Movie Yangu

Head of State (2003-)

2009-11-05T04:43:00.000-08:00

Movie Review

Chris Rock stars as Mays Gilliam, a Washington D.C. alderman who fights daily battles to protect his run-down neighborhood and its hard-working people. After rescuing a woman and her cat from a building about to be destroyed, Gilliam comes to the attention of powerful people looking for a new candidate to support for office. What office? That would be the office of The President of the United States. After the initial shock, Gilliam dives into the campaign, selecting his older brother Mitch (Bernie Mac) as his running mate. Tamala Jones co-stars as the woman Mays Gilliam would love to make his First Lady.

Harrison's Flowers (2003-)

2009-11-04T06:54:00.000-08:00

Movie Review

Director Elie Chouraqui's graphic look at war-torn Yugoslavia adroitly mixes a gripping love story with unrelentingly violent scenes of the brutality of war. Serving up a realistic depiction of the dangerous work undergone by photojournalists and reporters deep inside hostile territory, “Harrison's Flowers” strikes a chilling chord - especially with the recent killing of “Wall Street Journal” reporter Daniel Pearl still so fresh in our minds.

The Haunted Mansion (2003-)

2009-11-04T06:37:00.000-08:00

Movie Review

THE HAUNTED MANSION comes alive like never before with incredible visual and special effects in this all-new, fun-filled comedy adventure. Shrouded in fog and mystery, the mansion was once a stately antebellum palace that hosted New Orleans' wealthiest. Now it's the creepy and crumbling home to a love struck 19th century gentleman, 999 ghosts, and a hilarious and hair-raising battle for "home rule." Realtor Jim Evers (EDDIE MURPHY) and his wife and business partner Sara get a call late one night from mansion owner Edward Gracey, who is looking to sell his property. Smelling the biggest deal of their career, Jim, Sara and their two children pay a visit to the mansion, located on a remote bayou.A torrential thunderstorm of mysterious origin strands the Evers family in the old mansion with the brooding, eccentric Gracey, his mysterious butler Ramsley, and a variety of residents both seen and unseen........

Heartbreakers (-2003)

2009-11-04T06:27:00.000-08:00

Movie Review

Sigourney Weaver and Jennifer Love Hewitt star as a pair of mother-daughter con artists who have almost perfected the art of ripping off wealthy men. Working as a team, Max (Weaver) sets the con up by seducing rich men into matrimony, withholding sex until after the vows. Daughter Page (Hewitt), wearing the tightest outfits this side of Erin Brockovich, then swoops in for the kill. Page, and her chest, manipulate the just-married men into some very compromising positions which Max then "accidentally" stumbles upon. Within 24 hours of marriage, the newlyweds are headed to the divorce lawyer. Hours after that, the mother-daughter team count their money while searching for their next "mark." Max is so competent at her work that even after the marriage ceremony is over, she finds ways to avoid sleeping with her new, and by this point, very randy husband.

Hearts in Atlantis

2009-10-24T03:02:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Hearts in Atlantis" introduces us to Bobby Garfield, an 11-year old whose biggest challenge is how to earn enough money to buy that killer bike that's on display at the local sporting goods store, despite his mother's efforts at keeping him from accomplishing that goal.
Following the death of his father, Bobby's being raised alone by his hardhearted mother. His mother constantly reminds him that it's because of his father's inability to pass up an inside straight, that they are barely scrapping by and are forced to live paycheck to paycheck. Though she's able to buy herself beautiful dresses for work, she can't seem to find a spare dime to buy Bobby a decent gift for his 11th birthday. He's looking forward to a bike but receives - as his sole gift - an adult library card. Just when things are looking hopeless for Bobby, into his sterile life comes a mysterious man who moves his belongings in a paper bag, much to the chagrin of Bobby's mom.

High Crimes (2003-)

2009-10-22T00:58:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Judd is Claire Kubik, a high-powered defense attorney living an affluent, happy life with her husband, Tom (cue the "Jaws" music, it's about to get dramatic). Everything she believes about her husband is tossed out the window as he is arrested at gunpoint by the FBI and charged with the deaths of innocent civilians during a military action in El Salvador. As the wife of a man who is accused of atrocious crimes during a covert military operation, Judd's torn between her love for her husband and the ugliness of the charges mixed with the possibility that the military's version of events is true. Deciding to be the supportive wife - and cutthroat defense attorney - she enlists the help of Charlie Grimes (Morgan Freeman), a wild card attorney with many bones to pick with the military.

The Hours (2003-)

2009-10-22T00:49:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

What do you call a movie that features brilliant performances by every actor no matter the size of the role, intelligent dialogue, and a compelling story with emotional depth? You call it "The Hours" and you justifiably label it with every accolade (even the clichéd ones) normally associated with an outstanding film.
Based on the critically acclaimed book "The Hours" by Michael Cunningham ("The Hours" was the original working title of Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway"), the story follows three women living in three different eras whose lives are connected through time by Woolf's novel, "Mrs. Dalloway."

House of Sand and Fog (2003-)

2009-10-22T00:38:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"House of Sand and Fog" could be summed up simply as the story of a woman who unfairly loses her family home versus the man who purchases the said home and won’t relinquish it. But the truth of the story is much more complicated. The house in "House of Sand and Fog" isn’t merely a physical location. It’s a metaphor for stability and family. No matter the turmoil surrounding it, the house stands steady (and kudos to the filmmakers for finding such a perfect location).

