After a long hiatus I am back. My how the time flies and the movies just keep coming. This week we see a selection of movies that are as different as any movie could be from another.
So if you have been paying attention (more than me that is) then you already know where things are headed as the kids head back to school. Here are this weeks movies that you have to choose to spend your hard earned money on.
Piranha 3D
Really does this need to happen? A cheesy 50's style horror movie and in 3D? I don't know about you but this is not even gonna rate a "if its on TV I might watch it" or "I'll wait for the DVD". I think 'll pass. Thanks.
Nanny McPhee Returns
I'm sure that if you read my previous posts about this movie you know how I feel about it. If not you can find them here.
The Switch
Okay if I was into random chick flicks this might be for me but even the chicks I know are saying stay away. Romantic comedies are fun and usually worth a look but this one is kinda out there. I don't know what it is with Hollyweird of late and their penchant for pregnancy movies but its kinda weird and annoying at the same time. This one might be worth a DVD watch but I'm not gonna see it on the big screen.
Vampires Suck
Okay before I get started on this one I gotta tell you that I am all burned out on vampires. Movies, Books, whatever they have been overplayed in recent years. That being said I am totally going to watch this movie. I don't care that its a spoof of the more popular films it looks laugh out loud funny. I do have to admit that I liked the Scary Movies and this is in the same vein. If your as tired of Twilight and Vampires in general then this ones for you.
Lottery Ticket
I will admit that I have watched a few of these types of movies that target the African/American community (forgive me for being politically correct but I don't want to offend anyone). As much as I enjoyed watching them I did so when they were on TV or DVD. This one will be no different I think. If you are someone that enjoys comedies about people that live in the projects with a certain skin color than this one might be for you.
Well that's all the movies that are going to be released this week I hope that my random thoughts help you out with your movie selections.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
Mega-Movie Madness
This week I had the opportunity to see 4 new movies. Needless to say I was thrilled when I was invited to go and see what Hollyweird had graced us with. Of course two fo the films I had seen previously (albeit I only critiqued one of them before this) but it was kind of nice to see them again at least to get a new perspective on whether or not I was too harsh or soft after having seen them previously. I have to say I was dead on the first time.
The Trailers
Each film brought new and interesting insight into what will be competing for our entertainment dollars and as usual it runs the gamut of possibilities. I present them and my views in the order that they were seen in the theater and with the title of the film they were associated with. The film reviews will follow the preview reviews.
The Last Airbender Previews
Green Hornet
I am all for a classic retelling of this famous hero but even I am a little leery of this movie. Seth Rogen, while a terrific actor and funny man, is an odd choice it fits right in with the current state of Hollyweird and the butchering of classic film and comics. It looks to be like a fun romp through the world of Green Hornet but it might be just a 90 minute running gag. Its scheduled for a January 14th, 2011 release and might be worth a trip if there is nothing better showing that week. Either way I will probably try and see it at some point.
Gullivers Travels
Jack Black as Gulliver. Need I say more. Like him or hate him he is a constant in our cinematic lives. Hollyweird seems to like putting him in family orientated films which he either shines in them or flops horribly. Regardless of what I or anyone else might think this film is probably not going to do well. I prefer the more staid versions (even the one with Ted Danson is probably going to be preferred to this one and that was a made for TV movie) but there is something to be said about Jack Black and his wacky behavior, it does draw crowds as no one seems to know what he is going to do next. Opening on December 22nd this is probably one Christmas present I might not want to open.
Rango
Do you like Chameleons? Do you like the voice of Johnny Depp? DO you like weird and bizarre films? This one might be for you. When I first saw this trailer I was wondering what the heck was going on and trying to figure out what the film aspired to be about. Honestly I am still wondering. I like Johnny Depp and this film has potential to be interesting, I just don't know if it will be worth the price of admission and I might wait for the DVD. This film releases March 4, 2011.
Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole
This film is probably the most likely movie to watch in the coming months. Apparently it is based on a bestselling childrens book (since I do not have children I have know way of knowing if it will be accurate or not) it does look to be one of the best family movies that are releasing in the current schedule. Set for September 24, 2010 this film will probably be highly anticipated by families as well as adults. I am most likely going to see it just for the cutting edge digital effects and solid plot.
Nanny McPhee Returns
As you probably know family movies are usually not my cup of tea and this one is no different. As I previously stated here this film might be enjoyed by the whole family if you have children otherwise it will probably not interest you. It releases August 20, 2010 .
