ARE WE DONE YET? [PG] 1 hr. 30 min. Family comedy Trailer Cast: Ice Cube, Nia Long, John C. McGinley, Aleisha Allen, Philip Daniel Bolden. Plot: sequel to Are We There Yet? picks up where the last story left off with the family in a new "fixer upper" home and at the mercy of an eccentric contractor. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
FIREHOUSE DOG [PG] 1 hr. 45 min. Family comedy Trailer Cast: Josh Hutcherson, Bruce Greenwood, Bree Turner, Dash Mihok, Steven Culp. Plot: the world's most famous – and Hollywood's most pampered – pooch is separated from his owner and ends up as the mascot of a hapless fire station where he helps a 12-year-old boy and his father, a veteran fire chief, turn the station into the city's finest. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Northrock, Movie Machine, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
STARTS THURSDAY, APRIL 5
THE REAPING [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Supernatural thriller Trailer Cast: Hilary Swank, David Morrissey, Idris Elba, AnnaSophia Robb, Stephen Rea. Plot: a former Christian missionary who has lost her faith investigates a small Louisiana town suffering from what appear to be the Biblical plagues and must regain her faith to combat the dark forces threatening the community. Showing at: Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Leaving 4/3-4/2007
Derby Cinema -
Movie Machine -
Northrock 14 - 4/3: Dead Silence, Premonition. 4/4: Bridge To Terabithia
Palace West -
Premiere Palace -
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 4/3: The Ultimate Gift, Bridge To Terabithia. 4/4: Ghost Rider
Warren Old Town -
Warren West 21st - 4/3: Amazing Grace, Ghost Rider, Dead Silence.
Movie Machine -
Northrock 14 - 4/3: Dead Silence, Premonition. 4/4: Bridge To Terabithia
Palace West -
Premiere Palace -
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 4/3: The Ultimate Gift, Bridge To Terabithia. 4/4: Ghost Rider
Warren Old Town -
Warren West 21st - 4/3: Amazing Grace, Ghost Rider, Dead Silence.
Worthwhile (and not) 3/30/07
The national critics thought THE LOOKOUT was the best of this week's offerings with an average of 3 stars. Everything else is averaging 2½ stars with PEACEFUL WARRIOR coming in between 2 and 2½.
MEET THE ROBINSONS **
Based on A Day with Wilbur Robinson by William Joyce, this animated feature is being strongly sold in TV commercials as a 3D feature. While 3D digital projection is closer than you might think for Wichita, it isn't here yet which means you'll see it on local screens projected from film and in glorious 2D.
The story is about an orphan who desperately wants to belong to a family and who also possesses a real skill for inventing. Virtually all of his inventions are failures, however, and he becomes very discouraged. It's at this point that he's visited by two strangers from the future, one who wants to help and encourage him and one who's trying to steal one of his inventions.
Most of us are conditioned to think of animated features as funny. Unfortunately, that's not true in this case. The film does have a message that's true for everyone, but you're not going to be laughing while hearing it. Children should be entertained but adults are going to be hard pressed to stay awake through the entire feature. Fortunately, the pace of the story is fast so time doesn't drag as much as it could. I understand the 3D effect adds a lot to the film but you'll have to go elsewhere to see it. The film is shown with a vintage Disney cartoon from 1948 which stars Mickey, Goofy and Donald. Unfortunately, it isn't funny either.
The story is about an orphan who desperately wants to belong to a family and who also possesses a real skill for inventing. Virtually all of his inventions are failures, however, and he becomes very discouraged. It's at this point that he's visited by two strangers from the future, one who wants to help and encourage him and one who's trying to steal one of his inventions.
Most of us are conditioned to think of animated features as funny. Unfortunately, that's not true in this case. The film does have a message that's true for everyone, but you're not going to be laughing while hearing it. Children should be entertained but adults are going to be hard pressed to stay awake through the entire feature. Fortunately, the pace of the story is fast so time doesn't drag as much as it could. I understand the 3D effect adds a lot to the film but you'll have to go elsewhere to see it. The film is shown with a vintage Disney cartoon from 1948 which stars Mickey, Goofy and Donald. Unfortunately, it isn't funny either.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Opening 3/30/2007
For showtimes see SHOWTIMES AT listings in left column.
