Fred Claus (2007) - 2.5/5

Fred Claus (2007)

Vince Vaughn was his usual self, but it felt a little worn/forced/played out. Kevin Spacey didn't do himself any favors.

It's fairly predictable and trite, but a lot cuter than I expected. I figured it wd be more irreverent and crude and it wasn't.

SPOILERS

Not that it's a completely bad idea, but the message of "even the bad kids sd get a toy for Christmas"... let's just say it's questionable b/c I'm not sure how far they're trying to take it.

I only have an "issue" w/ that b/c it cd be based on the idea that "really no one is 'bad' and down deep we're all good" or no one is really responsible for what they do (like in the case of Clyde - he didn't get a present b/c he was bad... but b/c he didn't get a present he was bad... huh?) or "who's to say who's 'naughty' and who's 'nice' - who can judge?"

Haiku Summary

Bad big bro needs cash
lil bro Santa, needs help too
Christmas miracle!

It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie (2002) (TV) - 0/5

It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie (2002) (TV)

Just bad all around: commercial, story, hidden adult humor, Whoopi Goldberg, etc.

Children of Men (2006) - 4.5/5

Children of Men (2006): "No children. No future. No hope."

Great movie, great directing - the amazingly long shots w/ so much action and choreography were amazing.

The story was good, but it was so well told. The idea that the world is infertile (lost) and there comes a child (savior) through a unwed woman (virgin) and needs to be taken by a man to a safe place to have the child, etc. Strong Christology there, but some points are off and I can't tell how much is intentional, interpretation, manipulation, etc. (the child is a girl, etc.).

No biggie, but I just wasn't sure if they were being original or had an agenda.

The technical aspect of the shots they got in the car, during the chase, etc. were so great.

What a great film to just watch, enjoy and appreciate.

Haiku Summary:
No more babies born
A girl gets pregnant, needs help
baby born in rowboat

The Darjeeling Limited (2007) - 3/5

The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

Wes Anderson's power grows. I love the tone/feel of his movies - he's so consistent in that despite everything else which is impressive.

I think there's a lot of depth to this movie and wd love to read a good essay on it. But it's clear these men have all suffered b/c of their parents (and lack of).

UPDATE: I lowered this to 3. As time goes by, I'm digging this movie less. It has a lot of power, but fails to pull it together.

SPOILERS

When they save the kids from drowning, it's very powerful. I'm sure there's a lot being said about themselves needing to be saved and not all making it. Also, about going to the funeral and the reactions of the people.

Dropping their baggage at the end and letting go to be together is pretty clear.

Haiku Summary

bros, train, India
looking for mother, themselves
let dad's baggage go

Hot Fuzz (2007) - 4/5

Hot Fuzz (2007)

Nicely original and a great new take on spoofing other movies - kinda like "Scream" did for the '90s.

The wit is spot on and it builds so well for the last half hour of action. They really put in the time to develop the characters and story to make the last part really enjoyable and pay off well.

Haiku Summary:
top cop goes small town
"by the power of Grayskull!"
so many murders

Surf's Up (2007) - 3/5

Surf's Up (2007)

Great animation and camera angles. The animal physics were cool too.

The story was a bit thin to me especially given it's not the most "kid" type movie/humor.

Haiku Summary
surfin' penguin gets
a break. finds lost hero, learns
to have fun, loses.

Chalk (2006/I) - 4/5

Chalk (2006/I)

It gets an extra half or full point b/c it's independent.

A (sometimes) funny look at teachers' lives in and out of school. It's a rough looking life w/ little reward or encouragement. I felt pretty sorry for teachers and I don't think I cd do it.

I wdn't call this a "mockumentary" b/c I think of those as comedies. This is more of a semi-unscripted, "fictional documentary" like "The Office."

Haiku Summary
teachers have hard jobs
students make it harder still
I guess they love it.

Blood Diamond (2006) - 3.5/5

Blood Diamond (2006)

Very intense and powerful film. They held back and it's still hard to watch.

This is the way to do a political movie: don't beat people over the head. Show them what's happening and let them make their own conclusions. When it's well done, the choice is obvious.

I think people might watch this movie and, if anything, be more cautious about buying diamonds or maybe even not buy them anymore. However, everything we buy is sending a message.

If you buy these diamonds, you might feel guilty about the people that died or were hurt in getting it to you. But similar is true for other purchases: when you buy from a company you are endorsing their practices even if you don't know what they are.

WalMart, like many companies, pretty much has sweat shops around the world. You're supporting that. CITGO is the U.S. subsidiary of Venezuela's state-owned oil company. JPMorgan, Chevron, Marriot and many other support Planned Parenthood. Ford funds many Gay/Lesbian groups. The list goes on. It's pretty difficult to not be supporting one thing or another w/ any purchase when we know it or not.

Haiku Summary
locals die for stones
mercenary wants big rock
helps man get fam, dies doing so

Meet the Robinsons (2007) - 5/5

Meet the Robinsons (2007)

Maybe it was my state of mind when I saw this or maybe somehow seeing bits and pieces of this over several days and then watching it all the way thru, but I loved this movie.

It had it all: great animation, action, comedy, drama, sci-fi and more. It's a very complex story too - I think kids wd completely enjoy it, but they might not get all of the implications of the story.

Also the score is really good and there are two songs that are really good. "Another Believer" is very haunting and beautiful.

The animation is some of the most creative and pleasant to look at that I've seen. They nail it all especially the facial expressions. So great.

This is a rare movie that pretty much gets it all around in all areas and that is rare for any movie.

SPOILERS

I love time-travel related movies and this is no exception. The idea that at the end he doesn't seek to be w/ him bio-mom is very powerful. He already has a family is his reasoning and now realizes he has to choose. It's a huge decision and it's bold to even deal w/ it.

Haiku Summary
orphan wants his mom
to future, has family
picks future, not past

The Right Stuff (1983) - 3.5/5

The Right Stuff (1983)

It might be a little dated and over acted, but it's good. The first time I saw it, I don't think I caught the compare/contrast btwn the astronauts selected and Yeager.

I'm not sure what to make of the differences btwn them, but I liked it.

SPOILERS

When the astronauts are watching the dance show and Yeager is flying the new jet, I had a lot of thoughts. Were they trying to show that Yeager really did want to go to outer space? Were they showing that Yeager did or did not have the right stuff? Were they showing that while the astronauts were wined and dined Yeager was still flying and living on the edge?

I think the lines "Is that a man?" "Yes, it is." kinda answers that, but I'm not 100% sure of all the messages there.

Haiku summary:
space race is on now!
train, test, danger and explosions
can you "fly" a brick?