Megamind
When I first saw this trailer I had no idea what the movie was really about and I won't spoil it for you but here's a hint, its an animated film with Tina Fey, Brad Pitt and Will Ferrell. Ferrell plays the supervillain Megamind and he constantly tries to outwit and defeat his arch-nemesis Metro Man (Pitt) and then the wackiness ensues. Judging solely on the most recent trailer I am definitely going to see this one on November 5th, 2010 and probably laugh so hard it hurts.
Salt
The Town
Ah the love story between a thief and those that try to bring him down and put him behind bars. Yeah your probably going to guess what I am going to say next but I think I will pass on this one. It releases September 10, 2010 and I don't even think I will wait for the DVD, sorry folks.
The Debt
A historical revenge film seen through flashbacks and voiceovers. While I am all for historical dramas I am not sure this one is worth the effort. I can't relate to the "heroes" or the time period as I wasn't even born yet. It might appeal to the older baby boomer crowd but they are not the usual attendees of movies these days. Regardless I think I will pass on December 29, 2010, hopefully someone other than the critics and academy voters will watch it.
Devil
Horror movies are either becoming more highbrow or so low budget its obvious. This falls somewhere in between. Four people trapped in an elevator and the Devil is among them. What more can be said? Oh yeah its another in a long line of M. Night Shyamalan movies (he was a co-writer and didn't direct it). Not sure in what context that Devil movies fall into anymore but I think on September 17, 2010 I won't be finding out.
Green Hornet
See above.
Sorcerer's Apprentice Previews
This time around it seems that there was a different selection of trailers on the movie.
Tangled
See my previous post here.
Nanny McPhee Returns
See above.
Smurf'd aka The Smurfs
Just a teaser but a life action Smurf movie? Hmmmm has potential but I still am not sure. I think I'll reserve judgement until I know more. Set to be released August 3, 2011 I hope that they can maintain that schedule.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
See my previous post here.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows
See my previous post here.
Secritariat
See my previous post here.
Inception Previews
Due Date
Planes, Trains and Automobiles for the modern age. A road trip movie that might not be as funny as it appears. I like the actors that are in it but not enough to probably see this one. Due out November 5, 2010 this baby appears to be a possible stillborn.
Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps
The sequel to the wonderfully done 80's movie Wall Street and we see the return of Michael Douglas as the sleazy schister Gordon Gekko. I really enjoyed the first one and I am looking forward to this sequel. Time will tell if this film will stand the test and push Shia LeBouf further into the limelight but I know I will probably see it. It releases September 24, 2010 and hopefully it gets the attendance it deserves.
The American
George Clooney as an American assassin traveling the world eliminating our problems one at a time. At the end of his career he finds himself in Italy for one last job when things do not go according to plan. Might be worth a rental but I don't think its going to be a good draw especially opening September 1, 2010 when most people will be thinking about BBQ's and family events.
The Social Network
A biopic about the origins of Facebook. Need I say more? I don't think so this one is for those who don't already know or for those that just want to see what all the fuss is about. I am neither so I will be staying home on October 1, 2010 and eat popcorn while watching a DVD or something I taped on my DVR.
The Town
See above.
Well that's all the previews there sure were a lot of them with quite a few repeats I might add. Unfortunately there seems to be a lot that are not going to be seen in the theater (which is a shame) but a few that could be worth it in the long run. I'm sure you will tell me if I am on the mark or not.
On to the reviews of the films I did see this week.
The Last Airbender
As a long time fan of the show I went into this with quite a high expectation of what it could be about. Unfortunately for me and most of the other fans who have seen it it falls woefully short. Regardless of the obvious, glaring changes (I'm sure there was a logical and sound reason for them) it was somewhat entertaining and if you are neither a fan or have children this may be the film for you. I'm sure from the point of view of the writer/director/producer it was a fine film and hit all the salient points, I found it to be poorly paced, with improper pronunciations and long sequences of bending that made it way too distracting. If your a huge fan avoid this movie and wait for the DVD.
Entertainment: 3
Family-Friendly: 4
Special Effects: 3
Plot: 3
Overall: 3
Salt
The sleeper hit of the summer. This movie is so chock-full of twists and turns and action you hardly realize you have been sitting there for almost 2 hours. Angelina Jolie shines in the role of Evelyn Salt, a CIA agent that has been accused of being a Russian spy. The Cold War may be over but this movie brings it to the forefront again. A wild ride that leaves you guessing at every turn. Well worth watching in the theater.
