Movie Reviews
I love movies–not all of them and certainly not all types. You won’t see me making comments on horror, slashers, or really stupid movies.
A movie can earn up to 4 Golden Eggs 
, meaning, drop everything and get your ticket (or DVD)!
Below are many of the movies that I’ve seen over the past year with the latest at the top. Here’s a start … I’ll regularly add to the list.
Sort list by: title | rating | view date ↓
July, 2007
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2007-07-25 13:42
Bridge to Terabithia
is a fantasy film for the entire family. Jess, played by Josh Hutcherson is the star runner in the school is shown up by the new girl Leslie, played by AnnaSopia Robb. Getting through the spots of jealousy, the two end up forming a friendship that leads them to a make-believe enchanted forest. If your kids liked The Chronicles of Narnia, they’ll enjoy this one. Who Should See It? Kids of all ages, Gramma too.
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2007-07-25 13:42The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: The...
by Disney takes viewers of all ages back to the beginning to the Pooh movies—Honey tree, The Blustery Day and Winnie the Pooh with Tigger Too. If you’ve forgotten, you learn how Pooh and Tigger meet; and get a kick out of Pooh gorging himself on Rabbits “hunny” and getting so fat that he can’t get out of the front door. Lots of bonus material. A must have for your family DVD library. Who Should See It? Kids of all ages, Gramma too.
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2007-07-25 13:41Rush Hour 3
with Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Hiroyuki Sanada, Youki Kudoh and Max Von Sydow will hopefully end the franchise. Jackie Chan as Chinese Chief Inspector Lee wowed everyone when the first Rush Hour hit the big screen in the late 90s—he’s older and looks it. He’s still good at what he does… there aren’t the number of outrageous stunts that we all grew up with –he needs another avenue to display his remarkable talents—the opening is as good as it will get. Tucker’s banter gets old fast. Lame is probably what best describes him. Von Sydow’s role as head of the World Crime Court is transparent early on. The real star was probably the Eiffel Tower. If you want real a chase scene, after chase scene, see Bourne Ultimatum. Who Should See It?—Don’t rush, unless you are a true Chan fan.
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2007-07-25 13:41Peter Pan
Platinum Edition brings the original classic to your family. Peter, Tinker Bell, the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, Tic Toc Croc, the Darling children and Nana the dog all are here in upgraded color and digital restoration. Deleted songs found in the Disney vaults have been added; bonus games included. Who Should See It? Kids of all ages, Gramma too.
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2007-07-25 13:39El Cantate
is the first movie that brings husband/wife team Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez to the big screen. Based on the story of Salsa pioneer Hector Lavoe’s rise to success from his Puerto Rican roots. Lopez is Puchi, Hector’s wife, partner and enabler. The chemistry between the two is real (versus the awful chemistry between Lopez and Ben Affleck in Gigli)—would have rather seen more of the man and the music and a little less of Lopez…but this is one of those flicks that if you hang in there, you will fall in. Profanity, drugs and drinking abound—Hector picks up AIDS with his love of the needle and dies an early death. It’s a bio with humor, love, and tragedy, with similarities to the recent movie on Edith Piaf’s life. These gifted, gifted men and women either lose it with the bottle and/or drugs … a loss for all. Who Should See It—Mature teens…best to leave Gramma at home.
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2007-07-25 13:38Rescue Dawn
with Christian Bale is the latest of the overcoming incredible odds/adversity movies. Set during the Viet Nam era, Bale plays Dieter Dengler, the only American to ever escape and be rescued from the Laotian jungle. That is itself is an amazing fete and should not be discounted. Shot down within a short time after he takes off, he’s captured, asked to sign a “formal” letter berating the US, etc. Dengler is the eternal optimist, whipping out is passport that he had sewn into his shoe and tells the very cleanly dressed Laos rep that he loves American. There’s what was felt as token scenes of torture—dragging at the back of a running steer/oxen on a rope, dumping in a water hole, hanging upside down with some bug infested nest attached to his chest—yet somehow, there wasn’t the really oozing/festering of sores that you would expect, especially in the God-awful heat and climate when he was first captured. Or even major tearing of clothes and gashes after being dragged would be expected to generate. In the POW camp, Dengler is, something that none of his mates who have already been captured display—total of 6—, and comes up with the making of gadgets to pick locks and plan the escape. It’s the cleanest of POW camps that has been presented in my movie history, prisoners are able to gather outside their hut and “hang” during the day without much hassle from the guards—of course, maybe these guards hadn’t the cruelty training that their brethren in the adjoining country excelled in. I think so much more could have been done with this movie, so I’m a tad disappointed. Who Should See It? Teens and up - maybe Gramma.
