Mike's Media Madness

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

The Ring Two **1/2
Cast: Naomi Watts, Simon Baker, David Dorfman, Elizabeth Perkins, Gary Cole, Sissy Spacek
Director: Hideo Nakata
Running Length: 1:45
MPAA Classification: PG-13

It has benn a little while since the events of "The Ring", and since then, Rachel (Watts) and Aidan (Dorfman) have made a new home in Oregon and are trying to forget Samara and the nightmare she made of their lives. When a teenager in town dies, Rachel discovers a mysterious tape in the deceased's VCR. She promptly destroys it, but Samara has found her. Soon, she is showing up on Rachel's TV without a videotape, and she has her eyes on Aidan. Rachel must find a way to stop Samara once again, and we all know that something is wrong when Aidan calls Rachel "mommy".

"The Ring Two" is directed by Hideo Nakata, director of the Japanese versions "Ringu" and "Ringu 2", but while "The Ring" was a remake of "Ringu", "The Ring Two" is an original story that branches the mythology out into new areas. That being said, "The Ring Two", while offering some creepy moments, falls just short of the original. Dorfman does a great job as the possessed Aidan, and Watts does another respectable turn in the role that increased her popularity. Sissy Spacek provides a disturbing appearance as a lady that may or may not have the solution to Rachel and Aidan's problems.

"The Ring Two" is probably the best of the horror movies that are currently in theaters, even if it does not live up to the original. Those looking for some scares will find what they are looking for here, and unlike some other horror movie of late, the PG-13 rating does not hurt it.

Monday, March 21, 2005

Robots ***1/2
Cast (voices): Ewan McGregor, Robin Williams, Halle Berry, Greg Kinnear, Mel Brooks, Jim Broadbent, Amanda Bynes, Drew Carey, Jennifer Coolidge, Stanley Tucci, Dianne Wiest
Directors: Chris Wedge, Carlos Saldanha
Running Length: 1:30
MPAA Classification: PG

Rodney Copperbottom (McGregor) is a old-model robot with dreams of inventing. He sets out to the big city of Robot City to find Bigweld (Brooks), an inventor who is always looking for new ideas. When Rodney gets there though, he finds Bigweld nowhere to be found. Instead Phineas T. Rachet (Kinnear) is in charge, with the help of his mother Madame Gasket (Broadbent) who is really pulling the strings. Their plan is to get rid of the outmodes and make everyone into "upgrades" that are all shiny new and resemble Rachet. It seems that even in the robot world, greed is a problem. Rodney sets out with some new friends to find Bigweld, and make things right.

This is a great looking movie. Children and adults will be drawn into the robot world. Full of gadgets and bright colors, there is always something to catch your eye in every frame of film. The public transportation is a wild and crazy Rube Goldman-esque ride through the city that is fun to watch. The voices behind the robots are all solid with Robin Williams being the only standout as Rodney's friend, Fender. You can't help but wonder how much of what he says is scripted and how much was just ad libbed.

"Robots" is good family fun for all. With the adult humor that has become standard for animated features in recent years, adults will not be bored. The ideas of following your dreams and being yourself are nothing new, but they are presented well. Fox has also showed that they can make animated movies as well as Pixar and DreamWorks, which can only lead to higher and higher levels of movie making in the future. I highly recommend "Robots".

Friday, March 18, 2005

Friday, March 11, 2005

Be Cool **1/2
Cast: John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Vince Vaughn, Cedric the Entertainer, André Benjamin, Christina Milian, Robert Pastorelli, Harvey Keitel, The Rock, Steven Tyler
Director: F. Gary Gray
Running Length: 1:58
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Chili Palmer (Travolta) is back in this sequel to 1995's "Get Shorty". Since making it big in the movie business, he has grown tired of the cinema, and is thinking of geeting into the music business. After spotting the talented Linda Moon (Milian), he relieves her of her current deal with Nick Carr (Keitel), and uses his friendship with the owner of a recording company, Edie Athens (Thurman) to get Moon going on the path to stardom. Chili faces two problems though, Carr really does not want to let Moon go and hires a hit man to clear up the situation, and Athens owes Sin LaSalle (Cedric the Entertainer) $300,000, which she does not have. What follows is a series of double-crosses that get to be just a bit too over the top.

I really wanted to like "Be Cool", and to some extent I did. "Get Shorty" was a great movie, and a sequel was inevitable, especially once Elmore Leonard wrote the sequel novel. The problem this time around is that the talent of the large cast is less than the sum of its parts. "Get Shorty" had four leads, and they were all on top of their game. "Be Cool" has arguably nine leads, and more does not mean better. Sure, Cedric the Entertainer and The Rock are the standouts of the group, but Travolta's Chili is just a bit too cool. We never really believe that he is in any danger. Thurman's casting is just a stunt to get her and Travolta dancing to recreate their famous "Pulp Fiction" scene. Vaughn is amusing as the white guy who thinks he is black, but that grows tiresome by the time the movie is half over.

All in all, "Be Cool" is not a bad movie, but it is not as good as it could be, and never lives up to the standard set by its predecessor. I would recommend it, but wait for DVD.

Wednesday, March 09, 2005

The Jacket ***
Cast: Adrien Brody, Keira Knightley, Kris Kristofferson, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Daniel Craig, Kelly Lynch
Director: John Maybury
Running Length: 1:42
MPAA Classification: R

During the Gulf War, in 1991, Jack Starks (Brody) gets unexpectantly shot in the head by a child, and left for dead. Doctors soon see is alive and treat him. A year later, he is home, and physically healed. Mentally, he is not quite 100%. While wandering down a country road, he helps a little girl and her mom, and then hitchhikes a ride from another driver who gets him involved in a shooting. Once again he is injured, and soon finds himself in the Alpine Grove Psychiatric Hospital for the criminally insane.

There, Dr. Becker (Kristofferson) begins unorthidox experiments on him. Dr. Becker puts him in a straightjacket, drugs him, and throws him into a morgue drawer. "You can't break something that is already broken." In the drawer, he travels 15 years into the future and meets up with Jackie (Knightley), the girl he helped on the roadside. She begins to help him solve a mystery about his future and perhaps even her own.

Adrien Brody is good as the tormented Gulf War vet trying to figure out exactly what is happening to him. Keira Knightley also gives a good performance as the woman tormented by her past. "The Jacket" is a pleasantly bizarre and thought provoking movie. It providw no definite answers, and encourages the viewer to come to their own conclusions. That is a rarity in movies these days, and what director John Maybury has done is refreshing. This is not a perfect movie, but it is a very good one.

Friday, March 04, 2005

Boogeyman *1/2
Cast: Barry Watson, Emily Deschanel, Skye McCole Bartusiak, Lucy Lawless, Tory Mussett
Director: Stephen T. Kay
Running Length: 1:26
MPAA Classification: PG-13

When Tim Jensen (Watson) returns home after his mother's death, he has more to deal with than just funeral arrangements. When he was a child, his father disappeared. He knows it was the boogeyman that took him, dragging him into Tim's closet. People who know him feel that his father just pounded the boogeyman story into his head so much that it was Tim's way of dealing with his father's disappearance.

Now, having returned to his childhood home, he is still dealing with the childhood fear of the boogeyman, and when strange things start to happen in the old house, Tim decides to find out some answers once and for all. With the help of childhood friend Kate (Deschanel), he looks for the solution to this fear from his childhood.

The best thing I can really say about this movie is that it is a horror movie that works well with its PG-13 rating, unlike recent horror movies. It completely suits the story, and nothing feels "removed" to get the lower rating. The story is somewhat interesting, but could have been handled better by a more experienced director. There are some "jump" moments, and some non-linear story movement that work about as well as can be expected in a movie of this quality. The actors are nothing special. With no big names in the movie, one would at least hope for a surprise stand out performance, but there are none. This is B-movie all the way, and if that kind of horror movie suits you, then check it out. If not, then steer clear.

Wednesday, March 02, 2005

Cursed *1/2
Cast: Christina Ricci, Jesse Eisenberg, Joshua Jackson, Milo Ventimiglia, Judy Greer, Portia de Rossi, Shannon Elizabeth, Mya
Director: Wes Craven
Running Length: 1:26
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Siblings Ellie (Ricci) and Jimmy (Eisenberg) are hit a big furry something while driving and end up in an even bigger accident, rammin another car and sending it off the road and down a hillside. While trying to save the driver of that car, they are both bitten by a wolf. Jimmy comes to believe it is a warewolf, while Ellie harbors doubts. Soon, supernatural powers begin to present themselves. Jimmy likes what they do for him, Ellie becomes worried. Soon, they are searching for the "wolf" that bit them in an attempt to end the curse.