Shark Bait/The Reef (2006) - 1/5

Shark Bait (2006)

I'm not sure why the movie we rented was called "The Reef" but it's listed other places as "Shark Bait"???

Weak. Low quality animation, weak story, bad Nemo rip off (blatant at times). A bit too violent too. I was surprised how often they were hitting each other, pushing, etc. and just playing it off like this is how you live. Usually kids movies are way the other way: violence doesn't solve anything, we can all be friends, peace, man. No biggie, for a 6 year old or something, but I was a little surprised it was G.

Haiku summary:
fish loses parents
reef, love, blah... weak all around
fights, kills shark for love

A Scanner Darkly (2006) - 3/5

A Scanner Darkly (2006)

IMO the rotoscoping was distraction. I think it was done VERY well and actually fit the story, but it overshadowed the story for me. I paid more attention to that than I wd like.

Unfortunately, I also felt the story was over powered by the performances. They were so over the top (which fit the characters) that it was more like just watching performances than a story.

I was surprised to see so many big names and maybe that hurt a bit too - too much to look at, think about, etc.

SPOILERS:

How were they able to eat/take pills through the suit?

Haiku summary:
bad cop or good guy
he doesn't know either
D will mess you up

Abre los ojos (1997) - 4/5

Abre los ojos (1997)

Very original and interesting. I loved the build up and mystery of 'what in the world is going on.' Even though I'd seen "Vanilla Sky", I just liked watching it unfold before me.

I think it was good all around and made "Vanilla Sky" look like what it pretty much was: an American remake. Little change except the name, lead actor and inserted a bit of Hollywood for good measure.

SPOILERS:

I was disappointed in "Vanilla Sky" that it was basically all a dream. It's hard to explain, but it's like all the revelations and introspection was just made up in his head. Some how that took away from it in a way I can't explain.

However, in this version (and maybe "Vanilla Sky" too and I just missed it), they seem to say (or at least imply) that the "dream" was all made up by him. I think in "Vanilla Sky" they say it's a glitch in the computers.

But here it's almost like they say: You're doing this. You're making this horrible and torture and maddening. Which made me think, he knows either consciously or otherwise that he's shallow, selfish and arrogant and wanted to prove it to himself.

Of course he cd have done that by just living out his life instead of killing himself and dreaming it, but that's why it might be subconscious.

Haiku summary:
spoiled man's face wrecked
loses girl, dies, gets frozen
dreams life, learns lesson

The TV Set (2006) - 4/5

The TV Set (2006): "A place where dreams are canceled"

A humorous and honest/cynical look at the production of a TV show pilot.

It's the story of a write working on a pilot dealing w/ the creative compromises necessary to turn art into business.

I'm not sure how the public these days manages to fool themselves into think good art can transition into boog business w/o compromise to the point of almost ruining whatever was good about the art.

Society at times will still claim it to be good and in some cases it is, but that might be in spite of the compromises (a good artist can work w/in that), just our opinion (which has to be questioned w/ some of the material out there succeeding) or it wasn't corrupted which I'd say wd be an extreme exception.

Sorry to ramble.

The dialog is great. Weaver's character has some incredible lines "He's not coming!?!?!"

I like the way it's so clearly split into 3 acts: pre-production, production and responses each separated by a few weeks. And each act is focused on just one or two long scenes. You get a tight view of the present and can fill in the blanks between.

SPOILERS:

It's interesting that even though the bed-ridden writer looking at his pregnant wife holding baby #1 realizes he needs to make this work as a job (i.e., compromise his art), he's still so upset about his work being altered that he's driven to drink and pain killers (or so they wd have us believe).

Anyway, I wd rather have seen him buy into it all to a degree just in realizing this is what it takes to make art work in business (he can still do art for the sake of art on the side if that's the point). Or he not cave to the compromise.

Haiku summary:
writer with pilot
compromises art to work
network inserts fart

Barton Fink (1991) - 4/5

Barton Fink (1991)

Interesting and weird at times. As w/ most Coen Brothers' movies, great acting, directing, cinematography, timing, dialog, etc. Such a great film to just watch for the sake of a film.

The cop scenes remind me of "Miller's Crossing" which is the best dialog ever IMO.

SPOILERS:

When Charlie carries the body and hits her head b/c he misjudges the space and then later you learn how he cuts off their heads so you realize why he misjudged the spacing - it's great.

Haiku summary:
playwright goes out west
has writer's block, meets neighbor
this guy cuts off heads

Fargo (1996) - 4/5

Fargo (1996)

Another Coen Brothers' - so great.

The way everyone deals w/ the extreme and every-day events w/in the same conversation is so great. Almost relaxing and reassuring.

Again, everything is quality and a pleasure to watch... it can be done so well.

Haiku summary:
screw-up guy needs cash
has his wife kidnapped, ransom
criminals are nuts

Munich (2005) - 4/5

Munich (2005)

A seemingly controversial fictional tale inspired by real events. It's a sad story on the large and small scale from countries to individuals.

I like the realism of the life of a 'spy/assassin.' It's so unglamorous and unattractive. The cost is high for everyone and shows how it can be somewhat fruitless if not counter productive. Who's to say what's effective?

A very well made movie, but an unfortunate event/topic. It makes it hard to write the...

Haiku summary:

athletes are murdered
revenge is taken for it
personal costs are so high

Delicatessen (1991) - 4/5

Delicatessen (1991)

Great acting and directing. Somewhat of a light Terry Gilliam.

The characters are great and developed so well w/ so little dialogue. Everything was so unique and interesting. I liked how so many things are left unexplained, unanswered and unresolved. I don't go looking for that, but I like when they the filmmakers don't feel the need to wrap everything up.

Sometimes it's necessary and sometimes it's necessary not to. It's great when they know the difference.

Haiku summary:

the future is weird
butcher and tenants eat folks
love leaves knife in head

The Heartbreak Kid (2007) - 2.5/5

The Heartbreak Kid (2007)

I found this funny but part of that cd be b/c of very low expectations. Ben Stiller plays the same character he's played in most of his movies: frustrated loser.

I think the chemistry works and there's some funny situations.

The Farrelly brothers do their usual stuff which can be funny at times.

Warning: Nudity and such.

Haiku Summary:

A marriage too quick
honeymoon: meets another
sunburn allows love

Once Upon a Time in America (1984) - 4/5

Once Upon a Time in America (1984)

Leone is a master and even I can see it.

Great acting and editing too. I read it was originally screened w/ Leone's cut and loved and then reedited by the studio to be in chronological order and panned by everyone.

Fortunately, I saw the right version. So great.

SPOILERS

New feature - One Sentence Summary: I try to sum up the movie in one sentence (which, of course, includes spoilers)...

