Rock of Ages (2012)

This movie is awesome! And by awesome I mean adorably cute. Not award winning by any means but a feel good musical! The story about " a small town girl living in a lonely world, she took the midnight train going anywhere" and a "city boy born and raised in south Detroit" well it's a love story to say the least. A love story that takes place in an LA hot spot rock and roll bar. Tom Cruise, what can I say, I cannot stand him, but he sure can play a slutty rocker god quite well! And the dude can actually sing! His character was great! The cast was great and the movie is uplifting and like I said, cute. It leaves you singing 80's rock tunes for days! Never forget, "Don't Stop Believin". 

The Watch (2012)

Okay I have to say that I really didn't want to watch this one. It was my option in the red box so I took a chance. And wow what a good chance I was actually surprised. It wasn't half bad and I actually kind of liked it! It is definitely not a kid friendly movie so do not put this on thinking it's family movie with a few cuss words. It's not! Despite my lack of love for both Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughn , they really didn't bother me. There were many subtle low key jokes which I found myself laughing out loud at. I love the fact that this movie revolves around a Costco store. Oh and before I forget yes it is about Aliens! Not your typical alien movie, it is meant to be funny and that it is! Jonah Hill as usual, does not disappoint! It is so worth THE WATCH! Pun intended! Enjoy!

Premium Rush (2012)

What a disappointment! The trailer is the most exciting thing about this lack of concept film. The opening misleads the audience with a fast paced semi cool showing of the bike messengers world. I made it through more than half of the movie before I fell asleep. Yes I fell asleep. About midway through the movie "climaxes", and it's all dull banter and mindless one liners. Not to mention a horribly played villain that doesn't deserve a name drop. However, Mr. Levitt, this was way too boring for you.

Taken 2 (2012)

I do love Liam Neeson and I had high hopes for this movie. It picks up very close to where the first Taken ended. It was very predictable at times as most sequels are. There were a few good fight scenes, and it seems Liam has aged a bit since the last film. There is a horrible set up at the end for a third movie, which I'm sure will go into effect after this weekend's box office sales. It was a good watch, but lacked some quality script writing that we saw in the first Taken installment. Liam Neeson, you are awesome, Taken 2....indifferent.

Snow White and The Huntsman (2012)

This movie was surprisingly really good! Let it be known I am not a Kristen Stewart fan at all, but she wasn't half bad. She was tolerable. There were some really amazing scenery shots, which, whether CGI or not, they were beautiful. Loved the slow-mo blood droplets, it added so much depth. It was interesting how some things were very similar to the old Snow White story without making it cheesy. For example, it is silently known that she can understand animals, but I thought it was done in a well mannered fashion. Chris Hemsworth was great, nothing outstanding, but great none the less. He may just very well be the IT guy for the next few years. Last but certainly not least, Charlize Theron steals the show! Amazing villain! It really was a different character for her and she showed her ability. The movie seemed a little long, but it is definitely worth the watch if you like fantasy movies. Simple and tastefully done.

Cabin In The Woods (2012)

Where do I even begin?! This is a movie where when it ends you turn to who ever is sitting next to you and say "huh?" I found myself liking the concept a lot. Setting the scene as 5 young adults make way for a creepy cabin in the woods to spend the weekend. Typical horror movie plot lines such as; girl in underwear, girl not wearing a shirt, cheesy one liners, sex, gore, blood, zombies, wait, BUT THEN....the tables turn and what you thought it was isn't it at all. There is a great mood scene when the "controllers" are celebrating whilst one of the girls in the cabin is being mutilated on screen. (That probably gave away too much) To see how people could be so happy while something so awful is happening was true to real life scenarios. I especially loved the cameo of Sigourney Weaver at the end. Oh and Chris Hemsworth is in it, for all of you ladies who happen to love Thor. But don't get too excited, SPOILER, he doesn't live long. Wierd and good. I was left feeling like I needed a prequel or an immediate sequel. Lot's of holes to fill. Would love to know what you think! 

What to Expect When Your Expecting (2012)

 

I am starting to get really annoyed with huge casts and little story lines, much less good ones. It seems the funniest parts of this movie are the scenes they show in the trailer. Highlight of this movie; Elizabeth Banks. J Lo is entertaining in her girl next door who wants a baby sort of way. The rest of the female leads....eh. But let us not forget the Australian actress who we fell in love with in Bridesmaids, Rebel Wilson, well this girl may need to practice her general  "American" accents a bit more before she dares to take on a southern one. I'm not even going to bother talking about the male portion of the cast. The cast as a whole lacked chemistry. And the movie just wasn't that great. Bor-ring.     

