"House Bunny"

... comedy with Anna Faris as a Playboy Bunny who is let go from the mansion. Seeking a job and new place to live, Anna finds employment as a House Mother for a sorority whose members are somewhat homely. Hired by the sorority to improve their popularity and save their house from sale, Anna uses her experience as a Bunny to get things shaking.

Funny moments but not enough to save this one. Skip this one especially for a first-date!-JM

"Step Brothers"

Will Ferrel and John C. Reilly are 40 year old live-at-home "boys" who become step brothers late in life. Forced to live in the same home as their newly-wed parents, Will and John must go through growing pains to build a relationship as brothers.

Watch the language and the sexual overtones. Not a first-date movie. Had its funny moments but not the same chemistry that the "Will-John C" duo delivered in The Story of Ricky Bobby.

"Hancock"

Action movie with Will Smith, Justin Bateman, and Charlize Theron. Will plays super-hero Hancock, a homeless bum with super powers. Justin is a not to successful Public Relations Representative. Charlize is Justin's wife.

The three meet after Will saves Justin from certain death by a train. Will is a super-hero with a bad reputation; he tends to cause a lot of damage when saving the day. Justin invites Will to dinner to discuss plans to build a more positive image.

Safe first-date movie given the PG-13 rating but story was lacking something. Save it for a rainy day and skip it over other options.-JM

"Transporter 3"

... Another in the Transporter franchise with Jason Statham. Better than Transporter 2 and on the same lines as Transporter 1. Our hero must battle bad guys, save a woman, and deliver as promised a pacakage.

A lot of action, fast driving, and great fighting moves. All with a plot to keep your attention. Check it out when you get a chance. -JM

"Four Christmases"

... comedy with Vince Vaughn, Reese Witherspoon, and others. Vince and Reese are a couple who choose not to marry. Instead, they live together knowing they love one another. No need to tie the knot to formalize their relationship.

They are content in their arrangement having come from divorced parents and strained family ties. That is, until their vacation plans go wrong and they must spend Christmas visiting their parents.

Funny movie with a lot of moments to keep you laughing. Short in length, running less than 90". Still a decent one to see in theaters.-JM

War Games - The Dead Code

... A sequel to the original War Games that pits two super computers against each other.

JOSHUA plays a deadly game with his modern day counterpart named RIPLEY after two college kids hack into a virtual online game to win money.

A chain of events escalate into a crisis that must be stopped or else....

Not as good as the original. Save for a rainy day when nothing else is available. -JM

Rambo

... another movie from the Sylvester Stalone franchise that brought us John Rambo.

A B-movie definitely with a plot that is wanting. Still you have to root for Rambo as he overcomes his inner turmoil and proceeds to wipe out a battalion of bad guys!

Don't watch as a first-date movie and not a first rate rental. Regardless, had to watch it to cheer for our Hero!-JM

"88 Minutes"

... Al Pacino is a forensic psychologist and college professor who must battle wits with a serial killer he helped put in prison. The serial killer has master-minded a plan to appeal his execution and extract revenge on Al Pacino. All while in jail.

A complex plot is put into play after Al recieves a call that he has 88 minutes to live. Working with his team and the police, he frantically searches for answers.

Good movie with a lot of suspense to keep viewers interested. Check it out some time! -JM

"The Love Guru"

Mike Myers' comedy with Mike Myers, Jessica Alba, and Justin Timberlake. Mike is Guru Pitka, the Love Guru. Jessica is the owner of a hockey team. Justin is the goalie for a rival hockey team.

Jessica hires the Love Guru to reunite her star hockey player and his wife as they enter the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Love Guru accepts the assignment and soon finds out that the opposong team's goalie - Justin, has moved in with the wife.

Like the Austin Powers fanchise, light comedy with a lot of sexual innuendos. If you like Ausitn Powers, then you should be okay. If you did not, skip it. -JM

Movie Review - "The Promotion"

...comedy with Seann William Scott and John C. Reilly.  Seann and John are Assistant Managers at a national grocery story chain.  Both are competing for a promotion as a Manager of a new store opening nearby.

 

Funny moments with a slow to develop storyline.  Not the "American Pie/Talladega Nights" style comedy that Seann/John are known for; would wait to rent this one. -JM

Movie Review - "Baby Mama"

... comedy with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.  Tina is a career-minded woman who decided climbing the corporate ladder was more important than marriage and raising a family.  Unfortunately, the biological clock kept ticking, and she longs to have a child.  Unable to conceive a child, she opts for a surrogate mother, played by Amy.

 

Funny moments but not the "Non-stop Laughs" noted on the DVD box.  Even with its slight twist, did not keep me interested. Find another movie to rent if given other options.  -JM 

Movie Review - "What Happens in Vegas"

... comedy with Ashton Kutcher and Cameron Diaz as two single people on the rebound in Vegas.  They arrive single; they leave married.  Not an issue, just get an annulment.  Except, what about the $3M in winnings?

