Wonderfalls (Season 1)

Another quirky gem by mastermind Bryan Fuller axed by the studio too soon. Wonderfalls, like Dead Like Me before it and Pushing Daisies after, is bright, colorful, whimsy, and fun. Jaye (Caroline Dhavernas) can hear animals talk, but only when they're inanimate objects. So toys, drawings, sculptures - anything that looks like an animal and has a face. Exactly the kind of thing Fuller does best. And while the novelty may lie with Jaye and her bossy animal pals, the real reason Wonderfalls works is because of its supporting cast. Lee Pace, who would later star in Fuller's Pushing Daisies, along with Katie Finneran, Tracie Thoms, William Sadler, and Tyron Leitso are all wonderful in their roles. The scripts balance episode plot lines and season story arcs well, if only for the thirteen episodes that were made. It would have been nice to see where Fuller and crew took Jaye, maybe finding a reason for her "gift", but alas, good television is not always meant to last. A worthy addition to Fuller's other work, though too bad the man can't keep a show on the air longer than two seasons (damn studios). Maybe one day.

Genre - Comedy (3.5)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

How I Met Your Mother (Season 1)

Give this underrated sitcom a chance. After watching but a few episodes of Ted, Marshall, Barney, Lily, and Robin interact with each other you'll be hooked. They are a close-knit group of friends, and damn them if they aren't charming. Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) and Marshall (Jason Segel) are the scene stealing duo of the show. Ted may be the one searching for the future mother of his children, but those two take all the attention when on screen. The show is consistently hilarious throughout its first season, and the writing is so cleverly intertwined. When television has no Seinfeld, or Arrested Development, How I Met Your Mother is the perfect replacement. If only it had no laugh track, the show would be a flawless work of art (it isn't really that big a deal, just a pet peeve).

Genre - Comedy (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

Van Helsing

You know that feeling after a heavy night of drinking, right before you're going to throw up? I now dub that the Van Helsing feeling. When you feel so terrible, you just want to vomit. After sitting through Stephen Sommers Van Helsing, that is how I felt. There is nothing redeeming about this film. It is slow, sluggish, and filled with way too much bad CGI. Think I Am Legend, but far worse. For an action film, Van Helsing barely qualifies. How far-fetched, ludicrous, and boring can a movie with Dracula, the Wolfman, and Frankenstein's monster get? Essentially, the "story" features Van Helsing (Hugh Jackman) tracking down the classic movie monsters, while simultaneously romancing Kate Beckinsale. But the film barely makes sense, and the characters are all so dull it is hard them watch them without groaning. Frankenstein's monster is whiny, Dracula is laughable, and the heroes forgettable. The Wolfman is the only likable character, because as an all CG character he never speaks and hides in the shadows for most of the film. As you may have gleaned, I very much dislike Van Helsing and only encourage viewing it when treating it as a Mystery Science Theater affair. God, even writing this makes me want to Van Helsing. I don't know if I can keep it down.

Genre - Action (1.25)

Screenplay (1)
Acting (2)
Production (1)
Directing (1)

Oldboy

It all starts with an idea. Trap a man in a room for 15 years, and see what happens once he is let loose. With only 5 days to uncover the truth, is it revenge, or freedom, that will drive him? That is what Oh Dae-su must decide in Oldboy. This Korean import is a stunning film to watch, not only for its intriguing story, but for the way it is told. The audience follows Oh Dae-su through his years in captivity, and the subsequent days in pursuit of vengeance. Chan-wook Park is a visionary director and his work on Oldboy is nothing short of breathtaking. One particular scene finds Oh Dae-su fighting a mob of men, armed only with a hammer, in the narrow confines of a hallway. All done in one shot, it is unlike any action scene you'll likely see, especially in American films. And the mystery, the reason why Oh Dae-su was locked away for so long, is masterfully woven throughout the script. Give Oldboy a chance to surprise you. It will.

Genre - Mystery/Action (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button

There is something about Brad Pitt. He is the reason to see a movie, an actor who takes his work seriously, someone you enjoy watching perform. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is further proof. It is a love story full of emotion, tracking the life of one Benjamin Button (Pitt), a man who ages in reverse. At birth, Benjamin appears an old man in the body of a baby, but as the years pass he grows into a progressively younger looking body. Curious Case is about how Benjamin effects the lives of those he meets, and the effects those people have on him. David Fincher directs a beautiful film, from a great script by Eric Roth. This is a perfect example of expanding a short story (from F. Scott Fitzgerald) into an amazing film. But at its heart, Curious Case is a love story, one that spans generations, and like all great romantic tales it is powerfully sad. Running nearly three hours, the film focus in depth on Benjamin and his love Daisy (Cate Blanchett), but never drags. And after it's all over, Curious Case will stay with you, grow on you, until it is hard to shake the feeling it left with you.

Genre - Drama (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (3)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Hard Candy

Before David Slade sent a horde of vampires to Alaska in 30 Days of Night, he offered us a little Hard Candy. This cautionary tale pits teen against pedophile, in a quest of vigilante justice. Hayley (Ellen Page) is out to stop Jeff (Patrick Wilson), a 32-year old man she believes to have a penchant for young teen girls. At first glance, Hayley seems to be just one of those youngsters, but the tables quickly turn on Jeff, and for the worst. The is a compact thriller, mostly based on the interactions of Page and Wilson as she interrogates him in his home. Both roles are perfectly cast, and Page shows strong acting skills long before her Juno days. The film is intense, but not violent or crude. And the pursuit of justice in the headstrong teen is something you'll toil with; is she doing something right or wrong in all this? One particular scene will have men cringing, and I dare anyone to watch it without groaning (either out loud or in your head). Try Hard Candy and get lost in the twists and turns of it all.

