Who: Bill & Melanie, and Melanie's co-worker/friend Liesl
What: Titanic-- The RiffTrax version
Where: On DVD, with RiffTrax commentary via Liesl's computer
Why: Who thought "Titanic" could be funny?
It's a sure bet most everyone (including myself and Melanie) has seen Titanic, the story of Jack and Rose-- he's poor and happy, she's rich and unhappy. They fall in love aboard the ill-fated Titanic. The ship hits an iceberg and it sinks. Jack dies. Rose lives. A depressing movie. But a MAJOR hit that brought Director/Producer/Co-Writer/Co-Editor James Cameron 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture for 1997.
RiffTrax has its basis in the Mystery Science Theater 3000 series. RiffTrax's head commentator Michael J. Nelson was a host and writer on that show. With RiffTrax, you can download audio commentaries for selected movies from their website (for a fee) to your computer, and play them in sync with the movie. Such is the case with the recent addition with Titanic to their play list. Nelson, along with MST3K veterans Kevin Murphy and Bill Corbett, offer their "riffs" on everything from the characters (especially Jack, Rose and her snobbish fiance Caledon Nathan Hockley) to implausible situations, the ship's ultimate tragic fate, and the music as it concludes with an outrageously off-key rendition of Celine Dion's "My Heart Will Go On". We finished the movie full of tears-- from laughter. Hard to believe this could be done from such a melancholy movie such as Titanic, but somehow RiffTrax pulled it off. Some of the comments do fall flat but more often than not, they're on target.
Movie fans looking for a different "perspective" than the usual cast and crew commentary might want to check out RiffTrax.com.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Couple's Retreat
Who: Rochelle and her Tupperware Co-Workers
What: Couple's Retreat
Where: Regal at The Loop
Why: Living dangerously by going out on a week night after work!
I was skeptical that this was going to be a perverted movie. It had its moments but overall it had a good message about being in a committed relationship. It had some really funny moments and some predictable ones. Silly kid things, barely dressed men, overweight men, uptight men, etc. A lot of making fun of the guys. I think it had some guy-funny moments too that I didn't find funny so it must have been a guy thing. Such as a Guitar Hero play off that seemed to last forever. This would be a great movie to rent. What was really surprising is that Vince Vaugh was a co-writer. He is a funny, creative guy.
What: Couple's Retreat
Where: Regal at The Loop
Why: Living dangerously by going out on a week night after work!
I was skeptical that this was going to be a perverted movie. It had its moments but overall it had a good message about being in a committed relationship. It had some really funny moments and some predictable ones. Silly kid things, barely dressed men, overweight men, uptight men, etc. A lot of making fun of the guys. I think it had some guy-funny moments too that I didn't find funny so it must have been a guy thing. Such as a Guitar Hero play off that seemed to last forever. This would be a great movie to rent. What was really surprising is that Vince Vaugh was a co-writer. He is a funny, creative guy.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
True Grit
Who: Bill
What: True Grit
Where: Turner Classic Movies
Why: A classic John Wayne movie
No performer defined the western film genre better than John Wayne. One of his most defining performances is the character Rooster Cogburn in 1969's True Grit, which earned Wayne his only Oscar.
When her father Frank Ross is murdered, young Mattie (Kim Darby) embarks on a search to find his killer. She is smart, tough and emboldened with, well, "true grit". On her quest, she learns of the aging, tough and gritty U.S. Marshall named Cogburn. Mattie seeks his assistance, but Cogburn has doubts. Nonetheless, Mattie's determination and stubbornness impresses Cogburn who finds that Mattie reminds him a lot about himself. Also looking for Ross's killer is a Texas Ranger named Le Boeuf (Glen Campbell), who joins Cogburn and Mattie. He also hopes to collect a reward for capturing the outlaw named Tom Chaney (Jeff Corey), who had earlier killed a Texas Senator.
John Wayne excels as Rooster Cogburn in all the character's irritable, hard-drinking, unclean, patch-wearing, anti-hero glory. You simply DON'T MESS with Cogburn. He is one tough SOB. Period. This was a tailor-made role for Wayne, then at the pinnacle of an extremely successful career. Adding credibility to their roles are Kim Darby and Glen Campbell. Darby continues to occasionally appear in movies and on television as well as teach acting classes. Campbell of course is a popular Grammy-winning country singer and its been said that Wayne personally selected him for the part of La Boeuf. He also sings the film's title song. Other performers of note include Robert Duvall as Lucky Ned Pepper, Dennis Hopper as Moon, and John Fiedler as a lawyer named Daggett, whom Mattie references throughout the story.
Wayne would return to play Cogburn in 1975's aptly titled Rooster Cogburn with Katharine Hepburn. A TV movie with Warren Oates as Cogburn titled True Grit: A Further Adventure would follow in 1978, and in 2009 it was announced that Joel and Ethan Cohen are planning a remake of the original movie which would more closely follow the novel upon which it was based.
What: True Grit
Where: Turner Classic Movies
Why: A classic John Wayne movie
No performer defined the western film genre better than John Wayne. One of his most defining performances is the character Rooster Cogburn in 1969's True Grit, which earned Wayne his only Oscar.
When her father Frank Ross is murdered, young Mattie (Kim Darby) embarks on a search to find his killer. She is smart, tough and emboldened with, well, "true grit". On her quest, she learns of the aging, tough and gritty U.S. Marshall named Cogburn. Mattie seeks his assistance, but Cogburn has doubts. Nonetheless, Mattie's determination and stubbornness impresses Cogburn who finds that Mattie reminds him a lot about himself. Also looking for Ross's killer is a Texas Ranger named Le Boeuf (Glen Campbell), who joins Cogburn and Mattie. He also hopes to collect a reward for capturing the outlaw named Tom Chaney (Jeff Corey), who had earlier killed a Texas Senator.
John Wayne excels as Rooster Cogburn in all the character's irritable, hard-drinking, unclean, patch-wearing, anti-hero glory. You simply DON'T MESS with Cogburn. He is one tough SOB. Period. This was a tailor-made role for Wayne, then at the pinnacle of an extremely successful career. Adding credibility to their roles are Kim Darby and Glen Campbell. Darby continues to occasionally appear in movies and on television as well as teach acting classes. Campbell of course is a popular Grammy-winning country singer and its been said that Wayne personally selected him for the part of La Boeuf. He also sings the film's title song. Other performers of note include Robert Duvall as Lucky Ned Pepper, Dennis Hopper as Moon, and John Fiedler as a lawyer named Daggett, whom Mattie references throughout the story.
Wayne would return to play Cogburn in 1975's aptly titled Rooster Cogburn with Katharine Hepburn. A TV movie with Warren Oates as Cogburn titled True Grit: A Further Adventure would follow in 1978, and in 2009 it was announced that Joel and Ethan Cohen are planning a remake of the original movie which would more closely follow the novel upon which it was based.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot
Who:Bill & Melanie
What:Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot
Where:Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
Why: Colonial Williamsburg was one of our road trip stops.
Melanie and I recently returned from a two week road trip up and down the east coast. One of our visits was to Colonial Williamsburg where we spent a leisurely afternoon walking through the restored city, which served as Virginia's capital between 1699 and 1780. Before doing so, we stopped at the visitor center. In their large theater, an orientation film has been shown several times a day continuously since 1957. Thus, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot is the longest running motion picture in history.
The film is a dramatization of events in Williamsburg leading up to the time of American Independence. The story is told from the viewpoint of a fictional man named John Fry (played by Jack Lord), who does interact with real individuals such as Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, George Washington and others. For what is basically a introduction to Colonial Williamsburg, the movie boasts some outstanding production values starting with being filmed in and around the historical area itself. Co-produced with Paramount Pictures, the 40 minute presentation also includes full color wide-screen Vista Vision and an early use of stereo surround sound-- all very high tech for the 1950's and thanks to recent complete restoration efforts, holds up great for continued showings in the 21st century. Behind the scenes, director George Seaton won an Oscar for his work directing the original Miracle on 34th Street, and composer Bernard Herrmann worked with Alfred Hitchcock on numerous films including most famously Psycho. In front of the camera, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot marks the first starring role for Jack Lord. In 1968, he would begin a 12-year run as detective Steve McGarrett in Hawaii Five-O.
Currently, the only ways to see this movie is by visiting the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center or to purchase the DVD from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
What:Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot
Where:Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
Why: Colonial Williamsburg was one of our road trip stops.
Melanie and I recently returned from a two week road trip up and down the east coast. One of our visits was to Colonial Williamsburg where we spent a leisurely afternoon walking through the restored city, which served as Virginia's capital between 1699 and 1780. Before doing so, we stopped at the visitor center. In their large theater, an orientation film has been shown several times a day continuously since 1957. Thus, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot is the longest running motion picture in history.
The film is a dramatization of events in Williamsburg leading up to the time of American Independence. The story is told from the viewpoint of a fictional man named John Fry (played by Jack Lord), who does interact with real individuals such as Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, George Washington and others. For what is basically a introduction to Colonial Williamsburg, the movie boasts some outstanding production values starting with being filmed in and around the historical area itself. Co-produced with Paramount Pictures, the 40 minute presentation also includes full color wide-screen Vista Vision and an early use of stereo surround sound-- all very high tech for the 1950's and thanks to recent complete restoration efforts, holds up great for continued showings in the 21st century. Behind the scenes, director George Seaton won an Oscar for his work directing the original Miracle on 34th Street, and composer Bernard Herrmann worked with Alfred Hitchcock on numerous films including most famously Psycho. In front of the camera, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot marks the first starring role for Jack Lord. In 1968, he would begin a 12-year run as detective Steve McGarrett in Hawaii Five-O.
Currently, the only ways to see this movie is by visiting the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center or to purchase the DVD from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
The Soloist
Who: Liz
What: The Soloist
Where: my living room
Why: I thought it looked interesting
I found this movie to be a little slow, but a lovely story of how sometimes we try to help someone and we take it too far. Robert Downey JR plays a columnist for the LA Times who runs into a homeless man one day outside the office playing a violin. Jamie Foxx does a fabulous job portraying the homeless man who has some mental issues. He portrayed Nathaniel Anthony Ayers, and Downey, JR played Steve Lopez, I believe this is a true story.
Nathaniel grew up playing the cello and was so good, he ended up going to Julliard. He had to drop out though, due to his mental issues. The story doesn’t really go into how he became mentally challenged, but it doesn’t really matter.
Downey gets very involved with him. He writes a column about him and a woman writes in and donates her old cello to him. (The violin wasn't really his instrument of choice). But since the cello is a pretty nice instrument and valuable, Mr Lopez feels that he should not be living on the street and brings him to a homeless shelter to live. He gets a conductor to come listen to him and really goes all out for the guy. Some things happen in the relationship and in the end, he learns that he really just needs to be Nathaniel’s friend.
There was a lot of music in this movie, so if you are a fan of Beethoven and Bach, you will enjoy it. I enjoy a true story and so I would recommend this film.
What: The Soloist
Where: my living room
Why: I thought it looked interesting
I found this movie to be a little slow, but a lovely story of how sometimes we try to help someone and we take it too far. Robert Downey JR plays a columnist for the LA Times who runs into a homeless man one day outside the office playing a violin. Jamie Foxx does a fabulous job portraying the homeless man who has some mental issues. He portrayed Nathaniel Anthony Ayers, and Downey, JR played Steve Lopez, I believe this is a true story.
Nathaniel grew up playing the cello and was so good, he ended up going to Julliard. He had to drop out though, due to his mental issues. The story doesn’t really go into how he became mentally challenged, but it doesn’t really matter.
Downey gets very involved with him. He writes a column about him and a woman writes in and donates her old cello to him. (The violin wasn't really his instrument of choice). But since the cello is a pretty nice instrument and valuable, Mr Lopez feels that he should not be living on the street and brings him to a homeless shelter to live. He gets a conductor to come listen to him and really goes all out for the guy. Some things happen in the relationship and in the end, he learns that he really just needs to be Nathaniel’s friend.
There was a lot of music in this movie, so if you are a fan of Beethoven and Bach, you will enjoy it. I enjoy a true story and so I would recommend this film.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Killer View
Who: Amber
What: Killer View
Where: @ work
Why: 2nd in a sequence of books
Killer View is book number 2 in a (so far) 3 part series feauring Idaho Sherrif Walt Flemming by Ridley Pearson.
It's the middle of winter, it's ice cold, and the snow is over 6" thick in Idaho. When Walt gets a frantic 911 call in the middle of the night, he takes his Deputy (who happens to be sleeping with his ex-wife) and Randy Aker (a friend) out to the mountains to find a missing skiier. They split up, but the skiier is nowhere to be found, but his Randy turns up dead.
By morning, Randy's brother, Mark has been kidnapped.
Time is not on Mark's side. It's freezing and Mark has diabetes. Walt needs to find Mark, figure out what happend to Randy, and investigate a rape of a local woman. Then throw in an odd situation with ranchers burning most of their sheep. Is there a sheep version of Mad-Cow disease, or is there something wrong with their water source?
Of course, all 4 of these things (murder, kidnapping, rape, sheep) are related, and it's up to Walt, his deputy (who is sleeping with his ex-wife ... did I mention that already? Because Walt is thrilled with this discovery!), and the sherrif's photographer Fiona, who Walt has eyes for to figure it all out. Throw in an angry bear and you've got your self a murder/kidnapping mystery!
Now I need to head to the library to get the 3rd book in the series, which I believe is called Killer Summer.
What: Killer View
Where: @ work
Why: 2nd in a sequence of books
Killer View is book number 2 in a (so far) 3 part series feauring Idaho Sherrif Walt Flemming by Ridley Pearson.
It's the middle of winter, it's ice cold, and the snow is over 6" thick in Idaho. When Walt gets a frantic 911 call in the middle of the night, he takes his Deputy (who happens to be sleeping with his ex-wife) and Randy Aker (a friend) out to the mountains to find a missing skiier. They split up, but the skiier is nowhere to be found, but his Randy turns up dead.
By morning, Randy's brother, Mark has been kidnapped.
Time is not on Mark's side. It's freezing and Mark has diabetes. Walt needs to find Mark, figure out what happend to Randy, and investigate a rape of a local woman. Then throw in an odd situation with ranchers burning most of their sheep. Is there a sheep version of Mad-Cow disease, or is there something wrong with their water source?
Of course, all 4 of these things (murder, kidnapping, rape, sheep) are related, and it's up to Walt, his deputy (who is sleeping with his ex-wife ... did I mention that already? Because Walt is thrilled with this discovery!), and the sherrif's photographer Fiona, who Walt has eyes for to figure it all out. Throw in an angry bear and you've got your self a murder/kidnapping mystery!
Now I need to head to the library to get the 3rd book in the series, which I believe is called Killer Summer.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Killer Weekend
Who: Amber
What: Killer Weekend, by: Ridley Pearsib
Where: at work
Why: Jonathan recommended it
Killer Weekend is the first book in a semi-series by Ridley Pearson. I say "semi" series, because you don't really have to read all the books to know what is going on. All the books use the same characters, but the events of one book don't really translate to the other book.
Killer Weekend is about an Idoho sheriff named Walt. The story starts 6 years ago with Walt saving the life of a young lawyer , Liz Shatler. Flash forward 6 years, and that young lawyer is now a District Attorney, and she's planning to announce herself as a presidential candidate.
Of course, with any presidential candidate announcement party, security will be tight, and people will be out to get them. Such is the case with Liz. Somebody is out to get her, and he's a crafty dude.
It all starts with a blind man, who's just pretending to be blind. He's really a hit man, who's got the perfect alibi for the crime he's about to attempt ... he's blind! He's a master of disguise. He's got 2 separate rooms at the hotel, he's got 2 separate disguises, he's even got contacts that literally blind him, so he's not "playing" blind, he really is blind.