The Hulk (2003-)

2009-10-22T00:26:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

The screen version of “The Hulk” provides the background story on why mild-mannered scientist Bruce Banner (Eric Bana) transforms into the green beast. Through a series flashbacks, we learn Bruce’s dad (played by Nick Nolte with his famous 'mug shot' hair) wasn’t such a nice guy. Because of some unauthorized experimentation, Bruce’s DNA is wrong – all wrong. So wrong that if he gets angry, he becomes a big green fighting machine. Flash forward to contemporary times with Bruce romantically involved with the beautiful Betty Ross (Jennifer Connelly), envied by Glenn Talbot (Josh Lucas), and wanted by the military. As circumstances rile up Bruce, the Hulk emerges to wreak havoc. It then becomes up to the love of a good woman to soothe the savage beast.

Human Nature (2003-)

2009-09-22T03:15:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Human Nature" comes from the creative mind of the Academy Award-nominated screenwriter, Charlie Kaufman ("Being John Malkovich"). Equally as outlandish and innovative as "Being John Malkovich," "Human Nature" features what could possibly be the strangest cast of leading characters in recent film history.
Tim Robbins narrates the story as the recently deceased behaviorist, Nathan Bronfman. With a tidy bullet hole in his forehead from which only a small trail of blood is still visible, Nathan recalls his recent past while seated in a blindingly white room. In life, Nathan's strict childhood with his adopted parents led him to become a behaviorist who attempted to teach table manners to mice. Seriously - that's what he did. Watch all about it.

The Human Stain (2003-)

2009-09-04T04:47:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Two fine actors – Nicole Kidman and Anthony Hopkins – try to generate a little sexual chemistry in “The Human Stain,” directed by Robert Benton and based on the Philip Roth novel.

Adapted from Pulitzer Prize-winner Roth’s critically acclaimed work, “The Human Stain” is the emotionally wrenching story of Professor Coleman Silk (Hopkins), a tormented man who lives in a self-imposed state of denial. After decades of teaching, Silk makes an unfortunate comment that’s taken as a racial slur. Forced from his job by the powers that be, a lonely and dejected Silk turns to writer Nathan Zuckerman (Gary Sinise) for help with a novel. A companionable relationship quickly forms between the two men, with Silk opening up far more with Zuckerman than with most of the people he’s encountered in his life. Yet the one big secret he fights to protect stays concealed, even from this man who becomes his closest friend and confidante.

I Spy (2003-)

2009-09-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“I Spy” took me by surprise. The pacing was fast, the jokes hit their marks (at least the majority of them did) and though the plot was convoluted, the script allowed Owen Wilson and Eddie Murphy to play around and have fun with the project. Wilson and Murphy scored solid laughs with the preview audience and the film fairly flew by, being just slightly over an hour and a half in length. The chemistry was dynamite, much better than I anticipated, with Wilson playing the perfect straight man to Murphy's over-the-top, narcissistic character. Wilson has that great every man type of aura that makes you believe he is whoever he plays - the basically normal guy who gets caught up in abnormal situations and then wonders how the heck to get himself out of trouble. Murphy recaptures that spark he had before the “Dr. Doolittle” films.

In the Cut (2003-)

2009-09-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Meg Ryan and Mark Ruffalo get down and dirty in the whodunit, "In the Cut." Showing off more than their acting skills, Ryan and Ruffalo attempt to generate a lot of heat for director Jane Campion in this big screen adaptation of Susanna Moore’s novel.

The Italian Job (2003-)

2009-09-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“The Italian Job” is smart, sophisticated, funny, and completely entertaining. Between hot action sequences featuring wild boat rides through the canals of Venice, chase scenes involving the coolest little cars on wheels, and an intricately planned act of revenge lies a film filled with snappy dialogue and smart acting.

Jeepers Creepers 2 (2003-)

2009-09-03T06:40:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

The sequel benefits from a bigger budget, which amounts to a larger cast, many more effects, and more of what most horror freaks demand – gore, and lots of it. And this time around the Creeper (again played by Jonathan Breck) gets to let loose with a grisly assortment of lethal weapons chiseled from bone and covered with flesh. Fine fun for the whole family (if you’re a member of the Manson Family).

Kate and Leopold (2003-)

2009-09-03T06:14:00.001-07:00

Movie Review

Meg Ryan can add another notch to her romantic comedy belt with the delightfully fun, though thoroughly implausible, "Kate and Leopold." Moviegoers should check reason and logic at the door, and prepare for a thoroughly enchanting romp with two dynamic leading actors. The onscreen teaming of Meg Ryan (Kate) and Hugh Jackman (Leopold) pulsates with electricity, their performances perfectly complimenting each other and guiding the film smoothly above its rocky premise.

Kill Bill Vol. 1 (2003-)

2009-09-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“Kill Bill Vol. 1” - Quentin Tarantino’s reverential tribute to martial arts films and samurai movies - rocks. It’s contemporary Tarantino out Tarantino-ing classic Tarantino. He leaves no stone unturned visually, jumping from black & white to Day-Glo, to a breathtakingly violent anime sequence, and finally landing in a sumptuous battle bathed in blue.

A Knight's Tale (2003-)

2009-08-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Two Knights...Two Horses...Two Pieces of Sharp Lumber...But, Only One Chick...Do the Math"

Backed by the throbbing sound of Queen's "We Will Rock You," "A Knight's Tale" opens by immediately letting you know, in no uncertain terms, that this is no ordinary tale of jousting and medieval times. Mixing classic rock with medieval stylings, "A Knight's Tale" is a wild ride that never takes itself seriously. From the booming beat of "The Boys are Back in Town" to the mixture of modern-day and medieval dialogue, "A Knight's Tale" is pure entertainment.

