"Wolfman"

Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt, and Anthony Hopkins play main characters in this rendition of a werewolf movie.  Storyline was promising but the movie tended to be slow and long winded.  Wait on this one as a first date movie rental.  PS: Pay attention to the Inspector's voice, it is the actor that played Mr. Smith in the Matrix.

"She's Out Of My League"

... comedy about a young "nerdy" man who meets, dates, and eventually becomes the love interested of a hot blond woman!  His buddies, family, and strangers cannot believe she is with him.  Her friends, family, and others think the same.  That said, there is chemistry in their relationship.

Funny movie and a safe first date movie especially how everything works out in the end.  Check it out when you get a chance!

"Despicable Me"

Animated movie with Steve Carrel playing the evil villain Gru.  On a quest to steal the moon, Gru concocts a plan:

• Steal a Shrinking Gun,
• Fly to the moon in a rocket
• Shrink the moon
• And then, ransom it for money.

Things start out well when he steals the Shrinking Gun; however, he soon loses it to a rival villain named Vector!  To steal it back, Gru enlists three orphaned girls who sell cookies.... Cookies that Vector likes!

 

Funny movie that the kids will like.  Enjoyed the storyline, really liked the "Minions", and the girls' characters play well against Gru's evilness.  Safe first date movie.  Just be ready to watch in a theater with lots of children.

"The Spy Next Door"

Jackie Chan plays a Chinese spy on loan to the CIA.  Robin Wright Penn is his significant other or at least, soon to be wife!  That is, if he can get past her three kids who think he is a "geek" pen salesman - Jackie's cover while he waits for his assignments.

 

Funny story with an expected happy ending since it is a Disney movie.  Not a bad rental but would wait for a rainy day to watch this one.  PS:  George Lopez and Billy Ray Cyrus play CIA agents that Jackie works with....

"Green Zone"

Matt Damon plays an Army Warrant Officer and ordinance expert on a mission to find weapons of mass destruction.  Together with his team, they search location after location without success.  Parallel to this effort is a cover up by a Government Agency led by Greg Kinnear.

 

Was hoping for a Jason Bourne movie pace given the movie director is the same one from the franchise.  Came away with a slow and plodding storyline.  Would hold on watching this one as a first date movie.

"Knight and Day"

Conspiracy meets comedy in this movie with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. A chance meeting in an airport grows into a series of "complications" as Tom and Cameron match wits and bullets with a rogue agent.  Framed by his partner, Tom must escape the agency that seeks to "secure" him.  Cameron is unwittingly pulled into the situation by Tom.

Tom and Cameron make a great team in this movie.  A lot of action shoot'em up scenes and humorous moments provide for an entertaining storyline.  Really like the characters they played.  A recommended first date movie.  Do check this one out soon!

"Killers"

Movie with Katherine Heigl and Ashton Kutcher on a fairy-tale romance and marriage, except that Ashton has a past... a contract killer for hire by a certain government agency.  Funny movie with a lot of good laughs.  The couple make good movie partners.  A good first date movie!

"Invictus"

... movie directed by Clint Eastwood with Morgan Freeman as President Nelson Mandela of South Africa and Matt Damon as the Rugby Coach and Manager of the South African Rugby Team.  With his election as President, Morgan must bring a country together as one.  To do so, he inspires the country to unite in the Rugby Team's pursuit of the World Cup Title.

 

Good movie that was entertaining despite knowing its ending. Check it out some time!

"Letters to Juliet"

... movie about lost love and the chance to find it after 50 years.  Amanda Seyfried discovers a lost letter to Juliet while on vacation with her fiancé in Italy.  She answers the letter; one week later an elderly woman (Vanessa Redgrave) and her grandson (Christopher Egan) come to Italy to find her Romeo!  Amanda gets caught up in the adventure and joins them on their quest.

 

A chick flick and confirmed first date movie!

"Legion"

... movie with Paul Bettany as the angel Michael on a mission to save a baby - a baby that was not meant to live.  A lot of fighting and cool effects but was a tough one to watch.  Skip this one.... as a first date movie.

"Robin Hood"

Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett play Robin Hood and Lady Merriam in the latest version of the legend of Robin Hood.  Liked the events leading up to Robin's and Merriam's meeting, made for a good storyline on how Robin (Longstride) became Robin of Loxley, who became Robin of the Hood!

Good movie but would hold off as a first date mainly for its length - over 2 hours.  Not a good way to begin a relationship - sitting for two hours in a dark movie theater with no interaction with one another!

"Iron Man 2"

Sequel to Iron Man with Robert Downey Jr., Gwenyth Paltrow, and Don Cheadle returning and Mickey Rourke, Scarlett Johansson, and Samuel Jackson appearing this round.

Safe first date movie that was entertaining as a sequel can go. If you wait till all the credits are done after the movie, you will see a short scene that preps you for the next movie.

"How to Train Your Dragon"

... animated movie with familiar voices mixed throughout the characters. A not the normal viking named Hiccup tinkers with dragon slaying devices. He manages to take one down but is unable to kill it.

Good movie.... safe first date movie but save it for the Kids and pick another one.

"The Eye"

... movie with Jessica Alba as blind violinst who has eye surgery to regain her sight. However, issues result when she begins to see ghosts!

Scary moments but one that has a decent storyline. Hold for a first date but do check it out when you get a chance!

"Crazy Heart"

... IFC style movie with Jeff Bridges as Bad Blake, an aging Country Singer and Songwriter, living on the road and the hard life.  Somewhere along the way he meets a young reporter played by Maggie Gyllenhall, who changes his life.  Good movie with an ending that made sense - not the storybook Hollywood norm.  Also like the support cast with Colin Farrell and Robert Duvall.  Check it out, safe first date movie.

PS:  Liked the tunes....!

"It's Complicated"

... comedy with Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and others.  Meryl and Alec are a long-time divorced couple coming together to celebrate their son's college graduation.  Although Alec cheated on Meryl and then married his mistress, things get out of hand when Alec and Meryl begin an affair.

