Griff the Invisible

Question: Do you ever feel invisible? You are standing there, existing in the world but no one seems to notice you or how special you are? I am positive a lot of you think this way but there is at least one person who gets you and when that happens – all is right in your world.

An Australian film I just watched on Netflix, Griff the Invisible, touched on this subject. The movie stars Ryan Kwanten also known as Jason Stackhouse from TrueBlood speaking in his native Australian accent and playing a very different type of character. Anyway, he plays Griff, an introverted, awkward fellow who sees the world differently but who also lives in the world where no one really sees the true him. Um, not sure if I am describing it right…. The whole point of the film is that we all have our own perspectives on things but there are those rare few that no one understands and they become obsolete or unnoticeable to most.

Bottom line, Griff thinks he is a superhero put here to protect the innocent which in turn makes him want to hide from others so no one figures out his secret (mission). Okay, that’s enough detail of the story. Let’s talk overall picture.

Well, Griff the Invisible started off intriguing and with me wanting to know more about each character, specifically Griff. Ryan Kwanten was quite adorable as the awkward, unassuming chap who just wanted to do good deeds. He pulled off the innocence and detachment from the real world in a very convincing way. It was a big departure from his role on True Blood – the overly cocky yet not so smart character.

Another element that stood out in Griff the Invisible was the cinematography/art direction. There were not a lot of special effects in this film but just enough to keep the story on the fantastical side. Also, the use of a certain shade of yellow was splattered throughout the film. It caught my eye as I enjoy color theory and know that yellow is an intense color to grab people’s attention which is the opposite of what Griff wanted. It made me curious especially when the love interest wore the other two primary colors. 

Besides Ryan Kawnten and the visuals of the film, I finished the film with an unsatisfactory energy even though the ending made me smile. It started about halfway through the film, the story dulled and I found myself not really interested in the characters as much as I was in the beginning of the film. However, it was worth the viewing.

Directed & written by Leon Ford, Green Park Pictures, 2010.

Starring: Ryan Kwanten, Maeve Dermody, and Marshall Napier.

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance.

My favorite thing: One character (Melody) had some great lines in it. Some made me giggle.

My least favorite thing: That the story wasn’t well-rounded, I suppose.

Rating: PG-13

Length: 90 minutes

Review: 5 out of 10

The Perfect Host

Directed (and co-written) by Nick Tomnay, Stacey Testro International, 2010. Starring David Hyde Pierce, Clayne Crawford, Nathaniel Parker and Helen Reddy.

Genre: Comedy, Crime, Thriller.

Question: When you are giving a dinner party, do you serve red wine, white wine or both? I prefer red wine myself but may rethink it. It really does stain your teeth.

Alright, I just finished another movie on Netflix instant play called The Perfect Host. It starred David Hyde Pierce, yes, the guy from Frasier. He plays Warwick Wilson - the host of a dinner party that gets crashed by a stranger played by Clayne Crawford (what a great name!).

Now look at the genre listing...so you know what that means: I am not going to say much about the story. In fact, I really don't want to say anything because I went into this knowing not one stitch of information and thoroughly enjoyed the last 93 minutes. What a treat!! I will say I smiled, threw my hands over my eyes, felt a little nauseated at parts and slammed my hands on the table with glee because I really, really enjoyed The Perfect Host.

David Hyde Pierce was absolutely brilliant in this movie. I am a little shocked I never heard about this movie before today. There were parts where I had reactions I wasn't expecting at some of his dialogue delivery or his actions. This role does not resemble Niles Crane at all and that was refreshing. I know many actors can't shake their past roles but this one just might have done it for Mr. Pierce. AWESOME!

Now Clayne Crawford (got to say it again - just love his name) is a newcomer for me. I did look up his resume and he has covered a broad range of TV show appearances, but I honestly did not recognize him. I think I would have with those dimples...sorry. Focus, Katy. Alright, Crawford plays John Taylor (no, not the Duran Duran bass player) who stumbles into a night he will not soon forget. I will say I thought Crawford was pretty decent in the role.

I am stopping there - NO! I will not tell you anymore details. Nope, not gonna do it. And you can't make me. I am a stubborn woman, so learn to live with disappointment in not knowing anymore about The Perfect Host. This might be my most cryptic review ever but it needs to be. Thrillers, in my opinion, should remain a mystery until you have a chance to view them. You are welcome.

The Perfect Host

My favorite part: David Hyde Pierce.


My least favorite part: The end was a little drawn out.

Rating: R
Length: 93 minutes

Review: 7 out of 10

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Trollhunter

Directed (and written) by Andre Ovredal, Filmameratena A/S, 2010. Otto Jespersen, Glenn Erland Tosterud, Robert Stoltenberg, and Johanna Morck.

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery.

Question: Do you believe in trolls? Yes, that is my question for this review! Well, if you don't, you might believe in them after you see this "movie".

It's been a while since I've seen a movie. I can't really say why that is but this morning I decided to watch something that a friend asked me to review a few weeks ago. Actually, I joined a website last night and someone else mentioned it so I kind of thought - 'It's Sunday; I haven't seen a movie in over a week. Why not Trollhunter?' Yes, I am serious.

Alright, I am not sure how to describe this film and I really don't want to try. You should just see it for yourself. However, I will mention that it is a foreign film from Norway. So, there are subtitles. For the slow reader that I am, I didn't have any difficulty staying in time with this story. What a relief. I actually had to wear headphones because my laptop's speakers weren't loud enough, and I wanted to make sure I heard all the sound even though I couldn't understand a word they were saying. And the sound was pretty important to this film. Well, I found it fascinating at least.

Trollhunter is exactly is what this movie is about - a troll hunter named Hans. A small group of students wanted to film an alleged bear poacher that received a lot of media attention. However, when the students meet Hans, they join him on his "hunt" and stumble upon an adventure they never would have imagined. The story was not scary which was my first thought when my friend mentioned the title to me. It is in fact a satire - again, how I interpreted.

