Movie Review - "Charlie Wilson's War"

... movie based on true events about the Cold War, Afghanistan, and a Congressman. Tom Hanks plays Congressman Charlie Wilson, who together with a CIA Agent and a Houston socialite played by Julia Roberts, plot a covert operation to bring weapons to freedom fighters in Afghanistan.

Good movie sparsed with wit and humor about politics. Worth a rental, check it out some time. - JM

Movie Review - "Juno"

... movie about a teenaged girl named Juno and her unplanned pregnancy. After sleeping with her classmate Bleeker (Michael Cera from Super Bad), Juno becomes pregnant. Uncertain what to do, she struggles with a number of options but finally decides to place the child for adoption.

A light-hearted look at teenage pregnancy, the movie has its moments. Quotes:

• "I am dealing with things way beyond my maturity level."
• "I'm already pregnant what other shenanigans can I get myself into."

Consider it a rental for a rainy day. -JM

Movie Review - "Lars and the Real Girl"

... movie with Ryan Gosling as Lars, a quiet recluse who lives in his brother's garage. With virtually no friends or companionship, Lars purchases a life-sized doll named Bianca and treats her as of she were a real person.

Family and townfolk think he is delusional and play along with his imagination. As time passes, Lars begins a transition back to the real world.

Good movie and storyline. Not a blockbuster thriller but a decent movie with entertainment value. Check it out some time. - JM

Movie Review - "There Will Be Blood"

... movie with Daniel Day Lewis as Daniel Plainview, an oil man at the turn of the 20th Century, building his empire in California.

Great acting and a story that keeps things interesting - a power struggle between Daniel and a young evangelist, father and son conflict, and oil companies competing for resources.

Only problem is the ending. Movie starts strong with a steady build up but ends weak, leaving viewers wanting. -JM

Movie Review - "Into The Wild"

... true story about a young man's quest to live free and off the land. Stars Emile Hirsch as Christopher McCandless, a college graduate that leaves civilization for life on the road.

Living a hobo's existence, he eventually works his way to the "Great Adventure" - a trip to Alaska where he plans to live off the land.

Long movie but well told given the nature of the story. Check it out time. -JM

PS: Be aware of the Brown Bear Wild Potato Root!