His plan is simple ... plant a bomb inside his seeing eye dog (which isn't really a seeing eye dog in the first place). The dog will be able to get straight thru security, and the dog won't be denied since a blind man must have his dog. Perfect plan ... right?
Not with crafty Walt Flemming putting all the pieces together. This disguise master isn't working alone. Who in the small Idaho town is helping him?
I enjoyed this book much better than it's 'sequel', Killer View. This book took place over the course of 3 short days (a weekend - hence the name!), so it was a quick moving book full of action.
What: Killer Weekend, by: Ridley Pearsib
Where: at work
Why: Jonathan recommended it
Killer Weekend is the first book in a semi-series by Ridley Pearson. I say "semi" series, because you don't really have to read all the books to know what is going on. All the books use the same characters, but the events of one book don't really translate to the other book.
Killer Weekend is about an Idoho sheriff named Walt. The story starts 6 years ago with Walt saving the life of a young lawyer , Liz Shatler. Flash forward 6 years, and that young lawyer is now a District Attorney, and she's planning to announce herself as a presidential candidate.
Of course, with any presidential candidate announcement party, security will be tight, and people will be out to get them. Such is the case with Liz. Somebody is out to get her, and he's a crafty dude.
It all starts with a blind man, who's just pretending to be blind. He's really a hit man, who's got the perfect alibi for the crime he's about to attempt ... he's blind! He's a master of disguise. He's got 2 separate rooms at the hotel, he's got 2 separate disguises, he's even got contacts that literally blind him, so he's not "playing" blind, he really is blind.
His plan is simple ... plant a bomb inside his seeing eye dog (which isn't really a seeing eye dog in the first place). The dog will be able to get straight thru security, and the dog won't be denied since a blind man must have his dog. Perfect plan ... right?
Not with crafty Walt Flemming putting all the pieces together. This disguise master isn't working alone. Who in the small Idaho town is helping him?
I enjoyed this book much better than it's 'sequel', Killer View. This book took place over the course of 3 short days (a weekend - hence the name!), so it was a quick moving book full of action.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Zathura
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Zathura
Where: on cable
Why: I've never seen it
I really enjoyed Zathura. It's basically the movie Jumanji, but in space, but it was still good.
The movie features 2 brothers, a 6 year old and a 10 year old. Of course, the 6 year old wants to play with the 10 year old, but the 10 year way too cool for that. He's in 4th grade and has a girlfriend for crying out loud!
As the 6 year old goes in the basement (of an old house his divorced father just bought) he finds the board game of Zathura (nobody saw that coming huh?). The tin game is obviously from the '50s or something, but everything is automatic. He presses a button to "spin", and a card shoots out of the game. "Watch out for meteors". Since the 6 year old can't really read, he asks his brother for help reading the card. All of a sudden, meteors are crashing thru the roof and falling all over the living room. The boys hide in the fireplace, and after a couple minutes, the living room is totally trashed, but the shower is over.
Well, now the 10 year old has been "forced" into the game. He reads the instructions and realizes that if they finish the game, everything will go back to normal. Thank goodness, b/c the living room is totally trashed and their dad ran out for a moment!
Crazy thing after crazy thing happens as the boys keep playing. By now their house is floating in outer space, aliens are about to board their 'house', and their older sister (the girl from Twilight) is frozen in a cryogenic state.
Thankfully, an astronaut (Dax Sheppard) shows up at their floating house to help with the alien problem. Dax the astronaut also had an alternative motive for being there. I won't ruin the surprise for you, but it didn't make a whole lot of logical sense, but it was still kind-of sweet.
Of course, they manage to get out of the game and the brother learn to work together, but how they get to the end game is pretty cool. Neat space effects! I highly recommend it!
What: Zathura
Where: on cable
Why: I've never seen it
I really enjoyed Zathura. It's basically the movie Jumanji, but in space, but it was still good.
The movie features 2 brothers, a 6 year old and a 10 year old. Of course, the 6 year old wants to play with the 10 year old, but the 10 year way too cool for that. He's in 4th grade and has a girlfriend for crying out loud!
As the 6 year old goes in the basement (of an old house his divorced father just bought) he finds the board game of Zathura (nobody saw that coming huh?). The tin game is obviously from the '50s or something, but everything is automatic. He presses a button to "spin", and a card shoots out of the game. "Watch out for meteors". Since the 6 year old can't really read, he asks his brother for help reading the card. All of a sudden, meteors are crashing thru the roof and falling all over the living room. The boys hide in the fireplace, and after a couple minutes, the living room is totally trashed, but the shower is over.
Well, now the 10 year old has been "forced" into the game. He reads the instructions and realizes that if they finish the game, everything will go back to normal. Thank goodness, b/c the living room is totally trashed and their dad ran out for a moment!
Crazy thing after crazy thing happens as the boys keep playing. By now their house is floating in outer space, aliens are about to board their 'house', and their older sister (the girl from Twilight) is frozen in a cryogenic state.
Thankfully, an astronaut (Dax Sheppard) shows up at their floating house to help with the alien problem. Dax the astronaut also had an alternative motive for being there. I won't ruin the surprise for you, but it didn't make a whole lot of logical sense, but it was still kind-of sweet.
Of course, they manage to get out of the game and the brother learn to work together, but how they get to the end game is pretty cool. Neat space effects! I highly recommend it!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj
Where: on cable
Why: Kal Penn is normally funny
Oh wow - this movie was not very good. It was a cookie cutter movie you've seen 100 times. But if you enjoy British accents, that might be a good excuse to check it out.
If you remember Van Wilder, the hilarious movie staring Ryan Reynolds and Tara Reid, you might remember Van's sidekick Taj. Actually, you probably don't remember him, because he was barely in the movie at all. When Van Wilder came out, Kal Penn (probably best known for his Harold and Kumar roles) was a no-name actor. But when he became immensely popular, he decided to make this piece of junk film.
Taj is a graduate student/teacher at some English University. His father also attended this university, so he's pumped to pick up where his pimp father left off. First stop - super awesome fraternity. In cookie cutter format, the frat boys are total jerks and kick Taj and his bull dog out.
His only option is 'the barn', a building full of misfits (the nerd, the guy who doesn't talk, the hot girl (I'm not sure why she's a misfit) and a crazy Scottish soccer fan. Taj teaches the kids about self respect and standing up for yourself … blah, blah, blah. Of course, they throw a massive party and all the stuffing English people attend, which makes the snobby fraternity crazy mad!
Did I mention there is also a university wide competition to win 'The Cup"? Seriously, this movie is Revenge of the Nerds all over again.
In typical cookie cutter format, Taj steals a girl away from the snobby frat (Revenge of the Nerds again!), the frat boys play a prank on Taj to make the girl mad at him, blah, blah, blah. You've seen and heard all this before.
What: Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj
Where: on cable
Why: Kal Penn is normally funny
Oh wow - this movie was not very good. It was a cookie cutter movie you've seen 100 times. But if you enjoy British accents, that might be a good excuse to check it out.
If you remember Van Wilder, the hilarious movie staring Ryan Reynolds and Tara Reid, you might remember Van's sidekick Taj. Actually, you probably don't remember him, because he was barely in the movie at all. When Van Wilder came out, Kal Penn (probably best known for his Harold and Kumar roles) was a no-name actor. But when he became immensely popular, he decided to make this piece of junk film.
Taj is a graduate student/teacher at some English University. His father also attended this university, so he's pumped to pick up where his pimp father left off. First stop - super awesome fraternity. In cookie cutter format, the frat boys are total jerks and kick Taj and his bull dog out.
His only option is 'the barn', a building full of misfits (the nerd, the guy who doesn't talk, the hot girl (I'm not sure why she's a misfit) and a crazy Scottish soccer fan. Taj teaches the kids about self respect and standing up for yourself … blah, blah, blah. Of course, they throw a massive party and all the stuffing English people attend, which makes the snobby fraternity crazy mad!
Did I mention there is also a university wide competition to win 'The Cup"? Seriously, this movie is Revenge of the Nerds all over again.
In typical cookie cutter format, Taj steals a girl away from the snobby frat (Revenge of the Nerds again!), the frat boys play a prank on Taj to make the girl mad at him, blah, blah, blah. You've seen and heard all this before.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
He-Man and She-Ra: A Christmas Special
Who: Amber
What: He-Man and She-Ra: A Christmas Special
Where: I borrowed a friend's DVD
Why: Why not!
Oh wow - was this Christmas special super cheesy. I loved watching He-Man when I was a kid, but I knew that 20 years later, it would look utterly ridiculous, and I was right. It was silly. Why does He-Man wear animal skin undies? And She-Ra's normal outfit is a leotard, but when she transforms, she's wearing a cute little skirt. And she flies around on a rainbow unicorn. It's so 80s, I love it!
So He-Man and She-Ra are getting ready to celebrate their birthdays (they are twins - remember?). Actually, their real names are Adam and Alura (I think that's She-Ra's name). All their cheesy superhero friends are helping to decorate for a rockin' party.
In the meantime, He-Man, and some creepy looking guy with a creepy looking mustache (maybe He-Man's dad?!?) have built a 'sky spy' rocket ship to help spy on Skeletor. He-Man's doofis magical flying guy hops in the rocket, and accidentally launches it. He crash lands on … guess where … Earth, where Christmas is a few days away.
Doofis magical flying guy runs into 2 young kids who are lost in the woods looking for a Christmas tree. They are cold, so they go to the rocket ship to warm up. Doofis magical flying guy asks the kids all about Christmas, since he's never heard about it before. The young girls talks about presents, but the older boy mentions that it's not all about presents. He tip toes around the religious reason for Christmas. I am proud of this cheese ball Christmas special. It's now all about Santa and presents. It's more about the real reason for the season. Kudos He-Man!
Well, of course He-Man has the power to bring back the 'sky spy' rocket back to Eternia (their planet). Well, the kids are still stuck in the rocket ship, so they come back to Eternia too.
The kids tell He-Man and She-Ran all about Christmas. And the story spreads to their cheesy super hero friends as well. Even Skeletor gets in on the Christmas spirit!
I don't think this special is on TV any longer, but if you have Nexflix, check it out!
What: He-Man and She-Ra: A Christmas Special
Where: I borrowed a friend's DVD
Why: Why not!
Oh wow - was this Christmas special super cheesy. I loved watching He-Man when I was a kid, but I knew that 20 years later, it would look utterly ridiculous, and I was right. It was silly. Why does He-Man wear animal skin undies? And She-Ra's normal outfit is a leotard, but when she transforms, she's wearing a cute little skirt. And she flies around on a rainbow unicorn. It's so 80s, I love it!
So He-Man and She-Ra are getting ready to celebrate their birthdays (they are twins - remember?). Actually, their real names are Adam and Alura (I think that's She-Ra's name). All their cheesy superhero friends are helping to decorate for a rockin' party.
In the meantime, He-Man, and some creepy looking guy with a creepy looking mustache (maybe He-Man's dad?!?) have built a 'sky spy' rocket ship to help spy on Skeletor. He-Man's doofis magical flying guy hops in the rocket, and accidentally launches it. He crash lands on … guess where … Earth, where Christmas is a few days away.
Doofis magical flying guy runs into 2 young kids who are lost in the woods looking for a Christmas tree. They are cold, so they go to the rocket ship to warm up. Doofis magical flying guy asks the kids all about Christmas, since he's never heard about it before. The young girls talks about presents, but the older boy mentions that it's not all about presents. He tip toes around the religious reason for Christmas. I am proud of this cheese ball Christmas special. It's now all about Santa and presents. It's more about the real reason for the season. Kudos He-Man!
Well, of course He-Man has the power to bring back the 'sky spy' rocket back to Eternia (their planet). Well, the kids are still stuck in the rocket ship, so they come back to Eternia too.
The kids tell He-Man and She-Ran all about Christmas. And the story spreads to their cheesy super hero friends as well. Even Skeletor gets in on the Christmas spirit!
I don't think this special is on TV any longer, but if you have Nexflix, check it out!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Blue Streak
Who: Amber
What: Blue Streak
Where: cable
Why: I can watch this movie over and over
I've seen this movie 100 times, and I'll probably watch it 100 more. It's one of those movies where I can just have it on in the background, and it's still hilarious.
Martin Lawrence (in his hey day) is a bank robber. A heist goes wrong when his partner turns on him. Martin escapes by entering a building that's under construction. He hides a giant diamond he was stealing, then the cops find him.
Fast forward 2 years, and Martin is out of jail. First stop - go back to that building that was under construction and get that diamond. Unfortunately that once under construction building has been completed … into a police station. He can't just stroll in there and head up to the 3rd floor. He tried to fake deliver a pizza, and that doesn't work. So he turns to another con-man who makes a bunch of fake IDs for him, and a phony police career as a new transfer.
Since Martin is a criminal, he knows how criminals work. The minute he walks into the police station, they get a robbery call. He just wants to get his diamond and get out of there before they realize his police record is 100% fake. Instead he gets thrown with a partner (Luke Wilson), who's a quiet, nerdy guy, but he's smart. With Martin's genius criminal mind, he is solving crimes left and right. With in the hour, he's promoted!
He tries to weasel out of police work, so he has time to search the air ducts for his diamond. Of course he eventually finds it, and drops it in a huge pile of drug evidence.
Queue the action car chase scene with the FBI as Martin works 'undercover' to recover his diamond. Everything is for this diamond!
Will Luke Wilson figure out that Martin is a bogus cop? He's pretty smart, but he's also pretty gullible. How about the double crossing partner of his ... where is he after the bank robbing gone bad? I'm sure he's after the diamond as well (hint, hint).
What: Blue Streak
Where: cable
Why: I can watch this movie over and over
I've seen this movie 100 times, and I'll probably watch it 100 more. It's one of those movies where I can just have it on in the background, and it's still hilarious.
Martin Lawrence (in his hey day) is a bank robber. A heist goes wrong when his partner turns on him. Martin escapes by entering a building that's under construction. He hides a giant diamond he was stealing, then the cops find him.
Fast forward 2 years, and Martin is out of jail. First stop - go back to that building that was under construction and get that diamond. Unfortunately that once under construction building has been completed … into a police station. He can't just stroll in there and head up to the 3rd floor. He tried to fake deliver a pizza, and that doesn't work. So he turns to another con-man who makes a bunch of fake IDs for him, and a phony police career as a new transfer.
Since Martin is a criminal, he knows how criminals work. The minute he walks into the police station, they get a robbery call. He just wants to get his diamond and get out of there before they realize his police record is 100% fake. Instead he gets thrown with a partner (Luke Wilson), who's a quiet, nerdy guy, but he's smart. With Martin's genius criminal mind, he is solving crimes left and right. With in the hour, he's promoted!
He tries to weasel out of police work, so he has time to search the air ducts for his diamond. Of course he eventually finds it, and drops it in a huge pile of drug evidence.
Queue the action car chase scene with the FBI as Martin works 'undercover' to recover his diamond. Everything is for this diamond!
Will Luke Wilson figure out that Martin is a bogus cop? He's pretty smart, but he's also pretty gullible. How about the double crossing partner of his ... where is he after the bank robbing gone bad? I'm sure he's after the diamond as well (hint, hint).
Find this '90s movie on cable. I guarantee you'll laugh.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Fast and the Furious
Who: Amber
What: The Fast and the Furious
Where: on cable
Why: Why the heck not!
This movie is a classic. Don't laugh or try to deny it.
Brian (Paul Walker) is an undercover police officer, and he's super cute. There has been a car racing gang robbing big rig trucks. The gang drives up in their super cool racing cars, boards the truck, and takes the merchandise somehow. Brian has a short window of time to figure out what's going on.
Undercover Brian dives right into to the world of illegal street racing. He's got a sweet car, which he immediately loses to Vin Diesel (Dom) in a street race. After the race, the police stop by, and Brian helps Dom get away, so Dom assumes he's a good guy. Dom's family/gang are questionable about Brian (they think he might be a cop), but Dom is the leader, and he approves.
