Moneyball

Directed by Bennett Miller, Michael De Luca Productions, 2011. Starring Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Robin Wright, and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport

Question: Did you ever have an idea that is absolutely insane but you know deep in your soul it will work? Sure, nearly every one around you knocks you down especially when the idea doesn't take off right away. However, you stick to your guns and eventually there is some sort of payoff. In a nutshell - that is Moneyball - the latest Brad Pitt film.

Well, I saw Moneyball yesterday, but I will admit that I was unsure about seeing it until someone asked me about it. It is not my normal genre to see, a sports film, but I was pleasantly surprised at the moral of the story. I felt a deep connection to it somehow. Currently, I am delving into a dream of becoming a professional movie reviewer; however, my style of reviewing is not the norm. Success has not arrived...yet. Being a certain age or having some wisdom I realize struggle is part of dreaming and nothing is going to stop me from obtaining my goal.

So, if you have ever had a dream - even a crazy one - you should see Moneyball.

This isn't a typical baseball tale. The story is not about achieving absolute greatness either. That only happens in the movies, and with that, so often it skews our realities when we pursue our dreams. It was completely refreshing to see a story with a real outcome.  Of course, it is based on the true story of the 2002 Oakland A's and how the General Manager, Billy Beane (played by Brad Pitt), tried something completely radical to improve the team. Is this the full reality of what happened? I cannot answer that.

I can tell you I was unaware of how the business of baseball worked but got a crash course with this movie. Some baseball teams have deep pockets while others have mere pittance to put their team together. That detail was surprising to learn and the Oakland A's, apparently, had the bottom of the barrel type of budget. So, Billy Beane (Brad Pitt), found a young Yale graduate (Jonah Hill) who devised a mathematical scenario for a winning season. As I said it was a radical approach.  However, those two believed in this new theory, called Moneyball, but discovered roadblocks left and right.

Brad Pitt played the ex-baseball player turned general manager. This was not a typical character for him and I rather enjoyed the performance. Some are even buzzing about nominations. Now there were no elaborate pep-talks with an emotional melody playing in the background or even an overwhelming breakdown moment that the Academy usually looks for to nominate. He was just a man who loved baseball and his team and wanted to....wait! I can't tell you that. You have to see for yourself.

I won't say anymore about the story but know this is not a fast paced movie. I should also say it is not a typical underdog story either. There was some humor in Moneyball that I wasn't expecting especially between the two lead actors. In fact, I was grinning for almost the entire movie. But I will say towards the end I had some mixed emotions. You will just have to see for yourself to understand what I mean.

Moneyball is worth the price of the ticket. You might want to grab your kids (PG-13) to show them a tale of someone who pursues a dream despite the obstacles.

My favorite part: The scenes between Brad Pitt's and Jonah Hill's characters. Oh, and when the daughter sings in the guitar store.

My least favorite: Perhaps towards the end when my emotions kept going back and forth of liking then not liking then liking, etc..at what was happening.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 133 minutes

Rating: 8 out of 10

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Drive

Directed by Nicholas Winding Refn, Bold Films, 2011. Starring Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Bryan Cranston and Albert Brooks. Based on the book by James Sallis

Genre: Action, Crime, Drama

Question: Do you ever see a preview for a movie and think "I know exactly what type of picture that will be?"  You roll your eyes and say, "skip that." But then you see the movie and you are so surprised because it was different than you expected. I just got out of Drive and I was really hoping to see just an action, adventure, no-thought-required movie and that is not at all what I got. That is not a bad thing, by the way.

Sometimes movies are there for just pure escape. They are a means to forget about what's going on in your life, especially when your life isn't going so well. I go to the movies all the time so I am anywhere from being in a fantastic mood to stoic state of mind to absolute depression. Well, I was in one of those types of moods today but I am not going to share which one. However, I really just wanted something that I didn't have to focus on too hard. Honestly, I really thought Drive was a perfect candidate for that according to the preview I saw. Heck, look at the genre listing above. The preview showed a guy who is a "driver" for criminals with a lot of scenes filled with speeding cars. Perfect! Well, that is part of the movie but it turned into something else that I wasn't expecting - at all.

At first, I was a little flustered because I showed up late, which is so unlike me but I missed the previews. Yay! Then after the initial scene I relaxed. However, the story totally switched on me. I realized I was watching a story-line I wasn't expecting and did not want to see at the time. Well, I don't walk out on movies - ever - so I sat through it. Eventually, I resigned myself to the story and ended up enjoying the movie despite my initial need-for-speed type of movie.

