More movie reviews this time and this time it was a really good selection! Let's get to it!
Movie Review #70 - Deja Vu
What if you had to tell someone the most important thing in the world, but you knew they'd never believe you?
Before his passing, Tony Scott really didn't make bad films. His career spans nothing but awesomeness. Many of his films involved Denzel and together they made some amazing films. This one wasn't quite as popular as some of their other hits, but it was no less outstanding. What is funny to me about this film is how quickly I forgot how good it actually was. I hadn't seen this film in a few years and watching it again made me further appreciate it. I like that is a basically a cop film with some sci-fi elements, but without being over the top. Those who have trouble with time travel films with struggle a little with it, but it is quite enjoyable and a surprisingly touching story. If you somehow missed this film but like either Tony Scott films or films starring Denzel, definitely give this a try. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers
Movie Review #71 - Demolition Man
You are a savage creature John Spartan, and I wish for you to leave my domicile now!
Other than the Rocky and Rambo films, I am not sure there is a Stallone film that I enjoy more than Demolition Man. It has both great action and is absolutely hilarious at the same time. Even Sandra Bullock isn't annoying in the film. And as awesome as Stallone is in the film, Snipes is equally as awesome as the villain in the film. He is both kick ass and funny as well. The futuristic element to the film also contributes greatly to the humor while mocking current (or what was current at the time of filming) pop culture. But it is Stallone who really makes this film. He is awesome in this, going back and forth between butt kicker, charmer, and joke dropper. I never tire of this movie. 8 out of 10 cheeseburgers
Movie Review #72 - The Departed
I'm the guy who does his job. You must be the other guy.
I feel weird giving such high praise to a film that is a remake, but The Departed is a darn near perfect film to me. The story - amazing. The acting - amazing. Hell, even the soundtrack that accompanied the film fit perfectly. Almost everyone loves a good crime drama and this is absolutely as good as it gets. From the minute the movie starts until the shocking last ten minutes of the film, you are absolutely hooked. With all the amazing actors, I don't think I could even come close to being able to pick my favorite performance in the film. If there was ever a film that deserved the Best Picture Oscar in the year it was nominated, this was it. 10 out of 10 cheeseburgers
Movie Review #73 - The Descent
We're in the wrong fucking cave!
I am not sure what drove us to go see The Descent in the theaters. I believe we might have gone to see one film and then just movie hopped into it because we had nothing else to do. A movie meant to make you feel claustrophobic really works when seen in a darkened movie theater and it made me not want to go in a cave any time soon. The premise of cave divers encountering horrors they didn't expect is pretty simple, but it totally worked for me. I find this movie super creepy even after multiple viewings. Yeah, the monsters that live in the cave might be unbelievable, but it is the premise of encountering something you weren't expecting on something so routine is what gives it that creepy factor. Fun little horror film. 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers
Movie Review #74 - Desperado
I am looking for a man who calls himself Bucho, but you had to do it the hard way.
The movie that introduced me to Salma Hayek. That alone gives this movie a ton of points. And although I had seen Antonio in a couple other films prior to this, he didn't REALLY stand out to me until this film. It was a western set in Mexico. It was a revenge film. It has a great story and fun action. The writing was awesome. Oh, and there was a funny Tarantino cameo. It all translated into an amazingly good time. I became a huge fan of Robert Rodriguez because of this. His style just blew me away and I try not to miss any of his non-kid films now. I tell ya, I never tire of watching this film. Oh, and that soundtrack is AMAZING. Because of the soundtrack, Jess gets to hear me sing in Spanish. And she LOVES that. 9 out of 10 cheeseburgers
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Summer 2013 Movie Preview
Back for one of my yearly articles (although I think I skipped last year) is the summer movie preview! Summer is one of the best times for going to the movies assuming you aren't looking for deep, Academy type films. This is popcorn movie season and if you simply want to be entertained with low attention span films, summer is the time for you. Like always, I'll highlight what I think will be popular over the next few months as well as tell you MY top 5 anticipated films! Here. We. GO!
May 3rd
Iron Man 3 - We start off the movie season with a bang! It's only been a year since Avengers came out and we are already starting up with Phase 2 of the Marvel movie juggernaut. I couldn't be more excited. Iron Man, which is a couple years old now, was a tiny bit lacking compared to the first one, but hot on the heels of the amazing Avengers film and the freshness of a new director, I am expecting exciting things from Iron Man 3!
May 10th
The Great Gatsby - There was a time last year when this was predicted to be up for some nominations at the Academy Awards. Then the film was delayed past movie awards season and is now finally coming out. I love the book even though it has now been a decade since I have read it last. With a great cast, this could be good, but it seems like it is being released at the wrong time of the year. We shall see.
May 17th
Star Trek Into Darkness - JJ Abrams did an amazing job with the reboot of Star Trek a few years back and I am hoping that this new films is just as good. Hell, you didn't even have to be a Star Trek film to enjoy the last one because of how good it was. If the trailers are any indications, this could be just as awesome.
May 24th
Epic - I hadn't even heard of this film a few weeks ago and now I am starting to see promotional items such as commercials all the time for it. A new animated movie from the people who made Ice Age, I think this could be a pretty big films with kids based on what I see on the trailer. They are also heavily promoting the voices in the film to get people even more excited.
Fast Six - The series that has no business being on the sixth film and somehow, keeps getting better and better. Ever since the original cast returned in part 4, the series has been given a big lift. Part 1 was fun, parts 2 and 3 were decent, and then 4 came along and blew me away. Then the 5th came along and EASILY became my favorite in the series. I am hoping that good fortune continues with this 6th film.
The Hangover Part III - Meh. Ok, I thought the first one WAS funny. I laughed out loud a couple of times. Was it as good as everyone said it was. Well, not for me. Then two came long and I found it pretty silly. It wasn't terrible, but I didn't laugh too much. Needless to say, I am not excited for part III and I can wait until video.
May 31st
After Earth - M. Night Shyamalan's latest film is a sci-fi movie starring Will Smith. I remember being so excited when M. Night had a new movie coming out. That thrill is gone even if I do like his latest films more than most people. And this one isn't fully written by him so it could be a change. I just feel like this could end up bombing though.
Now You See Me - I hadn't even heard of this film until a week ago when I saw a trailer when I went and saw Oblivion. I don't know how this film flew under my radar because it looks REALLY good. Magicians who are robbers may be an old story, but the amazing cast involved and the mystery of it all has me really intrigued. Pretty excited for this.
June 7th
The Internship - Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn lose their jobs and try to get jobs at Google by doing outrageous things. Looks kind of silly, truthfully, but it could end up being pretty funny AND making a lot of money. We shall see. Very on the fence on this one and only giving it the benefit of the doubt because of these two guys.
The Purge - Pretty cool looking suspense film where there is zero crime in the USA due to the fact that one night a year, you are allowed to commit any crime you want. Looks nice and creepy and something that will have you on the edge of your seat.
June 12th
This is the End - This movie looks friggin' hilarious with people like James Franco and Seth Rogan playing themselves in an end of the world type movie. I am sure this is going to have a TON of cameos. The first couple of trailers had me busting up laughing so this will be one of those rare times when I see a comedy in the theaters.
