The Movies thread!

[njskaguy33]

I realize it's a few years old already, but I watched Zach and Miri Make a Porno last night. I don't recall the reviews at the time it came out, but I enjoyed it. It was a cute little movie with the witty dialogue that Kevin Smith is known for. Very funny. Does anyone know how Smith's fans received it?

My brother saw it a year ago and really enjoyed it. He actually thought it was some of the better stuff he's done since Dogma. While I myself haven't seen it, most people agree it's a cute movie that isn't as brash as the title make it seem, injecting just enough heart and humor to go with the witty banter Smith is known for. Yeah, it's an under appreciated flick to be sure!

[njskaguy33]

Review My Collection #3

2001: A Space Odyssey

Sixteen years ago, in the basement of my parent’s house, I had my first run in with the Stanley Kubrick classic 2001: A Space Odyssey. My dad, being a pretty big science fiction fan, told me this was one of those must see films and for the most part, he was right. The stunning visuals, deliberate pacing and one of the most cunningly evil antagonists in movie history enthralled my growing pre-teen mind. The thought of my 486 Packard Bell computer becoming self aware or playing chess with my microwave was a chilling idea for my14 year old mind. Despite my amazement, one thing bugged me when the final view of the obelisk in alignment faded from the screen: what did it all mean? Asking my dad was no help. Sure he had read the book and had said something about the Star Child being a metaphor for the next era of man or some claptrap but I remember distinctly nodding my heads in agreement while wondering what the hell he was talking about. Since then, I’ve seen it numerous times and while I get the jist of the film much more than I did when I was fourteen, I still can’t help but feel I’m left with too many questions at the end, despite my mind, one again, being blown. Challenging, beautiful and sometimes exasperating, 2001: A Space Odyssey is a landmark movie that poses tough questions with no easy answers, forcing the viewer to interpret the events in their way, leading them to their own conclusions.

Released in 1968, a full year before American astronauts would land on the moon, 2001: A Space Odyssey was Kubrick’s follow up to the wildly controversial yet wonderful Dr. Strangelove. This wide sweeping story of man’s evolution from ape to intelligent human to something beyond was met with critical damnation upon its initial release. Many theaters stopped running it due to poor critical support and the studio was ready to pull the movie completely due to languishing box office receipts. Despite this impending doom, the film, after a short period of middling success, finally found its audience. Largely made up of younger people, eager to experience the mind bending head trip of the star gate scene, new audiences ate up the revolutionary special effects, deliberate pacing and other worldly vision of a director at the peak of his filmmaking prowess. Science fiction would never be the same.

Now, seen over forty years after its initial release, 2001 still holds much of its initial magic while at the same time becoming rather dated with age. This dichotomy is evident within the first ten minutes of the feature, where we are treated to six minutes of a black screen, peppered with noises, sounds and an overture gets immediately followed by stunning views of a pre-man world. This mixture of brilliant photography and head scratching surrealism is what makes 2001 a joy and a chore to get through. For example, just as you get sucked into the story of pre man creatures discovering humanity through violence, the film bogs down, showing long takes of spacecraft floating poetically to the Blue Danube. Right when you start learning about the lack of communication from the outpost and start wondering about the mysterious object, the film grinds to a halt, forcing you to sit through a painfully slow ten minute space travel sequence. In 2001, it’s the bets of times and the worst of times.

Now, I’ll be the first to admit that these criticisms need to be graded on a forty year curve. Take the original viewing audience, for example. Back in the late sixties, nobody had seen space like the one Kubrick and author Arthur C. Clarke had imagined. The floating anti-gravity and the way everything in space seems to dance with the soundtrack was wondrous to an audience raised on Buck Rogers television serials. Now consider the source of this review. Being a newly crowned thirty-something living in Manhattan, I’m surrounded by constant motion: my route home is dependant on walk signs, I’ll transfer from subway to subway to shave minutes off my time and I walk at a pace so brisk, I should be auditioning for a Nike commercial. Sure, I relish and seek out slower moments in my free time, but in the end, my time is a precious commodity that I have little latitude to waste. The struggle for me is that even though I appreciate the artistry and beauty of the filmmaking of 2001, the effect has diminished some, removing much of the tension that must have been felt by the original audiences. Although the film really hits its stride when HAL is introduced ninety minutes in, even that experience is marred by long pod trips to fix antennas and brilliant yet tedious shots of astronauts walking in concentric circles. The film has a distinct ebb and flow to it and your enjoyment of the movie will depend largely on how much you throw yourself into the deliberate pacing. 2001 can either be hypnotic or mind numbing, all depending on your personal preferences, your point of view or how many Red Bulls you knocked down before the screening.

