Movie Mavens

HP7

2010-11-29T23:31:00.008-07:00

The last few weeks, I have been making a lot of effort to get back in touch with my dear friend, the movie theater. It's been rather wonderful!!! I've got several to blog about so let's get on with it!

Oh my beloved Harry!!! What will I do when your movies are finished???

I went to see HP7 w/my mom and sis on Saturday after it was released. I shutter just thinking about it.....so awesome and scary and amazing and WONDERFUL!! I will never understand people who don't like these movies. On a bigger note, I will never understand people who don't like movies of books, period. To me they are like the extra supplement to the book. Providing some extra material to an already awesome thing.

This part was a particular highlight for me. It happened so quickly and really shocked me into the reality of what they were about to go through. I loved them whisking from place to place. Hermione is such a STAR!!! It was awesome and sad and horrifying and so many other things...

Let's talk Bellatrix for a minute. I decided I am going to be her for Halloween next year.......so freakishly awesome!!!!

This photo will give me chills for the rest of time. So.......PERFECT!!!

One thing I love about HP movies is they've gathered up every one of my favorite actors from the UK....like this fruit cake freak show....seriously hilarious!

Actually I take that back....why hasn't Clive Owen been in an HP movie yet?

But anyway I digress. Professor Snape??? BETTER THAN EVA!!! Seriously. Plus look at that hair!!

And as always, these two are a definite highlight for me....
If you haven't seen the movie yet I doubt there is any convincing you so I won't waste my time. I will just say this movie was a 10 for me and I can't wait for part 2 and I love love love this series and am so thankful it was created during my lifetime!!!

The Town

2010-10-05T19:15:00.000-07:00

Don't let the horrifying movie poster scare you off b/c The Town is hands down the best movie that I've seen this year (without really thinking about what movies I've seen this year so I might have to correct myself later). I saw it 2 weeks ago and have thought of it every day since.
I always have loved Ben and wouldn't pass up an opportunity to see him in speak his "native tongue." This show was amazing for so many different reasons. The violence wasn't as bad as I was expecting but the language was horrible--similar to Good Will Hunting.
Every character was complete perfection! I must see this again soon!!! Oh and thank you Christy for sending me this hilarious ecard which I totally agree with. :)

This will definitely be worth your $8-$12....go see it and tell me what you think!

Kites

2010-07-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

Kites is my new favorite movie...even though I haven't seen it yet thanks to living in a cultural abyss. Just watch the trailer and if you agree, you are my friend. :)

These people are so hot it's not normal. Plus doesn't the main guy look like an Indian Bradley Cooper? Bollywood + salsa + Indian Bradley Cooper = home run!!!

The Secret in their Eyes

2010-07-09T00:20:00.002-07:00

I am once again resolving to blog about more movies!! How can I not have blogged since February? I disgust myself!!! Anyway awhile ago I saw The Secret in their Eyes--after being nagged by Christy for several weeks. My sweet Amanda and I have a tradition to go to the movies together at least twice a year--for our birthdays. So this was my pick for my special day this year.

It's hard for me to describe this movie--especially waiting as long as I have to blog. It was amazing and shocking and interesting and more. WHEW! Just thinking about it again makes me want to go see it one more time. There was sooooooooooooooooo much about this movie that was purely fantastic!!

The thing that stands out most were the actors--they were all incredibly good and incredibly gorgeous to look at. The story is about a man who is haunted by a case that was closed 30 years ago....but he isn't satisfied so he returns to the scene of the crime to uncover the truth. Wow this scene was amazing...

I believe this movie won the Oscar for best foreign film and I totally understand why. TRULY AMAZING! I think it's still at the Broadway in SLC and I highly recommend it....but also be warned that it's a foreign film so by nature there will be some shocking things because of the cultural differences. It's absolutely worth the travel to a far away theater!!!

Valentine's Day

2010-02-21T21:43:00.000-07:00

Saw Valentine's Day last Thursday and I thought it was just a really cute show! Overall, I'd give it an 8.

First of all, it was amazing how many people and story lines were in it. I thought it weaved together nicely and kept me interested throughout.

Love Actually is my favorite movie like this--where it unfolds throughout the movie of who knows who and how they are all linked. This one didn't even compare to Love Actually, but in general I like this kind of format.

Favorite characters....obviously Jen Garner--still totally love her!

Naturally, Bradley Cooper....he didn't get nearly enough air time though....

And what a surprise (because I've really only seen him in corny movies until now)--Ashton was so cute!!!

If you're in the mood for a cute, light story, this is it! I highly recommend it!

2009 Top Ten

2010-02-18T00:18:00.002-07:00

I'm finally getting around to my favorite movies of 2009....it was a bit of a bummer of a year for movies but I saw enough of them that I found 10 that I liked. :) I'm not gonna say much--bit will link to my original posting about the movie if you wanna read more....

Honorable Mention: New Moon (hated the book but the movie was an improvement so I'm giving it props. I didn't blog about this one so I haven't linked to anything.)

10. Whip It: Never blogged about it either but I absolutely loved it!!!!!

9. The Hangover: Still laughing about this one winning the Golden Globe! :)

8. HP6: I love everything about Harry!

7. The Proposal: Best romantic comedy of the year! Gives me hope that it is possible to make a good RC!

6. Wolverine: My review pretty much says it all.

5. The Blind Side: Again, never blogged about it--must've been the holidays that got in the way. Oh how I loooooved this movie!!!

4. 500 Days of Summer: So clever!!!

3. Avatar: Such a surprise!!!

2. Time Traveler's Wife: This is the only movie this year that earned a 10. Actually Star Trek probably earned that too....but I loved this one for many more emotional reasons.

1. Star Trek: Still in awe that I want to own this--I never like "action" movies but this one was definitely much much more!! It gets the top spot b/c I am still shocked that I liked it so much!

Do you agree? Disagree? Did I forget any good ones?

Romantic comedies that suck

2010-02-02T22:12:00.003-07:00

Is it really that hard to write/direct/produce a good romantic comedy? Is it too much to ask to create a heroine that we love and want to "win"?

A couple weeks ago I saw Leap Year.

Oh how I wanted to love this movie....which is automatically part of the problem because my expectations were way too high. With this movie, the fact that I had expectations at all was a straight path to disappointment. It had all the makings of a good movie:

Amy Adams
Hot guy
Ireland

And yet it sucked. So sad. My best advice: if you are going to write a workaholic/control freak heroine, at least let us see a few of her weaknesses so that we like her.

And then I saw When in Rome.

Which didn't suck as bad as I expected it to. :) This one also had all the makings of a good movie:

Veronica Mars
Josh Duhamel
Rome

Again, control freak workaholic heroine. The difference though was that they did let us see her vulnerabilities and weaknesses.

The problem with this one was the clumsiness of all the characters--which is always a pet peeve of mine. How many trees did Josh run into? Stupid!

Avatar

2010-01-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

WHAT A SURPRISE!!! This movie taught me that it's definitely best to go into a movie expecting it to suck. Low expectations always get exceeded!

Having said that, I am sure I would've liked it anyway. For one, hottie Sam Worthington was fantastic! Plus it was the perfect mixture of interesting and different + romance + adventure + emotion. I just plain loved it and left with a big smile on my face!!!!

And Zoe Saldana is having quite the year, what with this movie and Star Trek...2 of my favorites of 2009!

One of my friends said Avatar is Dances With Wolves in space. Yeah, I almost choked on that. It's a fantastic movie--different from anything--and a complete experience. It was definitely the shortest 3 hour movie I've ever seen---and I was even sad when it ended!

Plus it's making movie history so you won't want to miss it!

This isn't really a movie review--more like a commercial. There's just too much to explain so you just have to go see it!

Gentlemen Broncos

2010-01-14T22:18:00.003-07:00

Thank you Alyssa, for nudging me to get going again. :) And thank you for the following review!!!!

(Alyssa) When my sister told me she had preview tickets for Gentlemen Broncos, I was very excited to see it. I enjoyed Napoleon Dynamite and was very curious about what the same writer and director would do with this movie. Especially when I heard that it would be about sci-fi writers and sci-fi conventions.

The story goes like this: Benjamin Purvis attends a writing conference where he submits his story to a contest. The result—two other conference participants buy rights to his story to make it into a film. And Purvis’s hero, writer Ronald Chevalier, reads Benjamin’s work and creates his own (plagiarized) version of the story, which becomes a fabulous bestseller.

There’s a lot to like about this movie. Michael Angarano and Jemaine Clement turn in excellent performances as Purvis and Chevalier respectively. Chevalier’s dialogue in particular is very funny. As were the scenes revolving around the convention and bookstore appearances. This part of the story was exceptional.

Yet Gentlemen Broncos wasn’t a complete success. The person who has seen Napoleon Dynamite won’t be surprised to hear that there is a quirky cast of characters here as well. However, this group is not exactly endearing. The amateur director who makes Purvis’s work into a movie is particularly grating; the role seems designed to play into stereotypes rather than against them.

There is also a surprising (and unnecessary) reliance on bodily fluid humor, which is both excessive and not humorous. This detracted from a movie that otherwise could have made me laugh the whole way through. So the pattern was something like . . . laugh, laugh, ugh, gross, laugh, ick, laugh, that’s just not even funny. This made the movie seem more jarring than in probably was.

Still, there’s that great bookstore scene . . . and the stags . . . and the ending . . .

Why it wasn’t a four: Jemaine Clement, Michael Angarano, merchandising pillows, and very wide ric-rac. Plus, I would see it again.