June 14th
Man of Steel - Superman is a douche.
June 21st
Monsters University - I love Monsters Inc and even though I am excited they have made a prequel to it, not much in the trailer makes me SUPER excited to see it. If it doesn't get good reviews, I may even wait until video. If I hear good things, I am so there. We shall see.
World War Z - World War Z was a great book that I really enjoyed, but I don't see anything in the trailer even resembling the book. I mean, it looks really good and I am going to see it, but it just looks like a typical zombie movie, but with the summer blockbuster budget. I sure hope it isn't a letdown.
June 28th
The Heat - A comedy buddy cop film with Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. People crack up at the trailer when I see it in the theaters. I roll my eyes.
White House Down - The second White House invasion film in a few months, but this time with Channing Tatum. I'll rent it.
July 3rd
Despicable Me 2 - I thought the first one was enjoyable, but I can wait for video. When it is a movie simply about the yellow minions, maybe then I will go see it.
The Lone Ranger - Johnny Depp being weird again. I'll be honest, the trailers for this Disney blockbuster do nothing for me and since I have no attachment to the original Lone Ranger, I'll be skipping this.
July 12th
Grown Ups 2- Just no. The first one wasn't very good so I will skip this one. I don't need to see a deer peeing on Adam Sandler.
Pacific Rim - Guillermo del Toro's latest film, this time a summer sci-fi blockbuster about humans controlling giant robots in order to fight off giant monsters. Sounds silly, but I am guessing this will be one of those have to see and hear in a theater kind of films. Could be silly or could end up being REALY awesome.
July 17th
Turbo - A new animated movie by Dreamworks about a racing snail. No interest but big money.
July 19th
Red 2 - I actually didn't see the first Red movie from a few years back, but heard it was fun and entertaining. I guess I will have to watch it eventually.
R.I.P.D. - A comic book movie with Jeff Bridges and Ryan Reynolds playing cops brought back from the dead to fight off demons or something to protect the people still alive. Trailer had a VERY Men In Black feel to it from the humor to the way it looked. I can certainly wait for video.
July 26th
The Wolverine - Wolverine in Japan, the site of many of his great stories in the comic books. Looks petty good and Hugh Jackman is AWESOME whenever he plays Wolverine so I am excited.
August 2nd
300: Rise of an Empire - New soldiers fight Xerxes is the same style as the original 300 film. I am not sure this needed a sequel and fear this will be bad. I hope I am proven wrong.
August 9th
Elysium - Sci fi movie with Matt Damon and Jodie Foster about class warfare in the future. Looks pretty good and has gotten some good buzz. We shall see if it is getting that same buzz once the movie gets closer to coming out.
Planes - Like the Pixar film Cars, but with Planes. The fact that this was originally going to be a direct to video film and that I didn't really care for either Cars films makes me avoid this film like the plague.
August 16th
Kick Ass 2 - I love the comics and I love the first movie so how could I NOT be excited for this film?!?! I hope it is just as good as the first one and isn't a letdown. I think the casting of Jim Carey is genius and hope it pays off.
As you can see, this summer is JAM PACKED. I even left off a few that I could have added but the list was already getting so long and I am afraid my readers (HA!) might have tuned out by now! So without any further explanation, these are my top 5 anticipated films of the summer and yes, this was hard to narrow down:
5. World War Z
4.The Wolverine
3. Fast Six
2. Star Trek
1. Iron Man 3
What movies do you want to see this summer?
May 3rd
Iron Man 3 - We start off the movie season with a bang! It's only been a year since Avengers came out and we are already starting up with Phase 2 of the Marvel movie juggernaut. I couldn't be more excited. Iron Man, which is a couple years old now, was a tiny bit lacking compared to the first one, but hot on the heels of the amazing Avengers film and the freshness of a new director, I am expecting exciting things from Iron Man 3!
May 10th
The Great Gatsby - There was a time last year when this was predicted to be up for some nominations at the Academy Awards. Then the film was delayed past movie awards season and is now finally coming out. I love the book even though it has now been a decade since I have read it last. With a great cast, this could be good, but it seems like it is being released at the wrong time of the year. We shall see.
May 17th
Star Trek Into Darkness - JJ Abrams did an amazing job with the reboot of Star Trek a few years back and I am hoping that this new films is just as good. Hell, you didn't even have to be a Star Trek film to enjoy the last one because of how good it was. If the trailers are any indications, this could be just as awesome.
May 24th
Epic - I hadn't even heard of this film a few weeks ago and now I am starting to see promotional items such as commercials all the time for it. A new animated movie from the people who made Ice Age, I think this could be a pretty big films with kids based on what I see on the trailer. They are also heavily promoting the voices in the film to get people even more excited.
Fast Six - The series that has no business being on the sixth film and somehow, keeps getting better and better. Ever since the original cast returned in part 4, the series has been given a big lift. Part 1 was fun, parts 2 and 3 were decent, and then 4 came along and blew me away. Then the 5th came along and EASILY became my favorite in the series. I am hoping that good fortune continues with this 6th film.
The Hangover Part III - Meh. Ok, I thought the first one WAS funny. I laughed out loud a couple of times. Was it as good as everyone said it was. Well, not for me. Then two came long and I found it pretty silly. It wasn't terrible, but I didn't laugh too much. Needless to say, I am not excited for part III and I can wait until video.
May 31st
After Earth - M. Night Shyamalan's latest film is a sci-fi movie starring Will Smith. I remember being so excited when M. Night had a new movie coming out. That thrill is gone even if I do like his latest films more than most people. And this one isn't fully written by him so it could be a change. I just feel like this could end up bombing though.
Now You See Me - I hadn't even heard of this film until a week ago when I saw a trailer when I went and saw Oblivion. I don't know how this film flew under my radar because it looks REALLY good. Magicians who are robbers may be an old story, but the amazing cast involved and the mystery of it all has me really intrigued. Pretty excited for this.
June 7th
The Internship - Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn lose their jobs and try to get jobs at Google by doing outrageous things. Looks kind of silly, truthfully, but it could end up being pretty funny AND making a lot of money. We shall see. Very on the fence on this one and only giving it the benefit of the doubt because of these two guys.
The Purge - Pretty cool looking suspense film where there is zero crime in the USA due to the fact that one night a year, you are allowed to commit any crime you want. Looks nice and creepy and something that will have you on the edge of your seat.
June 12th
This is the End - This movie looks friggin' hilarious with people like James Franco and Seth Rogan playing themselves in an end of the world type movie. I am sure this is going to have a TON of cameos. The first couple of trailers had me busting up laughing so this will be one of those rare times when I see a comedy in the theaters.
June 14th
Man of Steel - Superman is a douche.
June 21st
Monsters University - I love Monsters Inc and even though I am excited they have made a prequel to it, not much in the trailer makes me SUPER excited to see it. If it doesn't get good reviews, I may even wait until video. If I hear good things, I am so there. We shall see.