BLADES OF GLORY [PG-13] 1 hr. 45 min. Comedy/Sports Trailer Cast: Will Ferrell, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Amy Poehler, William Fichtner, Jenna Fischer, Romany Malco, Nick Swardson, Rob Corddry, Craig T. Nelson. Plot: When rival figure skaters are stripped of their gold medals and banned from the sport for life, they find a loophole that will allow them to compete – in pairs' figure skating. Showing at: Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
THE LOOKOUT [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Crime/Drama Trailer Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jeff Daniels, Isla Fisher, Matthew Goode, Carla Gugino, Aaron Berg, Kalyn Bomback, Alex Borstein, Paul Christie, Sergio Di Zio, Morgan Kelly, Suzanne Kelly, Tracy McMahon, Toni Reimer, Janaya Stephens, Laura Vandervoort, Courtney-Jane White. Plot: a once promising high school athlete whose life is turned upside down following a tragic accident, takes a job as a janitor at a bank where he ultimately finds himself caught up in a planned heist. Showing at: 13th Ave. Warren exclusively.
MEET THE ROBINSONS [G] 1 hr. 40 min. Animated Trailer Voices of: Angela Bassett, Tom Selleck, Harland Williams, Laurie Metcalf, Adam West, Ethan Sandler, Tom Kenny. Plot: an orphan who dreams of finding a family is visited by a mysterious stranger named Wilbur Robinson who whisks him away to a world where anything is possible... THE FUTURE. Showing at: Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
PEACEFUL WARRIOR [PG-13] 2 hrs. Drama Trailer Cast: Nick Nolte, Scott Mechlowicz, Amy Smart, Ashton Holmes. Plot: a gifted young athlete bound for Olympic gold who will do anything to be the best meets a mysterious stranger who holds the power to tap into new worlds of strength and understanding. Based on the semi-autobiographical book loved by millions, "Way of the Peaceful Warrior" by Dan Millman. Showing at: Northrock, 21st Street Warren.
SNEAK PREVIEW SATURDAY, MARCH 31
THE HOAX [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Richard Gere, Alfred Molina, Marcia Gay Harden, Hope Davis, Julie Delpy. Plot: inspired by true events in the life of Clifford Irving, the writer who nearly pulled off one of the most audacious media scams in history, when his completely bogus "autobiography" of Howard Hughes was published. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren exclusively (7:10 p.m.).
BLADES OF GLORY [PG-13] 1 hr. 45 min. Comedy/Sports Trailer Cast: Will Ferrell, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Amy Poehler, William Fichtner, Jenna Fischer, Romany Malco, Nick Swardson, Rob Corddry, Craig T. Nelson. Plot: When rival figure skaters are stripped of their gold medals and banned from the sport for life, they find a loophole that will allow them to compete – in pairs' figure skating. Showing at: Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
THE LOOKOUT [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Crime/Drama Trailer Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jeff Daniels, Isla Fisher, Matthew Goode, Carla Gugino, Aaron Berg, Kalyn Bomback, Alex Borstein, Paul Christie, Sergio Di Zio, Morgan Kelly, Suzanne Kelly, Tracy McMahon, Toni Reimer, Janaya Stephens, Laura Vandervoort, Courtney-Jane White. Plot: a once promising high school athlete whose life is turned upside down following a tragic accident, takes a job as a janitor at a bank where he ultimately finds himself caught up in a planned heist. Showing at: 13th Ave. Warren exclusively.
MEET THE ROBINSONS [G] 1 hr. 40 min. Animated Trailer Voices of: Angela Bassett, Tom Selleck, Harland Williams, Laurie Metcalf, Adam West, Ethan Sandler, Tom Kenny. Plot: an orphan who dreams of finding a family is visited by a mysterious stranger named Wilbur Robinson who whisks him away to a world where anything is possible... THE FUTURE. Showing at: Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
PEACEFUL WARRIOR [PG-13] 2 hrs. Drama Trailer Cast: Nick Nolte, Scott Mechlowicz, Amy Smart, Ashton Holmes. Plot: a gifted young athlete bound for Olympic gold who will do anything to be the best meets a mysterious stranger who holds the power to tap into new worlds of strength and understanding. Based on the semi-autobiographical book loved by millions, "Way of the Peaceful Warrior" by Dan Millman. Showing at: Northrock, 21st Street Warren.
SNEAK PREVIEW SATURDAY, MARCH 31
THE HOAX [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Richard Gere, Alfred Molina, Marcia Gay Harden, Hope Davis, Julie Delpy. Plot: inspired by true events in the life of Clifford Irving, the writer who nearly pulled off one of the most audacious media scams in history, when his completely bogus "autobiography" of Howard Hughes was published. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren exclusively (7:10 p.m.).
