Hope and Glory
Set in England during WWII, this is the story of a family coping with their lives during wartime, as seen through the eyes of a 7 year old boy. It was labeled a drama-comedy, and was a fun watch.
Journey to the Center of the Earth
Remake with Brendan Fraser. Fun action film, although there were a few scary moments with piranha fish and a big T Rex. Nice for kids (but not too little).
A Mighty Heart
Drama about the murder of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl. Angelina Jolie plays his wife in this drama, and is excellent, but I had a difficult time keeping track of the characters and their relationships. I also got a bit frustrated when some of the dialog was not in English, but there were no subtitles, so it was difficult to know exactly what was going on. Overall, ok, but not great.
The Remains of the Day
English drama starring Sir Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson as servants in a household during the time leading up to WWII. Interesting to see the way the head servant (Anthony Hopkins) runs this home and his opinions/ideas about what is proper. Not for everyone, but if you are a fan of Merchant/Ivory films, this is a good one. It was also great to see Christoper Reeve as an American Senator and Hugh Grant as the Godson of the estate owner.
On a Clear Day
This is a British film about a 50-ish year old man who has lost his job at a shipbuilding plant and has to come to terms with not only the loss of his job, but some other things as well. To do this, he decides to swim the English Channel. Probably not for everyone, but certainly enjoyable.
Away We Go
Man and woman expecting a baby are trying to determine where they want to live and raise their family. The previews looked good, but I was hoping to enjoy this more than I did.
The Informant
Not my kind of film. Matt Damon was just goofy and pompus.
A Handful of Dust
Slow and rather boring. Rich, priviledged, and spoiled people in 1920s/30s England.
Charlotte Grey
This film stars the always fabulous Cate Blanchett as an English woman in France working for the Resistance, but also looking for her boyfriend pilot who was shot down. I really enjoyed this one. Loved the story, the characters, the costumes, and just everything. Does Cate ever make a bad movie??? I don't think so.
The Bicycle Thief
Considered a 'Landmark', but one that was just OK for me. This Italian film, made in 1948 (black and white) was full of emotion, but just a bit slow for my taste. The story revolves around a man who gets his bicycle out of the pawn shop for a job, and then has it stolen the first day of his job. The remainder of the film is his quest to find the bicycle. It runs about 1.5 hours, but I was able to speed thru in about an hour. Additionally, it was one of those films that when I reached the end I thought "that's it??? that's how it ends?".
Before The Rains
Set in India in about the 1930s, this is the story of a spice farmer (Linus Roache from Law and Order) who becomes involved with his Indian housekeeper while his wife is out of town, and the repurcussions of this affair. It was an interesting watch and quite enjoyable. If you like Merchant-Ivory films, I would suggest you check out this film.
Enemy of the State
If you like cat and mouse suspense films, I recommend you check this out. Will Smith does a great job (but then again, I am a big fan of most of his films).
Lady Jane
This historical drama is set in England just after the death of King Edward (Henry VIII's son) and is the story of Lady Jane Dudley who was queen for 9 days due to the finagling of her father-in-law. Since I had never heard about her, I found it quite interesting. Upon doing a bit more reading, I suspect some of the film may have been a bit contrived, but it was fun to learn a bit more about English history.
The End of the Affair
Not great, not bad, but at times confusing. Set in WWII England, the film is about a love triangle and secrets. It actually got better about 3/4 of the way through because you learn another side of the story, which was such an interesting concept.
The Time Travelers Wife
I so wanted to like this film. The previews looked great, but I was disappointed with it. Too many unanswered questions.
Mansfield Park
Cute Jane Austen story set in 1800's England. Status and romance are key elements in this film. If you liked Sense and Sensibility or Becoming Jane, you will enjoy this.
Adventureland
Cute film about collage-aged kids that work in an amusement park. A little dark in places, but a fun watch. Probably best suited for older teens (because it is rated R).
Inglorius Basterds
Films stars Brad Pitt as the head of a group of Nazi hunters in France during WWII. If you like Quentin Tarentino films, you may enjoy this. There is a lot of brutality which is oddly mixed with some humor. It was not my kind of film, but I have seen some great reviews.
Antonia's Line
Dutch film about a woman and her family in a small Dutch town. We learn about her famliy and friends over a period of many years. It was somewhat interesting, but not great.
Sunshine Cleaning
Quirkly little film about 2 sisters who go into the business of cleaning up after murders and suicides. Kinda reminded me of Little Miss Sunshine. It's a little dark, but can also make you laugh. I really enjoyed it.