World War Z - World War Z was a great book that I really enjoyed, but I don't see anything in the trailer even resembling the book. I mean, it looks really good and I am going to see it, but it just looks like a typical zombie movie, but with the summer blockbuster budget. I sure hope it isn't a letdown.
June 28th
The Heat - A comedy buddy cop film with Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. People crack up at the trailer when I see it in the theaters. I roll my eyes.
White House Down - The second White House invasion film in a few months, but this time with Channing Tatum. I'll rent it.
July 3rd
Despicable Me 2 - I thought the first one was enjoyable, but I can wait for video. When it is a movie simply about the yellow minions, maybe then I will go see it.
The Lone Ranger - Johnny Depp being weird again. I'll be honest, the trailers for this Disney blockbuster do nothing for me and since I have no attachment to the original Lone Ranger, I'll be skipping this.
July 12th
Grown Ups 2- Just no. The first one wasn't very good so I will skip this one. I don't need to see a deer peeing on Adam Sandler.
Pacific Rim - Guillermo del Toro's latest film, this time a summer sci-fi blockbuster about humans controlling giant robots in order to fight off giant monsters. Sounds silly, but I am guessing this will be one of those have to see and hear in a theater kind of films. Could be silly or could end up being REALY awesome.
July 17th
Turbo - A new animated movie by Dreamworks about a racing snail. No interest but big money.
July 19th
Red 2 - I actually didn't see the first Red movie from a few years back, but heard it was fun and entertaining. I guess I will have to watch it eventually.
R.I.P.D. - A comic book movie with Jeff Bridges and Ryan Reynolds playing cops brought back from the dead to fight off demons or something to protect the people still alive. Trailer had a VERY Men In Black feel to it from the humor to the way it looked. I can certainly wait for video.
July 26th
The Wolverine - Wolverine in Japan, the site of many of his great stories in the comic books. Looks petty good and Hugh Jackman is AWESOME whenever he plays Wolverine so I am excited.
August 2nd
300: Rise of an Empire - New soldiers fight Xerxes is the same style as the original 300 film. I am not sure this needed a sequel and fear this will be bad. I hope I am proven wrong.
August 9th
Elysium - Sci fi movie with Matt Damon and Jodie Foster about class warfare in the future. Looks pretty good and has gotten some good buzz. We shall see if it is getting that same buzz once the movie gets closer to coming out.
Planes - Like the Pixar film Cars, but with Planes. The fact that this was originally going to be a direct to video film and that I didn't really care for either Cars films makes me avoid this film like the plague.
August 16th
Kick Ass 2 - I love the comics and I love the first movie so how could I NOT be excited for this film?!?! I hope it is just as good as the first one and isn't a letdown. I think the casting of Jim Carey is genius and hope it pays off.
As you can see, this summer is JAM PACKED. I even left off a few that I could have added but the list was already getting so long and I am afraid my readers (HA!) might have tuned out by now! So without any further explanation, these are my top 5 anticipated films of the summer and yes, this was hard to narrow down:
5. World War Z
4.The Wolverine
3. Fast Six
2. Star Trek
1. Iron Man 3
What movies do you want to see this summer?
Thursday, April 11, 2013
A Need for Improvement
I have been doing this photography thing for a few years now, and while I do feel I have improved over the years, I feel that I am kind of in a rut now as far as my development. I guess I shouldn't complain considering I am almost 100% self taught, but I feel at this point, I should be even better than I currently am.
It's not like I haven't had some moments that have really boosted my ego over my abilities. I had the photo that almost made it on to the cover of a phone book if not for some legal issues. I had a picture be picked to be in a travel guide and while they told me they have hit some snags and the book might not come out until later this year, they still intend to release the book with my picture included. And then I had my photography exhibit where I not only received tons of kudos, I actually sold a decent amount of stuff too. This all feels good, but deep down, I feel like I am not improving enough.
The daily picture, now in my 4th year, keeps me active in taking photographs. But you can't imagine how hard it is to take a photograph of something different each and every day for this long. I do it as a challenge, but I don't think it really makes me any better. Yes, I still do take the occasional photo that wows me, but are they really THAT much better than any photo I have taken a year or even two years ago? I was REALLY happy with the photo shoot I did for someone a few weeks back and I feel it was my best one to date, but other than that one, I can't say any of the most recent shoots have been THAT much better than anything in the past.
So what now? Well, it's my fault that I haven't taken it to the next level. I haven't read books with tips. I have a couple that I have started, but never fully immersed myself in them. I guess I could take some classes, whether it be online or in person, but those are always going to take money and possibly time I don't have. I'll start with the books I have, but who knows when I will finish them. Like anything, if you want to get better at something, you have to make a commitment to it and that has been where I have been lacking, I guess. As always, this is still and will always remain a hobby for me. I do this for the fun of it and understand that I will never be as good as people who do this full time or even part time. I'm not trying to convince others that I am as good as those who do that because I know I haven't made that commitment to take it to that level. When I see someone post pictures they had done from a professional, I KNOW they are better than mine. Does it make me a little sad that I am not at that level? Sure, of course! But make no mistake about it, I don't have any misconceptions that my photos are at that level. I am not delusional to that fact. But that doesn't mean there is no room for improvement, even at the hobby level. And I need to consider taking those next steps.
It's not like I haven't had some moments that have really boosted my ego over my abilities. I had the photo that almost made it on to the cover of a phone book if not for some legal issues. I had a picture be picked to be in a travel guide and while they told me they have hit some snags and the book might not come out until later this year, they still intend to release the book with my picture included. And then I had my photography exhibit where I not only received tons of kudos, I actually sold a decent amount of stuff too. This all feels good, but deep down, I feel like I am not improving enough.
The daily picture, now in my 4th year, keeps me active in taking photographs. But you can't imagine how hard it is to take a photograph of something different each and every day for this long. I do it as a challenge, but I don't think it really makes me any better. Yes, I still do take the occasional photo that wows me, but are they really THAT much better than any photo I have taken a year or even two years ago? I was REALLY happy with the photo shoot I did for someone a few weeks back and I feel it was my best one to date, but other than that one, I can't say any of the most recent shoots have been THAT much better than anything in the past.
So what now? Well, it's my fault that I haven't taken it to the next level. I haven't read books with tips. I have a couple that I have started, but never fully immersed myself in them. I guess I could take some classes, whether it be online or in person, but those are always going to take money and possibly time I don't have. I'll start with the books I have, but who knows when I will finish them. Like anything, if you want to get better at something, you have to make a commitment to it and that has been where I have been lacking, I guess. As always, this is still and will always remain a hobby for me. I do this for the fun of it and understand that I will never be as good as people who do this full time or even part time. I'm not trying to convince others that I am as good as those who do that because I know I haven't made that commitment to take it to that level. When I see someone post pictures they had done from a professional, I KNOW they are better than mine. Does it make me a little sad that I am not at that level? Sure, of course! But make no mistake about it, I don't have any misconceptions that my photos are at that level. I am not delusional to that fact. But that doesn't mean there is no room for improvement, even at the hobby level. And I need to consider taking those next steps.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Still Alive
Once again, I have fallen off the face of the blogging world because I am lazy writer. Let me keep it boring today and simply catch up on where I am with my movie progress. Last post, at the beginning of February, I was just finishing up the Cs so now we can finally move on to the Ds. Well, we'll actually be starting with another C movie that I recently bought so that gets reviewed first before I can officially be on the Ds. Here we go.