Dom's younger sister also approves. *Me-ow!*
As Brian hangs out with Dom, his sister, his computer wiz friend, and stupid nerdy friend he realizes that they are all really great people, just trying to live their lives, and racing cars. Brian reeeeally hopes that they are not involved with the robberies. There is a rival, evil car racing gang. Hopefully they are involved.
Lots of car racing, gang shoot outs, and truck robberies later, we find out who really is behind the robberies. Is it Dom and his crew, or the rival car racing gang? Will Brian be sucked into this uber-cool life style, or will he arrest the real thieves? This movie is always on cable somewhere … if you haven't already seen it, I highly recommend it.
Also, laugh at Paul Walker's acting skills. He's a pretty face, but the acting struggles at times.
What: The Fast and the Furious
Where: on cable
Why: Why the heck not!
This movie is a classic. Don't laugh or try to deny it.
Brian (Paul Walker) is an undercover police officer, and he's super cute. There has been a car racing gang robbing big rig trucks. The gang drives up in their super cool racing cars, boards the truck, and takes the merchandise somehow. Brian has a short window of time to figure out what's going on.
Undercover Brian dives right into to the world of illegal street racing. He's got a sweet car, which he immediately loses to Vin Diesel (Dom) in a street race. After the race, the police stop by, and Brian helps Dom get away, so Dom assumes he's a good guy. Dom's family/gang are questionable about Brian (they think he might be a cop), but Dom is the leader, and he approves.
Dom's younger sister also approves. *Me-ow!*
As Brian hangs out with Dom, his sister, his computer wiz friend, and stupid nerdy friend he realizes that they are all really great people, just trying to live their lives, and racing cars. Brian reeeeally hopes that they are not involved with the robberies. There is a rival, evil car racing gang. Hopefully they are involved.
Lots of car racing, gang shoot outs, and truck robberies later, we find out who really is behind the robberies. Is it Dom and his crew, or the rival car racing gang? Will Brian be sucked into this uber-cool life style, or will he arrest the real thieves? This movie is always on cable somewhere … if you haven't already seen it, I highly recommend it.
Also, laugh at Paul Walker's acting skills. He's a pretty face, but the acting struggles at times.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Where: @ home on DVD
Why: It was Jonathan's b-day present
**Warning - I will be spelling every single Star Wars name incorrectly!** Ever since we went to Disney's Star Wars Weekends and saw Ashley Eckstein (the voice of Asoka), we've been The Clone Wars fans. Thanks to DirectTV, we recorded all of season 1 of the animated series. But the movie preceded the animated series, and I've always been curious about where Asoka came from.
Unfortunately, this movie doesn't answer any of those questions. Asoka just shows up because Obi Wan Kanobi wanted another padawan learner. Since Anakin turned out awesome, he's ready to teach again. Asoka shows up and says she's here to learn from Anakin, not Obi Wan. Well, he has no interest in a padawan learner. He's a free spirit, he's reckless, he can't teach somebody. Nice switcher-o Obi Wan!
The Clone Wars is in full swing. Obi Wan, Anakin and Asoka go from one battle to another. When to Jedi's rest or even eat or sleep?
Then Jabba the Hutt calls. His son is missing! Even though he's not a friend of the Republic (the good guys), helping out Jabba will be a great ally for later. The Jedi's find Jabba's son right away, but he's very sick. They need to get him back to Jabba alive, or he'll kill the Jedi's. Also, the Empire (the bad guys) are trying to kill the Jedi's as well. Count Duko (the main bad guy) has Jabba convinced that the Jedi's have already killed his son, and they are coming to kill Jabba as well. Of course, the opposite is true. Count Duko is the one who has actually captured his son.
Holy cow - Jabba is ugly, but his little baby son is adorable! It makes me wonder, where do little Jabba's come from?!? Think about that for a moment.
In typical Star Wars fashion, many droids are killed. Red and blue gun fire is everywhere. The clone troopers also fall dead left and right. It's not bloody or anything, but those are still people dying. It's kind-of graphic for little kids. Although, also in typical Star Wars fashion, the Jedi win, and the bad guys loose.
The movie doesn't really end per say … this part of the battle is over, but there are many, many other battles to be won. Stay tuned to Comedy Central for the continuation of the story. Star Wars just keeps going and going and going!
What: Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Where: @ home on DVD
Why: It was Jonathan's b-day present
**Warning - I will be spelling every single Star Wars name incorrectly!** Ever since we went to Disney's Star Wars Weekends and saw Ashley Eckstein (the voice of Asoka), we've been The Clone Wars fans. Thanks to DirectTV, we recorded all of season 1 of the animated series. But the movie preceded the animated series, and I've always been curious about where Asoka came from.
Unfortunately, this movie doesn't answer any of those questions. Asoka just shows up because Obi Wan Kanobi wanted another padawan learner. Since Anakin turned out awesome, he's ready to teach again. Asoka shows up and says she's here to learn from Anakin, not Obi Wan. Well, he has no interest in a padawan learner. He's a free spirit, he's reckless, he can't teach somebody. Nice switcher-o Obi Wan!
The Clone Wars is in full swing. Obi Wan, Anakin and Asoka go from one battle to another. When to Jedi's rest or even eat or sleep?
Then Jabba the Hutt calls. His son is missing! Even though he's not a friend of the Republic (the good guys), helping out Jabba will be a great ally for later. The Jedi's find Jabba's son right away, but he's very sick. They need to get him back to Jabba alive, or he'll kill the Jedi's. Also, the Empire (the bad guys) are trying to kill the Jedi's as well. Count Duko (the main bad guy) has Jabba convinced that the Jedi's have already killed his son, and they are coming to kill Jabba as well. Of course, the opposite is true. Count Duko is the one who has actually captured his son.
Holy cow - Jabba is ugly, but his little baby son is adorable! It makes me wonder, where do little Jabba's come from?!? Think about that for a moment.
In typical Star Wars fashion, many droids are killed. Red and blue gun fire is everywhere. The clone troopers also fall dead left and right. It's not bloody or anything, but those are still people dying. It's kind-of graphic for little kids. Although, also in typical Star Wars fashion, the Jedi win, and the bad guys loose.
The movie doesn't really end per say … this part of the battle is over, but there are many, many other battles to be won. Stay tuned to Comedy Central for the continuation of the story. Star Wars just keeps going and going and going!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
High Anxiety
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: High Anxiety
Where: @ home on DVD
Why: Jonathan picked it
So I'm sick on the couch, and my husband pulls out High Anxiety, a Mel Brooks movie. I can't stand Mel Brooks. But it's his birthday, so I have no complaints.
This movie wasn't half bad. Normally Mel Brooks movies are unwatchable for me. But this one wasn't too bad. I might even agree to watch it a second time!
It's a semi-parody of 3 Alfred Hitchcock movies: The Birds, Psycho and Vertigo.
Mel Brooks is a psychologist, taking a job as head doctor of a prestigious psych ward. The previous head doctor was about to implement some changes, and he mysteriously died. The head nurse is Cloris Leachman, who is unidentifiable at the ugly (and thin!) nurse. She's a bad dude, who pretty much runs the joint.
Now, I was pretty sick on the couch, so I wasn't paying 100% attention to the movie, so I might have missed a couple plot points. But Cloris Leachman is trying to run the entire mental institute by killing off anybody who gets in her way.
Mel Brooks heads to San Francisco to attend a conference. A lovely lady breaks into his room. She's the daughter of somebody who has been kidnapped by Cloris Leachman. Que a HILARIOUS psycho-based shower scene (I admit - I laughed at somebody Mel Brooks did. I hate to admit that) and a pretty funny The Birds based scene.
Have you seen the classic disaster movie The Towering Inferno? Then you'll recognize the hotel that Mel Brooks stays in! Those elevators are famous around the world! (or maybe just famous in my mind)
Mel Brooks is framed for a murder while in San Francisco. It's crazy Cloris Leachman, trying to get rid of him with out actually killing him. Stuff happens, yadda, yadda, yadda. Mel Brooks saves the day, and sings a funny song.
I can't say I "recommend" this movie, but I can't recommend anything Mel Brooks (even after seeing this decent movie, I still don't like his stuff) ...
What: High Anxiety
Where: @ home on DVD
Why: Jonathan picked it
So I'm sick on the couch, and my husband pulls out High Anxiety, a Mel Brooks movie. I can't stand Mel Brooks. But it's his birthday, so I have no complaints.
This movie wasn't half bad. Normally Mel Brooks movies are unwatchable for me. But this one wasn't too bad. I might even agree to watch it a second time!
It's a semi-parody of 3 Alfred Hitchcock movies: The Birds, Psycho and Vertigo.
Mel Brooks is a psychologist, taking a job as head doctor of a prestigious psych ward. The previous head doctor was about to implement some changes, and he mysteriously died. The head nurse is Cloris Leachman, who is unidentifiable at the ugly (and thin!) nurse. She's a bad dude, who pretty much runs the joint.
Now, I was pretty sick on the couch, so I wasn't paying 100% attention to the movie, so I might have missed a couple plot points. But Cloris Leachman is trying to run the entire mental institute by killing off anybody who gets in her way.
Mel Brooks heads to San Francisco to attend a conference. A lovely lady breaks into his room. She's the daughter of somebody who has been kidnapped by Cloris Leachman. Que a HILARIOUS psycho-based shower scene (I admit - I laughed at somebody Mel Brooks did. I hate to admit that) and a pretty funny The Birds based scene.
Have you seen the classic disaster movie The Towering Inferno? Then you'll recognize the hotel that Mel Brooks stays in! Those elevators are famous around the world! (or maybe just famous in my mind)
Mel Brooks is framed for a murder while in San Francisco. It's crazy Cloris Leachman, trying to get rid of him with out actually killing him. Stuff happens, yadda, yadda, yadda. Mel Brooks saves the day, and sings a funny song.
I can't say I "recommend" this movie, but I can't recommend anything Mel Brooks (even after seeing this decent movie, I still don't like his stuff) ...
Saturday, August 15, 2009
G Force
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: G Force
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: Jonathan picked it b/c it was his b-day
Welcome to the world of talking guinea pigs!
Fat Jesus from The Hangover (Zach somebody … you know, the guy with the beard) is in charge of a crazy animal experiment with the FBI. He's trained guinea pigs, moles, roaches and flys to be full fledged agents. They can even talk!
The FBI is tired of wasting money on training animals, so in the morning they are going to shut them down. So the guinea pig and mole set out on their very first mission. If they are successful, then maybe they can prove that this section of the FBI is worthy, and they can all keep their jobs. Otherwise, it's back to the pet store.
Well, thanks to a computer genius mole and 3 super charged guinea pigs, they break into Bill Niegy's (the bad guy) house during a huge party, download a file from his computer and escape. Success!
Unfortunately, the file they downloaded from the computer doesn't show the "world domination" that the guinea pigs thought, it just shows how to make a coffee maker. Not a success. They are shut down and shipped off to the pet store.
Silly pet owners and realistic (ha!) escape plans later, the 3 guinea pigs (plus 1 stray guinea pig they found at the pet store) are back together, and ready to prove that they didn't screw up their mission. They know they downloaded the correct file. Why couldn't the computer genius mole find it to show the head FBI guy? Could it be because he's a "mole"!?! Get my drift …
This movie was ok, but I don't need to see it again. The guinea pigs were cute (and not super CGI looking), but the circumstances were way ridiculous. The bad guy was trying to make all his home appliances come to life like transformers and take over the world. Riiiiiiight.
What: G Force
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: Jonathan picked it b/c it was his b-day
Welcome to the world of talking guinea pigs!
Fat Jesus from The Hangover (Zach somebody … you know, the guy with the beard) is in charge of a crazy animal experiment with the FBI. He's trained guinea pigs, moles, roaches and flys to be full fledged agents. They can even talk!
The FBI is tired of wasting money on training animals, so in the morning they are going to shut them down. So the guinea pig and mole set out on their very first mission. If they are successful, then maybe they can prove that this section of the FBI is worthy, and they can all keep their jobs. Otherwise, it's back to the pet store.
Well, thanks to a computer genius mole and 3 super charged guinea pigs, they break into Bill Niegy's (the bad guy) house during a huge party, download a file from his computer and escape. Success!
Unfortunately, the file they downloaded from the computer doesn't show the "world domination" that the guinea pigs thought, it just shows how to make a coffee maker. Not a success. They are shut down and shipped off to the pet store.
Silly pet owners and realistic (ha!) escape plans later, the 3 guinea pigs (plus 1 stray guinea pig they found at the pet store) are back together, and ready to prove that they didn't screw up their mission. They know they downloaded the correct file. Why couldn't the computer genius mole find it to show the head FBI guy? Could it be because he's a "mole"!?! Get my drift …
This movie was ok, but I don't need to see it again. The guinea pigs were cute (and not super CGI looking), but the circumstances were way ridiculous. The bad guy was trying to make all his home appliances come to life like transformers and take over the world. Riiiiiiight.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Steel Trapp
Who: Amber
What: Steel Trapp by Ridley Pearson
Where: @ work
Why: Jonathan let me borrow it
Steel Trapp is a tween-y book, which I really enjoyed!
Steven Trapp is a junior high student with a photographic memory. If he sees something, he will remember the exact details for years. His mother calls his brain a "steel trap", and the nick-name stuck. His brain is really remarkable
Steel and his mom are on the train from Chicago headed to Washington DC for a robotics competition. Steel is no genius, but with his photographic memory, he has built a pretty sweet robot.
On the train, he noticed a woman enter the train, drop off a suitcase in the overhead bin, then leave. Young, naïve Steel grabs the suitcase and runs after the woman. The woman claims it's not hers, but Steel knows better. His brain never lies. He know what he saw. Still the woman refuses to admit it, so Steel returns the suitcase to the train conductor.
Curiosity is eating him up … what is in that suitcase? Why did the lady lie to him? He manages to sneak back to the lost and found room on the train and peaks inside. It's a photo of a woman tied to a chair! Oh no - somebody is coming in the lost and found room! It's a bad, bad dude, who was supposed to pick up the suitcase on the train initially.
And now the story gets into high gear. We've got a kid with a photographic memory. A girl traveling on the train by herself. A bad, bad guy. And now FBI is on the train. And where is Steel's dad?!?
The chase for the woman in the chair and the bad guy with the suitcase continues thru out the train ride, and over the course of the 2 day robotics competition in Washington DC. Who is this bad guy, and why is he kidnapping this woman? And will the girl traveling alone on the train (also going to the robotics competition) play into the story?
Did I mention Steel's dad is missing? I highly recommend this young-adult book.
What: Steel Trapp by Ridley Pearson
Where: @ work
Why: Jonathan let me borrow it
Steel Trapp is a tween-y book, which I really enjoyed!
Steven Trapp is a junior high student with a photographic memory. If he sees something, he will remember the exact details for years. His mother calls his brain a "steel trap", and the nick-name stuck. His brain is really remarkable
Steel and his mom are on the train from Chicago headed to Washington DC for a robotics competition. Steel is no genius, but with his photographic memory, he has built a pretty sweet robot.
On the train, he noticed a woman enter the train, drop off a suitcase in the overhead bin, then leave. Young, naïve Steel grabs the suitcase and runs after the woman. The woman claims it's not hers, but Steel knows better. His brain never lies. He know what he saw. Still the woman refuses to admit it, so Steel returns the suitcase to the train conductor.
Curiosity is eating him up … what is in that suitcase? Why did the lady lie to him? He manages to sneak back to the lost and found room on the train and peaks inside. It's a photo of a woman tied to a chair! Oh no - somebody is coming in the lost and found room! It's a bad, bad dude, who was supposed to pick up the suitcase on the train initially.
And now the story gets into high gear. We've got a kid with a photographic memory. A girl traveling on the train by herself. A bad, bad guy. And now FBI is on the train. And where is Steel's dad?!?