If you want to learn everything about trolls and their existence, then watch this movie. If you like watching documentaries, then Trollhunter is for you. If you want to giggle from time to time, then this is your flick. And last but not least, if you want to know how to kill trolls then by all means watch this movie - it is imperative.  I found it on Netflix instant queue so if this sounds like it is right up your alley - go to Netflix right now!

The "acting" and the "story" were pretty good but I kept noticing (and it could have been just me) there were correlations to Jaws that had me grinning.(Even though Jaws scared me for life I have seen it a few times and can't forget any of it - ever.) Let's just say Hans has this one scene that reminded me of the speech Quint gives while they are in the boat. The other movie this reminded me of was The Blair Witch Project. That's all I am going to say about that.

Seeing the countryside of Norway was a treat as the troll hunter and the students were on their adventure, so for those of you who like to travel this might be a treat for you as well. It was breathtaking in parts especially when there weren't any ugly creatures taking the focus off the scenery.

Now, if you are easily offended or someone who is particularly religious, specifically Christian, you might not be a fan of Trollhunter.

You must have a sense of humor to enjoy Trollhunter and I promise this one was a fun one if you do. It was just what I needed to escape reality for a couple hours.

My favorite part: That something actually made me smile and giggle today.


My least favorite part: A few scenes had me gagging a bit.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 103 minutes

Rating: 7 out of 10

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The Company Men

Directed (and written) by John Wells, The Weinstein Company, 2010. Starring Ben Affleck, Tommy Lee Jones, Maria Bello, Craig T. Nelson, Chris Cooper and Kevin Costner.

Genre: Drama

Question: How many of you are worried about your job or not making enough money to support you and your family? I bet it is more than a few of you. Well, I just finished watching The Company Men and if you are one of those few, who have been downsized, fired, let go, etc...don't watch this movie. You will just get more depressed.

I know that is not my normal glowing recommendation for a movie. However, I actually liked the film and thought it was done very well - perhaps too well because it was so real. Bottom line this movie is about how the greed of some can crush the ones below them, and to hell with the consequences. The Company Men shows the ripple (and sometimes tsunami) effect when layoffs happen at a company. Sound familiar? Since 2008 everyone has been touched in one form or another with the economy so this movie just brought back everything we first feared, what we have lived through and are currently enduring.

When I started this movie today I wasn't in the best of moods and now I am worse because of it. I may have mentioned that I am easily affected by movies and this one got me. One of my many fears is not making enough money to pay my bills and with the recent few years my current job of interior design hasn't fared too well. This then reminded me of all my attempts at trying to create a successful career over a 20 year period and how it was pretty much shot down when the world economy tanked - all my worries, nightmares and concerns came flooding back.

I honestly don't want to go into too much detail about the film because we all know the story. However, I will say that Tommy Lee Jones, Ben Affleck and Chris Cooper embodied what the corporate man has gone through over the past few years. They all did a fantastic job at relaying the sense of discombobulation of the business worker and the fear that comes with it when you lose your job - a job that they have had for more than 12, 20, or 30+ years.

Losing their job not only affects them, the employee, but their family and their loved ones around them. The Company Men follows several men who lose their job and, for the life of me, I couldn't understand why when the CEO kept making money hand-over-fist. It infuriated me to see the upper echelon's greed for themselves and stockholders. I don't claim to know anything about corporate business or finance - trust me - but it was made very clear in this movie that too few actually make decent money "working" today while the rest of us get handed our pink slips when the company's stock drops a few points.

Again, I know this isn't one of my typical reviews, but I hope it doesn't discourage anyone from seeing this movie. The Company Men was well written, very well acted and there was a glimmer of hope that there are some decent employers out there. Ones that actually want to build something and help create jobs so people can get back to work and support their families. I suppose that is the American dream now.

The Company Men

My favorite thing: Tommy Lee Jones - without a doubt. Plus, I loved that his office furniture was mixture of antiques set within the cold modern surroundings of his corner office. It was brilliant interior design.

My least favorite thing: That this story is all too real.

Rating: R
Length: 104 minutes

Review: 7 out of 10

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Heartbreaker

Directed by Pascal Chaumeil, Quad Productions, 2010. Starring Romain Duris, Vanessa Paradis, Julie Ferrier and Andrew Lincoln.

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Question: Ladies, this question goes out to you. What could a guy do that would make you fall in love with him? I know a hard question to answer. I have my thoughts but I am going to keep those to myself. However, I just watched a film called Heartbreaker (I know the title doesn't evoke much confidence in finding true love) and found that sometimes it's what we do that makes the guy fall in love with us first. When that happens, we allow the thought to be possible and then all bets are off. We fall and we fall hard!

Heartbreaker is a French film (L'arnacoeur). I know, not my typical movie genre, but I might have mentioned I am expanding my movie tastes. Plus, I am finding it easier to read subtitles and still see and enjoy the movie. There weren't any movies available at the time at the theatre yesterday that I wanted to see. I waited until the evening to check my Netflix Instant Play queue. Heartbreaker was on my list. It was recommended to me after I posted my last foreign film - Sarah's Key (a French film) so it was on my queue. I watched the preview - yes, I did - and I was intrigued. I remembered it was a comedy (and a romance) and I could really use a comedy these days so I hit PLAY.

So, here's the gist: Alex Lippi (played by Romain Duris) is a break-up artist. People hire him to find the doubt that is already there within a woman so she will break-up with her (usually deadbeat) boyfriend. His job is not to start dating or have them fall in love with him - just make them realize they are with the wrong person. The opening scene(s) showed dozens of women kissing this guy (break-up artist) who just happens to cry in front of them and tell them that they made him feel alive again. Voila! Break-up.