Why it wasn’t an eight: Way, way too much vomit (and other stuff).

My rating: six. *Thinks about Clement.* Actually, let’s go for six and a half. *Thinks about the pillows and ric-rac* OK, six and three-quarters.

All About Steve

2009-09-14T14:02:00.003-07:00

When it comes to this movie, the poster says it all....And thanks to Bradley Cooper, I was excited for this movie. And of course, he didn't disappoint. :)

But overall, it was completely average. I like Sandy--but I didn't think it was a shining moment for her. She's past roles like this. Thomas Hayden Church was great....

It had some funny moments but overall it was about a 5. I would recommend going to see Star Trek again at the dollar theater instead of this one. :) Or go to it for a few good laughs, but nothing else very memorable.

The Time Traveler's Wife

2009-09-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite movie of the summer!!! I was most looking forward to it than any other--actually for over 2 years!! And so I was worried that I wouldn't love it--especially when I started hearing the reviews were bad.

But this movie was MAGIC!!! How often do we get to see a movie that we have the highest of expectations for--and then it overdelivers???? This was that movie for me!!

I LOVE Eric Bana.....it's not fair that men get hotter as they get older!

And I LOVE Rachel McAdams....she is probably my most favorite actress right now....

When I read the book, it felt it was extremely moving! But I can't say it was my favorite book ever because it was WAY too devastating!!! Seriously I just wanted it to be different!!

And that leads me to the reason that I loved the movie so much: It FIXED all the problems of the book!!!!!! It didn't necessarily change the ending, it just made it less devastating and more happy--it ended on a happy and positive note!

My favorite scenes were the ones where Henry would travel in and out of Clare's life, and other people wouldn't necessarily know. The book did this too but I'd forgotten some of the most clever and interesting parts. So good and so perfect!!
I MUST go see it again immediately!!!! I have no idea if people who haven't read the book would love it this much. But I loved it so much--I am giving it a 10!!!

Public Enemies

2009-09-01T15:45:00.000-07:00

I think one of the main reasons I didn't really care for this movie is Johnny Depp. For me, he is like Christian Bale--neither of them would ever make my top 10. And I realize I am one of few females who feels this way.

And oh my gosh I just remembered, while searching for photos, that Christian Bale was also in this movie! hahahahaha That's how memorable he was!

Alas, I really didn't care for 101 ways to shoot 'em up! I loved the scenes w/Marion Cotillard & Johnny (although she is definitely still on my 'wait and see' list). I wanted much much more of the fabulous and romantic life of a bank robber!!! And I wanted much much much much MUCH less of all the shooting scenes.

If they would've followed my idea even just a little, this would've been one of the better "date" movies of the year b/c it would've satisfied both men and women. Too bad, so sad. I'd give this movie a 6.

Up

2009-09-01T15:00:00.001-07:00

I often say I don't really like kids movies--which is silly b/c I pretty much love them all when I actually watch one. Up was sooooo cute! And I actually teared up several times--just a sweet story!

The coolest thing about this show is how the kids loved it (I went w/Zane & Zoey), but how there seemed to be at least as much matierial for adults! I thought it was super clever & enjoyable!

Away We Go

2009-09-01T14:30:00.001-07:00

Yay I finally have the chance to catch up on all these movies that I've been wanting to blog about!

Awhile ago (probably close to 2 months?), I saw Away We Go w/Hill & my Mama. I didn't really want to see this but, well I see all kinds of movies so I thought why not?

I didn't really like it at all. I thought it was too overdone--like trying too hard to make the next Juno. But you can't purposely create magic like that--it just seems to happen by chance.

It just wasn't really good or funny. Well there were a few funny moments--like Allison Janney. She's always hilarious!And I also loved the part where they give Maggie Gyllenhaal a stroller and push her kid around in it! So awesome!

But really this movie was a disappointment--don't waste your time!

Whip It

2009-08-22T22:52:00.002-07:00

This quite possibly might be my new favorite movie of all time.....I can't wait!

The Ugly Truth & Funny People

2009-08-20T22:14:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to really bother giving my opinion on these movies b/c they were not made for me or people like me. I was reminded once again that when you see previews for a movie for months and months beforehand, it's probably an advertising ploy to make at least something back on a crappy movie (the ugly truth). If Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler cannot even save a movie, well there's a serious problem. This picture was the only really funny part of the movie. :)

But I digress from my original intent. Apparently people like stupid movies w/crass humor. And while there were some good laughs, overall I left both these movies thinking "that sucked." Indeed there was a bit of similar humor in the Hangover but in these movies it seemed out of place and totally gratuitious.

Except Eric Bana. As usual, he was perfect.

And this brings me back to my #1 movie gripe these days: why don't they properly show you in the trailer what the movie is all about? If they would do that, all these problems would be solved!!!

p.s. this may show my age, but I don't think Seth Rogen is funny AT ALL!

Julie & Julia and 500 Days of Summer

2009-08-14T21:22:00.004-07:00

Just when I think there is no hope for the movie industry....I see these two completely fantastic movies a week apart. Is it really that hard to make a movie like this? Different + meaningful = fantastic!!! I know, I know, it's my own fault for filling my movie repitoire with all the crap that I've been seeing lately, many of which are still sitting in my drafts b/c I don't feel motivated to review them.....

But these two movies are a beacon of light!

500 Days of Summer was just sooo good. I actually started wearing bows around my ponytails (one more example of how my job comes in handy....I want to wear ribbons--good thing I have 100 spools to choose from!). But the "You Make My Dreams Come True" production number is what really stole my heart. Oh how clever and fantastic that was. I must ask myself---why don't more movies catch on???

This movie was a very solid 9!!! Can't wait to see it again!

Then last night I saw Julie & Julia. I was really very neutral about this movie, from the beginning. It looked cute but that's about it. And I don't know if it's just Meryl Streep...but I suspect it is actually a lot more than her that made this movie memorable. There were a lot of really touching moments--I actually teared up a time or two (and not just because the girl next to me wouldn't share her XL Diet Coke)!

Loved her sister. Loved Julia & Paul. I definitely liked their storyline better than Julie & Eric but theirs grew on me too. It was such a sweet and thoughtful show---I'd also give it a 9.

Watchmen (Alyssa)

2009-07-30T16:55:00.004-07:00

Long time, no review! I figured it was past time to do another guest movie review. So here it is—I decided to tackle Watchmen. Yep, another graphic novel movie, but I couldn’t resist. My sister Michelle introduced me to the comic, and I have to say it’s worthy of the acclaim and awards it has received. The story is detailed and layered, the characters rich and multidimensional. The movie does a pretty good job of telling the story. It’s better than I expected.

The story starts like this: it’s 1985 in a New York in which Nixon is still president and America prevailed in Vietnam. The threat of nuclear war is an ever-present reality. Starting in the 1930s, a group of people took up masks to fight criminals. Other masked heroes followed their example, and they continued until the Keene Act outlawed masked vigilantes. The movie starts just before the death of a vigilante called The Comedian. The rest of the movie focuses on one man’s investigation into that death and what it uncovers.

Watchmen is no typical superhero movie. Only one character has superhuman powers—the rest are men and women who fight crime for a variety of reasons. The “heroes” are fully realized people with strengths and weaknesses. Some don’t seem heroic at all. It’s fascinating, gritty, and unforgettable.

I’ve seen both the theatrical version and the director’s cut. The director’s cut is the stronger of the two. It includes more violence, but it also makes the scene transitions smoother and offers more character moments. Whichever version you view, this movie is not for the faint of heart. The movie includes nudity and sex, though neither seemed overly gratuitous. (Actually, I take that back—one shot was added to the director’s cut, and it seemed completely unnecessary.) The violence is stark and vivid, so much so that there were moments when I had to look away. If you thought The Dark Knight was dark—well, it’s like comparing late afternoon to midnight. Watchmen plunges viewers into a world of midnight black. It is a very dark world.

Despite its darkness, light shines through. The budding romance between two characters offers sweet moments. Dr. Manhattan’s sequence on Mars is another high point.

Most of the characters are well cast. I especially appreciated Patrick Wilson as Dan Dreiberg and Jackie Earle Haley as Rorschach. Billy Crudup (Dr. Manhattan) and Malin Akerman (Laurie) also turn in fine performances. Matthew Goode offers the least satisfying performance, but in general the cast works together beautifully.

The movie was not a box-office triumph. I suspect some fans wanted an undeviating adaptation, something that’s not possible based on the medium. A few scenes are even stronger in the movie; one notably during the prison sequence when Rorschach enters the men’s room and the door closes and swings open behind him, offering glimpses of the confrontation to come.

On the other hand, traditional moviegoers want straightforward heroes and villains, which you won’t find here, and a feel-good ending. By the time Watchmen ends, the movie doesn’t provide all the answers—it raises questions like this . . .

What makes people become vigilantes?
Does the end justify the means?

Who watches the watchmen?

. . . and leaves viewers to reach their own conclusions.

So, who watches the watchmen? I did, and I’ll watch it again: 8 out of 10.

The Half-Blood Prince

2009-07-19T15:44:00.003-07:00

Oh how I love love love all things Harry!!!! I am still a little bit sad that I've already seen this movie. Why? Well firsts are just so important. For example, I remember the first time I saw the Backstreet Boys in concert like it was yesterday--but do I remember the 10th? 15th? 20th? I think you get my point.

I often think: "I will only get to do this once, for the first time." The 2nd time is never as good.