Funny movie with a great supporting cast that includes Steve Martin as the nerdy Architect and the Office's John Krasinski as the nice soon-to-be Son-in-Law.  Safe first date movie, check it out when you get a chance!

"Pirate Radio"

... movie inspired by true events and set in 60's Great Britain.  A Rock and Roll Radio Station, located on a ship anchored offshore, broadcasts music to the delight of the Country.  However, a Government Agency seeks to shut the Station down.  After several unsuccessful attempts, the Agency succeeds in passing a law that makes the Station illegal.  Subsequently, the Station must do something to keep on air.

Funny moments with a strong cast of characters and an entertaining story.  But, suggest watching another movie for a first date.  This one can wait as well.

"Men Who Stare At Goats"

... true story with George Clooney, Ewan McGregor, Jeff Bridges, and Kevin Spacey.  George, Jeff, and Kevin are New Earth Army Jedi Warriors - a secret unit of the US Army.  Able to use their psychic ability to locate, predict, and even kill... goats.  Ewan is a small town reporter who wants to get into the Iraq War and see action so his wife will come back to him.  She left him for another man.  Somehow Ewan and George meet in Iraq, and then they suffer through a series of misadventures stemming from George's quest to locate "something".

 

Funny moments, a little quirky, with an ending that could have been done better.... save for another day and pick a different one for a first date.

"Law Abiding Citizen"

... Drama about a plea-bargain agreement that sets a killer free.  Stars Jamie Foxx as Assistant DA Nick Rice and Gerard Butler as the vengeful victim Clyde Shelton.  Clyde and his family are attacked in their house by two thugs.  One thug brutally rapes and kills Clyde's wife, then kills his daughter. Later, they are caught and tried; the killer/rapist goes to jail for 5 years, his accomplice is sentenced to death.  Clyde learns of this and decides to make things right - especially with his background...!

 

Good movie, liked the victim's manipulation and detailed planning to act his revenge to make things right!  Hold as a first date movie but definitely check this one out.  Look for a more light-hearted comedy before bringing this one in.

"The Blind Side"

... checked out Sandra Bullock's Oscar winning performance in the movie "The Blind Side".  Enjoyed the true story of Balimore Raven's Left Tackle Michael Oher.  Great movie, acting was excellent with Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, and Quinton Aaron making a true story all the more believable!  A definite first date movie!

"Date Night"

... comedy with Steve Carell and Tina Fey as a suburban couple with kids. Stuck in the daily grind of married life, they long for something. On a whim, they decide to go into the city for a nice dinner at a popular restaurant. Without dinner reservations, the inevitable happens - no table. But, siezing the moment they take someone elses reservations and have a nice dinner. Until they are pulled in to a scandal that has them running for their lives....

Funny movie. Safe first date movie. Check it out some time!

"Edge of Love"

... movie with Kiera Knightley, Sienna Miller, Matthew Rhys, and Cillian Murphy.  Complex story that involves famous poet Dylan Thomas.  Not a first date movie, skip this one altogether.... 'nuff said!

"Heartlands"

... IFC style movie that starts out slow but grows on you as the story progresses.  Would not recommend as a first date movie but would recommend watching it some time.  If you like IFC movies, a character who is dealing with issues but eventually comes out in the end for the better, then watch this one.  Liked the acting, liked the story, liked the ending.  For more details, check it out on IMDB.

"The Last Song"

... a Nicholas Spark's genre movie with Miley Cyrus, Greg Kinnear, and Bobby Coleman.  Miley and her younger brother spend the summer with their estranged father played by Greg Kinnear.  Their father-daughter relationship is strained since Greg and their mother, played by Kelly Preston, divorced several years ago.  However, things seem to turn around when Miley meets a handsome boy (Bobby Coleman) by accident.  A chance meeting followed by circumstances resulting from saving Sea Turtle eggs and soon after Miley and Bobby become more than friends....

 

Good movie, expect tragedy with a lot of underlying issues hidden from the viewer.  Would not recommend this one as a first date movie as it may bring a tear to your eyes which cannot happen on a first date.  Better wait till your relationship has a chance to grow before checking this one out.

"The Box"

... movie with Cameron Diaz and James Marsden, a suburban couple living in Richmond Virginia.  Cameron is a Teacher.  James is a NASA Engineer.  They have a son and appear to be a normal family.  That is, until a stranger shows.  A stranger played by Frank Langella, offering a million dollar for pushing a button housed a box.  Push the button, you get the money.  But, a person will die.

 

Interesting storyline that speaks of conspiracy and human behavior experiments.  Would hold off as a first date movie. Moreover, ending leaves you feeling as if a sequel will be forthcoming.

"Bounty Hunter"

... comedy with Gerard Butler and Jennifer Aniston as a divorced couple brought together when Jennifer misses a court date and a warrant for arrest is issued.  Gerard, a former cop and now a bounty hunter, accepts the assignment to bring Jennifer in!  Needless to say, the two find they still have feelings for one another; more so when the two must deal with the mob, bad cops, and a "boyfriend".

 

Funny storyline that flows well, safe first date movie!  Check it out, theater was packed this opening weekend.

"New Moon - The Twilight Saga"

Second movie in the Twilight Series that brings back the same players from the first movie. Bella and Edward struggle with their relationship to the point that Edward leaves. Jacob comes into the picture as a friend, then possible love interest, and then protector. Victoria continues on her quest for revenge but is foiled by Bella's protectors. Ultimately, things come to a climax just in time to leave room for the next movie.

Safe first date movie given the love theme and strong emotions that the main characters are dealing with, just be ready for the "beau hunk" viewers to enjoy it more than others!

"The Reader"

 ... movie with Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes.  Kate plays Hanna Schmitz, a former S.S. concentration camp guard.  Ralph plays Michael Berg, a lawyer who had an affair with Hanna when he was fifteen and she was thirty-six.  Their affair lasts a summer and consists of reading and sex and more reading and sex.  Michael is unaware of Hanna's past falling hopelessly in love with her.  However, they eventually part their separate ways when Hanna decides to end the affair by leaving unexpectedly.  Later, while Michael is attending law school, he observes a war crimes trial of six female S.S. concentration camp guards, one of whom is Hanna.  While listening to the testimony, Michael realizes that he has information that can make a difference in the outcome of the trial and its impact on Hanna.