 

Funny movie, light-hearted and witty.  Check it out some time and rent it!-JM

Movie Review - "Rocker"

... movie about a Drummer who gets ousted from his rock band just on the brink of its discovery to fame and fortune.  Spending decades to forget what happened, he goes aimlessly from job to job.  That is, until he gets fired from his job as a customer service representative and goes to live with his sister's family until he can get back on his feet.  Through a stroke of luck, he gets pulled in to his nephew's garage band to fill in as a drummer.  Subsequently, the band A.D.D. (Attention Deficit Disorder) is born!

 

Good movie.  Thought it would be a rehash of "School of Rock"; turned out to be better. Check it out some time.-JM

Movie Review - "A Good Year"

... movie with Russell Crowe as a power stockbroker who inherits a vineyard from his Uncle.  Everything seems to be going well for Russell.  His job is his passion, and he is making a lot of money.  But is he really happy.  He thought he was happy until he goes to France to sell the vineyard that he inherited.  Through a stroke of events and reliving old memories as a child, Russell gains an understanding of happiness.

 

Enjoyable movie that started out slow but will eventually grab you.  Check it out and rent it when you get a chance.  Consider it a first date movie! -JM

Movie Review - "Tropic Thunder"

... Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black, and a host of others in a hilarious comedy about a movie crew having issues with making a big budget Vietnam War flick.

Look for Nick Nolte, Tom Cruise, and Matthew Maconauhey. Be ready to laugh loudly and beware of some raunchiness.

Check it out at the movie theater if you get a chance. -JM

Movie Review - "Harold and Kumar - Guantanamo"

… sequel to the original movie that brings Harold, Kumar, and Doogie Howser together again.  Taking up the story where it left off, Harold and Kumar head to Amsterdam.  Unfortunately, through misfortune and bad luck, they are detained by Homeland Security and sent to Cuba as terrorist.

 

If you liked the first movie, you will likely be disappointed.  If you did not like the first movie, you will likely be disappointed.  FYI - Be careful when watching the unrated version and close your eyes during the pool party house scene! - JM

 

Movie Review - "Penelope"

... movie with Christina Ricci and James McAvoy. Christina is a rich heiress with a curse that makes her face look like a pig. James McAvoy is a gambler who is hired by a reporter to court Christina to get a picture of her.

A safe first-date movie that ends well. It is a movie that tells a story and has a moral, not a bad rental. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "21"

... movie with Jim Sturgess, Kate Bosworth, Kevin Spacey, and Laurence Fishburne. Jim and Kate are MIT students who are part of a team of card counters. Kevin is an MIT professor and the leader of the team. As they amass money from their winnings, an old school Vegas Casino security thug, played by Laurence Fishburne, closely monitors their activity to catch them in the act.

Inspired by true events, the movie makes for an interesting story. Check it out when you get a chance. It has a decent ending. -JM

Movie Review - "Mamma Mia!"

… musical about a young bride seeking out her father before her marriage day.  Amanda Seyfried is the young bride, Meryl Streep plays her mother, and Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, and Stellan Skarsgard are the potential fathers.

 

It is a musical so be prepared for the corniness.  That said, enjoyable movie and a definite first date movie.  If you like ABBA, you won't be disappointed with the music scenes. Check it out at the theater when you get a chance.-JM

 

 

Movie Review - "Wanted"

… action packed movie with James McAvoy, Angelina Jolie, and Morgan Freeman.  James is a stressed out corporate worker.  Angelina and Morgan are part of a secret group of assassins.  After an attempt on his life, James discovers that his father was killed by a rouge assassin and is urged to leave his job and join Angelina and Morgan to avenge his father.

 

A lot of shooting, blood, and fighting.  The movie has a couple of twists to keep viewers interested; a good one to see on the big screen.  Be careful first-date movie goers as the fighting and violence may cause your significant other to think less of your ability for choosing movies. -JM

 

Movie Review - "Vantage Point"

… action movie with Dennis Quaid as a Secret Service Agent protecting the President on a trip to Spain.  Terrors strikes with an assassination, explosions, and policemen and agents chasing the plotters.

 

Good movie that uses the points of view of those involved to build the story.  Once you get past the numerous "rewinds", the movie's plot unfolds nicely.  A lot of twisting and turning but still a good rental.  Check it out some time. -JM

 

Movie Review - "Batman - The Dark Knight"

... another in the Batman franchise with Christian Bale as the Dark Knight, Heath Ledger as the Joker, and Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent - All-American Hero and Gotham's District Attorney. Gary Oldman plays Lieutenant Gordon and Maggie Gyllenhall is Batman's and the DA's love interest.