The rest of the film shows Alex and his team hired to break-up a relationship only 10 days before the wedding. Usually that is not enough time but they accept the challenge. Ok - no more details - you have to see it for yourselves. I will say once this part of the movie started I really enjoyed it. As I was watching this film (and reading) I discovered that I was smiling through a lot of it. Sometimes I was even giggling or doing whatever odd facial and hand movements I do when I can't believe I saw what I just saw. You know what I mean, right? Well, if not - just trust me there are some funny parts to Heartbreaker.

So, let's discuss the main actors: Romain Duris. This was my first movie of his but I have feeling it won't be my last. His performance was intriguing to say the least. Although I did not find him all that attractive he had a certain charm and sex-appeal.  My focus sharpened whenever he was on screen - which was for the majority of this movie. When there were moments of tender thoughts I felt what he felt. There are only of few of those but he sucked me right in. On the flip-side - his comedic act was a treat to watch as well. Plus, there is one scene that I think those ladies who grew up in the 80's will enjoy - yes, I was one of them.

Juliette Van Der Becq (played by Vanessa Paradis) was the woman he was hired to show her the error of her ways. Some of you might recognize her; she is Johnny Depp's girlfriend. As with Romain Duris, this was my first time seeing her act as well. I may sound a little biased or heavy-handed here but I found her performance to be a bit on the weak side as compared to Romain Duris. She is supposed to be playing this damaged (although we don't know why she is damaged for most of the story), beautiful, wealthy women who is marrying what appears to be the perfect man. So, what's the problem? I know now but it took a while to get there.

So all-in-all I liked Heartbreaker. My first French comedy but I have feeling it won't be my last.

My favorite thing: The dance - I won't describe what that means but I loved it!

My least favorite thing: That I was jealous that it was filmed in Monaco..I so want to see that city.

Rating: Couldn't find a consistent rating but there is cursing and a little nudity.
Length: 105 Minutes

Rating: 7 out of 10

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Charlie St. Cloud

Directed by Burr Steers, Universal Pictures, 2010. Starring Zac Efron, Kim Basinger, Charlie Tahan and Ray Liotta.

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama

Question: How many child stars grow up and prove they are actually legitimate actors? There are a handful of names that pops to mind: Jodie Foster, Shia LaBeouf, and Kurt Russell. But I might need to add one to that list now: Zac Efron. Yes, I am serious.

This past weekend I watched Charlie St. Cloud - actually for the second time. I saw it last summer when it was in the theaters but I wasn't reviewing movies back then. Well, at least I wasn't writing down my reviews. I enjoyed the movie then and found it just as quaint this weekend mainly because of Zac Efron and his performance.

Now I was introduced to the singing, dancing actor through a not-so-thrilling venue (well, not thrilling for moi): High School Musical. My daughter was obsessed with this movie when she was five (now nine) so I listened to that movie and the songs over and over and over again. Zac Efron was the star of that movie and my daughter thought he was sooooo cute. Hey, I had some celebrity crushes too that my mother didn't quite understand.

Fast forward four years and Zac Efron is all grown up and starring in Charlie St. Cloud.

The movie starts out with him and his little brother in a sailing race. We soon find out that their family doesn't have the means to really support his sailing dreams but luckily he had received a sailing scholarship to go to college. But even though he has only a summer left before college Charlie likes spending time with his little brother: teaching him the fundamentals of baseball and sharing his older brotherly advice. He and his brother are very close even though they are six years a part. Now where the story goes from here should remain a mystery if you have not seen it yet.

The story takes a sudden and heartbreaking turn that had me in tears (again). There is an unbreakable bond between these two brothers, Charlie (Zac Efron) and Sam (Charlie Tahan). Charlies ends up living with certain consequences that forces him on a different path. But he remains loyal to his little brother.

What surprised me most about this film was the main actor. He really had to portray some powerful emotions and he did that quite well. There are many close-up shots of the blue-eyed young adult that will have all the young girls swoon. Except my daughter: she came in during the movie. She asked if that was Zac. I nodded. She replied "He so old now" and she walked away. Guess you could say she is over that crush.

Anyway, I will say it again. This is a quaint movie with a sweet tale about brotherly love that may be worth your time. I believe Zac Efron will go on to do some pretty wonderful performances in the future.

My favorite thing: I have to say it: Zac Efron.

My least favorite thing: They did try a little too hard to push the boundaries of a believable story.

Random thought:  This isn't my only review of one of Zac Efron's performances: Me and Orson Wells.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 99 minutes

Review: 5 out of 10

Beginners

Directed (and written) by Mike Mills. Focus Features, 2010. Staring Ewan McGregor, Christopher Plummer and Melanie Laurent.

Genre: Comedy, Drama.

Question: Do you think you became who you are because of the way your parents purposely raised you? Sure - it is natural to think that. But after watching Beginners today I now think it is also our observation of our parents as a couple that can also have a profound effect - both good and bad.

You can have a wonderful childhood. Your parents love you, take care of you, and fulfill your basic needs. But what happens when they don't really love each other? A child watching two parents who tolerate - not hate - and just merely exist in the same household can alter a person's path - irrecoverably.  That is the premise of Beginners. It isn't pretty but it is real. Perhaps too real for some.

Beginners is probably not for everyone. I, however, enjoyed it very much. It is slow, quiet and sad but filled with a glimmer of hope for better times to come. The story takes a look at some of the not-so-great emotions we humans endure in order to find the good in life. Many might not want to go through the emotional roller coaster that this movie takes but I recommend it anyway.

The film is about a young man (Ewan McGregor) whose father (Christopher Plummer) passes away and we meet him a couple of months after. He is going through the depression phase of loosing a parent but it goes deeper than that. He also lost his mother several years prior and after that his father announces, at the age of 75, that he is gay and out. Now I am not spoiling the movie for you with this information because it is all said within the first five minutes. This movie is about a journey that the young man takes and how he comes out on the other end.

The movie follows a convoluted path with some in the present not too soon after his father's death and with flashbacks of his father's life as an out and about gay man. In addition we see some childhood memories of him and his mother.  As a young boy he witnessed his parents and their relationship or lack thereof. It effects him so much that he has difficulty with other relationships. However, he becomes a compassionate person despite the unconventional upbringing.