Good movie, was surprised by the amount of "skin" shown.  Would hold off as a first date movie but would check it out later as your relationship matures!

"Purple Violets"

... movie with Selma Blair, Edward Burns, Debra Messing, and Patrick Wilson.  The four were once close college friends but years later they lose touch with their mates.  Selma is Patti Petalson and is coupled with Patrick playing popular writer Brian Callahan.  Debra Messing is Kate Scott, Selma's best friend.  Edward Burns is Michael Murphy (or the "Murph"), Brian's lawyer and best friend and once was Kate's boyfriend. In a chance meeting while having dinner at restaurant, they meet and what follows is the rekindling of second chance love!

A chick flick movie that may squeak by as a first date one.  Only because (spoiler...) the couples get together for the long term.  More an IFC style movie than a main stream movie.  Still, enjoyed the way things played out.

"Up In the Air"

... movie with George Clooney as "corporate downsizer" Ryan Bingham, Vera Farmiga as Ryan's acquaintance Alex Goran, Anna Kendrick as his business peer Natalie Keener, and Jason Bateman as Ryan's and Natalie's boss Craig Gregory.

 

Ryan Bingham is on the road a lot, logging over 250k miles a year.  His job is to fire people.  He does it well.  So much so, that he has amassed a significant amount of frequent flyer miles and is well on his way to the magic goal of 10 million miles.  Only 6 others have reached that goal, he will make every effort to be number 7!  Things seem to be going okay for Ryan, more so when he meets a Alex Goran, a female version of him, that he gets along with.  However, Ryan's plans are sidestepped when hotshot Cornell graduate Natalie Keener proposes and gets buy in to rollout a new business model - firing people over the internet using a video teleconference!

 

Not a bad movie but would hold off as a first date one, mainly because of the non-committal character that George plays in this movie.  Do check it out, was entertaining!

"Did You Hear About The Morgans?"

... comedy with Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker as a couple with marital issues brought to a halt when they witness a murder.  Pulled in to the Witness Protection Program, they are whisked away from New York to Wyoming.  "Big City" meets "Small Town America"....

 

Funny moments and quips with an expected happy outcome.  Liked the supporting roles of Sam Elliott, Mary Steenburgen, and Wilford Brimley.... Safe first date movie!

"Gray Matters"

... Romantic comedy with Heather Graham and Tom Cavanagh as sister and brother Gray and Sam Baldwin.  They share the same loft apartment, they enjoy the same things, and are best friends!  At times, people think they are dating.  Given this, they decide to find dates for one another.  Subsequently, Heather finds Charlie Kelsey played by Bridget Moynahan.  Charlie shares the same likes and dislikes as Gray and Sam and immediately befriends the two.  So much so that Sam and Charlie decide to marry.  But, confusion results during a bachelorette weekend in Vegas when Charlie and Sam have one too many drinks that leads to a passionate kiss between the soon to be bride and the groom's sister!

 

Slow to start, light hearted comedy with an expected happy ending.  Has it moments and should be a safe first date movie. But, would not place it on the "must see" list.  Save it for a rainy day.

"Saint Ralph"

... movie set in 1950's Canada.  Ralph Walker, a high school freshman at St. Magnus Catholic School, is dealing with many complex issues like experimenting with smoking and a preoccupation with the opposite sex.  In trouble one too many times by the school's principal Father Fitzpatrick, Ralph is ordered to join the school's cross country running team.  The storyline looks to follow the normal path until viewers learn that Ralph lives by himself in the family home; has been lying to the school saying he is living with his grandparents, who are already deceased; and telling his widowed hospitalized mother that he is staying with a friend. However, Ralph changes his focus once his mother falls into a coma. Through a chain of circumstances, Ralph believes that winning the Boston Marathon will help his mother to come out of a coma!

 

Safe first date movie, really enjoyed this one!  Was expecting less having rented it on a whim; was extremely pleased the choice turned out to be a winner!

"Bella"

... IFC style movie with Tammy Blanchard, Eduardo Verastegui, and Manny Perez.  Tammy and Eduardo work as a waitress and a cook at Manny's restaurant, respectively.  Manny and Eduardo are brothers and seems the more hot-tempered of the two.  His temper comes to light when Manny fires Tammy for being late one too many times.  Eduardo decides to comfort Tammy when he learns she was late because she is pregnant. Without notices, Eduardo takes the day off and spends the rest of the day with Tammy.  They spend their time together getting to know each other and ultimately make plans for the future.

 

Good movie with an interesting ending and an underlying story that brings the two main characters together.  Safe first date movie!

"Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist"

... comedy with Michael Cera and Kat Denning.  Michael plays Nick, a high-school senior from New Jersey.  Kat plays Norah, a friend of Nick's ex-girlfriend. The two meet at a club when Norah pretends that Nick is her boyfriend.  From there, the fun begins as Nick and Norah, share a love of music, hunt for a band scheduled to play somewhere that night, lose Norah's drunk friend Caroline, and then search for her with the help of Nick's gay band mates (Nick plays guitar for a garage band where he is the only straight guy).  Throw in a beat up Yugo car, an obsessive ex-girlfriend, and some decent tunes, then you get a movie that can grow on you. 

 

Safe first date movie, check it out some time!

"Guitar"

... movie about a woman who finds out she has a tumor and only has two months to live.  Soon after finding out about the tumor, she loses her job and is given 4 weeks severance pay.  With little time left to live, she uses her severance pay to rent a penthouse loft and goes on a spending spree using her credit cards to make purchases over the telephone.  One purchase is a guitar that she does not know how to play but is motivated to learn.  Alone at first, she manages to sulk in the "buff" for a while.  However, she soon becomes friends with the girl that deliver pizza and the man that delivers packages of things she ordered.  Yada, yada, yada,... love and sex results with pizza girl, with delivery guy,.... yada, yada, yada,... ménage' trios' ensues,.... yada, yada, yada,... epiphany results.  Won't say more other than she lives!

