Geek Boy Movie News

New Website!

2010-08-22T16:07:00.003-06:00

Hey all! Thanks for being a faithful reader! I am excited to tell you that I have set up a brand new website!

www.geekboymovienews.com

Be sure to check it out! This blog will be laid to rest in the near future.

Thanks!

The Expendables

2010-08-18T23:16:00.003-06:00

Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Terry Crews, Randy Couture, Steve Austin, Mickey Rourke, Eric Roberts, David Zayas, Giselle Itei

Rated R for strong action and bloody violence throughout, and for some language

Grade B

Having grown up in the 80's and being a lover of film, I have a soft spot for movies that included Latin Dictators, excessive violence, predictable story lines, and action stars and not surprisingly, The Expendables has them all. It is no secret that this film is a throwback to all of the awesomely bad action movies of the 80'sand it succeeds to the fullest extent. This is a fun, lout and overly violent film and one can't help but laugh and smile your way through it.

Barney Ross (Stallone) heads up a group of mercenaries that include a group of very talented men, and they all just happen to be some of the biggest action stars in film history. When this group is called in to take down a General who has gained control of a small island, they find that more is going on than they had bargained for. It's a simpled and rather clichéd story line, with little or no back story to any of the characters. It is paced rather well and is full of action from start to finish. What more do you want from a film like this?

With stars like Stallone, Statham, Li, Couture, Lundgren and company, you would expect a lot of action, which you get, but what you also get with that is a lack of acting talent. The one person who really stood out in this group was Mickey Rourke who is surprisingly not included a s much as you'd like. His main job is to add the dramatic element to the story, which he does very well. Lundgren, who I think we last saw way back in the 80's when he starred opposite Stallone in Rocky IV has done nothing to improve his chops. All the while people like Statham and Li do as well as they can. Having said that, I don't go to see a movie like this expecting Oscar winning performances.

What this film does very well is entertain. As I mentioned earlier, it is full of action and excessive violence (is it wrong to laugh when someone gets cut in half by a shotgun?). Each member of the team gets their moment to shine, providing many moments of oohing and ahhing with the occasional cringe. We get to see a couple fun cameos from a few other past action stars which are fun. A highlight of the film is to see the banter between Stallone and Schwarzenegger, which is well written ad quite funny.

Over all, if you are a sucker for films like Commando and Rambo, then this is a film for you. Sit back, smile and enjoy a genre that has been long over-due for a resurgence. And here's to hoping that a sequel gets made so we can see Steven Seagal, Jean Claude Van Damme and Chuck Norris.

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

2010-08-14T00:41:00.003-06:00

Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Ellen Wong, Chris Evans, Brandon Routh, Jason Schwartzman, Kieran Culkin

Rated PG-13 for stylized violence, sexual content, language and drug references

Grade B

If you thought you'd seen everything that Hollywood has to offer, think again. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World dishes up a style of film that is truly unique and a one-of-a-kind, with a tribute to just about every 1980's video game out there, and toss in a love-story, you've got yourself a film that is quite an experience. As with everything that is a one off, it's not something that everyone will enjoy and just like a favorite toy, this film is fun in the beginning but soon loses it's appeal.

Scott Pilgrim (Cera) is still mourning after a break up and is trying to ease the pain by dating a high school girl (Wong). When he comes across Ramona (Winstead), first in a dream then at a party, he knows he has met his soul mate. Problem is this: she has a League of Evil Exes that he must defeat in order to date her.

Even knowing that this film is based on a graphic novel can't prepare you for the ride this film takes you on. It doesn't waste any time in getting into the thick of things and we quickly meet the first ex. While there are rather blunt hints at the video game influence in the opening moments of the film, when the first fight scene hits, it is still quite a surprise to see the direction of the film. When you break the story down to it's basic elements, it is quite a traditional love story, but you have to do a lot of breaking down to get there. It is well written and well acted, but the problem is that it is too much of the same thing throughout the film. It quickly loses its luster and charm and just plain gets old by the time the film ends.

Michael Cera, most known for his role in Superbad basically picks up where he left off from that film, playing the same type of character. Having said that, he delivers his lines with ease and impeccable timing and is a great pairing with Mary Elizabeth Winstead who plays her part quite well. The one who stole the show was Kieran Culkin. Yes, he is the brother of Home Alone star Macaulay Culkin, but he clearly got the acting skills of the family. He handles his lines with skill and ease, with a surprising talent for comedy. I would like to have seen more of Chis Evans, as his character was pretty intriguing.

The cinematography for this film is both the good and the bad on this film. As I have mentioned, there is a very strong influence of 80's video games with this film, with the many fight scenes being based on those games, from the quirky sound effects to the bad exploding into coins when they are dead. After the first battle, you can't help but smile at how cool it all looks, but after the seventh fight scene has been forced on to your senses, you are over it and ready for another surprising element that never comes. Not saying it isn't cool, but it just becomes too much by the end of the film.

Scott Pilgrim is a fun film that is very well written with some laugh out loud moments. It shows off a whole new style of action film but ultimately the shiny new toy loses its giddy up and you find yourself looking for something new to hold your attention

DVD Review: Gran Torino

2010-08-11T23:39:00.003-06:00

Clint Eastwood, Bee Vang, Ahney Her, Christopher Carley, John Carrol Lynch

Rated R for language throughout, and some violence

Grade: A-

Clint Eastwood has come a long way since his days of Dirty Harry, but the journey has done wonders for his abilities as both an actor and a director. He still retains the gruff exterior but he's added an emotion to his roles that few can rival. In this dramatic story, Eastwood wonders into a territory that you would not expect from him and he executed the idea perfectly.

An ornery Korean War veteran (Eastwood) sets out to reform his young Hmong neighbor (Vang) after he attempts to steal his prized possession: a 1972 Gran Torino. IN doing so, he befriends the family and becomes involved in a war of gangs.

I am usually not a fan of Eastwood, but occasionally he dishes out a performance that is truly awe inspiring. Not since his role in Unforgiven have I seen him be this impressive. As clichéd as it sounds, the man will make you laugh and cry in this film. He tosses out just about every racial slur in the books, but it just adds to his depth as a character. His supporting cast, however, struggles to keep up with him, but they do try.

The story is quite emotional and is very well written, with dialog that is handled with ease in the capable hands of Eastwood and his ensemble. The character arc of Walt (Eastwood) is seamless and while it is expected, it is done in a way where he still keeps his roughness to him and refuses to become the sappy old man you'd expect out of this.

Eastwood, as a director, kept things straight and simple with this film but it works and works very well. There is a lack of overly embellished music and fancy camera angles, but the use of light in some of the key scenes is incredible; it's a throwback to the older style of filming before computer graphics took over.

Gran Torino is a raw yet emotional film that can't be missed; one of the better made films I've seen in some time. With Eastwood both in front of and behind the camera, he has proven time and again that he is still quite capable of churning out an incredible film. Give this film a watch, your time won't be wasted.

Random Movie News: Sequels, Abraham Lincoln & Vampires and More!

2010-08-11T00:15:00.004-06:00

There is a lot of sequel news being thrown about right now, so let's get those out of the way. First up, Avatar. As most of you know, I was not a huge fan of this film and to learn that a sequel (or two) was in the works, I threw up a in my mouth a little. Not only that, but the more I read up on the plans, the more it sounds like director/writer/producer James Cameron is less and less interested in the idea of sequels. Anyways, in an interview with MTV News, Cameron had this to say,

"'Avatar 2'... we're still working on deals. We don't start the movie until we get the deals worked out," he said. "I'm making notes. I'm not sitting idle. But really, what I'm working on primarily is the novel."

He goes on to say that he'd toying with the idea of filming the two sequels back-to-back. Studios do this for two reasons: time and money. It's easier to film them both at the same time as it reduces the amount of money they have to spend on sets and the like and naturally, saves on production time in the long run.

Also on the sequel front, it seems as though a part 2 for the critically acclaimed Eastern Promises will be happening. Vincent Cassel (Ocean's 12 and Eastern Promises) told comingsoon.net that he will be joining star Viggo Mortinsen for a second go-round. The first installment was an incredible and very well acted film. I'm happy to hear of a sequel in this instance.

One more sequel to discuss here, and that is for Cloverfield 2. Matt Reeves, who directed Cloverfield, recently talked with MTV News regarding his upcoming vampire remake Let Me In and were able to squeeze some info out of him regarding a sequel to the smash hit. He does say that both he and JJ Abrams are interested in returning to the franchise but they are both wrapped up in other projects currently.

"It really isn't the moment for [the sequel] to go any further than it has, but it continues to be a priority for both of us. J.J. is very immersed in putting together 'Super 8.' He's... in pre-production and really, really passionately getting that together. And I'm passionately finishing 'Let Me In.'"

On a side note, Reeves reiterates that Super 8 has no connection to Cloverfield as many people have speculated.

Director Timur Bekmambetov who gave us Wanted has a lot on his plate and he sat down with Empire to discuss his many plans for upcoming films. He starts out by telling us that he will be working on a film adaptation of the novel "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter." He says that it will not be a comedy, as one might expect, but a new take on one of the most influential people in history. I actually just finished reading this book and it is highly entertaining and am anxious to see how he portrays it on film. He also talks about a sequel to Wanted and that he does have plans to do it, but it will have to wait until after Abraham Lincoln and points out that James McAvoy will be filming X-Men: The First Class for the next several months. Some of the other films on his radar: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Moby Dick (a much more modern take on the classic tale), and Red Asphalt. Yes...this will be a film about drunk driving and he plans on filming it in 3D. That is a 3D film I can get behind. I hope that one pans out! Be sure to check out the link for several other potential projects he's got coming!

For those of you who did not know, I recently took up a writing position over at ReelComix.com. I am writing under the name "ecksmanfan" and will be submitting news stories, movie reviews, editorials and more, so be sure to check it out. It's a great site for comic book movie and sci-fi movie info, as well as gaming and other geeky goodies.

Also, keep an eye out for a whole new look coming to GeekBoyMovieNews in the near future. We're going bigger and better, so stay tuned!

Top 25 Movie Themes

2010-08-01T17:50:00.002-06:00

It's time for a new Top 25 list here on Geek Boy Movie News and this time around, I will be looking the music that oft times is one of the most memorable parts of the film. In doing my research for this article, I kept coming scross the same songs over and over, which isn't a bad thing, as those songs are very good and very well known. Now, you will see some of those songs on this list but I have included some songs that you typically won't find on the usual lists. Just for clarification, this list includes "Theme" songs from movies, not songs from the sound track, which may be another list to come. All that being said, on to the list.

25- Dead Already (from American Beauty), by Thomas Newman (1999)

24- Duel of the Fates (from Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace), by John Williams (1999)

23- Jurassic Park theme, by John Williams (1993)

22- Nyah and Ethan (from Mission: Impossible 2), by Hans Zimmer (2000)

21- Kill Bill Theme, by Tomoyasu Hotei (2003)

20- Schindler’s List Theme, by John Williams (1993)

19- Headwig’s Theme (from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone), by John Williams (2001)

18- Batman, by Danny Elfman (1989)

17- Gonna Fly Now (from Rocky), by Bill Conti (1976)

16- Speak Softly Love (Love Theme from The Godfather), by Nino Rota (1972)

15- Mission: Impossible Theme, by Lalo Schifrin (1966)

14- Theme from Star Trek, by Alexander Courage (1966)

13- Top Gun Anthem, by Steve Stevens (1986)

12- 28 Days Later… Theme, by John Murphy (2003)

11- Dueling Banjos (from Deliverance), by Arthur “Guitar Boogie” Smith (1973)

10- Terminator 2 Theme, by Brad Fiedel (1991)

9- Tubular Bells (from The Exorcist), by Mike Oldfield (1973)

8- Imperial March/Darth Vader’s Theme (from Star Wars), by John Williams (1980)

7- Psycho Theme, by Bernard Hermann (1960)

6- The Raider’s March (from Indiana Jones and the Raider’s of the Lost Ark), by John Williams (1984)

5- Theme from Halloween, by John Carpenter (1978)

4- James Bond Theme, by Monty Norman (1962)

3- Superman, by John Williams (1978)

2- Jaws Theme, by John Williams (1975)

1- Star Wars Theme, by John Williams (1977)

Needless to say, John Williams has marked his spot as the premier musical score writer. He has created some of the most iconic movie themes of all time, some of which I did not include in the list, just for the sake of adding something different.I have added a few modern films as well as a good mix. Hope you like it and feel free to comment!

DVD Review: The Losers

2010-07-26T23:47:00.003-06:00

Jeffery Dean Morgan, Chris Evans, Zoey Saldana, Idris Elba, Columbus Short, Óscar Jaenada, Jason Patric

Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense action and violence, a scene of sensuality and language

Grade: C+

It's no secret that Hollywood has a new-found obsession for films based on graphic novels. For the most part, the larger franchises like Batman, Spider Man and the X-Men have done very well and even the lesser know characters like Iron Man have been received well. So writers and film execs are delving into story lines and characters that are pretty much unknown to the general public, but have a pretty good fan base in the graphic novel world. That being said, the old adage of "just because you can, doesn't mean you should." The Losers tries it's best to be an action-comedy film, but it doesn't quite get there. One thing does do is land in the "Guy Film" category and thrives there.

When a group of special ops soldiers are framed for an attack that involved children, they re-team after several to get revenge on the person who set them up. With the addition of Aisha (Saldana) they are able to return to the United States, where Clay (Morgan) leads his team (Evans, Elba, Short, and Jaenada) in his retaliation against Max (Patric).

The story is rather simple and doesn't really go to far off the beaten path. It moves rather quickly but tries to be too serious at times and made some rather awkward transitions into comedic elements. There is a bit of a twist thrown in but it doesn't succeed in the "shock" they were going for.

Jeffrey Dean Morgan does a s decent job as the leader of the group with his effortless style, while Saldana adds a female touch to thing, but isn't afraid to get her hands dirty. Evans is the one who steals the show in an office break-in scene that is great and sadly, the highlight of the movie. Patric as Max has some great one-liners, but also has some where you are waiting for the crickets to chime in.

One of the saving graces for this film is the cinematography. The actions scenes are filmed beautifully and have an original flare to them that was pretty cool. I mentioned this being a "Guy Film" and here's what I mean: Stuff blowing up, hot girls in action scenes and comedy (well, attempts at it). It also has some interesting uses of music, where it almost seemed synced with the scenes, instead of just the usual back ground music.

It's a guy flick; the gals probably won't like this one that much. It has a few moments of good that pop up in a field of mediocrity.It you are looking for some simple, mindless fun, give this one a try. But don't expect anything too deep.

Salt

2010-07-25T10:18:00.003-06:00

Angelina Jolie, Lieb Schreiber, Chiwetel Ejiofor, August Diehl, Daniel Olbrychski

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action

Grade B+

There are few movies now days that can add a twist in a plot and actually have it work and not be so overly ludicrous, but Salt pulls it off. This is a fun action film that has some intense moments and some turn you don't see coming at all. It's been a while since we've seen that happen. Hey...Shyamalan, go see this movie and take notes on how an unexpected turn should pan out.

Evelyn Salt (Jolie) is a CIA operative who has spent time in Russia under cover and is now happily married to an entomologist (Diehl). When a Russian defector shows up at a CIA office, Salt and her supervisor, Ted Winter (Schreiber), find that this defector has news of a Russian spy who plans on killing the Russian president. The problem is this: He gives a name of the spy and it happens to be Evelyn Salt.

The film has a "Bourne-esque" feel to it, right down to the shaky camera during the action sequences, which I'm actually a fan of. It's an easy way to create the sense of urgency and chaos, with out spending a ton of money to do it. The story moves rather quickly and well written and well paced, but when you really break it down, seems quite outlandish. But that's why we go to movies, right? At the end of the film, you are hit with a twist that was quite unexpected. Now, I'm not saying that it is the best twist I've ever seen as far as plot goes, but it was not something I thought I'd see happening.

Jolie, needless to say, does a decent job, but she has been better. This type of film doesn't really require that you pull out the real acting chops that we know she is capable of. She has done actions films in the past, but she ups the level of fighting ability quite a bit and does it rather convincingly. Schreiber hold his own against the powerhouse that is Jolie, as well as Ejiofor.

The action sequences seemed to get a bit silly at times, allowing to Jolie to almost defy gravity, but I've seen worse. They are filmed decently, but the addition of some better editing during these scenes would've help quite a bit.

Overall, it's a fun and pretty well done action film that is a great fit for the summer time. It'll have you at the edge of your seat a few times and while have you leaving the theater happy, having enjoyed a good film.

DVD Review: A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints

2010-07-19T00:10:00.003-06:00

Shia LeBeouf, Robert Downey Jr., Channing Tatum, Rosario Dawson, Melonie Diaz, Peter Anthony Tambakis, Adam Scarimbolo, Dianne Wiest, Chazz Palminteri

Rated R for pervasive language, some violence, sexuality, and drug use

Grade: B+

It always bothers me when good films slip beneath my radar. I've just heard murmurings here and there about this film but I never really looking into. I found it on Netflix and added it to the line up and I'm glad I did. This is a powerful and moving film that has some amazing performances. However, the rather slow pacing had me willing the film to come to a close.

In this film, based on a true story, Dito (LeBeouf/Downey) tells us his story of growing up in New York and the hardships he dealt with in his home. He and a couple of friends come across a kid tagging a friend's family store. Dito and his friends, Antonio (Tatum) and Nerf (Tambakis) vow to seek revenge. But this is just a subplot to the emotional life he leads at home. His father wants to be friends with his son and his pals rather than be a father. Eventually, Dito takes off to California leaving his friends and family behind.

The story his is a powerful one and it is told very well through a group of talented actors. It From the get-go, you know this film is going to move you and with Downey Jr. at the lead, it no doubt gets there. The problem here is that the pacing just seems off. It's not the fastest movie I've seen, but it's not enough to say this was not a great film.

It's no secret that Robert Downey Jr. is a great actor and if you are looking for further proof of this, watch this film. The highlight of the film in which Dito returns home to his ailing father is powerful and moving in a way that I haven't seen in a film in years. The other main players in the film were just as good. LeBeouf has an image of playing the quirky kid like his role in the Transformers films, but his work here was incredible; he's able to hold his own with the powerhouse of Downey. Tatum, who is usually dry and one-dimensional, shows that given the right script, he's actually really good.

There are some interesting filming elements included here that you typically only see in independent films, like the inclusion of text on the screen during some phone calls. These little things do a great job in keeping the audience interested. It's fun and different.

A Guide to Representing Your Saints is a much different film than I had anticipated and I was pleasantly surprised by the film I watched. It touches you like few films do and more films should, I just wish it moved a little faster than it does.

DVD Review: The Soloist

2010-07-18T13:48:00.001-06:00

Robert Downey, Jr., Jamie Foxx

Rated PG-13

Grade B-

I found it odd that a film like this would be released in the spring, especially since there was talk of it being an Oscar® contender, which these types of films are typically released in the fourth quarter of the year when the films will stay fresh in the mind of the Academy members. Having seen the film though, I don’t see this one as a contender. It’s not a bad film, just a bit underwhelming.

Robert Downey, Jr. is good, as can be expected from an actor of his talent. He could act out a phone book and make it look good. His natural ability to embrace confidence is uncanny. Jamie Foxx on the other hand, is one of the most over rated actors out there today, in my opinion. I see him more as a superb impressionist more than an actor. This is no different; he does a great job as impersonating a homeless man with schizophrenia. The two work off each other very well and are a good on screen duo.

The story is based on a true story, but I didn’t think it was as riveting as it could have been. I found myself getting bored at times, almost to the point of frustration. It was well written, and a good story with a good lesson to learn: that every one has a story and despite outside appearances, we need to embrace acceptance.

All that being said, it was a good show, but not one I’d spend the time watching again. There are other films that I’d rather see again.

DVD Review: Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li

2010-07-18T13:44:00.002-06:00

Kristen Kreuk, Neal McDonough, Michael Clark Duncan, Chris Klein, Moon Bloodgood, Robin Shou

Rated PG-13

Grade: C-

We all remember the horrible film adaptation of the Capcom video game “Street Fighter: that starred none other than Jean-Claude Van Damme and Raul Julia and its utter suckiness. While this film is nothing to write home about, it’s a slight step up from the original 1994 version.

The script is stiff, at best and the actors, who are usually not this incapable, do with it what they can. The story is a rehashed version of what we’ve seen many times before in “B” movies: Bad guy blackmails city officials to rid the city of slums making him look like a savior. There is nothing real new and exciting.

The acting, while not horrible by some, was hard to watch for most of them, especially Chris Klein. He was stiff and just tried way too hard to be a tough guy, but ultimately came across as a no-talent hack. The others were tolerable, considering the script.

You’d expect a show like this to have some decent fighting sequences, which it does, but again, below the standards of what you really like to see. They were the only really good part of the film.

“Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li” is not anything I’d run out to rent or see, but if you came across it on the FX channel one night, give it a try.

DVD Review: Spread

2010-07-18T13:43:00.003-06:00

Ashton Kutcher, Anne Heche, Margarita Lavieva

Rated R

Grade B

Usually when you see Ashton Kutcher in a movie, you have an expectation of that film, and it’s usually not very high. I was actually quite surprised by this film, although it is far from an Oscar® winning film. It is well written and for the most part well acted, surprisingly.

Ashton Kutcher will always have a hard time being taken seriously as an actor, given his past resume. With shows like “That 70’s Show” and “Punked” under his belt, he will be hard pressed to be accepted as a dramatic actor. Having said that, this is a good start. I think the reason this works so well for him is the fact that he didn’t have to act too much; it seems this character is very similar to his real life, but it works! Anne Heche is great in this film, as she is in most of her films. The rest of the cast is rather bland; they come and go and don’t really allow you to become attached to them. Although they are acted well, they just leave you with no attachment.

I was thrilled by the ending of this film. It is not you usual happily ever after ending and I love it when a movie does that. It was more true-to-life than all the other re-hashed romantic-comedy garbage we are forced to sit through.

The film is not for everyone, as it is rather graphic, yet another surprise. It is a well deserved Rated R. If that doesn’t scare you off, then give it a try.

DVD Review: Sleepy Hollow

2010-07-18T13:40:00.001-06:00

Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, Christopher Walken, Miranda Richardson, Michael Gambon, Casper Van Dien, Jeffrey Jones

Rated R

Grade B+

One of my favorite Disney cartoons would have to be that of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” From the first time I saw this short film, I was captivated by the story of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman. So when I heard that Tim Burton was going to be bringing the story to the big screen, I was thrilled! And who better to do so than Tim Burton?

The film is a Tim Burton film in every way; from the elaborate sets to the inclusion of Johnny Depp as the lead role. It is dark and gritty with a touch of humor throughout the film. With this story, he was able to give the characters a lot more depth than we are used to, as well as modernize it, but still hold somewhat true to Washington Irving’s original tale.

This is the film that made me like Johnny Depp. It really shows how versatile he can be. It’s a good mix of Willy Wonka and Captain Jack, but he also brings something quirky to the table. Christina Ricci is OK, but it was a good fit for the character. The rest of the supporting cast was fantastic! Burton was able to pull in some stellar actors from Britain, all of which have a great presence and a traditional style, adding to the authenticity of the story.

It’s a fun movie, with a good mix of action, fantasy and a tad bit of romance mixed in. Some great acting and well written script make this classic tale a must see for the Halloween season.

DVD Review: Munich

2010-07-18T13:35:00.002-06:00

Eric Bana, Daniel Craig, Geoffrey Rush, Ciaran Hinds, Mathieu Kassovitz, Hanns Zischler

Rated R

Grade: B-

There was a lot of hype for this show, which was nominated for 5 Academy Awards, but I feel this one didn’t quite live up to the reputation it gained. While it wasn’t a horrible film, it was slow moving and quite anti-climactic and left me wanting more than what I was given, making for a long two hours and 45 minutes to site through.

The film is based on the events that occurred during the 1972 Olympic Games, held in Munich, Germany. Black September, and Arab terrorist group, took the Israeli athletes hostage and ultimately killed them. A group is put together by the Israeli government to track down and assassinate anyone involved in the event that occurred. It is a depressing story and it needs to be told, but Spielberg could have and should have done a better job.

Let’s start out with the bad. As I mentioned before, the film did nothing to move the story along. It was anything but fast-paced, even during the few fighting scenes and the moments that were meant to be tense. I wanted so badly to get into the story, because it is such a sad, yet interesting story. There is little, if any back story on the group that is assembled to track and kill the offenders. We learn their names and a very, very brief history on them. The problem here is that you have no connection with any of the characters, nothing to pull you in to the story.

The film is acted quite well; probably one of Eric Bana’s best films. Geoffrey Rush (“Pirates of the Caribbean” series) can do no wrong in my eyes. He’s an amazing actor. Another actor that is becoming a favorite of mine is Ciaran Hinds. He’s been seen most recently in “Race to Witch Mountain” and some may know him as Julius Caesar in HBO’s “Rome” series, he is simply a pleasure to watch act. Daniel Craig is decent, but under used in my opinion.

There is a lot of gore in this film, very realistic gore actually. We see a lot of stylized violence in films now days, so when a film like this comes along, it’s a bit of a shock to see. I think it’s actually kind of necessary for this film though.
Having said all that, if you want a film that is interesting and would like to get a better understanding of this sad event, give the film a try, but know that it is not the most fast-paced film you will watch, and that Spielberg has done better movies.

DVD Review: From Hell

2010-07-18T13:32:00.002-06:00

Johnny Depp, Heather Graham, Ian Holm, Robbie Coltrane

Rated R

Grade C+

Although it seems odd that a film like this would be based on a graphic novel, truth be told, it is. However, it is very loosely based on that book. The film is dark ad violent and offers a rather new perspective on the identity of Jack the Ripper, but it leaves you with a bitter taste in your mouth. The film is acted decently, but the story is lacking and rather underwhelming.

