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Disney's A Christmas Carol - Disney - Rated PG
Disney's A Christmas Carol begins with a spectacular title sequence where, with the 3-D effects, you feel like you are flying. It just gets better from there. This delightful film features the fantastic Jim Carrey in many roles and he excels in them all. Amidst so many holiday movies lately that get you out of the Christmas spirit, this one actually delivers it in bucketfuls. Not a movie for the little ones, it is very dark and scary at times. But older kids and adults will love it. I sure did! 4 Stars Out of 5
A History of Violence
A History of Violence earns its R rating with lots of violence and sexuality, but it is a great movie! It explores the deep hidden secrets that we all have and the impact they make when brought to light. Viggo Mortensen and Maria Bello are very good in their performances, while Ed Harris proves once again that he is one of the best actors in film today. William Hurt is surprisingly good in his turn as a heartless mob boss. This is one you will want to catch but leave the kids at home. 4 Stars Out of 5
A Mighty Heart
A Mighty Heart is heartbreaking, emotional and riveting. Angelina Jolie gives an amazing performance about an amazing woman, Mariane Pearl the wife of slain journalist Danny Pearl. The visceral, documentary feel adds much to the impact of this terrific film. It is a stomach churning reminder of what western civilization is up against. 4 ½ Stars Out of 5
A Nightmare on Elm Street - New Line - Rated R
Did A Nightmare on Elm Street really need to be remade? It is such an icon among horror movies, it is pretty much untouchable. Robert England so embodied the character of Freddie Krueger, anyone else would naturally pale in comparison. This remake, like the Halloweens, and Friday the 13ths before it, takes on a decidedly darker tone. But somehow it was less menacing. This Nightmare is almost humorless, and loses much of the fright in the process. While Jackie Earl Haley does a decent job, and the whole movie is fairly good, overall, it disappointed me. I just missed the fun of the original. I didn't fall asleep, but there were no nightmares here for me, either. 3 Stars Out of 5
A Perfect Getaway - Rogue Pictures - Rated R
Nothing happens for the first three quarters of A Perfect Getaway. So feel free to take a nap. You won't miss anything. When you wake up, you'll see the twist coming ten miles away, culminating in an underwhelming dragged out ending. I thought it was anything but perfect, and wanted to get away as fast as I could…2 Stars Out of 5
A Prophet - Sony Pictures Classics - Rated R
A Prophet was nominated for a best foreign film Oscar, but I don't get it. All the critics seem to love this film, but I didn't. Complicated, convoluted, and made even more so by the subtitles, this overlong film with a slow and meandering plot is basically a mob, prison, gang…ghost story…yeah…I was just left scratching my head…2 ½ Stars Out of 5
A Serious Man - Focus Features - Rated R
The Coen Brothers' A Serious Man is one that made me scratch my head. In many ways, it is the least accessible of their films, as it is about Jewish life, although cast in an unfavorable light. Non-Jews might not understand much of the film - a lot went over my head. All Coen Brothers films are odd, but this one is more so. It's a black comedy that skimps on the comedy. Unbearably bleak with mostly unlikeable characters, the plot meanders around a series of negative events that relentlessly pile on and on. Seriously, this is a downer. I'm serious. 3 stars Out of 5
A Sound of Thunder
A Sound of Thunder is based on a great story written by Ray Bradbury. But there is nothing great about this movie. Except why Ben Kingsley ever agreed to do this picture is a great mystery. Almost as great as how the makeup person got him to wear that stupid white wig. The dialogue and acting is silly, But the real star of the show are the horrible special effects. There are way too many times where it is painfully obvious the actors are standing in front of a green screen and are looking at a tennis ball on a stick and pretending it's a dinosaur. Maybe if we actually saw the tennis ball, instead of the bad computer effects, this might be more fun! 2 Stars Out of 5
The A Team - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
Ten years and 11 writers have contributed to The A-Team and it shows. I think there might have been a story in there somewhere, but I couldn't find it. The frenetic action flails about so wildly it is impossible to tell what is going on. Note to the director: There is such a thing as too much editing and camera movement. As a result, instead of being exciting, it is mind-numbing and sleep inducing. This oddly structured, ridiculous, overwrought overdone study in blowing things up, dumbs down the TV show, and that's down there. Liam Neeson plays it unentertainingly straight, the guy trying to be Mr. T, isn't, Bradley Cooper's abs star more than he does, and that guy from District 9 is so over the top he steals the movie. The words pity and fool are tattooed on the hands of they guy trying to be Mr. T. Obviously they refer to the audience. A-Team? Um, no. More like C-. 2 Stars Out of 5
Abandon
This film is tedious! About three quarters of the way through, I realized that nothing had really happened! And then it all leads to a big... nothing! This is supposed to be a thriller, but it's really a snoozer! Take the title's advice and abandon your plans to see this.
2 Stars Out of 5
The Abandoned
The Abandoned builds on an original idea and is heavy on atmosphere. The net result is a freaky ghost story that sent chills up and down my spine more than once.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
About A Boy
A wry sense of humor and a quirky sense make this very funny and heartwarming comedy very much worth your time. Hugh Grant is Perfect for this role! His portrayal of the well-to-do man who does nothing is what makes this movie rise above the ordinary. I also give high marks to Toni Collette who you remember as the kid's mom in The Sixth Sense. If you are looking for a film with heart and a lot of laughs, this is it.
4 Stars Out of 5
Accepted
Much of Accepted seems to be lifted from other movies. I spotted several scenes from Animal House and Old School - even Revenge of the Nerds. If you can overlook that, it is, for the most part, entertaining and has some pretty funny moments. It's not as good as I had hoped it would be, but it's not bad. 3 Stars Out of 5
Across the Universe - Sony - Rated PG-13
The ambitious Across the Universe has some nice moments, but suffers from a lack of coherent story and loses steam half way through. It's ultimately a confusing, psychedelic mess that tries to see how many songs it can jam in. As I was leaving the theater I overheard two girls say, I can't wait to watch that when I'm stoned. Um, I think the film makers might have been…2 Stars Out of 5
Adam - Sony - Rated PG-13
I wanted to like Adam more than I did. Not to say that it's a bad film, on the contrary, it is very good. Hugh Dancy turns in a terrific performance as does Rose Byrne.
The two lead's performances perfectly compliment each other. It is a moving film. A sweet, lovely movie. But I couldn't help but be a bit disappointed in it. It felt like there was more that could have been done with it. I liked it, but I wanted to love it. I just didn't. 3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Adaptation
Adaptation contains very strong performances including Nicolas Cage as twin screenwriters and Meryl Streep as the writer of the novel that is to be adapted, are the highlight of this very funny inside look at Hollywood, and one of the years very best...
4 ½ Stars Out of 5
The Adventures of Pluto Nash
Sometimes you watch a film and there's something missing. In the case of The Adventures of Pluto Nash, what's missing is...a movie. Something is happening on screen for an endless 94 minutes, but I don't know what to call it. A train wreck? A disaster? A backed up garbage disposal blowing chunks of last weeks Veal Scaloppini all over the dry cleaning? How about a colossal waste of talent, money and most of all, your time. Skip this one. It is incredibly boring, and is the most un-funny comedy of the year.
