Transformers Age of Extinction

Guess its sequel time for Jerry; here is the latest movie from the Transformers' Franchise. This one has Mark Wahlberg in it. In this movie, the Transformers take a turn for the worse and are being hunted down and destroyed by a "black ops style" group. Their intent is to save the world from Transformers for whatever reason they came up with....

Another movie that if you like the Franchise, then you will like it. Also, consider it a safe first date movie.

X-Men Days of Future Past

Another installment in the X-Men Franchise. This one includes some time travel to throw a twist in the story line. If you like the Franchise, you will like the movie. Even better, would call this one a safe first date movie.

Chef

Jon Favreau, John Guizamo, Scarlett Johansson, Sofia Vergara... and others in a "IFC" style movie about a chef who has a YouTube Breakdown when a food critic slams. Forced to find other means to practice his profession, he starts serving his favorite dishes from a Food Truck.

Safe first date movie; entertaining and funny! Do check it out!

Captain America - The Winter Soldier

Another in the Marvel Comics franchise that brings Captain America together with the Black Widow (aka Scarlett Johannson). Liked the comic banter between the two; liked the story line. Going to say this one is a safe first date movie. Of course, I have a weakness for Scarljo!

Blended

Lighthearted comedy with Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. Two single parents meet on a blind date that ends in failure.

Somehow they come together by chance on a vacation... They meaning the two single parents and their kids.

Funny moments, overall liked the movie. Fun to see all the different actors from other Adam Sandler movies.

Check it out when you can... Safe enough first date movie.

Divergent

Action-adventure movie of the future where war has destroyed the world. Survivors are forced to live in a society of rules and grouped into five factions. Each faction maintains its place in society, and order and peace are the result... Except, they forget about some who do not fit in only one faction.

Good movie, possible first date movie... Just be sure action-adventure and future worlds are to the other's liking.

Draft Day

Draft Day with Kevin Costner, Jennifer Garner, and Dennis Leary recently came out in DVD. Checked it out, liked the movie. Play it by ear as a first date movie as it is football movie. If your date is not a fan, hold on this one. If they are, then do check it out!

The Hunter

Wilhelm Dafoe plays a mercenary for hire. But, this time he is on the hunt for the "thought to be extinct" Tasmanian Tiger.  A company hires him to find the animal, take blood samples, and bring them back to be cloned.

Good movie, watched it by accident while channel surfing. Like the surprise twist at the end. Okay to rent for a possible second date. Since it has that Indie Film feel, would hold as a first date movie.

Begin Again

Checked out a Indie Film that just came out Friday. It has Kiera Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, and Adam Levine. Adam and Kiera are a singer-song writer couple. They break up soon after Adam is signed to a record label. Kiera bounces back though when Mark, who plays a Producer, discovers her!

 

Good movie, but would hold as a first date movie since it revolves around a breakup due to a cheating boyfriend. Do check it out!

 

The Art of the Steal

Kurt Russell, Matt Dillon, and others in a movie centered around stealing art, a job gone wrong, and pay back for those who had it coming.  Good movie, safe first date movie and first rate rental. Do check it out; the twist in the plot at the end is good!

 

Jack Ryan Shadow Recruit

Here is a "prequel" to the Tom Clancy movies that Harrison Ford and Alec Baldwin starred as Jack Ryan(?). Since it's set in recent times, hardcore Clancy Fans will be thrown a curve since Jack Ryan in this movie would have been a child and/or yet to be born yet.

No worries, still a good movie and consider it a safe first date movie.  Liked Chris Pine's, Keira Knightly's, and Kevin Costner's performance in the movie!

Maleficent

Here is a remake of Disney's Sleeping Beauty but from the Wicked Witch's view.  Angelina Jolie plays the Wicked Witch Maleficent. Good movie. Safe first date movie... glad to have seen it at the theater!

Inside Llewyn Davis

Movie with lots of good folk song tunes.  It's a week in the life of a struggling musician.  Trying to make it in the 60's folk music scene.  It has singing, a cat, and interesting twist and turns... Liked the movie!  Would hold as a first date movie because of the "IFC" feel it has but still would rent it later when you get a chance.

Legend of Hercules

Rented the "Legend of Hercules" yesterday.  The scenes reminded me of the "300" movie but other than that it did not have the same action or interesting story line as "300".  Hold on this one as a safe first date movie; even having second thoughts on why I rented it.

