Current Ranking: #9 out of 33
Date Watched: 07/30/2010
Original Ranking: #9 out of 33
Nic says:
As you may have noticed, one of our greatest pet peeves is when trailers give away too much of the movie’s plot. The movie theater previews featuring Charlie St. Cloud did a great job of just giving us a hint of what the movie would be about. The commercial trailers, however, started revealing a little too much. Or so we thought...
There’s a great twist in the story and this movie becomes far from predictable. Zac Efron does a great job in this film, showing a great display of emotion surrounding the loss of his character’s younger brother. St. Cloud is a terrific drama and is nothing like I imagined it would be.
Amy says:
I LOVE this movie!!! It has a wonderful love story, an excellent plot that is easy to follow but hard to predict, and totally loveable characters! I laughed, I cried, and left feeling good about the world. A great date night!!!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Inception
Current Ranking: #5 out of 32
Date Watched: 07/22/10
Original Ranking: #5 out of 32
Nic says:
There’s not much to say about Inception that hasn’t already been said by the rest of the world. It is every bit as amazing as you’ve heard (and unlike anything you could ever dream of). What I can add, however, is my sincere appreciation for Christopher Nolan’s execution and development of this story. Rumors are he spent somewhere between 8-10 years developing this script, perfecting it along the way. This in itself is an amazing task in a world where great stories like Twilight are being hurried into half-ass movies just to make a quick buck. But not Nolan, he’s in it for the art.
The other thing I love about this movie is the suspense leading up to its release. The trailers revealed very little about the plot, even while including some of the movie’s best scenes!
Amy says:
OK, I hope Nic is talking about the first Twilight, not Eclipse! Because Eclipse was awesome! And it ranks higher than Inception on our movie ranking I might add. (Nic says: “Oh yeah. I meant the first one. Eclipse was much better.”)
I definitely really, really like this movie. I won’t say I love it because there were some holes in the plot, and holes are my biggest movie pet peeve! An example is when Cobb convinces Mal they need to die in order to exit their dream world so they lie down on some train tracks. They were supposed to have grown old together in their dream world and should have been quite old while laying on the tracks, but they both appear young in the scene. What’s up with that? That is one of a few holes that make this movie just not quite perfect.
Despite the holes, it is a very entertaining story with interesting characters, amazing scenes and lots of creativity. It is fun to watch!
Date Watched: 07/22/10
Original Ranking: #5 out of 32
Nic says:
There’s not much to say about Inception that hasn’t already been said by the rest of the world. It is every bit as amazing as you’ve heard (and unlike anything you could ever dream of). What I can add, however, is my sincere appreciation for Christopher Nolan’s execution and development of this story. Rumors are he spent somewhere between 8-10 years developing this script, perfecting it along the way. This in itself is an amazing task in a world where great stories like Twilight are being hurried into half-ass movies just to make a quick buck. But not Nolan, he’s in it for the art.
The other thing I love about this movie is the suspense leading up to its release. The trailers revealed very little about the plot, even while including some of the movie’s best scenes!
Amy says:
OK, I hope Nic is talking about the first Twilight, not Eclipse! Because Eclipse was awesome! And it ranks higher than Inception on our movie ranking I might add. (Nic says: “Oh yeah. I meant the first one. Eclipse was much better.”)
I definitely really, really like this movie. I won’t say I love it because there were some holes in the plot, and holes are my biggest movie pet peeve! An example is when Cobb convinces Mal they need to die in order to exit their dream world so they lie down on some train tracks. They were supposed to have grown old together in their dream world and should have been quite old while laying on the tracks, but they both appear young in the scene. What’s up with that? That is one of a few holes that make this movie just not quite perfect.
Despite the holes, it is a very entertaining story with interesting characters, amazing scenes and lots of creativity. It is fun to watch!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
The Sorcerer's Apprentice
Current Ranking: #20 out of 33
Date Watched: 07/18/10
Original Ranking: #18 out of 31
Amy says:
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is a fantasy movie that has a little bit of everything: action, romance, comedy, and even some surprises. There was good chemistry between the actors. I normally don’t care for Nicolas Cage, but his role as the sorcerer is suited to his aloof acting style. The apprentice, played by Jay Baruchel, pulls off the lovable geek role perfectly and works well opposite Cage.
The story was good, the acting was good, even the special effects were good. But everything was just good and not amazing. It could have been better.
Nic says:
Baruchel’s character, David, just seems to get too lucky in this movie. Maybe it’s because he’s the “Prime Merlinian” and that’s how it’s supposed to work, but I am more likely to attribute it to a failure in character development. David spends rarely any time practicing magic with Merlin’s ring, but when the time comes to perform without the ring: he’s ready.
The best part of the whole movie, I think, is the throwback scene to Fantasia. I loved it when David tried to clean his living quarters by bewitching the brooms, mops, and other cleaning supplies.
Date Watched: 07/18/10
Original Ranking: #18 out of 31
Amy says:
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is a fantasy movie that has a little bit of everything: action, romance, comedy, and even some surprises. There was good chemistry between the actors. I normally don’t care for Nicolas Cage, but his role as the sorcerer is suited to his aloof acting style. The apprentice, played by Jay Baruchel, pulls off the lovable geek role perfectly and works well opposite Cage.
The story was good, the acting was good, even the special effects were good. But everything was just good and not amazing. It could have been better.
Nic says:
Baruchel’s character, David, just seems to get too lucky in this movie. Maybe it’s because he’s the “Prime Merlinian” and that’s how it’s supposed to work, but I am more likely to attribute it to a failure in character development. David spends rarely any time practicing magic with Merlin’s ring, but when the time comes to perform without the ring: he’s ready.
The best part of the whole movie, I think, is the throwback scene to Fantasia. I loved it when David tried to clean his living quarters by bewitching the brooms, mops, and other cleaning supplies.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Despicable Me
Current Ranking: #19 out of 33
Date Watched: 07/11/10
Original Ranking: #17 out of 30
Nic says:
Steve Carell definitely has a talent for picking excellent movies. Despicable Me is another great film, filled with humor and inspiration. He disguises his voice very convincingly as Gru, and I often forget Carell is behind that quasi-European accent. Where Despicable Me falls short, however, is it is almost too predictable. When Gru is forced to decide between being a hero to three little orphans or becoming the world’s most legendary villain, we know what he will ultimately choose even before he does.
Nonetheless, the movie hits right on target for comedy. Gru’s minions are hysterical, and I love how they speak in their own language as well as involuntarily become guinea pigs for the lab’s latest experiments.
Amy says:
Despicable Me was indeed a funny movie. It was just a shame the plot was so predictable, as Nic said. With the great previews and star-studded cast, I was excited for the movie and thought it would rank closer to Toy Story 3. But, unlike Toy Story, there were no surprises, very little emotional moments, and nothing truly spectacular about the film. I left somewhat entertained and a bit disappointed.
Date Watched: 07/11/10
Original Ranking: #17 out of 30
Nic says:
Steve Carell definitely has a talent for picking excellent movies. Despicable Me is another great film, filled with humor and inspiration. He disguises his voice very convincingly as Gru, and I often forget Carell is behind that quasi-European accent. Where Despicable Me falls short, however, is it is almost too predictable. When Gru is forced to decide between being a hero to three little orphans or becoming the world’s most legendary villain, we know what he will ultimately choose even before he does.
Nonetheless, the movie hits right on target for comedy. Gru’s minions are hysterical, and I love how they speak in their own language as well as involuntarily become guinea pigs for the lab’s latest experiments.
