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.
Showing posts with label Romantic Comedy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Romantic Comedy. Show all posts
Sunday, October 25, 2009
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.
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.
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, March 5, 2009
My Super Ex-Girlfriend
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: My Super Ex-Girlfriend
Where: @ home on cable
What: My Super Ex-Girlfriend
Where: @ home on cable
Why: I like Luke Wilson
I totally remember seeing a preview for this movie in theaters and thinking, "that looks cute/different". Then I remember hearing that is made no money in theaters, which is normally a tell tale sign that it's no good.
It wasn't very good (I'm glad I didn't pay for it), but it was a fun free movie found on cable.
Matt (Luke Wilson) works in an office with his buddy Vaughn (Rainn Wilson - from the Office) and Hannah (Anna Ferris). You can tell right away that Matt and Hannah have a flirty thing going at work, but Hannah really loves her boyfriend.
Matt meets Jenny Johnson (Uma Thurman) on the subway, and asks her out. Jenny is hot, but in a nerdy way (with boring brown hair, bangs, glasses, and a librarian's wardrobe). As they go on a couple dates you can tell something is off with her. She's just not a very good girlfriend, but she's great in the sack (which they had to show a sex scene - totally unnecessary. I'm no prude, but I'd rather not see a sex scene if I don't have to).
Jenny admits to Matt she has a big time secret. She's actually ... pull off glasses and brown wig ... G girl. New York City's favorite super hero! She can do it all, fly, lazer eyes, super strength, lightning speed ... you get the idea. Matt is totally turned on, but Jenny is just not a good girlfriend. And she's totally jealous of Hannah, even though they are clearly just friends.
So Matt breaks up with her.
Have you ever wanted to get back at an ex-boyfriend, but didn't know what to do? Well, as super hero, Jenny can do what ever she wants!
I won't ruin all the movie for you. Basically, Jenny ruins Matt's life, but he's got a comeback of his own ...
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Bewitched (2005)
Who: Bill and Melanie
What: Bewitched
Where: Aired on ABC
Why: We wanted to see it.
The 2005 comedy Bewitched takes a unique approach. Rather than a straight adaptation of the classic sitcom, the movie is about the attempts to make a new TV version of the old series. In another twist, the woman chosen to play the new Samantha is actually a witch just like her character.
Jack Wyatt (Will Ferrell) is a conceited jerk of an actor whose movie career is fading. He turns to television and conceives of a revived version of Bewitched where as Darin Stephens, he will be the actual star. Searching for an unknown actress to play wife Samantha--and stay in the background, he meets an attractive young woman named Isabel Bigelow (Nicole Kidman) and hires her. Unknown to Jack, Isabel really is a witch and trying to live a normal life. However, her magic powers prove too tempting and uses them in the filming of the series, to the delight of the studio audience and the chagrin of Jack. But as Jack continues to be upstaged, he becomes more attracted to Isabel. Will that change when he finds out she is a witch just like her character and will he be willing share the spotlight?
Bewitched the movie boasts a top notch cast including Shirley MacLaine as the actress playing Endora in the TV show, Michael Caine as Isabel’s father Nigel Bigelow, David Alan Grier as Jim Fields, Kristen Chenowith as Maria Kelly, and Steve Carell in a scene-stealing cameo as Uncle Arthur (originated in the series by Paul Lynde). All in all, Bewitched is really not a bad movie, boasting many funny moments. Where it comes up short is in the awkward pairing of Ferrell and Kidman. It’s hard to pinpoint, but they simply don’t make a great screen couple. As a whole though, the movie is good as escapist fare and may put you in the mood to enjoy an episode or more of Bewitched the series. And let’s face it: no one can twitch their nose quite like the original--and best--Samantha Stephens (Elizabeth Montgomery) could!
Not coincidentally, Bewitched was recently presented on ABC, the network that originally aired the show from 1964 to 1972. The series has been released on DVD and reruns can currently be seen just about every day on WGN America.
What: Bewitched
Where: Aired on ABC
Why: We wanted to see it.
The 2005 comedy Bewitched takes a unique approach. Rather than a straight adaptation of the classic sitcom, the movie is about the attempts to make a new TV version of the old series. In another twist, the woman chosen to play the new Samantha is actually a witch just like her character.