There are also some odd storytelling quirks thrown in that I rather enjoyed. This is definitely an independent film that doesn't follow much of the Hollywood standards.

I sat there totally drawn in - watching a person at a vulnerable state in their life while still having compassion was intriguing. The cinema, for me, is not just about escaping your reality to witness someone gain some inexplicable power or watch two people falling in love despite the obstacles set in front of them. It is about exploring human nature and what all that means. We are flawed, we are illogical and we can't help who we love. We cannot control any of those things and why should we? Beginners was brave enough to discuss these points. Bravo!

Ewan McGregor was perfect in this role. No, I am not saying that just because he is my all time favorite actor. He is a great actor and he had to show a lot of restraint mixed with deep feeling sometimes with just his eyes. I felt his pain, joy, and his sadness. Sorry, but when he teared up - so did I. Christopher Plummer was also fantastic. Watching a man finally live his life the way he always wanted after denying who he truly was for 50+ years was magical. Plus, the father/son relationship was a dear thing to witness.

Beginners explores a part of human nature that is sometimes hard to watch or understand. But I think we, as moviegoers, need that type of escape if only to allow us to reflect on our own lives once in a while. I will admit it was heartbreaking to watch the relationships end. However, when one thing ends something always begins.

My favorite thing: Ewan McGregor, of course!

My least favorite thing: It was a little slow and think that will turn many people away from seeing this film.

Rating: R
Length: 105 minutes

Review: 7 out of 10

The Last Song

Directed by Julie Anne Robinson, Touchstone Pictures, 2010. Starring Miley Cyrus, Liam Hemsworth and Greg Kinnear.
Genre: Drama, Romance

Question: Are you a fan of Miley Cyrus? I will admit she hasn't been high up on my list of favorite actors. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact my children watched every Hannah Montana episode five times each. Drove me batty. But how many parents and kids actually enjoy the same things, at least while the kids are younger than 18? I know I had favorite actors when I was a kid that my parents never understood. It's the parent/child phenomenon called "I can't possibly like what they like!" But my husband and son were watching a movie so my daughter and I decided to watch a movie together -- a good chick-flick. We agreed on The Last Song.

Alright, I will admit I kind of liked this film. It sort brought me back to when I was a bratty 17 year-old thinking I knew everything. Didn't we all have that attitude at one point or another? And maybe it is preparing me for when my daughter reaches that phase.

Well, the story was a typical coming-of-age/summer romance but with a bit more maturity and depth. Also, I was sort of shocked to see a movie mainly about teenagers that was only rated PG. It was perfect for my daughter, 9, to watch a movie about first loves and there's nothing more than kissing. (I sound like an old fuddy-duddy, don't I? Sorry.) She did think there was way too much kissing in it though.

Nicholas Sparks wrote the movie specifically for Miley Cyrus, or at least that is what I remember when they were promoting it. That kind of made me not want to see it, but I simply adore Greg Kinnear and pushed my prejudices aside. Plus, I will admit Liam Hemsworth is a bit...intriguing...okay, okay...he's good-looking. Plus, there is something about the men in Nicholas Sparks' stories. They embody the ideal guy: gentle, sweet,  strong in character, good-looking and when you need it -- a good protector. Liam Hemsworth fit the role he was given in The Last Song well.

The author actually wrote the screenplay before he wrote the novel. I wonder how many times that happens?

The movie was on the slow side but it had a 'real' tone to it. Miley Cyrus' performance of portraying a pissed-off teenager who falls in love for the first time was acceptable. Anyone recall that time in their lives? It is scary, exhilarating, and sometimes too much to comprehend. But on top of that The Last Song takes a family dynamic that had some genuine feeling to it which gave it more than the typical summer romance storyline.

I can't believe I got sucked into this story but it happened. And Nicholas Sparks really should earn an honorary Oscar for making movies that make people cry. Geesh! Even my 9 year-old daughter cried. I only teared-up (really) but it did pull on those heartstrings. So, if you have a rainy afternoon coming up soon, put this one on your queue and grab the kids. This one is for the whole family.

My favorite thing: The house - I want a beach house like that.

My least favorite thing: That it made me cry (I mean tear up!) You are good Mr. Sparks!

Rating: PG
Length: 107 minutes

Random thought: I just looked up Nicholas Sparks' movies and I have seen 5 out of 6. Check out the Nicholas Spark's web page here and see if you seen any sort of pattern to the movie posters.

My daughter gave it a 9 out of 10.

Review: 5 out of 10

127 Hours

Directed (and co-written) by Danny Boyle, Fox Searchlight Pictures, 2010. Starring James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Kate Mara, and Treat Williams.

Genre: Adventure, Biography, Drama, Thriller.

Question: We all have had nightmares but you know the ones where you are screaming for help and nothing comes out? No matter what is happening in your dream:  being chased by a monster, falling from a skyscraper, or you just can't open that door -- not being able to get anyone to hear your desperate plead is by far one of the worst nightmares to have. 127 Hours takes that kind of nightmare from a real-life story and totally sucks you in to an unimaginable tale of one man's struggle.

I nearly cried when James Franco, stuck in the canyon on the first day, screams "HELP!" at the top of his lungs. This movie was powerful, emotional almost gut-wrenching at times, and had one of the most cathartic endings in any story on film. We all know the story but if you don't I won't tell you about it. 127 Hours is the true story of Aron Ralston and his survival story. (Based on the book "Between a Rock and a Hard Place", WOW, what literal meaning that has.)

It took me a long time to want to see this movie. Danny Boyle is by far one of the best directors we have today and his previous film, Slumdog Millionaire, is proof of that. But I just had no desire to see this one. Maybe it was the story. I have mentioned I am easily affected by movies and the premise made me feel a little claustrophobic. Also, James Franco is not one of my favorite actors. I know, shocking. I seem to like everyone -- according to my past reviews. There is just something about him that always kind of made me go "eh". Perhaps it is the characters he chooses to play. Who knows?