The chase for the woman in the chair and the bad guy with the suitcase continues thru out the train ride, and over the course of the 2 day robotics competition in Washington DC. Who is this bad guy, and why is he kidnapping this woman? And will the girl traveling alone on the train (also going to the robotics competition) play into the story?
Did I mention Steel's dad is missing? I highly recommend this young-adult book.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Who: Amber
What: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Where: cable
Why: I'm on a HP kick!
What: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Where: cable
Why: I'm on a HP kick!
In my mini Harry Potter mania, I watched the 4th (I think???) movie, the Prisoner of Azkaban. This book/movie was probably the most suspenseful, both Sirius Black (the deranged killer on the loose) and Professor Lupin (the sucker who took over the Defense Against the Dark Arts job) aren't who they really seem.
Granted, if you read the books, it's not all the suspenseful, but if not, be ready to be surprised!
This movie was very long, and very intertwined. Be ready for a long 'magical' going back in time sequence! Oh that super smart Heromie, what will she get into next?
The big wizard news story of the year is escaped prisoner Sirius Black. He's been there for 12 years, and he wants revenge on … guess who … Harry! Seriously, Harry can't just can't catch a break. 12 years ago Sirius told Lord Voldemort where Harry's parents were hiding. Sirius is responsible for Harry's parents death! Or is he …
Be sure to either read this book or see this movie. One of the major characters is Buckbeak the Hippogrif. When Universal opens Harry Potter Land next year, I believe Buckbeak will have his own ride.
Did I mention that magical people can willingly turn themselves into animals (awesome!). So is that dog really a dog? And how about that rat with only 9 fingers? Is that a werewolf a person, or a killer werewolf?
Find this movie on ABC Family and check it out!
Granted, if you read the books, it's not all the suspenseful, but if not, be ready to be surprised!
This movie was very long, and very intertwined. Be ready for a long 'magical' going back in time sequence! Oh that super smart Heromie, what will she get into next?
The big wizard news story of the year is escaped prisoner Sirius Black. He's been there for 12 years, and he wants revenge on … guess who … Harry! Seriously, Harry can't just can't catch a break. 12 years ago Sirius told Lord Voldemort where Harry's parents were hiding. Sirius is responsible for Harry's parents death! Or is he …
Be sure to either read this book or see this movie. One of the major characters is Buckbeak the Hippogrif. When Universal opens Harry Potter Land next year, I believe Buckbeak will have his own ride.
Did I mention that magical people can willingly turn themselves into animals (awesome!). So is that dog really a dog? And how about that rat with only 9 fingers? Is that a werewolf a person, or a killer werewolf?
Find this movie on ABC Family and check it out!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
50 Pills
Who: Amber
What: 50 Pills
Where: Comedy Central
Why: Kristen Bell is in it
What: 50 Pills
Where: Comedy Central
Why: Kristen Bell is in it
This movie was not very good. I saw "Kristen Bell" on my DVR, so I figured I would give it a try. I liked her in Forgetting Sarah Marshall.
The movie opens with the main character (I already forgot his name - that's how forgettable this movie was - I'll call him GUY) talking to the camera. Talking directly to the camera is tricky to pull off, and he is not pulling it off.
Guy is going to college in NYC for the first time. His roommate is a super stud, and Guy is mesmerized by him. Guy seems like an idiot, even though he's got a full ride college scholarship. Guy and roommate throw a huge party on day 1, it gets busted, and they are on probation. One more slip up, and Guy's scholarship is gone. Instead of not partying, they just sneak around a lot.
When Guy gets back from Thanksgiving break (his mom is played by the woman boss in 40 Year Old Virgin - she is just great!), he finds a note on his room. The roommate got caught throwing a party, so that means Guy's scholarship is gone. Really NYC college?!? If your roommate throws a party over Thanksgiving break, you penalize the roommate who wasn't even there ... riiiiight.
Anyway, so the roommate offers Guy 50 pills of ecstasy and his pager. He can sell them in 24 hours to get some cash to stay in school.
Really? 50 pills of ecstasy at $20 a piece is going to pay for school. Wake up Guy - that's not enough money for college. Plus the cute girl that likes you (Kristen Bell) doesn't approve).
He starts selling the drugs to funny and odd people. Watching that part of the movie was amusing, but the rest was a waste of time. Of course Guy blows it with the girl, but they get together at the end.
Blah!
The movie opens with the main character (I already forgot his name - that's how forgettable this movie was - I'll call him GUY) talking to the camera. Talking directly to the camera is tricky to pull off, and he is not pulling it off.
Guy is going to college in NYC for the first time. His roommate is a super stud, and Guy is mesmerized by him. Guy seems like an idiot, even though he's got a full ride college scholarship. Guy and roommate throw a huge party on day 1, it gets busted, and they are on probation. One more slip up, and Guy's scholarship is gone. Instead of not partying, they just sneak around a lot.
When Guy gets back from Thanksgiving break (his mom is played by the woman boss in 40 Year Old Virgin - she is just great!), he finds a note on his room. The roommate got caught throwing a party, so that means Guy's scholarship is gone. Really NYC college?!? If your roommate throws a party over Thanksgiving break, you penalize the roommate who wasn't even there ... riiiiight.
Anyway, so the roommate offers Guy 50 pills of ecstasy and his pager. He can sell them in 24 hours to get some cash to stay in school.
Really? 50 pills of ecstasy at $20 a piece is going to pay for school. Wake up Guy - that's not enough money for college. Plus the cute girl that likes you (Kristen Bell) doesn't approve).
He starts selling the drugs to funny and odd people. Watching that part of the movie was amusing, but the rest was a waste of time. Of course Guy blows it with the girl, but they get together at the end.
Blah!
Monday, August 3, 2009
The Bridge on the River Kwai
Who: Bill
What: The Bridge on the River Kwai
Where: Turner Classic Movies
Why: Had never seen this movie
When you're feeling sick and only have enough energy to do little or nothing, an excellent way to pass the time is to watch a three-hour long movie. And when its a GREAT movie, it is time well spent (sick or not). Such is the case with The Bridge on the River Kwai, a true cinema classic from 1957 that won seven Oscars, three Golden Globes, and numerous other awards.
Set in the middle of World War II, the story takes place in a Japanese prison camp. The newly arrived POW's are a group of British soldiers who will be forced to build a railroad bridge over the Kwai River. Their commander Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness) is steadfast in refusing to let all his men work on the bridge. He is punished by spending days in a locked box, about the size of a doghouse. He survives the ordeal and ultimately works out a deal with the camp leader Colonel Saito (Sessue Hayakawa) to supervise the completion of the bridge to the highest British specifications-- an odd move considering the condition the prisoners are being subjected. Meanwhile, an American POW named Shears (William Holden) escapes from the camp and eventually regains his health. Just before he is to be sent home, his true identity is uncovered and he is "persuaded" to join the British Special Forces in an attempt to destroy the bridge.
Based on the book of the same name, The Bridge on the River Kwai offers plenty of intense drama and outstanding performances from some of the finest actors of the 20th century. The film has been so highly regarded and significant in motion pictures, that in 1997 it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. Additionally, Alec Guinness and director David Lean would team again for the epic dramas Lawrence of Arabia(1962), Doctor Zhivago (1965) and A Passage to India (1984)
But even if you don't watch those other Guinness/Lean films, The Bridge on the River Kwai is a movie that should be a definite "must see".
What: The Bridge on the River Kwai
Where: Turner Classic Movies
Why: Had never seen this movie
When you're feeling sick and only have enough energy to do little or nothing, an excellent way to pass the time is to watch a three-hour long movie. And when its a GREAT movie, it is time well spent (sick or not). Such is the case with The Bridge on the River Kwai, a true cinema classic from 1957 that won seven Oscars, three Golden Globes, and numerous other awards.
Set in the middle of World War II, the story takes place in a Japanese prison camp. The newly arrived POW's are a group of British soldiers who will be forced to build a railroad bridge over the Kwai River. Their commander Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness) is steadfast in refusing to let all his men work on the bridge. He is punished by spending days in a locked box, about the size of a doghouse. He survives the ordeal and ultimately works out a deal with the camp leader Colonel Saito (Sessue Hayakawa) to supervise the completion of the bridge to the highest British specifications-- an odd move considering the condition the prisoners are being subjected. Meanwhile, an American POW named Shears (William Holden) escapes from the camp and eventually regains his health. Just before he is to be sent home, his true identity is uncovered and he is "persuaded" to join the British Special Forces in an attempt to destroy the bridge.
Based on the book of the same name, The Bridge on the River Kwai offers plenty of intense drama and outstanding performances from some of the finest actors of the 20th century. The film has been so highly regarded and significant in motion pictures, that in 1997 it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. Additionally, Alec Guinness and director David Lean would team again for the epic dramas Lawrence of Arabia(1962), Doctor Zhivago (1965) and A Passage to India (1984)
But even if you don't watch those other Guinness/Lean films, The Bridge on the River Kwai is a movie that should be a definite "must see".
The Kingdom Keepers
Who: Amber
What: The Kingdom Keepers
Where: @ work
Why: I've abondoned my Summer Fun Book Club literary masterpieces, but I wanted to keep reading something ...
This is a tween book, but I still enjoyed it. Heck, I enjoy all tween-y books, because they are such easy reads.
If you like Disney, you'll love this book. It features Finn, an Orlando teen who has been cast as a 'virtual tour guide' at the Magic Kingdom. He, and 4 other kids, have been turned into holograms. They are mini-celebrities at the Magic Kingdom. It seems like a cool gig, especially because the kids get free tickets when ever they want.
Then the funky dreams start. It seems like a dream, but it also seems real. Finn dreams he's at the Magic Kingdom at night, and a cast member Wayne is asking for his help. Finn needs to track down the other 4 hologram kids, and Wayne has a quest for them. Suuuuuuure.
But the dreams don't stop. Wayne still needs his help. And why are the Pirates of the Caribbean animatronics figures walking around the park OUTSIDE the ride? And they are holding laser guns from the Buzz Lightyear ride, that shoot real lasers that burn you?!?
Finn manages to track down the other 4 kids (who are all from different middle schools). They've all been having the same spooky dreams. They all decide go to bed at the same time, and meet up inside the Magic Kingdom. It's not a dream, it's real!
Wayne gives them an assignment. The evil Disney characters are coming alive. They are realizing their powers. Who knows what kind-of trouble they might get into.
The kids realize that because of the hologram technology, they have special powers as well. Will good triumph over evil? Or will the story continue in Kingdom Keepers 2 (which has already been published)? Ha ha ha. I can tell you, the story is full of action and adventure, and it does have the kids capturing 1 evil character. But every Disney fairytale has an element of evil, and the stories continue . . .
What: The Kingdom Keepers
Where: @ work
Why: I've abondoned my Summer Fun Book Club literary masterpieces, but I wanted to keep reading something ...
This is a tween book, but I still enjoyed it. Heck, I enjoy all tween-y books, because they are such easy reads.
If you like Disney, you'll love this book. It features Finn, an Orlando teen who has been cast as a 'virtual tour guide' at the Magic Kingdom. He, and 4 other kids, have been turned into holograms. They are mini-celebrities at the Magic Kingdom. It seems like a cool gig, especially because the kids get free tickets when ever they want.
Then the funky dreams start. It seems like a dream, but it also seems real. Finn dreams he's at the Magic Kingdom at night, and a cast member Wayne is asking for his help. Finn needs to track down the other 4 hologram kids, and Wayne has a quest for them. Suuuuuuure.
But the dreams don't stop. Wayne still needs his help. And why are the Pirates of the Caribbean animatronics figures walking around the park OUTSIDE the ride? And they are holding laser guns from the Buzz Lightyear ride, that shoot real lasers that burn you?!?
Finn manages to track down the other 4 kids (who are all from different middle schools). They've all been having the same spooky dreams. They all decide go to bed at the same time, and meet up inside the Magic Kingdom. It's not a dream, it's real!
Wayne gives them an assignment. The evil Disney characters are coming alive. They are realizing their powers. Who knows what kind-of trouble they might get into.
The kids realize that because of the hologram technology, they have special powers as well. Will good triumph over evil? Or will the story continue in Kingdom Keepers 2 (which has already been published)? Ha ha ha. I can tell you, the story is full of action and adventure, and it does have the kids capturing 1 evil character. But every Disney fairytale has an element of evil, and the stories continue . . .
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Eat, Pray, Love
Who: Amber
What: Eat, Pray, Love
Where: @ the Saturn dealership
Why: Book #3 in my Summer Fun Book Club
This was book 3 in my friend's "Summer Fun Book Club", which I have totally abandoned for the summer after struggling to get thru East of Eden (I made it about 25 pages).
This is a autobiographical book about 1 year in the life of the author. She just got out of a horrible divorce, and she also had a crazy lover, so she's taking a year off to travel the world. To be honest, Liz doesn't really seem like the victim of the divorce (she wanted the divorce) and she kept getting back together with the crazy lover. Anyway, she's about to Eat in Italy, Pray in India and Love in Indonesia for 4 months each (4 months X 3 countries = 1 year).
First up, Italy. Liz has always wanted to learn Italian, the language of love. What better way to learn a language then in Italy! Liz is one of those people who makes friends very easily (which I'm pretty jealous of her). She pigs out for the next 4 months, and has many fun adventures with new Italy friends. Liz has planed to be celibate for this next year, so no lover in Italy.
Next up, India. She was given an invitation to join some kind of monetary (I didn't fully understand it). India is the total opposite of Italy. Not much food, not a comfy bed, just praying and chanting 24/7. She does meet many interesting people in India who are also looking for a little kick in the pants thru the power of prayer.
Next up, Indonesia. She really has no plans here. She visited once, and just wanted to spend more time here. She falls off her bike, and goes to a local woman who is a master healer (although, no medical training). She finds out this woman is dirt poor, but has adopted a bunch of adorable kids. Liz makes it her mission to help this woman anyway she can. She also meets a guy 20 years her senior. She tries not to get romantic, but she just can't help me. Celibacy is out the window!
I've left out a ton of details, because I would recommend this book to women everywhere. Men, you'll be totally bored. I was also kind-of annoyed by Liz. I mean, who really takes a year off from their life after a divorce? She did touch on this subject, and made me feel like a jerk for being jealous of her. But I stand by my jealousy!
What: Eat, Pray, Love
Where: @ the Saturn dealership
Why: Book #3 in my Summer Fun Book Club
This was book 3 in my friend's "Summer Fun Book Club", which I have totally abandoned for the summer after struggling to get thru East of Eden (I made it about 25 pages).
This is a autobiographical book about 1 year in the life of the author. She just got out of a horrible divorce, and she also had a crazy lover, so she's taking a year off to travel the world. To be honest, Liz doesn't really seem like the victim of the divorce (she wanted the divorce) and she kept getting back together with the crazy lover. Anyway, she's about to Eat in Italy, Pray in India and Love in Indonesia for 4 months each (4 months X 3 countries = 1 year).
First up, Italy. Liz has always wanted to learn Italian, the language of love. What better way to learn a language then in Italy! Liz is one of those people who makes friends very easily (which I'm pretty jealous of her). She pigs out for the next 4 months, and has many fun adventures with new Italy friends. Liz has planed to be celibate for this next year, so no lover in Italy.
Next up, India. She was given an invitation to join some kind of monetary (I didn't fully understand it). India is the total opposite of Italy. Not much food, not a comfy bed, just praying and chanting 24/7. She does meet many interesting people in India who are also looking for a little kick in the pants thru the power of prayer.
Next up, Indonesia. She really has no plans here. She visited once, and just wanted to spend more time here. She falls off her bike, and goes to a local woman who is a master healer (although, no medical training). She finds out this woman is dirt poor, but has adopted a bunch of adorable kids. Liz makes it her mission to help this woman anyway she can. She also meets a guy 20 years her senior. She tries not to get romantic, but she just can't help me. Celibacy is out the window!