Despite my less than perfect score, 2001 is a defining experience in the world of science fiction and film at large. A sweeping epic of impressive imagination and scale, Kubrick reaches out to the far reaches of space with only a handful of facts and returns wielding only more questions. Minimalist yet epic, complex yet simple, disarmingly patient while at the same intensely vibrant, 2001 is a film that should be experienced by everybody at least once. While much of the film plods along at a glacial pace, the acting is very average and some of it just screams of pretentious mumbo jumbo, it’s hard to put down a film that is the obvious result of indescribable genius. Kubrick had a lot to say about time, space and the nature of man and while the way he presented it may not jive with my modern day sensibilities, it is impossible to deny the artistry behind it all.

**Check out my RT blog entitled "Review My Collection" for the rest of the series!!**

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

Green Lantern (Also in 3D – Ever watch a trailer and say to yourself, “Boy, that looks silly and I don’t think it’s supposed to be”? Well, that’s exactly what runs through my mind when I see a trailer or sign or movie poster for the latest film by director Martin Campbell (Casino Royale, Edge of Darkness) Green Lantern. All I can think is, that’s a silly costume or look, that silly guy has a ten finger forehead or ahh, there’s the obligatory rock monster voiced by Michael Clarke Duncan. According to critics, the movie is exactly as silly and nonsensical as the trailer promises. Star Ryan Reynolds has great abs but no personality, the story is far fetched, even for a comic movie and the whole thing is seeped in a silliness so bad, so off the mark, it can’t even be classified as campy good. There are much better films out there to see in wide release, many of which will have shorter lines. My advice? Seek those out rather than waiting time with this snoozer.

Mr. Popper’s Penguins – Another actor who has some experience with green tights (Batman Forever, anybody?), Jim Carrey stars in this family comedy about a hard nosed businessman whose heart of coal gets warmed the heck up when he adopts six penguins. Slapsticky, silly and undeniably light comedy, critics have said that while the film doesn’t break new ground, it could pass for decent entertainment for the kiddies on a hot summer day. Carrey plays the part with conviction, the penguins are decently entertaining and if you can ignore the obligatory fart jokes, there is inoffensive fun to be had here, for the kiddies at least.

Opening This Week – Limited Release

The Art of Getting By – Teenage coming of age story surrounding a lazy yet intelligent teen boy who falls for a beautiful girl who sees a warm spirit behind his slacker tendencies. Critics have been mostly negative about the film, citing that while Roberts is a very competent leading lady, the chemistry between her and star Freddie Highmore just doesn’t work on any level. Clichéd, phony and an almost parody of what we’ve come to expect from teenage romances, this film may have some arthouse cred, but in the end comes off looking flat. Opening in limited screens throughout NY and NJ

Page One: Inside the New York Times – Hows this for expected? A film taking the view behind the scenes of the news desk for one of the biggest papers in the world is getting good reviews from critics, mostly working in print media. What a shock! Especially given the subversive agenda of the changing media structure and a cry to maintain the print media form, and it’s no wonder why magazine critics are giving it a thumbs up. Aside from that, the movie is a mildly interesting look into what makes a newspaper tick and evidently, the result is pretty much what you expect.

Buck – Documentary about a real life “horse whisperer” who travels nine months out of the year, helping horses get over their “people issues”. Emotionally moving and very inspiring, Buck is the kind of doc that affects you personally, or at least that’s what the critics say. Highly recommended! Playing at Lincoln Plaza Cinemas and the IFC Center

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

Battle for Brooklyn – Documentary about the public battle between the local residents of a Prospect Heights neighborhood and the proposed Atlantic yards project, a plan that will bring the Nets to the neighborhood. While it could be an interesting look into local politics, the doc is very one sides and take a wild guess on whose side they’re on. Showing at Cinema Village 12th St and Indie Screen (Brooklyn)

Jig – Documentary about the 40th Irish Dancing Competition where dancers from around the globe convene to show their skills. Definitely special interest but worth checking out, according to critics, if you’re into that sort of thing. Showing at the Quad Cinema

R – Dutch film about a prisoner who has to navigate the ins and outs of a new prison life, doing everything he can to stay alive. Critics have praised not only the visceral thrills but the intricate pacing, creating genuine tension and intrigue. Also showing at the Quad Cinema

My 3 To See

X-Men: First Class – Still the best reviewed action film in theaters, this flick brings you back to the true origin stories of Magneto and Professor X.

Beginners – Sweet, smart and funny, this Ewan McGreggor film has all the makings of a fun time in the theater

Tree Of Life – Sigh….Ok, I didn’t fall in love with it like critics did but if a film that’s a mix of 2011: A Space Odyssey and A River Runs Through It sounds appealing to you, this is right up your alley. Certainly not for everybody but if every film fan should absolutely see this for themselves.

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

[DaneykoIsGod]

I realize it's a few years old already, but I watched Zach and Miri Make a Porno last night. I don't recall the reviews at the time it came out, but I enjoyed it. It was a cute little movie with the witty dialogue that Kevin Smith is known for. Very funny. Does anyone know how Smith's fans received it?

