary Swank, Imelda Staunton, Patrick Dempsey, Scott Glenn, Mario. Plot: when a teacher respects a class of gangbanger students, they begin to hope they can show the world their lives matter and they have something to say. Showing at: DC, NR, WE, WW

HAPPILY 'N EVER AFTER [PG] 1hr. 25min. Animated family comedy Voices of: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Sigourney Weaver, Freddie Prinze Jr., George Carlin, Wallace Shawn, Andy Dick. Plot: a satirical retelling of the classic story of Cinderella. Showing at: DC, MM, NR, WE, WW

RIDING ALONE FOR THOUSANDS OF MILES [PG] 1hr. 50min. Drama Cast: Takakura Ken, Terajima Shinobu, Nakai Kiichi. Plot: a moving story of one man's journey across China's heartland in order to comfort a dying son. Showing at: PP exclusively

THR3E [PG-13] 1hr. 45min. Horror/Thriller Cast: Marc Blucas, Justine Waddell, Laura Jordan, Max Ryan, Bill Mosely, Sherman Augustus, Priscilla Barnes, Tom Bower, Jeffrey Lee Hollis, Kevin Downes. Plot: based on the best-selling novel by Ted Dekker about a young seminary student targeted by a psychopathic killer. Showing at: NR, WE, WW

Leaving 1/4/2007

Derby Cinema - Rocky Balboa, The Holiday
Movie Machine - Eragon
Northrock 14 - Apocalypto, Blood Diamond, The Nativity Story
Palace West - The Return, Marie Antoinette
Premiere Palace - Driving Lessons
Starlite Drive-In - Closed until spring
Warren East - Deck The Halls
Warren Old Town - Eragon
Warren West - Unaccompanied Minors, Deck The Halls

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!