I've left out a ton of details, because I would recommend this book to women everywhere. Men, you'll be totally bored. I was also kind-of annoyed by Liz. I mean, who really takes a year off from their life after a divorce? She did touch on this subject, and made me feel like a jerk for being jealous of her. But I stand by my jealousy!
Thursday, July 30, 2009
The Proposal
Who: RR and Bob
What: The Proposal
Where: AMC PI
Why: Birthday Date Night--I picked the movie!
You probably saw a glimpse of this movie being advertised. It stars Sandra Bullock as, Margaret, a high-power publishing executive. She is on the verge of a huge deal with an author who hasn't done an interview in years and she got him on Oprah. At the peak of the deal coming together, her boss let's her know that since she didn't finish her immigration paperwork she is being deported back to Canada. In a last minute ploy to save her job and stay in the US she tell her boss that she is engaged to her assistant Andrew, played by Ryan Reynolds. He agrees to the marriage after he learns that she is really his only ticket to an Editor position and a better career. They go to the immigration office to fill out the appropriate papers and are confronted by a skeptical nerdy agent. He challenges their relationship and threatens to blow their cover and deport her and jail and fine him.
In an effort to prove their relationship is real, the couple goes to Alaska to meet Andrews parents, friends, and family. Upon arrival Margaret is the obvious fish out of water but learns that Andrew's family is wealthy and soon finds herself being one of the girls and loving being a part of the family. Over the course of the weekend the couple learns about each other as preparation of the grilling they will get through the immigration process. Gradually the focus shifts from all attention on Margaret to Margaret learning that Andrew is actually a great guy. The rest would ruin the movie so you will have to go see it.
I was expecting this movie to be very predictable and just another comedy-romance. I was pleasantly surprised to see it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. There were some very funny moments and as always, Betty White, really steals the show! It was a bit predictable but it was still entertaining. If there isn't anything else showing that you are interested in and you want to see a movie this is a good fill-in.
What: The Proposal
Where: AMC PI
Why: Birthday Date Night--I picked the movie!
You probably saw a glimpse of this movie being advertised. It stars Sandra Bullock as, Margaret, a high-power publishing executive. She is on the verge of a huge deal with an author who hasn't done an interview in years and she got him on Oprah. At the peak of the deal coming together, her boss let's her know that since she didn't finish her immigration paperwork she is being deported back to Canada. In a last minute ploy to save her job and stay in the US she tell her boss that she is engaged to her assistant Andrew, played by Ryan Reynolds. He agrees to the marriage after he learns that she is really his only ticket to an Editor position and a better career. They go to the immigration office to fill out the appropriate papers and are confronted by a skeptical nerdy agent. He challenges their relationship and threatens to blow their cover and deport her and jail and fine him.
In an effort to prove their relationship is real, the couple goes to Alaska to meet Andrews parents, friends, and family. Upon arrival Margaret is the obvious fish out of water but learns that Andrew's family is wealthy and soon finds herself being one of the girls and loving being a part of the family. Over the course of the weekend the couple learns about each other as preparation of the grilling they will get through the immigration process. Gradually the focus shifts from all attention on Margaret to Margaret learning that Andrew is actually a great guy. The rest would ruin the movie so you will have to go see it.
I was expecting this movie to be very predictable and just another comedy-romance. I was pleasantly surprised to see it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. There were some very funny moments and as always, Betty White, really steals the show! It was a bit predictable but it was still entertaining. If there isn't anything else showing that you are interested in and you want to see a movie this is a good fill-in.
The Strongest Man in the World
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: The Strongest Man in the World
Where: @ home on cable
Why: Classic Disney!
In the age of steroids in sports, this movie is a little less funny than it probably was back in the '70s. I mean, these kids are eating cereal spiked with some sort of crazy science formula, and they can suddenly clean and jerk over 1000lbs. But I digress ...
Disney has taken us back to Medford College (which, I believe was the setting for another Kurt Russell Disney classic The Smartest Man in the World). The dean of Medford is a total bonehead, and he needs to cut costs quickly. Getting rid of the super cool science professor should do the trick! He's always spending way too much money to silly science experiments.
Walking into the science classroom, he find a cow. He is flabbergasted! (He's pretty much flabbergasted the entire movie). The Dean causes a ruckus, which causes the cow to go a little nuts, and 2 science experiments get mixed together and spill into some cereal.
Pan to the next day, when Kurt Russell is eating cereal. His head hurts, he winces, and smoke comes out of his nose. Pretty weird huh? He tries to tie his shoe, and he tears the laces right off. He pulls the doorknob right off the door. He dunks a basketball and breaks the rim right off! What the heck is going on?!?
It's the cereal mixed with science experiment! It made him incredibly strong. He tells the dean, who immediately goes into nutso mode. This could make a ton of money for the school. He takes the "spiked" cereal to the head of the cereal manufacturer, eats some, and demonstrates how strong he all of a sudden is.
Naturally, the cereal manufacturer is thrilled. And, naturally, she challenges a rival cereal manufacturer to a weigh lifting match. She can't loose with her 'spiked' cereal!! (how silly is this movie)
Of course, things don't go as planned. The Medford kids are all really scrawny, the rival college guys are professional bodybuilders. Medford is getting crushed in the competition, because the cereal mysteriously doesn't work anymore.
Can Kurt Russell save the day?!?
What: The Strongest Man in the World
Where: @ home on cable
Why: Classic Disney!
In the age of steroids in sports, this movie is a little less funny than it probably was back in the '70s. I mean, these kids are eating cereal spiked with some sort of crazy science formula, and they can suddenly clean and jerk over 1000lbs. But I digress ...
Disney has taken us back to Medford College (which, I believe was the setting for another Kurt Russell Disney classic The Smartest Man in the World). The dean of Medford is a total bonehead, and he needs to cut costs quickly. Getting rid of the super cool science professor should do the trick! He's always spending way too much money to silly science experiments.
Walking into the science classroom, he find a cow. He is flabbergasted! (He's pretty much flabbergasted the entire movie). The Dean causes a ruckus, which causes the cow to go a little nuts, and 2 science experiments get mixed together and spill into some cereal.
Pan to the next day, when Kurt Russell is eating cereal. His head hurts, he winces, and smoke comes out of his nose. Pretty weird huh? He tries to tie his shoe, and he tears the laces right off. He pulls the doorknob right off the door. He dunks a basketball and breaks the rim right off! What the heck is going on?!?
It's the cereal mixed with science experiment! It made him incredibly strong. He tells the dean, who immediately goes into nutso mode. This could make a ton of money for the school. He takes the "spiked" cereal to the head of the cereal manufacturer, eats some, and demonstrates how strong he all of a sudden is.
Naturally, the cereal manufacturer is thrilled. And, naturally, she challenges a rival cereal manufacturer to a weigh lifting match. She can't loose with her 'spiked' cereal!! (how silly is this movie)
Of course, things don't go as planned. The Medford kids are all really scrawny, the rival college guys are professional bodybuilders. Medford is getting crushed in the competition, because the cereal mysteriously doesn't work anymore.
Can Kurt Russell save the day?!?
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The Parent Trap
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: The Parent Trap
Where: Fort Wilderness campfire movie
Why: I've never seen this movie!
I highly recommend this movie to everybody. This is the version from the early 90s staring a new actress … maybe you've heard of her … Lindsay Lohan.
Say with you will about current Lindsay, but little 11 year old Lindsay Lohan is adorable and a wonderful kid actress.
Halley is a tomboy from California. Annie is a proper girl from London. Both are *ironically* sent to the same summer camp. When they first lay eyes on each other, they are stunned. Besides Annie's long hair, they are identical. As 11 year old girls go, being identical is not cool, so they dislike each other. Silly camp pranks ensue, and Halley and Annie are sent to the "Isolation Bunk". Stuck all alone, they eventually being buds and talk about their lives. Halley has a father but no mother. Annie has a mother but no father. Their birthday is the same … dum, dum, dum … they are related!!
Since neither one has met the other parent, they decide to switch places. Halley learns a fake British accent and Annie cuts her hair, and the switch is on!
Neither parent knows what's up, the Halley's cook and Annie's grandpa seem to think something is off.
A problem arises when the father is remarrying a 26 year old bimbo! The girls must stop it and get their parents back together. They all meet up in California and the parents are totally shocked, but pleased to see the family is all together again. A ruckus at a hotel pool and a camping trip gone awry, and everything is happily ever after (in true Disney style).
This movie is very sweet, and little Lohan is adorable. The mother is played by Natasha Richardson, who recently passed away.
What: The Parent Trap
Where: Fort Wilderness campfire movie
Why: I've never seen this movie!
I highly recommend this movie to everybody. This is the version from the early 90s staring a new actress … maybe you've heard of her … Lindsay Lohan.
Say with you will about current Lindsay, but little 11 year old Lindsay Lohan is adorable and a wonderful kid actress.
Halley is a tomboy from California. Annie is a proper girl from London. Both are *ironically* sent to the same summer camp. When they first lay eyes on each other, they are stunned. Besides Annie's long hair, they are identical. As 11 year old girls go, being identical is not cool, so they dislike each other. Silly camp pranks ensue, and Halley and Annie are sent to the "Isolation Bunk". Stuck all alone, they eventually being buds and talk about their lives. Halley has a father but no mother. Annie has a mother but no father. Their birthday is the same … dum, dum, dum … they are related!!
Since neither one has met the other parent, they decide to switch places. Halley learns a fake British accent and Annie cuts her hair, and the switch is on!
Neither parent knows what's up, the Halley's cook and Annie's grandpa seem to think something is off.
A problem arises when the father is remarrying a 26 year old bimbo! The girls must stop it and get their parents back together. They all meet up in California and the parents are totally shocked, but pleased to see the family is all together again. A ruckus at a hotel pool and a camping trip gone awry, and everything is happily ever after (in true Disney style).
This movie is very sweet, and little Lohan is adorable. The mother is played by Natasha Richardson, who recently passed away.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Harry Potter 6
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: I just re-read the book
What: Harry Potter 6
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: I just re-read the book
I just love everything and anything Harry Potter. I'm kind-of embarrassed about it, but I just can't help it. JK Rowling is some sort of genius.
Movie 5 ended with the death of Sirius Black, Harry's godfather and only real 'family'. Remember in movie 4 Harry's classmate Cedric Digory died? There seems to be a "movie ending with death" theme going on here … and movie 6 continues with that. Although I won't tell you who dies, but I guaranteed you'll be surprised (that is, unless you read the book).
This movie is less action and more character development. The Hogworts kids are all around 16-ish, so love is in there air. It's actually quite adorable. Hermoine is really into Ron, but he's such a doofis, so he has no clue. He just wants to date anybody to be cool, and Lavender Brown (a semi-ditzy girl) steps in. Lavender and "Won-Won" are snogging all over Hogworts. In the meantime, Hermoine is crying and obviously upset (Ron has no clue). Harry has a thing for Ron's little sister (Ginny), but it conflicted. #1, Ginny has a boyfriend. #2, it's Ron's little sister -- will that cross the line?
Did I mention that Ron's older siblings have a magic shop, and their hottest selling item is a Love Potion? Let's hope the girls at Hogworts don't get their hands on that! (duh - of course they will).
Besides all the lovely, dovey stuff, the main part of the story is Harry and Professor Dumbledore trying to learn everything they can about Lord Voldemort. They figure anything they learn about him will help. We see flashbacks to little Voldemort's life pre-Hogwards and life at Hogworts. Voldemort has discovered a very dark magic trick. You can actually split your soul into pieces and put your soul into a random object. This way, if your body dies, you don’t actually die! In typical Voldemort fashion, he's split is soul into 7 pieces. Dumbledore has found one of them, and takes Harry on a crazy journey to find it and destroy it.
I won't ruin anything else about the movie. The ending is a total shocker (if you've been living under a rock and didn't read the book … or had somebody who read the book ruin it for you) … so go see the movie!
Movie 5 ended with the death of Sirius Black, Harry's godfather and only real 'family'. Remember in movie 4 Harry's classmate Cedric Digory died? There seems to be a "movie ending with death" theme going on here … and movie 6 continues with that. Although I won't tell you who dies, but I guaranteed you'll be surprised (that is, unless you read the book).
This movie is less action and more character development. The Hogworts kids are all around 16-ish, so love is in there air. It's actually quite adorable. Hermoine is really into Ron, but he's such a doofis, so he has no clue. He just wants to date anybody to be cool, and Lavender Brown (a semi-ditzy girl) steps in. Lavender and "Won-Won" are snogging all over Hogworts. In the meantime, Hermoine is crying and obviously upset (Ron has no clue). Harry has a thing for Ron's little sister (Ginny), but it conflicted. #1, Ginny has a boyfriend. #2, it's Ron's little sister -- will that cross the line?
Did I mention that Ron's older siblings have a magic shop, and their hottest selling item is a Love Potion? Let's hope the girls at Hogworts don't get their hands on that! (duh - of course they will).
Besides all the lovely, dovey stuff, the main part of the story is Harry and Professor Dumbledore trying to learn everything they can about Lord Voldemort. They figure anything they learn about him will help. We see flashbacks to little Voldemort's life pre-Hogwards and life at Hogworts. Voldemort has discovered a very dark magic trick. You can actually split your soul into pieces and put your soul into a random object. This way, if your body dies, you don’t actually die! In typical Voldemort fashion, he's split is soul into 7 pieces. Dumbledore has found one of them, and takes Harry on a crazy journey to find it and destroy it.
I won't ruin anything else about the movie. The ending is a total shocker (if you've been living under a rock and didn't read the book … or had somebody who read the book ruin it for you) … so go see the movie!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix
Who: Amber
What: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (HP5)
Where: borrowed it from my friend Dawnita
Why: I'm getting ready for the next Harry Potter movie
Hi, I'm 33 years old and I love the Harry Potter movies and books.
This movie was great, as they all are, but extremely long. It seems like it would never end!
This movie starts where the 4th movie ended. Cedric has been killed by Voldemort, who is 100% back. Unfortunately, only Harry has seen Voldemort, so nobody really believes that he's back for good. Everybody is pretty much in denial. Harry is annoyed and ticked off at everybody who fails to believe him.
Thankfully, the Order of the Phoenix believes Harry. The Order of the Phoenix is a group of all the 'good guys' who plan to fight Voldemort. Ron's Parents, Sirius Black, Lupin, Tonks, etc. They are all living and planning things together at Sirius's boyhood home. Harry, Ron, Hermione are all staying there for the summer as well. As usual, the adults don't really tell Harry much of anything, which also really annoys him.
Since Harry knows Voldemort is back, and most of his friends believe him, they decide to take action. They need to learn how to defend themselves, and fast. Harry creates the "D.A." (Dumbledore's Army), and they sneak around after classes, practicing spells and jinxes.
The big finale is a huge showdown at the Ministry of Magic. There is a random prophecy that Voldemort needs (for some reason …). Since the prophecy is about Harry, he is the only one who can retrieve it. I can't remember why Harry thinks it's a good idea to retrieve the prophecy, but he does. In a "we're friends till the very end!" moment, Ron, Hermione and 3 other friends go with Harry to help him. Voldemort shows up, along with his powerful Death Eaters, and the showdown begins! Spells, jinxes, broken prophecies and the death of a major character later … (should I tell you the ending … I think not!)
What: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (HP5)
Where: borrowed it from my friend Dawnita
Why: I'm getting ready for the next Harry Potter movie
Hi, I'm 33 years old and I love the Harry Potter movies and books.
This movie was great, as they all are, but extremely long. It seems like it would never end!
This movie starts where the 4th movie ended. Cedric has been killed by Voldemort, who is 100% back. Unfortunately, only Harry has seen Voldemort, so nobody really believes that he's back for good. Everybody is pretty much in denial. Harry is annoyed and ticked off at everybody who fails to believe him.
