Netflix Customer Reviews

Bugmaster

This movie is the live action version of a brilliant Japanese Comic and Animated series. Don't miss out on this transcendental experience that utilizes both Shinto and Buddhist beliefs to paint a picture of a world in which the foundations of organic life are not all that exist. Hiroshi Nagahama's animated series was made up of stand alone episodes, which created a coherent plot by successfully expressing the totality of the story as a collage. It also used highly phantasmal interpretations of "Mushi",creatures that exist symbiotically with our own world however mostly in a parallel dimension. Therefore Katsuhiro Otomo's live-action version had some serious technical issues to decide. His decision was to take an organic approach in displaying the phenomenon known as "Mushi" as phosphorescent fungi and insects mostly. The music and sound effects from the anime were also more captivating than here. Watching the animated version first will increase your understanding of the story, however probably jade your overall enjoyment of this film. It would probably be better to read Yuki Urushibara's comic, because it allows this versions organic and phosphorescent look more of a chance. The more organic approach was very interesting but ultimately different than the anime. The acting wasn't amazing, but it didn't have to be because the script was well adapted and managed to capture the core feeling of the story. Stylistic approaches that Otomo took like the graininess and darkness, seemed to mimic the look of an older film, but was another questionable choice. Being a huge fan of the Anime it was hard to accept the aesthetic differences at first, but never the less it was a very unique approach and Otomo effectively captured part of the mystique of "Mushishi".

Underworld: Rise of the Lycans

Not to much to like about this movie other than the set design and make-up. The Cgi didn't work at all, there wasn't enough focus on the love story, and the acting was transparent. This movie was never able to draw me in. It looked like a bunch of crazy people Cosplaying instead of an interesting prequel to Underworld. The lack of character analysis destroyed what probably could have been an interesting horror movie.

Rachel Getting Married

Five Star's? Yes Five Star's, I haven't seen a more interesting and twisted story that involves a wedding in a long time. This was a sobering drama, but in a musical wonderland with joy and festiveness. There were a couple scenes that made me the viewer just feel completely awkward. It horrified me, because I'm going to be the Best Man where my best friend is marrying my sister. I really liked how this movie attempted to portray a world in which race and ethnicity melt together perfectly. Melodic Music, unconditional love and painful loss fused this film together in a tapestry that textured a well thought out story. I really don't know whether to love this movie or hate it to death. It was so pretentious and the manic joy was overwhelming, however at the same time it was hypnotically interesting and intense. There are a few scenes that really didn't work, but as a whole, the positives about this look into the lives of a privileged black and white family who are harmoniously merging through the marriage of their children was very entertaining. Self medication and it's subsequent need for psychological rehabilitation adds a palpable contrast to the dream like happiness that surrounds this blissful portrayal of a wedding. I can see how others might think this film is a steaming pile of pretentiousness, but the bipolarity of this story made it just the sort of manic depressive balance that really makes me enjoy watching movies.

Still Life

While I've seen a few movies that deal with the three gorges damn project in China, this movie certainly does a good job of pointing out the human aspect of being forced to relocate and the problems it can cause with finding people who once lived in the area's that were flooded. The ever present water warning marks of how high the water level will rise, work as poignant examples of the coming misfortune. Still Life did a wonderful job of using imagery to create mood. The lead characters quite personality was a perfect example of don't say anything unless you have something important to say. It seemed his words always seemed to have meaning an wisdom behind them. This movie had some strange quarks that definitely didn't feel like they should have been in the movie, but then they really did add personality to this interesting character drama. If you think you've seen poverty, then this movie will redefine the average Americans understanding of just how different life can be. And still this movie still held true to the typical communal culture of the Mainland Chinese. Certain communist values where sewed throughout this film, which in my opinion offered yet another interesting perspective and insight into the life of the working class in China. I enjoyed seeing a few examples of right of the worker to hold management accountable for their mistakes, all the while capitalist forces begin to surface their ugly heads. Interesting and enjoyable film.

Changeling

When it comes to Clint Eastwood movies I can easily say that I usually really enjoy them, however from time to time a mediocre movie comes along like Changeling. The setting and costume design were good. I really loved the focus on the mass transit that used to exist in Los Angeles plus the old cars and and buildings also added a great feel to this movie. It was the little things that I did like about this movie, the detail the background that Clint Eastwood is able to show in most of his movies makes them all worth watching. However, Angelina's performance here was just not believable. Her character was static, and the acting performance was laughable at times. Eastwood was able to draw me into the story about half way through, but unfortunately by then it was to late to call this a good movie. Three stars for technical enjoyment.

Zhou Yu's Train

Can't help but fall for this slow but beautifully woven together story about love and how so few are ever able to make it work. It looks like a few reviewers had a hard time getting into this tragic drama for the ever depressed soul. But while some might think this was a failed attempt at a classically Chinese approach to drama, I can't help but look at the pieces and think that this movie was nothing less then a great film. The acting was good, the story plausible, the music beautiful and the cinematography was amazing, with hauntingly gorgeous shots of tropical meadows coupled with industrially polluted cities. This is a really great visual story. The symbols of nature for health and the city for sickness truly are magnificent. I loved the symbolism and I didn't actually start piecing it all together until just now. Excellent movie!

Step Brothers

I'm stepping out of the Box and giving this movie five stars because it accomplished to do something that so few movies can, keep me laughing. I laughed almost every second and it took me back to why I loved "OldSchool" so much. Will Ferrell delivers and average performance with extra slapstick comedy but the casting and writing in this film worked perfectly. If your looking for a no brainer that is going to make you laugh like "Dumb and Dumber" then check Step Bothers out.

The Foot Fist Way

Couldn't help but love this movie. Just stupid enough to make me laugh like hell and not so stupid as to make want to turn it off. Danny R. McBride is hilarious. I can see how this movie could be a hit or miss for some people. If you liked the Pinapple express then your going to definitely want to watch this one. If you think Taekwondo being expressed in a "White Trash" perspective might be funny, then this movie is for you.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time has finally arrived in the U.S. and it's about time. This beautiful Anime has been compared to the works of masters Hayao Miyazaki and Makoto Shinkai for good reason. This is Definitely one of the, if not the best Anime to come out of Japan in 2006. With the studio Mad House involved and Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, the character designer from Evangelion, it's no wonder that this Digimon Director Mamoru Hosoda had all the building blocks to be the first Japanese animator to receive the first Japanese Animation Academy Award. I'm proud to review and recommend this beautifully written and executed story adapted from the manga "Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo -Tokikake-". After a little digging I was able to discover that this Animation is actually a sequel to a 1983 Live action movie based on the original novel "Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo", by Tsutsui Yasutaka. If you are new to Anime this wouldn't be a bad start for you. This is a slice of life/sci-fi drama that makes you feel good to be alive. I liked this almost as much as "Millennium Actress" by Satoshi Kon, so check this one out if you haven't already imported it for yourself. Simply a Wonderful, splendid, exquisite movie.

Sukiyaki Western Django

Not a fan of Takashi Miike? Well I wouldn't start trying to become one by starting with this movie. This is basically a remake of Akira Kurosawa's classic "Yojimbo" which is ultimately much better than Miike's attempt to create a "B" Western based on Sergio Leone's "Fistful of Dollars" and a little known movie named Django. This is a weird interpretation that uses Japanese actors speaking bad English. Throw in Quentin Tarantino as an actor in this film and you get a seriously confusing blend of styles and genres. Samurai classic meets the O.K. Coral. However since I am a big Miike and Tarantino fan I can't say that this movie was a complete disaster. It was definitely unique and never boring. There were even a few very carefully crafted shots that were visually intense and emotionally intriguing that you can always expect from a Miike movie. I've seen better stunt coordination but the choreography was done well enough as to not make this movie look amateur. There were many moments where I felt as if I was watching a play not a movie. Example: Lets say you went to Japan and their English department at a University decided to recreate "A Fist Full of Dollars", I'm thinking it would have a similar feel. Not a masterpiece but I liked it because of it's unique feel and interpretive adaptation of Kurosawa, Leone and the Corbucci's.

Eagle vs. Shark

If I here people relate this as a New Zealand version of Napoleon Dynamite again Im gonna, Im gonna, well Im not going to do anything but I really dont see that much of a similarity. ND is about adolescent angst told through the prospective of a socially isolated moron/geek while E.v.S. is about two social outcasts looking for acceptance and love. Ones a love story between adults told through a uniquely New Zealand sense of humor the other an American oddity. I found Eagle vs. Shark to be a refreshing look at how humans truly do all share the same problems when it comes to love. I was laughing almost through out this entire movie. I think you will too.

Tropic Thunder

If you want to see Tom Cruise acting like a pompous, fat, bald, masochistically greedy producer then this is your movie. Other than that, there were a few other laughs, I was a little offended at the fact that this movie takes aim at Platoon and indirectly Oliver Stone, but I got over that fairly quickly as this movie just really wasn't that good. Ben Stiller's performance was flat, Jack Black was uncharacteristically not that funny, but Robert Downey Jr. was hilarious. There was some really good pyrotechnics in this movie. So if you want to see Tom Cruise like never before and see a lot of cool explosions then check this out.

Pineapple Express

Ok so I finally got to see this hilarious drug hi-jinks movie staring Seth Rogen and Rosie Perez. Ironically it wasn't Seth Rogen that I found that funny in this movie it was the cast surrounding him (as always)that made this movie very funny.If you liked movies such as Momma's Boy or any Cheech and Chong movie then you are going to love this one.

War, Inc.

It's hard not to like a movie that has so much satirical angst going on. I loved all the metaphors and symbolism in this film. The acting was atrocious but fitting. This comedy is funny in that it is terrible. The obvious comparisons with Iraq and America's use of thousands of private cooperate mercenary forces in order to protect corporate interests is hilarious. I especially loved the advertisements on the tanks. This film takes pun at everything that is wrong with America's Neo-Conservative corporate fascist geopolitical and economic expansionist interests. The war scenes were genius because it made me notice just how desensitized I really am towards war. Is it ironic that they advertised this movie as a Gross Point Blank prequel, when it really wasn't, it just had most of the same characters. Was the writing and execution of this movie terrible? Yes. Is it supposed to be? I think it was intentionally moronic. The beauty of this film was the dialogue between Cusack and Tomei and the constant bombardment of violence and consumerism, which basically stirred up a lot of old research and college case studies for me. It's a good political satire.

The Taste of Tea

I absolute loved everything about this movie. The only one criticism I have is that the ending didn't flow completely. However, it really didn't hurt the movie because the the visual acting and imagery in this film blew me out of the water. Every character was fascinating and every scene had something interesting to not only keep my attention but to keep a smile on my face this whole movie. Beautiful and Humanistic. Fun and intelligent. This movie is just one of the reasons one should pay attention to Japanese culture.

Sal�

If you are not familiar with the Marquis De Sade or Dante and are not gifted with the strong ability to interpret pictures as artistic representations of reality then stay away from this film. It's graphic usage of sadomasochism and sodomy upon teenagers ranging in ages from 14-18 is something I'd dare say most people are prepared to watch. If you are determined to watch this film, I'd suggest that you get the Criterion bonus disk and watch it first. Then decide whether this film is for you. Personally I thought that this film was horrifically brilliant. At some point in this film I actually felt sick. The extreme homosexual portrayals and the close up shots of people eating excrement was plenty enough to make many run to the bathroom and vomit. But what was Pasolini trying to tell us about Fascism and it's transformation into consumerism? Why did he chose to push the envelope so far that he was killed right after the completion of this film? To this date his colleagues have pointed out that his murder was as if he were killed by one of his own characters in this movie. Brutal, Unforgiving and Terrifying! The irony of Pasolini's death is something that has left me speechless. Killed by the system of conformity in which he was attempting to shatter with this film. I've seen many shocking films which included Takeshi Miike's "Visitor Q" or Yasuzo Masumura's "Blind Beast" not to mention a few others, but neither of those two films compare to the assault that this film waged on my psyche. The sheer fact that this film was allowed to be made stands as a stunning achievement, therefore it being banned until 1996 in the U.S. was not a surprise. Very few people are ready to withstand the depravity that this film will subject you too. Taken to it's simplest form this movie is about assimilation and conformity and how our society in 1974 was being taken over by a new form of fascism called consumerism.

Hana

What some people will miss about this Hirokazu Koreeda's film is its' roots in social dynamics. Life for a Affluent Samurai in Row Houses, the Japanese equivalent to modern day trailer parks, is less then easy, but never the less satisfying. The amount of social commentary about class and the struggle of the lower class is one aspect that makes this movie interesting. Funny, Beautifully shot, and adequately acted.

Female Prisoner 701 Scorpion

The beauty of these old 70's exploitation films are to see just how influential they have been on other modern day directors like Quentin Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez and Roger Avery to name a few. This movie isn't for the meek at heart only true "film" lovers and or perverts. There is a lot of nudity and gratuitous violence committed towards women. You have been warned. The quality of film making was good and the story was sound. This is the sexist perspective of prison life for females in Japan during the seventies that I've ever seen. Imagine a perverted and demented dream of a Young man going through puberty, whom is thinking of beautiful Asian women all caged up and you have one aspect of this movie. Then through in a female Clint Eastwood who adds a key feminist perspective, and you get the basis of this "Female Prisoner 701 Scorpion" movie.

Maborosi

Maborosi is a modern work of Art. If you are looking for an active dialog and story line this is not the movie for you. This movie is extremely visual, the little dialog that there is well placed and each word is thought out and meaningful. Kore Eda'a attempt to capture the Grief of a particular woman is absolutely amazing. Makiko Esumi's performance was nothing less then spectacular. Her ability to capture sadness and express that through her facial expressions and actions had tears in my eyes almost on queue. Oh course Hirokazu's art direction was breath taking. So many shots in this movie had me breathless. Lighting and timing was done to perfection, and the setting was perfect for a story of this caliber. This is a Masterpiece!

Quid Pro Quo

Not the movie that I expected. I went into this movie looking for a really twisted suspense drama, and came out understanding it to be closer to just a pure drama with a little kink. Some of the scenes were actually pretty funny to me. They weren't supposed to be but the subject matter is a little out there. The psychological aspect of this movie was pretty well done and the twist was completely apparent. Solid movie, I'm not even sure if I'd say this movie should be rated R. It seemed more PG-13 to me.

Footsteps

I can see how so many people might hate this movie, but in the tradition of such movies as "Irreversible", footsteps is an amazing and interesting look into a life gone terribly wrong. From the very first scene I wanted to turn this movie off, I'm so glad I didn't because this shock flick delivered a good example of apathy in western society. People just seem to watch tragic events happen all the time. Who cares if it's not you? Sucks for that other person. This movie is definitely not for everyone, but if you liked "Irreversible" and or "Naked" I'd check this out.

Doomsday

I'm kind of torn between giving this movie three or four stars just because of the absolute hilarity of the combination of action genres all into one apocalyptic romp. Neil Marshall seems to have taken some of his favorite "doomsday" scenarios and rapped them all into one. From cannibalistic punks to knights of the round table. This movie has a lot to offer in my opinion. Just watching some of the stunt coordination in this film amazed me. Look for detail because that is where I found this movie had some greatness.

The Other Boleyn Girl

I'm going to start off this review first by stating I have not read Philippa Gregory's book of which this movie is based on, and I have yet to see the BBC version of this movie by the same title. However what I can judge is the quality of this movie. The camera work and cinematography where done well. The costume design however was a bit distracting. Let's just say they went way over the top, which isn't necessarily bad when it comes to costumes. Set design just didn't seem to match the quality of the costumes on the outside, however indoor set design (which is easier and cheaper) where done well. I'd also like to point out that Natalie Portman's English accent was terrible and the first scene that she is seen in is really awkward. This movie took a while to draw me in, but it did. Mostly because of Eric Bana's amazing and powerful performance as Henry the VIIIth. Final analysis is that this movie is worth watching, definitely better than the disaster of the last Elizabeth sequel.

The Legend of the Shadowless Sword

What to say about this Korean attempt of big budget wire flying Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon type movie? The stunt coordination was amazing, The set and costume designs were also very good. Even the acting was bearable. However, the story went way wrong were so many other Korean period pieces go. The over dramatization instead of thoughtful plot design plagues this movie right until the end. However I must say that it was toned way down compared to other Korean period pieces and the dramatic element almost had me convinced if they would have let the story develop itself with less dialogue. The special effects and and stunt sequences are what made this movie watchable for me. Plus the story was fundamentally sound, just poorly executed.

Shortbus

I want to start off this review by saying, I got it, I understand. I believe George Micheal already told us that sex is natural and sex is fun, but this movie's ambitious attempt at painting sex as a normal and important aspect of the Human experience failed. Bad acting, bad story line, and gratuitous sexual perversion makes this movie less than a hit. However, I must say that this movie had it's moment's. One of them being the great pastel artwork in the beginning and the end, and the other being that it dealt with taboo in an interesting manner. Not for the squeamish to say the least, and if your religious this movie will confirm your beliefs about Babylon.

The Eel

Shohei Imamura directs this interesting look into the power of jealously and forgiveness. While this movie doesn't stand out in any particular way, it's connection with the human condition and how emotion rules so many lives, makes it quite extraordinary. Koji Yakusho delivers a superb performance, which also brought this movie into the four star range. The storyline was interesting and metaphoric relationship between Koji and eel was fun. There were also a few scenes that had me laughing out loud. This dry dramatic movie was definitely worth my time.

Noriko's Dinner Table

Sion Sono's follow up to "Suicide Club/circle" has turned out to be yet another psychological mind bender. This schizophrenic look into the reasoning behind the suicides that took place in Japan in "Suicide Club", starts off relatively slow, but then jumps head into a dysfunctional nightmare in which one's online identity transcends their real identity. This dementia praecox movie leaves you partially insane after watching. However, unlike the other Sono movies I've seen, this movie had a clear moral. If you only concentrate on your own happiness, you will never be able to tell if those around you are also happy. Selfishness is at the core of this twisted tale about the problems that modern families face. Tons of blood, but mostly flashbacks from Suicide club. This movie is Sono's most emotionally powerful movies to date in my opinion.

When a Woman Ascends the Stairs

This was one of those movies that was in my queue for ever and I never got around to it. I'm sorry I put it off for so long, because it was a masterpiece. I almost got the feeling that I'd seen it before, but I think it was just the theme of struggle and how life and love are never easy. Especially if you are an escort at a Gentleman's club in Japan. This is an intimate look a the girls of the night and the pain and trials they were forced to endure. Geisha, not quite, but never the less forced into the role of Geisha and prostitution for many. Excellent plot, acting was amazing, especially Tatsuya Nakadai and Daisuke Kato. Subject matter was quite risque for the times and the cinematography was beautiful.

Be Kind Rewind

Jack Black is absolutely hilarious. I want to leave that as my review, but since I must continue I just want to say that this movie really was funny. For all the haters, just stop hating. Put a little love in your heart for this movie. What could be better than a movie that makes you laugh and has a strong social message about community and the unity that it can bring among people. I think this movie has got a lot of genius in it and I am sad that so many people just couldn't see it. It's ok though, not every movie is made for the masses. If you like Jack Black, Mos Def, and know anything about film making you will love this movie. If not watch it anyways.

Chopper

A great psychotic portrayal of society meating a charasmatic criminal who refuses to accept the rules. Chopper stabbs commonality and head butts you in your face. This is a Bloody, dark comedy about the life and times of an almost illiterate criminal who wrote a few books that made him an Austrailian legend and Best selling author.

The Dark Knight

After all the hype and raving reviews, I can't help but agree that Heath Ledger went out with a bang. His performance was one of the strongest that I've seen in a long time. Psychotically domented and intellectually chaotic. This movie demanded my attention and respect up intill it stalled right at the end and then dragged out for another thirty minutes. Movie would have been a master piece had it ended sooner. However, the actual ending was every bit as dramatic as Tim Burtons versions. This movie just didn't seem to end at it's logical climax and felt forced after the climax occured. Still a great movie though.

Crazed Fruit

For 1956, I'd say the subject matter in this film makes it amazing. The black and white camera shots where beautiful and Mie Kitahara's presence and beauty jumped right off the screen. I feel like an amature now when it comes to Japanese cinema because this movie seems like it would be a great movie in todays standards if it was made a little racier. However, it's classic portrayal of sex, like the surf crashing, and an uncrossing of legs was both beautiful and brilliant. Great Japanese classic.

Battle of Okinawa

If you ever wondered what the other perspective was when it came to the invasion of Okinawa, then this is your movie. Honor, grief and sacrifice are three words I would choose to decribe this movie. I really enjoyed watching this Japanese perspective on war. Film making wasn't the best but Tatsuya Nakadai was as amazing in his acting performance as ever. This movie holds great historical value and accuracy in the dramatic telling of one of the bloodiest engagements of WWII.

Hancock

Enjoyable little comedy, Big Willy brings a lot of the same that has made him a Megastar. Drunken Superman with soul. There were some really funny moments in this film, too bad the previews gave all the best laughs away. The dramatic element of this film fell way short. Jason Bateman was anoying as always and Charlize Theron, well she was very sexy, but why was she cast in this film? She didn't feel like the right fit for me. Graphics and art design? Seen it before. Interesting plot design? Not really, there were so many holes that the movie could be swiss cheese. Ultimately this movie is not really that great of a superhero movie. However it's comedic value made this film worth the watch? Average big Hollywood.

Breathless

This is my first Godard movie, and I must say I have a long way to go in order to call myself a Godard expert. What I can say is that it was a very enjoyable French classic with a mix of cosmopolitan attitude. I really enjoyed the portrayal of French and American attitudes towards each other in the early sixties. At it's core though this is a dark drama about a man with no conscience and an American women with a taste for the bad boy. Great ending, a little over-dramatic but hey, it's French.

Drillbit Taylor

Ok so this is not the greatest movie ever made, actually it's far from it, but it does have a couple of good laughs. Lisa Lampanelli seemed to be the funniest person in this movie. The childish mishaps were mildly entertaining, but Owen showering on Santa Monica beach naked was hilarious. I gave it three stars out of generosity, its more like two and a half stars.

15

Royston Tan's attempt at recreating Larry Clark's "Kids" in Singapore was a great attempt. Plenty of homoeroticism, and sucidial tendencies. Add a "Maria full of grace" scene where a boy shoves two condoms full of ecastasy pills down his throat and this movie is a great account of the life of little school ditching thugs in Singapore. This movie has a lot of what I like in movies, however it's constant use of different camra angles and other gimmics didn't work for me. The story was very powerful towards the end though and I turned this movie off feeling that I had learned something about suffering in Singapore. I was particulary interested in all the people speaking english in Singapore. I knew it was a British controlled city state for a long time but never new just how much influence and effect their presence had.

Perfect Blue

It easy to see how Satoshi Kon has become one of Japan's greatest Animators. I guess I decided to experience his movie making for newest to oldest. Can't say it was a mistake either. His work is solid and his animation is always increadible. I feel "Mellennium Actress" is his masterpiece but all of his movies are equally amazing and fun to watch. If you liked "Paprika" then you will love this movie, because it seems to be it's blue print.

American Crude

For all of this movie flaws, they actually began to become very comedic. The beginning of this movie is hard to get into, but if you stay along for the ride, you will be in for tranny golden showers and falling child molesting fathers. Nothing genius, but if you like Ron Livingston super dry and analytical humor, then this is worth a watch. Rob Schneider, well not a lot of genius here but he offered up some classic scenes. This movie has got some great one liners too.