Jack Wyatt (Will Ferrell) is a conceited jerk of an actor whose movie career is fading. He turns to television and conceives of a revived version of Bewitched where as Darin Stephens, he will be the actual star. Searching for an unknown actress to play wife Samantha--and stay in the background, he meets an attractive young woman named Isabel Bigelow (Nicole Kidman) and hires her. Unknown to Jack, Isabel really is a witch and trying to live a normal life. However, her magic powers prove too tempting and uses them in the filming of the series, to the delight of the studio audience and the chagrin of Jack. But as Jack continues to be upstaged, he becomes more attracted to Isabel. Will that change when he finds out she is a witch just like her character and will he be willing share the spotlight?
Bewitched the movie boasts a top notch cast including Shirley MacLaine as the actress playing Endora in the TV show, Michael Caine as Isabel’s father Nigel Bigelow, David Alan Grier as Jim Fields, Kristen Chenowith as Maria Kelly, and Steve Carell in a scene-stealing cameo as Uncle Arthur (originated in the series by Paul Lynde). All in all, Bewitched is really not a bad movie, boasting many funny moments. Where it comes up short is in the awkward pairing of Ferrell and Kidman. It’s hard to pinpoint, but they simply don’t make a great screen couple. As a whole though, the movie is good as escapist fare and may put you in the mood to enjoy an episode or more of Bewitched the series. And let’s face it: no one can twitch their nose quite like the original--and best--Samantha Stephens (Elizabeth Montgomery) could!
Not coincidentally, Bewitched was recently presented on ABC, the network that originally aired the show from 1964 to 1972. The series has been released on DVD and reruns can currently be seen just about every day on WGN America.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
New In Town
Who: Rochelle & Bob
What: New In Town
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: It was the only decent looking movie at the time we were there.
Fish out of water saves small town... sound familiar? No originality here other than it was a women instead of a man in the starring role. Harry Connick Jr. was super handsome and acted very well but didn't have enough lines to really show his stuff. Renee Zellweger looked weird in this movie. She had a cute hair cut but all her close-ups made her face look morphed or something. Her character is on a career track in Miami and is sent to Minnesota to make big corporate changes in this small town factory. What do you know it is cold in Minnesota compared to Florida and she learns that these small town people have a big heart and they just can't close the plant! It was a cute story and had a few funny moments but the pace of the movie was so slow and so predictable. This would have made a great Saturday afternoon USA network or Lifetime movie. I can't believe an Oscar winning actress would need to do this kind of movie. Mildly disappointed and entertained.
What: New In Town
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: It was the only decent looking movie at the time we were there.
Fish out of water saves small town... sound familiar? No originality here other than it was a women instead of a man in the starring role. Harry Connick Jr. was super handsome and acted very well but didn't have enough lines to really show his stuff. Renee Zellweger looked weird in this movie. She had a cute hair cut but all her close-ups made her face look morphed or something. Her character is on a career track in Miami and is sent to Minnesota to make big corporate changes in this small town factory. What do you know it is cold in Minnesota compared to Florida and she learns that these small town people have a big heart and they just can't close the plant! It was a cute story and had a few funny moments but the pace of the movie was so slow and so predictable. This would have made a great Saturday afternoon USA network or Lifetime movie. I can't believe an Oscar winning actress would need to do this kind of movie. Mildly disappointed and entertained.
Friday, October 3, 2008
No Reservations
Who: Amber
What: No Reservations
Where: @ home - free HBO weekend
Why: Figured it would be decent
What: No Reservations
Where: @ home - free HBO weekend
Why: Figured it would be decent
This movie was pretty cute. Definitely a chick flick.
Catherine Zeta Jones (Kate) is a work-a-holic chef - one of the best in NYC. Typical chick in a movie, she's great at her job but has no social life and lives alone. Tragedy strikes her sister, forcing her niece (Abigail Breslin) Zoe to come live with her.
Side comment: Zoe is one of my favorite names.