Movie Review #63: Cobra
You're the disease, I'm the cure
Outside of the Rocky and Rambo movies, I consider Cobra to be one of Stallone's best films. It's just eighty something minutes of Stallone kicking ass in some great action scenes. The fact that the movie focuses on a killer cult also adds some coolness to the movie as it feels like a cop/serial killer movie but with the Stallone touches. It is a winning combination for a movie that I never get tired of watching. The one liners are great in this film. It was as if Stallone and Arnold were competing in their respective movies over who could have the best lines. This movie had some of the best. 7.5 cheeseburgers out of 10!
Movie Review #64: The Dark Knight
And...here...we...go.
I saw The Dark Knight almost right after it came out at the theaters and liked it a lot. I, like most people, was in awe of Heath Ledger's performance. It is simply amazing and upon repeat viewings, I still feel the same way. Between this and Brokeback, it is truly tragic that he is no longer here and making movies. But despite really liking the film, I started to despise the film soon after because I was sick of all the talk about how it was one of the best movies of all time. It isn't. It's a great film, but it doesn't belong at the top of the mountain that many people put it. But now, years later and with the hype gone from it, I can sit and enjoy the film again. It truly is a great film. A lot of the greatness is attributed to Ledger's performance, but it isn't the only great thing in this film. It is really a great story and I am glad I can enjoy it again. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #65: The DaVinci Code
You are the secret
Like a lot of people about a decade ago, I had to read The DaVinci code to see what all the fuss was about and ended up LOVING it. The fact that they were making a movie out of a book I loved so much was very exciting. And then the film came out. I believe we saw the movie at the first showing on opening day. What followed was two plus hours of disappointment. The film wasn't really that bad, but as a huge fan of the book, they changed some things that I totally didn't agree with it. Now, almost a decade later, some of that disappointment has gone down because frankly, I don't remember much about the book or what was changed. Now I can just watch the movie and enjoy it for what it is. It's a fun story with a cool mystery. I am sure it still is nothing compared to the book, but on its own, it is still enjoyable. 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #66: Dawn of the Dead (2004)
When there is no more room in hell the dead will walk the Earth
This movie is probably in the top 5 of number of times Jess and I have seen a movie together. I mean, we used to watch this ALL THE TIME. Can't think of what to watch, hey, let's just watch Dawn of the Dead again. I am not sure what got us to go see this film in the theaters since neither of us are big fans of the original. But we did go see it and we have been hooked on this film ever since. Zombies are fun, but this movie makes then even more fun. It has awesome characters, great suspense, a fun storyline, an appropriate amount of humor, and some great gore. As a horror film, I am not sure it can get any better. In fact, just writing about it makes me want to watch it again, it is that addictive. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #67: The Day After Tomorrow
To England! To Mankind! To Manchester United!
I'm a sucker for a good disaster film. Hell, I am a sucker for a decent disaster film and that is what this movie is. The storyline is fairly out there, the characters are pretty cliche, the acting isn't all great, and some of the special effects are goofy as hell! But it entertains. It's a B movie with an A movie budget and it works for those who can turn off their brain for a couple of hours. Plus, Emmy Rossum is hot. 6.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers.
Movie Review #68: Death Proof
I'm afraid you're going to have to start getting scared... immediately.
Tarantino can do no wrong! Ok, he can do no wrong as long as we don't count this movie. Part of the Grindhouse collaboration with Robert Rodriguez, this film just isn't up to par with the rest of his works. I know he was trying to do something different with this film, but I just don't feel it works that well. I know Tarantino writes great and his conversations between characters, where two people are just sitting there and talking, are often highlights of his films, but in this film, he just overdid it. The first hour of the 90 minute film is just a bunch of talking, often about REALLY pointless things. I can take it to an extent, but in the case, it seems as if he was just writing to write. It isn't cool. Some of the stuff is ok, but in the end, I felt empty. The final action scene is REALLY fun and saves the movie, but other than that, I find it just average and perhaps only tolerate because it IS Tarantino and the film does have sprinkles of his genius. But it isn't as good as one would expect. 5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #69: Death Race
You wanted a monster? Well, you've got one.
I never saw the original Death Race, but I really liked this remake. It's kind of like watching an R Rated Mario Kart. Cars racing that get weapons from the track and you try to eliminate your competitors with said weapons. What is not to like? Jason Statham is as bad ass as usual and the movie is absolutely action packed. This is a film for people with a short attention span because it never lets up. There are really not enough good R Rated action films like this anymore. Statham really is the successor to Arnold and Sly's action throne. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers
Whew, caught up! As long as I don't get too lazy and I don't have too man movies to write about, I have an actual post planned for next post! Fingers crossed!
Movie Review #63: Cobra
You're the disease, I'm the cure
Outside of the Rocky and Rambo movies, I consider Cobra to be one of Stallone's best films. It's just eighty something minutes of Stallone kicking ass in some great action scenes. The fact that the movie focuses on a killer cult also adds some coolness to the movie as it feels like a cop/serial killer movie but with the Stallone touches. It is a winning combination for a movie that I never get tired of watching. The one liners are great in this film. It was as if Stallone and Arnold were competing in their respective movies over who could have the best lines. This movie had some of the best. 7.5 cheeseburgers out of 10!
Movie Review #64: The Dark Knight
And...here...we...go.
I saw The Dark Knight almost right after it came out at the theaters and liked it a lot. I, like most people, was in awe of Heath Ledger's performance. It is simply amazing and upon repeat viewings, I still feel the same way. Between this and Brokeback, it is truly tragic that he is no longer here and making movies. But despite really liking the film, I started to despise the film soon after because I was sick of all the talk about how it was one of the best movies of all time. It isn't. It's a great film, but it doesn't belong at the top of the mountain that many people put it. But now, years later and with the hype gone from it, I can sit and enjoy the film again. It truly is a great film. A lot of the greatness is attributed to Ledger's performance, but it isn't the only great thing in this film. It is really a great story and I am glad I can enjoy it again. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #65: The DaVinci Code
You are the secret
Like a lot of people about a decade ago, I had to read The DaVinci code to see what all the fuss was about and ended up LOVING it. The fact that they were making a movie out of a book I loved so much was very exciting. And then the film came out. I believe we saw the movie at the first showing on opening day. What followed was two plus hours of disappointment. The film wasn't really that bad, but as a huge fan of the book, they changed some things that I totally didn't agree with it. Now, almost a decade later, some of that disappointment has gone down because frankly, I don't remember much about the book or what was changed. Now I can just watch the movie and enjoy it for what it is. It's a fun story with a cool mystery. I am sure it still is nothing compared to the book, but on its own, it is still enjoyable. 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #66: Dawn of the Dead (2004)
When there is no more room in hell the dead will walk the Earth
This movie is probably in the top 5 of number of times Jess and I have seen a movie together. I mean, we used to watch this ALL THE TIME. Can't think of what to watch, hey, let's just watch Dawn of the Dead again. I am not sure what got us to go see this film in the theaters since neither of us are big fans of the original. But we did go see it and we have been hooked on this film ever since. Zombies are fun, but this movie makes then even more fun. It has awesome characters, great suspense, a fun storyline, an appropriate amount of humor, and some great gore. As a horror film, I am not sure it can get any better. In fact, just writing about it makes me want to watch it again, it is that addictive. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #67: The Day After Tomorrow
To England! To Mankind! To Manchester United!