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003-)

2009-08-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

A group of literary figures are recruited to save the British Empire and the world – in that order. The League must quickly travel to Venice, Italy where a madman known as the Fantom plans to blow up a meeting of world leaders. Captain Nemo’s ‘Nautilus’ provides a quicker-than-should-be-reasonably-possible ride to Venice. The group must find the bombs and stop the collapse of THE WORLD AS WE KNOW IT. Or the world as they knew it back in the 1800s. They also must deal with a traitor in their midst. Watch it.

Legally Blonde (2003-)

2009-08-18T07:49:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Do blondes have more fun? They may - or they may not - but in "Legally Blonde," Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) does her best to prove there's much more to blondes than their hair color. As a lifelong brunette (and proud of it), I have to admit that I've always believed there has to be at least some truth behind all the blonde stereotypes. I once had a blonde roommate who thought Truman Capote was a U.S. President, and who mistook her own reflection in our living room window as a peeping tom; the "dumb blonde" stereotype has proven itself to be valid more than once. In "Legally Blonde," the dumb blonde stereotype is poked fun at, while the film does its best to help dismantle some “blonde” misperceptions.

Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde (2003-)

2009-08-18T07:43:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Reese Witherspoon dons her character’s obnoxious signature color, pink, for her return as Elle Woods: lawyer, spokesperson for intelligent blondes, and in “Legally Blonde 2,” political activist for animal rights. Finding herself working for a law firm that can’t get behind her campaign to free her beloved pet Chihuahua's mother from a research laboratory, Elle packs her designer bags and heads to Washington D.C. to make a difference. Working for Representative Rudd (Sally Field), it’s up to Elle to bring to fruition a bill that will ban the testing of cosmetics on animals.

Life as a House (2003-)

2009-08-18T07:38:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Life as a House" is indeed a powerful, emotionally charged film that knocks you over the head with its solid acting, its skillful manipulation of our emotions, and moments of pure inspiration that cut right to the very heart of the film's dysfunctional family.

Life or Something Like it (2003-)

2009-08-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“Life or Something Like it” asks the thought-provoking question: if you knew you only had one week to live, how would you spend it? Would you bother showing up for work? Would you put right all those bad relationships and feelings you've shoved deep into your subconscious? Or would you just keep on keeping on?

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2003-)

2009-08-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Director Peter Jackson had big shoes to fill in creating "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers" - his own (albeit in reality said shoes were most often missing, exposing feet that have been described as 'hobbit-like'). With the first film garnering 13 Academy Award nominations, picking up American Film Institute and Screen Actors Guild Awards, doing boffo business at the box office, and accomplishing the near impossible - exceeding many Tolkien fanatics' fantasies of a live action trilogy - Jackson set the bar incredibly high. Fortunately, this short, stout, visionary director turns out to be quite a high jumper.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003-)

2009-08-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Can I just start this out by declaring upfront Peter Jackson is a genius? There, I’ve said it and I stand behind my opinion. He’s a genius for having the guts to film the entire trilogy at the same time, for choosing the perfect mix of new, rising, and established actors, and for creating a fantasy world so breathtakingly entrancing fans of Tolkien’s work were left with very little to gripe about. Jackson’s also one smart cookie for his use of the Internet and fan sites to spread the news (and hype) surrounding “The Lord of the Rings.” Instead of keeping fans at a distance, Jackson did a fantastic job of embracing the people who would ultimately buy tickets, buy the DVDs, and support “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

Love Actually (2003-)

2009-08-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Audiences can start celebrating a little early as the holiday-themed romantic comedy “Love Actually” weaves its spell over moviegoers. Writer/director Richard Curtis’ romantic comedy can honestly, truthfully, and without hesitation be labeled ‘the romantic comedy of the year.’ In a year practically devoid of romantic comedies, that’s not exactly a tough title to claim. However, “Love Actually” is utterly charming, irresistible, and all those other accolades usually launched at a cute, fluffy, romantic comedy, so it deserves the label - and not just by default.

Love the Hard Way (2003-)

2009-08-18T06:32:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Love the Hard Way" premiered at the Locarno Film Festival in August 2001 and finally with its June 2003 limited theatrical release, audiences are getting a chance to discover this buried treasure.

Brody stars as Jack: con artist, petty criminal, and womanizer extraordinaire. Women seem to be attracted to his bad boy persona (isn’t that usually the way lust works?), and he takes full advantage of his rep as he fills his bed with random women, none of which he cares one iota about. Then along comes Claire (Charlotte Ayanna). Watch the rest, don't ask me what happened next.

The Majestic (2003-)

2009-08-18T05:10:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Director Frank Darabont set out to make a Capra-esque film to pay homage to that esteemed filmmaker's distinctive style. With "The Majestic," Darabont achieves that goal, and more. Sure, it's totally predictable, it's overly patriotic (it was filmed prior to Sept 11th so he can't be charged with playing to American moviegoers newly found patriotism), and the age difference between Carrey and Landau yanks you out of the film at first glimpse. But, the story is told with such a genuinely sincere and loving touch, and the actors handle themselves so admirably.

Matchstick Men

2009-08-18T04:11:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Nicolas Cage, Sam Rockwell and director Ridley Scott team up for the first time and the result is one of 2003’s most entertaining movies. "Matchstick Men" is a fast-paced comedy/drama with a snappy script full of well-disguised plot twists. You don’t know where the story’s going, but you do know you want to go along for the ride. It’s refreshing to be able to sit through an entire movie where the plot isn’t telegraphed ahead of time.

The Matrix Revolutions (2003-)

2009-08-18T04:01:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

I loved "The Matrix," got lost and confused by "The Matrix Reloaded," and waited with bated breath for "The Matrix Revolutions."