Genre - Thriller (3.25)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

The Squid And The Whale

Subtly hilarious. That is probably the best way to describe Noah Baumbach's The Squid and the Whale. Which means many won't understand the humor and file the film under the heading "weird". Weird seems to be the designation most offbeat comedies (or dramas or dramadies) get, though it is a senseless label. But that is not the point. The point is Squid is touching, despite the callous, rude way the family members interact with one another. With divorce so widespread these days, The Squid and the Whale will likely have just as many people connecting with it as those who dismiss it. Jeff Daniels shines, mostly due to the script, but his mannerisms onscreen sell the character the best. And speaking of the script, Baumbach, who wrote and directed, based this partially on his life as a child growing up with divorced parents, adding realism to the sometimes wacky actions of the characters. All this inevitably leads to the films ending, which is perfect once you understand it. At first, it may seem jarring, with the end coming out of nowhere, but there is meaning behind it. That meaning wraps the film up nicely if you just give it a chance.

Genre - Drama (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

Shoot 'Em Up

Another fine example of pure action. Shoot 'Em Up, starring Clive Owen and a baby, is non-stop in its pursuit of gun play and mayhem, just for the sake of it. Like Crank, this film starts with a bang and doesn't let up until everyone is dead. The only story present is the one that allows the most shooting and fighting, and dialogue is used only to bridge action scenes. And that is the most important aspect of Shoot 'Em Up, and in those moments it is flawless. Paul Giamatti's villain is fun, but serves no other purpose than to give Owen's Mr. Smith a reason to run and fight. There are slower moments, when the story starts to get in the way, but those incidents are few and far between. The films best point comes during the sex scene shootout. Dozens of men are felled while Smith simutaneously shoots and gives it to the lactating prostitute (Monica Bellucci). Plus, carrots are used as a weapon throughout the film, and that is a spectacle in itself.

Genre - Action (2.75)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (2)

The Devil's Rejects

Sadistic. Hateful. Sinister. Wicked. All these might define The Devil's Rejects, and that is exactly what it aims for. Whereas its predecessor House of 1000 Corpses was a campy horror flick, Rejects follows a much more gruesome path, reminiscent of 70s style horror. Serious, but not without its twisted idea of fun. The story features a family clan of murdering rapist hillbillies, all of whom enjoy what they do, running from the police. They kill along the way, torture an innocent family, and engage in other similar acts you'd rather not see, but would never turn away from watching. Rob Zombie, the writer/director, succeeds here where he failed in Corpses. This is his unrelenting vision of terror, and terrifying it is. But Rejects is not about the script, the acting, or the directing. It is about mood and trying to make the audience feel something (i.e. uneasy), which is what it does and what most movies fail to achieve. A great watch for true horror fans.

Genre - Horror (2.75)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (2)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Grindhouse

Two films for the price of one. Robert Rodriguez's Planet Terror and Quentin Tarantino's Death Proof. For my money, both are quality films of two separate genres. Planet Terror is a masterfully executed B-movie that had every intention of being one. It's campy, dumb, bloody, and complete with purposefully grainy film. That is part of the Grindhouse experience. Death Proof, on the other hand, has the look and feel of a B-movie car-chase/murder/revenge/girl-power, but is actually too well made to actually be one. But that's okay, because the different tones of the two films, and the wonderfully made fake trailers that bridge them, makes for one of the most entertaining experiences ever put to film. The theater is the best place to enjoy Grindhouse, but at home works just fine. Both Rodriguez and Tarantino have constructed a timeless, underrated masterpiece. Keep an eye out for the seven minute, uncut table scene in Death Proof, and Eli Roth's fake trailer for Thanksgiving.

Genre - Horror & Thriller/Action (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4) Highlights: Kurt Russell as Stuntman Mike
Production (4)
Directing (3)

Zodiac

Whoa. David Fincher blew me away with this one. Maybe because Zodiac served as my introduction to the infamous serial killer, or maybe because Fincher knows how to direct the hell out of a movie, but I was engrossed in every lush detail of the film. The script spans the length of the Zodiac killer investigation, and follows the twists and turns young journalist Robert Graysmith faces while police hunt the elusive Zodiac. Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal), while working as a cartoonist for the San Francisco Chronicle during the 70s, becomes obsessed with discovering the true identity of the Zodiac, and as a result, so does the audience. His intent is to write a book of the events, and we want him to, if only to see more. The film is dark, and the accounts of the actual crimes are grizzly, that is what makes it so compelling to watch. While it does exceed 2 1/2 hours, the film never becomes boring or overstays its welcome. Robert Downey Jr. costars, and puts in a great performance as always. Zodiac should get your blood pumping, and if you're like me, you'll research the investigation the moment you finish the film.

Genre - Thriller (3.5)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

Mad Men (Season 1)

Here is a show that is consistent from start to finish. Subtly cool, and often sleazy in doing so, Mad Men is a mind blowing dramatic series from AMC. Don Draper (Jon Hamm) leads a young team of advertisers keen to drink, smoke and get laid, mostly while on the job. Set in the 1960s, and located on Madison Avenue in New York City, Mad Men imitates the look and feel of the decade to a T. The sets, costumes, props all seem to have been taken straight from the 60s and placed in this period drama. Mathew Weiner has created a dark, gritty primetime series and his crack writing team continues to up the ante without taking shortcuts or falling prey to the usual cliches that tend to plague Hollywood. The characters are interesting, the words they speak are interesting, and their world is interesting. Some may not understand the shows buzz and critical acclaim right away, but it will only take a few episodes to get hooked. It's not too late to start.