About Time

From the same director that brought us Love Actually, comes About Time! This one easily makes the first date movie recommendation! Do check it out — a love story that allows traveling back in time to "fix" things for the future! Rachel McAdams is her normal "sexy" self; her true love Tim, played by Domhnall Gleeson, make a romantic pairing. Even better is Tim's father, played by Bill Nighy! Check it out some time!

Rush

Ron Howard movie about Formula 1 race car drivers James Hunt and Niki Luada.  Good movie. Even better is that it is a true story.  Safe first date movie.  Liked the end where they flash to real life pictures of the drivers!

Bad Grandpa

Johnny Knoxville's latest movie about a Grandpa tasked with delivering his Grandson to his Dad because his Mother is going to jail.  Not a first date movie.  Would not rent it.... Even if you liked his Jackass movies.

Non-Stop

Checked this one out at the movie theater.  Has Liam Neeson and Julianne Moore as a US Air Marshall and a passenger on a flight to London, respectively.  Liam has personal issues; Julianne is a friendly passenger seated next to him.  While in the air, Liam gets text to transfer $150M or someone dies every 20".

 

Good movie, liked it.  Not high on the list of first date movies but would say it's okay given the "whodunit" feel!

300 Rise of an Empire

Sequel to the 300 movie that pitted 300 Spartan soldiers against a million Persians.  Lots of blood and violence.  Would hold as a first date movie.  But, if you liked 300 you will like this movie.

It flashes back and then ties into the first movie, then takes you to a naval battle that ends with a clear winner and loser. However, the ending leaves an opening for another movie!

Lifted

Took off guard by this one; starts out with a after-school made for TV movie feel.  But, it's story line is great; singing is great,... worse it has a tear or two at the ending.  Check this out when you get a chance.  Do risk it for a first date movie, may convince your possible significant other that you have a "softer" side to you!  Like the cameos of Trace Adkins and Reuben Studdard (sp?) of American Idol!

Man In the Moon

More late night insomnia, more late night channel surfing.  Found this one that had an "Introducing Reese Witherspoon" in the credits.  Liked this one though it's a tear jerker.  Two sisters, one handsome boy, somehow they both fall for him, but....  Risk this one as a first date movie despite the tear or two that may come later!

Crazy

Movie about the ups and downs of Hank Garland – famous guitar slinger, country music writer, and Opry Legend!

 

Late night insomnia had me channel surfing; found this one and was pleasantly surprised.  Good movie, hold as a first date rental as the "downs" could impact a budding relationship.  But, do recommend it for a later date!

Don Jon

Movie with Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Scarlett Johansson.  I am a Scarljo fan and do like Joseph Gordon-Levitt, but need to hold off on this one as a first date movie.  New Jersey Guy works as a bartender, scores with women, and then has an addiction to porn.  He meets hottie Scarlett who is a New Jersey Gal working in the corporate world (possibly).  Things spark but then fizzle when he is caught watching porn... but, he does finally find a way to kick his porn addiction.  Not a first date movie, story line was okay, mainly watched because...I am a Scarljo fan and do like Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Second in the Hobbit franchise brings viewers up to date on the journey... that said, would have preferred to wait till all three movies were out before seeing any one of them.  No worries though; this one leaves you hanging like the first movie.  So, get ready to wait a while to see the final episode.  Long movie... unless your date is a fan, would wait for this one to come out as a rental.  Better yet, wait till the last movie is out, and then watch the first and second movie as a refresher, and then see the final movie.  PS:  Liked the red-headed she-elf!

Prisoners

Movie about a child abduction of two girls and the extreme measures their fathers take to find them.  Strong story line but way too slow in the action to make it as a first date movie.  Also, would save renting it for a rainy day; not a first choice given other movies that are out.

The Lone Ranger

Movie of the vintage classic TV Series - The Lone Ranger.  Not sure why it did not make it well at the movies but this one gets a safe first date rating. Okay to rent... liked how the story provided more details on the origin of the Lone Ranger and his sidekick Tonto!

Color of Money

Been a while since seeing this one but glad I did.  This one is a little too long for a first date movie but is one that is okay to rent!  Paul Newman, Tom Cruise, and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio shine in this movie classic from the 80's.

The Ice Man

True story about Mafia Hitman Richard Kuklinski, allegedly responsible for killing over 100 people. Eventually, he is caught and was serving to two life sentences before his death in 2006.

Okay to rent but is definitely not a first date movie.

End of Watch

Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña in a documentary style movie about to LAPD cops out busting bad guys and making things happen in their area!  However, things take a turn for the worse when a gang has them targeted to die.

Slow start and the documentary style may detract some from watching.  Would hold as a first date movie but do believe it is "Okay to Rent" for a rainy day or a snow day like today (in our area).