Amy says:
Despicable Me was indeed a funny movie. It was just a shame the plot was so predictable, as Nic said. With the great previews and star-studded cast, I was excited for the movie and thought it would rank closer to Toy Story 3. But, unlike Toy Story, there were no surprises, very little emotional moments, and nothing truly spectacular about the film. I left somewhat entertained and a bit disappointed.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
The Last Airbender
Current Ranking: #28 out of 33
Date Watched: 07/07/10
Original Ranking: #24 out of 29
Amy says:
The Last Airbender could have been a great movie. It has an interesting plot, beautiful scenery, and some great Tai Chi moves. However, the acting just doesn’t work. One example is Jackson Rathbone, who plays Sokka in the film, kept making exaggerated facial expressions that are really distracting; it is like he is overacting with his face. Now, having just seen Rathborne play Jasper in Eclipse, I know this guy isn’t just a bad actor, so I am assuming he was instructed to overdo it by the director. I can only speculate the movie makers were trying to “dumb down” Airbender for kids. But kids don’t need dumbed down movies!
Nic says:
Unfortunately, The Last Airbender only works if it is allowed to be completed as the trilogy it is intended to be. On its own, this movie does not stand a chance. In addition to the already mentioned poor acting, and the story not being finished, the movie’s greatest shortcoming is its attempt to pull at emotions that we, as viewers, cannot empathize with due to a failure to draw us in. The movie wants us to feel sad that the avatar’s clan has all been killed, and sympathetic to the Fire Nation prince who is outcast by his father, however, neither of these plots are developed enough for us to truly care about. The movie seems to provide us only short glimpses into these pasts in exchange for more (tiresome) battle scenes.
Date Watched: 07/07/10
Original Ranking: #24 out of 29
Amy says:
The Last Airbender could have been a great movie. It has an interesting plot, beautiful scenery, and some great Tai Chi moves. However, the acting just doesn’t work. One example is Jackson Rathbone, who plays Sokka in the film, kept making exaggerated facial expressions that are really distracting; it is like he is overacting with his face. Now, having just seen Rathborne play Jasper in Eclipse, I know this guy isn’t just a bad actor, so I am assuming he was instructed to overdo it by the director. I can only speculate the movie makers were trying to “dumb down” Airbender for kids. But kids don’t need dumbed down movies!
Nic says:
Unfortunately, The Last Airbender only works if it is allowed to be completed as the trilogy it is intended to be. On its own, this movie does not stand a chance. In addition to the already mentioned poor acting, and the story not being finished, the movie’s greatest shortcoming is its attempt to pull at emotions that we, as viewers, cannot empathize with due to a failure to draw us in. The movie wants us to feel sad that the avatar’s clan has all been killed, and sympathetic to the Fire Nation prince who is outcast by his father, however, neither of these plots are developed enough for us to truly care about. The movie seems to provide us only short glimpses into these pasts in exchange for more (tiresome) battle scenes.
The one aspect of the movie that I do like is that it makes spirituality, chi, and energy cool for kids. The battles (however boring to watch) consist mostly of tai chi moves, instead of hand-to-hand combat. The best display of this comes when a band of 5 or 6 Earthbenders conduct a series of synchronized moves that almost appear as though they are dancing.
Even though this movie was not terrific, I would still like to see the trilogy complete, if only to see how the story ends.
Monday, June 28, 2010
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
Current Ranking: #4 out of 33
Date Watched: 06/28/10
Original Ranking: #4 out of 28
Nic says:
This is definitely the best movie adaptation of the Twilight books so far. (Yes, I’ve read them.) The actors seem to have finally grown into their roles in this film.
The adapted script for the movie took very few liberties with the original story, and the few it did take were excellent. My favorites were definitely Jessica’s high school graduation speech and Lautner’s one-liner in the tent where he tells Edward “Everyone knows I’m hotter than you.”
Date Watched: 06/28/10
Original Ranking: #4 out of 28
Nic says:
This is definitely the best movie adaptation of the Twilight books so far. (Yes, I’ve read them.) The actors seem to have finally grown into their roles in this film.
The adapted script for the movie took very few liberties with the original story, and the few it did take were excellent. My favorites were definitely Jessica’s high school graduation speech and Lautner’s one-liner in the tent where he tells Edward “Everyone knows I’m hotter than you.”
The one thing I don’t quite understand, and maybe this is just the politics of movie making, is why they replaced the actress who played Victoria. Victoria hardly has any screen time in the film, and the actress, Bryce Dallas Howard, did not strike me as anything spectacular. If anything, she has a softer and less threatening look than her predecessor.
Amy says:
As a HUGE Twilight Book fan, I was a little leery of seeing this movie. While I liked New Moon, I hated the first movie, and so I was not sure what to think going into the third movie. The movie is totally fantastic! I absolutely love watching this third installment on the big screen (and when I say big, I mean really big because we saw this movie in IMAX.) We are seeing it again this weekend and I can hardly wait!!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Knight and Day
Current Ranking: #24 out of 33
Date Watched: 06/24/10
Original Ranking: #19 out of 27
Amy says:
Knight and Day was an okay action flick. It ranked right there with Bounty Hunter, where it has some good parts but ultimately falls a little flat. I was a little surprised I did not hate Tom Cruise, who plays the leading man; I am kind of tired of seeing the former Mission Impossible actor. However, his character’s dry sense of humor actually worked for Cruise, and the chemistry with Cameron Diaz worked for the story. There were a lot of laughs and exciting moments on screen, with a continually hysterical Diaz and too-cool-for-words Cruise. But not enough laughs to make up for the so-so plot. It definitely could have been better.
Nic says:
Tom Cruise has definitely worn out his role as a bad ass missionary. The only role I really want to see him reprise is Tropic Thunder’s Les Grossman. (However, upon reviewing his IMDB filmography, I see he is already working on Mission Impossible 4. Also, did you know his birth name is Thomas Cruise Mapother IV??? No wonder he’s crazy… he’s the fourth to have that ridiculous name!)
Date Watched: 06/24/10
Original Ranking: #19 out of 27
Amy says:
Knight and Day was an okay action flick. It ranked right there with Bounty Hunter, where it has some good parts but ultimately falls a little flat. I was a little surprised I did not hate Tom Cruise, who plays the leading man; I am kind of tired of seeing the former Mission Impossible actor. However, his character’s dry sense of humor actually worked for Cruise, and the chemistry with Cameron Diaz worked for the story. There were a lot of laughs and exciting moments on screen, with a continually hysterical Diaz and too-cool-for-words Cruise. But not enough laughs to make up for the so-so plot. It definitely could have been better.
Nic says:
Tom Cruise has definitely worn out his role as a bad ass missionary. The only role I really want to see him reprise is Tropic Thunder’s Les Grossman. (However, upon reviewing his IMDB filmography, I see he is already working on Mission Impossible 4. Also, did you know his birth name is Thomas Cruise Mapother IV??? No wonder he’s crazy… he’s the fourth to have that ridiculous name!)
Sorry, back to the movie. The plot is nothing new, something was stolen that needs to be kept away from bad people who seek to exploit it (heck, this could’ve been Mission Impossible 4), but Diaz’ and Cruise’s dynamic is new. They attract to each other instantly, and spend most of the movie trying to save each other from being killed. No, wait… that’s not new either.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Killers
Current Ranking: #27 out of 33
Date Watched: 06/23/10
Original Ranking: #21 out of 26
Nic says:
If I had read the script for this movie before hearing anything about it, I might have liked it. In fact, as a book, I could see it working. However, when it comes to casting a smooth and successful CIA (or was it FBI?) operative, my first choice would not be Ashton Kutcher. To be fair, maybe it wasn’t the casting director’s first choice either, but I think I’d scrap the movie before placing the guy that’s best known for That 70’s Show and marrying Demi Moore. Secondly, when it comes to casting a bumbling and clumsy loser that is on vacation with her parents, who in their right mind thinks of Katherine Heigl?