Good movie that gets away from the "DC Comic" look and takes you to a storyline that keeps you watching. Heath Ledger does not look like his normal good guy self, doing a convincing job as a maniacal villain. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Mama's Boy"

... comedy with Napoleon Dynamite's Jon Heder, Diane Keaton, Jeff Daniels, and Anna Faris. Jon plays a late twenty-something year old son who lives at home with his mother, played by Diane Keaton. Jeff Daniels is Diane's boyfriend; Anna Faris is Jon's "essential component" in his plot to drive his mother's boyfriend away.

Good movie with a little spark of the Napoleon, not a bad rental. Check it out some time.-JM

Movie Review - "10,000 BC"

... action movie filled with prophecies to be filled, fights with beasts, and triumphs over captors. Follows a familiar storyline of hero overcoming many obstacles to save his loved one.

Good movie with a lot of action. Great job taking the familiar storyline and setting it in 10,000 BC. Not sure about its historically accuracy, still consider it a first date, first rate rental. Check it out.-JM

Movie Review - "In Bruges"

... edgy comedy with Colin Farrell as a stressed out hitman, Brendan Gleeson as his controller, and Ralph Fienness as their boss.

Colin and Brendan are sent to Bruges, Belgium to wait for instructions from Ralph after a failed hit gone wrong.

Fits well on the Independent Film Channel and Sundance. Funny moments with crazed hitmen, a midget, and others. Ends with irony but still a decent rental if you like IFC.-JM

Movie Review - "Meet the Spartans"

… movie that spoofs the original - "300".  Look-alike actors appear throughout the movie with Carmen Electra playing the sexy but naughty Queen.  Funny moments with a number of twists to the original's key main scenes.  Don't make a special trip to rent this one; save it for a rainy day when nothing else is available. -JM

 

Movie Review - "Cleaner"

... suspense/mystery with Samuel Jackson as a former cop turned "cleaner" - somone who cleans up a crime scene after the evidence is gathered. Other main characters include Ed Harris as a detective, Eva Mendez as the wife of a missing person, and Luis Guzman as an internal affairs detective.

Good story to keep you interested. Unfortunately, my significant other figured out the mystery well before the movie's end. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Fool's Gold"

... movie with Mathew McConaughey and Kate Hudson as a divorced couple with issues. One of which is an obession to find lost treasure from an old Spanish fleet that sunk way back when.

Funny moments with expected action/comedic scenes. Enjoyed the movie despite knowing how it would end. -JM

Movie Review - "definitely, maybe"

... movie with Ryan Reynolds and Abigail Breslin playing father and daughter, respectively. The movie is a romantic comedy that gives viewers the impression that Ryan is unhappy with his current situation; he and Abigail's mother are soon to be divorced.

To perk up his spirit, Ryan's daughter urges him to tell the story of how he met her mother. In telling the story, Ryan discovers true love by remembering past relationships.

A movie for romantics, it is a definite first date movie. -JM

Movie Review - "Drillbit Taylor"

... comedy with Owen Wilson as a budget bodyguard hired by three highschool freshmen to protect them from two bullies. Nicknamed Drillbit Taylor, Owen is a homeless bum masquerading as a bodyguard so he can swindle as much money as he can from his clients.

Glad that I did not pay a premium to see it at the theater but enjoyed it as a rental. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Over Her Dead Body"

... comedy with Eva Longoria as a ghost, Lake Bell as a psychic, and Paul Rudd as Eva's grieving widower. Through a turn of events, the ghost, the psychic, and the widower must deal with each other - specifically, the ghost does not want her husband and the psychic to fall in love.

Not a gut-buster that makes you laugh at every moment. It has its funny moments, check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Spiderwick Chronicles"

… fantasy movie about unseen creatures that movie about the world.  One scientist discovers them, studies them in great detail, and finally documents his findings in a book.  A book that holds the knowledge to control all others.

 

Not a big fantasy fan but did enjoy the movie.  Others noted that the movie did not follow the book, but it still entertained.  Easily a first date movie that leaves a budding relationship intact. -JM

 

Movie Review - Indiana Jones: Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

... another movie in the Indiana Jones franchise. Indiana Jones continues as a College Professor but is pulled unexpectedly back into the field by circumstances beyond his control. His friend Oxley and old flame Mary are kidnapped by the KGB. Approached by Mary's son, played by Shia LeBouf, Indiana accepts and thus begins the adventures.

Good movie with action to keep you watching. A little twist with alien space beings, else still follows the Indiana Jones genre. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Witless Protection"

... comedy with Larry the Cable Guy and Jenny McCarthy. Larry plays a small town deputy looking to advance his career and eventually join the FBI. Jenny is a sexy waitress and Larry's girlfriend.