Superman - The Man of Steel

Here is the newest of the Superman movies.  Has some details not seen in other versions and is less comedy and more "DC Comic" like.  Safe first date movie; should be good with renting it.  Just be careful; the actor in the movie is definitely in shape!

RIPD

Movie with Jeff Bridges and Ryan Reynolds as a pair of Rest In Peace Department enforcement officers. Killed in the line of duty, chosen police officers are re-incarnated to serve in the RIPD for a term of 100 years.  During that time, they are tasked with arresting criminals who have also died but are stuck between Heaven and Hell.

Entertaining movie, okay to rent but glad to have rented it instead of paying a premium at the movie theater. Has the love after death theme mixed in but would pick other movies for a first date if given the choice.

Catching Fire

A sequel to the Hunger Games movie that did well when it opened.  Also, book two of the three book series.  Good movie but did not have the same feel as the first one.  Started slow building up to the "Quarter Quell Games"; once the action started things moved well but then ended abruptly... leaving an opening for the final book - "Mockingjay".

If you are a Hunger Games fan, the movie is good filler for the next movie, else would wait to rent this one. Safe first date movie... but be sure your potential future partner is a Hunger Games fan first.  Else, wait till the next movie comes out, then plan a marathon viewing of all three movies!

The Internship

Movie with Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson as salesmen without a job.  To make their comeback and begin a new career, they some how get a chance as interns at Google.

Safe first date movie... Give it a go when you get a chance!

Undiscovered

Watched them again after seeing it when it first came out as a rental; this one gets a thumbs up as a first date movie.  Also, it is one that is okay to rent.  Has the right mix of romance plus like the music from Steven Strait and Ashlee Simpson.

World War Z

Brad Pitt saves the world when a mysterious virus causes people to go crazy and maim other people, who then become infected, who then infect others, who then,.... Good movie; okay to rent.  Would hold as a first date movie though.

Warm Bodies

Safe first date movie about Zombies who can revert back to being human again.  Light-hearted movie that gives the feeling that there is always hope regardless of what is happening to you.  Main actor is the same one that played the young boy in the movie "About a Boy".  Did well in this role, too!

The Great Gatsby

Did not read the book, did not see the original movie with Robert Redford.  But, did like it after things settled down to the story.  First part of the movie was confusing with the non-period music and flashy cinematography.  Don't play rap and mix it with current music themes when the movie is supposed to be set in the 1920's....  Overall, would say it's okay to rent but save it for a rainy day instead of risking it for a first date movie. 

Pain and Gain

Was sadly disappointed by this one.  Even worse, it is based on a true story.  Bodybuilders gone awry as they things go from bad to worse when they try to con an investor....  Does not make the first date movie list; strongly suggest not renting this one.

We're the Millers

Jason Sudeikis and Jennifer Aniston in a comedy about a drug dealer who hires a stripper, a runaway, and a geek to play his family so he can smuggle drugs across the border.  Funny movie with lots of laughs; would hold as a first date movie but do check it out when you get a chance!  Especially like Jennifer's "dance scene"!

"Olympus Has Fallen"

Here is one that may not be a first date movie but do recommend it.  It starts out slow but the action picks up making the 2 hour plus movie seem shorter.  Gerard Butler does a great job being the hero.  Morgan Freeman and Angela Bassett do a great job as the acting President and his lead Advisor, respectively.  Check it out as soon as your new relationship matures to the next level... 2+ hours without saying a word to one another and it does not feel awkward.

Hansel and Gretel - Witch Hunters

A twist of the old Grimm Fairy Tale that brings brother and sister team Hansel and Gretel together as witch hunters!  James Renner and Gemma Atherton play the main role.  A great supporting cast and storyline make it entertaining.  Just step lightly when planning a first date as the blood and gore may put some off.  Hold as a first date but do check it out when you get a chance.

Jack Reacher

Tom Cruise stars in this action movie.  Based on the book One Shot by Lee Child, a sniper kills five people. An ex-Army Military Policeman is pulled in to find out the truth of the crime.

Liked the movie; not sure if it is a first date movie so going to err on caution and suggest waiting till later. But, do recommend checking it out!

Skyfall

Daniel Craig in his third James Bond movie as 007!  This one gives more detail about his background.  And, had lots of action that keeps viewers interested.  Like his first movie as Bond, second one not as much, third one was as good as the first one.

This one gets a first date movie rating!