Amazing Grace
Story of William Wilberforce, an Englishman who was instrumental in getting slavery abolished in England. If you like historical films, you make enjoy this one.
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
If you enjoy the series and books, you will want to see this. It was actually my least favorite of the books, and I felt the same about the film. Probably because I didn't like the ending, but I still enjoyed it overall.
Coraline
Animated film about a girl who finds a portal to an alternate world. Reminded me of The Nightmare Before Christmas in that it was kind of creepy. Not for young children.
Mrs. Brown
Film starring Judi Densch as Queen Victoria in the time after her husband's death when she begins a friendship with her servant John Brown. Many at court and in government feel that Mr. Brown is having too much influence on the Queen. If you like English history, you may enjoy this film, but if not, you might not care for it.
The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard
Hated this film. The characters were crass, disgusting, over-the-top and not even funny. Lots of juvenile humor. YUCK.
Julie & Julia
Adorable, sweet, funny, and terrific. I totally loved this film! Meryl Streep was just perfect as Julia Child.
The Soloist
Film starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx. The acting was excellent, but at times I thought the film was a bit slow. Overall, I enjoyed the story and felt it did a wonderful job of focusing attention on homelessness and mental illness.
Taken
Finally got a chance to watch this non-stop drama about a Dad trying to find and rescue his daughter who is kidnapped into a sex slave ring. Suspenseful and scary. It will make you think twice about traveling to a foreign country and whom you decide to befriend.
The Taking of Pelham 123 - 1974 version
Loved this version, although there are some differences in the story. Lots of great actors too.
Ghost Town
Previews were better than the actual movie. I liked the idea, but the characters and story just were not that intriguing.
Grey Gardens - HBO version
Film about the excentric cousin and Aunt of Jackie Kennedy. Drew Barrymore and Jessica Lange did a wonderful job and the story was sad, yet interesting.
How to Make an American Quilt
Great cast and lots of interesting stories and characters in this film about a young 20-something girl trying to decided about love and marriage.
Knowing
Not exactly what I expected with aliens and such. Didn't care for the ending either. Not recommended.
Arranged
The story centers on 2 young women, one orthodox jewish, the other muslim, who are having marriages arranged for them. Although their religions are different, they find they have a lot in common and form a friendship. I really enjoyed this.
Lost in Austen
Cute time travel film about a girl who loves Jane Austen books. Film is long (almost 3 hours).
The Wrestler
Excellent acting, but the story is quite sad and depressing. Not a movie I really enjoyed.
The Taking of Pelham 123
John Travolta and Denzel Washington are super in this non-stop action film. We thoroughly enjoyed it.
Smile
Moving story about a teen from Malibu who goes to China to assist with Doctor's Gift, a program that provides medical procedures for kids in need. Heartwarming and lovely. Miss B and I really enjoyed it.
The Ramen Girl
Brittany Murphy stars as a girl who gets dumped by her boyfriend in Tokyo, so she decides to become an apprentice with a crusty old ramen chef. If you liked Uptown Girls or Little Black Book, you will enjoy this too. Cute and adorable.
Confessions of a Shopaholic
Funny...definitely a chick-flick.
In The Bedroom
Drama starring Sissy Spacek, Tom Wilkinson, and Marissa Tomei. Sad and somewhat depressing story of hurt and loss surrounding a violent event. Not one of my favorites.
New In Town
Rene Z. as a hotshot corporate exec who is sent to chilly Minnesota to turn around a plant. Harry Connick Jr. as the union boss she has to deal with. Kinda cute chick flick.
Revolutionary Road
Kate Winslet and Leo DiCaprio as a married couple who are extremenly dissatisfied with life. Excellent acting, but the story is quite sad and depressing.
Unzipped
Documentary which follows Isaac Mizrahi from inspiration thru fashion show. At just over an hour in length, it is a fun watch for fashion enthusiasts.
Valkyrie
Film starring Tom Cruise set in WWII. Plot revolves around a group trying to kill Hitler and take over Germany. Interesting for history buffs, but not for everyone.
Then She Found Me
Film staring Helen Hunt as a teacher to is recenly separated and looses her adoptive mother. Bette Midler, her birth mother contacts her and wants to form a relationship. This film just did not grab me.