However, there was no denying 127 Hours was a good movie. All the accolades and awards tossed around did make me think twice. Now that I am reviewing movies I am forcing myself to broaden my horizons and not let any prejudices or preconceived notions get in the way. I am so happy I let me guard down about James Franco. He was fantastic and so was the movie!

The movie started off in an odd way but after you get into the story you soon understand why. We are not alone in this world of six billion people, but when you find yourself in a situation like Aron Ralston did -- it really doesn't matter how over-crowded our world seems.

While I was being totally mesmerized by Franco's performance, I kept wondering why it garnered a R rating. Sure there was an occasional curse word or two, no real nudity or violence against others, but then the scene I was dreading the most happened.  My fingers slowly crept up towards my eyes to help me shield the horror and then I understood the rating choice. How could someone own the ability and courage to do what he did? 127 Hours answers that question -- brilliantly and honestly.

Now if you have not seen this movie yet -- stop reading this review now and go download this or put it on your queue. You won't regret it.

My favorite thing: James Franco. He was truly fantastic in this film.

My least favorite: The urine part. I have a weak stomach.

Did the previews ruin it by showing too much? No!

Random thought: This movie had some wonderful shots of Moab and it reminded me of a friend of mine's Photography: Frank Lee Ruggles. Check out his work on his website or on his fanpage on Facebook. Amazing photographs of America.

Rating: R
Length: 94 minutes

Review: 10 out of 10

The Switch

Directed by Joss Gordon & Will Speck, Bone Fide Productions, 2010. Starring Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, and Jeff Goldblum.

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Question: When you see a movie and it says it is a comedy and a drama (mixed in with romance) you expect something specific, right? The mixture of those two genres usually are a good recipe for an interesting outcome. So, what happened with The Switch and where did it go horribly wrong?

I watched The Switch with my husband earlier this week and both of us were sorely disappointed in the film. I had heard some not so great things about it but I adore Jason Bateman and have watched his career grow ever since Silver Spoons. (I miss Arrested Development but I think there might be a movie coming out soon.) His transition to movies was successful and filled with unique and diverse characters. But when I hear bad things about a movie I don't always hold that at face value.

For Jennifer Aniston I really liked Friends but her movie roles since that TV series ended have left me a little numb. They all are variations on the same character and nothing has wowed me since The Good Girl. But I always holdout hope for her since I think she is a good actress.

The third major role in The Switch is Jeff Goldblum, another TV beginner with Tenspeed and Brown Shoe, (Yes, I watched it.) but his movie roles have been much more interesting to watch (The Big Chill and Jurassic Park) Sadly, he didn't even help this film reach a tolerable level.

The hook of the story is not one many films have attempted so that piqued my interest. Really, not many films have discussed sperm donation quite the same way, but I won't go into too much detail about the story. Here is my guess on why this movie didn't work. It started out as a comedy but after "the switch" happened it became a drama and never went back to the lighthearted feel of the beginning. I have never seen that work well before -- starting out in one style and shifting completely to another. Combing two genre styles can work but a balance is necessary, in my opinion, to keep the audience interested.

Besides the odd transition of style, the main characters weren't that likable either. I didn't develop any sympathy or empathy for any of them. The main characters try to portray really good friends (Bateman & Aniston) but I don't recall understanding why they were or how their relationship worked. No one seemed to have that much emotion one way or the other towards anyone in their life. They were all sort of cold.  In fact, I just kept waiting for some explanation. That is never a good sign. So, in the end, the hook, mixed with the lack of chemistry, and change in style left me not liking The Switch.

I regret sometimes having to write a bad review so I always have to say something nice. I will mention there were a couple of funny scenes/lines in the beginning, and the little boy was adorable to watch in this film. The "lice" scene towards the end was precious. It almost had me liking this film if it had more of that type of emotion. Better luck next time, people.

Skipping over my favorite and least favorite for this one.

Did the previews ruin it by showing too much? No, the previews showed a funny movie with an interesting concept. It made me want to see the movie.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 101 minutes

Random thought: I might have a clue about the change on tone in the movie -- two directors. It's just a hunch.

Review: 3 out of 10


COMING SOON: Bridesmaids

All Good Things

Directed (and written) by Andrew Jarceki, Groundswell Production, 2010. Starring Ryan Gosling, Kirsten Dunst and Frank Langella.

Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Question: When you have a treasure trove of talented actors mixed in with a compelling real-life mystery, you possess the right ingredients to make a good movie, right? So what happened with All Good Things and how did they miss telling a good story? Honestly, it is a bigger mystery to me than the real story.

Again, I found this movie on my Netflix streaming list and was curious when I saw the list of actors. I like Ryan Gosling and most of the roles he selects, but I don't recall hearing anything about this movie when it was out last year. I really think Ryan Gosling is one of the finest young actors we have today; Frank Langella has proved his tremendous talent longer than I have been a live; Kirsten Dunst has charmed us since her portrayal of Claudia in Interview with a Vampire in 1994. So with this trifecta of talent -- and they were all very good in this film -- why did the movie not work? To be honest, I just don’t know.

All Good Things is a story inspired by true events -- a mystery surrounding a New York real estate family and the unsolved deaths that surround them between the 1970's through the early 2000's.

Ryan Gosling plays David Marks, the son of Sanford Marks - the real estate tycoon, who simply does not want to follow in his father's oppressive footsteps. He meets and falls in love with Katie, played by Dunst, and they begin a life together very removed from his father's. They open a health food store -- called All Good Things. So what is wrong with that story? Nothing. It starts out fine but then decisions are made, minds changed and the story takes us on a path that is undecipherable. So disappointing.