Genre - Drama (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (3)

Man Of The Year

Could this comedy get any less funny? Could this thriller be any less thrilling? Drama less dramatic? For Man of the Year, the answer is no, because it fails to achieve even the most base of these cinematic platforms. The wannabe comedy/drama/political-thriller gets nary a single genre right, leaving behind an empty, boring film. Robin Williams, who has his issues as an actor to begin with, does his character no favors by acting like himself (much like Jim Carrey). The script is unintentionally hilarious when in full thriller mode, and slow and monotonous when attempting to be funny. Barry Levinson, the writer/director, has known success in the past (Rain Man), but Man of the Year will not be one he is remembered highly for. Don't waste your time with this junk; instead, watch The Colbert Report clips of Stephen Colbert running for president early in 2008. You will get more laughs, and find yourself more thrilled, then at any moment during Man of the Year. An absolute travesty.

Genre - Comedy/Drama/Thriller (1.75)

Screenplay (1)
Acting (2)
Production (2)
Directing (2)

The Proposition

For my money, the finest Australian western around. Not that there is much competition, but still. The Proposition, written by musician Nick Cave and directed by John Hillcoat, is set in the Australian outback of the 1880s. It is violent, beautiful, and quiet. By quiet, I mean tempers rarely flare, as outlaws and lawmen aim to kill one another in an almost civilized way. That is police Captain Stanley's (Ray Winstone) intention, to make the land civilized. But between stunning shots of the outback are stark scenes of violence, though only in the beginning are they traditional shootouts. The violence of The Proposition is up close and personal, and typically revolves around vengeance or for the furthering of a characters interests. The film is dark and brooding, but the story is about one brother (Guy Pearce) trying to kill another (Danny Huston). Cave's score fits perfectly with the overall tone of the film. A good watch regardless of your opinion on westerns.

Genre - Western (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (3)

The Station Agent

The Station Agent is a quiet, thoughtful, funny film by Thomas McCarthy. This was his first writing/directing effort, and he pulls it off without a hitch. Fin (Peter Dinklage) is a dwarf who moves to the New Jersey countryside when his only friend dies. There, at the old train depot he inherits, Fin meets and befriends two of the townspeople, despite his best efforts not to. McCarthy's script never becomes too sappy, and he injects as much humor as he can to keep the film lighthearted and fresh. While Fin falls on hard times, as do his taller friends, the group holds strong even in the worst of times. The Station Agent follows these three loners as they bond, and shows just how important a strong foundation of friends is. It also dismisses the whole notion of prejudice, especially for Fin and his dwarfism. But lets not get too sappy ourselves. Bobby Cannavale is hilarious as Joe, Fin's first friend in New Jersey, and Patricia Clarkson balances the humor and moodiness of the other two. It is a thoroughly enjoyable film, and will stay with you long after watching it.

Genre - Comedy (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

Teeth

This could easily be every males worst nightmare. And if it isn't, then it damn well better be after you watch Teeth. What is it about? Forget the plot, two simple words can describe this horror/comedy: Vagina Dentata. Or, in layman's terms, the toothed vagina. Suffice it to say, Dawn has that exact (fictional) anatomical mutation and, of course, it bites certain male sexual organs that are not meant for biting. It will make men groan and clutch themselves, while women might get a little kick out of it all. The script is slow building in the first half, and rushes through the second, but the point of the film is not to be profoundly deep, but fun. Every character, save Dawn, is flat, but that fits perfectly with the commentary the film wants to make, which isn't much. They all play their parts well and without unnecessary complexity. And let us hope this myth stays as such, because an actual mutation of this sort would be absolutely terrifying.

Genre - Comedy/Horror (2.75)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (2)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Bad Santa

Now this is a Christmas film. From beginning to end, Bad Santa is consistently funny. And this is coming from a person who is usually unimpressed with Billy Bob Thornton. He just isn't that good and neither are his movies. Except here he shines, as if the role were meant for him. He can do slimy asshole better than most, and you'll love to hate him in Bad Santa. But the real star is the Kid (Brett Kelly). Stunning work. If I didn't know better (and I don't), I would assume Kelly was actually mentally handicapped. He just plays it so convincingly. The chemistry between Kelly and Thornton is perfect, and ties perfectly with the Bad Santa's black humor. What I wouldn't give for a wooden pickle or a fraggle stick car. The script doesn't pull any punches, and while the story does meander a bit, the focus of the film remains on Thornton's Santa and his mean-spirited antics. This is a film that belongs on repeat viewings for the Christmas season.

Genre - Comedy (3.25)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Them

Think The Strangers, but more high concept (and French). Whereas the U.S. home invasion thriller confined the terrified couple to their isolated home, Them finds its couple running through woods and crawling about sewer systems as they are chased about by devious trespassers. The bigger scope of Them is its greatest downfall, as there are too many stupid mistakes made by the couple to maintain the realism, and chills, established when they were confined in their home. How can you not more effectively hide in the huge expanse of a forest? The film is supposedly based on true events, and when you learn who was responsible for the attacks, it makes it all the more creepy. Them had potential, but the script is too loose, and clever direction lacking, that it lessened the overall impact. But it is still a taut thriller, and has a couple of good scares. Other films have done it better, The Strangers being one of them, but it a worthy and watchable effort. Just don't raise your hopes too high.