Johnny Depp has quickly become one of the most sought after actors of our time and for good reason: he’s an incredible actor. However, this film is not one of his better roles. He seems to be missing that quirkiness he is known for having, which some might argue as a good thing. For me, it makes his character seem dry and one dimensional. Heather Graham just is not a great actress, although this is probably one of her better roles. Naturally, Ian Holm and Robbie Coltrane really steal the show. Both are very talented and they are not holding back in this film.

The Hughes brothers did a good job of keeping this film dark and gritty, which is very necessary for a film and topic of this type. It just adds to the over all ambiance of the film. Nothing incredible was done as far as camera or lighting here, just a straightforward film style, not adding to or taking away from the film in any way.

While the film is interesting to watch, it is nothing new or mind blowing. Johnny Depp is not his usual self and it pulls you from the story and leaves you wanting a bit more than you get.

DVD Review: Fighting

2010-07-18T13:29:00.001-06:00

Channing Tatum, Terrence Howard, Luis Guzman, Zulay Henao

Rated PG-13

Grade: C-

What is better than a film about a bunch of thugs beating the tar out of each other for money? A lot of things actually. I was expecting something different than what I saw, which is usually a good thing. This film was rather predictable; add to that the bad writing and bad acting, and you have yourself a bad movie.

Channing Tatum is an interesting person. On one hand, you have him in a film such as “Stop-Loss” where he is actually pretty good and was able to hold his own with the likes of Joseph Gordon Leavitt and Ryan Phillipe. Then you see him in a film like “GI Joe: Rise of Cobra,” which was an embarrassment to everyone involved, in front of and behind the camera. This film was an in between for him. He tried so hard and I know that eventually, he will be there, but it will be a while. Terrence Howard, who I’m not a big fan of anyways, was especially dry and one-dimensional here. All of the characters in general are under developed, so you have no attachment to them at all. The story moves fast and ends rather abruptly as well as predictably. It was rather easy to figure out how this film would end thanks to its re-hashed storyline.

The film is rather self indulgent and wanted to be bigger than it was. With the lack of decent fighting scene (especially for a film titled “Fighting”) and no character development, I can think of many other movies I’d rather watch than sit through this one again.

DVD Review: Død snø (Dead Snow, Norway)

2010-07-18T13:27:00.001-06:00

Vegar Hoel, Stig Frode Henriksen, Charlotte Frogner, Lasse Valdal, Evy Kasseth Røsten, Jeppe Laursen, Jenny Skavlan

Rated R

Grade: B

Last week, I was on the Spike TV website voting for the winners of the 2009 Scream awards they have every year. I noticed that there were two movies that were up for several awards, “Dead Snow” and “Let the Right One In,” which I will be viewing in the very near future.

Now, as you may or may not know, I’m a sucker for a good Zombie flick and after a bit of research, I discovered that this film is about a group of friends who take a trip into the Norwegian Mountains. The area that they are recreating in has quite a history involving a group of Nazi soldiers from WWII. Well, I won’t go too into detail, but what could be better than flesh eating Nazi Zombies?

The film had a hard time deciding on whether or not it was a horror or a comedy; at times, it has some moments that are quite intense, like a horror movie should be. But at other times, I was laughing out loud. The closest thing I can compare it to would be “Shaun of the Dead,” although I don’t think there was any questions as to what genre this film fits into. This was my only complaint about the film.

The scenery and location is absolutely beautiful, and the director and camera person made good use of the wide angle lens many times to show off the area. The acting was on par with what you’d expect out of a film like this – nothing stellar, but good enough to get the job done.

Overall, it’s a fun movie to watch, especially if you are a fan of the Zombie genre. I had to do some digging to track it down, and it was well worth the search.

DVD Review: The Boondock Saints

2010-07-18T13:25:00.003-06:00

Sean Patrick Flannery, Norman Reedus, Willem Defoe, Billy Connelly, David Della Rocco

Rated R

Grade: B+

For some reason, I always thought that “The Boondock Saints” was a show on the Cartoon Network, so I never really showed any interest in seeing it and I don’t remember it being in the theaters at all. I happened to come across the DVD at Walmart and figured why not? I was quite pleasantly surprised.

I’ve never been a huge fan of Willem Defoe; I just kind of put up with him in the movies I watched. I was never impressed or excited about his work. This was by far his best work I’ve seen him do. He is very believable in his role of a gay FBI agent. Strange, I know. Flannery and Reedus do a great job as well, but can be a bit over dramatic at times. Rocco adds some comedic value, but has a hard time trying to be serious.

It was filmed very well, using some great camera angles and techniques. The way the film progresses required some fantastic editing to make the plot believable and stay in order without getting to confusing. The soundtrack and musical score were awesome, adding a mix of classical as well as techno and a mix of Irish added as well. It was timed perfectly, adding to the ambiance of the film.

It is a fun show to watch, with a lot of action and great one liners, you won’t be disappointed. It’s not as good as , say “Reservoir Dogs” but I think it’s a great show to fill that violent void in your life!

DVD Review: 28 Days Later...

2010-07-18T13:22:00.002-06:00

Cillian Murphy, Naomie Harris, Megan Burns, Brendan Gleeson

Rated R

Grade: B+

Before Danny Boyle became an Oscar® Winning director for his work on “Slumdog Millionaire,” he was know for his smaller, borderline independent work, like “Trainspotting,” and “The Beach.” This film perhaps was what he was most known for. In what could possibly be called the most frightening movie of the last decade, Boyle creates a not-so-traditional post apocalyptic world full of “Rage” infected killers.

What stands out most about this film, is the infected humans are not your standard slow moving, idiot, brain seeking zombies. These creatures are truly terrifying because they run! They have a purpose: eat or die.

The use of camera work in this film creates many different feelings and environments. I love the opening scenes of this movie; when he is walking around in an abandoned down town London. The use of extremely wide angles adds to the sense of loneliness and isolation. On the opposite side of that, when things get intense, they switch to close up shots and frantic camera movement adding to the urgency and terror of infected people chasing the potential victims.

This film made me a fan of Cillian Murphy. He is an amazing actor and I think that he is much underused. His character arc in this film is awesome and he pulls it off very well. Naomie Harris, best know for her role as Tia Dalma in the Pirates of the Caribbean films, is also quite under used today. She too undergoes quite the character change in this film.

All in all, one of the more true horror films of the last decade. It leaves you with a creepy feeling and that’s a good sign for a movie of this kind. If you are a fan of scary films, you need to add this to your collection of films.

Inception

2010-07-17T12:20:00.004-06:00

Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Leavitt, Ellen Page, Cillian Murphy, Ken Watanabe, Tom Hardy, Tom Berenger, Michael Cain, Marion Cotillard, Dileep Rao

Rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and action throughout

Grade: A

Christopher Nolan, is relatively short career as a director has churned out some incredible films, such as Memento, Insomnia and more recently Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. It is fairly evident that he knows what he is doing behind the scenes. For those that have been reading GeekBoyMovieNews for a while may know that I have yet to give a movie an "A" grade, as I have been able to find things to hold films back. But Nolan and this cast has put together a near perfect film with Inception. It is action-packed, different and very well acted. When you sit down in the theater to watch this film, be ready to ride a mental roller coaster that makes The Matrix look like kids play.

Cobb (DiCaprio) is a thief, but not your usual thief; he's an extractor, someone who goes into your subconscious mind during the dream state and steal ideas and secrets. He can't do it alone though, he has an architect (Page) to create the landscape of the dream, as well as planners (Gordon-Leavitt), chemists (Rao) and others to help him get the job done. When Saito (Watanabe) gives Cobb an offer to return to the United States to be with his kids, he is determined to get the job done. They must perform a job that has only been discussed before: Inception. They must plant an idea in the head of an heir to a large international company (Murphy). But unknown enemies get in the way of them getting the work done.

I can't really begin to explain how unique and different this story is and it is incredibly refreshing to see Hollywood come up with an original idea. The film makes the story feel a lot more complex than it is, so as you are watching the film it is extremely intriguing and it gets your attention rather quickly. When they hire a new architect (Page), they explain the ideas of extraction and it processes to both the character and to the audience at the same time; thus eliminating having to use half the movie for character and plot set up. Genius idea!

This could very well be one of the best acted movies I have ever seen. The film includes some powerhouse actors as well as some that are up-and-comers who, I think, have just cemented themselves in the realm of awesomeness. Gordon-Leavitt, if you've seen some of his more recent films (sans GI Joe), you know he is rather capable of being a convincing actor. No exception here. Ellen Page, Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy and the rest of the cast are exceptional to the point where I could not find a weak link in the chain. But this film belongs to DiCaprio. This could easily be his best role. It is powerful, emotional and, needless to say, convincing.

If we go back a few years, you will remember what The Matrix did for computer graphics. It set a new bar for how action scenes are created and filmed. Inception just upped the ante considerably. The fight sequences are incredible to watch and are near awe inspiring. Add to that the slow motion filming that is throughout the film and I guarantee you will be amazed.

The film and all of its elements add up to one of the most visually stimulating and intense films I have ever seen. You've heard the phrase "visual masterpiece" before but Inception is the epitome of that statement. Be sure to put on your thinking cap, as the story is complex, but if you follow what is going on, you will catch on rather quickly. All I can say is sit back and enjoy the ride, you won't be disappointed.

New Trailers!

2010-07-13T22:52:00.002-06:00

Here are some trailers for upcoming films for you to enjoy and salivate over!

Centurion
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Dominic West, Olga Kurylenko
Opening: August 2010

The Expendables
Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Stathom, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Bruse Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Randy Couture, Steve Austin, Mickey Rourke, Tery Crews
Opening: August 2010

Resident Evil: Afterlife
Starring: Milla Jovovich, Ali Larter, Sienna Guillory, Wentworth Miller
Opening: September 2010

Machete
Starring Danny Trejo, Jessica Alba, Robert De Niro, Lindsay Lohen, Michelle Rodriguez, Cheech Marin, Steven Seagal, Don Johnson, Jeff Fahey
Opening: September 2010

The Social Network
Starring: Andrew Garfield, Justin Timberlake, Jesse Eisenberg
Opening: October 2010

The Green Hornet
Starring: Seth Rogan, Cameron Diaz, Christoph Waltz, Edward Furlong, Jay Chou
Opening: January 2011

Let Me In
Starring: Chloe Moretz, Kodi Smit-Mcphee, Richard Jenkins, Elias Koteas
Opening: October 2010

Paranormal Activity 2
Starring: Katie Featherston
Opening: October 2010

Little Fockers
Starring: Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Jessica Alba, Owen Wilson, Harvey Keitel, Barbara Streisand, Blythe Danner

Scott Pilgram vs. the World
Starring: Micahel Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin, Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Brandon Routh, Jason Schwartzman
Opening: August 2010

Predators

2010-07-11T21:23:00.003-06:00

Adrien Brody, Alice Braga, Topher Grace, Walter Goggins, Laurence Fishburne, Oleg Taktarov, Danny Trejo, Louis Ozawa Changchien, Mahershalalhashbaz Ali

Rated R

Grade: B

Here we are yet again with a franchise reboot. Instead of Ah-nold, Apollo Creed and "The Body," we get Adrien Brody, Topher Grace and Danny Trejo? Sounds like an interesting trade off right? Actually it does. This is by far one of the best reboots to hit the screen. It is action packed, well acted and well written. However, there were a few things that hold this one back a bit.

A group of mercenaries, soldiers and criminals are dropped into a strange place and quickly find that something is amiss. Royce (Brody) and Isabelle (Braga) take charge and lead the group through a series of attacks and tense moments. One by one the Predators pick the group off in their attempt to not only survive, but get off the island.

From the opening moments, the film is an action film in every sense of the word. It is a great homage to to the original 1987 Predator film, with a few subtle hints and tributes to that film. The movie moved a bit slow at times and found myself willing it to move faster...to no avail. Once it got into the action though, it was no hold barred. For an action film, it surprisingly well written and placed into capable hands in the actors that were selected. There were a few characters that were totally pointless and I'm not sure why they were included. My biggest issue with the film was actually the setting. Minor spoiler here: Why did they place them on a different planet? It pulled the realism out of the story to me and is one of the things that I enjoyed from the original. And since it was on a different planet, couldn't they at least made the area look different than a typical jungle? Maybe I'm being too picky...

I would never peg Adrien Brody to star in an action film, let alone a film like Predators, but he pulls it off surprisingly well. I hope he opts to do more films like this because he was quite good. The others were decent as well. Topher Grace really stepped out of his Eric Foreman box and pulled out an interesting and unsuspecting character. I would like to have seen more of some of the others but it wasn't pertinent.

The action scenes, as I mentioned previously, were pretty good. There weren't so confusing that you didn't know what was going on, which is rare these days. I wanted to see more out of the sword fight involving the Yakuza member and tone of the Predators. That sequence really could have been epic, but it fell short a tad. The CGI work was seamless and believable, as were the alien creatures that were involved.

With a film like this, one of the things that is very important is sound and Predators doesn't disappoint. From the subtle noises of the jungles to the growls of the Predators, it was incredible to here. The other thing I noticed was the music. It was a bit of a throw-back to 80's actions films with the inclusion of synthesizers. Thought that was pretty cool.

All in all, Predators is a fun action film and a great tribute to the original film. It kept most of the same elements that made Predator such a memorable film. I was a bit let down in some parts of the story, but that can be overlooked as the rest of the elements really come together here.

Toy Story 3

2010-07-11T12:21:00.002-06:00

Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Ned Beatty, Don Rickles, Michael Keaton, Wallace Shawn, John Razenburger, Estelle Harris

Rated PG

Grade: B-

Let me get this out of the way first: I have never been a huge fan of this franchise, so I was not too eager to run out and see the third (and final, hopefully) film in the Toy Story series. Having said that, the films are entertaining, fun with a few genius moments of humor. This is where the hard part comes in. I don't think this film was up to par with the previous two. I know this film has been ranted and raved about, and maybe that's why I was so disappointed with it. But having just seen Despicable Me the previous night, I actually liked that film much better. On to the review.

Andy, the toys' ownwer, is headed off to college and makes the decision of putting all of his toys in the attic save for Woody, who would be going to college with him. Instead, the toys end up getting donated to the Sunnyside Daycare...in a round about way. The toys, having been hurt by Andy's decision are more than happy to be sent to a place where they know they will be played with. But things at the daycare aren't all that they seem and they quickly find out that Lotso, Big Baby, Ken and others have another plan in mind.

The story is where I had the biggest problem. Besides the fact that the film had some really creepy characters in it, it was quite dark, especially for a Toy Story film. I could go into further detail about the many accusations of Holocaust comparisons, but I think that's going too extreme and shame on those who are making those accusations. But the story felt long and dragged out. I have this theory that the more times I look at my watch during a movie, the worse it is. Needless to say, I checked out the Invicta a couple of times.

The animation is top notch as expected from Pixar. The detail they put into the characters is incredible. I found myself staring at the fibers on Lotso and was amazed at how real he looked. I don't think anyone can compare to that animation department.

Voice over work was great as well, especially the addition of Michael Keaton as Ken. Who knew hew was so good with voice over work. Then again, look at him in Beetlejuice. I wanted there to be more comedy elements in the film, but aside from Ken, Trixy and the Potato Heads, I was rather unimpressed.

I do feel bad about not liking this film more than I did, because I know how well it was received, but I guess this is where the phrase "to each his own" really comes into play. Maybe my expectation were too high? Or I had a preconceived notion in my head that since I wasn't a fan of the first two, I wouldn't like this one. Either way, it's a fun movie, but I don't think it held up to the previous two. Kids like it and I guess that's what is important.

Despicable Me

2010-07-10T12:00:00.004-06:00

Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Russel Brand, Julie Andrews, Miranda Cosgrove, Will Arnett, Kristen Wiig

Rated PG for rude humor and mild action.

Grade: B

It's been a while since we've had a super villain attempt to do something so bad, so dastardly that the forces of the world would come to a halt. Something like...shrink the moon and hold it ransom? Yeah, well that's what happens in Despicable Me. However, that is not what this movie is really about. It has it's Super Villain moments, but this film is so much more than that. But, and I say this with with a tinge of disappointment, the film lacks the big wow factor that other animated films have had.

The super villain Gru( Carell) has been at the top of the totem for quite some time, but when the kid in town, Vector (Segel), out super-villains Gru, he goes into panic mode. In order for him to perform his next deed, he must get a loan from the Evil Bank, which requires him to steal the shrink gun. Hey adopts three little girls to help him perform this task, but finds that having thee girls in his life has filled avoid that has been missing. Oh...and he has lots of minions.

The story in this one is a tad predictable, but what kids movie isn't? It is paced well and the time goes by rather quickly, which is never a bad thing, especially when you are watching a movie with children. The writing is very well done, with some well placed comedic moments. Speaking of which, there were many moments that had me laughing pretty good, as well as the nearly packed theater. The problem I ran into was that the film lacked the "umph" that so many animated films have had lately, so that keeps this film from being at the level of such films as Up! and The Incredibles, which is where this film could have easily been.

The voice-over work was interesting. Take Gru, voiced by Steve Carell, for example. Every time I saw him on screen, I would expect a voice from Mike Myers, mainly because he looks so much like Dr. Evil. Not to say that Carell isn't good, because he was great, it just threw me off a bit. The one I really didn't care for was Vector, voiced by Jason Segel, most recently seen in She Out of My League. It just wasn't a good match and compared to other villains in children's films, he just doesn't compare. The ones who really made the film were the three little girls Gru adopts and his minions. Very entertaining and it makes you want to take them home with you.

This is a fun movie for kids and adults alike. There are moments that will make the adults giggle a bit and of course the silly humor for the kids. There really isn't anything too crude for the young 'uns so parents need not worry. The film could have been at a higher level, but that doesn't take away the fact that it is still very fun and entertaining.

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

2010-07-04T10:47:00.004-06:00

Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Bryce Dallas Howard, Xavier Samuel, Jackson Rathbone

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of action and violence, and some sensuality.

Grade: B-

Ah, yes. We return once again to the love triangle of Edward, Bella and Jacob. I sit down and prepare myself for two hours of sappiness and horrible attempts at acting. But wait...was that humor? Oh...was that a decently filmed action scene? I actually found myself pleasantly surprised by the latest installment of the Twilight Saga, which is something I never thought I'd say. It's still a ways out from being a really good film, but it is a vast improvement over the previous two films.

When I first heard that David Slade would be taking over the directors chair for this film, it gave me a bit of hope. His film Hard Candy was an amazing film and guess what...he's filmed vampires before in 30 Days of Night. I was correct in my expectations: he raised the bar in the action of the film as well as added the humor that was missing and needed in the first two films. It's too bad that he won't be returning for the last two films, but Bill Conden is also very capable.

One of the biggest improvements in the film is the acting by the three main stars. Yes...we still have to suffer through one of the most cheesy love stories ever put on film, but at least they make fun of themselves this time. The chemistry between them has vastly improved. I will say that none of them will be winning any awards anytime soon. Unless it's a Razzie. The best int he show (yet again) is Billy Burke. Why he hasn't been picked up for bigger roles, I will never know. He's a very talented actor and steals the screen every time he's on it. As I mentioned in my The Last Airbender review from the other day, Jackson Rathbone is just plain painful to watch. The rest of the supporting cast is decent, but they too still need some work.

Another area of improvement is in the animation of the wolves. It is much smoother than before, but then again, there was a much bigger budget for this film. There is a scene in the mountains that looks rather cheesy, but there is a decently filmed action scene here, so it keeps you from noticing. The main climax of the film is pretty good and much better than I had anticipated. It still can't compare to scenes filmed in other movies but for this film, it works. Let's face it...these films aren't made for action lovers.

The story is paced well and moves rather quickly; I didn't even look at my watch this time, which is a good thing. There are some new characters that are thrown into the mix with little or no back story into who they are. You are just expected to know them and care who they are.

All that being said, it's a much better film than the previous two, but it is still lacking in many departments. However, all the things I've mentioned are not the reason people go to see these films. A director could film Stewart, Pattinson and Lautner just staring and breathing at each other for two hours and people would go see it and enjoy it. The grade I gave it is probably generous, but I'm just thrilled that someone actually put some thought into one of these films. Speaking to the non-Twilight fans here: give this one a chance. I'm not saying it will be your favorite film in the world, nor should it be, but it's funny and has some pretty good action scenes.

The films still have a long way to go before they can be considered great, but this is a good start. Oddly enough, this installment is rather stalling at the box office compared to the others. Improve the acting even more, keep the humor going as well as the action, and you could be in a decent place.

The Last Airbender

2010-07-03T00:49:00.004-06:00

Noah Ringer, Dev Patel, Nicola Peltz, Jackson Rathbone, Shaun Toub, Aasif Mandvi, Cliff Curtis, Saychelle Gabriel

Rated PG for fantasy action violence

Grade: C-

I think it goes without saying that director M. Night Shyamalan has been in a bit of a...slump I guess you'd say. If you saw any of his last 4 or 5 films, then you know that he has been unable to top or even recreate the success of The Sixth Sense. You have to give him credit for trying, but he seems to think that ll of his movie need to have a weird twist to them now. I can happily tell you that is not the case here. But that is no even close to being the problem with this film. There was more bad than good, but it did have its moments.

I have never seen the Nickelodeon cartoon on which this film is based, as I am not a fan of that type of show, so I cannot compare this to it's source but I have been told by others that it does not follow the original source very well. Honestly, that is nothing to shocking now days.

After having disappeared for nearly a hundred years, Aang (Ringer), the Avatar and Last Airbender, returns to find his world in turmoil. The Fire Nation has waged war on The Earth, Air and Water Nations. Along with his two new friends, a brother-sister pair, Katara and Sokka (Rathbone and Peltz), Aang must discover his skills in the mastery of the other elements to help save the world. Sounds interesting, right? It is very close to being so, but it falls short. There is little if any character development for any of the main players, so you develop no feelings towards them at all, so immediately, you are pulled out of the film. The writing is very simple and lacks depth, which doesn't aid the actors in doing their job.

Speaking of actors...I felt as though I were watching a made-for-TV-movie for the first half of the film; very dry and no emotion involved. Then again, with a script like this, I shouldn't expect too much. There is no point in singling any one actor out as they are all pretty bad, though there were a few moments of goodness.

Due to the film being converted to a 3D format, there were times when the images were so blurry, that it was hard to determine what was going on and I didn't even see the film in 3D. I would hope that Hollywood would clue in soon and stop converting films. It ruins them and makes everything just look really bad.

The one saving grace for this film were the graphics, which were really cool for the most part. The water manipulations in particular were very smooth and fluid (pun intended) and provided for a pretty cool climactic sequence for the film.

Before heading into this film, I'd read some reviews and they all were quite negative. I'm not sure it deserved such bad reviews, but it is far from being the movie it could have been. I've definitely seen worse films *cough* GI Joe *cough*.

It's a good movie to take the kids to as it is a special effects extravaganza and they will enjoy it. There are fighting sequences, bit it's nothing too bad. I was more disappointed in the cheesy and very predictable story and dialog than anything, but the effects of some of the scenes helped boost it up.

As for Shyamalan, I really think he needs to take a step back and re-evaluate his approach to movies. He's a talented director and has great ideas, but he needs to drop the "twist" from his films and just make movies. Not that he wants this geek's opinion though.

It's Give Away Time!

2010-07-01T00:13:00.005-06:00

UPDATE: Congratulations to LAUNA JONES for winning the latest drawing! She will have her choice of a $25 iTunes Gift Card, a $25 Visa Gift Card or a Megaplex Theater Gift Pack! Thank you for all those who entered, it was the best one yet! Keep checking back, I'll do more drawings in the future!

It's give away time again! As a thank you to all my faithful readers, I've put together a good prize(s) this time! The winner will receive their choice of a Megaplex Theatre Gift Pack, a $25 iTunes Gift Card or a $25 Visa Gift Card.

Here are the rules:
- Simply email your first and last name to geekboymovienews@gmail.com to enter.
2- You may enter up to three (3) times per person.
3- Winner will be selected by using www.random.org
4- You have until July 15, 2010 to enter, the winner will be selected on July 16, 2010.
5- None of your information will be used by GeekBoyMovieNews or any other entity for any other purpose besides this drawing.
6- The winner will be contacted by GeekBoyMovieNews and have the prize mailed to them
7- Winner must reside in the continental United States

Please contact if you should have any questions, and as always, TELL YOUR FRIENDS!

Random Movie News: Comic Book Movie News, Footloose, The Hobbit/Peter Jackson News, Major League and more!

2010-06-28T10:56:00.004-06:00

Recently, it was reported that Guillermo del Toro stepped down as the director of the two Hobbit films that were headed into production, citing that it was already eating up too much time and the film isn't even in production yet. Well, good news is coming out of New Zealand where filming is set to take place later this year. Deadline tells us that Peter Jackson, who directed the three Lord of the Rings films, is in negotiations to take over for del Toro. Nothing has been signed and made official yet. Another concern is with one of the backing studios, MGM. It's recent financial woes has already claimed the Red Dawn remake and the latest in the James Bond franchise. Hopefully with Jackson attached, MGM will release the funds needed to make these films.

With the success of last winter's Sherlock Holmes, a sequel is in the works and according to The Playlist, there is a wishlist of actors to fill the role of Holmes' arch-nemesis, Professor James Moriarty. Daniel Day Lewis (Gangs of New York and There Will be Blood) was the first name to come out, but it is unlikely that he will be included. Some of the other names added to the list: Sean Penn (Milk and Mystic River), Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) and Gary Oldman (Batman Begins and Bram Stoker's Dracula). This is all just speculation of course, so none of this may be true. Sherlock Holmes 2 hits theaters December of 2011.

Empire recently sat down with Oscar nominated producer Don Hahn to discuss a few projects. The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast will both be getting the 3D treatment and naturally a re-release to theaters. Also, he stated that a sequel to Who Framed Roger Rabbit is currently being written. He wouldn't say much more than that regarding that project. Finally, the topic of Maleficent came up, which is a live-action film based on the the villainess of Sleeping Beauty. Tim Burton has been rumored to direct the film and Angelina Jolie has been rumored to star. Neither of which can be confirmed. Hahn said the project is in the works, but is a long ways of.