Gangster kids grow up to be gangster adults with one ratting out the others on a job to send them to prison instead of death only to find the leader didn't die and hires the rat anonymously later in life to kill him out of guilt/debt/fear.

Pi (1998) - 4/5

Pi (1998)

I gave this an extra half point b/c it was independent. I didn't so much care for the film development technique which was distracting at times. I like the idea of doing something different and in '98 that might have been cool, but I wasn't into it this time.

I like the story and the way the numbers work out and the mystery of it all.

After watching it one day, I watched w/ the commentary the next day. For independent movies, how they did things is pretty interesting.

I thought the actors did a good job and the story is compelling enough to enjoy. I don't think they pulled off what "Primer" did, but it's along those lines. I think in '98 it wd have been on par w/ that, but not today.

Beautiful Girls (1996) - 3/5

Beautiful Girls (1996)

This movie was decently made, but just not that interesting. Matt Dillon's story-line was a bit weak - they cd have developed that more IMO. The best story-line to me was btwn Willy and Marty and I felt they kinda dropped the ball there.

It seemed to build the first half and then just wind down the second half.

Natalie Portman was way too good for her age. Very impressive.

Cahill U.S. Marshal (1973) - 3.5/5

Cahill U.S. Marshal (1973)

This was a good movie, but not maybe a typical western. John Wayne was really good, but not really having watched him growing up, he seemed a bit dated and cliche (though HE made the cliche so he defines it).

It was a great aspect of the western/cowboy about how he handles his relationship w/ his sons. I felt that was a good departure from the regular western and made the movie worth it.

SPOILERS

Great last line: "Let's go stop a hangin'."

Far from Heaven (2002) - 2.5/5

Far from Heaven (2002)

Not good. I'm not sure if the cliche '50s style acting was overboard on purpose or to make a point.

SPOILERS

It was interesting how the gay husband wrecks his family and is pretty selfish all around, does what he wants and leaves, but the wife foregos her 'wants' (as does the object of her affection) for what's best (avoiding a difficult life for them all, hurting her kids, etc.).

Maybe that's just what I took away from it, but it seemed like a strange ending to a film that was trying to make a statement.

North Country (2005) - 3/5

North Country (2005)

This movie was really strong until the last 10-15 mins.

The acting and appearance in general was a bit overdone, but that's kinda how it was back then. :)

The story was pretty good and even better b/c it was inspired/based on a true story.

SPOILERS

The courtroom scene in the last 10-15 mins... they must have run out of money, time and the use of adults in the crew. That scene was so packed w/ cheese and overdramatic courtroom non-sense that I'd have to think Frances McDormand fought the release of the movie. Ouch.

21 Grams (2003) - 4/5

21 Grams (2003)

Very good movie. Great directing, incredible acting, great camera work, awesome story, well done complex editing. It has almost everything.

As soon as it was over, I started watching it again. I may not watch the whole thing, but I think it lends itself to a couple viewings - preferably soon after the first one when the elements are fresh in your memory.

SPOILERS

I'm not 100% sure what the message is if there is one. It seems there was a lot of trading of lives: he dies so he can live, she has an abortion which leads to him going w/ her to kill this guy that killed this guy so that he cd live, etc. I don't know if there's a statement there or just a powerful connection.

Also, there's a strong image of guilt. Jack warns the 'punk kid' about crimes and how the 'guilt will suck you to the bone.' Then Jack winds up killing and the guilt really did just that. So much so that he a) wanted Paul to kill him and b) did the right thing the second time (he didn't leave a dying person to die). Both times he takes the blame though the second time was a bit strange. I guess he was still trying to pay for it all.

Anyway, it's a very powerful movie. They don't spoon feed you a message so maybe it's not really there or left up to us to write our own. I will say that, as is the case often in movies these days, none of these people are really 'good.' The only ones that are close, die.

So if nothing else, we can conclude, bad people get what's due. I doubt that's the point. :)

Cold Mountain (2003) - 3/5

Cold Mountain (2003)

Well made and lots of good imagery and scenery. I watched some of the commentary and I think that wd be as interesting as the movie, but that's not quite enough to get me to watch the whole thing. :)

I thought the story, especially the first 1/3rd, was over-dramatic and sappy. It was also a bit cliche and over acted. Unfortunately, I also mostly saw the actors as actors playing parts instead of the characters themselves.

The rest of the movie got better, but never really turned the corner for me.

It's a decent movie, but just didn't fire on all cylinders.

SPOILERS

It was far from a happy ending, but I think it was a good one. Inman came back and b/c he did, he was able to save Ada and Ruby and therefore pretty much everyone else and their children. It was noble and worthwhile, but ultimately, not that great.

Ordet (1955) - 4.5/5

Ordet (1955)

Masterful. I loved the camerawork (I believe the style is called kameraspiel) was great. The tone and style all around was great.

The characters were good and so expressive even when understated.

Two parts of this movie in particular made me stop everything, dropped my jaw, gave me chills and are stuck in my head. Good stuff.

SPOILERS

What did Johanness do when he left? What made it necessary for him to leave, find his wits and come back?

The little girl's faith was great.

The statement from Mikkel about the baby just floored me. Like a truck hit me.

The end, when she moves in the coffin, just had me wide-eyed looking for some sign. The camera, like everyone there, was glued to her wondering what was going to happen.

When the idea of her coming back was introduced in the movie, I wondered what they wd do w/ that. Wd they really do it? Then at the end, I was convinced they wdn't. I didn't think they cd pull it off w/o destroying all credibility of the film. I just hoped Dreyer cd do it well and I'd be satisfied. Wow!

When I saw her move, I was like "She moved. I saw it. They can't take that back." :)

Babel (2006) - 3.5/5

Babel (2006)

At first I thought this movie was going to really blow me away. The style and direction is so great. The scenery and cinematography is just great.

But the story seems to be about people screwing up and either hurting themselves or others. I'm not sure if I missed the point or if it was so obvious that I was just like "Sure, we all know that - our actions can hurt other people." Not sure???

SPOILERS

I felt bad for the kids b/c the nanny did so many wrong things. Her punishment was not only appropriate, but her own fault willingly. There was no sympathy there except that the kids won't see someone they love... or maybe they will. She was in the U.S. for 16 years illegally - she cd just do it again??? Sorry, tangent.

Superbad (2007) - 2/5

Superbad (2007)

Several funny parts, but the F-word is dropped 186 times (found that online) which is a TON. It's so distracting - you can barely even follow what they're saying b/c it's every other word. I think it hurts the comedy and lowers the characters.

Michael Cera is great, but I see him as such an innocent guy that some of the topics in the movie stood out as awkward for him IMO.

Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny (2006) - 2/5

Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny (2006)

Not Jack Black's best. He's funny, but the premise and such just aren't enough.

It's pretty thin all around. Tim Robbin's has a small role which is pretty random.

Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006) - 3/5

Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006)

Pretty funny, but cd be quite offensive or at least very uncomfortable to some.

It's something like one long Jackass skit: pranks, jokes, potty humor, etc.

Be warned, there's quite a bit of male nudity.

Block Party (2005) - 2/5

Block Party (2005)

I had high hopes for this movie w/ Dave making some good observations and being open minded and showing others doing the same.

The 'Broken Angel' couple is probably the highlight of the movie but it has little to do w/ anything else Dave did or intended.

The concert brought everything back down to a disappointing level.

The Thin Red Line (1998) - 3.5/5

The Thin Red Line (1998)

I actually watched this a while back and just realized I hadn't blogged about it. It's not too fresh in my mind now though.

It's a very powerful movie: strong images and characters.

Letters from Iwo Jima (2006) - 3/5

Letters from Iwo Jima (2006)

The companion movie to "Flags of Our Fathers" - very similar in some ways and, of course, very different. Again, great film processing.

I didn't feel the connection too strongly. Saigo was a great character though.

I think this is probably a better film than I'm thinking - I think I'm just a bit burned out on the war/battle movies at the moment.

Muppets from Space (1999) - 1.5/5

Muppets from Space (1999)

Maybe my standards for these movies are too high... though the first one was really good.

Thin in most respects.

Kingdom of Heaven (2005) - 3/5

Kingdom of Heaven (2005)

The action was pretty good and the battles wd have been incredible if I cd have prevented myself from comparing them to LOTR.

The story was good, but I didn't buy into it all 100% as far as a love story or his commitment to his family, people, religion, etc.

Mostly I think Orlando Bloom just cdn't pull it off IMO.

Rush Hour 3 (2007) - 1.5/5

Rush Hour 3 (2007)

Same jokes as the last two and probably worse action/fights. It felt formulaic and forced and the action felt a lot like Hong Kong action.

Flags of Our Fathers (2006) - 3.5/5

Flags of Our Fathers (2006)

Good story and action. The film processing they used was great as it gave the color tone a great feel for the battle scenes.

It's tough not to compare this movie to others and in some ways it falls a bit short.

Ultimately, this movie had a hard battle to win me over b/c I read the book which was great and the movie can hardly compare.

The Butterfly Effect (2004) - 2.5/5

The Butterfly Effect (2004)

This movie is tough to get a handle on. I watched the director's cut which was recommended to me.

I really liked the idea and story, but it wasn't put together very well. A lot of the directing and writing seemed to come from the mind of a junior high student: pretty cliche, unbelievable and unjustifiable.

SPOILERS

Anything w/ a "time travel" type idea is cool to me so that helps, but that's about all this had: change something in the past and everything changes. Like "Sliding Doors" and other movies that show different possible timelines.

I usually rather a movie not explain the technical stuff b/c that just gives you a chance to disagree. However, in this case: how did reliving thoughts allow him to time travel?

There were so many shots that were just cliche like walking thru the halls of the institution w/ "crazy people" walking around and the different punk/goth students and frat boys, etc. It was just distracting.

Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price (2005) (V) - 3.5/5

Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price (2005) (V)

I thought this was a well-done version of a biased documentary. They presented the arguments and didn't really seem to hide their stance (Heck, even the title implies they have something negative towards WalMart).

However, the did it in a classy way so that you want to try to see their side and give their arguments some credit.

I was afraid this movie was going to focus too much on low wages and poor benefits which is hard to blame on WalMart. They're just giving us what we want: low prices at the cost of our economical future and local jobs, etc.

They wd pay a higher wage if fewer people were willing to work there. They wdn't run local businesses out if local residences didn't shop there, etc.

I'm not fan of WalMart and I don't shop there. I don't think their policies (from what I understand) are generally illegal (though they have lost more than their share of law suits on not paying employees for overtime, EPA violations, etc.), but I'd have to say they are somewhat immoral.

The several former WalMart managers they have in the movie describe the practices and many are clearly wrong and illegal. Who's to say they are accurately telling the truth, but if they are...

The biggest thing about this to me is that people shop there thinking they're getting a good deal when really the cost is just coming from somewhere else: higher taxes to pay for subsidies paid to WalMart, lost jobs to overseas factories, lower quality products, larger drain on social programs, etc.

Mystic River (2003) - 3.5/5

Mystic River (2003)

This movie had a lot going for it and it went pretty well for the most part.

If kinda felt like a good attempt to copy a Scorsese movie... almost there, but never got 'big' enough.

The premise was good and the acting was very good. A well made movie that kinda got a little loose at times.

SPOILERS

The twist was cool, but I expected it too much. Laura Linney's speech about "you cd rule this town" - a lot of people seem disappointed w/ this, but I thought it was good.

The shunning of Celeste at the end was out of place to me.

Sean's reconciliation w/ his wife felt a bit forced and fast. I did like, however, the mirrored aspects of his wife's silence and Brendan's brother's silence. Kinda like each of their counterparts had to figure something out to get them to communicate... or something. Not sure it worked, but...???

Gosford Park (2001) - 2.5/5

Gosford Park (2001)

Like "Gangs of New York" - good acting, characters and setting, but nothing I really wound up caring about. They did a good job of really building up the reality of the house/people/servants/etc. That was great, but then they didn't do a ton w/ it.

SPOILERS

The murder just didn't really matter to me. The idea of the "who dunnit" in this setting is clever and original, but maybe not a great result.

The scene w/ the 2 sisters near the end was the best part of the movie, IMO.

The Simpsons Movie (2007) - 2.5/5

The Simpsons Movie (2007)

I was pretty disappointed. The first few mins were great (the "Itchy and Scratchy" cartoon), but there wasn't too much after that for me.

There were funny parts, but like w/ many TV-to-movie cases, it seemed like a drawn out episode w/o proportionally enough gags/jokes/etc.

The animation was technically better than the episodes (though I haven't watch the show in a while) which was fun to see.

Gangs of New York (2002) - 3.5/5

Gangs of New York (2002)

Great acting, characters and setting, but ultimately I didn't really buy into the story from Vallon/Amsterdam's point of view.

It was interesting to see it all w/in the backdrop of the changing America.

SPOILERS

I guess b/c he got so close w/ Bill that I didn't feel the revenge strong enough to really want him to kill him.

The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) - 4.5/5

The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)

I might go back and give this a 5/5??? It's hard to say if it was better than the first b/c not only was "The Bourne Identity" great, but also it was new, fresh and original. This being a sequel kinda discounts some of that.