Funny moments and inline with other Larry the Cable Guy movies. Not a bad rental but would not make a special trip to rent it. -JM

Movie Review - "Jumper"

... action movie with Hayden Christensen and Samuel Jackson pitted against one another. Hayden plays a Jumper, a person who can teleport themselves anywhere in the world. Samuel is a "Palladin(?)", a fanatical group that seeks out Jumpers and kills them.

Diane Lane has a cameo but important role in the movie. She plays Hayden's mother who left him when he was 5 years old.

Good movie directed by Doug Linan; same Director that brought you "The Bourne Identity" and "Mr. and Mrs. Smith". -JM

Movie Review - "Semi-Pro"

… comedy with Will Ferrell and Woody Harrelson and an American Basketball Association basketball team's efforts to place fourth in the league.  Why fourth?  The top four teams will move to National Basketball Association, the remainder will dissolve.

 

Funny moments to keep you watching.  It is not an Oscar winner but makes you laugh.  If you like Will Ferrell's movies, then rent it some time. Else, give it a chance and check it out if no other movies are available. - JM

 

Movie Review - "Hero Wanted"

… movie with Cuba Gooding Jr and Ray Liotta.  Cuba is a widower in mourning; Ray is a Police Detective.

 

Cuba is depressed over his wife's tragic death, living each day without direction.  That is, until he saves a young girl from a car crash, and then meets a woman who reminds him of his wife.  To impress the woman, Cuba puts a scheme in place to meet her.  Unfortunately, things do not go as planned.

 

Good movie with a few twists and turns to keep the story interesting.  Check it out some time.  - JM

 

Movie Review - "Great Debaters"

... movie directed by Denzel Washington about Wylie College's Debate Team's rise to fame. A small college located in Marshall, Texas goes head to head with the national champion Harvard Debate Team.

Good story with enough drama to keep you watching despite knowing the movie's outcome. Would not make a special trip to rent it but not a bad one to fall back on when all else is rented. -JM

Movie Review - "The Mist"

... horror movie that involves a mist filled with creatures that can kill you. Based on a Stephen King novella, story kept me watching mainly to see how the people trapped in the supermarket were going to survive.

Interesting twist at the end of the movie. Worth a rental; just plan for some blood and gore from the creatures' rampage. - JM

Movie Review - "Strange Wilderness"

... comedy with Steve Zahn and others attempting to save a wildlife TV show from being cancelled. Their plan is to capture film footage of Big Foot.

Like other comedies produced by Adam Sadler and Happy Madison Productions, this one fits the same mold. Filled with crude language and sexual humor and a storyline that is wanting, suggest skipping this one or at least for the first date movie. -JM

Movie Review - "Reservation Road"

… drama with Joaquin Phoenix, Jennifer Connelly, Mark Ruffalo, and Mira Sorvino. Joaquin and Jennifer are a happily married couple.  They have two children - a son and a daughter.  Mark and Mira are a divorced couple who have a son.  They live in separate homes and share responsibility for their son's upbringing.

 

In a twist of bad circumstances, Mark loses control of his vehicle while driving home from a Boston Red Sox game.  Mark and his son are avid Red Sox fans. They were returning home from a late game when Mark lost control and accidentally runs into Joaquin and Jennifer's son killing him immediately. Unfortunately, Mark does not stop and render aid. He drives off.

The remainder of the movie shows viewers the pain and guilt that torments each family with emphasis on the effect the accident has on the fathers.  Good movie that keeps your interest.  Not a bad rental! -JM

 

 

 

 

Movie Review - "P.S. I Love You"

... movie with Hillary Swank and Gerard Butler as a married couple who love one another. Unfortunatley, he dies unexpectedly. Unable to cope, Hillary becomes a recluse and mourns over his death. A year passes, and then on her Birthday, she begins getting letters from her dead husband. Through these letters, Hillary begins to get her life together again.

A romantic movie about two people's love for one another. Great story. Consider it a definite first date movie that should enhance any budding relationship. For romantics, you may shed a tear or two. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Cloverfield"

… horror movie about an attack on New York City by alien creatures.  Cannot rate the movie.  Was unable to stay awake and pay attention.  Movie was too hard to watch.  The filming is from the viewpoint of a guy with a camcorder at a party. For those that don't mind watching 84" of home movies, give it a try.  Else, leave this one alone. -JM

 

Movie Review - "In the Name of the King"

… movie based on an action-fantasy game that pits an army of beasts called Krugs against a King and his people.  Burt Reynolds plays the King.  Ray Liotta is the evil Sorcerer leading the Krugs, and Jason Statham is a quiet farmer, named Farmer, who is pulled into the fight.