1 Star Out of 5
Adventureland - Miramax - Rated R
Adventureland is a sweet coming of age story set in the 80's that basks in a pot-induced glow of youth. Less funny than its marketing implies, it is more of a drama and contains terrific acting and great characters - even minor characters get a chance to shine and develop. Its story meanders through a wonderful, achy, charming movie going experience. 4 Stars Out of 5
Aeon Flux
Yeah, there's plenty of action in Aeon Flux, but what's the point? With talented stars like Oscar winners Charlize Theron and Francis McDormand and Oscar nominee Sophie Okonedo, I thought there might be a reason for this film to be made. But I can't figure it out. I felt no connection to any of the characters, was completely lost from the start of the film, and could make very little sense of what was going on for most of the movie. The plot is unintelligible, and the editing so ragged it's difficult to watch. For all of the kicking jumping and shooting, I was bored out of my mind. I think it should have been called Aeon Flub. 2 stars Out of 5
Against the Ropes
Meg Ryan said that Against the Ropes was her Erin Brocovich. It isn't. The film is filled with every boxing cliché you've ever seen. The slow motion punches, the climactic match at the end, the slow clap started by one person and everyone else joins in…But in the end, the film works and I liked it.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Agent Cody Banks
Agent Cody Banks is entertaining but there's not a lick of originality…This is so similar to "Spy Kids" and "James Bond" that they should have called it "007 Spy Teens!" Frankie Muniz and Hillary Duff are engaging, but hugely talented Darrell Hammond is mostly wasted in his take on the inventor "Q" type character. Angie Harmon as Cody Banks' bombshell CIA spy mentor is entertaining, but not entirely appropriate. There are several uncomfortable scenes with somewhat lewd exchanges between adults and kids, which should have been left on the cutting room floor.
3 Stars Out of 5
Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London
Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London is a true stinker in every sense of the word. It's plot not only is far stinkier than it's predecessor, it is so implausible that I found myself laughing at it's stupidity, and praying for the torture to end. Thankfully Frankie Muniz has already said there won't be an Agent Cody Banks 3. There is a God and He is merciful.
1 Star Out of 5
The Agronomist
The Agronomist is an interesting and inspirational account of how one person can really make a difference if he holds to his beliefs.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Akeelah and the Bee
Akeelah and the Bee is a tad clichéd, with Lawrence Fishburn's performance a touch too overbearing. But those are small problems in this film that is, overall, a triumph. It's young Keke Palmer who turns in the best performance. She, like the film, is inspirational, touching and delightful. 4 Stars Out of 5
The Alamo
The Alamo is owned by Billy Bob Thorton. His portrayal of Davy Crockett is the heart and soul of the movie. He has a formidable task - giving humanity to a legend, and he does that magnificently. The rest of the movie puts the story into historical perspective and does an admirable job of presenting the known elements to a chapter of American history loaded with myth.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alex & Emma
Alex & Emma is a romantic comedy that is slim on romance and even slimmer on comedy. The concept of a writer dictating to a stenographer and the movie flashing between real life and the story he's writing is an interesting one but the execution is flawed. There is no chemistry between the leads. And both the real-life story and the one he's writing are boring. Director Rob Reiner has made some really great movies…this isn't one of them.
2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alexander
Alexander is not so great. It's not even good. Actually it's pretty bad. It's got clunky direction by Oliver Stone, along with a performance by Colin Farrell that is almost embarrassing. And everyone has different accents! Angelina Jolie sounds like she's playing Vampira, and there are American, English, and Scottish accents for these Greeks. This is tedious, wheezy, and overly verbose. It's an hour before anything happens but there are many long sections of boring dialogue. The only thing that this Alexander is great at, is being a three hour long failure.
1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alfie
Alfie is the third of six Jude Law movies being released before Christmas, and I'm already saying "enough!" In Alfie, it's all about his hairdo. It is clearly the star of the film. Law plays a cheeky metrosexual who blathers on and on to the camera. The film isn't very funny, or really all that entertaining at all. The characters are just a single brush stroke, while the plot gets kind of depressing.
2 Stars Out of 5
Alice in Wonderland - Disney - Rated PG
Alice in Wonderland is the product of Tim Burton's unique, dark, twisted vision along with an insane performance from Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter. Helena Bonham Carter steals the show though, with the biggest head as well as the biggest laughs. This is weird and whimsical. There are a couple of wonky CGI moments, but they don't take you out of the movie too badly. The 3-D is more immersive than gimmicky, and kind of an afterthought. I think you would get just as much out of the 2-D version. But make no mistake, Wonderland is Wonderful. 4 Stars Out of 5
Aliens in the Attic - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG
Aliens in the Attic is cute in spots, kind of amusing, but mild, lightweight and strictly for kids. Most adults will think this is a bit of a snoozer, except Dad might enjoy the Ashley Tisdale bikini scenes. The pint sized aliens want to take over the world but we never really believe they are capable. The adult stars of the film are just there to pass go and collect their 200 dollars. If I said I liked it, I'd have aliens in my attic…2 Stars Out of 5
All About Steve - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
In All About Steve, Sandra Bullock is forced, unlikable and irritating to the point the audience wants to shoot her. That and the fact that she is so much older than the object of her affection, make things weird to the point of repulsion. It's strange that Sandra produced a movie that she looks so bad in. She only becomes human in the last ten minutes, but by then it's too late. We already hate her, and this movie. 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
All The King's Men
If you liked the Academy Award winning 1949 original masterpiece All The Kings Men, go rent it. Don't mess with this mess of a remake. For all the star power here, it is wasted with a hapless script that wanders around aimlessly, and awful direction. Sean Penn tries to compensate with overacting while flailing his arms around so much he looks like he might take off! Jude Law is bland, and Anthony Hopkins and Patricia Clarkson are wasted, as will be your time and money if you go see this. 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alone In the Dark
Alone In the Dark is so hideously bad I felt like I was alone in the dark…without a movie. Some movies go straight to DVD. This one should have gone straight to the landfill. Tara Reid is laughable as she tries to play a genius. They put glasses on her and put her hair in a bun, but she still can't pronounce those big words. Stephen Dorff overacts so much, it's almost like he's trying to compensate. Add in some cheesy effects and a plot that is incomprehensible and you have a great candidate for worst movie of the year.
½ Star Out of 5
Alpha Dog
Unlikable characters, and an unlikable script, hamper Alpha Dog. There isn't much to like about this film. It's bleak and depressing. Justin Timberlake holds his own as an actor and I look forward to seeing him in future films. He has charisma. But this film is one of those where you leave the theater and wonder why you subjected yourself to the pain. 2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alvin and the Chipmunks - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG
Alvin and the Chipmunks starts out promising and there are some definite moments of fun before drifting off to some tired jokes and running out of steam. The Chipmunks have been updated as have their songs, Not all of them successfully and Jason Lee is a kinder, gentler version of Dave. It doesn't all work, but little kids will like it. 3 Stars Out of 5
Alvin and the Chipmunks The Squeakquel - 20th Century Fox - Rated G
It's a rare sequel that is better than the original, and an even rarer squeakquel…but Alvin and the Chipmunks The Squeakquel is, with the addition of the Chipmunks' very cute female counterparts, the Chipettes. 3 1/2 Stars Out of 5
Amazing Grace
Overlong but interesting and inspirational, Amazing Grace was produced by Patricia Heaton and is about the struggle by one man to end slavery in England. There are some very good performances from star Ioan Gruffodd, Michael Gambon and Albert Finney. 3 Stars Out of 5
Amelia - Fox Searchlight - Rated PG
I enjoyed Amelia. Hillary Swank's pitch perfect performance is very good, and Richard Gere is also terrific. The film captures the period nicely and reveals Amelia Earhart's free spirit. While we know how it ends, we might not know who Amelia was beyond a face in a picture, or who those around her were. This film does a good job painting a portrait as a real human being of an iconic woman who changed history. 4 Stars Out of 5
American Dreamz
American Dreamz isn't so much about American Idol as it is about politics. It only uses the popular show as a backdrop to what it really wants to be -- a commentary on the current presidential administration. I guess the film maker fancies himself the next Michael Moore. (Do we really need another?) Look at Dennis Quaid. He's trying to be Bush, and pretending he has the I.Q. of a poodle. There's Willem Dafoe. He's supposed to be Dick Cheney feeding every word to the president through a wireless radio. That's an old, tired, joke. This could have been fun, but it's not. It could have been funny, but it's not. It could have even been biting satire, but it's not. It's just a bad Farenheit 9-11 wannabe in American Idol clothing. 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
American Gangster - Universal - Rated R
American Gangster is well put together and well told with Denzel Washington pulling most of the weight, and is so good you almost hate the scenes he's not in, while Russell Crowe gives a solid performance. The film is slow and deliberate at times, and it's not an action movie, but rather a drama with a few action scenes. Still, for the most part, it's riveting. My one complaint, at almost three hours, there is a bit of butt fatigue… 4 Stars Out of 5
American Wedding
The American Pie trilogy is over, and just in the nick of time. The luster is starting to fade just a bit. Oh, the characters are still lovable. The situations they get themselves into are still raunchy. And Director Jesse Dylan (who is Bob Dylan's son) does a pretty good job in his first feature film. But, this isn't quite as edgy as the first two films, not quite as funny, and seems a tad forced. But if you look at it as the conclusion of the series, it's not bad and we can bid a fond farewell to three movies that have made us laugh. 3 Stars Out of 5
An American Carol - Vivendi Entertainment - Rated PG-13
For An American Carol, writer/director David Zucker and his cast revealed themselves and came out of the closet in the first Hollywood conservative comedy. It has a refreshing point of view - the film makers and stars are actually proud of America. Problem is, at least half of the jokes fall flat. Oh, it gets a dig in at Larry Craig and it has its heart in the right place I just wish it were funnier. 3 Stars Out of 5
An American Haunting
An American Haunting has almost nothing scary in it. It has a few loud noises that startle because they are loud noises, and that's about it. What passes for ghosts in this is mostly the steadycam bobbing and weaving among the actors. I guess the budget was too low for anything like a special effect. What is really scary about this film is why stars like Donald Sutherland and Sissy Spacek are in it! On second thought, that's not as scary as it is puzzling. (They must need cash.) The big reveal at the end was totally confusing and preposterous. That someone actually wrote this hideous piece of psychodrivel, and spent money on making it…now THAT's scary! 2 Stars Out of 5
The Amityville Horror
The Amityville Horror has got some jumps, some scares, some horror movie cliché's, some overacting, and it's gory. But, it's better than I thought it would be. And, surprisingly, it is better than the original. Modern special effects help, as well as a morphing of some of the elements from "The Sixth Sense" into the film.
