Four Christmases (2008) Movie Review

Brad and Kate have been together three years, in love, having fun, doing all sorts of things together with no intention of marriage or children. Christmas morning, they're on their way to Fiji, having told their two sets of divorced parents that they're off to do charity work. Through a fluke, they have no choice but to visit each of their four idiosyncratic parents. As the day progresses, Brad and Kate remember growing up, each learns more about the other, and Kate realizes that her life may not be as good as it could be. Do they know each other well enough to weather the storms families bring?

PG-13 Sexual humor and language
88 minutes short

I thought this was a pretty funny movie - Having experienced the two divorced family holidays - I can understand why they would do whatever it takes to get away. It is very sweet at moments, then there are moments where you can not help but laugh out loud so funny.

Fun movie for the holidays, probably not one to watch with the family but to watch with close friends.

The Incredibles

This was an awesome movie. Can I just say, Pixar has done it again. The action is awesome in this movie. The special effects are still not as good in computer land as they are made to seem in live movies, but it will cause your head to spin all the same. I have to admit my eyes were so big while watching this movie the first time at the theater that they actually started to water. Like most action movies I can't say too much for plot, although it is reasonable, or character development, although some is hinted at. Mainly this is a fun, "I have nothing to do but veg," movie.
Craig T. Nelson plays the voice of Bob (Mr. Incredible) and Holly Hunter plays the voice of Helen (elasti-girl).
These two superheroes get together and have a super family, but all superheroes have been forced underground by recent lawsuits. Bob wants to fight for the right while Helen just wants to protect her family. Family values are promoted as well as family bonding through trashing high-tech villians. Take some time to watch this one.

Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007) Movie Review

Two faiths, two empires, two rulers - colliding in 1588. Papist Spain wants to bring down the heretic Elizabeth. Philip is building an armada but needs a rationale to attack. With covert intrigue, Spain sets a trap for the Queen and her principal secretary, Walsingham, using as a pawn Elizabeth's cousin Mary Stuart, who's under house arrest in the North. The trap springs, and the armada sets sail, to rendezvous with French ground forces and to attack. During these months, the Virgin Queen falls in love with Walter Raleigh, keeping him close to court and away from the sea and America. Is treachery or heroism at his heart? Does loneliness await her passionate majesty?


This is another film to tell you about the epic battle between Spain and England. The costume and make up is excellent, the acting is believable and passionate. If you are not familiar with this story - this is an okay film as far as clarification for the history but it also has a sweet little love story intertwined.

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Obsessed (2009) Movie Review

Derek Charles is a hard working man, employed as a asset manager in a private company. He is very happy with his beautiful wife, Sharon, and only son, and because of his hard work he just got a huge promotion. But suddenly he gets a temporary worker who is both attractive and smart, and Derek is understandably impressed with her and also finds himself physically drawn to her. However, this new girl is desperate to get close to him - at any cost.


I got a bad feeling twenty minutes into the move - but didn't turn it off - This movie isn't horrible but it isn't good and you don't really walk away entertained. Idris Elba has done much better films and his acting wasn't the greatest in this film.

I would say a waste of time.

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

This is a Christmas classic! It brilliantly portrays a thoughtful perspective on the true meaning of life and love especially during the Christmas season. This is a must see film to brighten the holidays. In the film, George Bailey, thinks that the grass is surely greener on the other side and regrets is life. A mysterious event makes the change he sullenly wished for and literally changes his life forever.

Photo http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0038650/

The Polar Express (2004)

The Polar Express is a great Christmas Movie children will love especially after they have read the book. It represents every childhood fantasy as magic and belief in Santa Clause is painted in this film. The movie was well made and stars Tom Hanks as the train conductor. Although this is a children's movie it can be enjoyed by the family.

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Definitely, Maybe (2008)

Ryan Reynolds starts in this romantic comedy as he recaps his college years and how he met his wife to his young daughter in a thought out story. I thought the plot was creative and well written. There were, however, a few scenes or ideals portrayed that I thought weren't very appropriate for the family. Omitting those, the film was okay.