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2007-07-25 13:38Talk to Me
with Don Cheadle is the story of Petey Greene, the Washington DC talk show kind in the late 60s. Petey is a funny ex-con, who cons his way out of prison. While there, he honed his skills as the on-air prison radio voice that inmates and guards alike looked forward to … whatever came out over the air when Petey was at the mic would make their day. Soul music opened the door to “tell it like it is/was” for the black community. Martin Sheen is WOL-AM station owner EG Sonderling and Chiwetel Ejiofor is Dewey, mentor, partner and manager. Petey gets Dewey to put him on the air unbeknownst to WOL’s management team/approval. He connects with the radio audience, adding a much needed humor and in your face commentary to the station’s format. It’s controversial, but a huge hit with the DC market. When Martin Luther King is assassinated, it’s Petey who is a key factor in getting riots, looting, burning of DC under control. Who Should See It?—Mature teens and up, Gramma too if the swearing won’t get to her—there is profanity, drinking, etc. Cheadle will get an Oscar nomination for best actor.
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2007-07-25 13:37Mr. Brooks
with Kevin Kostner, William Hurt, Demi Moore, Marg Helgenberger, Dane Cook, Danielle Panabaker A very different role for Kosner, as a serial killer who is goaded on by his alter ego, played by William Hurt. Demi Moore is the millionaire detective in the middle of a divorce seeking the “thumb print” Kostner, who just happens to be the Man of the Year in his home town. Some of the side stories can be tossed, but over all, there’s lots of twists and turns with an ending that caught me off guard. Who Should See It? Mature audiences, no kids under 16 and not Gramma if she likes Kostner in his wolves and baseball roles.
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2007-07-25 13:37La Vie en Rose
with Marion Cotillard in a remarkable performance that's sure to gather an Oscar nomination. The life story of French songstress Edith Piaf unfolds. It’s painful, memorable and has some beautiful scenes. One of the most magical voices of our time, she conquered both sides of the Atlantic. Talk about dysfunctional families—she grew up surrounded by hookers and pimps; people discovered she had voice when singing at street corners and carnivals with her father—soon eclipsing him in popularity…her music brought in the coins where his magic tricks floundered…she was soon singing on street corners, turning moneys back to the local pimp to keep him at bay. She’s portrayed as a tough person to like, with softness surfacing when she fell in love with boxing champion Marcel Cerdan. Unfortunately, he was married. Made me want to go out and buy a CD of her classics. Subtitles. Who Should See It? Mature audiences, no kids under 16. Gramma will remember this dazzling voice and talent.
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2007-07-25 13:36Hairspray
with John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, James Marsden, Queen Latifah, Allison Janney and a cameo with Jerry Stiller as Mr. Pinky is a downright hoot. It’s a rare pleasure, and surprise, that a movie is better than it’s Tony award winning musical counterpart. You can’t see Hairspray without some toe-tapping and a grin on your face. Based in Baltimore, teenager Tracy Turnblad wants only to dance on the Corny Collins Show, Baltimore’s answer to American Bank Stand. Pfeiffer has the role of the bigoted, bitchy and nasty station manger; Travolta is Tracy’s shy and dancing Mom, Walker her prankster Dad and a perfect foil for Travolta (his scenes with Pfeiffer in the gag shop are a kick), Queen Latifah is the host for the monthly Negro Day—you know where you are going when teen Tracy says that when it comes to dancing, she wishes every day was Negro Day. Hello big hair, black and whites as friends … oh my! Who Should See It? Everyone. Get ye to the theater.