3 Stars Out of 5
An Education - Sony - Rated PG-13
Carey Mulligan is great as a 16 year old who falls for a much older man in An Education. It is well acted all the way around, but it's the story that bothered me. It manipulates audiences into thinking that an older man messing around with an underage girl is OK, because the guy's so darn charming. While I did enjoy Carey Mulligan's performance, I didn't fall for this movie. Send it back to reform school. 2 ½ Stars out of 5
Anacondas: the Hunt for the Blood Orchid
Anacondas: the Hunt for the Blood Orchid is unintentionally hilarious. Silly things abound in this sequel to Anaconda. This film takes place in Borneo. But the film makers ignore the fact that there are no anacondas in Borneo. It's fun to try to figure out who gets eaten next. The snakes look like they came right out of a Playstation game.
2 Stars Out of 5
Analyze That
Analyze That has more laughs than the first. Robert DeNiro and Billy Crystal really have a very funny chemistry together that is just expanded on and improved in this sequel. I wasn't a huge fan of the first, but this made me laugh. And, don't miss the hilarious out-takes at the end.
4 Stars Out of 5
Annapolis
We've all seen Annapolis before. I would have called this "Rocky Goes To Military School." Or "An Officer and Top Gun." The cast is engaging enough, but James Franco plays the same one note character he's played in all of his other movies, Tyrese Gibson scowls in every scene, and Jordana Brewster is extraordinarily beautiful, but not very believable when it comes to trying to be a hardened boxing coach. There were moments I actually liked the film, but couldn't help thinking it was a rerun. 3 Stars Out of 5
Anchorman
Anchorman doesn't always hit, and often misses. But it is funny. It's not the funniest movie of the year, but still, pretty funny. Will Ferrell shines again, but is sometimes outdone by Steve Carell who hilariously plays Brick, the dufus weatherman. There are lots of funny cameos from the likes of Luke Wilson, Jack Black and Ben Stiller. And there is an especially funny sequence involving a gang turf war between the various TV news teams.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Angels and Demons - Sony - Rated PG-13
The good news about Angels and Demons, is Tom Hanks has exorcised the spirits of bad mullet hair and is looking fairly fit. The bad news is the film suffers from its own excesses, a by the numbers formula, and an overwrought score. There are moments of some excitement, but an over-extended ending twists back and forth a bit too much. It's flawed but watchable not movie heaven, but not hell either…3 Stars Out of 5
Anger Management
Adam Sandler is, well, Adam Sandler and Marissa Tomei is delightful. The film is bawdy, has lots of laughs and as usual, Jack Nicholson steals the show. It is amazing to witness the way he steals every scene he is in, and makes, what would have been a mediocre comedy without him, a very funny comedy with him.
4 Stars Out of 5
The Animation Show
The Animation Show is wonderful and weird. It showcases some great and not so great animated shorts that normally would be seen by very few. The collection of talent here is enormous. Some of the featured shorts are funny, some aren't and some are just strange. But it is interesting to see work from those that could be the next generation of animators.
3 Stars Out of 5
The Ant Bully
The Ant Bully is a film the whole family will enjoy thoroughly. It is hugely imaginative, inventive and buried beneath all the fun is a great lesson. With a voice cast of A-list actors, parents will never be bored and children will always find The Ant Bully exciting, and entertaining. 4 Stars Out of 5
Antwone Fisher
Antwone Fisher is powerful and inspirational, and is a really fine directorial debut for Denzel Washington. This is one you should see. It's is top ten for the year.
4 ½ Stars Out of 5
Anvil, the Story of Anvil - Ahimsa Films - Rated PG-13
Anvil, the Story of Anvil is the endearing, real story of Anvil, the band that influenced many heavy metal bands including Metalica. It has shades of Spinal Tap at times, but this is 100% real. It follows the band through their highs and lows…their mundane day jobs, and their tour of Europe - fraught with trouble and ultimately for no pay, and then they finally catch a break: This film! With it, the band is finally getting their due. Even if you have never heard of Anvil, and don't like heavy metal music, you'll like this movie. Anvil Rocks! 4 Stars Out of 5
Anything Else
Anything Else is funnier than the last several Woody Allen movies. . This movie really has the same old ingredients as any other Woody Allen movie but with Jason Biggs as Woody this time…who is irritating as he does his own bad impersonation of Woody Allen. Christina Ricci is the best part of this movie…
2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Apocalypto
Say what you will about Mel Gibson. He is a brilliant filmmaker. Apocalypto is visceral, non-stop, pulse pounding excitement. Some may be put off by the subtitles, but they needn't be. It works on every level and is astounding. All I could say at the end of the movie was "Wow!" This is one of the best films of the year. 5 Stars Out of 5
Appaloosa - Warner Brothers - Rated R
Appaloosa, directed by star Ed Harris is kind of hard to figure out. Is this a comedy? Is it a traditional western? Well, dry humor abounds. And it is not a traditional western. But it has great performances from Harris and Viggo Mortensen and a script that keeps you mostly involved. 3 Stars Out of 5
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a sweet and fun film aimed at the tween and younger teen girl audience. Friendship is the main theme here, with a healthy dose of comedy thrown in. It borders at times on being too sweet, but for the most part, Aquamarine is delightful. 3 Stars Out of 5
Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film For Theaters
I had never seen Aqua Teen Hunger Force the TV show, so I wasn't prepared for the bizarre sophomoric humor - if you can call it that, of the movie. The main characters are talking food. The only time my food has ever talked to me was at times I want to forget. There were a few laughs at first, but this quickly degraded into something I can only call poorly animated fast food with a staph infection. Pass the antacid and skip it! 2 Stars Out of 5
Are We Done Yet?
Are We Done Yet? is not quite as obnoxious as the first, but I still kept reciting the title to myself while secretly wanting to gouge my eyes out with a fork to make this atrocious dreck stop. It was 88 minutes of pure mind numbing torture. Please, can we be done forever? 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Are We There Yet?
