Home Screening Room
Couples Retreat – I really kind of dug this film, I may have been the only one based on other’s comments, but hey…I’m being real by saying it. It’s a likable cast that could’ve used a bit of spicing up, but still is a good time. Vince Vaughan, Jason Bateman, Kristen Bell and so many more are featured in this comedy that will warm you up on a cold winter night.
The Time Traveler’s Wife – Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams star in the story of love, across time and across boundaries.
A Serious Man – The Coen Brothers are back with the tale of a 1967 Minneapolis suburb and a man and his family that are going through life as they know it. Funny and a bit off, this is a great tale for fans of the Coen’s comedy work.
Also new this week…
The Stepfather (Penn Badgley and Dylan Walsh) , My One And Only (Renee Zellwegger), Free Style (Corbin Bleu, Madison Pettis), Bronson (Tom Hardy), Serious Moonlight (Meg Ryan, Timothy Hutton)
Other fun stuff released today.
Army Wives: The Complete Third Season
Dante’s Inferno: An animated epic
Dare (Emmy Rossum, Zach Gilford)
Gary Unmarried: The Complete First Season – Always wanted to check this out, Jay Mohr is a funny guy.
Hurricane Season (Forrest Whitaker, Isaiah Washington)
I Hate Valentine’s Day (Nia Vardalos, John Corbett)
Jag: The Final Season
Little Einsteins: Animal Expedition
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Minnie’s Bow-Tique
Vega$: The Complete First Season – Come on…Dan Tanna? The car, spinning on the wheel. You’ve gotta love it.
And finally…
Midgets Vs. Mascots (Gary Coleman, Jason Mewes)
How could I not use this title in this space. Come on, it’s midget, it’s mascots, it’s Gary Coleman. Really, this is one of those films for adults only, as it looks Really, REALLY wrong in so many ways…but come on it is stillll funny…at least on the trailer. Take a look below.
PICK OF THE WEEK
I’d pick up Couples Retreat for some fun comedy and A Serious Man for the Coens. There are a lot of films that I would actually rent, even some I haven’t listed here!
Pop Some Popcorn, Pop a Pepsi, and Pop in a DVD and remember to Save Me A Seat!
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Monday, February 08, 2010
Review - Dear John
Writing For Romance Fans
John Tyree (Channing Tatum) is home on leave from his military service. On a random day at the beach he meets a beautiful young girl names Savannah (Amanda Seyfried) and the sparks immediately fly. But John needs to complete his service and Savannah is headed back to school. If the relationship is to continue, it must be via snail mail.
As the letters go back and forth, the pitfalls begin to take center stage. A long distance relationship is never easy, especially one that solely relies on written communication. As John’s tour is ending, 9/11 makes everything a bit trickier. Now, John must choose between his relationships with Savannah and his father and his duty to his military family. How can all of these relationships survive?
Nicholas Sparks is about as much of the story behind this film as the actors or the film itself. He is the writer of The Notebook and because of that, he will virtually always have a following among the female population. And Nicholas usually delivers with dialogue and plot that leaves his audience to eat up every morsel.
You won’t be “Notebook” weeping at Dear John, but the emotions will show through. Sparks knows how to push all the right buttons and his actors in this film (Tatum and Seyfried) are able to evoke the desired reactions. The film as a whole is a little murky towards the middle, but is able to bring things back around.
Although I found myself questioning aspects of the story, let’s face it…this is the “chick” flick version of an action film. Check your mind at the door and go with the story, women will enjoy this.
A slightly above average story, with a decent cast is at the center of this decent romantic drama. Seal the envelope; Dear John delivers a mild winner in the genre.
B-/C+
Dear John
Sony Pictures / Screen Gems
Director: Lasse Hallstrom
Cast: Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried, Richard Jenkins, Henry Thomas
Rating: PG-13 for some sensuality and violence.
Runtime: 91 minutes.
John Tyree (Channing Tatum) is home on leave from his military service. On a random day at the beach he meets a beautiful young girl names Savannah (Amanda Seyfried) and the sparks immediately fly. But John needs to complete his service and Savannah is headed back to school. If the relationship is to continue, it must be via snail mail.
As the letters go back and forth, the pitfalls begin to take center stage. A long distance relationship is never easy, especially one that solely relies on written communication. As John’s tour is ending, 9/11 makes everything a bit trickier. Now, John must choose between his relationships with Savannah and his father and his duty to his military family. How can all of these relationships survive?