The Five Year Engagement (2012)

 Hands-down hilarious movie! If you enjoy witty humor mixed with romance you will love this one. The story of two people who meet, get engaged, and for certain reasons keep putting the wedding off. Full of laugh out loud funny scenes. Emily Blunt just scored more points in my book, loved her! Jason Segel is that guy that everyone can relate to, that normal everyday "Joe" that we all understand. Really funny supporting characters. The only downfall I would say is that it was a smidge long, but it is so enjoyable I barely noticed. A feel good love story layered with truth. Loved it!

This Means War (2012)

The trailer made this movie to be more exciting than it actually was. I will probably be the only person to say this, but Chris Pine really annoyed me. Not quite the romantic comedy I was wanting to watch. At times it was trying too hard to be funny. There was a lot of food smacking, loud food smacking actually. Let me think here, parts I liked...?....some of the action shots were fun but short. Oh yes Tom Hardy (who also played Bane in Dark Knight Rises) was entertaining. Must be the British accent thing he has going on. Otherwise I was really bored, two thumbs down.

American Reunion (2012)

The class of '99 is back in this finale to the "American" movies that got us all talking about warm apple pie in the 90's. Is it an amazing movie? No. Award winning? No. BUT if you're like me and saw "American Pie" a million years ago you will enjoy it. Turns out Chris Klein isn't the worst actor this time around, but he hasn't grown much either. And poor Seann William Scott, I feel like he will forever be known as the "Stiffmeister". Most changed award goes to: Mena Suvari, something is different about her this time around. Would love to see this girl make more movies! She is probably, and I say probably lightly, the most talented out of the cast. But then again, these movie's aren't about talent, they are about SEX oh and PIE!

Alien (1979)

Can you believe that this epic film is from 1979! I am not so much writing a blog about this movie as I am stating if you have never seen this movie ever, you must! This amazing sci-fi movie paved the way for alien movies across the globe! Not to mention lined Segourney Weavers career path in GOLD! Easily in my top 100 films of all time. Remember this: In space no one can hear you scream.

 

W.E. (2011)

I loved this movie. Directed by and partially written by the amazing Madonna herself! Which I'll be honest I hesitated at first wondering if the "material girl" really had the gift of film, but indeed she does. The film centers on the affair between King Edward VIII and American divorcée Wallis Simpson, while also correlating a story between a contemporary house wife and her relationship with a Russian security guard. There were some really beautiful shots in this movie, at times I found myself just in awe in the simplistic beauty. Wallis Simpson played by Andrea Roseborough really got my attention. Loved her demeanor, her accent, and her acting! I really enjoyed the way Madonna used two different types of film shots. One being almost like a home movie where it made me feel like I was watching this life story unravel before me. Attention to detail and color were used and beautifully by the way. The movie is a bit long and isn't for everyone. So you will need to be patient with the first hour or so. It wraps up so well in the end metaphorically and proves the point that what we may perceive as a perfect love story, really....isn't. Loved this movie. Madonna, looking forward to more! Well done.

The Hunger Games (2012)

Disclaimer: Must read these books! This movie was even better watching it for the second time in my living room! Granted I read all three books in less than 3 weeks time, I fell in love. If your looking for a love story, stop. This isn't some teeny bopper twilight ridiculous love type of saga. This is a story about a post apocalyptic "America" where the government controls all, (oh wait that's happening now, ok so we can all relate!), and a teenage girl just happens to get wrapped up in the middle becoming a symbol of freedom and rebellion. There are a few things left out of the movie, but understandable. Katniss Everdeen, our heroine, played by Jennifer Lawrence is amazing!! (Again fell in love!) She really nailed the emotions of what it would be like to be picked to fight to the death. The supporting characters are not as interesting by a long shot. The CG could have been better which gives me hope for a bigger budgeted follow up. (The Hunger Games: Catching Fire) I just loved the whole thing, the book concept and the relation from print to screen. Above all the fact the this could happen, it's a great sci-fi make-you-think type of movie! "May the odds be ever in your favor".

Albert Nobbs (2011)

I was a little disappointed in this one, I think. Glen Close as Albert Nobbs was offbeat and strange, but good! The makeup job was fantastic! I thought it a little funny that Janet McTeer who plays Hubert (another woman posing as a man) was clearly to me a woman, whereas Albert Nobbs was strange enough that "he" appeared male. The film was rather slow, no climatic piece, kind of blah. Except for some reason I really enjoyed the scenes where the snow was falling....I don't know.......on to the next!