Are We There Yet? stinks worse than the back seat of a station wagon with no air conditioning after a three week summer road trip with two kids, two dogs, and some rotting fruit in the seat. It is kind of a cross between "Home Alone," "Road Trip," and "Johnson Family Vacation." At least those movies all had likeable characters. I never liked anyone in this movie. But I especially hated the two obnoxious brats playing the kids. How the main character can start to like them after all they do to him (in a sappy stupid ending) is one of the great mysteries of cinema - right after "why did they make this?" and, "who thought this was funny?"
1 Star Out of 5
The Aristocrats
The Aristocrats is the kind of movie that might be better enjoyed after it comes out on DVD. It is a one joke documentary. One filthy joke told by numerous comedians in many different ways. But most of them are so grotesquely vulgar that, while funny, they are embarrassing to laugh at in public. This is definitely not for anyone with prudish sensibilities, but just between you and me, it's really funny! 4 Stars Out of 5
Armored - Screen Gems - Rated PG-13
Armored is a predictable, by-the-numbers potboiler action flick that resembles many other movies. There's nothing really all that memorable here except for a star making turn from Columbus Short, who turns in a performance that is far better than the movie he is in. Lawrence Fishburne, Matt Dillon and the rest of the cast are clearly in this only for the paycheck, but this movie won't send anyone laughing to the bank. 2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Around The Bend
Michael Caine and Christopher Walken are pitch perfect in their performances in Around the Bend. The story is funny, moving, and entertaining. The ending leaves a little bit to be desired, as things wrap up too fast and are not the knock-out punch I wanted.
4 Stars Out of 5
Around the World In 80 Days
Around the World In 80 Days is told in an overblown comic book style that does not serve the story well at all. "Tedious" might be a good word to describe most of this film. Check your brain at the door, because historical inaccuracies abound. The cast manages to do multiple things that just couldn't be done in the late 1880's. Jackie Chan's martial arts sequence in the middle of the film elevates the fun quotient a little but then this degrades once again into a snoozer.
2 Stars Out of 5
The Art of the Steal - IFC Films - Not Rated
The documentary The Art of the Steal is decidedly one sided but nonetheless convincing. It deals with modernist paintings by Cézanne, Picasso, Van Gogh and others collected by Dr. Albert Barnes and now valued at more than $25 billion dollars. He specifically spelled out in his will that his paintings could never be loaned, sold or otherwise removed from the building he built to house them. In the years since his death, his will has been shredded and his collection is being moved. This movie exposes the shocking and disturbing corruption in Philadelphia and begs for someone to cry "foul." 4 Stars Out of 5
Art School Confidential
Art School Confidential is wickedly funny, and loaded with satire. I really liked the writing, along with some great performances from John Malkovich and Jim Broadbent, who is especially terrific. This is a dark, funny film that made me laugh a lot. 4½ Stars Out of 5
Arthur and the Invisibles
Part live action and part very bad, cheap looking computer animation, Arthur and the Invisibles didn't hold the attention of any of the kids in the theater where I saw it. It's too talkie, and disconnected. If you want to take your kids to a movie, skip this one…2 Stars Out of 5
Assault on Precinct 13
Assault on Precinct 13 is a slight twist on the old western where the Sheriff's Office is under siege and everyone is surrounded. The film has a bold in your face feel, and things keep moving so fast that we never have time to ask how this could be possible. That's a good thing, because it's not terribly believable. It's entertaining, but check your brain at the door.
3 Stars Out of 5
Astro Boy - Sony - Rated PG
Astro Boy is the big screen version of the Japanese anime classic. This is pleasant, and fun at times, but takes the anime out of it. The big name talent is, for the most part, a waste, as Nicolas Cage doesn't really lend anything to the character he voices, and neither does anyone else. There's not much here for adults aside from the occasional pop culture reference, but most kids should enjoy the action. 3 Stars Out of 5
The Astronaut Farmer
The Astronaut Farmer is about dreams. Billy Bob Thornton is as always, excellent in his performance as a man with big dreams of going into space. The movie is a bit on the corny side, but for the most part is an audience pleaser. 3 Stars Out of 5
ATL
Horrible acting, worse story and with too many characters to keep track of, ATL has been made before…and better. It was called "Roll Bounce." And I only gave that 2 Stars…1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Atonement - Focus Features - Rated R
Atonement is not a great movie, but it is a very good one. It is for the most part, well acted, but ultimately fails to make as much of an emotional connection as it should. Kiera Knightley and James McAvoy don't have much chemistry, and Miss Knightley's acting strains somewhat in the more taxing scenes. While the ending is satisfying, the journey to get there isn't quite so much. 3 ½ Stars Out of 5
August Rush - Warner Brothers - Rated PG
Sap runs from August Rush in buckets. The film worships at music's altar but fails to make any emotional connection, instead using ridiculous plot points stolen from Charles Dickens. It's an unbelievable and at times, downright silly film and the farthest thing from a rush. 2 Stars Out of 5
Austin Powers in Goldmember
You'll laugh until you hurt...I did...Austin fans will not be disappointed! This has very little plot, but that doesn't matter at all. If I told you too much about this one, I'd spoil the fun. Don't be late, and don't leave early...there are plenty of laughs from start to finish. Mike Myers is an absolute comic genius. And once again, he brilliantly shines in this hilarious laugh-fest!
4 ½ Stars Out of 5
Australia - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
Baz Luhrman's Australia is giant, gaudy, cartoony, uneven and ludicrous. It wants to be every movie ever made! Is it a western? Yes! A war movie? Yes! A romance? Yes! A drama? Yes! A comedy? Yes! A commentary on racism? Yes! A magical epic adventure? Yes! It's like a giant soup made of whatever the heck you had in the kitchen and then some stuff from the garage too - and also from the neighbor's compost pile. The meandering story changes along with the tone and style until the silly and overblown final act. The one highlight was newcomer kid Brandon Walters, but Nicole Kidman's unwrinkled and unmovable forehead stole every scene. 2 Stars Out of 5
Autofocus
Autofocus isn't for everyone. It explores the dark side of temptation as it tells the story of Hogan's Heroes star Bob Crane. Greg Kinnear and Willem Dafoe both deliver Oscar worthy performances, and at times, Kinnear looks so much like Bob Crane it is eerie. This is a powerful, disturbing study in self-destruction. It is very hard to watch, and is a brilliant film, but I didn't quite know what to think as I left the theater. Did I want to go home and hug my kids, or just wash my hands...
