Transformers

"You know what I don't understand?"
"What?"
"If he's like, this super-advanced robot, why does he transform into this piece-of-crap Camaro?"

Good, Autobots, and bad, Decepticons, alien robots have crashed to earth. They transform into vehicles to blend in and wait for the right moment to reveal themselves. The Decepticons attack a U.S. military base in the Middle East and hack the military network. The team at the base, led by Captain Lennox (Duhamel) and Tech Sergeant Epps (Gibson) barely escape.

Not knowing who caused the attack Defense Secretary Keller (Voight) gathers the best computer techs to analyze the signal. Meanwhile, high school student Sam (LaBeouf) buys his first car, a beat-up yellow Camaro and tries to catch the eye of Mikaela (Fox) a popular girl from school. Sam soon discovers his car, named Bumblebee, is actually a robot. As Bumblebee's comrads, the Autobots, arrive they tell a stunned Sam and Mikaela about their past and the reason they are on earth (they are looking for the All Spark, which the Decepticons also seek).

All the humans involved: the military team who encountered the Decepticons, Defense Secretary Keller, Maggie (Taylor) and Glen (Anderson) the computer techs know the signal isn't human, Sam, and Mikaela; are rounded up by the mysterious Agent Simmons (Turturro) who knows more than he lets on. Meanwhile, the Autobots and Decepticons know the location of both the All Spark and the Decepticon leader Megatron (who has been missing for over a century), and prepare for battle.


As someone who watched the television show (in it's various forms), I was not anxious to see this film....I wasn't sure who they would make it work, but the Transformers are impressive. Some of the actors from the television show voice the same character(s) in the film, including Autobot leader Optimus Prime. The look of the Transformers is impressive. You can see the pieces of the car when they are in robot mode, and just look cool. Overall, there is a bit too much going on in the film. It starts well, with Optimus Prime explaining the destruction of their war and why they are on earth, and the initial confrontation between the military and Decepticon is pretty impressive. Then it goes a bit downhill.

There are too many human characters, although they each plan a part in the story, some parts could be cut down, such as the computer techs....did we really need to see so much of them? Then there is the final battle...honestly, it was hard to tell some of the Transformers apart (some have similar colors), and it was too long. Also, why would Captain Lennox suggest going into a city? Wouldn't you want to go somewhere with more open space and minimal possibility for human casualties? It was enjoyable for mindless entertainment, lots of explosions and such, but a bit too long.

Rent it: it was made by non fans, so newcomers will be able to follow it, and fans will be able to distinguish the changes filmmakers made to different characters.

Transformers (2007) 144 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action violence, brief sexual humor, and language.
Director: Michael Bay
Starring: Shia LaBeouf as Sam Witwicky
Megan Fox as Mikaela
Josh Duhamel as Captain Lennox
Tyrese Gibson as Tech Sergeant Epps
Rachel Taylor as Maggie
Anthony Anderson as Glen
Jon Voight as Defense Secretary John Keller
John Turturro as Agent Simmons

300

"A thousand nations of the Persian empire descend upon you. Our arrows will blot out the sun!"
"Then we will fight in the shade."

When his kingdom is threatened by the Persians, King Leonidas (Butler) kills the messenger (literally) and takes matters into his own hands. Despite opposition from the council, Leonidas recruits the 300 best soldiers from Sparta. Knowing the terrain they force the massive army of Persia into a tight situation, allowing the Spartans to have the upper hand despite the millions of Persians they face (and their various "monsters"). Also on hand is Xeres (Santoro) king / god of Persia trying to get the Spartans to surrender, but he underestimates the spirit of the men who are up to the challenge and even find time to joke during/after battle.

While the 300 Spartans (and friends from Athens) face death, Queen Gorgo (Headey) faces her own battle at home as she takes on Theron (West) who controls the council and is against Leonidas and the war with Persia.


Not for the faint of heart...there is lots of blood and death (apparently there are 585 deaths in the film), at times the blood even splatters on the screen. The film is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Frank Miller (who also wrote "Sin City"), and is visually stunning. The backgrounds and some of the battles look like they came straight out of a graphic novel (which is the look the filmmakers are trying to achieve). The battle sequences are impressive, if you can handle the carnage, and are broken up by the banter between Stelios (Fassbender) and Astinos (Wisdom). Besides the blood and violence, the film also features gratuitous nudity/sex (which isn't surprising considering this is a Frank Miller story). The story is good, and makes the most of the narration by Dilios (Wenham) who is telling the story to his troops at the end of the film. Xeres and his Persians are disgusting...and the Spartan men are ripped. I enjoyed parts of the film, and can appreciate it for what it is, but the battle scenes get long and I found myself looking at the time and hoping the whole thing would end soon. The nudity is completely unnecessary and the random sex scene between the king and queen stops the action/story. I can not recommend this film, although I do recommend Gerard Butler (he is a beautiful man).