Up
Totally cute film for all ages. Great messages, great story, adorable characters, and even a bulldog. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Angels and Demons
Dan Brown's novel come to life with Tom Hanks as the central character. It was a great roller-coaster ride thru Rome and the Vatican. Ok, there were some things that left me asking questions...why was there a helicopter ready to go just when it was needed?...but I really enjoyed the story and the action packed scenes.
The Proposal
Got a sneaky-peek on this and LOVED it!!! Probably more of a chick flick, but quite funny and most enjoyable. Stars Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds.
The Visitor
Film about a man who returns to his apartment only to find illegal aliens living there. He offers to let them stay and becomes wrapped up in their lives. Not bad, but not great. Didn't care much for the ending.
Once
Film set in Ireland about a struggling musician/vacuum repairman and the foreign woman he meets who encourages him and becomes part of his band. I enjoyed the music but the story was a bit weak.
Traitor
Another one that was not all that great. Maybe it was me, but I had a difficult time determining who the main character was working for (which govenment agency) and why. Lots of unanswered questions.
Lakeview Terrace
Not all that great. Kinda slow until the end.
Tale of Despereaux
Animated film from the children's book by Kate DiCamillo. Adorable story and characters.
State of Play
Enjoyable suspense film. Stars Russell Crowe, Rachel McAdams, and Ben Affleck. Interesting to see all the goings on at the newspaper. Lots of great characters. Ending comes at you fast and furious, so you may have to ponder what happened after it ends.
Elegy
Ben Kingsley stars as an aging professor who falls for a student (Penelope Cruz). I found this rather slow and just not all that interesting.
Duplicity
Cute film with Julia Roberts and Clive Owen playing corporate spies. A little difficult to follow at times due to the back and forth between the past and present. OK, but not great.
Vicky Christina Barcelona
Woody Allen film set in Spain during a summer when 2 young women go for siteseeing and adventure and become attracted to the same artist with a crazy ex-wife. Not bad, not great.
Australia
Beautiful film set during WWII. Deals with the plight of the Abroiginal people and the affects of the Japanese invasion of Australia during WWII. Not great, but a fun watch (but almost 3 hours long).
Slumdog Millionaire
Excellent!! This film had so much going on...love story, intrigue, and I loved the whole premise to the story. I can see why it was nominated for an academy award, and I would highly recommend this film.
W.
Film about the story of George W. Bush. Interesting, although I am not sure how much is accruate. I thought Josh Brolin did a good job at portraying the ex-president, but the film was just not that entertaining.
Towelhead
This film is not for everyone. It deals with topics such as pedophilia, sex, and racisim. At times it is difficult to watch. I can't say it was something I really liked or would recommend.
Brideshead Revisited
OK, but nothing great. Lovely scenery, but the characters didn't really draw me in.
Doubt
Superb cast and story. The kind of film that will definitely get you thinking. A must see.
Tyler Perry's The Family That Preys
Enjoyable film about the friendship between two women, the relationships they have with their own families, and knowing who to trust and who not to trust.
The Women
Great cast and enjoyable film. More of a chick-flick.
Rabbit-proof Fence
Australian film about 3 Aboriginal girls who escape a camp they are taken to in order to be incorporated into white society. This true story shows how they travel 1500 miles while officials are trying to find them. Interesting to learn about the history of this time period and the injustices which were done to the Aboribinal people. It was quite a touching film.
The Ballad of Jack and Rose
Single father raises his daughter on an island on the East coast. When he finds he is ill, he brings his girlfriend and her sons to come live with them. Slow and not really that interesting.
What the Garcia Girls Did Last Summer
Story follows a Mother, daughter, and grandmother as they navigate through summer, struggling with love and independance. Just not enough to it and I found it kind of boring.
The Duchess
Film starring Keira Knightly as the Lady Georgianna Spencer. Lovely scenery and costumes. Quite an interesting look at the life of women during this timeframe. Most enjoyable.
Grand Torino
Clint Eastwood stars in this film as a crusty old man who ultimately befriends an Asian family next door and becomes a role model for the young adult male in the family. Loved it.
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Interesting tale of a man who lives life backwards, from the story by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Most enjoyable, but 3 hours long.
7 Pounds
Although the critics were not thrilled, I enjoyed this movie. Man has the ability to drastically change several lives (which you see in the trailer), but how? Many different scenes magically come together to provide the answer.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
Amazing, cute, sad, and terrific!! A must see, but bring a hankie.
Quantum of Solace
Typical James Bond with car chases, boat chases, things blowing up, and several bad guys. Fun and action packed film.