4 stars Out of 5
Avatar - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
There aren't enough words to tell you how much I loved Avatar! I was absolutely enthralled with it from the beginning to the end. James Cameron has crafted a film that is completely original, stunning, thrilling and completely and utterly spectacular! There are things in this movie you've never experienced before! With groundbreaking effects, a terrific story, and an awesome cast, it is the best movie of 2009! 5 Stars Out of 5
Awake - MGM - Rated R
Awake features twin acting titans Hayden Christensen and Jessica Alba in an acting Tour de Force…and if you believe that, I want to sell you a bridge in San Francisco. They are pretty people with no chemistry and the acting ability of a box of hair. The usually great Terrence Howard knows he's in a stinker and it shows. This has a ridiculous plot with a silly twist that at 78 minutes still feels way too long. A brief scene involving a wet T shirt in a bathtub provide the film's only passing interest. Awake…skip it and catch up on some sleep instead. 2 Stars Out of 5
Away From Her
Away From Her is an adult handling of a difficult subject - a spouse with early onset Alzheimer's. Agonizing and lovely, heartbreaking and inspirational, tragic and beautiful, it is a film that sticks with you. It'll make you pause to appreciate those you love. 4 Stars Out of 5
Away We Go - Focus Features - Rated R
Away We Go, is a delightful road trip movie with a twist. Maya Rudolph and John Krasinski are wonderful as an expectant couple in search of a place to raise their child. The rest of the cast amount to cameos but all are very good. Maggie Gyllenhall is a hilarious standout as a new age mom afraid to put her kids in a stroller. This is a funny, heartwarming, terrific little movie. 4 ½ Stars Out of 5
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Disney's A Christmas Carol - Disney - Rated PG
Disney's A Christmas Carol begins with a spectacular title sequence where, with the 3-D effects, you feel like you are flying. It just gets better from there. This delightful film features the fantastic Jim Carrey in many roles and he excels in them all. Amidst so many holiday movies lately that get you out of the Christmas spirit, this one actually delivers it in bucketfuls. Not a movie for the little ones, it is very dark and scary at times. But older kids and adults will love it. I sure did! 4 Stars Out of 5
A History of Violence
A History of Violence earns its R rating with lots of violence and sexuality, but it is a great movie! It explores the deep hidden secrets that we all have and the impact they make when brought to light. Viggo Mortensen and Maria Bello are very good in their performances, while Ed Harris proves once again that he is one of the best actors in film today. William Hurt is surprisingly good in his turn as a heartless mob boss. This is one you will want to catch but leave the kids at home. 4 Stars Out of 5
A Mighty Heart
A Mighty Heart is heartbreaking, emotional and riveting. Angelina Jolie gives an amazing performance about an amazing woman, Mariane Pearl the wife of slain journalist Danny Pearl. The visceral, documentary feel adds much to the impact of this terrific film. It is a stomach churning reminder of what western civilization is up against. 4 ½ Stars Out of 5
A Nightmare on Elm Street - New Line - Rated R
Did A Nightmare on Elm Street really need to be remade? It is such an icon among horror movies, it is pretty much untouchable. Robert England so embodied the character of Freddie Krueger, anyone else would naturally pale in comparison. This remake, like the Halloweens, and Friday the 13ths before it, takes on a decidedly darker tone. But somehow it was less menacing. This Nightmare is almost humorless, and loses much of the fright in the process. While Jackie Earl Haley does a decent job, and the whole movie is fairly good, overall, it disappointed me. I just missed the fun of the original. I didn't fall asleep, but there were no nightmares here for me, either. 3 Stars Out of 5
A Perfect Getaway - Rogue Pictures - Rated R
Nothing happens for the first three quarters of A Perfect Getaway. So feel free to take a nap. You won't miss anything. When you wake up, you'll see the twist coming ten miles away, culminating in an underwhelming dragged out ending. I thought it was anything but perfect, and wanted to get away as fast as I could…2 Stars Out of 5
A Prophet - Sony Pictures Classics - Rated R
A Prophet was nominated for a best foreign film Oscar, but I don't get it. All the critics seem to love this film, but I didn't. Complicated, convoluted, and made even more so by the subtitles, this overlong film with a slow and meandering plot is basically a mob, prison, gang…ghost story…yeah…I was just left scratching my head…2 ½ Stars Out of 5
A Serious Man - Focus Features - Rated R
The Coen Brothers' A Serious Man is one that made me scratch my head. In many ways, it is the least accessible of their films, as it is about Jewish life, although cast in an unfavorable light. Non-Jews might not understand much of the film - a lot went over my head. All Coen Brothers films are odd, but this one is more so. It's a black comedy that skimps on the comedy. Unbearably bleak with mostly unlikeable characters, the plot meanders around a series of negative events that relentlessly pile on and on. Seriously, this is a downer. I'm serious. 3 stars Out of 5
A Sound of Thunder
A Sound of Thunder is based on a great story written by Ray Bradbury. But there is nothing great about this movie. Except why Ben Kingsley ever agreed to do this picture is a great mystery. Almost as great as how the makeup person got him to wear that stupid white wig. The dialogue and acting is silly, But the real star of the show are the horrible special effects. There are way too many times where it is painfully obvious the actors are standing in front of a green screen and are looking at a tennis ball on a stick and pretending it's a dinosaur. Maybe if we actually saw the tennis ball, instead of the bad computer effects, this might be more fun! 2 Stars Out of 5
The A Team - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
Ten years and 11 writers have contributed to The A-Team and it shows. I think there might have been a story in there somewhere, but I couldn't find it. The frenetic action flails about so wildly it is impossible to tell what is going on. Note to the director: There is such a thing as too much editing and camera movement. As a result, instead of being exciting, it is mind-numbing and sleep inducing. This oddly structured, ridiculous, overwrought overdone study in blowing things up, dumbs down the TV show, and that's down there. Liam Neeson plays it unentertainingly straight, the guy trying to be Mr. T, isn't, Bradley Cooper's abs star more than he does, and that guy from District 9 is so over the top he steals the movie. The words pity and fool are tattooed on the hands of they guy trying to be Mr. T. Obviously they refer to the audience. A-Team? Um, no. More like C-. 2 Stars Out of 5
Abandon
This film is tedious! About three quarters of the way through, I realized that nothing had really happened! And then it all leads to a big... nothing! This is supposed to be a thriller, but it's really a snoozer! Take the title's advice and abandon your plans to see this.
2 Stars Out of 5
The Abandoned
The Abandoned builds on an original idea and is heavy on atmosphere. The net result is a freaky ghost story that sent chills up and down my spine more than once.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
About A Boy
A wry sense of humor and a quirky sense make this very funny and heartwarming comedy very much worth your time. Hugh Grant is Perfect for this role! His portrayal of the well-to-do man who does nothing is what makes this movie rise above the ordinary. I also give high marks to Toni Collette who you remember as the kid's mom in The Sixth Sense. If you are looking for a film with heart and a lot of laughs, this is it.
4 Stars Out of 5
Accepted
Much of Accepted seems to be lifted from other movies. I spotted several scenes from Animal House and Old School - even Revenge of the Nerds. If you can overlook that, it is, for the most part, entertaining and has some pretty funny moments. It's not as good as I had hoped it would be, but it's not bad. 3 Stars Out of 5
Across the Universe - Sony - Rated PG-13
The ambitious Across the Universe has some nice moments, but suffers from a lack of coherent story and loses steam half way through. It's ultimately a confusing, psychedelic mess that tries to see how many songs it can jam in. As I was leaving the theater I overheard two girls say, I can't wait to watch that when I'm stoned. Um, I think the film makers might have been…2 Stars Out of 5
Adam - Sony - Rated PG-13
I wanted to like Adam more than I did. Not to say that it's a bad film, on the contrary, it is very good. Hugh Dancy turns in a terrific performance as does Rose Byrne.
The two lead's performances perfectly compliment each other. It is a moving film. A sweet, lovely movie. But I couldn't help but be a bit disappointed in it. It felt like there was more that could have been done with it. I liked it, but I wanted to love it. I just didn't. 3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Adaptation
Adaptation contains very strong performances including Nicolas Cage as twin screenwriters and Meryl Streep as the writer of the novel that is to be adapted, are the highlight of this very funny inside look at Hollywood, and one of the years very best...
4 ½ Stars Out of 5
The Adventures of Pluto Nash
Sometimes you watch a film and there's something missing. In the case of The Adventures of Pluto Nash, what's missing is...a movie. Something is happening on screen for an endless 94 minutes, but I don't know what to call it. A train wreck? A disaster? A backed up garbage disposal blowing chunks of last weeks Veal Scaloppini all over the dry cleaning? How about a colossal waste of talent, money and most of all, your time. Skip this one. It is incredibly boring, and is the most un-funny comedy of the year.
1 Star Out of 5
Adventureland - Miramax - Rated R
Adventureland is a sweet coming of age story set in the 80's that basks in a pot-induced glow of youth. Less funny than its marketing implies, it is more of a drama and contains terrific acting and great characters - even minor characters get a chance to shine and develop. Its story meanders through a wonderful, achy, charming movie going experience. 4 Stars Out of 5
Aeon Flux
Yeah, there's plenty of action in Aeon Flux, but what's the point? With talented stars like Oscar winners Charlize Theron and Francis McDormand and Oscar nominee Sophie Okonedo, I thought there might be a reason for this film to be made. But I can't figure it out. I felt no connection to any of the characters, was completely lost from the start of the film, and could make very little sense of what was going on for most of the movie. The plot is unintelligible, and the editing so ragged it's difficult to watch. For all of the kicking jumping and shooting, I was bored out of my mind. I think it should have been called Aeon Flub. 2 stars Out of 5
Against the Ropes
Meg Ryan said that Against the Ropes was her Erin Brocovich. It isn't. The film is filled with every boxing cliché you've ever seen. The slow motion punches, the climactic match at the end, the slow clap started by one person and everyone else joins in…But in the end, the film works and I liked it.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Agent Cody Banks
Agent Cody Banks is entertaining but there's not a lick of originality…This is so similar to "Spy Kids" and "James Bond" that they should have called it "007 Spy Teens!" Frankie Muniz and Hillary Duff are engaging, but hugely talented Darrell Hammond is mostly wasted in his take on the inventor "Q" type character. Angie Harmon as Cody Banks' bombshell CIA spy mentor is entertaining, but not entirely appropriate. There are several uncomfortable scenes with somewhat lewd exchanges between adults and kids, which should have been left on the cutting room floor.