Thankfully, the first time seeing HP6 was anything but a disappointment!!!!! How do you make a near perfect series even better? Invite Harold Zidler to play an important role! (If you are lost, see Moulin Rouge's IMDB cast list). Seriously Jim Broadbent could not have been more perfect! And I am so thankful that Harry is so big in the UK so that they have their pick of all the best actors.

Case in point.....
For me, magic always happens when these 3 are on screen together....

Plus Ron gets hotter with age (I always love the ginger's)!
And I'm even more thankful for Ron since all the eye candy that was previously included in these movies disappeared (Jason Isaacs & Ralph Fiennes). Ok So I know I just grossed some of you out by saying that Voldemort is hot. But really I can see right through those nose slits and peer into the eyes of Count Almasy!!!

This was one of my favorite scenes.....this kind of stuff is what really makes these movies sing....so unexpected, clever and funny!

And then this.....the saddest moment in the movie....not only because someone special dies (you're welcome from not "spoiling") but also because these two realize what lies ahead.....

Oh how I love you Harry! Thank you for being the best ever and please hurry up and finish movie 7, part A!

My Sister's Keeper

2009-07-13T20:09:00.001-07:00

This movie was one of the biggest cry-fests that I've ever seen. I remember crying this hard in the English Patient--which is one reason I loved it--it simply made me FEEL! But that was only the end--this movie keeps the same feeling pretty much throughout.

Probably my favorite thing about this movie is that you got to see how it would feel to be each of the family members. I just can't even imagine going through that together.

Oh and how I love love loved Taylor! That part of the story was so perfect and sweet! The ending was lovely--I totally recommend seeing this movie and I am excited to see it again!

The Hangover

2009-07-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

I'm not saying that I saw the Hangover....I certainly am not saying that I saw it two nights in a row. But I will say that I've "heard" that is so completely hilarious!!!! I've also heard that it is so completely random--how did they know that those weird things would be funny???

If I were going to see this movie, the #1 reason would of course be Will Tippin (some of you know him as Bradley Cooper). If you haven't seen ALIAS, shame on you!!! Watch it and you will know what I am talking about. I have wanted him to be a big star for almost a decade now.....and it makes me soooo happy to look at his IMDB account and see it full of movies (click "All About Steve" on the sidebar).

Seriously these guys were so hilarious that I even thought for a few minutes that I might thank them by buying this.....

State of Play

2009-06-25T00:46:00.000-07:00

I was just struggling to remember where I was when I saw this movie when I remembered Shiloh saying at the end of it: "That's right--the liberal press saves the day from the totally corrupt government." hahaha I laughed outloud! It's just a movie, Shiloh! :) A movie that I liked pretty much everything about. I liked Russel Crowe and his relationship w/Rachel McAdams--just truly coworker stuff. In fact, I loved all the ladies....

Even the Princess Bride was great. Loved all the actors now that I think of it. It was a great story. In fact, the only thing I didn't like was how they tried to make Ben & Russell and the Princess Bride the same age.
Seriously????? College roommates? And then I have to remind myself what I said to Shiloh--it's just a movie. It was good anyway. I would say this movie was a solid 8.

My Life in Ruins

2009-06-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

I had pretty low expectations for this movie and I ended up totally liking it! Nia Vardalos was totally buggin' in the beginning but I thought her metamorphosis was really fun and believable. Plus there were lots of awesome scenery like this.....

Richard Dreyfus was awesome and so were lots of the funny people on the tour. I thought it was entertaining and fun....and a really different romance!
It wasn't too obvious or cheesy--and these two seemed to be very well matched. I would probably rate this movie a 7 or 8--it was really enjoyable and I would recommend seeing it--it was a nice surprise.

The Proposal

2009-06-22T22:19:00.004-07:00

I loved soooooo many things about this movie! Probably in this order:
1) Alaska
2) Ryan Reynolds
3) Sandra Bullock
4) Betty White!

5) and lots lots more.....

I loved it when the tables turned and Andrew took charge--so unexpectedly funny.

And I loved every scene in Alaska--Alaskan Kennedys--that was hilarious!!! Plus I love Sandy's outfit in this scene...
The ending totally surprised me--twice! Oh and I loved Andrews family too--from the previews I thought they were going to bug but they were very endearing and funny.

This is one of the better romantic comedies I've seen in awhile--I totally want to see it again so I would give it an 8, maybe an 8.5. If nothing else, Ryan is HOT (waaaaaay too hot for ScarHo).

Plus look at that necklace!

Obsessed

2009-06-18T20:39:00.001-07:00

I don't really know a lot of people that wanted to see this movie--so when Amanda agreed---I was so excited! And it definitely had it's sort of cheesy/bad acting moments....but overall I thought it was interesting and entertaining .
The main thing I left the movie thinking was---just how long did he have to work out to get a body like that? Seriously!!!

In the end, Beyonce kicks some serious ass! She was awesome and I like her more and more all the time. Overall, I'd probably rank this movie a 7.

Oh My Gosh!

2009-06-16T22:28:00.003-07:00

I have been waiting such a loooooong time for this movie!

You can watch the trailer here....tell me what you think!

The Ghost of Girlfriends Past

2009-06-05T23:50:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, my gorgeous companion Heather and I had our annual B-day celebration and this year we went to see Ghost of Girlfriends Past. Overall I liked it--even though I know hardly any of you will agree with me. Here's why:

Jen Garner will always really be Sydney Bristow to me so I love her.
Even though Matthew Mc was a pig, he was never bad to Jenni so it didn't bug me that they got together. She ruined him in the beginning--it just took him forever to realize that.
Loved the Newport mansion.
This was another thing I liked about the movie....

If you ask me, Jack T. Colton's still got it!

Would I recommend it? Hmmmm.....I'm not sure. It's probably almost out of theaters by now anyway--so maybe you could wait til its in the Red Box. Otherwise give it a try but set your expectations low! :)

Valentino: The Last Emporer

2009-05-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

On May 13, I celebrated ME!!!!! And lucky lucky me, Anais is in the day club--woooo hoooooo!! So what did we do? We went to the MOVIES!!! There is this awesomly artsy theater in Shirlington, VA that was showing Valentino: The Last Emporer.
As a former fashion teacher, I was naturally up for seeing this! And it totally delivered--even with much of it being subtitled!! :)

It was basically a documentary of Valentino's last year as a designer. It started with an amazing fashion show in Paris and ended with his 45th anniversary celebration in Rome....this next picture is of the set in Rome.....sand dunes of some sort (don't tell that they were really styrofoam)....

The 45th anniversary exhibit had a ton of red dresses.....some seriously amazing stuff the way they displayed everything....

I had 2 favorite parts. The first happened when I said to Anais "What is wrong with him--why is his skin that color? It can't possibly be just a tan!" And then a few minutes later, Valentino asked his partner Giancarlo if he had any comments on the show and Giancarlo said "well if you really want to know, you are too tan."...............silence.............crickets...........and then Valentino said "No!" and looked away. hahahahahahahaha

Judge for yourself.....
Damn! Tom Ford is hot!

Anyway my #1 favorite part was watching this dress be constructed from the beginning.....

...truly, truly magnificent!!!!

Moral of the story--if you like fashion and you have an artsy theater nearby, go see this! It was lots of fun and very educational!

Angels and Demons

2009-05-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

This is one of the movies that I saw while in Viriginia last week and I overall I was underwhelmed. There were however, 2 things that I really liked:

1) The actors....I always enjoy Tom Hanks even though I feel he was tragically mis-cast in this role (Clive Owen anyone? I swear this book was written w/him in mind!). I like the actress from Munich...

And any movie that Christian is in, I will enjoy. :)
SPOILER ALERT: Although as somone who never read the book--I will say that I picked up from the trailer that he was the bad guy. And I'm not at all the type to try to figure things out--I just got that vibe so I think the trailer-making person should be fired for this one.

The 2nd reason is quite obviously: ROME!!! Oh my gosh Rome Rome Rome--seriously you saw so much of it in this movie--so completely amazing that I cannot wait to go back!! How can a city that amazing be so undiscovered by me? I feel incomplete! :)

I liked The DaVinci Code better--and I don't think that is only because it was in Paris. It may have something to do with having read that book though--who knows. Anyway it was good, but like I said, a bit underwhelming.

Star Trek

2009-05-13T22:33:00.002-07:00

This movie was one of the biggest surprises for me--maybe ever! I'm not at all a trekkie and I totally never watched a full episode of the real show. But Caroline was in town and she wanted to go and frankly, I wanted to go "watch Eric Bana make Captain Kirk his bitch." At least that's what it says on the cover of details this month.Just the picture of him gives me shivers!Anyway I loved the prequel and I loved how they tied it all together. I'm not sure if Trekkies liked it--I hope so b/c I want them to make more movies w/these people!!

And just for the record, I didn't think Eric Bana made Captiain Kirk his bitch--I thought Captain Kirk pretty much made everyone in the whole movie his bitches!!! So good and so hot! Well I mean he did get the sh*% kicked out of him like 12 times in 2 hours--but he definitely took the lickins and kept on tickin! See what I mean? No biggie--just a scratch!

Spock was perfect! In fact all of them were! Loved Karl Urban too (can't remember his name in the movie--Eomer from LOTRings).

It was just a huge surprise and I can't wait to see it in the IMAX while I'm here in DC!!!

Wolverine

2009-05-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Wow it's hard to know where to start with this one....

I've been looking forward to this movie more than any for some time now....and I am happy to report that this movie is truly some of the best eye-candy that a singluar movie has ever known!

There were lots of scenes like this.....

And tons of him in that amazing outfit....