Changeling
Excellent film about a missing child, the mother who never stops looking for him, and the corruption within the Los Angeles police department during the 1920's. Heavy drama, but very moving.
Twilight
Miss B is a BIG fan of the book series and LOVED the movie. I found the book (only read the first one) to be ok and the movie about the same.
Body of Lies
Fast paced with lots of killing and one quite brutal torture scene. Interesting, but not really my kind of movie.
The Secret Life of Bees
A Wonderful, Sweet film. Great cast, lovely story, cool costumes. Highly recommended.
One True Thing
Drama set in the late 1980's with a high achieving daughter coming home to care for her sick Mother, and father who is only concerned with keeping his life status quo. Interesting family dynamics.
Iron Man
Fun and lots of action. If you like comic book character movies (Batman, Spiderman, etc), then you will find this most enjoyable.
Miracle at St. Anna
Excellent film...drama and mystery, but with a bit of comedy. Touching and hearwarming story set in WWII Italy. I highly recommend it.
Nights in Rodanthe
The setting is amazing. Great chemistry between Richard Gere and Diane Lane, but not a blockbuster. Loved the great house on the water though. It can be an emotional movie...so be prepared to cry. If you liked Message in a Bottle or The Notebook, this is for you.
Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day
Cute, but not great. If you are looking for something light and fluffy set in the era just before WWII, then this is for you.
Run Fatboy Run
Cute little film about a guy who leaves his pregnant girlfriend at the altar and then decides to win her back.
Burn After Reading
Dark Comedy. Ok, but not great...then again, maybe it is just not my type of movie. Mark loved it.
The House Bunny
Playboy bunny becomes a house mother for a sorority house. Mostly fluff, but kinda cute.
Evening
Drama about two sisters who comfort their dying mother. She tells her daughters about some people from her past, and we are then transported back in time to see what happens as they prepare for a wedding. Not bad, not great.
Away From Her
Story of a retired college professor and his wife who has Alzheimers disease. She goes into a facility and develops a relationship with a male patient. Didn't love it, didn't hate it. Excellent acting.
Letters from Iwo Jima
Movie set in WWII about the battle of Iwo Jima as told from the Japanese perspective. Interesting and sad. Note, all dialog is in Japanese with subtitles.
It's a Boy Girl Thing
Movie about teens (a girl and a boy) who dislike each other and wake up one day to find they have their bodies swapped. Kinda like Freaky Friday with a gender twist. There are a couple of things that might not be good for younger teens. Miss B selected this after reading about it in a magazine. We both thought it was ok, but not great.
Penelope
Cute movie about a girl who was cursed with a pig nose. Sweet and fun watch.
The Dark Knight
Non-stop action, deep and dark. Lots of violence, so not for young kids.
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
Lots of action and great fun to watch. Most reviews are not that great, but if you enjoyed the previews then I would recommend the movie.
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2
If you loved the first one (like I did), you will enjoy the sequel.
The Couple
Period piece set in WWII Nazi Germany. Enjoyable drama.
Mrs. Palfrey at the Claremont
Lovely little drama, sweet and endearing film.
Hancock
Fun watch, great for the family.
College Road Trip
Lots of fun and lots of laughs. Great for the family. Albert the pig just about steals the show.
Eastern Promises
Lots of blood and gruesome killings. Not great, not bad.
Veronica Guerin
Excellent film about drug trafficing in Ireland. Stars Cate Blanchett.
The Great Debaters
Excellent and inspiring!!
Into The Wild
Enjoyable, but sometimes sad and disturbing. Lots of flashbacks. Guy just graduates from college and decides to embark on an adventure with no money or possessions, winding up in the Alaskian wilderness.
The Groomsmen
Not bad, not great. Guy is about to be married and hangs with his buddies...each of the guys is dealing with some issue that requires working out.
The Jane Austen Book Club
Loved it!! (chick flick)
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
French film about a playboy that has a stroke and now has 'locked in syndrome'. Moving and interesting, but not for everyone.
Gone Baby Gone
Well done with interesting twists and turns.
Vantage Point
It was an interesting premise and very high energy.
The Kite Runner
Wonderful film, but at times quite hard to watch.
In The Valley of Elah
Excellent film, but sad in so many ways.
Girl With a Pearl Earring
Not bad, but not very interesting.
Death at a Funeral
Typical British Comedy with all sorts of hijinx going on during a funeral.