Thankfully, the Order of the Phoenix believes Harry. The Order of the Phoenix is a group of all the 'good guys' who plan to fight Voldemort. Ron's Parents, Sirius Black, Lupin, Tonks, etc. They are all living and planning things together at Sirius's boyhood home. Harry, Ron, Hermione are all staying there for the summer as well. As usual, the adults don't really tell Harry much of anything, which also really annoys him.
Since Harry knows Voldemort is back, and most of his friends believe him, they decide to take action. They need to learn how to defend themselves, and fast. Harry creates the "D.A." (Dumbledore's Army), and they sneak around after classes, practicing spells and jinxes.
The big finale is a huge showdown at the Ministry of Magic. There is a random prophecy that Voldemort needs (for some reason …). Since the prophecy is about Harry, he is the only one who can retrieve it. I can't remember why Harry thinks it's a good idea to retrieve the prophecy, but he does. In a "we're friends till the very end!" moment, Ron, Hermione and 3 other friends go with Harry to help him. Voldemort shows up, along with his powerful Death Eaters, and the showdown begins! Spells, jinxes, broken prophecies and the death of a major character later … (should I tell you the ending … I think not!)
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Bottle Shock
Who: Bill & Melanie
What: Bottle Shock
Where: Borrowed the DVD from our neighbor
Why: It takes place in the Napa Valley
In 1976 the Napa Valley had an emerging reputation of growing high quality grapes, which resulted in some outstanding wines. But outside of a handful of wine connoisseurs, few people were aware of this. Bottle Shock tells the story of a small family-owned winery called Chateau Montelena, and how its wines and other California-based wines (many produced in the Napa Valley) "shocked" the world when they bested the more-established French wines at a blind taste testing known as The Judgement of Paris.
Filmed primarily in the Napa Valley (with nearby Sonoma being used for scenes taking place in Paris), Bottle Shock is an entertaining and enjoyable story with a unique blend of actors of past and present "vintage": Bill Pullman as Jim Barret (owner of Chateau Montelena), Chris Pine as son Bo Barret, Alan Rickman as Steven Spurrier (the man who organized the blind taste test), Rachael Taylor as Samantha, Freddy Rodriguez as Gustavo, Eliza Dushku as a street-smart local bartender named Jo, and Dennis Farina as Maurice.
I was raised in Napa, so anytime I hear of a movie that takes place or was filmed there, it immediately gets my interest. Bottle Shock was one such film. It premiered at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival and had a limited run in theaters. Most people probably still have not heard of the movie. It is worth seeking out, not only for its compelling story, but for its incredible cast. In particular, Chris Pine wasn't well known when Bottle Shock was being filmed. That has since changed with his acclaimed performance as the young James T. Kirk in the recent re-launch of the Star Trek franchise. His comes from an acting family: mother Gwynne Gilford has had small roles in TV shows and movies over the years and father Robert Pine is best-known from co-starring in the long-running series "CHiPs". Eliza Dushku has appeared in many popular movies such as True Lies, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, and a recurring role in Buffy, the Vampire Slayer. She is currently starring and co-producing in Joss Whedon's latest television series Dollhouse. Rachael Taylor has appeared in a number of recent movies including the 2007 blockbuster Transformers.
Because Bottle Shock is about wines and wine-making, one enhancement to your enjoyment would be to watch the movie with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir-- preferably from the Napa Valley of course. Salud!
What: Bottle Shock
Where: Borrowed the DVD from our neighbor
Why: It takes place in the Napa Valley
In 1976 the Napa Valley had an emerging reputation of growing high quality grapes, which resulted in some outstanding wines. But outside of a handful of wine connoisseurs, few people were aware of this. Bottle Shock tells the story of a small family-owned winery called Chateau Montelena, and how its wines and other California-based wines (many produced in the Napa Valley) "shocked" the world when they bested the more-established French wines at a blind taste testing known as The Judgement of Paris.
Filmed primarily in the Napa Valley (with nearby Sonoma being used for scenes taking place in Paris), Bottle Shock is an entertaining and enjoyable story with a unique blend of actors of past and present "vintage": Bill Pullman as Jim Barret (owner of Chateau Montelena), Chris Pine as son Bo Barret, Alan Rickman as Steven Spurrier (the man who organized the blind taste test), Rachael Taylor as Samantha, Freddy Rodriguez as Gustavo, Eliza Dushku as a street-smart local bartender named Jo, and Dennis Farina as Maurice.
I was raised in Napa, so anytime I hear of a movie that takes place or was filmed there, it immediately gets my interest. Bottle Shock was one such film. It premiered at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival and had a limited run in theaters. Most people probably still have not heard of the movie. It is worth seeking out, not only for its compelling story, but for its incredible cast. In particular, Chris Pine wasn't well known when Bottle Shock was being filmed. That has since changed with his acclaimed performance as the young James T. Kirk in the recent re-launch of the Star Trek franchise. His comes from an acting family: mother Gwynne Gilford has had small roles in TV shows and movies over the years and father Robert Pine is best-known from co-starring in the long-running series "CHiPs". Eliza Dushku has appeared in many popular movies such as True Lies, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, and a recurring role in Buffy, the Vampire Slayer. She is currently starring and co-producing in Joss Whedon's latest television series Dollhouse. Rachael Taylor has appeared in a number of recent movies including the 2007 blockbuster Transformers.
Because Bottle Shock is about wines and wine-making, one enhancement to your enjoyment would be to watch the movie with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir-- preferably from the Napa Valley of course. Salud!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Escape from Alcatraz
Who: Amber
What: Escape from Alcatraz
Where: @ home on AMC
Why: I think Alcatraz is cool
What: Escape from Alcatraz
Where: @ home on AMC
Why: I think Alcatraz is cool
I was shocked to find out that Clint Eastwood played the main character (Frank Morris) in this movie. I read that in the credits. I didn't even recognize him! I'm so embarrassed.
This movie was slow moving, and not much action. And the title pretty much gives away the ending ... 3 men successfully escape from Alcatraz. After I watched the movie, I tried to find out if it was true, and nobody can really confirm or deny it. Nobody ever found the 3 men or their bodies. And they never got arrested again (even though they were career criminals - only the worst of the worst end up in Alcatraz).
Basically this movie shows how day to day life is in Alcatraz. You have a teeny tiny cell all by yourself. You eat crappy food. And working for 15 cents a day is a big time privilege.
Escape from Alcatraz chronicles Frank Morris and 2 brothers who hatch a plan to escape. Over the course of about a year, they slowly chip away at the grates in their cell. They made paper mache' (sp?) grates out of newspaper, so during the day nobody could see a huge gaping hole in the cell. They also made paper mache' heads, so guards would think they were sleeping at night.
They managed to steal small tools to chip away at the cement. They stole hair from the barbershop to make their paper mache'. And they stole some raincoats to make a life raft for the final escape across the San Francisco Bay.
There wasn't much action in this movie, but it was interesting to watch their plan, and see how it all worked out.
Now I'm in the mood to watch The Rock!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Leatherheads
Who: Jonathan and Amber
What: Leatherheads
Where: @ home - recorded off HBO
Why: It's about football
What: Leatherheads
Where: @ home - recorded off HBO
Why: It's about football
While I won't classify this movie as "great" nor in the "I will watch it again category", it was an enjoyable flick.
In the 1920's, professional football is crap. It's played on cow pastures, nobody is making any money, and teams are folding like crazy. On the other hand, college football is super awesome, and over 40,000 people show up to watch it!
George Clooney (Dodge) has been playing pro football forever. His team is about to fold. When he hears about how many fans college player (and war hero!) John Krazinski (Carter) has, he has a brilliant idea. Invite Carter to play for the Duluth Bulldogs, and all his fans will flock to pro football.
Carter agrees to a huge salary, and the fans arrive! Pro football is becoming super awesome.
Did I mention Carter is also a war hero? America just loves him. He's cute, a great athlete and an all American hero. Although his war story seems a little too good to be true. A bunch of Germans just dropped their guns and gave up for no reason. The Chicago Daily Tribune is suspicious.
Send in Renee Zellweger (Lexi Littleton). She travels aroaund with the now super famous Duluth Bulldogs and tries to get the REAL story out of Carter. Meanwhile, Carter is falling for her, and so is Dodge.
In the 1920's, professional football is crap. It's played on cow pastures, nobody is making any money, and teams are folding like crazy. On the other hand, college football is super awesome, and over 40,000 people show up to watch it!
George Clooney (Dodge) has been playing pro football forever. His team is about to fold. When he hears about how many fans college player (and war hero!) John Krazinski (Carter) has, he has a brilliant idea. Invite Carter to play for the Duluth Bulldogs, and all his fans will flock to pro football.
Carter agrees to a huge salary, and the fans arrive! Pro football is becoming super awesome.
Did I mention Carter is also a war hero? America just loves him. He's cute, a great athlete and an all American hero. Although his war story seems a little too good to be true. A bunch of Germans just dropped their guns and gave up for no reason. The Chicago Daily Tribune is suspicious.
Send in Renee Zellweger (Lexi Littleton). She travels aroaund with the now super famous Duluth Bulldogs and tries to get the REAL story out of Carter. Meanwhile, Carter is falling for her, and so is Dodge.
Who will Lexi pick? Will the world ever find about about Carter's real war story? Can old man Dodge (he's like 45 and still playing football - impressive) survive the new, faster game of pro football?
Side note: Randy Newman (of Pixar fan - "You've Got a Friend in Me") did all the piano side music in this movie. Watch the scene in the bar, and you'll see Randy playing his piano. You go Randy!
Friday, June 12, 2009
To Kill A Mockingbird
Who: Amber
What: To Kill A Mockingbird
Where: borrowed it from a friend at work
Why: 2nd book in the Summer Fun Book Club
What: To Kill A Mockingbird
Where: borrowed it from a friend at work
Why: 2nd book in the Summer Fun Book Club
Am I the only person who never read this book in high school?
I wasn't very pumped about reading an "old" book for my book club. Honestly, I'm normally ot a fan of "old things" or "things that win awards". Black and white movies - forget it. Oscar winning movies - snooze patrol! But, it's 1 book a week, so I had to get over it.
I actually really enjoyed this book! It confused me for a while, because the back cover said, "something about a black man raping a white woman ...". But after 7 or 8 chapters there was no word on the rape. I was just about a bunch of kids playing and going to school. Not that I was excited for a rape, but where was it? And it's not one of these cute kids is it?!?
Thankfully, this book wasn't all about a rape, it was more about a family living in the 30's (I think?). Atticus is the father, who is a lawyer. He defends a black man (the N word is in abundance in this book) who is charged with raping a white hill billie girl. The trial only lasts about 1 chapter.
Most of the book is about Scout and Jem, Atticus's kids. They are normal, smart, inquisitive children. Scout is a little girl, who is a total tomboy, which is really frowned upon. She should be wearing cute dresses and drinking tea. But Atticus (a single dad) is a super smart dude, and he's raising his kids to think on their own.
Read about their adventures before, during and after their father's trial. Defending a black man is not the normal thing to do back then, but he stands up for what he believes it.
Read on!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Water for Elephants
Who: Amber
What: Water for Elephants
Where: Cagan Crossing Library
Why: 1st book in the Summer Fun Book-a-week club
What: Water for Elephants
Where: Cagan Crossing Library
Why: 1st book in the Summer Fun Book-a-week club
My friend Julie wanted to do a book club this summer for 2 reasons: stop watching so much stupid summer TV and to read more books. Even though I don't really read much at all, I decided to go for it. Water for Elephants was the first book on the list. I believe the author is Sarah Gruen (sp?).
I highly recommend this book!
The first chapter is awesome. It details an animal stampede at a circus and a murder. Oooooo. Who is murdered?!?
Fast forward 70 years, and Jacob Jankowski is in a nursing home, miserable. He's over 90 and bored out of his mind.
The chapters go back and forth talking about Jacob randomly joining the circus and working as a vet and then old Jacob in the nursing home.
I don't really want to give anything away, but Jacob has some crazy circus stories and he's dying to get out of the nursing home. I'm not sure how accurate all these circus stories are from the 1930's, but I bet most of them are pretty true. It sounds like a wild and wacky place to work!
I'm probably making it sound lame, but it's a great book! I little romance, a lot of wackyness and a little drama thrown in. I may have even shed a teeny tiny tear at the end.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
The Hangover
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: The Hangover
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: It's got "Andy" from the office
What: The Hangover
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: It's got "Andy" from the office
I love a good 'ole raunchy comedy (Knocked Up, Forgetting Sarah Marshall), and this movie was no exception. It was raunch and hilarious!
Doug (the sidekick from National Treasure) is getting married. He is headed to Vegas with his 2 best friends (Bradley Cooper who is so cute and Ed Helms) and his future brother in law, who looks like a cave man.
They check in to a huge hotel suite, do a few shots to toast the evening then .... it's morning. The room is trashed, a chicken is walking around, a tiger is in the bathroom, a chair is slightly on fire, a baby is crying from the closet and Doug is nowhere to be found.
The 2 best friends and the brother in-law try desperately to remember what happened the night before, but they have no clue. Cutie pie Bradley Cooper is wearing a hospital wrist band, so they start there. As the day goes on, and Doug is still lost, the boys discover more and more about what happened last night.
Why is Ed Helms missing a tooth? Why is Mike Tyson in their hotel room? Whose baby is this? And where is Doug?!?
As the boys drive around Vegas following their clues, each gag is funnier and funnier than the first. If you love comedies, I highly recommend this movie!
I think the credits were actually my favorite part of the movie.
Duel
Who: Bill
What: Duel
Where: Turner Classic Movies (TCM)
Why: One of the first movies directed by Steven Spielberg
Mild-mannered salesman David Mann (Dennis Weaver) is on his way to meet a client. Traveling on a remote two-lane California highway he gets behind a slow-moving, exhaust-spewing old tanker truck. He bypasses the truck, but very quickly the truck bypasses him. Soon, Mann finds himself in a high-speed, life-threatening "duel" between his four-door sedan and the menacing tanker truck, whose driver's face is unseen. Call it an extreme case of road rage.
Duel was first seen Saturday, November 13, 1971 on ABC's "Movie of the Weekend", which along with that network's Tuesday night "Movie of the Week", consisted entirely of made-for-TV feature films. Each movie was budgeted at no more than $450,000 and just long enough to fit into a 90-minute time slot. "The Movie of the Week" was a huge hit upon its debut in 1969, as viewers enjoyed the World Premiere of a new motion picture presented for free each week. When Steven Spielberg was assigned to helm Duel, he had already established himself as an ambitious young director for Universal Television, working on episodes for popular shows such as Rod Serling's Night Gallery, Marcus Welby M.D. and Columbo. What could have been an average TV movie thriller, Duel is made unique by Spielberg's direction with minimal dialog and effective camera angles which add to the overall suspense of the story. These are especially effective in the chase scenes between the plain red early-70's Plymouth Valiant and the dirty, sinister tanker truck squaring off in a fight to the death. Of equal merit is Dennis Weaver's performance as the stalked driver, who can't understand why he is being terrorized for simply passing another vehicle on a lonely road.
Duel is one of the most famous films presented as part of ABC's "Movie of the Week" franchise. A few weeks after its airing, another acclaimed TV movie had its premiere: Brian's Song. Both movies were so well received by critics and viewers that they were even given theatrical releases. In the case of Duel, this involved the addition of several scenes and some mild profanity. This is the version that has aired on TCM, and seen on a special edition DVD. Duel is recommend not just to observe some of the best early career work of Steven Spielberg, but as an effective suspense thriller.
By the way, if you want to see how Duel was first presented to viewers, check out its preview clip on You Tube by typing "ABC Movie of the Weekend" in the search box. You can also see openings from "The Movie of the Week" and other network movie programs from the 1960's through the 1990's.