 

A lot of fighting and background music to keep the scenes moving.  Tries emulate the "Lord of the Rings" in look and feel.  However, was not pulled in to the story.  Wait for a rainy day for this movie; would not make a special trip to rent it.  Too bad as I like Jason in his action movie roles like the Transporter. -JM

 

 

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!

Movie Review - "Death at a Funeral"

... another movie that fits the Independent Film Channel and Sundance. Hilarious comedy with an outstanding cast.

Set in a country manor in Britain, family and friends get together for the patriarch's funeral. Unfortunately, Father has another side that no one knew about.

Check this one out first chance you get. You won't be disappointed.

Movie Review - "Darjeeling Limited"

... movie that fits well on the Independent Film Channel (IFC) and Sundance. Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman play three brothers on a trip to India. Owen is the oldest brother and is the driving force in getting them together to find their mother, a nun in convent in the Himalayas.

Entertaining movie if you enjoy independent films. Would not say it is an Oscar Winner but it kept me watching to see the end. If you don't like IFC or Sundance movie's, then stay away.

Movie was rated with 4 Stars by the LA Daily News. More like 2 Stars just because I liked the cast.

FYI - The DVD contains a movie short at the beginning titled "Hotel Chevalier" It has Jason Schwartzman and Natalie Portman as troubled lovers meeting in a hotel in Paris. The short sets the tone for the whole movie.

Movie Review - "The Seeker"

... fantasy movie that pits Good against Evil. Will Stanton is a young teenager who discovers that he has powers to find "Signs" needed by Good to keep Evil in check. As the seventh son of a seventh son, Will is "The Seeker" tasked with finding five "Signs" that will give him power to fight Evil.

Slow movie with an expected outcome - Good overcomes Evil. I would save this one for a rainy day to rent.

Movie Review - "In the Valley of Elah"

... movie with Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron. Tommy is a retired Army CID Agent; Charlize is a Police Detective. The two partner together to investigate the murder of Tommy's son - a soldier recently returned from Iraq.

Good movie that kept viewers' interested. Even better that the movie is based on true events. Check it out some time; just be aware that the son's death was a violent one. -JM

Movie Review - "Gone Baby Gone"

... drama with Casey Affleck, Ed Harris, and Morgan Freeman. Casey is a private investigator hired to find a kidnapped child. Ed is a Police detective leading the search for the child. Morgan is a police Captain who assists Casey and Ed in their efforts to find the child. He is also emotionally attached to the situation having lost a child of his own.

A little slow to start but a good movie overall. Watch the story as it unflolds and see if you can figure out the ploy before the movie's end! -JM

Movie Review - "Awake"

... thriller that caps on a rare but real occurrence known as "anesthetic awareness" where patients are under anesthesia but remain conscious.  They feel pain and hear everything around them but cannot voice their pain as they are paralyzed.  

 

Hayden Christensen plays a billionaire investor who is smart and young but has a weak heart.  Jessica Alba is an executive assistant who works for Hayden's mother.  Terrence Howard is the doctor who will conduct a heart transplant for Hayden once a donor is identified.

 

Once you get through the surgical scenes, the story keeps viewers interested and includes a few unexpected surprises.  Good movie, check it out some time. -JM

 

 

Movie Review - "Becoming Jane"

... movie about Jane Austen and her romance with a penniless man which inspired her writing.  Anne Hathaway plays Jane Austen; James McAvoy is her love.  Slow starting movie that picks up slightly as the story progresses.  Safe first date movie but would wait for a rainy day to rent this one. -JM

 

Movie Review - "American Gangster"

... drama with Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Denzel plays Frank Lucas, infamous drug kingpin operating in New York City during the late 60's and early 70's. Russell is Richie Roberts, an honest cop determined at breaking the drug traffic problem.

Although you know that Denzel will eventually be caught, the story keeps viewers interested. Good movie especially for a true story. Check it out and rent it some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Michael Clayton"

... movie with George Clooney as a lawyer working for a prestigious law firm in New York City. He is the firm's "go to" man to work deals and sweep things under the rug.

Pulled in to clean up an issue created by one of the firm's top lawyers. The lawyer cracked under pressure after working for six years fighting a class action suit against one of their clients.

Great movie! A must see with a storyline that kept me interested the full two hours. Don't miss this one. -JM

Movie Review - "We Own The Night"

... drama with River Phoenix, Mark Wahlberg, Robert Duvall, and Eva Mendez. River and Mark are brothers. Robert is their father. Eva is River's girlfriend.

River is a night club manager for a Russian fur trader / businessman. Mark and Robert are New York City Policemen. Mark is a Captain and newly appointed lead of a narcotics special investigation unit; Robert is the Chief of Police.

River in his business dealings with his boss, the Russian fur trader, gets involved with busting up a drug ring lead by his boss's nephew.