Genre - Horror (2.5)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (2)
Production (3)
Directing (2)

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang proves Robert Downey Jr. is a force to be reckoned with. He absolutely owns this movie. And this comes long before his turn as Iron Man. His rebooted career is not likely to slow down now. Shane Black, the man who created Lethal Weapon and the modern action film, gives us the greatest noir/mystery/comedy you'll likely ever see. Val Kilmer, playing Gay Perry, a private eye who is keen on solving the murder the film revolves around, shines nearly as bright as Downey Jr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is self-aware, which is apparent when Downey Jr. narrates knowing he is narrating. He talks to the audience, asking them if they can solve the mystery before it is all revealed. But that is near impossible (at least in terms of specifics), and he knows it, so it is almost like he is mocking us. His character is a criminal after all. Keep an eye out for the hilarious scene featuring Harry trying to calculate the odds a single bullet would be fired from a six shooter. This is a funny flick, and you'll want to watch it more than once.

Genre - Mystery/Comedy (3.5)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Equilibrium

George Orwell constructed one of the most frightening novels of all time with 1984. It is intense, dramatic, chilling, relevant. I love it. It is one of few novels that have actually infuriated me, to the point I wanted to scream. We're getting screwed by the government, and doing nothing to stop it.

That is the basic premise of Equilibrium. It is 1984, except with less brains and more brawn. Now, this isn't a bad thing, just a fact. When you compare it to Orwell's novel, it pales in comparison and leaves you wanting. But when you view it as an action movie that borrows heavily from 1984, and is not an adaptation of, then you can relax and enjoy yourself. Christian Bale is wonderful as always and Taye Diggs looks like a bad ass. The action, specifically the gun play, is superb. Kurt Wimmer, the director and writer, has made an interesting film. But one wonders what would have happened with a stronger story, one that echoed the message of Orwell's 1984. I guess that is for speculation only. Turn your brain off for a couple hours and enjoy Equilibrium.

Genre - Action/Sci-Fi (2.5)

Screenplay (2)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (2)

Slumdog Millionaire

Walking into Slumdog Millionaire, I had no idea what to expect. I knew the basic outline of the story; it was set in India, had Who Wants to be A Millionaire, and was centered around love. There was good word-of-mouth, but that isn't always reliable. So how did it turn out?

Great. The way the film weaves in and out between present and past, connecting the dots to why Jamal, a poor "slumdog", was on the popular game show, was exciting to watch. It is for Latika, his true love, but we expected that. The audience is supposed to ask why is this is the best way of getting her attention. The two come in and out of each others lives, with fate always cruelly separating them until their next reunion. Plus, Jamal's brother Salim is kind of a prick. He often assists fate in separating Jamal and Lakita. And director Danny Boyle can add another entry to his ever expanding genre list: Love. Watching Slumdog, I was reminded at times of another great film, City of God. Not that Boyle necessarily meant this, but the connection existed for me. Slumdog is a very worthy film, and it is certain to receive all kinds of awards. It deserves it.

Genre - Drama/Romance (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (3)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Burn Notice (Season 1)

The show you should be watching, but probably aren't. Burn Notice is the most recent series to star Bruce Campbell, of Evil Dead trilogy fame, and despite that, it has not been canceled. Which is good, because he is excellent in it. But the lead role belongs to Jeffrey Donovan, who can work wonders with dry, witty characters. Just check him out in the short-lived series Touching Evil, if you can find it. Michael Westen (Donovan) is a spy who is burned, i.e. booted from the spy business, and must track down the person responsible. Why? Because he damn well can. Oh, yeah, he also helps people out, using his spy skills to solve their problems. Cool, I know. The episodes are funny and fresh, which mix well with the shows sunny Miami locale. So get out there, rent/buy the series, and hopefully you'll fall in love with it. I'm sure us fans would love to have you.

Genre - Action (3.5)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

Sunshine

Danny Boyle is a director that can do it all. He's done comedy (Trainspotting), horror (28 Days Later), even family (Millions). Now it's his turn for Sci-fi. Sunshine is hodgepodge of homage, with hints of Alien, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and other classics of the genre. The mission Sunshine's space crew is out to complete is almost unimportant. Restart the sun with nukes, blah, blah, blah. That is not what the movie is about. It is about the crew itself, dealing with isolation and having the worlds fate placed upon their shoulders. It's about who can hold themselves together longest, while facing the most challenging of obstacles. When does the greater good give way to human nature? That is what Sunshine asks, and does so mostly with grace. The last act is hurried and, at times, confusing. It works, in the end, but not as smoothly as one would like. Cillian Murphy, and even Chris Evans, carry the film. As humanities last hope, Murphy and Evans are there for the audience to root for. Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland have worked together before, and the combination seems to work well. I'm sure there will be more from the pair in the future.

Genre - Sci-Fi (3.5)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (3)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Garden State

Zach Braff has got it in him. Writer/director/actor. Not too shabby, especially when he does all three at once in Garden State. The Scrubs star showed the world he was capable of making a funny, sad, honest film. Braff's story is nothing new; a boy meets girl, they connect, argue and love each other. We've seen it before, but that isn't the point. It's in the how that makes this worth watching. The characters, played by Braff and Natalie Portman, are interesting and therefore intrigue the audience. We want to watch them grow and change. Their love gives us hope, and all without being too sappy. But it is also quietly funny. Choosing the straight-faced-no-emotion route, Garden State surprises with its humor. Did you just watch an insightful bit of character development or a joke? I'd like to see what else Braff has to offer, and hopefully he'll have another script to share with the world soon. Plus, he has good taste in music, so he can just go ahead and write the soundtrack into the script.