In Bruges

What the hell was Colin Farrell saying in this movie? It could almost use subtitles. Besides the serious cockney accent the subject matter was just my cup of tea. Hit-men, midgets, violence sprinkled will a little sex, drugs and gore. This was a very good dark comedy. The art department of this production did nothing less than a great job. The special effects(blood splatter) and the cinematography were spot on. Visually stunning, so much so this film could easy be misrepresented as a way to get tourists to go to Bruges. (Come to Bruges it's one of the oldest medieval towns in Europe and there aren't too many tourists. Canals, old churches, and tons of history. It really was a beautiful setting for this interesting look at a few assassins lives. Overflowing guilt and inner pain really gave this film the emotional feel that so many other hit-men movies seem to lack. Comedy mixed with blood and inner term oil. This movie is "Snatch" meets "Pulp Fiction". However, the movie that this movie reminds me the most of is "Sexy Beast". So much so I thought Ralph Feinnes was Ben Kingsly for a while. Good Movie.

Harakiri

Very slow, I mean slow as snails, but the story of revenge and tradgidy is well worth the watch. If your into the Samurai genre then this is a must watch. Tatsuya Nakadai played a minor role but Rentaro Mikuni knocked this acting performance out the park. This is Japanese classic by Kobayashi that you won't want to miss. Hamlet eat your heart out because this story doesn't need pros, although I wouldn't be able to tell if they were speaking in an old Japanese dialect or not. Great movie.

The Mist

For me Stephen King is always a hit or a miss when it comes to the production of his stories. In this apacolyptic story, people's true nature and fear of the unknown is played out beautifully. I'm a lover of CGI, and I felt this movie did a great job of incorporating it into the art design. I talked with a lot of people who hated this movie, but it is mostly because, A, they don't really like CGI, B, they are not really Sci-Fi fans, or C, they didn't like Stephen King. If you fit into any of those catagories stay away. If not then you should love this movie. I'm not even a big King fan, but when a director casts correctly and gets a big enough budget to do it right like Frank Darabont did, i don't have any complaints. The ending's predictiblilty is it's Genius. It leaves you feeling like only Stephen King can sometimes, amazed.

Control

The fact that I love Joy Division probably makes me seriously biased in reviewing this film, however if you want to see a really great rock story based on the life of Ian Curtis the lead singer of Joy Division then this movie is it. At first I question the use of black and white as always, but as the movie progressed it became completely clear how appropriate it was. Dark and maniacal, this movie is sure to spark the self destructive artist in you. I cried like a baby even though I already knew the end result to this story. Just knowing it was coming made me really sad. Sam Riley did great job as Ian Curtis and Anton Corbijn successfully translated melancholy and the despair that was Ian Curtis's life.

Crusher Joe

From the creator of "Venus Wars" and Gundam II and III movies(which are just an edited version of the orginal 1979 series)comes this fun galactic adventure. This is undoubtbly Yasuhiko's finest work that I've seen yet. The animation is nothing to speak of, although very good for when it was made, but the characters where just so much fun that the story really just pulled me in. It takes a lot for "old school" anime to get four stars from me and this one is well diserving. So take a ride on this retro space adventure. If your a fan of old animation, you have to see this one.

The Happening

Where did M. Night go wrong? For starts he cast Mark Wahlberg who's performance was just annoying. Second he took a great idea from "Charisma" and then attached it to a gimmicky plot that just didn't work. The only things that I did like about this movie was I thought Leguizamo did a great job and there was some actual gore in Shyamalan's first "R" rated movie. Unfortunately this film had the feel of a made for t.v. Stephen King movie. I felt like I was watching the stand. I must add that if you can enjoy a movie for a few scenes then you might walk away feeling this movie wasn't a complete disaster. However, if you liked M. Nights past works, well thought out and developed stories then this movie is a flop. There was so much potential for this to be his greatest film and yet he fell far short. The creepiness factor gave way to, "Are You Serious!". The plot could have worked and been developed so much better, instead it focused on particular scenario which just seemed way to ridiculous for me. In all of M. Nights previous movies he was able to mix fact and fiction together beautifully. This film gimmick while interesting, just got old, and the quasi explanation just didn't work for me.

Untraceable

Really not the greatest movie ever made but certainly not the worst. The subject matter was interesting and the internet gimmic was fun. I really enjoyed some ways in which the victims died. Art department did a great job with the special effects. This was a good cross between the horror and crime thriller genres. You could do a lot worse. However the first scene with the kitten, that was messed up.

Raging Bull

I can't believe that I hadn't seen this movie. Amazing in every catagory and department. If ever there was a five star movie this is it. Hand's down the best Scorsese film I've seen in my opinion. Also with out a doubt, Robert De Niro's best work, Pesci I think actually developed into a better tough guy in later movies like "Casino" and "Good Fella's", but still he has a softer side that I haven't seen a lot in his later films. The switching between black and white to color was great. I'm sure there is so much more info on this movie but I'm not going to do the research yet just rent this movie if you haven't seen it yet. Ok? Don't be a Jerk! Watch the fricken movie! Ok tough guy?

Dead Man's Bounty

Piotr Uklanski does a spectacular job with this fascinating perspective into the life of polish imagrents in the west. If you liked "EL Topo", then you will want to check out this artistic example of the Spaghetti west. While not as experimental as "EL Topo", this movies camera work and artistic design makes this a great movie in my book. Definitely not a movie for many, but if you give this one a chance and pay attention to the film making and underlying meaning, then you will love this movie. There were a few scenes that really just amazed me. I loved their take on the female body and I liked that this was the first Western that comes to mind that really tried to tackle the affects of Alchoholism, in the old West. Solid four stars maybe more.

The Hunting Party

So it looks like Shepard had a great idea for the beginning and ending of this movie, but simply could not figure out how get from A to B. The middle really dragged and made me seriously want to just turn off this movie. Sometimes true stories just don't translate to screen the well, and this is a perfect example. Could have been a great documentary for sure, however the movie appeal for this one drops off the radar. Terrence Howard did a fine job as always and Richard Gere delivered his average performance. Nothing special, if you do decide to rent this one, don't hesitate in fast forwarding through most of the middle.

21

The best selling true story "Bringing Down the House" finally comes to the big screens with an allstar cast including Spacey and Fishburne and featuring Jim Sturgess as the lead actor. The sound track to this film can only be described as EMO to the max. I like, but for many it could be a turn off. Spacey did and excellent job and Sturgess porformance was convincing. Cinematography, was good, plot was handed to them, and to be honest, i thought that the book and the subsequent documentary was much more interesting. Still, very enjoyable movie.

Tokyo Trash Baby

Ryuichi Hiroki has been said to be one of Japan's most interesting directors since Miike, and I tend to agree. This site only has three of his movies. This one, "I and am S&M Writer" and "Vibrator". Out of those three movies, I felt this one was less provacative, but it still possesed Hirioki's unique look at life and,Yes, the Human experience. Walk along side a young and confused Tokyo girl as she stumbles through an awkward period in her life, battling disassociative behavior and the need to be loved. This movie holds alot of appeal in my book.

Romulus, My Father

This movie really stood out in the dramatic genre. However, I must say it's depresseing nature is seriously something you should think about before renting this movie. It is about a family in which the father and son are confounded by a mother who does not know how to be a wife or a mother. In many ways she could be seen as a femist tormented in an old fashioned world. Demonized and not understood, the mother creates emotional tension in the family that brings life to it's limit. Suicide, sexual acts, and disturbing content makes this a movie for the mature. Austrialian yet neopolitan, this movie is a depressed look at the life of a family of immagrents surviving in Austrialia. I should add that this is a true accound of an important philosopher and writer that told the accounts of his diary in this story.

Cleaner

I can't help but feel that this movie reminds me of most other crime suspence action thrillers, but it does. The fact that it is about an ex cop (Samuel L. Jackson) who cleans up after death situations was interesting. However, the other plot developments while not completely revealing, seemed old. I can't dislike this movie though, it was well done, interesting and the acting was good. I never lost interest and think that it is definitly a movie that crime type people would love. Amazingly the person I felt that has grown the most here was Luis Guzman, undoubtedly the best acting performance I've seen from him yet.

Retribution

Ok so as far Kiyoshi Kurosawa director of such movies as the original "Pulse" and "The Curse" not to mention his many other great movies, "Retribution" cannot be included in his greatest. However, I have to take into account the sleepless night that ensued after watching this film. It is definitly creepy and disturbing. Im not even sure how to explain why it's creepy. It's "Grudge" "Ringu" combination with a unique Kiyoshi touch just somehow touched me in a way that was just disturbing. The cheese factor, truly became effective, and it is here that I think there is brilliance. I wanted to forget this movie very quick because of the nightmares that came after watching it. Maybe it's just me, but Kiyoshi just knows how to give the heebeejeebee's.

Inside

Ok so according to the Internet Movie Data Base and this site, "Inside" is the movie dabut of Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury. And what an introduction they have created for themselves. This movie almost brought me to tears in the first fifteen minutes only to stab me in the eye and take me flying in another direction. The make-up and special blood effects in this movie were horrifyingly realistic. The story and plot line, while psychotic, were guinuenly terrifying. This movie had me sitting on the edge of my seat for most the film and the ending was just as perverse as the beginning. Increadible and domented. Truly for those who love the twisted.

The Air I Breathe

What is facinating about this film? Well the cast is one reason to watch. Brendan Fraser delivers the dramatic acting performance of his life, Forest Whitaker opens this film in true briliance, and Andy Garcia adds his classic mobster image which makes this film very entertaining. Many will be thrown off by how this movie jumps around. However it is the inter woven destinies in which this movie adds it's brilliance. Sara Michelle really adds torment, and her grief was convincing in my book. If you can't accept a movie that puts different stories together to create a picture then this isn't for you. I personally believe Jieho Lee did a great job and recomend this movie to people who liked movies such as "Pulp Fiction". Anywhere close to the brilliance. No, but still it kept me watching and listening.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

I'm really amazed to see how many people really liked this new attempt at creating a classic. I want to make this review a huge spoiler but I won't. All I'm going to say is that I didn't expect much walking into this movie and I didn't get much, other than over the top digital effects and a story line that, well, lets just say a trip into the Sci-Fi instead of the ocult. This is not the Indiana Jones I remember, I almost walked out in the beginning. The unbelievability factor in this movie was over the top, the acting was not ingaging at all, and the few plot elements that were interesting were completely transparent. If you must wait for video release unless your one of the mindless hord, who just love this Hollywood trash. I'm really beginning to think Spielberg has lost his passion for the business and the Lucas is way to conserned with CGI and Special effects. What ever happened to interesting and engaging story lines. This movie is comparable with The Temple of Doom installment, just not that good. The only person I really likd was Cate Blanchett, who in my opinion made a sexy Russian. Oh man, I understand why the Russians are up in Arms. I thought that propaganda was over, didn't they get the memo? Terrorist are our enemies now not the communists. Terrorists could be anyone, any color, any race, any faith. If it was up to some maybe all liberals should be considered terrorists. I vote we call Neocons treasonist warmongers and convict them for world instability and uncontrollable engery costs.

The Forbidden Kingdom

In this Kung-Fu cross between "Crouching Tiger...", and the "Never Ending Story" Jet Li and Jackie Chan headline a story aimed more toward children and teens than an adult audience. The stunt fighting was magnificent, costum design was interesting, setting was elaborite and beautiful but the story line seemed a little tired and ill contrieved. Plus a Chinese tail told mostly in English with an American Hero? I must say the Big Trouble in Little China concept just didn't go over as well with me. I really didn't like Michael Angarano that much, who was the lead by the way. In the end this movie didn't live up to any of the other movies I mentioned. However, it was interesting and I felt this story was very age appropriate. The Monky King is sure to be a favorite of countless todders and young children. Ok

Maelstrom

I'm trying to think of something to say about this film and all that come to mind is a crazy bloody philisophical talking fish head who acts as the narrator of this French creation. Villeneuve manages to capture the art of gore, suspence, and romance in a poinent and artistically beautiful way. The art department out did itself in this avantgarde display of color and lighting. The story line was a little slow going in the beginning but it did a good job of setting one up for a surprise, which landed a decisive blow to a quickly boring intellect. The love story at the end while a little predictable took on a life of its own and became interesting enough to leed to a beautiful climax. This movie is one of the reasons I love cinema so much. It tells the human story in an artistic and unique way. Bravo!!

Music Within

This movie was like forest Gump but without a retarded Tom Hanks, instead it's got a deaf Ron Livingston and a guy with cerebral palsy. Cute Blond chick? check, Vietnam? Check. Ok I'm going a little too far. I loved Forest Gump by the way. Livingston worked extremely well in this movie, and I thought his acting performance worked. Never got board, it was interesting to find out about the guy who made it possible for disabled people to be treated like human beings too. I never new there was such a discrimination against them because of his work. Another brilliant story that deserved to be told and expressed on film. Great movie.

P.S. I Love You

I'm not usually a person that rates movies bad, just because they are chick flicks, but this movie was so tailored for the feminine that my gag reflex began to kick in. It was weird because the plot line, while not original, was interesting and could have been great. It's too bad that they attempted to force tears from my eyes in almost every scene. Hilary Swank almost had me in the beginning, but then Lisa Kudrow and Gina Gershon turned up the "Oxygen" and "Lifetime" sex in the city scenario that just really made me want to turn this movie off. This movie never pulled me in. It's darkness wasn't that dark and it's laughs were superficial and manufactured. There was absolutely no genius in this film other than the directors coordination of the art, cinematography and wardrobe departments for one scene in which they created possibly one of the most beautiful shots I've ever seen on film. Swanks deep purple hat with the effervescent purple flowers and vibrant green lush Irish hills, combined with a radiant white dress that stood out in gloom was beautiful. I've never taken much interest to fashion, but if you watch this movie, this shot will literally take your breath away. It kind of reminded me of "What Dreams May Come". That scene earned this movie an extra star. That was it for me. I really didn't like Hilary Swank in this role. She's a much better lesbian or boxer, or hey put them together, a lesbian boxer. :)

Royal Space Force: Wings of Honneamise

Journey to an alternate reality in which nations are still controlled by Royalty and the space age is still in its infancy. This Anime classic is truly one that has stood the test of time. The animation hardly seems dated, and the story line was fun and interesting. Blue Ray? It's offered, but I watched it in DVD format with an up-resolution player and it still looked good. Much better than many other Anime's from this time period. It really shows that this movie had the largest budget for for an animation movie in 1987. The characters were interesting and the sound design was descent. My only criticism was that the movie lagged a little in the beginning and it played into a God theme a little too much. However, I must say that even for an Agnostic like myself, while I could see the argument for this being a religious propaganda film, it did a really good job of portraying a fictional religion and concentrating on faith and anti-war, rather than attempting to push a specific religious value on you other than peace. I thought this movie had a great premise and was well executed. I'm glad to see that while it was a commercial failure when released, it has now become a critically acclaimed Japanese animation classic. Check it out.

The Savages

Having been through the loss of all my elders, this movie really hit home with me. The few scenes where they dealt with the complications of taking care of the very old, like wheel chairs, dementia and incontinence really were depressing. However, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Laura Linney both delivered excellent acting performances, which really gave this movie a boost. Especially because this movie was more about the people dealing with loss and less about the actually person dying. This movie really points out nicely how death is a real wake up call for those of us who are still alive. We will all die, we are all mortal. Do something with your life now, because death is ugly, sad and full of dreadful places. This movie points out just how hard life and death really are.

Light of My Eyes

This Roman drama is truly just that. Told mostly in the narrative of a sci-fi loving chauffeur. This romantic drama will take u on a talky ride to understanding and love. How do you win an emotionally scared womens love? The chauffeur attempts to do just that. Interesting, well acted, and hard not to like. There is a certain beauty in the way this movie deals with adult relationships, and how some people complicate their lives so much when they really just need someone simple to show them that happiness can be attained if they'd only reach out and grab it.

Kite Liberator

I purposely put off writing a review on this sequel until I was able to see "Kite". I must say it was a good idea, because now I have a completely different perspective on this OVA? "Kite" was so original and filled with sexual angst that this sequel is really just an unworthy shadow. Why they decided to add a bone monster to an already interesting premise, I will never understand. The jump into the sci-fi genre was completely unnecessary and really took away from the thoughtful and interesting characters that had already been well developed in "Kite". It really doesn't make any sense. I love sci-fi, but not in "Kite". However, I can't help but still say that "Kite Liberator" was interesting, well animated, and by itself a well done OVA. Compared to "Kite" it's story line is just bad. Although, the characters were still interesting and I'm hoping that this whole monster sci-fi aspect will go away. The Monsters aren't even well animated. If I could give a suggestion to the creators, I would make this first installment a dream sequence in which the next character awakens from. Because this really is just a bad nightmare.

Mezzo Forte

Unlike a few of the other reviewers, after watching the original uncut version of Mezzo Forte, I believe that the animation and story arc of this film is enough to make this edited version still excellent. Great action sequences, and really good English voice acting makes Mezzo Forte a wonderful beginner for the Series Mezzo. If you look closely in the beginning you will see the Girl from "Kite". A girl in orange has never been so exciting and fun. I also think that Mezzo Forte did a much better job of incorporating the Sci-fi aspect that Umetsu seemingly believes is needed. Girls, guns and plenty of killing, this OVA/film was action packed and very fun. It really didn't need the pornographic sex but man was she one sexy cartoon. This version is still great I'm sure, but if you must, check out my "Kite" review to find out how to get the unrated version. Or just Google it!!!!

Kite

Thanks to informative and helpful reviews, I did not rent this from here, I went and bought the original directors cut from Rareflix. They actually had a sale with Kite and Mezzo Forte uncut versions. So this review is for the uncut version. It would be hard for me to imagine what this movie looks like without the graphic violence. I could see how cutting the hardcore sex out would have been alright, however it would have lost a lot of its' edge. Nevertheless, this story is great, the animation is good and the voice acting was done well. Even without all of the gratuitous violence and sex, I could see this movie as still being a haunting and disturbing tale about a sexually and psychologically abused girl turned assassin. Directors cut five stars, and I docked this cut a star due to it's editing.

Tokyo Godfathers

Inspirational, uplifting and funny. Satoshi Kon, creator of "Millennium Actress", creates another interesting story that will let you experience Christmas in Japan, through the eyes of three homeless Tokyoites. It's strange to think of Christmas in Japan, but they do actually celebrate it. Kon's usage of snow was brilliant. I didn't find the sound track to be as great as some of his other movies and the ending of this movie just really wasn't that unexpected or impacting. However the animation and a the few moments of human spirit where brilliant. Another great addition to Kon's already distinguished animation carrier. Once again there is no dubbing in this version. Japanese voice acting was not as great as Millennium but still good.

Resurrecting the Champ

Samuel L. Jackson delivers probably his best performance as to date. So what happened? Unfortunately Jacksons stellar performance could not make up for Josh Hartnett's poor performance. The whole side story with Hartnett was really distracting. The secondary love story was not needed and more focus should have been placed upon the scoop, which was the champ. I anticipated from the preview more to this champ plot, I was waiting for some giant boxing conspiracy and was left with a sultry and sad reality. I can't hate the realism too much, plus Jacksons performance made this film worth watching.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

I've heard this movie compared to the likes of "Eternal Sunshine of The Spotless Mind", there is a very stretched similarity, however it is just that a stretch. This movie is a walk through a strange version of hell. I loved the few flash back scenes where they viewed his old hansom self and then went right back to his grossly deformed and hilariously sad new existence. I believe the real beauty of this movie was the main characters ability to make fun of himself. This movie is probably one of saddest movies I've ever seen. Very depressing, but somehow inspirational. French people sure are nice in this movie.

The Place Promised in Our Early Days

This is Makoto Shinkai's second movie after "Voices of A distant star", in which he has displayed his true understanding of animation and relating it to the human experience. In this romantic psychotropic science fiction work of art, Shinkai illustrates just why others have compared his work to that of Miyazakis'. While his movies might be seen as too formulated and similar to each other, I believe they are just an extension of Shinkai's great ability to display emotion through visual artwork and interesting stories. I could definitely distinguish his work from anyone else.

Innocence

Deep lush greens and light penetrating bubbles coupled with the underwater roar of a brook tumbling down a small water fall. If anything this movie is a visual masterpiece. Every shot meticulously set up with the usage of light and dark and color coordination. Amazing!!! It really made me feel indifferent, because the story was slow, very slow, almost stagnant. But I really do think that it was purposeful. It created an air of suspense. It kept me waiting for something bad to happen or an evil dark side to emerge. When it did, it was Innocent. Great movie. Touching story. What was with the coffins though? That was interesting.

Golden Door

What is it about Italians and Brazilians that just makes me smile? I'll tell you over and over again, it is their understanding and out look on life. They seem to truly understand what it means to be human. I'm not Italian, maybe at heart, but this movie touched me deeply. I felt every moment, every struggle and smiled at every hidden Italian moment. Swimming through milk, giant carrots and coins falling off tree's. These images took me back to Italy, and made me hear my Italian friends voices again. Very funny, hard to love if you don't understand Italian culture. Live, Live, Live. And if you fall down, keep going, keep struggling, just don't give up. Yet another story about how America has become such a diverse and Neapolitan society. Great film.

The Way to Fight

In the true art of Takashi Miike's beat em up type movie philosophy this movie delivers one of his best punches. This tough guy coming of age movie has plenty of testosterone and bullying. Miike takes us on a ride to the top of Tokyo's High School pecking order. The idea that life is a struggle really comes out nicely in this movie. Unlike, "Young Thugs:Innocent Blood" this movie has a unique Miike feel. Funny, sad, humbling and exciting, this movie is one of his best. Not so much for shock value, it's just a really good job of interesting storytelling with good visuals and fight scenes. The two lead characters are diamonds in the rough, both with really distinct facial features and good acting ability. Cool movie!! Alternate title could be "Urban Rumble" hehe.

I Am an S&M Writer

Ryuichi Hiroki has become one my favorite Japanese directors because of the interesting subject matter and ways he choses to tell stories. He discusses truths, that are hardly ever apparent on the surface, by attacking our sense of right and wrong. In this prolific exploration into sexuality and monogamy, Hiroki explores how your obsessions and fantasies aren't always what they seem. And that your identity isn't always an accurate example of who you are. In this sexually explorative analysis of human behavior, Hiroki questions whether what you want is necessary what you need. There are a few very genius moments in this film where emotion and clarity are portrayed without words. That always makes me happy. I can't wait to see more of his work. Hope more is offered here soon.

The Orphanage

Juan Antonio Bayona was awarded with several best new director awards in Spain and Latin America for this haunting portrayal about life and death. The chills will be running down your spine in this scary adventure into the world of phantasms. Most notorious comparisons are with "Pan's Labyrinth" for good reason. They both posses a unique feel and endings that are almost anticlimactic but manage to hold interest and intrigue. My only complaint is that this movie does commit some average mistakes with over acting and exaggerated creepy sound effects. However, I loved how this movie kept me guessing. In some ways I think this movie could have become much creepier, like "Pan's Labyrinth" this movie chooses to stay closer to reality, rather than move into an alternate nightmare or fantasy world. This was an interesting movie that deserves praise.

Lars and the Real Girl

When I asked my mom and pop movie store Guy if he had this movie, he looked at me like a weirdo. And for good reason, this movie is a strange look into the life of a delusional Ryan Gosling who some how managed to walk through life without being touched. His dissociative behavior is creepy and seriously unnatural. The believability of this movie could be a real problem for many people. It is hard to believe that there could be a town and relatives who are as loving, patient and kind as this movie portrays. However it is this exact dichotomy which makes this movie both powerful and touching. Interesting, funny and just weird. I liked it.