Oz the Great and Powerful

James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, and Michelle Williams in a prequel fantasy film to the Wizard of Oz.  Was pleasantly surprised; liked how the movie provide more detail on the background on the relationship of the Witches.

Giving this one a first date movie rating,... that is, if you enjoy fantasy movies!

Chasing Mavericks

Gerard Butler - in a based on true events movie, plays Frosty - an old school big wave surfer.  Through a chance meeting he saves a boy's life - Jay Moriarty.  The same Jay Moriarty who later became famous for a cover photo of Surfer magazine where he is wiping out at the crest of a huge wave - one of the Mavericks at Half-Moon Bay.

Good movie, did not know it was a true story till the end.  Consider it a first date movie but tread lightly in case your potential future significant other does not care for surfer -l ife lesson - true stories.

Hotel Transylvania

Here is a move for kids that has Adam Sadler and Selena Gomez voice overs for characters Drax (short for Dracula) and Mavis (his daughter), respectively.  Drax runs the Hotel Transylvania - a hotel where monsters can relax.  He is a widower who lost his wife to a fire caused by Humans!  On his daughter's 118th birthday, Drax throws a huge party to include fulfilling a promise to let her see the World....

God movie that even adults will like.  Not certain if it is a first date movie as it deals with Father-Daughter conflict that may be to strong a theme for a first time get together with someone.  Would wait on this one but do watch it later as the relationship grows.

Here Comes the Boom

Kevin James, Salma Hayek, and Henry Winkler in a light drama, comedy about a high school teacher who becomes a UFC Mixed Martial Arts Fighter in order to save the music program!  Funny moments with an excellent fight scene at he close of the movie.

Safe first date movie, entertaining... consider it a first date movie!

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Here is a romance/drama that fits the Indie Channel.  The movie has Emma Watson of Harry Potter fame and a cast of others; the lead of which is played by Logan Lerman, an introvert High School Freshman who is taken in by upperclassmen Emma and her stepbrother.

Good movie but would hold as a first date movie; was hoping for a more upbeat movie.  Turned out to be more on the sad side. Regardless, do check it out on a rainy day once you and your significant other are settled in a relationship!

Flight

Denzel Washington plays an airline pilot with a drinking problem.  Although he is able to save a number of lives when an "act of god" mechanical failure causes his airliner to crash, Denzel must contend with the NTSB and possible jail time for flying while intoxicated.

Would hold as a first date movie but would rent it later on.  Save it for a rainy day when you don't have much to chose from!

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt come together in this light drama (comedy mixed with drama and romance).  Ewan is a fisheries expert; Emily is a Assistant to a rich Yemeni Sheikh who wants to bring Salmon Fishing to his homeland.

Movie was okay but my opinion was biased after disappointing rentals - That's My Boy and Seeking a Friend for the End of the World.  Would hold as a first date movie, too.  Would be okay to watch on a rainy day after the relationship has matured.

Seeking a Friend for the End of the World

Steve Carell and Keira Knightley become friends after unexpected breakups with their significant others.  Their friendship is accelerated because a huge asteroid is headed to Earth and will end the world in four weeks!

Hold on this one as a first date movie.  Slow action and slow to develop. About half way was hoping for the action to pickup; it did not but by then had to stay to see the end.  That said, ending was not worth the wait.

That's My Boy

Adam Sandler and Andy Sandberg play father and son it this comedy.  Adam is Andy's father from a student-teacher affair that resulted in a pregnancy.  Cannot go in more detail as I lost interest and stopped the movie.  Enough said, this one does  not get a first date movie recommendation!

50/50

Movie with J. Gordon Levitt, Seth Rogen, and Anna Kendrick.  J. Gordon is diagnosed with cancer.  Seth - his best friend, tries to support him through the ordeal.  Anna is a psychologist also helping J. Gordon.

Good movie, consider it a safe first date movie.  Check it out when you get a chance!

Lawless

... a movie based on the book "Wettest County in the World" by Matt Bobdurant - grandson of one of the main characters.  It stars Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, and Jason Clarke as the three Bondurant brothers. Also in the film are Gary Oldman, Guy Pearce, and Jessica Chastain.  Set in prohibition era Franklin County, Virginia, the three Bondurant brothers manage a gas station that also fronts their illegal moonshine business.  When a crooked politician and his deputy come to the area, they quickly make enemies of the brothers.

Good movie, even better since it is based on historical events.  Would hold as a first date movie but would recommend checking it out when you get a chance.

Total Recall (2012)

Remake of the Sci-Fi Action movie of the same title starring Collin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, and Jessica Biel.  Similar but different than the original.  Still a good movie.  Hold as a first date movie but would watch it later.  Should be pleasantly surprised on how the results.