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The R.M. (2003)

The R.M. (The Returned Missionary) is a funny take on post-mission life as a young man tries to adjust to normal everyday life after returning from a two-year mission for his church. The film, starring Kirby Heyborne, is light, relaxing and adventurous as the start tries to cope through dilemma after dilemma. Great for the family and good if you need a laugh.

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Pride and Prejudice (2005)

This is one of my favorite movies. It is based on Jane Austin's novel, Pride and Prejudice. The acting is high quality and I was very impressed. Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen work well together and make the movie even more romantic. This film is appropriate for the family and decent.

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Talladega Nights Movie Review

Will Ferrell + NASCAR= go see this movie. No joke it's very slap stick, but do you really go see a comedy for any other reason but to laugh? SEE IT.

The Santa Clause

Starring Tim Allen, this Chistmas movie is family apropriate and festive. It reminds me of my childhood and that innocent belief of Santa Clause. Great for all ages and lots of fun during the holiday season.

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I am Legand

Will Smith is simply Brilliant in this film. Playing one of the last people standing, Smith fights to find a cure to solve a global problem. I thought the plot and acting was really good. Probably not a kid show (even I was a little scared). It was overall a good movie.

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The Proposal

This movie starring Sandra Bullock is a roamtic comedy. Margeret (Bullock) must marry her assistant or otherwise be deported. Fearing the future of his career, the assistant goes along with the scam. This is not a family movie. There was a scene that I thought to be completely distasteful and inappropriate. Watch at your own risk.

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The Blind Side

Rated PG-13 for one scene involving brief violence, drug and sexual references.

Running Time 128 minutes.

This heartwarming story is a must see! The movie was pretty clean and had a great message. Sandra Bullock does a great job in this movie! It's based on a true story and at the end of the movie they showed pictures of the real family.

You gotta see this!

New Moon Movie Review

PG-13 for violence and some action, 130 minutes

The second movie in the Twilight Saga has been ripped apart by critics but this critic actually didn't mind it at all. If you read the book you know the plot. Bella's (Kristen Stewart) boyfriend (Robert Pattinson) and the rest of his family are vampires. When her life is threatened by a paper cut Edward decides it is to dangerous for her to be part of his life. Bella turns to her friend Jacob ( Taylor Lautner) who ends up being a werewolf. I know right?

Don't expect an academy award performance but if you are looking for some easy entertainment and some good looking actors, namely Lautner, you will find yourself watching the right movie!

My Kid Could Paint That (2007) Movie Review

My Kid Could Paint That:
83 Minutes long PG-13

Amir Bar-Lev directs this thought-provoking documentary about a precocious 4-year-old artist whose abstract works have drawn critical comparisons with modernist greats such as Kandinsky, Picasso and Pollack. Her talents have already profited her and her parents hundreds of thousands of dollars. But is she truly an artistic visionary trapped in the body of a preschooler, or is her gift with a paintbrush mere illusion?

Interesting but I wouldn't recommend it. It is more interesting if you understand all the history behind this little girl and her relationship with the media. 

Smother (2008) Movie Review

Smother:
This is funny - carefree movie but somewhat annoying.
92 Minutes and rated PG 13

After being fired from his job, physical therapist Noah Cooper (Dax Shepard) returns home to discover that his loud, pushy mother (Diane Keaton) has left her husband and plans to live with Noah and his lovely wife (Liv Tyler) indefinitely. Now, Noah has to cope with his outrageously overbearing mom, a wife who's desperate for a baby, a freeloading cousin (Mike White) who won't go away and a new job at a carpet store. Vince DiMeglio directs.

May or maynot be worth your time. Liv is darling - as always and Diane is just well - makes the movie annoying.

Waterworld Movie Review 1995

I love this movie - My dad and I always watch it together. It is so different. it is 135 minutes long, PG-13

Waterworld: In a futuristic world where the polar ice caps have melted and made Earth a liquid planet, a beautiful barmaid (Jeanne Tripplehorn) rescues a mutant seafarer (Kevin Costner) from a floating atoll prison. They escape with Enola (Tina Majorino), and sail off aboard his trimaran a super fancy ship creation. But the trio soon becomes the target of a menacing pirate aka - the smokers (Dennis Hopper) who covets the map to "Dryland" -- which is tattooed on Enola's back.