There are a number of things hurt this movie. The first is the cast. A virtual who's who of young Hollywood, the case of "Cursed" exists only to draw in teens to the theater. The only real quality actor name-wise in this movie is Christina Ricci, the lead. Unfortunately, her performance shows none of the quality that she has produced before. She seems like she is on auto pilot. Scott Baio, of all people, gets credit for playing a disperaging version of himself, and showing that he can take a joke at his own expense.

Director Wes Craven and writer Kevin Williamson have distanced themselves from the movie. They made the "Scream" franchise work, and revived interest in horror movies, and for some reason the studio decided that they wanted a PG-13 rating. The studio forced the cuts without Craven and Williamson's input, and it shows. The choppy editing of the kills and obvious desire not to show too much are painfully obvious.

Finally, the PG-13 rating will be the death of horror movies as we have known them. Why any studio would trim a horror movie that was filmed for an R rating down to a PG-13 is beyond me. Why they would do this to a Wes Craven moven movie is even more puzzling. This is a clear case of trying to get teens into the theaters, and it is insulting to any fan of the horror genre.

That being said, this movie would still have been bad with the gore. It just does not work on so many levels that a little blood and guts would make absolutely no difference. This movie was a disappointing experience that I would not recommend partaking in.

Monday, February 28, 2005

OSCAR WINNERS 2005
Hey...I picked all the winners. Not too bad!

Picture:
Million Dollar Baby

Director:
Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby

Actor:
Jamie Foxx, Ray

Actress:
Hilary Swank, Million Dollar Baby

Supporting Actor:
Morgan Freeman, Million Dollar Baby

Supporting Actress:
Cate Blanchett, The Aviator

Writing (Adapted Screenplay):
Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor, Sideways

Writing (Original Screenplay):
Charlie Kaufman, Michel Gondry and Pierre Bismuth, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Animated Feature Film:
The Incredibles

Friday, February 25, 2005

Constantine **1/2
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz, Shia LeBeouf, Djimon Hounsou, Max Baker, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Gavin Rossdale, Tilda Swinton, Peter Stormare
Director: Francis Lawrence
Running Length: 1:57
MPAA Classification: R

Yet another comic book movie graces the big screen in the adaptation of DC Comics's "Constantine". John Constantine (Reeves) is cursed with the ability to see angels and demons in the world around us. And they are everywhere. As a child, he tried to kill himself rather than deal with what he saw. He was unsuccessful, and now he is trying to atone for his suicide and win God's favor so that he may enter heaven upon his death. Constantine does not really have faith though, and he finds himself tormented to one degree or another by the angel Gabriel (Swinton) and the demon Balthazar (Rossdale). Oh yeah, and he has terminal lung cancer. If that is not enough of a downer, Satan's son is trying to enter the "real world" and mess everything up. With the help of Angela Dodson (Weisz), a Los Angeles cop, he just might be able to stop him, but it will not be easy.

Keanu Reeves is still in "Matrix" mode, and Constantine is not too different from Neo, the character he played three times. Unfortunately, that character is growing tiresome. Reeves definately needs a more upbeat movie to work on next. Swinton does a good job as the androgenyous angel Gabriel, helping and tormenting poor Constantine at the same time. The real scene stealer is Peter Stormare as Satan himself. Played with creepy glee, one wishes that he had more screen time. "Constantine" also does not feel like it is playing fair at times, bending the rules that it has set up for the supernatural forces. My suggestion is to wait for the DVD.

Thursday, February 24, 2005

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Picture:
The Aviator -- Will be a disappointing night for Martin Scorsese and company.
Finding Neverland -- Just does not have what it takes to win.
Million Dollar Baby -- SHOULD WIN and WILL WIN The most solid choice of all the candidates.
Ray -- Not a chance, this is riding on the coat tails of Jamie Foxx's performance.
Sideways -- Could be a surprise, and if so I would not be disappointed.

Wednesday, February 23, 2005

Hitch ***
Cast: Will Smith, Eva Mendes, Kevin James, Amber Valletta, Julie Ann Emery
Director: Andy Tennant
Running Length: 1:56
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Alex "Hitch" Hitchens (Smith) is the date doctor. Having problems getting the girl you want? Call Hitch. He will show you just what you need to do to win her over, and tell you what mistakes to avoid. He knows all this from observation. He has seen what works, and wants to share his knowledge. On the down side, his own love life is sorely lacking. Enter Sara, a gossip writer who catches Hitch's eye. They go on a series of disasterous dates in which Hitch can do nothing right, but somehow a connection is made. Of course, Sara is following a lead on the mythical date doctor, and you know that sooner or later, Hitch's secret will be revealed.

Will Smith does a good job in his first romantic comedy, showing the screen presence that movie-goers have come to expect. Kevin James steals almost every scene that he is in as the unlucky in love Albert. They are the reasons that this movie works, and is very funny at times. The story itself is predictable (as most romantic comedies are), but weaves a number of stories into an ending where everything comes together. "Hitch" is a good date movie, and a funnier than average film.

Monday, February 21, 2005

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Director:
Martin Scorsese, The Aviator -- He will be passed over again this year.
Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby -- SHOULD WIN and WILL WIN
Taylor Hackford, Ray -- Jamie Foxx's performance is better than the movie.
Alexander Payne, Sideways -- This is not his year, but he will win eventually.
Mike Leigh, Vera Drake -- DID NOT SEE

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Actor:
Don Cheadle, Hotel Rwanda -- SHOULD WIN The breakout performance of an actor that has been great for a long time now. This performance will open him up yo so much more in the future.
Johnny Depp, Finding Neverland -- Solid job as always, but nothing extraordinary. He will win eventually, but not this year.
Leonardo DiCaprio, The Aviator -- A good job, I find him to be highly overrated.
Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby -- Another great performance, Clint could surprise everyone and pull out a win here.
Jamie Foxx, Ray -- WILL WIN Big buzz, this seems to be the only category that is a "lock".

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Actress:
Annette Bening, Being Julia -- DID NOT SEE
Catalina Sandino Moreno, Maria Full of Grace -- DID NOT SEE
Imelda Staunton, Vera Drake -- DID NOT SEE
Hilary Swank, Million Dollar Baby -- SHOULD WIN and WILL WIN Gives an amazing performance as a girl who realizes her dream. Powerful and moving.
Kate Winslet, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind -- Surprise nomination, but this came out too long ago for her to have a chance.

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Supporting actor: Could be a close race.
Alan Alda, The Aviator -- Surprisingly good performance in a role that would not appear to be much at first.
Jamie Foxx, Collateral -- His performance in Ray is getting the bigger buzz.
Morgan Freeman, Million Dollar Baby -- SHOULD WIN and WILL WIN Great performance by an actor that has been around for a long time and has never won.
Thomas Haden Church, Sideways -- Great performance, but will lose out to the veteran.
Clive Owen, Closer -- DID NOT SEE

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Supporting Actress:
Cate Blanchett, The Aviator -- WILL WIN Good impersination, but that's it.
Laura Linney, Kinsey -- DID NOT SEE
Virginia Madsen, Sideways -- SHOULD WIN Great performance.
Sophie Okonedo, Hotel Rwanda -- This was Don Cheadle's movie.
Natalie Portman, Closer -- DID NOT SEE

Thursday, February 17, 2005

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Writing (Adapted Screenplay): Very close category, with all nominees worthy.
Richard Linklater, Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke, Before Sunset -- DID NOT SEE
David Magee, Finding Neverland -- Original take on the writing of "Peter Pan", but will be overshadowed by the other nominees.
Paul Haggis, Million Dollar Baby -- I would not be surprised if this wins, but it was the actiong that made this movie work. The screenplay is a tad manipulative.
Jose Rivera, The Motorcycle Diaries -- DID NOT SEE
Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor, Sideways -- SHOULD WIN and WILL WIN Great story of midlife crises and finding ones self.