Genre - Comedy (3.25)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Pan's Labyrinth

Wow. Director Guillermo del Toro has made the film he will be remembered for. Pan's Labyrinth is something you will never forget; it is a movie that will stand the test of time. Like all great fairy tales, it will inspire as much as it will frighten. Pan's Labyrinth does just that. At times, the imagery onscreen is breathtaking. A magical world filled with wonder and color and curious creatures, all for the young girl, Ofelia, to enjoy. But it does have its scares. Not horror scares, but true scares. Captain Vidal (Sergi Lopez) is Ofelia's cruel stepfather, as well as evil incarnate. He kills without mercy, enjoying the slaughter for what it is. Death, at his hands. And then Pale Man, a skeletal creature with eyes in his palms and a hunger for the flesh of the young. Pan's Labyrinth is magical, and is a fairy tale that rivals even the darkest Grimm. Sure it is depressing, dark and violent, but no classic fairy tale is without those things. And despite the dour nature, Pan's celebrates life and innocence and good. It is a story for young and old alike, offering morals for everyone.

Genre - Fantasy (4)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

The Evil Dead

The first in the genre evolving trilogy featuring B-master Bruce Campbell. It is a classic, and for good reason. The story is simple; a cabin in the woods, teens, and evil spirits invading their bodies (blood and guts follow). Sam Raimi, the man behind the script and camera, started his film career with The Evil Dead and his work is impeccable. Impeccable for a cheesy horror movie made in the 80s that is. But while the acting is generally awful, save for Bruce Campbell's Ash, and the effects are cheap, the filming showcases the work of a future master. See The Evil Dead for its cult status, for the fun you'll have watching it, and, of course, for Campbell. It wont disappoint. Many modern horror movies owe their existence to The Evil Dead, but few live up to it.

Genre - Horror (3.5)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (3)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Timeline

Another book adaptation. Another terrible book adaptation. Michael Crichton, the master behind such works as Jurassic Park and Westworld (now that is a terribly fun movie), writes entertaining well. Timeline was one of those fun, medieval, time travel books that just worked. Quality stuff. But the movie, well... damn. No good at all. The script took liberties with the source material, which is excusable if it didn't result in such a crappy end. Paul Walker, bless his heart, just can't act. And the whole vision and scope of the novel was brutalized. I love the medieval subject, and when it is done right on film, it can be great. Timeline is not one of those, and I pity the fool who has to sit through the entire thing. Or the fool who loves the movie. If such a person exists.

Genre - Action (1.75)

Screenplay (1)
Acting (2)
Production (2)
Directing (2)

The Golden Compass

Neutered. Castrated is another, if not uglier, term. My point is The Golden Compass, based upon the novel by Philip Pullman, removed the most bold, cutting material of the book in favor of families delicate sensibilities. The novel, and the series it begins, was biting in its criticism of organized religion. Sure, the novel received its fair share of controversy, but it is a widely loved, celebrated book for children and adults alike.

The film, however, snipped these parts away, glossing over possible controversy by hiding the religious undertones and giving the evil organization seemingly run, in part, by the ice cold Mrs. Coulter (Nicole Kidman) the same name, the Magisterium. And while this neutering made for an alienating viewing, and will ultimately lead to a sequel-less future, The Golden Compass is not terrible. The acting by Kidman, Daniel Craig, and the young Dakota Blue Richards is stellar. The film also looks good, with top quality graphics and sets. The only downfall is the play-it-safe script. Maybe a remake will right the wrongs of this version. Only time will tell.

Genre - Fantasy (2.5)

Screenplay (2)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (2)

Wall-E

Epic. How else can you describe Wall-E? As an animated movie, it is perfect. Now, most expect nothing short of great with Pixar films, but Wall-E exceeds all that proceeded it. Actually, I have it tied with The Incredibles, but that is neither here nor there. As a film apart from animated, it's just as perfect.

The best part about Pixar's lovable robot flick: Wall-E is just so damn cute. That's right, cute. You can't define him as anything but. The key to success here is the ability to connect with adults and kids. In fact, I think adults will enjoy Wall-E more than children. I've yet to meet the little snot with more enthusiasm for titular garbage collector. The script, by director Andrew Stanton, is most brilliant in the first act. As Wall-E tries to court Eve, the i-Pod looking female robot, the film turns suddenly romantic. It was before, in watching Wall-E innocently interact with the world humans so long ago took for granted, but nothing matches the love he shows for Eve. Sure, lots of praise for Wall-E, but it is hard to find anything wrong with the film, so I wont bother looking. If you don't enjoy this film, I question whether you have a beating heart.

It also goes without saying, the animation is stunning. Pixar, duh.

Genre - Animation/Sci-Fi (4)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Cool Hand Luke

Luke (Paul Newman), of the cool hand persuasion, is one of the coolest characters the cinema has ever had the pleasure of knowing. He screams cool, even when he does nothing. His actions, inflections, and demeanor all radiate cool. I know it seems like the praise is getting out of hand, but I assure you it isn't. Cool Hand Luke may be 41-years-old, but you wouldn't guess it watching it. The script is a work of art, and Stuart Rosenberg's direction is perfect. When watching the Captain (Strother Martin) berate Luke, you can understand why this is a classic. "What he got here is a failure to communicate." This may be Newman's defining role, more so than The Sting or Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, but that could be my blind bias. And anyone who can eat 50 hardboiled eggs in one sitting is a champion in my eyes. This is one not to miss.