Moviehole talked with David S.Ward, who wrote and directed the 1989 hit film Major League. He said that a new installment of the Major League franchise is in the works. The story would involve Wild Thing coming out of retirement to work with a 19 year old player. The film would be considered part 3; the poorly received Major League : Back in the Minors would essentially be forgotten. Charlie Sheen is the only actor from the original films he has approached, but he hopes to bring in the other stars of the film, Wesley Snipes, Tom Berenger and Corbin Bernsen. Being that Sheen is currently filming his TV show "Two and a Half Men," the film would likely start production next year.

The Footloose remake has had many issues with casting, but it seems that a cast has finally been set, according to Dark Horizons. Newcomer Kenny Wormald has been cast as Ren, the male lead of the film. Zac Efron and "Gossip Girl" star Chace Crawford have both been attached to the role, but dropped out. Wormald will join Julianne Hough as the female lead, and Dennis Quaid will play Reverand Moore. IN this geek's opinion...Quaid needs a new agent. He's picking bomb after bomb and he's not going to be able to recover. This film has "FAIL" written all over it.

It looks as thought the cast of the hit television show "Glee" will be coming to the big screen. HollywoodLife.com reports that the contracts that 20th Century Fox had the actors signed included an "option" for up to three films. Now, this does not mean that three films will be made, but states that the actors are basically required to star in at least three films, should they be made. I think we can all just plan on seeing three Glee films though.

Now...for the Comic Book Movie News:
First, in X-Men news, it seems that Prof. Xavier has his Magneto. Recently James McAvoy has been cast as Chalres Xavier in X-Men: First Class. Showbiz 411 tells us that Michael Fassbender has accepted the role of Erik Lensher, aka Magneto. Also, Banjamin Walker has been cast as Hank McCoy, also known as Beast. Amber Heard has been rumored to be cast in the role of Mystique and Rosamund Pike has been rumored to be playing Emma Frost, though neither of these have been confirmed. Kick-Ass director Matthew Vaughn will be helming the latest installment in the X-Men franchise, which is due out June 2011.

Update: Deadline is now reporting that Alice Eve has signed on to portray Emma Frost in the latest X-Men film, beating out Rosamund Pike for the role.

ComicBookMovie has reported that the roles of Hank Pym (Ant-Man/Giant Man/Yellow Jacket) and Janet Van Dyne (Wasp) have been cast for the upcoming film The Avengers. Nathan Fillion (Serenity and Firefly) and Eva Longoria-Parker (Desperate Housewives) have been cast as the pair. Not bad choices if you ask this geek!

Finally, Deadline is reporting that Sony has filmed screen tests for the finalists looking to fill the role of Peter Parker/Spiderman and that a decision will be made soon. Here are the actors rumored to be in the running:
Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot and Defiance)
Anton Yelchin (Terminator Salvation and Star Trek)
Aaron Johnson (Kick-Ass)
Andrew Garfield (The Imagninarium of Doctor Parnassus)
Logan Lerman (Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief)
Alden Ehrenreich (Tetro)
Frank Dillane (Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince)
Michael Angerano (Lords of Dogtown and Sky High)

I can honestly say that I'd be happy with any one of these actors playing the role. I was never a big fan of Macguire as Spidey, so any one of these would be an improvement in my eyes. The Reboot of Spiderman is being directed by Marc Webb ((500) Days of Summer) and is looking to take the characters back to high school and include more of the teen age angst. This idea is close to the Ultimate Spiderman Universe for those who follow the comics.

Knight and Day

2010-06-27T11:07:00.003-06:00

Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, Peter Sarsgaard, Viola Davis, Paul Dano

Rated PG-13 for sequences of action violence throughout, and brief strong language.

Grade B

Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz: Not really a pair I'd put together. Cruise has the niche of action and drama star filled and he does it well. Diaz is know for her comedy roles and her awkwardness and she does that well. What happens when you put the two of them together? You get Knight and Day. This is a fun, action-filled film that keeps you thinking. The story is where things seem...I don't...different?

Roy Miller (Cruise) seems to be watching or waiting for someone in an airport an he spots her, June Havens (Diaz). After a few run-ins they end up on the same plane to Boston. Just barely. This is where things go awry and she discovers he may not be who she thought him to be. Miller winds up having to protect Havens as well as the "Zephyr" and it's creator, Simon (Dano) from several different pursuers.

I will do my best not to give too much away here. The story is a good one, but i had a hard time deciding which plot was the main storyline. Of course by the end of the film you know. It's a much different approach to a film that you don't see very often as it takes great acting to pull it off, not to mention a good writer. This one works. It is fun, funny and action-packed almost from the get-go.

Some people are bothered by Cruise and his off-screen lifestyle, but it's hard to deny that he is good at what he does. He has the occasional film where chews more scenery than a New Jersey rat, but for the most part, he's good. In Knight and Day, we get to see the comedic side of him that has only been hinted at in other films. His timing and delivery are great and his chemistry with Diaz is fantastic. Diaz performs the action scenes well, especially since she's a bit out of her usual element. Both transition will into newer territory. The supporting cast is decent and do their jobs well. Skarsgaard lacked screen time, but once you see the stories and how they play out, you'll know why that is.

On the technical side of things, camera work was done well. As most know, Tom Cruise is rather pocket-sized and Diaz is quite the opposite. Most of the camera angles are done in such a way that you don't notice the height difference at all. The few CGI sequences in the film were OK, but that's not why you are watching this movie, so it's not worth bringing the film down.

Knight and Day is a well written and well acted film that is quite funny and fun to watch. You don't have to go in and take everything seriously. Just go in and have some fun with it. Try not to get too wrapped up into the "main" story...wink wink.

The Karate Kid

2010-06-27T10:46:00.002-06:00

Jaden Smith, Jackie Chan, Taraji P. Henson

Rated PG-13 for bullying, martial arts action violence and some mild language.

Grade: C-

I think there are many people out there, myself included, who are against the idea of taking a perfectly fine movie franchise and redoing it so they can "modernize" the characters and the storyline. Why are they/we against it? Because the result is a movie like this. It was unnecessary in the first place, not to mention just plain badly done. I guess that's what have one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood as a father gets you.

The Karate Kid tells a rather familiar story of a young boy, Dre Parker (Smith), who is forced to move to China with his mother (Henson) because of her job. He quickly makes friends with a young girl, but another school mate has his eye on her. Parker tries to stick up for the girl and proceeds to get his butt handed to him in a Bento Box. Parker recruits the help of the janitor of his building, Mr. Han (Chan) to help train him to become a Kung-Fu champion. The basis of the story is pretty close to the original, but they've added some new elements that don't work at all. The first being that they've dropped the age of the stars from teens to kids, so this makes the love-story portion of the film really quite awkward. The pacing of the film is slow...really slow. Even the inclusion of a couple actions scenes fail to keep things moving. All this leads to a very predictable and anti-climatic ending.

Most of us know that Jaden Smith is the son of box office star Will Smith; Will's big ears aren't the only thing Jaden missed in the genes. The kid can't act...at all. Granted, kids usually aren't the best actors in the world, but there have been some that are/were extremely talented. He tries, but it doesn't seem like he's trying very hard. Chan, who is usually likable in films, falls short on this one. It's a much different and somber character than we are used to seeing from him and it doesn't work. Oscar nominated actress Taraji P. Henson (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button)was really the only person who puller her role off, but she was on screen for a total of 5 minutes.

The fighting scenes were good, but not great. Well, I guess I should add this: it depends on who was involved. Jackie Chan has a great scene and some of the kids involved in the final tournament were also good. Smith does a decent job as well, but they added a few moves that just took it over the top and too far.

As I stated earlier, this film is the reason why the older films of the 80's should just be left alone. Yes, they are cheesy and corny, but it's how we remember them and how we like them. There are a few exceptions that have worked, like The A-Team, but that is rare. Wait for this one to hit Neflix or Redbox.

The A-Team

2010-06-12T11:33:00.003-06:00

Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Sharlto Copely, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, Jessica Biel, Patrick Wilson, Brian Bloom

Rated PG-13

Grade: B

It seems as the Hollywood has found a gold mine in the entertainment of the 80's. With the success of such films as the Transformers and GI Joe franchises and now we are seeing films like the A-Team, The Karate Kid and Red Dawn (assuming MGM can find the money to release it), they are tapping some of our favorite toy lines, television series and now films. But it doesn't always mean it's going to be a good movie. One just needs to watch GI Joe or Revenge of the Fallen to see proof of that. So when I first read about the A-Team film being made, I couldn't help but laugh this one off, thinking it was going to be a Michael Bay wanna-be film. Then the first trailer came out and all but confirmed that fact. But I was happily surprised to see that I was wrong. It is a fun, well written and very well acted film. It has it's WTF moments, but it's something I can look past due to the sheer entertainment value of the film.

The story is written in pure A-Team fashion, with lots of stuff blowing up and plans coming together. The introduction of the team is fun and well done and it gives you a fast yet informative introduction to each character. The main story follows the Alpha Team, or A-Team, made up by Hannibal, Face, BA and Mad Dog Murdock (Neeson, Cooper, Jackson and Copely, respectively) in their pursuit of a set of money printing plates and the team that framed them, causing them to spend time in prison. Looking to clear their name, they team with unlikely people to get the job done. As I said before, I was surprised at how well the story was written; it was believable for the most part, with the exception of one sequence that was a bit silly, but it was still entertaining to watch. The dialog was good and not overly cheesy.

What surprised me the most was how well the film was acted. With actors the recruited for the film, it shouldn't be too shocking. However, you usually don't see this caliber in an action film based on a corny TV show. Neeson and Cooper were great but there were three people who were awesome to watch: Sharlto Copely, Patrick Wilson and Brian Bloom. They were very entertaining and fun to watch and had some great lines in the film. I want to make a predictions here and now: Sharlto Copely will be an Oscar winner before too long. He is an amazing talent to watch. Patrick Wilson seems to be flying under a lot of people's radars which is a shame, because he is great at what he does and needs to be in more movies! Brian Bloom...he's a voice actor for the most part, doing voice overs for video games mostly, but I think he just had he break out role. He was awesome as the baddie in this flick. As far as Biel and Jackson go, they do pretty well considering who they were on screen with; it could not have been easy!

The film has some great graphics to pull the film together. Some were rather obvious but for the most part, it was all quite seemless. There are a lot of explosions and fireballs, which is expected in a film like this, but no where near the level of Michael "Kaboom" Bay's films.

If you want to go watch a funny, smart and fun film, go give this one a try. I really enjoyed it and was pleasantly surprised by that fact.

Shrek Forever After

2010-06-07T22:35:00.003-06:00

Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy, Antonio Banderas, Walt Dohrn, John Cleese, Julie Andrews

Rated PG

Grade: B-

When the first film became such a popular movie, Disney-Pixar quickly started talking sequels. The original plan was to make six films, and after seeing this installment, I'm glad they stopped with four. Yes, this is the final Shrek film. It had it's funny moments, but this is easily the least likable of the series and the box office numbers have shown that this franchise has run it's course.

"Shrek Forever After" takes us back to the land of Far, Far Away where Shrek (Myers), along with his friends and family are celebrating the first birthday of his children. When life catches up to him, he wishes that life could go back to the way things were...before he even met Princess Fiona (Diaz). The trickster Rumpelstiltskin (Dohrn) overhears Shrek make this statement and offers him a deal he can't refuse. Shrek gets taken back to a Far, Far Away that is much different and must gain the trust of his friends once again as well as convince the now warrior Fiona that he is his wife.

The story may seem rather familiar to some and draws many similarities to "It's a Wonderful Life" but with a fairy tale twist to it. In the beginning, i was actually kind of bugged by the story, it just seemed boring and to be going nowhere. It got better as it went on though. The writing as a whole was OK, it was better in some parts, especially Donkey's lines, he stole the show in this one. He had some of the best lines in the film, which was one of the reasons I was disappointed in this film; he and Puss, were the only funny parts to the film. Rumpelstiltskin was rather hit and miss, more miss than hit.

I didn't see the film in 3D, so I can't comment on how that helped, or didn't help, for that matter. The general animation of the film was what you'd expect, nothing to exciting here.

Overall, the film was just OK. As I said earlier, this was my least favorite of the series, but it still has it's moments and is worth a watch. You'll get a good belly laugh out of a few parts.

Random Movie News: Kung Fu Panda Sequel, Breaking Dawn, Three Musketeers, Roller Coaster Tycoon & More

2010-05-25T23:51:00.003-06:00

The already star-studded cast of "Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom" just got even bigger. Gary Oldman, Michelle Yeoh, Jean Claude Van Damme and Victor Garber have joined the cast of DreamWorks Animation's sequel to the hit film "Kung Fu Panda" reports Dark Horizons. This group joins Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, Dustin Hoffman and Seth Rogan. Oldman will voice Lord Shen (a peacock) the latest villain, Yeoh will voice The Soothsayer (a goat), Van Damme voices Master Croc and Victor Garber will voice Master Thundering Rhino.

It was reported a few weeks back that some of the supporting cast of the upcoming film(s) "Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn" were holding out for more money due to the possibility that the script would be split into two films. Whether or not it will be two films has yet to be determined, but the money dispute seems to have come to an end reports Variety. Kellan Lutz, Elizabeth Reaser, Nikki Reed and Ashley Greene have finalized their deals and Jackson Rathbone is close to coming to an agreement as well.

Sony Pictures has opted to create a film based on the hit Atari video game "Roller Coaster Tycoon" according to Heat Vision. The film, being written by David Ronn and Jay Scherick, will be a live-action/CGI combo, similar to "Alvin and the Chipmunks" and the upcoming "Smurfs" films. Harold Zwart ("The Karate Kid") will executive produce and likely direct the film.

Dark Horizons is reporting that the fourth installment in the "Mission: Impossible" series will be delayed about seven months, moving its release date to December 2011. The delay stems from the fact that production would have been too rushed, as they would have only a year to complete the film, which just would do. Tom Cruise is set to return, with former M:I director J.J. Abrams is set to produce, while Brad Bird has signed to direct the film.

My to my excitement, another film is being made in the "Fast and Furious" series according to Deadline. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is in talks to join the cast of Paul Walker and Vin Diesel, possibly playing the role of an FBI agent who is chasing down Walker and Diesel's characters who are now on the run. Great.

Martin Scorsese has told The Hindu that he has a script ready for a bio-pic based on the life of Frank Sinatra. He's also already got two actors in mind for the two lead roles: Al Pacino as Frank Sinatra and Robert DeNiro as Dean Martin. Johnny Depp is the studio's choice to play Ole Blue Eyes and George Clooney is Nancy Sinatra's choice for the role. The film will be showing the darker side of Sinatra's life as well as the more musical side. I like Scorsese's picks. Should be a great film!

The Press Association is stating that Orlando Bloom is the latest actor to join the Paul W.S. Anderson directed "Three Musketeer's" film. He will be joining James Corden, Logan Lerman, Luke Evans, Ray Stevenson, Matthew MacFadyen, Mads Mikkelsen and Oscar winner Christophe Waltz. The film will more than likely be filmed in 3-D. He's got a great cast set up, so hopefully the script will be good. I'm a big fan of the "Three Musketeer's" story and have been pretty pleased with the many big screen versions so far.

Rob Zombie has set up a poll on his blog asking for input on what his next project will be reports Dread Central. The options? "Werewolf Women of the SS" (based of the fake trailer attached to the "Grindhouse" films), "The Blob" remake, "Tyrannosaurus Rex" and "The Devil's Rejects 2." Rob Zombie has a history of teasing fans like this, as a majority of fans want to see the sequel to "The Devil's Rejects." Who knows what he will choose to film?

Finally, I reported a few days back that Megan Fox will not be returning to the "Transformers" films. Many speculate that this is due to Fox likening director Michael Bay to Hitler. Fox claims that she chose to leave, but why would she leave the only good thing she has going? Dummy. Anyways, GeekWeek claims that Victoria's Secret model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley will be replacing Fox as Sam Whitwicky's love interest in the third installment of "Transformers." However, nothing has been confirmed as of yet. It has also been reported that Gemma Arterton was in contention for the female lead. Either way, I'm glad Fox is out.

Upcoming Movie Trailers

2010-05-15T20:11:00.002-06:00

Here's a slew of trailers for some upcoming films:

The latest from "Lost" creator and "Star Trek" director JJ Abrams, "Super 8"
Starring: Unknown

"Inception" is the latest film from "The Dark Knight" director Christopher Nolan
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ken Watanabe, Joseph Gordon-Leavitt, Ellen Page, Marion Cotillard, Cillian Murphy, Tom Berenger, Michael Cain

This is the latest trailer for M. Night Shyamalan's "The Last Airbender"
Starring: Jackson Rathbone, Cliff Curtis, Dev Patel

Second trailer for the final film in the Shrek series, "Shrek: Forever After"
Starring: Mike Meyers, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy, Antonio Banderas,

Remember that awesome 80's horror movie "Pirhana's"? Well it's been remade and this time it's in 3D!
Starring: Elisabeth Shue, Christopher Lloyd, Eli Roth, Richard Dreyfuss, Jerry O'Connell, Ving Rhames

The teaser trailer for "Buried"
Starring: Ryan Reynolds

Multiple Sundance Film Festival Award winner "Winter's Bone"
Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, John Hawkes

The latest Graphic Novel adaptation "Jonah Hex"
Starring: Josh Brolin, Megan Fox, John Malkovich

Enjoy!

Iron Man 2

2010-05-15T09:39:00.006-06:00

Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johannson, Don Cheadle, Mickey Rourke, Sam Rockwell, Samuel L. Jackson, Jon Favreau

Rated PG-13

Grade: B+

I'm a bit late with this one, sorry, but my trip to Europe superceded this film. After much anticipation, the sequel to the surprise 2008 hit "Iron Man" hits the screen. Needless to say, expectations for the sequel were quite high. Add to that the list of actors they acquired for the film and said expectations went even higher. The first film gave us one of the best "origin stories" we've ever seen in the comic book movie world and surprised us with a great over-all story and action scenes. Enter "Iron Man 2." Marvel continues to give us fun and entertaining films, but also continues to fall short in one particular area.

After Tony Stark (Downey) reveals that he is Iron Man, Ivan Vanko (Rourke) wants to seek retribution for the decades of pain and suffering that the Stark family pushed onto the Vanko family. Along with Vanko, another blast from the past for the stark family comes to the forefront to enter the "arms race" of sorts. Tony decides to take some time off from the business world to embrace the new world he has created for himself and in turn creates more chaos for himself and those around him. Not to mention a new threat to his life he must deal with.

The story is actually pretty good and pulls from the original source decently, although Favreau does tweak some things to update them and make them more acceptable for the big screen, which I'm ok with. The film flows well, but it lacks a bit of character development with a couple characters, but I am positive we haven't seen the last of them yet.

Naturally, RDJ does a great job as Stark and brings to life the character we've been reading for years like no one else could. He embodies the conceit and cockiness of Stark with ease. When it comes time for the more serious action sequences, he transitions well. Paltrow has a more prominent role in the sequel and handles her role very well and continues to create great chemistry with RDJ. Samuel L. Jackson makes the best of his few scenes here, but doesn't really have to do too much with the role. Rourke did a lot of homework for this film, going as far as visiting a Russian prison to understand how the people lived and how it effected their life. His accent was spot on. Don Cheadle, who replaced Terrance Howard as Rhodey, is OK in the role. I've never really been a fan of his, but as the film goes on, he gets better. I think he'll be fine as he progresses with the character of War Machine. The real winner in this film is Sam Rockwell; he steals the show every time he's on screen. Unfortunately, he's one of the two characters that needed more back story, along with Johansson's role as Natasha Romanoff, AKA Black Widow, who has some pretty kick-arse scenes! As I stated before, we haven't seen that last of either if these characters.

Where this film falls short is the final action sequence. This one was an improvement over the first film, it still lacked the action that matches the rest of the film. The same can be said for Marvel Studios other two films, "Iron Man" and "The Incredible Hulk." They are learning though, and I think by the time we see films like "Thor" and "Captain America: The First Avenger" they will have figured this formula out.

There are a lot of "Easter Eggs" or hints at other Marvel characters and films, through out the film, including Captain America, Thor, Black Panther and Namor, among others, if you know what to look for. This is a fun film, with a good story and some pretty good action sequences. This could have been an amazing film, but the lack of a real "peak" brought this one down a notch. I'd definitely go check this one out!

Kick-Ass

2010-04-18T23:03:00.004-06:00

Aaron Johnson, Chloe Moretz, Nicolas Cage, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Mark Strong

Rated R

Grade: A-

I think it goes without saying that there is a bit of controversy surrounding this film, but for those who haven't heard why, let me fill you in. A film about ordinary folks dressing up like super hero's and going out to fight crime seems hardly out of the ordinary for Hollywood now days. The problem is this: throw in an eleven year old girl who uses words that would make a sailor blush and has no qualms about putting a Glock to someones head and pulling the trigger. A certain well known movie critic (his name rhymes with Ebert) called this film "reprehensible," is he right? No, I don't think he is. Ebert has a history of actually liking films that are adapted from graphic novels, so I am surprised he didn't like this one. But as a fellow critic, I respect his opinion and will continue to read his reviews, as he is usually spot on. Now, on to the film.

As I mentioned above, "Kick-Ass" follows Dave (Johnson) whose dream is to become a superhero. So he orders a wet suit for a costume and goes out to fight some crime. His first outing isn't quite a success, and land him in the hospital, but ends up working to his advantage. When he gets mixed up with a drug lord and a few other costumed heroes, Big Daddy (Cage), Hit Girl (Moretz) and Red Mist (Mintz-Plasse), things take a turn for the worse. Oh, and the girl he's in love with thinks he's gay and takes him on as her BFF.

The story follows the graphic novel quite well and only takes a few liberties to update it to work better on screen, which is actually quite unusual now days. Some have said the film is overly violent, but anyone who saw the Oscar nominated film "Inglorious Basterds" last year should not be surprised by the violence in this film. This was at least more realistic and not quite as stylized as other films. I understand the argument of the involvement of an 11 year old in the mix, though, but she is the best part of the film.

"Kick-Ass" is very well casted and acted. Johnson delivers well as the lead character, and holds his own with the likes of Mark Strong and company. Mintz-Plasse, who is most known for his role of McLovin in "Superbad," does a great job; this should help him break free of that type cast. Those of you who know me, know that I really, really do not like Nic Cage, but he's actually pretty good as Big Daddy. He has one scene in particular that is really, really good. The star of this show, however, is Chloe Moretz, the center of the controversy. She is incredible and steals every scene she is in, without effort. I can't wait to see her in the re-make of "Let the Right One In" this fall. Her martial arts work is top notch and entertaining to watch.

The cinematography on this film is beyond stunning. One of the main scenes of the film is incredible to watch, with amazing camera work and light work. One of the best scenes I've seen on film in a very long time. Matthew Vaughn has my vote for any film he wants to direct! The music fits the film to a T. Some of the musical score may actually be familiar to some, as it was used in one of my favorite films "28 Days Later..." and adds a very haunting feel to any film.

My one issue with the film is that the level of "cheese" gets take a bit high, but it's only in one scene, and it's not in any context that you'd expect. I won't give it way, but you'll know it when you see it.

I had some expectations for this film, and I am pleased to say that it actually exceeded my already high expectations. The film is not for everyone, being that it is violent and involves some rather crass language. Best way to think of it is this: throw together a Quentin Tarantino film with "Superbad" and you have "Kick-Ass." If you don't mind that, then go see this one. It's well worth it.

Date Night

2010-04-11T11:01:00.003-06:00

Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Mark Wahlberg, Taraji P. Henson, James Franco, Mila Kunis, Ray Liotta

Rated PG-13

Grade: B

There have been quite a few comedic pairings through out the years and you can certainly add another one to the list. When I first heard about this film and saw who was going to be starring in it, I couldn't believe that no one had put Fey and Carell together before now, as it was a sure bet for comedic gold. However, the lack of a solid story and depth keep this from being a great film, which isn't unusual in this genre.

"Date Night" gives us the story of the Fosters (Carell and Fey) who seem to be stuck in a marriage rut and can't break free from the daily routines that life has created for them. When they are able to break free for a date night, they go all out and take someone else's reservations at a swanky restaurant. Turns out that the reservation belonged to a couple that has some secrets that certain people want to be kept that way.

As I mentioned, the story was the weakest part of the film, which is unfortunate. It is rather silly and far-fetched with more than its share of plot holes. However, this is something can be over-looked and the movie enjoyed for what it is: a slap-stick style comedy. These types of films are not known for their depth of story and such anyways. My biggest problem was the addition of too many sappy moments that are oddly placed.

Carell and Fey, needless to say were hilarious to watch together. Both are comedic geniuses and it is a blast to watch them on screen together. They have great chemistry together, both comedy-wise as well as an on-screen couple. Neither one really deviate from other roles and characters they have played, but that is what they are known for and what they are good at. The supporting cast is decent, but nothing that is amazing...with the exception of Mila Kunis and James Franco. The 10 minutes they have on screen are some of the best in the film. Franco has really come to the front lines of acting in recent years and I have no doubt that Kunis is far behind. Mark Wahlberg's role was to just be there with out a shirt on, not too much depth for his character.

Over all, this is a hilarious film and will keep you laughing from beginning to end, be sure to stick around for more clips during and after the credits. There are some awkward moments but they too are great. If you are looking for a great "date night" movie, then this is it. It's very aptly named.

New Movie Trailers

2010-04-08T16:03:00.002-06:00

Here are some sneak peeks at some new films coming out in the next few months. Enjoy!