While Kate is taking care of family stuff and helping Zoe move in, Aaron Eckert (Nick) is subbing for Kate at her super famous restaurant. Kate was a hard butt in the kitchen, and Nick is very laid back. The restaurant staff love him, and the manager loves him as well.
In typical movie style, Kate and Nick work together, kiss, have a great 'family' montage with Zoe, then get in a huge fight. Turns out the restaurant wants Nick to run the entire place and Kate is furious!
Does Nick take the job? Does Nick move to San Fransisco instead? Do Kate and Nick get back together? Is Zoe a stable child after having a great movie montage moment with Nick, but now she knows they aren't going to hang out anymore? Tune in to find out! Or, you can probably assume that will happen, b/c this is a very predictable movie.
Two more side notes: Zoe has some really great knit hats and scarfs. I was jealous of her wardrobe. And Abigail Breslin always seems to play the super smart kid. In this movie she was more like a mini adult than a child. Same thing in Definitely, Maybe (with hottie Ryan Reynolds). She knew all about complex relationships and was talking about them with her father. I miss the Dakota Fanning craze - she always seemed to play a great "kid".
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Music and Lyrics
Who: Amber
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: @ home - free HBO
Why: Bill already Movie Yak'ed about it, and he made me want to see it
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: @ home - free HBO
Why: Bill already Movie Yak'ed about it, and he made me want to see it
This movie was super cute!!! I highly recommend it. It combined 2 things I really enjoy: '80's music and Drew Berrymore. (I think I spelled her name wrong).
The movie starts out with a cheese-ball music video by everybody's (fake) '80's band POP! "Pop goes my heart" It's a duo of 2 guys - like Wham. And just like Wham, one of them continues on to fame, and the other one pretty much seems to die.
This movie is about the 'dead' member of Pop. His name is Alex, and he's living comfortably in NYC. He's fully aware that he's an 80's has been, and it's ok with him. He does shows at little state fairs, at some 1987 high school reuinion, etc. The ladies still love him and his sexy hip action!
The problem, the Brittney Spears-like singer of this time, named Cora, wants a to collaborate with an '80s had been. Whom ever can write a song in 3 days gets the job and gets to tour with Cora! Alex is all over this challenge - he could become an UN-has been!
Drew Barrymore (Sophie) is at Alex's house, watering his plants or something. Alex is trying to write a song and play a tune on the piano. Alex says some lyrics, and Sophie opens her big mouth and whips out some genius lyrics. She's a natural song writer. 3 straight days of Alex writing music and Sophie writing lyrics and wha-la - a hit song!
I wont' give away the rest to you, but it ends pretty much how you would expect it to. It's a super cute movie, with some super groovy songs. Make sure you pay attention to the Pop Up Video during the credits. Man, I could watch Pop Up Videos all day long ...
Thursday, September 25, 2008
MADE OF HONOR
Who: Kerri
What: Made of Honor
Where: At Home
Why: Got it on DVD
This is a lot like "My Best Friends Wedding" Except reversed, this time Patrick Dempsy plays the Julia Roberts role and tries to break up the wedding of his best friend. Tom and Hannah became best friends in college, fast forward 10 years, they're still best friends, and he's still sleeping around with all the women he can find.
Hannah goes to Scotland for 6 weeks, and when she returns she has a fiance, and wants Tom to be her Made of Honor since he's her best friend.
There's some cute things with all that, a guy trying to learn how to do girl stuff, and his guy friends teasing him, then helping out with it.
The Hitch here is that when Hannah goes away for 6 weeks, he realizes how much she really means to him, and 'she's the one.' So coming back with the fiance really puts a crimp in those plans. Hijinx ensue when Tom attempts to break up Hannah and the seemingly perfect Colin.
Will Hannah remain friends with Tom and Marry Colin? Will she dump the Scottish accent guy and realize she loves Tom??? Tune in and find out. It's a cute romantic comedy - nothing really 'new' as far as romantic comedies... but then again when was the last 'original' one made?
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The Sweetest Thing
Who: Amber
What: The Sweetest Thing
Where: @ home (I own it on DVD)
Why: It's hilarious!!!
I am so glad my roommate James introducted me to this movie. It is so funny, and so girly.