Nicholas Sparks is about as much of the story behind this film as the actors or the film itself. He is the writer of The Notebook and because of that, he will virtually always have a following among the female population. And Nicholas usually delivers with dialogue and plot that leaves his audience to eat up every morsel.
You won’t be “Notebook” weeping at Dear John, but the emotions will show through. Sparks knows how to push all the right buttons and his actors in this film (Tatum and Seyfried) are able to evoke the desired reactions. The film as a whole is a little murky towards the middle, but is able to bring things back around.
Although I found myself questioning aspects of the story, let’s face it…this is the “chick” flick version of an action film. Check your mind at the door and go with the story, women will enjoy this.
A slightly above average story, with a decent cast is at the center of this decent romantic drama. Seal the envelope; Dear John delivers a mild winner in the genre.
B-/C+
Dear John
Sony Pictures / Screen Gems
Director: Lasse Hallstrom
Cast: Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried, Richard Jenkins, Henry Thomas
Rating: PG-13 for some sensuality and violence.
Runtime: 91 minutes.
Review - From Paris With Love
Paris, So Good But So Bad
Paris is a beautiful city and James Reece (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) enjoys working for the American government there. By day he is an Assistant to the American Ambassador, but in his spare time he is trying to break into the spy game. Doing simple tasks such as switching license plates and wiping down cars, James is waiting for his big break.
The big break is arriving in Paris in the form of Charlie Wax (John Travolta). Wax is one of the hotshots in the agency that is brought to Paris to finish a job, and James will be his driver. But there is more to Wax than meets the eye, and James will quickly discover that he is in for more than just his driving skills. Now, can they complete the mission? And what is the mission?
This is one of those tale of two films scenarios. The first half of the film featured awkward and clunky dialogue, terrible deliveries of the said dialogue and was an all over mess. I felt that Rhys Meyers was just not up to snuff with what he normally brings to a film. But then it happened.
About half way through this brief 92 minute film, the action cranked up and the fun returned. It had some extremely fun action sequences that I haven’t ran across that often. That made for a fast paced and exciting finish to a film that I had earlier left for dead.
But the problems remained. There were moments in the beginning of this film that were as bad as anything I can remember in recent years. And even when the action helped the film to pick up the pace, the plot was filled with so many holes that a piece of swiss cheese would be envious.
From Paris With Love is a rare film that has more potential in a sequel than exists in this endeavor. A sharper script, a better focus, and you have the elements of a good buddy film. For now, this is a fleeting relationship.
C+
From Paris With Love
Lionsgate
Director: Pierre Morel
Cast: John Travolta, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
Rating: R for strong bloody violence throughout, drug content, pervasive language and brief sexuality.
Runtime: 92 minutes.
Paris is a beautiful city and James Reece (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) enjoys working for the American government there. By day he is an Assistant to the American Ambassador, but in his spare time he is trying to break into the spy game. Doing simple tasks such as switching license plates and wiping down cars, James is waiting for his big break.
The big break is arriving in Paris in the form of Charlie Wax (John Travolta). Wax is one of the hotshots in the agency that is brought to Paris to finish a job, and James will be his driver. But there is more to Wax than meets the eye, and James will quickly discover that he is in for more than just his driving skills. Now, can they complete the mission? And what is the mission?
This is one of those tale of two films scenarios. The first half of the film featured awkward and clunky dialogue, terrible deliveries of the said dialogue and was an all over mess. I felt that Rhys Meyers was just not up to snuff with what he normally brings to a film. But then it happened.
About half way through this brief 92 minute film, the action cranked up and the fun returned. It had some extremely fun action sequences that I haven’t ran across that often. That made for a fast paced and exciting finish to a film that I had earlier left for dead.
But the problems remained. There were moments in the beginning of this film that were as bad as anything I can remember in recent years. And even when the action helped the film to pick up the pace, the plot was filled with so many holes that a piece of swiss cheese would be envious.
From Paris With Love is a rare film that has more potential in a sequel than exists in this endeavor. A sharper script, a better focus, and you have the elements of a good buddy film. For now, this is a fleeting relationship.
C+
From Paris With Love
Lionsgate
Director: Pierre Morel
Cast: John Travolta, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
Rating: R for strong bloody violence throughout, drug content, pervasive language and brief sexuality.
Runtime: 92 minutes.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
Home Screening Room - Zombies, Amelia AND Jean-Claude/Dolph?