"Revolutions" jumps right into the story. Neo (Keanu Reeves) awakens in a train station, a pit stop between the Matrix and the Machine World. Trapped there as his body lies comatose aboard the Mjolnir, Neo is powerless to leave without permission from The Trainman (Bruce Spence), who takes his orders from Merovingian (Lambert Wilson).

Me Without You (2003-)

2009-08-18T03:49:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Me Without You" peers inside a friendship, exposing all the beauty along with all the warts. The film traces two young girls as they grow from giggly adolescence into interesting, though diametrically opposed, young adults.

The Medallion (2003-)

2009-08-18T01:50:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Jackie Chan’s bread and butter has always been his otherworldly ability to take any prop, use it as a fighting weapon, and make the subsequent action sequence look like poetry in motion.

What’s always been attractive about watching Chan in action is the lack of artifice involved in selling his fight scenes to audiences. There’s no need for CGI effects, wirework, or stunt doubles when you’ve got Chan. So why are all those tricks necessary in “The Medallion?” Chan’s getting up in age but clearly he’s still able to satisfy his fans without the need for all the choppy editing, speeded up scenes, and other intrusive effects.

Men in Black II (2003-)

2009-08-18T01:31:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

The men in black are back, looking smooth and fending off another attack by renegade aliens. The first "Men in Black" had to devote a good portion of the film to setting up the premise of a secret agency that monitors aliens on Earth - and then convincing Will Smith's character to buy into it. "Men in Black II" has the advantage of being able to jump headfirst into the 'imaginary' agency's workings. Along with those stylish guys in dark suits and dark glasses, the Worm Guys are back and so is that pugnacious pug, Frank, with an even more prominent role than in the 1997 film.

The Mexican (2003-)

2009-08-18T00:52:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

It's not often that Hollywood has the opportunity (opportunity = financial backing) to team two superstars in a major release. Julia Roberts uses her considerable comedic talents to pull off the role of Samantha, the put-upon girlfriend of the increasingly inept Jerry, played by Brad Pitt. Jerry has gotten himself into trouble with the mob by accidentally playing a crucial role in the arrest of mob boss, Arnold Margolese (Gene Hackman). In one of the few scenes that Julia and Brad share in the film, we learn that Samantha is packed and ready to move to Vegas, when Jerry gets an order he can't refuse to go to Mexico and retrieve a priceless gun nicknamed "The Mexican." Be the eye witness.

Minority Report (2003-)

2009-08-18T00:20:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Minority Report" is a little romance and a little comedy mixed up with a whole lot of souped-up action and death-defying stunts. I loved it - the incredibly stunning futuristic scenery, the action sequences that leap off the screen, and the shockingly brutal Spielbergian vision of the world in the not too distant future.

Monster's Ball (2003-)

2009-08-17T23:59:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Monster's Ball" is a hauntingly compelling look at prejudice and racism. The film delves into one family's dark, depressing, inherited history of hatred for anyone not of the same race. Brutal and riveting, "Monster's Ball" treads where films seldom dare to venture - and does so without making its central characters into stereotypical one-dimensional creatures.

Moonlight Mile (2003-)

2009-08-17T23:45:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“Moonlight Mile” is a surprisingly honest film that doesn't take the easy route as it explores how a loved one's sudden violent death affects the surviving family members and friends. The crisp dialogue exposes a family with all its foibles and idiosyncrasies laid bare, bringing to the screen truly genuine characters (including another Oscar-worthy performance by Susan Sarandon) and creating a fictional family worthy of an audience's empathy.

Moulin Rouge (2003-)

2009-08-15T06:41:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

This Story Is About Truth - This Story Is About Beauty - This Story Is About Freedom - Above All Things This Story Is About Love.

"Moulin Rouge" is a vivid assault on the senses. From the opening credits to the final scene, the movie's breathtaking costumes and vibrant production numbers invade your mind and fill your eyes with luscious, sensuous treats. The mix of 19th century Paris and its bohemian underground, over-the-top style and decadence, with music from the late 20th century, creates a film that slides into a category beyond extravagant. This movie takes musicals to a level never before experienced, and which may never be equaled in its exaggerated style. This visually stunning film blends elements that normally would clash, and does it with such panache it's almost painful to watch in its beauty.

Mr. Deeds (2003-)

2009-08-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

In the romantic comedy "Mr. Deeds," Adam Sandler returns to the sweet, goofy 'every man' type of role that's his bread and butter, steering clear from any reference to the generally disliked, "Little Nicky." Surrounding himself with a wickedly funny supporting cast, including scene-stealers John Turturro and Steve Buscemi, Sandler's Longfellow Deeds is a guy we can relate to, a guy faced with tough choices who stumbles a little while just trying to keep it all in perspective.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2003-)

2009-08-15T06:25:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"My Big Fat Greek Wedding" is a jubilant mix of laughter, longing, forgiveness, sacrifice, commitment and, above all, balancing family obligations against true love. Throw in a gregarious group of Greeks and you've got the makings of a fun -but fluffy- 1 1/2 hour escapist film.

Novocaine (2003-)

2009-08-15T06:17:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Director David Atkins makes his feature film debut with this crime thriller, filled with lust, betrayal, and dental instruments. Atkins had to look no further than his own family while researching “Novocaine.” Inspired by his father and two brothers who are dentists, Atkins wanted for years to make a film featuring a dentist as the central character. Atkins explains, “Growing up I was intrigued by phone calls that would always come around dinner time. My mother would get upset and I didn't know why. I discovered later that, more often than not, people would be trying to scam my father for drugs. I always thought that was a compelling scenario.”