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Writing (Original Screenplay):
John Logan, The Aviator -- Covers a couple decades in Howard Hughes' life, but nothing too special.
Charlie Kaufman, Michel Gondry and Pierre Bismuth, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind -- SHOULD WIN AND WILL WIN A truly original and thought provoking story.
Brad Bird, The Incredibles -- An interesting take on the superhero genre.
Mike Leigh, Vera Drake -- DID NOT SEE

OSCAR PREDICTION:
Animated Feature Film: A weak category this year.
The Incredibles -- SHOULD WIN and WILL WIN The best of the nominations by a long shot, and has already won an bunch of animation awards.
Shark Tale -- The only other real competition, but we have seen this before (and will again).
Shrek 2 -- The nomination itself was a gift. This movie does not deserve a nomination and has absolutely no chance of winning.

Wednesday, February 09, 2005

The Wedding Date **
Cast: Debra Messing, Dermot Mulroney, Amy Adams, Jack Davenport, Sarah Parish, Jeremy Sheffield, Peter Egan, Holland Taylor
Director: Clare Kilner
Running Length: 1:25
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Kat (Messing) does not want to go alone to her sister's wedding. So, she hires an escort named Nick (Mulroney) for $6,000. Soon, they are off to England for the ceremony. She hasn't seen her family in a while, and only gets along with her stepfather (Egan). Oh yeah, and her ex-fiancee (Sheffield) is the best man. She wants to make him jealous, but soon sparks begin to fly between her and Nick.

"The Wedding Date" is a romantic comedy with no originality. One could argue that the genre itself has no originality, but this movie feels cobbled together from scenes from romantic comedies past. I hated "Pretty Woman", and there are enough similarities in "The Wedding Date" to make me cringe. The leads, Messing and Mulroney, do the best with what they have, and there are some laughs, but unless you really like romantic comedies, this movie is not for you.

Tuesday, February 08, 2005

Hide and Seek **
Cast: Robert De Niro, Dakota Fanning, Famke Janssen, Elisabeth Shue, Amy Irving, Dylan Baker
Director: John Polson
Running Length: 1:42
MPAA Classification: R

After his wife kills herself, psychologist David Callaway (DeNiro) and his only daughter Emily (Fanning) move to a secluded house to start fresh. The death of her mother has affected Emily, and her father finds her very withdrawn and not herself. She lashes out at David's female friend Elizabeth (Shue), detailing her mother's suicide in an attempt to scare her off. The only happiness she finds is from her new imaginary friend, Charlie. But Charlie is not the nice sort of imaginary friend. He writes accusations on the bathroom walls for David to find, and kills the family cat. David refuses to hospitalize Emily for her imaginary friend's actions, hoping that things will get better on their own. But they don't, and Charlie becomes a force that must be reckoned with.

"Hide and Seek" is a movie that desperately wants to be better than it is, but director John Polson is no master cratsman, and the big reveal, when it comes, is not really a surprise. In addition, all the goodwill built up in the first 2/3 of the movie evaporates quickly as "Hide and Seek" degenerates into standard horror movie cliches. The time between revelation and end of the movie is too great to maintain the tension, and the second twist leaves you shaking your head.

Forget DeNiro, Dakota Fanning is the star of this movie, and the best reason to go see it. It is hard to believe that so young an actress can carry an entire movie, but carry it she does. Any faults are the script's and director's. Fanning is convincing as the girl who is haunted by her mother's death and an unstable imaginary friend. She deserves more than the final product delivers.

Monday, February 07, 2005

Million Dollar Baby ****
Cast: Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman
Director: Clint Eastwood
Running Length: 2:17
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Maggie Fitzgerald (Swank) has a dream to be a professional boxer. She seeks out gym owner Frankie Dunn (Eastwood) to be her trainer. He quickly turns her down because he doesn't train girls and she is too old anyway. Of course, Maggie is determined, and with the help of Frankie's long-time friend Eddie Dupris (Freeman), she is able to win him over in a weak moment. Soon, with Frankie's training, Maggie finds herself winning match after match.

A strong father-daughter relationship develops between the two. Maggie's dad is dead, and Frankie's daughter will not speak to him. The relationship is a second chance for both, and is the emotional core of the movie.

Clint Eastwood has crafted yet another fine movie with "Million Dollar Baby". There is more to it than a first glance would lead you to believe, and even if it is manipulative at times, it is done so well that it is not a detriment. The trio of actors that are the core of the movie are amazing both alone and together. The ease with wich Eastwood, Swank, and Freeman interact is so real that you will feel drawn to them, faults and all. This is a great boxing movie, perhaps the best since the original "Rocky", but "Million Dollar Baby" is about more than just boxing. To share more than this would be to spoil a movie that deserves a fresh viewing, but let's just say that the final act of the movie has another focus that is thought provoking.

This is a movie that will give you something to think about and debate for long after you leave the theater. "Million Dollar Baby" is more than the sum of its parts, and is well deserving of the Oscar nominations that have been heaped on it.

Tuesday, February 01, 2005

The Phantom of the Opera **1/2
Cast: Gerard Butler, Emmy Rossum, Patrick Wilson, Miranda Richardson, Minnie Driver, Ciaran Hinds, Simon Callow
Director: Joel Schumacher
Running Length: 2:23
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Andrew Lloyd Webber's immensely popular musical is finally given the movie treatment, and to moderate success. Christine (Rossum) it taking singing lessons from the Phantom (Butler) at the opera house where she is a performer. She is still learning, but when the Phantom is done with her, she will be ready for the big time. The Phantom, when not teaching Christine, lurks around and beneath the Opera House, hiding his scarred face. He loves Christine, but fears her rejection.

With the arrival of Raoul (Wilson), a childhood sweetheart of Christine, the Phanton finds that he has waited too long, and Christine's heart has already been taken. The jealous Phantom of the Opera then decides to take revenge.

Let me say that I am not a huge fan of musicals. I have a problem with people spontaneously bursting into song, and that somewhat colors my review. I found "Moulin Rouge" and to a lesser degree "Chicago", the two most recent cinematic forays into the musical, to be superior, especially in terms of songs. Nothing stands out to me as being remarkable in "Phantom", although I do thing the actors try their hardest.

Emily Rossum is the standout in this otherwise unknown cast. I cannot help but think that a few bigger names might have helped things along somewhat. Joel Schumacher, the man responsible for the downfall of the "Batman" franchise, crafts a beautiful looking movie. It looks so good that I wanted to like the movie more than I did.

Acknowledging that this is probably a better movie than I think, here is my qualified review: if you like the stage version of this, or musicals in general, you will enjoy "Phanton" quite a bit. If you do not care for musicals, stay away. Simple as that.

Tuesday, January 25, 2005

In Good Company ***
Cast: Dennis Quaid, Topher Grace, Scarlett Johansson, Marg Helgenberger, David Paymer, Clark Gregg, Philip Baker Hall, Zena Grey, Malcolm McDowell
Director: Paul Weitz
Running Length: 1:50
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Dan Foreman (Quaid) is the Sales Director at Sports America magazine. He is a very good salesman who has built relationships with his customers. When Sports America is taken over by Worldcom, Dan (and his co-workers) find their world turned on end. Dan finds himself demoted to "wingman" for the new boss, Carter Duryea (Grace). 26-year old Carter is not a salesman, but he has had success in the business world. He is in over his head, and must rely on Dan's assistance if he wants any chance to succeed.

After seizing an opportunity to come over for dinner at Dan's house, Carter is amazed by the nice life that Dan has put together for himself. Coming off of a failed marriage, Carter longs for what Dan has, and soon finds himself dating Dan's daughter Alex (Johannson) behind Dan's back.

"In Good Company" is a movie about relationships and the business world. The interaction between Quaid and Grace and Grace and Johannson feels genuine, and that is the main reason that this movie works. There is nothing too original here story-wise, sometimes grasping at long-time plot devices, but it is the start interaction with each other that makes this movie stand out. Dennis Quaid gets to be the likeable guy that most see him as in real life, and Topher Grace gets a chance to shine on the big screen as the good-hearted young man that he seems to be in real life.

And, while this movie does rely on formula to some extent, director Paul Weitz is gutsy enough to not give any of the characters a clear answer to their problems. It feels real, and that is why "In Good Company" succeeds.