New Years Eve (2011)

All star cast alert! Maybe too many big names in this one. It's like I want to say it was your typical holiday movie, but it was more disappointing than that even. I think the movie should have been based on the Zac Efron/Michelle Pfeiffer scenario where she decides to quit her job and has a list of New Years resolutions that was she wants to complete by midnight. That would have been a great movie! Just saying. Not much else to say about this one, you all know how these movies start and end too.

21 Jump Street (2012)

Well I hate to say or do I....I should have passed on this one. Jonah Hill was the only decent part of this movie. Ice Cube ruined every scene he was in, not funny, and too much! Lame characters all around. Dumb and cheesy. Even the cameo at the end by Johnny Depp was awful! What a horrible way to end that! Done.

Jeff Who Lives At Home (2011)

I thought this movie was good. I have a thing for sad-realism type movies. The movie is about a 30 year old (Jason Segal) who lives in the basement of his mothers house. The movie opens with Segal in deep thought talking about how signs are everywhere only to pan out to find him sitting on the toilet. This is the part where you question if this character is a nut job or quite intelligent. I really enjoyed Segal's performance, then again I pretty much have liked him in all of his movies. This one is by far his most serious and you can really see the sadness resonating in his eyes true to his character. A scene that really stood out to me was the scene where his mother played by Susan Sarandon is in her office when the fire alarm goes off and the sprinklers turn on. Instead of running out with the rest of her coworkers she sits in her chair and leans back as if it were rain falling upon her face. Loved that scene! Made me feel what she was feeling and what she wanted from life. To sum it up, it's about signs being everywhere and it's just how you interpret them. Deep, serious, and awkward.

Big Miracle (2012)

This is sweet film for the whole family about 3 whales trapped beneath the icy surface of Alaska. Now when I think of Alaska two words come to mind for some reason, Sarah....Palin, ha ha wait for it. Anyhow anyone who has a soft spot for animals will like this movie. Plus it's based on a true story, which means just that BASED, not all truth, but we all need some Hollywood spin on truth right. No outstanding performances, although I always enjoy Drew Barrymore as well as Kristen Bell. You have to watch it all the way through just to get to the end to see the real 80's news footage, which features, none other than Sarah Palin! It's more like a cameo and I'm still trying to figure out why they even showed her, but none the less her 80's hair style is pretty awesome. Political Ploy?

John Carter (2012)

Interesting concept. Of course it originally comes from a series of books written by Edgar Rice Burroughs  from 1912 to 1943. (This is an ELE-VEN volume series) This film is supposed to capture the main characters first experience on the planet Barsoom or as we like to call it, Mars. I love that when these stories were written it was in a time when our planet was suffering from mass hysteria of alien attacks from Mars. (Thank you Orson Wells ha ha) So I can kind of get the idea as to why there would be a river, much less a whole-nother human race inhabiting the red planet. A little hard to follow at first the movie may lose your interest. BUT by the middle of it I kind of liked it. There were a few things that reminded me of Star Wars, as you will see. Needed more of a back story. I felt as though it also needed more depth to be taken seriously. It was a quick summary of the first book and there were some cheesy lines here and there, but nothing to roll your eyes at. There is also a great Haboob scene that made me feel right at home. (What's up Arizona!!) I did really enjoy the fat, cute, little alien dog like thing too. The "humans" of Mars not so much, boring characters everywhere! So by the time it's over it makes you kind of hope for a sequel?

Intruders (2011)

Uhhh hmmmm. Not sure I agree with the title at all. This one is about a faceless being whom they call "Hollowface". That would have been a better name for the movie. Just saying. The opening sequence is really choppy and dull. The CG in this movie is almost childlike but that could be perhaps when it is CG it's during a scene with a child. Maybe that's the connection, I don't know and I don't believe this movie deserves that much thought. This is NOT I repeat NOT a scary movie. And Clive Owen is seemingly less attractive in this movie. He almost looks "doofy". He can do much better than this. No other big name actors in this one, just as well. The concept could have been better and taken in another direction. Just an overall disappointment. Where have all the great "horror" films gone?? Booooo!