"Dinner For Schmuks," Starring Paul Rudd, Steve Carell and Zack Galafenackis

"A Nightmare on Elm Street," Starring Jackie Earl Haley, Kellen Lutz and Kyle Gallner

"Knight and Day" starring Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz

"Resident Evil: Afterlife" starrinf Mila Jovovich and Ali Larter

Resident Evil: Afterlife in HD

Trailer Park Movies | MySpace Video

"Step Up 3-D" starring no one worth mentioning

"A-Team" starring Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Sharlto Copely, Jessica Biel and Rampage Jackson

"Salt" starring Anjelina Jolie, Liev Schreibera and Chiwetel Ejiofor

"The Expendables" starring Sylvester Stallone, Jason Stathom, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, Steve Austin, Bruce Willis, Mickey Rourke and Arnold Sch

"Scott Pilgram vs. the World" starring Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Chris Evans, Brandon Routh, Kieren Culkin and Jason Schwartzman

Clash of the Titans

2010-04-02T00:34:00.004-06:00

Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Mads Mikkelsen, Gemma Arterton

Rated PG-13

Grade: C+

I don't think I need to remind anyone of the classic 1981 "Clash of the Titans" that led to this film, but who can forget the awesome animation and the incredible metal owl? With the new fangled technology we have now days, it was inevitable that this film would be remade and updated. However, the 2010 version tries to hard to be a bigger film than it is causing it to fall short of a great film.

Titans tells the story if Perseus (Worthington), a Demigod, who seeks revenge on Hades for the unwarranted killing of his adoptive family. He is joined by a group of Argos soldiers who are sent to assist him, at the request of their king. The group is forced to battle giant scorpions and gorgons and risk their lives doing so.

Let me get the bad out of the way first. The CG work in the film is bad and borderline laughable. In the beginning when you first see it, you think, "Eh, it's not too bad, I'm sure it'll get better." Sadly, it doesn't. It's choppy and unnatural and quite disappointing. I was more impressed with Uma Thurman as Medusa in "Percy Jackson" that I was with this one. She was silly looking and badly done. The scorpions looked decent in the previews, but when you see them on the big screen for a prolonged time, the are just bad. Now that I think of it, it's a possibility that Leterrier was trying to recreate the animation from the original. If so...bravo to him. Not all of it is bad, however. The work with Hades, the witches and the Djin is pretty cool, but not enough to make up for the rest.

Aside from the CG work, technically the film is just average. I didn't see the film in 3D, so I can't offer an opinion on that. The camera work is rather simple, but there are a couple shots that are pretty cool. Some of the fight scenes are actually timed with the music, which is great for a preview, but it comes across as silly in the actual film.

The story is decent and doesn't venture too far from the original (from what I remember, I haven't seen it in some time). It moves at an OK pace, enough to keep you interested. There are a few humorous lines that are well timed and well delivered also. I was hoping for some more character development, but that's pretty standard for Leterrier. The characters just seem to show up with out reason or rhyme and you are forced to accept it.

Speaking of Leterrier, he's been rumored to be on the short list of directors that Marvel is considering for the "Avengers" film coming in 2012. For a long time, I have supported this idea, as his work with "The Incredible Hulk" a few years back was pretty good. However, after seeing this film, I'm changing my mind. I don't want him anywhere near the "Avengers" film!

The best part of the show was the acting, for the most part. Ralph Fiennes stole this show as Hades. He is incredible to watch and listen to. Liam Neeson is a great fit for Zeus, as he has that voice that commands your attention. Mikkelsen is fantastic as can be expected. I was hoping to see more of Danny Huston as Poseidon, but he is used very little, sadly. Worthington and Arterton are out of their league in this film and couldn't keep up with the powerhouses surrounding them. Worthington is getting better but he still has a long way to go. He was great with the action sequences and I think he may have found his niche in the action film genre. The supporting cast chewed more scenery than Nic Cage and John Travolta in "Face/Off." They had bad lines and they were extremely over acted.

Maybe I had my expectations too high, but this film was under whelming and lacked depth. It could have been much bigger than it was and it definitely tried, but it didn't quite reach the bar it had set for itself. It's entertaining, but there are definitely better films out there. It's a simple film and doesn't require you to put too much effort to follow it. I'd suggest you drop your expectation level down a few notches and you might enjoy it more than I did.

Random Movie News: Overboard Remake, Transformers 3, American Idiot, Breaking Dawn & More

2010-03-29T20:40:00.007-06:00

Legendary Pictures has acquired the rights of the Godzilla franchise from the Toho Company in Japan. Legendary will be searching for a film maker to helm the film and hope for a 2010 release and will be distributed through Warner Brothers Studios. The production company wants to stay as authentic as possible and keep the original films in mind when filming.

A while back it was reported that Bryan Singer had returned to the X-Men film franchise to direct "X-Men: The First Class." However, Deadline is now reporting that Singer will be unable to direct the film due to prior commitments to another film. He will, however, stay on to produce the film. I think this is a good idea, as it will help keep the same feel to the "good" X-Men films he made.

Another name has been added to the rather impressive list of directors that are being looked at to helm the last film(s) in the "Twilight" film series. LA Times tells us that Oscar winner Stephen Daldry ("The Hours" and "The Reader") is in contention to direct the films. He joins Gus Van Sandt, Sophia Coppola and Bill Conden as potential options.

Deadline New York has said that Paul W.S. Anderson ("Event Horizon" and "Resident Evil") has signed on to direct a 3D adaptation of "Buck Rogers." The franchise started out as a radio show in the 1920's and gained more popularity when it hit television screens in the 1970's.

Will Farrell tells Contact Music that "Anchorman 2" has been put on hold for the time being. It seems that director Adam Mckay has had a difficult time getting the cast and crew back together to film. Farrell has also said that he has been rather fearful to do a second film, stating that it will be difficult to match the first film.

Louis Leterrier tells First Showing that he has actually written three films for the "Clash of the Titans" series. Assuming that the first film will do well at the box office, sequels will be ready to go. Leterrier is also on the short list of directors to helm the up-coming Marvel team up movie "The Avengers." I haven't seen Titans yet, but I'm sure it will be amazing and Leterrier has my blessing to direct "Avengers," which as you really need, right?

Green Day's "American Idiot" may not only be headed to Broadway, but it looks like to the big screen as well reports Deadline. Tom Hanks' company, Playtone, is looking at adapting the film, which would use the music and lyrics from Green Day's Grammy winning album as its script. Playtone brought "Mamma Mia!" to the screen in 2008 and it turned out to be one of the biggest films of the year.

MI6 is reporting that the Bond girls for the 23rd James Bond film have been found. "Slumdog Millionaire" star Freida Pinto and Olivia Munn have been signed to the film. Here's the catch: it is the British tabloid "The Daily Mirror" that is reporting this, so take this with a grain of salt. The yet to be named 23rd Bond film is set to begin filming later this year and is set for a fall 2012 release.

On his Official Blog, Michael Bay has given us an update on "Transformers 3." Frances McDormand, John Malkovich and Ken Jeong have joined the cast of the film. I am glad to see the first two actors, as they are both incredible; It's Jeong that worries me. He has been seen in "The Hangover" and tends to have the acting range of a dial tone. Bay has stated that the film will take a less comedic route and be more serious this go round, but the addition of Jeong has me worried. I've had about enough of leg humping robots and bad stereo types. Bay also said that a new Autobot will be seen in the form of a Ferrari Italia 458. take a look at that car! Whew!

Finally, in a "WTF" moment, Jennifer Lopez is in talks to star in a remake of the cult hit "Overboard," reports ABC News. The original 1987 film, which starred Kurt Russel and Goldie Hawn, centered on a spoiled women who falls overboard and is rescued by the on-board carpenter. When she awakes, amnesia has set in and the carpenter convinces her that she is his wife. This has failure written all over it.

Top 25 Sports Films

2010-03-18T21:15:00.003-06:00

In the spirit of Madness, the closing of the NBA's regular season and Baseball's spring training, I've put together my list of the Top 25 Sports Films of all time.
Thanks for the suggestion Annette! Take a look and tell me what you think!

25- Dodgeball: A True Under Dog Story
24- White Men Can't Jump
23- Happy Gilmore
22- Wildcats
21- Major League
20- Friday Night Lights
19- A League of Their Own
18- Rudy
17- The Wrestler
16- The Sandlot
15- The Bad News Bears
14- Jerry Maguire
13- Brian's Song
12- Chariots of Fire
11- The Hustler
10- Field of Dreams
9- Remember the Titans
8- Million Dollar Baby
7- Caddyshack
6- The Blind Side
5- Bull Durham
4- Raging Bull
3- The Natural
2- Hoosiers
1- Rocky

Honorable Mentions:
Varsity Blues
Cool Runnings
Karate Kid
Basket Ball Diaries
Miracle
Slap Shot

Being that this is not my favorite genre of film, I had a hard time putting this list together! A lot of good films to include here!

It's Drawing Time Again!

2010-03-16T23:33:00.009-06:00

UPDATE: Congrats to Carly Robison for winning the DVD of her choice! Thanks to all those who entered!

Here's your chance to win a DVD of your choosing! I will be giving away either "Twilight Saga: New Moon," "Astro Boy" or "The Princess and the Frog."

Here are the rules:
- Simply email your first and last name to geekboymovienews@gmail.com to enter.
2- You may enter up to three (3) times per person.
3- Winner will be selected by using www.random.org
4- You have until March 23, 2010 to enter, the winner will be selected on March 24, 2010.
5- None of your information will be used by GeekBoyMovieNews or any other entity for any other purpose besides this drawing.
6- The winner will be contacted by GeekBoyMovieNews and have the prize mailed to them
7- Winner must reside in the continental United States.

Please contact me should you have any questions, and as always...TELL YOUR FRIENDS!!!

She's Out of My League

2010-03-13T19:39:00.003-07:00

Jay Baruchel, Alice Eve, T.J. Miller, Mike Vogel, Nate Torrence, Krysten Ritter, Lindsay Sloane, Geoff Stults

Rated R

Grade: B

One of the latest crazes to hit the theaters over the last few years has been the "Bromance" movie. With films like "The Wedding Crashers," "The Hangover" and "Superbad" in this category, there's some pretty fierce competition and it's hard to come up with something original. The formula is quite simple, we get to see how the guys handle the ups and downs of a relationship as well as the inclusion of "potty" humor. That's where the problem comes in; most film makers feel that the addition of swear words and gross humor is all you need and it will make money. It might make a bit of money, but the film usually falls short. Luckily we have movies like this one, where you have a great combination of humor and actors and a decent story.

The film follows Kirk (Baruchel), a TSA agent who has just broken up with his girlfriend, who happens to live with his family. When Molly (Eve) leaves her phone at the security check point, she has Kirk meet her to drop the phone off. A bit of a relationship forms and Kirk, along with his friends and family, begin to question why she is interested in him. The story as a whole is rather simple and predictable, but it is well written and has some great dialogue through out the film. The ending is rather anti-climatic, but it at least has some closure.

The cast is phenomenal and includes some great characters. The two leads have great chemistry and play off each other quite well. However, it is the side characters that really steal the show here. The interactions with the family and friends are hilarious and will induce a fit of belly laughter without a doubt.

Not a whole lot to discuss here, but it's a funny film and is worth checking out. It goes along well with "Superbad" and "Pineapple Express," If you enjoyed those films, then give this one a try, you'll be pleasantly surprised.

Random Movie News: Titanic 3D, Ass-Kickin DaVinci, Harold & Kumar Part 3, Lombardi Biopic & more

2010-03-12T11:55:00.003-07:00

Yahoo! Movies is reporting that Warner Brothers is looking to revive the "Wizard of Oz" franchise. Being that it's cash cow series Harry Potter, is winding down, they are looking for a new tent pole, and the Merry old land of Oz is at the top of their list. L. Frank Baum's series originally included 14 books, which tend to differ from the 1939 film version. WB would more than likely take the series in a darker direction. Currently, they have two different projects in the works, with first-draft scripts being worked on.

On the topic of WB, Rueter's is telling us that the studio has purchased the rights to Producer Adrian Askarieh's adventure "Leonardo Da Vinci and the Soldiers of Forever." The story gives us a re-imagined Da Vinci, who is a part of a secret society that deals with biblical demons, secret codes, lost civilizations, fallen angels and the like. Sounds like they need to be careful with this one so it doesn't resemble the Indiana Jones series too much.

James Cameron, in order to make as much money as possible it seems, will be re-releasing his other epic film, "Titanic" in 3D, reports USA Today. The film is set to hit the screens again Spring of 2012, to correlate with the 100 year anniversary of the sailing of the ill-fated liner. In the same interview, Cameron was asked about the 3D Blu-Ray release of "Avatar," to which he replied "We're not officially announcing it [3D Blu-ray] right now but I'm hoping for fall. The wildcard is that we might be re-releasing the movie this fall. It's kind of gotten stomped out (in theaters) because of Alice in Wonderland." Gee MR. Cameron...greedy much?

Collider is reporting that a third "Harold and Kumar" film may be in the works, titled "A Very Harold and Kumar Christmas." When talking with John Cho ("Star Trek" and TV's "FlashForward"), he stated that a script is being worked on. The deciding factor is with Kal Penn's schedule. Penn is currently employed by the White House as a consultant.

"The Smurfs" cast seems to be getting bigger and bigger. Variety has said that six more actors have joined the film. Neil Patrick Harris will be playing the lead live-action character, while Katy Perry will be voicing Smurfette, Alan Cumming will be voicing Gutsy Smurf, and George Lopez as Grouchy Smurf. Jonathan Winters, who did many of the voices for the original Smurfs cartoon, will be voicing Papa Smurf. It is also being rumored that Quentin Tarantino may be voicing Brainy Smurf.

Hollywood Reporter is saying that New Line Cinema will be re-booting the "Police Academy" franchise. The original film, which followed a group of mis-matched characters turned police cadets, fared pretty well at the box office and was rated R, having a rather raunchy style of humor. As the series went on, they got less and less adult oriented and started heading towards the slap-stick style, with the 7th film being rated PG. No word on which direction they will head with the re-boot.

Finally, Robert DeNiro is attached to star as legendary coach Vince Lombardi in an ESPN produced film according to ESPN.com. The story, which is currently being written will follow Lombardi as he takes on the worst team in the NFL at the time, and turns them into the 5-Time Champion Green Bay Packers. The film will also explore the rivalry with the then coach of the Dallas Cowboys, Tom Landry. The film is set to release in early 2012.

2010 Academy Awards Results

2010-03-07T22:09:00.002-07:00

For the past several years, the "Oscars" have had a reputation of being long and drawn out, with awkward hosts and strange moments. I can honestly say that this years Academy Awards were the best I've seen in years. Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin were great as hosts; they were funny and tactful without throwing in the unnecessary "adult humor" that has been seen in so many award shows as of late, so kudos to them. A few changes this year including the switch to 10 Best Picture Nominations as well as the elimination of Best Song performances. The actors and films nominated were some of the best in years and the choices were rather difficult to make, especially in the Best Actress and Best Actor categories. On to the winners!

Best Picture: The Hurt Locker
Best Director: Kathryn Bigelow- The Hurt Locker
Best Actor: Jeff Bridges- Crazy Heart
Best Actress: Sandra Bullock- The Blind Side
Best Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz- Inglorious Basterds
Best Supporting Actress: Mo'Nique- Precious
Best Animated Feature Film: Up
Best Foreign Film: El Secreto de sus Ojos- Argentina
Best Original Screenplay: The Hurt Locker
Best Adapted Screenplay: Geoffrey Fletcher- Precious
Best Documentary Feature: The Cove
Best Original Score: Up
Best Original Song: "The Weary Kind"- Crazy Heart
Best Film Editing: The Hurt Locker
Best Cinematography- Avatar
Best Costume Design- The Young Victoria
Best Make-Up: Star Trek
Best Set Production: Avatar
Best Sound Editing: The Hurt Locker
Best Sound Mixing: The Hurt Locker
Best Visual Effects: Avatar

As a whole, I agree with the winners. I'd like to have seen Jeremy Renner come away with the Best Actor award, but from what I understand, Jeff Bridger had an amazing performance. As expected, "Avatar" walked away with all the technical awards, and they are well deserved. Too bad "District 9" couldn't have won a little something as well. I'm exciting to get going on the bigger films of 2010, as we are heading into the big movie season and I expect to see some amazing films this year as well!

Alice in Wonderland

2010-03-06T10:33:00.006-07:00

Mia Wasikowski, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Crispin Glover, Anne Hathaway, Stephen Fry, Alan Rickman, Michael Sheen

Rated PG

Grade: B-

Tim Burton has a history of providing some of the most entertaining and unique films to hit the big screen. He has created a style all his own which is easily recognizable. With such films as "A Nightmare Before Christmas" and "Big Fish," even the 1989 version of "Batman," he cemented his status as an A-List director. However, not everything he touches is automatic gold, take a look at "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." So where does Alice fit in? As much as I wanted this to be one of his better films, it falls short just a tad. It is still an interesting and fun film to watch, but the story tends to drag and the lack of a peak just holds this film back.

I need to get this off my chest first: the Tim Burton clique needs to go its separate ways. The main duo of Depp and Carter, as good as they are, has lost it magic and things are starting to run together. With the exception of Hathaway, all the major players in this film have played a role in at least two or three of Burton's film. This tends to make the originality of the group to dissipate. Don't get me wrong, they are all incredible actors, but I think it's time.

On to the story. The film is actually not a retelling of the 1951 Disney cartoon of the same name, but more of a sequel, so be prepared for that. After Alice escapes the watching eye of a throng of family and friends, she falls into a rabbit hole. Sound familiar? This is one of several nods to the original film, but, aside from those, this is very different. All the characters have returned as well as some new ones. As I mention earlier, the film is paced rather slow and the few actions scenes that are included, are rather anti-climatic, but it is enough to make it entertaining. There is a rather cliched battle towards the end that felt as though I were watching another film from the Chronicles of Narnia series, but it too has its moments.

The best part of the film were the supporting characters/actors; in fact, several of them actually stole the show. Stephen Fry as Cheshire Cat, Alan Rickman as Alumbum (I think) and Paul Whitehouse as the March Hare were fantastic. Without a doubt, anytime they were on screen, they stole it, quite easily. There is a lot of talk of Carter upstaging Depp, who is know for his scene stealing, quite frankly, neither one of them gave a unique performance. When you could understand what "The Hatter" was saying, Depp, was decent. Carter, as the Red Queen was rather obnoxious and overbearing at times. It seemed as though you could replace these to roles with any other role the actors have played in a Burton film and you couldn't tell the difference. The real disappointment here was Wasikowski as Alice. Her performance was dry and one dimensional and lacked any emotion or depth.

Needless to say, the film is quite stunning to watch, as Burton doesn't hold back with his set designs and CGI work. Along of bright colors and quirky designs, the standard for just about any Burton film, were top notch. CGI in a movie should always be as seamless as possible, to the point that if you notice it, they failed, even in a film that is laden with CGI work like this. They achieved that goal here.

As a whole, if you keep your expectations to a minimum and keep in mind that this isn't Burton's best film, you should enjoy it. It's a fun family film that will will make you laugh and with the many nods to the original film, parents who remember the original Disney film will enjoy it as well. I'd check this one out in the theater, just to get the full effect of the CGI work. ON a side note, I did not see this one in 3D, as it was later transferred to a 3D format, after it was filmed, which tends to have rather lackluster effects to it.

Shutter Island

2010-03-01T01:14:00.004-07:00

Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley, Michelle Williams, Max von Sydow, Jackie Earl Haley, Patricia Clarkson

Rated R

Grade: B

Martin Scorsese has quite a history of films, and not just random films, but movies that have made a statement in the film industry. It is a wonder why it took him so long to win an Oscar, which he finally did for "The Departed" in 2006. After seeing the first trailers for this film, I thought it was a rather odd film for him to do, but after seeing the film, it is a Scorsese film in every sense of the meaning: quirky and strange yet intriguing and beautifully filmed. That being said, this film has it's faults and is not up to par with his other films, like the aforementioned "The Departed" or "Gangs of New York."

As you may have noticed with some I my reviews, music in a film is something I notice, as I feel it plays an integral part in the how the film feels and flows. If you want to torture me, strap me to a seat have make me listen to a Taylor Swift album...or the score to this film. It was overly loud and down right obnoxious at times, enough to pull me out of the film, which is something you never want to do. It was like watching an episode of Star Trek with the volume cranked to "eleven."

My only other problem with this film was the lack of any real action. It slowed the pace to a point where I was actually kind of bored. It wasn't anything terrible and I have definitely sat through worse films ("Master and Commander" anyone?), but it was enough to notice and mention. Aside from that, the story was very interesting and really pulls from the "left field" department. As you are watching it, you keep trying to figure out where it is all going and guessing who is who. All in true Scorsese fashion.

Scorsese and DiCaprio go together like Burton and Depp. They work well together and Scorsese knows how to get the best out of DiCaprio, who, in my humble opinion, turns in one of his better performances. The one who really surprised me was Mark Ruffalo, who has been in many, many great films, but always flies under the radar; he stands out here and holds his own with DiCaprio and Kingsley. The rest of the supporting cast does just that, supports the main group. All of them offering up strong performances, which can be expected with such a great cast.

Is this Scorsese's best film? No, not by a long shot, but the film is beautifully filmed with unique camera angles and stunning scenery. The story will keep you interested, but the pacing is a bit slow at times. This one is definitely worth a watch, especially if you are a fan of the Scorsese/DiCaprio duo.

PS-Yas, I have to respectfully disagree with you on the XD Theater. The screen was cool, but that's about it. I'm OK paying $8.50 for the seats at The District. ;)

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief

2010-02-21T12:25:00.003-07:00

Logan Lerman, Brandon T. Jackson, Alexandra Daddario, Sean Bean, Pierce Brosnan, Steve Coogan, Rosario Dawson, Uma Thurman, Kevin McKidd

Rated PG

Grade B-

With the success of the Harry Potter films, it seems that studios are tracking down every possible children/teen book series and turning it to film; most of which are failing...miserably. Take a look at "Eragon" if you need an example. "Percy Jackson" is the latest of these to hit the screen and while it's no Harry Potter, it does it's job well.

I have not read these books (but after seeing the film, I may give it a try) so i can not make comparisons like some may want. I can tell you that they changed the age of the characters; in the book, they three main characters are 12 years old. In the film, they bumped them up to the 16-17 year old range, which I think works better. There are already too many comparisons to the Harry Potter series, and this help differentiate the two.

As far as story goes, you have Percy Jackson (Lerman) who, for some reason enjoys being in the water...a lot. One thing leads to another and we find out that he is the son of Poseidon. He is taken to a camp where other children of Olympians are training to be Heroes or Demi-Gods. The all-powerful Zeus seems to be missing his lightning bolt and feels that Jackson is the thief. The story is rather simple and the film, unfortunately, gives you the same feel to it; there is not a lot of depth. It's too bad because this could have been every bit as good as or better than the Harry Potter films. With someone like Chris Columbus (who directed the first two Potter films) directing this film, he should have known better than to let this happen.

The CG work in the film is phenomenal, as you would expect. They were on par with other films like "Chronicles of Narnia" and, you guessed it, Harry Potter films. The scenes in the underworld are especially amazing as they make you feel as though you are floating through hell with them. Similarly, there is a scene involving Hades in the Demi-God camp that is really cool.

There are some real heavy hitters in this film and they did an exceptional job with casting. Uma Thurman as Medusa was awesome. She pulls that role off with ease and was the best in the show for me. The choices for the gods (Bean as Zeus, McKidd as Poseidon, Coogan as Hades) were amazing, I just wish there was more screen time for them. Maybe in later films...I hope. Lerman was great. He played his role naturally and with ease, which is hard to find in actors his age. He was amazing in his small role in "3:10 to Yuma" a few years back and is headed down the right track. He is rumored to be up for the role of Spiderman/Peter Parker in that re-boot and after seeing this film, I'd be just fine seeing him step into that role.

Here's where the film falls short: pacing. The film starts out great and has you thinking this is going to be fun. But when the actual journey begins, the pace just fulls flat and it pulls you out of the film. It's not to the point where you are looking at your watch every five minutes, as there are still things going on, enough to keep you watching at least, but I just wanted it to be more exciting. The climax of the story also leaves something to be desired.

I really hope they decide to go forward with this series and keep filming them as it is a really great idea for a story and it has a lot of potential to be really good. I'd recommend watching this film in the theater if you can, but if you have a nice theater room or system at home, you'd be just fine waiting until the DVD releases.

The Wolfman

2010-02-16T00:20:00.002-07:00

Benicio Del Toro, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Emily Blunt, Hugo Weaving

Rated R

Grade: C+

If you are a frequent visitor to my blog and have seen my yearly list of favorite Halloween movie list, then you know that the classic Universal Studios monster movies are always on those lists. These movies are true classics and never fail to entertain. If you haven't seen them, I highly suggest giving them a watch. When I learned that this film was being made, I was thrilled. But it had some production problems early on. The original director left the project over budget disputes, Danny Elfman's musical score was rejected then he was re-hired to complete what he started, many re-shoots were required, and it goes on and on. Finally, after many delays, the film was released. There were several aspects of the film I enjoyed, but there were more things that I didn't.

Set in 1891, "The Wolfman" follows Lawrence Talbot in his pursuit of answers to who or what killed his brother. While in pursuit, he is bitten by a wolf. From there, he is dragged into a world he only though possible in legends. The story is very similar to the original Lon Chaney film of 1943, but is modernized a tad, I assume to fill time and give some more character development. If you know what to look for, there are several nods to the original movie, which is pretty cool. Overall, the film is overly dramatic and almost comes across as silly. It had a hard time balancing the action and the drama, which tends to confuse the viewer.

The film is rather stunning to watch; the landscapes and set designs are meticulate and really pull you into the film. If every movie could do that, movie watching would be even more enjoyable than they already are. The costume work is quite authentic as well. Small things, but they make a huge difference in the film as a whole, which is needed in a film that is lacking in other departments.