Leaving 3/29/2007
Derby Cinema -
Movie Machine - Bridge To Terabithia
Northrock 14 - I Think I Love My Wife, Norbit, Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls, The Work & The Glory: A House Divided
Palace West - Blood Diamond, Eragon, Freedom Writers
Premiere Palace - Breach
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - Dead Silence, I Think I Love My Wife
Warren Old Town - The Number 23, Ghost Rider
Warren West 21st - Because I Said So, The Ultimate Gift, I Think I Love My Wife
Movie Machine - Bridge To Terabithia
Northrock 14 - I Think I Love My Wife, Norbit, Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls, The Work & The Glory: A House Divided
Palace West - Blood Diamond, Eragon, Freedom Writers
Premiere Palace - Breach
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - Dead Silence, I Think I Love My Wife
Warren Old Town - The Number 23, Ghost Rider
Warren West 21st - Because I Said So, The Ultimate Gift, I Think I Love My Wife
Friday, March 23, 2007
Worthwhile (and not) 3/23/07
Everything is pretty much in the middle of the "stars" this week with Reign Over Me leading the group and TMNT bringing up the rear. The Hills Have Eyes 2 wasn't screened for the critics (you aren't surprised are you?) so you'll have to wait a little to see the rating, although I'm reasonable sure it will be low. THE WORK AND THE GLORY III: A House Divided is a specialty religious film and is unlikely to have been reviewed by most of the mainstream critics.
Dont forget you can read other reviews on this week's new films in the left column under the Reel Views, Movie Mom, and Film Blather headings.
Dont forget you can read other reviews on this week's new films in the left column under the Reel Views, Movie Mom, and Film Blather headings.
SHOOTER ***½
SHOOTER has some impressive components. It's based on a novel, Point of Impact, by Stephen Hunter, a Washington Post film reviewer and Pulitizer Prize winner. It's directed by Antoine Fuqua who also directed Training Day. And, it has a cast of upcoming and established midlevel talent including; Mark Wahlberg, last seen in The Departed; Michael Peña, last seen in World Trade Center and Babel; Danny Glover of Dreamgirls; Kate Mara, who spent a few hours in 24; Rhona Mitra, who we just saw in The Number 23; and Ned Beatty, who's been around for ever but not seen all that much lately.
The story has Wahlberg, an ex-marine sniper, asked by Glover to help the government prevent an assassination attempt on POTUS. He's told his sniper experience will be invaluable in detecting the killer. In reality he's been set up as a fall guy but manages to escape even though he's been shot. After a brief period of recovery, he sets out to take revenge on those who "done him wrong."
This is an action fan's picture. I was thoroughly entertained and completely satisfied when it ended. However, it's incredibly violent from start to finish so if you don't care for screen violence you should stay far, far away. The story is predictable but the movie's pace is so rapid you don't have time to think about that or some of the unrealistic events that occur. There's also a political angle that should appeal to those who have lost much of their trust in our government and will find a violent reaction to those responsible for that loss satisfying. The continual amount of explosive action means this film will be most enjoyed in a large theatre auditorium with good sound.
The story has Wahlberg, an ex-marine sniper, asked by Glover to help the government prevent an assassination attempt on POTUS. He's told his sniper experience will be invaluable in detecting the killer. In reality he's been set up as a fall guy but manages to escape even though he's been shot. After a brief period of recovery, he sets out to take revenge on those who "done him wrong."
This is an action fan's picture. I was thoroughly entertained and completely satisfied when it ended. However, it's incredibly violent from start to finish so if you don't care for screen violence you should stay far, far away. The story is predictable but the movie's pace is so rapid you don't have time to think about that or some of the unrealistic events that occur. There's also a political angle that should appeal to those who have lost much of their trust in our government and will find a violent reaction to those responsible for that loss satisfying. The continual amount of explosive action means this film will be most enjoyed in a large theatre auditorium with good sound.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Opening 3/23/2007
THE HILLS HAVE EYES 2 [R] Horror Trailer Cast: Jessica Stroup, Reshad Strik, Michael McMillian, Daniella Alonso, Lee Thompson Young, Ben Crowley, Eric Edelstein, Michael Bailey Smith, David Reynolds, Derek Mears, Tyrell Kemlo, Javier Nieto, Gáspár Szabó, Jeff Kober, Jay Acovone, Archie Kao, Philip Pavel. Plot: a group of young National Guard trainees are attacked by mutants during a training mission in the New Mexico desert. Showing at: Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
THE LAST MIMZY [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Family adventure/drama/sci-fi Trailer Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rainn Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil. Plot: based on the 1943 short story "Mimsy Were the Borogoves" by Lewis Padgett, about two children who discover a mysterious box containing some strange devices they think are toys but which act to make them incredibly intelligent. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
LITTLE CHILDREN [R] 2 hrs. 15 min. Drama/Romance Trailer Cast: Kate Winslet, Jennifer Connelly, Patrick Wilson, Noah Emmerich, Jackie Earle Haley, Gregg Edelman, Sarah Buxton. Plot: a handful of individuals' lives intersect on the playgrounds, town pools and streets of their small community in surprising and potentially dangerous ways. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.