I'd like to thank all the directors who overdo scenes with Hugh simply walking....not to mention flying naked through the air into a waterfall! This is the best Hugh movie since.....well since Australia! haha

AND THE HAIR!!! Sorry Vanessa but I completely loved it! Come on admit it--you wanted to run your fingers through it too!

The girl was perfect--loved the love story! Liev Schreiber was uncomfortably awesome. So was Tim Riggins!!! Time flew and I would totally see it again.

But how was the story?

Wait--was there a story?

17 Again

2009-05-09T22:14:00.005-07:00

I've been seeing a ton of movies lately and am a little behind...I guess it is just that time of year--movie season!!! This week I plan to see at least 2 more as well....

Anyway a couple weeks ago I saw 17 Again. I definitely enjoyed it. It's not my fave movie of all time, but it was a lot of fun and better than I expected.

Probably a lot of you saw it too b/c it was #1 the weekend it came out. So I have to take note that Zac Efron is not just pulling teenagers to his movies--how many kids his age can headline a movie that goes to #1? Pretty amazing....

And I have to admit that he was really great! It was a cute show--reminded me a little of 13 Going on 30 (which i looooooved) and Big and others too. But of course there were a few new twists and turns.

I would definitely recommed seeing it!! I'd probably give this movie a 7 or 8.

Sunshine Cleaning

2009-04-12T20:18:00.000-07:00

I was sooooooo excited to see this movie. I loved it, but not without a lot of heartache. But the end made everything all better so it was totally worth it!I love love love these two and they were the #1 reason I wanted to see this movie!

The #2 reason was the clever story line. It was interesting and even informational at times (who knew you can't just put bodily fluids in the dumpster?!?!) If you like seeing movies that are different--unlike any you've ever seen before, then you will probably like this movie. It has a little bit of everything--my favorite parts were the family relations--they were funny and dysfunctional and weird but in the end, they really love each other and came through for each other.

I loved it and left with a smile on my face!

Duplicity

2009-04-07T21:02:00.004-07:00

I was sooooooo excited for this movie and I liked it, but not as much as I wanted to. It was kind of all over the place--but in general I did like it. There were a few scenes filmed in Italy (bonus) and I thought to topic was hilarious. *Spoiler: and I can't remember who but someone did comment to me that it was so hilarious that they were fighting over something as ridiculous as hair! Well I actually thought that was pretty ingenious--and it truly would be an AMAZING discovery!!! Maybe it's the hairdresser in me but that truly is an amazing find!

Anyway I saw this and bought it w/out thinking twice....still haven't read it but I'm sure it's a great article. :) Truthfully, this is the number one reason this movie was good....

...this photo explains why Clive has been on my top ten, and will be on my top ten for a very long time!

Taken

2009-04-02T20:16:00.004-07:00

This movie was sooooooo good! I loved it for the following reasons:

It was exciting in an unexpected way--not super typical as far as thriller-type movies go.
It covered such an interesting topic--horrifying--but interesting at the same time.
It was filmed in Paris (at least some of it was).
Liam Neeson was awesome!

Pretty much everyone has seen it by now so I'm gonna give a soiler right now.....I LOVED THE ENDING! I've heard some others say they thought it was cheesy that daddy took his daughter to meet Sheerah--but I totally loved it! It was so cool how that connection worked out and what an awesome dream that would be for an aspiring singer!

Although this movie made me a little sick to my stomach at times, it didn't deter me from wanting to travel. Mostly I just wonder how people that do that kind of stuff can live with themselves! I thought it was interesting and fun in a very mainstream sort of way--meaning most people would like it!

The Wrestler (Shannon)

2009-03-13T18:45:00.003-07:00

Thursday night, I went to see The Wrestler w/Amanda. Overall, this movie was sooooooo sad for me! I stil feel sad thinking about it. For several reasons but I think mostly because there wasn't much of a resolve at the end. And also it was so weirdly violent!!

There were some really awesome parts though--like this one w/Marisa--I love her and she was perfect!!!

And then there were a few scenes w/the wrestler and his daughter that were so touching! I loved that part of the movie the most---but it was also extremely heartbreaking!

Overall though, I will say this movie made me feel massive amounts of compassion for all people! I realized that the language of love speaks louder than any other. And I love people!!

Would I recommend this movie? Probaby not to 99% of people--but I bet there would be a few of you that would love it!!!

The Velveteen Rabbit (Shannon)

2009-03-10T21:50:00.007-07:00

My mom was really excited about the Velveteen Rabbit and so she invited me and Zoey to go w/her on Saturday. I was watching Zoe and Chaz all weekend so Dad "volunteered" to watch Chaz so we could go (thanks Dad!).

I grew up listening to my mom read this book to us--and I kind of remember it as depressing.

But it was really fun to see it more in real-life. I really enjoyed the movie and think it is a great movie to take your kids to. However, it's a little slower than some of the kids movies they may have seen. If you saw the Water Horse, I'd say it is about that speed--not like the Incredibles or Shrek (sorry--my kids movie repetoire is pretty limited).

The main theme that really stood out to me was LOVE!! And as I've been saying and feeling lately, everyone speaks the language of love. Love will make you real! Love will let you feel! Love is all there is in this life! And to be totally cliche, I loved this about the movie!!

Your kids probably won't get this theme--but they will enjoy the cartoon animals. Plus, Zoey loved it!

SLUMDOG WINS!!!

2009-02-23T22:04:00.005-07:00

Last night was the best Oscars ever!!! Hugh hosted--and Slumdog won everything!!!!! Other than Crash, this was the first time I can remember that my favorite show actually won!! IT WAS SO AMAZING!!! And they had everyone there.....
Seriously those kids made the movie---and how awesome that they all got to be there!!

And I love this photo--even though it was not last night. I hope all of these actors have amazing careers!!!
I realized last night that I am the fan that actors make movies for b/c I love them soooooooooooo much!! Love love love!! :)

Confessions of a Shopaholic

2009-02-18T22:38:00.004-07:00

Tonight I saw Confessions of a Shopaholic. I actually posted a little something about my own issues on my other non-movie blog. And in the beginning of this movie, it really got to me....how could she be so stupid? Does she want to be in financial bondage forever? So I spent much of the movie just trying to relax and enjoy the fashion. Which truly was worth enjoying!!!

Isla Fisher was delightful!!

And the colors were completely inspiring! I've been obsessed w/color lately--bright, fantastic rainbows and odd mixes of color! The dress above was probably my favorite (even though it was supposed to be ridiculous--it was way too awesome to be considered ridiculous!)

It's definitely romantic comedy month--and of the 3 I've seen this month I would rank them:

1. He's Just Not That Into You

2. Shopaholic

3. New In Town

Upcoming movie to watch for....

2009-02-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

Did you like Little Miss Sunshine?

Well if you did, there's another movie you'll want to check into. It was written by the same guy--and is called Sunshine Cleaning. Click here to watch the trailer and tell me what you think. :)

He's just not that into you....

2009-02-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

I've been looking forward to this movie for awhile, mostly because of all the actors (Ben, Brad, Jen, & Drew--not Scarlett--I hate her) and I totally enjoyed it! There were a couple of times where I was like--oh here we go w/the preachy stuff but overall it wasn't a big deal.

It was a show of Jennifers (well, one Ginnifer)...

And I'm not a big Aniston fan but her story line was probably my favorite.

Here's what I liked:

Eye candy
Loved all the story lines and how they all intertwined and I also loved how they would jump from one to the next....really kept things interesting.
OK so I admit I liked that I left the movie feeling like there was hope for me to be someone's exception. :) Or in other words, they wrapped it up nicely w/a feeling of "Men are pigs--but don't give up!"

I'd rate this movie a 7 and if you like romantic comedies--go see it!

New in Town

2009-02-03T21:11:00.005-07:00

This is a kinda cute movie....as far as romantic comedies go I would say it is completely average. I will tell you that I did a double-header last Friday--this one and Slumdog (for the 4th time) and I had a moment of extreme sadness when I looked around the Slumdog theater--at the 15 people there and was sad b/c the New in Town theater was completely packed. Why do people see lame-ass movies when completely fabulous ones are available?

That aside, here are a few romantic comedies that are better than New in Town:

Return to Me
The Holiday
27 Dresses
Waitress
The Notebook
Juno

And a few that aren't as good as New in Town:

Just Married
Fool's Gold (I haven't seen this but I am sure it is worse)
Good Luck Chuck (also haven't seen this one but Vanessa says it's lame)

There are mainly 2 good things about this movie:

Harry Connick, Jr.
The Minnesotans

Just take it from me---go see Slumdog Millionaire instead!!!

2008 Top Ten

2009-01-18T23:15:00.001-07:00

(Shannon) What better way to dive right back into the blog-o-sphere than with a top ten? Here are my top ten movies of 2008:

10. Body of Lies: It was a pretty good movie, but really what I loved about it was Leo (of course). This is one of his hottest--and I love that we are both growing old together (love the wrinkles, Leo!). Kate said it best in her Golden Globe acceptance speech: "Leo I love you. I've loved you for 13 years."

9. 27 Dresses: I've only been an official bridesmaid 4 times (I think--it's difficult to remember) but WOW did I love the closing scene where everyone was standing there in the dresses that they made their bridesmaids wear. So hilarious! Mostly I loved this one b/c it was so much fun!

8. Sex & the City: Fashion. Glamour. NYC. It was going to be difficult for me NOT to like this one.

7. Iron Man: This one was a major surprise--so much so that I saw it 2 nights in a row! I haven't done that since Lara Croft: Tombraider (which sucked but it was my first introduction to Gerard Butler). The main characters were so great and so great together. And I loved how realistic it seemed to actually be a superhero.