300 (2007) 117 minutes
Rating: R for graphic battle sequences throughout, some sexuality and nudity.
Director: Zack Snyder
Starring: Gerard Butler as King Leonidas
Lena Headey as Queen Gorgo
Dominic West as Theron
David Wenham as Dilios
Vincent Regan as Captain
Michael Fassbender as Stelios
Tom Wisdom as Astinos
Andrew Plavin as Daxos
Andrew Tiernan as Ephialtes
Rodrigo Santoro as Xeres

Definitely, Maybe

"Fine, I'm gonna tell you the story, but I'm not telling you who your mom is."
"Fine!"
"You're just gonna have to figure it out for yourself."
"Good!"
"And I'm changing all of the names, and some of the facts. I just decided that right now. Then we'll see how smart you are."
"I like it, it's like a love story mystery."

After Maya's (Breslin) class has the sex talk at school, she asks her father Will (Reynolds) to tell her about his dating life / how he met her mother. His answer "it's complicated," doesn't work... so eventually he gives in, but (as the discussion/quote above suggests) makes a few changes to see if she (and the audience) can figure out who he married.

The three candidates are Emily (Banks), April (Fisher), and Summer (Weisz). Emily was his blonde, college sweetheart who he leaves in Wisconsin. He gets a job in New York for the Clinton campaign (it is the 1990's), moving through the ranks. April, the redhead, is the copy girl at the campaign who isn't a democrat and enjoys arguing / challenging Will. Summer, the brunette, is an old friend of Emily who is now a writing student and dating her much older professor Hampton Roth (Kline). Each woman is confident, attractive, and for a time unattainable (for various reasons). As he tells the story Will continues to weave his life and struggles with the relationships, at times revealing more than he planned (like the fact that he smokes).


I assumed this film would be like most chick flicks where you know within the first few scenes who will be together at the end...but while I had guesses, I was ultimately wrong. With every story, every encounter with the women Will seems to give away the answer, and like Maya you think you know who it is, and then he makes a mistake and messes up the relationship and you are confused. He doesn't always do or say the right thing...he messes up relationships (not the usual dribble found in these kinds of films), he hits the bottom and loses his way. I was comfortable not knowing the outcome, and the fact that he questioned his decisions (and job choices)...especially as someone who is still trying to figure that out. Ryan Reynolds is a charismatic leading man, able to carry the film. It is easy to see why these three women are in his life, and why his daughter loves him (and is able to ask such a difficult question). And I was pleasantly surprised by the women as well. Overall the film was much better than I imagined, more realistic while still giving you a hint of a fairy tale.

Rent it: it's not the typical chick flick...totally worthwhile
--: Will is very candid about his life (they swear, talk about sex, etc), without being obnoxious and too talky

Definitely, Maybe (2008) 112 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for sexual content, including some frank dialogue, language and smoking.
Director: Adam Brooks
Starring: Ryan Reynolds as Will Hayes
Abigail Breslin as Maya Hayes
Elizabeth Banks as Emily
Isla Fisher as April
Rachel Weisz as Summer
Kevin Kline as Hampton Roth

My Top Disney Films #5

The Rescuers

"We gotta find her and help her."
"Yeah, but two little mice! Wha - what can you do?"

The Rescue Aid Society, a mouse United Nations, finds a bottle with a message from a girl named Penny (Stacy). Miss Bianca (Gabor) an adventurous mouse, wants the case, but as the first woman to get a rescue assignment, she gets to pick a co-agent. She chooses Bernard (Newhart), the superstitious janitor. Together they learn that Penny was an orphan and the police believed she had run away months ago. She was kidnapped by the sleazy Medusa (Page) and her idiotic partner Mr. Snoops (Flynn) to find a priceless diamond.

The mice catch a ride with albatross Orville (Jordan) and team up with a group of feisty swamp folks to rescue Penny from the Devil's Bayou.

**Reason I chose this film: (at the end of this review)

The Rescuers (1977) 78 minutes
Director: John Lounsbery, Wolfgang Reitherman, Art Stevens
Starring: Bob Newhart as Bernard
Eva Gabor as Miss Bianca
Geraldine Page as Madame Medusa
Joe Flynn as Mr. Snoops
Jim Jordan as Orville
Michelle Stacy as Penny

The Rescuers Down Under

"Joanna! You been diggin' holes out here again? Darn lizard's always trying to bury squirrels out here."
"Uh-uh. It's a trap, and poaching's against the law."
"Trap? Where'd you get an idea like that, boy? I think you've been down in that hole too long."