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2007-07-25 13:36Fracture
with Anthony Hopkins, Ryan Gosling and Billy Burke makes you miss the craftiness of Hopkins. Hopkins is the cuckolded wealthy hubby whose wife is having an affair with detective Burke. Coming home, he confronts her, then shoots her. Servants call 911 and the cat and mouse game begins. Teaming him with Gosling is smart. Watching their dance to determine who will outfox the other and how is fun; you know that Hopkins character will eventually get nailed…but how? Who Should See It? Teens and up, OK for Gramma
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2007-07-25 13:35Harry Potter - Order of the Phoenix
with Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson. Harry Potter has grown up and I like it. Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) is all over the movie, from beginning to end. Harry witnesses Voldemort kill a fellow student and can no longer respond as the boy wizard—it’s time to move from super boy to super teen and this episode does it. The opening takes him from his summer “vacation” with the Dursleys to a hearing regarding expulsion from Hogwarts because of his use of magic in the Muggle world—a definite no-no. Natch, Harry wins, but picks up a few enemies in the process, including the Minister of Magic who refuses to believe that Voldemort has reappeared. The ever changing wizard newspaper, the daily Prophet, proclaims that Harry is the “boy who lies.” There is less of Albus Dumbledorf in this one (which is explained in the end, Godfather Sirius Black steps up to the plate and as in all the Harry Potter flicks, a deliciously nasty character takes central stage. This time, its teacher Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton) who is cruel, vindictive but oh so nice and pretty in the process. Most the key Hogwarts staff (ie Maggie Smith) are back, but with lesser roles—this one is really about Harry. You don’t even see a quidditch game. By the end, Harry emerges as a true leader, still with vulnerability, but the, the sixth film will round out the teen anxiety that this one opened with. Who Should See It? Everyone. Its been a great ride with this series.
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2007-07-25 13:34Shrek the Third
with the voices of many—Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas—the gang is back. All the humor is there, much of it for the adults, but the little kids have a good time as well. Who Should See It? Fans of previous Shrek films and those who like animation, humor, some of the story line is silly—which is certainly what Spiderman and Pirates bring to the party as well … 4 and up, including Gramma
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2007-07-25 13:34Ratatouille
with the voices of Patton Oswalt, Brian Dennehy, Brad Garrett, Janeane Garofalo, Ian Holm, and Peter O’Toole. The folks of Pixar are back with what’s to be destined as another Pixar/Disney classic. Our star, Remy who just happens to be a rich food loving rat in Paris, is a hoot in his quest to be a gourmet chef. Befriended by Linguini, the garbage boy who stumbles across Remy’s cooking talent, the two create heaven and chaos as each learns about overcoming obstacles, using one’s talents and the real values of friendships and family. It’s a wonderful movie and a keeper for your personal libraries when available on DVD. Who Should See It? Everyone.
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2007-07-25 13:33Spider-Man 3
with Tobey Mcguire, Kersten Durst, James Franco and Thomas Church are all part of the “bigger picture”. Is the third time a charm? For most Spidey fans, indeed it is. With a mix from the dark side and a complex script Spiderman delivers to old fans and develops more along the way. Excellent special effects, complex stories woven throughout. Who Should See It? Fans of previous Spiderman films and those who like adventure…10 and up, including Gramma
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2007-07-25 13:32Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's...
with Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Geoffrey Rush, Chow Yun-Fat and cameo with Keith Richards. Treachery, betrayal, evening scores, egos out of control, swash buckling scenes, incredible visuals and make up all come together in the third Pirates installment. This long, long flick lacks much of the humor and zaniness of the Black Pearl. The visuals are superb, there is some fun and if you like Captain Jack, you’ll hang in there. Ms. Elizabeth takes on the leadership role and Keith Richards stands in as Captain Jack’s pop. As the gang seeks out Captain Jack in the depths of Davy Jones Locker—remember, he died at the end of the last movie—their goal is to resurrect him as only the movies and a storyline can do. We find the good Captain in a delusional state, chatting it up with several other Captain Jack’s...summary …it's long and dark (visually); photography excellent; a bit slow in the beginning with a whirlwind finish. Who Should See It? Fans of previous Pirates films and those who like adventure…8 and up. Gramma probably won’t love this one unless she’s already a fan.
0.3 December, 2006
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2006-12-25 13:31Commander in Chief: The Inaugural Edition,...