The CG work was interesting; at times it was incredible to watch, while at other times, it was just underwhelming. I know that they actually went back after the film was completed and re-worked some of the "transformation" scenes. I'd be interested in seeing what they looked like originally, as they were just OK in the final cut. The look of the wolf itself is a definite nod to the original film. We have seen many different types of Werewolves lately: the "Underworld" series had a more cat-like look, "Twilight" offered up a wolf the size of a Clydesdale horse. This wolf is more human like, which is both good and bad. At times, it ran on two legs, at others, on four legs, which was actually really cool.

With the cast that is featured here, you'd expect that the film would be incredible to watch. As I stated earlier, the film tried way to hard to be serious and it didn't come across very well. Hopkins and Weaving, who are usually very entertaining to watch, chewed more scenery here that the wolf chewed people. Del Toro and Blunt are better, but still nothing to howl at (sorry, I had to).

As I write this, I keep trying to find some more positive aspects to the film so that I may give it a higher grade, but I can't. It is a beautiful film to watch, but that's about where it ends. The film is a great nod to the original, which I appreciate and is very close to being a good film. Unfortunately, it just didn't get there. Definitely worth a rent though!

On a side note, director Joe Johnston, who directed this film, will be directing "Captain America: The First Avenger" next. I am happy to see that he is able to handle action scenes well and film in such a way that will make the film a true epic piece. I hope that he carries that over and we get a killer story!

Random Movie News: Fast & Furious...again, 4th Underworld, Gunsmoke, Stretch Armstong & More Comic Book News

2010-02-08T15:02:00.005-07:00

It looks as though the live-action "Smurfs" movie is underway. Filming has started in New York's Central Park, where it appears the Smurf's call home. Here is a leaked image of how the Smurf's will probably look. It says "Smurfy" in the picture but it is unclear as to whether or not that is the actual name of the character. Raja Gosnell ("Beverly Hills Chihuahua" and "Scooby Doo") will be directing the film. No actors have officially signed yet, but John Lithgow is in rumors to star and Wallace Shawn, most known for his role as the Sicilian in "The Princess Bride" is rumored to star as Gargamel. "The Smurfs" releases July of 2011.

Writer David Goyer recently left his hit TV show "FlashForward" due to commitments with other projects. It is being reported that one of those projects is the sequel to "The Dark Knight." Director Christopher Nolan has yet to sign on to direct the sequel, but it seems WB is moving ahead with the project with or without him.

Vulture is reporting that Fox is determined to get their "Caesar" film, which is a re-boot of the "Planet of the Apes" franchise,up on the big screen. However, no directors are biting. So far, Kathryn Bigelow ("The Hurt Locker"), Robert Rodriguez ("Sin City") and Tomas Alfredson (and up and coming Swedish director) have all declined the job. They are still trying though, with offers out to The Hughes Brothers ("The Book of Eli"), Pierre Morel ("Taken") and Scott Stewart ("Legion").

I reported a while back that a film version of the play "Damn Yankees" was in the works. It appears that the project is moving forward and has it's two starring actors. Deadline Hollywood reports that Jake Gyllenhaal will star as the baseball player who sells his soul to the devil to become a star player. Jim Carrey has signed to play the Devil in the film. This could be interesting.

Russell Crowe is the front-runner to star in the re-make of "A Star is Born," being directed by Nick Cassevetes. The lead female role is likely to be played by R&B/Pop star Beyonce. Rather odd couple if you ask me.

It should be no surprise that an "Avatar" sequel is in the works, but don't ex[ect anything too soon. They do not plan on rushing the film(s) and will make sure that are up to par with the original. The DVD for "Avatar" will be released late spring or early summer, but will not feature the 3D format at this time, but a possible re-release when the 3D technology is more accessible in homes.

It is with bile in my mouth that I report that a 5th "Fast and Furious" film is being made. Both Vin Diesel and Paul Walker will be reprising their roles and will be featured as fugitives running from relentless lawmen. When will it end?

According to the LA Times, Brad Pitt and Ryan Reynolds are up for the starring role of Marshall Matt Dillon in an upcoming big-screen version of "Gunsmoke." Pitt seems to be their first choice, with Reynolds as a potential back up for the role.

In the world of Comic Book news:

Taylor Lautner ("Twilight") has signed on to play the lead role in "Stretch Armstrong 3D" for Universal Pictures. The film's release date had to be moved to accommodate his current commitments, which can be assumed to be the remaining films in the "Twilight Saga."

Kate Beckinsale, star of the first two films in the "Underworld" series, is set to reprise her role as Selena yet again. However, the role will only be a cameo of sorts as she is trying to remove herself from the franchise all together. The film will not a prequel, as the last film was, but will be a continuation of the original storyline. Not sure how they are going to pull that off with her role being only a cameo.

20th Century fox has officially announced that a "Daredevil" reboot is in the works and a script is being written. The 2003 "Daredevil" film starring Ben Affleck opened to mixed reviews and a some-what decent box-office take, but just left something to be desired. Same can be said for the "Elektra" film that came shortly after. No word on whether Affleck or any of the original actors will return, although it is very unlikely. This announcement comes on the heels of the "Fantastic Four" reboot that Fox is also doing. In order for Fox to hold on to the rights of the characters, they must continue to produce films with these characters. I hope they learned from their mistakes...

Finally, at a recent press gathering for his "Wolfman" film, director Joe Johnston released a bit of information regarding his next project, "The First Avenger: Captain America." The actor they are seeking will be an unknown with bigger names as supporting roles, similar to the "Thor" film that is being filmed. The casting should be complete within the next few weeks. Ryan McPartlin of "Chuck" fame has read for the role as well as "One Tree Hill" star Chad Michael Murray. The villain of the film will be Red Skull, as was expected, but he also said that The Invaders would also play a part in the film. The Invaders are a group of Europeans who fight along side Cap and include Namor and Union Jack. Filming will begin later this spring and will take place in Great Britain.

2010 Academy Award Nominations

2010-02-02T11:10:00.004-07:00

It's that time of year where the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences selects it's nominees for the Oscar Awards and undoubtedly angers most of the world's movie fans. There was one big change this year and that is in the Best Picture category. Instead of the usual five nominees, they upped it to ten to encompass more films. This occurred mainly because of the uproar of "The Dark Knight" getting snubbed last year. Anyway, on to the nominations. As per usual, I have bolded my choice for the winner.

Best Picture
Avatar
The Blind Side
District 9
An Education
The Hurt Locker
Inglorious Basterds
Precious
A Serious Man
Up
Up in the Air

Best Director
James Cameron- Avatar
Kathryn Bigelow- The Hurt Locker
Quentin Tarantino- Inglorious Basterds
Lee Daniels- Precious
Jason Reitman- Up in the Air

Best Actor
Jeff Bridges- Crazy Heart
George Clooney- Up in the Air
Colin Firth- A Single Man
Morgan Freeman- Invictus
Jeremy Renner- The Hurt Locker

Best Actress
Sandra Bullock- The Blind Side
Helen Mirren- The Last Station
Carey Mulligan- An Education
Gabourey Sidibe- Precious
Meryl Streep- Julie & Julia

Best Supporting Actor
Matt Damon- Invictus
Woody Harrelson- The Messenger
Christopher Plummer- The Last Station
Stanley Tucci- The Lovely Bones
Christoph Waltz- Inglorious Basterds

Best Supporting Actress
Penelope Cruz- Nine
Vera Farmiga- Up in the Air
Maggie Gyllenhaal- Crazy Heart
Anna Kendrick- Up in the Air
Mo'Nique- Precious

Best Animated Feature Film
Coraline
Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Princess and the Frog
The Secret of Kells
Up

Best Foreign Film
Israel- Ajami
Argentina- El Secreto de sus Ojos
Peru- The Milk of Sorrow
France- un Prophete
Germany- The White Ribbon

Best Original Screenplay
Mark Boal- The Hurt Locker
Quentin Tarantino- Inglorious Basterds
Alessandro Camon & Oren Moverman- The Messenger
Joel Coen & Ethan Coen- A Serious Man
Peter Docter, Bob Peterson & Tom McCarthy- Up

Best Adapted Screenplay
Neill Blomkamp & Terri Tatchell- District 9
Nick Hornby- An Education
Jesse Armstron, Simon Blackwell, Armando Iannucci & Toni Roche- In the Loop
Geoffrey Fletcher- Precious
Jason Reitman & Sheldon Turner- Up in the Air

Best Documentary Feature
Burma VJ
The Cove
Food, Inc.
The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Pages
Which Way Home

Best Original Score
Avatar
Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Hurt Locker
Sherlock Holmes
Up

Best Original Song
"Almost There" from The Princess and the Frog
Music and Lyric by Randy Newman
"Down in New Orleans" from The Princess and the Frog
Music and Lyric by Randy Newman
"Loin de Paname" from Paris 36
Music by Reinhardt Wagner, Lyric by Frank Thomas
"Take it All" from Nine
Music and Lyric by Maury Yeston
"The Weary Kind" from Crazy Heart
Music and Lyric by Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett

Best Film Editing
Avatar
District 9
The Hurt Locker
Inglorious Basterds
Precious

Best Cinematography
Avatar
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
The Hurt Locker
Inglorious Basterds
The White Ribbon

Best Costume Design
Bright Star
Coco Before Chanel
Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
Nine
The Young Victoria

Legion

2010-01-30T11:05:00.003-07:00

Paul Bettany, Tyrese Gibson, Adrianne Palicki, Lucas Black, Dennis Quaid, Charles S. Dutton, Kevin Durand

Rated R

Grade C+

It seems as though the current trend with angels is to portray them as angry, vengeful beings. With films like this and, if you are a fan of SuperNatural, you know how they are presented there. This wasn't the problem with the film though. With such a capable cast, you'd think that they'd be able to pull off any script and make it believable. Apparently, they never received that memo.

The film tells the story of a group of people who get trapped in a diner that seems to be in the middle of nowhere. When God decides to punish the Earth for it's wickedness, it seems the small group in Paradise Falls is the last to know. Michael (Bettany) shows up to help defend this group, especially the very pregnant Charley (Palicki). While the story is rather original and seems good on the surface, there is no background or character building for any of these people so you do not build any sort of connection with them. One of my biggest problems was the words that they made that little old lady say! No one her age should EVER utter those words! It's just wrong!

When I saw who was going to be in this film, I was actually quite impressed with the group they assembled. Unfortunately, with the sad excuse for a script, no one could really do much; with the exception of Dutton. The man is a fantastic actor and was the only actor out of the group that even stood a chance. Quaid, God bless him (no pun intended), seems to be in a rut. First, he embarrassed himself in "GI Joe" and then he does this film, which does nothing to help his reputation. Hopefully he can find something out there to fix this problem. Everyone else was just plain bad.

The saving grace for this film would be it's cinematography. It was filmed with a definite lack of lighting, which is actually cool because it creates a sense of mystery and it keeps you wondering if someone or something is gonna come jumping out.

The good news is that I only looked at my watch once, which means I was somewhat entertained. I think you could probably wait til this one comes out on DVD or hits the $1 theaters and be OK.

Movie Ticket Give Away!

2010-01-23T12:59:00.004-07:00

Here's your chance to win two (2) tickets, a $16 value, to go see the movie of your choice! It's pretty simple, here are the rules:

1- Simply email your first and last name to geekboymovienews@gmail.com to enter.
2- You may enter up to three (3) times per person.
3- Winner will be selected by using www.random.org
4- You have until February 7, 2010 to enter, the winner will be selected on February 8, 2010.
5- None of your information will be used by GeekBoyMovieNews or any other entity for any other purpose besides this drawing.
6- For those living in the Salt Lake City area, the winner will receive movie passes redeemable at and Megaplex Theatre. All others will receive $16 in cash.
7- The winner will be contacted by GeekBoyMovieNews and have the prize mailed to them
8- Winner must reside in the continental United States.

Please let me know if you have any questions and good luck! Oh, and TELL YOUR FRIENDS!!!

2010 Golden Globe Winner

2010-01-17T21:11:00.002-07:00

Each year, the Hollywood Foreign Press gathers to select their choices for the best in motion pictures and television. There were some real surprises tonight and really no real big "sweeps" like we usually see. It seems that my selections were far from being correct. I think this is good, because then I can't call myself a real critic! Anyways, here are the winners. The winners are bolded, while my choices will be listed in regular type.

1. Best Motion Picture- Drama
Avatar
The Hurt Locker

2.Best Motion Picture- Comedy or Musical
The Hangover
(500) Days of Summer

3. Best Director- Motion Picture
James Cameron- Avatar
Kathryn Bigelow- The Hurt Locker

4. Best Animated Feature Film
Up
Fantastic Mr. Fox

5. Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture- Drama
Sandra Bullock- The Blind Side

6. Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture- Drama
Jeff Bridges-Crazy Heart
George Clooney- Up in the Air

7. Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture- Comedy or Musical
Meryl Streep- Julie/Julia
Marion Cotillard- Nine

8. Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture- Comedy or Musical
Robert Downey, Jr.- Sherlock Holmes
Joseph Gordon-Leavitt- (500) Days of Summer

9. Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Mo'nique- Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Penelope Cruz- Nine

10. Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Christoph Waltz- Inglorious Basterds

11. Best Foreign Language Film
The White Ribbon (Germany)
Baaria (Italy)

12. Best Screenplay- Motion Picture
Jason Reitman, Sheldon Turner- Up in the Air
Neill Blomkamp, Terri Tatchell- District 9

13. Best Original Score- Motion Picture
Michael Giacchino- Up
Karen O, Carter Burwell- Where the Wild Things Are

14. Best Original Song- Motion Picture
“The Weary Kind”- Crazy Heart, Ryan Bingham, T Bone Burnett
"I Want to Come Home"- Everybody's Fine, Paul McCartney

15. Best Television Series- Drama
Mad Men (AMC)
True Blood (HBO)

16. Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series- Drama
Michael C. Hall- Dexter
John Hamm- Mad Men

17. Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series- Drama
Juliana Margulies- The Good Wife
January Jones- Mad Men

18. Best Television Series- Comedy or Musical
Glee (Fox)

19. Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series- Comedy or Musical
Alec Baldwin- 30 Rock
David Duchovney- Californication

20. Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series- Comedy or Musical
Toni Collette- United States of Tara
Tina Fey- 30 Rock

21. Best Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Grey Gardens (HBO)

22. Best Performance by an Actress in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Drew Barrymore- Grey Gardens
Jessica Lange- Grey Gardens

23. Best Performance by an Actor in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Kevin Bacon- Taking Chances
Kenneth Branaugh- Wallander: One Step Behind

24. Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Chloe Sevigne- Big Love
Jane Lynch- Glee

25. Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
John Lithgow- Dexter
Jeremy Piven- Entourage

I'll spare you the speech regarding "Avatar" winning Best Motion Picture- Drama and Best Director and Jane Lynch not winning.

The Golden Globes will usually give you an idea of how the Academy Awards will go, but with this group of films, I really think it could go in any direction. The 2010 Academy Awards will air in March.

The Book of Eli

2010-01-17T00:54:00.002-07:00

Denzel Washington, Gary Oldman, Mila Kunis, Ray Stevenson, Jennifer Beals

Rated R

Grade: B

The latest film from the Hughes brothers, who brought us films like "From Hell" and "American Presidents" is a much grittier and raw film than we've seen from them. This is a fun and stunning film to watch and has was of the most interesting plot twists I've seen in a very long time and was not one that you can see coming, similar to that of "The Sixth Sense."

Eli (Washington) is on a trail of destiny to head West and has been doing so for 30 years. When he comes across a small town of survivors of a devastating war that wipes out most of the world, he hits a bit of a speed bump. Carnegie (Oldman) is on a quest to find a book, one that will change the way people see him and his views of the future. It just so happens that Eli is in possession of said book. I was actually surprised at the religious undertones to this film. It is not done in a preachy way at all, but rather quite tactfully and in such a way that it will not pull you out of the story at all.

The cinematography in this film is absolutely stunning to watch. With the camera angles that were used and the panning wide angle shots of the landscape and cloud filled sky, it was simply beautifully done. Even thought the landscape is brown and desolate, it still had a unique beauty to it. The music that was used also added to the desolation, but didn't get in the way of the film and is not over done at all.

I have come to the conclusion that Gary Oldman can do no wrong. He is easily one of the best actors out there. He is amazing to watch on screen and does his work with no effort at all. Washington was great as usual and it was nice to see him step out of his usual role that he plays. One that keeps surprising me is Mila Kunis. While she is still rough around the edges, she is quickly becoming a great actor; no where near where she needs to be, mind you, but improving quickly.

My one complaint about the film was that the pacing seemed a little slow. It's not anything that is enough to pull you out of the story, but you do take notice of it. I can also say that those awesome camera shots mentioned above do get a bit over used as well.

Overall, this was a great show. Interesting plot with a definite twist towards the end that really made the movie so much better. Go check this one out.

Daybreakers

2010-01-17T00:30:00.003-07:00

Ethan Hawke, Willem Dafoe, Sam Neill, Claudia Karvan, Michael Dorman

Rated R

Grade: C-

Needless to say, the Vampire craze in the film industry is tad more than one can bare. Being a fan of the genre, I was rather excited to see this film. It had such a unique look to it and let's face it, who doesn't want to see a film with Ethan Hawke in it? He's a great actor. That being said, this is one Vampire film that won't be making it to the top of my favorites list any time soon.

The story is a bit of a different take on the Vampire lore. For once, they have taken over civilization and the human blood supply is running low. Charles Bromley (Neill) runs a hematology corporation whose goal is to come up with a blood substitute before all the vampires revert back to a more primitive version of themselves...giant flying bat looking things. Edward Dalton (Hawke) would rather find a cure than a substitute and finds assistance from a most unlikely friend.

First, the good. The film is rather beautiful to watch, with it's blue tones used during the scenes at night, it adds a darker tone to the film, instead of the usual colors that are used. Even the scenes that were done in daylight have a bit of a different look to them. The movie has a feel that almost takes you back to the 1940's where the men all wore fedoras and trench coats along with the good old fashioned attache brief case. And who could forget the constant chain smoking of just about every male character in the film? At the same time, they've incorporated a modern touch to that. That is about where the good ends.

The performances of this group are really sub-par, especially if you look at the caliber of some of the actors. I really blame the script on this one, as the dialogue was atrocious, at best. Hawke who is typically very good, had no dimension and was unable to pull you into his character. Dafoe was just annoying in every aspect. Neill, most famous for his work in "Jurassic Park" was unable to pull off the bad guy vibe like he's done in the past with films like "Event Horizon."

The CG work was on par with something you'd see on the SyFy channel on a Saturday night special movie. I guess you can just pile that onto the really bad attempt at slow motion sequences. I'm not saying the camera work was bad, but the fact that they had random blood spurts going off like fireworks and a leg flying through the air for no reason just seems rather silly. Yes, I did laugh out loud during this overly long scene.

Skip this one; bad script, bad acting and poor CG quality just didn't meet the expectations this film set for itself.

New Movie Trailers: Inception, Robin Hood, The Red Baron, Sex and the City 2, The A-Team & More!

2010-01-16T12:54:00.004-07:00

Here are some trailer for some upcoming movies! Enjoy!

First up is "Despicle Me."

Here is "Solomon Kane"

Latest trailer for "Kick-Ass"

The first theatrical trailer for "Sex and the City 2"

This one looks great! Unique story finally! This is "Frozen"

The latest version of "Robin Hood" starring Russell Crowe & Kate Blanchett

The first trailer fo "The A-Team"

This is Christopher Nolan's latest film "Inception"

The historical drama, "The Red Baron"

Here is the latest from Dreamworks, "How to Train Your Dragon"

Happy viewing!

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus

2010-01-12T00:43:00.002-07:00

Christopher Plummer, Heath Ledger, Vern Troyer, Johnny Depp, Jude Law, Colin Farrell, Lily Cole, Andrew Garfield, Tom Waits

Rated PG-13

Grade: B+

Director Terry Gilliam found himself in quite a quandary after the unexpected death of his star Heath Ledger. Lucky for him, his story was such that the use of other actors to play the same role would actually make sense! The film takes you into a new realm but one that is oddly familiar for fans of a certain genre. Imaginarium is a fun and unique story with a bit of a dark edge which delves in to world that one would think only Tim Burton could pull off.

The film follows a traveling theater company that gives its viewing audience something that is unique and unexpected. Dr. Parnassus (Plummer) has the odd gift of being able to control and guide the imaginations of others made a bet with the devil in which he won immortality. Later on down the road, he made another bet with the devil, but one that could cost him a loved one. Enter Tony (Ledger/Depp/Law/Farrell) who vows to help the good doctor in his goal, but has a past he's hiding.

The story is quite original and comes from the mind of director Terry Gilliam, of Monty Python fame. You can tell his connection with the famous group, as some of the imaginarium scenes look right out of a Monty Python sketch; which is fine because of the odd story.

The performances in the film are exactly what you'd expect from the likes of such a cast. Plummer may be 80 years old but the man has still got it. He fulfills this role effortlessly and with all the gumption of an actor half his age. Ledger, in his swan song, leaves us with a fantastic showing; it's a shame to lose someone of his talent. Those that filled in for Ledger picked up right where he left off, both in the story and the skills, especially Farrell who really stepped up his game. The lesser known members of the cast held their own with this phenomenal cast.

We are so used to Tim Burton taking us into new and different realms, and when someone else comes along and pulls you into a colorful and unique world, it's a bit surprising. I really think Gilliam just upped the ante as far as that whole idea goes. As I mentioned earlier, you get a sense of a Monty Python sketch in some of the scenes, but it's not as silly as you'd expect and it is very fitting in this film. Some of the shots are just flat out stunning and you can't help but smile in wonder and allow it pull you in, succeeding in what most directors only dream of.

This is a very unique film so be prepared to throw any expectations out the window and just sit back and have some fun. It has a serious under tone and deals with a rather heavy subject, dealing with devils and all, but it does so in such a light manner that it seems not so dark. Get it? Good. Although it's not a film you need to see in a theater, I'd tell you to try to catch it on the big screen for the full experience.

Random Movie News: Spiderman 4, Mannequin Reboot, GI Joe 2, Hobbit filming dates and more!

2010-01-08T12:52:00.005-07:00

Fox's "Caesar," the reworking of the "Conquest of the Planet Of the Apes" has been put on the shelf, as the writer, Scott Frank has left the project. Not to mention, the theme of the movie may have been too dark, as it deals with the end of mankind. Sounds like a bad idea anyways. The Tim Burton directed "Planet of the Apes" from a few years ago was proof that the idea is just bad.

Along the same lines, the Phoenix Pictures remake of "Robocop" has also been shelved over at MGM. Not because of the impending MGM sell, but because director Darren Aronofski was not interested in doing a 3D film. He wanted to keep the film as natural as possible, with as little CG as possible.

Speaking of 3D, Bill Paxton, star of "Twister," has pitched an idea for a sequel to the surprise hit that would be filmed in 3D. The story is based on the Tri-State tornado that hit in 1925, was over a mile wide and stayed on the ground for nearly four straight hours. This is the type of film that needs to be 3D!

"Zombieland" writers, Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick have been tapped to write the sequel to "GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra." That's a good start, but they have a long ways to go to make up for the embarrassment of the summer.

Gladden Entertainment is in the process of finding writers for the reboot of the 80's smash hit "Mannequin." For those that don't remember this little gem, it follows a store clerk who becomes infatuated with a mannequin that comes to life. Sounds like a failure...just being honest.

"Spiderman 4" has been delayed, to the point that it has moved it's release date to an undisclosed time. Apparently, there is quite the feud going on between director Sam Raimi and Sony exec, Amy Pascal. Raimi wants to include the Vulture as the villain, while Sony wants a more well known and more imposing villain. I wouldn't be surprised if this one never gets made. This is what caused all the problems with the 3rd film, Sony started butting in and forced Raimi to make changes. Look how that turned out.

Since Spidey has vacated the May 5, 2010 opening date, Marvel has moved quickly to take that spot, moving "Thor" up from May 20th, to May 5th. Not to long after that, Disney pushed the opening of "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" up to the pre-Memorial Day slot vacated by Thor. You confused yet?

The Matt Reeves remake of the Swedish vampire hit "Let the Right One In" has been slated for a October 1, 2010 release. The film, titled "Let Me In" follows a young boy who is teased and tormented at school, but when a young girl moves into his complex, things change. I am not thrilled with this remake at all. The original film is one of the best movies of the decade and should not be touched. If you are a fan of the vampire genre, the original is a must see.

The two "Hobbit" films, being directed by Guillermo del Toro ("Hellboy" series) is set to begin filming this June, with a time frame of about 14 months. The filming will head back to New Zealand, where "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy was filmed. Still no word on casting for the film.

Thanks to moviehole, CHUD, Production Weekly, IESB.net, Premium Hollywood, Box Office Mojo and Darkhorizons.com for the info!

The Best and the Worst of 2009

2009-12-27T16:42:00.003-07:00

Looking back at the 2009 year, we had a fantastic year for movies. But just like any other year, we had some real bombs to sit through. We watched some super heroes and child hood toys finally hit the big screen, several types of alien forms and who could forget the Bear Jew?

With the myriad of films to choose from, it was hard to put these films in any type of order, but it's done. It was a bit easier for the not so good films, as those stand out pretty well. So, to start things off, here are the ten worst films of 2009:

10. White Out- The graphic novel this film is based on is actually pretty cool and unique, but they deviated so far from that story that it was the same in name only. Bad story and badly executed.

9. 2012- Just because a film is full of CGI doesn't make it an instant blockbuster film. A rehashed storyline and characters couldn't save this film from being an overly long film that will send your senses into over load.

8. The Surrogates- If you can get past the image of Bruce Willis with no wrinkles (has he ever not had wrinkles?), then you are able to sit back and watch a completely pointless movie. It's hard not to notice the similarities between this film and "I, Robot."