The story was good, but not as good as the first one to me. However, the action was probably better and I'd say in some cases the best. I feel confident in saying that this movie contains the best fight scene... ever.

Some great car chases too.

Very fun. Very cool. Just a great, great spy/action movie.

SPOILERS

The fight scene I'm talking about is the one in Tangier. I love the dimensions of it that it builds from the bombing to the chases to the fight. It really makes it long w/o drawing it out or getting old - just building in intensity.

Another thing that was pretty cool was that the majority of this movie's story takes place btwn the last two scenes of the previous movie.

This movie starts when Bourne leaves the Russian girls apartment. Then you have most of the movie. Then Bourne calls Landy in this movie near the end which is the last scene of the "Supremacy."

Nothing too big, but kinda cool.

Rescue from Gilligan's Island (1978) (TV) - 1/5

Rescue from Gilligan's Island (1978) (TV)

I thought it wd be funny to watch this after all these years... not so much.

I didn't realize this, but this TV movie was made 11 years after the show went off the air. Also, supposedly it was made as a pilot to another series. Bad idea.

Anyway, it was pretty bad.

I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry (2007) - 1/5

I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry (2007)

The first 2/3rds was pretty funny and not really offensive. Then it became the opposite: blatant, not funny and offensive.

The Cider House Rules (1999) - 3/5

The Cider House Rules (1999)

Well done and original, but a big heavy handed (not as bad as "Million Dollar Baby" though) about abortion at times.

There's a good story and acting and powerful subjects in here, but it's easy to see what side "they" are on.

SPOILERS

Mr. Rose's speech about the "rules" pretty much gives it all away.

They outrageous, them rules. Who live in this cider house? Who grindin' up those apples, pressin' that cider, cleanin' up all this mess? Who just plain live here, just breathin' in that vinegar? Well, someone who don't live here made those rules. Those rules ain't for us. We are supposed to make our own rules. And we do. Every single day.

Then he has Homer burn the rules... just like the aborted babies including Mr. Rose's baby from his own daughter. Does burning something make it really "go away"?

Consider the possibility that someone who maybe knows more than you wrote those rules.

Ratatouille (2007) - 3.5/5

Ratatouille (2007)

Another great movie all around for what it is: clever, cute, well done and respectable in content and form.

The story doesn't rely on cheap humor or pop-culture so it sd stand up to time. The animation is great, but more importantly the story and characters are strong.

Also, it's clean and non-offensive - that's not a given these days for a "kids movie."

It was a breath or fresh air in a genre that's risking becoming somewhat stale at times.

Out of Africa (1985) - 4/5

Out of Africa (1985)

This is just a good movie. The story is strong, the acting is good (Streep is dead on) and all the extras and minor characters are completely convincing.

Also, it's rather epic: it's a long story that isn't rushed.

I wdn't say it's the most "entertaining" movie, but it's a good story told well.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) - 3.5/5

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)

I'm not the biggest fan of the previous Potter movies, so saying this is my favorite isn't saying too much. But I did really like this one. It is a good story, not too complex and complicated by tangent storylines and characters.

Also, it didn't fall in to the same things that bothered me about the previous movies. The two main ones being: introducing major ideas as commonplace that weren't introduced in previous movies but sd have been if they are commonplace and, the main one, the seemingly bad guy is really a good guy. They just did that too much.

Anyway, this one was complicated enough to enjoy, but not overboard and did pretty much everything else well too.

The Great Muppet Caper (1981) - 2/5

The Great Muppet Caper (1981)

An unfortunate disappointment. I guess they only had the one good movie in them. There was a few decent things about this movie, but overall, it's pretty weak.

Charles Grodin is probably the high-light if there is one. His commitment to his part is great. Like Liza Minnelli in "Arrested Development" (she also was in "The Muppets Take Manhattan").

Postino, Il (1994) - 4/5

Postino, Il (1994)

Great characters and beautiful lives. I want to move to the location of this movie.

Who could watch this and not fall in love w/ Mario?

The Verdict (1982) - 3.5/5

The Verdict (1982)

This was a good movie, but just short of great. The story was good, the acting was good and the twists and "revealings" were good. But just not great.

It might have been great in '82, but since then, it's been done too many times in too many ways.

The pace is really good too. It doesn't wear you out, but takes you to the edge and you feel what Frank is going thru.

Fay Grim (2006) - 3.5/5

Fay Grim (2006)

When I started watching this, I wasn't impressed and almost decided not to finish the movie. I'm glad I did. A certain bad actor had a smaller role the rest of the movie and Parker's style no longer suffered from it. Also, as her character grew, she got more and more interesting.

Apparently, this movie is a sequel to "Henry Fool" which I need to see now, but the wait list online is "very long."

My next thought in watching was "this story is wonderfully complex, it wd be great in the hands of a more established director." In some senses that might still be true, but the same cd be said about a bigger budget.

However, both of those ideas cd ruin some of the great things as they were. Who knows?

I believe there's going to be a third so I look forward to that.

Un condamné à mort s'est échappé ou Le vent souffle où il veut (A Man Escaped) (1956) - 4/5

Un condamné à mort s'est échappé ou Le vent souffle où il veut (A Man Escaped) (1956)

I have a feeling if I knew my stuff better, this movie wd get a 4.5 or 5 form me. Ideally, I'd read some more about it, but... time.

Great shots and imagery and the tone is consistently great. The use of the Priests/Bible is great.

There's so much behind the story that I know I missed, but what I caught, I liked and what I missed, I knew it was good even if I wasn't sure what it was. :)

The off-camera action was perfect.

SPOILERS:

...like how the first guy had to fail so that Fontaine cd succeed and how Fontaine wasn't content to escape alone - he had to find someone else to save when he was so confident it wd work.

The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984) - 2.5/5

The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984)

This was a pretty big disappointment. I hadn't seen it before and I guess now I know why. Compared to "The Muppet Movie" it just doesn't compare... er...

It's like a bad rehash of the first movie: same basic plot of "going to the big city to get a big break in the big time."

One highlight is the rat song-dance scene in the kitchen. That's pretty good.

Employee of the Month (2006) - 2/5

Employee of the Month (2006)

Some funny and clever parts, but pretty weak in general.

The Muppet Movie (1979) - 3.5/5

The Muppet Movie (1979)

Very fun, funny and clever at times. It's corny and beautiful in that.

The cameos were great and the one-liners the best. I think this is a good case of parents probably being just as entertained.

The Departed (2006) - 4/5

The Departed (2006)

Incredible acting and characters. So many great performances.