 

Would hold off on this movie for a first date, main reason are in the "buff" moments.  Else, liked the ending.

"Hamlet 2"

... comedy about a 'less than famous" actor Dana Marschz, played by Steve Coogan.  Dana has placed his acting career on hold and is working as a drama teacher for a High School in Tucson.  Dana writes and produces stage versions of popular movies that are not very good.  Things don't seem to be going his way.  More so, when he is told the Drama Class is cancelled due to budget cuts.  So, to call attention to the Class, he writes an zany original play called Hamlet 2.

 

Funny movie once you get past the profanity and Jesus-references.  Hold off as a first-date movie though, let's not push the profanity and Jesus-references so early in a relationship.  Check it out later some time, you should get a chuckle or two!

"Casablanca"

... Movie Classic with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman.  Never watched the movie after so many years.  Decided to rent it at the local video store.  Great movie!  Mark this one as a definite first date movie.  Tough guy Humphrey Bogart runs into an old flame who left him standing alone at the train station.  Ingrid is the old flame with a past that has caught up with her.  Add the brief but important role played by Peter Lorre, a quirky and corrupt French Police Captain with a heart, and Sam the piano player.  What do you have, a timeless movie for romantics!  Check this one out if you never have seen it!

"Beer League"

... comedy with Artie Lange and Ralph Macchio as lifelong buddies who have a passion for softball.  Last in their league, they have a tendency to drink beer and not practice as well as fight with the league's number one team.  First game of the season ends in a fight and jail.  Luckily no one has to do hard time because a deal is struck.  The team that wins the most games between the two gets to stay in the league.  The other must leave and find somewhere else to play.

 

Funny moments and as long as you understand it is a comedy and not in the running for an Oscar, you should be okay.  However, would not consider this a first date movie, especially because of the bachelor party scene.  Better chose another movie!

"Nomad: The Warrior"

... movie that looks back to Mongolia and the tribal conflict between two tribes - the Jungar and Kazakh. Prophecy describes a descendant of Genghis Khan will unite the Kazakh and defeat the Jungar. Oraz the Wise, played by Jason Scott Lee, searches for the child (named Erali) who will fulfill the prophecy, finds the infant, and vows to protect him from the Jungar. As time passes, Oraz recruits boys - to include Erali, from each Kazakh tribe and schools them in the art of war. The two best are Erali and his best friend Mansur. Things appear to on the right path to fulfilling prophecy but both Erali and Mansur fall in love with the same woman!

Wait on this one; it is not a first date movie. For those who don't like subtitles, more reason to skip this movie completely!

"Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief"

.... movie that brings a "Harry Potter"-like genre brought to the big screen.  This time it is based on Greek Mythology, how their Gods fit in modern times, and how their children play into humanity.  Protagonist is Percy, son of Poseidon.  Antagonist is another God's son.  Zeus' Lightning Bolt is stolen. Guess who took it?  If it cannot be found, the Greek Gods will have a war between one another.  See more details in the IMDB link.

 

Consider it a harmless first date movie, if and only if your date enjoys this genre.  Else, stay away.  It can be a tedious 2 hours.  FYI: Stay around for the credit; there is a closing scene that involves Percy's mother, boyfriend, and fridge!

"Meet Bill"

... movie with Aaron Eckhart and Elizabeth Banks.  Aaron plays Bill, and unhappy banker married to bank president's daughter.  Elizabeth Banks is his unfaithful wife Jess.  Bill is constantly eating candy bars and dreaming about owning a donut franchise.  He yearns to breakaway from his father-in-law and the bank.  However, before he can get started, Bill is assigned to a mentoring program that includes a smart-mouthed kid who seems to show up when least expected. Worse yet, his wife has an affair with a local TV personality and even includes videos posted online.  So, Bill, the kid, and the kid's friend played by Jessica Alba are on a mission to win back Bill's wife.

A yawner for this movie viewer.  Hold this one for another time and definitely not for a first date.

"Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day"

... light-hearted comedy with Frances McDormand and Amy Adams.  Frances is Miss Pettigrew, a down on her luck governess.  Amy Adams is Delysia Lafosse, a singer-actress using her "skills" to win a part in an upcoming movie by a famed producer.  While doing so, Delysia is juggling other men like Nick, a nightclub owner, and Michael, her piano player who really loves her!  Miss Pettigrew somehow lands a job as Delysia's social secretary to make sure Delysia gets the part. Over 24 hours, Miss Pettigrew is also called on to help an unfaithful fashion editor patch things up with her boyfriend, a lingerie designer.

 

Funny moments and a safe first date movie.  But, would not put it on the list as a first choice when picking out a movie with your "potential significant other"!  Go pick a romantic comedy, better yet a tear jerker.

"Sideways"

... movie with Paul Giamatti, Thomas Hayden Church, Sandra Oh, and Virginia Madsen.  Paul is an English Teacher, recent divorce, and aspiring writer - yet to be published.  Thomas is an somewhat famous actor who wants one more fling before his wedding. So, Paul and Thomas plan a trip to California Wine Country to golf, enjoy the scenery, taste the many wines offered by the different vineyards. While on their trip, they meet Sandra Oh and Virginia Madsen.  One thing leads to another and things happen - wink, wink, wink....

 

A long movie that has its moments but not a first date movie - a divorced man and a bachelor cheating the week before his wedding does not set the right tone for a first date.  Wait a little before watching this one with your potential "significant other".

 

PS:  Did like a few of the lines in the movie - especially, "Did you drink and dial?"

"The Last Word"

... dark comedy with Wes Bentley, Winona Ryder, and Ray Romano.  Sundance style movie that is slow with a lot of "meanings" built into the storyline.  Wes is a writer hired by suicidal people to write their epitaphs.  Winona is the sister of one of Wes' recently deceased clients.  Ray is a depressed musician who hires Wes.

 

Wes and Winona meet at her brother's funeral.  Wes lies about how he met Winona's brother, and she takes a liking to him.  They eventually start dating, have issues, and then breakup. In parallel, Wes and Ray keep working on Ray's "last words", also have troubles, and then come to an understanding.