7. Twilight Saga: New Moon- While this film was better than the first by a long shot, the lagging story and lack of action pulls this one down. Acting was better, but there is still much room for improvement.

6. Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li- I think it's time for Hollywood to realize that even though video games have great stories, they just don't translate well to films. I will say that this was much better than the first attempt that was made. Hopefully "Prince of Persia" will change this trend.

5. Knowing- I don't like Nicolas Cage. There, I feel better. This film could have been so much better, but the ending did this film in. It was just way too over the top. Cage was actually tolerable in this film and the CGI work was incredible, but those aspects couldn't quite complete this film.

4. Dragonball Evolution- This film was just a bad idea for live-action. Anime needs to stay that way. The acting was horrific and the CGI work was very underwhelming.

3. Halloween II- This film should not have been allowed to even be associated with the iconic film series. Rob Zombie's first "Halloween" film was actually quite good, but this one came out of left field and it just did not work well. The characters were changed to the point that they were unrecognizable.

2. G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra- When I first heard about this film, I knew the quality was going to come down to the script...and it was BAD! When you have an actor like Dennis Quaid, you'd expect that he'd be able to make it work, but even he was lack-luster and unimpressive. I had to do my best to not walk out of this one.

1. Land of the Lost- I don't even know where to begin with this film. I guess they just figured since Will Farrell was starring, the film would just make money. Turns out that this film is one of the worst film flops in history. The story was weak and the acting was just embarrassing. If Farrell was smart, he'd disappear for a while and let this film be erased from peoples memories.

Now, on to the films that really impressed me this year, which was quite a few, but I think I did pretty well here.

10. The Hurt Locker- Jeremy Renner made this film what it was. His work in the lead role was amazing. The movie had some very intense moments, but they didn't quite last through out the film. This easily could have been the best film of the year had the intensity continued, but it is still worth the watch.

9. Avatar- James Cameron's latest film is a visual masterpiece and can't be missed. Zoe Saldana is amazing to watch and I can't wait to see her continue her career. The story is the only thing I didn't like about this movie, as it could have been a bit more original, but I enjoyed it none the less.

8. Watchmen- Zack Snyder's adaptation of this award winning graphic novel is visually stunning, in a way that only Snyder can do it. However, the lack of a wider audience appeal keeps me from ranking this one higher. If you are not familiar with the novel, then there is a lot of confusion and questions that arise. Still, a fantastic movie.

7. Brothers- I was thrilled by Tobey MacGuire's performance in this film. He tapped into a corner of his being that we have never seen. Natalie Portman proved that she can dance with the big girls with this film and Gyllenhaal just continues to show that he is an amazing actor. The story is touching and sad, but is done with tact.

6. Fantastic Mr. Fox- Although I am not a huge fan of Wes Anderson, Mr. Fox is a film that can't be missed. It's a good change from the computer animation that we've been force fed for so long. Not to mention the best voice over work in any film I've ever seen.

5. The Messenger- As with Brothers, this film touches on a subject that is very emotional, but it is done in a way as to not press on the issue or feed an agenda. Fantastic acting and a great story make this a film that needs to be watched.

4. Up- Easily Disney/Pixar's best film. They added a new level of emotion to the film and I think it worked out pretty well. It has comedy for both young and old as well as some fun action and hilarious characters. It's the best family film of the year, if not the decade.

3. Inglorious Basterds- Tarantino films aren't for everybody and this is no exception. I can't think of another director/writer who can include a scene in a film that for nearly 45 minutes, the actors do nothing but talk and it still holds your attention and is entertaining! One of Brad Pitt's most unique roles, but it is amazing and Christoph Waltz was stellar. I'd say this might be Tarantino's best work...so far.

2.(500) Days of Summer- This unique twist on a love story, a film is created that is a one of a kind. Joseph Gordon Leavitt has cemented his status as a legit actor. Add to that the quirkiness of Zooey Deschanel and you have quite the pairing. The story is not your typical love story, which disappointed some, but it's nice to see something different.

1. District 9- With a budget of about $30 million, this film proved that you don't need to spend hundreds of millions of dollars likes some of the other "blockbusters" we see. A fantastic and unique story combined with some incredible CGI work makes this film a must see. It is not at all what you'd expect to see, so keep an open mind.

There you have it! I know some of you will disagree with this list (Seth and wife...) but I'd love to get some feedback from you. What would you add or take away? I can't wait to get going on the 2010 film year as it's looking to be a fantastic year for films!

I'd also like to wish you all a happy and prosperous new year!

Sherlock Holmes

2009-12-27T00:16:00.003-07:00

Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams, Mark Strong

Rated PG-13

Grade: B

For the most part, we all have a pre-conceived idea of who or what Sherlock Holmes should be: a pipe-smoking, tweed-wearing old man that uses big words. One thing is for sure, Guy Ritchie's version of the iconic literary character is anything but your grandpa's old familiar. This film is a main stream attempt from Ritchie, who typically serves up a quirky, unique style that is all his own. Not to say this is a bad thing, but his true style still eeks it's way to the surface just enough to let you know that he is still there.

From the get go, the film is quite action packed and offers up something a bit different than the martial arts laden films we've been inundated with recently. It has a raw and natural feel to it, helping to pull you into the story, even though it delves into the "magic" world. There is the usual action film fodder, with explosions and hand to hand battles, but there is a bit of the standard Ritchie fare, including some comedy moments that only Mr. Downey could pull off.

On the topic of RDJ, he is on top of his game in this film. His delivery of lines is impeccable. He's the type of actor that you can have him read the phone book and you could be entertained for hours. The pairing of Downey and Jude Law is one that can put a confused look on your face and make you wonder how that'll work out. It's a great combination and it's nice to see Law step out of his box and try something new. Rachel McAdams leaves something to be desired. She can be good, but her character in this film not written well. Although pertinent to the Sherlock Holmes story, at least in this version, and in future films, she could easily have been a lesser character; it's rather odd to me.

The story itself is an original if I remember correctly and it deals with the subject of black magic, which to me is something you wouldn't really expect from a Holmes story. It is a believable idea, but I had a hard time getting into it, just not quite enough to really pull you in.

Guy Ritchie continues to utilize the camera to make his movies entertaining. With many unique angles and the use of different lens types, it adds a new element to the film. There are several amazing slow-motion scenes that are very well done, to the point where it just makes you smile in awe.

With all these outstanding elements, you would think this formula would add up, but it simply doesn't connect. The film has its entertaining moments and is fun to watch, it should have been more than it was. Being that this is Rithchie's first attempt at a more "main-stream" film, he has room to grow with the next installment to this series, which I hope he learns from the little things that don't add up.

In Rememberence...

2009-12-23T21:59:00.002-07:00

As the 2009 year comes to a close, I'd like to take a few moments to remember some of the actors, actresses, musicians and other icons who have passed on this year. I'd like to send out my thank you to all of these people and to all the others who have passed on. They have left us a legacy that will never be forgotten, whether it be iconic characters or guilty pleasure songs, we will remember.

Bea Arthur- Actress, "Golden Girls"
Billy Mays- Pitch Man
Danny Gans- Las Vegas Entertainer
David Carradine- Actor, "Kung Fu" and "Kill Bill Vol. 1&2"
Dom DeLuise- Actor/Comedian, "Cannonball Run" & "Blazing Saddles"
Ed McMahon- Television Personality, "The Tonight Show"
Alaina Reed Hall- Actress, "Sesame Street" and "227"
Farrah Fawcett- Actress, "Charlie's Angels"
Henry Gibson- Actor, "The Burbs"
John Hughes- Director, "The Breakfast Club" and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off"
Les Paul- Guitar/Music Legend
Michael Jackson- Musician
Patrick Swayze- Actor, "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost"
Walter Cronkite- News Anchor
Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein- DJ
Ted Kennedy- Politician
Ricardo Montalban- Actor, "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" and "Fantasy Island"
Brittany Murphey- Actress, "Clueless" and "Sin City"
Jeremy Lusk- Motocross Racer
Steve McNair- Former NFL Quarterback
Natasha Richardson- Actress, "Blow Dry." Wife of actor Liam Neeson.

Random Movie News: Marvin the Martian, Bond 23, 21 Jumpstreet, Venom Spin-off & More

2009-12-22T11:02:00.005-07:00

Alex Zamm, director of "Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2" has been asked to direct an upcoming film based on the Looney Tunes character Marvin the Martian for Warner Brothers. The story will follow Marvin as he comes to Earth to destroy Christmas, but finds himself getting stuck in a gift box. It looks as though the film will be a CGI/Live-Action combo, similar to "Alvin and the Chipmunks." It is being rumored that Mike Myers of "Shrek" fame could be voicing the character. This sounds like a really bad idea to me...on several levels.

Bloodydisgusting.com recently posted an interview with Robert Rodriguez, director of "Sin City," in which he talks about the status of the sequel to the aforementioned film: "We still talk about doing that as early/later next year, but I haven’t gotten into that yet," Rodriguez told us. "I know Frank [Miller] wants to do it I know I wanna do it and its always sort of time permitting kind of thing but its not like I can tell you definitely we’re starting…its not my next picture I know that. Doesn’t mean that its not the picture right after because that’s still a possibility." The sooner the better, says this geek!

On a related note, for those that were unaware, Brittany Murphey passes away this past Sunday. Murphey was known for her roles in "Clueless" and "8 Mile" but also starred in "Sin City" among other films. RIP Brittany.

Topher Grace, who played the simbiote Venom in "Spiderman 3" has stated that he has not been approached to reprise the role in the 2012 spin-off film "Venom." This geek thinks that this is great news. Anything that can separate this film from that debauchery is a good thing. Thanks to movieweb.com for the info!

The scribe for the "Bond 23" film, Peter Morgan, has said that his script for the upcoming film is "shocking" states MI6 (a website devoted to the Bond films and books). Morgan has written for such films as "The Queen" and "The Last King of Scotland." Pre-production for the film has been put on hold until February, but is still scheduled for release fall of 2011. I'm still hoping for Muse to perform the next Bond theme song... They'd be perfect!

Variety is reporting that "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" directing duo Phil Lord and Chris Miller will be helming the big screen adaptation of "21 Jump Street." The film, based on the TV series that helped launch Johnny Depp to the film world. The script was co-written by Jonah Hill of "Superbad" stardom, he will also star and executive produce the film.

Variety is also reporting that Paramount Pictures is planning a film franchise based on the Doc Holliday character. The series will have a "Pirates of the Caribbean" feel to it and will follow the sickened Holliday gun-fighter, who also formed a strong friendship with lawman Wyatt Earp. No word on who will take the role, but the character has been portrayed by Dennis Quaid in "Wyatt Earp" as well as Val Kilmer in "Tombstone," which by the way is one of the greatest acting jobs in history...according to me.

Laurence Fishburne has been cast in a pivotal role in the new "Predators" film, being produced by Robert Rodriguez. The film is a direct sequel to the original Arnold Schwarzenegger film and will by pass the the stories of the "Aliens vs. Predators" films. Fishburne joins Adrien Brody, Topher Grace and Danny Trejo on the the film.

Thanks to darkhorizons.com, comicbookmovie.com and the above mentioned websites for the info!

Avatar

2009-12-22T10:46:00.002-07:00

Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Steven Lang, Giovanni Ribisi, CCH Pounder

Rated PG-13

Grade: B+

I apologize for the delay on the review for this film, but I really had to process this one for some reason, as there were several aspects of the film that are absolutely stunning, others that were not so much. Over the past year or so, there has been a lot of buzz over this film; with the talk of the $300 million budget, the "ground-breaking" filming technology, etc., I couldn't help but think that this film was going to be absolutely stunning. Then September 2009 hits and we see the first trailer for "Avatar" and a resounding "What the hell?" came from the sci-fi and film world. While the film was astounding to watch, I couldn't help but feel that something was not right or missing. More on that later.

Like many others have stated in their reviews, the technology used to film this movie is incredible and pretty much seamless, which pulls you into the film's world like no other film has been able to do. The colors, the movement, the detail, all were just stunning to watch. When "Transformers" came out a few years back, I was amazed at the CG work in that film, but this...this is unparalleled and will change how movies are filmed. Cameron's mind was somewhere else when he envisioned Pandora, and it paid off, big time.

While I don't think he was horrible, Sam Worthington as Jake Sulley was tolerable. He is still lacking the raw emotion that many great actors have. That and the fact that his Aussie accent kept sneaking in here and there. The real star of this one was Zoe Saldana; she blew the rest of the cast out of the water. She showed such emotion through out the film and we never even get to see her face really, only that of her alien character. Stephen Lang's character was easily the most annoying and cliched in any film this year. I don't think it was possible for him to chew any harder on the scenery. Sigourney Weaver...enough said. Few really remember CCH Pounder from films, but she is one of the great co-stars out there and doesn't get enough credit for her roles.

Now on to the bad part of the film for me: the story. At the surface, the story seems something original and deep, with the "man vs. nature" theme going on, but if you break it down, the story actually follows a pretty standard idea. To put it simply, if you've seen "Dances with Wolves" or "Pocahontas," then you know the story here. The problem you ask? Well, with all the hype that James Cameron put out there on this film, basically saying this film was going to change films as we know it and the like, I feel let down by such a simple story. I don't think we needed to see any too deep as that would distract you from the world he created, but something a bit more original would have bumped this film to a whole new level.

So, with all of that said, this film is definitely one you need to watch and I highly suggest you go the 3D route if possible, it adds such a new element to the film. You will experience a new type of filming. But the lack of unique story holds me back from giving this a higher grade. Let the bashing begin...

Top 50 Films of the Past Decade

2009-12-16T12:17:00.003-07:00

Believe it or not, another decade has come and gone. It seems like only yesterday that the world was in turmoil over the "Y2K" issue and preparing for the worse. Here we are 10 years later, getting ready for the potential "End of Days" with the 2012 speculations! Over the past 10 years, we have seen a variety of films come and go. Some good and some bad, others really bad (G.I. Joe anyone?). I felt it necessary to compile a list of my favorite films of the past decade. Keep in mind that I don't pretend to have seen every movie ever made, and I know that I have missed some fantastic movies (feel free to suggest them to me), but this list includes quite a variety of films. I tried to keep it closer to 25, but alas, I have too many that I could not leave out. So...on with the show! Enjoy!

50- Bourne Trilogy (Doug Liman, Paul Greengrass) 2002, 2004, 2007
49- Hotel Rwanda (Terry George) 2004
48- The Hangover (Todd Phillips) 2009
47- Finding Nemo (Andrew Stinton, Lee Unkrich) 2003
46- Erin Brockovich (Steven Soderbergh) 2000
45- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (Ang Lee) 2000
44- Gladiator (Ridley Scott) 2000
43- Enemy at the Gates (Jeann-Jaques Annaud) 2001
42- Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Peter Jackson) 2001, 2002, 2003
41- A History of Violence (David Cronenberg) 2005
40- Alpha Dog (Nick Cassavetes) 2006
39- Watchmen (Zack Snyder) 2009
38- The Black Dahlia (Brian de Palma) 2006
37- 28 Days Later...(Danny Boyle) 2002
36- The Beach (Danny Boyle) 2000
35- Road to Perdition (Sam Mendes) 2002
34- The Orphanage (Juan Antonio Bayona) 2007
33- Best in Show (Christopher Guest) 2000
32- Napoleon Dynamite (Jared Hess) 2004
31- Catch Me if You Can (Steven Spielberg) 2003
30- Gangs of New York (Martin Scorsese) 2000
29- Moulin Rouge (Baz Luhrman) 2002
28- Juno (Jason Reitman) 2007
27- Memento (Christopher Nolan) 2000
26- No Country for Old Men (Joel Coen, Ethan Coen) 2007
25- O Brother, Where Art Thou (Joel Coen, Ethan Coen) 2000
24- Crash (Paul Haggis) 2005
23- American Psycho (Mary Harron) 2002
22- X-Men (Bryan Singer) 2000
21- 300 (Zack Snyder) 2007
20- Shaun of the Dead (Edgar Wright) 2004
19- Big Fish (Tim Burton) 2003
18- Batman Begins (Christopher Nolan) 2005
17- Into the Wild (Sean Penn) 2008
16- X2: X-Men United (Bryan Singer) 2003
15- The Hurt Locker (Kathryn Bigelow) 2009
14- Donnie Darko (Richard Kelly) 2001
13- Pineapple Express (David Gordon Green) 2008
12- Let the Right One In (Tomas Alfredson) 2008
11- (500) Days of Summer (Marc Webb) 2008
10- Superbad (Greg Mattola) 2007
9- Fantastic Mr. Fox (Wes Anderson) 2009
8- District 9 (Neill Blomkamp) 2009
7- The Dark Knight (Christopher Nolan) 2008
6- Gone Baby Gone (Ben Affleck) 2007
5- Up (Pete Docter, Bob Peterson) 2009
4- Inglorious Basterds (Quentin Tarantino) 2009
3- Snatch (Guy Ritchie) 2000
2- Pan's Labyrinth (Guillermo del Toro) 2006
1- The Departed ( Martin Scorsese) 2006

Honorable Mentions:
- Casino Royale (Martin Campbell) 2006
- V for Vendetta (James McTeigue) 2005
- Sin City (Frank Miller, Robert Rodriguez, Quentin Tarantino) 2005
- Grindhouse (Robert Rodriguz, Eli Roth) 2007
- Brothers (Jim Sheridan) 2009
- 3:10 to Yuma (James Mangold) 2007
- Royal Tennenbaums (Wes Anderson) 2001
- Mulholland Drive (David Lynch) 2001
- The Messenger (Oren Moverman) 2009
- Across the Universe (Julie Taymor) 2007

Feel free to leave some feedback!

2010 Golden Globe Nominees

2009-12-15T11:51:00.003-07:00

It's that time of year when we see the "award" movies hit the screens and the expectations for films sky rockets to a new level. Just today, to kick things off, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association released its nominations for the 2010 Golden Globe Awards. These awards celebrates achievements in both film and television and also provide a hint as to how the Academy Awards (Oscars) will turn out. So, without further ado, here are the nominations, I have bolded the selection that I feel will be the winner:

1.BEST MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
Avatar
The Hurt Locker
Inglorious Basterds
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Up in the Air

2.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
Emily Blunt- The Young Victoria
Sandra Bullock- The Blind Side
Helen Mirren- The Last Station
Carey Mulligan- An Education
Gabourey Sidibe- Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire

3.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
Jeff Bridges- Crazy Heart
George Clooney- Up in the Air
Colin Firth- A Single Man
Morgan Freeman- Invictus
Tobey Maguire- Brothers

4.BEST MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
(500) Days of Summer
The Hangover
It's Complicated
Julie & Julia
Nine

5.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR
MUSICAL
Sandra Bullock- The Proposal
Marion Cotillard- Nine
Julia Roberts- Duplicity
Meryl Streep- It's Complicated
Meryl Streep- Julie & Julia

6.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY
OR MUSICAL
Matt Damon- The Informant!
Daniel Day-Lewis- Nine
Robert Downey, Jr.- Sherlocke Holmes
Joseph Gordon-Levitt- (500) Days of Summer
Michael Stuhlbarg- A Serious Man

7.BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
Coraline
Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Princess and the Frog
Up

8.BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM
Baaria (Italy)
Broken Embraces (Spain)
The Maid (Chile)
A Prophet (France)
The White Ribbon (Germany)

9.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A
MOTION PICTURE
Penelope Cruz- Nine
vera Farmiga- Up in the Air
Anna Kendrick- Up in the Air
Mo'Nique- Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Julianne Moore- A Single Man

10.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A
MOTION PICTURE
Matt Damon- Invictus
Woody Harrelson- The Messenger
Christopher Plummer- The Last Station
Stanley Tucci- The Lovely Bones
Chritoph Waltz- Inglorious Basterds

11.BEST DIRECTOR – MOTION PICTURE
Kathryn Bigelow- The Hurt Locker
James Cameron- Avatar
Clint Eastwood- Invictus
Jason Reitman- Up in the Air
Quentin Tarantino- Inglorious Basterds

12.BEST SCREENPLAY – MOTION PICTURE
Neill Blomkamp, Terri Tatchell- District 9
Mark Boal- The Hurt Locker
Nancy Meyers- It's Comlicated
Jason Reitman, Sheldon Turner- Up in the Air
Quentin Tarantino- Inglorious Basterds

13.BEST ORIGINAL SCORE – MOTION PICTURE
Michael Giacchino- Up
Marvin Hamlisch- The Informant!
James Horner- Avatar
Abel Korzeniowski- A Single Man
Karen O, Carter Burwell- Where the Wild Things Are

14.BEST ORIGINAL SONG – MOTION PICTURE
"Cinema Italiano"- Nine, Mary Yeston
"I Want to Come Home"- Everybody's Fine, Paul McCartney
"I See You"- Avatar, James Horner, Simon Franglen, Kuk Harrell
"The Weary Kind"- Crazy Heart, Ryan Bingham, T Bone Burnett
"Winter"- Brothers, U2, Bono

15.BEST TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
Big Love (HBO)
Dexter (Showtime)
House (FOX)
Mad Men (AMC)
True Blood (HBO)

16. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES –
DRAMA
Glenn Close- Damages
January Jones- Mad Men
Juliana Margulies- The Good Wife
Anna Paquin- True Blood
Kyra Sedgwick- The Closer

17. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
Simon Baker- The Menatlist
Michael C. Hall- Dexter
Jon Hamm- Mad Men
Hugh Laurie- House
Bill Paxton- Big Love

18. BEST TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
30 Rock (NBC)
Entourage (HBO)
Glee (FOX)
Modern Family (ABC)
The Office (NBC)

19. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES –
COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Toni Collette- United States of Tara
Courtney Cox- Cougar Town
Edie Falco- Nurse Jackie
Tina Fey- 30 Rock
Lea Michele- Glee

20.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES –
COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Alec Baldwin- 30 Rock
Steve Carrell- The Office
David Duchovny- Californication
Thomas Jane- Hung
Matthew Morrison- Glee

21.BEST MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Georgia O'Keeffe (Lifetime)
Grey Gardens (HBO)
Into the Storm (HBO)
Little Dorrit (PBS)
Taking Chance (HBO)

22.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION
PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Joan Allen- Georgia O'Keeffe
Drew Barrymore- Grey Gardens
Jessica Lange- Grey Gardens
Anna Paquin- The Courageous Heart if Irena Sendler
Sigourney Weaver- Prayers for Bobby

23.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION
PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Kevin Bacon- Taking Chance
Kenneth Branagh- Wallander: One Step Behind
Chitwell Ejifor- Endgame
Brendan Gleeson- Into the Storm
Jeremy Irons- Georgia O'Keeffe

24.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A
SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Jane Adams-Hung
Rose Byrne- Damages
Jane Lynch- Glee
Janet McTeer- Into the Storm
Chloe Sevigny- Big Love

25.BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES,
MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Micheal Emerson- Lost
Neil Patrick Harris- How I Met Your Mother
William Hurt- Damages
Joh Lithgow- Dexter
Jeremy Piven- Entourage

The Golden Globe Awards will air on Sunday, January 17th, 2010 on NBC.

Fantastic Mr. Fox

2009-12-14T17:20:00.002-07:00

George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Bill Murray, Michael Gambon, Jason Schwartzman, Willem Dafoe, Owen Wilson

Rated PG

Grade: A-

Wes Anderson is a director that definitely has his own style, and it's not for everyone to be honest. They are a bit quirky and "off," so to speak, so why not throw in a stop-motion animation film into his unique repertoire? This is a fun and smart film. There are some laugh-out-loud moments and dialogue this is incredible. Add to that some of the best voice over work I've ever heard and you have a "Fantastic" (pun intended) film!

First, I'd like to say that this film is proof that Disney, Pixar and Dreamworks do not have the animation genre monopolized. It is refreshing to see something other than computer animation or motion-cap hit the big screen. My only real experience with stop motion is Tim Burton and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," in this film far exceeds those. It is really quite cool how it is filmed, the amount of detail that is in place. It's simply incredible.

The story here is rather simple, but it is very entertaining. We follow Mr. Fox and his family, as well as a slew of other woodland creatures, as they battle against 3 local farmers, Boggins, Bunce and Bean. Fox decides he'd like to relive his days as a chicken thief and in the process, endangers his family and friends. Wes Anderson and his writers have done an amazing job with this script, creating dialogue that is intelligent, yet includes a witty humor. There is no cussing involved here, save for the word itself, cuss. Every time a cuss word could be used, the actual word, cuss, is placed. My personal favorite...cluster cuss!

I mentioned the awesome voice-over work for this film and it's no exaggeration. It is so hard to select actors to do this type of work, as they need to be able to tell a story using only their voice. Yes, you have an animated story to go with that, but if you use actors who are unable to provide the depth needed, you will lose your audience. As much as I'm not a fan of George Clooney, he was stellar in his role as Fox. Meryl Streep need not convince me that she is one of the best actresses of our time; she is simply amazing to watch (or listen, as the case may be).

As I said, Anderson's movies are not for everyone, but I think this is easily his best film yet. Despite its unique look, it's a film that more of the general public can enjoy. I wouldn't exactly say this is a family film, just due to the type of humor it involves, it's not a silly, slap-stick style, so the kids might get a bit bored. Add this to list of my favorite films of the year! Great work Mr. Anderson!

Keep an eye out for the Best and Worst films of 2009, coming in the next few weeks!

The Messenger

2009-12-07T15:38:00.002-07:00

Ben Foster, Woody Harrelson, Jena Malone, Samantha Morton

Rated R (Language, Sexual content/nudity)

Grade: A-

If you read my review on "Brothers," then you probably saw that movies about the Iraq and Afghanistan wars are a bit of a touchy subject. While this movie isn't a war movie, it deals with the sad and upsetting part of the war. This is a very good film, but it is a gut-wrenching topic. It is a simple film about a heavy topic, but it is done with tact and skill. It doesn't take a side or preach a an ideal, it is just a film that is amazing to watch unfold.