Cameron Diaz and Christina Applegate are best friends, with super quick witty banter and throwing guys away like yesterdays trash. Selma Blair is thrown in the mix, for apparantly no reason, but she's great regardless.
What: The Sweetest Thing
Where: @ home (I own it on DVD)
Why: It's hilarious!!!
I am so glad my roommate James introducted me to this movie. It is so funny, and so girly.
Cameron Diaz and Christina Applegate are best friends, with super quick witty banter and throwing guys away like yesterdays trash. Selma Blair is thrown in the mix, for apparantly no reason, but she's great regardless.
A cute guy comes into play, a roadtrip ensues, their is a montage of horrible dresses being tried on, etc ... Throw in some Jason Bateman (this was before having Jason Bateman in a movie was cool!) and yourselves have a kick butt movie!!!
I highly recommend renting the "unrated version". You will have the Penis Song stuck in your head for the rest of your life!!! And "unrated" back in 2002 didn't mean actually seeing any private parts (cough *Walk Hard* cough), it just meant singing about them. It's one of my all time favorite movies.
I highly recommend renting the "unrated version". You will have the Penis Song stuck in your head for the rest of your life!!! And "unrated" back in 2002 didn't mean actually seeing any private parts (cough *Walk Hard* cough), it just meant singing about them. It's one of my all time favorite movies.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Maid in Manhatten
Who: Amber
What: Maid in Manhatten
Where: at home - DVR'ed off some random cable channel
Why: I like to watch/listen to TV as I'm making dinner. I watched this movie over the course of 3 evenings.
What: Maid in Manhatten
Where: at home - DVR'ed off some random cable channel
Why: I like to watch/listen to TV as I'm making dinner. I watched this movie over the course of 3 evenings.
This was a cute, but very typical romantic comedy. I'll ruin it for your right now - and say that it all works out in the end. Although, it was also semi-realistic, and I really appreciated that. Even thought it all worked out, it didn't work out right away, hence the realism. Jennifer Lopez is a hotel maid (she's a "maid" in "manhatten"!), but she knows she's a stereotype, which you don't see very often. And her kid isn't some overacting annoying movie kid, he's just a cool kid.
As a maid, J Lo tries on a rich lady's clothes (how stupid is she?), then she meets a senetor, and I'm guessing you can figure out the rest . . .
It's always refreshing to see actresses who have a real butt! You go J Lo!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Music and Lyrics
Who: Bill and Melanie
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: DVD from Netflix
Why: Melanie wanted to see it
I don’t remember seeing much publicity for Music and Lyrics when it was released in February 2007. It apparently did not do very well in theaters and that is a shame, because Melanie and I thought it was really good when we recently rented the DVD. In fact, this is a great movie to watch with your loved one.
Alex Fletcher was one-half of a 1980’s pop group called, well, POP! After going solo, his career faltered and in recent years has been increasingly singing at high school reunions, theme parks and county fairs. He agrees to help a popular young singer (and a fan of POP!’s songs) named Cora Corman on a duet. Trouble is, he can only write music and not lyrics. Soon after he meets Sophie Fisher, who just happens to be an excellent writer but doesn’t know it. The two collaborate on a new song-- Alex composes the melody and Sophie contributes the words. It turns out to be a great creative partnership, while at the same time the two gradually fall in love.
Music and Lyrics is a romantic comedy, but thanks to Hugh Grant as Alex, never becomes too syrupy. He always seems to have a snappy one-liner at the ready, doesn’t seem to mind being labeled a “has-been” and somewhat enjoys performing for his devoted but aging female fans. Drew Barrymore is well-cast as Sophie, unsure of herself and on the rebound of a failed romance. Both actors also have excellent chemistry. All this combined makes this movie very enjoyable to watch. As a bonus, Grant turns out to be a pretty good singer-- and Barrymore herself isn’t too bad for the small singing she does. Music and Lyrics begins with a “flashback” to POP!’s glory days. The music video “POP! Goes My Heart”-- which is also a bonus feature on the DVD-- is very effective in its simultaneous homage and parody of 1980’s pop music videos. Its quite funny and appropriately over-the-top.