 

Complex movie that is not a first date movie.  Would hold on this one.

"Roman Holiday"

... classic movie that stands the test of time.  Stars Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck with Eddie Albert doing a great job in his supporting role.  Audrey is Princess Anne, on a European tour. Gregory is Joe Bradley, a correspondent for the American News Service in Rome, and Eddie is a photographer and friend to Gregory.

 

Audrey frustrated with the formality and obligations as a Princess, runs away for 24 hours.  She meets Gregory, who does not recognize her highness at first, but seizes the opportunity for a news scoop once he discovers who she is.

 

A must see movie. Consider this a first date movie with a storyline that does not need sex or foul language to make you watch it!

"All About Steve"

... comedy starring Sandra Bullock and Bradley Cooper with Thomas Haden Church, DJ Qualls, and others.  Sandra plays Mary Horowitz, crossword puzzle creator for the Sacramento Herald.  Bradley Cooper plays Steve, news camera man.  Sandra and Bradley are setup by their parents for a blind date.   Things get hot and heavy before they date gets started, and then quickly sours.

 

Funny moments with a decent ending.  Entertaining move but glad to have waited for DVD.  That said, would not pick this one as a first date movie; wait a little bit longer for the relationship to grow.  And then, have a chuckle or two together.  Decided this based on the movie's funny moments do not overcome the underlying theme - a "freaky woman" stalking someone.

"Love Happens"

... drama with Aaron Eckhart and Jennifer Aniston. Aaron plays a self-help author Burke Ryan; Jennifer is Eloise, a quirky florist.  While on a trip in Seattle, Aaron chances on Eloise in the hallway of his hotel.  Soon after they agree to dinner which starts out terrible but could eventually grow into something more.  Except, Aaron has failed to come to terms with the death of his wife; he portrays himself as a self-help guru but could use therapy himself; and he is living a façade that will catch with him.

 

Slow start and its deep emotional message are too much for a first date movie recommendation.  However, it is a good movie with a decent ending.  Especially liked the father-in-law played by Martin Sheen and the "Parrot"; they played cameo roles but were important to the movie's message.

"Gamer"

... Action movie with Gerard Butler from "The 300" as a convicted death row inmate with a chance for freedom.  All he has to do is survive 30 games.  That is, survive 30 games where convicts are "human Sims" controlled by people who pay to play (or control) the "human Sims".  Standard good versus bad guy scenario; just throw in the software game developer character into the mix.  Liked the movie because the action made me want to see how the movie played out.  But, would not call this one a first date movie due to the blood and guts violence.

"When In Rome"

... Lighthearted comedy about love and love spells. Beth, played by Kristen Bell, is a young, unlucky in love, professional living in New York. However, on a trip to Rome for her sister's wedding, she meets a love interest.  Or, thought she did.  Angry with love and romance, she decides to take four coins and a poker chip from a fountain of love.  The result... she is aggressively pursued by a five suitors, each pledging their love!

 

A lot of laughs, happy ending, and a safe first date movie.  Enjoyed the cast of stars that you will easily recognize.  Check it out some time!  See IMDB for more details about the movie.

"The Invention Of Lying"

... comedy with Ricky Gervais, Jennifer Garner, and a cast of others.  Ricky Gervais plays a down on his luck, just fired single man. Made even worse in a world where people don't lie.  That is, until he stumbles on how to lie.  Movie starts out slow and the brutal truth telling quips get old after awhile.  Would wait to see this one.  Even skip it as a first date movie, especially the opening scene with Ricky and Jennifer meeting on their first date - very awkward situation.

"Surrogates"

... SIMs goes Hollywood.  Movie with Bruce Willis playing an FBI Agent investigating murders in a world of Surrogates.  Surrogates are machines that humans control to live out their lives.  You can customize them, they are indestructible, and they keep you safe as you control them remotely from your own home!  That is, until a weapon is developed that destroys Surrogates and kills the human operating it.  Good movie, liked Bruce in this role, check it out when you get a chance.  Another safe first date movie!

"Whip It"

... IFC-style movie about a young 17 year old girl named Bliss Cavendar from a small-town in Texas.  Unhappy with her life, she longs for something else but is not sure what.  That is, until a shopping trip to Austin opens up an opportunity - Roller Derby!  "Yada, yada, yada",... introducing Babe Ruthless, Bliss' alter-ego roller derby character!  Liked the story, entertaining with an expected outcome.  Especially liked the Roller Derby Team coach - Razor, played by Andrew Wilson (did not know his brothers are Luke and Owen Wilson).  Safe first date movie!

"Leap Year"

... romantic comedy with Amy Adams and Matthew Goode.  Amy is disappointed when her longtime boyfriend (played by Adam Scott) does not propose to her. Fortunately, she sees her chance for marital bliss when he travels to Ireland on business during a leap year.  Supposedly, Irish folklore allows women to propose to men on February 29!  However, nature and other forces, including a handsome Irish beau (Matthew Goode), make Amy's rendezvous with her boyfriend difficult.

 

Solid first date movie with an ending that was expected.  Entertaining in how the storyline played out even with a bias view as a fan of Amy Adams. Check it out when you get a chance!

"The Accidental Husband"

... romantic comedy with Uma Thurman, Colin Firth, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan.  Includes a cameo of Isabella Rossellini. Rented the movie on a whim.  Glad we did.  Plot and ending are pretty much standard fare for a romantic comedy.  Still liked the funny moments enough to rate this one a first date movie.  More on the plot, see IMDB's link. 

"Perfect Getaway"

... drama/mystery with Steve Zahn and Mila Jovovich as newlyweds vacationing in Hawaii for their honeymoon.  Things go well enough until they must deal with crazed murderers bent on killing tourists.

 

Plot with a twist, so pay close attention at the cues.  That said, consider the movie as first date movie because its ending includes a "romantic" marriage proposal.

"Extract"

... Mike Judge comedy with Justin Bateman, Mila Kunis, Ben Affleck, and Kristin Wiig.  Justin is the owner of a manufacturing company that makes food extracts.  Mila Kunis is a con woman that works at the plant as a temp.  Ben is Justin's friend and Kristin is Justin's wife.