The Wounds

If you are looking for an incredibly disturbing movie that is almost completely about violence, stop no further, this is your movie. I've often wondered what kind of people could massacre others but after watching this movie a little light has been shed on how Serbia was able to slaughter so many innocent people. While funny at moments, this movies charm was completely carnal. Seriously interesting look into the minds of maniacs and a valuable anthropological look into the extremes of Serbian culture. Its sad to think that there are as racist and vicious of people out there.

Aliens vs. Predator 2

I think it is amazing to see how many people took this movie way too seriously. Yes, this movie is dark, but so were the Alien movies, which were great. Yes, the human characters were underdeveloped and uninteresting but that was also part of the beauty of this film. The Predator and the Alien/Predator monster were great. There was tons of needless killing(which is plus in my book)done by the aliens. I loved the fact that they weren't afraid to show little kids getting wacked. The story line did a good job of picking up right where the last movie ended. The Predator seriously showed us just how effective a killer his species is and this movie ended with a bang and intrigue. This movie really let the viewer into the perspective of the Predator and looks as if it is leading toward an Alien prequel. As for the darkness, it was appropriate and gave the movie a better feel. I watched with an up-resolution DVD player and thought it was fine. Stop all the crying and enjoy all the dying. I'm glad there was so much hating on this movie, because it meant that I could enjoy the fact that they were all wrong.

Millennium Actress

After reading the generic synopsis for this movie I was left feeling that it just didn't seem interesting. Was I ever wrong! Millennium actress takes you on the journey of a life time through the eyes of an old women in pursuit of a man who she fell in love with as a young women. Love at first sight has never had a more beautiful story. The animation was not up to "Appleseed" quality but it's 2D and 3D fit seamlessly and the art gave it a unique look. The writing and story line of this film was so amazing that I was immediately drawn into the film. This movie glides through time and space with ease and is so fun to watch that I found myself on the verge of tears and in tears the whole movie. This is a touching and heart warming story that is great for Anime lovers and haters. The only flaw was that there was no English dubbing(if that can be considered a flaw). Dreamworks has recently purchased the rights to this movies script, so expect a live action Hollywood version in the near future. This could be the reason that Dreamworks (The American license owner and distributor) choose not to dub this movie. They might be working on re-releasing this movie with a dub version before the live action comes out. Just speculation though. Plus the Japanese voice acting and the soundtrack to this movie are absolutely amazing. This film is officially on my top five best Anime movies list.

August Rush

August Rush should be called August Hush. This is probably one of the most pretentious attempts at recreating an Amadeus/Cinderella movie about a music boy genius. This movie is so unbelievable and unrealistic, that it actually destroys the great idea and music that this movie has to offer. The little boy was annoying, Robin Williams looked like a circus freak and Terrence Howard who delivered the best acting performance, made me ask why was he in this movie. Predictable to the point of irritability, the terrible writing in this movie made it impossible to be drawn into the story. What's worse is that this movie has some good scenes, which keep you watching, but when they are put together all we are left with is a stupid movie. The only good thing about this movie was some of the music.

Paranoia 1.0

If you need help stepping back into a bad acid trip, this is the movie for you. The cinematography was amazing, mostly because of the lighting and color usages. Dark and light was used very effectively, while the color that was used was vibrant and gave this movie an eerie feel. Acting was good, and the ending had me asking, Purgatory or Artificial reality? If I had to compare this to another movie I think I'd say this one is a cross between "Bug", the "Matrix" and "Eraser Head". It had the whole "Brazil" thing going on too, by blending advanced technology with a retro feel. Very visually interesting movie. The story wasn't half bad either.

88 Minutes

This movie has been in storage for more than two years and now Hollywood has finally decided to release it. I guess the time is right for Pacino who plays his normal role, always interesting, but Sobieski really is a just a pet peeve of mine,(I can't stand her). I think it's probably because of this movie. Something about her just really bugs the crap out of me. She gets under my skin in a bad way. Anyways other than that, this movie twists and turns until it runs into a brick wall of who cares. The only reason I can say I liked this movie was because the whole professor thing was great and I really liked the continual cell phone harassment of Pacino. (Tick tock tock).Hahahaha. I love that part. This is definitely a movie to watch at home.

Yojimbo

Such a great movie on so many different levels. Yojimbo vs. A Fist Full of Dollars? Eastwood vs. Mifune? Well lets just the say the parallels are astounding. Personally I love them both, but since it was made first and it also had Isuzu Yamada, who fascinates me as an actor, I'll have to give the gold to Yojimbo. This is timeless Samurai classic with stellar acting performances by the entire cast. Funny and original, this movie is a dark Japanese classic that is a must see for film buffs, samurai fans and even western lovers.

New Fist of the North Star

So what it looks like is this that this version of "Fist of the North Star" is basically in a three part movie format. Actually it is a great idea, but for some reason this version reminds me of "Heavy Metal" This movie/series borrows its Nietzschian Machismo from the original "Fist of the North Star", but it lacks some of it's authenticity. Im sure it was the whole King thing and scantly clad women that just seemed so Heavy Metal. Great for what it was though. Tons of exploding heads and brains throughout this movie. It had great fighting sequences and is must for Dragon Ball Z fans. Not into the Genre? Definitely don't start hear.

5 Centimeters Per Second

From the maker of "Voices of Distant Star", Makoto Shinkai's latest visual and emotional masterpiece is here and it's beautiful. I found myself in awe by the level of complexity in the animation. The story line was slow and melodic, however the melodies didn't exactly create the mood I was looking for. Can't give this anything less than four stars though because it was just so emotionally powerful. But due to it's less than impressive ending, mostly because of it's sound design, I felt that what I was hearing just didn't match the level of beauty on the screen. Still this is an amazing achievement in Animation. It managed to capture the feeling of despair and love in a bottle. This Movie really gave my heart a jump start. I had forgotten the feeling of young love and longing. This film brought that all back and broke my heart all over again. However I must say that this movie is probably Makoto Shinkai's weakest performance by a hair. All his movies thus far have been masterfull in my book.

Them

This is well crafted horror movie that plays off the element of the supernatural only to refreshingly bring you back into the land of reality. Not original, but well done. The play between light and dark was brilliantly done to take advantage of humans natural instinctive fear of not being able to see. From the hunter to the hunted. I liked this movie. But ultimately I would have done some series damage if I were put in this situation. Oh and why do people always have to run into the forest. I know it's done to make the movie more suspenseful, but if you were being attacked by god knows what, would you run into a dark forest. Hell no. Hehe. Good Movie.

Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story

In order to appreciate this movie you must posses a certain level of crudeness, because this movies laughs are hard and dirty. Do you like porn? How about drug humor? No? Then you probably won't like this movie. It has full frontal male nudity, personally I think a giant porn cock would have been much funnier. Yes, Giant porn cock. Anyways, I was amazed at the first seen in this movie opening up to a beautiful panoramic shot of an old country farm in the spring with all the flowers blooming. The yellow and the blue sky, it was an amazing shot and it set the stage for this movies main goal, which was to use symbolism and artificial realities to tell a funny story about a rock star. Walk the line ring a bell? Yes this is kind of a parody, but it also uses other rock illustrations for comedic effect. That is if you recognize them. Another thing that stood out, was just how good the music actually was in this movie. Dewey Cox's Rocks. I'm gonna get the sound track and rock it with the windows downs.Probably not though. As an added bonus there are funny cameos all over this movie. It also doesn't hurt to employ most of the cast from SNL in a comedy, because actors like Tim Meadows are hilarious. I command you to watch this movie and laugh.

Southland Tales

Unlike Mr. Bedridden because I ate too much my whole life Ebert, who said that this movie suffered because it didn't have a plot. I believe that the fact that it was just a collection of strange adventures made this movie interesting and fun to watch. The beginning had me waiting for more. Who doesn't like mushroom clouds(A great apocalyptic visual)? Plus the Nukes where exploded in Texas, who doesn't want that? HeHeHe. Kidding,Kidding. Some of the references and crazy humor in this movie had me laughing real hard. Sarah Michelle Gellar plays a Neo Marxist Porn star with a Reality Porn Talk show with topics ranging from Terrorism to teen sex. She even has her own energy drink. Jon Lovitz has a little psychotic killing seen, Seann William Scott has a strange moment in the mirror, Justin Timberlake dances to a Killers song while under the influence of a time altering drug, and the list goes on. Not a movie to watch and expect any specific outcome. However it is a movie to watch to enjoy the many well crafted satirical commentaries on western society and pop culture.

Hell Girl

The premise of this series is that revenge can cost you your soul and Hell Girl is more than willing to take it. I was torn on what to give this series. The first episode was so good. The sound design was great, the animation was great, and the story was interesting. However, while it was aesthetically flawless, the following episodes 2-6 just didn't seem to add up to the first. This Animation goes wrong where so many others have followed. Take one idea and do it over and over again until it is dead. I'm going to keep watching and hope that the plot has more than multi-situational content. My fingers are crossed.

Police Beat

Visually amazing cinematography with a unique screen play. I really don't like explaining plot elements but I'll just say that this movie takes place in Seattle(setting actually) and it's about a Continental African police officer and his inner turmoils. The entire movie uses his thoughts as narration. Did I mention that his thoughts are in a Wolof, the primary West African language. So it is an American tale told in Wolof. I really liked the idea, and I thought the crazy criminal filler that added an interesting sub plot to a love story was interestingly distracting. By the time you get to the end of this movie, it's conclusion seemed unimportant but interesting. It's worth watching for its' Originality and stylish approach to movie making.

Wristcutters: A Love Story

I can't help but really like this movie. It seems to have been written for my personality. Dark and intelligent but somehow sarcastic and thoughtful. I can see many people taking issue with this movie, considering that it's subject matter deals with suicide.(Go Figure) But for those of you on the fence, I suggest you just jump because the entire cast of this movie does a great job of creating an alternate purgatorial reality that is incredibly similar to ours. It's the little things that this movie points out well to gain a dark comedic perspective on life and death. Great movie for those who have taken the red pill.

Cannibal Holocaust

This is not an "A" movie it is a "B" horror. That being said, there are some really disturbing images and subject matter. Yes cannibalism is involved, and animal cruelty. When this movie first came out the actors where paid to disappear for a while. They actually attempted to arrest the director on murder charges, until he brought the actors forward. That's publicity. Ironically, this movie was banned!!! Freedom of speech in America for you. Graphic and disturbing images. Not for the squeamish. It would also be really important to point out that this film started the Cannibal genre.

Vexille

A blend of movies like "Ghost in the Shell" and "Apple Seed", Vexille shoots onto the screen with mechanized armored suites and pure action from the start. Creative and beautiful to watch, this movie joins the list of films, like the "Matrix", which deals with the uncertainties and possibilities that computer technology brings to the survival of the human race. The Japanese voice acting was done well and the sound track was done by Paul Oakenfold. Some might say that this was just another big budget "Final Fantasy", but for people who liked some of the other movies already mentioned, then you will need to watch "Vexille".

Pirates of Silicon Valley

I like to believe that this movie is an account of what really happened in the lives of some of the most influential people of my time. Anthony Michael Hall does a good job in playing a young and ambitious Bill Gates, but its Noah Wyle who really steals the show as the true genius that almost singlehandedly willed the personal computer industry into the world marketplace. Want to see a movie that will make you feel that anything is truly possible? Inspirational and fascinating, this movie is a must see for anyone who wonders how modern computers came into existence. This movie helped kicked Halls' carrier back into action and was an extremely well made for T.V. movie. Check it out.

Lonesome Jim

This movie seemed to pass right through 2005 unnoticed. It's easy to see why. This movie really wasn't full of much more than a lot of nihilistic/fatalistic humor. Slow and depressing for most of the movie, other than it's comic relief in the form of his drug dealing uncle, this film was bound to be forgotten and rediscovered due to Casey Afflecks' recent success. I really liked Affleck's character and felt that this movie is worth watching for those of you that like dark movies. It was really kinda a cop out that this movie had a happy ending. However,there was a well thought out script in which a character that was completely lost was able to discover that family and love are worth pursuing. This movie also probably has some of the greatest one liners that I heard in a while.

The Brood

It should be apparent that I can't get myself to give any old 70's cheese ball horror movie more than three stars. That being said, I definitely saw how this movie could have influenced horror movies like the "Leprechaun" and others involving evil little children. This movie had me laughing so hard every time the little evil demon kids in jump suites killed people. These creatures seemed to have a preference of killing people with mallets. Mallet killing little demon children controlled by the crazy desires of a deranged women. Funny stuff. There was a lot of method acting which made this movie stand out, but also got old and overdone.

Phantasm

Old Seventies cheese horror. You either love it or you just think it is really stupid. I fall somewhere in the middle. This movie did a great job with cinematography and was visually interesting. The little evil druids were cheese. The old school ice cream truck was great. And a bald, guitar playing, white guy was the driver. How often do you get all those things put together. It was funny because while watching this movie I could see girls from the seventies, like out of the thriller video, which was yes in the eighties, jumping and getting scared. Unfortunately the scariness of this film has subsided. What is left is pure comedy.

Ju-on: The Grudge

Very funny and creepy during a few moments. Mostly just really cheesy almost like another movie I just watched the "Brood". People painted white, and an evil demon girl made this movie almost unwatchable. However, there was one moment where the demon girl gives a disturbing look that almost made me want to hide under the covers. The People painted white were just stupid though. In an old cheesy funny kind of way. It also had the whole teen scene like "I know what you did last summer" going on. "Ringu" was much better.

Dan in Real Life

Very simple, and very easy to like. Not the greatest movie ever made but it is a warm and loving story about the dynamics of a large family. Throw in a lot of funny awkward moments, touching situations and you get this beautiful family movie. Steve Carell does a better job than I've seen since "Thirty Year Old Virgin" and Juliette Binoche was a great Character to fall in love with Carell. Good Watch.

The Kite Runner

After all the hype and great reviews that this movie got, I was seriously disappointed. The beautiful kite cinematography was exquisite and the story had some really good potential. However, this movie was in no way a film masterpiece. I'm sure this story was much better on paper. I would have really liked to see this movie shot in a more imaginative style rather than biographical. It held my attention in the beginning but as the story developed it froze in the middle and then was really never able to recover. I just got board. I think it was because of the bad acting. I wish as "Ebert" said, the story did make this movie excellent, but it just didn't distinguish itself from the countless of other sad stories that document the perils of an American immigration. I felt that, other movies have done a much better job. Interesting look into Afghani culture, particularly the way they dance. It's sad to think that Afghani's even fight with their kites.

Innocent Voices

This movie was absolutely heart breaking. It's one thing to study about the civil war in El Salvador, but to actually have to watch a visual representation was truly horrifying. To believe that humans could be so cruel is hard to believe. And by telling this story in the perspective a twelve year old boy, it just made the emotional content of this film over the top. This movie should make you think differently about the El Salvadorian immigrants in the U.S. today. Truly a magnificent and eye opening story.

Not One Less

This movie was an amazing look into Mainland Chinese culture. Wei Minzhi portrays a thirteen year girl sent to substitute a rural elementary school. However during this time her will and her humanity are to be tested. This movie made me think of the stories my grandparents told me about their experiences when teaching in China. The beautiful social qualities that the Chinese people in this movie exemplify, truly points out so much of what is wrong with liberal societies. This heart felt movie is bound to go down as one of my favorite Chinese films. Extremely down to earth and funny to watch how rural Chinese/communist society functions. Wei Minzhi's characters determination is truly a beautiful propaganda for the way people should treat each other. It also points out the age old idea that it only takes one person to make a difference.

Character

In all fairness this movie was excellent. The acting was good and the story about two very quite and guarded individuals that created the main character was interesting. I didn't know that there were such cold people. That being said this movie offered a lot of well felt emotion. It also did an great job of explaining how the decisions one makes can effect an entire future. Good cinematography, dark and cold like the emotions, uplifted with certain choices of color the represent other important moments, moments where important decisions are to be made. This movie was carefully crafted and executed well. I especially enjoyed the relation that the Antagonist was truly just another scrooge that needed a little warmth and love in his life. The only criticism that have is that the hight points in this movie didn't seem movie me enough for the low points to be truly effective. I'd say this movie is 4 and 1/2 stars.

Wedding Daze

I like how Directors feel that it is now necessary to find ways make Jason Biggs act a fool. While this movie did not add up to "American Pie" it was at least as good as part two. There were a lot of cleaver laughs and Isla Fisher was as hot and stupid as ever. The parent situations where probably the funniest parts of this movie though, excluding Jason Biggs as Cupid this movie had some good laughs.

Onibaba

Onibaba easily joins the list of a few Japanese movies that I feel deserve five stars. The Black and White really gave this movie a unique feel. So many other black and white movies just seem a little to stylistic, but the contrast between the black and the white in this film was amazing. This movie takes us to a world in the reeds, where starvation and war are abundant, and the struggle for the survival of the fittest is real. It was truly fascinating to see the setting in which Japanese farmers lived. Their primitive huts made of bamboo and straw, and their daily chores of getting water or washing clothes really gave this an earthly feel. The cinematography was superb, I can still see and hear the reeds blowing in the wind. I wouldn't try to get to caught up in the moralistic part of this story unless you can look at it in a Japanese perspective. I liked this movie almost as much as Seven Samurai.

I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry

I guess this movie could easily be over evaluated, when it really is just what made Adam Sandler famous in the first place, and that is great jokes and slapstick comedy blended together with a subtle moralistic theme. It could be hated very easily by homophobes, but there are even some very funny parts even for them. I especially took interest in Rob Schneider's Gay Asian chapel (priest?), because it was an interesting parody on Micky Rooney's Asian land lord character in "Breackfast at Tiffany's", which has been seen as really racist sterotyping. Funny? I say it was funny if you can take a little satire. This movie really is yet another example of hollywood pushing its social agenda to promote homosexuallity in a possitive light. I really don't have a problem with it, but others definitly might. Very funny, guy, homosexual humor. Still fun for everyone though.

Alpha Male

Jennifer Ehle is a look a like for Meryl Streep, but does not have the same acting abilities. The entire begining of the movie I kept doing double takes. Putting that aside this movie was slow, hard to follow due to the inneffective use of the flashback, which made it more like, what? Oh... Even all this guessing couldn't save this movie. The plot was about a wealthy family that never really elicit any sympathy, and over dramaticised every situation to a fault. Amelia Warner however was very interesting, and I was hoping for her character to grow, but it just never did. The father/daughter relationship had some major potential to build serious sympathy but it was left undeveloped. This movie shot some serious blanks. Sound track didn't feel right, and the cinematography, while good, wasn't able to do anything for this film. If you want a movie to fall asleep too, this is your pick.

The Namesake

It doesn't happen often that I feel bad about giving a movie four stars, but in this case I really think it could be a five. The music was truly beautiful and the story was as timeless an American story as any other. Experience the life of an Indian family, from immigration to the rediscovery of ethnic heritage. But that really sounds so cold, while this movie is a warm loving adventure. The only reason I had a hard time giving this one a five was because of Kal Penn. I think I would have gone with a big bollywood star for his part. He did well, but I just felt that his performance wasn't up to his co-stars. Although I would say it was his best acting performance as of yet. A Great sound design and a touching story made the few flaws in this movie forgivable.

Tony Takitani

This really isn't your average movie. It seems like it's going to be about an amazing boy genius in the beginning, but then it passes through time like water, and comes to it's focal point in the middle age of a seriously anti-social artist, who's life and relationships with the people around him is anything but normal. Forced at times this script definitely had its short comings, but the message and delivery of that message was beautiful. We humans are social creatures, but if you live alone long enough you become accustomed to it, only to have that comfort shattered by a simple look or touch. Very interesting take on the life of Tony Takitani.

Feast of Love

You know what? I gave it three stars because this movie just kept making me feel so sorry for Greg Kinnear. I thought Morgan Freeman played his wise self very well. Actually I thought he went above and beyond. If it wasn't for him I probably would have hated this movie. His character was sad but truly a beautiful example of the human experience. I cried one tear, but my eyes were misty an awful lot. The cinematography was above average and made Portland look like a great place to live. Sound design could have been better but got the job done. Usually I'd give this movie two stars and say that it was almost three stars, but this time I'll just round up. Touching movie with lots of commentary on the idea of love. Do you think love is everything? Or just a primal feeling that encourages procreation?

Snakes on a Plane

The only thing enjoyable about this movie is that the snakes kept attacking peoples private parts. Lots of CGI snakes get loose on a plane and kill almost everyone. Samuel L. sure can pick them sometimes. I kept waiting for him to fall or get hit and make his classic "OH" sound. Didn't even get the pleasure of that. However the snakes, did offer plenty of killing in extremely comical fashion. Definitely wait for this to be played on T.V.

The Subject Was Roses

A piece of dramatic method acting genius. To many this movie will be seen as slow and uneventful. However, to the well trained ear and mind, the subject matter is so powerful and every bit relevant to the American condition. This movie is an argument dealing with war and the psychological repercussions that are inflicted on its survivors. Martin Sheen delivers the best performance I've ever seen from him. Strong, confused and haunted by the immorality and inhumanity of war. This movie is a reproduction from a play, and does not try to stray away from strong acting performances. This movie is the reason Martin Sheen is still around today.

The Pet

I'm not sure why anyone would want to watch this movie other than to see just how sick the human mind can be. I've seen porn movies with better acting. This is a hard core human enslavement fetish movie. I don't believe in censorship, but in this case I would hope that people would sensor themselves from this awful movie. I didn't know that there were movies this bad being distributed in the main stream. If I could I'd give this movie negative stars. Terrible acting, Terrible subject matter displayed in an untasteful and uninteresting manner. The only thing you will get from this movie is the creeps, and the question "Why"?

In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale

"Hey guys I got an Idea lets make a fantasy movie". You know like "Lord of the Rings". HaHaHa. This movie is terrible. Not even terrible funny, just terrible. Burt Reynolds needs to stick to creepy old porn type characters. Ray Liotta? What the F..k is wrong with him? Does he really need to work that much? Did he have to say yes to the role, because so many of his drinking pals decided it would be fun. There were even some hippy tree people. Stupid looking "Orc" type characters, and that annoying girl that I hate, Sobieski. They keep Forlani alive until the end so she can be the savior, but kill her and Statham's little son off early. Matthew Lillard? What is up with this movie? How does sh.t like this get made in Hollywood? Stay away from this one, unless you really enjoy torture.

Rambo

I can't help but be amazed with myself for giving this movie four stars, but it was just so damn funny. This movie literally takes bloody conflict to new heights. There was completely impossible senseless Rambo killing that had me laugh harder than I've laughed in a long time. This movie is bound to go down in history as one of the greatest worst movies ever made. Sylvester Stallone has never looked worse. And his acting is exactly as you should expect, bad. Ironically the subject matter was serious, and brought to the screen just some of the real carnage that has been going on in Burma and South East Asia, although it was taken completely out of context and there was no explanation or background setting to explain the problems plaguing Burma. Unlike "First Blood" this movie was strictly a bloody gratuitous violence extravaganza.

Rockaway

Don't expect too much from this film. If your looking for a good revenge flick, with some Latin Machismo, and some U.S. military pride and honor, your gonna love this movie. There were some good special affects with exploding heads and bullet hole effects. Other than that, the bleeding eyes needed some serious work. I did like the the commentary on the plight of urban America. This is a good "B" movie.