I'm a sucker for a good disaster film. Hell, I am a sucker for a decent disaster film and that is what this movie is. The storyline is fairly out there, the characters are pretty cliche, the acting isn't all great, and some of the special effects are goofy as hell! But it entertains. It's a B movie with an A movie budget and it works for those who can turn off their brain for a couple of hours. Plus, Emmy Rossum is hot. 6.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers.
Movie Review #68: Death Proof
I'm afraid you're going to have to start getting scared... immediately.
Tarantino can do no wrong! Ok, he can do no wrong as long as we don't count this movie. Part of the Grindhouse collaboration with Robert Rodriguez, this film just isn't up to par with the rest of his works. I know he was trying to do something different with this film, but I just don't feel it works that well. I know Tarantino writes great and his conversations between characters, where two people are just sitting there and talking, are often highlights of his films, but in this film, he just overdid it. The first hour of the 90 minute film is just a bunch of talking, often about REALLY pointless things. I can take it to an extent, but in the case, it seems as if he was just writing to write. It isn't cool. Some of the stuff is ok, but in the end, I felt empty. The final action scene is REALLY fun and saves the movie, but other than that, I find it just average and perhaps only tolerate because it IS Tarantino and the film does have sprinkles of his genius. But it isn't as good as one would expect. 5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!
Movie Review #69: Death Race
You wanted a monster? Well, you've got one.
I never saw the original Death Race, but I really liked this remake. It's kind of like watching an R Rated Mario Kart. Cars racing that get weapons from the track and you try to eliminate your competitors with said weapons. What is not to like? Jason Statham is as bad ass as usual and the movie is absolutely action packed. This is a film for people with a short attention span because it never lets up. There are really not enough good R Rated action films like this anymore. Statham really is the successor to Arnold and Sly's action throne. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers
Whew, caught up! As long as I don't get too lazy and I don't have too man movies to write about, I have an actual post planned for next post! Fingers crossed!
Tuesday, February 05, 2013
C is for Cheeseburger
I'm finally going to finish off the Cs today! It feels like I have been doing this forever and I am only finishing up my third letter of the alphabet. Wow, I will be at this for a while. Good thing I am enjoying myself!
Before I do the last 4 reviews, I wanted to touch on the fun thing I have been doing on Facebook. Obviously everyone reading this blog knows about my love for burgers; the absolute best food known to man. A few years ago I took a picture of every burger I ate for the year and posted them on the blog. I forgot exactly how many I ate in the year but think it averaged out to one every 5 days or so for the whole year. This year I wanted to get people involved and started a burger loving group on Facebook. I asked people to join and post a picture of every burger they ate throughout the year. My goal, my DREAM, was to see if we could get 1000 burger pictures in 2013. Through the first month and 5 days, we are up to 159 burgers! We are well on pace to make the 1000 burger pictures in the year goal. I am so excited with how well the group has taken off and how well received it has been. It is awesome to see how many other people share my love of burgers. So exciting!
Now, let's finish off the Cs!
Movie Review #59 - Con Air
On any other day, that might seem strange.
Con Air is so friggin' goofy but it works because it is absolute nonstop action that keeps you on the edge of your seat. But action alone won't make a good movie. The amount of colorful villains is what truly makes this film, from Malkovich to Ving to Buscemi, to Trejo, man, they just keep this movie so entertaining. They are all at their top of their game, Malkovich especially. They are what make this movie as entertaining to me as it is. Nic Cage is his usual self meaning half the time he is cool and half the time he is over the top ridiculous. And his accent in this movie - good lord it is bad but it fits with the cartoon like feel the whole movie has. And why is he squinting for half the movie?
Con Air is about as unbelievable as any action movie made in the last 20 years. Yeah, even the Fast and the Furious movies are more believable. But if you suspend all disbelief and enjoy the movie for what it is, pure action for entertainment value, you can sit through it. Don't nitpick it for not being possible. Of course it isn't. What it is is a fun movie that I can watch over and over again.
Movie Review #60 - Cool Runnings
Feel the rhythm! Feel the rhyme! Get on up, its bobsled time! COOL RUNNINGS!
Everyone loves a good underdog story and Cool Runnings is one of my absolute favorites. In fact, it is one of the few movies that almost makes me tear up the end. I just find it so inspirational and such a wonderful story of overcoming odds. Throw in a little bit of that Disney magic and I find it such a joy to watch over and over again. I love the 4 bobsledders too; so much fun.
When I was watching it the other day, I couldn't help but think how much I miss John Candy. He made so many great movies in his career and although he was the serious one in the film for a change, he still was the heart of the movie even here at the ending of his career.
Olympics, underdog story, fun characters, John Candy, tear jerking moments, this movie has so much going for it. I never tire of it.
Movie Review #61 - Copycat
I'm death and life to you, doc... death and life.
I have said it before and I will say it again, Copycat is an underrated movie. Cursed with being released at around the same time as Se7en, many people overlook this movie because it isn't quite as good. But that is not a bad thing. Se7en is a spectacular film and hard to top in the thriller genre. But on its own, Copycat is really good thriller and also quite creepy.
I think the thing that appeals to me is the way the killer goes about his crimes in the film. I love true crime type of stuff and the fact that the killer bases all his murders on real life serial killers is quite entertaining to me as disturbing as that may sound. Although, like Silence of Lambs, the most memorable villain in the film isn't the one doing the actual murders, but the one in prison who is "helping" with the investigation. Harry Connick Jr. is the best part of the film and is quite awesome as Daryl Lee Cullen. I wouldn't have minded if they had made a sequel or prequel based on his character because he was absolutely creepy in that role. If only it could have been because he was the best part of the movie.
Movie Review #62 - The Count of Monte Cristo
How did I escape? With difficulty. How did I plan this moment? With pleasure!
I read Count of Monte Cristo as an 8th grader and absolutely loved it. It was a long-ish book for someone of that age and I loved every page of the book. I haven't read the book since for some reason, but I know when the movie was set to release, I still eagerly anticipated it even though it had been about a decade since I had read the book. And thankfully, I wasn't disappointed. It has been so long now since I have read it that I can't remember how well the movie follows the book, but the basic element still remains - a man is wronged and spends many years of his life planning and acting out his revenge. It's a perfect story.