Home Screening Room
A cool Zombie flick, Amelia Earhart AND Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren...could it get any more exciting, I mean come on!
Zombieland – Perhaps one of the most underrated films of the latter half of 2009. This will take you on a journey that is funny yet action packed and really has a list of rocking performances from Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin.
Amelia – One of the most beautiful films released, it’s a visually stunning film that ultimately falls apart and is quite boring. But if you want to stretch the limits of Hi-Def, give it a spin on Blu.
Also new this week…
Love Happens (Jennifer Anniston, Aaron Eckhart)
New York I Love You
More Than A Game (Lebron James).
Other Fun Stuff New On DVD
Cold Souls (Paul Giamatti, David Strathairn)
Beverly Hills 90210: The Ninth Season
Circle of Eight (DJ Qualls)
Dora the Explorer: Let’s Explore! Dora’s Greatest - My daughter can't wait to see this.
Dynasty: The Fourth Season
Joe Satriani: Live in Paris Just Wanna Rock - I've always been a fan of Satriani, a true rock guitar legend.
The Mary Tyler Moore Show: Season 6
Murder She Wrote: The Complete Eleventh Season - for my mom, as always with Angela.
Ong Bak 2 (Tony Jaa)
Triangle (Melissa George)
Yo Gabba Gabba: Birthday Boogie
And finally…
Universal Soldier: Regeneration (Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dolph Lundgren)
So, many of you may have not grown up as a teen in the 80s, but anyone who has knows….Jean-Claude Van Damme AND Dolph Lundgren…come on! Get me a copy of this film. Why would I not want to see this? What reason could I have? This has got to be a Van Damme good movie! Don’t believe me…check out the trailer below.
PICK OF THE WEEK
No question, Zombieland would be in my Blu-Ray player immediately. The crazy ride through Zombieland is worth picking up.
Pop Some Popcorn, Pop a Pepsi, and Pop in a DVD and remember to Save Me A Seat!
A cool Zombie flick, Amelia Earhart AND Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren...could it get any more exciting, I mean come on!
Zombieland – Perhaps one of the most underrated films of the latter half of 2009. This will take you on a journey that is funny yet action packed and really has a list of rocking performances from Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin.
Amelia – One of the most beautiful films released, it’s a visually stunning film that ultimately falls apart and is quite boring. But if you want to stretch the limits of Hi-Def, give it a spin on Blu.
Also new this week…
Love Happens (Jennifer Anniston, Aaron Eckhart)
New York I Love You
More Than A Game (Lebron James).
Other Fun Stuff New On DVD
Cold Souls (Paul Giamatti, David Strathairn)
Beverly Hills 90210: The Ninth Season
Circle of Eight (DJ Qualls)
Dora the Explorer: Let’s Explore! Dora’s Greatest - My daughter can't wait to see this.
Dynasty: The Fourth Season
Joe Satriani: Live in Paris Just Wanna Rock - I've always been a fan of Satriani, a true rock guitar legend.
The Mary Tyler Moore Show: Season 6
Murder She Wrote: The Complete Eleventh Season - for my mom, as always with Angela.
Ong Bak 2 (Tony Jaa)
Triangle (Melissa George)
Yo Gabba Gabba: Birthday Boogie
And finally…
Universal Soldier: Regeneration (Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dolph Lundgren)
So, many of you may have not grown up as a teen in the 80s, but anyone who has knows….Jean-Claude Van Damme AND Dolph Lundgren…come on! Get me a copy of this film. Why would I not want to see this? What reason could I have? This has got to be a Van Damme good movie! Don’t believe me…check out the trailer below.
PICK OF THE WEEK
No question, Zombieland would be in my Blu-Ray player immediately. The crazy ride through Zombieland is worth picking up.
Pop Some Popcorn, Pop a Pepsi, and Pop in a DVD and remember to Save Me A Seat!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Review - Edge of Darkness
Taking You To The Edge
Watching your daughter die in your arms is a horrifying thought. But that is what happens to Detective Thomas Craven (Mel Gibson). A shooting that seems to be intended to take down the Boston detective, instead finds his lovely daughter and it is up to Detective Craven to get to the bottom of things.
His journey takes him to meet some of her friends, even a boyfriend that dad never knew about. It takes Craven to meet her employer Jack Bennett (Danny Huston), a mysterious man name Jedburgh (Ray Winstone) and even a United States Senator. Along the way, Craven finds out that the intended target may not have been who it seemed. Now can he find the truth before it’s too late?