2 Days in Paris

This movie points out exactly why I hate French people. I love thier art, literature and movies. But their sense of superiority drives me crazy. Though, I'm positive that's why they hate Americans,or maybe they think we are all Fascists, which might not be to far from the truth anymore. Maybe it's that we like our food to fast and served with a smile, or that we expect everyone to speak English. All of this aside, I love to hate Americans too, but I am American so I am entitled to an opinion. Another possible reason this movie was like pulling teeth for me, was because I have had the unfortunate experience of being in a similar situation. This movie did have a few moments of brilliance, but those moments where diluted with schizophrenic, incoherent, high brow, anal humor. I generally love these movies, however for this one I only gave it three stars because it managed to keep my attention, even though it was agonizing for me to watch. It was like extremely hot pizza. It burned the top of my mouth, but somehow tasted good. However, the next day you will be playing with stringy pieces of flesh hanging from the top of your mouth. Of course, the flesh in this case will be the emotional failures of past relationships. This is a deep evaluation into the complexities of two people from different worlds trying to love each other. I must say I really loved the ending of this movie though. I think it sums up monogamy pretty well.

Appleseed: Ex Machina

In this next installment to the appleseed world, Bioroids and humans are up to their same old shananagans. What is great is that the computerized CGI animation is even more amazing than last Appleseed. Hard to Amagine, yes, but truly a must see to believe. Characters are predictable, plot is transparent, but this movie is so visually stunning that the only other movie to compare it to right now is "BeoWulf". Thus, if you like Anime and other movies like "Appleseed", and the Final Fantancies then you will most likly engoy this visual masterpiece. Truly amazing what they are doing these days.

Cloverfield

I absolutely loved this movie. I am quite a fan of the raw film making style, even though this was a big budget film, the camera work made it that much more interesting. I was torn on whether or not I would have liked to see another perspective. But I congratulate Matt Reeves for sticking to this one perspective out look. This was the realist looking Monster flick that I've ever experienced. It is a must, to see this in a theater. If that is impossible than at least find a friend with a surround sound system and a really big screen Tele. I liked how the beginning of this movie drew me into the lives of the characters only to interrupt their life with a ravenous New York destroying monster. When the movie ended, I wanted more. I didn't want it to be over. What happened? Man, I really want more. From Felicity to this, wow. Good job Reeves. Godzilla watch out! In an era of reality t.v., what is better than a reality like monster film. Fun,Fun,Fun.

Beowulf: Director's Cut

Now this was truly a first for me. Actually recognizing virtual representations of actors? Wow. Angelina Jolie was hot as a water goddess and John Malkovich was slimmy and cunning as ever. Anthony Hopkins was jolly and full of his loud self. You know, I'd like to say that they did the original story justice, but for the likes of me I can't remember it. It seemed as if it followed the original story well? Funny, Grindle did not look anything like what I had envisioned him though. I must say though, I wish I had seen this movie in 3D, I heard it was spectacular. As for the story line, it is as old as time and stories for that matter. So if you like the fantasy genre, then this movie is definitely for you. If your a literary type, well you should never go to a movie and expect it to look as if it were out of your own imagination. Needless to say, I thought this movie represents the tip of the iceberg for the future of CGI and movie making in General. Stunning and Fun.

Election

Ok so according to Tarantino "Election" was "the best film of the Year"(everything tarantino.com). I not sure if it lives up to that much hipe considering the quantity of good movies released this year, but it was a really good movie. If offers the viewer an interesting look into the inner workings of the chinese "Triad" mobsters of Hong Kong. If your expecting a portraite of government policy, then you will be disapointed because this movie is more about glorifying crime, not unlike the "Godfather". While I compare this to one of the greatest movies of all time, it does fall short in my opinion. I thoght the sound design was better in "Godfather" and that this movie lacked the intimate view into the life of a man who took power. This movie was often just all over the place, trying to give the audiance the bigger picture. Sometimes as an audience the bigger picture is best left imagined. While this is not the chinese "Godfather" it is a chinese classic. The acting was ok, not the best, but ok. It was the story line that made this movie simply interesting. This is not "Infernal Affairs" either, but it is what is, a good mofia movie.

Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium

Where did this movie go wrong? It had so much potential with such a strong start. It could have been a new "Willy Wonka", but instead it ended the movie as a stupid "Mary Poppins". This movie had a lot of good messages about self discovery and the importance of imagination and determination. However, it lacked the right screen play to illustrate these fine points. While I liked Dustin Hoffman in the Beginning, towards the end I wanted him to die. I wonder how a child would view this movie though. I think they'd love it, and that is why I gave it three stars. It's a good kid flick.

Hanzo the Razor: The Snare

Of the many samurai movies that I've seen, this one is probably going to go down a one of my favorites. Yasuzo Masumura is truly as sado masochist, but his films are so unique and intrieguing that I can't help but love them. I see a lot of Terintino in Masumura, and that means that he must be a major influence. Hanzo the Razor is undoubtedly the hardest samuai cop flick I've ever seen. A samurai master for justice, A glutton for pain, A desecrater of societal idiosyncrasies, and the a true representation of the Iron hand of law taking on the curruption of the Rich. This is Robin Hood, Kill Bill, and Dirty Harry all rapped up into one movie. Awesome.

The Butcher Boy

I'm quite glad to see that I don't agree with Ebert all the time. I thought this movie was a wonderful example of Nietzschian power dynamics. Eamonn Owens plays the most endearing bully that I've ever seen. I don't know why, but his fratinazation with the towns people was great. Plus his fascination with his best friend became almost homosexual, until I realized that it was truly a need for love which drove him to his murderous character flaw. Great Movie.

Elfen Lied

I'm am glad to be surprised about this blood and animated boob festival. Even a psychopathic psychokinetic psychogenetic mutant has a side that is cute. Underneath all of the homicide and voyarism, the antiquated sexual humor made this a wonderful sick and twisted adult animation. Lots of Blood and dissmemberment, murderous intent and even some adolescent repressive behavior which the Japanse seem to have down to an art. I'm Hooked, I can't wait to watch the rest of this series.

Death Sentence

Well there isn't a whole lot of value in this movie, its early cheesy perfect family set up, that lead to its predictable crazy revenge scheme later was obvious. I must say though there was a lot of good gore, and the hysterical multi racial bald headed gang that drove old muscle cars was unique. The leader of the gang was quite intimidating, but that made it just that much more laughable when it came time for an insurance executive to go "Rambo" on some drug dealing thugs. John Goodman was an interesting pick for this movie. As a matter of fact I accept him in his part much more than I do Kevin Bacon. Seriously was Van Damme or Segal too busy? I gave it three stars because of it's comic value and because it had some good camera work and special effects in the form of blood and guts.

We Own the Night

Can't say I hated it, and I can't say I liked it. What I can say is that is was interesting and flowed decently. That being said, I didn't like Wahlberg or Phoenix in this movie. Normally I'm a big fan of both of theirs. But for some reason, Wahlberg the cop is boring and Phoenix the lead actor wasn't good enough. This story seemed very old, like I had seen it a million times and the twist just wasn't interesting enough. Russian drug dealers, justice fighting New York cops. This movie was no fun. I got board and disappointed in the middle. I then found myself waiting for this movie to end. And when it did, it ended stupidly. Good stunt work, descent acting and sound design the plot wasn't atrocious, but in the end I felt that casting just didn't work for me. I did like Eva Mendes though and was glad they didn't make her character completely predicable. Entertaining yes, better than average? No way Jose.

Seance

Well, not Kiyoshi Kurosawa's best attempt. The story line was nothing new for a horror movie. However the presentation was done well. The little girl in the green dress was creepy, but ultimately the moralistic theme was seriously obvious, and this movies predictability just killed it for me. Plus I kept waiting to see how the world was going to end this time and it just didn't. Oh well. It had it's few creepy moments but that was about it.

Kill Bill: Vol. 2

I loved this movie the first time, and will continue loving it probably forever. Tarantino, crafts this second half of "Kill Bill" beautifully. I enjoyed the second half more than the first, although not by much, considering they are basically the same movie. Uma Uma Uma, is as interesting a blond headed she devil as ever and David Carradine is still a cool evil version of his "Kung Fu" character, and this time without his stupid son.

The Bothersome Man

In the true style of "Brazil" this psychoanalytical dream sequence messes with your mind and senses. Take a walk into insanity and fall face first into alternate realities of your mind. I thought this movie was extremely interesting and that it says a lot about modern society and how methodical our lives are. I especially took notice to the care in which Lien took to divulge how fake people are. I love that he forces the issue of people accepting a fake reality in order to appear happy on the Surface. "Most People are happy here" Brilliant. The ending kind of through me off a little and at times this movie moved very slow. I can see how some people might just loose interest in the subtleties of dialog and morose tone of this movie. I thought it was intriguing and well made, right down to the lighting and sound design.

Into the Wild

I had seriously been waiting to see this movie. Don't know why I didn't go to the theaters to see it. Ultimately a theater wasn't needed for the desired effect, which was depressingly beautiful. I only gave it four stars, but I really think it deserves almost five, just because of the anti-establishment material it contains and the amazing cinema photography. I want to be wild too, but more like in a Winnebago. This true story was told beautifully by Sean Penn, and the sound track by Vedder was amazing, no it is haunting. I think this movie will be playing with my psyche for years to come. Even if just a little, I think we all want to be free of this oppressive machine we call society. Stunningly sad and beautiful movie.

Cinema Paradiso

A beautiful masterpiece of a movie. Love, comedy and tragedy all boiled together in a Giant pot of Marinara, just waiting to be pored on top of finely crafted linguine. From beginning to finish this movie holds your attention with the story line and Cinematography. The acting by the little boy is amazing and his hold on the essence of life is Bellissimo. I must say though, that I thought that the original version had more of an emotional impact than the directors cut. I suggest that you watch the original version first. I can't believe it took me this long to watch this movie.

Romance & Cigarettes

I couldn't help but fall in love with the many one liners and crazy antics that are seemingly realistic doorways into the lives of many working class families. However, I must say that the fact that It was a musical really just killed it for me. I thought Christopher Walken's little Gene Kellyish scene was funny as hell and Gandolfini's attempt equally funny. But as for the rest of the musical scores, I just felt that they distracted me from the real and interesting plot that was developing from already fascinating characters and screen play. I really think I'm being generous by giving this movie three stars. However, those few scenes that had me truly fascinated, like Kate Winslet's dirty little mouth, and Gandolfini's appearance of nearly having a fatal heart attack in every scene was great. Plus christopher Walken and Susan Sarandon's interactions were equally fun. I'd love to see them do another comedy together. Ultimately this movie had some really good idea's, the musical part not being one of them. It's amazed me too that at the very end, they add a great cinematography shot, its almost like, where did that come from. It was good for what it was. A bad musical, good drama.

The Darjeeling Limited

Well, there really isn't much that I want to say about this movie other than I loved it. I guess its a Wes Anderson thing. I want to live my life in his head. I love his sophisticated satirical phases and try my best to walk around this life, asking myself, How would Wes Anderson write this situation into a scene? Adrien Brody, Owen Wilson and Jason Schwartzman combined perfectly into this quirky comedy. Someone told me that Wes Anderson and Jason Schartzman just wanted to go to India. I love that. I guess they wanted to go to France too, and make Natalie Portman get nude for a short film. Haha. The only criticism that I have about this movie is that, I think Wes might have gotten a little carried away on the slow motion. It got old during the last scene. It wasn't bad enough to hurt the film, just a nit picky observation.

Death at a Funeral

For those of you with a taste for British humor, then this probably isn't your cup of tea. Surprisingly the comedy is immensely slapstick. Its more in the style of the newer more raunchy British comedies like "Shaun of the Dead". Good fun old boy. So grab your self a cucumber sandwich and have a smashing time with this diddy. Includes, homosexuality,drug humor and an angry blackmailing hallucinating little evil elf from some dimension of hell. Very funny.

Martian Child

This movie offers a look into the life of a troubled young boy and a depressed John Cusack, go figure. Not a really strong acting performance by anyone in this movie. The script seemed as if it could have gotten interesting in the middle but then gave up on interesting and went for stupid disneyish feel good movie. Either way, I didn't really feel good after this movie, I was really just asking how I made it through it. If your a mother, or possibly a social worker who deals with kids, this movie might be mildly entertaining. As for me, it didn't take me to any emotional penicles, it really just left me wondering if I was going to cry, because I was so bored. There is some major cute factor to this movie, but the kid just started getting anoying.

Lust, Caution

This was an interesting new tail from Ang Lee on a topic that isn't often seen. Original screen play is a plus. Graffic sexual content was not over done in my opinion, because it was needed to paint an accurate picture of "lust" and how it can be confused with love. As for the "caution" part of the movie, well lets just say I knocked a star off what would have been close to a master piece because of the ending. The more I think about it though, the more I like the ending, Maybe. Excellent acting performances by Tony Leung and Joan Chen. I really felt the Chemistry between them and it looked like they felt it too, hint hint. Cinema photagraphy wasn't that special, but the emotional content was great. I'd say this is close to a five star movie.

Karas: The Revelation

The long awaited sequel to the "Karas:The Prophecy", Revelation delivered more of the same shape shifting supernatural demon samurai action, but lacked some of Prophecies mystery and intrigue. There are definite improvements in the animation, but I really felt the ending was cheese ball predictable. Still liked it though for the animation value. Tons of blood and killing made this sequel graphic and disturbing at moments but the little demons and the City's mysterious spirit world and protector Goddess lost its mystery and therefor became boring. Too bad.

My Blueberry Nights

Not a bad job for Wong Kar Wai's first attempt at an English film. I can't but acknowledge that Norah Jones's acting performance was amateurish and that Wai has taken his extreme slow motion effect a little too far in this one. Other than those two criticisms, I loved this movie. Wai found a way to express his dramatic genius in English very effectively. I must say that Rachel Weisz and David Strathairn were the too saviors of this film. While Jude Law and Natalie Portman gave good performances, it was Weisz and Strathairn who really turned up the drama to the extent that I expect from a Wai film. Norah's song in this movie played a key role in setting the mood. Really happy to have seen this movie. I was a little disappointed with "2046" but I'm glad Wai didn't take another five years to make another film, I've become quite an admirer.

Becoming Jane

You know as for Jane Austen movies this one wasn't as good as the "Pride and the Prejudice" with Keira knightly but it was better than most of the other versions. I did like how this movie, while mirroring Jane Austins imaginary world in the Pride and Prejudice, was able to reveal some truths about Ms. Austin. Anne Hathaway's portrayal was interesting, but not as interesting as Keira's. It's unfortunate that they must be compared, however when stepping into a role that has been played by so many it should be expected. That being said, this movie was well made, the cinema photography was excellent, and the acting was good. It really didn't step out of the box, but this movie did seem like it was somewhat biographical. So for that I would say that this movie was closer to four stars.

American Gangster

Man, i can't help but think about what my seriously nit picky film grad coworker keeps saying about Denzel Washington's performance. Which is that he is trying to be Al Pacinio and just yell a lot. Funny as that may be, I really liked seeing a gangster film that didn't involve a Sicilian or ghetto thug as its hero. I thought Denzel's character was fascinating and intelligent, agreeably not a huge stretch for Denzel, but well casted and executed. Not a master piece like the godfather, but a very good look into the life of a man who dared to take on the establishment in his own way. Fear and Greed are just a few things that make this movie great.

Fay Grim

There is something that I really like about Parker Posey, maybe its her mannerisms or it could just be her sexy voice, whatever it is it really helps this movie. Jeff Goldblum was really nothing to mention, I really think maybe he was just entirely wrong for this role, but he didn't hurt this espionage crime comedy. I say comedy because I thought Parker was hilarious. I liked it.

Sophie Scholl: The Final Days

I feel like I could be being a little harsh on this film, but I can't help but think that this movie is a serious psychological cop out for Germans. I would understand why a German would like this movie. I mean it says, "hey look, not all Germans were bad, some even died to protect the ideas of morality and Conscience". Poppycock I say. This movie had an obvious agenda, which was to relieve the amount of guilt Germans must carry for being know as the people who attempted to exterminate an entire race of human beings. I can hear some of my German friends now, "ah but you Americans tried to exterminate all the Native Americans", well that isn't entirely accurate because there are still Native Americans in the U.S. today who are doing quite well for themselves now that they've learned how to take advantage of American guilt. Hmmm, Could this be the German "Dances with Wolves"? Not really, its just a failed attempt at trying to make me feel sympathetic for a few Germans who tried to as Spike Lee would say, "Do the Right thing".

A Snake of June

An intriguing look into the life of an average sexually repressed married Japanese woman. Married to an older and seemingly impotent husband, she begins to develop sexual abnormalities, which includes public masturbation. This movie takes a twist when an unlikely stranger blackmails her into revealing her true sexual nature. This movie has a major water fetish, and deals with sexual obsession and repression. I guess black and white is a stylistic choice, however I don't think it made this movie any better or worse. If anything, I think it would have been better in color. Some strange drowning seen also added to the intrigue of this film.

Cafe Lumiere

Ok to be fair I watched this movie while fixing a glitch in my computer, but I only started working on my computer because this movie was boring the hell out me. There were a few train track shots that were fascinating, and I can't help but wonder if I missed something profound, but ultimately this movie was boring and uneventful.

La Repetition

This movie was entertaining, but not especially a masterpiece. It tells the story of two girls, one which is obviously a lesbian and the other who is more selfish and deviant than gay. This movie does have some endearing qualities to it, but ultimately it comes down to this. If your gay and you can relate to the torments and the road that one must travel to shake the negative stigma that keeps most people straight, then you will love this movie. If your a straight male looking for some masturbatory material this movie is going to be a major disappoint.

Waking the Dead

Both haunting (literally) and beautiful this movie tells the story of a love story between an aspiring politician and a social worker. Ya you could say this movie offers two sides to two different ideological arguments. One being idealism and the other being institutionalism. While both are so called "liberal", this movie ingeniously shows the debate between both sides of this liberal paradox. I'm making this movie out to be extremely complex but in many ways it was a whole lot more than just boy meets girl who is the opposite from him and boy falls hopelessly in love with her. Jenifer Connelly becomes Billy Crudup conscience and soul. Her idealism corrupts him so absolutely that during a lot of this movie he is loosing his mind. I also can't help but wonder if the title is trying to say something profound. Could it be saying that liberalism today is dead because it has lost it's idealism? And that if America is going to save itself from absolute corruption, then each individual congressman is going to have to do their part to make a difference in the lives of their constituencies? This movie has so many layers, and the love story was tragic and beautiful. I think I love this movie more now after having looked deeply into its many layers. Genius, I tell you. Its even got some commentary on religion if look closely. If I could make a film, it would be something like "Waking the Dead".

The Lovers of the Arctic Circle

This movie is a beautiful portrait of love seen through the eyes of both children and Adults. I liked the complexity and the rich story line that grabbed me and kept me interested. This is not Romeo and Juliet, but rather more like Hamlet. So I guess it's a divine comedy not a tragedy. The characters, particularly the child actors are fascinating and lovable, while there adult counter parts performed exceptionally. Its funny though I really didn't like the ending, it didn't seem to fit. It seemed forced and therefore left me emotionally unaffected. However this movie as a whole was still really good.

Gone Baby Gone

Ben Affleck is a much better director than actor. Ben's brother Casey, did a fantastic job. His performance was amazing. Morgan Freeman and Ed Harris seemed like their normal selves but that was just fine for this movie, especially since the were playing supporting characters. I loved Michelle Monaghan. I thought her role accented Casey's performance perfectly. The screen play was great, it had me thinking it was over a few times, and then it pulled me back in. I think Ben needs to stay behind the camera from now on if he can keep pulling off great movies like this off.

Disco Pigs

The begining of the movie was so beautiful and pulled me right in, but it pulled me into a confusing Romeo and Juliet plot that ended with me confused. I was happy,angry,sad and disappointed for most of this movie. It kept me on my toes trying to distinguish their seriously thick Irish accents, but I love that sort of charm. Heart renching and beautiful, this movie is deviantly enchanting.

One Missed Call

So this movie had some really creepy parts but as with many of Miike's movies he just doesn't seem to be able to learn how to finish a movie. I guess it happens in the production process. But this really doesn't really feel like a Miike movie. Sometimes I think he just lends other people his name to make not really great movies. There were some pretty creepy scenes though, and they were the only reason this movie got a three.

P2

Ok so thats interesting? Franck Khalfoun was an actor in "High Tension" which was a great French horror film. I might be out of the majority here, but I really liked this film. It had some great horror cliche's that made me laugh, like the completely delusional psychotic creep and a super female heroin that can escape anything. Simon Reynolds was hilarious and Rachel Nichols has really nice cleavage, she runs around in this dress with her breast just speaking to me in every scene. It was so overly sexist that I couldn't help but just eat it up. Creepiness, comedy and even some good gore. For all the ladies who have to walk to their cars in dark parking garages, beware this one is bound to make you think about taking mass transit.

Michael Clayton

Wow, I'm stunned. Tony Gilroy has done something most directors can't do their whole carriers his first time out, and that is create and excellent movie. This movie was so clean and flowed so well that it was really easy to watch. The best lawyer flick that I've seen this year. The acting was great, the story was realistic and intriguing and I never got board, which usually happens when I watch crime dramas. This is "Law and Order" the way it should be. Well acted, directed, and flawlessly shot. Gilroy's got a serious future in Hollywood. This movie deserves all the good reviews and praise.

Brainscan

For me this was the best horror movie of 1994. Edward Furlong jumps from his success in T2 to this little known horror classic. This movie came before all those other internet horror flicks and it puts all of them to shame. Psychologically thrilling, Schizophrenically complex and there is a cheesy, almost evil clownish dark villain. If you liked movies like "In the Mouth of Madness" then you will enjoy this 90's teen horror classic. I added teen in there because I was a teen when I first watched it, but it holds up to the test of time.

Hitman

I gave this movie three stars strictly for a few scenes in this movie where Olyphant throws his Russian love interest into the trunk. Some good action, some good stunt work, but nothing ground breaking in my opinion. Bad acting, potentially a good script but ultimately Gens just couldn't put anything together right. The beginning felt rushed, plot twist obvious. Three stars is gracious.

Antonia

I don't know what it is about Brazilians but I just can't seem to get enough of them. They have so much life and this movie just portrays another aspect of Brazilian culture, the Hip Hop culture. Great music, inspirational story and good acting. Cinema photograph does a good job of capturing the struggles of a people struggling in an impoverished nation. However, that's really not what this film is about. It's about following a dream and never giving up.

Dora-Heita

Not the best Samurai movie I've seen but not the worst either. I thought it was well made and well acted, it just didn't seem to stand out from some of the other masters. Still enjoyable and a good rent for those of you who love Samurai flicks.

The Golden Compass

Cool special effects, but way too much. The Cgi just got boring and the story didn't grab me like other fantasy movies. Definitely no "Harry Potter" here. I really hated Kidman in this role. Liked the the Polar bears, but that was about it. Seriously, this was nothing special and when it came time for the ending, they left it open. Crappy. Worst movie I've seen in a long time.

Grave of the Fireflies

I rented this movie a long time ago and just couldn't get through the first ten minutes of it. But after reading other reviews and other friends rant on about it, I had to re-rent it and watch it again. I sure am glad I did, (or not). This movie was probably one of the saddest movies I've seen this year. It was like "nobody knows" but placed in WWII Japan which just made it that much more tragic. It was interesting to watch the Japanese perspective of their homeland being reduced to ashes by incendiary bombs. Great artwork, very engaging subject matter. Not for Kids, unless you want to see them cry and then have to explain to them subjects like death and war.

Flower and Snake

Ok So I'm not sure what is wrong with this movie but it didn't want to play in my dvd player. I had to watch it on my computer.??? Lost a star for that and it was just an all around bondage extravaganza and well, I'm just not into that too much. Other than that the lead actress is very pretty and is naked for most of the movie. This is a soft core bondage film with little theatrical value. Still it was crazy to watch.