Adding support to the strong leads are Brad Garret as Alex’s manager Chris Riley, Kristen Johnston as Sophie’s sister Rhonda and newcomer Haley Bennett as Cora Corman.
A strong cast with two excellent leads and a good story. You too may find yourself singing the praises of Music and Lyrics.
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: DVD from Netflix
Why: Melanie wanted to see it
I don’t remember seeing much publicity for Music and Lyrics when it was released in February 2007. It apparently did not do very well in theaters and that is a shame, because Melanie and I thought it was really good when we recently rented the DVD. In fact, this is a great movie to watch with your loved one.
Alex Fletcher was one-half of a 1980’s pop group called, well, POP! After going solo, his career faltered and in recent years has been increasingly singing at high school reunions, theme parks and county fairs. He agrees to help a popular young singer (and a fan of POP!’s songs) named Cora Corman on a duet. Trouble is, he can only write music and not lyrics. Soon after he meets Sophie Fisher, who just happens to be an excellent writer but doesn’t know it. The two collaborate on a new song-- Alex composes the melody and Sophie contributes the words. It turns out to be a great creative partnership, while at the same time the two gradually fall in love.
Music and Lyrics is a romantic comedy, but thanks to Hugh Grant as Alex, never becomes too syrupy. He always seems to have a snappy one-liner at the ready, doesn’t seem to mind being labeled a “has-been” and somewhat enjoys performing for his devoted but aging female fans. Drew Barrymore is well-cast as Sophie, unsure of herself and on the rebound of a failed romance. Both actors also have excellent chemistry. All this combined makes this movie very enjoyable to watch. As a bonus, Grant turns out to be a pretty good singer-- and Barrymore herself isn’t too bad for the small singing she does. Music and Lyrics begins with a “flashback” to POP!’s glory days. The music video “POP! Goes My Heart”-- which is also a bonus feature on the DVD-- is very effective in its simultaneous homage and parody of 1980’s pop music videos. Its quite funny and appropriately over-the-top.
Adding support to the strong leads are Brad Garret as Alex’s manager Chris Riley, Kristen Johnston as Sophie’s sister Rhonda and newcomer Haley Bennett as Cora Corman.
A strong cast with two excellent leads and a good story. You too may find yourself singing the praises of Music and Lyrics.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Mamma Mia
Who: Joanne and Mom
What: Mamma Mia
Where: the mall theater
Why: I have to admit, I love Abba!
I never went to see the theatrical version of this because I felt that building a musical around music that already existed was hokey. And you know what, it was. However, if you let yourself be drawn into the hokiness of it all, you, like me, may find yourself laughing and singing, getting choked up and dancing in your seat. I went to see Meryl Streep sing. And her performance did not disappoint. She has a lovely voice. And I bought into her free-spirited hippiness. Christine Baranski has a number called "Does Your Mother Know" that made me smile through the whole thing!
I loved the juxtaposition of the daughter (adorably played by Amanda Seyfried) and her friends and the Mother's (Streep) and hers. And there are some lovely touching scenes about mom letting go of her daughter. Yep, I teared up! The "dads" in this movie played by Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth and Stellan Skarsgard definitely do NOT have great singing voices but oh are they entertaining!!
Also notable was the stunning location and very well done lighting in this movie. Made me want to go to Greece!!
My advice is to go to this movie to enjoy the feeling that you get from it. It is silly; it is campy and at times over the top, but it is thoroughly entertaining. You leave the theater with a HUGE smile on your face. I have to look for my ABBA's Greatest Hits CD while I anxiously await the DVD release.
P.S. Stay for the credits!! :-)
What: Mamma Mia
Where: the mall theater
Why: I have to admit, I love Abba!
I never went to see the theatrical version of this because I felt that building a musical around music that already existed was hokey. And you know what, it was. However, if you let yourself be drawn into the hokiness of it all, you, like me, may find yourself laughing and singing, getting choked up and dancing in your seat. I went to see Meryl Streep sing. And her performance did not disappoint. She has a lovely voice. And I bought into her free-spirited hippiness. Christine Baranski has a number called "Does Your Mother Know" that made me smile through the whole thing!