The story follows Staff Sergeant Will Montgomery (Foster) and Captain Tony Stone (Harrelson) who are assigned to the Casualty Notification Team of the Army. They are assigned the unfortunate task of tell family members that their soldier had been killed in action. There are some very touching and sad moments, as you can imagine. However, it is done in a tactful manner to not preach one side or the other of the wars our country is engaged in. While the film is not the most fast paced film, but the skill of the actors make it a film you want to watch. It is an emotional ride, but well worth it.

Woody Harrelson had a few years a while back when he could do no wrong, with films like "White Men Can't Jump" and "Indecent Proposal," he really made a name for himself. He kind of disappeared from the main stream for a while and this year he has made quite the come-back and has not missed a step. He is an incredible actor and has an ability to show true emotion without really trying. Add to this the acting chops of Ben Foster, who has starred in "3:10 to Yuma" and "Alpha Dog," and you have quite the pair. He is a rare talent and highly under-rated in my eyes. The two are paired perfectly in this film. The others in the cast are just as good and help add to the emotion that was needed to carry this film.

This is a film that is a must-see for this year. It is extremely well done and not over-produced like a lot of Hollywood films are now days. It is a simple, straight forward film that takes on a heavy topic, but is not meant to anger or take sides. Go watch this film, it is well worth it.

Brothers

2009-12-05T00:14:00.007-07:00

Tobey Maguire, Natalie Portman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Sam Shepard, Bailee Madison, Taylor Geare, Mare Winningham

Rated R (Language, violent content)

Grade: A-

Recent film history has shown that films about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan tend to not do very well at the box office, some will even say that it's a taboo subject to portray. No matter what side of that argument you fall on, you have to agree that it brings up a lot of feelings. I think this film does a fantastic job of portraying some of what happens after someone has returned home. Having said that, I do not personally know someone who has been through this situation and my heart goes out to those who have.

Now, on to the film. This is easily one of the best films I have seen this year. Every aspect of this film just stands out to me: the acting, filming, the story. While these actors have been around for quite some time and they have all played a variety of character, this film is a best for all of them.

The story follows the family of a marine (Maguire) who is sent back to Afghanastan. Just before that happens, his brother (Gyllenhaal) is released from prison. After the marine's helicopter is shot down, his family tries to move on, having been told that he is dead. Brother steps in to help the family to cope with his and their loss. The story is actually a remake of a Danish film of the same name. The story seems quite simple, but it also has a depth that is rare these days. I hate to use such a cliche word to describe a film, but the film is really quite moving, in many ways.

As I stated earlier, this film is acted incredibly well. Tobey Maguire seems to have tapped into a dark corner of his being; his portrayal of Sam is disturbing and emotional. For those that are used to seeing him as the dorky Peter Parker and Spiderman, this is a whole new person. It really shows his abilities that he has been hiding away from us apparently. I've always known that Jake Gyllenhaal was talented, but this role allows him to show it off. His transition from the hard prisoner to loving family member is incredible and seamless. Natalie Portman has cemented her position as one of the top female actors of our time. She is stellar in her role. I can't leave out the two little girls, as they held their own in this group of actors, especially Bailee Madison. She has a scene that is one of the most moving scenes in the film.

Technically speaking, the movie is rather simple, which is perfect for this situation. The simplicity keeps the story in the fore front and doesn't distract you at all and allows the realism to take place. I have a tendency to notice music in films (not sure why, it just stands out to me) and the music that was selected here was a perfect fit for the story and the characters.

I love this time of year, as it is a time when some of the best movies are released and this is no exception. All the pieces come together in unique fashion to give us glimpse into the scattered world of war veterans and their families. I can't stress enough the gratitude I have for the men and women of the armed forces and their sacrifice. This film is simply amazing and I'd suggest that you check this one out.

Random Movie News: Raunchy Harry Potter, My Fair Lady, Breaking Dawn, Bourne Series & More

2009-12-02T21:58:00.006-07:00

Here is the first look at the latest and last film in the Shrek series, "Shrek Forever After." This film revolves around Shrek striking a deal with Rumplestiltskin, which reverts Far Far Away into a world with out him, so expect to see Donkey pulling a cart and Puss wearing a pink bow and a few extra pounds. Expect a teaser trailer with the film "Avatar" later this month.

In a recent interview, Peter Jackson, producer of the two upcoming films of "The Hobbit," he states that filming has been pushed to mid-summer of 2010, instead of next spring. This will more than likely push the release date of the first film into 2012. It is unclear as to how this will effect the second film's release date. As of now, there is still no official casting for the films.

Summit Studios has yet to give the green light to the last film in the Twilight Saga, Breaking Dawn. Here's why: SPOILERS!!! They are unsure how to approach several topics in the book, such as several rather "rough" teenage coitus, an angry fetus, a unique take on a cesarean and a werewolf with a pedophilia attraction to the aforementioned newborn baby. There is now talk of them splitting the book into two movies (a bit greedy are we?). There is also some campaigning to get Chris Weitz, who directed "New Moon," back to direct the two films.

Director Todd Phillips, who helmed the surprise hit "The Hangover," said in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that he is about half way through writing a script for a sequel to this movie. He says that the film will take place in a new location, but wouldn't divulge where that location would be.

USA Today recently sat down with Director David Yates to discuss his upcoming films "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." The first film will a kind of "road film" due to the fact that the three main characters will be away from Hogwarts and much more grounded than the previous films. One that that may come as a surprise is the nudity involved in the story. Yeah...that's right, nudity. Here is a portion of the article: "Readers will remember 'The Silver Doe' chapter from the book in which Harry strips down to his undies to retrieve a sword from the bottom of a lake. If Radcliffe in wet tighty-whities isn't enough to get the girls screaming, Yates indicates he may have no kit on at all as Ron sees nightmarish visions produced by a horcrux trying to defend itself and Yates tells Video Business (via Coming Soon) that one 'shows Hermione and Harry embracing and kissing. It's something intriguing and sensual for Rupert to react to, and Dan will be bare for that.'" Great! We get to see Harry's potter...

John Madden is in talks to direct a remake of the classic film "My Fair Lady" for Sony Pictures. His previous works include "Shakespear in Love" and "Proof." The film will be more based on George Bernard Shaw's original play "Pygmalion" rather than the 1964 musical film. Kiera Knightley was at one time attached to star as Eliza, but that has proven to be false.

Finally, Paul Greengrass, who directed the last two Bourne films, has walked away from the filming of the fourth film. Part of the reason was that he was not consulted about the writers of the script for the film. Also, Greengrass has a tendency to just film, with out much of a plan, which tends to get rather expensive and Universal Studios is afraid to take that direction in today's market, which makes sense. Greengrass saw this as a problem. The star of the films, Matt Damon, is rather close to Greengrass, so it is unsure how this will effect his involvement in the film. I'll have to keep an eye on this situation.

Ninja Assassin

2009-11-29T02:45:00.002-07:00

Rain, Naomie Harris, Sho Kozugi, Anna Sawai

Rated R (Graphic Violence, Language)

Grade: B

We all know that martial arts movies have a tendency to not be good when it comes to story lines and acting, but every once in a while, we get a film that is both fun to watch as well as technically executed well. This is one of those films. I have read other reviews for the film and they were all rather negative and dissed the film just because of the excessive use of violence (more on that a bit later) and lack of entertainment value. Now, I'm not saying this film should be winning any Oscars, but I think it deserves more credit than it's getting.

First off, the film is a visual masterpiece. It is filmed extremely well with great camera work and lighting through out the film. It has a bit of a gritty feel to it, but not to the level that, say, Tarantino would add to a film. It's just enough to fit the edginess of the film. The use of sound is incredible! The sounds that are added to the myriad of weapons is stellar and just adds to the ambiance of the movie.

It's been a long time since we've seen a martial arts film that isn't overly saturated with CGI fighting, a la "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." While there is some of that style here, it looks as though most of the fighting sequences are true to life and are done in an amazing fashion. Definitely one of the better films involving martial arts in a long time in my opinion.

As I mentioned earlier, the film has been getting a lot of flack about the amount of violence and gore that is featured. Maybe I am desensitized to all of it, but it did not seem any worse than either of the "Kill Bill" films or even the critically acclaimed "Inglorious Basterds" from earlier this year. The violence is very "stylized" (as Hollywood likes to say) and can bit a bit much at times; meaning that it is almost silly. I don't think a person loses 3 pints of blood by being hit in the face, but then again, I'm no fighting expert.

As can be expected with a film of this ilk, the acting was anything but superb. Not the worst I've seen, but that's not why I went to see this movie. I think that had the acting been better, the film could be amazing. It just wasn't enough to pull it up to the next level.

I thought the film was quite entertaining, with awesome fighting sequences. If you are a fan of the martial arts style of film, then I believe you will like this one. Keep an open mind and know it's OK to laugh at violence every now and then, and you'll enjoy this film.

On a side note, I'd love to see what James McTeigue would/could do with the Superman franchise. After seeing this film and knowing how much I enjoyed "V for Vendetta," I say let him at it, because it would be an amazing film and could really give the franchise the kick in the kick in the butt it needs.

Twilight Saga: New Moon

2009-11-23T17:16:00.003-07:00

Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Billy Burke, Ashley Greene

Rated PG-13

Grade: C+

As you may or may not remember, I was not a huge fan of the first film, for a myriad of reasons, so my expectations for this installment were rather low. With a new director attached, one that had some more experience and a better view of the story in my opinion, this helped bump those expectations up a bit. Granted, no matter who the director was this film, and its successors, was bound to make millions upon millions of dollars, which it did: the third largest film opening ever, behind only "The Dark Knight" ($158 million) and "Spiderman 3" ($151 million). I will admit that this film was leaps and bounds better than the first film, but "New Moon" still isn't quite to the level it should be.

One of complaints about "Twilight" was the lack of quality computer graphics. "Twilight" had a budget of about $30 million and I think they did what they could with what they had. Enter "New Moon" and it's $80 million budget (approximately). The animation of the wolves was just OK, nothing ground breaking. I would like to have seen a bit more money put towards that aspect of the film, but let's face it...the demographic of this film is not too concerned with CG, so I can overlook that.

I'm convinced that Robert Pattinson has a permanent case of constipation. He consistently has a look of pain and discomfort on his face and it gets rather annoying. He really does try though, his work is getting better, but he's got a ways to go. Kristen Stewart is just plain bad...flat out. First, she needs to make a better effort to not stare at Taylor Lautner's chest the entire time they are on screen together (ladies, I don't want to hear about how hot he his. Her job is to act, not be distracted). That being said, the two had much better chemistry than the previous film and I can only hope that continues to grow. Lautner was decent and I think given a bit of time, he'll be a decent actor. The one that stole the show for me, yet again, is Billy Burke; he's a great actor and quite under-rated. Too bad Michael Sheen and his entourage weren't in the film more, because they were all great!

There were some great technical moments in the film as well. At times, the camera work was superb, some great panning shots and some unique angles. At the same time, the way they chose to "pass time" was kind of an easy was out and left me a bit nauseated. There were a couple of cool editing moments thrown in as well.

All in all, the film was much better that the first installment and I hope the budget continues to grow. I am excited to see what David Slade does with the "Eclipse" film and hope he brings a new vision to the film. It's not the most fast paced film out there, but it's enough to hold your attention. However, the lack of decent acting throughout the film and some rather cheesy moments keep me from rating the film higher.

2012

2009-11-17T23:50:00.003-07:00

John Cusack, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Amanda Peet, Thandie Newton, Oliver Platt, Danny Glover, Woody Harrelson

Rated PG-13

Grade C+

I have a feeling that director Roland Emmerich has a fetish with the world coming to an end. In addition to this film, he has also brought us "The Day After Tomorrow," "Independence Day," and "Godzilla," among others. While the film was extremely heavy in the CG department, the lack of a real story and acting that would have a hard time competing against an after school special, the film just fell short and failed take the "disaster" film to the next level, which I think we are all ready for.

I need to get this gripe out of the way, so hang with me here. I don't care who your cell phone carrier is, but when most of the world ins in utter chaos with earthquakes, volcanoes and tidal waves, your phone lines are not going to be functional; especially cell phone. There were "little" things like this through out the film that just got under my skin. I know I should over look them and just enjoy the film, but when you have so many things like this that stand out, it is distracting.

Moving on. As I stated earlier, the film is chock full of CG effects, which were done very well. My only complaint here is that it was almost too much for one film, but I can get over that fact.

The story was very generic and lacking in originality. There were very cliche characters involved, to the point you feel like you know them before the movie starts. How many times do we need to see the family that is torn by divorce and real dad is jealous of the relationship his son has developed with step dad? As for the supporting characters, it was pretty easy which of them were going to survive as they had no development at all. In addition to that, we have many "just barely escaping the disaster" moments, which got old pretty fast. Oh, did I mention the inspirational "human kind" speech that is required in the disaster film formula?

When and if you go to watch this film, pack a lunch; it is long! At about two and a half hours, you are ready for the film to be done. They could have easily left out about 30-40 minutes without it hurting the story.

It is a popcorn movie in every way possible: it's loud, action packed and centers around a rather simple plot. I've sat through worse movies, but this one is far from perfect. You won't see anything new and overly unique, but it's an entertaining film none-the-less.

Random News: The Dark Knight Sequel, Hobbit Casting, Superman Update, Pure Country Sequel & More

2009-11-17T10:44:00.005-07:00

If you're a friend of mine on Facebook, then you saw my update this morning, which really isn't good news. Warner Brothers has stated that they will be moving on with the Batman series, with or without director Christopher Nolan and should be releasing an official statement come January. Nolan has been very open about the fact that he want to take a break for a bit, but WB is pushing quite heavily for the film to get started. This is exactly what happened on the first Batman series when Tim Burton was directing; he left and Joel Schumacher came in an ruined everything with his two films. More than likely, Christian Bale will not return if Nolan is not directing.
**Be sure to vote on my poll to the right! ---->

I recently posted some information that Rachel McAdams had been cast as the Black Cat in the upcoming "Spiderman 4" film. She has come out to say that these are just rumors and that she has not even been contacted about the part. Too bad, she would've been good. However, this does mean that the Lizard still has a chance!

It was announced this morning that The Warriors Three, Thor's Asgardian pals, have been cast for the upcoming film. Stuart Townsend ("Queen of the Damned"), Ray Stevenson (HBO's "Rome") and Tadanobu Asano have been cast as Fandral the Dashing, Hogun the Grim and Volstagg the Valiant, respectively. Superb casting if you ask me!

Director James McTeigue ("Ninja Assassin" & "V for Vendetta") was interviewed by MTV recently. His name is still being rumored as being attached to direct the next Superman film. "[The Superman movie is] in a weird place at the moment. They're trying to work out what they're doing. Warner Brothers is trying to figure out their next move on it. There's some things you can do with the Superman franchise, there's other things you can't do. So it hasn't gone anywhere." McTeigue also added "I think it's ripe for a retooling. I would love to — if it happened, I would at least start a conversation about it." I am all for this! His work is amazing and I'd love to see what he could do with Superman!

Brian Cox (X2: X-Men United" and "Red Eye") is in talks to play a Dwarf in Guillermo del Toro's upcoming adaptation of "The Hobbit." Cox is an amazing actor and I have no doubt that whatever role he plays, it will be golden. No word on who will play Bilbo. There is also talk of Viggo Mortenson reprising his role as Aragorn. Sir Ian McKellen will more than likely return to play Gandolf.

George Strait is set to star in the "Pure Country" sequel, titled "A Pure Country Gift." The story centers around a baby girl who is given the gift of singing by three angels. As she rises to fame, she breaks some of the rules set up by the angels. Hmmm, sounds more like a Lifetime Hallmark special to me.

Finally, Disney has cancelled the project centered on "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." McG ("Terminator Salvation) was set to direct, but exited the project before it was cancelled. It seems that Disney is concentrating on developing the fourth installment of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series, which Rob Marshall ("Chicago") has signed on to direct. So, obviously Gore Verbinsky won't be returning...that's too bad. Not sure what to expect out of this film now.

The Fourth Kind

2009-11-16T00:24:00.002-07:00

Milla Jovovich, Will Patton, Elias Koteas, Hakeem Kae-Kazim

Rated PG-13

Grade: B-

Aliens… It is a topic that splits the masses in their opinions. Some are die-hard believers and some have even experienced for themselves one of the four “kinds.” Others offer up explanations for everything that has happened, whether it be crop circles or abductions. This film, based on actual events that occurred in Nome, Alaska, does not try to persuade you either way, and is quite open about that fact. While it does offer up some very interesting evidence, this is a topic that is hard to convert someone from one side to the other.

Director/writer Olatunde Osunsanmi used some the actual footage from the hypnosis and police video as well as the voice recordings from the sessions. By doing this, it really adds to the realism of the film…obviously. But, he used some very unique filming angles and editing techniques to add to that. Add times I felt it a bit strange, but I think it works. Being that most of the film was taken from actually footage, the actors had some big shoes to fill so to speak. They did a great job of re-enacting the sessions, something that could not have been easy.

Most people have an impression of Milla Jovovich as being the martial arts and “B” grade action movies. However, she really does well in this. If you ever saw her in the film “The Messenger” you know that she is a very capable actress and needs to be given a chance to do something bigger. Her supporting cast is very good, especially Will Patton, that man has some serious passion for what he does.

The film is much different than I had anticipated and was lacking in the “scary” department, aside from a few “jump” moments. It is a strange story and it has some pretty intriguing video evidence of what occurred in Nome. The technical side of this film is incredible, as well as the acting, but the odd and misleading story just pulled me out of the film. This is a film that you’d be okay to check out at the video store.

Random Movie News: Independence Day Sequels, Rambo V, Jurassic Park 4, Dark Tower, Yogi Bear and More!

2009-11-13T15:41:00.003-07:00

Director Roland Emmerich, while at a "2012" promotion, mentioned that he'd like to do several sequels to his 1996 hit film "Independence Day." He says he'd like to pick up right where it left off. No script is written, but he has several ideas to go off. As for a title, he's thinking "ID4-Ever." Meh...

I had mentioned earlier in a Facebook status update that Rachel McAdams had landed the role of Felicity Hardy, aka The Black Cat in the upcoming film, "Spiderman 4." While nothing has been confirmed by Sony Pictures or any other party, I'd be the farm it's true. There is also an as yet to be cast male villain. Many speculated that The Lizard would finally make his appearance, but it sounds like someone else will be coming in. "Spiderman 4" hit theaters in 2011.

ABC is about ready to give the green light to a pilot for a reincarnation of "Charlies Angels." The premise is expected to be the same as the original, just more updated for a modern crowd. Can we say FAILURE?

In a recent interview with "Stallone Zone," Stallone said that the original plan for "Rambo V: A Savage Hunt" has been scrapped and will become a separate film, not involving John Rambo. The story involved Rambo hunting down a man/beast that escaped from a lab. The new story will take place "over the border" in a violent town where many young women have disappeared. Either way...this sounds lame.

Director Joe Johnston ("Jurassic Park III", "The Wolfman" and "Captain America: the First Avenger") told AICN that he'd love to be involved in another Jurassic Park series. However, it'd have to be something new; no more being trapped on the island with dinosaurs. There is a story for the 4th film that he claims is very different and he'd love to get it going. I wouldn't mind this at all.

"Lost" helmers JJ Abrams and Damon Lindelof, have dropped the idea of bringing Stephen Kings novels "The Dark Tower." Although a big fan of the series, Abrams says that after spending the last seven years working on "Lost," the last thing he wants to do is "spend the next seven years adapting one of my favorite books of all time. I'm such a massive Stephen King fan that I'm terrified of screwing it up."

You may or may not remember me mentioning that Ridley Scott (director of "Gladiator" and "Alien") will be directing a live action version of the board game Monopoly. Here is the basic plot: "A comedic, lovable loser fails to convince his friends to help him attempt to break the world record for playing Monopoly, and then wakes up the next morning in 'Monopoly City' world with its colourful money and sight gags based on the games iconic imagery." This just sounds really, really bad. Lest we forget, there is also a film version of "Battleship" in the works as well as a remake of the film "Clue." Booo! Hisss!

Dan Akroyd and Justin Timberlake have signed to star in the live-action/animated big screen version of "Yogi Bear," voicing the characters of Yogi Bear and Boo Boo, respectively. Anna Faris will star as a nature documentarian who will follow the two bears in Jelly Stone Park. It will be filmed in the style of "Alvin and the Chipmunks."

Finally, "Bruno" and "Borat" star, Sacha Baron Cohen, has lined up his next two films. The first is "Accidentes," in which Cohen will star as a personal injury lawyer who becomes a blue-collar hero when he helps an immigrant win a case against his employer after an on-the-job accident. The second film is being kept top secret, which I can assume will be another "mockumentary" like "Bruno" and "Borat" and includes the entire writing team from those films. The pitch for this film apparently started a massive bidding war in which Sony prevailed.

Upcoming Movie Releases

2009-11-09T22:14:00.002-07:00

Here is a schedule of movie release dates for the next couple of months. This is the season for a lot of the Oscar-type films to be released, so it's a good time to watch movies!

November 13
2012
Pirate Radio
Fantastic Mr. Fox (Limited release. Wide Release 11/25)
The Messenger (NY/LA)

November 20
Twilight Saga: New Moon
Planet 51
The Blind Side

November 25
Old Dogs
The Road
Ninja Assassin
Me and Orson Wells (NY/LA)

December 4
Armored
Brothers
Everybody's Fine
Up in the Air (Limited. Wide Release 12/25)

December 11
The Princess and the Frog
Invictus
The Lovely Bones

December 18
Did you Hear About the Morgans?
Avatar
Nine (Limited. Wide Release 12/25)

December 25
It's Complicated
Sherlock Holmes
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Squeakual

January 8
Daybreakers
Youth in Revolt

January 15
The Book of Eli
The Spy Next Door
Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil

January 22
Tooth Fairy
Legion
Extraordinary Measures

January 29
When in Rome
Edge of Darkness

February 5
Dear John

February 12
The Wolfman
Valentine's Day
Remember Me
Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightening Thief
I Love You Phillip Morris

February 19
Shutter Island
Takers
From Paris With Love

February 26
The Crazies
A Couple of Dicks

March 5
Alice in Wonderland

March 12
Green Zone

March 19
Last Night
Season of the Witch

March 26
Clash of the Titans
How to Train Your Dragon
Hot Tub Time Machine

April 9
Date Night
The Losers

April 16
Kick-Ass
Piranha 3-D

April 23
Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps

April 30
A Nightmare on Elm Street

May 7
Iron Man 2

June 18
Footloose

Keep in mind that these dates are tentative and can change, especially those that are several months out.

The Men Who Stare at Goats

2009-11-09T17:31:00.001-07:00

George Clooney, Ewan McGregor, Kevin Spacey, Jeff Bridges

Rated R

Grade: B-

There is something hilarious about watching Ewan McGregor talk about Jedi's and laugh about the idea of people using their mind to control objects and people. This will give you an idea of the tone of the film: it was fun and funny, yet it also incorporated some more serious moments as well. That being said, the film started high and really had no where else to go.

The film follows a reporter (McGregor)who comes across a former soldier (Clooney) who claims to be a former member of a special ops army unit with the code name, Jedi's. This group used psychic powers to find missing persons and fight battles with out fighting...sort of. The story is based on actual events and is actually quite believable, but that didn't help much. While the film started out very well, it peaked way too early and fell short of what it should have been. This could have been one of the best films of the year, but it just went no where. Throw in an ending that was anti-climatic and out of no where, and the formula just doesn't add up.

Aside from that, the movie was acted very well and featured a phenomenal cast. Ewan McGregor did a stellar job as Bob, easily one of his best works. Clooney was good, as usual, though I'm still not a huge fan of his. Jeff Bridges and Kevin Spacey were amazing in their roles and easily stole the show. I'd like to see some awards come out of this show somewhere!

Overall, the film wasn't bad, it just lacked a decent ending the film deserved to have. I don't really know how the "real" story ended, so I can't compare. The movie is quite funny at times, but the quasi-dramatic scenes took away from those. "The Men Who Stare at Goats" is a great movie to rent and enjoy at home. Nothing about it screams box office blockbuster, so the theater experience isn't necessary. This is a film where you can sit back and watch some amazing actors work their magic.

A Christmas Carol

2009-11-06T15:43:00.004-07:00

Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Robin Wright Penn, Carey Elwes, Bob Hoskins

Rated PG

Grade B-

Like it or not, the Christmas season is being forced down our throats, so why not dive into it by watching the latest re-telling of Charles Dickens' classic tale "A Christmas Carol." Robert Zemekis once again tackles the motion-cap style with his latest film, this time throwing in the option of 3D. The film is beautiful to watch and the fore mention motion-cap never ceases to amaze, but that is about where it ends.

I was expecting to see yet another film of Jim Carrey running wild with silly antics and obnoxious, in-your-face comedy; not so. While he does have a few moments as Ebeneezer Scrooge, his characters are rather serious and at times, quite intense. He does a decent job, but I still have a hard time taking him serious...in anything. The other voice characters are stellar, including the many other voices done by Carrey.

I watched this film in 3D, which I do suggest, otherwise the film is rather dry and straight forward. The 3D adds a newer dimension, literally and figuratively. There is nothing really new as far as the story goes, but I really wasn't expecting to see some new ground-breaking re-telling of the classic tale.

There are some rather intense moments, and it deals with some rather heavy subjects. I watched the film with many children in the audience and none of them really seemed bother by what they were watching.

Don't go into the film expecting to see another "Polar Express." No singing or musical numbers, and a continuous serious tone with a dabble of humor in some parts. Aside from the always impressive CGI, the film leaves you wanting a bit more. I didn't get that "warm and fuzzy" feeling that you should have at the end of the movie (so I'm told). It is a decent film, but not anything that will become one of those "timeless classics" like you'd want the film to be.