Genre - Drama (4)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Heroes (Season 2)

Sophomore slump is too gentle a term to define the atrocious second season of Heroes. After writing genius Bryan Fuller left the show after the first season to create the magical series Pushing Daisies, the show seemed to suffer from a case of the shits. Everything that made the first season special was gone. Storylines became too bogged down, characters too pathetic. A real letdown. The writing staff must take the majority of the blame, because they ceased being able to craft worthy stories, and made me quit caring about the super-human characters they created. On the surface, Heroes looks fine. But no matter how good that crisp, clean, HD picture is, a crappy story is still a crappy story. Fans are still waiting for a return to form. Let's hope Fuller rejoining the writing team will solve the problems that pale the show. That is a hefty burden we place on your shoulders, Mr. Fuller. Good luck.

Genre - Sci-Fi/Drama (1.75)

Screenplay (1)
Acting (2)
Production (2)
Directing (2)

Religulous

A documentary. By Bill Maher. About religion. Can it get any more exciting than this? Not for this reviewer.

Religulous is an examination of the worlds religions, but instead of being boring and pandering to the religious zealots, Maher challenges peoples faiths - right to their faces. Some may call it crude, some heresy, while some may issue a fatwa against him for opening his big mouth. But it is about time we question the religions that govern so many minds across the globe. Maher isn't aiming to avoid bias, he wants you to defend your beliefs against the real world you live in. When everything we do is based on facts and evidence, yet decisions are made based on religions created thousands (or decades) of years ago. Some will be offended, some enlightened, but everyone will take something from it. Maher hopes that something is reason, and this is where is argument his strongest. Reason is the tool we use everyday to survive, so why bother holding on to archaic beliefs that no longer stand up against scientific evidence? Wars are fought under the guise of religiosity, and the fate of the planet is in the hands of the most radical believers. Can we change? Bill would like to believe so.

Genre - Documentary (3)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (-)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Transsiberian

Occasionally, there are times during a film where you can pinpoint the minute things start backsliding. In Transsiberian, that moment comes during the final act. The first two-thirds of the film is tight and well-written. You feel the undertones of a thriller, bubbling just below the surface. Woody Harrelson and Emily Mortimer are a married couple traveling across Russia by train. When a mysterious couple joins them, things get weird for the two Americans. Drugs, cops, and mistaken identities top the list of problems. Director/writer Brad Anderson brilliantly photographs the snow covered country side the couple travels through, and he is strongest when building tension. But once the tension snaps, and the young couple are running for their lives, and smashing trains against into trains, it gets to be a bit much. The ending is far too happy, considering the forces the couple were up against. Overall, its a worthy watch, but don't expect the film to end on the same high note it began on.

Genre - Thriller (3)

Screenplay (2)
Acting (3)
Production (4)
Directing (3)

Rachel Getting Married

Rachel Getting Married is a movie you can't judge by its cover. The titular Rachel emphasizes a female role, and she is getting married? Why bother with this sappy chick flick, you might ask yourself. Well, if you do, then you would be making a very silly mistake. This film is so much more.

Kym (Anne Hathaway) is a dysfunctional twenty-something who gets out of rehab for her sister's wedding. Family drama and chaos ensues. Jonathan Demme directs this dramatic indie, from a script, that mixes serious with the hilarious, by Jenny Lumet (the first she's written). Everyone is at the top of their game, and you really become invested with each character. The ones you like, you like. The obnoxious ones, well they annoy you. And some just irritate you, but damn it if that is not the way the real world is. Regardless of how you feel, you understand why these people act like they do, and you can respect them for it. Watch as the weekend unfolds, the wedding comes and goes, and people change, but not always for long. Hathaway will surely be a front-runner for Best Actress in the coming award season. And keep an eye out for musical band TV on the Radio's Tunde Adebimpe as the groom.

Genre - Drama (3.5)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Serenity

Poor Firefly, you will always be missed. Luckily, we have Serenity to comfort us. Poor Serenity sequels, you would have been missed if you ever existed.

Lets not get sidetracked, or lost in tears, or what-ifs like this. Serenity is Joss Whedon's film directorial debut. A god among television viewers (or at least those with good taste), Whedon has given the fans what they wanted. He gave us one last adventure with Captain Malcolm Reynolds and his misfit crew. I never thought I'd see Kaylee, or Jayne, or Wash, or Zoe, or Inara, or Simon, or River, or even Book again. Whew. But they were friends, or as much as fictional characters can be. This sci-fi space opera has the rag-tag crew travel the universe in order to undermine the intergalactic douchebags, the Alliance. Nathan Fillion, Alan Tudyk, Adam Baldwin, and Summer Glau all shine. It is to be advised that the best viewing comes after watching the Firefly series this film was based on. It was a short season, you can do it.

And may it be added, Chiwetel Ejiofor's the Operative is a fantastic villain. Also, keep an eye on the long shot that introduces us to the crew and ship.

Genre - Sci-Fi (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

Punch-Drunk Love

My favorite P.T. Anderson film. He is a director who will be remembered for films like Magnolia and There Will Be Blood, but this is the one I'll remember.

Without hesitation, I can say I rarely care for Adam Sandler in anything, but this was the role he was meant for. His Barry is so damned weird, he's lovable. The whole movie is a little off-the-wall, super-romantic you just smile watching it. And that's knowing about the phone hooker, the three blond brothers trying to steal Barry's money, and Philip Seymour Hoffman kicking ass as The Mattress Man. The first ten minutes will try your understanding, but once past them it is wonderful. Upon a second viewing, those ten minutes will be much more appreciated. But the one warning I have to give: if you expect another dumb Adam Sandler vehicle, be prepared to be disappointed.