Mel Gibson has always been a favorite of mine. It’s good to see him back in front of the camera, and this is the type of role that really works for him. The vendetta driven man that wants to take care of matters his way is a role that suits him to a tee. Ray Winstone plays a great mystery man whose motives are always intriguing.
While the cast plays well, I think the material falls a bit short. Some of the contrivances that exist to get all the players together would’ve felt better if the film were a bit more focused. I liked what was there, it just didn’t get where it was going in a totally convincing and satisfying manner.
A tough film to really get into, but definitely a worthy entry into the early season theatrical foray, Edge of Darkness does at times have an edge. A horror no man should have to endure, despite some cliffs, Edge of Darkness stays on track long enough to make for a decent film.
B-
Edge of Darkness
Warner Brothers Pictures
Director: Martin Campbell
Cast: Mel Gibson, Ray Winstone, Danny Huston
Rating: R for strong bloody violence and language.
Runtime: 117 minutes.
Watching your daughter die in your arms is a horrifying thought. But that is what happens to Detective Thomas Craven (Mel Gibson). A shooting that seems to be intended to take down the Boston detective, instead finds his lovely daughter and it is up to Detective Craven to get to the bottom of things.
His journey takes him to meet some of her friends, even a boyfriend that dad never knew about. It takes Craven to meet her employer Jack Bennett (Danny Huston), a mysterious man name Jedburgh (Ray Winstone) and even a United States Senator. Along the way, Craven finds out that the intended target may not have been who it seemed. Now can he find the truth before it’s too late?
Mel Gibson has always been a favorite of mine. It’s good to see him back in front of the camera, and this is the type of role that really works for him. The vendetta driven man that wants to take care of matters his way is a role that suits him to a tee. Ray Winstone plays a great mystery man whose motives are always intriguing.
While the cast plays well, I think the material falls a bit short. Some of the contrivances that exist to get all the players together would’ve felt better if the film were a bit more focused. I liked what was there, it just didn’t get where it was going in a totally convincing and satisfying manner.
A tough film to really get into, but definitely a worthy entry into the early season theatrical foray, Edge of Darkness does at times have an edge. A horror no man should have to endure, despite some cliffs, Edge of Darkness stays on track long enough to make for a decent film.
B-
Edge of Darkness
Warner Brothers Pictures
Director: Martin Campbell
Cast: Mel Gibson, Ray Winstone, Danny Huston
Rating: R for strong bloody violence and language.
Runtime: 117 minutes.
Review - When In Rome
The Fall of When In Rome
Ah, Rome. What better city in the world to fall in love? Beth (Kristen Bell) is in Rome for her sister’s wedding. Although her sister found love in 2 weeks, Beth never seems to find the right situation. Now in a desperate attempt to hold the fates of men in her hands she steals coins from a “magical” fountain, Beth grabs five coins. As the legend would have it, the coins each represent a man that is searching for Miss Right and now Beth has these men coming to her from every direction.
They follow her to New York, and are a bit obsessed with the woman who has their coins. But one guy in particular Nick (Josh Duhamel) actually sticks in her head. Now can she get rid of the hangers on, to move forward with the man she really wants? Or is he too just after her because of a coin she pulled from the fountain?
I like Kristen Bell. I think she seems like a great person. I like Josh Duhamel. I think he seems like a great person. So how can I go from two characters I really like to a movie I really dislike? And dislike badly! Easy, make a comedy that isn’t very funny.
The occasional chuckle and grin were replaced by covering my eyes and feeling embarrassed for the cast. Not only do I like the leads, but Anjelica Huston, Danny DeVito, Will Arnett and Dax Shepard are fun too.
I felt the film really went in all the wrong places with the humor, the laugh lines, the direction, the writing, the music (well, ok, some of the songs had me tapping my feet). But instead of delivering a fun and funny comedy, it was tired and tedious.
Whether in Rome or not in Rome, don’t see this movie, just remember the stars for who they are and prepare for their next good movie. The Roman Empire fell and so too does When In Rome.
D+
When In Rome
Touchstone Pictures
Director: Mark Steven Johnson
Cast: Kristen Bell, Josh Duhamel, Dax Shepard, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Danny DeVito
Rating: PG-13 for some suggestive content.
Runtime: 91 minutes.