3 Stars Out of 5
Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London
Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London is a true stinker in every sense of the word. It's plot not only is far stinkier than it's predecessor, it is so implausible that I found myself laughing at it's stupidity, and praying for the torture to end. Thankfully Frankie Muniz has already said there won't be an Agent Cody Banks 3. There is a God and He is merciful.
1 Star Out of 5
The Agronomist
The Agronomist is an interesting and inspirational account of how one person can really make a difference if he holds to his beliefs.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Akeelah and the Bee
Akeelah and the Bee is a tad clichéd, with Lawrence Fishburn's performance a touch too overbearing. But those are small problems in this film that is, overall, a triumph. It's young Keke Palmer who turns in the best performance. She, like the film, is inspirational, touching and delightful. 4 Stars Out of 5
The Alamo
The Alamo is owned by Billy Bob Thorton. His portrayal of Davy Crockett is the heart and soul of the movie. He has a formidable task - giving humanity to a legend, and he does that magnificently. The rest of the movie puts the story into historical perspective and does an admirable job of presenting the known elements to a chapter of American history loaded with myth.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alex & Emma
Alex & Emma is a romantic comedy that is slim on romance and even slimmer on comedy. The concept of a writer dictating to a stenographer and the movie flashing between real life and the story he's writing is an interesting one but the execution is flawed. There is no chemistry between the leads. And both the real-life story and the one he's writing are boring. Director Rob Reiner has made some really great movies…this isn't one of them.
2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alexander
Alexander is not so great. It's not even good. Actually it's pretty bad. It's got clunky direction by Oliver Stone, along with a performance by Colin Farrell that is almost embarrassing. And everyone has different accents! Angelina Jolie sounds like she's playing Vampira, and there are American, English, and Scottish accents for these Greeks. This is tedious, wheezy, and overly verbose. It's an hour before anything happens but there are many long sections of boring dialogue. The only thing that this Alexander is great at, is being a three hour long failure.
1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alfie
Alfie is the third of six Jude Law movies being released before Christmas, and I'm already saying "enough!" In Alfie, it's all about his hairdo. It is clearly the star of the film. Law plays a cheeky metrosexual who blathers on and on to the camera. The film isn't very funny, or really all that entertaining at all. The characters are just a single brush stroke, while the plot gets kind of depressing.
2 Stars Out of 5
Alice in Wonderland - Disney - Rated PG
Alice in Wonderland is the product of Tim Burton's unique, dark, twisted vision along with an insane performance from Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter. Helena Bonham Carter steals the show though, with the biggest head as well as the biggest laughs. This is weird and whimsical. There are a couple of wonky CGI moments, but they don't take you out of the movie too badly. The 3-D is more immersive than gimmicky, and kind of an afterthought. I think you would get just as much out of the 2-D version. But make no mistake, Wonderland is Wonderful. 4 Stars Out of 5
Aliens in the Attic - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG
Aliens in the Attic is cute in spots, kind of amusing, but mild, lightweight and strictly for kids. Most adults will think this is a bit of a snoozer, except Dad might enjoy the Ashley Tisdale bikini scenes. The pint sized aliens want to take over the world but we never really believe they are capable. The adult stars of the film are just there to pass go and collect their 200 dollars. If I said I liked it, I'd have aliens in my attic…2 Stars Out of 5
All About Steve - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
In All About Steve, Sandra Bullock is forced, unlikable and irritating to the point the audience wants to shoot her. That and the fact that she is so much older than the object of her affection, make things weird to the point of repulsion. It's strange that Sandra produced a movie that she looks so bad in. She only becomes human in the last ten minutes, but by then it's too late. We already hate her, and this movie. 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
All The King's Men
If you liked the Academy Award winning 1949 original masterpiece All The Kings Men, go rent it. Don't mess with this mess of a remake. For all the star power here, it is wasted with a hapless script that wanders around aimlessly, and awful direction. Sean Penn tries to compensate with overacting while flailing his arms around so much he looks like he might take off! Jude Law is bland, and Anthony Hopkins and Patricia Clarkson are wasted, as will be your time and money if you go see this. 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alone In the Dark
Alone In the Dark is so hideously bad I felt like I was alone in the dark…without a movie. Some movies go straight to DVD. This one should have gone straight to the landfill. Tara Reid is laughable as she tries to play a genius. They put glasses on her and put her hair in a bun, but she still can't pronounce those big words. Stephen Dorff overacts so much, it's almost like he's trying to compensate. Add in some cheesy effects and a plot that is incomprehensible and you have a great candidate for worst movie of the year.
½ Star Out of 5
Alpha Dog
Unlikable characters, and an unlikable script, hamper Alpha Dog. There isn't much to like about this film. It's bleak and depressing. Justin Timberlake holds his own as an actor and I look forward to seeing him in future films. He has charisma. But this film is one of those where you leave the theater and wonder why you subjected yourself to the pain. 2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Alvin and the Chipmunks - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG
Alvin and the Chipmunks starts out promising and there are some definite moments of fun before drifting off to some tired jokes and running out of steam. The Chipmunks have been updated as have their songs, Not all of them successfully and Jason Lee is a kinder, gentler version of Dave. It doesn't all work, but little kids will like it. 3 Stars Out of 5
Alvin and the Chipmunks The Squeakquel - 20th Century Fox - Rated G
It's a rare sequel that is better than the original, and an even rarer squeakquel…but Alvin and the Chipmunks The Squeakquel is, with the addition of the Chipmunks' very cute female counterparts, the Chipettes. 3 1/2 Stars Out of 5
Amazing Grace
Overlong but interesting and inspirational, Amazing Grace was produced by Patricia Heaton and is about the struggle by one man to end slavery in England. There are some very good performances from star Ioan Gruffodd, Michael Gambon and Albert Finney. 3 Stars Out of 5
Amelia - Fox Searchlight - Rated PG
I enjoyed Amelia. Hillary Swank's pitch perfect performance is very good, and Richard Gere is also terrific. The film captures the period nicely and reveals Amelia Earhart's free spirit. While we know how it ends, we might not know who Amelia was beyond a face in a picture, or who those around her were. This film does a good job painting a portrait as a real human being of an iconic woman who changed history. 4 Stars Out of 5
American Dreamz
American Dreamz isn't so much about American Idol as it is about politics. It only uses the popular show as a backdrop to what it really wants to be -- a commentary on the current presidential administration. I guess the film maker fancies himself the next Michael Moore. (Do we really need another?) Look at Dennis Quaid. He's trying to be Bush, and pretending he has the I.Q. of a poodle. There's Willem Dafoe. He's supposed to be Dick Cheney feeding every word to the president through a wireless radio. That's an old, tired, joke. This could have been fun, but it's not. It could have been funny, but it's not. It could have even been biting satire, but it's not. It's just a bad Farenheit 9-11 wannabe in American Idol clothing. 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
American Gangster - Universal - Rated R
American Gangster is well put together and well told with Denzel Washington pulling most of the weight, and is so good you almost hate the scenes he's not in, while Russell Crowe gives a solid performance. The film is slow and deliberate at times, and it's not an action movie, but rather a drama with a few action scenes. Still, for the most part, it's riveting. My one complaint, at almost three hours, there is a bit of butt fatigue… 4 Stars Out of 5
American Wedding
The American Pie trilogy is over, and just in the nick of time. The luster is starting to fade just a bit. Oh, the characters are still lovable. The situations they get themselves into are still raunchy. And Director Jesse Dylan (who is Bob Dylan's son) does a pretty good job in his first feature film. But, this isn't quite as edgy as the first two films, not quite as funny, and seems a tad forced. But if you look at it as the conclusion of the series, it's not bad and we can bid a fond farewell to three movies that have made us laugh. 3 Stars Out of 5
An American Carol - Vivendi Entertainment - Rated PG-13
For An American Carol, writer/director David Zucker and his cast revealed themselves and came out of the closet in the first Hollywood conservative comedy. It has a refreshing point of view - the film makers and stars are actually proud of America. Problem is, at least half of the jokes fall flat. Oh, it gets a dig in at Larry Craig and it has its heart in the right place I just wish it were funnier. 3 Stars Out of 5
An American Haunting
An American Haunting has almost nothing scary in it. It has a few loud noises that startle because they are loud noises, and that's about it. What passes for ghosts in this is mostly the steadycam bobbing and weaving among the actors. I guess the budget was too low for anything like a special effect. What is really scary about this film is why stars like Donald Sutherland and Sissy Spacek are in it! On second thought, that's not as scary as it is puzzling. (They must need cash.) The big reveal at the end was totally confusing and preposterous. That someone actually wrote this hideous piece of psychodrivel, and spent money on making it…now THAT's scary! 2 Stars Out of 5
The Amityville Horror
The Amityville Horror has got some jumps, some scares, some horror movie cliché's, some overacting, and it's gory. But, it's better than I thought it would be. And, surprisingly, it is better than the original. Modern special effects help, as well as a morphing of some of the elements from "The Sixth Sense" into the film.