If you caught this show before the plug was pulled, you had to love the conniving and scheming Donald Sutherland and the no-nonsense Geena Davis as “Mac” the first women president. Who Should See It?—mature teens and up. 3 1/2 Golden Eggs
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2006-12-25 13:30Lost: The Extended Experience (Season 2)
starring Matthew Fox and a cast of dozens. If you didn’t catch this highly acclaimed series that carries the stories of 40 plus individuals marooned on a beautiful spooky island after their plane crashed, this is the time to make a long weekend of it. All episodes are included. Lots here for everyone, including deleted scenes that add in more depth. Add, if you are really into Lost, you can go behind the scenes, and experience the Dharma Initiative. Perfect for a long, long weekend, and a pause button so you can figure it all out. Who Should See It?—mature teens and up. 3 Golden Eggs
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2006-12-25 13:30Grey's Anatomy (Season 2, Uncut)
For devotees of the #1 show on TV, this one’s for you, plus 4 uncut episodes with non-aired scenes. No hospital is quite like Seattle Grace—the surgical interns—their fears, their loves, their nonsense. It’s all here and much more. Who Should See It?—mature teens and up. 3 1/2 Golden Eggs
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2006-12-25 13:29Invincible
with Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear and Elizabeth Banks is perfect for the football fan in your home. Based on the true story of Vince Papale (Wahlberg), a Philadelphia Eagles fan who just happens to be good player. When the new coach Dick Vermeil (Kinnear), signs on with the Eagles, he creates an open tryout to shake the team up—the 30-year-old bartender Papale is coerced by his pals to go…and ends being the only one to make the cut. There’s ups and downs, but you can’t help but cheer for the guy…you want him to be the star. Nice to have stories and dreams come true. Who Should See It? Sports fans, teens and up—Gramma too. 3 Golden Eggs
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2006-12-25 13:29Kinky Boots
is a kick, and based on a true story . For years the prestigious Price Family has specialized in men’s shoes. When the imports hit, they can’t compete…until one of the employees suggests alternative types of shoes. As head of a company he didn’t want to run, Charlie Price hooks up with LoLa, a cabaret singer who’s a tad outrageous and a cross-dresser to boot. Which brings us to the title. Out with the men’s shoes and in with the ladies … made for women and men. It saves the company, and it saves Charlie. If you liked The Full Monty and the Calendar Girls, you’ll have a good time here. I even watched the bonus features so I could learn more about the company the movie is based on. Who Should See It? Mature teens and up, Gramma will get a kick out of it. 3 Golden Eggs.
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2006-12-25 13:28The Fox and the Hound 2
Copper and Tod are back, with their playful and mischievous ways. This time, the duo finds their way to the county fair. The musical talents of Reba McEntire lends her voice as Dixie, the lady interest of Copper. Patrick Swayze lends his voice as Cash, the leader of the band that Copper joins. Loving all the attention, he forgets that his pals, Tod and Dixie count to. To get even, the two decide that Copper needs a comeuppance, which doesn’t go as originally planned. Choas follows before resolution…kind of like life. The animated Disney films always carried plenty of music and this one is no different. Good addition to the original, your kids will enjoy. Who Should See It?—for the family, 3 and up. 3 Golden Eggs
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2006-12-25 13:28Brother Bear 2
Disney has done the sequel to Brother Bear, a story about an Indian boy (and the hands/fate of the Great Spirits), loses the maiden he loves (Nita) and being transformed into a bear. This time around, winter is over and Brother Bear wakes up, rounds up his little brother and heads out to find food. Along the way, the wacky Mooses, Rutt and Tuke, show up and are pining for the ladies. The Bears could care less, until an event that happened years before comes back. Brother Bear use to be Kenai before becoming a bear. An amulet he gate to Nita comes into play when she is ready to marry…she can’t until she reconnects with Kenai the Bear, so that the spill they had together is released. Who Should See It?—it’s a family movie, more for the 6 and up. 3 Golden Eggs
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2006-12-25 13:27Air Buddies
is a family film that all pooch lovers will embrace—Air Bud is head of the brood of five rambunctious, and quite creative, puppies who just happen to be able to talk—but then, so do most of the critters in the movies! They finally are able to get their puppy act together and work as a team to save their parents who’ve been dog-napped. Silly and laughs—which kids always love. Bonus segments included. Who Should See It? Families, Gramma will take the kids too. 3 Golden Eggs
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2006-12-25 13:27The Fox and the Hound
Who could ever forget the friendship of Tod the fox and Copper the hound? Brought together as pups, separated by the grown-ups, reunited in the hunt. This is truly one of the Disney classics that belongs in everyone’s DVD library. When you see this, you’ll miss the beautiful animation of yesteryear. Who Should See It?—the entire family. 3 1/2 Golden Eggs
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