Ah, Rome. What better city in the world to fall in love? Beth (Kristen Bell) is in Rome for her sister’s wedding. Although her sister found love in 2 weeks, Beth never seems to find the right situation. Now in a desperate attempt to hold the fates of men in her hands she steals coins from a “magical” fountain, Beth grabs five coins. As the legend would have it, the coins each represent a man that is searching for Miss Right and now Beth has these men coming to her from every direction.
They follow her to New York, and are a bit obsessed with the woman who has their coins. But one guy in particular Nick (Josh Duhamel) actually sticks in her head. Now can she get rid of the hangers on, to move forward with the man she really wants? Or is he too just after her because of a coin she pulled from the fountain?
I like Kristen Bell. I think she seems like a great person. I like Josh Duhamel. I think he seems like a great person. So how can I go from two characters I really like to a movie I really dislike? And dislike badly! Easy, make a comedy that isn’t very funny.
The occasional chuckle and grin were replaced by covering my eyes and feeling embarrassed for the cast. Not only do I like the leads, but Anjelica Huston, Danny DeVito, Will Arnett and Dax Shepard are fun too.
I felt the film really went in all the wrong places with the humor, the laugh lines, the direction, the writing, the music (well, ok, some of the songs had me tapping my feet). But instead of delivering a fun and funny comedy, it was tired and tedious.
Whether in Rome or not in Rome, don’t see this movie, just remember the stars for who they are and prepare for their next good movie. The Roman Empire fell and so too does When In Rome.
D+
When In Rome
Touchstone Pictures
Director: Mark Steven Johnson
Cast: Kristen Bell, Josh Duhamel, Dax Shepard, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Danny DeVito
Rating: PG-13 for some suggestive content.
Runtime: 91 minutes.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Home Screening Room - This Is It, Surrogates and Whip It!
Home Screening Room
Some interesting titles this week, a great concert documentary, a funny look at roller derby and Bruce Willis battles (or is?) one of the surrogates.
Michael Jackson’s This Is It – This one caught me off-guard. I didn’t expect to like this film, but I did (in a major way). Catch the Blu-Ray for 100 minutes of additional footage. I can imagine that this group may have even more footage to come, but in Blu, this is something you’ll enjoy.
Whip It – Drew Barrymore directs and Ellen Page and Kristen Wiig are some of the women that don the skates in this fun film that is very straightforward, but still a great skate.
Surrogates – Ok, I admit it…I dig Bruce Willis. His latest is a look at a society that, well is not really a society anymore. People send their surrogates out and control the motions back at their home. No worries, no cares, and a very different society. I didn’t totally dig this in theaters, but I’m going to give it another chance on DVD, more to come on this one.
Also new this week…
Saw VI, Bright Star, I Hope they Serve Beer In Hell, The Boys Are Back
Other fun stuff released today.
Carnera: The Walking Mountain – F. Murray Abraham, Paul Sorvino, Burt Young in the story of the first and only Italian to win the World Heavyweight Boxing Championship.
Dolph Lundgren Collection - Come on, it's Dolph Lundgren!!! Don't pretend you don't know who I'm talking about!
The Donner Party (Crispin Glover)
Fireball
Go Diego Go: Lion Cub Rescue
I Heart Jonas – I’ll have more on this later when my daughter and I sit down to watch it (copy not available as I write this).
Pontypool
Southland: The Complete First Season
St. Trinian’s – (Rupert Everett, Colin Firth) ok, this looks a bit crazy…not sure that’s a good thing though.
Tennessee – (Adam Rothenberg, Ethan Peck, Mariah Carey)
And finally…
Ok…understand, when I was a teen/early twentysomething I watched a LOT of bad comedies on television. And since I know I watched this show, I have to admit it. Parker Lewis Can’t Lose releases Season 2 today, and well…I’ll just put the link to the trailer below, you tell me.
PICK OF THE WEEK
Michael Jackson’s This Is It is worth owning on Blu-Ray. The repeatability factor on this one is solid. I also liked Whip It and will be giving Surrogates another go around yet this week.
Pop Some Popcorn, Pop a Pepsi, and Pop in a DVD and remember to Save Me A Seat!
Some interesting titles this week, a great concert documentary, a funny look at roller derby and Bruce Willis battles (or is?) one of the surrogates.
Michael Jackson’s This Is It – This one caught me off-guard. I didn’t expect to like this film, but I did (in a major way). Catch the Blu-Ray for 100 minutes of additional footage. I can imagine that this group may have even more footage to come, but in Blu, this is something you’ll enjoy.