O (2003-)

2009-08-15T06:08:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Director Tim Blake Nelson and screenwriter Brad Kaaya had to wait two years for their collaborative effort to be released in theatres. "O" is a retelling/retooling of Shakespeare'sOthello, with the action taking place on the basketball court at a private, southern, high school, in place of Othello'sbattlefield.

"O" is a violent, gripping, emotional tale of love, friendship, and betrayal.

Ocean's Eleven (2003-)

2009-08-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Julia Roberts is one lucky woman. In "Ocean's Eleven," she's the only female in a cast consisting of handsome - and talented - hunks, including George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Andy Garcia. It must have been quite a sacrifice on her part to put up with such tough working conditions.

On the Line (2003-)

2009-08-15T05:56:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Two-fifths of the pop group *NSYNC star in this squeaky clean romantic comedy. Lance Bass makes his debut as a lead actor in a feature film, playing an ad agency professional who is a bust with women. His real-life good buddy and band mate, Joey Fatone, co-stars as his overly flatulent best friend.

Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003-)

2009-08-15T05:45:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Fans of "Desperado," prepare to be wowed again. There's really just one word to describe “Once Upon a Time in Mexico” - Cool. Antonio Banderas is cool, Salma Hayek is cool, and Johnny Depp… Well, Depp could have invented the word.

“Desperado” was Banderas' movie, but this one is all Depp. Depp as a rogue CIA agent, Depp as food critic, Depp obsessed with balance and order, Depp as gunslinger, Depp as the puppeteer manipulating the most powerful people in Mexico.

One Hour Photo (2003-)

2009-08-15T05:27:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

The thought of a lonely guy behind the photo counter at a convenience store watching one particular family as they progress from newlyweds to young parents, imagining himself as a beloved uncle, carrying on a twisted secret life wrapped around his make-believe involvement in their lives, is an incredibly chilling prospect and the set-up is a captivating, suspenseful movie. Fortunately, what's on the screen is nearly as riveting as expected.

Open Range (2003-)

2009-08-15T05:19:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Kevin Costner jumps back in the saddle for “Open Range,” a majestic look at the old west. The “Dances With Wolves” director and “Silverado” and “Wyatt Earp”star, with “Open Range” Costner reconnects with the genre that’s served him well in the past.

“Open Range” is the nostalgic story of grizzled cowboys, the wide-open beauty of a young country, and the fading days of a way of life. “Open Range” is visually stunning and features an easy to follow plot with strictly defined heroes and villains. While the heroes don’t literally wear white hats, there’s never the slightest doubt whom to root for.

Original Sin (2003-)

2009-08-15T05:11:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"This is not a love story - it's a story about love."

"Original Sin" is a sexy, sensual, sizzling, romantic thriller. The chemistry between the sultry Angelina Jolie and the dangerously handsome Antonio Banderas explodes off the screen. Very few superstar match-ups have succeeded in doing what "Original Sin" so triumphantly achieves - a brilliant blending of two stars who ooze sex appeal, and whose teaming up makes this film an incredible viewing experience.

Pearl Harbor (2003-)

2009-08-15T04:57:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Jerry Bruckheimer and Michael Bay launched a full out attack on moviegoers on May 25th. "Pearl Harbor" exploded onto the big screen with an impressive publicity campaign that had fans, websites, and other media outlets, counting down the days until its Memorial Day Weekend release.

While most of the publicity was centered around the battle scenes and the reenactment of Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, the movie itself is more of a love story in which there just happens to be a war breaking out.

Peter Pan (2003-)

2009-08-15T04:48:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Buy this movie expecting to see an androgynous female gymnast surrounded by a cast of squeaky clean, politically correct kids engaged in harmless fun and you’ll be terribly surprised. This isn’t the watered down, kiddie-cartoonish “Peter Pan” you’ve come to expect. This version is darker, scarier, more violent, and a good deal more faithful to the spirit of J.M. Barrie’s work.

Phone Booth (2003-)

2009-08-15T04:35:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Any less of a charismatic leading actor and this film would have been dead within the first 15 minutes. However Hollywood's current bad boy, Colin Farrell, uses that animal magnetism of his to full advantage as a man pinned down in a phone booth by an unseen sniper. Watching a man trapped in a phone booth for 90 minutes could get old extremely fast, but Farrell sinks his teeth into this character, compelling the audience to join him in that crowded space for the hour and a half it takes for the film to unfold.

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003-)

2009-08-15T04:21:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

In this movie you’ll find an original, swashbuckling adventure starring Johnny Depp as one of the most ‘interesting’ pirates ever seen on film. Depp claims his inspiration for Captain Jack Sparrow came from mixing Rolling Stones’ Keith Richards and the cartoon skunk, Pepe Le Pew. Interesting idea – taking a pirate and infusing in him the characteristics of one of rock and roll’s most out there stars. So what’s “Pirates” about? Basically it’s pirates stealing from pirates, pursued by pirates who stole from the British fleet who are bringing up the tail in the pursuit chain.

Poolhall Junkies (2003-)

2009-08-15T04:17:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Poolhall Junkies" doesn't try to disguise the fact it's a 2003 quasi rip-off of "The Hustler." Yet the movie can be somewhat forgiven because the filmmakers had the presence of mind to surround their main character, Johnny (played by writer/director Mars Callahan), with classy actors who can take a minimal plot and a recycled story and create a film that somehow manages to distinguish itself from the ordinary.