This wouldn't be a waste of time. 

No I don't believe in Global Warming.

UP!

Disney and Pixar have done it again. It is almost as good as The Incredibles, and as good or even better than Cars. The movie has come out on DVD and BluRay now and is worth the price to buy, and definately to Redbox or Netflix it. The movie starts off slow and is a little akward, but it picks up after a bit. I was flying with the house, and barking mad about the dogs.

Treasure Planet

I am sorry to say that I wasted my time watching this whole movie. I guess I was just waiting for it to get better and it never did.
I have to say that that there was a cool action scene when Jim was solar surfing, but it was over too soon.
If you don't have anything to do, you are under 12, or you are into computer graphics take some time to sit down and watch this, otherwise don't bother.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Jim Carrey at his finest...again. The Grinch was wonderful and can be watched every Christmas season with the family. It's hilarious and fun. I recommend this flick.

Photo http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0170016/

A Christmas Story (1983)

This is without a doubt a must see during the holidays. If you are fortunate enough to have cable, they usually show a 24 hour marathon of this movie when it gets closer to Christmas. This is a classic and is absolutely wonderful. You may be surprised how well you can relate to the characters. Good for the whole family.

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Elf (2003)

Elf is totally funny and a great Christmas flick since the holiday season is right around the corner. I liked it a lot and laughed a ton. It's fairly appropriate and good for the family. Will Ferrell is really talented and does a great job at portraying Buddy in this movie. Just watch it with some egg nog and you are good to go.

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A Christmas Carol (2009)

A Christmas Carol, starring Jim Carrey, was awesome! It's the typical Charles Dickens classic with a modern touch. I really liked this a lot and thought is was fun and festive. It's a great family film and I could watch it again.

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Facing the Giants

MMMmmmm. This movie was a little disappointing. Alex Kendrick was the producer-haven't heard of him? Neither had I. This is a very Christian film, it is more about finding God and following him in your life than about football, which is why I wanted to watch it. Think of a poor rendering of Remember the Titans, and instead of Denzel Washington giving amazing speeches to his team, the coach goes and prays before every game. It is not that I didn't like it, but it just didn't meet my expectations. However, if you are one that liked Fireproof you may get a kick out of this movie too. As long as you go in with low expectations I don't think you will be too disappointed.

Little Women

Winona Ryder stars as Jo in this movie and does a decent job. I have to say of all of the characters I was least drawn to Jo. I surprisingly didn't mind the movie, it is a little older (came out in 1994), but part of that is due to the fact I was watching it with my wife. So, for the women, go see this movie and if you haven't seen it for awhile, go and watch it again. For the men, if you are really wanting a touching movie then go for it, but I would recommend watching it with a female type if you are going to watch it. Character development was good, story plot was a little slow but it came around by the end.

Time Traveler's Wife (2009)

Rachel McAdams and Eric Bana star in this movie. It's romantic with a little touch of science fiction. I found the plot intriguing and different. I have never seen a movie like this before. There are a few questionable scenes that could make some viewers feel uncomfortable. Other than that, it was great.

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Twilight (2008)

Bella, human, and Edward, vampire, start an impossible relationship after setting their differences aside. The plot is entertaining and romantic. It's a good movie, different and fun, yet slightly frustrating if you loved the books because of a few changes. The soundtrack is also pretty good. I recommend it.

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Fireproof (2008)

Starring Kirk Cameron and Erin Bethea

Caleb and Catherine (Cameron and Bethea) are a struggling married couple not seeing the other persons perspective. The film illustrates their journey together during difficult times to achieve happiness.

This is a great inspirational film. It puts things into perspective.





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Kung Fu Panda

We, (the ninja type) try to stick together. This is an awesome movie, if you can watch the fight scenes in slow mo. All that you have to know is that the first line of this movie says the word 'ledgend' three times. Obviously, this movie will be legendary. It really is fun and has some good action. This is a Jack Black movie that I could actually stomach. John Stevenson was the director of this comedic film.