As I said, everyone acted well, very well. However, the director didn't seem to get us to a point where we, the audience, could feel the ride up the big moment where everything is revealed or explained. You are left with more questions than when you started the film. And by the end, you just don't care. 

My favorite part: Ryan Gosling - he did nothing wrong.

My least favorite part: The overall storytelling.

Did the previews show too much? - I never saw any.

Rating: R

Length: 101


Random thought: Did you know that Ryan Gosling was part of the Mickey Mouse Club along with Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and Brittany Spears? He still sings and performs with his band: Dead Man's Bones. Here is clip to check out. 

Review: 3 out of 10


COMING SOON: Thor

Easy A

Directed (and produced) by Will Gluck. Screen Gems, 2010. Starring Emma Stone, Penn Badgley, Amanda Bynes, and Thomas Hayden Church.

Genre: Comedy Romance.

Question: Raise your hand if you think John Hughes wrote (and directed) some great movies about high school? Yep, me too. Well, the filmmakers of Easy A apparently thought the same thing - or they wouldn't have referenced some of his most iconic films for this modern high school story.

I wasn't so sure I would enjoy watching Easy A - mainly because I am so far removed from my own high school days that I didn't think I could relate. Also, the kids today have so much more to contend with; and due to the warp speed gossiping portals (texting, email, and webcam discussions) I thought I might not be able to understand the current high school dilemmas. But I was proved wrong.

Easy A takes the topic of rumors and their devastating and destructive power all with a comedic twist. One student, who has no notoriety in her school, soon becomes the topic for everyone's conversations due to one lie. It grows as she perpetuates the myths enjoying the attention but as with most hubris - it usually comes back to bite you in the-you-know-where!

The part that I liked about this film was the references to some John Hughes classics and how the main character kept hoping she could live in one - now that is something that I could understand. Didn't most kids at my age think the same thing? (I wonder)

Does Easy A go over the top a bit trying to make a point? Of course! But that is today's interpretation of high school. I thought Emma Stone, the main character, did a great job as the troubled teen trying to get out of her own mess. Her love interest - although cute - kind of left me wondering 'what was the attraction?' He seemed a little too removed to be such a draw for her. Also, Amanda Bynes, and her posse, played religious fanatics that want to "save" Emma Stone's character and that reminded of a another teen movie - that I can't quite place my finger on. It seemed generic - is what I am trying to say.

Even though I thought Amanda Bynes character was contrived, it did have some significance. The title of the movie, Easy A, is a play on "The Scarlett Letter" and if you know that story - and every high school kid should - it makes sense to have someone "condemn" the protagonist for her "rumored" promiscuousness. Again, the filmmakers just took it a bit too far for my taste.

So, all-in-all, it was a decent film that I think old and young alike can relate to its theme. Plus, there are some modern twists and unusual characters that helped maintained a level of interest for me.

My favorite thing: The references to the Scarlett Letter movie. Very Funny!

My least favorite thing: The relationship with her best friend.

Did the previews ruin it by showing too much? Well, it has been awhile since I saw them but I do remember seeing pretty much the whole story when I saw them.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 92 minutes

Review: 5 out of 10

Tangled

Directed by Nathan Greno, Walt Disney Animation Studios, 2010/11. Starring Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Donna Murphy, and Ron Pearlman.

Genre: Animation, Comedy, Romance, Fantasy, Family, Musical

Question: How many of you dreamed about having really long hair when you were little girls? I certainly did but nothing like the hair in Tangled.

Tangled is the 50th animated feature for Walt Disney Studios, and I was pleasantly surprised by this film when I took my kids to see it. The tale was one I will admit I never read when I was little. So finding out why Rapunzel was in the tower in the first place and seeing she is rescued in the beginning of the story, I discovered The Brothers Grimm were pretty good storytellers.

But leave it to Disney to add songs to an already fun story. Some of the songs were pretty catchy and I believe “I See the Light” was up for an Oscar. But this film didn’t seem oversaturated with songs, which was refreshing.

However, the most surprising part for me was finding out that it was funny. I found myself chuckling, along with my kids, during many of the scenes. 

Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi both did a great job voicing and singing for their characters. But I really liked Levi’s character – Flynn Rider. A funny and enjoyable character, one I wasn’t expecting to like from the previews. However, Maximus, the horse, may have been the best character of them all.

The animation was spectacular. It may have been one of the best animations I have seen by Disney so far. Even if you aren’t into the story of Tangled, I recommend it just to see the animation.

My favorite part: How funny it was.


My least favorite part: Nothing comes to mind right now.


Did the previews ruin it by showing too much? No, not at all.


Rating: PG
Length: 100 minutes


Review: 8 out of 10

Love and Other Drugs

Directed (and written by) Edward Zwick, Fox 2000 Pictures, 2010. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, Hank Azaria and Oliver Platt.

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Question: Have you ever seen a romance movie that wasn't really geared solely towards the female population? Well, you are in luck if you haven't seen Love and Other Drugs yet. This one might have been made for all the men out there who have been dragged to one-too-many chick flicks.

I am not kidding. As I was watching Love and Other Drugs waiting for more sap, gush, or some overly romantic parts in this movie, it dawned on me. This wasn't really made for women. Yes, this is a romance. Yes, it is about two people falling in love. Yes, there is a sick woman and the man learns to changes his ways to be with her. That is all the right components of a chick flick but it was not written or acted to get us females all weak in the knees or cry at every other scene. There was, however, a lot of nudity, sex jokes and other elements that would make guys want to stay in the theaters for this one.

Now here is the question - did I like it? Well, let me put it this way: I didn't like the beginning part of the story but I wasn't supposed to. It was all a set up to get you to not like the main character, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, and some other elements of the movie which I won't spoil for you. But when he meets Maggie, played by Anne Hathaway, I immediately changed my mind and started enjoying the story. Then, as their relationship develops it sort of lost me. And by the climax or where most romance/chick flicks have me either sobbing or begging for the two betrothed to finally be together I became apathetic. So, I kind of liked it but not fully.