PRIDE [PG] 1 hr. 45 min. Sports drama Trailer Cast: Terrence Howard, Bernie Mac, Tom Arnold, Regine Nehy, Kevin Phillip. Plot: based on a true story about a swim coach's fight to build a swim team in one of Philly's toughest neighborhoods in the 1970s. Showing at: Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
REIGN OVER ME [R] 2 hrs. 5 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Adam Sandler, Don Cheadle, Jada Pinkett Smith, Liv Tyler, Saffron Burrows, Donald Sutherland, Mike Binder. Plot: two former college roommates run into each other years later and rekindle their friendship. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren exclusively.
SHOOTER [R] 2 hrs. 5 min. Action/Thriller Trailer Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Michael Peña, Danny Glover, Kate Mara, Elias Koteas, Rhona Mitra, Rade Sherbedgia, Ned Beatty. Plot: a former Army sniper who leaves the military after a mission goes bad is reluctantly pressed back into service and double-crossed. With two bullets in him and the subject of a nationwide manhunt, he begins his revenge, which will take down the most powerful people in the country. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
TMNT (TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES) [PG] 1 hr. 20 min. Animated action/adventure Trailer Cast: Patrick Stewart, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Chris Evans, Ziyi Zhang, Kevin Smith, Mako, James Arnold Taylor, Mikey Kelley, Mitchell Whitfield, Nolan North. Plot: the Turtles are in for the fight of their lives as they once again face the mysterious Foot Clan, who have their own ninja skills. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
THE WORK AND THE GLORY III: A House Divided [PG] 1 hr. 35 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Sam Hennings, Brenda Strong, Eric Johnson, Jonathan Scarfe, Alexander Carroll, Andrew Bowen, Emily Podleski, Ryan Wood, Brighton Hertford, Sarah Darling, Jeff Ham. Plot: third and final installment based on the best-selling series of nine novels about the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Showing at: Northrock exclusively.
THE LAST MIMZY [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Family adventure/drama/sci-fi Trailer Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rainn Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil. Plot: based on the 1943 short story "Mimsy Were the Borogoves" by Lewis Padgett, about two children who discover a mysterious box containing some strange devices they think are toys but which act to make them incredibly intelligent. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
LITTLE CHILDREN [R] 2 hrs. 15 min. Drama/Romance Trailer Cast: Kate Winslet, Jennifer Connelly, Patrick Wilson, Noah Emmerich, Jackie Earle Haley, Gregg Edelman, Sarah Buxton. Plot: a handful of individuals' lives intersect on the playgrounds, town pools and streets of their small community in surprising and potentially dangerous ways. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.
PRIDE [PG] 1 hr. 45 min. Sports drama Trailer Cast: Terrence Howard, Bernie Mac, Tom Arnold, Regine Nehy, Kevin Phillip. Plot: based on a true story about a swim coach's fight to build a swim team in one of Philly's toughest neighborhoods in the 1970s. Showing at: Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
REIGN OVER ME [R] 2 hrs. 5 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Adam Sandler, Don Cheadle, Jada Pinkett Smith, Liv Tyler, Saffron Burrows, Donald Sutherland, Mike Binder. Plot: two former college roommates run into each other years later and rekindle their friendship. Showing at: 13th Avenue Warren exclusively.
SHOOTER [R] 2 hrs. 5 min. Action/Thriller Trailer Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Michael Peña, Danny Glover, Kate Mara, Elias Koteas, Rhona Mitra, Rade Sherbedgia, Ned Beatty. Plot: a former Army sniper who leaves the military after a mission goes bad is reluctantly pressed back into service and double-crossed. With two bullets in him and the subject of a nationwide manhunt, he begins his revenge, which will take down the most powerful people in the country. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
TMNT (TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES) [PG] 1 hr. 20 min. Animated action/adventure Trailer Cast: Patrick Stewart, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Chris Evans, Ziyi Zhang, Kevin Smith, Mako, James Arnold Taylor, Mikey Kelley, Mitchell Whitfield, Nolan North. Plot: the Turtles are in for the fight of their lives as they once again face the mysterious Foot Clan, who have their own ninja skills. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Movie Machine, Northrock, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
THE WORK AND THE GLORY III: A House Divided [PG] 1 hr. 35 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Sam Hennings, Brenda Strong, Eric Johnson, Jonathan Scarfe, Alexander Carroll, Andrew Bowen, Emily Podleski, Ryan Wood, Brighton Hertford, Sarah Darling, Jeff Ham. Plot: third and final installment based on the best-selling series of nine novels about the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Showing at: Northrock exclusively.