Smart People
Most fun, especially Thomas Hayden Church.
Lars and the Real Girl
Not for everyone, but cute and quirky little comedy.
Music Within
Interesting story about the man who created the American's With Disabilities Act.
Sex in the City Movie
Squeeeel...the shoes, the clothes, it was most magical.
Baby Mama
FUNNY!!! Loved it!!
p.s. I Love You
Very nice and sweet film.
The Bucket List
A fun watch on a somewhat dark subject. Enjoyable.
The Savages
Interesting film about a brother and sister who must deal with a father they don't care for through his final days. Excellent acting.
The Other Boleyn Girl
A paired down version of the book. Enjoyable.
The Astronaut Farmer
Nice movie with good lessons about perserverance and believing in your dreams.
Jumper
Not so hot. Story is week and all the jumping around gets tiresome.
Eagle vs Shark
Foreign film from down under. Cute love story about 2 nerdy people.
Charlie Bartlett
Cute comedy a la Ferris Bueller. Loved the characters and the writing.
There Will Be Blood
Gritty oilman is only interested in trying to acquire and create a bit oil empire for himself. Excellent acting, very well done.
A Love Song for Bobby Long
Character study of people lacking direction, who wind up forming a family after living in a house together. Good, but not great.
La Vie En Rose
Movie about the tragic life of Edith Piaf. Jumps around a bit, but the acting is wonderful and I enjoyed learning about this wonderful French singer.
Elizabeth the Golden Age
If you liked the first one, this is just as good. Awesome costumes and acting. Cate is incredible. Loved it.
Atonement
Wonderful story, interesting ending. Beautiful costumes and scenery.
27 Dresses
Cute and Sweet, laugh out loud funny!!! LOVED IT!!
Reign Over Me
Not great, not bad. Kinda depressing at times.
No Country For Old Men
Excellent acting and suspenseful, but I did not care for the ending and really had to think about what it meant. Lots of senseless killing and death. Not really my kind of film.
Ratatouille
Cute cartoon movie about a rat that likes to cook.
National Treasure (second one)
Lots of fun and action, in a light hearted way. Certainly not Oscar material, but it was a most enjoyable way to spend a Saturday evening.
Sweeny Todd
Very Tim Burton, kinda dark and mysterious. Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter were excellent. Lots of squirting blood, and a bit gorey.
Juno
Totally cute and fun movie. Ellen Page is fantastic, and the supporting cast was exceptional too. Very endearing story.
I Am Legend
Very good and suspensful, but scary. Will Smith did a great job!
American Gangster
Excellent film.
We Own the Night
Enjoyable, leaves you on the edge of your seat.
Dan in Real Life
I really loved this movie, and I am not a Steve Carell fan. Great story and I love the story line of big families getting together. Great house too!
Bee Movie
Very cute.
The Kingdom
Enjoyable, but lots of violence.
Live Free or Die Hard
Action packed Bruce Willis film...we loved it.
The Last Mimzy
Not great, not bad.
The Nativity Story
Nice family film.
The Good German
Done in black and white...very Perry Mason-like feel. Stars George Clooney (looking mighty fine in a uniform). Interesting.
Hollywoodland
Not that great.
Running With Scissors
YUCK. Too many dysfunctional people.
Apocalypto
Wasn't sure I was up for this, but it was very well done and even though it was all subtitled, it draws you in right away. Excellent suspense movie!
Bourne Ultimatum
If you like the series, this is for you. Lots of action.
Factory Girl
So so...Movie about the life of Edie Sedgewick when she hung around Andy Warhol. People with too much money getting into trouble..
The Painted Veil
Wonderful film...very Merchant-Ivory. Set in China in the 1920s.
No Reservations
Loved it!!! Such a nice story...light and happy!
Mostly Martha
Foreign version of No Reservations. I really liked this. Some parts were totally the same, others slightly different.
The Illusionist
Enjoyable, but not great.
The World's Fastest Indian
Wonderful....Stars Anthony Hopkins as an older gentleman who wants to break the worlds land speed record.
Friends With Money
YUCK. Rich people with problems.
Perfect Stranger
Stars Bruce Willis and Halle Berry...not bad, unexpected ending.
The Ultimate Gift
Loved it...great family movie and great message.
Wild Hogs
Cute, but not really my style. Middle-aged men on a motorcycle adventure.
The Nanny Diaries
Stars Laura Linney and Scarlet Johansen. Similar to the book, but a bit different. Not bad, but not great.