Date Watched: 06/23/10
Original Ranking: #21 out of 26
Nic says:
If I had read the script for this movie before hearing anything about it, I might have liked it. In fact, as a book, I could see it working. However, when it comes to casting a smooth and successful CIA (or was it FBI?) operative, my first choice would not be Ashton Kutcher. To be fair, maybe it wasn’t the casting director’s first choice either, but I think I’d scrap the movie before placing the guy that’s best known for That 70’s Show and marrying Demi Moore. Secondly, when it comes to casting a bumbling and clumsy loser that is on vacation with her parents, who in their right mind thinks of Katherine Heigl?
This movie would have worked for me if they had cut out the opening scenes in Nice, France (we don’t need to see 15 minutes where our characters meet, date, fall in love, and are now married 3 years later) and maybe exchange it with the background on Tom Selleck’s character. We never did find out why he was being targeted. Lastly, I would definitely change the name of this movie. “Killers” gave me the impression that Kutcher and Heigl were a team of hired killers. The movie might have been more aptly named “Sleepers”. Not only because I almost fell asleep watching it, but because the sleeper assassins are what the “Killers” title is actually referring to in the first place.
Amy says:
I totally agree with Nic’s review and am not sure I have much to add. There are funny moments, but it was not really worth the price of admission to see the movie.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
The A-Team
Current Ranking: #12 out of 33
Date Watched: 06/19/10
Original Ranking: #9 out of 25
Amy says:
The A-Team is an enjoyable movie bringing back the characters from the popular 1980’s TV series. In true eighties form this film demands suspension of belief for the plot to take off, but makes up for it with a cheesy love story and memorable characters. The four incredibly different members of the A-Team bring a little something for everyone. My favorite is the huge and intimidating Bosco (played by Quinton Jackson), who is also afraid of heights and is constantly tricked by his team to get him on flights.
Nic says:
This film is all about the action. The A-Team’s quirky team of misfits provides hilarious dialogue with a side of ass kicking. I love the casting of this movie, Liam Neeson and Bradley Cooper are excellent, but I think my favorite character is the insane pilot, Murdock, played by Sharlto Copley. From insane asylum to insane asylum, Murdock is constantly convincing us that he’s not crazy. My favorite part of his is when they break him out of jail and he’s wearing his 3-D glasses: “It’s like the bullets are actually coming at me!”
Date Watched: 06/19/10
Original Ranking: #9 out of 25
Amy says:
The A-Team is an enjoyable movie bringing back the characters from the popular 1980’s TV series. In true eighties form this film demands suspension of belief for the plot to take off, but makes up for it with a cheesy love story and memorable characters. The four incredibly different members of the A-Team bring a little something for everyone. My favorite is the huge and intimidating Bosco (played by Quinton Jackson), who is also afraid of heights and is constantly tricked by his team to get him on flights.
Nic says:
This film is all about the action. The A-Team’s quirky team of misfits provides hilarious dialogue with a side of ass kicking. I love the casting of this movie, Liam Neeson and Bradley Cooper are excellent, but I think my favorite character is the insane pilot, Murdock, played by Sharlto Copley. From insane asylum to insane asylum, Murdock is constantly convincing us that he’s not crazy. My favorite part of his is when they break him out of jail and he’s wearing his 3-D glasses: “It’s like the bullets are actually coming at me!”
Friday, June 18, 2010
Toy Story 3
Current Ranking: #8 out of 33
Date Watched: 06/18/10
Original Ranking: #6 out of 24
Nic says:
I was not expecting much from Toy Story 3, because the second movie wasn’t all that great. However, I am blown away by the sophisticated story line and intense plot that this movie provides. Much like the first two movies, the toys are once again lost and trying to find their home; but this time the concept of home is being redefined as Andy is moving out. For me, the movie touches on a wide array of emotions, from the fear of being forgotten and abandoned, to the hopeful optimism of breaking free and choosing your own future. It showed me that this movie is more than just a child’s story about toys, but also about taking on your role in the world.
Amy says:
I agree that Toy Story 3 has more than I expected. There is a lot more edge of my seat action than I had been anticipating and the new characters are a hilarious addition. I will never forget the purple bear, which smells like strawberries, playing the evil mastermind and ruling like a gangster over the nursery toys.
Date Watched: 06/18/10
Original Ranking: #6 out of 24
Nic says:
I was not expecting much from Toy Story 3, because the second movie wasn’t all that great. However, I am blown away by the sophisticated story line and intense plot that this movie provides. Much like the first two movies, the toys are once again lost and trying to find their home; but this time the concept of home is being redefined as Andy is moving out. For me, the movie touches on a wide array of emotions, from the fear of being forgotten and abandoned, to the hopeful optimism of breaking free and choosing your own future. It showed me that this movie is more than just a child’s story about toys, but also about taking on your role in the world.
Amy says:
I agree that Toy Story 3 has more than I expected. There is a lot more edge of my seat action than I had been anticipating and the new characters are a hilarious addition. I will never forget the purple bear, which smells like strawberries, playing the evil mastermind and ruling like a gangster over the nursery toys.
Monday, June 14, 2010
The Karate Kid (2010)
Current Ranking: #14 out of 33
Date Watched: 06/14/10
Original Ranking: #9 out of 23
Amy says:
Karate Kid definitely packs a punch. Haha! But seriously, this is an entertaining movie that was certainly not what I expected. The title makes it seem like it will be a remake of the 1984 Karate Kid movie, which it is not. While the martial arts theme is there, the characters and situations are quite different. The story ended up being a nice surprise.
Date Watched: 06/14/10
Original Ranking: #9 out of 23
Amy says:
Karate Kid definitely packs a punch. Haha! But seriously, this is an entertaining movie that was certainly not what I expected. The title makes it seem like it will be a remake of the 1984 Karate Kid movie, which it is not. While the martial arts theme is there, the characters and situations are quite different. The story ended up being a nice surprise.
It is fun to watch the bravado of the young Jaden Smith who plays the main character Dre. By the end of the film, Smith ends up being able to back up his attitude with some seriously impressive martial arts moves. More extraordinary stunts are performed by the always entertaining Jackie Chan, who plays Smith’s martial arts teacher.
Nic says:
I agree that this movie is terrifically entertaining, and not at all a remake of the 1984 movie. Sure, the kid has the same journey to overcome his fears of getting beat up, but everything else is pretty much different… the place, the style of fighting, even the names. Perhaps the names have been changed to protect the innocent, or maybe Danielson and Mr. Miyagi were just too old school for today’s world.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Robin Hood
Current Ranking: #22 out of 33
Date Watched: 06/05/10
Original Ranking: #14 out of 22
Nic says:
This movie is mostly about the period in which Robin Hood lived and how he became the legend we know him as today. There is very little “rob from the rich, and give to the poor” which I found disappointing. This is Robin Hood as a soldier and a man of action, which is still somewhat entertaining, but it doesn’t really stand apart from any other battle/action movie.
Amy says:
I love the story of Robin Hood, but this movie has a little too much blood for me. I am not a huge fan of battle scenes, so I was bored for a lot of the film. When there is something other than bloody fighting on the screen, it was great! I wish there had been more of the story and less of the fighting.
Date Watched: 06/05/10
Original Ranking: #14 out of 22
Nic says:
This movie is mostly about the period in which Robin Hood lived and how he became the legend we know him as today. There is very little “rob from the rich, and give to the poor” which I found disappointing. This is Robin Hood as a soldier and a man of action, which is still somewhat entertaining, but it doesn’t really stand apart from any other battle/action movie.