The Next Three Days (2010)

Well if you like Russell Crowe as just an actor not a super human gladiator then you might like this film. Playing the husband of an accused murderer ( Elizabeth Banks, who let's face it, we all like her) Crowe's character finds a way to break her out of prison. It has suspense, but just enough to keep the audience interested. A slightly interesting story, which does in fact wrap up at the end. What I did like about this movie was the character breakdown of Crowe's character John. He was shaky and nervous at times which I thought was more realistic than some macho action flik where the dude just busts in and saves his girl and they ride away in the sunset. Not much else to say, I wouldn't watch it again, but it was worth the free watch (on Netflix). (and that's me plugging netflix AGAIN)

Morning Glory (2010)

This is a cute-feel-good movie. Nothing deep or meaningful, but enjoyable none  the less. This could be my favorite Rachel McAdams film (at this time I am sure the ladies will argue that IT MUST BE "The Notebook") (Well to ME it's not). I liked her busy body flustered character. And who doesn't love Diane Keaton! Harrison Ford seems to have aged overnight after seeing him in this, but still love the guy and his grumpy demeanor. All characters are light and not too complex for questioning or confusion. Upbeat soundtrack full of "girly" anthems. Overall decent, but not amazing. You decide. 

Friends With Kids (2012)

Where do I begin....was this movie supposed to be funny or dramatic, or both, or what? Huge dissapointment. Do not be fooled by all of the lead actors from Bridesmaids, this is not a funny movie. Way too long, like I just kept wondering if it was going to end and then nope, new scene! Horrible soundtrack. Did I mention that Megan Fox is in it, AWFUL! I feel like the actors made this movie because they were too nice and didn't want to say no. Just when you think it can't get worse....it does.....the ending scene of this movie was so bad it was awkward! Do not pass Go do not get a good review!

Wanderlust (2012)

Great Rental! Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston have cute chemistry in this one. I thought this movie was really funny from beginning to end. Great comic timing by all actors. This could be one of my favorite Paul Rudd performances. He has some seriously funny scenes by himself that had me laughing out loud. Full of great one liners too. All around I really enjoyed this movie! Good Comedy!

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Director Christopher Nolan wraps up this trilogy nothing short of amazing. This guy really knows how to fill in the gaps. At times I kind of felt that there were too many "main characters". Maybe I just wanted more focus on others. Here we are introduced to the infamous Cat Woman played by Ann Hathaway. I have to first admit, I don't really care for her, so I knew it would be hard to like her character. She wasn't amazing, but she wasn't awful, BUT BUT BUT she was better than Halle Berry. I just feel like this girl tries too hard! I felt like it could have been a tad bit shorter, yes this film is 2 hours and 44 mins long! OR it could have been the fact that I was one of the people in the theater watching the trilogy, so I was tired. The new villian in this is Bane. I rather enjoyed him, but not as much as the Joker, obviously! Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays new cop character Blake, and spoiler alert, his real name is Robin Blake, get it, Robin. But no, Christopher Nolan will not be making a Batman and Robin, I think he left that story up to the minds of the audience. Finally props to commissioner Gordon, the character who I thought was rather wimpy becomes his own sort of hero. There is a really great twist at the end of this film that I didn't see coming at all, and I usually can see things coming! So look out for that and enjoy!

The Dark Knight (2008)

Part two if this saga did not disappoint! At this point I have decided that Batman truly is the best comic character. He is a man with a crazy cool and inventive costume, awesome weapons, and super cool rides! However he is still growling and wearing a mouthpiece I think, I'm so confused! In this movie Maggie Gyllenhaal plays the love interest, the one Katie Holmes played in the first one, (Rachel Dawes), and is far more compatible by a long shot. Nothing stands out more in this movie than the Joker played by Heath Ledger. The movie could have been called 'The Joker'. It truly was his lifetime performance (other than Brokeback Mountain). He brings so much life and depth to each scene he is in that you almost love to hate him but then you love him again. I almost wished for a back story on that character. New characters unravel in this film but no one too exciting, according to me. Again this one has great action sequences and aerial shots. This one is my favorite of all three of the films, hint hint.