The movie starts out the way I thought it would and I was pleased. Crime, cars, chase-scene. Perfect. However, one thing stood out immediately with this film - an 80's vibe. First, the font for Drive looks like it came off of a Flashdance or Miami Vice poster. I mean it's PINK and in a feminine style script. Then the music somehow brought me back to Risky Business with the electronic beat. It was just an odd juxtaposition to the style of movie. I brushed it aside because I knew this was not my normal genre. Then there is the jacket. I think I had a similar one when I was in third grade sans the scorpion.

As I stated above, Ryan Gosling's character is a driver. I want to say more but it was pleasant to discover what exactly he did and why he drove. He is quiet - I mean really quiet, mysterious and there is something behind those eyes that you can't figure out. However, I am a big fan of his and know he can act to the moon and back without saying a word so it worked for me.

As usual, watching Ryan Gosling act relaxed me, but there were a couple of others in here that also kept me in a calm state. First, there was Carey Mulligan. I won't tell you her connection in the story but there is something about her that intrigues me. She is just enjoyable to watch on-screen. Like Ryan Gosling's character she is quiet as well and the scenes between them, although unexpected, were tender, pure and brought a small grin to my face.

The other actor I have to mention gave such an opposite performance compared to ANYTHING I have ever seen him do - it was shocking. Albert Brooks. I really don't want to say any more because you NEED to see for yourself. I am still shaking at some of the scenes. Unbelievable.

Drive is a movie with two personalities. The first half is for one type of person and the second is for the other. I know that is vague, odd and doesn't sound appealing but somehow it worked. It worked really well. I must confess there were a couple of things that made me roll my eyes but I was in a picky mood today so I will let it slide for now.

Oh, and please don't go out and buy the jacket because you wanna look cool. It worked in the movie but it is not something that should be worn in public - trust me.

My favorite thing: The first half of the elevator scene.

My least favorite: The second half of the elevator scene.

Rating: R
Length: 100

Review: 8 out of 10



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The Guard

Directed (and written) by John Michael McDonagh, Reprisal Films 2011. Starring Brendan Gleeson, Don Cheadle, Mark Stong and Fionnula Flanagan.

Genre: Comedy, Thriller

Question: Is there a certain nationality that you feel a kinship with? Maybe it is an American thing that I have a need to ask that or share with you mine, but I feel a strong connection to my Irish heritage. So when I saw the preview a couple of months ago for the Irish indie film The Guard (and even posted the preview on my blog) I knew I had to see it. It finally came out last week.

I walked into the same theatre where I was SUPPOSED to see Another Earth earlier this week. I will admit I was a little nervous, and if you read my blog recently, you'll know why I felt that way when I arrived there this morning. Anyway, Another Earth was already gone. Darn! But The Guard was another film I was happy to see still in at the same cineplex. I decided not to press my luck and sit in the same seat as last time so I chose a different row. (What? Ok, I might be a little superstitious - maybe that's an Irish thing.) The movie began and I slowly started to relax.

Now I am not sure how I can desribe this movie because it's not like many I have seen before. It states above that it is a comedy and a thriller. Sure, I would say that both genres were there but so subtly written that it is really hard to say that The Guard was a flat-out comedy or an unbelievable thriller. I would say it was more of a black comedy and not "A Raucous Comedy!" as it states on the movie poster behind me. However, the thriller part is something you might not get until the end which is why I really enjoyed this film.

The story is about a small town in Ireland where there is a confrontational and unorthodox Irish policeman (guard) trying to solve a murder. The FBI comes in to help with the situation and up the ante with the murder with a huge drug deal possibly surrounding the murder. You know, somehow they are...connected!

Brendan Gleeson plays the main guard and I bet you know who he is just by the list a few of the films he has been in: 28 Days Later, Braveheart, Cold Mountain, Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire (he is Mad-Eye Moody). Anyway, I have always enjoyed his performances but he is hardly the lead role so this was a nice change. And what a character he played. He's a single man, a cop but likes to ignore the law on a few things, etc.. He even uses the favorite curse word that the Irish seem to enjoy a lot (you know which one, right?....oh for fuck's sake - it should be obvious), but when he talks to his mother or a woman he is sweet, gentle and kind.

Now here's a hint at the thriller part of The Guard - or at least that is how I saw it....he was sarcastic - my favorite - but most of time you don't know if he is being sarcastic or not. I had a smile on my face throughout this entire movie because of his character and even a few soft chuckles. Brendan Gleeson is the main reason I enjoyed this film.

Don Cheadle plays the FBI agent sent over to join the investigation and is taken aback with the guard's crass and racist slurs, but he soon realized that he likes him as they work together to solve the crimes. He puts it perfectly when he calls him an unconventional police officer.  It was an interesting pairing to see the American federal agent and the small town police officer hunt down the drug smugglers - especially at the end of the film.