Oscar Nominations 2005

The 77th annual Oscar nominations were announced Tuesday in Beverly Hills, Calif., by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences:

Picture:
The Aviator
Finding Neverland
Million Dollar Baby
Ray
Sideways

Director:
Martin Scorsese, The Aviator
Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby
Taylor Hackford, Ray
Alexander Payne, Sideways
Mike Leigh, Vera Drake

Actor:
Don Cheadle, Hotel Rwanda
Johnny Depp, Finding Neverland
Leonardo DiCaprio, The Aviator
Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby
Jamie Foxx, Ray

Actress:
Annette Bening, Being Julia
Catalina Sandino Moreno, Maria Full of Grace
Imelda Staunton, Vera Drake
Hilary Swank, Million Dollar Baby
Kate Winslet, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Supporting actor:
Alan Alda, The Aviator
Jamie Foxx, Collateral
Morgan Freeman, Million Dollar Baby
Thomas Haden Church, Sideways
Clive Owen, Closer

Supporting Actress:
Cate Blanchett, The Aviator
Laura Linney, Kinsey
Virginia Madsen, Sideways
Sophie Okonedo, Hotel Rwanda
Natalie Portman, Closer

Writing (Adapted Screenplay):
Richard Linklater, Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke, Before Sunset
David Magee, Finding Neverland
Paul Haggis, Million Dollar Baby
Jose Rivera, The Motorcycle Diaries
Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor, Sideways

Writing (Original Screenplay):
John Logan, The Aviator
Charlie Kaufman, Michel Gondry and Pierre Bismuth, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Brad Bird, The Incredibles
Mike Leigh, Vera Drake

Animated Feature Film:
The Incredibles
Shark Tale
Shrek 2

Friday, January 21, 2005

Hotel Rwanda ****
Cast: Don Cheadle, Sophie Okonedo, Nick Nolte, Joaquin Phoenix
Director: Terry George
Running Length: 1:50
MPAA Classification: PG-13

The country of Rwanda was having some serious problems in 1994. The members of the Tutsi tribe in the country were being killed by the Hutu tribe. In fact, it was more of a massacre (the death toll was around a million), and the world looked on and did nothing.

One man did though. His name was Paul Rusesabagina (Cheadle). Paul was a hotel manager, of all things. He sheltered 1,200 member of the Tutsi tribe in his hotel, despite being a member of the Hutu tribe. His tribal status, along with knowing how to buy off the right people and manipulate hotel registries is what allowed him to do this good deed. His main focus was his family, as his wife was Tutsi, and his kids mixed. But he quickly came to realize that he could make a difference, even if it was small, in this awful conflict. Calling in favors, Rusesabagina was able to get these refugees to safety with the help of the United Nations.

Don Cheadle has been giving solid performances in smaller roles for years now, establishing himself as a great actor. "Hotel Rwanda" is his chance to really break through. And break trough he does. The excellence of this movie is because of him. He brings tru humanity to a man who does not want to be in the position that he is in. His struggle to help more than his family is difficult, and Cheadle conveys the difficulty with the grace of a great actor. He should be nominated for an Oscar, and if he is not, it would be a great shame.

The movie as a whole is disturbing. The lack of assistance from the global community baffles the mind. And the fact that one man could take his "safe" life in his own hands to save as many as he could is inspiring. "Hotel Rwanda" is about the choices we make as individuals and as countries to do what is right. This is an excellent film that should be seen by all. It will not be necessarily enjoyed, but it should be experienced.

Wednesday, January 19, 2005

The Aviator ***1/2
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, John C. Reilly, Kate Beckinsale, Adam Scott, Alec Baldwin, Ian Holm, Alan Alda
Director: Martin Scorsese
Running Length: 2:48
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Martin Scorsese's "The Aviator" is a look at about two decades in the life of millionaire Howard Hughes (DiCaprio). As the movie opens, he is spending tons of money to get his film "Hell's Angels" filmed to his satisfaction. His passion for aviation leads him to acquire TWA, develope a spy plane, and battle with Senator Ralph Owen (Alda) and Pan-Am president Juan Trippe (Baldwin) over international flights. The movie ends with the long awaited flight of the "Spruce Goose". Along the way, he romances Katherine Hepburn (Blanchett), Ava Gardner (Beckinsale), and Faith Domeregue (Kelli Garner). He also battles an obsessive compulsive condition that nearly hobbles him a number of times.

"The Aviator" is an unflinching look at Howard Hughes' life. The highs and the lows are portrayed equally, showing him to be an intelligent and driven man with a debilitating sickness. DiCaprio does an adequate job as Hughes (I find DiCaprio to be overrated). Cate Blanchett is excellent as Hepburn, and supporting roles by Reilly, Baldwin, and Alda hold the film together. I would argue that the biggest drawback to the film is the somewhat abrupt ending. Not knowing anything about Hughes, it left me wondering what happened next.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
So, here is a summary of my list. If you disagree, let me know. If you agree, let me know. I will defend my choices passionately! 2004 was a better than average year for movies (in my opinion), and I hope that 2005 will be able to surpass it. Thanks for visiting my site and reading my reviews. Stay tuned for more in 2005.

#1 The Passion of the Christ ****
#2 Spider-Man 2 ****
#3 Sideways ****
#4 House of Sand and Fog **** (from 2003)
#5 21 Grams **** (from 2003)
#6 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban ***1/2
#7 Secret Window ***1/2
#8 Dawn of the Dead ***1/2
#9 I, Robot ***1/2
#10 The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou ***1/2
#11 Collateral ***1/2
#12 Friday Night Lights ***1/2

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#1 The Passion of the Christ ****
If "Spider-Man 2" was the most enjoyable film of 2004, Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" was the most powerful. The story of the last days of Jesus is one of the most intense and thought provoking films ever made. Anchored by the intense performances of James Caviezel as Jesus, Maia Morgenstern as Mary, and Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdelen, Mel Gibson's film was the movie to talk about in the first half of the year. I knew when I saw it that it had a good shot at being my #1 movie for the year, and to be fair, nothing really came close. This is also a great movie that everyone should own.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#2 Spider-Man 2 ****
This was, hands down, the most enjoyable movie of 2004. It has something for everyone: action, special effects, romance, character development...and it is very well made. Roger Ebert called it the best super hero movie ever made. I agree. The second installment in the Spider-Man series builds upon what has gone before, advancing the overall storyline. It also gives us a great villian in Doctor Octopus. The effects are amazing, and the battles between the hero and villian on the building, on the train, and at the end are simply awesome. "Spider-Man 2" is a movie that should be in every DVD collection.

Tuesday, January 18, 2005

Elektra ***
Cast: Jennifer Garner, Goran Visnjic, Kirsten Prout, Will Yn Lee, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Terence Stamp, Natassia Malthe, Bob Sapp, Chris Ackerman
Director: Rob Bowman
Running Length: 1:35
MPAA Classification: PG-13

"Elektra" takes the best part of "Daredevil", namely Jennifer Garner, and spins her off as the titular character. When we last saw Elektra, she was dead. After being raised from the dead and trained by Stick (Stamp), she takes on the job of a paid assassin. And she is good. Eventually, she passes on a job to eliminate Mark Miller (Visnjic) and his daughter, Abby (Prout). The reason for passing on the job: she has gotten to know them and sees a kindred spirit in young Abby. Of course, The Hand (the group that is out to have them killed) just sends more assassins, and Elektra finds herself playing protector for the Millers. Along the way she will get to fight a few bad guys and perhaps even avenge her mother's death.

Jennifer Garner has proven that she can do the action thing with TV's "Alias", so it is no surprise that she holds her own in "Elektra". She carries the movie firmly on her shoulders, and is the best thing about the movie. The biggest fault of the movie is the direction. Rob Bowman has made some good films, the best of which is the "X-Files" movie, but he seems a little out of his element at times with the heavy duty martial arts scenes that appear in "Elektra". He manages a level of stylishness though, but that is not enough to make this movie be all it could be. Fans of Garner and Marvel comics in general should rejoice though. "Elektra" is a good action movie that will satisfy most.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#3 Sideways ****
Paul Giamatti's star is on the rise, and "Sideways" only lifts him up higher. This funny and sad story of men going through depression and a mid-life crisis was so enjoyable to me, mostly due to Giamatti's performance. If he isn't nominated for an Oscar, I will be extremely surprised. The story itself follows two buddies on a road trip in California's wine country. This is one of those movies where everything clicks and the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Also, of the movies that will probably get nominated for Best Picture, this is my current favorite. Highly recommended.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#4 House of Sand and Fog **** (from 2003)
Despite that fact that nothing good happens in this movie, and everyone in it is worse off by the time it is over, this is one heck of a movie. Do not go into this one looking for cheer though. Ben Kingsley gives one of the best performances that I have ever seen on film, as an Iranian trying to make the most of life in America. Shohreh Aghdashloo also (now of "24" fame) gave a performance that received an Oscar nomination as well. This is powerful stuff and not for people who like happy endings.