Slow at times, I am glad to have waited to see this one on DVD instead of the movie theater. Good story with a slight twist in the plot. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Hunting Party"

... action movie with Richard Gere and Terrence Howard. Richard is a newsreporter covering wars around the world. Terrence is his cameraman. After years working together, Richard finally breaks down on live TV while covering a massacre in Bosnia. Richard is fired; Terrence is promoted to lead cameraman for the news agency's anchorman.

Five years pass since Richard's breakdown and somehow the friends meet once again in Bosnia. Once onsite, Richard convinces Terrence to partner with him and find a war criminal. Richard says he wants to interview him but really wants to capture him.

Did not expect much at first but was pleasantly surprised. Entertaining movie and worth a rental. Check it out sometime! - JM

Movie Review - "Dan in Real Life"

… comedy with Steve Carrell, Dane Cook, and Juliet Binoche.  Steve is a widower with three young daughters.  Dane is Steve's brother.  Juliet is Dan's girlfriend. Steve serendipitously meets Juliet; neither knows who that they share something in common - Dane!  Great first date movie.  A lot of laughs.  Check it out some time. -JM

 

Movie Review - "Good Luck Chuck"

… comedy with Dane Cook and Jessica Alba.  Dane is a Dentist who was cursed as a child - any woman he sleeps with will fall in love with the next guy who dates her.  Jessica is the girl of his dreams.  Somehow he has to rid himself of the curse so he can keep her.  Funny movie; just be careful with the unrated DVD version. -JM

 

 

Movie Review - "Lions for Lambs"

... movie with Tom Cruise, Meryl Streep, and Robert Redford. Tom plays a U.S. Senator with aspirations for the Presidency. Meryl is a News Reporter covering the war on terror. And, Robert is a Professor teaching Political Science at a university somewhere in California.

The movie takes viewers through three storylines that are interrelated.

• A Senator and a News Reporter battle wits during an exclusive interview about a new strategy to win the war in Afghanistan.
• A Professor and a gifted Student discuss the young man's plans for school and why he is not trying to achieve at the level he is capable.
• Two of the Professor's former student are in Afghanistan as Army Special Forces Officers supporting the Senator's new war strategy.

Movie has been out awhile but was able to catch it at the discount theater in my area. May be slow in action for some. Directed by Robert Redford, overall a good movie. Check it out some time! -JM

Movie Review - "27 Dresses"

… comedy with Katherine Heigl as a bridesmaid twenty-seven times.  Movie is funny but a definite chick-flick.  Safe first-date movie; just be ready for the guys to be outnumbered by the women at the theater.  Observed a 50:1 female to male ratio this afternoon. -JM

 

Movie Review - "Death Sentence"

... movie with Kevin Bacon as a family man and corporate executive gone vigilante when his son is murdered by a gang of drug dealers. A lot of action and shooting of bad guys.

Once you dismiss the underlying moral of the story it is not a bad rental. Check it out some time. - JM

Movie Review - "The Bucket List"

… movie with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman as two men dealing with cancer and their eventual death. Jack and Morgan meet while going through treatment for terminal cancer. With death at their doorstep, they decide to compile a list of things to do before they kick the bucket, and then they proceed to act on their "bucket list".

Good movie, safe for a first-date movie. Check it out sometime! -JM

Movie Review - "3:10 To Yuma"

… modern western with Russell Crowe as the leader of a band of outlaws and Christian Bale as an Arizona rancher in debt.  Their paths cross when Russell is captured and must be escorted to a train station to meet the 3:10 to Yuma.  Christian, buried in debt from an unprofitable ranch, volunteers to escort him for a fee.  A lot of action and shoot'em up scenes.  Story's outcome was expected but still consider the movie a decent rental.  Did wish the ending was different. Check it out some time! -JM

 

Movie Review - "No Country for Old Men"

… shoot'em up movie about a hunter who stumbles on the aftermath of a drug deal gone bad.  Dead people everywhere; he tracks the last man standing, finding him dead but with a suitcase filled with $2M.  Keeping the money turns out to be harder than finding it.

 

Good movie with a lot of shooting.  It was about a fifty-fifty split with other movie goers - some openly dissatisfied and others enjoyed.  Check it out sometime! -JM

 

 

Movie Review - "Heartbreak Kid"

... comedy with Ben Stiller as a reluctant bachelor. After years of no commitment, he finally ties the knot. Unfortunately, he should have waited, meeting the love of his life while on his honeymoon in Mexico.

Funny movie; safe for a good laugh with your significant other. Okay for a budding relationship as it pokes at relationships after the wedding is over. Check it out some time. -JM

Movie Review - "Balls of Fury"

... comedy about competitive Ping-Pong! Christopher Walken plays a crazed Ping-Pong fanatic who hosts a tournament. The best players meet somewhere in South America to play in a tournament where the loser dies - literally.