The acting in the film is decent enough, nothing bad, nothing spectacular, but it carries the story well enough. I find it funny that whenever I hear Richard Harris speak in the film, all I hear is Dumbledore now (despite him only being in a couple of the films before his death). It's funny how a role does that. Acting aside though, it is the story that makes me like this film so much. There are certain parts in the film, even after watching it so many times, that make me smile as the lead exacts his revenge. It is nice to see wrongs get righted. It is nice to see Karma come full circle. If only real life always worked so well.
Before I do the last 4 reviews, I wanted to touch on the fun thing I have been doing on Facebook. Obviously everyone reading this blog knows about my love for burgers; the absolute best food known to man. A few years ago I took a picture of every burger I ate for the year and posted them on the blog. I forgot exactly how many I ate in the year but think it averaged out to one every 5 days or so for the whole year. This year I wanted to get people involved and started a burger loving group on Facebook. I asked people to join and post a picture of every burger they ate throughout the year. My goal, my DREAM, was to see if we could get 1000 burger pictures in 2013. Through the first month and 5 days, we are up to 159 burgers! We are well on pace to make the 1000 burger pictures in the year goal. I am so excited with how well the group has taken off and how well received it has been. It is awesome to see how many other people share my love of burgers. So exciting!
Now, let's finish off the Cs!
Movie Review #59 - Con Air
On any other day, that might seem strange.
Con Air is so friggin' goofy but it works because it is absolute nonstop action that keeps you on the edge of your seat. But action alone won't make a good movie. The amount of colorful villains is what truly makes this film, from Malkovich to Ving to Buscemi, to Trejo, man, they just keep this movie so entertaining. They are all at their top of their game, Malkovich especially. They are what make this movie as entertaining to me as it is. Nic Cage is his usual self meaning half the time he is cool and half the time he is over the top ridiculous. And his accent in this movie - good lord it is bad but it fits with the cartoon like feel the whole movie has. And why is he squinting for half the movie?
Con Air is about as unbelievable as any action movie made in the last 20 years. Yeah, even the Fast and the Furious movies are more believable. But if you suspend all disbelief and enjoy the movie for what it is, pure action for entertainment value, you can sit through it. Don't nitpick it for not being possible. Of course it isn't. What it is is a fun movie that I can watch over and over again.
 |
| 8 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #60 - Cool Runnings
Feel the rhythm! Feel the rhyme! Get on up, its bobsled time! COOL RUNNINGS!
Everyone loves a good underdog story and Cool Runnings is one of my absolute favorites. In fact, it is one of the few movies that almost makes me tear up the end. I just find it so inspirational and such a wonderful story of overcoming odds. Throw in a little bit of that Disney magic and I find it such a joy to watch over and over again. I love the 4 bobsledders too; so much fun.
When I was watching it the other day, I couldn't help but think how much I miss John Candy. He made so many great movies in his career and although he was the serious one in the film for a change, he still was the heart of the movie even here at the ending of his career.
Olympics, underdog story, fun characters, John Candy, tear jerking moments, this movie has so much going for it. I never tire of it.
|
| 8 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #61 - Copycat
I'm death and life to you, doc... death and life.
I have said it before and I will say it again, Copycat is an underrated movie. Cursed with being released at around the same time as Se7en, many people overlook this movie because it isn't quite as good. But that is not a bad thing. Se7en is a spectacular film and hard to top in the thriller genre. But on its own, Copycat is really good thriller and also quite creepy.
I think the thing that appeals to me is the way the killer goes about his crimes in the film. I love true crime type of stuff and the fact that the killer bases all his murders on real life serial killers is quite entertaining to me as disturbing as that may sound. Although, like Silence of Lambs, the most memorable villain in the film isn't the one doing the actual murders, but the one in prison who is "helping" with the investigation. Harry Connick Jr. is the best part of the film and is quite awesome as Daryl Lee Cullen. I wouldn't have minded if they had made a sequel or prequel based on his character because he was absolutely creepy in that role. If only it could have been because he was the best part of the movie.
|
| 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #62 - The Count of Monte Cristo
How did I escape? With difficulty. How did I plan this moment? With pleasure!
I read Count of Monte Cristo as an 8th grader and absolutely loved it. It was a long-ish book for someone of that age and I loved every page of the book. I haven't read the book since for some reason, but I know when the movie was set to release, I still eagerly anticipated it even though it had been about a decade since I had read the book. And thankfully, I wasn't disappointed. It has been so long now since I have read it that I can't remember how well the movie follows the book, but the basic element still remains - a man is wronged and spends many years of his life planning and acting out his revenge. It's a perfect story.
The acting in the film is decent enough, nothing bad, nothing spectacular, but it carries the story well enough. I find it funny that whenever I hear Richard Harris speak in the film, all I hear is Dumbledore now (despite him only being in a couple of the films before his death). It's funny how a role does that. Acting aside though, it is the story that makes me like this film so much. There are certain parts in the film, even after watching it so many times, that make me smile as the lead exacts his revenge. It is nice to see wrongs get righted. It is nice to see Karma come full circle. If only real life always worked so well.
|
| 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Why I Don't Get Political on Facebook...
...and finishing off the "C" movies.
As I try to get through this monumental task of watching all my movies and writing reviews on all of them, the bigger chore becomes trying to get the motivation of writing about other things on the blog as well so as not to make the readers bored. I have a very low readership (I am just assuming this by the number of comments) so I want to make it so the blog doesn't become so monotonous. But writing all those movie reviews plus coming up with other topics to write about can be time consuming. I'm trying though.
Over the weekend I was having a discussion with a friend or two about political debates on Facebook. Surprisingly, I try to stay out of them for the most part on Facebook. I was a little vocal with the whole Chick-fil-A topic only because I started talking about way before it became such a hot topic and I felt very strongly about it. But I noticed that no matter how strongly I felt about it, no matter how many points I tried to make, I didn't sway anyone to my side of the argument. And therein lies the problem. People have strong opinions on a variety of subjects and it pretty much takes an act of God to get them to change their mind.
I've yet to see on the countless political posts on my wall someone say, "You know, that is an excellent point, I am changing my view on this." It just doesn't happen. So despite my very strong feelings that I see on Facebook, I stay out of it. Obama, gun control, etc, these are all things that I could talk endlessly about. But why? What would it accomplish other than letting people know where I personally stand? Does anyone really care? I post enough on Facebook as it is, does anyone need me to share posts about my political views 20 times a day? Hell, that might even get me blocked by some people. I know I block people that post these all day long. I get your view. I got it after the first or second post. I don't need to see it fifty times. And that is not how I want people to feel about me. Look, I am a pretty opinionated guy, but I just feel it is in my best interest to stay out of these things. I know I'm not changing anyone's mind any time soon.
Soapbox done. Let's finish off the Cs.
Movie Review #56: Cliffhanger
If you're looking for Qualen, try about 4,000 feet south of here. He'll be the one wearing the helicopter.