I loved the juxtaposition of the daughter (adorably played by Amanda Seyfried) and her friends and the Mother's (Streep) and hers. And there are some lovely touching scenes about mom letting go of her daughter. Yep, I teared up! The "dads" in this movie played by Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth and Stellan Skarsgard definitely do NOT have great singing voices but oh are they entertaining!!
Also notable was the stunning location and very well done lighting in this movie. Made me want to go to Greece!!
My advice is to go to this movie to enjoy the feeling that you get from it. It is silly; it is campy and at times over the top, but it is thoroughly entertaining. You leave the theater with a HUGE smile on your face. I have to look for my ABBA's Greatest Hits CD while I anxiously await the DVD release.
P.S. Stay for the credits!! :-)
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Last Holiday
Who: Amber
What: Last Holiday
Where: at home - free Showtime!
Why: I really had nothing else to watch
What: Last Holiday
Where: at home - free Showtime!
Why: I really had nothing else to watch
I remember seeing this preview and thinking, "Oooooo - there goes Queen Latifa. She's on a wild vacation and she's snowboarding, but she doesn't know how to snowboard. Oh man - you go you crazy, crazy girl!"
I mean, look at the movie poster - she looks like "I'm loud and annoying and I'm on vacation." But this movie is nothing like that.
Queen Latifah plays a quiet, very shy, reserved, normal, who finds out she has a terminal illness. She decides to finally live a little, and flys off to (I can't remember - Prague? France?) The entire movie is very sweet, and I really, really enjoyed it! I can't recommend it enough!
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Definitely, Maybe
Who: Amber
What: Definitely, Maybe
Where: flight from Honolulu to Houston
Why: It looked cute
What: Definitely, Maybe
Where: flight from Honolulu to Houston
Why: It looked cute
Maybe I was a little motion sick, but I was totally confused at the beginning of this movie - and it wasn't supposed to be hard to follow.
It starts out with Ryan Reynolds picking up his daughter from school. He is divorced from her mom, and he picks her up twice a week. The daughter (Abigail Breslin) is WAY too grown up for my taste (I don't like it when movie kids are too adult); she's asking all kind-of "tell me about when you were dating mom" questions. The rest of the movie Ryan and Abigail sit up all night in bed talking.
Turns out Ryan Reynolds had 3 serious girlfriends - Rachel Weise, Amy Adams and Elizabeth Banks. He tells of how he dated #1 and was friends with #2 and #3. #1 breaks up with him, and he dates #2, all while still being friends with #3. #3 and him aren't friends anymore, and he breaks up with #2, but they are still friends. #1 comes back into his life, etc, etc, etc ...
Abigail Breslin is very curious about which girl #1, #2 or #3 does he end up marrying (when he tells the story, he doesn't use the women's real names). See how confusing it is! (Ok - I'm just lame).
We eventually find out who he married, and got a divorce from. Does he still have feelings for one of the other women?!? Watch and find out.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Made of Honor
Who: Amber & all her co-workers
What: Made of Honor
Where: AMC theater at Downtown Disney
Why: Boss took us to the movies. Yay!!!
This movie was a lot of fun. McDreamy is always fun, and the girl (Michelle something) was cute too. I liked her a lot actually - she wasn't a super model, just a normal, fun girl. Plus she had some cute outfits.
I was (and always have been) annoyed by characters in movies who go overseas for a short period of time, then come back to the states engaged. I mean, come on! Who gets engaged after only a couple weeks of dating? Plus the Scottish guy wasn't even cute!
This movie did have a couple "guy" moments. There was a lot of basketball played (with some short shorts!) and some unicorns flying out of butts. But overall, I would recommend this movie for "girls's night out".
And I'm sure we can all guess what ends up happening at the end ... "Who thinks these 2 should not be wed? Speak now, or forever hold your piece ..."
What: Made of Honor
Where: AMC theater at Downtown Disney
Why: Boss took us to the movies. Yay!!!
This movie was a lot of fun. McDreamy is always fun, and the girl (Michelle something) was cute too. I liked her a lot actually - she wasn't a super model, just a normal, fun girl. Plus she had some cute outfits.