Becoming Jane
Loved it...Stars Anne Hathaway as Jane Austin.
Georgia Rule
Not bad, but mature subject matter. Stars Jane Fonda and Linsey Lohan.
The Shooter
Wonderful action film starring Mark Wahlberg.
Blood Diamond
Excellent, but sometimes hard to watch due to the brutality.
Driving Lessons
This movie stars Laura Linney, Rupert Grint (Ron Weasly from Harry Potter), and Julie Walters. The story centers around a young man, Ben, who starts working for an aging actress (Julie Walters). She takes him on an adventure, and his mother (Laura Linney), an evangelical Christian, is not too happy. Slow paced, but interesting. Not for everyone, but if you like British films, you will probably enjoy this one.
Radio
Recently rented this because I had not seen it in the theater. Loved the story and the interaction of the people in the story. Really positive and uplifting. If you have not seen it, I would definitely rent it. Great family movie!
Infamous
Story about Truman Capote during the time he wrote In Cold Blood. Exceptional acting and interesting watch.
Nancy Drew
Blair and I went to see this with one of her friends, and we LOVED it. Cute story, love the outfits, great message about staying true to who you are.
Spiderman 3
If you like the Spiderman series, you will most likely enjoy this film. Not much new, but a fun watch.
Miss Potter
LOVED IT!!! This was the story of Beatrix Potter and was just the movie for me. Light and beautiful. Wonderful characters, costumes, scenery, and cute animated drawings. Probably not for everyone (I think Blair was bored), but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Keeping Mum
British dark comedy about a housekeeper who comes to live with a vicar and his family. The family is falling apart, but somehow she manages to start pulling them back together and anyone who is causing them problems seems to be missing. If you like British comedy, this is a good watch.
The Last King of Scotland
Fictional movie about a Scottish doctor who becomes the personal physician to Ide Amin. The acting was excellent, but the story was quite hard to watch in places. I can appreciate the movie for all of its excellent qualities, but not really my kind of movie.
Vera Drake
Movie set in the early 1950's in London about a woman who is a wife, mother, housekeeper, and helps girls who are in an unfortunate situation. Excellent acting, but I wanted more at the end. Subject matter not recommended for younger kids.
Breach
Movie about the spy Robert Hanssen. What an intesting film and what a strange man Robert Hanssen was! I really enjoyed it and thought Chris Cooper and Ryan Phillipe were excellent. Recommended.
Real Women Have Curves
Cute movie about a young high school graduate who wants to go to college, but her family wants her to work in her sister's dressmaking shop. Recommended.
Pan's Labyrinth
WOW! What an interesting movie. A bit gory and cruel in parts, but certainly worth seeing. The movie is in Spanish with subtitles, but it draws you in so fast that you don't even realize it til the movie is over. It kind of reminds me of a Harry Potter for adults with fantasy characters and a young girl who has to be brave and perform some tasks that none of us would ever thing of doing (like going in the muck and bugs to find a mega huge toad in the middle of a large oak tree, ewww). Mark loved this movie too. It definitely deserves to recieve some awards!!! Hope you find some time to check it out!!!
Dreamgirls
PHENOMENAL!!! We LOVED this movie, and Jennifer Hudson is AMAZING!!!
The Pursuit of Happyness
Yet another excellent film. Super story and I love the perserverance and attitude of the Dad (Will Smith). Great lessons and love the ending. We all walked out of the theater with a smile, I like that.
Night at the Museum
Excellent movie, lots of fun!! We saw it at the IMAX for extra impact and had a great time! Lots of recognizable faces in this movie too!!
Casino Royale
A new James Bond and a new feel to the movie. Seemed a bit less flashy than the past Bond movies. Still a good action flick and we all enjoyed it.
Happy Feet
Great movie. Lots of fun and excellent message. Good for adults and the kiddos.
The Holiday
Excellent girlie film. Blair and I loved it.
You, Me, and Dupree
A cute film when you want something that is light and funny.
Joyeux Noel
This movie is a foreign film which takes place during WWI on the frontlines with soldiers from Scotland, France, and Germany. They decide to call a truce for Christmas Eve. It is probably not for everyone, but I really enjoyed it.
The Departed
Hmmm. Well Mark REALLY wanted to see this and he is a big Jack Nicholson fan, so he loved it. I, on the otherhand really did not care if I saw it or not. I don't particulary care for ganster type movies. The acting was good and the story ok, but lots of bloody gore. Not really my type of movie.