Possession (2003-)

2009-08-15T04:08:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Gorgeously filmed and beautifully acted, “Possession” is one of the best romantic films released this year. The four lead actors - Gwyneth Paltrow, Aaron Eckhart, Jeremy Northam and Jennifer Ehle - so completely captivate the audience that it's difficult to leave the theatre when the lights come on. You become so fully involved in their lives and their stories that there's a disconcerting feeling of disappointment when the credits roll.

Queen of the Damned (2003-)

2009-08-15T04:03:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Stuart Townsend, Marguerite Moreau, and Aaliyah combine talents in a blend of sex, vampire violence, pulsating rock rhythms, and erotic fantasy in director Michael Rymer's vision of Anne Rice's third novel in the "Vampire Chronicles."

Red Dragon (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:50:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Whether or not you are a fan of the 1986 "Manhunter" (also based on Thomas Harris' "Red Dragon"), you've got to admit that seeing Sir Anthony Hopkins crawl into Hannibal Lecter's skin one more time makes for gripping entertainment.

"Red Dragon" offers more creepy thrills than "Hannibal" and is almost - not quite, but almost - as startlingly chilling and breathtakingly thrilling as "Silence of the Lambs" (thank you Ted Tally for returning to the trilogy as "Red Dragon's" screenwriter).

The Ring (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:43:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Just in time for Halloween comes one of the creepiest films in years, “The Ring.” Filled with spooky special effects, “The Ring” will have you cringing in your seat and watching parts of the movie through the slits between your fingers placed firmly over your eyes.

Featuring a superb cast that's firing on all cylinders, the movie has quite a few moments of genuine spine-tingling thrills. Not since “The Sixth Sense” has a film built up the horror and suspense so effectively.

The Royal Tenenbaums (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:35:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

The gifted pair behind the critically acclaimed films "Bottle Rocket" and "Rushmore" return for their third collaboration, "The Royal Tenenbaums."

Director/writer Wes Anderson and writer/actor Owen Wilson take a twisted look at a bizarre dysfunctional family of geniuses in their new film, "The Royal Tenenbaums." Told by way of a narrator, the film is described by Anderson as a movie that is a book, rather than a movie based on a book. Watch all about it...

The Rundown (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:29:00.001-07:00

Movie Review

The Rock emerges as a viable action movie star with his role as a bounty hunter on the verge of retirement in Peter Berg's action comedy "The Rundown." Expectations weren't exactly high after his starring turn in the critically panned prequel to "The Mummy," "The Scorpion King." But under Peter Berg's direction in "The Rundown," The Rock is able to show off a decent set of acting chops. Even more surprising is the fact that even when he's not kicking some bad guy's butt, he's still extremely believable and entertaining to watch. Believe it or not, after "The Rundown," you can now add drama and comedy to the list of genres The Rock is capable of tackling.

School of Rock (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:21:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Jack Black is a Tasmanian Devil in human skin in the comedy"School of Rock," co-starring a bunch of musically talented kids and Joan Cusack. Black's in his element as an old-school rock and roller who encounters rock-deficient youngsters and teaches them how to screw the man, rebel against oppression, and recite the history of classic rock - all in just a matter of days.

Seabiscuit (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:13:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“Seabiscuit” takes place during the Great Depression, a time when Americans got their news and entertainment via the radio. With the country in the midst of one of the harshest periods of our history, people needed something inspirational to lift their spirits and give them hope. They found that hope in the most unlikely of heroes – a ragtag racehorse named Seabiscuit.

Secondhand Lions (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:08:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Robert Duvall and Michael Caine are terrific in the family-friendly comedy/drama, “Secondhand Lions.” These two venerable actors with over 11 decades of work between them are fresh and fun to watch as two crotchety old men who, on first glance, seem to live by the old adage, “Shoot first, ask questions later.”

Serendipity (2003-)

2009-08-15T03:04:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Serendipity (noun) - the faculty or phenomenon of finding valuable or agreeable things not sought for; a natural gift for making useful discoveries by accident.

Director Peter Chelsom tackles love and relationships again, this time around creating a tremendously more entertaining product than his last effort. Chelsom's "Town and Country" holds the undesirable distinction of being Hollywood's biggest box office failure. "Serendipity" should give moviegoers and critics alike something positive to say about Chelsom as a director.

Shanghai Knights (2003-)

2009-08-15T02:55:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“Shanghai Knights” took the unlikely pairing of martial arts wizard Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson (an actor not known for his fighting skills) and created a buddy movie with bite. The two disparate stars worked tremendously well off of each other onscreen to the delight of audiences of all ages (and even the delight of non-Jackie Chan fans).

Shipping News (2003-)

2009-08-15T02:49:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"The Shipping News" is an outstanding adaptation of the critically acclaimed novel by E. Annie Proulx. Telling the story of Quoyle (Spacey), a man with zero self-esteem who loses the wife that was never really his to begin with, the film follows his adventure as he moves his young daughter to the inhospitable climate of Newfoundland. Watch the rest...

Shrek (2003-)

2009-08-13T07:40:00.001-07:00

Movie Preview

This is one of the funniest movies I've seen in years. It's also one of the sweetest romances. Who would have thought that a huge, ugly, bug-eating, tube-eared, gassy green ogre could be so loveable? Mike Myers voice was the perfect match for this animated creature, though personally I believe Eddie Murphy stole the show with his Donkey doings.

Sidewalks of New York (2003-)

2009-08-13T07:23:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Edward Burns wrote, directed, produced and stars in this blunt, tell-it-like-it-is romantic comedy. "Sidewalks of New York" showcases the grittier side of love, lust, and committed relationships. The film's an intelligent, frank - yet amusing - look at a group of New Yorkers whose lives intersect and are tossed about in tumultuous, though thoroughly believable, relationships.