Friday, January 14, 2005

Spanglish **1/2
Cast: Adam Sandler, Téa Leoni, Paz Vega, Cloris Leachman, Sarah Steele, Shelbie Bruce, Ian Hyland
Director: James L. Brooks
Running Length: 2:08
MPAA Classification: PG-13

"Spanglish" is told through the eyes of Christine (Bruce), a Mexican girl who comes to America with her mother Flor (Vega). Flor resists Americanization as much as she can, but when taking a job as a housekeeper for the Claskys, she realizes that that is easier said than done. The Claskys are a well to do family headed by renowned chef John (Sandler). He is the "good" parent and a all around nice guy. His wife, Deborah (Leoni) is out of work not a very pleasant person. Her relationships with her husband and daughter are strained. Flor's insertion into the family mix causes changes in everyone, mostly for the better. Soon, Flor and her daughter are moving into a summer home with the Claskys, and cultures begin to seriously clash.

"Spanglish" does not really have a plot so much as it examines a period of the characters' lives. Since it is told through Christine's eyes, there is not as much resolution as many may like. Instead, the story is strong on character, developing the three primary characters fully.

Adam Sandler gives another solid dramatic performance (his first was the offbeat "Punch Drunk Love"). He is the nice guy, and is easy to like. You feel for the guy as he has his ups and downs, and genuinely want him to succees. Téa Leoni brings believability to the bitchy wife. Self centered and oblivious to other's feelings, Deborah is a character that you do not want to like. Cloris Leachman brings some comic relief as Deborah's mother. Finally Paz Vega does a solid job as the woman caught between cultures, struggling to do what is right for herself and her daughter.

Despite the good performances, "Spanglish" felt like a bit of a misfire to me. I wanted more than I got out of it. Perhaps it was the unlikeability of some characters or the lack of a real plot, I do not know. In the days since I saw the movie, I have softened my review some, but I still can only recommend this on DVD.

Thursday, January 13, 2005

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#5 21 Grams **** (from 2003)
Sean Penn, Naomi Watts, and Benicio Del Toro star in this excellent movie about lives that intersect because of tragedy. Top notch performances all around, combined with non-linear storytelling make this a compelling movie. Sean Penn gave a far superior performance here than in the more publicized "Mystic River". Be warned though...this is not really a "feel good" movie.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#6 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban ***1/2
Here is a series that gets better and better with each installment. "Azkaban" features a new director and a darker tone. The combination, along with the return of the actors from the previous films makes this the best Harry Potter movie yet. Now, if only they can keep the cast together for all seven movies, they will be in good shape. And only ten months to go until "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire".

Wednesday, January 12, 2005

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#7 Secret Window ***1/2
There has not been a Stephen King movie this good since "The Green Mile". Much of that is due to Johnny Depp's performance as sanity-strained author Mort Rainey. He brings his trademark quirkiness to the role, and makes the movie fun. Another plus to this movie is a reworked ending that improves upon the original story, and gives it a little extra punch. It also manages to achieve a level of horror while maintaing a PG-13 rating.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#8 Dawn of the Dead ***1/2
This is, hands down, the biggest surprise on my list. I would have never thought that this movie would make it anywhere near the "best of" list, but boy was I wrong. This remake was excellent in so many ways, and provided the horror, humor, drama, and real characters to make a solid movie. Sure, it is gruesome at times, but I urge you to give this movie a shot. I do not think you will be disappointed.

Tuesday, January 11, 2005

White Noise *1/2
Cast: Michael Keaton, Chandra West, Deborah Kara Unger, Ian McNeice
Director: Geoffrey Sax
Running Length: 1:38
MPAA Classification: PG-13

When Anna Rivers (West) says goodbye to her husband one day, Jonathan (Keaton) does not realize that it will be the last time he sees her alive. Her mysterious death leaves him shrouded in mourning. Enter Raymond Price (McNeice) and a client of his, Sarah Tate (Unger). They are able to convince Rivers that his dead wife is talking to Price via EVP, or Electronic Voice Phenomenon. EVP is when the dead talk to the living through prerecorded static.

Once a believer, he throws himself into getting as much of it as he can, buying a lot of equipment to help him communicate with Anna. The only problem is that it might not be Anna who is communicating with him, but something more sinister.

"White Noise" takes an interesting idea and mangles it to death. The movie would suggest that it is quite easy to communicate with the dead. After all, Jonathan has tremendous success almost right off the bat. Also, the idea of talking with the dead is overshadowed by evil spirits that apparently just like to kill people. I am probably playing spoiler with some plot points here, but I am not too bothered. There are some interesting ideas presented in "White Noise" besides EVP, among which is obsession, but they are glossed over for the cheap scares that are easy to see coming. Michael Keaton has not had a notable movie in years, and "White Noise" will not change that.

Monday, January 10, 2005

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#9 I, Robot ***1/2
This is one of the surprises on my list. When I saw the previews for "I, Robot" I was struck by unlike the book it seemed. The worry that produced was unnecessary. Even though it is significantly different from the source material ("inspired" is a good way to describe it), the movie is an excellent melding of science fiction, drama, mystery, action, and even a little humor. Oh yeah, and it is interesting as well. Who would have thought that a big summer movie could be this good?

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#10 The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou ***1/2
Bill Murry has given another fine performance as the Jacques Cousteau-esque Steve Zissou. He is the glue in the latest movie from quirky director Wes Anderson that holds everything together. This is an offbeat adventure that ranges from subtle to over-the-top at times, but is always enjoyable.

Friday, January 07, 2005

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#11 Collateral ***1/2
What is better than Tom Cruise as a bad guy? JAmie Foxx giving the first of his two great performances in 2004 (the other being in "Ray"). This is probably the best onscreen duo of the year, with Cruise as the bad guy-assassin, and Foxx as the timid cab driver who is forced to drive the assassin all over town to complete his mission. Cruise is excellent as the bad guy, Foxx is excellent as the good guy, and the movie as a whole provides both excellent character development and action.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
#12 Friday Night Lights ***1/2
Maybe it is the former high school football player in me, but this is one of the best sports movies that I have ever seen. I found it to be very realistic, from the players and the games to the town's reaction to the teams success or lack thereof. Granted, I have never played Texas high school football, but this movie embodies everything that I have ever heard about the sport in that state. And while the team does not win the championship, it really is about the journey and not the destination. This is a great sports movie.

The 12 Best Movies I Saw in 2004
Over the next two weeks or so, I plan to (hopefully) dole out my list of the 12 best movies I saw during 2004. That is not to say the 12 best movies of 2004, but the 12 best I saw in 2004. For example, this does not include movies like The Aviator, Spanglish, Kinsey, and Million Dollor Baby, which came out in 2004, but I have not seen yet due to their late releases in 2004. Likewise, the list includes two movies that were actually released in 2003, but I saw in 2004. That is also why there are 12 movies on my list. I am somewhat surprised by some of the movies on the list, and not so surprised by others. Feel free to let me know what you think, if you agree or disagree. If it takes longer than two weeks, bear with me, the entire list will eventually get out. It just depends on how ambitious I feel.

Meet The Fockers ***
Cast: Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Dustin Hoffman, Barbra Streisand, Blythe Danner, Teri Polo
Director: Jay Roach
Running Length: 1:55
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Poor Gaylord Focker (Stiller).You would think that after meeting his fiancee's parents, Jack (DeNiro) and Dina Byrnes (Danner), and barely surviving, he would be in the clear. Wrong. Now, the Byrnses are coming to meet father and mother Focker, Bernie (Hoffman) and Roz (Streisand). To call the excentric might be an understatement, and Jack is his usual uptight self. And, of course, that means that Greg's life is about to become hellish once again.

"Meet The Fockers" is the sequel to the popular "Meet The Parents" that was released a few years ago. Following the same formula, "Fockers" puts Greg in one uncomfortable situation after another as the parents meet. All the principals from the first film are back, along with Hoffman and Streisand as the Fockers. Both do a good job as the quirky parents that must have made poor Greg's life interesting as a child. Hoffman is the standout in this movie, I think. He is probably the most likeable of all the parents, and is genuinely funny almost every time he is on screen.