Monster House
This animated feature had some pretty funny clips, so we decided to rent it. Cute, but I would not recommend it for really young kids beause it might be a tad scary. Interesting idea, but I would not rush out to see it.
Hoot
Blair and I really enjoyed this movie about some kids to want to stop a pancake house from being built on some land where owls live. Great story!!!
The Sentinel
Decent suspense movie, but not great.
The Insider
This is an excellent drama about the 60 minutes expose on the tobacco industry. Excellent acting and really interesting, yet scary story. Mark was mezmerized and gave it a 2 thumbs up.
Vanity Fair
Rented this one from Blockbuster recently and it was enjoyable. This is a period piece about a girl who tries to better her life through the people she meets and enchants. It was enjoyable, but Blair did not care for it. She had a hard time keeping up with the plot (but she was on the computer at the same time, so not really paying attention closely).
RV
I love almost anything that Robin Williams does, so this was a must see for me. Blair and I laughed A LOT and were sometimes grossed out too (when he had to dump the waste from the RV). I liked that it had a nice ending too.
Good Night and Good Luck
Set in the McCarthy era it is an interesting look at what those times must have been like. The black and white film really adds to the feel of the era for this film.
John Tucker Must Die
Mark and I went with Blair and her friend (who had already seen it). We laughed and thought it was quite fun. The girls and I thought it kinda reminded us of Mean Girls. Not Oscar material, but an enjoyable, fun movie!
Matchpoint
Not your typical Woody Allen movie. Interesting ending, but some parts seemed a bit slow.
Shopgirl
Interesting story. Not one of my favorites, but it was worth watching.
Save The Last Dance
Enjoyable and loved the dancing.
Little Man
Went to see this with Blair and her friend. We all liked it and laughed quite a bit. Just to see the little guy in his onsie with the bunny ears is enough to make me laugh. Obviously not oscar material, but if you are looking for light comedy, this is a good one.
Rumor Has It
Rented this one and finally got to see it on Friday night since Mark worked later than we hoped. Glad I didn't pay big money to see it at the movies. I actually ended up falling asleep, but Blair told me the ending. Not one I'd highly recommend.
The White Countess
The last collaboration between Ismail Merchant and James Ivory. A lovely film set in Shanghi prior to the Japanese invasion of the late 1930's. The main characters are a blind American diplomat and a Russian Aristocrat who is working as a dance hall girl to earn a living. Great characters and story.
A History of Violence
Rented this the other night and although it was well acted, I just didn't like it. It had several scenes which were QUITE steamy and so not appropriate for teens (it is rated R for good reason). It also had some violence (like you didn't know that) which as not pretty. I guess the ending was just not what I was hoping for or expecting.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Yeah!! Finally got a chance to see this tonight and WE LOVED IT!!! Great effects and lots of fun. I would not take small children, because some parts could be scary for them. If you liked the first movie, you will like this too!
Best in Show
This is one of those ensemble movies about several sets of people who own pets and like to go to dog shows to compete. I had been wanting to see this for ages. It was such a hoot and so much fun to watch. Probably not for everyone, but Blair and I found it most enjoyable.
The Greatest Game Ever Played
This movie is about a young man who dreams of being a great golfer and is very talented, but gets discouraged by his father and the snooty rich golfers of the day. I had planned to see it in the theater, but missed out, so we rented from Blockbuster. I really loved the story, and it was good for all ages. I especially loved the relationship between the golfer and his caddy (a 10 year old boy). I highly recommend this as a great family film!
The Lake House
Blair and I saw this and really enjoyed it. The concept is a little tough (for me anyway), trying to figure out who is ahead in time and who is behind. I really liked the characters and I'm glad we got a chance to see this!
Garden State
Just caught this last night on HBO. Had been wanting to see it, but never got around to renting it. It was a bit strange at first, trying to figure out what was going on, but the more I watched, the better I liked it. Blair liked it too, althought she came in after it had be on for a while, and there was one part where she had to cover her eyes and ears (thus the R rating). The gist of the story is that a man living in LA, (trying to make it as an actor, but works in a restaurant) that has to come home to New Jersey for his mother's funeral. He has a bunch of quirky friends that he has not seen since he was about 16 and a bad relationship with his father. Then he meets this girl in a doctor's office. He and this girl and his friends hang out and have a little adventure, while he starts to find out what he wants in life. Overall, I thought it was worth watching.