6. Twilight: I've said many times there there is about 30 minutes of good movie in Twilight. But WOW those 30 minutes are WORTH IT! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the baseball game. That scene is a supermassive hit for sure! I love when you first meet the Cullens (except Jasper--seriously how was he so wrong?). I love the scenery, houses, school, all so perfect. If there would've been good directing, Twilight would be #1.

5. Secret Life of Bees: Also a complete surprise--the cast was seriously amazing. The story was so touching and sweet and interesting. The only thing that was missing was a musical number from Queen, Alicia & Jennifer! How fantastic would that have been?

4. Mamma Mia: (sigh) This is such a fun movie!!! I could never, as long as I live, get enough of Dancing Queen and the way the Greek women join in and then then dance on the pier and jump in. BRILLIANT! This movie was truly for ABBA lovers but I've found that many non-ABBA-lovers liked it to.

3. Australia: This was a truly beautiful movie. The scenery, costumes, actors, camera angles!!! Obviously from my post right before this one, I was going to love this movie. And it didn't dissapoint!! It isn't going to bump Moulin Rouge out of it's #1 spot though, but it was definitely awesome!

2. Curious Case of Benjamin Button: This one and Australia were neck and neck for the #2 spot. I chose this one b/c it was unexpectedly wonderful. Above all, I loved the way this movie showed how two people loved each other, and spent their lives loving each other.

1. Slumdog Millionaire: If I talk to you very often, you probably have already heard me gush about this movie. It is sooooooo interesting and touching and different and emotional and wonderful. There is no way I could properly explain so please just go see it!!!!

NOTE: You may be wondering where Revolutionary Road or Defiance or the Reader or Doubt or many of those movies are on my top ten. I will just steal a phrase from my friend Brian and say that Utah is a cultural abyss--we don't have many movie options around here so many of them aren't here at all or came really late. So I have yet to see some. And even further still, some of these listed I'm not actually dying to see (Rev Road--sorry Leo! Don't be mad).

AUSTRALIA!!!

2008-11-07T09:00:00.001-07:00

This is not a movie review b/c this movie does not come out until November 26. And I hate to jinx this movie....but there are 4 reasons why I'm pretty much convinced it's a sure thing:
1. Hugh Jackman
2. Nicole Kidman
3. Set in Australia
4. Baz Luhrman directing
Let me translate: one of my top ten + one of my fave actresses + my favorite place to visit (next to Paris) + the director of my all time favorite movie....are my expectations too high?

Watch this and then you decide....

The Secret Life of Bees

2008-11-05T21:50:00.002-07:00

This is the best movie I've seen since Mamma Mia! I loved it so much!!!

Things I loved:

The actors and acting
The South
It was just such a sweet, emotional story

Things I was unsatisfied with:

I CANNOT believe in a movie like this, w/3 amazing singers-turned-actresses, that they didn't have them singing!!! Seriously missed opportunity! But the girls sure can act! I would've just loved it more if they would've thrown in a few more songs.

Overall, I'd rate this movie a 9!!! Go see it!! You will not regret it!!

Body of Lies (Shannon)

2008-10-12T20:35:00.005-07:00

Last Friday, Amanda Romualdo (another one of my fabulous coworkers) & I went to see "Body of Lies." This is becoming quite a tradition for us--this is our 3rd Leo movie outing. :)
Of the 3 most recent Leo movies, I would rank them like this:

1. The Departed
2. Blood Diamond
3. Body of Lies

Why? Well they are all good primarily because of this:
And maybe w/a little more time and a few more viewings, I will like Body of Lies as much. But really it's not fair to compare it to those other two b/c they are all amazing movies for different reasons.

One thing I liked about Body of Lies better than the the other two was it was less violent (even though there were a few brutal scenes). And I loved the jet-setting to Jordan, Amsterdam, Dubai, Virginia, etc.

And without giving too many spoilers, I loved the main theme at the end that breaks through--Leo walks away for a bigger cause. :)

Overall I would give Body of Lies a 7.

It was a good movie and if you like middle east and/or governmental stuff w/a little hot Leo thrown in, I'd say go see it!!!! :)

The Women (Shannon)

2008-09-18T22:43:00.004-07:00

This movie just sucked. All I can say is we picked this over Burn After Reading! WHAT WERE WE THINKING?

Overall I rate this movie a 3.

Why it didn't get a 5:

1. It seemed like they were going for the Sex & the City type relationship w/4 different women that were friends over time....but it was absolutely NOT believable in any way!

2. All of the funny punch lines were deliverd weirdly so that they weren't funny.

3. Meg Ryan cannot seem to be anything other than this one character....over and over.

Why it didn't get a 1:

1. Chloris Leachman was funny.

2. It's filmed in NYC.

3. I've blocked out everything else that was possibly good or funny.

The Dark Knight (Shannon)

2008-09-10T21:12:00.003-07:00

I was asked by Alyssa (one of my fabulous co-workers) the other day when the Mavens were going to review The Dark Knight....and my response was "I saw it on the last day of Convention and slept through most of it and woke up only for very scary parts." So because of that: a) I hated it and b) my review won't be fair.

So instead, I asked Alyssa if she would like to be a guest reviewer, because after all, she is a writer (as you will see in a minute when you read her fantastic review).....so without further adieu.....

(Alyssa) Shannon fell asleep during this movie? I can only assume she was too exhausted from her jet-setting lifestyle to give this movie its due. So I’ll take it from here. :)

The Dark Knight is a gripping movie that draws you in from the initial scene—you should have heard the gasp in the IMAX theatre at the first frame of the rooftop. Nolan’s script drops the viewer right into the middle of the action: who are these men, and why they are robbing this bank? The answer is revealed slowly as the action explodes. The message? Viewers just have to keep up.

The action is only part of the movie’s greatness. (Although the action is awesome. The scene with the motorcycle, for example, is deftly filmed.) The true excellence lies in the performances. Christian Bale returns as Batman. While others are distracted by his throaty dialogue, it works fine most of the time. Gary Oldman (Gordon) and Aaron Eckhart (Dent) provide memorable performances. Oldman’s is particularly convincing.

Then of course, there’s Heath Ledger as the Joker. He slips into the role so effortlessly that it’s difficult to spot the actor beneath. The makeup helps with this transformation, but it merely adds to the Joker’s voice, posture, and demeanor. Any praise you may have seen for his performance doesn’t do it justice. His character brings a much-needed comedic element, even if it is dark comedy. I couldn’t stop laughing at his scene in the hospital, starting with a simple, “Hi” and continuing through the hand-washing scene.

The Dark Knight is more than just an action-filled summer movie, although it fits that role nicely. It’s a movie that makes you consider tough questions: How far can you push someone before he breaks? What is the nature of personal responsibility? How far would you go to fight evil? And, of course, why so serious?

Plus it’s really cool.

In short, it’s a movie worth seeing again and again. I give it a 9.

Why it’s not a 10. The movie is drawn out a bit long; it slows down a little once it hits the ferry scene.

Why it’s not a 5. The Joker. He’s not your stereotypical evil villain. He’s evil, diabolically clever, and funny. Who else would ask to just give him a minute when he’s pulled away from Batman? And the disturbing scene with Batman and the Joker in the cell? Sheer brilliance.

Thanks Alyssa!!!! Feel free to add your comments if you've seen it. And if you are interested in being a guest reviewer, leave a comment or email me w/your ideas. :)

Vicky Christina Barcelona (Shannon)

2008-09-09T22:08:00.008-07:00

To be quite honest, I can't give this movie a fair review. Why? Well because it starred Scarlett Johansson and not that I didn't already know this before, but apparently I needed one final and unequivocal reminder that SHE SUCKS! Sorry to all of you that still like her...but Scoop + Match Point + Vicky Christina Barcelona = ScarJo is just DONE in my book. Seriously. She always looks like she is in a complete failure of an audition for a role.

But alas, I shall try to be fair....overall I'd give this movie a 5 (sorry Christy).

3 Reasons it wasn't a 2:

1. Penelope Cruz was brilliant! So volatile and beautiful and funny.

2. Javier Bardem was fab too. Not enough to get on to my top ten....but a very good performance! :)

3. Barcelona!

3 Reasons it wasn't a 7:

1. ScarJo

2. Girl on girl. Seriously totally unnecessary. And p.s. the movie was PG-13 so if you're a guy, don't get too excited.

3. ScarJo

The House Bunny (Shannon)

2008-08-31T23:19:00.006-07:00

The Joneses have been in town for about 6 weeks....and so last week Sina & I went to see The House Bunny! and IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!!!!

Overall I give this movie a 7!!

3 Reasons it didn't get a 10:

1. I was really hoping for some nicely wrapped up "being pretty doesn't make you happy" or some moral like that....and even w/a valiant effort, I didn't leave feeling anything close.
2. Sort of along the same lines, I was constantly thinking "ok what message are they trying to send here?"
3. That's it...I can't think of a 3rd thing that I majorly disliked.

3 Reasons why it didn't get a 2:

1. THE MAKEOVERS! So much fun!!!

2. Anna Faris was really likeable.

3. WE LAUGHED SO MUCH!!! There were many funny and unexpected things. Sometimes the funniest stuff is in the trailer....that wasn't the case with this movie.