 

Comedy has its moments but not as good as "Office Space".  Safe first date movie but would wait for a rainy day to rent this DVD. 

"Sherlock Holmes"

... movie with Robert Downey, Jr and Jude Law as Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson, respectively.  Hard core Sir Arthur Conan Doyle fans may get picky about the details but for us movie fans, don't worry... entertaining movie with a plot that made you pay attention.  Especially liked the scenes where Sherlock thinks about his next actions in slow motion, and then viewers see them played out in normal speed.

 

Safe first date movie, just be careful about wandering eyes as Rachel McAdams is looking quite pleasant to the eyes....!  For more details on the movie, checkout IMDB's link.

"District 9"

... movie that starts out like a documentary.  A star ship is forced to land on Earth in 1982.  The aliens are stranded and unable to return to their planet.  Subsequently, they are rounded up into a refugee camp called District 9.  In 2010, a corporation is contracted to evict the population.  The project lead is Wikus van der Merwe, who is later exposed to an alien chemical that causes "changes" him physically....

 

Good story, may play it by ear when it comes to a first date movie due to blood, violence, etc....  Get ready for a sequel.

"Inglourious Basterds"

... blood and more blood in a violent movie by Quentin Tarantino.  Would you have expected less from him?  Brad Pitt plays Lt. Aldo, leader of a band of soldiers tasked to wreak havoc and terror against the Nazis!  If you are a Quentin fan, you should be good with the movie.  If not, remember it is meant to be violent and bloody.  If you are a historical "buff", don't watch else you will be disappointed in the historical inaccuracies!

 

Not a safe first date movie, still enjoyed it.... but I am a Quentin fan.  See IMDB link for more on the movie.

"Avatar"

... movie epic with a storyline that reminds viewers of "Dances With Wolves" but in outer space on another planet.  Replace the Indians with the Na'vi, a humanoid race, and then add a paraplegic Marine for Kevin Costner's role.

 

With that, enjoyed the movie with its special effects and action scenes.  Throw in two "people" growing in love and it becomes a safe first date movie.... only if your companion enjoys sci-fi movies.  Why... because the movie runs for 2 hours and 42 minutes which may be much too long for a budding relationship to weather.-JM

 

For more on the plot - here is a link to IMDB's posting on Avatar.

"Old Dogs"

... comedy with Robin Williams and John Travolta as two marketing executives and long-time friends.  While working on a high-profile account, Robin remembers an old flame and decides to contact her.  After writing a 12-page, single-spaced letter explaining why Robin loves her, they make plans to meet, and soon after Robin discovers he is a father of twins!

Funny movie, safe for a first date.  Check it out when you get a chance, and enjoy a chuckle or two!

"2012"

End of the world as you know it movie with John Cusack, Amanda Peet, and others.  Mayan prophets mark the end of the world as the year 2012.  Scientist (in the movie) confirm the event when geologist observe a change in the Earth's core. Conspiracy theorist will enjoy this story with the "government cover-up" of giant arks built to withstand the apocalypse.

 

Safe first date movie that does a good job portraying one man's struggle to save his family that viewers can relate to.  Check it out some time!

"My One and Only"

Comedy with Renee Zellweger and Kevin Bacon as a married couple with marital problems in the 50's.  Kevin is a "one-hit wonder" big band leader who is always on the road.  Renee is his socialite wife.  After one too many affairs, Renee decides to leave Kevin, taking her two sons with her on a quest to find a new husband.  Renee's character is much too good for a job, she is instead the marrying type. After many mishaps and terrible relationships, Renee and her son find their calling and giving truth to her answer for all problems, "Everything will workout".

 

Good movie, safe first-date movie despite the broken marriage.  Certain that any strong relationship can withstand this movie's take on marriage.

"My Life in Ruins"

Romantic comedy with Nia Vardalos and Richard Dreyfuss.  Nia is Georgia, a laid-off history professor working as a tour guide in Greece.  Richard is Irv, a widower on one of Nia's tours.

 

Not happy with her life, Nia plans to quit her job as a tour guide.  On her final tour, Nia and Richard become friends.  During the tour, Nia learns to change her outlook in life and starts live life, meets a handsome guy, and make a decision on what she wants to do going forward.

 

Good movie, safe for a first date.  Check it out some time.  Enough laughs and moments to make it worthwhile to rent.

"Traitor"

Movie with Don Cheadle as an undercover CIA operative acting as an explosive expert.  Captured while overseas making an arms deal with Al Queda, Don becomes tangled in a web of deciept that drives him closer and closer to becoming a traitor.

Slow beginning but has a great turn-of-event ending.  Bottom-line:  Good guys always win!  Check it out some time; safe for a first date movie.

"Ten Minutes"

A short story by Zeke Rutledge recently published on Associated Content:
Ten Minutes: Short Story About a Decorated Veteran's Return Home.

Not bad, may be a good start for a movie!

"Couples Retreat"

Comedy about four couples who agree to go on a tropical-island vacation for marriages needed "help".  One couple is there to work on their marriage; the others are there to enjoy a fun vacation.  However, once there, they realize the resort's therapy sessions are not optional.

 

Funny movie, first-date all the way.  So what if it is about relationships in trouble, you are fine.  Great cast with Vince Vaughn, Jon Favereau, Jason Bateman, and others....  Also, gotta like Jean Reno in his role as marriage guru!  And, Vince's son in the movie will have you going!

 

PS:  Look for the line "Honey,... I will be the biggest ass you have ever seen!"

"Zombieland"

Terror-Comedy about a loner who teams up with three other "zombie-virus" survivors in a post-apocalyptic world. Actors include Amber Heard, Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Abigail Breslin, Ruben Fleischer, Emma Stone, and a brief cameo by Bill Murray.

 

Once you get past the blood and terror, the movie will have you laughing in the aisle.  Safe first date movie only if your blossoming relationship can stand a blood and gore comedy!  Check it out some time.