I was (and always have been) annoyed by characters in movies who go overseas for a short period of time, then come back to the states engaged. I mean, come on! Who gets engaged after only a couple weeks of dating? Plus the Scottish guy wasn't even cute!
This movie did have a couple "guy" moments. There was a lot of basketball played (with some short shorts!) and some unicorns flying out of butts. But overall, I would recommend this movie for "girls's night out".
And I'm sure we can all guess what ends up happening at the end ... "Who thinks these 2 should not be wed? Speak now, or forever hold your piece ..."
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Sweet Home Alabama
Who: Monica
What: Sweet Home Alabama
Where: My couch
Why: Because it IS pretty much my favorite movie of all time now!
If you know me well, you have already heard that this is pretty much my favorite movie ever. If there isn't anything on TV, this is what I put in. Andy makes fun of me for it all the time. It stays in my DVD player for days and days, playing about 3 times a day while I go about my day.
It's a quirky, chick flick with two cute boys and set in the south. How can you go wrong? Reese Witherspoon (who is adorable as a southern chick) plays Melanie Carmichael/Smooter who is becoming a big fashion designer in New York. She has pretty much disowned her roots while trying to fit in. She becomes engaged to political hottie boyfriend Andrew, played by Patrick Dempsey. The only little hitch is she has to return home and try to convince her husband to give her a divorce. Her husband, Jake, is played by yet another favorite hunk of mine, Josh Lucas. How can you go wrong I ask??
There's much talk of fried pickles, homemade jam, babies in a bar, settin' a cat on fire, stealing fish from a pond, coon dogs, tippin' tractors and romance to boot.
I LOVE this movie!!!!!!!
What: Sweet Home Alabama
Where: My couch
Why: Because it IS pretty much my favorite movie of all time now!
If you know me well, you have already heard that this is pretty much my favorite movie ever. If there isn't anything on TV, this is what I put in. Andy makes fun of me for it all the time. It stays in my DVD player for days and days, playing about 3 times a day while I go about my day.
It's a quirky, chick flick with two cute boys and set in the south. How can you go wrong? Reese Witherspoon (who is adorable as a southern chick) plays Melanie Carmichael/Smooter who is becoming a big fashion designer in New York. She has pretty much disowned her roots while trying to fit in. She becomes engaged to political hottie boyfriend Andrew, played by Patrick Dempsey. The only little hitch is she has to return home and try to convince her husband to give her a divorce. Her husband, Jake, is played by yet another favorite hunk of mine, Josh Lucas. How can you go wrong I ask??
There's much talk of fried pickles, homemade jam, babies in a bar, settin' a cat on fire, stealing fish from a pond, coon dogs, tippin' tractors and romance to boot.
I LOVE this movie!!!!!!!
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Failure to Launch
Who: Amber (& Jonathan)
What: Failure to Launch
Where: at home - more free Showtime!
Why: I wanted to see it when it came out in theaters, so I was excited to get it for free!
Typical cheesy girly movie. Sarah Jessica Parker is always fun (I'm excited to see the Sex and the City movie!!!). I also really enjoyed Matthew McConaughey's 2 slacker friends in this flick - the cutie sidekick from National Treasure (Justin somebody?) and the jerk boyfriend/fiance from Wedding Crashers. Since I saw this for free on cable, I can honestly say it was worth every penny! If you've seen "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days", this is basically the same movie with a different leading female. I'll probably watch it again when it comes on Comedy Central in 3 years.
Did I mention we see some naked butt? Way to go Terry Bradshaw!!!
What: Failure to Launch
Where: at home - more free Showtime!
Why: I wanted to see it when it came out in theaters, so I was excited to get it for free!
Typical cheesy girly movie. Sarah Jessica Parker is always fun (I'm excited to see the Sex and the City movie!!!). I also really enjoyed Matthew McConaughey's 2 slacker friends in this flick - the cutie sidekick from National Treasure (Justin somebody?) and the jerk boyfriend/fiance from Wedding Crashers. Since I saw this for free on cable, I can honestly say it was worth every penny! If you've seen "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days", this is basically the same movie with a different leading female. I'll probably watch it again when it comes on Comedy Central in 3 years.
Did I mention we see some naked butt? Way to go Terry Bradshaw!!!
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