Moulin Rouge

Now here is an amazing modern day musical. Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor star in this colorful film. First of all the music is amazing and the acting is phenomenal. Kidman and McGregor have amazing voices that are showcased well with each of their numbers. The sets and costumes are lively and keep things exciting. This is not a family movie, rated PG-13 for sexual conduct but for an older audience with an open mind it is a great pick!

Breakfast at Tiffanys

This classic film was made in 1961 starring Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly and George Peppard as her next door neighbor. Running time for this film is 114 minutes, it's a little lengthy and you might feel like the story takes a while to develop but I promise if you just sit back and enjoy the ride you will be satisfied. It is a beautifully written love story that is thought provoking and the characters are well developed. It is a must see classic for anyone!

The Stepfather

This movie was so bad. So so bad. I mean really made me sick. I actually laughed out loud at the last 5 min of the movie. I kept asking myself, "who gave this movie the go ahead"? I mean I love all movies and try very hard to find the good in every film, but this was pretty hard to do. Guy movies in with depressed mom but is really a killer...that has father issues I guess. Don't see this film.

Happy Gilmore

This movie is a favorite with high school boys and well as frat members, since I a neither of those I'll do the best I can. See this movie. This movie is very funny and its a good story as well, i.e. hockey player turned golfer to save grandmas house. The acting doesn't need to be steller because the writing is so funny! Go see this.

Jumper

Oh good heavens this movie was awful. If anyone tells you other wise they do not care about your time or the money you would invest in it. the idea behind this movie is very good, "YOU CAN HAVE WHATEVER YOU WANT". However the film just does not dilver; poor acting, poor story, and a waste of time. Do not see this film.

Transformers 2

This movie is one of those where you go with all your friends on a lazy Saturday in the summer. Its what I like to call a popcorn movie. No life lessons learned in this film, just Robot fighting Robot action. It a little long, but the last fight at the end is very TENSE! Go see it, have fun.

A River Runs Through It is a film that I believe everyone should see. The story is based on the book written by one of the leads in the movie. The film has great depth and Brad Pitt does a wonderful job as the trouble brother, Paul.

The Prince and Me (2004)

Directed by Martha Coolidge

Starring Julia Stiles and Luke Mably

Paige Morgan (Stiles) meets a foreign exchange student, Eddie (Mably), in class. They become quick friends without Paige knowing his real identity as the Prince of Denmark. Once Paige realizes who he is she sees him differently and their relationship becomes stressed. In an instant, Paige must choose him or her dreams.

This is a clean, appropriate and entertaining family film.

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Enchanted (2007)

Directed by Kevin Lima

Starring Amy Adams and Patrick Dempsey

Giselle (Adams), a cartoon character from Andalaisa, is warped into the modern realm by her incredibly jealous and potential step mother-in-law after she meets her handsome prince and "true love kiss". Bringing a sense of enchantment into the city, she meets an attractive lawyer (Dempsey) who becomes a close friend and tries to help her find her way home. Giselle realizes after being rescued by her "true love kiss" that love may not be what it appears.

This is a great film. You'll like it if you like romance with song.




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The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

Directed by David Frankel

Starring Anne Hathaway Meryl Streep

Andy (Hathaway), aspiring journalist, just got the job a million girls would love to have as Miranda Priestly's (Streep) second assistant at Runway Magazine. Not really interested in fashion, Andy quickly changes to be accepted by her editor. These changes come with a consequence damaging her personal relationships and questioning her morals. Will Andy learn to be confident enough to chase the dreams that really matter to her?

Fun fun fun movie! I loved the characters and the fashion. This is a good flick.

Photo http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0458352/

While You Were Sleeping (1995)

Directed by Jon Turteltaub

Starring Sandra Bullock, Bill Pullman and Peter Gallagher

Always wanting a family of her own, Lucy (Bullock) finds herself in a sticky situation after she claims to be engaged to her dream man, someone she has never met, after he fell unconscious (Gallagher). His family is accepting and excited for the couple after they meet and make it difficult for her to come clean. She finds strength and support in family friends and especially Jack (Pullman), her soon to be brother-in-law, sorta. Will Lucy be able to make the right decision without destroying these new relationships?

While You Were Sleeping is an excellent family movie. It's fun and entertaining.