"Ghosts of Girlfriends Past"

Romantic comedy based on the theme from "A Christmas Carol" with Matthew McConaughey as Connor Mead, womanizer who swears off marriage and commitment.  Invited to his brother's wedding, he meets an old flame Jenny Perotti, played by Jennifer Garner.  He still has feelings but remains steadfast in maintaining his playboy reputation until he is visited by the ghost of his Uncle Wayne (Michael Douglas), who taught Conner about the ways of women.  Uncle Wayne's ghost warns Connor that he'll be visited by three ghosts - past, present, and future girlfriends.

 

Safe first-date movie, ending was expected.  Mainly watched to see how the storyline played out.  Glad to have waited till it came out on DVD versus paying a premium at the theater.  Check it out when you get a chance. 

"Soul Men"

Singing trio Marcus Hooks, Floyd Henderson, and Louis Hinds break apart in the 60's.  Marcus moves on to be an R&B Legend; Floyd and Louis team up as a duo, "The Real Deal," and become one hit wonders.  Over 40 years later, Marcus suddenly dies and a high-profile tribute at the Apollo Theater is planned in his memory. Floyd, who is bored in retirement, convinces Louis, an ex-con, to team up again as the "Real Deal" for Marcus.  What follows is a cross-country road-trip to get to the Apollo in five days.

 

Slow going, slightly picks up in the middle, and then it kinda stays there.  Save it for a rainy day.  Wait for a much later date!

"Secret Life of Bees"

Set in the mid 60's, Dakota Fanning pays Lily Owens, a 14 year-old girl who has trouble dealing with the loss of her mother.  She runs away with her only friend Rosaleen, played by Jennifer Hudson, to a South Carolina town that holds secrets to the past. Taken in by the the Boatwright sisters (played by Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys and Sophie Okenedo), Lily finds peace in their world of beekeeping.

 

Good movie, safe for a first date. Check it out some time.

"Gigantic"

Independent Film Channel style movie with Paul Dano (brother in "Little Miss Sunshine") and Zooey Deschanel.  Paul sells mattresses.  Zooey's Dad buys one.  Zooey stops by the store to coordinate delivery.  Zooey falls asleep on the mattress.  While asleep we learn that Paul, who is not married, wants to adopt a Chinese baby.  Not certain why but he has wanted to all is life.  Zooey wakes up 2+ hours later, provides a shipping address and leaves for work.

 

Storyline comes and goes with some interesting scenes but was disappointed given the 3.5 star rating.  Still like Zooey and her acting, just the movie is missing something.  Save it for a later day.

"Outlander"

"Beowulf meets the Predator" like the movie cover says.... Jim Caviezel plays a space age soldier who is stranded in the Iron Age when his spaceship crashes to Earth. On a quest to kill a "dragon", he becomes a Viking tribe's prisoner, then its savior.

A lot of action with blood and gore scenes fitting a man versus dragon battle. Entertaining movie but suggest a different movie for at least the first-date.

"Post Grad"

Young college graduate, played by Alexis Bledel, has planned her life....  Good grades gets her a scholarship, which leads to a degree and then a dream job at a publisher.  Except, she does not get hired.

 

Good story and safe first-date movie.  Supporting cast and the storyline make it entertaining.  Check it out some time.

"Paul Blart - Mall Cop"

Comedy with Kevin James playing a mall Security Guard.  Down on his luck at work and in love, Paul comes into the limelight when he pits his wits against a group of thieves.  The thieves secure the mall and take hostages in a plan to steal security codes from the stores.  However, they did not plan on Paul Blart!

 

Funny movie that takes on a "Bruce Willis Die Hard" feel, just add a few pounds to Bruce.  Safe first-date movie, check it out when you get a chance.

"The Time Traveler's Wife"

Movie with Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams.  Eric travels through time without warning. Somehow in his travels, he meets Rachel as a young girl. As they meet again and again over time, they relationship grows into love.

 

A definite "chick-flick" as wells as a first-date movie.  Entertaining storyline, safe for the budding relationship!

"Julie & Julia"

Movie with Amy Adams and Meryl Streep as Julie Powell and Julia Childs, respectively.  Julie is an aspiring writer working a day job.  Inspired by Julia Childs, she decides to cook Julia Childs' 524 recipes (in 365 days) and blog about her experience.

 

Entertaining movie based on true events.  Nice job running parallel storylines of Julie and Julia.  Safe first-date movie. Ending good have been better, else it was a good movie.

"500 Days of Summer" (Spoiler Alert)

Movie with Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt that can easily fit the IFC and/or Sundance Channel programming format.  Great story about a guy unlucky in love, Joseph, meeting the woman of his dreams, Zooey.

 

A lot of flash backs that take you to different points in their relationship.  But don't worry, it does not detract from the movie.  Great supporting actors, a solid story, and two leads that mesh well together.  Don't miss this one; it is a first-date movie even if the two do not get together (spoiler sorry).  That said, liked the surprise ending. Check it out.

"Nothing But the Truth"

Drama with Kate Beckinsale as a news reporter jailed for not revealing her source despite the threat to national security.

 

Good movie with a surprise revelation about her source.  Even better that it is based on true events.  Safe first-date movie.

"The Ugly Truth"

Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler play opposites in a movie about the ugly truth about love and relationships.  Made number 1 this weekend, knocking out Harry Potter, so decided to test the waters and checked it out.  Funny movie but would wait after the first-date before seeing this one.  References about sex and descriptions about "what men are really want" may cut short a budding relationship.

"Defiance"

Daniel Craig, Liev Schreiber, and Jamie Bell play brothers in a movie set in World War 2 just after the Nazi invasion of Poland in September 1939.  The Bielski brothers escape the slaughter and begin organizing a partisan group.  Disagreement between Daniel and Liev over what to do with the group leads to a fallout between them.  Subsequently, they part company - one stays to organize the group and the other joins the local Russian partisans to fight the Nazis.

 

Good movie, just would wait for this one when it comes to a first date movie.