Solaris (2003-)

2009-08-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

“Solaris” is described as a love story set within a science fiction framework. The story takes place in the future and centers around psychologist, Dr. Chris Kelvin. Kelvin is asked to investigate the strange behavior of a group of scientists aboard Prometheus, a space station circling the planet Solaris.

Someone Like You (2003-)

2009-08-13T06:56:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Based on the novel "Animal Husbandry" by Laura Zigman, Judd stars as Jane Goodale, a woman confused by men and searching for a logical explanation behind being dumped. She comes up with the "New Cow Theory." The theory, based on research done on actual cows, states that bulls will dump their old cow for a new cow, after having their way with them. Once they've had the new cow, they lose interest and look for other new cows. Jane likens men to cows - unable to be satisfied with the cow they have, constantly in search of a new, fresh, cow.

Spider (2003-)

2009-08-13T06:34:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Spider" is the heart wrenching story of a man who, because of his mental illness, must go through life unable to organize and understand jumbled images and memories, memories which may have a basis in reality or which may be creations of a mind gone haywire.

Spider-man (2003-)

2009-08-13T06:28:00.001-07:00

Movie Review

I'll lay my cards on the table right off the bat and confess what in some circles could be considered sacrilege - I'm not a fan of comic books. I've never read any, and I couldn't tell you the story behind “Superman,” “Batman,” or “Spider-Man” if my life depended on it. All of my knowledge of 'superheroes' comes from the movies, and I'd even label that knowledge mediocre at best. “Superman” wasn't my kind of movie, “Batman” (in his many leading actor incarnations) wasn't up my alley either, and I went into the theater for “Spider-Man” just hoping it would live up to half of its hype. Half would have been nice, but “Spider-Man” pulled off the near impossible - it lived up to a full 75% of the hoopla and was close to nudging its way 85-90% when it backed off just a smidge (smidge - such a technical term for a movie review).

Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2003-)

2009-08-13T06:14:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

In a galaxy far, far away, "Star Wars: Episode II - The Attack of the Clones" may be the franchise's savior. Alas, here on this planet, despite some breathtaking scenery, dazzling new worlds and alien beings, and 'ahhh, so that's where it's heading' plot twists, "the Clones" is a near miss (or is it near hit?). There's a lack of the fun and frivolity that made the original releases such a wild ride for casual viewers and "Star Wars" fanatics alike. Gone are the days of fluffy Ewoks (which I liked, go ahead - scream at me, I can take it), Princess Leia and Han Solo's cleverly written repartee, and the unforgettable mass of hair we affectionately knew as Chewie.

S.W.A.T. (2003-)

2009-08-13T06:10:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Do you remember the '70s cop show this action-thriller is based upon? If your answer is no, then you're probably in the majority. It was never considered to be one of the best police shows on TV but it was entertaining. Everything was neatly wrapped up in 60 minutes and the bad guys always got what they deserved (a formula that still holds true for most primetime dramas to this day). Best of all, you didn't have to be a brain surgeon to follow the storylines. Fast-forward 30 years and "S.W.A.T.'s" mindless energy is brought to the big screen. "S.W.A.T" is the perfect August release - not too much dialogue, a whole lot of action, and an easy to follow plot populated with believable characters.

Thirteen (2003-)

2009-08-13T05:54:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

"Thirteen" caught me completely off guard. I'd only heard enough about the movie to know it was about the difficulties of growing up in today's world as seen through the eyes of a couple of young girls. That hardly prepared me for this devastatingly frank glimpse at what life feels like to contemporary 13 year olds.

Time Machine (2003-)

2009-08-13T05:45:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

The "romance" label doesn't automatically spring to mind when talking about H.G. Wells' classic science fiction novel, "The Time Machine." However in the 2002 big-screen adaptation, the powers that be decided the audience needed to know the reason behind inventor Alexander Hartdegen's (Guy Pearce) fixation with time travel (the Hartdegen name is also unique to this adaptation). This version supplies us with that reason in the form of Alexander's ladylove, Emma (played by Sienna Guillory).

Timeline (2003-)

2009-08-13T05:39:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

The best thing I can say about “Timeline” is that it’s filled with some of the finest male eye candy on screen (only adding Colin Farrell or Ewan McGregor would have topped the team of Gerard Butler and Paul Walker). Now that’s not to put down the acting ability of Butler or even Walker, it just speaks to the truth of the matter: without something pleasant to look at, I would have lost interest in “Timeline” before the end of the first hour. As it was, Butler and Walker provided enough testosterone to at least keep me from completely tuning out of this sadly unfulfilling screen adaptation of Michael Crichton’s bestseller.

Treasure Planet (2003-)

2009-08-13T05:24:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Part "Star Wars" part X-Games, "Treasure Planet" takes audiences on a wild ride through a fantasy universe filled with weird-looking aliens, plundering pirates, futuristic extreme sports, and one rebellious youth who is actually a hero in the making.

Undercover Brother (2003-)

2009-08-13T05:16:00.000-07:00

Movie Review

Funkier than "Austin Powers" and almost as sexy as James Bond, Eddie Griffin stars as the title character in what hopefully will be just the beginning of a whole new 'secret agent' movie franchise. "Undercover Brother" is fresh and plays out as an equal opportunity offender. No subject is forbidden, no joke is left unsaid, and no one is safe from the pens of screenwriters John Ridley and Michael McCullers. "Undercover Brother" takes up where other blaxploitation spoofs left off and does so with reckless abandon and a no-holds barred style that moves fast with nonstop action, a little romance, and free-flowing jokes.