Entertainment: 5
Family-Friendly: 2
Special Effects: 4
Plot: 5
Overall: 4
The Sorcerer's Apprentice
As I have already watched this one and reviewed it here I find the fact that I watched it again to be a telling sign. It was as enjoyable the second time around as the first.
Inception
What can I say that has not already been voiced a thousand times over by friends and family that have already seen this wonderful film. If you haven't seen it then you must. Regardless of how you might feel about the actors starring in it it is a must see for the summer. Written and directed by one of the best minds in Hollyweird right now Christopher Nolan (Director of Batman Begins, Dark Knight, The Prestige) this movie has all the right elements of a classic thriller. If there was anyone that could take up the mantle of the late great Alfred Hitchcock it would be Christopher Nolan. See the film and if you have already seen it see it again it is well worth the price of admission.
Entertainment: 5
Family-Friendly: 2
Special Effects: 4
Plot: 5
Overall: 4
For more information about the movies listed in this article please click the title.
The Trailers
Each film brought new and interesting insight into what will be competing for our entertainment dollars and as usual it runs the gamut of possibilities. I present them and my views in the order that they were seen in the theater and with the title of the film they were associated with. The film reviews will follow the preview reviews.
The Last Airbender Previews
Green Hornet
I am all for a classic retelling of this famous hero but even I am a little leery of this movie. Seth Rogen, while a terrific actor and funny man, is an odd choice it fits right in with the current state of Hollyweird and the butchering of classic film and comics. It looks to be like a fun romp through the world of Green Hornet but it might be just a 90 minute running gag. Its scheduled for a January 14th, 2011 release and might be worth a trip if there is nothing better showing that week. Either way I will probably try and see it at some point.
Gullivers Travels
Jack Black as Gulliver. Need I say more. Like him or hate him he is a constant in our cinematic lives. Hollyweird seems to like putting him in family orientated films which he either shines in them or flops horribly. Regardless of what I or anyone else might think this film is probably not going to do well. I prefer the more staid versions (even the one with Ted Danson is probably going to be preferred to this one and that was a made for TV movie) but there is something to be said about Jack Black and his wacky behavior, it does draw crowds as no one seems to know what he is going to do next. Opening on December 22nd this is probably one Christmas present I might not want to open.
Rango
Do you like Chameleons? Do you like the voice of Johnny Depp? DO you like weird and bizarre films? This one might be for you. When I first saw this trailer I was wondering what the heck was going on and trying to figure out what the film aspired to be about. Honestly I am still wondering. I like Johnny Depp and this film has potential to be interesting, I just don't know if it will be worth the price of admission and I might wait for the DVD. This film releases March 4, 2011.
Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole
This film is probably the most likely movie to watch in the coming months. Apparently it is based on a bestselling childrens book (since I do not have children I have know way of knowing if it will be accurate or not) it does look to be one of the best family movies that are releasing in the current schedule. Set for September 24, 2010 this film will probably be highly anticipated by families as well as adults. I am most likely going to see it just for the cutting edge digital effects and solid plot.
Nanny McPhee Returns
As you probably know family movies are usually not my cup of tea and this one is no different. As I previously stated here this film might be enjoyed by the whole family if you have children otherwise it will probably not interest you. It releases August 20, 2010 .
Megamind
When I first saw this trailer I had no idea what the movie was really about and I won't spoil it for you but here's a hint, its an animated film with Tina Fey, Brad Pitt and Will Ferrell. Ferrell plays the supervillain Megamind and he constantly tries to outwit and defeat his arch-nemesis Metro Man (Pitt) and then the wackiness ensues. Judging solely on the most recent trailer I am definitely going to see this one on November 5th, 2010 and probably laugh so hard it hurts.
Salt
The Town
Ah the love story between a thief and those that try to bring him down and put him behind bars. Yeah your probably going to guess what I am going to say next but I think I will pass on this one. It releases September 10, 2010 and I don't even think I will wait for the DVD, sorry folks.
The Debt
A historical revenge film seen through flashbacks and voiceovers. While I am all for historical dramas I am not sure this one is worth the effort. I can't relate to the "heroes" or the time period as I wasn't even born yet. It might appeal to the older baby boomer crowd but they are not the usual attendees of movies these days. Regardless I think I will pass on December 29, 2010, hopefully someone other than the critics and academy voters will watch it.