Somewhere in this movie, I suppose, I should have developed sympathy for the guy (Jake Gyllenhall) and have had my heart strings pulled more with Maggie's (Anne Hathaway) storyline. But overall it just didn't work for me. Then there was the younger brother mixed into all this. I assume he was supposed to be the comic relief, but I found it distracting and somewhat belittling to the storyline.

On the flip-side, I thought everyone acted well especially Anne Hathaway. She really is turning out to be a shining talent. Plus, we all know Jake Gyllenhaal is one of the greatest actors we have today and he took on this role with sincerity. However, I believe where the movie fell short was the overall story. I tried to like it but every time I would get sucked into it, I got batted back out with a stupid joke or unnecessary attempt to put up an obstacle between the two young lovers. I know that happens a lot in romances but for this one it didn't work for me.

I will admit I think it was very clever to make a romance movie with the guys in mind. It was different and we all need that in the movies. So, I can't really fault the movie-makers on this. We women have had our fair share of romance movies.

The story was based on the book "Hard Sell: The Evolution of a Viagra Salesman" by Jaime Reidy - This might put it all in perspective for you if you haven't seen it yet.

My favorite thing: Maggie's apartment.

My least favorite thing: The brother.


Did the previews show too much: No, not really but they kept showing a lot different of clips prior to release and I might have seen a bit too much before seeing the actual film


Rating: R
Length: 112 minutes

Review: 5 out of 10


Random thought: This was not the first time the two main actors worked together. They were both in Brokeback Mountain. 

Welcome to the Rileys

Directed by Jake Scott, Argonaut Pictures, 2010. Starring James Gandolfini, Kristen Stewart and Melissa Leo.

Genre: Drama

Question: Do you think the actors who have played two of the most well known TV and movie characters in the last 10 years (Tony Soprano and Bella Swan) can be seen as anything else? I say yes - Welcome to the Rileys proves that.

I saw a clip from Welcome to the Rileys when it was getting ready to debut. The clip didn't show much and I couldn't understand who these two characters were to each other. However,  I rented it to see what the story was about. Now, you know I am not going to spoil it for you but rest assured the relationship portrayed in this film was different than most I have seen between an older man and young female - and worth watching.

Welcome to the Rileys takes a subject matter that many families have thrust upon them and shows the aftermath through a profound and realistic view point. Life is messy, cruel and can kick you in the stomach but many films like to make sure you leave satisfied in the end with everyone smiling and fixed. This film doesn't try to solve all the answers and it doesn't clean it all up either. How refreshing.

James Gandolfini plays a tender but broken man who is stuck in his marriage and life. He took on this role with an authenticity that I have never seen him try before. His portrayal brought tears to my eyes when his character decided to release the pause button from his dilemma. Kristen Stewart grabbed her portrayal with a vulnerability tied in with an inner strength only real survivors seem to possess. There is no resemblance to her past roles in this movie.

However, Melissa Leo, who was recognized at the Academy Awards for her outstanding performance in The Fighter this year, probably helped both the other actors reach the story's true potential. She, too, showed a real character and the process one goes through if they allow the tragedies of life to consume them.

This is not a fast-paced movie and it won't give you all the answers, but I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I recommend Welcome to the Rileys, even it is just to show everyone that iconic characters don't need to pigeonhole an actor.

My favorite thing: The giggle I had when I wasn't expecting any light-hearted parts in this movie.

My least favorite thing: Realizing the basis of the story is probably more prevalent than I would like to consider.

Did the previews show too much? I actually never saw a preview - just the same clip of the scene outside a laundromat.

Random thought: Jake Scott, the director of this film, is the son of Ridley Scott and the nephew of Tony Scott. He directed one of my favorite videos of all time: R.E.M.'s "Everybody Hurts."

Rating: R
Length: 110 minutes

Review: 7 out of 10


COMING SOON: Love and Other Drugs

Burlesque

Directed (and written) by Stephen Antin, De Line Pictures, 2010/11. Starring Cher, Christina Aguilera, Stanley Tucci and Kristen Bell.

Genre: Drama, Musical, Romance.

Question: Have you ever stood in front of a mirror with a hairbrush or some other microphone replica and sung your heart out (or lip-synced) dreaming you would make it on stage someday? Okay, maybe you danced in front of that same mirror. It's almost a right-of-passage for all little girls! I can't leave out the guys - you all probably played air-guitar dreaming your way to fame, so I know this is a universal theme. Either way, we have all done it, right?

Burlesque is another version of 'girl has a dream to be on stage and be loved' story but it was so predictable that the little girl in me got mad. "Try harder" is what I kept thinking as I was watching this movie. With the almost painful cliches used one after another, mixed in with some so-so acting, and the horrible use, or lack thereof, with some tremendously talented people (Alan Cumming, Stanley Tucci, and Kristen Bell) I finished Burlesque feeling drained.

The ONLY redeeming part of the entire film was Christina Aguilera - not the acting but her singing brought goosebumps every time she opened her mouth. That woman can sing!! Whether you like her or don't like her - it won't matter. When she belted out the half a dozen melodies you stopped realizing this was not a good movie and welcomed watching (and hearing) the brilliant talent that woman possesses. Her voice is almost too good to be true but since she has stuck around since the 'Genie in a Bottle' release more than a decade ago to 'Beautiful' which I must admit I really like, Christina Aguilera has some pipes and is here to stay in the spotlight.

However, Burlesque, to me, did not deliver. But for those of you who want to see a great talent from time to time during a completely predictable plot line - then see Burlesque.

My least favorite thing: Seeing Alan Cumming for less than five minutes in the whole movie.

My favorite thing: That voice- really - it's worth seeing just to sit there in awe.

Did the previews show too much? Um, yeah but it made me want to see it so it did a good job. Can't fault that.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 119 minutes


Review: 3 out of 10 


Burlesque - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Random thought: For those Twilight fans out there, "James" played by Sam Gigandet is in this movie and you might like seeing him in this.