There are a couple of others things to mention about The Guard. The criminals, or the drug smugglers, were an interesting trio that when together would go off on odd topics like philosophy. I wish I could remember some of the dialogue but I do recall giggling during their scenes especially when Mark Strong's character would communicate. He had some of the best dialogue.

With all that was in The Guard I think the ending might be why I liked it even more. You will just have to see what I am talking about because I am not going to tell you.  Sláinte!

My favorite part: The quick Irish wit - that really does put a smile on my face.

My least favorite part: That I wasn't having a pint of Guinness while watching the film but it was only 10am.

Rating: R
Length: 96 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

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The Help

Directed by Tate Taylor, Dreamworks, 2011. Starring Emma Stone, Bryce Dallas Howard, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer and Sissy Spacek.

Genre: Drama

Question:  Do you feel stuck or made to feel like your life can't get better? You think if you even try to and improve your life you will just be beaten down and told "NO, you aren't allowed to do that", right?  Everyone should have one thing in this world that allows them to feel there is a chance at change. It's called hope - a powerful emotion. And once you have hope change can begin. Well, the movie, The Help, showed that if you have the courage to share your story, no matter how scared you are, or oppressed, you will eventually be free and happy. As the tagline goes, "Change begins with a whisper."

In The Help the women of Jackson, Mississippi, specifically the black women, can't pursue their dreams; actually they can't pursue anything due to the racism that was so prevalent in this country in the early 60's in the South. I will tell you not many things make me angry but racism disturbs me so that this movie was particularly hard for me to watch without getting overly emotional. (I really need to carry around more tissues.) The movie represented the harsh reality these women faced on a daily basis by society. There were parts that were light in nature but as soon as you let your guard down the story smacked you with another blow. It was an emotional roller coaster for me.

The story starts with Aibileen (played brilliantly by Viola Davis), a black maid, working for a white family. She basically does everything for them: the shopping, the cleaning, the cooking and raising their daughter. This type of job is something she has always done - since she was a teenager. She had no choice. Her mother was a maid and her grandmother was a house slave. She wasn't allowed to pursue an alternative employment. However, she loves the little girl and knows that her mother can't raise her properly. You will witness as to why.

Then Eugenia 'Skeeter' Phelan comes home from college. Emma Stone plays Skeeter. She is the only woman in town who isn't married with children and she doesn't mind, much to her mother's dismay. She wants to become a writer (yay!). She returns to witness the rampant racism that seems to plague her town, her friends and family. She is then inspired to write about it - specifically from the maid's point of view(s). However, no one will talk to her about it. They were too afraid.

I don't want to go into too much detail as usual but the women portrayed some of the strongest characters and a couple of the most hideous human beings I have ever seen on film. Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer played the two main maids in this story and their performances were stellar. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if they were both nominated for many awards.

Bryce Dallas Howard was brilliant in this film as Hilly Hollbrook, one of the most racist people in the film. She played it so well that when she came on-screen my heart sank because I knew she would say or do something so hideous - and she usually did. But don't worry - karma takes a hand in this story - a brilliant hand.

Emma Stone (Skeeter) also did a fantastic job as the one who started the wave of change. Through her questions, writing and her own story she allowed the black woman of Jackson to have a voice - something they never had before. Her whisper sparked a revolution.

I have to admit towards the end of the movie the story got a little choppy; and I have feeling the book this movie was based on (by Kathryn Stockett) went in further into detail about the racism, the relationship between these women and the change that took place. Many recommended this book to me last summer but never got around to it. I might just have to read it now.

Have you started your whisper yet? Change can happen.

My favorite thing: The inspiration this movie gave me and to remind me to fight for what I want.

My least favorite thing: Knowing that racism was that bad in this country.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 137 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10


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Eye of the Beholder

Directed by Stephen Elliott, Destination Films, 1999, Ewan McGregor, Ashley Judd, Patrick Bergin,  k.d. Lang and Genevieve Bujold.

Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller.

Question: Can a man fall in love with a woman that he's never met, spoken to or doesn't even know her real name? Well, in the Eye of the Beholder, they try and answer that question.

A friend who knows I adore Ewan McGregor told me about this movie. I hadn't heard of it before and was curious to see it. Alright, I see everything he is in, you all know that by now, right? Anyway, I put it on my Netflix queue a few weeks ago and it arrived on Tuesday. I didn't get a chance to see it that night - although I really, really wanted to. So today before I had to pick up the kids from camp I popped it in.