I liked it, but I just watched one of those Kevin Smith Q&A things on Netflix and apparently he isn't a very big fan of it. In retrospect, he felt like he was trying to make a Judd Apatow movie rather than making a Kevin Smith movie. I guess I can see where he's coming from with that.

[CRASHER]

Green Lantern (Also in 3D – Ever watch a trailer and say to yourself, “Boy, that looks silly and I don’t think it’s supposed to be”? Well, that’s exactly what runs through my mind when I see a trailer or sign or movie poster for the latest film by director Martin Campbell (Casino Royale, Edge of Darkness) Green Lantern. All I can think is, that’s a silly costume or look, that silly guy has a ten finger forehead or ahh, there’s the obligatory rock monster voiced by Michael Clarke Duncan. According to critics, the movie is exactly as silly and nonsensical as the trailer promises. Star Ryan Reynolds has great abs but no personality, the story is far fetched, even for a comic movie and the whole thing is seeped in a silliness so bad, so off the mark, it can’t even be classified as campy good. There are much better films out there to see in wide release, many of which will have shorter lines. My advice? Seek those out rather than waiting time with this snoozer.

The story is actually fairly accurate to the comics actually

And be fair... Hal Jordan doesn't exactly have a GREAT "origin tale"....dude crashes a spaceship....finds him.....gives him ring of awesome....FX ensue!

I actually liked the way the uniform glowed and would have looked less silly then green auras in space!

The movie did its job and told the story (didn't like the choice of the main villian, but like I said, GL don't have a lot to choose from), was glad to see they went all out and did the effects AND the corps correctly....the only two things that irked me, were the Guardians and the lack of chemistry with Hal and Carol Ferris, aside of that it was awesome to see a movie for most of my life I though we'd never have the effects to do it justice with!

[Pepperkorn]

I'm watching the best move called Heartland with Rip Torn. It's old but it's so good!

[Devils731]

The best part of Green Lantern was that when Hal flies into space for the first time surrounded by a green shell of power the stupid FX team still made his hair ruffle like his speed was making the air rush by.

[njskaguy33]

New Movie Review

Beginners

Throughout all the bombast and squall of the summer movie season, quiet little jems often get bowled over by the ever-present noise of the local mainstream cinema. While 2011 has been no exception to this, the quality of mainstream movies has actually been pretty decent. With popcorn munchers like Thor, X-Men: First Class and Super 8 all impressing audiences and critics alike, this summer has been a good one for movie lovers who lack access to independent cinema. Sad thing is that this influx of decent summer blockbusters has pushed the indie scene to the background even more than usual for this time of year, despite there being some quality films to be seen. One of those diamonds in the rough is the latest film starring Ewan McGregor, Beginners, a film that examines the balancing act between living in the past and taking hold of your future with mostly delightful results.

McGregor plays Oliver, a late thirty-something artist who lives alone, has a dog he talks to (and talks back via adorably funny subtitles) and has shut out much of the outside world due to a crippling shyness. The film opens with McGregor settling the affairs of his recently deceased father, played near perfectly by Christopher Plummer. This opening scene sets the tone of the film, showing us that while there’s going to be some serious meat to be digested, it’s all layered with a candy coating of wry humor. McGregor is pretty fantastic in this role, reminding me of how good an actor he really can be when given the opportunity. Displaying a great deal of subtlety in his very restrained performance, McGregor goes through the emotions of pain, loss and burgeoning love in a very real and connected way.

Of course, without some fine supporting acting, McGregor’s great work would have been wasted. After the initial introduction to the character of Oliver, the film splits in two, one half detailing the relationship between Oliver during his father’s coming out and the present time, centering around a new relationship with a charming actress named Anna, played by Melanie Laurent. The flashback scenes detailing Plummer’s admitting he’s gay at the age of 75, his subsequent newfound zest for life and the effect it all has on his now older son is easily the strongest stuff in the film, balancing reality and whimsy in equal doses. Inspiring, sweet and poignant, the zeal for living Plummer displays reminds us all it’s never too late to taste the sweetness life has to offer.

On the other side of the coin, the parallel story of Oliver and Anna falls into familiar territory. The impossibly cool couple roller-skates in office buildings, tags up buildings and go to parties with equally cool people, all very fun and interesting but difficult to connect with if you don’t live in Brooklyn or wear American Apparel short pants. Without the excellent work of both McGregor and Laurent in their respective roles, this hipster romance could have been intolerable but with some lovely chemistry and good direction by Mike Mills, the two hold together.

From personal experience, the older you get, the more closed off you tend to become, especially towards relationships and the people you surround yourself with. Like an emotional survival instinct, it gets harder and harder to trust someone for fear of experiencing that same old pain of rejection, especially when you expect things will eventually fall apart. Through the present life of Oliver trying to connect with a maddingly charming woman and the flashbacks of his father breaking free of those emotional bonds in his twilight years, Beginnings shows us both the joy of being open to the world and the consequences of being closed off. Although the film has a small hint of trying to be too clever for the room, the meat of the feature is something we can all take a big bite out of. A celebration of life combined with a cautionary tale of how easily it can be squandered, Beginners may have tried too hard to be everything at one, but when the sum of the parts is this emotionally satisfying, I find it hard to find fault with any of it.