Cody (Ryen) frees trapped animals. During one mission he saves the Great Golden Eagle, and is rewarded with a feather. When he tries to save a mouse, he falls into a poacher's trap (see the above quote), set by the notorious poacher McLeach (Scott). McLeach takes Cody and sets off to find the Great Golden Eagle.
Meanwhile, in the states, the Rescue Aid Society decides to send Bernard (Newhart) and Bianca (Gabor) to rescue Cody. They talk Orville's brother Wilbur (Candy) into flying them to Australia where they team up with Jake (Rogers) who serves as their tour guide. Will the mice, and injured Wilbur save Cody and his eagle(s)?

The Rescuers Down Under (1990) minutes
Director: Hendel Butoy and Mike Gabriel
Starring: Bob Newhart as Bernard
Eva Gabor as Miss Bianca
John Candy as Wilbur
Tristan Rogers as Jake
Adam Ryen as Cody
George C. Scott as McLeach

**Reason I chose these films:
I always loved both films. I liked the original...the Swamp Posse and all that, although Brutus and Nero were creepy. The songs were good, even if it was the same person singing (and never seen), the opening sequence is pretty cool.

When the sequel came out my family saw it in theatres, and since that point I have always enjoyed watching it...because my brother was scared to death of McLeach. I used to watch this film to torture him, but overtime I realized that I really enjoyed this film as well. I prefer Wilbur to Orville (it's John Candy, what is there to not love?), and there is something to be said for the crazy animals in the sequel. It is hard to separate the two in my mind, and therefore they had to be one review.

Accepted

"It was your idea to put "acceptance is just one click away""
"Yeah put it as "one click away" but you don't make it clickable!"

After being rejected by 8 colleges, Bartleby "B" (Long) is frustrated. His parents are disappointed, and won't accept his idea to start working...so with a little help from his friends, he creates a college South Harmon Institute of Technology (think about the acronym for a bit). His best friend Sherman (Hill), who got into Harmon College, creates a parent-friendly website to make the school look legitimate. They find an abandoned mental health institution with help from overachiever Rory (Thayer) and fix up a few rooms to present to the parents. They get Sherman's off-color uncle Ben (Black) to pose as their dean.

Sherman is the only friend who was accepted to a legitimate school, so Hands (Short) who lost his sports scholarship due to injury, Glen (Herschman) who got a zero on his S.A.T.'s, Rory, and B prepare for a semester of slacking and potentially trying to get into a real college... There dreams are put on hold when other locals show up for "orientation" (see the above quote for the reason). All of the South Harmon students were rejected everywhere else they applied, so B uses the opportunity to allow everyone to study whatever they want...they pick and teach various classes like "how to blow up stuff with my mind" and other entertaining names for classes. B also tries to steal the gal of his dreams, Monica (Lively) from the jerk she is currently dating (who is the student body president, and involved in the frat Sherman wants to join). And South Harmon is in the way of Harmon Dean Richard Van Horne's (Richard Heald) construction path. Ciaos ensues.


I didn't have high expectations for this film. While I enjoy (and own) Animal House, I tend to be disappointed / disgusted with most college films. However, I actually enjoyed this film. Justin Long was o.k. in the title role, but he is better at the awkward, nerdy kid (like in Dodgeball)... and his family never really fit, otherwise, everyone else was entertaining. The main characters held their own, and the other South Harmon students were quirky and memorable. I don't plan to give anything away, but the ending is somewhat plausible...unlike other films in this genre. Yes, it is predictable, but most blockbuster films are. You either embrace them for what they are (mindless entertainment) or stop watching them. Overall, decent film.

Accepted (2006) 90 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for language, sexual material and drug content.
Director: Steve Pink
Starring: Justin Long as Bartleby Gaines
Jonah Hill as Sherman Schrader
Adam Herschman as Glen
Columbus Short as Hands Holloway
Maria Thayer as Rory Thayer
Lewis Black as Ben Lewis
Blake Lively as Monica

Waiting for Guffman

"There's a saying in Missouri, if you don't like the weather just wait five minutes. In Blaine, with hard work, I think we can get that down to three or four minutes."

Blaine, Missouri is the stool capital of the world...and also the sight of a UFO landing, the crater left behind is always 67 degrees with a 40% chance of rain. A town rich in history, with it's 150th anniversary approaching. The town leaders agree to let a "professional" director, Corky St. Clair (Guest) write a play depicting the history of the town as part of their anniversary, much to the chagrin of the music teacher Lloyd Miller (Bob Balaban) who tends to direct the school shows. Corky's vision clashes with Lloyd's, but somehow they manage to work together.