This is a story about redemption, a thriller, and a love story but not necessarily in that order. Yes, I know what it says above but this is what I saw in this film (Eye of the Beholder, people). I saw a man and a woman who are both so alone, scared and with thoughts of such tremendous loss that they might be a little insane. Okay, one might be more insane than the other. But as the story unfolds I don't think either are really crazy - just lonely and trying to gain some stability in their lives.

When people see themselves in someone else who has experienced similar tragedies/heartaches/loss it can be a very powerful attraction. Is that love? Perhaps. Or is it something else completely? And can it have a happy ending? Well, I am not going to answer that - you'll just have to see for yourself.

I really don't want to give anything away about this movie because it was lovely to see a film that I knew nothing about. But I have to entice you guys, right? Ewan looks cute, of course, and Ashley Judd is quite attractive but what impressed me the most were their performances. How does one portray such sadness, desperation to find something secure or recapture what they lost especially when there isn't a tremendous amount of dialogue? Well, both of the actors did - and did it quite well.

Another reason to see this film is that it is untainted with a typical Hollywood ending. That alone would make me see any movie.

Lastly, to me, Eye of the Beholder said something about real life - not so much what the characters said but they way they behaved. Behavior is thought to be a reaction of or to something. In acting reaction is the essence of the medium but can be written totally out of whack of real life. They say: For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. And for the two characters, played by Ewan McGregor and Ashley Judd, the force between them, even though they hardly shared many moments together, evoked that law of physics stunningly.

There was one song that played when they first met, so to speak, that gave me goosebumps - It is sung by Chrissie Hynde. "I Wish You Love" - and that pretty much sums it all up for me. Here is the song and a really, really good way to do a trailer!




Favorite thing: Don't be shocked by this - Ashley Judd. Yes, I still thought he was good!

My least favorite thing: In some scenes the costumes for the extras looked like it was supposed to be 1972 not present day.

Rating: R
Length: 109 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

Flashbacks of a Fool

Directed (and written) by Baillie Walsh, Left Turn Films, 2008, Starring Daniel Craig, Harry Eden, Eve, Mark Strong and Olivia Williams.

Genre: Drama

Question: Do you receive recommendations to see a movie and most of the time you wonder what people saw in the movie that made them like it? Yes, I know I review and recommend movies all the time so maybe just ignore this question. I am still flustered over a movie I just finished viewing on Netflix: Flashbacks of a Fool.

Anyway, I wasn't going to review this movie because it hit me hard. I am still trying to figure out exactly why. A friend recommended this movie and their opinion is one that I always take into consideration. But as I like to always say: DON'T TELL ME ANYTHING about the movie so they did not. I am still undecided if that was a good thing or a bad thing.

The movie stars Daniel Craig (a.k.a. Bond, James Bond) as a self-indulgent, alcoholic, narcissist who is a very emotionally bruised man. He is obviously trying, desperately, to forget about his past and winds up alone, beaten and at the end of his rope emotionally. He receives some news one morning after a night of debauchery. It's probably the first connection to the past that he has had in years, decades. This just finally pushes him over the emotional edge. The first 20 minutes or so you see the life he has chosen for himself and why he comes to the beach to reflect back on his life after receiving this news.

That is when the flashbacks come - it's the late '70's somewhere in England on the coast. We see him as a youth - perhaps 15 or 16 years old with his friend. The story then lends itself towards a sexual coming-of-age story or so I thought. I really don't want to reveal anymore because what happens over the course of the next hour should be viewed with little prior knowledge. But I will say something happened that made me an emotional wreck. Then something happened at the end that ripped me apart. Maybe you won't see it but for whatever reason I lost it and had difficulty containing myself for the next hour or so.

This is a profound movie. This is a film about choices and the consequences of those choices especially when it is a selfish one.

Daniel Craig was brilliant in this movie. I always knew he could act and I can watch that blue-eyed actor in almost anything. He may even be my favorite James Bond (Yes!). But the first 20 minutes of watching him spiral down the emotional valley was something that everyone should see. I am not sure why this didn't get anymore PR or press when it was out a few years back. It baffles me some days - movies like Flashbacks of a Fool or other wonderful small indie films that don't get more notice. Well, hopefully, with my small little blog I can help people discover these wonderful gems.

I also have to give credit to the young man who played the younger version of Daniel Craig's character: Harry Eden. He really did a fantastic job as did all the actors in this small film.

My favorite thing: Well, Daniel Craig, of course!

My least favorite thing: I can't say...

Rating: R
Length: 100 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

X-Men: First Class

Directed (and written) by Matthew Vaughn, Bad Hat Harry Productions, 2011. Starring James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence and January Jones.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Sci-fi, Thriller.