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

Bad Teacher – Cameron Diaz, Jason Segal and the all of a sudden actor Justin Timberlake star in this potty mouthed comedy about a drugged out teacher just trying to get hers. Diaz plays Elizabeth, a hard drinking, pot smoking teacher whose sole ambition in life is finding herself a sugar daddy so she can ditch her boring teaching career. Aaaanndd, that’s about it. While the character does start to arc towards the end of the film, it happens too late and the person the movie revolves around is just downright annoying and unlikeable. What seemed like a crude and mean-spirited movie in the trailers actually turns out to have more bark and less bite, according to critics. Getting mostly bad reviews from critics, Bad Teacher is a completely avoidable piece of foul mouthed fare.

Cars 2 (Also showing in 3D and IMAX 3D) – The sequel to what’s widely considered the weakest film in the Pixar library, Cars 2 hits theatres this weekend with even worse reviews than its predecessor. The vocal talents of Owen Wilson and Larry the Cable Guy return as the odd couple Lightning and Mater, finding the two of them wrapped up in a tale of international espionage on their way to an international race. In the first film, Mater was a lovable yet bumbling sidekick but in this installment, finds himself more central to the plot with seriously weak results. When it comes to the shtick of Larry the Cable Guy, less is always more and Cars 2 ups the ante, dumbing down the rest of the feature. Critics have almost unanimously labeled this film as the worst Pixar release ever and while it almost guaranteed to make half a billion dollars, there’s no reason why you should contribute to the kitty.

Opening This Week – Limited Release

Conan O’Brian Can’t Stop – Conanites rejoice! The red haired comic is back with a vengeance in this documentary chronicling Conan’s 32 city tour following his firing from the Tonight Show. Half a backstage look and half a look into what makes the comic tick, this doc has been getting mostly good reviews from critics saying when it’s funny, it’s hilarious and when it’s not, it’s eye opening. Definitely must see material for Conan fans everywhere. Playing at Landmark Sunshine

The Names of Love – French film about a young political activist who gains support for her causes not by pamphlets, speeches or polling but by sleeping with key conservatives. However, one such conservative, a 40-something named Martin, her game turns on its ear. Getting mixed reviews from critics, some enjoyed the dark romantic comedy for its freshness but others found it too smarmy for its own good. Opening at City Cinemas Paris Theatre and Landmark Sunshine

A Better Life – When I saw the trailer for this one, I kept getting reminded of The Bicycle Thief for some reason and evidently, I’m not too far off. This story about an immigrant father and the lengths he’ll go to give his son the chances he never had looks schmaltzy from the trailer but critics have praised director Chris Weitz for injecting tone and mood into the feature. Getting mostly fine reviews, this film is quiet yet resonating, quite a feat for subject matter that can border on Lifetime melodrama. Showing at Landmark Sunshine

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

Leap Year – Well reviewed Mexican indie about the sexual relationship between two very different people and the loneliness they share, even in the midst of a passionate affair. Critics have made this the best reviewed film released this weekend, saying it is human, powerful and not just all about the sex. Definitely worth a watch if you enjoy foreign character studies with a libidinous twist. Showing at Cinema Village 12th St

Passione – The directorial debut from famed character actor John Turturro, Passione is a wild and vibrant tribute to the music and people of Naples. Combing song, dance and a love of Tuscan life, critics have praised this film for its energy, soul and dare I say, passion. Worth seeing for those looking for some vibrant indie fun this weekend. Playing at the Film Forum

A Love Affair of Sorts – Starring, written and directed by some guy named David Guy Levy, this vanity project sounds a bit like last years Catfish. Filmed almost entirely with a flip style camera, Levy documents a burgeoning love affair, without ever telling the people involved they were actually on camera and part of a film. More of an experiment than a movie and if that was the case, the experiment failed, according to critics. Tedious, boring and self serving, this film will entertain only the man responsible for making it. Playing at the Quad Cinema

If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front – Journalistic doc about the Earth Liberation Front, a radical Earth friendly group who hides behind its message of saving the planet to foster political power. Critics have been giving this one mostly great reviews, saying it’s a fascinating look into politics and special interests. Showing at the IFC Center

The Best and the Brightest – Poorly received comedy about a Manhattan couple trying desperately to get their five year old daughter into the finest kindergarten in the city. Playing like a comedy of errors, critics have said that it’s unfortunately more faux pas than funny. Playing at Quad Cinema

My 3 To See

Conan O’Brian Can’t Stop – While your enjoyment of the red haired comedian will largely dictate your enjoyment of this documentary, fans will find lots to love in this eye opening feature.