Naked

The title of this movie seems to scream porn, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. There are sex scenes in this movie, however they were rather violent. Strange and demented, Masochistic and yet somehow refreshing. This movie is exciting from the beginning to the end. There is some serious cockney accents going on in this film though, I thought it added to its charm. I'm sure others might be turned off. I don't know why but I understand broken English quite well. Maybe its because I was dyslexic when I was young.

Welcome to the NHK

Like the cover, this Anime series is pretty close to Hentai. I haven't enjoyed an Anime series this much in a while. The lead character epitomizes anti social behavior. Apparently this is quite common in Japan because there is a word for this phenomenon. In English we would say a Recluse, but that doesn't really encapsulate the complete meaning in Japanese which is closer to to Reclusive/geeky/paranoid person. How will he brake his fear of living in the outside world? Add some comedy and lovable characters and thats what this animated series is about. Funny, perverted, romantic with a touch of complexity. Just what I like.

Vibrator

I wonder if the Japanese know what a Vibrator is in America? It seems to be a language discrepancy, because the only thing vibrating in this movie is a phone. Maybe it was intentional. Funny too because I had this movie in my list forever and kept putting it off because of the bad reviews. I'm glad that I read a friends review and decided to watch it because it was great. It's an intimate look into the life of two very unique and lonely people. One is a truck driver and the other is a curious lady in a mini-mart. Slow at times, lots of dialog, but the scenery offers a look from the roads of Japan. A look that many Americans like myself haven't seen yet. A Japanese trucker's love story, love on the road, both possible alternative titles, but this story's lead actor is really Nao Omori, who is beautiful and tantalizing till the last second. She seemed to have some sort of innocence of the soul that I find so attractive.

The Brave One

Jodie Foster and Terrence Howard both deliver great performances. I felt deep sadness,pity paranoia and rage. I couldn't help but sympathize with Fosters character. Jodie delivered a great performance. I really felt that she stepped out of her comfort zone and really got into the role of a victim. It almost seems like she has had some experience with victimization. I really love this side of Jodie Foster, smart, sexy and vulnerable. Bravo, good flick.

The Bridesmaid

This was a very interesting movie. That sounds like such a lame review I know, but I really enjoyed the characters and the topic of love told in a psychotic fashion. Care free and fun?, well this movie speaks to those who have ever dealt with a little fanatical love. Obsession, murder and sex for love pretty much describes this film. However, it also gives some insight into the family life of a French family and how they view relationships. Fun movie.

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

Wow, Ben's brother can act. I guess Casey Affleck took some queues from his older brother and ran with them. Look out for Casey because he's going to be bigger than his brother. He's already a better actor and he has a certain androgynous character not unlike his co-star Brad Pitt. Two pretty dudes deliver two powerful performances. Brads' portrayal of Jessie James was exceptional and Casey has just proven himself to be a star. This movie is slow and doesn't flow extremely well, so normally I would probably have given this three stars, but buy the end of this movie I was left feeling indifferent. I think there is a little bit of genius in this movie. Pay attention to the title, because I, probably like many other Americans, thought this movie was about Jessie James, but in actuality the title is exactly what this movie is about and I believe that was what was genius. It helped that the supporting cast was great and that the cinema photography was nothing less than excellent. Why not five stars? Well, I'm still thinking about it, guess I'll have to watch it again to decide. Haha. That in itself should mean that it is at least better than a four stars.

Sweeney Todd

Johnny Depp can sing? Well I'll be dammed he isn't half bad. I thought I was going to be laughing this whole movie, but I was delightfully disappointed. Depp, as usual, did a fantastic job. His character was a really evil singing captain Jack Sparrow. Helena Bonham Carter was as Gothic as ever and her English accent was great. Tim Burton meets Rogers and Hammerstein could be another way of describing this movie. The musical choreography was perfectly timed, and other than the first fifteen minutes of adjusting to seeing Johnny Depp singing, the graphic stylistic horror sequences were filled with really bloody splatters and tons of slashing. The characters were fascinating and will hold your attention until the very end. Stunning and beautifully black, "Sweeney Todd" was amazing. It only lost a star because it was a true musical and I really don't like musicals on screen. However, if I were to see this on stage, I would give it five stars.

Rebels of the Neon God

Ok so Liang delivers another one of his water fetish movies. At least there wasn't any father son sex in this one. I'm really not sure why I liked this movie, but it did do a good job of explaining life through the eyes of some young thugs and an obsessed student. Nothing super great or bad about this movie. The acting was good and the setting was interesting.

King of California

Was this staring Michael or Kirk Douglas? It was really obvious that Michaels' inspiration in this movie was his aged father and it turned out great. Crazy, zany and fun are a few words to describe this movie. There are not really to many things to criticize in this movie, other than it was just an average good clean fun movie. Nothing extremely special, but extremely entertaining for a quite evening at home. Evan Rachel Wood also did a great job in portraying Douglas's daughter. I guess this movie is about three and half stars.

Atonement

Very beautiful cinema photography, good acting and an interesting plot. If you like good drama's then this movie's for you. Keira Knightley is much better suited to this role than that of a Pirate's women. Her performance was good, but it was young Saoirse Ronan who really stole the show in this movie. Her curiosity and innocence was wonderful and her mischievous nature was very entertaining. I liked how this movie painted a realistic portrait of the life of a writer who demonstrated that words can immortalize and pay tribute to those you have loved. Great movie.

Young Thugs: Innocent Blood

Miike delivers yet another interesting movie about the life of a thug in Japan. This movie had some really interesting scenes, but ultimately it was too long and over dramatic. This movie really failed to piece the time line together in a concise manner. I can't believe I'm going to say this but, bad editing. This could have been a much better movie if some scenes were just taken out all together. I think this movie really had the opportunity to express the human struggle, but ultimately failed to capture my attention, due to an over wordy script. Still a good movie to watch, because of the few moments of genius that shine through all the mellow drama.

The Anarchist Cookbook

Nothing really special in the acting or the directing in this movie. It wasn't as tragic as "Trainspotting" or "SLC Punk", while it still shared the same message. I guess it was the message that made this movie worth watching. I loved the look into the life of Anarchists. Funny and interesting at times, but the acting really pulled this movie down. For some reason I really just didn't care about any of these characters and that just made it hard to watch at times.

There Will Be Blood

Powerful is probably the best word for this movie. Daniel Day-Lewis is so intense that at times he seems like the devil incarnate. The reality is that he is the true embodiment of an Oil Man. It's not ironic that oil is dark, because Daniel's heart is truly black by the end of this movie. This is one of the most anti organized religion movies that I've ever seen. The best part of this movie is that it always leaves you guessing. The timing and the music by radio heads guitarist was perfect in this movie. A real masterpiece that builds with every scene until it climaxes and ends. This movie really is worth all the hype. Christians beware, this movie deals with the hypocritical nature of preachers.

3:10 to Yuma

Roger Ebert gave this five stars, wow. I just don't see it. This was a great movie, very well made but it certainly was not up "Tombstone","Young Guns I or II", and it certainly doesn't come close to any of the Spaghetti Westerns of Clint Eastwood. That being said it did feel like an old John Ford western and if he were still alive I think he'd approve. So lets recap, this is a good movie, the acting was good, the stunts were good, the sequencing was good and the timing was flawless. Well think that's where it went wrong. Very predictable and in my opinion the first 3:10 to Yuma was better. This is an above average western don't expect "Unforgiven" here.

Beijing Rocks

I was shocked to see some of the good reviews about this movie. While this movies potential was seemingly endless, its actual performance couldn't even be said to be raw. It was just bad movie making. The Beijing Rock band that they followed (Sucked bad), and their attempted portrayal of a Beijing punk was comedy. Not much to be pleased about in this movie. Only thing I did like was that it had Qi Shu, who's performance could have made me enjoy this film if it wasn't so terrible. There were a few moments where this movie could have kept me interested but those moments quickly turned into badly acted talky sequences that really just left me wondering when this movie would be over. No really effective moral message, and the ending was so anticlimactic that it was silly. BAD, very BAD.

Jimmy and Judy

OK so, the modern day "Bonnie and Clyde"? Yep, I'd say so. This movie is extremely raw, shot with a handhold almost the entire movie, so expect shaky screen shots and even breaks in the tape to make it look even more home videoish. I personally thought it was brilliant and that Edward Furlong completely nailed this part. His over partied and fast fooded body fits him well in this role. This movie looks like Ed made this movie himself. The story line was great and the whole "Bonnie and Clyde" illusion really worked for this f'd up movie. Check it out if you like movies like "kids" and "Natural Born Killers" because this movie is a crossbreed.

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead

Marisa Tomei is getting finer with age, but its too bad that this well casted movie failed to deliver a fluent experience. Amazingly the acting in this movie was great and even the content was interesting. Lets just say if you want to see Hoffman and Tomei get it on check this out. It was truly beauty and the beast. Bravo Lumet for that at least.

Lions for Lambs

Understandably this movie is not for everyone. However, if you are interested in a strong politically charged debate on what is wrong with America today, then this movie will ask some tough questions that all Americans should be asking themselves. Not particularly the greatest shot movie, but the action that is tied into the movie delivers a bang to all of you out there who took the "red pill". Wake up America or take two steps back in the industrial revolution, back to a developing country.

Elizabeth: The Golden Age

I'm confused? This was a sequel right? Then why did they go over that same love story. This time around the love story just really didn't work between Clive Owen and Blanchett. Costume design and setting was great, that being said it was about all that was good in this movie. Really didn't get into the Characters, History was way distorted and the acting was over the top. If you want to see a good Elizabeth movie check out the first one and read a good book on the Elizabethan age.

Juno

I love that this movie lived up to the hype. It was funny, dramatic, and psychologically interesting. The laughs were very passively aggressive in that they were all part of her coping mechanism. This movie was brilliant on many levels, really entertaining for a larger audience. You can enjoy the beauty of how many issues this movie deals with or you can just sit back and watch this fun loving story about growing up and learning to deal with life as it happens. Awesome sound track which was just as authentic as Juno's personality. Great Movie.

Charlie Wilson's War

Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts in the same movie? Wow they forked out some doe for actors in this film and it played out nicely. The chemistry between Hanks and Roberts was great and Roberts played her minor role with grace, but it was Hoffman who really shined or rather gloomed. His deeply dark and passionate character made this film for me. Although without Hanks playing a philandering Senator, this film could easily have gotten depressing real quick. Serious content portrayed through the life of Senator Charlie Wilson a character for sure, but an honest and just Senator he surely seemed. This movie was just missing the emotional factor that this kind of movie needs. Still a great political commentary on the "Cold War" and the Russian/Afghanistan war.

The Flock

This was a terrible attempt at making another "Seven". While Gere's performance was good, it didn't seem authentic. This movie attempted to add gore and demented subject matter to utterly undeveloped and meaningless group of characters. I was really hoping Gere would catch a bullet in this one. There were a few cool looks into the Sadomasochists world, however they didn't seem to carry any weight, because they felt forced. I actually felt like the director wanted me to be scared or disgusted, but I wasn't, it all seemed really fake and I didn't care about anyone in this movie. Skipping this one would be good idea.

Vitus

I had forgotten how different the Swiss German dialect is, but this movie made it all come rushing back.(German Speakers) Aside from the aesthetic and etymological value, this movie is a wonderful look into the life of a young savant. The little boy in this movie steals the show with his understanding of life and how to achieve what he wants. This movie was entertaining and a true testament about what is possible if you put a little effort into something.(And you happen to be a Genius). Sweet, beautiful and cute are a just a few words to describe this film. It will keep you smiling until the very end. First Swiss movie I've seen and it seems they make movies just like their watches, with precision and quality. Timeless movie.

Nirvana: Unplugged in New York

Man a tear comes to my eye just thinking about the pain and suffering that comes out of what would be Kurt Cobain's last performance. This is a testament to the extent of his saddening genius. Kurt turns pain into a vocal masterpiece of drug ridden disparity. For all those thinking of starting Heroine, please think twice, a shotgun in the mouth is no way to go out and there's less than a billionth chance that you will have what it takes make it as far as Kurt did. So long Kurt, rest in peace from just another fan that wished you hadn't killed yourself. This was Nirvana's greatest work. It's ironic that I read that this was the music Kurt said he wanted to make but didn't feel that people would accept it. How wrong he was.

Family Guy: Blue Harvest

Ok So I'm going to be way out of the mainstream it seems on this one, but I seriously thought that this Family Guy had some serious issues. I just didn't think that these skits were original at all. If I wanted to watch Mystery Science Theater 3000 I would, but I hate that show. I love Star Wars, and I like Family Guy. I even like all the Star Wars flash backs. Man I hate to say this, but if family guy tries to make one theme funny, it just isn't that funny. The old molester is funny the first few times, but then he just becomes creepy, not funny. I really wanted to love this episode. It just wasn't funny. It crossed the line between funny and stupid. Normally I would say that's OK but here it just didn't work for me.

Once

This is easily one of the most beautiful and enchanting movies I have ever seen. The melody just won't get out of my head. This movie is a musical unlike any other that I've seen. I really felt like I was watching a record being made and the music is honestly so good that I bought this sound track. This movie says it's rated R but I really can't figure out why. I guess it might have cursed one too many times, but each time there was a curse word it was appropriate and seemed to fit into everyday conversation. Hats off to John Carney and Glen Hansard. Wow!!! Good acting, great music, and a wonderful story line that ends perfectly. I almost cried because of this movies pure magnificence. This is it people your not going to get a much better review out of me and I don't even really like musicals.

The Sword of Doom

To be completely honest with you I don't have a lot of experience with classic Japanese Samurai pictures other than "Seven Samurai" and "Shogun Assassin", which were certainly a great start. This movie is in a similar class accept the ending wasn't expected. Normally I would say that this is a great thing, however in this movie it seemed that there would be a classic ending. There are so many frustrations that are never really worked out or explained. This movie seemed very ground breaking for 1966 because the lead character was seemingly evil incarnate, but ironically there was empathy and pity for the main character. The more I think about this movie the more I like it.

Stand by Me

I can't say just how great of a match Rob Reiner and Stephen King,(Yes Stephen King), made in this movie. Who would of thought that the greatest Horror author of all time could also turn out such a great story about boyhood innocence and adventure. This is a movie that will touch the soul and leave it pleased to be alive. This movie jump started the carriers of all of the boys in this film, and will forever hold a place in America's pop culture. "Oh Darling, Darling, Stand, By Meee." (singing of course).

Strange Circus

I guess I was expecting something really far out there from Sion Sono who also directed "Suicide Clud/Circle" but this movie went way beyond all of my expectations. The begining of this movie pulls you in with a twisted and tragic story about a little girls life all the while jumping to a strange Japanese circus scene right out of "Paprika". Crazy isn't a word that incorporates how psychopathic this film is. This movie contains Molestation, extreme misogyny, dismemberment, suicide, murder and much more. With the amount of plot twists this movie had I was really getting angry, but somehow the ending made it all better. Beware this movie is extremely schizophrenic and violent, this is only for those of you who wish to push the boundaries of decency right off a cliff. I feel crazy for having liked this movie.

King of New York: Special Edition (Widescreen)

Only if I could describe the joy that this film brought me. It had an all star cast of actors who all ascend to the "A" list soon after this movie. Christopher Walken is absolutely at his best. Lots of drugs and violence, plus there is even a moral theme interwoven throughout this film. Who's really the evil person, the guy trying to do something good for the community or the establishment that is neglecting their responsibilities. This is a great anti-establishment film. I can't believe I hadn't seen this one.

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

As for jaded love stories about failing relationships and family turmoil, this easily slides into one of my favorite dark mellow dramas. If you haven't seen these beautiful acting performances by Paul Newman, and Burl Ives you should check this movie out. I have not red this Tennessee Williams Book, however this movie version was in my opinion the best movie of 1958. Apparently the Best Picture Oscar went to "Gigi" that year because this movie was said to be too controversial for Academy voters. However you look at it, this movie is excellent. The themes are still relevant today, although it does take a certain amount of appreciation for method acting.

Lilya 4-Ever

Take your heart and put in a blender and press frappe, because this movie is one of the saddest movies I've ever seen. Russians can't seem to get action films down, but they've corned the market on pain and suffering. Striking and realistic story about the life of an abandoned sixteen year girl abandoned by her mother. The first ten minutes of the movie almost had me in tears. The only reason I didn't give this one fix stars was because I was almost too sad. Not really powerful, just a really f..ked up story about how sh..ty life can really be. Just writing this review is making me really depressed. This was a really good movie.

Stardust

A modern princes bride? Ok I can see it, but I don't think that it is as classic. However, Robert de Niro made this movie for me. His little Flying sensitive pirate thing was hilarious. Michelle Pfeiffer? Well lets just say de Niro was great. The story line was cheesy but held my attention. I liked the whole falling stars theme. There's nothing really intellectual about this movie, just a little bit of Fantasy fandango.

The Great Dictator

Charley Chaplin is the greatest slapstick comedian of all time and I feel confident in saying that. If you don't know who Charlie is then you can't say your a fan of comedy or movies for that case. This movie is in the top ten of all movies made. I place it second after "Citizen Cane". Why? First of all this was Chaplin's first "talkie" which represented the death of all silent movies since he was really the last person to still be making them. Ok, if you don't know your history, here it is. Charlie accurately predicted and portrayed the plight of Jewish Germans living in Nazi Germany before any of Germany's atrocities had come to light. His satire is so moving that watching this movie today still brings a sense of deep inner grief and sadness for the victims of the Holocaust. It also stands to reason that this movie will go down in History as proof that the world knew that Germany's anti-semitic behavior was nothing short of dangerous and subhuman. Genius is probably the only word for this movie. One man, one person, one human was willing to stand up against the world not to mention a largely anti-semitic U.S. audience and say to them, appeasement is wrong and will lead to a great atrocity. At this point Chaplin knew something terrible was happening, but I'm sure a piece of him died after the full extent of the holocaust was revealed. His portrayal of Adolf Hitler was chilling at times hilarious at others. I still get a chill down my spine while watching certain parts of this movie. This movie is yet another movie that needs to be shown to all people to act as a reminder of just how evil racism and radical ideology can be. Great Movie. Life Changing Movie.

Broken English

Ok so I finally watched this one, and I can't help but just feel a rush of nostalgia right now. This was easily one of the best Romantic comedies that I've seen in a long time. The sound track is amazing and Parker Posey shows so much emotion that I almost had a panic attack right along side her. While she wandered through her daily life waiting for it to hit her in the face, and it did. I was almost in tears of sadness to relate to here anxiety about finding someone special. Why is it that for the few of us who choose to wait for the right person we always seem to forget that we are the right person and that we deserve to be happy. Great movie for single somebodies who can relate to getting older while everyone else seems to be married. There's one seen that sticks out especially, when Gena Rowlands says to Parker Posey, "your weird". It hit home real hard for me considering a married friend of mine uttered the exact same line to me. Why is it that if your single and searching for yourself and someone else to really share you, that your weird?

Millennium Mambo

Melodic and interesting from the begining to the end. I guess many people might say that this film didn't flow, or that it seemed to drag in the middle. However, I believe that movies are here to entertain and this film had me interested in every scene. It's compilation of scenes wasn't perfect, but if it was it would have lost a certain appeal. The appeal that the average life always seems to include, confusion and unpredictability. The sound track to this movie is pleasantly transient and the lead actress Qi Shu was stunning. I could just watch the beginning and ending scenes in this movie and easily say that It was amazing. The middle only supplied the emotional impact that makes us all human.

Bad Lieutenant

If ever there was a Bad Lieutenant, god help this world because Harvey Keitel's performance in this movie was better than I had ever seen. I always loved his work but now I'm just in awe of it. Wow, the movie was extreme to the core. The only thing Keitel didn't do is try to suck down a pile a cocaine. But I'm pretty sure he could have just put himself on a slow drip, for the amount of coca he sniffed, smoked or injected. Ok the injecting was more like Heroine which he also smoked all the while drinking himself into a comma. There should have been a warning label on this movie saying, "Don't try this at home" because I'm still not sure how he didn't O.D. at least two or three times during this movie. Bad cop, dirty cop, that's not enough to describe this movie, Keitel is a dirty lieutenant and one f..ked up individual in this film.

Paprika

I really want to do this movie justice because it really was better than the average animation movie. This movie is a strong R for violence and plus kids just wouldn't get this one. It's a serious psychological drama about a device that enables people to share dreams. The begining of this movie started out so strong and hooked me immediately, however its follow through was just mildly interesting. I don't know why I was expecting a lot more out of Paprika. Still, hands down a great Anime and a must see for all of you Anime fans that need some more cartoon crack. The level of animation in this movie is amazing. Man I keep hovering between giving this movie three or four stars. I guess it's three and three quarter stars as McMahon might say.

Doctor Mack

This movie is a great look into the life of a unorthodox Hong Kong doctor, who takes every chance to challenge western ideologies and hypocrisies. It's a movie about treating patients as people and treating people with kindness and respect. All that being said it uses satire to accomplish the lofty goals just mentioned. There was a very non P.C. moment in the operating room where ignorance and stereo types are used offensively. However, it speaks volumes for the mentality of the Hong Kong/Chinese audience, which is apparently still a little behind, when it comes to inter-racial inter-personal relations. However, in a society that is sheltered from daily contact with other races, racial stereo types are bond to abundant. Racism still runs rampant here in the U.S., but it's just we tend to keep out of the mainstream. Other than that one scene which really didn't belong in an otherwise strong anti-establishment experience of life in the slums of Hong Kong, this movie was quite funny and spoke volumes about how eastern and western philosophies could produce a better health care system. It's funny if you can rap your head around witty Chinese humor and enlightening if you are willing to see certain aspects of modernity through a Chinese perspective.

Hardcore

You know the first review I read said the title didn't resemble this movie. I disagree,this movie is Hardcore (not in a porn way) but in a study of human sexuality and psychopathic nature type of way. Lets talk about the subject matter, hhhmmm, Child Prostitution, Drugs, Homosexuality (Male and Female), Multiple first degree murders, manipulation and finally self absorption and revenge. This will take you on ride through what must be some version of Hades and I liked every second of it. If you want to experience a tormented existence seen through the eyes of a teenage bisexual, then this movie is for you.

Embrace of the Vampire

The plot of this movie is terrible, the begining of this movie just makes this film out to be a pure "B" classic soft porn. And it delivers. However, I must agree with my peers in saying wow. I am still a hot blooded American Boy. Alyssa Milano is smoking in this film.

Family Guy Presents: Stewie Griffin: The Untold Story

What to say about Stewie Griffin. Well he's an out of the closet intellectual vindictive homicidal toddler that wants kill his mother. How great is that? This little ditty just highlights all of his eccentricities. Gotta love it. If you don't well, why don't you hang yourself because you obviously don't have a sense of humor. OK OK, I'm sorry about that last comment I understand that there are people who hate stupid humor, just like I hate over pretentious snobs, but this show is as good as beer and pretzels. It's as good as a good red Wine marinade for dark meat. It's just stupid fun.

Meet Joe Black

This movie is a serious hit or miss type movie. For me Claire Forlani is my screen imaginary wife. Sweet, and honest, she holds a sort of integrity and unique beauty that says love me. Plus you add the subject of death and I'm pretty much sold. However, the biggest complaint that I've heard from this movie is that it was boring. However, I guess this movie might be a "Chick Flick" in many males eyes, but I would say that this is a serious drama that asks the question, have you lived the life that you wanted? Could you honestly just accept death because your time had come? Anthony Hopkins delivers what I believe to be one of his most endearing performances. And Brad Pitt played and "interesting version of death". I believe it is the ending scene of this movie that makes me love it so much. Plus Brad and Claire's chemistry really shoots right off the screen. This is a movie that has stood the test of time for me.