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Sabrina (1995)

Directed by Sydney Pollack

Starring Harrison Ford, Julia Ormond and Greg Kinnear

The chauffeur's daughter (Ormond) is hidden in mediocrity until she blooms after a summer in Paris and begins to turn heads in the Larrabee household. David (Kinnear), the youngest Laraabee, has always been the treasure of her heart until perhaps now. Can Sabrina (Ormond) be good enough as a chauffeur's daughter to win his heart or is it too late?

This is one of my favorite movies. Heartwarming, charming and funny-it is appropriate for all ages and is a good family flick.

Photo: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114319/

Nights in Rodanthe (2008)

Nights in Rodanthe (2008) PG-13

Diane Lane and Richard Gere
Directed by George C. Wolfe
Adrienne Willis (Lane) feels that her life is in shambles, her husband cheated on her and her daughter hates her so while her kids are with their dad she retreats to a friends Inn on the beach to care for it while she is away. Dr. Paul Flanner (Gere), the only guest scheduled at the inn for the week is a depressed doctor whos patient died in surgery is here to get comfort from his life also. A huge storm is announced and people are asked to leave the island - they don't but battle it out together.
Great love movie-definatly don't see the end coming 5 stars with a cheese factor of 4.
If this is your kind of movie it won't be a waste of time - if you didn't like the Notebook or others similar- don't waste your time here.
p.s. You will want tissues.

Vantage Point

Vantage Point (2008)

Directed by Pete Travis

Staring: Dennis Quaid, Forest Whitake, Matthew Fox
This movie was awesome! It is the assassination of the United States President from 8 different points of view and the main tag line through the movie is what happens when the United States isn't one step ahead of the enemy (not the best situation, but for a movie it is pretty sweet). Usually we get pretty tired of the same movie plot and being able to guess the ending but with this one we were into the whole time!

Of the 8 points of view the time always starts at the same point. 11:59:58 and moves on from there. The flash backs or the segment from each view is just long enough to give you the idea of who each person is and what they see (any longer and they would have been annoying). There are some serious twists that we didn't see coming which made the movie more entertaining.

This is for sure a 5 star, but a cheese factor of 3.
This would not be a waste of time.

Monsters Vs. Aliens

Monsters Vs. Aliens (2009) was directed by Rob Letterman and Conrad Vernon and stars Reese Witherspoon and Rainn Wilson. Earth is about to be invaded by aliens when an unlikely group of monsters come to save the day. This funny family movie is a must see and is appropriate for all ages. I loved it and could watch it again.

Photo: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0892782/

The Terminal

*Image found from http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0362227/

What could possibly be better than watching a good movie with good popcorn on a good weekend? This Good movie I speak of is The Terminal (2004) starring Tom Hanks and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Hanks Plays a foreigner called Victor Navorski, an unfortunate fellow who is stuck at the JFK airport after a war breaks out in his European Country making his passport void and departure impossible. While becoming a permanent resident at the terminal, Navorski befriends an unlikely group of employees and meets the struggling yet beautiful Amelia Warren (Zeta-Jones). Navorski's honest and child-like attitude change the terminal all together.

This funny yet lovable film was directed by Steven Spielberg and rated PG-13. Fairly clean and decent film. It's fun and a good choice!

Simply Irresistible

As a subscriber of Netflix this came across my 'recommended for you list' so I added it to my queue and it made its way to my mail box.

Simply Irresistible
With Sarah Michelle Gellar and Sean Patrick Flanery
Romance, Romance Comedy, Fantasy, Food Story
PG-13 100 Minutes
Directed by Mark Tarlov and written by Judith Roberts

This is a tale similar to that of Cinderella where the small town cafe goes against the up and rising night club. She meets him in a freak crab accident and he later finds himself in her cafe wanting crab. Little did she know what luck that little crab would bring her as she goes from not knowing how to cook to making 'Simply Irresistible' dishes (how can I not use the title in the review...) He falls in love with her food and eventually in love with her...spoiler?

It is always interesting to see actors when they started and this film proves that one can always get better at what you want to do with time.

It is an innocent romantic tale - the average pre-teen girl may love it. I wouldn't watch it again and I won't recommend it to you.
** two stars for the main two actors actor and actress
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