Leap Year – Sexy, emotional and involving, this Mexican import breathes some powerful drama into the noisy summer scene.

A Better Life – Despite a premise that screams schmaltz, this quiet yet powerful drama about an immigrant father and son has been getting wide praise from critics and audiences alike.

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

Edited June 24, 2011 by Bulletproof

[95Crash]

I liked [Zack and Miri Make a Porno], but I just watched one of those Kevin Smith Q&A things on Netflix and apparently he isn't a very big fan of it. In retrospect, he felt like he was trying to make a Judd Apatow movie rather than making a Kevin Smith movie. I guess I can see where he's coming from with that.

Ah yes, I forgot, I had heard Smith make that comment too. I guess I could see the similarities between Z&M and some of Apatow's movies. Nevertheless, I still liked Z&M for what it was. And anyway, a Smith/Apatow-type movie is still way more fun to watch than half the other stuff out there these days!

Cars 2 (Also showing in 3D and IMAX 3D) – The sequel to what’s widely considered the weakest film in the Pixar library, Cars 2 hits theatres this weekend with even worse reviews than its predecessor. The vocal talents of Owen Wilson and Larry the Cable Guy return as the odd couple Lightning and Mater, finding the two of them wrapped up in a tale of international espionage on their way to an international race. In the first film, Mater was a lovable yet bumbling sidekick but in this installment, finds himself more central to the plot with seriously weak results. When it comes to the shtick of Larry the Cable Guy, less is always more and Cars 2 ups the ante, dumbing down the rest of the feature. Critics have almost unanimously labeled this film as the worst Pixar release ever and while it almost guaranteed to make half a billion dollars, there’s no reason why you should contribute to the kitty.

I can think of one reason to contribute to the Cars 2 kitty -- my toddler! He loves ... LOVES ... the first Cars movie. I can't tell you how many Lightning Mcqueen toys we have laying around the house. And Mater too. Actually, I'm a fan of Cars too. It is hard for me to understand how some people consider it to be the weakest of the Pixar films. For instance, I'd watch Cars any day of the week over, let's say, A Bug's Life. ... That being said, the previews for Cars 2 don't excite me as much. But still, it would have to seriously suck badly for me and my boy not to watch it once at least.

[njskaguy33]

I can think of one reason to contribute to the Cars 2 kitty -- my toddler! He loves ... LOVES ... the first Cars movie. I can't tell you how many Lightning Mcqueen toys we have laying around the house. And Mater too. Actually, I'm a fan of Cars too. It is hard for me to understand how some people consider it to be the weakest of the Pixar films. For instance, I'd watch Cars any day of the week over, let's say, A Bug's Life. ... That being said, the previews for Cars 2 don't excite me as much. But still, it would have to seriously suck badly for me and my boy not to watch it once at least.

To be fair, I never saw a Bug's Life, so I can't compare it to the rest of the Pixar flicks, but I remember enjoying Cars, despite the fact I couldn't reference a single moment from the movie. For me, Pixar movies are always pretty memorable and if it's doesn't stick in my mind, it's not as strong as the others. Still, Cars is entertaining enough but I'm sure you and your son will love Cars 2. Besides, it's always more fun to watch a movie when you're sitting with somebody experiencing unbriddled joy at it! Ahhh, the innocense of youth!!

Be sure to let us know what you think of it!

[njskaguy33]

Review My Collection #4

300

If you’ve been following my reviews with any frequency, you know how I feel about director Zach Snyder. I don’t like him, he has no clue who I am, and personally, I prefer to keep it that way. My main issue with him is that his only motivation for filmmaking is to make things that look “cool”. If you don’t believe me, I recommend listening to the commentary of Watchmen. Why did you choose this shot? Because it looks cool. Why did a woman in pigtails backflip over a semi? Because that looked awesome. In fact, you’ll never hear him talk about character development, plot points or getting the audience emotionally involved in any way. So why does this review not only have a fresh rating but lives on the second level of my DVD shelf? Because, when all is said and done, it’s pretty damn cool.

300 is the story of King Leonidas, head ass kicker and king of the Spartan people. When a massive Persian army approaches to sack his republic, Leonidas goes against his countries laws and takes three hundred brave soldiers to the Hot Gates, a small valley where the Persian army will be sandwiched into bite size pieces for his men to destroy. There’s also a story of governmental corruption, greed and love sandwiched in there, but all audiences really are there to see is star Gerard Butler’s intimidating computer aided abdominals and people’s heads being lanced off in slow motion. Cornball story aside, Butler and company do an admirable job with the silly story and cliché riddled dialogue, looking as though they are generally enjoying the over the top nature of it all. The battles themselves unfold in video game fashion: first the easily beatable peons, then the archer stage, then the giant beasts, etc, etc. Luckily for us, the battles are generally enjoyable, especially on a big screen with a nice surround sound system. The fighting is all you really come here to see but it’s nice that Snyder allowed us a few moments to catch our breath, even if those moments are trite and mostly pointless.