What: Duel
Where: Turner Classic Movies (TCM)
Why: One of the first movies directed by Steven Spielberg
Mild-mannered salesman David Mann (Dennis Weaver) is on his way to meet a client. Traveling on a remote two-lane California highway he gets behind a slow-moving, exhaust-spewing old tanker truck. He bypasses the truck, but very quickly the truck bypasses him. Soon, Mann finds himself in a high-speed, life-threatening "duel" between his four-door sedan and the menacing tanker truck, whose driver's face is unseen. Call it an extreme case of road rage.
Duel was first seen Saturday, November 13, 1971 on ABC's "Movie of the Weekend", which along with that network's Tuesday night "Movie of the Week", consisted entirely of made-for-TV feature films. Each movie was budgeted at no more than $450,000 and just long enough to fit into a 90-minute time slot. "The Movie of the Week" was a huge hit upon its debut in 1969, as viewers enjoyed the World Premiere of a new motion picture presented for free each week. When Steven Spielberg was assigned to helm Duel, he had already established himself as an ambitious young director for Universal Television, working on episodes for popular shows such as Rod Serling's Night Gallery, Marcus Welby M.D. and Columbo. What could have been an average TV movie thriller, Duel is made unique by Spielberg's direction with minimal dialog and effective camera angles which add to the overall suspense of the story. These are especially effective in the chase scenes between the plain red early-70's Plymouth Valiant and the dirty, sinister tanker truck squaring off in a fight to the death. Of equal merit is Dennis Weaver's performance as the stalked driver, who can't understand why he is being terrorized for simply passing another vehicle on a lonely road.
Duel is one of the most famous films presented as part of ABC's "Movie of the Week" franchise. A few weeks after its airing, another acclaimed TV movie had its premiere: Brian's Song. Both movies were so well received by critics and viewers that they were even given theatrical releases. In the case of Duel, this involved the addition of several scenes and some mild profanity. This is the version that has aired on TCM, and seen on a special edition DVD. Duel is recommend not just to observe some of the best early career work of Steven Spielberg, but as an effective suspense thriller.
By the way, if you want to see how Duel was first presented to viewers, check out its preview clip on You Tube by typing "ABC Movie of the Weekend" in the search box. You can also see openings from "The Movie of the Week" and other network movie programs from the 1960's through the 1990's.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Star Trek
Who: Scott & Kerri
What: STAR TREK
Where: Showplace 14, Machesney Park, IL
Why: Cause we were kidless and wanted to see a movie
I must preface this - I am NOT a Trekkie. I repeat I am not a Trekkie. I'm totally a Star Wars Girl. Although had this movie come out when I was a kid instead of that first piece of crap Trek movie, I would have been all in. This movie Rocked!
Even though I'm not a Trekkie, I know a "little" about the Star Trek Universe, but I don't know the ins and outs. Like I cracked up at "Dammit Jim I'm a Doctor not a Physicist." But was like "Spock's half human, did I know this?"
Just so you know where I'm coming from on this.
Again, This movie flippin Rocked!
It was fun, the effects were great, it had a lot of humor without being a parody of itself. It had action without making you feel worn out. There was really great character development, it let those of us who weren't born Klingon feel that we got a chance to know the characters and didn't feel left out of the film.
It starts off with James T Kirk being born, following him and Spock both through their childhoods with some quick scenes, where they meet at an Academy, and are suddenly thrust into action on the USS Enterprise. Did I mention the effects were great?? Did I mention it also made me laugh?
I don't want to really say too much more as to give the plot away, although everyone else in the world has probably already scene it, but for you three that haven't, GO WATCH NOW! We'll wait for you.
Are you back? Wasn't it great?
(Am I the only Star Wars Geek that was waiting for Han to show up on the snowy planet? That was HOTH wasn't it? ;) sorry, I digress)
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Up
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: UP
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: It's Pixar!
What: UP
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: It's Pixar!
I had been seeing previews and photos for UP for about 8 months now. Since it was Pixar, I knew it would be good, but I wasn't so sure about the story and if it would be as good as all the other Pixar movies.
And, as a friend mentioned to me today, if I told you the plot and the funny scenes of the movie, it would just seem ridiculous and lame. But the movie is WONDERFUL.
Maybe because I'm such a sap for seeing movies with cute old couples who have been happily married for ever ... or maybe because my life is kind-of like Carl and Elle Fredrickson. They are happy to be around each other, and they happily just live their lives. They aren't really extravagant or noteworthy. They just build a home for themselves and enjoy being married.
If you don't really want to see UP, or if you're embarrassed that you want to see UP, but your friends won't see it with you, I highly encourage you to at least watch the first 15 minutes. After that, you're ok to leave.
Also, the classic Pixar short film before the the movie is adorable. I think it might be my favorite yet!
Go see this movie immediately!!! Adults will love the romance, kids will love the adventure. It's a win/win!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Changeling
Who: Liz
What: Changeling
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was good
Angelina Jolie played mom Christine Collins, mom of Walter Collins. She is a supervisor at a telephone company in 1928 Pasadena CA. She has been called in to work and so she has to go, leaving Walter, a 9 year old, home alone for the day. When she gets home, Walter is gone, vanished. This movie is about her search for Walter. I thought it was a little slow going, but then, boy did it get better.
This is 1928 and I don’t know my history, but according to the movie, Los Angeles was filled with rogue cops and was really a corrupt place to live. Christine reports her child missing as soon as she gets home, but they tell her she has to wait 24 hours. So she does and then reports him missing. Time goes by and he is not found, then about 5 months later, the police claim to have found Walter. So she goes to the train station to pick him up and it’s not him, but the police insist it is and tell her to take him! Unbelievable! She knows it’s not her son and can get proof from the dentist, the neighbors, the teachers, and some others, but the police still don’t believe her and won’t continue to look for Walter. Case closed.
In the meantime, a decent cop is trying to find a young boy to deport back to Canada from a ranch and the boy ends up telling a really grisly story. There is also a minister who is trying to tell people about the corupt politicians and cops and he comes to help Christine.
What happens next is really scary to me and I have a hard time believing that this was the US and that people could be treated the way that Christine was treated. You'll have to watch the movie to see what happens!
I wouldn’t say this was a really enjoyable movie, but it kept me intrigued and wanting to root for Christine to get through this time in her life. I would say that this movie is not for everyone, its definitely not a “feel good” movie, but I liked it.
What: Changeling
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was good
Angelina Jolie played mom Christine Collins, mom of Walter Collins. She is a supervisor at a telephone company in 1928 Pasadena CA. She has been called in to work and so she has to go, leaving Walter, a 9 year old, home alone for the day. When she gets home, Walter is gone, vanished. This movie is about her search for Walter. I thought it was a little slow going, but then, boy did it get better.
This is 1928 and I don’t know my history, but according to the movie, Los Angeles was filled with rogue cops and was really a corrupt place to live. Christine reports her child missing as soon as she gets home, but they tell her she has to wait 24 hours. So she does and then reports him missing. Time goes by and he is not found, then about 5 months later, the police claim to have found Walter. So she goes to the train station to pick him up and it’s not him, but the police insist it is and tell her to take him! Unbelievable! She knows it’s not her son and can get proof from the dentist, the neighbors, the teachers, and some others, but the police still don’t believe her and won’t continue to look for Walter. Case closed.
In the meantime, a decent cop is trying to find a young boy to deport back to Canada from a ranch and the boy ends up telling a really grisly story. There is also a minister who is trying to tell people about the corupt politicians and cops and he comes to help Christine.
What happens next is really scary to me and I have a hard time believing that this was the US and that people could be treated the way that Christine was treated. You'll have to watch the movie to see what happens!
I wouldn’t say this was a really enjoyable movie, but it kept me intrigued and wanting to root for Christine to get through this time in her life. I would say that this movie is not for everyone, its definitely not a “feel good” movie, but I liked it.
Fireproof
Who: Emily, Scott, & Kerri
What: Fireproof
Where: At home, On Demand special .01 movies
Why: Picked it at random
I really did like the story, and the message. It is rare that you mix so much faith in a Hollywood movie, especially concerning love and marriage. Generally movies are 'get out when the going gets tough' on marriage but this movie showed a man trying to save his marriage, and it wasn't until he understood the love of Jesus for us, that he realized how to truly love another. This kind of message is actually very powerful and I think everyone could learn from it.
The downfall of this movie? There was some really bad acting. The male lead is Kirk Cameron (you may know from Growing Pains!), but he seemed to be surrounded by people who'd never acted before in their lives, or were doing a local production of a play. At times I found that distracting. The actress who played his wife was beautiful, but at times her line delivery took me out of the movie.
Scott said it felt like an afterschool special for adults. And there's some truth to it.
I think if you can get past the acting, and listen to the message, you will take something valuable from this movie.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Ever After
Who: Kerri & Emily
What: Ever After
Where: on DVD
Why: We wanted something to watch, and it's an old favorite we hadn't seen in awhile.
This movie is 11 years old now, but I enjoy it every time. It's supposed to be the 'real' story of Cinderella. Drew Barrymore, Angelica Huston and Dougray Scott star.
Angelica plays the evil stepmother to absolute perfection, her disdain for Danielle (the Cinderella Character) is absolutely unforgivable. She cannot find it in her heart at all to love or care for Danielle, and turns her into the servant for her and her two daughters after Danielle's father unexpectedly dies.
Danielle accidentally meets (and yells at) the prince while disguised as a noblewoman. She gives her mothers name and over the course of the week, they fall in love. All while keeping out of her step mothers eye - as step mommy is trying to get her own daughter married off to the prince.
A fun entertaining movie with some laughs and some love and some tears, and a glass slipper. What more could you want?
Oh, and they do live, happily ever after!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Ghosts of Girlfriends Past
Who:Kerri & Emily
What: Ghosts of Girlfriends Past
Where: At the movies
Why: We wanted to see a movie
I would rate this movie as "cute yet typical romantic comedy."
It is a fun little movie with good humor, but the story is really nothing new. Matthew McHottie plays your typical leading man too hot for his own good can't commit womanizer, who finds his way.
I did like Michael Douglas' role of the dead ghost (the Jacob Marley character) who guides him through with his three spirits, it was through his uncle that he learned his womanizing ways, and his uncle has come back to make sure that McHottie doesn't end up dying alone and unloved. And the Ghost of Christmas past who took us on a middle school trek to the 80's was a lot of fun.
Jennifer Garner was likable enough in this role, although something about her tends to bug me, I can't put my finger on it, really her role could have been done just as well with probably a little more chemistry with any number of other actresses.
I wouldn't say run out and go see this movie, nor necessarily buy the DVD on day one, but in the marked down bin, or netflix, it's a fun Saturday afternoon popcorn flick.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
X Men Origins: Wolverine
Who: Kerri, Scott & Mitchel
What: X Men Origins: Wolverine
Where: Showplace 14, Rockford IL
Why: Because it's Hugh Jackman!!
Now I preface this entire review on the fact that I am not into the comic books, I do NOT know the back stories as written in the comics, nor am I aware of how the comics and movies differ. This review is entirely based on what I do know, the XMen trilogy that came before this one. (And the fact I really like Hugh Jackman) There may also be some light spoilers, I will try not to give too much away, if you've read the comics I'm sure nothing will be new here.
This movie takes place prior to the trilogy - and you learn the story of Wolverine. We pick up with him as a child in 1845, he's ill and his father is taking care of him, a friend of his is also at his bedside. We learn that he's ill a lot, and his friend had been to, then one day just got better. Basically the mutation is starting to mature. Through accident, a young Logan realizes he has bones that can protrude and retract and his skin heals. He's also discovered a half brother. We watch as the two go through time as seen through them fighting in wars, from the Civil war through Viet Nam.
His brother has the ability to heal as well, and each appears as though they are only in their early 30's and are discovered by Gen Stryker (who you will remember in the XMen Trilogy). They join this elite team, but ultimately his brother grows darker and meaner, and Logan wants nothing to do with it. He leaves and finds a quiet life, and love.
Through loss and ultimately betrayal Logan agrees to undergo the antimantium procedure voluntarily. We do put some pieces together, where he got the name Wolverine, why he doesn't remember what happened to him, even where he got his leather jacket. I really liked Liev Shreiber as his brother, who eventually becomes Sabertooth. This is the one point I don't like Liev was a great Sabretooth, but differs so greatly from the same Character we saw in the first Xmen movie. I'm thinking they are taking great creative license here, or maybe there is something in this character's history that changes him over this time period as well and even made him forget his own brother?
It was an enjoyable movie a lot of great action, and if you like the character you should enjoy this movie. If you are a die hard comic guru, I'm sure there will be plenty that will make your skin itch, as there usually is in book to movie translations.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Oliver & Company
Who: Bill and Melanie
What: Oliver & Company
Where: DVR recording from The Disney Channel
Why: Bill had never seen it.
The classic Charles Dickens novel “Oliver Twist” has been adapted to film numerous times, both as a drama and even as a musical-- 1968’s Oliver!, which itself was adapted from a musical play in England and on Broadway. In 1988, Walt Disney Pictures gave the story a contemporary animated “twist” set in the gritty streets of New York City and featuring all-star vocal talent.
Oliver (Joey Lawrence) is an abandoned kitten who is befriended by a group of street-smart dogs led by Dodger (Billy Joel). The pack‘s owner, bumbling but good-hearted Fagin (Dom DeLuise), owes a huge debt to a powerful loan shark named Sykes (Robert Loggia) and in danger of losing his life if Fagin can‘t come up with the needed funds. Meanwhile, Oliver is soon befriended by a sweet young girl named Jenny much to the chagrin of her spoiled prize-winning poodle Georgette (Bette Midler). The kitten unexpectedly departs his new friends, but they haven’t forgotten about Oliver and manage to get him back in the pack. But Fagin plans to hold Oliver for ransom once realizing the wealthy nature of Jenny’s family. This being a Disney movie, of course there has to be a happy ending for all involved… but maybe not.
Disney animation was on the verge of a second “golden age” of highly successful features when Oliver & Company came out in 1988. In addition to Billy Joel and Bette Midler, musical contributions are provided by Huey Lewis, Barry Manilow, Ruth Pointer (from The Pointer Sisters) and lyricist Howard Ashman. Other characters in the film are voiced by Cheech Marin, Richard Mulligan, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Roscoe Lee Browne and the versatile Frank Welker. And for the first time, CGI effects were put to extensive use in supplementing the hand-drawn animation. Yet while an entertaining movie, Oliver & Company is lacking as an overall engaging story. Certainly Oliver the kitten is cute enough, but none of the other characters are especially lovable. The music is well-done, but ultimately forgettable. Still, its worth recommending as fine family entertainment and possible musical nostalgia for children of the 80’s. For fans of Disney’s animated classics, look for cameos from dogs seen in Lady and the Tramp and the original One Hundred and One Dalmatians.
What: Oliver & Company
Where: DVR recording from The Disney Channel
Why: Bill had never seen it.
The classic Charles Dickens novel “Oliver Twist” has been adapted to film numerous times, both as a drama and even as a musical-- 1968’s Oliver!, which itself was adapted from a musical play in England and on Broadway. In 1988, Walt Disney Pictures gave the story a contemporary animated “twist” set in the gritty streets of New York City and featuring all-star vocal talent.
Oliver (Joey Lawrence) is an abandoned kitten who is befriended by a group of street-smart dogs led by Dodger (Billy Joel). The pack‘s owner, bumbling but good-hearted Fagin (Dom DeLuise), owes a huge debt to a powerful loan shark named Sykes (Robert Loggia) and in danger of losing his life if Fagin can‘t come up with the needed funds. Meanwhile, Oliver is soon befriended by a sweet young girl named Jenny much to the chagrin of her spoiled prize-winning poodle Georgette (Bette Midler). The kitten unexpectedly departs his new friends, but they haven’t forgotten about Oliver and manage to get him back in the pack. But Fagin plans to hold Oliver for ransom once realizing the wealthy nature of Jenny’s family. This being a Disney movie, of course there has to be a happy ending for all involved… but maybe not.