Conviction

Directed by Tony Goldwyn, Pantheon Entertainment Corporation, 2010/11. Starring Sam Rockwell, Hilary Swank, Melissa Leo and Minnie Driver.

Genre: Biography, Drama.

Question: What would you do for your brother or sister if they were wrongly convicted of a crime? We would all fight for them in the best way we knew how but in Conviction  one sister goes above and beyond to prove her brother's innocence.

When Conviction  was out in the theaters last year I heard about this real life story adaptation and was pleased to see who was portraying the brother and sister: Sam Rockwell and Hilary Swank. We all know Hilary Swank is a phenomenal actress and she worked her magic again, but this time I think Sam Rockwell had the outshining performance.

He had an elegant combination of masculinity and vulnerability while playing the accused brother: Kenny Waters. He was so believable in this role that you really develop a deep sympathy for his character. Sam Rockwell is one actor that more people should take notice of out in Hollywood. I can't think of a single performance or movie he has been where I didn't think "WOW, this guy is really good!" In fact, my very first review was Moon starring Sam Rockwell; and I really enjoyed watching this movie solely because of his performance.

So, if you are in the mood to see a good story, with a lot of heart, and some outstanding acting then see Conviction .


My favorite thing: The scene where Sam's character has to try and make people smile.

My least favorite thing: There were a lot of quick, choppy scenes that sometimes made it hard to know how much time had passed.

Did the previews show too much? Maybe but the acting is so aboveboard that it didn't ruin it for me.

Rating: R
Length: 107 minutes

Review: 7 out of 10


COMING SOON: Nowhere Boy

The Lovely Bones

Directed (and written) by Peter Jackson, Dreamworks SKG, 2009. Starring Mark Walhberg, Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon, Stanley Tucci and  Saoirse Ronan.

Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Thriller.

Question: I was trying to think of a question regarding this particular movie to get everyone connected and I just can't think of one. Sorry. The subject matter of The Lovely Bones is usually one I don't care to watch, but many of my friends read the book and enjoyed it, and I watch movies so.....

What can I say about The Lovely Bones? Well, I was depressed during most of it because it is about a young girl's death in the early 70's and her family's desire to figure out who killed her. Also, the young girl is hanging around in limbo trying to reach out to her family. This is the premise of the story, a hard one to watch, I know. But, frankly, I was bored throughout most of the film along with being depressed.

Stanley Tucci,  one of my favorite actors, plays the sadistic, killer neighbor who isn't a suspect to the people around him but for us, the audience, we know everything. Mark Walhberg plays the father of the young girl who was killed. Although he did a decent job, he looked so much like his character in Boogie Nights that I had a hard time disassociating him from that film. Very distracting.

There were parts where "limbo" was supposed to be overly theatrical or whimsical but I just didn't buy it.

The young actor, Saoirse Ronan, did a really good job but I am afraid to admit that I just didn't connect with her character. Perhaps all this was better in the book (by Alice Sebold) with the reader's imagination.

Sorry I skipped a day from posting but this one was a struggle for me to wrap my head around. Let's hope the next film is one I can delve into deeper and enjoy the story more.

My favorite thing: Susan Saradon's character - the only comic relief in this heavy drama.

My least favorite thing: The anticipation of Dirk Diggler's entrance.

Possibility of a sequel? No, fortunately.

Did the previews show too much? Actually, yes.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 136 minutes

Review: 3 out 10



COMING SOON: Conviction

Shutter Island

Directed (and produced) by Martin Scorsese, Paramount Pictures, 2010. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Michelle Williams, and Ben Kingsley.

Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller.

Question: Who is one of our best actors today? Leo. Who is one of our best directors? Mr. Scorsese. Am I right? So, why did I keep hearing this movie wasn't all that good? I don't know but I finally watched "Shutter Island" because that's what I do and I liked it.

First, let me tell you why I am showing the trailer here: You don't have to watch it but since I refer to previews during every review, I thought it would be appropriate to give you a chance to view it once you finish reading it.  It's completely up to you.

Okay, back to the review: I kept hearing this buzz about "Shutter Island" and it's ending and a whole lot of complaints. So I avoided it. But now that I have this blog, I am forcing myself to not listen to and be persuaded by the talk about movies.

When the movie began I started to worry that the buzz was true and got a little irritated. The acting seemed forced - especially from Mr. DiCaprio but I kept on. Once I got more into it I realized what the filmmakers were trying to do I had that "ah-ha" moment. Then when it got to the very end - I thought "oh, very cool and very smart!"

Thrillers are not easy - trust me - I am trying to write one (and I am stuck). Plus, audience members are more savvy today so trying to "trick" or surprise them with the story is almost an insurmountable task. But I think they pulled it off here. Now since this is a thriller and if you haven't seen it yet, I won't divulge any information about the story. I will say Leonardo DiCaprio does a fantastic job, as usual, and what can I say about Ben Kingsley? I just adore him. He can do no wrong in my eyes. Also, Mark Ruffalo, who didn't have a huge part, was instrumental in helping pull off the surprise and I must give him credit.

So, if you heard the buzz I did - ignore it and watch "Shutter Island" and make your own opinion.

My favorite thing: How I went from not liking it to enjoying the story while watching it.

My least favorite thing: The story line about the family. It is sad.

Possibility of a sequel? Nope -- that is why I love thrillers! Not everything needs to have a sequel.

Did the previews show too much? Well, a lot of the emotional close-up shots of Leonardo were shown over and over again, but I can stand a silent close-up over dialogue any day in previews. But the previews were shown a little too much when they were promoting the movie, in my opinion.

Rating: R
Length: 138 minutes

Review: 6 out of 10


Soundtrack: 

"Shutter Island" is based on the novel by Dennis Lehane, who also wrote: "Mystic River" and "Gone Baby Gone" - all great movies. WOW!!



COMING SOON: The Lovely Bones