"Doubt"

Father Flynn, played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, is trying to implement a progressive school environment in the 1960's.  Sister Aloysius Beauvier, played by Meryl Streep, is the school's Principal who is a strict disciplinarian. The winds of change are marked by the school's first black student, Donald Miller. However, doubt arises when Sisters James and Aloysius observe Father Flynn paying too much attention to Donald. Sister Aloysius begins to investigate the truth and seek Father Flynn's removal from the school. Without proof save her moral certainty, Sister Aloysius matches wits with Father Flynn.

 

Save this one for a rainy day.  A good movie but not one to bring to a first date.

"The International"

Clive Owen and Naomi Watts play Interpol Agent Louis Salinger and Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Eleanor Whitman, respectively.  They are set on bringing to justice one of the world's most powerful banks suspected of illegal activities including money laundering, arms trading, and the terrorism. Finding themselves in a live or die situation, they put their lives at risk as the bank will do anything to protect its interests.

 

Slow movie to kick-off, did pickup midstream but the ending could have been better. Save for a rainy day.

"Valkyrie"

Movie with Tom Cruise as Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, an Army officer set on saving Germany from Hitler.  He does this by changing a pre-planned Operation named Valkyrie that will launch in the event Hitler is killed.

 

Good movie based on true events.  Unfortunately, as history reminds us, the Operation is unsuccessful.  Not a first-choice for a first date movie but still a good one.

"Transformers - Revenge of the Fallen"

Transformers sequel with Shia LeBouf and Megan Fox.  Action and a lot of "Michael Bay" destruction scenes.  Not a big fan of sci-fi but was entertained.  Some corny scenes but Megan's "too hot to handle" looks more than made up for them.  Okay first-date movie; just be careful guys and don't pay too much attention to Megan.

"The Proposal"

Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds star in this upbeat comedy.  Sandra is about to be deported.  Ryan, who works for her, is manipulated into marrying Sandra.  Problem:  Their business deal turns into love!

 

Great storyline for a comedy.  Throw in a great supporting cast with Betty White, Mary Steenburgen, Craig T. Nelson, and others, and you will be entertained.

 

A definite first-date movie.  PS: Stick around for the funny scenes at the movie's end. Also, "Ramone" may be the hidden star in this movie. 

"Gran Torino"

Clint Eastwood movie about Walter, an old Korean War Veteran and recent widower,  having to deal with change.  After his wife's death, Walter unwillingly becomes involved in a "good versus evil" relationship with his Laotian neighbors and a local gang. Defending his neighbor and befriending the family, help is on its way.

 

Not the normal "Dirty Harry" style movie but a good one.  Hated the ending but understood why it was so.  Check it out some time, should be safe for a first-date movie but would pick one that was more lighthearted than this one for that first-date.

"Land of the Lost"

Will Ferrel plays Dr. Rick Marshall in the movie version of Sid and Marty Krofft's TV series "Land of the Lost".

Good movie with a lot laughs. Safe for a first-date. Check it out when you get a chance.-JM

"Terminator - Salvation"

Another movie in the Terminator franchise.  This one has Christian Bale as John Connor fighting it out with the "Machines".  In this case, a new kind of cyborg that is both man and machine. A lot of action and shoot'em up scenes. A sequel that ends with the likelihood of another episode in the franchise. Enjoyed the action but could have waited for the DVD to rent. Given the choice between "Night at the Museum - Battle of the Smithsonian" and "Terminator - Salvation", would choose Ben Stiller over Christian Bale this round.

"Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian"

Sequel to the "Night at the Museum" movie with Ben Stiller. Entertaining movie that does a great job at bringing the original cast and the new characters together. A definite first date movie. Just be careful as the red-headed Amelia Earhart is a hottie!

"Benjamin Button"

Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett play lovers in this sad tale. Brad is Benjamin Button. Cate is his one true love Daisy. The two were meant to be save for one problem - Brad grows younger with age and Cate is like us who get older as we grow.

Long movie that some may find too slow. Safe first date movie but be prepared for almost 3 hours for the story to be told.

"Star Trek"

Prequel to the Star Trek franchise that is a "must see" for movie goers. Lots of action. Does a great job at introducing the main characters into the story. A first date movie that non-Trekkies will enjoy.

"Bedtime Stories"

Disney movie that adults will enjoy. Easily rated a first-date movie. Checkout Adam Sandler as a hotel maintenance man named Skeeter.

When he agrees to watch his sister's kids for a week, Skeeter relives his childhood memories of telling bedtime stories like his father did when he was a child.

Except there is a twist. When Skeeter tells a story, it is just a story. When his nephew and niece make changes to them, the stories become real!

Nice work Disney and Happy Madison Productions.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Prequel to the X-Men franchise that brings viewers up to speed on Logan's beginnings. Lots of action with a little love mixed in. Not a bad first date movie for the action-fan. Check it out when you get a chance!

"Rescue Dawn"

Christian Bale plays Dieter Dengler, a pilot shot down in Laos and taken prisoner in Vietnam. He fights to stay alive and evetually escapes. A "B" grade movie that manages to keep you watching to see its ending. Why? It is based on a true story that really happened. Not a first date movie but one to rent on a rainy day. -JM

"Twilight"

Vampire movie with Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson. Based on the Stephenie Meyer's novel of the same name, it is a romance with a twist.

Okay first date movie. Definitely geared to be a franchise linked closely to the series of novels already written. Not a big fan but was entertained.-JM

"The Jane Austen Book Club"

Five women and a man form a book club to discuss Jane Austen's novels. Unwittingly their lives seem to parallel the characters in the novels. A definite "chick-flick" movie, so it goes without mention that it is a safe first-date movie. Check it out some time. Used a free rental coupon and was pleasantly surprised.-JM

"Slumdog Millionaire"

Poor kid from India's slums gets a chance to make it big on the game show "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire". He answers questions, gets them right, and is on the verge of winning a million dollars! But, before he can get his chance, he is accused of cheating and an intense interrogation session with police begins.

Good movie, a first date choice as long as your partner appreciate foreign films with the IFC-flair. Enjoyed its storytelling; reminds viewers to keep the faith in life, love and success.-JM

"Adventureland"

Coming of age movie about a recent college graduate's summer job at an amusement park.

Not a bad movie but can wait till it comes out on DVD.-JM