If you liked "Meet The Parents", you will like "Meet The Fockers". Simple as that. If you didn't, then stay away. This is more of the same, and for the most part it works. When it is funny, it can be extremely funny. Hopefully, now that Greg has survived this second meeting, his life will less stressful. He deserves it!

Tuesday, January 04, 2005

The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou ***1/2
Cast: Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Cate Blanchett, Anjelica Huston, Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum, Michael Gambon, Noah Taylor
Director: Wes Anderson
Running Length: 1:58
MPAA Classification: R

"The Life Aquatic" tells the story of Steve Zissou (Murray), an oceanographer in the vein on Jacques Cousteau. Zissou is in the waning days of his career, with his films losing their popularity. After his long-time friend is killed on a dive by a "Jaguar Shark", Zissou plans his biggest hunt yet: to hunt out and kill the jaguar shark. Why? Revenge.

Joining him and his crew on the adverture are a reporter (Blanchett), and a man who claims to be his long lost son (Wilson). Both these people will make the ride a bumpy one, but Team Zissou is up to the challenge.

A Wes Anderson film is always enjoyable. He plans every detail of what you see, and has a camera style that is not used enough in movies today. You always get the big picture, and there is so much to see and take in. So much so, that you will notice new things in repeated viewings that you never noticed before. I thouroughly enjoy his style, and he seems to get better and better with each film.

Bill Murray has found the perfect roles in the last few years, and is making a name for himself as a solid actor. "The Life Aquatic" is no exception. He heads the ensemble cast, and is the emotional center of the film. All the supporting players are good in their roles and add greatly to the film.

In the end, "The Life Aquatic" is probably not for everyone. There is more to it than there might initially seem, but it might make you think a little. A lot of audiences do not like that, but I for one found it refreshing.

Wednesday, December 22, 2004

Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events ***
Cast: Jim Carrey, Meryl Streep, Jude Law, Emily Browning, Liam Aiken, Kara & Shelby Hoffman, Billy Connolly, Timothy Spall, Catherine O'Hara
Director: Brad Silberling
Running Length: 1:50
MPAA Classification: PG

Yet another popular children's book series has now been made into a movie. The subject of the first movie in this series are the first three "Lemony Snicket" novels. The movie opens with the Baudelaire children, Violet (Browning), Klaus (Aiken), and Sunny (Hoffman twins), finding out that their parents were killed in a fire that also destroyed their house. Now, they are being sent to live with their nearest relative, Count Olaf (Carrey). Unfortunately for them, all Olaf wants is The Baudelaire fortune, and he makes the children's lives a living hell as he works out a scheme to get the money.

Jim Carrey plays Count Olaf with a maniacal glee. His goofyness extends far beyond that of the source material, but that suits Jim Carrey just fine. The child actors are all excellent in their respective roles, and are about what I imagined when reading the books. The adaptation is a bit jumbled for the movie's sake, but works fairly well. There are also "additions" to the movie that are not in the first three books, and one has to wonder if they were let in on some future secrets of the novel series or if the director was just filling in the story points with items of his own choosing.

"Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events" is an entertaining family movie that can be enjoyed by all. It is not a great movie, but it shows potential that could be realized in future installments. Let's just hope that they make more movies before the kids grow up!

Tuesday, December 21, 2004

Finding Neverland ***
Cast: Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Julie Christie, Nick Roud, Radha Mitchell, Joe Prospero, Freddie Highmore, Dustin Hoffman, Luke Spill, Kelly Macdonald
Director: Marc Foster
Running Length: 1:41
MPAA Classification: PG

"Finding Neverland" is the story of playwright J.M. Barrie (Depp) attempting to find his muse and create a successful play after a bomb. He finds that muse in the Davies boys, Peter (highmore), George (Roud), Jack (Prospero), and Michael (Spill), one day in the park when he comes across them and their mother, Sylvia (Winslet) enjoying the day. They quickly form a close friendship mush to the dismay of Barrie's wife and Sylvia's mother. While playing make-believe with the kids, ideas start to form in his mind for the story that he will be best known for, "Peter Pan".

This fictional biography is a very entertaining movie to watch. The director has chosen to incorporate the imagination of the characters into the movie, and as viewers we see the world change back and forth between England and Neverland. This is used just the right amount, and never becomes distracting.

Depp is his usual excellent self, portraying Barrie as a slightly quirky individual who makes a connection with the Davies family. The children do decent jobs as the source of his inspiration as well. The greatest treat for fans of "Peter Pan" will be in how story points take shape, and what outside factors influence the story in progress. "Finding Neverland" is well worth checking out, although it may be difficult to find as it is currently in limited release.

Thursday, December 16, 2004

Ocean's Twelve ***
Cast: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Don Cheadle, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Elliott Gould, Carl Reiner, Shaobo Qin, Eddie Jemison, Bernie Mac, Vincent Cassel
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Running Length: 2:10
MPAA Classification: PG-13

The Eleven are back with a few extras in Steven Soderbergh's s "Ocean's Twelve". The Eleven from the first film find themselves tracked down by a very irate Terry Benedict (Garcia). He wants his money back ($160 million to be exact), and if that means the Eleven have to come out of "retirement" to do it, then so be it. They have two weeks before he enacts his revenge. That is enough to get the gang back together to plan a couple of heists to return Benedict's money to him. As the capers progress, they find that another thief, by the name of the Night Fox, is out to prove that he is better than them. Of course, this throws a wrench into their plans, and they must make a deal with him if they want any hope of getting the money they so desperately need. Also on their trail is Europol agent Isabel Lahiri (Zeta-Jones), who has a history with Rusty (Pitt) that may prove his downfall.

"Ocean's Twelve" is almost everything its predacessor was. Plot is secondary to the interaction of all the big names who seem to be having the time of their lives making this fun film. And it is a fun film to watch. Pitt, Zeta-Jones, Clooney, Damon, and Roberts are the "stars" of the film, hogging the majority of the screen time. Also, there are some surprise cameos that work very well. Some of the best jokes come at Julia Roberts' expense, and she is a trooper for going along with a story point that some viewers might not truly appreciate. I think it works.

All in all, "Ocean's Twelve" is an enjoyable film that falls just short of its predacessor. It is an entertaining heist movie that works really well. And of course, the end gives them the opportunity to have thirteen the next time around.

Monday, December 13, 2004

2004 Golden Globe Awards nominees

MOVIES:
Picture, Drama: The Aviator, Closer, Finding Neverland, Hotel Rwanda, Kinsey, Million Dollar Baby.

Actress, Drama: Scarlett Johansson, A Love Song for Bobby Long ; Nicole Kidman, Birth, Imelda Staunton, Vera Drake ; Hilary Swank, Million Dollar Baby ; Uma Thurman, Kill Bill: Vol. 2.

Actor, Drama: Javier Bardem, The Sea Inside ; Don Cheadle, Hotel Rwanda ; Johnny Depp, Finding Neverland ; Leonardo DiCaprio, The Aviator ; Liam Neeson, Kinsey.

Picture, Musical or Comedy:Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,The Incredibles,Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera,Ray,Sideways.

Actress, Musical or Comedy: Annette Bening, Being Julia ; Ashley Judd, De-Lovely ; Emmy Rossum, Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, Kate Winslet, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Renee Zellweger, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.

Actor, Musical or Comedy: Jim Carrey, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind ; Jamie Foxx, Ray ; Paul Giamatti, Sideways ; Kevin Kline, De-Lovely ; Kevin Spacey, Beyond the Sea.

Foreign Language:The Chorus, France; House of Flying Daggers, China; The Motorcycle Diaries, Brazil; The Sea Inside, Spain; A Very Long Engagement, France.

Supporting Actress: Cate Blanchett, The Aviator ; Laura Linney, Kinsey ; Virginia Madsen, Sideways ; Natalie Portman, Closer ; Meryl Streep, The Manchurian Candidate.

Supporting Actor: David Carradine, Kill Bill: Vol. 2 ; Thomas Haden Church, Sideways ; Jamie Foxx, Collateral ; Morgan Freeman, Million Dollar Baby ; Clive Owen, Closer.