Batman Begins (2005)

Let me start by saying I had never watched this one before, not sure why. The back story for Bruce Wayne was great. It was believable. Christian Bale definitely grew on me as the film progressed at first I was confused about his sort of half lisp (similar to Emma Stone but not as cute) or I even wondered if he was wearing some sort of mouthpiece. He definitely nailed the deep dark growl and I'll just stop right there, we all know what I'm talking about. His version of "I'm Batman" was comparable to Michael Keaton, maybe even better! Even though at one point in the movieI thought to myself 'wouldn't it be hilarious if he took the mask off and it was Alec Baldwin!'  Alot of cheesy one liners in this film, but only when he is dressed as Batman. Gary Oldman as commissioner Gordon seemed a bit wimpy to me, but that could have been done purposefully for character growth. Katie Holmes as Batman's love interest was ok, but nothing to write home about. Liam Neeson, why do I feel you are in every movie I see?! Some awesome shots of the city in this movie. Especially the slums of Gotham. And some really great action sequences. Definitely a film for both kids and parents alike.

Immortals (2011)

Ok I'll be honest I watched this because it was free and on Netflix. (Which I highly recommend) Hidden message: Do not pay money to rent this unless you like movies with dull story lines and bad acting. To each thier own. The best parts of the movie are the fight scenes. The CG (computer graphics) is ok to say the least, I mean maybe I am just being nice. The color is deep and saturated attempting a "300" look but not at all achieving it. Like I said the story line is all over the place expecting the audience to follow when there really isn't anything to follow. If you get what I'm saying. I am all for Greek God stories, but this one failed to impress. I could perhaps say the costumes were uh, good?

Melancholia (2011)

If you like deep, artsy, metaphoric films, then you will like this one. A bit long for sure I think it could have been shortened. However the opening scenes are amazing, the kind of work I would want to do one day. Slow motion beautiful imagery that envelopes you in the scene as well as the mood. This movie is separated in two parts, the first being very confusing and slow. If you make it to the second part you can't help but to keep watching. Kirsten Dunst is shockingly enjoyable. One of the most interesting concepts I have seen in a long time. A new planet has been hiding behind the Sun and is now going to collide with Earth. The great thing is, the movie isn't just about that. By no means is it a Sci-Fi film. Secrets are revealed and relationships unravel. Again this is one you really have to be in the mood for if you like this sort of thing. It definitely left me thinking about life and planet Earth.

21 Grams (2003)

I chose to watch this one first based on the title, 21 grams. Because when we die, the moment of death, our body loses 21 grams. Interesting right? Well this movie doesn't entirely focus on that, until the end, which still caught my attention. This one is about strangers who are involved due to a tragic car accident. I have to say a few times during I lost interest. The lack of cinematic score perhaps contributed to that. I am big on music, or silence, whichever adds to the mood. Naomi Watts had some strong scenes, but nothing over the top exciting or Oscar worthy :) (according to me anyhow, and that's what this blog is truly about right?) Sean Penn's character was a bit dull and 'same ol same ol'. While Benicio Del Toro I would have to say was the most exciting part of this movie. And has anyone ever thought he kind of looks like the hispanic Brad Pitt? I am indifferent on this one. Another one bites the dust.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (2012)

I'm not sure why I hesitated to watch this film.....I really enjoyed it. Mind you, I have heard the original Swedish film is really good as well. (I'll be watching that one too) This one may as well of had subtitles, there is a high mumble factor! It is a movie you definitely have to pay close attention too as well as turn up the volume to attempt to translate some of the mumbling. Daniel Craig is his usual self, but very fitting I thought. Truly "the girl" herself Rooney Mara is amazing. She gives dark depth to a lonely and sexually confused girl and I was left wondering more about her life story. I can't decide which one haunted me the most, the rape scene or the sex scene (spoilers). The movie is dark, cold, and yes long. But so worth the watch. If you catch on to things early you will figure out the "villain" here. Well played by the way. I am definitely looking forward the second installment as well as watching the original films. I am curious to read the book now as I am sure so much was left out. Awesome movie for those who enjoy suspense and a "thinking" element.

The Vow (2012)

I found this film to be cute yet forgetable. Although Channing Tatum proved to be a much better actor than I had anticipated. For those of you who like his muscles, yes he is shirtless a few times, and he may or may not show his backside! (spoiler) This was not a memorable performance by Rachel McAdams, her character was rather blah, although beautiful, just blah. Pretty sure Channing steals the show in this one. It is by no means an epic love story, but it is heartwarming  AT TIMES, overall, will I see it again? No. Don't tell my girlfriend that!

Welcome to my Blog!!

Welcome to my first blog! A place where I have decided to share my thoughts on movies, new and old. I am not a professional critic but a person who appreciates film for all it is. I welcome open discussion and ideas from any of you. Again disclaimer: I am not a pro. Just want to share what's on my mind! Enjoy!