Leaving 3/22/2007
Derby Cinema - Norbit, The Astronaut Farmer, Ghost Rider
Movie Machine - Norbit, The Astronaut Farmer, Ghost Rider
Northrock 14 - Because I Said So, Black Snake Moan, Ghost Rider, The Number 23, The Ultimate Gift, Zodiac
Palace West - Catch And Release, Casino Royale
Premiere Palace -Reno 911: Miami, Black Snake Moan, Letters From Iwo Jima, Last King Of Scotland, Pan's Labyrinth, The Queen, Dreamgirls
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - Zodiac, The Number 23, The Astronaut Farmer, Breach, Music And Lyrics, Norbit, Because I Said So
Warren Old Town - nothing
Warren West 21st - Zodiac, Black Snake Moan, Reno 911: Miami, The Number 23, The Astronaut Farmer, Music And Lyrics, Norbit
Movie Machine - Norbit, The Astronaut Farmer, Ghost Rider
Northrock 14 - Because I Said So, Black Snake Moan, Ghost Rider, The Number 23, The Ultimate Gift, Zodiac
Palace West - Catch And Release, Casino Royale
Premiere Palace -Reno 911: Miami, Black Snake Moan, Letters From Iwo Jima, Last King Of Scotland, Pan's Labyrinth, The Queen, Dreamgirls
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - Zodiac, The Number 23, The Astronaut Farmer, Breach, Music And Lyrics, Norbit, Because I Said So
Warren Old Town - nothing
Warren West 21st - Zodiac, Black Snake Moan, Reno 911: Miami, The Number 23, The Astronaut Farmer, Music And Lyrics, Norbit
Friday, March 16, 2007
Worthwhile (and not) 3/16/07
According to the national critics, The Lives Of Others is the one to see with a rating between 3½-4. I Think I Love My Wife is averaging 2½ while Premonition is coming in a little less than 2. Dead Silence was evidently not screened for the critics.
If none of these strike your fancy you have next week to look forward to, when at least six new films will be arriving!
If none of these strike your fancy you have next week to look forward to, when at least six new films will be arriving!
PREMONITION **½
It's not that movies about time travel or time being out of whack are all that uncommon. A few years back there was Momento, where time ran backwards. More recently there was Déjà Vu, which involved time travel using a machine and The Lake House, which also starred Sandra Bullock, living in disjointed parallel time with a lover. Indeed, if you look here you'll see that time manipulation has been used a lot in films.
In Premonition we have time jumping about. If you've seen the TV commercials you know Bullock is informed her husband is dead but finds him alive and kicking the next day, only to have him dead the day after, or was it the day before, etc. etc. etc. Throw in a couple of adorable children, a possible mistress, spiritual guidance from a priest, a psychiatrist who acts like he needs help, and you've got a full plate of plot.
To me, this is a film of missed opportunity. It had the potential to have been very good. Instead, it feels manipulative. No reason is ever given for her days being so jumbled. She does learn a few things she didn't know at first, but she could have done that just as easily if the timeline had been more straightforward. The ending is a little over the top for my taste but many may find it satisfactory. A couple of things come to mind when all is said and done: I don't think I've ever seen a film with so many extreme closeups (Bullock); and, trying to keep track of what was going on made the time pass quickly, even if I was disappointed when it was all over.
In Premonition we have time jumping about. If you've seen the TV commercials you know Bullock is informed her husband is dead but finds him alive and kicking the next day, only to have him dead the day after, or was it the day before, etc. etc. etc. Throw in a couple of adorable children, a possible mistress, spiritual guidance from a priest, a psychiatrist who acts like he needs help, and you've got a full plate of plot.