3 Stars Out of 5
An Education - Sony - Rated PG-13
Carey Mulligan is great as a 16 year old who falls for a much older man in An Education. It is well acted all the way around, but it's the story that bothered me. It manipulates audiences into thinking that an older man messing around with an underage girl is OK, because the guy's so darn charming. While I did enjoy Carey Mulligan's performance, I didn't fall for this movie. Send it back to reform school. 2 ½ Stars out of 5
Anacondas: the Hunt for the Blood Orchid
Anacondas: the Hunt for the Blood Orchid is unintentionally hilarious. Silly things abound in this sequel to Anaconda. This film takes place in Borneo. But the film makers ignore the fact that there are no anacondas in Borneo. It's fun to try to figure out who gets eaten next. The snakes look like they came right out of a Playstation game.
2 Stars Out of 5
Analyze That
Analyze That has more laughs than the first. Robert DeNiro and Billy Crystal really have a very funny chemistry together that is just expanded on and improved in this sequel. I wasn't a huge fan of the first, but this made me laugh. And, don't miss the hilarious out-takes at the end.
4 Stars Out of 5
Annapolis
We've all seen Annapolis before. I would have called this "Rocky Goes To Military School." Or "An Officer and Top Gun." The cast is engaging enough, but James Franco plays the same one note character he's played in all of his other movies, Tyrese Gibson scowls in every scene, and Jordana Brewster is extraordinarily beautiful, but not very believable when it comes to trying to be a hardened boxing coach. There were moments I actually liked the film, but couldn't help thinking it was a rerun. 3 Stars Out of 5
Anchorman
Anchorman doesn't always hit, and often misses. But it is funny. It's not the funniest movie of the year, but still, pretty funny. Will Ferrell shines again, but is sometimes outdone by Steve Carell who hilariously plays Brick, the dufus weatherman. There are lots of funny cameos from the likes of Luke Wilson, Jack Black and Ben Stiller. And there is an especially funny sequence involving a gang turf war between the various TV news teams.
3 ½ Stars Out of 5
Angels and Demons - Sony - Rated PG-13
The good news about Angels and Demons, is Tom Hanks has exorcised the spirits of bad mullet hair and is looking fairly fit. The bad news is the film suffers from its own excesses, a by the numbers formula, and an overwrought score. There are moments of some excitement, but an over-extended ending twists back and forth a bit too much. It's flawed but watchable not movie heaven, but not hell either…3 Stars Out of 5
Anger Management
Adam Sandler is, well, Adam Sandler and Marissa Tomei is delightful. The film is bawdy, has lots of laughs and as usual, Jack Nicholson steals the show. It is amazing to witness the way he steals every scene he is in, and makes, what would have been a mediocre comedy without him, a very funny comedy with him.
4 Stars Out of 5
The Animation Show
The Animation Show is wonderful and weird. It showcases some great and not so great animated shorts that normally would be seen by very few. The collection of talent here is enormous. Some of the featured shorts are funny, some aren't and some are just strange. But it is interesting to see work from those that could be the next generation of animators.
3 Stars Out of 5
The Ant Bully
The Ant Bully is a film the whole family will enjoy thoroughly. It is hugely imaginative, inventive and buried beneath all the fun is a great lesson. With a voice cast of A-list actors, parents will never be bored and children will always find The Ant Bully exciting, and entertaining. 4 Stars Out of 5
Antwone Fisher
Antwone Fisher is powerful and inspirational, and is a really fine directorial debut for Denzel Washington. This is one you should see. It's is top ten for the year.
4 ½ Stars Out of 5
Anvil, the Story of Anvil - Ahimsa Films - Rated PG-13
Anvil, the Story of Anvil is the endearing, real story of Anvil, the band that influenced many heavy metal bands including Metalica. It has shades of Spinal Tap at times, but this is 100% real. It follows the band through their highs and lows…their mundane day jobs, and their tour of Europe - fraught with trouble and ultimately for no pay, and then they finally catch a break: This film! With it, the band is finally getting their due. Even if you have never heard of Anvil, and don't like heavy metal music, you'll like this movie. Anvil Rocks! 4 Stars Out of 5
Anything Else
Anything Else is funnier than the last several Woody Allen movies. . This movie really has the same old ingredients as any other Woody Allen movie but with Jason Biggs as Woody this time…who is irritating as he does his own bad impersonation of Woody Allen. Christina Ricci is the best part of this movie…
2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Apocalypto
Say what you will about Mel Gibson. He is a brilliant filmmaker. Apocalypto is visceral, non-stop, pulse pounding excitement. Some may be put off by the subtitles, but they needn't be. It works on every level and is astounding. All I could say at the end of the movie was "Wow!" This is one of the best films of the year. 5 Stars Out of 5
Appaloosa - Warner Brothers - Rated R
Appaloosa, directed by star Ed Harris is kind of hard to figure out. Is this a comedy? Is it a traditional western? Well, dry humor abounds. And it is not a traditional western. But it has great performances from Harris and Viggo Mortensen and a script that keeps you mostly involved. 3 Stars Out of 5
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a sweet and fun film aimed at the tween and younger teen girl audience. Friendship is the main theme here, with a healthy dose of comedy thrown in. It borders at times on being too sweet, but for the most part, Aquamarine is delightful. 3 Stars Out of 5
Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film For Theaters
I had never seen Aqua Teen Hunger Force the TV show, so I wasn't prepared for the bizarre sophomoric humor - if you can call it that, of the movie. The main characters are talking food. The only time my food has ever talked to me was at times I want to forget. There were a few laughs at first, but this quickly degraded into something I can only call poorly animated fast food with a staph infection. Pass the antacid and skip it! 2 Stars Out of 5
Are We Done Yet?
Are We Done Yet? is not quite as obnoxious as the first, but I still kept reciting the title to myself while secretly wanting to gouge my eyes out with a fork to make this atrocious dreck stop. It was 88 minutes of pure mind numbing torture. Please, can we be done forever? 1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Are We There Yet?