Amy says:
I love the story of Robin Hood, but this movie has a little too much blood for me. I am not a huge fan of battle scenes, so I was bored for a lot of the film. When there is something other than bloody fighting on the screen, it was great! I wish there had been more of the story and less of the fighting.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Shrek Forever After
Current Ranking: #21 out of 33
Date Watched: 05/31/10
Original Ranking: #13 out of 21
Amy says:
A fun animated movie, Shrek 4 is pretty good, even being the fourth of its kind. It is interesting to see the writers take on what Far Far Away would be like without Shrek. The most hilarious moments are from the formerly pampered Princess Fiona’s who plays a fierce warrior leader in the alternate reality. It is fun to watch Shrek try to kiss the stony Fiona and get slammed down several times.
Nic says:
I agree that this is a great movie for being a sequel, however I think that is also what ranked it lower on our list than it would have been if it were an original movie. Rumpelstiltskin is a very funny antagonist, but I especially love his bounty hunter, the Pied Piper. I still find myself whistling his flute breakdown of the Beastie Boys’ “Sure Shot”.
Date Watched: 05/31/10
Original Ranking: #13 out of 21
Amy says:
A fun animated movie, Shrek 4 is pretty good, even being the fourth of its kind. It is interesting to see the writers take on what Far Far Away would be like without Shrek. The most hilarious moments are from the formerly pampered Princess Fiona’s who plays a fierce warrior leader in the alternate reality. It is fun to watch Shrek try to kiss the stony Fiona and get slammed down several times.
Nic says:
I agree that this is a great movie for being a sequel, however I think that is also what ranked it lower on our list than it would have been if it were an original movie. Rumpelstiltskin is a very funny antagonist, but I especially love his bounty hunter, the Pied Piper. I still find myself whistling his flute breakdown of the Beastie Boys’ “Sure Shot”.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
Current Ranking: #13 out of 33
Date Watched: 05/29/10
Original Ranking: #8 out of 20
Nic says:
For a movie based on a video game, this is a terrific story of heroism and overcoming adversity. I love stories that deal with free will versus destiny, questioning whether we have control of our future or if it is already planned out for us. The main character, Dastan, never questions what he believes and is committed to his virtues and adopted family. My only criticism of the movie is that the stealing of the dagger back and forth between the two main characters was a little overplayed and seems to just eat up time, but overall I think this is a great movie.
Amy says:
I agree that overall this was a great movie, which surprised me. I did not like the trailers and went grudgingly to the show. I was pleasantly surprised that Jake Gyllenhaal really pulls off the role as Dastan. The stunts are fantastic, and I would definitely go see him in another action movie. The love story is also pretty good and overall it worked.
Date Watched: 05/29/10
Original Ranking: #8 out of 20
Nic says:
For a movie based on a video game, this is a terrific story of heroism and overcoming adversity. I love stories that deal with free will versus destiny, questioning whether we have control of our future or if it is already planned out for us. The main character, Dastan, never questions what he believes and is committed to his virtues and adopted family. My only criticism of the movie is that the stealing of the dagger back and forth between the two main characters was a little overplayed and seems to just eat up time, but overall I think this is a great movie.
Amy says:
I agree that overall this was a great movie, which surprised me. I did not like the trailers and went grudgingly to the show. I was pleasantly surprised that Jake Gyllenhaal really pulls off the role as Dastan. The stunts are fantastic, and I would definitely go see him in another action movie. The love story is also pretty good and overall it worked.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Letters to Juliet
Current Ranking: #17 out of 33
Date Watched: 05/21/10
Original Ranking: #10 out of 19
Amy says:
Amanda Seyfried, from Dear John, once again pulls off playing a girl tossed about in the throws of young love in Letters to Juliet. I love the way Seyfried really draws me into the story and makes it believable. I am definitely a fan of her work! Christopher Egan and Marcia DeBonis support Seyfried’s performance perfectly, making for an excellent cast.
Date Watched: 05/21/10
Original Ranking: #10 out of 19
Amy says:
Amanda Seyfried, from Dear John, once again pulls off playing a girl tossed about in the throws of young love in Letters to Juliet. I love the way Seyfried really draws me into the story and makes it believable. I am definitely a fan of her work! Christopher Egan and Marcia DeBonis support Seyfried’s performance perfectly, making for an excellent cast.
Another great romantic comedy, Letters to Juliet is heartfelt, memorable, and fun to watch. It probably would have ranked even higher in our review, except for the fact that the preview for the movie spoils both the happy ending and all the major plot points of the film. It would have been better if we were surprised.
Nic says:
I completely agree that the previews for this movie completely stole any element of surprise away from it. However, Amy and I both still enjoyed seeing it, which really speaks for how great of a movie it is. It definitely belongs up there with When In Rome for best romantic comedies we’ve seen this year.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Babies
Current Ranking: #23 out of 33
Date Watched: 05/11/10
Original Ranking: #11 out of 18
Nic says:
As a newlywed looking forward to having children of my own, nothing frightens me more than the prospect of having to take care of a baby. Don’t get me wrong, I also couldn’t be more excited to have kids; but, the idea of taking care of an infant scares me to death. The documentary Babies really puts things in to perspective. However, raising a kid in San Francisco is a cake walk compared to raising a child in Mongolia or Namibia.
Date Watched: 05/11/10
Original Ranking: #11 out of 18
Nic says:
As a newlywed looking forward to having children of my own, nothing frightens me more than the prospect of having to take care of a baby. Don’t get me wrong, I also couldn’t be more excited to have kids; but, the idea of taking care of an infant scares me to death. The documentary Babies really puts things in to perspective. However, raising a kid in San Francisco is a cake walk compared to raising a child in Mongolia or Namibia.
The movie is a bit like a National Geographic special, meaning it does not hold back. Everything from breastfeeding to baby poop is featured in this film (it does, however, spare you the miracle of childbirth itself). Nonetheless, you can never go wrong with displaying the adorable wonder of four babies in their first year on this planet. It’s practically 80 minutes of “Awwwwww!”
Amy says:
I love the 80 minutes of “Awww!” I thoroughly enjoyed watching the babies grow and learning about how raising a baby is so diverse based on where you live in the world. This unique real life story was hard to rank because it is so different than the other movies we review. We loved it, but it is one of those movies we feel we only would watch once, which is why it is not closer to the top of the list.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Iron Man 2
Current Ranking: #10 out of 33
Date Watched: 05/09/10
Original Ranking: #6 out of 17
Amy says:
A great action packed flick, Iron Man 2 is definitely well suited to being released during a holiday weekend. Although, I am not sure Mother’s Day weekend is the best choice. Maybe they should opt for Memorial Day or 4th of July for the 3rd movie.
Iron Man definitely had me on the edge of my seat. Robert Downey Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow have the same great chemistry as the first movie. My favorite new character, Black Widow, played by Scarlett Johansson, definitely steals the lime light. She has great ninja movies and an even cooler outfit. This is the first female super hero that packs a punch and keeps all her clothes on. You go girl!
Nic says:
Iron Man 2 is definitely entertaining, but what Amy forgot to mention is the awesome bad guys in this movie. Mickey Rourke did a great job as the Russian nut job Whiplash, and Sam Rockwell is excellent as Justin Hammer.
My favorite parts of the movie, however, are the hidden treasures found in its references to other Avengers characters. I love when Tony Stark uses Captain America’s shield to level his machine, and the scene after the credits has me even more excited for the next character’s movie!
Date Watched: 05/09/10
Original Ranking: #6 out of 17
Amy says:
A great action packed flick, Iron Man 2 is definitely well suited to being released during a holiday weekend. Although, I am not sure Mother’s Day weekend is the best choice. Maybe they should opt for Memorial Day or 4th of July for the 3rd movie.