The Decoy Bride

British Indie Film about a famous actress played by Alice Eve and a writer play by David Tennant (Dr. Who fame).  Their wedding is spoiled by paparazzi, so they plan a wedding on a remote island that David wrote about in his book.  A few twist and turns later, David is married to a local girl played by Kelley MacDonald as a decoy to the real wedding....

Safe first date movie, recommend this one.  Been having a good run with Independent Films!

Loopers

Bruce Willis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Emily Blunt in a movie about time-traveling hitman (called Loopers) that carry out contracts to kill people to include themselves eventually.  In this case Bruce and Joseph Gordon play the same character - a looper named Joe.  Bruce is the older Joe and Joseph Gordon is the younger Joe. 

Bruce wants to change the future, traveling back in time to make it so.  Specifically, he intends to kill the man that killed his wife.  Emily Blunt is the mother of the man that Bruce is after.  Joseph Gordon is caught in the middle - maintain the status quo and carry out his plans for the future or team with Bruce.

Good movie... would hold as a safe first date movie but would see it later on in the relationship.  Main reason is the story line does not fit a first date movie, else it still is a good movie.

Been a While But.... "Kinky Boots"

Been a while since posting.  Have watched movies; just not seen any that I wanted to write about since my last post.  In other words, "Expendables 2", "Savages", "Hannah", "Ted",... are not first date movies.  Moreover, the prequel of the Hobbit has me bummed because they broke it out into a trilogy... go figure!

Then, while channel surfing this morning stopped by the Indie Channel to see what was showing. It was a British film titled, "Kinky Boots".  Not knowing what was in store given the title (i.e. thoughts of the "Crying Game"), decided to take the bold step and watch it.

Good thing... this one easily makes the first date move rating!.. Check it out when you get a chance, not going into detail about it other than it has restored my faith that good movies are still being made.

Grey

Liam Neeson stars in this one.  This time he plays a professional hunter hired to protect oil workers from Bears and Wolves.  Things don't seem to be going his way; this made worse when his plane crashes while headed home.  Liam and other survivors are forced to fight the elements and then wolves that are slowly killing them one by one.

Won't recommend it as a first date movie.  Slow in action, dragging at times, and the ending was disappointing.  Glad to have rented instead of seen it at the theaters.

The Dictator

Here is one from Sacha Baron Cohen.  The Dictator spoofs ethnic groups, sex, and many other things.  It is not a first date movie but... compared to others that Sacha has made, it is less shocking (especially compared to Borat).  One thing to note - it does have a plot and there are some funny jabs here and there.

Taken 2

Liam Neeson returns doing what he does best - killing bad guys!  Liked the first movie, like this one, too.  Ready for another one to follow.  This franchise leaves you feeling like a winner when you see Liam taking down bad guys and then walking away the victor.

Play the first date movie by ear, need to make sure your potential significant other is okay with violent scenes and some good old fashioned a**-kicking!  Else, go see it on your own and feel like a winner!

21 Jump Street

Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill play Narcs in an updated movie version of the 80's TV show 21 Jump Street.  Funny moments and the cameo of Johnny Depp is good. But, hold on it as a first date movie.

Pitch Perfect

Here is one with Anna Kendrick that easily makes the first date movie list.  It's a fun movie about college acapella singing competition.  Anna is an aspiring music producer wanting to go to Los Angeles and begin "putting her time in".  Problem... she is a college freshman and must first prove to her father that she can make it in college, at least go to class and join a club.  With that, she joins the female acapella group!

Fun movie that spoofs the nerdy side of college acapella singing groups but in a good way.  Liked the movie, check it out when you get a chance!

Trouble with the Curve

Movie with Clint Eastwood, Amy Adams, and Justin Timberlake.  Clint Eastwood is an aging baseball scout.  Amy is his daughter. Justin is a former baseball player now turned scout.

Mixed reviews by critics... This one liked it, easily makes the "First Date" movie rating!

Bourne Legacy

Another in the Jason Bourne Franchise.  We liked it even though Matt Damon is not in the movie.  Jeremy Renner plays Aaron Cross - a member of an elite team of genetically enhanced Field Operators that support a super, super, super secret Intel Program run by the "Government"!  Rachel Weisz is a Doctor cleared for the Program and tasked with gathering data from the Field Operators.  Edward Norton is the "Government's Lead" who must terminate key parts of the Program because of the ripple effect that Jason Bourne (from the Bourne Ultimatum) created.