Genre - Comedy (3.5)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)

Pushing Daisies (Season 1)

Let the world hear it: I am in love. This show has swept me off my feet, and it is the truest love I've known. Be this as it may, there are still complications in this relationship. Problems are unavoidable. Shit happens, as they say. That shit, well, was the writers strike. While I supported the WGA during their months long strike, it ended Pushing Daisies first season prematurely and as a result, probably led to its ultimate demise the following season. But lets not get hung-up on the hang-ups. Ned (Lee Pace), the pie maker with the ability to bring the dead back to life for sixty seconds, along with the rest of the cast, is phenomenal. Kristin Chenoweth, Chi McBride, and Anna Friel all. The colors and sets are so bright and attractive, it makes loving it so much easier. Bryan Fuller has created a whimsy masterpiece too good for television. Not shocking, I guess. Again, for those in the back: I am in love.

Genre - Comedy (4)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Chicago

Now here is a film I just can't seem to like, no matter how hard I try. To be fair, I haven't tried that hard, but Chicago simply is not my kind of film. It's a musical, hurdle one, and is just so over-the-top with little reason, hurdle two, that it hurts to watch. While the stage play might be great, this is a movie. If you want to see a play, go to the theater. I want a movie, so give me one. Be over-the-top, but don't lose control. And I may be in the minority with this one, but the characters played by Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones alienate me. Sing, but don't be so damn cold when you do it. Only John C. Reilly had me enjoying myself, but he is not in Chicago long enough for me to care. Maybe I'll try it again in a couple years, but this one is just not for me.

Genre - Musical (2)

Screenplay (2)
Acting (2)
Production (2)
Directing (2)

Plan 9 From Outer Space

Ugh... this movie is terrible. I know it has a cult classic status as tremendously terrible movie, but you can't respect that title until you sit through this mess. And not the Mystery Science Theater 3000 version, that would be cheating. Plan 9 From Outer Space needs to be watched on its own at least once, if you really want to appreciate how awful it is, which you do. Ed Wood's directing, and so-called script, seem to have no competency at all. I know this isn't surprising for some, but I know there are those out there who have been fortunate enough to avoid his name until now, but there you go. Ed Wood. Arguably (by who?) one of the worst filmmakers the world has ever seen. Nothing has been truer. While the hilarious MST3K version should be put aside for one viewing, it would be wrong to watch Plan 9 without 1, 2, 3... drinks in hand. If you don't drink, this movie will make you want to. Trust me, make a game of it.

Genre - Sci-Fi (1)

Screenplay (1)
Acting (1)
Production (1)
Directing (1)

Once

Once is one of few musicals (a term used loosely here) I can watch and enjoy. Something about breaking into song for no reason at all kills me. But Once is nothing like that. The singing serves a purpose, which is to tell a story about a strange love between two people. But it is more than the music, and that is saying a lot, because the music in Once is great. No, it is really just about the small, quiet script and directing by John Carney. It is almost as if you were watching a documentary, no, it is as if you were there watching the Guy (Glen Hansard) and Girl (Marketa Irglova) interact before your eyes. I went into this film with no expectations, or if anything, I went in expecting to be disappointed. Good god, was I wrong. The performances by Hansard and Irglova, who are both musical performers and wrote the songs, are amazing, they just melt into their roles.

Genre - Musical (4)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

Lost (Season 1)

The show that keeps on giving. But season 1 of Lost starts us off with a bang. Before you knew the mysteries, Ben, the flashbacks, the endless questions, there was the pilot. It introduced us to the island bound castaways, struggling to live after their plane crashes. You haven't seen anything like Lost before (shut up about Gilligan's Island), both in front and behind the screen. From episode 1 to its jaw-dropping season finale, Lost grabs hold and doesn't let go. Watch as Jack, Locke, Sawyer, and Kate battle outside forces (monster?) and those within their ranks. J.J. Abrams has created one of the best shows television has ever seen. Lets just hope it ends as well as it began.

Genre - Drama (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (3)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

30 Days Of Night

Josh Hartnett battling vampires? No, it's not as bad as it sounds. In fact, on a visual basis, this is top notch. 30 Days of Night director David Slade knows how to make things look cool. He made pedophiles and teenage vigilantes look great in Hard Candy, and he's done it again, only this time with vampires, snow, and blood. Based on the popular graphic novel, a highly stylized one at that, the script loads with filler when the source material runs out. The cast does what it can, but they are nothing special. It is Slade, and the brutal, animalistic vampires, that will stick with you. Keep an eye out for the stunning aerial shot when the town is first attacked. Bloody and bloody good looking. "God. No God."

Genre - Horror (2.75)

Screenplay (2)
Acting (2)
Production (4)
Directing (3)

Milk

So soon after California flubbed Proposition 8 comes Milk. Harvey Milk (Sean Penn) is the films protagonist, based on the real Harvey Milk who ran for city supervisor in San Fransisco multiple times during the 70s. While biopics on "important" figures of history often over-sell themselves on their, well, important features (I'm looking at you A Beautiful Mind), Milk does not. Sure, Milk was an advocate, a fighter, a champion for gay rights, but he also has problems. He does not always win, he lives with men who are mentally disturbed, or actually just one, but you get it. Either way, Harvey Milk did what he did and did it well. Director Gus Van Sant shoots up close and personal, right up to the brutal assassination of Milk himself, but his work is impeccable. A worthy tribute to Milk and his causes, still being fought for today.