Question: When you see a prequel is coming out for a movie is your first thought: Oh-no! or Oh-yay!? Well, I will admit that mine usually is the initial thought. After the prequels of Star Wars came out and not that good -- in my opinion (Sorry, George), hearing X-Men: First Class was in production I was leery -- really leery. Well, I am glad to say that I was wrong to worry. It was top-notch.

The movie started out the exact same as X-Men -- I mean the same scene at the concentration camps but then continued longer in that time frame so we find out more on why Erik becomes Magneto. At this same time we meet a villain who I was not expecting but pleasantly surprised at who was playing him. You know I am not going to say who. I'll let that be a surprise like it was for me. (Yes, I did not see any previews or read-up on anything about the movie.) Now I will say that I did not read X-Men comics growing up and don't know if this movie just resembles the comic or is an exact replica.

As the story unfolds we meet some more familiar characters: Charles Xavier (Professor X) played by James McAvoy and Raven (Mystique) played by Jennifer Lawrence. I found it fascinating to see how their start evolved. Also, I always enjoy watching James McAvoy perform -- ever since the first Narnia movie. However, this was the first movie that I could recall watching Jennifer Lawrence, but I do remember her all over the entertainment news during the awards ceremonies.

The rest of the movie unfolds with meeting the adult Erik Lehnsherr and other mutants as they form their union.  X-Men: First Class was well thought-out and told with the exception that it should have been about 20 minutes longer, in my opinion. There were many scenes that seemed rushed through, and I think it could have helped develop the creation and evolution of the X-Men. Perhaps, the film-makers wanted to keep it close to the two-hour mark, who knows?

I enjoyed the relationship between Charles and Erik and saw a real connection between the two characters. It really helped solidify the other X-Men movies for me. As I said before I did not read the comics, and I always felt like I was missing some valuable information about the characters' histories. X-Men: First Class really solved that for more than just those two characters. Well done!

My favorite thing: The surprises. Of course, I am not going to tell you. And I have to say the set and costumes. Most of the movie took place during the mod 60's.

My least favorite thing: How many times Professor X put his fingers to his temple. It got a little repetitive.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 132 minutes

Random thought: You might recognize who plays Erik: Michael Fassbender. He was in Inglourious Basterds. There is something about him that reminds me a young Sir Lawrence Oliver. Both in looks and in talent. He is good! Can't wait to see him in more movies.

Review: 8 out of 10

Kung Fu Panda 2

Directed by Jennifer Yuh, Dreamworks Animation, 2011. Starring Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, and Gary Oldman.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family.

Question: Do you ever blame your current circumstances on your past -- especially from your childhood? Well, Kung Fu Panda 2 teaches you that no matter where you came from or how bad your start was in this world, you can choose to have a good life today.

I am on vacation with my daughter, 9, and we went to our first Summer movie together yesterday:  Kung Fu Panda 2. The movie was not high on my radar because many sequels usually fall short. Well, I was pleasantly surprised at how delightful this one was.

All the same adored characters are in this one: Po (Jack Black), Tigress (Angelina Joile), Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) and many more. There are even a few news ones, specifically Gary Oldman voicing the new villain: Shen. Also, you might want to check on the other new voices. I didn't recognize them until I saw the credits.

The story takes our fearless kung-fu warriors fighting and defending China against an evil Peacock who creates the world's first weapon but that is not what is at the heart of this story. Po discovers his real beginning within his own family history. Kung Fu Panda 2 displayed a solid approach to teach young and old viewers alike that the choices you make today shouldn't be based (or blamed) on the past especially if you haven't had the ideal start.

The animation was spectacular and more amazing than the first film. There are plenty of fight scenes albeit not too violent for the younger generations. Although, I will say the editing was a bit too quick for my taste (or my 40 year-old eyes) during those scenes. The movie has moments of humor scattered throughout the plot but it is not overly comical or childish. There is real heart and soul to the tale.

I was pleasantly surprised at what a good sequel Kung Fu Panda 2 was. So, there is no need to get a babysitter for your youngest. Enjoy a wonderful family movie this weekend.

My daughter gave it a 9 out of 10.

My favorite thing: The moral of the story.

My least favorite thing: The editing in the fighting scenes.

Rating: PG
Length: 90 minutes

Rating: 8 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

Hanna

Directed by Joe Wright, Ardustry Pictures, 2011. Starring Saoirse Ronan, Eric Bana, and Cate Blanchett.

Genre: Action, Crime, Mystery, Thriller.