Good movie, safe first date movie!

Dark Knight Rises

Another in the Barman franchise bringing back Christian Bale and Gary Oldman and new comer.... Gordon Levitt.  Liked the action, storyline was excellent, did not feel like a movie that went almost three hours!  Even better was the twist that made you rethink who was good and who was bad!  Long movie but can say this one is a safe first date movie.

"John Carter"

Here is a Disney movie that took us by surprise.  "John Carter" is sent to Mars while searching for an artifact.  His physical strength and agility increases due to the change in gravity.  This is quickly recognized as a "plus" when he is befriended by the "Natives".   In parallel, there is an ongoing war between "Red" and "Blue" People that John gets pulled in to when he saves a "Red" Princess.

 

Good movie, safe first date movie.  Was a sleeper that took us by surprise... do watch this one!

Water for Elephants

Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon in a movie about a traveling circus in the 1930s.  Robert plays Jacob, a Cornell Veterinary student who suffers a tragedy as he nearing graduation.  He is informed that his parents were killed in a car accident.  Alone with no one else in the world and no possessions, he hits the road and by chance joins a traveling circus.  Reese plays Marlena, the Circus' star attraction who showing horses and performing tricks and acrobatics with them.  She is also the Circus owner's wife.

 

Good movie, was pleasantly surprised.   Definite first date movie!

The Vow

Movie with Rachael MacAdams and Channing Tatum as a young couple dealing with the Rachael's memory loss after a car accident.  Rachael remembers nothing about  her life with Channing.

Story drags at times but still makes an entertaining movie.  Safe first date movie.

One for the Money

Katherine Heigl plays a divorced, down on her luck, unemployed woman.  To make ends meet she takes on a job as a Recovery Agent - Bounty Hunter.  Slow action.  Could have been better.  Save for a rainy day, and hold as a first date movie.

One Hit from Home

Baseball movie about a Pro Baseball Player who leaves the game due to a knee injury.  Some how he gets pulled in to coaching a College Team struggling to win.

Slow movie that could use help in the storyline.  Don't recommend it as a first date movie.  Pick something else.

New Year's Eve

Movie on the same lines as Valentine's Day.  Cast of characters and multiple storylines make for an entertaining movie.  Safe first date movie.  Check it out some time.

"Avengers"

Had to check out all the hype about Avengers.  Watched it in 3D and was pleased.  Even better, Scarljo was in it as the Black Widow.  And of course, we always like her movies!  This one gets a First Date rating easily.

"J. Edgar Hoover"

Movie directed by Clint Eastwood about FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover.  Stars Leonardo Dicaprio as Hoover.  The movie takes the viewer from the Bureau's start and it ascendancy through the years.  Touches on some of the controversy on Hoover's close friend and confidant Agent Tolson, secret files maintained by his Secretary Ms. Gandy, and the run ins with Congress and Presidents.

 

Good movie but too long for a first date.  Better to rent it after the relationship has matured.

"War Horse"

... movie about a horse that goes through World War I and survives!  Bought on a whim my an old farmer who recognized it as a quality thoroughbred, raised and trained by the farmer's son, and then unfortunately sold to the Army when the family needed money, the horse named Joey goes to war.

 

Good movie, liked seeing the difficult situations unfold and resolve themselves, but.... a little too long for a first date movie.  Do recommend renting it, just be prepared for it to be a movie about a horse and not war for those wanting an action, shoot'em up, war movie.

"The Sitter"

Jonah Hill leads the cast in this movie about a twenty-something man who volunteers to babysit for his Mom's friend out of guilt. But, when he gets a call from his girlfriend about a party that could lead to him getting way past "third base", he decides to bring the kids along!

 

Funny moments much on the lines of Jonah's other movies,... meaning lots of references to sex, profanity, etc,...  This one does not make the first date movie list.  Was entertained though but we liked Super Bad, too.  Also, would consider the storyline to be a more recent version of the one used in "Adventures in Babysitting".

"We Bought a Zoo"

Movie based on a true story of a writer and recent widower played by Matt Damon.  Missing his wife, needing a change for him and his two kids, he decides to move to the country.  In this case "9 miles from the nearest Target Store".  Worse, he buys 18 acres and a house that is actually a zoo staffed by a skeleton crew of zoo keepers.

 

Not a bad movie, easily a safe first date movie.  Moreover, we do like Scarlett Johansson's movies.  So this one makes this list of "likes" as well!

"Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy"

Movie based on the book of the same title.  Not much to say other than we did not watch the whole movie.  Too slow and worse, confusing to follow.  Do not recommend as a first date movie.