The Devil Wears Prada
LOVED IT, in fact all 3 of us loved it! Great story and the characters were fun to watch. I am a big fan of Anne Hathaway (from the Princess Diaries), so I new it would be something I'd like to see. Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci were terrific as well!!!
The Breakup
Blair and I saw this and it was good, but not the ending I expected. Had some funny moments, but I don't think I'd rush out to see it.
Poseidon
This was a real nail-bitter. It will keep you on the edge of your seat the whole time. All three of us saw this and we liked it.
The DaVinci Code
Very Good, and suspensful, but make sure you watch and listen closely. I am not sure how much Blair liked this one. Mark had not finished the book yet, but he at least had an idea of what was happening. I think the actors did a great job, and overall I give it a thumbs up, but it is not for everyone.
Akeelah and the Bee
FANTASTIC!!! Blair and I loved this movie. It is such a positive movie and really shows how perserverance and postive attitude can make things happen. You will definitely walk out feeling good! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED****
Mission Impossible 3
Very suspenseful and good plot. Interesting twists. We all enjoyed it a lot.
Stick It
Really good teenage girl movie. Blair loved it, and I enjoyed it as well.
Inside Man
Very good, and I highly recommend it. Mark and I both liked it a lot. Interesting story and nice twist.
Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe
I enjoyed this!
Capote
Interesting and well acted, but not one of my favorites.
She's the Man
Cute teenagey movie.
The 40 Year Old Virgin
Actually I did not watch it, but Mark did. He thought it was ok, but nothing great.
Crash
Rented it this weekend, and I did not really care for it. In fact, I feel asleep about 45 minutes into it. Mark liked it and thought it was very well done. I think the subject was too disturbing and depressing, and I was just not in the right frame of mind to watch it.
Eight Below
*** EXCELLENT!!! All three of us loved this movie!
Firewall
LOVED IT!!! On the edge of my seat the whole time. Harrison Ford still rocks!
Rent
I actually liked the movie better than the play. It was much easier to tell what was going on, and easier for me to follow. I liked the music more than I remembered. Just kind of sad to see all the problems the people were dealing with.
Elizabethtown
It was interesting, but not one of my favorites.
The Pink Panther
Blair and I really liked this movie. I was kind of silly and had LOTS of physical comedy, but it made me laugh. A lot. Mark was not so crazy about it.
Skeleton Key
Finally got a chance to see this. Blair had seen it at the movies and wanted to watch it again with us. LOTS of suspense, but why does she keep going in scary places?? Interesting ending too. If you like suspense, this one is for you.
Junebug
This is kind of an arty character study film. It is about a couple who own an art gallery and go to North Carolina to visit a folk artist that they want to sign with their gallery. He lives in the same town as the husband of the couple, so they stay with his peculiar family. It was OK, but nothing to get excited about. I rented it because one of the actresses was nominated in the best supporting role. Also, I thought it might be OK for Blair to watch. NOPE. It is PG13, but there are a few scenes that are just not appropriate.
Tristian and Isolde
**** I took Blair and her friend Gina. We all gave it a THUMBS UP!!! Boy, people were so cruel and vicious in the dark ages! We were so glad the nasty lookin dude Isolde was supposed to marry got killed in a battle. I also say kudos to Lord Marke for some of his decisions.
Memoirs of a Geisha
*** As good as I expected. Although it did not get good ratings, Blair and I enjoyed it SO VERY MUCH! I had read the book a while ago, so I was really looking forward to it, and I was not disappointed.
Glory Road
**** WONDERFUL!!! What an incredible story and fantastic movie. We all LOVED IT!!!!
Last Holiday
I really liked it. Queen Latifa is great and if you like her other movies, you will like this. I took Blair and her friend and they liked it as well.
King Kong
*** All three of us saw this last night and really enjoyed it. Great story and lots of suspense. Lots of really nasty creatures too!!!! YUCK. Also, I had a hard time at the end of the movie with the scenes on top of the empire state building. Just thinking about being up that high scares the beejeebers out of me!!!
Cheaper by the Dozen 2
Great kids movie! I laughed out loud (which Blair did not like). She enjoyed it too.
The Family Stone
I liked it LOTS, but it had an unexpected twist that I was not prepared for. * You may need tissues.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
** Excellent (as always)! I'll be purchasing this one for sure! If you like the other Harry Potter movies, you will really like this too!
Walk the Line
*** Excellent!!! Makes me want to go get a Johnny Cash CD!