I LOVE Cliffhanger. When I first started this blog, I did a review of my favorite, non Rocky or Rambo films and this came in at number 2. On a sidenote: Why don't I own Cobra, my number 3 movie? Back to the point, Cliffhanger is just an awesome action movie. You want nonstop action, this is good choice. And it starts off right from the beginning. I challenge you to find a more suspenseful first 5 minutes of a film than the one in this one, at least the first time you see it. It really is edge of your seat stuff and it while it never reaches that level of intensity in the rest of the film, you can't help but have your blood pumping throughout the film.
Besides the great action, it is really John Lithgow who makes this film. He is completely awesome as the villain in this film. A little over the top, but it really works! While looking up this movie, I noticed that he was nominated for a Razzie for Worst Supporting Actor (along with 3 other nominations for the film). This is one of the reasons why, despite the Razzies being fun, I often don't pay attention to them because they are nominated on reputation alone. I think Lithgow was considered for worst supporting actor simply because he was in a Stallone film. C'mon, man, broaden your horizons. The film is just fun action, not an attempt to win Best Picture. But lighten up a little, it isn't bad at all.
Movie Review #57: Collateral
There's no good reason, there's no bad reason to live or to die.
I was blown away by Collateral the first time I saw it. The storyline, the performances, the subtlety of it; all amazing. I just love how much happens in this film and how intense it is when really, the movie is pretty slow, plodding, quiet, and pretty low key. There are a few action moments, but for the most part, the story keeps going at the same slow pace throughout the film, but I think that is really what makes the movie works. The movie is about the characters in the film, their interactions, and life in general and and full on action movie, while possibly making it more exciting, wouldn't have made it into the great film it turned out to be.
Good story or not, the film wouldn't have worked if it wasn't for the great performances put on my Foxx and Cruise. I LOVED seeing Cruise as a bad guy in this film. He was totally believable and I loved how evil he was without being over the top psycho. He needs to be a villain more. And I loved Foxx in this. While I liked his earlier performance in Ray which I had seen earlier, I liked him even more because it was a more down to earth role that I really feel he sunk in to. It was this film, not Ray, that convinced me of his acting abilities. I think a lot of people missed this movie, but it is worth a rental.
Movie Review #58: Commando
You're a funny guy Sully, I like you. That's why I'm going to kill you last.
Everything you need to know about this film can be summed up in this video. This is every one of Arnold's estimated 87 kills in the film:
Who needs a plot when you have utter destruction like this? Although it may seem like a pointless movie, this was really a movie that brought Arnold out as the action star he is today. Sure he was a novelty in Conan and a killer cyborg in Terminator, but this was his first role set in a "real" life and what led to so many other films of the same prototype not only for him, but many other actors of the 80s. I can't begin to tell you how many times I watched this film as kid. And you know what, it still hold up today. Not as a movie masterpiece by any means, but as the epitome of mindless action. Well, mindless action and over the top one liners. It was this film that made me expect cheezy one liners in every Arnold movie that followed. They way he spewed them out in Expendables 2 was a throwback to what he started here and you realized than no matter how ridiculous they were, you looked forward to them.
Ok, maybe I won't finish the Cs off here. Three more to go and I will save them for the next blog post. Until then. Thanks for reading and an even bigger thank you for commenting.
As I try to get through this monumental task of watching all my movies and writing reviews on all of them, the bigger chore becomes trying to get the motivation of writing about other things on the blog as well so as not to make the readers bored. I have a very low readership (I am just assuming this by the number of comments) so I want to make it so the blog doesn't become so monotonous. But writing all those movie reviews plus coming up with other topics to write about can be time consuming. I'm trying though.
Over the weekend I was having a discussion with a friend or two about political debates on Facebook. Surprisingly, I try to stay out of them for the most part on Facebook. I was a little vocal with the whole Chick-fil-A topic only because I started talking about way before it became such a hot topic and I felt very strongly about it. But I noticed that no matter how strongly I felt about it, no matter how many points I tried to make, I didn't sway anyone to my side of the argument. And therein lies the problem. People have strong opinions on a variety of subjects and it pretty much takes an act of God to get them to change their mind.
I've yet to see on the countless political posts on my wall someone say, "You know, that is an excellent point, I am changing my view on this." It just doesn't happen. So despite my very strong feelings that I see on Facebook, I stay out of it. Obama, gun control, etc, these are all things that I could talk endlessly about. But why? What would it accomplish other than letting people know where I personally stand? Does anyone really care? I post enough on Facebook as it is, does anyone need me to share posts about my political views 20 times a day? Hell, that might even get me blocked by some people. I know I block people that post these all day long. I get your view. I got it after the first or second post. I don't need to see it fifty times. And that is not how I want people to feel about me. Look, I am a pretty opinionated guy, but I just feel it is in my best interest to stay out of these things. I know I'm not changing anyone's mind any time soon.
Soapbox done. Let's finish off the Cs.
Movie Review #56: Cliffhanger
If you're looking for Qualen, try about 4,000 feet south of here. He'll be the one wearing the helicopter.
I LOVE Cliffhanger. When I first started this blog, I did a review of my favorite, non Rocky or Rambo films and this came in at number 2. On a sidenote: Why don't I own Cobra, my number 3 movie? Back to the point, Cliffhanger is just an awesome action movie. You want nonstop action, this is good choice. And it starts off right from the beginning. I challenge you to find a more suspenseful first 5 minutes of a film than the one in this one, at least the first time you see it. It really is edge of your seat stuff and it while it never reaches that level of intensity in the rest of the film, you can't help but have your blood pumping throughout the film.
Besides the great action, it is really John Lithgow who makes this film. He is completely awesome as the villain in this film. A little over the top, but it really works! While looking up this movie, I noticed that he was nominated for a Razzie for Worst Supporting Actor (along with 3 other nominations for the film). This is one of the reasons why, despite the Razzies being fun, I often don't pay attention to them because they are nominated on reputation alone. I think Lithgow was considered for worst supporting actor simply because he was in a Stallone film. C'mon, man, broaden your horizons. The film is just fun action, not an attempt to win Best Picture. But lighten up a little, it isn't bad at all.
 |
| 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #57: Collateral
There's no good reason, there's no bad reason to live or to die.
I was blown away by Collateral the first time I saw it. The storyline, the performances, the subtlety of it; all amazing. I just love how much happens in this film and how intense it is when really, the movie is pretty slow, plodding, quiet, and pretty low key. There are a few action moments, but for the most part, the story keeps going at the same slow pace throughout the film, but I think that is really what makes the movie works. The movie is about the characters in the film, their interactions, and life in general and and full on action movie, while possibly making it more exciting, wouldn't have made it into the great film it turned out to be.
Good story or not, the film wouldn't have worked if it wasn't for the great performances put on my Foxx and Cruise. I LOVED seeing Cruise as a bad guy in this film. He was totally believable and I loved how evil he was without being over the top psycho. He needs to be a villain more. And I loved Foxx in this. While I liked his earlier performance in Ray which I had seen earlier, I liked him even more because it was a more down to earth role that I really feel he sunk in to. It was this film, not Ray, that convinced me of his acting abilities. I think a lot of people missed this movie, but it is worth a rental.
|
| 7.5 out of 10 Cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #58: Commando
You're a funny guy Sully, I like you. That's why I'm going to kill you last.