Mamma Mia

2008-08-08T00:00:00.006-07:00

(Shannon) This post is all about why Mamma Mia is the best show of the summer....and maybe of all time! I was truly looking forward to this movie (as much as I am looking forward to seeing the Backstreet Boys on August 18! Seriously!!!) I've seen the play twice, and loved ABBA since I was a kid. Before seeing it, someone said to me that they thought I was going to be disappointed....and I swiftly reminded her that the preview shows men in speedos doing high-steps in flippers on a dock. Now I ask--how could anyone be disappointed with that?

These were the major take-a-ways for me:

Dancin' Queen: Seriously folks--if this number does not make you 1) a little emotional and 2) want to ditch your day job to dance, I would worry about you.

Donna's BFFs. They were absolutely perfect!
The scenery was simply out of this world.
Pierce Brosnan has still got it! All the "dads" were amazing!

The musical numbers just kept going one right after another--no time to get bored!! Truly the music was the #1 thing!

I could go on and on....instead I shall now post a quote from my dear friend Vanessa:

"Christine Baranski is a hoot, with a body to die for at her age and can knock those young girls out of the water. I couldn't get enough of the ABBA songs and can't wait for Shannon to burn the soundtrack for me. This movie will knock your socks off, your dancing socks that is!"

If you haven't seen this yet, run...don't walk....to the nearest theater and prepare yourself for the most fun you've ever had in a theater!!

Sex and the City (Shannon)

2008-06-22T20:32:00.006-07:00

WOW!!! This movie was soooooooo much fun! And even though I thought it was rather watered down compared to the TV show (not nearly as clever, among other changes), I didn't really care b/c there were so many AMAZING things.

Overall I rate this movie a 9!!!

3 reasons it wasn't a 5:

1) THE FASHION!!! Oh wow!!! I just love seeing the way Carrie puts her outfits together!

2) New York: I will never tire of movies being filmed there.

3) Big: I always though he was too good for Carrie! This time however, I thought their relationship was so perfect (well at least in the beginning and in the end).

3 reasons it wasn't a 10:

Actually there really aren't that many reasons in this category. I think the only reason it wasn't a 10 for me is lack of emotioal attachment. I can't think of even 1 comedy that is on my "10" list. And even though this show had plenty of drama, and not just comedy, like I said in the beginning, it was indeed all about the fun for me.

Favorite Moment: When Carrie surprises St. Louise w/her very own Louis!! Talk about giving a gift to someone that appreciates it! I just loved their frienship!

21

2008-05-21T20:16:00.006-07:00

(Shannon) The Movie Mavens have been on haitus--either on vacation, sick and/or working too hard. :) But we're back and I"m going to review 21--which I saw a couple weeks ago. I was really excited to see the movie and in lots of ways I liked it--and in some ways I didn't.

Overall, I rate this movie a 6.

3 Reasons it wasn't a 10:

1) The grossely overdone narration!! IT WAS SO ANNOYING! I hate narration at all, but I particularly hate it when they use that to explain how the characters are feeling. A good script writer could figure out how to work that into a conversation or emotion, rather than blatantly just telling us "I felt like a king in Vegas" e.g. LAME!

2) Kevin Spacey bugged. And generally I like everyone w/the name of Kevin--but he's an a major decline.

3) The end was weird and I kept thinking "is it over?" "Is it over now?"

3 Reasons it wasn't a 3:

1) Jim Sturgess

2) Kate Bosworth wasn't as disgustingly skinny as she was in Superman

3) I now know how to count cards so I'm fixin' to go make myself a million!

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day

2008-04-22T21:36:00.004-07:00

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day is a movie all 3 of us saw fairly recently--so here are our different perspectives....

(Shannon) I had really high expectations of this movie--so as usual, when I have too high expectations, the movie did not quite measure up. Overall I would rate Miss Pettigrew a 6.

3 reasons it wasn't a 3:

The actors were all pretty much amazing. Job very well done--very interesting to watch!!
The costuming and period-ness of the movie was so great!
Amy Adams

3 reasons it wasn't a 10:

I don't really have a desire to see it again
I didn't attach to it at all emotionally
It was good, but that's about it.

(Hillary) hmmmm it appears I liked this movie so much more than Shannon. This is the best new movie I have seen in 2008. The storyline is fresh and the writing has the perfect balance of corny humor and genuine emotion. I love Amy Adams, she reprises her roll as Giselle in Enchanted in many ways but it's perfect for DeLyssia Lafosse! Just her character's name cracks me up. The leading men were adorable and loveable, and the sets were fabulously 1930's. Francis McDormand was amazing; normally her rolls don't excite me because she plays harsh characters but here she is warm and sad.

Miss Pettigrew has a sweet surface story but it moved me with a reminder of the plight of unmarried and destitute women prior to the women's movement. DeLyssia LaFosse had no choice, if she wanted to progress in her career, she was forced to use her sexuality. Miss Pettigrew didn't have that option so she became homeless. As much as I dislike Gloria Steinem, and I believe the women's movement had some negative effects on families and society, I can't deny the gratitude I feel for her and the choices her efforts have given modern women.

Miss Pettigrew gives us a typical fairy tale ending, but it was handled in a believable way and it was quite satisfying.

Why I Love Foreign Films (Christy)

2008-04-20T18:01:00.006-07:00

Saturday I had the opportunity to see the film The Counterfeiters and I was reminded once again how much I love movies from other countries. The Counterfeiters won the Oscar for best foreign film and is about a counterfeiter who worked in a concentration camp forging English pound notes and the American dollar to fund the Nazi war effort. This film had a bare bones quality about it, which is something foreign films do so very well. American audiences, generally speaking, like their films laid out for them- they don't want to figure the meaning out for themselves. In The Counterfeiters, the director laid the facts out for the audience to interpret. The film was simple and devastating, as Holocaust movies can be, but was never over the top- especially when portraying events in the camp. The events speak for themselves and a good director does not need to embellish them. Many friends of mine say they don't like foreign films because they "don't like to read at the movies". If you don't watch foreign films, then you have no soul (cinematically speaking). Seriously- you are missing out and probably do not know what movies are capable of. Now, I don't mean to say that American films can not achieve the full potential of this art form, I am just saying it can be rare. You don't know how much color affects story telling until you watch a Chinese film. You don't know a love story until you watch a movie from France or Italy. And don't get me started on those directors from South of the Border (Cuaron, del Toro, Inarrito- please add the appropriate accent marks as I don't know how to put them in!) Luckily for us, they are making films in the U.S. And Germany? Well, with The Counterfeiters, they have won the last two Oscars for best foreign film (Run, don't walk, and rent last year's winner, The Lives of Others. I give it an 11)

Go see The Counterfeiters - I give it a 91/2. If that is your first foreign film, I hope it is not your last; and if you are an experienced foreign film watcher, then you will know what I am talking about!

TV Tuesday

2008-04-02T19:10:00.006-07:00

Shannon: Even though it's Wednesday, I have to post this fabulous (or maybe not so fabulous depending on which show you like) news. Below is a list of TV shows, when they will be returning, and how many new episodes for each)...the pictures tell you which ones I am most excited about. :)

ABC:
Boston Legal (returns April 8, 6 episodes)
Brothers & Sisters (returns April 20, 4 episodes)
Desperate Housewives (returns April 13, 5 new episodes and a two-hour finale - 7 hours total)
Lost (continues its current 8-episode run, then returns with 5 episodes April 24)
Grey's Anatomy (returns April 24, 5 episodes)
Samantha Who? (returns April 7, 6 episodes) Ugly Betty (returns April 24, 5 episodes)CBS
The Big Bang Theory (returns March 17, 9 new episodes)
CSI (returns April 3, 6 new episodes)
CSI: Miami (returns March 24, 8 new episodes)
CSI: New York (returns April 2, 7 new episodes)
Cold Case (returns March 30, 5 new episodes)
Criminal Minds (returns April 2, 7 new episodes)
Ghost Whisperer (returns April 4, 6 new episodes)
Moonlight lives on (returns April 11, 4 new episodes)
NCIS (returns April 8, 7 new episodes)
Numbers (returns April 4, 6 new episodes)
How I Met Your Mother (returns March 17, 9 new episodes)
Rules of Engagement (returns April 14, 6 new episodes)
Shark (will shoot 4 new episodes, return date unknown)
Two and a Half Men (returns March 17, 9 new episodes)
Without a Trace (returns April 3, 6 new episodes)

CW:
Gossip Girl (returns April 21, 5 new episodes)
Reaper (returns April 22, 5 new episodes)
Smallville (returns April 17, 5 new episodes)
One Tree Hill (returns April 14, 6 new episodes)
Supernatural (returns April 24, 4 new episodes)
The Game (returns March 23, 9 new episodes)

Fox:
House (returns April 28)
Bones (returns April 14)
'Til Death (original episode airs March 25; returns April 16)
Back to You (original episodes air Feb. 26, Feb. 27; returns April 16)

NBC:
30 Rock (returns April 10)
My Name Is Earl (returns April 3 with 1-hour episode)
The Office (returns April 10)
ER (returns April 10)
Law & Order (returns April 23)
Law & Order: CI (will make new episodes, but for cable's USA Network)
Law & Order: SVU (returns April 15)
Saturday Night Live (Feb. 23; Tina Fey hosts)
Scrubs (returns April 10)

Returning next season:
ABC: Dirty Sexy Money, Pushing Daisies, Private Practice
Fox: 24 (Returns January 2009)
NBC: Heroes, Chuck, Life, Friday Night Lights

There's no clear info yet on whether these shows will return this season or next – if at all: October Road (ABC), Women's Murder Club (ABC), The Unit (CBS says the show is "on hiatus"), Cane (CBS says the show is "on hiatus"), Las Vegas (NBC), Aliens in America (CW; new episodes shot last fall air starting March 2), Prison Break (Fox)

Say goodbye to these shows: Big Shots, Carpoolers, Cavemen, Bionic Woman, Journeyman, Girlfriends.