Director: Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby ; Marc Forster, Finding Neverland ; Mike Nichols, Closer ; Alexander Payne, Sideways ; Martin Scorsese, The Aviator.

Screenplay: Charlie Kaufman, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind ; John Logan, The Aviator ; David Magee, Finding Neverland ; Patrick Marber, Closer ; Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor, Sideways.

Original Score: Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby ; Jan A.P. Kaczmarek, Finding Neverland ; Rolfe Kent, Sideways ; Howard Shore, The Aviator ; Hans Zimmer, Spanglish.

Original Song:Accidentally in Love from Shrek 2 ; Believe from The Polar Express ; Learn to be Lonely from Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera ; Million Voices from Hotel Rwanda ; Old Habits Die Hard from Alfie.

Friday, December 10, 2004

Blade: Trinity ***
Cast: Wesley Snipes, Kris Kristofferson, Ryan Reynolds, Jessica Biel, Parker Posey, Cascy Beddow, Natasha Lyonne, Dominic Purcell, Callum Keith Rennie
Director: David S. Goyer
Running Length: 1:45
MPAA Classification: R

Those pesky vanpires are at it again in "Blade: Trinity". This time they are trying to frame Blade (Snipes) for the murder of a human, as well as trying to resurrect an ancient enemy named Drake (Purcell). The two schemes are related, and Blade soon finds himself alone and on the run until he meets up with Whistler's daughter Abigail (Biel) and a former vampire named Hannibal (Reynolds). Together, they will try to stop the vampires once and for all. But, their plan could also spell the end for Blade because of his mixed heritage.

"Blade: Trinity", while entertaining, is certainly a step down after Guillermo Del Toro's "Blade II". That movie was stylish and well made. "Trinity" is filled with the choppy editing and loud music that has become popular in movies as of late. And while Del Toro had established himself as a good director, Goyer is in the director's seat for the first time - and it shows. Jessica Biel is good as the tough chick who enjoys hunting vampires, and Ryan Reynolds adds humor to the movie with almost everything he says and does. Wesley Snipes slips easily back into the role of Blade, the vampire hunting bad-ass. While not as good as "II", "Trinity" will appeal to fans of the series, or anyone who likes action movies. It's not Shakespeare, but it doesn't try to be.

Thursday, December 09, 2004

Ray ***
Cast: Jaime Foxx, Kerry Washington, Regina King, Clifton Powell, Harry J. Lennis, Bokeem Woodbine, Aunjanue Ellis, Sharon Warren, C.J. Sanders, Curtis Armstrong, Richard Schiff, Larenz Tate
Director: Taylor Hackford
Running Length: 2:32
MPAA Classification: PG-13

"Ray" is the story of Ray Charles from when, at the age of 21, he left home for Seattle to play in a lounge club to the time he gives up drugs for good about two decades later. He starts out small, but clearly gifted. People try to take advantage of his blindness, but he always finds a way around this, including demanding to be paid in singles. As his star begins to rise, he finds love, drugs, and a mistress. He even gets banned from playing in Georgia. I knew very little about Ray Charles, and I found the details of his life (although tweaked for the movie) to be fascinating.

Jamie Foxx disappears into the character of Ray Charles. He looks, sounds, and moves like Ray to the point where he is almost indistinguishable from the real deal. This is his second solid performance of the year (see also "Collateral"), and he is almost certainly guaranteed a Best Actor nomination. His performance is what makes this movie worth seeing. It is far superior to the movie itself, which is lacking and feels somewhat incomplete and choppy, not to mention long. That's not to say "Ray" is a bad movie - it isn't. It is just not as good as it could be, and given Foxx's performance, that is a shame.

Tuesday, December 07, 2004

Sideways ****
Cast: Paul Giamatti, Thomas Hayden Church, Virginia Madsen, Sandra Oh
Director: Alexander Payne .
Running Length: 2:03
MPAA Classification: R

A week before Jack's (Church) wedding, his best friend Miles (Giamatti) takes him on a road trip to northern California for a week of wine tasting and fun. While Miles is looking forward to teaching Jack the subtleties of wine tasting, Jack is looking for one last chance to sow his wild oats. If he can help Miles find some action as well, more the better. Enter Maya (Madsen) and Stephanie (Oh). Jack quickly hooks up with Stephanie (not telling her he is engaged), and Miles gravitates toward Maya, who he has met before and has a crush on. The ladies share a love for wine tasting too, and as they hit the vineyards, one cannot help but notice that as Miles describes the wine, he is also describing himself.

Both Jack and Miles are going through a mid-life crisis, just in different ways. The movie really is about Miles, who somewhat poorly masks is alcohol problem under the guise of wine tasting. He is a divorced writer who cannot seem to get his large book published, and feels sorry for himself. Maya is the chance for something better, if only he can get the courage to take a chance again.

"Sideways" is an excellent buddy movie. Both Miles and Jack are likeable and unlikeable at the same time, and the whole time feel real. Paul Giamatti is his usual excellent best as sad sack Miles, and Thomas Hayden Church gives a surprisingly good performance as the randy Jack. Alexander Payne has crafted another funny, touching movie, and is easily one of the best directors around today. I highly recommend this movie.

Wednesday, November 24, 2004

The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie ***
Cast (voices): Tom Kenny, Alec Baldwin, Rodger Bumpass, Mr. Lawrence, Bill Fagerbakke, Carolyn Lawrence, Scarlett Johansson
Directors: Stephen Hillenburg, Sherm Cohen, Mark Osborne
Running Length: 1:30
MPAA Classification: PG

SpongeBob finally hits the big screen in this highly enjoyable story. When SpongeBob is passed over for a promotion to manager of the Krusty Krab II, things start to go bad for the gang. When King Neptune's crown disappears, and Mr. Krabs is framed all looks dark for Bikini Bottom. Everyone's favorite sponge, SpongeBob SquarePants (Kenny) must embark upon a quest to find King Neptune's crown, save Mr. Krabs, and defeat Plankton's evil plan for world domination. That sounds like a lot of work for a simple sponge, but he is aided by his sidekick, Patrick Star (Fagerbakke).

If you like the television show, you will not be disappointed by this big screen adventure. SpongeBob comes to life with bright, vivid colors and a story that will provide laughs for both children and adults alike. There is a mix of animation and live action sequences, and they work well together and fit the story perfectly. "The SpongeBob SquarePants" is as good as any animated movie currently in theaters, and is well worth checking out.

Tuesday, November 23, 2004

National Treasure ***
Cast: Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha, Sean Bean, Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel, Christopher Plummer
Director: Jon Turteltaub
Running Length: 2:10
MPAA Classification: PG

"National Treasure" is a blatant rip-off of books by Dan Brown like "Angels and Demons" and the more recognizable "The Da Vinci Code". The only real change instead of the controversial religious themes of the books, "National Treasure" centers around a treasure hunt. Considering that this movie comes from the unholy duo of Jerry Bruckheimer and Walt Disney Pictures, it is no surprise. Bruckheimer has been turning out crap for years, and Disney's glory days are well behind it.

That being said, "National Treasure" is an entertaining (but unbelievealbe) movie. Ben Gates (Cage) believes that the founding fathers have buries a treasure somewhere and have laid out clues to finding it. In fact, his family for generations have believed it. When Gates finally figures out a key clue, he is off to the Arctic in search of the treasure. A double cross by one of his team (Bean) leaves him for dead and the bad guy after the treasure. From then on, it is a race from clue to clue to find the hidden treasure. Along the way, they even steal the Declaration of Independence.

The action is fast paced and engaging, and the clues are woven into real world items. Nicholas Cage does nothing special with Ben Gates, lapsing into standard Nicholas Cage mode. Fortunately for him, that works (as it does in most of his movies). The supporting cast also does a good job, but nothing spectacular. "National Treasure" is an entertaining movie that most will like despite the Bruckheimer connection.

Monday, November 22, 2004

The Polar Express **1/2
Cast: Tom Hanks, Leslie Zemeckis, Eddie Deezen, Nona Gaye, Peter Scolari, Michael Jeter
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Running Length: 1:30
MPAA Classification: G

"The Polar Express" is the story of an unnamed boy who does not believe in Santa anymore. On Christmas Eve night, while lying in bed, hears a train outside his window. When goes outside to see what it is, he finds the Polar Express, which is on its way to the North Pole. So begins his adventure. Along the way, he will meet other children, a mysterious hobo, and have some amazing adventures, before arriving at the North Pole in time to see Santa off on the busiest night of his year.