30 Days of Night

Ok so here's the skinny on this flick. It's just an average vampire movie,(I guess ebert agrees) ,told in a confusing time frame. A month goes by in what seems like one night. Which is kind of cool? Nope, it didn't successfully make me feel as if a month could have gone by, unless this thirty days of darkness was really some sort of alternate reality where days where actually hours. In all fairness that could be so considering I haven't read the book of the same name by Steve Niles. "However, the Vampires were some serious beasts. I did like there animal like ferocity, and there was a lot of cool carnage. Death was everywhere, and the cold environment was interesting. That being said, it wasn't really special, the acting wasn't particularly great, no real special effects, good camera work though, and lots of blood and gore. So, I liked it. No brainer blood fest in the snow. Don't expect a well developed plot, this is just a monster flick.

The Man Who Copied

Brazilians, What a beautiful way they have at looking at poverty. This movie was really good love story. I put this movie off for a long time (which is inevitable for those of use with 500 videos in our queues), but I'm happy that I made it to this one. It has a spirit that only Brazilians and Italians seem able to capture. The only reason it lost a star is because the begining seemed that it was leading toward a serious political commentary on poverty. However, surprisingly it turned into something else which I won't ruin for you. Lets just say I thought then it comes to poverty there usually isn't a Hollywood ending. Although, in this case my pessimism and fatalism where happily unquenched, and this movie left me feeling good. This is the Brazilian rags to riches love store. Bom filme.

Revolver

Snatch? Not really, but at least it didn't turn into "Who's that Girl". Jason Statham delivered his normal and completely type cast role as a tough guy, however it was Ray Liotta who makes me wonder why did you take this role? Amazingly Andre 3000 ( although not acting very well) seemed to hold my attention. The action sequences where good, and the end had just enough crazy happenens, that I just had to enjoy this one enough to say I liked it.

Henry & June

Ok to clears thing up, I haven't read Anais Nin's Diary yet. However, I did take the time to go and read some of her Quotes, which I find superb,top notch,open minded, existential, alive, but not really all that original.(However what is, considering I have studied philosophy, and those old guys just sat around and thought all day, I mean that was their job, to think and teach). As this movie goes, it was not very well made, it didn't posses Anais's fever in way that was intriguing, haunting or interesting for that matter. The sex scenes were just soft porn,(in which the sex just looked fake). Uma's acting was terrible, Fred ward just looked weird bald,(although I'm biased here because I hate the fact that my hair's had better days)and well, if this movie didn't have a bit of existential and out of the box thinking I would have given it two stars. Lots of nudity, but no real need for it. Sex-exploitation? Not really. This just really wasn't that great of a movie. Oh but everytime I saw Maria de Medeiros I couldn't help but here the lines "Butch, will you give me oral pleasure" or "I think Potbellies are sexy."

1984

I loved this book, and the movie was also well done. I can't help but notice the relevance of this must see movie. I guess I see the similarities between what is happening today politically and that of this book. This movie is a good look at what could be our near future if people continue to allow governments to rule them with fear. It is the government who should be scared of the people. Remember that!

Rescue Dawn

You know I like Herzog to a certain extent, I can't really remember any movies he's done in the Hollywood mainstream. He is usually a very visual documenter, however his politics has made him a star in his own right. In this movie, he takes a story about a German American Immigrant,(Ya I know immigrant just sounds weird right but I feel it is important to distinguish that he was originally from Germany, hence Herzog's interest probably), that chooses to join the Navy in order to fulfill his childhood dream of flying. Based on a true story, this movie documents the torments of captivity in Northern Vietnam during the Vietnam "War?" I loved Herzog's stylistic cinema photography, In many scenes when they were walking through the jungle, there was a lot of Herzog's camera magic. He really is a master at catching light, and putting people into the picture as secondary to nature. However, I only gave this movie three stars because it was really slow and almost painful to watch at times. You know I still might change my mind, because there are some masterful elements in this movie. I guess nothing really stood out enough or maybe I wasn't in the right mood. But three and half stars sounds about right. Good look at captivity and human nature.

The King

This is a disturbing movie. That's all I really want to say about this one. Incest? Check. Disturbing Violence? Check. Just an overall creepy feeling? Check. Yep this movie is a little disturbing. I loved it.

The Blue Lagoon

This film has sentimental value for me because this was probably the movie in which I had my first masturbatory experience. Wow. I can't really think of a better way to kick off puberty. This movie taps into mans basic extinct of survival and reproduction, seen through the eyes of two young and beautiful thespians. Yet another Freudian wet dream (literally). Acting was terrible, but the cinematography was great. It would be easy to see how if you didn't see this movie as an adolescent that you might not enjoy it as much. However I will forever be in this movies debt.

Sicko

Yet another installment in Micheal Moores biased take on a seriously complicated issue. It just so happens that his opinions just happen to be not far from the truth. I know he twists the truth a little, but his moral and basic prognostications are correct. Our Health care system is in peril. Is socialized medicine the answer or is the systemic problem of corruption in our government the real problem? Personally I know better then to think that socialized medicine is the answer for America. We had a great health care system when it was regulated correctly. So watch all Mikes movies with the firm understanding that this is not a true documentary but infotainment that is biased and designed to get you thinking.

Resident Evil: Extinction

It's good to see that so many other zombie movies didn't intimidate the completion of this movie/video game series, because this one actually turned out pretty good. Replace Mel Gibson with cloned psycho kinetic Mila Jovovich and add tons of zombies instead of starving desert people and you get "Mad Max" which was a good movie. The music went back to it's original origins (creepy and electronic) and their was plenty of Zombie killing. My only beef with this movie was once again the evil doctor at the end. You know, what the heck this movie wasn't as good as the first but it was worth watching Mila in action.

Eastern Promises

I can't help but notice that everyone is giving this movie five stars. Don't get me wrong, I really liked this movie, but not enough to give it five stars. It still needed something else. Maybe it was just Naomi Watts performance that bugged me. It was also funny because my friend had me told about the naked fight with Viggo Mortensen. So there was this strange anticipation in the back of my head wondering when Viggo's c..k was going to flinging all over the place. I swear to you though I like girls. I guess on "Kinsey's Scale" I'm a two. But when the scene came it was no big deal. I rediscovered that I wasn't gay and that Viggo just isn't that big. LOL. I guess it made an impression on my friend. I guess the moral of this story is that "if you don't get hard", your not gay ok. Man, What movie did I just hear that in? Anyways good movie. I certainly recomend it.

Seraphim Falls

As for westerns, this one is above average. It's suspensful until it's "Fantastic" ending. Pierce Brosnan and Liam Neeson both give two outstanding performances. Even though it kind of leaves you asking, What is an Irishman and Brit doing in western? I really loved the flow of this movie, and was throughly pleased after walking out of the theater. This movie leaves you asking the question, Who's the bad guy? Is there a bad guy? Who's definition makes someone bad? Very nice.

Beavis and Butt-head: The Mike Judge Collection: Vol. 1

Well, I first saw Beavis and Butt-head at Spike and Mike's sick and twisted theater. And that started what was to become a two year love affair with mimicking both of these truly moronic characters. Just plain stupid fun. If you haven't seen beavis and butt-head then your either smarter than I or just anal retentive. Check it out, it's ok to laugh at stupidity and complete ignorance.

Kintaro: The White Collar Worker

There seems to be a conspiracy to keep me from writing this review, but I will not stop. I will say it again. This is not a Miike movie. I'm not sure who actually directed this one. There is no sadomasochism, no lactation or strange Freudian sexual dilemmas, no torture, no dismemberment, no overt homo-eroticism. This was a typical over acted big budget Japanese Jerry Bruckheimer flick. What the F..K? This one is just not very good. It gets two stars for its cheesiness.

Bullet Ballet

For a bullet ballet, I expected a lot more gun play. However, the Japanese intense fascination with suicide and the dark side of human nature plays out nicely in this film. The characters where interesting right until the end where the unexpected just never happened. I can't hate on this movie too much though because it kept my attention until the end. I guess I was just expecting more of a Miike or Hong Kong shoot em up extravaganza. Nope, not in this movie. Most of the violence was restricted to fists, knives and bats. However, this movie did point out how effective banning guns in a society could be to keep them out of the hands of ordinary people. The lead actress is haunting though. I was waiting to see something more develop with her. I couldn't keep my eyes off her. Dark, mysterious and tough.

Intolerable Cruelty

Well I really can't complain about this movie to much. I took a date to see this movie, and got laid that night. Was it the movie? Was it me? Or was she just as horny as I was? Don't know but this movie really wasn't anything that special. The best part is George Clooney's line "You Fascinate Me" and that was played out in the previews.

Love Me If You Dare

From the very begining of this movie there was tremendous potential. I was so caught up in the story and anticipating a truly dynamic love story to unfold that when it kinda just collapsed in the middle, I was really disappointed. However, after the collapse there was a rebound and the story line picked up where it left of in the begining. I almost thought I had stumbled upon another "Amelie", the child actors where excellent, but the transition into their adult lives took a while to settle in. Good romantic movie for you and a special someone. Too bad this movie couldn't transition correctly and then just got mushy. However, it ended strong and that's why I actually believe this movie is about three and quarter stars. Almost very good.

Blame It on Fidel

I hate when people say things like heart warming or cute, but this movie has both those qualities. The movie is seen through a little girls eyes and how she comes to terms with her parents being communists. Funny at times, but also heart breaking. Nothing really special about the cinema photography, but the casting right down from the little girl to all the creepy bearded men who, somehow become less creepy and warm as the movie goes on and the little girl begins to shed away everything she has been lead to believe by society. Heavy!!! Whats better you can watch this one on your computer if you want. Good choice, nice wholesome social message. Four Stars, but actually probably four and a quarter stars.

Bastoni: Stick Handlers

I just read another review and I can't help but agree that Bastoni is like a Japanese version of "Boogie Nights". This movie delivers a litter more action and takes a deeper look into relationships and the consequences of the Japanese porn industry. I found it entertaining, but nothing extremely special. This movie was more of comedy, while "Boogie Nights" was more of a drama. What am I saying, they are extremely close, both in acting and is social commentary. Good watch for Japanese cinema fans.

I Am Legend

I agree with most that zombie movies have been done to death. However, I felt that this look at New York city was kinda freaky. This movie is not unlike "28 days later", or "Resident Evil", but it does certainly do a good job at adding some new complexities to the otherwise played out storyline. Will Smith has seriously grown as an actor and he delivered a great performance here. His relationship with his dog was similar to Tom Hanks relationship with the volley ball in "Cast Away".(Wilson!!!!) I really don't usually get scared in these types of movies, but Francis Lawrence does a great job of building suspense and uses it effectively to lead to a proper climax. However, for me the climax was a cop out. I gave this movie four stars originally because it had some seriously scary moments and the monsters were terrifying until the end. However, the whole god theme at the end just didn't seem to fit this dark movie. It just didn't work for me. I think this movie could have been seriously chilling and disturbing. I don't think a happy ending fits here. So, the ending cost this otherwise great movie a star lowering it to just another movie I liked.

Superbad

Add this to the list of hilarious teenage movies. There is something that is just inherently funny about kids that just don't seem to fit in. This awkward and crude story follows the lives of three unpopular guys struggling to gain acceptance from the opposite sex. In the tradition of "American Pie", "Weird Science" and many more, this movie will make you laugh.

No Country for Old Men

This movie was great. Can't help but agree with so many others in saying that the Coen Brothers scored big on this one. Javier Bardem is probably one of the scariest people I've ever seen. The average person will walk out of this movie feeling violated. But a connoisseur of violent and thought provoking movies will love this one. If your squeamish or can't take a lot of violence stay away from this movie. I'd like to compare it to another movie, but there just isn't a movie I can think of to compare it to. Javier Bardem is death and thinks of himself as death in this movie. Chilling.

Bobby

Wow, Hollywood really came out to support Emilio for this one. So much so that I felt it hurt the story. This was not not what I was expecting from a movie named Bobby. This should really be called "The day Bobby died" or "The Ambassador Hotel" because even though their were moments that made this movie great, the true greatness and reason I gave this movie five stars, was for the scenes in which the actual Robert Kennedy was in. I liked that they didn't cast anyone as Bobby, I mean someone with a speaking part, but this movie does little to explain the life of The last and Youngest Kennedy. And Yet despite this movies many flaws, I couldn't help but get choked up whenever they cut in Bobby's real words. They were straight from the grave and raised hairs on the back of neck.

Now and Then, Here and There: Vol. 1: Discord and Doom

There just really isn't a lot to say about this series. I really didn't feel it was anything special. The Anime wasn't amazing, the storyline was particularly engaging and the ending was anti-climatic. Plus the dub was really bad and the Japanese voice acting wasn't much better. Watchable if your out other movies to watch.

The Abyss

In this this well made under sea sci-fi classic, James Cameron proves that he knows how to create suspense with the use of revolutionary computer graphics and masterful story telling. I wouldn't say that the acting or the dialog was what made this a special movie and I wouldn't say that it was the cgi that made this movie worth watching, I believe it was a bit of both. This is probably one of the greatest underwater adventure movies created, right next to the 1954 version of "Twenty thousand leagues under the see". Cool movie that is bound to be a classic for Sci-fi enthusiasts.

Malena

From the director of the Oscar winning film "Cinema Paradiso", Melena is a warm Sicilian story about the life of a women seen through eyes of a young boy. This movie has a wonderful story and a transcendent message about the human condition. I'm as much a sucker for Italian movies as I am for Italians and this movie is an example why. The acting was superb and Monica Bellucci was as mesmerizing as ever. If you have a heart this movie will make you feel the full range of emotions and that my friends is what movies are supposed to do. Well done and well deserving of five stars.

Shoujyo: An Adolescent

This movie is definitely for people who can think outside of the box. If your a closed minded conformist skip this one because it will disgust you. Personally being the twisted f..k that I'm am, I felt this movie was great. It was funny, sad, romantic, and above all interesting. The story kept my attention, and the overall exhibition of the human body was tasteful and at times almost artistic. Even though I felt that Okuda was making social commentary too apparent, I loved what it is saying about the human spirit. I just gave it five stars, but actually it's about four and a quarter stars. I rounded up incorrect ok. Definitely a goody for those who like movies like "Bounce KO Girls".

Gremlins

Not too much to say about this one other than it is a classic 80's horror/comedy that will be with me forever. I still find myself uttering "Bright light" today. I just can't get over the looks of others who have no idea what I'm talking about. Mind you most of them are too young to remember. I hope this one is never forgotten. Check it out if you like funny horror flicks.

Dancer in the Dark

I really just want to say booo to this movie. But unfortunately I can't so here it is. I don't like Bjork. This movie sucks, because it is boring and Bjork annoys me the whole movie. I wanted to reach through the screen and slap her. Sorry babe, but your acting is terrible. Oh ya I got it, Capital punishment is bad. I think anyone could have guessed your politics. I don't agree with capital punishment either, but after this movie, I might make an acception for Bjork.

1408: Theatrical Version

This movie is great, was great and will always be great. It started off like any other average horror movie, but then it just got creepy. I'm talking seriously creepy. The chills and thrills weren't special but it almost seemed that they were purposely done that way. It was the psychological aspects and the little details in the dialog that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. Well done.

Noein

I'm surprised to see the ratings on this anime so low. However Have only completed this series through disc 2. Thus far the series has been fantastic. The Art is beautiful, and if you follow the special features in the first disc, the director and the lead Japanese voice actress take you on a tour of the real city that the anime is based upon. It's amazing to see how far they went to preserve the reality within the imaginary world of Noein. This dimensional thriller is cute and funny at times, and suspenseful and sad in other moments. The characters are extremely well developed almost to a flaw. I can't wait to see the next installments. I really hope I'm not disappointed.

Shana

This was one of the best Anime's of 2006, it was exciting, cute dramatic and hilarious at times. I really enjoyed the Main Characters personality which seemed to be a cross between a pit bull and sweet little girl. Shana's inhumanity creates a story line that is interesting while her powers as a dimensional/ spiritual protector are exciting. Gotta check this one out. I haven't watched this ones dub yet, so I would suggest that you watch it with subtitles so you can get to hear how good a job the voice actors are in Japanese.

Funny Games

So what I've heard is that they are making an American version of this movie. Just what I heard. But as for this movie. I loved it, it was disturbing. really great one for those without a weak apatite for suspense horror. I don't know why, but this movie kinda has a "Deliverance" feeling to it. If you like off the wall movies this one is great.

Born to Be King: Young and Dangerous 6

This movie started out really great and it seemed to have some really good potential. However, as with many Asian movies, the director kept watering down the script with melodrama. Love story or Mafia Action Movie? The "Godfather" archetype was attempted to blend the love story into the plot, however the love story was boring and the the action sequences didn't seem to develop to a proper climax. Predictable ending with the bad Chinese American. They had to get the Bad American in their somewhere. I guess the only reason I gave this movie three stars was because I liked the characters. This movie had some series potential. Disappointment! I really am looking forward to see where these actors go with their carriers. I'd like to see them paired up with a really good director like Wong Kar Wai or Ye Lou.

Coffee and Cigarettes

Before watching this movie I had a few friends tell me that it was Jarmusch's worst film, but I can't help but disagree. Why? Well to tell you the truth, Jarmusch just has a way of taking obscure plots and turning them into interesting looks into the human condition. I've heard this was originally just supposed to be a couple of shorts but I'm glad he put them together into this movie. This movie is non traditional, in that it is just a bunch of clips pasted together into a movie. A look into the life of people with the focus of Coffee can Cigarettes. Roberto Benigni's part was as usual nothing short of genius and the rest of the cast was interesting. I'd recomend watching some of Jarmusch's other movies before diving into this one though. Or not. It is what it is. The only reason I only gave it three stars was because it really wasn't a movie. It was just a group of interesting shorts.

Die Hard With a Vengeance

Yet another installment of shoot em action for Bruce Willis. Good action sequencing other than this one scene where he runs a girl over with an suv and yet somehow she manges to survive. Well actually this whole movie is filled with fantastic stunts. So you'll need to suspend your disbelief to enjoy this one. I agree with the average of three and half stars for this one. It was better than the other sequals. When it came out in theaters it was PG-13. When the movie was shot it was rated R. So it's good to see that it was released on dvd in its original form.

The Girl in the Cafe

This was a really enjoyable movie. It offers a good look into the workings of high finance. It takes place around the G8 summit in Iceland and dives into some pretty heavy subject matter like debt relief and world poverty, while staying grounded as a love story between a British governmental official and a girl at a cafe. Bill Nighy did and execellent job of portraying a man who devoted his life work and somewhere along the way forgot about everything else that is until Kelly Macdonald enters his life. There was something about the way he made me feel awkward and insecure that made this movie interesting. However I could understand how most people would probably see this movie as boring.

I Am a Sex Addict

I'm really not sure how this movie kept my interest, but it kind of had a "Woody Allen" type of appeal. Lots of neurotic sex and BJ's. Seriously, this guy was really creepy though. I gave the movie three stars because it was funny. However, for most people I could see how Gaveh Zahedi could seriously just get on their last nerve. That's why I gave it the third star, his nervous and anxious personality mixed with brutal honesty and a very unique look at relationships was interesting.

Live from Baghdad

Interesting view of the life of a journalist and or war corespondent that ventures into Iraq before the "Persian Gulf War" and finds a story and possibly a little humanity? Well, I thought it had some pretty powerful scenes, and it had a good story line. Nothing compared to "Good Morning Vietnam" but that was different and it stared Robin Williams. Still a good rent if your in the mood for a first look at the conflict with Iraq. Today's reality makes this movie tragic. I guess the only reason that only gave it three stars, was because the acting just wasn't that great.

The Reaping

This movie is a really bad twist on the "Omen". Hilary Swank came across to me as why? Did this movie really pay that well? The begining seemed interesting, and this movie lead me to believe that their was going to be a cleaver analysis of the falsehoods for people claiming divine plagues. But this movie cops out and decides to movie away from cleaver to exactly what I was hoping wouldn't happen. So predicable and just really not that great of a movie.

When They Cry

The few flaws that this series has, is made up by it's weirdness. The time sequence makes the plot interesting. The first volume was seriously confusing and missing a lot of background. However, in this volume some of the missing plot is begining to be filled in and the weirdness is fading. Well basically this is an interesting series, boring and slow at times and just sadistic and twisted at others. Can't wait to get the third volume.

Mr. Brooks

What a surprise!!! I thought this movie was going to be stupid by the looks of it's previews, but it turned out to be some serious evil. Kevin Costner is a truly great psychopath. His split personality,played by William Hurt is seriously demented. I didn't think it was going to work in the begining but it really helped add some comic relief at the right moments. I've had some debate with friends over the ending, but it was good. Check this one out.

Dog the Bounty Hunter: The Best of Season 1

What a racist. You know, I knew when I watched this show that there was something wrong with this guy. I used to think that his wife f'd him with a strap-on at night. Now I just don't care. Check it out when he holds a native Hawiian child in his hands. The look in his expression says it all. It looked like he just really wanted to go wash his hands. Terrible!

The Greatest American Hero: Season 2

"Believe or not I'm walking on air" Awesome. Ingrained part of American pop culture. The funny superhero, that is so corny now that it's even funnier. Loved it then and is hilarious now.

Talk to Me

Man Don Cheadle does it again. He almost reminds of Tim Meadows "Ladies Man", which adds some spice to his character but also forces me to ask whether Ladies man is really based on Petee Green? Funny and interesting from the start, complimented with African American civil rights social undertones,which leads right into a climax that is truly powerful and well laid out. Amazing, Stunning and Beautiful. Cheadle you gonna get the Oscar this year. If you don't, you got robbed man.

Jingle All the Way

Jesus Christ!!! Arnold was amusingly stupid in "Kindergarten Cop" But this movie was ridiculously bad. There's one thing for sure though, I wish Arnold would go back to bad acting. I don't know how much California can handle his egomania. Please Arnold go back and fix the terminator series before you become so old that you look like the terminators exo-skeleton.

Sex and Luc�a

Wow, this movie was amazing. It's not easy to get five stars out of me, but this movie seemed to have just the right amount of emotion, in the form of passion and sorrow (not to mention the shock factor and confusion),which was coupled with a really interesting story line. Bravo Senior Medem.

Reign Over Me

This movie is really simple to analyze. If you like Don Cheadle and Adam Sandler then you will more than likely enjoy this film. It's just the dark comedy that I always seem to love. For me this was probably Adam Sandlers best acting performance to date. Although he doesn't stray far from his comedic range, his sarcastic humor is amplified to create a darker character than usually. Cheadle does go out of his range, but I'm really liking what ever he's doing lately. This movie is tailored for dark comedy lovers. I'll say it again Dark, with a lot of love and a good moral theme. It touched me. Awwwe!

Roots

Well a lot can be said about this film starting with the immortal saying "I'm Coonta, Coonta Kintae". In the ideological mindset of most Americans, this series was mandatory for the cultural education about the plait of the first African Americans and the evils of slavery. Ironic, this movie is so much a part of American pop culture now that I really don't know anyone who hasn't seen it. If you are one of the people who happened to live in some backwater place that doesn't believe in multiculturalism, then you might want to check this one out. This movie has probably had the largest impact on (successful?) integration. Yes enough being said, this is really a powerful movie that brings the viewer into the life of a slave. Moving is just to little a word for this series. It is yet another must for a cultured person along with Gandhi.