Atonement

2008-03-31T00:24:00.004-07:00

Shannon: Laurie asked for a review on Atonement b/c she is reading the book...I am guessing she wants to know if it was good and if she should see it when she's finished....so please comment if you've seen it and tell us what you thought. Also--try not to spoil the ending for her, if possible! :)

I loved Atonement! I thought about it for several days and wanted to talk about it too. For me--that's usually a sign of a movie that I liked. So....overall I rate Atonement a 9.

3 Reasons why it wasn't a 10:

1. Well it almost was a 10...so I'm going to have to be picky here...probably the #1 reason is I don't really like Keira Knightly (not even after Pride & Prejudice or Love Actually). Also, she was so thin in this movie that it was distracting.

2. Nor do I really like James McAvoy. But he was entertaining and overall I thought both of them did a great job.

3. The war scenes dragged on.

3 Reasons why it wasn't a 5:

1. The story was so moving--and for me the movie was enough--I didn't feel like I needed more information or deeper explanations. I thought it really explained things well, and things were resolved in the end. Even though I've heard from some book readers that it needed more, I don't agree.

2. The costumes were so amazing--Keira's green dress motivated me to shop--and I found an amazing silky green shirt--not quite the same but definitely more suitable for me to wear. :)

3. Everyone was really good and the scenery was amazing.

Would I recommend it? Yes--but there are definitely some shocking parts so if you're leary, read some more reviews where they give some spoilers so you know what to expect.

The Bank Job

2008-03-26T18:42:00.005-07:00

Shannon: On Saturday, Shiloh and I went to see The Bank Job. I knew 3 things about this movie before seeing it: 1) It stars Handsome Rob from the Italian Job, 2) Eric Bana's wife in Troy is also in it, and 3) it's a heist.

So...it was again proven to me that many times it is better to go to a movie knowing nothing about it b/c I don't have any expectations and it isn't difficult to meet expectations when they are low or non-existent.

Overall, I rate The Bank Job an 8.

3 reasons it didn't get a 10:
1. It was shockingly naughty--which isn't the end of the world for me but when it seems unnecessary, I don't like it.
2. I didn't develop an emotional attachment to it at all.
3. There was a good love scene....that apparently got completely cut in the editing process! Lame!

3 reasons it didn't get a 5:
1. This is Jason Statham's best movie--he was fab! And he was hot!
2. Saffron Burrows was awesome! She looked about 10 feet tall w/all her amazing 70s outfits and coats (turns out she actually is 6 ft tall)
3. It was a helluva lot of fun! And a true story to boot!

Christy's TV Tuesday Post

2008-03-25T17:47:00.004-07:00

Why am I excited about TV this week? Two names: Eli Stone and GEORGE MICHAEL. That's right, you read correctly: GEORGE MICHAEL. Are you watching Eli Stone? Well, you should be.

I first came to know of this show because my first true love, GEORGE MICHAEL was in it. Eli Stone is about a lawyer, named, well, Eli Stone, who has auditory and visual hallucinations. His first auditory hallucination involves the song Faith, by GEORGE MICHAEL (ok, I will stop using capital letters now. I will assume you understand how excited I am). Eventually, Eli Stone learns he has a brain aneurism which is causing him to have these hallucinations. Through an acupuncturist, Eli learns he may be receiveing these visions from God and he must use the law to help people.

For the first few episodes, George Michael songs are prominently feautred and serve as insipiration for Mr. Stone. What is not to love about this concept?! And this week, the episode that I have been longing for has arrived: George Michael, HIMSELF, (sorry, couldn't resist) will be an actual guest star. I haven't been this excited since 1987 when Faith won R&B Album of the Year. Not a fan of George Michael? Well, no worries (not everyone has a refined taste in music) Johnny Lee Miller as Eli Stone is incentive enough. He is yet another example of how the best actors on TV right now are all British.

Johnny Lee Mill not enough? Still- don't worry, he is surrounded by an excellent cast including Victor Garber, Loretta Devine and Natasha Hendstrdige. Trust me- I am never wrong when it comes to TV shows. You can thank me later.

Hillary's TV Tuesday

2008-03-25T11:40:00.004-07:00

I got hooked on a show that was steamy and suspensful the first season so I kept watching . . . season 2 got more and more corny and stupid and uneventful but I kept watching because I WANTED to see how it all turned out (plus the writers strike made me watch lots of stupid shows). Just as I was about to quit the show completley, October Road delivered a season finale that was phenomenal!! I mean, who knew that big tough Eddie Lateka (left with Janet) would get the crud kicked out of him and that Janet would be the one to cheat. But, I knew all along that Big Cat was responsible for Eddie's beating - Hannah is in for a serious train wreck there. I did sort of think all along that Aubrey would end up with Ronnie but for him to come out with his feelings at Hannah's engagement party and then they kiss in public?! wow. This might just be the thing to drive Nick back to his world tour with U2. I still love physical Phil and Pizza Girl, that is too cute. If you love this kind of drama and some good flash back 80's tunes (the last scene was set to REO Speedwagon's "Roll with the Changes" now playing) you NEED to tune in - next season that is.

Horton Hears a Who

2008-03-23T21:55:00.004-07:00

Hillary: (I doubt Shannon and Christy will lend their comment to this one) I give it a 4 or 5 overall. This movie is WAY too long and gets boring in the middle. Thank goodness Chubs was fussy so I walked the halls with him in the stroller for a while in the middle.

Luckily I made it back to the theatre in time for the ending though, it was fab! During the rest of the movie I kept thinking who cares about the city on a speck! But once they started singing and making their music, they totally won me over. The kids did really enjoy the movie, it was fun to see Carol Burnett revise her Miss Hannigan role as the kangaroo.

In Bruges/Away From Her

2008-03-23T21:39:00.006-07:00

Hillary: I loved In Bruges! Well, now that I have some distance from it. I am careful about the violence I see because I do not like it even in the name of art. Because this is filmed "In Bruges" I took the chance, and it was a hard-core movie. Not as violent as say Braveheart (which I turned off) or say, The Departed. In The Departed, the violence overtook any enjoyment for the movie itself so I didn't like it at all. However, the clever storyline, the funny dialogue and beautiful scenery was enough to overcome the violence and the dark tone of In Bruges. The side stories were hilarious like the midget with the prostitutes and the chick Colin Farrell hooks up with that has a job supplying drugs to an American movie set. I usually don't like European movies degrading Americans because let's face it they would be speaking German if not for . . . and they wouldn't have that much of an economy if we didn't visit and lend our technological advances . . . but I digress, the only Americans in the movie were the midget (excuse me L.P.) and some fat tourists that have a heart attack climbing the church bell tower. That was funny, I have to say. I laughed out loud in the movie and was shocked to the core. I especially loved the juxtaposition of the fairy tale setting of Bruges and the dark nature of the storyline :).

Who would I recommend this movie to? Well, Christy - and I took my husband and I can't think of anyone else that may enjoy the material enough, I give it a 7 or 8 overall.

AWAY FROM HER

We bought this movie On Demand a few weeks ago. I'd heard so much good about it and I really wanted to see it - I turned it off because what I had stored on my DVR seemed more interesting and enjoyable. It was really slow at first and I didn't have the patience that night . . .

Vantage Point

2008-03-23T15:12:00.004-07:00

Shannon: Being an avid watcher of Ebert & Roeper (or really Roeper and whoever his guest is of the week), I was leary of Vantage Point because they said the rewinding and starting over again and again was a little much. But I reeeeaaaaalllly wanted to visit my old friend, the movie theater, so I went for it.

And I have to say that the rewinding was a little annoying--but only the actual way they did the rewinding made it seem repetitive...every time they showed a different perspective, I learned something new and liked the movie more.

Overall I rate Vantage Point a 7.

Why it didn't get a 10:

1. I can't feel good about rating this movie higher than the Other Boleyn Girl! haha

2. It was simply a "this happened, then that happened" sort of tale and it has to be a little deeper for me to really love it.

3. The CARNAGE! Hardly anyone survived and I have to wonder if that is really necessary.

Why it didn't get a 3:

1. The ending was really fabulous! Mostly the fact that with each perspective, they revealed a little more, until you knew everything and then it was just over. They didn't have to explain or have a narrator to wrap things up.

2. Every good movie needs a little eye candy and there was lots in this movie....Edgar Ramirez was my fave.

3. I was reminded one reason why I love movies....William Hurt was just amazing and I loved him as the President. But sometime during the film, it hit me that he was the pathetic dad in Into the Wild and I just hated him in that! Truly an amazing contrast!

Friday Night Movie Time

2008-03-21T17:54:00.003-07:00

Christy: Well, its a Friday night in spring and there 'ain't nothing in the theaters! What is a movie lover to do? Besides posting on her movie blog, this movie lover turned to Netflix. I watched Away from Her staring Julie Christie. (I am still trying to catch up on films from the Oscars) Julie Christie was nominated for her role as a woman with Alzheimer's.

After about thirty minutes I was ready to go to my room and cry for a while, but then I toughened up and watched the rest of the film. The movie is a heart breaker- Julie Christie was brilliant and the actor who played her husband, Gordon Pinsent, well, I might start crying just thinking about him. Their performance was a tribute to the realities of marriage and the heartbreak it must be when, after 44 years of marriage, a spouse begins to forget.

