Movie Reviews

Recent movies we've seen at the theatre and on DVD (in no particular order):

1. Lars and the Real Girl...One of the best movies I've seen all year. The premise makes it seem like it's going to be a comedy but it's actually quite a poignant film. It shows how people can set aside their small-mindedness and open their hearts to someone who is different and how doing that can ultimately bring healing. I cried. How refreshing to see a movie about how we can be good to each other. Watch the trailer by clicking here. I think it will pique your interest.

2. The Mist...The latest screen adaptation of a Stephen King story by the excellent Mr. Frank Darabont (he also directed The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile). It's creepy and fun but be warned that the ending is terrible (It left me asking Delmar's immortal question: "Where's the happy little tire swing?"). The ending aside, it's a fun ride into the mist. Fog never looked so creepy.

3. Lucky Number Slevin...Just got this one on DVD from the library. There are some fun twists but we found it to be somewhat predictable. Still, we enjoyed it. Ever since Moonlighting, I can't help but like that Bruce Willis.

4. Shrek the Third...Mildly amusing. Love the Puss in Boots character and his kitty eyes trick. Our kitties pull the same thing on us.

5. Someone to Eat Cheese With...Mildly amusing. Kind of funny. It's a rental.

6. King of California...A slow indie pic starring Michael Douglas as someone who's had a little too much spacecake for breakfast. Interesting but not great.

7. King of Kong...GREATEST DOCUMENTARY EVER! If you get a chance to see this, it's definitely worth the price of admission! It's a doc on the battle for the highest score on Donkey Kong. It has lots of heart, loads of nerds, and a strong story. We can't wait for this to come out on DVD so we can buy it!

8. American Gangster...Violent, violent, violent. Would not see this one again. Brad liked it. I didn't. I will give Denzel and Russell props for some great acting. What made it so hard to watch is that it was based on real people and real happenings. Seeing people behave that way toward each other...well, we can just be animals, plain and simple. If you want a good movie about gangsters, check out The Departed. It's a well-crafted story, strong characters, and not a weak actor in the bunch (props to Mark Wahlberg!).

9. Something's Got to Give...Ok, it's been a while since we've seen this one. But we were talking this weekend about how it's a pleasant flick that stands up to repeat viewings. We caught it on TV last winter and enjoyed it very much (it was our second viewing). Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson are enjoyable...Keanu Reeves is the icing on the cake...speaking of Keanu...

10. The Lake House...Wanted to put a plug in for this romantic flick. We own it on DVD. You won't mind suspending your disbelief for these two people who love each other across time. It's a rent-n-cuddle.

11. Scoop...Woody Allen at his Woody Allenest. It's awful. You're actually glad when he runs himself off the road at the end. And people got onto M. Night Shyamalan for casting himself in Lady in the Water...sheesh...Not even the winning Hugh Jackman can redeem this festering film.

12. The Holiday...If you're in the mood for love this Christmas, this is the film for you. When we were leaving the theatre last Christmas after seeing this, I turned to my mom and said, "Weren't those the most beautiful people you've ever seen?" You've got Jude Law, Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet. It's funny, sweet and romantic. You'll enjoy.

What movies have you seen lately?