Question: When you think "Action" movie, you picture large biceped, balding men with ridiculous one-liners, don't you? Now try imagining a 14 year-old, bleach-blonde girl with piercing blue eyes as the action "hero". Yep, doesn't work, but if you give Hanna a chance this young hero will knock Stallone, Willis and, Schwarzenegger off their thrones.

Now to be honest with you, I just watched Hanna in the theaters with my first D-BOX experience. What is D-BOX? Well, it is a theater seat with motion effects that is specifically programmed for each movie that will help intensify your movie-going experience. It shakes, leans, vibrates with each punch, shot, and some extreme camera angles to make you feel like you are right there in the story. It was so cool! (Yeah, that's me in the D-BOX seat! - I am such a movie geek)

Now back to the story: Hanna is a movie about a young girl on the run from the government and that's all I am going to say about the plot. Yes, this kind of tale has been told before, but the way the filmmakers approached Hanna made it different and extremely enjoyable. I am glad to say that they could have easily gone down the path of 3D - like so many other movies today but chose not to - whew! Instead, the filmmakers took close-ups to the extreme to visually draw you into the story. Thank you!!

To bring you in even further into the story, all the audio effects during all the fights scenes weren't just sounds of fists and bodies colliding. Sure there was some of that, but The Chemical Brothers scored Hanna with music that mimicked the emotions of each sequence. The score intensified and legitimized the scenes. And all this, mixed in the seat's movements, allowed the escapism experience to truly take over. This is the way to see a movie!!

Soarise Ronan played Hanna and she pulled off a believable action hero. How, you ask? Because nothing was too over-the-top. The acting, the fighting or even the emotions this young talent produced were all choreographed to be something a 14 year-old could actually do - albeit one that was trained from a young age.

Eric Bana also did a good job, but when has he not? It was actually Cate Blanchett's character, the antagonist in Hanna, that really helped balance the story. She plays the government agent who tries to find Hanna. Her slim figure, extreme Southern drawl and cold, but terrified demeanor allowed even more believability to the film. Great casting!!

I could go on and on about how much I liked this movie but I will shut up and let you all see for yourselves. And do try to see it in a D-BOX seat - totally worth it!

My favorite thing: How they began and ended the movie.

My least favorite thing: There were a few minor things not fully answered but I think that means it is open to a sequel.

Did the previews show too much? No, not really. Most of it shows just the beginning parts. Good job on these previews.

Rating: PG-13
Length: 111 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

Never Let Me Go

Directed by Mark Romanek, DNA Films, 2010. Starring Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield, and  Keira Knightley.

Genre: Drama, Romance

Question: Have you ever started watching a movie thinking it is going to be about one thing and then it turns out to be about something completely different? Well, that is what happened to me while I was watching "Never Let Me Go".

It is an adaptation from a novel by Kazuo Ishiguro. The same writer of Remains of the Day. I didn't know that going in but from the previews it seemed like one of those types of movie - a romance set in an idyllic British countryside in a time not too long ago. However, about 20 minutes in I realized the movie had a second plot interwoven into the romance plot, and it made it so much more intriguing.

Once the second story-line was revealed, I knew I was watching a unique tale wrapped in a facade. So surprising but emotional - at least for me. Again, I won't tell you what it is about but I really enjoyed this film and the 2 story-lines.

The three main actors all did a stunning job: Carey Mulligan, who has the most mature sounding voice as she narrates the film, was brilliant. Keira Knightley pulled off a character unlike any she has played before, and Andrew Garfield (from "The Social Network" and soon to be released "Spider-Man") had one of the most heart wrenching scenes that I may have ever watched on film.

"Never Let Me Go" Watch this one - it will make you think; it will make you shudder; and it should make you grateful. I might even buy the book on this one. I have a feeling more is explained.

My favorite thing: That I was surprised.

My least favorite thing: The thought of the reality of the second story.

Possibility of a sequel? No.

Did the previews show too much? Not one bit. They made me want to see it and it didn't reveal - only hinted - at the second story line.

Soundtrack:

Rating: R
Length: 103 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10



COMING SOON: The Private Lives of Pippa Lee

The Good Heart

Directed (and written) by Dagur Kari, Forensic Films, 2009.

Starring Brian Cox and Paul Dano.

Genre: Drama

Question: If a movie made less than $50,000 would you automatically think it is a bad movie? I hope not because I just watched a fantastic movie called The Good Heart. It cost less than 4 million to make but it only brought in about $20,000.

One of the ToP? fans asked me to review The Good Heart recently so I added it to my queue. I think they may have asked because I have had some heart issues in the past and thought I might enjoy watching it. Well, forget my own health history; this is a movie for everyone.  I really liked it.