Funny moments that keep you watching but not one to leave you laughing once the movie ends. -JM

Movie Review - "Eastern Promises"

... drama with Viggo Mortensen and Naomi Watts. Viggo is an underworld criminal in the Russian Mafia; Naomi is a mid-wife who gets involved with the Mafia when an underage prostitute dies on her shift.

Slow movie with twist here and there; else wait for a rainy day to rent this one. -JM

Movie Review - "Atonement"

… tragic story with Keira Knightley and James McAvoy as lovers torn apart by a lie.  A lie perpetuated by Keira's younger sister.  Once you get past the multiple flashbacks, the story keeps one's interest.  Definite first date movie but would wait to watch once released on DVD. - JM

 

Movie Review - "The Kingdom"

… action movie with Jamie Foxx, Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner, and Jason Bateman play FBI agents sent to Saudi Arabia to find a killer.  Consider a safe first date movie.  Check it out sometime.  - JM

 

Movie Review - "Once"

… movie about two musicians, who get together to write songs.  One is a street musician; the other works as a keyboardist.  Their efforts lead to romance despite their differences.  Check it out sometime; consider it a safe first date movie. -JM

 

 

Movie Review - "National Treasure: The Book of Secrets"

… sequel to National Treasure with Nicholas Cage as Dr. Benjamin Franklin Gates, historian and treasure hunter.  Safe bet for a first date movie with an interesting storyline that keeps you watching.   Enjoyed the movie; just plan for another movie in this franchise based on the President's comment about Page 47 in the Book of Secrets.  Check it out; you won't go wrong. -JM

 

 

Movie Review - "Superbad"

… comedy about three high school nerds trying to make an impact on the female persuasion as they closeout their senior year. First point, would not recommend it as a first date movie. Second point, unrated version has a lot of explicit language. Third point, could not stop laughing once "Mclovin" and his Cop friends came into the picture. Bottom-line: Movie is not safe for a budding relationship/first date. It is funny for those who are comfortable in their current relationship. -JM

Movie Review - "I Am Legend"

... drama with Will Smith as a doctor trying to find a cure for a virus that killed billions of people. Isolated in New York, he lives off the "land" in order to conduct research that may someday save what is left of humanity.

Slow start but picks up as the movie progresses. The ending is a let down leaving viewers wondering if the movie is done. Wait to rent the DVD versus watching on the big screen. -JM

Movie Review - "Waitress"

… movie with Keri Russell as Jenna, a small town waitress, caught in a loveless marriage.  Trying to runaway she saves money to enter a Pie Contest that will net her $25,000.  Story is okay with a slight twist in the end but nothing earth shattering.

Save this one for a rainy day when you can't find anything else at the rental store.  Would consider this a safe first-date movie but Guys, be prepared to fight yawning! - JM

Movie Review - "Enchanted"

... Disney movie about a young maiden who finds her Prince Charming with a twist. The movie starts in animation but shifts to normal film once the young maiden is thrown into a well by her evil step-mother prior to her wedding the handsome prince!

Fun to watch with enough laughs to keep me chuckling. Harmless first-date movie for a budding relationship. - JM

Movie Review - "Kickin It Old School"

… movie about with Jamie Kennedy as a Break Dancing Thirty-Something Year Old.  In a coma for 20 years after a freak fall while bustin' a move when he was 12 years old, he wakes up and is forced into the Present.  Has some laughs to keep me interested.  Okay for a First Date Movie. - JM

Movie Review - "Hitman"

... movie that brings the video game to the big screen. Not recommended as a first date movie. 'Nuff Said! - JM

Movie Review - "August Rush"

…great movie for the holidays.  Consider it a must see.  A story about a musically talented boy and his struggles to find his parents.  Tough for a boy of eleven placed for adoption at birth.  Impossible when they do not know you exist!  Don't miss this one!
- JM

Movie Review - "Beowulf"

… computer animated movie of the Danish tale of Beowulf.  The graphics were interesting and life-like at times.  Once you get used to the animation, it is a good telling of the story.  The 3D effects kept me interested and luckily did not get a headache from watching.  Check out some time. - JM

Movie Review - "Game Plan"

… fun movie with Dewayne "The Rock" Johnson playing a football star quarterback.  After an outstanding season and into the post-season, the Rock is bound for fame and glory with a sure win at the Championship Game!  Only he finds out that he is not a single-man but a Daddy who must cope with the new responsibility while preparing for the big game.  Fun movie to watch; I did not wait to rent it choosing to see it at the theater.  Check it out; it is a safe bet for a first-date movie. - JM

Movie Review - "We Are Marshall"

… movie about a small university in West Virginia and its struggles to rebuild the football program.  After losing the team, its staff, and support personnel from a plane crash,  Marshall University and its townsfolk work together to triumph over tragedy. Matthew McConaughey does a great job playing an eccentric but impressionable football coach.  Inspiring movie.  Check it out sometime.  - JM

Movie Review - "Next"

… drama with Nicholas Cage and Jennifer Biels.  Nicholas can see the future.  That is, he can see what will happen in the next two minutes as long as it affects him directly.  This is the norm for him until he sees Jennifer in his premonitions. His ability to see the future becomes much longer than the next two minutes.