Day Watch

Ok so the long awaited sequel to "Night Watch" has arrived. Hmmm. You know I gave this movie three stars because the special effects were cool and the plot was good. However that being said, the Russians have a lot to learn about making action movies. They also have a lot to learn about the English language it seems. The dubbed translation was hysterical. They didn't get a single idiomatic expression correct. I haven't watched it with subtitles to see if they did any better, I would suggest you try the subtitles unless you want this seriously flawed horror/action to turn into a seriously flawed horror/action/comedy. Some of the action sequences where so forced it was really sad. But, it was still interesting to watch and a really good attempt. This is to date the highest grossing Russian film. So.... it was what it was. A good try with a lot of room for improvement.

Harrison's Flowers

Bammm, that's basically it. This movie delivers a serious shock to the nervous system. Intense and realistic war sequences. It makes you feel as if you are in the war zone. Andie MacDowell plays here typical character, but fits into this film pretty well. Is Harrison Ford in this Movie? Nope he's not. But this movie has got some serious emotion to it. I cried like a baby and Jumped a couple times. Powerful is right on the box and that it was.

Iron Jawed Angels

You know what I'm not particularly a hard core feminist, but this film was a seriously interesting look into part of America's history that is often skipped or understated in schools today. This movie is very educational and extremely moving. Swank offers up another brilliant performance. If your a swank hater,(ya you know who you all are) stay away from this one, its too good for you. Good movie.

Girls Bravo

Well, there sure are a lot of breasts in this show. So if your looking for breasts,a funny rich pervert with a weird sister that dabbles in black magic, then this one is for you. The animation is good, the English dub could be better but was ok. The subject matter held my interest. Definitely not for kids and yet it kinda seems like porn for 12 year olds. It's funny, it's cute, it was worth watching. Kinda starts lagging around vol.4. It would probably be fine to just watch vol. 1 and 6 if you don't care about developing all the characters. Yes 1 and 6 would save you time and I think it would be enough.

Frankie and Johnny

Strange? Maybe... But this was probably one of my favorite Pacino movies. Pfeiffer and he both deliver great performances. Even though this a typical boy meets girl flick, their performances and character acting really offer up a story about too genuinely interesting people. One of my favorite love stories because it's so down to earth.

Sade

Plenty of conversation in comparing this one with "Quills". This French Version seemed a little wittier and without the vulgarity of Quills. Still not a movie for kids though. This version also gives the viewer a better look in the setting that surrounded the Marque De Sade's life. The French Revolution was emphasized more in this movie and it gave it a little more emotion. There was a sadness that surrounded the killings and an evil stigma given to the Guillotine. Plus the Revolutionary leaders were made out in a negative light. The chaos of the times was portrayed well. Good Watch, but not as powerful as Quills.

Stranger than Paradise

You know I guess I've watched all of Jarmusch's films from last to first and I can't say that It made any difference. All of his movies are masterpieces and this movie is no exception. Although seemingly slow, the dialog is interesting and the characters are visually fascinating and interesting. This movie made me laugh out load once during the lake seen. But the reason it made me laugh is why this movie was so great, no genius.

The Lives of Others

This movie adds light to just how an oppressive regime can interfere in ones life. This movie is probably one of the most exposing movies about the Strassi or East German Secret Police. The extent that this organization went in the pursuit of controlling people is amazing. They turned, control into a science. Creepy, Scary and terrifying. Good movie.

Koi Kaze

After reading some of the first reviewers thoughts, I can't help but think these people need to go to church, and I hate church, I don't even really like religion because "I'm not superstitious".(Had to use that line its just so great) No but seriously people I only watched the first series, and each and every episode was disturbing. I didn't even really have a problem with "Pola X" witch had a similar Brother/Sister dichotomy, but the teen age sister really looked small. I know she was supposed to be a freshman, but she looked twelve. He smells and pleasures himself to his twelve year old looking sisters underwear. "COMMON PEOPLE" that was just too much for me? Yes this Anime was thought provoking and a psychologists wet dream, but I'm not going to watch the rest of this series, because i don't want to see a love story between a little sister and Adult brother. Freudian or not, this was the first Anime that seriously made me uncomfortable. I'm sure that's the whole point, but holy bajesus batman, Dude pleasures himself thinking about his really young looking sister. EEEEWWWWWW.

Gundam Mobile Suit: Movie I: Special Edition

Ok, the joke is on me. These Mobile suite gundam series are just the original 1978 series. So if you've already seen the original series, this movie is the exact same thing.

The Island

If you thought this movie was an adaption of the Aldous Huxley book The Island, you will be seriously disappointed. Although I have argued that their is very, very loose similarity because of the well, I'm not going to spoil it.This movie has some really good car chase sequences that are almost Matrix Reloaded quality and the futuristic L.A. is cool. I gave it three stars but it's really only two and three fourths stars, because I felt that their was a lack of emotion. This movie tried to hard to be a summer block buster, when it should have tried harder to be an intellectual sci-fi like Gattaca. This is what happens to a potentially great sci-fi script when Michael Bay gets a hold of it. Booo. Still a good watch if your just looking for no brain action twist sci-fi that does not do any justice to the book that was a genius Utopian contemporary example of American Literature.

Transformers

I must be in a bad mood tonight, but if you actually watched Transformers when you were a kid, this movie does it no justice. The action is great. I thought Shia LeBeouf did a great job. The Graphics where amazing, accept I really didn't like their look. I understand the difficulties that their are in making things actually transform. However, this is fiction after all, and the appearance is all that counts. C3PO would have gone crazy to see all these Robots showing their parts. Michael Bay, took a classic cartoon and turned it into blockbuster blaaa. If you haven't noticed yet, I'm not a big Bay fan. He's the king of making movies with endless potential, just another movie that appeals to everyone. I recommend, that you watch the original cartoon transformer movie. It was much better. I do have to give it up though, the new choice of vehicles was cool and this movie was mildly funny and entertaining. Good no brain action blaaaaa.

Black Christmas

Yeah, Ok. I wish I could just say Booo. I actually rented this one from the store and wish I didn't. Why is this movie terrible? Well, it does the original no justice and turning old horror movies into crap seems to thing these days. I mean look at the new "Texas Chain Saw Massacre". Don't put this on your list, unless you find yourself loving trendy horror flicks like, "I still know what you did last summer". Pay close attention to how I choose the sequel to "I know what you did last summer", because it wasn't that good and it's sequel was worse. This movie was worse then both of these movies. But If you movies like these, rent this one your gonna love it. If you hate sh*ty horror's like these then stay away from this movie.

Capote

Ok, So I gave this movie four stars. Why? Probably because Phillip Seymour Hoffman is a great actor. He's creepy, and looks like he has little boys tied up in his basement at home. Who could have been better to play Capote. He does a great job of picking up Truman's annoying voice, and idiosyncrasies. If you were alive when Capote was popular then their are two possibilities. If you are extremely homophobic and hated him because he was openly gay, then you won't like this movie, however I think you should probably re-think your own sexuality if you have such strong feelings about how homosexuality is wrong. Or if you liked him then, then you will enjoy this movie, maybe, no guarantee's. If you are like me and had know Idea who Capote was before this movie and are not homophobic,revert back to previous line, then this movie is really well done and an interesting look at the life of a Truman Capote.

Signs

M.Night, You da Man. Who da Man? You da Man. No but really, M.Night you make such interesting movies. And this is just another one of them. Who would of thought that aliens who traveled from so far away could be easily killed with..... King of twists makes a suspenseful thriller. I likey. Yes I know likey is not a word. Just put this movie on your list if you like M.Night Shyamalan. If you've never seen another movie of his, I suggest you start with "Lady in the Water", it's much better than this one. And if you don't like that movie then don't watch this one. Ok? You got that? Yea, I'm talking to you. What? Do something then. Yea I thought so. Yea... Owe, that hurt, ok that's enough I'm sorry. Really, man I think my brain is bleeding. Gosssh, I said I was sorry. I'm telling mommy.

What Women Want

You know, I really found Helen Hunt to be extremely annoying in Mad about you, but her pairing with Paul Reiser who was even more annoying was interesting. Just thought I'd put that out their. In this movie the idea of being able to hear what Women think was Genius. And, I thought that it did a good job of addressing the topic of Gender, specifically the male/female gender roles. Helen and Mel worked. There was some chemistry and I genuinely say that I think I'm starting to like Helen a lot more after this movie and "As good as it gets". Chick flick, yes. Funny enough not to be annoying for the other gender though, until the end that is when it just get straight mushy. Take a deep breath, your not being trapped. Oh wait, it is a trap. Run, she wants half. But she's so soft and smells good. No run, she wants to tie you down and convince you that she has the greatest pooky, while still looking for something better. Your the back-up plan man. Hit it and quit it. Until your tired, old and just want something you know will be there for you. AHHHHHH.

Cautiva

It's one thing to learn about the disappearances of people in Argentina in books, but it is completely different to watch the side effects of a military Junta in a movie. This is a well made movie, fascinating plot, and the acting was good. I can see why this movie won some awards.

28 Weeks Later

Well If you want to see how a new director can destroy a good adaptation zombie flick, you will love this sequel to "28 days later." I was Seriously disappointed. Danny Boyle, Why? Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, Intacto was good, so what happened here. Did working in English prove to be to difficult? Did the producers push you around? Hmmm. Seriously man. Common!!!! Suspenseful original, to a normal zombie movie. The plot was crappy, the acting was overdone, and this movie is a NNTW (No Need To Watch). Unless you enjoy being terribly disappointed or did not watch the first movie.

Kinamand

I would have given this movie more than three stars, because of it's message about race. However, as an American that has been bombarded with this message over and over again, it kind of just didn't click for me. Don't get me wrong I like the movie, It's just I felt this movie really was tailored for an audience of racist white people who haven't been exposed to the idea of multiculturalism.

The Piano Teacher

Wow, that's all I really have to say about this movie. Wow. At first this movies seems to be a really boring movie about a women with an extremely weird relationship with her mother. It wasn't apparent, but things began to get strange quick. I must be sick, but I thought this movie was awesome. Sexual repression and desire that festers will manifest. And in this movie it definitely develops in some crazy way's. Plus I love it's message about how your fantasies are often meant to remain in your head.

Dead Man

Here is another note for serious film lovers. Jim Jarmusch is a master. I'm so glad that two of my favorite people decided to work together. Johnny plays his normal carefree character while he walks down a path that will ultimately lead to his demise. This movie is a masterpiece. I hope I don't use that phrase too much because, that would take away from how exceptional this work of art is. If you've seen any of Jarmusch's other films and liked it, then you already know how skillful he is at a profession that would seriously be empty without him. Thanks for this movie Jim. As if life isn't hard enough to realize that we are all on a journey of death.

Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer

Hated it!!! Even Jessica Alba's uber sexiness was nullified by the ridiculous dialog and terrible acting. Special effects were cool, but that was it. I suggest that you read the comic instead of renting this movie or it's previous.

Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior

This movie is probably one of the greatest action martial art movies of all time. Right up there with enter the Dragon. Yes I said it, Tony Jaa's kick boxing is so violently beautiful that I think it should just be called "Elbow in your face biotch". This movie is "HARD". Ya, if you ain't up on your slang. Hard means rugged. Rugged means fierce,harsh,robust or strong. Put all these words together and you still don't get how hard this movie is. There is barely any dialog and yet I was mesmerized by continuous action and seemingly perfect fight choreography. If you like action movies/martial arts movie, it would be in your best interest to check this movie out.

Fight Club

I wish someone would create this club for real. Bankers need to be put back in their place. FIGHT THE POWER!!! (This anarchist moment has been brought to you by...............ORION.

Half Baked

Yeah boyeeee!!!! Dave Chappelle and Jim Breuer do lots of pot. Can you think of something much funnier. This movie set the stage for Chappelle's success with his comedy Central show. Ya, this movie, once again probably isn't for stiffs. So if your a square, skip this one.

Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack

Well consider myself a pretty die hard anime fan, but it is hard for me to believe that there is so much Gundam material. I've watched the first two 1979 volumes and liked them to a certain extent. However, I felt that the animation was seriously dated, and the dialog was just terrible, even to point of cheese ball. However, I have yet to see any of the 1985 Zeta series but this movie seemed to fit in pretty seamlessly with the original mobile suit Gundam storyline. Plus the animation and dialog were much better. This movie version is one of the best Gundam's that I've seen thus far. I thought this movie was even better than newer Mobile Suite Gundam Seed Series. Well If your confused, just type Mobile Suite Gundam and you'll understand the vast amounts of material. Thumbs up on this one.

28 Days Later

Zombie movies are supposed to tap into the human subconsciouses need to see death, which was apparently a normal occurrence when we weren't exactly at the top of the food chain. Despite the psycho babel,this movie is a master piece in horror. Danny Boyle takes a classic zombie theme and squeezes it just enough to make orange juice. Keep up the Good work Danny.

25th Hour

This movie is like a super bonus. You get Ed in a Spike Lee joint. This movie is just great. The acting is exceptional and the content is not only relevant but realistic. This is a serious Crime Drama that portrays serious consequences for those who choose to live the life of a Drug dealer.

Oh man, Jessica Biel is so hot in this movie. Oh me oh my. (As drool pours out my mouth). She came so close to getting necked. Man. Oink,Oink.(Sorry about that ladies but some of you just make me crazy)Nick was Nick and he did a good job of being Nicolas Cage. Catchy idea. I felt it really worked, however the ending just made me mad. It was kind of going for the "Dead Zone" plot but effectively saved that series for us by stopping short. Thank you for not ruining the "Dead Zone" for me guys.

Knocked Up

This was the funniest movie that I've seen in a long time. Judd Apatow has proved to me that he's got what it takes to become a comedic genius. He has certainly tapped into the signs of the times and created a hilarious movie. Some drug humor is involved, but this one is really just a strange Romance. The Romance really wasn't even that believable, but the laughs were good and hard. Check it out if your ready to laugh. Hmmm I would say the laughs are for a younger, not so religious crowd. Mainstream crowd or young at heart person.

Perfect Stranger

Yep, the other reviewers pretty much got this one right on. Just not that good. Halle Berry is beautiful, and Bruce is Bruce, but the twists were predictable and overly twisted. This movie felt forced. It didn't flow well and the ending was not that great. This movie kept building up the climax and when it peaked it shot blanks.

Breach

This movie was well made. It looked clean and sounded nice. The characters and the subject were interesting and it was based on a real story. Actually a pretty recent event. I would have liked to have seen Chris Cooper's darker side more, but I think that could have taken away some of the suspense. Truthfully this movie only deserves three stars, just because it really didn't make you feel anything really intense. If you like spy movies, or Grishem novels, you will probably like this one. Best for a more mature audience.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre

With out a doubt this was the most horrific movie that I had ever seen. Actually this movie is still the most horrific movie I have ever seen. The first time I saw this movie I thought it was real. I was young, but the edgy look to this movie makes it seriously realistic. Like "Faces of Death" or something. Creepy.Creepy.Creepy. The remakes don't do this movie any justice. Rob Zombie and Miike are the only persons who have ever been able to capture this level of horror in my opinion. So if you liked "House of thousand Corpses" or "Devils Rejects" check this movie out, it's where they came from.

Stir of Echoes

As a rule, I'm usually just not a big Kevin Bacon fan. Other than foot loose, which is hysterical now, it's hard for me to recall him in anything else that I've liked. Hmmm. Could be wrong though, because this part was cool. Before the "Sixth Sense" there was this movie and the little kid in this movie is creepy. When I think of this movie all I can here is the "Rolling Stones" singing, "Tiiiiime is on my side, Yes it is."

Finding Neverland

You know in general, I really like Johnny Depp and this movie is no exception. Both Johnny and Kate did a great job of acting as always, and the plot was irresistibly interesting. This movie will soften the heart of the girl sitting next to you and offer up the setting for great things to happen later if you know what I mean. Great for all ages. One of the few PG movies that I really enjoyed.

Dears

This really isn't the super action Anime that I usually like, however it makes up for it with comedy and darn right cuteness. This is pretty much some guys Patriarchal wet dream. So if your super feminist, this one is going to offend. The Heroine pretty much plays the role of a subservient beautiful slave. Pretty naughty. You know its kind of hard to judge who this Anime was created for. It seems like it would be for females, but I think both the sexes can enjoy this one. If you liked "Chobits" you'll probably like this one too.

Legally Blonde

Like oh my god, I'm blond and talk funny, but like so what, like valley girls can make a complete mockery of the justice system too. And like at least we make the court room pretty when were around. AAAHHHHH. Stab me please, please put me out of my misery. Hmmm, how could this movie be better? I've got it!!! If Reese Witherspoon were naked and had something in her mouth the hole movie this would have been better. Bet your asking why I gave it three stars then aye? Lets just say the stupid blond thing was actually pretty funny in parts, mostly annoying but Reese is such a sweety.

The Wedding Singer

I've probably seen this movie more than any other movie. Literally I've probably seen this movie at least thirty times I'm thinking. Why? Well lets just say when you live in the mountains with no cable and only a few movies, this one kind of sticks out. No regrets though. I could watch this movie again right now and laugh like a crazy man. Must see. Really funny if you remember the 80's. Sound track iiiiisssss GREAT.

Equilibrium

Did this movie come out in the theaters? You know I don't remember if it did. It certainly should have though because it "kicks booty". What do you get when you mix karate and Guns? The Answer is "Gun Kata". Great Idea!!! I wonder if the FBI and CIA were paying attention to this movie? Seems like it really could be a seriously deadly martial art. I really like Christian Bale, Taye Diggs is a crappy actor and could have really hurt this movie more if the plot, visual effects and action sequences weren't so great. Visually stunning emotionally captivating. If you liked the books or movies "1984" or "Fahrenheit 454" then chances are you will enjoy this apocalyptic action sci-fi.

Severance

Hot Fuzz? Not really. But it was definitely cool. Great spoof on the military industrial complex. American and British actors in Hungry or Serbia, meet crazies in the woods. I liked the blinding of comedy and Horror. It did a good job at making fun of slasher movies and their predictable plot lines.

Eddie Murphy: Delirious

If you want to see Eddie Murphy being funny, then you either need to watch his Saturday Night Live skits or watch his stand up. This is his stand up. Hilarious!!!! Watch this and "Raw". I guarantee that if you haven't seen it before, you are in for a serious laugh. Bring tissue because I laughed so hard I was crying. I've probably seen this movie a dozen times and I get same result each time.

Curse of the Golden Flower

I really enjoyed all the beautiful golden color's and the fighting sequences where nothing sort of spectacular. But, unfortunately they made this movie out to be another "Hero" or "CTHD" but it fell way short of those two movies. The good news is that is was slightly better than "House of flying daggers". So if you liked that movie then you will love this one. I really can't think of any reason why not to watch this movie other than the fact that it just try's to hard to be "CTHD". I guess I'm being so harsh on this movie because of all the hype. I was just a little disappointed.

Evan Almighty

Are you a Christian? Well you better be or a flood is going to come an drown you. Oh man, I think I'm gonna just go pray right now and maybe our government won't be corrupt anymore. Maybe priests won't molest little boys. And maybe the Pope won't tell impoverished peoples that birth control is wrong. This movie is Christian Evangelism disguised as a comedy. At least Bruce Almighty was funny. Morgan Freeman is a great god though. I'm surprised they allowed their to be a black god in this movie. Who made this movie? Mel Gibson? Pat Robertson? Oh Tom Shadyac. Errr. Dude, Tom you took what could have been a hysterical movie, and turned into Christian propaganda and then advertised it as a witty comedy. Shame on you.

Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby

Usually everything Will Ferrell to me = good. Where did this movie go wrong? I really enjoyed certain parts of this movie, but it just didn't flow well. It felt pieced together. Watch the preview for this movie. That's all you really need to see. I gave it three stars just out of respect for Ferrell and "Baby Jesus".

Spider-Man 3

Ha, Ha, Ha, I think it is incredible how serious everyone has taken this movie. There are some serious haters. I went to the theater to see Spider Man become Venom, and he did. The SandMan was cool, although I do admit that I really didn't like Topher Grace in this Sequel. Tobey Maguire is enough of a dork for one movie. I still thought this movie was worth seeing, and I really didn't think it was a major disappointment. I enjoyed Tobey's trip to the dark side.

Robin Hood: Men in Tights

To be honest I was seriously torn between giving this movie 3 or 4 stars because it really is funny. If I could I would give it another half a Star because Dave Chappelle is in it as Achew. If you like movies like the "Naked Gun" or "Hot Shots" then you'll love this movie. Stupid Funny, you know what I mean?

Grandma's Boy

This is one of those hit or miss movies. I would say that if you ever smoked the Ganga, then you will love this movie. It's full of pot humor. Personally I couldn't stop laughing the hole movie. Computer geeks, pot heads, and just strange going ons. I believe John Belushi would be proud or in this movie if he was still alive.

Derailed

I guess I'm in agreement with the other reviews on this movie. Nothing really that special. Jennifer on the rebound and trying to prove that she is still as good as her X. Oh wait, she was never as good as the Pitt. He found Angelina. So Sad. Not a terrible movie, but really not one to remember either. To tell you the truth I've already forgotten it.

The Fly / The Fly 2

The Fly,,,, What to say about the fly. I liked it. The Fly 2 hmmm, don't remember, but it wasn't as good as the first. Seriously though, If you haven't seen the fly and you like Jeff Goldblum you check this movie out. I can still see the hairs coming out of Goldblums back, Chills.......And Geena makes a little fly baby. Creepy. This is probably the best Insect horror flick I've seen. Classic.

L�on: The Professional

I believe this is Miss Portman's first leading role. I see leading because Jean Reno really does take up a supporting role too her. From the first moment Natalie entered the screen, she was just like another Natalie, Wood that is, except the other Natalie started in a Christmas movie "Miracle of 34'th st." not a movie about an assassin who falls in love with a thirteen year old girl. I haven't seen the European version of this movie, but I've told that it makes this part of the plot more evident. However, even the though plot sounds terrible the way I'm describing it, in reality Reno's character "Leon" in the movie is truly a charity case. An Assassin virgin you could say. An innocent assassin. Go figure. I believe this is just one of those movies that does a really good job at showing us own humanity. And for that, this movie is destined to be a classic.

City of God

If you thought "Kids" was a crazy flick, wait until you watch this one. We are talking about kids with guns and drugs killing each other over territory. Great look into just how bad things can get when law has no meaning. This movie is not for the squeamish. Only the anthropologically minded folks will get this one. Or if you just love blood, sex and violence and can read subtitles, check it out.

Ping Pong

This movie started out really humorous. Kinda of what I look for in Japanese movies. The lead character is extremely funny. He reminded of Jim Carey in dumb and dumber. Imagine a Young Jim Carey playing a Ping Pong star. But then go from extremely interesting and funny and turn it into serious sports movie. Crazy man!!! If you've ever wondered about the inner workings of Table tennis in Japan, this is your movie. Lets just say this movie makes it apparent how serious they take table tennis in Asia. Good acting, interesting plot scheme. Lead actor runs away with this movie. I couldn't help but want to watch his character more.

Kingdom of Heaven

I can't believe the great reviews this movie got. Ok the subject was controversial? Really? History is controversial? Really? Liam Neeson did a great job as always, Jeremy Irons had a seriously cool character, but Orlando Bloom just kills this movie. I don't see him in this role at all. Why couldn't they have told the story of Jeremy Irons Character? However, the fight sequences were great and I did like the fact that a Muslim perspective was represented.

The Ninth Gate

The first time I saw this movie I left the theater believing this to be the most evil movie I had ever seen. It's not your normal horror movie, I guess it really isn't a horror movie at all. It's just a really well made evil suspense movie. If you are god fearing, this one probably isn't for you. Roman and Johnny, what a great pair. I will add that if your a recovering alcoholic or trying to quit smoking, this movie will temp you in every seen. I'd watch anyways though, it's too good of a movie to let something like your health come in the way.