I like the complicated "who's good? who's bad?", but they might have taken it a little too far. Still great.

SPOILERS:

As Costello said, "when you're facing a loaded gun, what's the difference?", so by the end the question of "good and bad" might not be worth trying to answer.

One quick shot still has me wondering about something. When Madolyn moves in w/ Colin, he goes to put a box away. There's a quick shot of what appears to be a TV screen of a hand going to pick up a phone receiver. Right after that, Costello calls Colin. I don't think it was ever explained???

Hope and Glory (1987) - 3.5/5

Hope and Glory (1987)

A very good, dramatic movie focusing on a WWII experience that we haven't really seen before. It's not a war movie, but more a drama set during the war - a great angle for a story.

The characters are great (except maybe the sister, but she grew on me too) and the imagery is strong.

Ocean's Thirteen (2007) - 3.5/5

Ocean's Thirteen (2007)

This was good in most ways with good levels of intensity, spyishness, humor and action. Basically no love story which I didn't see as a lack - there was so much else going on, I didn't miss it. The relationships btwn the main characters more than make up for it.

In some ways I think this is a modern "spy" movie w/ no political motives. There's a lot of the same elements, but a more light-hearted motive and payoff.

Also, this movie doesn't make me feel guilty for pulling for criminals to "win."

SPOILERS:

A few drawbacks: the motivation for the whole operation was a little thin. Fortunately, they didn't spend too much time on it. Pacino was good as a bad guy, I didn't need any more reason to want to see him lose.

I wasn't sure really why Bernie Mac's character had to go w/ the domino thing and the scam to get him in was weak.

The underground drill was WAY too much to buy. How cd they pull that off AND buy, get, install, etc. a new whatever-$36million-part-that-broke and so-on.

There's lots of stuff that can be overlooked, but the above was a bit much.

Shrek the Third (2007) - 3/5

Shrek the Third (2007)

It was pretty good w/ some funny parts, but the story was a bit thin and overall I just wasn't that drawn in or made to care.

They have a lot working against them in that the originality of the anti-fairy tale is gone and they're trying to walk a fine line to attract adult and child audiences.

SPOILERS:

The best part, imo, is when the Gingerbread man's life flashes before his eyes.

Ringers: Lord of the Fans (2005) - 1/5

Ringers: Lord of the Fans (2005)

Very little new information and laughable "dramatizations" of the stereotypes from each decade and the fans. Those were so bad that they were probably the best part.

It was drawn out and w/ so much LOTR info out there, it just didn't have anything really new or interesting.

Everyone's Hero (2006) - 2.5/5

Everyone's Hero (2006)

We got this for our son and he isn't always that interested which makes us not all that interested.

It was a good, cute, simple story w/ decent moral content and imagination.

Nothing great, but nice and different than the normal Disxar stuff we're getting used to.

Spellbound (2002/I) - 3/5

Spellbound (2002/I)

I liked "Wordplay" (see recent post) more. This documentary focuses more on the people in the movie whereas "Wordplay" focuses on the game and object of their passion. Ironically, I think you get more of the people from "Wordplay" than this.

That cd be b/c it's about kids and some of the passion and meaning fall out of it and it comes close to just being about "spelling words." Also, the stakes are higher which can take some of the fun out of it ("Wordplay" is just about people enjoying puzzles, no stress or pressure... to me).

The kids are great, but either the filmmakers didn't capture them well or there just isn't a ton there yet. Also, it cd be b/c they focused on 8 kids. That's a lot. After a while, I got a few of them mixed up in my head.

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007) - 3.5/5

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007)

A fun movie though pretty dark. I wdn't consider it a "kid's" movie. Also, it moves farther from the first in the trilogy (see previous post) which was more fatasy/adventure and more into a moral delimma at times which makes it harder to enjoy "pirates" as fun and charming like Jack.

There's a lot going on, many storylines and plots and it's long all which make it hard to hold together, but they do a good job.

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) - 3.5/5

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

We've seen this one a few times, but apparently it's not in this blog. We actually watched both prequels this weekend and enjoy them both. I think seeing them close in time to each other, I prefer the first one b/c it has more of the magic of the Black Pearl and newness of pirates and mystery, etc.

I have to give credit still to the second one as it's only the first in a two-parter. I think it just took itself down a notch when I saw the sails on the Pearl patched up. The tattered sails in the first movie were just too good. :)

Wordplay (2006) - 3.5/5

Wordplay (2006)

Very fun and interesting and certainly made me want to play crossword puzzles. I'm always attracted to an area of interest that has a sense of 'community' which oddly ennough this seemed to have in the movie.

However, I think even in the movie they make it clear that this tends to be something you do alone. It's just great to see people sharing a common interest and passion for things in a social way. The talent show at the tournament says a lot too - there's more to these people and they accept each other very deeply.

As always, a documentary took a seeminly uninteresting premise and made it fun to watch.

Akeelah and the Bee (2006) - 3/5

Akeelah and the Bee (2006)

A bit sentimental, but good and enjoyable. A good simple story w/ deep characters and a good message that's doesn't hit you over the head w/ (too many) stereotypes and generalizations.

It's a good light version of many movies that maybe try too hard.

Chariots of Fire (1981) - 4/5

Chariots of Fire (1981)

Somewhat making up for "Reds" as far as 1981's reputation goes... except for the soundtrack (Age of Synth).

I think there's several messages you can take from this: determination pays off, stick to your convictions no matter what and you'll succeed, that's true for you is true for you, sincerity is paramount, etc.

Eric Liddell honored God and wound up winning. Harold Abrahams honored himself and wound up winning. Neither wd compromise, both were passionate. Good movie, confusing message... if any.

Reds (1981) - 1.5/5

Reds (1981)

One of the few movies I didn't even finish watching. Partially b/c it wasn't very good and partially b/c I had so much more to watch - loooooooooooooong movie.

Too bad. 1981 must have been a bad year for movies for this to get so many awards and nominations.

Spider-Man 3 (2007) - 3/5

Spider-Man 3 (2007)

Good movie. I'm not a big fan of the past 2 so this being my favorite (or at least the flavor of the day) isn't saying too much.

There's some good aspects to this movie, but I think they were too ambitious w/ the characters and storylines. You forget about subplots b/c they are ignored for so long and some bridges are forced and very questionable (SPOILER: Why did the butler wait so long to say what he said?).

The Illusionist (2006) - 2/5

The Illusionist (2006)

What a disappointment. Ed Norton is one of my favorites and he was SO flat. The story is rather weak and tends to focus on the aspects of it that aren't that interesting. They basically ignore the love story which we're suppose to buy into... but when?

The 'reveal' is also quite disappointing and predictable.