To me, this is a film of missed opportunity. It had the potential to have been very good. Instead, it feels manipulative. No reason is ever given for her days being so jumbled. She does learn a few things she didn't know at first, but she could have done that just as easily if the timeline had been more straightforward. The ending is a little over the top for my taste but many may find it satisfactory. A couple of things come to mind when all is said and done: I don't think I've ever seen a film with so many extreme closeups (Bullock); and, trying to keep track of what was going on made the time pass quickly, even if I was disappointed when it was all over.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Opening 3/16/2007
DEAD SILENCE [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Supernatural/Thriller Trailer Cast: Ryan Kwanten, Amber Valletta, Donnie Wahlberg, Bob Gunton. Plot: when his new wife is gruesomely murdered, the husband returns to their hometown for the funeral, intent on unraveling the mystery surrounding her death. Himself the lead suspect in his wife's murder, he soon uncovers the truth behind the curse that ended his wife's life...and threatens to take his as well. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
I THINK I LOVE MY WIFE [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Comedy/Romance Trailer Cast: Chris Rock, Kerry Washington, Gina Torres, Steve Buscemi. Plot: an exciting free spirit makes a man's daydreams come true while his wife is so preoccupied with her own career and raising their two children that she has little time for him. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
THE LIVES OF OTHERS [R] 2 hrs. 15 min. Drama/Thriller Trailer Cast: Ulrich Mühe, Sebastian Koch, Martina Gedeck, Ulrich Tukur, Thomas Thieme, Volkmar Kleinert. Plot: the story begins in East Berlin in 1984 and ultimately takes us to 1991, in what is now the reunited Germany. It traces the gradual disillusionment of a highly skilled officer who works for the Stasi, East Germany's all-powerful secret police. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.
PREMONITION [PG-13] 1 hr. 35 min. Psychological thriller Trailer Cast: Sandra Bullock, Julian McMahon, Nia Long, Kate Nelligan, Amber Valetta, Peter Stormare. Plot: a woman with a perfect life receives the devastating news her husband has died in a car accident. After awakening the next morning to find him alive and well, she discovers her life may not have been all it appeared. Desperately she begins a furious race against time and fate to preserve the life she has known. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
SNEAK PREVIEW SUNDAY:
THE LAST MIMZY [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Family adventure/drama/sci-fi Trailer Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rainn Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil. Plot: based on the 1943 short story "Mimsy Were the Borogoves" by Lewis Padgett, about two children who discover a mysterious box containing some strange devices they think are toys but which act to make them incredibly intelligent. Sneaking Sunday at 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
I THINK I LOVE MY WIFE [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Comedy/Romance Trailer Cast: Chris Rock, Kerry Washington, Gina Torres, Steve Buscemi. Plot: an exciting free spirit makes a man's daydreams come true while his wife is so preoccupied with her own career and raising their two children that she has little time for him. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
THE LIVES OF OTHERS [R] 2 hrs. 15 min. Drama/Thriller Trailer Cast: Ulrich Mühe, Sebastian Koch, Martina Gedeck, Ulrich Tukur, Thomas Thieme, Volkmar Kleinert. Plot: the story begins in East Berlin in 1984 and ultimately takes us to 1991, in what is now the reunited Germany. It traces the gradual disillusionment of a highly skilled officer who works for the Stasi, East Germany's all-powerful secret police. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.
PREMONITION [PG-13] 1 hr. 35 min. Psychological thriller Trailer Cast: Sandra Bullock, Julian McMahon, Nia Long, Kate Nelligan, Amber Valetta, Peter Stormare. Plot: a woman with a perfect life receives the devastating news her husband has died in a car accident. After awakening the next morning to find him alive and well, she discovers her life may not have been all it appeared. Desperately she begins a furious race against time and fate to preserve the life she has known. Showing at: Derby Cinema, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
SNEAK PREVIEW SUNDAY:
THE LAST MIMZY [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Family adventure/drama/sci-fi Trailer Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rainn Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil. Plot: based on the 1943 short story "Mimsy Were the Borogoves" by Lewis Padgett, about two children who discover a mysterious box containing some strange devices they think are toys but which act to make them incredibly intelligent. Sneaking Sunday at 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
Leaving 3/15/2007
Derby Cinema - Music And Lyrics
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 - The Astronaut Farmer, Music And Lyrics
Palace West - The Departed, We Are Marshall
Premiere Palace - Notes On A Scandal, The Messengers, The Good German
Starlite Drive-In - nothing
Warren East 13th - Black Snake Moan, Reno 911: Miami, Night At The Museum
Warren Old Town - Reno 911: Miami
Warren West 21st - Breach
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 - The Astronaut Farmer, Music And Lyrics
Palace West - The Departed, We Are Marshall
Premiere Palace - Notes On A Scandal, The Messengers, The Good German
Starlite Drive-In - nothing
Warren East 13th - Black Snake Moan, Reno 911: Miami, Night At The Museum
Warren Old Town - Reno 911: Miami
Warren West 21st - Breach
Friday, March 09, 2007
Worthwhile (and not) 3/9/07
Both 300 and The Ultimate Gift are averaging 2½ stars from the national critics. Miss Potter is marginally better but not by much. Those who like inspirational films may choose to see Gift anyway and as I said in my review, 300 will have plenty attending in spite of its reviews. My guess is that if you really want to see Potter you should hurry, as I don't see it hanging around for long.