Underworld (2003-)

2009-08-13T05:03:00.000-07:00

Underworld - Movie Review

"Underworld" starts off slow, speeds up when the action sequences kick in, then it gets itself totally mired down in the La Brea Tar Pit of Incomprehensible Plotlines. Unfortunately even the most spectacular looking and beautifully choreographed fight sequences cannot overcome the convoluted story.

Wedding Planner (2003-)

2009-08-13T04:53:00.000-07:00

The Wedding Planner - Movie Review

Red-hot Jennifer Lopez and hunky Matthew McConaughey star in the romantic comedy, "The Wedding Planner." Jennifer takes on the title role as a wedding planner who can plan the perfect wedding for everyone but herself. Matthew is the future husband-to-be of a very rich, very influential customer who hires Jennifer to plan an extraordinary wedding.

What Women Want (2003-)

2009-08-13T03:49:00.000-07:00

What Women Want - Movie Review

Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt star in this romantic comedy about a male chauvinist pig (Gibson as Nick Marshall) given the opportunity to read women's minds. Hunt is Darcy Maguire, an advertising executive with a rotten reputation who gets hired as the new Creative Director - a position Nick was already uncorking the champagne to celebrate landing.

Bride Wars - 2009

2009-08-13T03:31:00.000-07:00

Bride Wars - Movie Review

Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson, two pretty adorable women, take on the lead roles in the chick flick Bride Wars. Hathaway and Hudson are Emma and Liv, best friends forever who turn into catty, shrewish monsters when their weddings are accidentally booked on the same day at the same location - the much sought-after Plaza Hotel in New York. What a wedding comedy! The rest is better watched than read.

2009 Movies

2009-08-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

17 Again - Movie Review

The seriously cute, seriously corny 17 Again is Zac Efron’s first real challenge as an actor outside the safety of the High School Musical cocoon. Sure, he played the heartthrob in Hairspray, but that role didn’t require him to stretch his acting muscles. He sang well and provided teen girls with some eye candy, and that was pretty much all that was required of him. But with 17 Again, Efron actually proves he can handle the lead in a non-musical. Surprise, surprise.

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'Angels and

Demons' - Movie Review

I'm thinking Dan Brown's Robert Langdon books weren't meant to be made into movies. They're an enjoyable read, but there's so much backstory to digest, so many minute but important details involving the cases Langdon becomes involved in that neither The Da Vinci Code nor Angels and Demons have translated well into feature films. Plus, whether a conscious decision or just one made to make the films flow smoother cinematically, they're a whitewashed version of Brown's controversial swipes at the Catholic Church.

2008 Movies

2009-08-12T06:44:00.000-07:00

21 - Movie Review

Robert Luketic took a break from romantic comedies (the genre where he's been most comfortable) to direct 21, an entertaining, while not completely comprehensible, dramatic movie adapted from Ben Mezrich’s book, Bringing Down the House. Loosely based on the true story of a group of MIT students who made a killing counting cards at Vegas casinos, 21 makes playing blackjack look not only exciting, but profitable. Despite a few gaping plot holes, the card action and engaging cast make this film fun for even those of us who’ve had only losing experiences at blackjack tables.

2007 Movies

2009-08-12T06:37:00.000-07:00

3:10 to Yuma

One of the best movies of the year and a Western on par with Clint Eastwood’s 1992 Oscar-winning Unforgiven, 3:10 to Yuma demonstrates the once popular genre still has a lot of life left in it. Featuring incredible ensemble acting and a story that blends gritty Wild West action with an emotionally engaging tale, this take on Elmore Leonard’s 1953 short story is a riveting drama that’s difficult to shake off for days after viewing.

2006 Movies

2009-08-12T06:20:00.000-07:00

16 Blocks - Movie Review

Bruce Willis plays a broken down cop who’s ready for either rehab or retirement – or both – in “16 Blocks,” the latest police drama from Richard Donner, the director of the “Lethal Weapon” film series. Although the movie practically screams ‘been there done that,’ there are enough little twists to keep you amused and mostly entertained.

2005 Movies

2009-08-12T06:06:00.000-07:00

The 40-Year-Old Virgin - Movie Review

The same audience that gobbled up the R rated sex comedy, “Wedding Crashers,” should help make “The 40 Year Old Virgin” into a box office hit. And that’s fine by me. This is one of the best comedies of the decade and I applaud Universal for having the guts to let “The 40 Year Old Virgin” be an R rated movie without putting any restrictions on writer/director Judd Apatow or writer/actor Steve Carell that would have diluted the humor.

2004 Movies

2009-08-12T05:46:00.001-07:00

13 Going 30 - Movie Review

Who knew Jennifer Garner could do comedy so well? In “13 Going on 30,” the “Alias” star puts her physical training to comedic use as she sells the role of a 30 year-old woman who believes she’s actually just turned 13. Portraying a character inhabiting a body 17 years older than her mind allows her to believe, Garner has all the physical moves and nuances of a 13 year-old down pat. She appears gawky and gangly in her mature body and - in one of my favorite scenes - extremely pleased with the size of her breasts.

2003 and Older

2009-08-12T05:02:00.000-07:00

21 Grams - Movie Review

Powerful performances and a heartwrenching story create a dynamic world on film in "21 Grams." Alternately depressing and uplifting, its beautifully fashioned narrative is a fitting follow-up project for the powers behind the critically acclaimed "Amores Perros." The nonlinear style of storytelling that prevails throughout "21 Grams" is reminiscent of writer/director Christopher Nolan’s approach in "Memento."