"Hunger Games"

Checked out the movie based on the book "Hunger Games".  Easily makes the first date rating.  Some differences in the movie compared to the book.  Still did a good job with it!  Now are they going to follow more movies based on books two and three!

"Rum Diary"

Johnny Depp in a movie set in 1950's Puerto Rico.  Taking on a job with a Newspaper, Johnny works (more like drinks a lot of rum) his day job....

 

Sorry "Sports Fans" could not get past the first 45" of the movie.  Called it short and put in a different DVD.  This one is not a first date movie!  Don't subject your budding relationship to this movie, else suffer the consequences!

"In Time"

Justin Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried in a movie where people are allotted 1 year to live after they turn 25.  That one year is used like money.  You spend it to pay for things like food as well as work to earn more.  Depending on how you manage your time, you can live forever or die suddenly.

Good movie, safe for a first date.  But, have to admit a weakness for Amanda's movies.  Also, did like Cillian Murphy in his role as a "Time Keeper".

"Double"

Richard Gere and Topher Grace play a retired CIA Agent and an FBI Agent, respectively.  They are teamed together to find "Cassius" - a Russian Hitman/Agent, that has come out of hiding and killed an US Senator. 

Richard was responsible for tracking down Cassius' team of assassins.  He succeeded in neutralizing them except for Cassius. Now retired, he is satisfied with leaving things "as is".  Topher is a young FBI Agent who earned a Master's Degree writing a thesis on Cassius' exploits.  Now that he has resurfaced what better team to assign the case than Richard and Topher!

Hold as a first date movie as the movie drags a little at times; let's not start a first date with moments that drag along... hint, hint, hint.  But, do check it out.  Was entertained and enjoyed the twists and turns of the plot.

"What's Your Number"

Anna Faris and Chris Evans in a comedy about love and finding that one and only!  Except Anna becomes fixated with the number of men she slept with in the past. Funny movie with entertaining moments.... Would hold off as a first date movie. But, would rent it afterwards!

"Flypaper"

Patrick Dempsey, Ashley Judd, and a host of others in a comedy about a bank robbery gone wrong.  Lots of twists and turns.  A funny movie that rates a first date.  Like how things unfold as described by Patrick Demspey!

"Real Steel"

Hugh Jackman in a movie about a down and out ex-boxer dealing with family issues (ex-wife dies, gains custody of their young son), money issues from losing robot matches, and personal issues like being less self-centered.  Liked the futuristic "Robot Style Boxing".  Thought it would be corny but was pleasantly surprised!  Giving this one a First Date Rating!  Don't pass the chance to rent this one!

"Girl With The Dragon Tattoo"

Daniel Craig plays Mikeal Blomkvist in this murder/mystery based on the book with the same title.  Convicted of libel and forced to distance himself from his Magazine, Mikael takes on a job to investigate the disappearance of a young girl from a rich family.  The twist is that it happened over 30 years ago, the body was never found, and he is hired by the family patriarch – Henrik Vanger.

 

Liked the book, liked the movie,... but better hold off as a first date movie.  Graphic scenes may snip a budding relationship before it can start!

"Ides of March"

Ryan Gosling and George Clooney in a movie about a Governor's election run for President.  George is the Governor; Ryan is a key lead in the Campaign Management Team, not quite the Campaign Manager but is his right-hand man.  Things are going well until some "political moves" are made that create mistakes, lead to pitfalls, and even death! Liked the movie, save for the ending... could have done better with it.

 

Hold off on watching it as a first date.  Rule of thumb: "Don't watch movies about politics for a first date!"

 

"Killer Elite"

Jason Statham takes the lead in his role has a mercenary for hire.  Blackmailed into killing enemies of an Omani Sheik, he and his team begin "taking out" certain British SAS soldiers responsible for the deaths of the the Sheik's sons.

 

"B-Movie" with a lot of potential.  Kept watching because it was based on a true story and I like Jason's movies normally.  Else, don't see this one for a first date!

"Contagion"

Movie with Matt Damon, Gwenyth Paltrow, and others that shows viewers how quickly a contagious person can affect others.  In this case, millions throughout the world become sick and die.  While this disease rages, doctors and scientists work feverishly to find a cure.  In parallel, a panic sets in and people get violent!

 

Good movie but do pick another one for a first date given the theme of this one (also there is reference to a extramarital affair)!