Did you ever frequent a bar or pub, know all the regulars and the staff, and got annoyed by new comers or tourists who ventured into your bar? Also, do you like curmudgeons who run places like that? I do, and Brian Cox plays a good one. He is the owner of a bar in New York City and he has a bad heart. Paul Dano plays a homeless boy that he mentors to take over his bar because he has no one else to give it to. The relationship between the two men was great to watch but Brian Cox stole the show. He played the perfect crass, yet lovable, curmudgeon very, very well.

I noticed that I had a smile on my face for almost the entire movie because of the great character that Brian Cox brought to life. He is slowly but steadily moving up as one of my favorite character actors. I saw him recently in The Escapist - he was awesome in that too. Most of you might know him from the second X-Men movie, X2, as William Stryker. Anyway, this movie was a treat to watch. (Thanks for the recommendation, Dom)

Rent or download this one and support the small, independent filmmakers so more great movies get made (and seen).

My favorite thing: Brian Cox and the dialogue he was given.

My least favorite thing: The kitten's fate.

Sequel Possibility? No - perfect wrapped up story.

Did the previews show too much? I never saw a preview - this was a request from a fan.

Rating: R
Length: 99 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

True Grit

Directed (and screenplay) by Joel & Ethan Coen, Paramount Pictures, 2010. Starring Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin and Hailee Steinfeld.

Genre: Adventure, Drama, Western.

Question: Are you a fan of westerns? No? How about adventure movies? Not those either? Well, how about a movie that shows you how great actors can be no matter what the subject matter is? True Grit is that movie.

I will admit out of the 15 or so movies Joel and Ethan Coen have made together, I have thoroughly enjoyed over 10 of them. That's a pretty good average. They may not be mainstream filmmakers; and their subject matter never seems to be the same. However, there is always one common element with all of their films: fascinating characters. And in order to have these extraordinary character driven pieces - they must hire actors with tremendous talent. Well, in True Grit, they succeeded - big time!

Newcomer, Hailee Steinfeld absolutely stole the show as 14 year-old Mattie Ross. She even outshone Jeff Bridges, who did an outstanding job as Reuben J. "Rooster" Coburn - originally made famous by none other than The Duke: John Wayne. Matt Damon also took on his role with finesse and it was definitely a departure for him not being the lead character in a movie. However, Hailee’s portrayal helped me enjoy this western, a genre which has never been my favorite. Her ability to handle this mature, quick-witted and head-strong character had me thinking there was no way she was really 13 at the time. Unbelievable!

The film was great but the ending blew me away. I must admit that there were some moments where I thought a scene was a little too long or slow but overall True Grit is a fantastic film.

My favorite thing: Hailee Steinfeld! She was awesome.

My least favorite thing: The obvious lack of dental work on most of the characters. The make-up department did a great job but yuk! It looked so real.

Possibility of a sequel? No, and there is no need for one. Perfect ending!

Did the previews ruin it or show too much? NOT ONE BIT!!

Rating: PG-13
Length: 110 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

True Grit - the novel


Videos on Demand

Invictus

Directed (and produced) by Clint Eastwood, Warner Bros. Pictures, 2009. Starring Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon and Tony Ggoroge.

Genre: Biography, Drama, History, Sport.

Question: What’s your favorite sports movie? Hoosiers, Bad News Bears, Bull Durham or Invincible (okay, I am an Eagles fan – I admit it). What’s the one thing they all have in common? It’s the triumphant story of the underdog team, right? Well, Invictus might have one of the best underdog victories ever.

Invictus is about a man, Nelson Mandela, and the true story about how he brought a nation together with their national pastime. I will admit I know very little of the history of South Africa and I know absolutely nothing about Rugby, but I got completely drawn into this story despite my lack of knowledge.

Invictus is based on the book by John Carlin “Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation.”

Clint Eastwood did a fantastic job adapting the story for the screen. Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon transformed themselves into their characters so well that at times I didn’t even recognize them. Their accents and their mannerisms were impeccable. Actually everyone was great in this movie.

This was a truly inspirational tale and I recommend it for everyone to see.

My favorite thing: Morgan Freeman

My least favorite: Just wish I knew a bit more about Rugby.

Possibility of a sequel? No.

Did the previews ruin it or show too much? Not one bit.

Rating: PG-13

Length: 134 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

Invictus - the novel
Invictus - DVD


Videos on Demand

The Blind Side

Directed by John Lee Hancock, Alcon Entertainment, 2009. Starring Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw and Quinton Aaron.

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Sport

Question: Do you have a favorite Sandra Bullock movie?