I give this movie a 9- the acting was wonderful and it seemed a realistic portrayal of the challenges of Alzheimer's , but it didn't stay with me like a 10 would. 10 movies stay in my dreams- maybe Away from Her was too painful! Finally, Sarah Polley? Who knew she was so talented? As the writer AND directer of this film, Ms. Polley showed a light touch and never made this film melodramatic.

In Bruges

2008-03-18T22:31:00.006-07:00

Shannon: Just before going to see In Bruges, I mentioned it to some people (who shall remain nameless) that said everything from "What is In Bruges" to "Oh that's that movie w/Colin Farrell and that other guy!"

That other guy? Excuse me? SINCE WHEN IS RALPH FIENNES EVER THAT OTHER GUY?! If there is one thing In Bruges solidified for me it's that Ralph Fiennes is an amazing actor!! He has long since been on my top ten (see biography posting on my favorite movies for an explanation as to why) and any idiot can see he is a good actor. I mean who else could pull off Count Almasy, Chris Marshall and Lord Voldemort in one lifetime? (Check his IMDB movie list for more info). BUt alas....he's done it again in this movie! Comedy, darkness, everything!

The movie was good--I liked it and did not regret going. But it was shocking, and sad, and dark. I would give this movie a 6. And I would recommend it w/hesitation--I definitely don't think it is for everyone.

3 Reasons why it wasn't a 10:

The killing is pretty brutal
So is the language
Even though there were amazing shots of Bruges--it still didn't do the city justice!

3 reasons why it wasn't a 3:

Ralph Fiennes (duh). The other 2 main characters were fab too!
The ending did provide a resolved-ish type of feeling.
It was so clever, unexpected and funny!! I still crack up when I think of Colin Farrell saying "If I'd grown up on a farm and was retarded, Bruges might impress me. But I didn't so it doesn't." hahaha Bruges is truly one of the most amazing places I've ever been so how could I do anything but laugh at this hilarious comment!

The Other Boleyn Girl

2008-03-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

Shannon: The minute I learned Eric Bana would be the King in this movie, I bought the book to read it beforehand....that was a year ago and sadly I must report that I only finished 250 pages before seeing the movie. :( I am not one of those people who always likes a book better than a movie--I can usually appreciate them independently. And that is pretty much the sitch w/the OBG.

Overall, I rank this movie a 7.

3 reasons why it wasn't a 5:
1) The costumes were soooooooooo amazing! The sets & props (including horses) were interesting to look at and it seemed very appropriate for 16th century England (but Christy will have to be the real judge on this issue).
2) The Boleyn children TRULY delivered! Scarlett was the weakest (but the girl just plain can't act--so knowing that--it wasn't such a bad effort)....the other 2 were fab!
3) The ending had a happy resolve. I don't need everything to be happy and rosy--but it must at least feel resolved--and I loved the way this one ended.

3 reasons why it wasn't a 10:
1) There wasn't enough of Eric Bana (duh! when you have someone like that--why wouldn't you put him in every scene? :)
2) It moved sooooooo fast--even after reading some of the book I felt it was a bit difficult to connect or like the characters.
3) There wasn't any good music. They missed a great opportunity here to incorporate some rockin' tracks for the jousting, and some amazing "take my breath away" ballads during the naughty stuff.

Hillary: I would have to agree with much of what Shannon said, I would give the movie a 6 or 7 . The scenery and castles were beautiful to look at (was it just me or was it REALLY brown for England? I've been there in the winter and it was still very green and lush, I almost didn't believe they filimed :) this on the English Countryside). I DID read the book in about a week before the movie and the book is completley FAB. It is probably one of my top 10 fiction favs so if you are going to choose, read the book!

The OBG tried to hard to hit all of the events, they should've narrowed their focus a bit so we could savor the relationships and the emotions. I loved Natalie Portman's performance she makes an excellent biotch, Scarlet was actually very sweet as Mary and she is the exact visual equivilent to my Mary in the book. I was VERY disappointed that they left George's character out of the movie so much. First of all because I LOVE Jim Sturgess as much as Eric Bana (but who are we kidding, this movie is about the ladies) but also because that relationship was so pivotal, tender, and twisted. The opening and closing scenes with the children playing in the field was beautiful and an effective way of portraying the bond between the three Boelyns without giving the history.

The music was a downer (that is a HUGE part of the experience for me), I have posted the song I recommend for the last scene as Ann is getting her due and Mary is going to get the children at the castle, you can imagine her emotions as she must be devasted and relieved because of the love/hate relationship with Ann and she knows she will be free from threats to her children, etc. I LOVE when historical movies feature modern music it's the juxtaposition of the old and the new (I was dying to use that word somehow :) that enhances the emotion of the moment when the head comes off!!!

Christy: The Other Boleyn Girl? I give it a 4. While I completely agree with Shannon- Eric Bana should be in every frame- I thought the movie was slow. Or maybe I it was boring for me because I just kept thinking, "When is Eric Bana going to come back?" I think Scarlett Johansson also contributed to the boring element- she still hasn't quite convinced me she is any good. On the the other hand, Natalie Portman was good as a conniving Anne Boleyn. And Eric? Sigh. He is too good for the part written for him!

While the tawdry details are mostly true, the history teacher in me wanted to remind the audience that it was in Henry's best interest to break from the Catholic Church. The English never liked those Italian popes in their business. Besides, think of all that money that Henry could get when he confiscated all the church land!

The costumes were excellent and I thought that showing how precarious life for a woman was at that time was the best thing about The Other Boleyn Girl. Even if a woman was wealthy, it did not save her from being a pawn in the greedy games of men. It was a little hard to believe that a man as powerful and arrogant as Henry VIII would have let himself be manipulated by someone like Anne. As a woman, was I supposed to be proud of Anne's manipulation of a king? Well, no matter how I feel about it, Anne certainly paid the price.

Hillary's Biography

2008-03-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

Why am I qualified to analyze movies on this blog?
#1 I took a film class in college (because of the guy I wanted to get close to and it worked! temporarily)
#2 In that film class I watched and analyzed The Graduate.
#3 In high school I saw the Elephant Man at least 3 times (the scene where they poured alcohol in his hole of a mouth to get him drunk really stuck with me).
I do love movies but I do not waste time on bad movies. I research them before hand to try to better my odds at seeing movies I will like. That is one reason we "mavens" want to share experiences at the theatre so you can say goodbye to spending 2 hours and $10 on crappy movies.
When I'm not in the theatre, I am a mother to three kids (one of them is REALLY cute) and I have my own little commercial property management company which keeps me busy.

Movies in which I consider a "10"
Moulin Rouge (all time fav)
Waitress
Amelie
Garden State
In America
The Saint (I love anything set in Europe and with Val Kilmer, this had both!!)

Movies from 2007 I would consider an "8" or "9"
Juno
Atonement
Stardust
Once
High School Musical 2

Movies at a "5" (well maybe a "6")
27 Dresses
No Reservations
Music and Lyrics
Many other pretty good romantic comedys.
This is a recommendation.

Movies at a "1"
Wedding Planner
Hitch
Prob a lot of blockbuster action movies, but I don't usually see those.
First Daughter (walked out)

Shannon's Biography

2008-03-10T23:09:00.000-07:00

I love movies! But going to the movie is only part of the experience...the anticipation beforehand AND the discussion and analyzation afterwards are just as important to me in order to enjoy a movie.

A little more about me....for years I have collected my movie ticket stubs and I consider them an amazing journal of memorable experiences! I label them on the back so I can remember who I went with. By day I work at Stampin' Up!...and by night I play and stamp and blog.

My favorite movies (all of which I consider a 10) of all time are:
*The English Patient
*Moulin Rouge
*Gladiator
*Bride & Prejudice
*Almost Famous

To give an example of my rating scale from the movies I saw in 2007 (which by-the-way was a total bummer of a year for movies)...

10: Juno (the humor, the quirkiness, the cleverness...I saw it in the theater 3 times)
5: 3:10 to Yuma (even though it starred Russell Crowe, in the end, it was still just a western)
1: Because I Said So (lame lame lame!!)

Christy's Biography

2008-03-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

Movies are my life. Ok, not really. In the real world I am a high school history teacher who loves movies, but in a fantasy world I would review movies professionally. I place the blame of my movie addiction on my mother. I remember Saturdays where my mother stopped me from doing chores and sit with her to watch South Pacific, Fiddler on the Roof or It Happned One Night.

In high school, I would come home from school to watch old movies on TCM and AMC. My favorite actors were Cary Grant, Clark Gable, Rosalind Russell and Myrna Loy. It probably goes without saying, but my friends thought I was a little weird.

When I was a freshman in college I took a film class and loved every minute of it. Watching at least two movies a week for class? My dad was suspicious; I was in heaven. College also introduced me to foreign films and a entire new world of film was opened up to me. Oh, and I also became a film snob!

These days, as the price of movie tickets rise, and home entertainment systems can make going to the movie theater a chore, I still can not walk away from the movie experience. What kind of a review will I be? To help fill out this biography a little more, here is a list of my all time favorite movies:

* Auntie Mame
* The English Patient
* The Matrix
* L.A. Confidential

Also, I offer some examples of my rating scale from movies I've seen within the last year:
*10 (perfect): No Country for Old Men
*5 (a good time filler): Sweeney Todd
*1 (those are two hours of my life I can't get back): Transformers (I just can't take moralizing robots)

So! This is me and my movie thoughts in a nut shell.