Iron Man definitely had me on the edge of my seat. Robert Downey Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow have the same great chemistry as the first movie. My favorite new character, Black Widow, played by Scarlett Johansson, definitely steals the lime light. She has great ninja movies and an even cooler outfit. This is the first female super hero that packs a punch and keeps all her clothes on. You go girl!
Nic says:
Iron Man 2 is definitely entertaining, but what Amy forgot to mention is the awesome bad guys in this movie. Mickey Rourke did a great job as the Russian nut job Whiplash, and Sam Rockwell is excellent as Justin Hammer.
My favorite parts of the movie, however, are the hidden treasures found in its references to other Avengers characters. I love when Tony Stark uses Captain America’s shield to level his machine, and the scene after the credits has me even more excited for the next character’s movie!
Friday, April 16, 2010
The Last Song
Current Ranking: #29 out of 33
Date Watched: 04/16/10
Original Ranking: #12 out of 16
Nic says:
Continuing my streak of being lead reviewer for the bad movies means, of course, that Last Song was awful! Miley Cyrus, to no one’s surprise, cannot act. Apparently, neither can her love interest Liam Hemsworth. The fact that these two have developed a relationship outside of the movie just further proves the point that they have no comprehension of how to separate real life from acting (and visa versa).
The best parts of the movie come from Greg Kinnear, as the father, and his on-screen son, Bobby Coleman. The movie would’ve been much better if it focused on the father-son story, mostly because that is where the strong acting came from. It is sad to say that a seven-year-old beat out Miley’s acting abilities.
Amy says:
I admit I dragged Nic to Last Song against his will. I love Nicholas Sparks movies and the previews held so much promise for this movie. But, Nic was right! Last Song was not very good at all. There were sad scenes that made me cry, and the father-son story was good, but love story part of the movie was not working for me. Bad acting made the love story fall flat. I will think twice when Nic says to be wary of movies with tween pop stars turned actors.
Date Watched: 04/16/10
Original Ranking: #12 out of 16
Nic says:
Continuing my streak of being lead reviewer for the bad movies means, of course, that Last Song was awful! Miley Cyrus, to no one’s surprise, cannot act. Apparently, neither can her love interest Liam Hemsworth. The fact that these two have developed a relationship outside of the movie just further proves the point that they have no comprehension of how to separate real life from acting (and visa versa).
The best parts of the movie come from Greg Kinnear, as the father, and his on-screen son, Bobby Coleman. The movie would’ve been much better if it focused on the father-son story, mostly because that is where the strong acting came from. It is sad to say that a seven-year-old beat out Miley’s acting abilities.
Amy says:
I admit I dragged Nic to Last Song against his will. I love Nicholas Sparks movies and the previews held so much promise for this movie. But, Nic was right! Last Song was not very good at all. There were sad scenes that made me cry, and the father-son story was good, but love story part of the movie was not working for me. Bad acting made the love story fall flat. I will think twice when Nic says to be wary of movies with tween pop stars turned actors.
Nic Keeps Getting Crappy Movies to Review!
Nic says:
Since Valentine’s Day, every other movie we have reviewed has been excellent. However, the in-between movies have been awful! Amy and I take turns writing the first review, and somehow she keeps getting the good ones! For example:
Amy had:
Percy Jackson
Alice in Wonderland
How To Train Your Dragon
Date Night
(All TOP 6 rankings)
Nic had:
Bounty Hunter
Wimpy Kid
Last Song
(All BOTTOM 6 rankings)
Amy says:
Ha ha ha! I guess I am getting all the good reviews. Lucky me! But the good news is next weekend we are on schedule to watch another great movie! You gotta learn to look on the bright side. ;)
Since Valentine’s Day, every other movie we have reviewed has been excellent. However, the in-between movies have been awful! Amy and I take turns writing the first review, and somehow she keeps getting the good ones! For example:
Amy had:
Percy Jackson
Alice in Wonderland
How To Train Your Dragon
Date Night
(All TOP 6 rankings)
Nic had:
Bounty Hunter
Wimpy Kid
Last Song
(All BOTTOM 6 rankings)
Amy says:
Ha ha ha! I guess I am getting all the good reviews. Lucky me! But the good news is next weekend we are on schedule to watch another great movie! You gotta learn to look on the bright side. ;)
Friday, April 9, 2010
Date Night
Current Ranking: #3 out of 33
Date Watched: 04/09/10
Original Ranking: #3 out of 15
Amy says:
Date Night is the first comedy of the year that had me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next and also had laughing so hard that I about fell out of my chair (probably because I was on the edge of my seat). With incredible one-liners, hilarious situations, and amazing acting, this movie beat out Imaginarium to rank in our top three!
What makes this comedy stand out even more than the hilarious moments is the continuity of the plot as well as a fantastically matched leading pair. The movie is well written to include how the husband (Steve Carrell) and the wife (Tina Fey) work out there issues of being a couple in a believable way while being in a completely unbelievable situations. My favorite unbelievable situation is their twist on the action car chase scene where they includes two cars smashed together face-to-face racing through the street. With Fey in one car and Carrell in the other, they have to work together to avoid crooked cops, a police barricade and more.
Nic says:
Simply hilarious. Fey and Carrell’s adlibbing had me laughing to the point of tears. Amy and I saw this movie again the next day, and were still laughing just as hard. My favorite parts were definitely the car-chase scene with the taxi driver (“You put your junk in reverse!”) and the strip club scene (“Sexy robots!”). Also, be sure to stay during the credits for some hysterical outtakes!
Date Watched: 04/09/10
Original Ranking: #3 out of 15
Amy says:
Date Night is the first comedy of the year that had me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next and also had laughing so hard that I about fell out of my chair (probably because I was on the edge of my seat). With incredible one-liners, hilarious situations, and amazing acting, this movie beat out Imaginarium to rank in our top three!
What makes this comedy stand out even more than the hilarious moments is the continuity of the plot as well as a fantastically matched leading pair. The movie is well written to include how the husband (Steve Carrell) and the wife (Tina Fey) work out there issues of being a couple in a believable way while being in a completely unbelievable situations. My favorite unbelievable situation is their twist on the action car chase scene where they includes two cars smashed together face-to-face racing through the street. With Fey in one car and Carrell in the other, they have to work together to avoid crooked cops, a police barricade and more.
Nic says:
Simply hilarious. Fey and Carrell’s adlibbing had me laughing to the point of tears. Amy and I saw this movie again the next day, and were still laughing just as hard. My favorite parts were definitely the car-chase scene with the taxi driver (“You put your junk in reverse!”) and the strip club scene (“Sexy robots!”). Also, be sure to stay during the credits for some hysterical outtakes!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Current Ranking: #32 out of 33
Date Watched: 04/03/10
Original Ranking: #12 out of 14
Nic says:
It’s hard to imagine anyone wanting to go back and revisit their years in middle school, and this movie reminds you why. There were some funny parts, but the movie mostly consisted of humor dependent upon farts, boogers, and moldy cheese. However, I didn’t like that, in the end, hardly anyone has learned anything. I cannot imagine the studios making the sequels into movies, but if they do, I think I’ll sit those ones out.
Amy says:
Nic pretty much said it all. The previews looked kinda cute, but it really was not a very entertaining movie. I spent a lot of time cringing at the disgusting jokes and think I would have been better off not seeing this movie.
Date Watched: 04/03/10
Original Ranking: #12 out of 14
Nic says:
It’s hard to imagine anyone wanting to go back and revisit their years in middle school, and this movie reminds you why. There were some funny parts, but the movie mostly consisted of humor dependent upon farts, boogers, and moldy cheese. However, I didn’t like that, in the end, hardly anyone has learned anything. I cannot imagine the studios making the sequels into movies, but if they do, I think I’ll sit those ones out.