The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) - 4/5

The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)

Classic movie all around: war movie, romance, happy ending, etc. This is why we keep making movies about these things - we still remember how great they were back when it was original.

Raging Bull (1980) - 4/5

Raging Bull (1980)

De Niro shines as a pretty horrible character. Rage is right! This guy is determined to get everything he wants and destroy it too.

Cathy Moriarty is also great - so smooth.

It's very intense in and out of the ring. I can't say enough about how great De Niro is, of course.

City Lights (1931) - 4.5/5

City Lights (1931)

Very fun, cute movie. I liked the simple story and natural feeling situations that let Chaplin shine. What a master!

This movie is a classic's classic. It's nice to watch these scenes knowing this is the material we're always seeing duplicated (but never as well).

One Night with the King (2006) - 2.5/5

One Night with the King (2006)

Pretty good production, but somewhat disappointing/mixed acting. They changed the story which is a big no-no in my opinion. Not that they necessarily changed the message, but I really wanted to see the story I know and love.

Also, they added some sub-plots which may have added depth, but it didn't really work for me - again that cd be just b/c it was different.

The book of Esther is short so maybe it doesn't require a full length feature to tell it all. That cd be why they added other story lines, etc. which, to me, distract from the story.

They did some things well, but overall I was disappointed so read that into my rating.

Beyond the Gates of Splendor (2002) - 4.5/5

Beyond the Gates of Splendor (2002)

I wanted to watch this after "End of the Spear" and I think it's much better. I tend to like the actual people telling the stories. Plus, the real locations, people, photos and film, etc. So great.

This has much more backstory and explinations of their ideas, intentions, mindsets and heart for what they were doing.

Blades of Glory (2007) - 4/5

Blades of Glory (2007)

Funny and good performances by Farrell and Heder. Great permise too.

For some reason, I was really distracted when I saw this movie so I can't seem to remember too much from it. I guess I can look forward to renting it.

End of the Spear (2005) - 3.5/5

End of the Spear (2005)

An important story told fairly well. Not a great movie, but it tells and good and important true story.

It wasn't so much about Jim Elliot like I expected, but others and the tribe and such.

I wd recommend "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" over this movie.

Factotum (2005) - 1/5

Factotum (2005)

Decently acted, but the story and characters are fairly weak. Not much to like here and little reason to try. It started a bit weak and got worse.

Facing the Giants (2006) - 5/5

Facing the Giants (2006)

This movie gets a very high rating for personal reasons. Like others, w/ such a low budget ($70k), it did a lot.

It's a bit cheesy, but for so many possible pitfalls and sensitive issues, there's a lot that cd go wrong. They navigated those well which is quite a feat.

I loved the message and they way it's told w/ focus on God, His word, prayer, trust, faith, etc.

"Extras" (2005) - 3.5/5

"Extras" (2005)

Not a "hilarious" show. Clever and original, but nothing incredible and kinda slow.

Also, it suffered from high expectations from me.

Chicken Little (2005) - 2.5/5

Chicken Little (2005)

Nothing wrong w/ this movie, but nothing great either.

"Curb Your Enthusiasm" (2000) - 4/5

"Curb Your Enthusiasm" (2000)

Good show, but I had high expectations. I felt like it was "Seinfeld" on cable, but not as good - possibly b/c being like "Seinfeld" made it unoriginal.

Also, I felt like most episodes were formulaic - he wd do something in the begining which wd set him up to screw things up and come back on him later.

He's kinda Jerry and George rolled into one, but w/o the full cast, it's weakened.

Anyway, it's good and I'm told the next few seasons really get strong, but I was let down a little.

Madagascar (2005) - 4/5

Madagascar (2005)

I really liked this movie. The overall story is decent and the characters are good, but the details and little jokes throughout the whole story cracked me up. I just really liked the detailed thought they put into the little actions and jokes and idiosyncrasies of everything: the personalities of the penguins, the mannerisms of the animals, the quick side jokes w/ the monkeys, etc.

So while this movie isn't like an 'instant classic', I had a lot of fun w/ it.

Igby Goes Down (2002) - 3.5/5

Igby Goes Down (2002)

I think I wd have liked this movie more if I were younger or more ideallistic or something. It reminded me a lot of "The Cather in the Rye." I read that when I was older and didn't like it that much - I just thought the kid was annoying, arrogant, selfish, judgemental and a baby... kinda like this movie.

However, in the second half of this movie, they dive deeper into his family and such and it gets better. The dynamic of his dad and brother and just where people start and wind up and how was interesting.

The acting, tone, etc. are all great and Kieran Culkin handles the lead very well. This movie has a lot going for it. I was probably meant to feel sorry for and sympathize w/ the lead more than thinking of him as a punk causing trouble around him, but...

Shopgirl (2005) - 3/5

Shopgirl (2005)

A good little story not trying to take on too much. What makes a relationship work? What makes a person happy? Why sd two people be together?

I love the pace of this movie. It cdn't be slower and more relaxing. Even the intense scenes are slow.

SPOILERS

I have to say that if I was suppose to buy into Mirabelle and Jeremy being together at the end, I don't think I can. I mean, at least, not buy into it and be satisfied w/ it. He just picked up a girl at her art show and slept w/ her soon before they're together. I'm not sure he's all that great of a guy. As for whether or not they are "right" for each other, that may be a separate question, but I think my feeling on it holds.

UPDATE: It seems Mirabelle is given the choice btwn 2 men. Neither, at first, can give her himself: one is self-absorbed and the other is emotionally closed off. However the second can give her other things like attention, gifts, etc. which are good but ultimately not enough.

Jeremy changes and eventually can give himself to her which, in movie reality, is love and is the 'right choice.'

I have to question if at any point either of them are right for her.

Stranger Than Fiction (2006) - 4/5

Stranger Than Fiction (2006)

I felt this was an original idea for a story and it was well told and acted.

SPOILERS

It's hard to pin down exactly what the point was, but I'd consider that to be a good thing. Was it that we sdn't let "numbers" control our lives?

Harold's life is all about numbers: he works at the IRS and is OCD about counting everything and living life in a very calculated manner.

Once that's "broken" he starts changing how he lives and actually starts living his life. Then people are brought into his life. Finally, he's forced to living based on "the facts" and chooses to die for someone else. This time his "living by the numbers" is for a purpose and by choice in the "right way."

But that leaves out Karen Eiffel and too many other characters out of the base of the story. However, to some degree it includes those people in Harold's life: the baker, the professor and the friend.

Karen Eiffel's part in the story is too big to be left out.

I'll have to think about this one some more.

Lucky Number Slevin (2006) - 2/5

Lucky Number Slevin (2006)

Lots of big names, but Josh Hartnett pretty much cancels all that out.