Whip It – Drew Barrymore directs and Ellen Page and Kristen Wiig are some of the women that don the skates in this fun film that is very straightforward, but still a great skate.
Surrogates – Ok, I admit it…I dig Bruce Willis. His latest is a look at a society that, well is not really a society anymore. People send their surrogates out and control the motions back at their home. No worries, no cares, and a very different society. I didn’t totally dig this in theaters, but I’m going to give it another chance on DVD, more to come on this one.
Also new this week…
Saw VI, Bright Star, I Hope they Serve Beer In Hell, The Boys Are Back
Other fun stuff released today.
Carnera: The Walking Mountain – F. Murray Abraham, Paul Sorvino, Burt Young in the story of the first and only Italian to win the World Heavyweight Boxing Championship.
Dolph Lundgren Collection - Come on, it's Dolph Lundgren!!! Don't pretend you don't know who I'm talking about!
The Donner Party (Crispin Glover)
Fireball
Go Diego Go: Lion Cub Rescue
I Heart Jonas – I’ll have more on this later when my daughter and I sit down to watch it (copy not available as I write this).
Pontypool
Southland: The Complete First Season
St. Trinian’s – (Rupert Everett, Colin Firth) ok, this looks a bit crazy…not sure that’s a good thing though.
Tennessee – (Adam Rothenberg, Ethan Peck, Mariah Carey)
And finally…
Ok…understand, when I was a teen/early twentysomething I watched a LOT of bad comedies on television. And since I know I watched this show, I have to admit it. Parker Lewis Can’t Lose releases Season 2 today, and well…I’ll just put the link to the trailer below, you tell me.
PICK OF THE WEEK
Michael Jackson’s This Is It is worth owning on Blu-Ray. The repeatability factor on this one is solid. I also liked Whip It and will be giving Surrogates another go around yet this week.
Pop Some Popcorn, Pop a Pepsi, and Pop in a DVD and remember to Save Me A Seat!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Review - Extraordinary Measures
Extraordinarily Average
The love of a parent for their child is an incredible thing. There is nothing I wouldn’t do for my daughter, and there is nothing that John Crowley (Brendan Fraser) won’t do for his children. Two of his three children are stricken with a life threatening disease, and when Crowley realizes they are approaching the life expectancy of children in their condition, it is time to act.
Off to Nebraska, where the eccentric (to put it lightly) Dr. Robert Stonehill (Harrison Ford) is hard at working trying to bring about a cure to Pompe disease. But Stonehill has never followed through on making a real difference. He is a theory guy and needs someone to help him with the business behind his medicine.
A partnership is formed between the crazy doctor and the passionate father. Can they work together and save Crowley’s children while making a difference for everyone that is stricken with this rare disease?
As a parent, I know the passion that Brendan Fraser is feeling and extolling in his onscreen persona. That is hard not to get emotional about. But in this film, the emotion seems to be a bit at an arm’s length. The meat and potatoes of the story is there, and the general feeling is there, but things feel to not reach their total potential.
I liked the film, but I wouldn’t search it out. If it were playing on a pay network in the middle of the night I may take a peek. Or if I had a particular interest in the players or the disease, I might search a bit deeper. But other than that this extraordinary film is just average.
C+
Extraordinary Measures
CBS Films
Director: Tom Vaughan
Cast: Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser, Keri Russell
Rating: PG for thematic material, language and a mild suggestive moment.
Runtime: 105 minutes.
The love of a parent for their child is an incredible thing. There is nothing I wouldn’t do for my daughter, and there is nothing that John Crowley (Brendan Fraser) won’t do for his children. Two of his three children are stricken with a life threatening disease, and when Crowley realizes they are approaching the life expectancy of children in their condition, it is time to act.
Off to Nebraska, where the eccentric (to put it lightly) Dr. Robert Stonehill (Harrison Ford) is hard at working trying to bring about a cure to Pompe disease. But Stonehill has never followed through on making a real difference. He is a theory guy and needs someone to help him with the business behind his medicine.
A partnership is formed between the crazy doctor and the passionate father. Can they work together and save Crowley’s children while making a difference for everyone that is stricken with this rare disease?
As a parent, I know the passion that Brendan Fraser is feeling and extolling in his onscreen persona. That is hard not to get emotional about. But in this film, the emotion seems to be a bit at an arm’s length. The meat and potatoes of the story is there, and the general feeling is there, but things feel to not reach their total potential.