"The Kings Speech"

Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush star in a movie about King George VI and a Speech/Linguist Teacher, charged with helping the King overcome his stuttering!  Did not know that King George had a speech impediment.  Colin does a great job as the King.  Geoffrey does equally (if not better) as the Teacher!  Liked the movie; safe first date movie.  And, being just under 2 hours long, you have time to do other things that may possibly lead to that next date!

"Apollo 18"

... documentary like movie of the last space mission to the Moon.  Covert operations and secrecy has kept this mission from the public for years.  But, with the recent discovery of video footage, the movie lends credence to other reasons why the US has chosen not to return to the Moon.

 

Good movie that kept viewers interested in the ending.  But, would not rate this one as a first date movie.  Hold on this one for now and pick a different one to watch with that special someone.

"Lincoln Lawyer"

Matthew McConaughey and Ryan Phillippe star in this crime drama.  Matthew is a lawyer, who works in a Lincoln Town Car.  He has a driver to take him places since he lost his drivers license.  Ryan is a rich kid accused of assaulting a prostitute.  Ryan's mother hires Matthew to get him out of jail.

 

Good movie, okay first date movie,... just tread lightly since the movie is about a man who beats women.  Liked the twists and turns.  For more details check it out on IMDB.

"Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol"

Another in the Mission Impossible franchise.  Not a big fan but actually liked this one.  A few twisting and turning and light-hearted comments from Simon Pegg.  Glad to have watched this one at the theater, just did not like the late night time (chosen by my significant other). Consider it a a safe first date movie!

"Everything Must Go"

Will Farrell takes the lead role in this IFC style movie.  Accused of sexual harrassment, he is let go from his job.  Divorce looming in the near future and banned from his house, he ends up living in his front yard.  Forced to sell his belongings, he decides to sell everything!

Good movie for viewers who like independent films.  Would wait as a first date movie. Do watch later though.... If you like IFC!

"The Debt"

Movie with Helen Mirren as an Israeli Mossad agent.  Her team is on a mission to capture a Nazi doctor and bring him in for war crimes.  But, things don't go as planned.

Good movie.  Like the turn of events and the ending.  Would wait as a first date movie but would rent it later as the relationship matures.

"30 Minutes or Less"

Comedy with Jesse Eisenberg and Aziz Ansari, who have been best friends since childhood!  Jesse is a pizza delivery man and Aziz is a substitute teacher.  Jesse has a thing for Aziz's hottie for a sister but Aziz does not approve.

In parallel to the opening storyline, Danny McBride and Nick Swardson are also best friends.  Danny is the mastermind; Nick is the crony.  Together they scheme to hire an assassin to kill Danny's father played by Fred Ward.  Why?  So Danny can inherit the remaining millions of dollars his dad won from the Lotto!

While brainstorming the plan to kill Danny's father, Danny and Nick see a pizza commercial on the television.  It is this point that starts the main storyline... Jesse and Aziz rob a bank because Danny and Nick strapped a bomb to Jesse and will blow him up if he does not do what they tell him!

Funny moments, borderline for a first date movie only because its about blackmailing someone to do illegal things.  Still was entertaining to watch!

"The Help"

Not much more to say about this one other than we like Emma Stone, we like the movie, and it is a definite safe first date movie.  Here is a link to IMDB that provides more details!

"Rise of the Planet of the Apes"

James Franco stars in a prequel of the Planet of the Apes!  It shows how things began and hints to the origin of how Apes became the dominant species on Earth.  Liked the storyline and the characters - especially John Lithgow's portrayal of the confused father, stricken with Alzheimers.

Safe first date movie.  Do rent this one when you get a chance!

"Hangover Part 2"

Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakas, and Justin Bartha return for another bachelor party.  This time it's in Thailand for Stu's (Ed Helms) wedding.  Not wanting to relive Las Vegas, they all agree to have a low key get together with "sealed" bottles of beer as their only alcohol.  It did not work,... hang on for another wild ride of "what did we do last night" flashbacks!

Funny moments but hold off as a first date movie.  Several scenes will shut down a chance for a new relationship to grow into something more!

"Friends with Benefits"

Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis star in this "romantic comedy".  Justin is a hotshot art director /marketing guru.  Mila is a recruiter who is working with GQ Magazine to hire Justin.  Things go well and Justin accepts the job at GQ.  One thing leads to another and Justin and Mila, both tired of relationships, agree to have sex with no strings attached.

 

Funny moments, was entertained, just hold off as a first date.  The theme of friends with benefits should be enough to make it a non-first date movie.  But, add the sex scenes and it definitely is a no go for a first date.  Do check it out, just wait till later.