300 is what it is, a fairly enjoyable popcorn flick that eschews historical accuracy for computer aided wizardry and pushes aside character development in favor of slow motion limb slicing. While he does make an attempt to create a world we care about, our only attachment to the people and places involved is an archetypical one. Every character in the film fits a precise mold: the Spartan represent freedom from oppression, the Persians represent slavery and Sparta itself is a place where people don’t back down. As a result, the film is easy to follow and easy to like, leaving us open to marvel at the carnage, even if a game of Solitaire would be more intellectually challenging. A pure, unapologetic popcorn movie, 300 succeeds at the meager task presented to it: just kick a whole bunch of ass, give us the barest of stories to latch onto and our imaginations will take care of the rest. While it’s not high cinema, it is campy, bloody fun. And yes, Mr. Snyder, I’ll concede. It’s pretty damn cool.

**Check out my RT blog entitled "Review My Collection" for the rest of the series!!**

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

Transformers: Dark Side of the Moon (Also available in 3D and IMAX 3D – Revisionist history has been a common theme in movies as of late. While one could look to Inglorious Basterds as the start of the trend, this summer season has already seen history re-written in X-Men: First Class and continues with the latest film in the Michael Bay noise-fest, Transformers 3. This iteration of the series takes us back to the mid sixties where the Decepticons (aka the bad robots) secretly hid a base to build robots to enslave modern day Earth. Enter Shia LeBeouf and Optimus Prime to save the day once again. The Transformers movies are pure fluff and entertainment, usually eschewing storyline and acting for noise, explosions and fighting robots….but for two and a half hours?? Critics have been sticking on this point saying the film satisfies on a purely adrenaline level but it just takes too long damn long to wade through the silliness. Fans of the carnage will find lots to love, including a climax that lasts, no joke, about an hour but if you’ve missed the first two, feel free to get some fresh air this weekend and skip this one as well.

Larry Crowne – Tom Hanks stars, writes and directs this goofy little film about a fired retail clerk who goes back to school, in turn falling for his teacher, played by Julia Roberts. Roberts and Hanks are likable enough actors and lend a cheesy fun factor to the film but critical response has been resoundingly ambivalent to the movie’s existence. While some have found blithe enjoyment from the interesting premise, most critics have seen this as a missed opportunity, pelting the indie story with too much celebrity for its own good. Good enough for a Saturday afternoon TBS viewing but not good enough to warrant leaving your home for.

Monte Carlo – Inoffensive teen comedy about three friends who upon graduating, spend a summer in Monte Carlo living the life of royalty, finding romance and learning about themselves. Alright, go ahead and check your blood sugar. Elevated? Thought so! Sugary sweet and chirpy, this feature will only hold the interest of the easiest to please teenage girls. Everyone else, take heed of the sugar rush and avoid!

Opening This Week – Limited Release

Terri – Yet another independent coming of age film that the cinemas seem saturated with these days, Terri is the story of an oversized teen and the principal who takes an interest in him, played by John C Reilly. While critics have been mostly positive about the funny yet meandering comedy, some critics have had enough with the premise, saying it’s been done a bit to death. Still, Terri is getting relatively high marks in a pretty lackluster weekend, so if you’re something that will tickle your funny bone without blowing your eardrums out, Terri may be just the thing you need. Showing at the Angelika and Lincoln Plaza Cinemas

Love Etc. – This quirky documentary follows a wide range of New Yorkers through a series of relationship trials and tribulations, examining that, surprise, surprise, that being a couple can be hard. Critics have been pretty negative about the movie saying that it offers no new insights and, in the words of Sam Adams from Time Out New York, “about as interesting as an afternoon of people watching”. Rent yourself a copy of Paris Je’Tieme instead if you’re looking for relationship insight. Playing at City Cinemas 86th Street and Landmark Sunshine

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

Crime After Crime – Fascinating documentary about two rookie attorneys who attempt to get a pardon for Debbie Peagler, who has spent twenty five years in prison for the murder of her abusive husband. Critics have said it’s a fascinating and almost cinematic look into municipal justice and offers some strong arguments for hr release. Playing at the IFC Center

The Perfect Host – Starring David Hyde Pierce, this low budget thriller about a criminal arriving at a dinner party only to find the tables turned and the line between good and evil blurred. Critics have been pretty negative about this one, saying that it’s twenty minutes of intrigue followed by seventy minutes of needless exposition. May be worth a watch on Netflix but totally avoidable this weekend, despite a deliciously over the top performance by Pierce. Showing at Quad Cinema

My 3 To See

Super 8 – Still the best received film in wide release, this JJ Abrahms / Spielburg vehicle has been getting mostly positive reviews from everyone who’s seen it.