I do, in fact, one of my top five favorite movies of all time is a Sandra Bullock movie (While You Were Sleeping). It is one of my favorites because of Sandra Bullock's character and how she brought a vulnerability and likability to her. In most of her movies she almost always gives a performance that is real, relatable and never patronizing. She portrays characters you really want to know.

The Blind Side is no exception. Based on the real life of NFL football player Micheal Oher and the Touhy family, the movie takes us on a journey of a family forming even though the family didn't go looking to expand. The movie did take some liberties with the truth, and once I found out what they were I was a little disappointed. However, The Blind Side still draws you in and moves you. It is a good story no matter what truth was stretched.

I saw this way after the Oscars and didn't know what to expect since she won the Academy Award. Although I was bracing myself for a huge emotional monologue or something that usually cues the Oscar buzz. But the opposite happened. She played the role in a understated, yet, powerful approach.

If you haven't seen this movie yet - rent it. It will make you smile, choke up and cheer. Also, if you are a college football fan, you might like the scene with all the football coaches.

Favorite thing: How Sandra Bullock's character handles herself when she gets emotional.

Least favorite thing: The change in the truth about his football talent.

Possibility of a sequel? No

Did the previews ruin it or show too much? Most of the funny lines and some of the tender moments were shown.

Rating: PG-13
Length:  129 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

The Blind Side - DVD

Videos on Demand

Zombieland

Directed by Ruben Fleischer, Columbia Pictures, 2009. Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy and Horror.

Yes, I said it before, I don’t particularly like watching Horror flicks, but Zombieland was on cable one day and I caught a few minutes and I could not turn it off. Well, needless to say, I ended up taping it for future viewing to see it from the beginning. And just this past weekend I watched it with my husband.

Now, let me say one thing: I hate zombie movies. HATE! (Long story, short: I saw a zombie movie when I was young and it scared me for life.) I do make one exception: Shaun of the Dead. Great movie! But now I can add Zombieland to the “like” category. Comedy and Zombies just seem to work for me.

Although there were a few scenes I had to cover my eyes due to the zombie gore – I really enjoyed this film. I honestly wasn’t expecting an adventure/romance/feel-good-movie/satire but that is what it was and it worked.

There are only a few characters (with speaking roles) in Zombieland but everyone did a great job, especially Woody Harrelson. The story was like most post-apocalyptic-disease-that-takes-over-the-world tales but the story between the 4 characters was one that kept me very interested.

Oh wait! I did like 28 Days later (directed by Danny Boyle – which just I looked up, remember him? Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours). Ok, sorry. Back to Zombieland.

My favorite thing: "The Rules" & the surprise appearance.

My least favorite: Having to watch zombies eat people. 

Possibility of a sequel? Yes! (and I think there is one in development)

Did the previews ruin it? Not one bit.

Rating: R

Length: 88 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

Zombieland - DVD

Videos on Demand

The Social Network

Directed by David Fincher, Columbia Pictures, 2010. Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield and Justin Timberlake.

Genre: Biography, Drama, History.

As I may have stated before – movies affect me and my life but Facebook has affected it even more. And let me tell you why: 2 years ago I contracted a heart infection that nearly killed me but I was told of a surgery that could save my life albeit an altered one (a constant clicking noise due to a mechanical device forever attached to my heart and life-long blood thinners.) I fortunately discovered an alternative surgery that would require none of the above on Facebook of all places. So for anyone that wants to hate Facebook or think it is beginning of the end of civilization, and The Social Network just glorified Mr. Zuckerberg’s creation – I just want to say: I don’t agree because I am forever grateful to Facebook.

With that being said – all in all I liked The Social Network. I did find the reason for Mark Zuckerberg’s creation, in the movie, to be a bit contrite and forced. But come to think of it: how could anyone who created something has huge as Facebook not have an ulterior motive to start it? But I’ll let that one slide.

I will admit that I felt there should have been another 15 minutes or so at the end to really solidify some items. But I will let that one slide, too.

The actors were all fantastic (including a surprise job by Mr. Timberlake – I think we will see more of him in the future); and the movie’s pace kept me really interested even though I knew the ending (we all did). But I found the dialogue to be the most intriguing part of the entire movie. Aaron Sorkin is a genius, but again we all knew that. Really, think about it – how does one take a genius geek typing code all day in order to create a social medium interesting? Well, Mr. Sorkin did – brilliantly! David Fincher had a hand in it as well. Yes, he won the Golden Globe for Best Directing in a Drama.

As for winning and beating The King’s Speech for Best Movie Drama in The Golden Globes last night – I felt a little disappointed I must admit. Oh well.

FYI: The previews didn’t ruin this one for me.

Review: 8 out of 10. “Like”

Rating: PG-13

Length: 120 minutes