Amy says:
Nic pretty much said it all. The previews looked kinda cute, but it really was not a very entertaining movie. I spent a lot of time cringing at the disgusting jokes and think I would have been better off not seeing this movie.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
How to Train Your Dragon
Current Ranking: #7 out of 33
Date Watched: 03/31/10
Original Ranking: #4 out of 13
Amy says:
This inspirational story, about a boy who bucks tradition to save a dragon, truly has it all with laughs, drama, and action. The movie gets its wings from a dragon named Toothless, the fearsome Night Fury dragon tamed by a Viking boy. My favorite scenes are when the boy rides the dragon through the sky; it is a thrilling and beautiful experience. The animation is remarkable and I am sure the movie-makers will win some visual awards for their creativity. I left the movie feeling like I wanted a pet dragon myself!
Nic says:
Despite its terrible, unfortunate name, How To Train Your Dragon was a very fun, family movie. The characters were great and the actors voicing them were perfect! The boy, named Hiccup, is hilarious and has the best one-liners throughout the film. Overall, I really enjoyed this movie’s themes of unity and overcoming fear to do the right thing.
Date Watched: 03/31/10
Original Ranking: #4 out of 13
Amy says:
This inspirational story, about a boy who bucks tradition to save a dragon, truly has it all with laughs, drama, and action. The movie gets its wings from a dragon named Toothless, the fearsome Night Fury dragon tamed by a Viking boy. My favorite scenes are when the boy rides the dragon through the sky; it is a thrilling and beautiful experience. The animation is remarkable and I am sure the movie-makers will win some visual awards for their creativity. I left the movie feeling like I wanted a pet dragon myself!
Nic says:
Despite its terrible, unfortunate name, How To Train Your Dragon was a very fun, family movie. The characters were great and the actors voicing them were perfect! The boy, named Hiccup, is hilarious and has the best one-liners throughout the film. Overall, I really enjoyed this movie’s themes of unity and overcoming fear to do the right thing.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
The Bounty Hunter
Current Ranking #26 out of 33
Date Watched: 03/20/10
Original Ranking: #9 out of 12
Nic says:
There was something just a little off with this movie, and I can’t exactly put my finger on it. Gerard Butler did not seem to really know what he was doing with his role, and the plot itself could’ve been better. There were so many different endings that could’ve occurred, and I have no idea how anyone could have promoted the one they actually chose. However, there were definitely some funny parts of the movie and I think it’s worth watching just for that. And, seriously, who hasn’t wanted to stuff their ex in a trunk and haul them to jail?
Amy says:
This was a really funny movie played by talented actors. However, the loose ends were driving me a little crazy. The biggest loose end was with Butler’s character, who is supposed to have had a gambling problem and has henchman chasing him for the money throughout the film, but that plot never goes anywhere. The movie is still fun to watch but it would have been better with more details filled in.
Date Watched: 03/20/10
Original Ranking: #9 out of 12
Nic says:
There was something just a little off with this movie, and I can’t exactly put my finger on it. Gerard Butler did not seem to really know what he was doing with his role, and the plot itself could’ve been better. There were so many different endings that could’ve occurred, and I have no idea how anyone could have promoted the one they actually chose. However, there were definitely some funny parts of the movie and I think it’s worth watching just for that. And, seriously, who hasn’t wanted to stuff their ex in a trunk and haul them to jail?
Amy says:
This was a really funny movie played by talented actors. However, the loose ends were driving me a little crazy. The biggest loose end was with Butler’s character, who is supposed to have had a gambling problem and has henchman chasing him for the money throughout the film, but that plot never goes anywhere. The movie is still fun to watch but it would have been better with more details filled in.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Alice in Wonderland
Current Ranking: #1 out of 33
Date Watched: 03/03/10
Original Ranking: #1 out of 11
Amy says:
One of the best movies I have ever seen, Alice in Wonderland is truly wonderful. The characters and the scenery almost overshadow the plot that is full of twists and surprises. My favorite characters are the queens. The horridness of the wicked Red Queen, played by Helena Bonham Carter, gets the most laughs throughout the film with her tantrums and off-with-his-head cries. My favorite character is the White Queen, which is played perfectly by Anne Hathaway who gave the part an extra dose of sugary sweetness that made it work.
Nic says:
Tim Burton certainly has an eye for the strange and weird, and Lewis Carroll's classic tale is no exception. I love that this story is not simply a remake of the Disney animated film, but rather picks up where the other left off. I know we tend to fear classic movies being redone, but the imagination that is poured into this film fills me up with excitement and wonder. I love everything from Alice's misnomer of the land itself, to the Mad Hatter's curly red hair. And don't even get me started on futterwhacken! I could see this one again and again!
Date Watched: 03/03/10
Original Ranking: #1 out of 11
Amy says:
One of the best movies I have ever seen, Alice in Wonderland is truly wonderful. The characters and the scenery almost overshadow the plot that is full of twists and surprises. My favorite characters are the queens. The horridness of the wicked Red Queen, played by Helena Bonham Carter, gets the most laughs throughout the film with her tantrums and off-with-his-head cries. My favorite character is the White Queen, which is played perfectly by Anne Hathaway who gave the part an extra dose of sugary sweetness that made it work.
Nic says:
Tim Burton certainly has an eye for the strange and weird, and Lewis Carroll's classic tale is no exception. I love that this story is not simply a remake of the Disney animated film, but rather picks up where the other left off. I know we tend to fear classic movies being redone, but the imagination that is poured into this film fills me up with excitement and wonder. I love everything from Alice's misnomer of the land itself, to the Mad Hatter's curly red hair. And don't even get me started on futterwhacken! I could see this one again and again!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Original Ranking: #11 out of 33
Date Watched: 02/28/10
Current Ranking: #4 out of 12
Nic says:
Percy Jackson is this decade’s Harry Potter, and his story isn’t much different. However, what makes The Lightning Thief so great is its tie-ins to history and Greek mythology. I’m not sure if it was intentionally kept secret, or if I just hadn’t kept up-to-date on the film, but Uma Thurman, as Medusa, and Rosario Dawson, as Persephone, are great surprises. They play their roles amazingly, especially for such short on-screen time. My only regret about this film was that we didn’t get to see/hear more backstory on the character that actually stole Zeus’ bolt. Nonetheless, I look forward to more movies being produced in this series.
Amy says:
Love, love this story! With wonderful characters and a fun-filled story make me want to read the books this movie is based on. I can’t wait for the sequel!
Date Watched: 02/28/10
Current Ranking: #4 out of 12
Nic says:
Percy Jackson is this decade’s Harry Potter, and his story isn’t much different. However, what makes The Lightning Thief so great is its tie-ins to history and Greek mythology. I’m not sure if it was intentionally kept secret, or if I just hadn’t kept up-to-date on the film, but Uma Thurman, as Medusa, and Rosario Dawson, as Persephone, are great surprises. They play their roles amazingly, especially for such short on-screen time. My only regret about this film was that we didn’t get to see/hear more backstory on the character that actually stole Zeus’ bolt. Nonetheless, I look forward to more movies being produced in this series.
Amy says:
Love, love this story! With wonderful characters and a fun-filled story make me want to read the books this movie is based on. I can’t wait for the sequel!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Valentine's Day
Current Ranking: #15 out of 33
Date Watched: 02/13/10
Original Ranking: #3 out of 8
Nic says:
Any movie with this many stars always attracts my attention. Critics complained that there is not enough screen time for each actor/actress, but I don’t think that takes anything away from the movie as a whole. Each character’s story is intriguing and relatable, and I love how they accurately portray the many splendid faces of love. And the characters themselves are so diverse, but equally hilarious. Taylor Swift plays a perfect in love with love high school cheerleader and Ashton Kutcher is great as the florist who just loves everything about the day. The best part in the film is definitely Julia Roberts’s character. Even though most all of her scenes are in an airplane, she steals the show with the final scene (and the hilarious post-credits scene!).