A Better Life – This soul touching drama about an immigrant father trying to find a better life for his teenage son has been getting a fine reception from critics and audiences alike

Transformers: Dark Side of the Moon – Whatever…half of you have probably seen it already, so why fight the masses!

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Edited June 30, 2011 by Bulletproof

[NJDevils1214]

My 3 To See

Super 8 – Still the best received film in wide release, this JJ Abrahms / Spielburg vehicle has been getting mostly positive reviews from everyone who’s seen it.

I saw super 8 and it was just "ok" for me. I enjoyed the jokes that were inserted more than the actual plot.

[DaneykoIsGod]

Based on the trailer alone, Larry Crowne might be the worst-looking Tom Hanks movie since the 1980s. It looks like they took 40-Year-Old Virgin, subtracted everything good about it and added bigger stars.

Also, Julia Roberts is now officially on my "People think she's hot, but I think she looks like an animal or something" list. She looks like a bird, just like Cameron Diaz looks like an elf and Sarah Jessica Parker looks like a horse.

[njskaguy33]

Based on the trailer alone, Larry Crowne might be the worst-looking Tom Hanks movie since the 1980s. It looks like they took 40-Year-Old Virgin, subtracted everything good about it and added bigger stars.

Also, Julia Roberts is now officially on my "People think she's hot, but I think she looks like an animal or something" list. She looks like a bird, just like Cameron Diaz looks like an elf and Sarah Jessica Parker looks like a horse.

The above post has so much truth in it, it's boggles the imagination. Couldn't agree more with your thoughts on Roberts, Diaz and especially Parker! Strap a feed bag on that woman!

As for Larry Crowne, you can get away with quirky and light hearted when you have no name actors but when you have two of the biggest stars on the planet giggling through a screenplay, you can't connect. Just doesn't look good at all.

[Devils731]

I assume Hanks and Roberts owed someone favors and agreed to let the favors be called in thinking their names combined can carry any crap film to profits(at least for themselves)

[Atterr]

All signs points to another 2 hours of torture, but I'll probably go see Transformers 3 this weekend. I don't know why I even bother, I guess I'm just a masochist.

[njskaguy33]

I assume Hanks and Roberts owed someone favors and agreed to let the favors be called in thinking their names combined can carry any crap film to profits(at least for themselves)

Well, considering Hanks, wrote, produced, directed and starred in the movie, you're probably not that fat off. It's obviously a vanity project and while it can work, the studio just figured the star power alone would give it a good opening weekend, which it probably will.

What!? Cameron Diaz is fvcking smoking hot.

But "Bad teacher" was just, uh, bad.

Diaz is the hottest of the three mentioned, but she only looks good in certain situations or roles. She may be hot, but in a "hot elf" sort of way.

All signs points to another 2 hours of torture, but I'll probably go see Transformers 3 this weekend. I don't know why I even bother, I guess I'm just a masochist.

Nah, it's not going to to two hours of torture. You're looking at two and a half hours of torture. If the film was shorter, I could almost see myself going, but that's entirely too much time to devote to something that won't be any good.

[Parisalchuk]

I heard that the entire last hour of transformers 3 is just all explosions...... Michael Bay, you never cease to amaze me. Easily one of the worst directors and movie franchises around right now

[njskaguy33]

I heard that the entire last hour of transformers 3 is just all explosions...... Michael Bay, you never cease to amaze me. Easily one of the worst directors and movie franchises around right now

You're exactly right. From what I've heard, the last hour of the movie is nothing but a monstrous battle. I'm all for epic battle scenes but that just sounds exhausting. The Expendables overdid it with a half hour ending battle...I can't imagine double that! Not only that, but after the 80th robot blowing up, everybody in the audience has stopped caring. Bay stinks.

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

Horrible Bosses – No, that is not a typo. The title of this film is indeed colored green for, “Yeah! This movie has been getting great reviews”! Kevin Spacey, Colin Farrell and Jennifer Aniston star as three mean spirited, awful superiors who, via their awful nature, provoke their subordinates (played by Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day) into planning their murder. Labeled as a black comedy, reviews have said that while the film is quite funny in places, the whole thing is slathered with a nastiness that may turn off some viewers. In fact, the rating the movie has received depends largely on how the reviewer took the ugly nature of the comedy, so if you don’t mind it, you’ll probably[y find a lot of cathartic comedy in this Seth Gordon directed picture. For me, I don’t particularly care for ugliness without something positive to hold on to, so I probably wont run out to see it but if you’re looking for a good laugh this weekend, I doubt you could do much better than Horrible Bosses.

Zookeeper – Cmon now, people…did anybody really think this was going to be any good? I’ve only seen the movie poster and I knew it was going to be a dog. One of those films that wasn’t pre-screened for critics, the story revolves around a happy go-lucky zookeeper who, upon realizing that his job is preventing him from scoring with the ladies, decides to leave only to realize, good gravy, the animals can talk! Yeah, this doesn’t sound like anywhere near a winner and critics largely argee, saying the movie while innocent enough and featuring a very likable star in Kevin James, doesn’t provide anything above stupid pranks and talking animals. Not something one should run out and spend $13 to see.