Devil
Horror movies are either becoming more highbrow or so low budget its obvious. This falls somewhere in between. Four people trapped in an elevator and the Devil is among them. What more can be said? Oh yeah its another in a long line of M. Night Shyamalan movies (he was a co-writer and didn't direct it). Not sure in what context that Devil movies fall into anymore but I think on September 17, 2010 I won't be finding out.
Green Hornet
See above.
Sorcerer's Apprentice Previews
This time around it seems that there was a different selection of trailers on the movie.
Tangled
See my previous post here.
Nanny McPhee Returns
See above.
Smurf'd aka The Smurfs
Just a teaser but a life action Smurf movie? Hmmmm has potential but I still am not sure. I think I'll reserve judgement until I know more. Set to be released August 3, 2011 I hope that they can maintain that schedule.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
See my previous post here.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows
See my previous post here.
Secritariat
See my previous post here.
Inception Previews
Due Date
Planes, Trains and Automobiles for the modern age. A road trip movie that might not be as funny as it appears. I like the actors that are in it but not enough to probably see this one. Due out November 5, 2010 this baby appears to be a possible stillborn.
Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps
The sequel to the wonderfully done 80's movie Wall Street and we see the return of Michael Douglas as the sleazy schister Gordon Gekko. I really enjoyed the first one and I am looking forward to this sequel. Time will tell if this film will stand the test and push Shia LeBouf further into the limelight but I know I will probably see it. It releases September 24, 2010 and hopefully it gets the attendance it deserves.
The American
George Clooney as an American assassin traveling the world eliminating our problems one at a time. At the end of his career he finds himself in Italy for one last job when things do not go according to plan. Might be worth a rental but I don't think its going to be a good draw especially opening September 1, 2010 when most people will be thinking about BBQ's and family events.
The Social Network
A biopic about the origins of Facebook. Need I say more? I don't think so this one is for those who don't already know or for those that just want to see what all the fuss is about. I am neither so I will be staying home on October 1, 2010 and eat popcorn while watching a DVD or something I taped on my DVR.
The Town
See above.
Well that's all the previews there sure were a lot of them with quite a few repeats I might add. Unfortunately there seems to be a lot that are not going to be seen in the theater (which is a shame) but a few that could be worth it in the long run. I'm sure you will tell me if I am on the mark or not.
On to the reviews of the films I did see this week.
The Last Airbender
As a long time fan of the show I went into this with quite a high expectation of what it could be about. Unfortunately for me and most of the other fans who have seen it it falls woefully short. Regardless of the obvious, glaring changes (I'm sure there was a logical and sound reason for them) it was somewhat entertaining and if you are neither a fan or have children this may be the film for you. I'm sure from the point of view of the writer/director/producer it was a fine film and hit all the salient points, I found it to be poorly paced, with improper pronunciations and long sequences of bending that made it way too distracting. If your a huge fan avoid this movie and wait for the DVD.
Entertainment: 3
Family-Friendly: 4
Special Effects: 3
Plot: 3
Overall: 3
Salt
The sleeper hit of the summer. This movie is so chock-full of twists and turns and action you hardly realize you have been sitting there for almost 2 hours. Angelina Jolie shines in the role of Evelyn Salt, a CIA agent that has been accused of being a Russian spy. The Cold War may be over but this movie brings it to the forefront again. A wild ride that leaves you guessing at every turn. Well worth watching in the theater.
Entertainment: 5
Family-Friendly: 2
Special Effects: 4
Plot: 5
Overall: 4
The Sorcerer's Apprentice
As I have already watched this one and reviewed it here I find the fact that I watched it again to be a telling sign. It was as enjoyable the second time around as the first.
Inception
What can I say that has not already been voiced a thousand times over by friends and family that have already seen this wonderful film. If you haven't seen it then you must. Regardless of how you might feel about the actors starring in it it is a must see for the summer. Written and directed by one of the best minds in Hollyweird right now Christopher Nolan (Director of Batman Begins, Dark Knight, The Prestige) this movie has all the right elements of a classic thriller. If there was anyone that could take up the mantle of the late great Alfred Hitchcock it would be Christopher Nolan. See the film and if you have already seen it see it again it is well worth the price of admission.
Entertainment: 5
Family-Friendly: 2
Special Effects: 4
Plot: 5
Overall: 4
For more information about the movies listed in this article please click the title.
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