Disney animation was on the verge of a second “golden age” of highly successful features when Oliver & Company came out in 1988. In addition to Billy Joel and Bette Midler, musical contributions are provided by Huey Lewis, Barry Manilow, Ruth Pointer (from The Pointer Sisters) and lyricist Howard Ashman. Other characters in the film are voiced by Cheech Marin, Richard Mulligan, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Roscoe Lee Browne and the versatile Frank Welker. And for the first time, CGI effects were put to extensive use in supplementing the hand-drawn animation. Yet while an entertaining movie, Oliver & Company is lacking as an overall engaging story. Certainly Oliver the kitten is cute enough, but none of the other characters are especially lovable. The music is well-done, but ultimately forgettable. Still, its worth recommending as fine family entertainment and possible musical nostalgia for children of the 80’s. For fans of Disney’s animated classics, look for cameos from dogs seen in Lady and the Tramp and the original One Hundred and One Dalmatians.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
The Reader
Who: Liz
What: The Reader
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was a good movie
This was a fabulous movie. I believe Kate Winslet won the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna, and Ralph Fiennes played Michael. Basically, they were the only real characters in the movie. In the beginning of the movie it is 1958 and Michael gets sick in an alleyway and Hanna helps him out, it seems he has scarlet fever, so he goes to bed for three months. Michael comes searching for her to say Thank you after the 3 months and she seduces him. Mind you, at this stage of the game, Michael is only 15 years old and Hanna is about 35. They have this affair, yet she is very cold and he falls in love with her. He lets his life be run by Hanna. She wants him to read books to her and he does. Its very sweet. After a little while, of course an affair like this ends.
The movie jumps 8 years and by this time Michael is in law school and Hanna is on trial for being a guard in Auschwitz….who knew? There wasn’t an indication in the beginning of the film. I don’t want to give away the rest of the movie, I just want to note that Kate Winslet definitely deserved the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna with such fervor. This woman ,whose life just got away from her and didn’t really turn out the way she wanted. Ralph Fienne’s character’s life is also consumed by her. This movie showed how one event can change someone’s life forever. Sometimes we have to let things go and just can’t. It was a great movie. Be aware there is a definitely adult theme in this film, as well as nudity.
What: The Reader
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was a good movie
This was a fabulous movie. I believe Kate Winslet won the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna, and Ralph Fiennes played Michael. Basically, they were the only real characters in the movie. In the beginning of the movie it is 1958 and Michael gets sick in an alleyway and Hanna helps him out, it seems he has scarlet fever, so he goes to bed for three months. Michael comes searching for her to say Thank you after the 3 months and she seduces him. Mind you, at this stage of the game, Michael is only 15 years old and Hanna is about 35. They have this affair, yet she is very cold and he falls in love with her. He lets his life be run by Hanna. She wants him to read books to her and he does. Its very sweet. After a little while, of course an affair like this ends.
The movie jumps 8 years and by this time Michael is in law school and Hanna is on trial for being a guard in Auschwitz….who knew? There wasn’t an indication in the beginning of the film. I don’t want to give away the rest of the movie, I just want to note that Kate Winslet definitely deserved the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna with such fervor. This woman ,whose life just got away from her and didn’t really turn out the way she wanted. Ralph Fienne’s character’s life is also consumed by her. This movie showed how one event can change someone’s life forever. Sometimes we have to let things go and just can’t. It was a great movie. Be aware there is a definitely adult theme in this film, as well as nudity.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Henry Poole Is Here
Who: Jaclyn
What: Henry Poole Is Here
Where: At Home
Why: Who doesn't like Luke Wilson?
What: Henry Poole Is Here
Where: At Home
Why: Who doesn't like Luke Wilson?
I briefly remembered seeing preview for this movie a while back and then never heard about it again. Thankfully for Netflix, I was able to check it out.
This movie is about Henry Poole (Luke Wilson) who buys a house from a kooky realtor and insists that he'll pay whatever they, the sellers ask and he doesn't want any repairs done on the house. The realtor thinks this is odd so she has someone come to fix the house up after he purchases it.
Turns out, Henry believes he doesn't have much time left to live so he's not really worried about the state of his house.
Henry has a neighbor that knows everything about the neighbors and one day comes to visit him and notices the face of Jesus on the side of Henry's house. He believes that it's just a stain from a bad paint job but the neighbor isn't buying it.
The whole movie revolves around the stain/image of Jesus and it's somewhat endearing. Henry finds hope (though he fights it every step of the way) and finds a friend in his other neighbors.
I'll admit, I fell asleep during this movie...but I was also doped up on Benadryl. But what I saw, I liked.
Blind Dating
Who: Jaclyn
What: Blind Dating
Where: At Home
Why: Netflix
What: Blind Dating
Where: At Home
Why: Netflix
Blind dating is about a man named Danny who has been blind since birth (he was born 3 months early). He is desperately seeking love and his brother Lorenzo tries to set him up with all the trashy women he knows. Danny doesn't like any of them and gets mad at his brother.
Danny is due to be part of an experiment to allow him to see and in the process, ends up falling for a girl who works as a receptionist at his doctor's office. However, this girl is already engaged.
It's a cute fluff story about how a man with self esteem issues overcomes his fears to find happiness. Sounds cheesy, but I was amused.
Mamma Mia!
Who: Amber, Jonathan and friends
What: Mamma Mia!
Where: Leu Gardens, Orlando FL
Why: It was outdoor movie date night!
I've always been curious about this movie, but I know Jonathan would never want to see it. Thankfully, his work friends were all going to a local garden to watch their monthly "date night" outdoor movie - and it was Mamma Mia!
20-year-old Sophie lives with her mother Donna (Meryl Streep) in Greece Donna runs a a cute and rundown hotel. Sophie is about to get married and wants her father to give her away. The problem, she has no clue who her father is. After reading her mother's diary, she discovers that she "got busy" with 3 guys the same month 20 years ago. One of them must be her father!
So, what does any bonehead 20 year old do - invite all 3 of them to the wedding. The moment she sees "her dad", she'll just know ... right?
Wrong! All 3 guys are pretty cool, and she has no idea. The 3 guys finally figure out what is going on, and they all 3 assume they are her father. Donna is mortified all 3 of these guys are staying at her hotel.
Hilarity ensues, Sophie's fiance is getting jittery, but the wedding goes off with out a hitch. Not! Come on, this is the movies remember?
The entire time I was dying to find out which guy is Sophie's dad is! It was such a suspenseful movie! Is it cutie Pierce Brosnen (sp?). Some crazy hippy guy with eye tattoos on his knees and butt (yes, we see some old man butt). Or the business suit guy who just might be gay.
Did I mention that every 10 minutes, somebody would break out into singing an ABBA song? It was pretty clever how all these random songs fit together to make a movie musical.
If you like cheese ball weddings and cheese ball music, then I recommend this movie. It was fun, cheesy and the location was gorgeous!
What: Mamma Mia!
Where: Leu Gardens, Orlando FL
Why: It was outdoor movie date night!
I've always been curious about this movie, but I know Jonathan would never want to see it. Thankfully, his work friends were all going to a local garden to watch their monthly "date night" outdoor movie - and it was Mamma Mia!
20-year-old Sophie lives with her mother Donna (Meryl Streep) in Greece Donna runs a a cute and rundown hotel. Sophie is about to get married and wants her father to give her away. The problem, she has no clue who her father is. After reading her mother's diary, she discovers that she "got busy" with 3 guys the same month 20 years ago. One of them must be her father!
So, what does any bonehead 20 year old do - invite all 3 of them to the wedding. The moment she sees "her dad", she'll just know ... right?
Wrong! All 3 guys are pretty cool, and she has no idea. The 3 guys finally figure out what is going on, and they all 3 assume they are her father. Donna is mortified all 3 of these guys are staying at her hotel.
Hilarity ensues, Sophie's fiance is getting jittery, but the wedding goes off with out a hitch. Not! Come on, this is the movies remember?
The entire time I was dying to find out which guy is Sophie's dad is! It was such a suspenseful movie! Is it cutie Pierce Brosnen (sp?). Some crazy hippy guy with eye tattoos on his knees and butt (yes, we see some old man butt). Or the business suit guy who just might be gay.
Did I mention that every 10 minutes, somebody would break out into singing an ABBA song? It was pretty clever how all these random songs fit together to make a movie musical.
If you like cheese ball weddings and cheese ball music, then I recommend this movie. It was fun, cheesy and the location was gorgeous!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Grosse Point Blank
Who: Amber
What: Grosse Point Blank
Where: @ home on cable
Why: John Cussak (sp?) is always fun!
Martin (Cussak) and is a tough hitman, but he's a little messed up in the head. He has recurring dreams about his high school girlfriend, who he stood up on prom night 10 years ago.
Thankfully, his 10 year class reunion is coming up! And, he's got a hitman job to do around the same time, so he heads home to Grosse Point, Michigan.
His high school girlfriend Debi (Minnie Driver) is kind-of a moron. She seems stuck in the 80s, and she's pretty annoyed at Martin for ditching her at prom. Martin is pretty open and honest about being a hitman, but nobody seems to A) believe him or B) care. Martin and Debi hang out and have a great time at the reunion ... until another hitman shows up to get rid of Martin. Seems like his agency has decided that he's no longer needed. I think there was a back story that I missed or didn't really understand.
Debi finally realizes that Martin is a real killer (when she finds him sitting next to the hitman who came to kill him, and Martin is covered in blood) and totally freaks out!
Remember the hitman job that Martin has in Michigan. Could it be a good friend of Debi's? Will she finally realize Martin loves her, and give him another chance?
What: Grosse Point Blank
Where: @ home on cable
Why: John Cussak (sp?) is always fun!
Martin (Cussak) and is a tough hitman, but he's a little messed up in the head. He has recurring dreams about his high school girlfriend, who he stood up on prom night 10 years ago.
Thankfully, his 10 year class reunion is coming up! And, he's got a hitman job to do around the same time, so he heads home to Grosse Point, Michigan.
His high school girlfriend Debi (Minnie Driver) is kind-of a moron. She seems stuck in the 80s, and she's pretty annoyed at Martin for ditching her at prom. Martin is pretty open and honest about being a hitman, but nobody seems to A) believe him or B) care. Martin and Debi hang out and have a great time at the reunion ... until another hitman shows up to get rid of Martin. Seems like his agency has decided that he's no longer needed. I think there was a back story that I missed or didn't really understand.
Debi finally realizes that Martin is a real killer (when she finds him sitting next to the hitman who came to kill him, and Martin is covered in blood) and totally freaks out!
Remember the hitman job that Martin has in Michigan. Could it be a good friend of Debi's? Will she finally realize Martin loves her, and give him another chance?
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Dog Park
Who: Amber
What: Dog Park
Where: @ home on cable
Why: I like Luke Wilson
A laid back guy, Andy (Luke Wilson) is in mourning. His girlfriend has just left him, and he's all alone. He's not too upset about the girlfriend (she was a little nuts), but she's taken his dog! Mr. Mogley!
He meets Lorna at a single's bar with the pick up line, "Haven't I seen you before?" She thinks it's a corny piece of junk, but he actually has seen her before at the the local dog park. They go home together, but she ends up throwing up all over the place, and is horribly embarrased. She refused to take his phone calls or accept his flowers.
This movie is kind of slow moving, but still a lot of fun. All the characters are inner twinded, even though they don't realize it. Everybody seems to be connected by the local dog park. Andy's girlfriend (and dog!) have actually moved in with Lorna's ex. Andy's friends who seem to be in a great relationship are actually having an affair with one of Lorna's co-workers. It's a big relationship mess.
It all kind-of get's sorted out in the end, but not in some fairy tale, lovey dovy moment. It's all kind-of realistic and very refreshing!
What: Dog Park
Where: @ home on cable
Why: I like Luke Wilson
He meets Lorna at a single's bar with the pick up line, "Haven't I seen you before?" She thinks it's a corny piece of junk, but he actually has seen her before at the the local dog park. They go home together, but she ends up throwing up all over the place, and is horribly embarrased. She refused to take his phone calls or accept his flowers.
This movie is kind of slow moving, but still a lot of fun. All the characters are inner twinded, even though they don't realize it. Everybody seems to be connected by the local dog park. Andy's girlfriend (and dog!) have actually moved in with Lorna's ex. Andy's friends who seem to be in a great relationship are actually having an affair with one of Lorna's co-workers. It's a big relationship mess.
It all kind-of get's sorted out in the end, but not in some fairy tale, lovey dovy moment. It's all kind-of realistic and very refreshing!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
The Running Man
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: The Running Man
Where: @ home off cable
Why: Jonathan has never seen it, and it's a classic in my book
In the far future ... 2017 ... the world economy has collapsed. Sounds familiar huh? Well, in the late '80s, the year 2017 was far away.
The US has become totally controlled by the government, even TV. The most popular TV show is called The Running Man. It shows a couple criminals running away from "the stalkers" whose job is to kill them. Literally - kill them. People love seeing criminals killed by the stalkers!
Ben Richards (Schwarzenegger) used to be an Army military pilot. On a routine mission, the Army asks Ben to fire on some innocent people. He refuses and his Army captain knocks him out, and fires on the innocent people. Then he frames Ben, and he goes to jail for 2 years ... until he escapes!
Unfortunately, he doesn't get very far. Next thing he knows he's on The Running Man, along with 3 of his good buddies.
Richards is a tough dude. Unstead of being killed by the stalkers, he takes them out one by one.
This movie is a cheesy ball of goodness! Although, I highly recommend the short story by Richard Bachman (aka: Steven King). It's a fantastic read! Way better than the movie!
What: The Running Man
Where: @ home off cable
Why: Jonathan has never seen it, and it's a classic in my book
In the far future ... 2017 ... the world economy has collapsed. Sounds familiar huh? Well, in the late '80s, the year 2017 was far away.
The US has become totally controlled by the government, even TV. The most popular TV show is called The Running Man. It shows a couple criminals running away from "the stalkers" whose job is to kill them. Literally - kill them. People love seeing criminals killed by the stalkers!
Ben Richards (Schwarzenegger) used to be an Army military pilot. On a routine mission, the Army asks Ben to fire on some innocent people. He refuses and his Army captain knocks him out, and fires on the innocent people. Then he frames Ben, and he goes to jail for 2 years ... until he escapes!
Unfortunately, he doesn't get very far. Next thing he knows he's on The Running Man, along with 3 of his good buddies.
Richards is a tough dude. Unstead of being killed by the stalkers, he takes them out one by one.
This movie is a cheesy ball of goodness! Although, I highly recommend the short story by Richard Bachman (aka: Steven King). It's a fantastic read! Way better than the movie!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
P2
Who: Amber
What: P2
Where: @ home - free Starz weekend!
Why: I like horror movies
What: P2
Where: @ home - free Starz weekend!
Why: I like horror movies
This movie wasn't so much as "scare the pants off you" as it was "how is she going to get out of this".
Angela is a young go-getter who works in a corporate office. She is stuck working late on Christmas Eve. She is totally late for a family get together.
When she finally tries to leave, her car won't start. Thankfully, the parking garage attendant is there to help ... or kidnap her! It seems young Tom, our parking attendant who owns a very vicious dog has a crush on Angela. And working the night shift in a parking garage is very lonely. It's a good thing Tom has video camera everywhere, so he's been watching Angela for months.
I never got the feeling that Tom was going to hurt Angela. Sure, he chained her to the table for a Christmas feast (in his parking attendant office), and he handcuffed her when they went to 'take a ride' around the parking garage. Tom introduces us to a little back story about Angela, and about a jerk guy she works with.
Angela is pretty smart, and she's always thinking of ways to escape. Unfortunately, Tom has keys to everything in the parking garage (floors are P1, P2, P3, etc ... hence the name of the movie), so it's impossible to escape.
Since the only 2 actors in this movie are Tom and Angela, I figured one of them would eventually kill the other one. Who will it be . . .
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