Central Station

No real big flaws with this movie other than it just took to long to get it conclusion. If your expecting excitement or extreme emotion. This movie does a really good job of not giving you that. I mean you feel sorry for the kid. But, I guess maybe this movie needed a better sound track to help build mood a little better. It was an interesting look at life in Brazil. Not as interesting as "City of God" or some of the other Brazilian films I've seen.

Match Point

It is actually amazing to me that I liked this movie. Why? To be quite honest with you, I'm not the biggest Woody Allen Fan. However, when he does do something good, its good. This is no exception. The acting was good, the plot was good, and the twist actually did work for me. Bravo Woody. Looks like marrying your Adopted daughter has given you some inspiration. How wrong is that? I mean Eve slept with her son's right? And if you take the Torah seriously then blaa, blaa, blaa, blaa. What ever floats your boat. This movie was good.

Good Bye, Lenin!

I want to give this movie a fare analysis but I liked it so much I'm afraid that once again I'm a little biased. The plot was thoughtful and interesting, and it was very well acted. No special effects needed, because this was a historical drama. This East German Perspective was seriously interesting. Usually all you get to see is the Western propaganda about how evil socialism is. However this movie showed it in a little different light while still expressing truth's. Hard to compare this movie to another. That in itself is a good reason to watch if you like film.

Vacancy

Hey, nice to find a good old fashioned horror flick. I really enjoyed this one. Guys in masks, creepy hotel, demented psychos , Cool. The plot was also good enough to make this movie an above average horror movie. Luke Wilson was funny and somehow heroic. Check it out if your a fan of horror movies.

The Queen

Man I can't believe how many people liked this movie. It was boring rubbish I tell you. Bloody Boring. God save the Rich Queen with all of her petty problems. The Poor Queen has all the titles but no power, boo hooo. This movie really made Philip to look like an ars. If your a dull boy or gal then this is the movie for you.

Half Nelson

Yo, what's up baby, a school teacher on Crack. That brings up so many questions about some of my past teachers. Where they on Crack? Am I on Crack right now? Hmmm. Gonna have to contemplate on this question. Ryan Gosling really works in this role. If you like movies like Fresh, or Juice, you'll probably like this flick. Really a story about the perils of drug addiction. Good movie.

Zodiac

Interesting, pretty factual, and above all about a Serial killer that was never caught. Terrifying. You probably won't here me say this a lot, but I don't think this movie was Hollywood enough. Ya, there is pressure to tell the true story, but isn't that what documentary's are for? I would have liked to see more blood, more Zodiac period. Who F...cking cares about Jake Gyllenhaal's character. Boring. Boring. One more, Boring. Robert Downey Jr. was great, But I think Jake should stick to Gay movies. Many creepy parts. My parents knew the couple that were killed at the Lake. They loved this movie? It was also creepy to think that the Zodiac could have gone to RCC. I went to RCC. Creepy. I could have sat in the same seat as the Zodiac. Creepy. I get the chills just thinking about it.

Battlestar Galactica: Season 1

Loved this Season, Love the series. Starbuck as a women has worked out nicely. There is so much more that you can do in a plot by making Starbuck a women. Good Move Rymer and Grabiak. Mr. Olmos is the perfect character for the role of captain. I really can't say enough about this series. Special effects are awesome, and yes I said awesome and I'm from California dude. What of it, wanta make something of it. Bring it Biotch!!! Acting is, well it's not the best, but it's good enough and the story line and effects completely keep you on the edge of your seat. This is the best season. The next season's are good too, but they began to attempt to develop characters, and that's where some of the poorer actors began to become apparent.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

I wish I could add a sound bite with the whistling and the waann waann. Don't need to say much about this film other than it is probably the best spaghetti western ever made. If you like westerns and Clint Eastwood movies, then this is the best of the Genre. And if you like this movie, check out the rest of Clint's movies because he is truly a unique tough guy. Or is he?

Memento

Twisted!!!!This movie seemed to kick off Guy Pearce's Hollywood career(could be wrong), But if you liked movies like or "Mulholland Drive" or "The Machinist" you will probably like this tripped out movie about a "ten second tom" that has less than a twenty four hour short term memory. I don't think I've watched it enough to completely figure out this movie out. Crazy, I think I understood it less the second time I watched it. Great movie.

Fullmetal Alchemist

I'm definitely a biased person when it comes down to anime. "I like it a lot". But as for the thousands of titles and genre's within Japanese animation, this would probably be considered action. However, This animation series has a seriously fascinating and imaginative plot with well developed characters which is indicative to drama's. So I guess it is an action drama/comedy, did I mention that there is humor mixed in too. Mostly short jokes but still funny. Definitely a favorite for action /fantasy /drama/comedy animation fans. If you haven't seen this one your probably not an anime fan. But if that's the case and you still have an inner child locked away somewhere that really enjoys imagination told with an artistic twist, this series is sure to hook you to the Genre.

Gandhi

Probably one of if not the most inspirational movies ever made. Definitely a must see for every human being in my book. If you watch this movie and you take issue with it. Well, I guess you should just go overdose or something because your a bad person. Ben Kingsley's performance is so good that when I read Gandhi's autobiography I saw him in my head. Damn that a good performance. This movie is the definition of "cry me a river" Tears are for humanity and the river is for the Ganges renewal of life. Piece bother man. Please watch this movie if you haven't seen it. It is that important. How important is it? So important, OK. Do you believe me? No? Well watch the movie anyways. No. Read his Bio first then watch the movie.

The Gods Must Be Crazy

Great Googally woogally, my aunt made me watch this movie when I was a kid. I thought it was weird then, with all of those clicking people. But this movie really is a cool adventure into the complexities of language and culture. Classic. Good watch for people of all ages. Plus it's very funny,gloch, gloch.

The Lookout

Not Genius, Not unique, but entertaining. This movie flowed well, the acting was descent and the characters where believable. Ending was Ok. However nothing very special. Pretty average movie. Jason Gordon-Levitt really carried this movie and was interesting to watch. Good rent.

Gunbuster 2

From the maker of FLCL, Gunbuster 2 is a vast improvement to the first Gunbuster however classic it may be. What's interesting is that FLCL had a really good English dubbed version and this series is still in subtitles. I guess it was just a stylistic choice? In the Anime chatter that I've noticed on-line a lot of people don't like dubbed versions. I personally think that a well dubbed version is fine. However, the subtitled versions usually are more accurate to what the Japanese is saying. Not as good as FLCL but is still a must see for Anime junkies.

Fracture

Now this was a cool movie. It caught my attention from the very begining and held it through most of the movie. It has a strong moral theme, but for some reason Anthony Hopkins just didn't fit in this role for me. I can't put my finger on why. I think he might of over acted a little to much, or maybe it's just he wasn't right for this role. Good movie, interesting, fun to watch, but ultimately predicable and the characters just didn't work for me in this script. Wrong casting I think.

Wild Hogs

Crappiest comedy of 2007. I hated it. And believe me it is hard for me to hate a movie. Ok, I understand that if your over forty, are a yuppy, and are board with your own life, this movie is great for you. Unfortunately for everyone else its crap. All I saw was actors playing themselves. I was waiting for the rest of Big Hollywood to show up. I wish this movie would have really shown what happens to yuppie Harley owners who show up in the wrong place. Booo. I'm really starting to despise John Travolta and Martin Lawrence. Booo.

Stranger than Fiction

This is one of my favorite movies of 2006 if not my favorite. Will Ferrell is so perfect for this part, that it seems this story was written for him. The chemistry between Ferrell and Gyllenhaal was surprisingly wonderful. And the subject about an I.R.S. agent is hilarious. This movie defines witty humor with a dark but happy lining. The complexity and story line was extremely well done and well acted. Applause!!!!!

The Black Dahlia

You know amazing how many just did not like this movie. But for the Mystery/crime genre I thought this movie was pretty good. However, the way was this movie was hyped was what really got people angry I think. When I first saw the preview for this movie I thought it was going to be a horror/suspense movie. This wasn't a great movie, but was defiantly a cool movie. Call me crazy but it almost had a Great Gatsby feel to it. It was just unsuccessful in delivering it's plot. Other than that, the costume design and acting were good.

Vanilla Sky

Why would I give this movie five stars. Yes its a remake of "Open your eyes" and yes that was a good Spanish movie. However this version I saw first and it genuinely made me feel emotional. Really happy Highs and bottomless lows. The chemistry between the Cruz's was better than her chemistry with her Latin counter part in my opinion. Cameron Diaz's character freaked me out, even though she's so pleasing to the eye. Over all, I really got into this movie the first, the second and every time that I've watched this film. I also think that it really matters on which version you watch first. Most of the people who I've spoken with who watched the Spanish version first didn't like this movie as much. I really feel like the sound track in this version played a huge part in making this movie a great remake.

Holy Mountain

Well as for Jodorosky movies go, this is probably his best, although hard core film junkies would probably say that "Fando and Lis" was his masterpiece. At least this film has some coherency and sense of structure. Expect the extreme. Do not watch this movie unless you are student of film or possibly if you are on acid.

300

Well, this movie was visually great but the history channel kinda ruined this movie for me. I watched their special before it's release and I'm sorry to say, but the history channels special was more interesting than the movie. However, considering that this movie was based on the "comic" and hap light armor would probably be really expensive, I guess almost naked men running into battle against monsters and even lightly armored opponents is plausible? Hmmm. Could be I'm seriously jealous of all those 12 packs. Maybe, I should do sit ups and watch movies.

All Ladies Do It

Wow, is this porn? I think I just watched a porn. Besides, if you didn't know, Tinto Brass's has a serious derrière fetish, which is extremely prolific in this movie. Setting that aside sex and the power that women have to control men with it actually actually fits in nicely. At first one might want to call this film a sex exploitation film, but in actuality I believe this film is a hard core feminist movie. It must also be understood that understanding Italian culture is important to enjoy this film. If you can get past the puritanism of America and want to know more about some aspects of Italian culture, then this movie is for you.

Freedom Writers

Even though this subject has been exploited to death, most famously by "dangerous minds", I think this movie was much better than so many of the rest. The cast really didn't look like freshman students though. Watching this movie surrounded be teachers is not a good idea. But it did leave me with a sense of how realistic this movie actual was. It's great that movies can still be made in Hollywood which can inspire greatness in other people. Bravo, Richard LaGravenese.

Candy

Well, as heroine movies go, this is another one which is not particularly special. Gave it three stars because it had a good message and the ending was extremely sobering for anyone who has ever struggled with addiction.

Pan's Labyrinth

This movie was visually fantastic and the story line was great in the beginning. After watching this movie I found myself arguing with myself and friends about whether this movie was Genius or miss represented. I was really looking forward to a "Fantastic" adventure like "Labyrinth" when I first watched this movie and when the fantasy did not develop, it kind of reminded me of the "Bridge to Tearbithia." I would have liked more Fantasy going into this movie, however after watching it, I wouldn't change a thing. Great movie, Genius for having fooled me and forcing me to put some much effort into deciding whether it was good or great.

Apocalypto

Mel, Mel, Mel, could make a movie to display how superior Christian culture is over all the others. Oh ya you already did in the "Passion of the Christ". Lets see, He makes the ancients out to look as stupid and barbaric as possible. While some aspects of this film are some what historical, I was confused over whether this movie was about the Mayans or the Aztecs. "Why didn't you make a movie about Cortez's slaughter and conquest of the Aztecs Mel?" Why couldn't you show how the Spaniards Christian priests destroyed all of the Mayans vast libraries and ancient knowledge? Who knows maybe the cure for cancer wasn't important. If you can get past these things, then this movie was actually quite exciting and did have a message about anti establishment. Hmmm.

Speed

Like, Oh my God, I'm on bus dude and it won't stop.(Repeat this in Keanu's voice) Keanu can't act, but I must say it's fun to watch him.

Quills

Geoffrey Rush's greatest performance. This movie is not quite Salo, but it does have the Marquis De Sade's famous filth on the wall scene. If you like perversion then the Marquis is your man. Good period film with lots of costume and make up design.

Sin City

Even after all the praise that this movie has got, I can't say that it was my favorite. I gave it four stars generously for the visual effects. I'm not a big comic book reader either so.... But Jessica Alba was smoking hot as ever and Mickey Rourke's character was perfect for what he's done to his face. Just looking at the list of names in this movie, I'm surprised it ever able to be made. Man, Rodriguez decided to give all of Hollywood a piece of this movie. Too Much!!!!

The Green Butchers

I really believe this movie would have been a pretty good movie, if I hadn't of seen so many other movies addressing the same subject. To be truthful, I thought this movie was barely likable. If it wasn't for crazy butcher, I would have hated this movie. Watchable, but not memorable.

Crash

Watched this movie completely unaware of what it was about and am proud to say. Wow. Bravo Big Hollywood. Amazing content and dialog between Americans. The subject of "Race" in this U.S.A. and the negative consequences of the lack of dialog between them is an excellent subject for a movie. My Race and Ethnicity professors were undoubtedly proud of this film. The fact that Hollywood recognized it with an Oscar is also cool.

Deliverance

This movie forever brought the phrase "SQUEAL LIKE A PIG" into American pop culture. Thank you Mr. Boorman. On behalf of all the men who now cringe at thought of this movie.

The Station Agent

This movie has it moments where it is really slow and I could see how most people might not like this movie. That being said, I thought is a beautiful story about how different life can be when told through a different perspective. In this case a proclaimed "dwarf" or little person who loves trains, discovers that its Ok to be different. He learns to accept the hand that life has dealt him. Visually interesting and funny a moments. Plus I thought Bobby Cannavale gave a great performance, with out his comedic outtakes, this movie really could of been too slow.

How High

Common people, when do you get to see too Hip-Hop superstars talking about higher education. Even if the message was completely wrong. If you like Hip-Hop this movie is a classic. Drug Humor? Yes. Funny? Well if you have ever smoked weed and liked it, yes. If not, guess this movie ain't for you.

Cashback

This movie was a huge surprise to me. I didn't expect it to be so good. However, I was pleased to find a very unique story about an artist that struggles to capture his own identity and figure what he wants in his life. The Nudity wasn't vulgar, although there is a time and a place for vulgarity. This movie had me laughing real hard at times and feeling genuinely happy at others. Good movie.

Dead Leaves

This Anime was the shiii.... Tons of retro violence and action and twisted subject matter. If you like FLCL then you will love this little flick. I did.

The River

OK, so It appears that Tsai Ming-Ling has a serious water fetish. In the hole it was amusing, it was even kinda funny in this movie. The beginning started out real strong and then went into complete boring madness. If you don't think you would like to watch father on son sex, I highly recommend that this movie is not for you. I can't believe my friend tricked me into watching this movie. I feel defiled.

Fear and Trembling

This is probably one of the most unique films that I have seen in a while. The plot is well developed, but I believe that it is the insight into Japanese culture which is most fascinating in this film. It was extremely interesting to see how this movie portrayed Europeans in the eyes of some Japanese. It speaks a lot about the nature of Humans and Prejudice.

The Pinky Violence Collection: Girl Boss Guerilla

This is the first movie in that I've watched in the Pinky Violence Collection and I definitely recognize it to have been a major influence on many other Japanese films like Kamikaze Girls and Bounce KO Girls. I liked the movie and I love retro films, but the acting in this movie is annoying and action sequences are not well choreographed.

The Last King of Scotland

After watching this movie I their was no argument in understanding why Forest got an Oscar. He was seriously intimidating. Great history flick. Check it out.

The New World

Well really don't understand why so many people didn't like this movie. I thought is really entertaining and the cinema photography/ costumes were superb. Acting was good, although I could see how one might see Colin Farrell as over acting a little. I thought this movie was a more historical version of the Pocahontas's story for "Big Hollywood." I guess I must be a sap too, because the love story worked for me. However, I have only watched it once and was in a good mood when I watched it.

The Host

I love the hype everyone is giving this movie. If Hie-bong Byeon hadn't of been hilarious in this movie, I don't think I would have liked it. Monster was Ok, Godzilla? Common!!! No way. But cool.

Tokko

Gorey, Sexy and interesting. This series is definitely one of the best releases in the U.S. this year. If you like Zombie movies and animation this Show is for you. However the ending is weak. I was expecting another installment, however I guess they decided to leave us confused? This series just lost two stars for that.

The Number 23

Man this movie was a huge disappointment. It started off so strong. Jim Carrey's performance was great, but I think that Virginia Madsen and her character not to mention the completely predicable plot twist killed this movie. Schumacher took a good script and tried way too hard.

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

Seriously loved Johny Depp's Character as always, and Keith Richards really looks like a pirate. Plot elements were amusing and special effects were seamless. However, I hated the ending, I hated Keira Knightley which is amazing considering how beautiful she is, but in this movie she just annoyed me. She doesn't come across to me as a very good pirate. Something just didn't work with her character. I really think they should have killed her or Orland Bloom off in the begin of the movie. Just my opinion!

Children of Men

As a political science grad, I couldn't help but be amazed by this movie. It's accurate understanding of the deterioration of the earth due to over population and it's portrayal of how delicate democracy really is, is eye opining. I especially loved the documentary that came with the special features in this movie. Just as interesting as the movie. Suspenseful, dark and yet optimistic. This movie is either a hit or miss for most people I talked with.

A Good Year

Bla, Bla, Bla, Russel Crowe gets the girl what a surprise. However, Isabelle Candelier is amazing and definitely made me fall in love with her. Liked it just because of her. Plus the idea of living on a winery in France, who wouldn't want to do that. Plus, I liked the Idea of being so rich you could just grow grapes, drink wine, eat good food and sex it up with a beautiful lady. Now that's retirement.

The Contract

This movie is just like every other movie that Morgan freeman seems to make. However, with John Cusack this time. Didn't work. Conspiracy just got old. Gave it three stars just out of respect for Freeman and Cusack who took a bad script and made it watchable.

The Royal Tenenbaums

Warning!!!! If you don't like smart dark comedy stay away from this movie. Deals with such topics as extreme depression, drugs and Suicide. This movie's humor is extremely intelligent. Well, maybe I'm overdoing it but this movie is definitely for people who enjoy witty dark comedies. I have so many friends who hate these types of movies. Come to think of it they aren't my friends anymore. Wes Anderson rules.

Immortal Beloved

Why is this movie so Good? I guess it's just so tradgic but beautiful, that it speaks volumes about the capacity for pain, suffering and excellence within the human experience. If you don't want to cry don't watch this movie. If your a really happy type A personality you probably won't like this movie. However if you appreciate tragedy then you will enjoy this film. Gary Oldman is amazing and Isabella Rossellini is stunning.

Garden State

Zach Braff's best movie. If you've seen any of his other movies, they don't compare with this one. The chemistry between him and Natalie Portman is amazing. I really loved her character. It kind of reminded me of Chistina Ricci's performance in "Prozac Nation" which is also a really good modern movie which deals with the huge problem of depression and medication. Prozac is kinda the drug companies propaganda and Garden State is the counter argument. However, the situations are completely different. Modern subject, definitely a good watch for art film lovers.

Battlestar Galactica: Complete Epic Series

This series is so classic for anyone who can appreciate cheesy special effects and bad acting. I remember watching this series when I was young and loving it. Today I still love it, but now it's just so funny. However, the story is a timeless science fiction plot as evident by the success of the new series. Retro to the max. Personally, I think that this series is still written better than the new one.

Hero

Truly a great film, one of Jet Li's if not his best movie. Better than the China series for sure. Can't say enough about the cinema photography and the the usage of intense color and music to elicit emotion. Easily one of the best Wire Martial arts movies in my opinion. If you like "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" you will like this movie.

3-Iron

Can't say enough about this corky love story. If your a fan of dark comedies this movie is for you. It mixes just the right amount of disparity driven violence and anarchy to keep you mesmerized. This movie skips the super cheesy mellow drama and over dramatization that many Korean directors have fallen into the past. Ki-duk-Kim, your cool man. If you like this movie watch "Attack the Gas Station".

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

I fell in love with this movie almost instantaneously. Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet seem perfect for each other. Chemistry is literally pouring out of the screen as you watch. This movie has so many interesting idea's that are woven into a truly timeless dark love story. If you like tripped out love stories this movie is for you. A+++. One of the few movies I watch over and over again.

Akira

This is Classic 80's Anime. It is probably the most acclaimed animation movie during that period and is still arguably one the largest contributers to Japanese animations recent success in the U.S. I enjoyed this film, however it's not one of my favorites. I think it was hyped up a little too much for me. Plus I didn't see in the 80's so their isn't any nostalgia attached to it for me. Must see for Anime lovers though.

Ergo Proxy

Love this series, Good animation and it falls in perfectly with Japanimation's often dark end of the world paradigms. I only wish that I could get the last disk in the serious. It's been at the top of my queue for a month. That seems a bit excessive.

Macross

What else can be said about Macross other than it was a very influential series of Japanese animation that finally broke into the American animation market. This series was later turned into Robotech, which made Japanese animation a household name for many people in the States. Great series, but for English viewers I would suggest the Robotech version just because the English dub is better. If you've already seen Robotech it is fun to watch the original translations. However since some of the Robotech disks are missing you just might have to watch these instead.

FLCL

One of the greatest animation shows that I've seen. It's a bit strange, but magnificently so. The music is awesome and the characters are interesting. I wish there was more.

Spirited Away

I can't say enough about Hayao Miyazaki. He is truly a master story teller. Spirited Away is definitely a masterpiece in animation. In this movie Miyazaki has seemed to mastered his capturing of the innocence of little children, specifically the heroine little girl. If you watch the rest of his movies you will find out that he follows a similar archetype which helps the viewer see the human experience effectively through a child's eyes. Amazing and Enchanting. A good watch for all types of viewers.

Samurai Champloo

Definitely a must for people who love samurai epics. This series is funny and exciting. The characters are all well developed and the series feels complete when your finished. Animation was great. Can't go wrong with this series.

Infernal Affairs

I actually got to see this movie before the "Departed", and still believe it to be superior. So if you liked the "Departed" watch the original. It's Hong Kong triad /police drama at its best.

.hack//Roots

Very interesting, a lot like the other .hack series, but I enjoyed the animation more in this series than in the previous .hack. Haven't checked out the video games yet, but the way that virtuality and reality are intertwined is always interesting.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

In the first instalment Haruhi Suzumiya turned out to be a character that is so neurotic and fascinating that she really makes this series special. The animation is mostly 2d but the story line is so interesting that 3d animation really isn't needed. Must watch for Anime enthusiasts. One of the best releases this year. Very Cute, so if you don't like female spunk or Romance/ School drama/ Sci-fi/ fantasy/ Mystery then you might not like this one.

In the Mood for Love

This movie is a brilliant love story told by a master director. Watch it. If your into romantic drama's and you don't mind reading subtitles this movie is for you. The use of music to set the "mood for love" is amazing. I feel I need to emphasize the fact that Wong Kar Wai is a master of Movie making and this is his masterpiece. Bright brilliant colors and deep depressing dark tones. This is one of the best movies ever made. I'm Serious!!! After this movie check out "Chung King Express" and the rest of his movies.

Gilgamesh

After reading many of the reveiws I felt that many where way too hard on this series. The plot was well developed, the characters very interesting and the animation was good. It seemed that so many of the reviewers were seriously disappointed with the ending, but I'm of the oppinion that this series was interesting till the end. What's wrong with a hamlet style ending? Considering all stories are basic deversions of masters like Shakespear. This series was dark, action packed, well animated and interesting. It explores humanities faults, and addresses our passion in playing god and self destruction. Well done. Definately recomend.