Opening This Week – Limited Release

Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest – Well received documentary about the story, career and 2008 tour of one of the most influential hip hops artists of all time. Critics have been heaping praise on this flick saying it’s a fascinating look into music making for both fans and non fans alike. Showing at AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9, AMC Empire 25 and Landmark Sunshine

Ironclad – Period action film about a group of 13th century Templars defending Rochester Castle against the siege of King John. Paul Giamatti plays the sacking King and while there’s a touch of historical accuracy in the flick, there’s much more blood and guts than nuance. Critics have largely panned this film for its excessive gore and stark depictions of good versus evil so unless you’re a student of the period or are starving for some violence, stay away. Screening at AMC Empire and AMC Loews Ridgefield Park 12

Project Nim – Fascinating, humorous and quietly tragic, this highly rated documentary follows the life of Nim, an experimental chimp who was raised and nutured just like a human child. All done in attempt to prove that a primate can behave an interact just like a human given the chance, this film documents Nim’s journey while still exploring sexual politics, Darwinian theory and the effect young Nim has on the people around him. The highest regarded doc being released this weekend, this is a slam dunk must see for documentary fans and could be an early Oscar nominee candidate. Showing at the Angelika

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

The Ledge – Religious themed thriller about a love triangle with a evangelical’s wife and the life threatening consequences such a tryst can bring about. Poorly made and laughably written, this film betrays its intentions, creating an experience that simply doesn’t satisfy. Showing at the IFC Center

The Ward – Independent thriller about an institutionalized woman who is haunted by a ghostly figure, directed by the master of horror John Carpenter. Sadly, this looks to be a footnote in his storied career as critics have said the thrills are few are far between. Playing at AMC Empire 25

My 3 To See

Project Nim – A charming documentary of an ape trying to be human? Count me in!

Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest – The hip hop legends get there due respect in this interesting documentary.

Horrible Bosses – Sure, it maybe on the mean spirited side but there will be plenty of laughs to be had in one the better comedies released this summer.

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

[Atterr]

Couldn't be bothered to go to TF3, so instead saw X-Men: First Class and The Hangover Part II.

X-Men: First Class was surprisingly good entertainment. Not necessarily a good movie as it is full of plotholes, bad dialogue and has some serious pacing issues, but it has great action that never lets up and the 2+ hours are over before you even know it. It might even be the darkest comic movie to date. I liked the relationship between Professor X and Magneto (who is very bad ass in this film!) and felt that the movie would definitely be better if the focus was more on these two. Too bad, the writers had to include so many other and irrelevant mutants.

The Hangover Part II was unsurprisingly bad. Not only is it exactly the same as the first part in terms of story and even structure, but for a comedy it lacks any form of humor. During the 100 minutes, I almost smiled twice. The rest was just watching three very unsympathetic characters go from one painful and humiliating situation to the next. Definitely gets my nomination for worst movie of the year, although it can never beat Transformers 3.

[njskaguy33]

Couldn't be bothered to go to TF3, so instead saw X-Men: First Class and The Hangover Part II.

X-Men: First Class was surprisingly good entertainment. Not necessarily a good movie as it is full of plotholes, bad dialogue and has some serious pacing issues, but it has great action that never lets up and the 2+ hours are over before you even know it. It might even be the darkest comic movie to date. I liked the relationship between Professor X and Magneto (who is very bad ass in this film!) and felt that the movie would definitely be better if the focus was more on these two. Too bad, the writers had to include so many other and irrelevant mutants.

Going out to see this on Wednesday and from what I've heard from friends and reviews, they all reference the pacing as an issue. While this doesn't suprise me as the director's last movie was Kick Ass, it will be interestng for me to see how this weighs on the film. I'll be sure to share my thoughts on it when I see it!

The Hangover Part II was unsurprisingly bad. Not only is it exactly the same as the first part in terms of story and even structure, but for a comedy it lacks any form of humor. During the 100 minutes, I almost smiled twice. The rest was just watching three very unsympathetic characters go from one painful and humiliating situation to the next. Definitely gets my nomination for worst movie of the year, although it can never beat Transformers 3.

While I thought the original was a little slice of genius, I can't in good faith spend $13 to see a retread. Something I'll throw on the Nexflix list with low expectations.

[DaneykoIsGod]

Saw Transformers 3 a few days back. It's a pretty fun popcorn flick. If you're looking to enjoy the AC, turn your brain off and see gratuitous slo-mo shots of the smokin' hottie who replaced Megan Fox and see sh!t blow up for a few hours, this is your movie. But if you're looking for things like plots, character arcs or dialogue ... well ... you probably shouldn't have made it past the first sentence of this post. I mean, it's friggin' Transformers. What do you expect?