Everything you need to know about this film can be summed up in this video. This is every one of Arnold's estimated 87 kills in the film:
Who needs a plot when you have utter destruction like this? Although it may seem like a pointless movie, this was really a movie that brought Arnold out as the action star he is today. Sure he was a novelty in Conan and a killer cyborg in Terminator, but this was his first role set in a "real" life and what led to so many other films of the same prototype not only for him, but many other actors of the 80s. I can't begin to tell you how many times I watched this film as kid. And you know what, it still hold up today. Not as a movie masterpiece by any means, but as the epitome of mindless action. Well, mindless action and over the top one liners. It was this film that made me expect cheezy one liners in every Arnold movie that followed. They way he spewed them out in Expendables 2 was a throwback to what he started here and you realized than no matter how ridiculous they were, you looked forward to them.
| |
| 6.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Ok, maybe I won't finish the Cs off here. Three more to go and I will save them for the next blog post. Until then. Thanks for reading and an even bigger thank you for commenting.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
C is for Cinema and Counting Blessings
Jess and I just went through another miscarriage (#4), but I am not sure how much I want to actually write about it. It is what it is. At this point, we don't really expect this to happen for us and the hurt was a lot less this time. In the end, we know we have a good life together and although if we never have a kid, we'll know we'll have a little emptiness in our lives, we can't complain about all the other blessings we have been given. With that, on to more movies.
Plenty of movies to review. I'll just keep going!
Movie Review #51: Cinderella
No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.
So far in my movie watching, I have been fairly disappointed with the classic Disney movies that I have been watching. They haven't been bad, but nothing spectacular. Cinderella, thankfully, turned it all around. This film is true Disney magic and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. I was also surprised how many words I knew from the songs that were sung. I must have watched this movie a lot as a kid or something. It gives me a lot of hope for the viewings of future Disney Princess films.
Movie Review #52: City of Angels
I wait all day, just hoping for one more minute with you, and I don't even know you.
This may be the first time I have seen this movie since the theaters. I remember being fairly touched by it the first time I saw it, but this time, I don't know, it seemed kind of corny to me. Maybe because I knew how the film was going to end up, but it just didn't do anything for me this time. Nic Cage seemed hokey as hell and while I can appreciate that it was a decent love story of desiring someone you can't have, I've seen much better. It's not a bad film, but it didn't seem to age well past the first viewing. Meg Ryan sure used to be cute though.
Movie Review #53: Clerks
I'm not even supposed to be here today!
The movie that introduced the world to Kevin Smith. I am not even sure how I heard of this movie enough to rent it with some friends right when it came out, but I am glad I did. I sat there dumbfounded that they were saying the things they were saying in a movie like this. But it wasn't just pure raunchiness, it was smart at the same time. It was something fresh and I am glad the film caught on enough so that Smith could make more films. On repeated viewings, the films just doesn't get old to me. Partially because the film is so funny and partially because the film is so quotable, I can simply watch this film over and over again and not get tired of it.
Movie Review #54: Clerks II
Thirty-two and you're flipping burgers? Jesus, anybody else from our graduating class back there?
Clerks II is one of those rare movies that keeps getting better and better with each repeated viewing. I enjoyed Clerks II the first time I watched it, but there was the slightest amount of disappointment that it wasn't as comical as the first one. This one had a lot of serious things going on underneath the usual vulgarity. But the more I watch it, the more I find things I can relate to and it becomes a more personable movie and I see why Smith names this as his favorite film he has made to date. The jokes are still funny as hell and it crosses that line that you didn't think it would go, but I find the story amazing. It is because of this that I now enjoy Clerks II more that the first one.
Movie Review #55: Click
Shut up, James Earl Jones!
Off the top of my head, this was the last Adam Sandler movie that I enjoyed. Hell, most of them I am have skipped just because of how terrible they looked. Even this film has some eye rolling moments, but if you look past some of the cringe-worthy comedy, it has a story with a good lesson. I don't really laugh out loud at any of the parts as I did when I first saw the film, but I am still touched by the point the film is trying to make. I wish funny Adam Sandler would come back to Earth.
I think I have about 6 or 7 more movies to review in the Cs and then I am finally done (and hopefully caught up)!
Plenty of movies to review. I'll just keep going!
Movie Review #51: Cinderella
No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.
So far in my movie watching, I have been fairly disappointed with the classic Disney movies that I have been watching. They haven't been bad, but nothing spectacular. Cinderella, thankfully, turned it all around. This film is true Disney magic and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. I was also surprised how many words I knew from the songs that were sung. I must have watched this movie a lot as a kid or something. It gives me a lot of hope for the viewings of future Disney Princess films.
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| 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #52: City of Angels
I wait all day, just hoping for one more minute with you, and I don't even know you.
This may be the first time I have seen this movie since the theaters. I remember being fairly touched by it the first time I saw it, but this time, I don't know, it seemed kind of corny to me. Maybe because I knew how the film was going to end up, but it just didn't do anything for me this time. Nic Cage seemed hokey as hell and while I can appreciate that it was a decent love story of desiring someone you can't have, I've seen much better. It's not a bad film, but it didn't seem to age well past the first viewing. Meg Ryan sure used to be cute though.
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| 5 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #53: Clerks
I'm not even supposed to be here today!
The movie that introduced the world to Kevin Smith. I am not even sure how I heard of this movie enough to rent it with some friends right when it came out, but I am glad I did. I sat there dumbfounded that they were saying the things they were saying in a movie like this. But it wasn't just pure raunchiness, it was smart at the same time. It was something fresh and I am glad the film caught on enough so that Smith could make more films. On repeated viewings, the films just doesn't get old to me. Partially because the film is so funny and partially because the film is so quotable, I can simply watch this film over and over again and not get tired of it.
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| 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #54: Clerks II
Thirty-two and you're flipping burgers? Jesus, anybody else from our graduating class back there?
Clerks II is one of those rare movies that keeps getting better and better with each repeated viewing. I enjoyed Clerks II the first time I watched it, but there was the slightest amount of disappointment that it wasn't as comical as the first one. This one had a lot of serious things going on underneath the usual vulgarity. But the more I watch it, the more I find things I can relate to and it becomes a more personable movie and I see why Smith names this as his favorite film he has made to date. The jokes are still funny as hell and it crosses that line that you didn't think it would go, but I find the story amazing. It is because of this that I now enjoy Clerks II more that the first one.
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| 8 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
Movie Review #55: Click
Shut up, James Earl Jones!
Off the top of my head, this was the last Adam Sandler movie that I enjoyed. Hell, most of them I am have skipped just because of how terrible they looked. Even this film has some eye rolling moments, but if you look past some of the cringe-worthy comedy, it has a story with a good lesson. I don't really laugh out loud at any of the parts as I did when I first saw the film, but I am still touched by the point the film is trying to make. I wish funny Adam Sandler would come back to Earth.
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| 6 out of 10 cheeseburgers |
I think I have about 6 or 7 more movies to review in the Cs and then I am finally done (and hopefully caught up)!
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