More Random News: First A-Team Pic, Footloose Trouble, True Grit, Mad Max 4 & More

2009-10-26T15:02:00.004-06:00

Here is one of the first pictures to come out of the "A-Team" set. Pictured (from left to right)Bradley Cooper as Templeton "Faceman" Peck, Qunton “Rampage” Jackson as B.A. Baracus, Sharlto Copley as Murdock and Liam Neeson as "Hannibal" Smith. The film also stars Jessica Biel and releases June of 2010.

Director Kenny Ortega ("High School Musical" series) has walked away from the "Footloose" remake, citing differences over budget and tone. Ortega wanted the film to more like the "High School Musical" films with elaborate musical numbers, while Paramount Pictures wants the film to have a more edgy dramatic feel. Zac Efron, who has worked with Ortega on the "High School Musical" films was originally set to star, but he pulled out several months back. He was replaced by Chace Crawford and country singer and Dancing with the Stars alum Julianne Hough will co-star.

Paramount Pictures is "actively discussing" a sequel to the surprise hit "Paranormal Activity." The main reason for this is to hold on to the distribution rights to the product. Bad idea if you ask this geek. Want an example? Take a look at "The Blair Witch Project." Like Paranormal, it was made using a very small budget, but brought in over $140 million in revenue. In order to hold on to the rights, they made a sequel, "Book of Shadows" which brought in a small $26 million. Oops.

George Miller has confirmed that he is working a 4th film in the "Mad Max" series. It set to start filming in August of next year. No word on casting yet, but there are rumors of Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron scoring roles, as well as "Terminator Salvation" star Sam Worthington landing the lead role, and possibly Mel Gibson coming back to star. However, Miller has stated that no one has been signed.

Daniel Craig recently broke the news that a 23rd James Bond film will begin filming next year, for a November 2011 release. Along the same lines, it is being reported that Megan Fox ("Transformers") turned down the chance to play a Bond Girl. I can't tell how happy this makes me. Twenty years ago, a Bond Girl was just eye candy, which is exactly what Fox is. Today's Bond Girl is a smart, edgy and active part in the films and Fox couldn't pull that off if her life depended on it. On the other hand, what an idiot for turning down a role like that? What else does she have going for her besides "Trasformers?" Nada!

Amanda Seyfried says that a sequel to the surprise hit "Mamma Mia!" is in the works. She also says that Meryl Streep would love to do another film as well. More than likely, this would be completely original and would include more songs from Abba...naturally.

Variety is reporting that Matt Damon and Josh Brolin are in talks to join Jeff Bridges in the Coen Brother's ("No Country for Old Men" and "Raising Arizona") in their re-imagining of the John Wayne film "True Grit." Bridges is set to play Rooster Cogburn, while Damon is in talks to play the lawman who teams up with Cogburn. Brolin would be playing the killer in the film. Sounds like a great show to me!

Finally, Ricky Gervais has been asked to host the 67th annual Golden Globe Awards in January 2010. Gervais, who has recently starred in the film "The Invention of Lying" as well as the original British version of "The Office." The Golden Globe Awards celebrate the best in film and television and usually gives you a sense of the direction of the Academy Awards shortly after.

Thanks to Darkhorizons.com and comingsoon.net for the info!

Random Movie News: Musical Adaptations, Little Fockers, Social Network & Justice League?

2009-10-21T11:24:00.004-06:00

First, The Times-Picayune is reporting several things regarding the upcoming "Green Lantern" film. It sounds like production has moved from Australia to New Orleans, LA and things could get underway in the very near future. It is also being reported that the "Green Lantern" film is "the first in a trilogy of films focusing on DC's Justice League heroes—the others being 'The Flash' and 'Wonder Woman'—before uniting all three with fellow League members Batman, Superman, and Aquaman for a Justice League movie." You may or may not remember that a Justice League film tried to get going a while back, but the writers' strike put an end to that project and it was eventually dropped. With "Green Lantern" getting started here soon and the Batman franchise already going, this could finally mean a Justice League movie! Although, I'm not getting my hopes up to high.

Paul Wagner is set to produce a film adaptation of the long-running musical "Miss Saigon," with Lee Daniels in talks to direct. A screen writer is close to being on board and United Artists is in talks to finance the film. The Broadway musical is the 10th longest running production in musical theater and is a contemporary telling of Puccini's "Madame Butterfly" opera. The film is set for a 2011 release.

Along the same lines, Alan Shankman is set to direct and choreograph a film version of the musical "Rock of Ages." Shankman is known for his work on the "Hairspray" film. The shows producer, Chris D'Arienzo, has written the script for the film and Carl Levin, Matt Weaver, Scott Prisand, Tobey Maguire and Jennifer Gibgot will produce. The film is set to begin next summer, with a release in 2011.

Armie Hammer, Max Minghella and Rooney Mara will be joining Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield and Justin Timberlake for the film "Social Network," a film that deals with the founding of the Facebook website. David Fincher is directing.

Laura Dern ("Jurassic Park") has signed on to play the head mistress of the elementary school that the "Little Focker" will be attending in the upcoming sequel "Little Fockers." The film also stars Ben Stiller, Teri Polo, Robert De Niro, Blythe Danner, Owen Wilson and Jessica Alba, with Paul Weitz directing.

Speaking of De Niro, it is being reported that he, Stellan Skarsgard, Jude Law and Dominic Cooper have joined the cast of "Thor," the live action film based on the Marvel character. No word on what roles they may be playing. If signed, they will be joining Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Jamie Alexander and Colm Feore for the film. "Thor," directed by Kenneth Brannaugh, is set for a release in 2011.

Thanks to comingsoon.net, darkhorizons.com and comicbookmovie.com for the info!

Thrill Rides

2009-10-14T17:13:00.001-06:00

At the request of a faithful follower (You know who you are!), I have put together a list of films for those that are looking for a bit of thrill and suspense in a movie, with out all the slashers and monsters. Consider this a continuation of the previous post of "Looking for a good Scare?"

The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
Cape Fear (1962)
Wait Until Dark (1967)
The French Connection (1971)
The Godfather (1972)
Taxi Driver (1976)
Fatal Attraction (1987)
Die Hard (1988)
Flatliners (1990)
Cape Fear (1991)
The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992)
The Fugitive (1993)
The Good Son (1993)
Jurassic Park (1993)
The Usual Suspects (1995)
12 Monkeys (1995)
Fear (1996)
Breakdown (1997)
Minority Report (2002)
The Game (2002)

Grab some pop corn and M&M's or Junior Mints and throw one of these flicks in; sit back and enjoy the ride!

Random Movie News: Vacation Sequel, A New Jack Ryan, Brazilian Job & More

2009-10-14T15:48:00.002-06:00

Variety is reporting that Chris Pine ("Star Trek") is in talks to play the role of Jack Ryan in several upcoming films. The Tom Clancy character has been played by several actors including Harrison Ford, Alec Baldwin and Ben Affleck. It is likely that Pine will film the sequel to "Star Trek" before he heads into the Jack Ryan films.

New Line Cinemas is said to be working on a sequel to the 1983 classic comedy "National Lampoon's Vacation." The film will be based on Rusty Griswold and his attempt to recreate the vacation he and his family took. Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo are likely to make appearances as grand parent's, as is the ever popular Cousin Eddy. National Lampoon, however, will not be attached to this film in any way; the group has since attached itself to direct-to-dvd college comedies.

Bryan Singer, director of "X-Men" and "Superman Returns" is reportedly in talks to come back to the X-Men franchise. Depending on who you are, this is either good news, or bad news. In my opinion, he directed one of the best comic book movies ever in "X2: X-Men United." There are many in the comic book world that were/are disappointed with him, for A-Leaving the X-Men franchise in the first place and B-basically ruining the Superman franchise with his sub-par production of "Superman Returns." After the steaming pile that Bret "I hate comic book fans" Ratner left us with ("X-Men:The Last Stand"), I welcome Singer back with open arms! No word on which X-Film he would be working on, as there are several in the pipeline: "X-Men: First Class," "X-Men Origins: Magneto" and the sequel to "X-Men Origins: Wolverine."

Shoptillyoudrop.com sat down with Zebediah de Soto, director of the upcoming 3D CGI film "Night of the Living Dead: Origins. Here is a snippet from that interview:

"I want to see a helicopter clipping its propeller on a building and careening into a crowd of people. Zombies going through the streets. A thousand people tearing each other apart, zombies tearing them apart, total chaos," De Soto expresses with an air of enthusiasm that is fighting off waves of fatigue from working all night. But wait, helicopters, explosions, and a sea of zombies - this sort of contradicts George A. Romero's original vision put on screen in '68, doesn't it? You bet. De Soto is bringing, to the Dead universe a sense of scope that, he says, has never been seen before in the zombie genre.

Sounds like an interesting movie!

Finally, since the film "The Italian Job" was released back in 2003, there has always been talk of a sequel, which even has a name: "The Brazilian Job" (one of the worst movie names...EVER!). However, the film has just been at a stale mate ever since then. Director F. Gary Gray has stated that it is really in the hands of Paramount Studios. The problem: is the original cast willing to return? Also, many of the people who help get this film made are no longer working at Paramount. Gray said that if asked, he'd return to direct the sequel.

Thanks to darkhorizons.com and comingsoon.net for the information!

Paranormal Activity

2009-10-11T14:54:00.002-06:00

Katie Featherston, Micah Sloat, Mark Fredrichs

Rated R (For language)

Grade: B

If you have seen the trailer for this film, then you have a general idea of the premise of what goes on. For those that have not, the film follows a couple that seems to have some strnage things happening in their home: footsteps, thumps, etc. Micah decides to purchase a camera and microphone to film and record the goings on in their home. It just goes down hill from there.

It is hard to dismiss the similarities between this film and the film that it is constantly being compared to, "The Blair Witch Project." From the very idea of the "found footage" to the ending of the film, but "Paranormal Activity" is more superior in my eyes. It felt more real and the characters are more believable and less obnoxious.

Speaking of acting, this film was done quite well. Not overly done like you think it might be. The psychic is kind of weak, but his time is short.

If you have ever watched any of the ghost hunting shows on TV now days, then you have some inkiling of what to do and not do when dealing with "entities," Micah needs to watch more TV. I was a bit frustrated on some of the things he did or didn't do, but that just comes from my love of the topic and does not take away from the film at all.

If you are looking for something to get the heart rate up and to get your significant other to move a bit closer to you, then go check this one out; it's a lot of fun to watch.

Looking for a good scare?

2009-10-09T16:19:00.004-06:00

It's that time of year again: the leaves are turning colors, it't getting colder and the Chiller and SyFy Networks break out their made for tv movies that definately leave you wanting to watch a film that will really scare you. Each year, I put together a list of films that are a must-see for horror and thriller movie fans. Normally, I do a Top Ten list, but this time, I'm just going to list some of my favorites!

Let's start with the more light-hearted films, for the not-so-die-hard horror fans. Here are some horror comedies that are a blast:

Young Frankenstein (1974)
Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Attack of the Killer Tomatoes (1978)
Killer Clowns from Outer Space (1988)
Ghostbusters (1984)
Gremlins (1984)
Gremlins (1984)
Beetlejuice (1986)
Evil Dead Series
Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
Idle Hands (1999)
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Teeth (2007)
Dead Snow (2009)
Zombieland (2009)

For the Thriller Genre lovers, most of these will be quite familiar. Even if you have seen these before, go watch them again, they are fantastic films!

Rear Window (1954)
Vertigo (1958)
Psycho (1960)
A Clockwork Orange (1971)
Jaws (1975)
Alien (1979)
The Shining (1980)
Poltergeist (1982)
Misery (1990)
Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Se7en (1995)
Copy Cat (1995)
The Sixth Sense (1999)
Event Horizon (1997)
What Lies Beneath (2000)
Open Water (2003)
High Tension (2003)

Finally, the real good stuff. These films, some of which are close to 80 years old now, have stood the test of time and are some of the best horror films out there. Some of them could arguably be among the best films ever made. They will scare you and keep you awake at night...but isn't that why we watch these films?

Phantom of the Opera (1925)
Dracula (1931)
Frankenstein (1931)
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Rosemary's Baby (1968)
The Exorcist (1973)
Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
Carrie (1976)
Amityville Horror (1978)
Halloween (1978)
Dawn of the Dead (1978)
Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Arachnophobia (1990)
Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992)
Interview with the Vampire (1994)
Ringu (1998)
Audition (1999)
Sleepy Hollow (1999)
28 Days Later... (2002)
The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
30 Days of Night (2007)
Let the Right One In (2008)

If you need suggestions or a bit of background on any of these films, please let me know! This is one of my favorite film genres and I have seen just about all of these and can tell you they are worth a watch!

“Låt den rätte komma in” (Let the Right One In)

2009-10-04T22:06:00.000-06:00

Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Patrik Rydmark, Ika Nord

Rated R

Grade A-

I found out about this movie while voting for Spike TV’s Scream Awards. It, along with Dead Snow, was nominated for several awards, so I figured I’d take a look.

This is a Swedish film that follows a young boy, Oskar, who is constantly being abused and bullied at school, causing him to become a bit of a loner. A young girl, Eli, moves in and immediately Oskar notices something different about her. That is, of course, she is a vampire. While she helps Oskar gain some self confidence and teaches him to stand up for himself, she allows her self to become a bit more human, in allowing herself to become close to a human.

This is a very unique take on the vampire story; it follows some of the more traditional lore of vampire but adds a new feel to it. It is easily one of the best vampire films in recent history and one of my favorite films of the year.

Aside from the story, the film was done beautifully. The sound is amazing- you can hear every little nuance and whisper that is made, adding to the creepiness of the film. It is not overly gory, but it is not lacking in the blood department. It is dark, but it is still a very moving film.

If you like different films, this is one you want to take a look at.

Zombieland

2009-10-04T21:48:00.001-06:00

Woody Harrleson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin, Bill Murray

Rated R

Grade: B

Usually when you see ads for movies like this, immediately your expectations are low, at best. It’s a possibility that this made me like this film more, but this movie was surprisingly funny and entertaining.

The script was very well written and acted. This could be one of Woody’s better roles. His timing was perfect and it seemed that this role was written just for him. Jesse Eisenberg has a very similar look and sound as Michael Cera (“Superbad”) but not quite as over the top. The two female leads were ok, nothing outstanding. The other stand out would be Bill Murray. I didn’t expect to see him in the film and it was a great surprise. His few moments in the film are hilarious and he’s not afraid to make fun of himself.

The film is a Zombie flick in every way possible, but adds a hilarious touch to it; like the Zombie Kill of the Week and Tallahassee’s undying quest to find a Twinkie. There is quite a bit of gore and a bit of semi-nudity (zombie stripper anyone?). I would almost say this was as good as “Shaun of the Dead” but doesn’t quite get there. It is a fun and entertaining film that throws in a bit of suspense to mix it up. Go check this one out for a good laugh.

Random Movie News: Clash of the Titans, Kill Bill Vol III, The Hobbit, Pirates 4 & More

2009-10-02T17:04:00.008-06:00

First up is a picture of Liam Neeson in his full get-up for his role as Zeus in the upcoming "Clash of the Titans" remake. From the other pictures and behind the scenes videos I have seen, this film looks epic! Great cast as well.

Awhile back i had mentioned that filming for Seth Rogan's "Green Hornet" had been put on hold. Well, shortly after that, they commenced filming due to a schedule change. Here is a picture of Seth Rogan as The green Hornet.

Despite the ongoing rumors that Johnny Depp character of Captain Jack Sparrow is being written out of the next film, Disney officials claim that this is totally untrue. The rumors stem from Dick Cook leaving the Disney Studios last week. Cook was the main person who originally got Depp to play the now famous role and speculation was that since Cook was gone, Depp would be sure to follow.

In the last Random Movie News report, I had mentioned that a sequel to "Silent Hill" was being written. That project may be put on hold...for about a year. "Silent Hill 2" scribe Roger Avary was sentenced to a year in jail after being charged for a drunk driving accident where a passenger was killed. This could be interesting.

For a while, it looked as though MGM Studios would be losing "The Hobbit" films as it is having some serious financial issues. However, after working out a deal with their lenders, it looks as thought they will be able to hold on to the series. Guillermo del Toro is set to direct and Peter Jackson will be producing.

Despite a lack-luster showing at the box office and unfavorable reviews, a sequel to Nicolas Cage's "Ghost Rider" is moving forward. The writer, David S. Goyer ("Dark Knight" and "Batman Begins") say his version will be much darker and scarier and will push the limits of the PG-13 boundaries. That is exactly what this film should have been in the first place!

Finally, In a recent interview, director Quentin Tarantino stated that he'd love to do a third part to the "Kill Bill" series. However, he'd like to take a break...a TEN YEAR break! He claims that he and Uma "Sometimes I'm cute, Sometimes I'm Ugly" Thurman both need a break from the films. So, being that "Kill Bill Vol. 2" was released in 2004, it looks like 2014 will be the year. Really? Wow. So now that Bill is dead, literally and figuratively, I can't quite figure out where this story could go.

Surrogates

2009-10-01T23:58:00.002-06:00

Bruce Willis, Rodha Mitchell, Rosamund Pike, Boris Kodjoe, James Cromwell, Ving Rhames

Rated PG-13

Grade: C-

With Hollywood seeming to quickly run out of ideas, they seem to be turning to two sources: older movies and graphic novels/comic books. This film falls into the latter category. I have not read this book nor did I know it was even a graphic novel until I happen to come across a discussion on a comic book movie website. This film is just proof that not all comic book stories translate well to film.

There were three big problems with this film. First, the dialogue was awful. As my friend stated, "I've heard better dialogue in video games." This was pretty bad and in turn, the acting was pretty bad. You couldn't help but laugh at several parts.

Second, the story itself was very predictable. It was pretty easy to figure out who was working for whom here. Several plot holes and useless characters didn't help the situation. From the get-go, it did nothing to grab hold of you, let alone keep your attention.

Third, from what I could gather, the film took place 14 years into the future. So why then, are they still driving cars from 2010? Why are they talking on cell phone models that are old even by today's standards? I know, it's a petty complaint, but it's the little things that can ruin a film.

This is a film you can wait and see on DVD, but I wouldn't make any great effort to see it. It is over-produced and lacking in any story that grips you. The acting isn't horrible, but the dialogue makes you believe it is. If you want to see a real Bruce Willis flick, go rent "Die Hard."

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

2009-09-27T14:08:00.003-06:00

Bill Hader, Anna Faris, James Caan, Andy Samberg, Bruce Campbell, Mr. T, Neil Patrick Harris, Benjamin Bratt, Al Roker

Rated PG

Grade B+

The last movie I saw in 3D was Beowulf, from a few years back and it kind of turned me off to the idea. I paid an extra $2-$3 per ticket and it wasn't that impressive. I thought I'd give it another whirl with this film and it changed my mind! It's a lot of fun to see the depth that it adds to the film.

You may or may not know that this film was adapted from a children's book, I did not know this until just recently. When i first saw the previews, I just assumed wit would be another one of those "kids" movies that you buy on DVD and hope the kids like it. I was actually quite impressed with it. I don't know if it was due to lack of sleep or the great company I had, but I haven't laughed that hard at a movie in quite some time, to the point I had tears! The film has a bit of an ADHD feel to it: quite random and silly, but it works.

The main character, Flint Lockwood, voiced by SNL's Bill Hader, was awesome. His delivery was impeccable and hilarious. The total randomness and silliness of the character was the best part of the show. The scenes where he is using one word to describe what he is doing had me laughing hysterically. Anna Faris played his "love interest" quite well also. The supporting roles were well casted and voiced and added to the hilarity of the film.

It is a fun, silly and colorful film that the entire family will enjoy. There is nothing that stood out to me as not being kid friendly, just an all around funny movie. Go check this one out.

New Facbook page, Upcoming Favorites Lists & New Poll!

2009-09-26T12:28:00.004-06:00

Come Join us on the Facebook page! Follow the link below and join up!
CLICK ME!

Also, we are heading into my second favorite movie season of the year- Halloween! I will be putting together a few different lists of some of my all around favorite scary movies, as well as lists of different genres: Zombie films, Slasher flicks, Intense thrillers and more. So keep an eye out for those.

Don't forget to take a few minutes and post an answer (or two, or three) in the poll off to the right.

Movie Previews!

2009-09-22T11:25:00.002-06:00

Here are some previews for some upcoming movies!

This is "Paranormal Activity." It is only playing in select cities. Too bad one of them isn't Salt Lake! Looks cool!

This preview is for "Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief," based on the popular series of books. It is directed by Chris Columbus, who also filmed the first two films in the Harry Potter Series.

Disney has teamed up with Robert Zemeckis once again to create "A Christmas Carol" starring Jim Carrey, Jim Carrey and Jim Carrey. it is filmed in the usual motion-cap style with Jim Carrey voicing many of the characters.

Here is the trailer for "Solomon Kane." This is based on a story by the author of "Conan." Looks pretty cool.

If you are into kick-arse martial arts films...then here you go! This is the "Ninja Assassin" trailer.

The next trailer is for a film called "Trick 'r Treat." Iw will be a direct to DVD release, unfortunately. I have heard some great things about this film.

There you have it! If there is a trailer for an upcaoming movie you'd like to see, let me know, I'll track it down for you!

Random Movie News: Lobo, A-Team, Battleship, True Grit & More

2009-09-21T15:33:00.005-06:00

Guy Ritchie, formally Mr. Madonna, has signed to direct a live-action film version of DC Comic's Lobo. The character is an interstellar mercenary and bounty hunter. A kind of anti-hero, he's battled against the likes of Batman & Superman. Jeffrey Dean Morgan ("Watchmen" & "P.S. I Love You") is campaigning hard to land the role. Pretty good fit if you ask me. Morgan has also signed on to play a part in the upcoming re-make of the film "Red Dawn," along side Chris Hemsworth, Josh Peck and Isabel Lucas.

Speaking of heroes, it looks as if a Superman film of any type will not be happening any time soon. A recent lawsuit has stated that a film must be in place by 2013 in order for Warner Bros. to keep the rights to the character. DC Comic's officials say there is currently nothing in the works. This could be a false statement. I can't imagine them just giving up on this franchise, and in turn The Justice League idea as well. I think something will happen soon.

The fourth installment of Disney's Pirate's series has a name: "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides." It will more than likely deal with the Fountain of Youth, which was eluded to in the last film. So far, Johnny Depp is the only returning cast member. Gore Verbinksy has not stated whether or not he will be returning to direct. He is currently gearing up to work on the re-make of "Clue."

Sharlto Copley ("District 9") and Jessica Biel have signed on to the big screen version of the "A-Team" film, which will begin shooting in the next month or so. Copley will be playing Capt. "Howling Mad" Murdock. Both will be joining Liam Neeson, Bradly Cooper and Quinton "Rampage" Jackson on the film.

JJ Abrams has stated that a "Star Trek" sequel is in the works, but it may be a while before we see it hit theaters. He wants the film to be something that the fans will enjoy and not just "some movie" to make money. This is fine with me! Too many sequels are just thrown together. He is also working on a script for "Mission: Impossible 4," which Tom Cruise has stated, if the script is good, then he will sign on.

Writer Roger Avery is currently penning a script for a follow up to the 2006 "Silent Hill," a video game movie adaptation for Davis Film productions. This film wasn't a horrible movie, it's a bit out there though. Davis Films is also working on a fourth "Resident Evil" film and "Return to Castle Wolfenstein," which Avery is also writing.

Director Peter Berg ("Hancock") is getting ready to start work on a film version of Hasbro's Battleship game. The film will follow a fleet of five ships as they engage in a violent battle. This film will push back Berg's work on a re-make of "Dune" as well as a sequel to "Hancock." By the way, both Will Smith and Charlize Theron will be returning for the "Hancock" sequel.

The Coen brothers ("No Country for Old Men" & "Raising Arizona") a working on a retelling of the "True Grit" story. The film will not be a re-make of the classic John Wayne film, but their own version of the original book. Jeff Bridges is in talks to play the lead role of that film. Bridges previously worked with the Coen's on "The Big Lebowski."

Finally, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas are currently working on a script for a fifth Indiana Jones film. They already know the direction they will take and they are still trying to get Sean Connery to reprise his role as Indy's father. Being that Connery is retired from acting, it would take quite the script to pull him back into acting. They had written him into "The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" but he refused and they were forced to do a re-write. In the fore mentioned film, Indy states that his father had died...soooo, yeah.

Thanks to darkhorizons.com for the info!

9

2009-09-12T22:11:00.001-06:00

Elijah Wood, Christopher Plummer, John C. Riley, Martin Landau, Jennifer Connelly, Crispin Glover

Rated PG-13

Grade: B-

A while back when I first saw the preview for this film, it was featured with lots of loud music and all the exploding parts of the story, so naturally, it caught my attention. As some of you know, I tend to like the sci-fi and more eccentric type films and this one looked to fit that category, and it does, just not as much as I thought it would.

The story is actually a modification of a short film directed by Shane Acker, who also directed this version. The story was elongated and was able to add in more of a back story, but I still feel it wasn’t quite enough to explain the background of the characters or of the environment they are in. It briefly does a newsreel flashback, but that’s about it. Being that the film is not quite an hour and a half long, I think they could have added some more development and back ground. This is really my only complaint about the film.

The voice over work is great. They chose great actors to voice the characters of the film, which just added to the story. They did a great job of portraying the emotion that was involved and needed in the film.

The CG is absolutely beautiful to watch; easily some of the best animation I have seen in a film. The texture of the dolls/puppets (or whatever they are) is incredible, not to mention the background scenes and such; stellar work there. To add to that, they included some great sound; you could hear every little footstep, creak, and brush of fabric.

I’d watch this movie first before taking your kids to see it. There are some pretty scary images as well as some use of strobe effects. It is a fun, yet short film that may not be for everyone. It definitely has a sci-fi and post apocalyptic feel to it. It wouldn’t be a bad thing to rent this one or check it out in the dollar theater.