Genre - Biopic/Drama (3.25)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Wedding Crashers

Along with The 40-Year-Old Virgin, the Owen Wilson/Vince Vaughn comedy Wedding Crashers brought back the R-rated laugh riots we've desperately been missing. The title is self-explanatory, with Wilson and Vaughn crashing weddings to get laid. No problem with that. Vaughn is great in every scene, stealing it from whoever shares the screen with him. He is like Will Ferrel in this aspect, but funnier and more consistent (with his humor, not film choices. *Shudder*). It has everything you want from a comedy: laughs, babes, boobs, and heart. Heart? Yeah, that's right. And it pulls it off quite well, but the movie does stretch a bit long in doing so.

Oh, and Rachel McAdams is hot. I had to say it. But, oddly, so is Christopher Walken. You know, in that creepy, but exciting way.

Genre - Comedy (3.25)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Freaks

"One of us. One of us." Either you side with the titular freaks or suffer the consequences. That seems to be the message of Freaks, or maybe it is simply about being kind to those who are different. Either way, I'll side with the freaks, because they can kick ass. This 1932 cult classic, classified a horror film, but it is everything but. Save for the final 5 minutes, you would have a tragic love story of a freak who fell for a "normal" woman (normal meaning without disability. But she is still quite the bitch). When the film switches genres, it first transforms into murder/revenge flick, pitching two normals against a circus full of freaks. Tod Browning does a decent job behind the camera and the freaks are great. See it for its cult status, but don't get your hopes up for a horror movie. Or a spectacular one.

Genre - Romance/Horror (2.25)

Screenplay (2)
Acting (2)
Production (2)
Directing (3)

Quantum Of Solace

James Bond. Spy, lover, drinker, killer. Who wouldn't want to be him? Well, maybe not Daniel Craig's Bond, who is constantly beaten up, angry, brooding, drinking, and killing. So some admirable traits, but not the happiest guy. In Quantum of Solace, Bond is picking up where 2006 Casino Royale left off, and he is furious. Though the film looks great, and the performances by Craig and Dame Judi Dench are solid, the script pales in comparison to the previous Bond effort, and new-on-the-action-scene director Marc Forster has many a thing to learn when directing action scenes. He is a drama guy, not an action guy, but I'm sure he can grow into one. In the end, this Bond flick was missing somthing, though what I can't exactly pin down. I hope the next film furthers the story, but smooths out the wrinkles. Still a worthy watch.

Genre - Action (3)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (3)

Let The Right One In

Where to begin? Let The Right One In is a film of multiple genres: horror, romance, coming of age story. But at its core, it is simply the romantic story of 12-year-old Oskar and apparently-12-year-old vampire-girl(?) Eli. Don't let that scare you off. Sure, there is a vampire. Sure, the film has moments of brutal violence and gore, but it is so much more. This Sweden film is a stunningly beautiful one, able to convincingly make this story of children for adults. They really have all the same problems as young couples, save for the death by sunlight. And flying. And the whole drinking blood thing. And maybe that kind of dead thing too. So there are minor differences, but regardless, Let The Right One In will mezmerize, transfix, and tenderize. It is haunting, for sure, though only enough to make us worry about the characters, to sympathize and cheer for.

Genre - Horror/Romance (3.5)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (3)
Production (4) - Highlights: Hospital fire scene
Directing (4)

The Dark Knight

This is it. The definitive Batman film, the one that will never be forgotten. It has managed to transcend the comic book genre and reach into the crime genre. Easier said than done. Nolan improved upon his Batman Begins and created something epic. It is a big movie, a popcorn movie, but it is also deep and dark and dramatic. Don't expect anything like this again soon. Of course, what kind of The Dark Knight review would this be if it didn't include slobbering lovefest for Heath Ledger's the Joker. Bad ass. One of the most frightening, evil, hypnotic villains ever portrayed on screen. Is there anything else you can say? Whiners beware, he will be nominated for Best Supporting Actor and there is a damn good chance he'll win. If you like movies, see The Dark Knight. Action, drama, suspense, crime. It has it all.


Genre - Action (4)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (4)
Directing (4)

I Am Legend

Sweet Jesus. It seems an impossibility that Richard Matheson's wonderful, wicked, creepy masterpiece I Am Legend will ever be appropriately adapted. They've tried, more or less successfully, with The Last Man on Earth and Omega Man, both fun and different enough that you could easily ignore them as I Am Legend adaptations. But then comes this mess with Will Smith at the helm. IAL feels like it wants to be just another Will Smith action movie, which only succeeds in bastardizing the title of Matheson's novel. Smith tries hard, and does well enough, but there is nothing you can do to save this stinker. Maybe I am just biased (actually, I most assuredly am), but this should have been so much better. And remember, you future adapters of I Am Legend, this is a vampire story, that is what it is about, that is why it was cool. No more shitty CG zombies.

Genre - Action (2.25)

Screenplay (2)

Acting (3)

Production (2)

Directing (2)

Synecdoche, New York

Charlie Kaufman, my hat off to you. I know praising your work is nothing new, everyone seems to be doing it these days, but dammit if you still can't impress me.

Synecdoche, New York is the directorial debut of screenwriting genius Charlie Kaufman. I'd list his works, but if you don't know them, shame on you. Like many other critical reviews, trying to give a plot description is like understanding this film on its first viewing, i.e. it is impossible. A dreamlike film, both beautiful and disturbing, follows Caden Cotard (Philip Seymour Hoffman), a theater director, over decades of his life. Suffice it to say, as this is a Kaufman film, it gets a little weird. But weird in a good way, the way that attracts you, pulls you into the world being presented and not understanding exactly what you're seeing. And that is the only way it should be. The supporting female cast is amazing, each embracing their character and affecting Cotard as he hurdles towards death. See it more than once or doom yourself to be haunted by its mystery.

Genre - Drama (4)

Screenplay (4)

Acting (4)

Production (4)

Directing (4)