300 **
The film 300 is based on the graphic novel of the same name by writer-artist Frank Miller. The story was originally published as a monthly five-issue comic book series and later issued as a hard cover book. If you're interested in the book (it's only 88 pages) you can purchase it here (use the Amazon link in the left column of this blog to do so, thank you very much). Miller was also responsible for the comic novel SIN CITY, which director Robert Rodriguez turned into the film of the same name.
One thing film director Zack Snyder did in this production was to use a cast of unfamiliar faces so the actors wouldn't detract from the artistic interpretation of the story. That story is about the battle of Thermopylae, 2500 years ago, where the Spartans battled the Persians in an attempt to prevent the conquest of Greece. The fact that no face seems familiar adds to the comic book look, although that look loses its charm in short order. The film is filled with muscular men bellowing such inspiring dialogue as: "Tonight we will dine in hell." Sure would motivate me. The topless women were a plus but the stabbing and slashing was so constant it soon became boring.
Frankly, the fact I was looking at my watch every five minutes just a few minutes into this film isn't going to mean anything as far as the attendance figures are concerned. Teens and young men will swarm to see this as well as comic enthusiasts and gamers. The fact I'm none of those no doubt explains my negative reaction. Most adults who aren't into comics and games will not find this interesting or entertaining. I've also read some commentary considering whether this film has political overtones. It didn't seem to me as if it did. If this does look like something you want to see, by all means go to a theatre for the maximum experience. This will not translate well to a small screen.
One thing film director Zack Snyder did in this production was to use a cast of unfamiliar faces so the actors wouldn't detract from the artistic interpretation of the story. That story is about the battle of Thermopylae, 2500 years ago, where the Spartans battled the Persians in an attempt to prevent the conquest of Greece. The fact that no face seems familiar adds to the comic book look, although that look loses its charm in short order. The film is filled with muscular men bellowing such inspiring dialogue as: "Tonight we will dine in hell." Sure would motivate me. The topless women were a plus but the stabbing and slashing was so constant it soon became boring.
Frankly, the fact I was looking at my watch every five minutes just a few minutes into this film isn't going to mean anything as far as the attendance figures are concerned. Teens and young men will swarm to see this as well as comic enthusiasts and gamers. The fact I'm none of those no doubt explains my negative reaction. Most adults who aren't into comics and games will not find this interesting or entertaining. I've also read some commentary considering whether this film has political overtones. It didn't seem to me as if it did. If this does look like something you want to see, by all means go to a theatre for the maximum experience. This will not translate well to a small screen.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Opening 3/9/2007
300 [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Action/Drama Trailer Cast: Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, David Wenham, Dominic West, Vincent Regan, Rodrigo Santoro. Plot: a ferocious retelling of the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. The film combines live action with virtual backgrounds. Showing at: Movie Machine, Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, Warren Old Town, 21st Street Warren.
MISS POTTER [PG] 1 hr. 30 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Renée Zellweger, Ewan McGregor, Emily Watson, Barbara Flynn, Bill Paterson, Lloyd Owen. Plot: the life of Beatrix Potter, author, is examined in this drama. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.
THE ULTIMATE GIFT [PG] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Drew Fuller, James Garner, Ali Hillis, Abigail Breslin, Lee Meriwether, Brian Dennehy, Mircea Monroe, Donna Cherry, D. David Morin. Plot: when his wealthy grandfather dies, a trust fund baby anticipates a big inheritance. Instead, his grandfather has devised a crash course on life, forcing him to determine what is most important: money or happiness. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
SNEAK PREVIEW SATURDAY:
THE LAST MIMZY [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Family adventure/drama/sci-fi Trailer Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rainn Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil. Plot: based on the 1943 short story "Mimsy Were the Borogoves" by Lewis Padgett, about two children who discover a mysterious box containing some strange devices they think are toys but which act to make them incredibly intelligent. Sneaking Saturday at Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
MISS POTTER [PG] 1 hr. 30 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Renée Zellweger, Ewan McGregor, Emily Watson, Barbara Flynn, Bill Paterson, Lloyd Owen. Plot: the life of Beatrix Potter, author, is examined in this drama. Showing at: Premiere Palace exclusively.