I liked the film, but I wouldn’t search it out. If it were playing on a pay network in the middle of the night I may take a peek. Or if I had a particular interest in the players or the disease, I might search a bit deeper. But other than that this extraordinary film is just average.
C+
Extraordinary Measures
CBS Films
Director: Tom Vaughan
Cast: Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser, Keri Russell
Rating: PG for thematic material, language and a mild suggestive moment.
Runtime: 105 minutes.
Review - Crazy Heart
Bad is Definitely Good
Bad Blake (Jeff Bridges) has seen it all. He is a legend in country music but his career has reached rock bottom. Now, instead of the big amphitheaters and arenas, “Bad” is playing bowling alleys and dives. He’s become irresponsible and totally off his game, living on name alone.
On the road, Blake runs into a young reporter named Jean (Maggie Gyllenhaal). Jean is writing a story about life for the once famous Blake and is granted an interview. While Blake is eating his take out dinner, Jean starts to ask the difficult questions. She finds herself taken by this character that she is writing about. Although Blake is a traveling man he starts a relationship with the rare individual that looks beyond the surface and sees the man buried inside.
But as with any relationship, especially a long distance one, there are bumps in the road. Blake is not the man he once was and between his destructive behaviors and alienation of those around him, he has managed to lead a very solitary lifestyle. Can he find a happy medium in his life?
Jeff Bridges is phenomenal in his role as the washed up country singer. Watching him take on the persona of Bad Blake compares to the best chef creating their signature dish, they are both magnificent feats to behold. Bridges is at his best when Blake is at his worst. Whether struggling just to make it onstage or just trying to live through the health issues, Bridges shines.
But the film is not solely about Bridges. Maggie Gyllenhaal is wonderful in her role as the smitten reporter that sees the things that are in the heart of a crazy man. And even the small role of up and coming country sensation Tommy Sweet is done impressively by Colin Farrell.
The soundtrack is the perfect accompaniment to this film that will grab your heart. Crazy Heart succeeds on every level. It is encouraging yet frightening, tender yet rough, and beautiful in its ugliness. One of the best films of the year; this “Bad” is definitely good.
A-
Crazy Heart
Fox Searchlight Pictures
Director: Scott Cooper
Cast: Jeff Bridges, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Robert Duvall, Colin Farrell
Rating: R for language and brief sexuality.
Runtime: 112 minutes.
Bad Blake (Jeff Bridges) has seen it all. He is a legend in country music but his career has reached rock bottom. Now, instead of the big amphitheaters and arenas, “Bad” is playing bowling alleys and dives. He’s become irresponsible and totally off his game, living on name alone.
On the road, Blake runs into a young reporter named Jean (Maggie Gyllenhaal). Jean is writing a story about life for the once famous Blake and is granted an interview. While Blake is eating his take out dinner, Jean starts to ask the difficult questions. She finds herself taken by this character that she is writing about. Although Blake is a traveling man he starts a relationship with the rare individual that looks beyond the surface and sees the man buried inside.
But as with any relationship, especially a long distance one, there are bumps in the road. Blake is not the man he once was and between his destructive behaviors and alienation of those around him, he has managed to lead a very solitary lifestyle. Can he find a happy medium in his life?
Jeff Bridges is phenomenal in his role as the washed up country singer. Watching him take on the persona of Bad Blake compares to the best chef creating their signature dish, they are both magnificent feats to behold. Bridges is at his best when Blake is at his worst. Whether struggling just to make it onstage or just trying to live through the health issues, Bridges shines.
But the film is not solely about Bridges. Maggie Gyllenhaal is wonderful in her role as the smitten reporter that sees the things that are in the heart of a crazy man. And even the small role of up and coming country sensation Tommy Sweet is done impressively by Colin Farrell.
The soundtrack is the perfect accompaniment to this film that will grab your heart. Crazy Heart succeeds on every level. It is encouraging yet frightening, tender yet rough, and beautiful in its ugliness. One of the best films of the year; this “Bad” is definitely good.
A-
Crazy Heart
Fox Searchlight Pictures
Director: Scott Cooper
Cast: Jeff Bridges, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Robert Duvall, Colin Farrell
Rating: R for language and brief sexuality.
Runtime: 112 minutes.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Home Screening Room - Gamer, Lying and Hilary Duff?