Are We There Yet? stinks worse than the back seat of a station wagon with no air conditioning after a three week summer road trip with two kids, two dogs, and some rotting fruit in the seat. It is kind of a cross between "Home Alone," "Road Trip," and "Johnson Family Vacation." At least those movies all had likeable characters. I never liked anyone in this movie. But I especially hated the two obnoxious brats playing the kids. How the main character can start to like them after all they do to him (in a sappy stupid ending) is one of the great mysteries of cinema - right after "why did they make this?" and, "who thought this was funny?"
1 Star Out of 5
The Aristocrats
The Aristocrats is the kind of movie that might be better enjoyed after it comes out on DVD. It is a one joke documentary. One filthy joke told by numerous comedians in many different ways. But most of them are so grotesquely vulgar that, while funny, they are embarrassing to laugh at in public. This is definitely not for anyone with prudish sensibilities, but just between you and me, it's really funny! 4 Stars Out of 5
Armored - Screen Gems - Rated PG-13
Armored is a predictable, by-the-numbers potboiler action flick that resembles many other movies. There's nothing really all that memorable here except for a star making turn from Columbus Short, who turns in a performance that is far better than the movie he is in. Lawrence Fishburne, Matt Dillon and the rest of the cast are clearly in this only for the paycheck, but this movie won't send anyone laughing to the bank. 2 ½ Stars Out of 5
Around The Bend
Michael Caine and Christopher Walken are pitch perfect in their performances in Around the Bend. The story is funny, moving, and entertaining. The ending leaves a little bit to be desired, as things wrap up too fast and are not the knock-out punch I wanted.
4 Stars Out of 5
Around the World In 80 Days
Around the World In 80 Days is told in an overblown comic book style that does not serve the story well at all. "Tedious" might be a good word to describe most of this film. Check your brain at the door, because historical inaccuracies abound. The cast manages to do multiple things that just couldn't be done in the late 1880's. Jackie Chan's martial arts sequence in the middle of the film elevates the fun quotient a little but then this degrades once again into a snoozer.
2 Stars Out of 5
The Art of the Steal - IFC Films - Not Rated
The documentary The Art of the Steal is decidedly one sided but nonetheless convincing. It deals with modernist paintings by Cézanne, Picasso, Van Gogh and others collected by Dr. Albert Barnes and now valued at more than $25 billion dollars. He specifically spelled out in his will that his paintings could never be loaned, sold or otherwise removed from the building he built to house them. In the years since his death, his will has been shredded and his collection is being moved. This movie exposes the shocking and disturbing corruption in Philadelphia and begs for someone to cry "foul." 4 Stars Out of 5
Art School Confidential
Art School Confidential is wickedly funny, and loaded with satire. I really liked the writing, along with some great performances from John Malkovich and Jim Broadbent, who is especially terrific. This is a dark, funny film that made me laugh a lot. 4½ Stars Out of 5
Arthur and the Invisibles
Part live action and part very bad, cheap looking computer animation, Arthur and the Invisibles didn't hold the attention of any of the kids in the theater where I saw it. It's too talkie, and disconnected. If you want to take your kids to a movie, skip this one…2 Stars Out of 5
Assault on Precinct 13
Assault on Precinct 13 is a slight twist on the old western where the Sheriff's Office is under siege and everyone is surrounded. The film has a bold in your face feel, and things keep moving so fast that we never have time to ask how this could be possible. That's a good thing, because it's not terribly believable. It's entertaining, but check your brain at the door.
3 Stars Out of 5
Astro Boy - Sony - Rated PG
Astro Boy is the big screen version of the Japanese anime classic. This is pleasant, and fun at times, but takes the anime out of it. The big name talent is, for the most part, a waste, as Nicolas Cage doesn't really lend anything to the character he voices, and neither does anyone else. There's not much here for adults aside from the occasional pop culture reference, but most kids should enjoy the action. 3 Stars Out of 5
The Astronaut Farmer
The Astronaut Farmer is about dreams. Billy Bob Thornton is as always, excellent in his performance as a man with big dreams of going into space. The movie is a bit on the corny side, but for the most part is an audience pleaser. 3 Stars Out of 5
ATL
Horrible acting, worse story and with too many characters to keep track of, ATL has been made before…and better. It was called "Roll Bounce." And I only gave that 2 Stars…1 ½ Stars Out of 5
Atonement - Focus Features - Rated R
Atonement is not a great movie, but it is a very good one. It is for the most part, well acted, but ultimately fails to make as much of an emotional connection as it should. Kiera Knightley and James McAvoy don't have much chemistry, and Miss Knightley's acting strains somewhat in the more taxing scenes. While the ending is satisfying, the journey to get there isn't quite so much. 3 ½ Stars Out of 5
August Rush - Warner Brothers - Rated PG
Sap runs from August Rush in buckets. The film worships at music's altar but fails to make any emotional connection, instead using ridiculous plot points stolen from Charles Dickens. It's an unbelievable and at times, downright silly film and the farthest thing from a rush. 2 Stars Out of 5
Austin Powers in Goldmember
You'll laugh until you hurt...I did...Austin fans will not be disappointed! This has very little plot, but that doesn't matter at all. If I told you too much about this one, I'd spoil the fun. Don't be late, and don't leave early...there are plenty of laughs from start to finish. Mike Myers is an absolute comic genius. And once again, he brilliantly shines in this hilarious laugh-fest!
4 ½ Stars Out of 5
Australia - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
Baz Luhrman's Australia is giant, gaudy, cartoony, uneven and ludicrous. It wants to be every movie ever made! Is it a western? Yes! A war movie? Yes! A romance? Yes! A drama? Yes! A comedy? Yes! A commentary on racism? Yes! A magical epic adventure? Yes! It's like a giant soup made of whatever the heck you had in the kitchen and then some stuff from the garage too - and also from the neighbor's compost pile. The meandering story changes along with the tone and style until the silly and overblown final act. The one highlight was newcomer kid Brandon Walters, but Nicole Kidman's unwrinkled and unmovable forehead stole every scene. 2 Stars Out of 5
Autofocus
Autofocus isn't for everyone. It explores the dark side of temptation as it tells the story of Hogan's Heroes star Bob Crane. Greg Kinnear and Willem Dafoe both deliver Oscar worthy performances, and at times, Kinnear looks so much like Bob Crane it is eerie. This is a powerful, disturbing study in self-destruction. It is very hard to watch, and is a brilliant film, but I didn't quite know what to think as I left the theater. Did I want to go home and hug my kids, or just wash my hands...
4 stars Out of 5
Avatar - 20th Century Fox - Rated PG-13
There aren't enough words to tell you how much I loved Avatar! I was absolutely enthralled with it from the beginning to the end. James Cameron has crafted a film that is completely original, stunning, thrilling and completely and utterly spectacular! There are things in this movie you've never experienced before! With groundbreaking effects, a terrific story, and an awesome cast, it is the best movie of 2009! 5 Stars Out of 5
Awake - MGM - Rated R
Awake features twin acting titans Hayden Christensen and Jessica Alba in an acting Tour de Force…and if you believe that, I want to sell you a bridge in San Francisco. They are pretty people with no chemistry and the acting ability of a box of hair. The usually great Terrence Howard knows he's in a stinker and it shows. This has a ridiculous plot with a silly twist that at 78 minutes still feels way too long. A brief scene involving a wet T shirt in a bathtub provide the film's only passing interest. Awake…skip it and catch up on some sleep instead. 2 Stars Out of 5
Away From Her
Away From Her is an adult handling of a difficult subject - a spouse with early onset Alzheimer's. Agonizing and lovely, heartbreaking and inspirational, tragic and beautiful, it is a film that sticks with you. It'll make you pause to appreciate those you love. 4 Stars Out of 5
Away We Go - Focus Features - Rated R
Away We Go, is a delightful road trip movie with a twist. Maya Rudolph and John Krasinski are wonderful as an expectant couple in search of a place to raise their child. The rest of the cast amount to cameos but all are very good. Maggie Gyllenhall is a hilarious standout as a new age mom afraid to put her kids in a stroller. This is a funny, heartwarming, terrific little movie. 4 ½ Stars Out of 5