THE ULTIMATE GIFT [PG] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama Trailer Cast: Drew Fuller, James Garner, Ali Hillis, Abigail Breslin, Lee Meriwether, Brian Dennehy, Mircea Monroe, Donna Cherry, D. David Morin. Plot: when his wealthy grandfather dies, a trust fund baby anticipates a big inheritance. Instead, his grandfather has devised a crash course on life, forcing him to determine what is most important: money or happiness. Showing at: Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
SNEAK PREVIEW SATURDAY:
THE LAST MIMZY [PG] 1 hr. 40 min. Family adventure/drama/sci-fi Trailer Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rainn Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil. Plot: based on the 1943 short story "Mimsy Were the Borogoves" by Lewis Padgett, about two children who discover a mysterious box containing some strange devices they think are toys but which act to make them incredibly intelligent. Sneaking Saturday at Northrock 14, 13th Avenue Warren, 21st Street Warren.
Leaving 3/8/2007
Derby Cinema -
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 - Reno 911: Miami
Palace West - Rocky Balboa, Smokin' Aces, Babel
Premiere Palace - Charlotte's Web, Venus, Hannibal Rising
Starlite Drive-In - Opens Friday
Warren East 13th - The Messengers, Daddy's Little Girl
Warren Old Town - Music And Lyrics
Warren West 21st - The Messengers, Night At The Museum
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 - Reno 911: Miami
Palace West - Rocky Balboa, Smokin' Aces, Babel
Premiere Palace - Charlotte's Web, Venus, Hannibal Rising
Starlite Drive-In - Opens Friday
Warren East 13th - The Messengers, Daddy's Little Girl
Warren Old Town - Music And Lyrics
Warren West 21st - The Messengers, Night At The Museum
Friday, March 02, 2007
Worthwhile (and not) 3/2/07
The national critics found nothing enjoyable in WILD HOGS, averaging 1½-2 stars in their disdain. BLACK SNAKE MOAN fared a little better, averaging 2½ stars. ZODIAC is the clear winner for the week with a 3½ star average.
Don't forget, this site provides you with access to numerous critics. Find your theatre under the SHOWTIMES heading in the left column and then click on the reviews link to the left of the picture you're interested in. There are usually several to choose from. The Movie Mom's reviews can also be read in their section in the left column.
Don't forget, this site provides you with access to numerous critics. Find your theatre under the SHOWTIMES heading in the left column and then click on the reviews link to the left of the picture you're interested in. There are usually several to choose from. The Movie Mom's reviews can also be read in their section in the left column.
ZODIAC ***½
It's doubtful that most movie goers will remember the infamous Zodiac serial killer who murdered at least five people in the late 60's and possibly early 70's in California. The exact number is unknown because the killer had a habit of confessing to murders he read about in the paper. This film is based on the two books by Robert Graysmith about the killer and the search to uncover his identity. While Graysmith is sure he knows who the killer was, no one has ever been arrested for the crimes.
The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Graysmith, Robert Downey Jr. as reporter Paul Avery, and Mark Ruffalo as San Franscisco detective Dave Toschi. In addition Anthony Edwards is featured as Toschi's partner and the somewhat notorious Chloë Sevigny is seen as Graysmith's wife in the last half of the film. The first half of the film graphically shows the murders with Avery and Toschi actively pursuing the murderer. The second half occurs after booze and drugs have removed Avery from the chase. Graysmith who was an editorial cartoonist and always interested in Zodiac, takes over Avery's sleuthing and pursues it to its conclusion.
Director David Fincher does a masterful job of maintaining suspense and keeping the action moving, even after the murders have ended and the trail has grown cold. There's even a chuckle here and there to provide momentary breaks in the tension. I was really surprised at just how fast the 2 hours and 40 minutes seemed to fly by. If you're a mystery fan, enjoy docudramas, or just appreciate good film making, this is a picture you won't want to miss.
The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Graysmith, Robert Downey Jr. as reporter Paul Avery, and Mark Ruffalo as San Franscisco detective Dave Toschi. In addition Anthony Edwards is featured as Toschi's partner and the somewhat notorious Chloë Sevigny is seen as Graysmith's wife in the last half of the film. The first half of the film graphically shows the murders with Avery and Toschi actively pursuing the murderer. The second half occurs after booze and drugs have removed Avery from the chase. Graysmith who was an editorial cartoonist and always interested in Zodiac, takes over Avery's sleuthing and pursues it to its conclusion.
Director David Fincher does a masterful job of maintaining suspense and keeping the action moving, even after the murders have ended and the trail has grown cold. There's even a chuckle here and there to provide momentary breaks in the tension. I was really surprised at just how fast the 2 hours and 40 minutes seemed to fly by. If you're a mystery fan, enjoy docudramas, or just appreciate good film making, this is a picture you won't want to miss.
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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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