"The Polar Express" is both impressive and disappointing at the same time. The characters are animated using motion capture performance, mostly done by Tom Hanks. The characters look somewhat real, but are just enough off to look creepy at times (specifically the little girl, the elves, and the waiters). The movements seem a little odd at times, and that is difficult to explain because they are based on real movements. Perhaps it is just the animation. The overall animation is impressive though. The Polar Express and North Pole are fully realized in all their glorious detail.

The songs are unmemorable, but the performances by Tom Hanks are good. He gives life to numerous characters, some of them children, in such a way that you believe that they seem real and true to their age. The story has been modified from the book in order to accomidate a longer running time, and it works to some extent. The movie moves swiftly for the most part.

In the end, "The Polar Express" will probably become a childrens' holiday classic. I would not call it the best Christmas movie ever, but more likely than not, children will find enjoyment in the story of a child who learns to believe again.

Wednesday, November 17, 2004

Birth ***1/2
Cast: Nicole Kidman, Cameron Bright, Danny Huston, Lauren Bacall, Alison Elliot, Arliss Howard, Anne Heche, Peter Stormare
Director: Jonathan Glazer
Running Length: 1:40
MPAA Classification: R

Ten years after her husband's death, Anna (Kidman) is engaged again, and her life is going well. She has gotten over the husband she has lost and found another man, named Danny (Huston), that she loves. Then, in walks 10-year old Sean (Bright), throwing her world upside down. He claims to be her dead husband. Skeptical at first, Anna blows him off, but before long she realizes that young Sean knows way too much to be making things up. Or does he? Anna's family takes turns trying to get to the bottom of the mystery, and through it all, Anna and Danny's relationship suffers. Just what will Anna do, especially if Sean is who he claims to be?

I really liked this movie. Though not perfect, "Birth" is highly compelling as it explores the possibility of reincarnation. (The dead husband Sean ironically did not believe in it.) Nicole Kidman gives an excellent performance as the woman torn between loves. If there is any doubt that Nicole Kidman can act, all you have to do is view the three minute long close up in which her face goes through a wide range of emotions. Director Jonathan Glazer does an excellent job, filling the film with nuances that give the characters great depth. "Birth" is a very good movie, but one that will not appeal to all. In fact, I think that this is a movie that will be loved or hated. That being said, it is worth taking the chance that you will love it. I highly recommend.

Friday, November 12, 2004

The Incredibles ***
Cast (voices): Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson, Jason Lee, Wallace Shawn, Spencer Fox, Lou Romano, Sarah Vowell, Elizabeth Peña
Director: Brad Bird
Running Length: 1:55
MPAA Classification: PG

Times change, and superheros begin to have lawsuits filed against them. When the burden is too much for the government to bear, the Incredibles are forced into retirement and into normal life through the "Superhero Relocation Program". But, working as an insurance salesman doesn't hold the same thrill for Mr. Incredible/Bob Parr (Nelson), and he finds himself listening to the police scanner with another former superhero by the name of Frozone (Jackson). That way they can still offer their help to the police. When a mysterious stranger enters his life, Mr. Incredible finds himself presented with an opportunity to regain some of his lost glory. Now, he is working on the sly with his wife (Hunter) unaware of what is going on, but a secret like that cannot be kept forever.

With "The Incredibles", Pixar goes the way of the big studios by making a superhero movie. Despite some similarity to the Fantastic Four, this idea works pretty well. It is fun to see the out of shape Mr. Incredible stuff himself into his costume and fight the bad guys. The cartoon violence ups the rating to PG (a first for a Pixar movie), but there is nothing too over the top here. "The Incredibles" is not as good as "Toy Story" 1 or 2 or "Finding Nemo", but kids and adults alike are sure to enjoy the majic that Pixar brings to the screen.

Tuesday, November 09, 2004

The Final Cut ***1/2
Cast: Robin Williams, Mira Sorvino, Genevieve Buechner, Stephanie Romanov, Leanne Adachi, James Caviezel, Thom Bishops, Mimi Kuzyk
Director: Omar Naim
Running Length: 1:45
MPAA Classification: PG-13

In the indeterminate future, people can choose to have a chip, called a Zoe implant, embedded in their brain that will record their memories. Upon their death, a cutter will edit those memories down to a two hour movie called a Rememory for loved ones to view. Alan Hackman (Williams) is not only a cutter, but he is one of the best. He can make a low life criminal look like a saint, and there is no job he will not take. He is a sort of Sin Eater, taking all the bad events of a person's life upon himself. He is somewhat antisocial, with a kind of-girlfriend named Della (Sorvino). Their relationship suffers because of his dedication to his job, and while she is not happy, he seems somewhat content.

Hackman is hired to do a Rememory for a wealthy man with a shady past. His widow wants the Rememory to make him look good, and knows that he can do it based on his reputation. Enter Fletcher (Caviezel), a former cutter who now is a leader of a group opposed to Remories. He wants to take the rich man's Zoe implant and use it for his own purposes. Hackman naturally refuses, and so begins a cat and mouse game to see who will end up with the implant.

Finally, interspersed with the story is a memory from Hackman's childhood that may have shaped his career path and the person he is today.

This is an interesting and entertaining movie. Once again, Robin Williams shows that he is excellent in more serious roles. Cabiezel is good as the bad guy, and Sorvino does her best with the small part that she has. This is an intelligent science fiction story that will make you question the nature and truthfulness of your memories. "The Final Cut" is a pleasant surprise that is in very limited release, so search it out and see it.

Wednesday, November 03, 2004

Saw ***1/2
Cast: Cary Elwes, Leigh Whannell, Danny Glover, Ken Leung, Dina Meyer, Michael Emerson, Monica Potter, Makenzie Vega
Director: James Wan
Running Length: 1:40
MPAA Classification: R

Lawrence (Elwes) and Adam (Whannell) wake up chained to pipes in the world's filthiest bathroom. They have little freedom of movement and cannot even come close to reaching each other. They do not remember how they got there or know each other. Their captor (presumably) has left them two saws, an unloaded gun, a tape recorder, two cigarettes, and a dead body in the middle of the room. They are victims of the Jigsaw Killer, and that same killer is holding Lawrence's wife and daughter hostage. At the same time, an ex-cop (Glover) is hunting down the killer, bent on revenge for the murder of his partner.

"Saw" is an intense, twisted movie. It is reminiscent of "Seven" in both mood and atmosphere, and leaves you with about the same feeling when it is all over. For me, that is good, because I believe "Seven" to be an excellent movie. "Saw", however, is not at that level...but it is close. Director James Wan ratchets up the tension with each passing moment until the final scene. And while the explanation might not hold up as well as the the viewer might like, it was still a hell of a ride. Elwes especially does an excellent job as a man first confused by his situation, then terrified for his family, then resolute in what needs to be done.

"Saw" is a great Halloween movie, and if you are looking for a good scary movie at this time of the year, "Saw" is your best bet. Highly recommended for horror fans.

Tuesday, November 02, 2004

Surviving Christman **1/2
Cast: Ben Affleck, James Gandolfini, Christina Applegate, Catherine O'Hara, Josh Zuckerman, Bill Macy, Jennifer Morrison
Director: Mike Mitchell
Running Length: 1:32
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Drew (Affleck), after being dumped by his girlfriend, finds himself in the position of being alone for Christmas. Having some money, he returns to his childhood home, and ends up offering the family that lives there, the Valcos, a healthy paycheck to play his "family" for Christmas. Although reluctant at first, they reluctantly agree when the amount of money offered gets to be pretty insane. At first, he rubs them the wrong way at almost every turn, but eventually they settle into a somewhat peaceful coexistence. That is, until Alicia, his "sister", arrives.

Ben Affleck has not had a good movie in a while, and while this is an entertaining movie, it will not be setting him back on the blockbuster path. Affleck plays Drew with, at times, a maniacal glee, forcing the holiday cheer upon the Valcos with reckless abandon. These are the funniest scenes, but are not enough to carry this movie. James Gandolfini is good as Tom, the father that gets his family into this mess and cannot seem to get them out.

Given that this was released before Halloween, one can't help but think that the studio is writing this one off. And while it is not a great movie, it does provide enough laughs for me to give it a very marginal recommendation. If the previews look good to you, you will probably enjoy it.