Sounds like a boy meets girl movie except there is a twist that involves the FBI, Terrorist, and a Nuclear Bomb!  Check it out and find out what the storyline is about.  It is worth a rental.

- JM

Movie Review - "You Kill Me"

… dark comedy with Ben Kingsley, Luke Wilson, and Tia Leoni.  Ben is an alcoholic hit man with a drinking problem.  Sent away for rehab he joins an AA group.  Luke becomes his sponsor.  Tia and Ben meet at his part-time job - a helper for a funeral home.  Funny movie that keeps you watching.  Enjoyed it. - JM

Movie Review - "Perfume"

… drama set in pre-revolution France about a man with an acute sense of smell.  From a terrible childhood to indentured servitude, the man is driven to collect all smells.  Not a gory movie but one that keeps you watching based on the storyline.  Good movie; ending could use more but still worth a rental. - JM

Movie Review - "Darwin Awards"

… movie with Joseph Feinnes and Wynona Ryder.  Detective who faints at the sight of blood is fired; seeks employment with an insurance company.  He is partnered with Wynona playing an insurance adjuster.  Together they investigate accidents that could be considered for the Darwin Awards Competition.  Good story.  Check it out some time! -JM

Movie Review - "Last Legion"

Thought it was going to be a fight'em and beat'em up type movie like "The 300".  More on the lines of a prequel for King Arthur and Excalibur.  A good story but would wait for DVD to rent it.

- JM

Movie Review - "Mister Bean's Vacation"

Slapstick style comedy starring the British comedian Mr. Bean.  A kid flick that the younger crowd should enjoy. Watched it mainly on a whim.  Would wait for it on DVD.

- JM

Movie Review - "Nanny Diaries"

A recent college graduate named Annie gets mistaken for a Nanny and is hired by a rich family.  Watched it mainly because Scarlett Johansson is the Nanny.  A worthy first date movie.

- JM

Movie Review - "Bourne Ultimatum"

Third movie in the Bourne franchise.  A must see for fans.  Don't miss it.
- JM

Movie Review "Apocalypto"

… movie produced by Mel Gibson about a Central American tribe's struggle against Mayan slave traders.  Gruesome scenes and edge of your seat moments, a great movie to watch especially the evade and escape scene.  However, due to the violent nature of the movie, consider this for a mature relationship.

- JM

Movie Review - "Surfs Up"

… animated movie with a number of big name voice overs providing life to the characters.  Not a bad one to watch for a cartoon.  Should be safe for any first date.  Use it as a fallback in case things are to going well at dinner!

- JM

Movie Review - "Ice Harvest"

… drama with John Cusack and Billy Bob Thornton.  Lawyer and his accomplice steal $2M plus from the Mob.  Great story that keeps you interested.  Check it out; I liked the ending.

- JM

Movie Review - "Dream Girls"

… movie with Jamie Farr, Eddie Murphy, and Beyonce Knowles.  A parody that hints of the 60's singing group "The Temptations".  Great cast, music, and story-line.  See it when you can; you won't be disappointed.

- JM

Movie Review - "Night At The Museum"

--- movie with Ben Stiller and Robin Williams.  Ben is a divorced Father who needs to take a steady job to retain visitation rights for his son.  He takes a job as a Night Watchman at the NY Museum of Natural History.  But, he finds out the job is more than maintaining security!  Things come alive at night!

Another good for a rainy day movie.  Once you get over the embedded "Why can’t we all get along" message, it is an entertaining movie.

- JM

Movie Review - "Sentinel"

--- drama with Michael Douglas and Keifer Sutherland as Secret Service Agents.  Assigned to protect the President and the First Lady, they must battle with terrorist plotting to kill the President while dealing with their own troubled personal/professional relationship.

Kept me interested; should be a good for a rainy day.  Give it a chance!

- JM

Movie Review - "Spiderman 3"

… Marvel Comic's characters return for episode 3 of the Spiderman franchise.  Long but entertaining once you get through old storylines and Hollywood's tendency to squeeze as much revenue as it can from a successful movie "chain".  Check it out some time.

PS.  Bourne Ultimatum is due 3 August; save a seat for this one.  This is a movie franchise that I don't mind watching.

- JM