Amy says:
I agree that Julia Roberts was the best part of this movie. Why don’t we see her as much as we used to? I miss that girl! Anyway, this perfect date night movie is totally fun to watch. With scenes that had the whole audience roaring in laughter, it definitely added to my fun Valentine weekend.
Date Watched: 02/13/10
Original Ranking: #3 out of 8
Nic says:
Any movie with this many stars always attracts my attention. Critics complained that there is not enough screen time for each actor/actress, but I don’t think that takes anything away from the movie as a whole. Each character’s story is intriguing and relatable, and I love how they accurately portray the many splendid faces of love. And the characters themselves are so diverse, but equally hilarious. Taylor Swift plays a perfect in love with love high school cheerleader and Ashton Kutcher is great as the florist who just loves everything about the day. The best part in the film is definitely Julia Roberts’s character. Even though most all of her scenes are in an airplane, she steals the show with the final scene (and the hilarious post-credits scene!).
Amy says:
I agree that Julia Roberts was the best part of this movie. Why don’t we see her as much as we used to? I miss that girl! Anyway, this perfect date night movie is totally fun to watch. With scenes that had the whole audience roaring in laughter, it definitely added to my fun Valentine weekend.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Dear John
Original Ranking: #25 out of 33
Date Watched: 02/24/10
Current Ranking: #8 out of 12
Amy says:
This love story movie is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Of course a character dies and it is really, really sad. That is how it works with Nicholas Sparks’ stories, right? Even knowing that, the movie still has some surprises including the happy ending. I absolutely loved watching the messy, real-life kind of love story play out on screen. Dear John is one of the movies that reminds me that even though love isn’t always perfect, the good times make the bad times worth being tangled up in.
Nic says:
This movie left a bad taste in my mouth. Amy has introduced me to a few Nicholas Sparks movies, and I thought I had a handle on what was in store for me with Dear John. But I couldn't have been more wrong. I guess I can give Sparks that much: he does know how to spin a story. I am on board with the story until we get to find out who Savannah's new husband is. After that point, I just could no longer wrap my mind around the purpose of this film.
Date Watched: 02/24/10
Current Ranking: #8 out of 12
Amy says:
This love story movie is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Of course a character dies and it is really, really sad. That is how it works with Nicholas Sparks’ stories, right? Even knowing that, the movie still has some surprises including the happy ending. I absolutely loved watching the messy, real-life kind of love story play out on screen. Dear John is one of the movies that reminds me that even though love isn’t always perfect, the good times make the bad times worth being tangled up in.
Nic says:
This movie left a bad taste in my mouth. Amy has introduced me to a few Nicholas Sparks movies, and I thought I had a handle on what was in store for me with Dear John. But I couldn't have been more wrong. I guess I can give Sparks that much: he does know how to spin a story. I am on board with the story until we get to find out who Savannah's new husband is. After that point, I just could no longer wrap my mind around the purpose of this film.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Tooth Fairy
Current Ranking: #31 out of 33
Date Watched: 01/30/10
Original Ranking: # 6 out of 7
Nic says:
This movie is very cute and often funny, but, as you might have guessed, it lacks in overall plot. While watching Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson play Derek Thompson, who is sentences to serving time as a Tooth Fairy, is entertaining, the best parts of the film come from characters played by Julie Andrews and Billy Crystal. It is a shame they are only in a few scenes of the movie. My favorite scene is when Jerry, played by Crystal, explains to Thompson what amnesia dust is and how it works.
This is a fun family movie that you can see with the kids and have a few laughs and that’s how it works.
Amy says:
I agree that this was a cute movie. Nic pretty much said it all. While the tale was about learning to believe in dreams, Andrews and Crystal stole the show with their comedy and wit. The movie could have been about anything, but it worked because of their hilarious bit parts.
Friday, January 29, 2010
When in Rome
Current Ranking: #16 out of 33
Date Watched: 01/29/09
Original Ranking: #3 out of 6
Amy says:
Perfect chemistry showcases between Kristen Bell and Josh Duhamel, who play opposite each other in When in Rome. The romance between Beth, played by Bell, and Nick, played by Duhamel, is perfectly scripted with the necessary ups and downs of a romantic comedy but also includes that perfect “this is it” feeling brought on by a perfectly paired actor and actress.
When in Rome is one of the romantic comedies that remind me why I love this genre. Sure, the audience knows who will ultimately end up with whom, but that journey is filled with unexpected lessons on life, unforgettable characters, and lots and lots of laughter. Throughout the movie I felt like I was falling in love; in love with love itself, in love with movies, and in love with romantic comedies.
When in Rome is sure to be a classic romantic comedy viewed for years to come and I recommend it to anyone who wants to fall in love.
Nic says:
I agree that When In Rome definitely sets the bar for romantic comedies, and Bell and Duhamel really show us how it's done. Where the movie really excels, however, is in its lessons on love and free will. I really enjoyed that Beth must choose between having a chance for true love, or having a love that might be fake but will last forever.
Another terrific part of the movie is when the foursome who have also fallen in love with Beth figure out that love is more than just expecting love in return. They help Beth, not to persuade her to love them back, but just for the sake of helping someone they truly care about.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Extraordinary Measures
Current Ranking: #30 out of 33
Date Watched: 01/27/10
Original Ranking: #4 out of 5
Nic says:
Extraordinary Measures is a touching "based on true events" story about how far a husband and wife will go to save the lives of their children. The story is incredibly inspiring when it comes to risking everything for a chance at happiness and life. However, Dr. Stonehill, played by Harrison Ford and John Crowley, played by Brendan Fraser, fall short of creating a believable friendship in the film. It was hard to imagine that the two characters would ever successfully work together to bring about a cure.
Overall, I found the science and business side of the story very monotonous, but if you can see past that you'll find a greatly inspiring story that will challenge your own thoughts on how far you might go given a similar scenario.
Amy says:
The movie was a bit slow at times, but the characters each truly filled the shoes of their roles. When the parents of the sick children, Fraser and Keri Russell, have emotional breakdowns over the possibility of losing their children to illness, it feels real. It was interesting to have highly emotional scenes mixed in with dry scientific ones. Switching between hot and cold made this move jarring and also seem a little drawn out. It was a good story, but could have been a better movie.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Invictus
Current Ranking: #2 out of 33
Date Watched: 01/23/10
Original Ranking: #1 out of 4
Amy says:
The emotion of this film added depth to this well-known story that I was not expecting. Watching Morgan Freeman play South African President Mandela helped me understand this great man, who embodied the true spirit of forgiveness by showing compassion towards the people who had him imprisoned for three decades. Likewise, the country’s rugby captain Fracois, played by Matt Damon, showed humility in learning to understand and support the new president when most of his associates did not. Both actors did an excellent job at filling the shoes of these two great men.
The emotion of this film added depth to this well-known story that I was not expecting. Watching Morgan Freeman play South African President Mandela helped me understand this great man, who embodied the true spirit of forgiveness by showing compassion towards the people who had him imprisoned for three decades. Likewise, the country’s rugby captain Fracois, played by Matt Damon, showed humility in learning to understand and support the new president when most of his associates did not. Both actors did an excellent job at filling the shoes of these two great men.