I bet it was a good read, but the transition to the screen lost a lot. I'd say poor directing, but...???

What the #$*! Do We (K)now!? (2004) - 3.5/5

What the #$*! Do We (K)now!? (2004)

Thought provoking, but a pretty dangerous movie. They certainly take a lot of leaps in their arguments to try to make their points. A good bit of slight-of-hand.

They also hit a lot of topics, concepts, scientific area/theories/ideas, use a cute story, animation, etc. It's hard to focus on one thing and when you try they're already on another point and you've only had time to understand their argument (and not examine it) before they've moved on.

Unfortunately, this probably had the opposite effect on me than what might be intended - I believed it less than they probably wanted. While their spiritual conclusions might be whacko, I'd like to know if their neurology had any merit b/c that cd be pretty interesting.

I wd love to see/read a response to this movie from someone I knew I cd trust. :)

The credentials of the interviewees (which you don't see until the end) are impressive, but these days it's hard to trust college professors and Ph.D.s and such w/o knowing more about them.

The reviews on IMDB are pretty negative, but well worded and intelligent.

I wd have given it a higher rating b/c it's interesting, but it's dangerous.

Marche de l'empereur, La (2005) - 3.5/5

Marche de l'empereur, La (2005)

Good movie. They do a good job of taking a relatively simple story and making it interesting. They don't force any of the cuteness and don't hold back any/much of the tragedy.

"Me, Myself, & Bob" - my thoughts

A post on my thoughts on the book: "Me, Myself, & Bob" - my thoughts

Open Season (2006) - 2.5/5

Open Season (2006)

I can't really say too much about this. We watched it w/ our son and I was probably more interested in watching him than the movie. It definitely had some cute/funny parts, but over all I didn't think the story was that great... though I was distracted.

I was surprised to see (before it started) that it's rated PG. I think it deserved it b/c of the theme of hunting and all.

Anyway, it's decent, but there's better out there.

Just Like Heaven (2005) - 2/5

Just Like Heaven (2005)

Cute, but unoriginal, cliché, predictable, sappy, cheesy w/ sub-par acting, imo.

I get no joy in saying those things about it... kinda like watching the movie itself. :)

I thought this was "Far From Heaven" when I added it to my queue.

Jésus de Montréal (1989) - 4.5/5

Jésus de Montréal (1989)

Great film. Only slightly dated too.

The premise is an actor is hired to put on a Passion play for a Catholic church. The priest has little faith himself and gives the actor free reign to hire who he wants and make any necessary changes to bring the play up to date.

The actors eventually feel the work is very significant and important.

Warning: one small scene of nudity - you'll know when.

SPOILERS:

The priest is admittedly a "bad" priest, but believes "a bad priest is still a priest" and won't give up his position despite his failings and discontentment. He believes a person "should live happily as long as possible." His only conviction seems to be that the Church serves the emotional needs of people who can't afford psychoanalysis or drugs elsewhere.

He is the modern Pharisee for the most part.

The "Jesus" character first gathers his followers starting w/ a single mother serving in a soup kitchen. She agrees to follow/support him and gives him a place to stay since "the son of man has no place to lie his head." We find out she's the priests mistress (adulterer) too.

Next he gathers other followers who are a group of misfits for various reasons resembling Jesus' followers.

The play is quite liberal and questions many of the claims of Jesus' life. The priest is worried about what his superiors will think and ultimately they try to shut down the play though the audiences/critics love it.

The actors all finally feel they are working on something meaningful and are more passionate about their "church" of acting. This includes a scene w/ one follower trying out for a "beer" commercial (which cdn't have been more blatant talking about how society "worships" beer and physical beauty, etc., but still great, that was the point).

Their insistance that she take her clothes off is such an insult in the Jesus character's "temple" that he has to over turn the tables and cleanse the house including whipping the "officials" w/ a whip of cords.

They go on w/ the play, but it is disrupted by security during the crucifixtion and thru an accident, the cross is knocked over and "Jesus" is hurt and taken to the hospital. His believers are somewhat scattered and there's little help amoung "His people" (St. Mark's hospital).

He begins to feel better and leaves though he starts his descent into the lower realms and darkness mentioning being forsaken by his father. He preaches to those standing idle underground being watched over by their master (and popular actor on a dard billboard for perfume).

He collapses and again those around him all scatter except for the two women. This time he's taken by Jews (the Jewish hospital) who care for his dead body. Ultimately, thru his death, others around the world are given life: a heart to an American, eyes to an Italian, etc.

This description may make the movie sound heavy handed and obvious, but I think they make it work well. The characters are good and their transformation is passionate. Early in the movie their attitude is literally "que sera sera" and by the end they are determined to continue w/ the work, establish an institution in their leader's memory and keep it free from defilment and compromise (though it is led by a clearly superficial lawyer - so great).

There are so many good scenes and shots in this movie that I think I'd have to watch it a few times to pick up on even more. Like a scene where they are all eating on the mountain and try to feed the guard who comes up. Just a part of a larger scene, but the details are great: the movement in the scenes (going up and down especially: stairs, escalators, buildings, etc.).

The Station Agent (2003) - 4/5

The Station Agent (2003)

Some semi-spoilers mixed in...

There's a lot of imagery in this movie especially revolving around trains which is an easy tie in. Fin is very much like a train: he dresses 'old fashion' and in black, he smokes, walks train tracks, doesn't speak hardly at all, very isolated, alone, no emotion or desire for interaction, etc.

He's content to live in solitude and even desires it. However, Joe, by his nature, insists on becoming his friend. His life is marked by service and human contact: he works a hot dog/ice cream/coffee stand and does that to serve his father (he's serving to serve). He forces his way into Fin's life and forces Olivia to come along to.

Olivia creates and nurtures but her life is a (train) wreck. She wants to help and it seems to provide for Fin in a way she can't for her son who died a couple years before. She sees Fin as someone to fill this role in her life as her son.

Joe's excitement and Olivia's motherliness eventually brings Fin out of his shell and converts him from a 'train watcher' to a 'people watcher.' He starts wearing clothes w/ some color, being interested in others and eventually smiles and cracks a joke.

He opens up only to find he gets hurt like he always feared. The resolution is not overwhelming or overly sappy, but well done and simple.

The acting is spot-on and the characters come thru instantly even if you don't know it at the time.

Night at the Museum (2006) - 3/5

Night at the Museum (2006)

A good, light, fun movie that doesn't try to be too much. Owen Wilson stands out in a relatively small role. Robin Williams is pretty good too.

I think this movieis cute and wd probably be especially fun for kids, but I liked it too.