Home Screening Room
So this week, the releases are a bit sketchy. Mostly, we are dealing with films that didn’t screen for the press and haven’t wanted attention, but now they are out on DVD and BluRay. Let’s take a look at some of the titles.
The Invention of Lying - Ricky Gervais’ new film that Ricky Gervais himself told us was on DVD on Tuesday, during his role as host of the Golden Globes. It’s the story of the invention of the first lie. Funny premise, right? Let’s hope so!
Whiteout – The South Pole holds a mystery…and Kate Beckinsale – I’m in, Blu-Ray please…so it’s a success even if the movie isn’t.
Gamer – Ok, so I’m a sucker for movies that look this bad..Gerard Butler, Michael C. Hall and Kyra Sedgwick star in this story about a first person shooter video game that turns into real life.
Also new this week…
Pandorum, Che and Outrage (An intriguing documentary about Washington politicians and their lifestyles).
Other fun stuff released today.
Dallas: The Complete 12th Season
Damages: The Complete 2nd Season
Girlfriends: The Final Season
The Keeper – Starring Steven Seagal (the descriptions tells us that he unleashes his wrath and his fists – whoa).
Law and Order: The Seventh Year
No Greater Love – (Jay Underwood)
No Impact Man – An interesting documentary about a man and his family that try to go through the entire year without leaving a carbon footprint.
Smokin’ Aces 2: Assassins Ball – And for those of you, like me, who thought a sequel was NOT needed SURPRISE – Tom Berenger stars.
Veggie Tales: Silly Little Thing Called Love
Weeds: Season 5
And finally…
I have admitted on-air on a number of occasions that I have had an unhealthy obsession with Hilary Duff. And lately it has seemed that she just hasn’t shown up in many projects, ok many popular projects. Ahh, but that is to change today as According to Greta is released on DVD. Yes it is really her, check out the trailer below for this story of a girl that is just trying to grow up, and if someone wants to send me a copy, I’m in.
PICK OF THE WEEK
Nothing much for purchase, but I would pick up Gamer, Whiteout and The Invention of Lying to take a peek on rental DVD or Pay Per View.
Pop Some Popcorn, Pop a Pepsi, and Pop in a DVD and remember to Save Me A Seat!
So this week, the releases are a bit sketchy. Mostly, we are dealing with films that didn’t screen for the press and haven’t wanted attention, but now they are out on DVD and BluRay. Let’s take a look at some of the titles.
The Invention of Lying - Ricky Gervais’ new film that Ricky Gervais himself told us was on DVD on Tuesday, during his role as host of the Golden Globes. It’s the story of the invention of the first lie. Funny premise, right? Let’s hope so!
Whiteout – The South Pole holds a mystery…and Kate Beckinsale – I’m in, Blu-Ray please…so it’s a success even if the movie isn’t.
Gamer – Ok, so I’m a sucker for movies that look this bad..Gerard Butler, Michael C. Hall and Kyra Sedgwick star in this story about a first person shooter video game that turns into real life.
Also new this week…
Pandorum, Che and Outrage (An intriguing documentary about Washington politicians and their lifestyles).
Other fun stuff released today.
Dallas: The Complete 12th Season
Damages: The Complete 2nd Season
Girlfriends: The Final Season
The Keeper – Starring Steven Seagal (the descriptions tells us that he unleashes his wrath and his fists – whoa).
Law and Order: The Seventh Year
No Greater Love – (Jay Underwood)
No Impact Man – An interesting documentary about a man and his family that try to go through the entire year without leaving a carbon footprint.
Smokin’ Aces 2: Assassins Ball – And for those of you, like me, who thought a sequel was NOT needed SURPRISE – Tom Berenger stars.
Veggie Tales: Silly Little Thing Called Love
Weeds: Season 5
And finally…
I have admitted on-air on a number of occasions that I have had an unhealthy obsession with Hilary Duff. And lately it has seemed that she just hasn’t shown up in many projects, ok many popular projects. Ahh, but that is to change today as According to Greta is released on DVD. Yes it is really her, check out the trailer below for this story of a girl that is just trying to grow up, and if someone wants to send me a copy, I’m in.
PICK OF THE WEEK
Nothing much for purchase, but I would pick up Gamer, Whiteout and The Invention of Lying to take a peek on rental DVD or Pay Per View.
Pop Some Popcorn, Pop a Pepsi, and Pop in a DVD and remember to Save Me A Seat!
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