The title of the film is for a poem of the same name which Mandela gives to Francois, that ends with lines the “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.” Both men embody the spirit of this poem while remaining hopeful in standing against insurmountable odds. Through watching Francois lead his team to the seemingly impossible victory of the World Cup, the country learns to believe that anything is possible and joins together to begin healing from the apartheid.
Invictus is a wonderful entertaining movie about the power of hope, and I could watch again and again.
I agree that Morgan Freeman channels Mandela's hope and inspiration beautifully in this movie. You cannot help but feel love and compassion for everyone, both in the movie and out. This is an amazing film that helps us see that the best approach to animosity and adversity is acceptance and love.
For anyone who doesn't have a clue as to how rugby is played, the game can be confusing at times; however the effect of a nation's team on its people is clearly communicated with each tackle, huddle, and point.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Lovely Bones
Current Ranking: #33 out of 33
Date Watched: 01/17/10
Original Ranking: #3 out of 3
Nic says:
There are (at least) two types of movies which cause me to procrastinate reviewing: movies so amazing that I don't feel I can come up with the words to do it justice, and movies so terrible that I loathe the idea of reliving them for you.
There are (at least) two types of movies which cause me to procrastinate reviewing: movies so amazing that I don't feel I can come up with the words to do it justice, and movies so terrible that I loathe the idea of reliving them for you.
The Lovely Bones is the latter.
There are things in this world that most of us would rather not see depicted in a life-like manner on screen. In my opinion, one of those things is the murder of a child. Watching a family lose their daughter to a monster, seeing that family destroyed by murder, and then watching the murderer get away with it all, was not enjoyable.
It's hard to comment on anything else in the movie, because it is truly difficult to get past the horrific events that happen, and continue to happen, on the screen. I felt as if I was experiencing death, and dying, for 135 minutes. Not a fun experience.
Amy says:
I agree that it was not enjoyable to watch the Salmon family fall apart when fourteen-year old Suzie is brutally murdered. Especially when the audience is aware that the murderer is the family’s neighbor and the characters are not. The movie seemed to really hone in on the suspense and grief of the story and lacked the depth of the book, which focused more on family’s healing and process of moving on. There were some interesting scenes with Suzie existing in what they call the “in between,” overall this movie was disturbing.
Sadly, The Lovely Bones is first movie of the year that I do not recommend watching.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Leap Year
Current Ranking: #18 out of 33
Date Watched: 01/16/10
Original Ranking: #2 out of 2
Amy says:
Like most formulaic romantic comedies, it is easy to guess the basic plot of Leap Year. Boy meets girl, they run into difficulties, but in the end of the story the boy and girl end up together for their happily ever after. But isn’t it nice to have that security of knowing the ending is going to be a good one? For me, knowing the formula does not make the movie any less fun, and Leap Year provided plenty of the laughs and touchy-feely moments that I expected.
Like most formulaic romantic comedies, it is easy to guess the basic plot of Leap Year. Boy meets girl, they run into difficulties, but in the end of the story the boy and girl end up together for their happily ever after. But isn’t it nice to have that security of knowing the ending is going to be a good one? For me, knowing the formula does not make the movie any less fun, and Leap Year provided plenty of the laughs and touchy-feely moments that I expected.
Control freak, American Anna paired with go-with-the-flow, Irish Declan immediately dislike each other upon introduction, making an excellent “opposites attract” pair. The relationship that builds throughout a series of hilariously unfortunate events seems to come as a surprise to the characters, but not the audience. It felt predictably right seeing Anna and Declan together in the end, with the complications of other love interests and emotional walls having melted away.
Overall, Leap Year provides that good ole security blanket feeling that that is warm and fuzzy.
Nic says:
I couldn’t agree more. What attracts us to Leap Year is not the suspense of will she or won’t she end up with Mr. Right? What we go to see is how she ends up with him. The movie takes us through a series of unfortunate events, some even Murphy’s Law would have trouble believing; such as Anna trying to charge her Blackberry and short-circuiting an entire village (really?). However, my favorite part of this film is Declan’s epiphany-inspiring moment to Anna: “If your home was on fire, and you only had 60 seconds, what would you save?”
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
Current Ranking: #6 out of 33
Date Watched: 01/12/10
Original Ranking: #1 out of 1
Nic says:
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is a fun and creative movie that takes us on a wild ride through people’s imaginations. The best part of the movie is the devil known as Mr. Nick, played by Tom Waits. Mr. Nick is amazingly clever; so clever in fact, that he even when he loses, he wins. In his first bet with Parnassus, he is easily defeated and grants his opponent immortality. However, this only better serves Mr. Nick, for he has now guaranteed himself an eternal companion… one who foolishly believes he can beat the devil.
In addition to the wonderful character of Mr. Nick, there is mystery-man Tony Sheppard, originally scripted to be played solely by Heath Ledger. The role instead is filled by not only Ledger but Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell as well. One cannot help but think about Ledger’s untimely death while completing this movie when seeing his character transform, through the powers of the imaginarium, into the different faces of Depp, Law, and Farrell. Each actor continues the role quite convincingly; perhaps it’s just the aid of makeup, wardrobe, and whatever other movie tricks, but it is sometimes hard to tell the difference between them.
Overall, this movie continued to keep me guessing while telling an amazing tale.
Amy says:
I agree that Mr. Nick and Tony really stole the show as the really likeable are-they-villains-or-are-they-not kind of characters. In addition to the wonderful cast of colorful characters, the imaginarium is provides the sole to this story. Just beyond Dr. Parnassus’ magic mirror lies the imaginarium, a place where dreams, and sometimes nightmares, are brought to life. From the fun of the shoe-coveters world of nine-feet-tall yet still luxurious high heels to the river that changes in to a giant cobra, the audience rides the highs and lows of the characters imaginations. Just as the world beyond the mirror captivates, intrigues, and proves full of surprises, so is this curiously fabulous film by Terry Gilliam.
A perfect film for our first review! By default this movie claims the number one slot.
Date Watched: 01/12/10
Original Ranking: #1 out of 1
Nic says:
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is a fun and creative movie that takes us on a wild ride through people’s imaginations. The best part of the movie is the devil known as Mr. Nick, played by Tom Waits. Mr. Nick is amazingly clever; so clever in fact, that he even when he loses, he wins. In his first bet with Parnassus, he is easily defeated and grants his opponent immortality. However, this only better serves Mr. Nick, for he has now guaranteed himself an eternal companion… one who foolishly believes he can beat the devil.
In addition to the wonderful character of Mr. Nick, there is mystery-man Tony Sheppard, originally scripted to be played solely by Heath Ledger. The role instead is filled by not only Ledger but Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell as well. One cannot help but think about Ledger’s untimely death while completing this movie when seeing his character transform, through the powers of the imaginarium, into the different faces of Depp, Law, and Farrell. Each actor continues the role quite convincingly; perhaps it’s just the aid of makeup, wardrobe, and whatever other movie tricks, but it is sometimes hard to tell the difference between them.
Overall, this movie continued to keep me guessing while telling an amazing tale.
Amy says:
I agree that Mr. Nick and Tony really stole the show as the really likeable are-they-villains-or-are-they-not kind of characters. In addition to the wonderful cast of colorful characters, the imaginarium is provides the sole to this story. Just beyond Dr. Parnassus’ magic mirror lies the imaginarium, a place where dreams, and sometimes nightmares, are brought to life. From the fun of the shoe-coveters world of nine-feet-tall yet still luxurious high heels to the river that changes in to a giant cobra, the audience rides the highs and lows of the characters imaginations. Just as the world beyond the mirror captivates, intrigues, and proves full of surprises, so is this curiously fabulous film by Terry Gilliam.
A perfect film for our first review! By default this movie claims the number one slot.
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