The cast includes travel agents Ron (Willard) and Sheila (O'Hara) Albertson who have starred in previous shows for Corky, Dairy Queen employee Libby (Posey) who has a crush on Corky, and dentist Dr. Allan Pearl (Levy) who enjoys making people laugh. Corky also gets Clifford Wooley (Arquette) to be the narrator and mechanic Johnny (Keeslar) to round out the cast.

While working on the play, they are told a New York producer named Guffman will be attending their production. Opening night Johnny quits, so Corky takes over.

The play chronicles Blaine's conception when a man named Blaine got a wagon train lost and they became a town...to the legendary stool given to the president...to the UFO landing.


The show itself is painfully funny (funny because it is painful), including the opening scene when Dr. Pearl doesn't wear his glasses (which are not from the period). While I prefer Best in Show and Spinal Tap (which he wrote and co-starred in), this film is a good introduction to Guest's style of filmmaking. It is also interesting to see Guest in a starring role, since in his other films he has smaller roles...I don't think anyone could pull it off better, although I do miss his Spinal Tap/Folksmen buddies, Harry Shearer and Michael McKean (who wrote the songs for the play). Funny, and worthwhile, although some of his other films stand the test of time better.

Waiting for Guffman (1996) 84 minutes
Rating: R for brief strong language.
Director: Christopher Guest
Starring: Christopher Guest as Corky St. Clair
Eugene Levy as Dr. Allan Pearl
Fred Willard as Ron Albertson
Catherine O'Hara as Sheila Albertson
Parker Posey as Libby Mae Brown
Linda Kash as Mrs. Allan Pearl
Lewis Arquette as Clifford Wooley
Matt Keeslar as Johnny Savage

Baby Mama

" Bitch, I don't know your life!"

Kate (Fey) is successful, vice president for her company with a cushy apartment, but all she wants is to start a family. With her biological clock ticking, she tries various options to no avail. With no where else to turn, she decides to find a surrogate to carry her child. She is paired with Angie (Poehler) who is a bit rough around the edges. Angie is having relationship issues with her common law husband Carl (Shepard), and moves in with Kate. Together, they attend birthing classes and prepare the house for the baby.

While looking for a location for her boss Barry's (Martin) new store location, she meets Rob (Kinnear) who runs a smoothie store...which is similar to Jamba Juice, but he is fighting against them. They start a relationship, and Angie gets the doorman Oscar (Malco) to help her practice giving birth and fixing things in the apartment.


While looking for a picture for this post, I was reading other reviews...and apparently a lot of people weren't impressed. I'm not really sure what they were thinking. Tina Fey does neurotic well, and you sympathize with her character. She proves this on a weekly basis with 30 Rock, and her work on SNL. Amy Poehler, also an SNL alum, takes her character through a range of emotions and consistently delivers laughs. The rest of the cast is o.k. Steve Martin's Barry is over-the-top, but still funny. The weakest characters are Sigourney Weaver's Chaffee (unnecessary and just weird), and Dax Shepard's Carl (slime ball). Overall it was a funny movie, but it could have been better.

Baby Mama (2008) 99 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for crude and sexual humor, language and a drug reference
Director: Michael McCullers
Starring: Amy Poehler as Angie Ostrowiski
Tina Fey as Kate Holbrook
Greg Kinnear as Rob Ackerman
Dax Shepard as Carl Loomis
Romany Malco as Oscar
Sigourney Weaver as Chaffee Bicknell
Steve Martin as Barry

Best in Show

"Am I nuts? Something's wrong with his feet."
"I never thought I'd find myself saying this, but you're right."
"He's got two left feet."

Philadelphia has gone to the dogs. Every year, the locals prepare for the Mayflower Dog Show...the hotel breaks out the cleaning supplies for their special guests and the organizers brace for dog-fever to hit.
Five contestants are interviewed, documentary style, throughout the competition. From the backwoods is Harlan Pepper (Guest) and his Bloodhound Hubert. Harlan is a fishing enthusiast and aspiring ventriloquist...and believes Hubert can occasionally talk. Then there are the Fleck's, and their Terrier Winky. Gerry (Levy) was born with two left feet and isn't really involved with the dog show, and his wife Cookie (O'Hara) who loves Winky and being the center of attention, and has a bit of a past (she had hundreds of boyfriends, who she doesn't really remember, but keeps running into). Next are the Swan's and their moody Weimaraner Beatrice. Hamilton (Hitchcock) and Meg (Posey) met at Starbucks (they were at Starbucks across the street from each other) and have memorized upscale clothing catalogs, like J Crew, but are incredibly stressed...and snap at each other. Then there is the gay couple and their Shih Tzu, Agnes. Scott Donlan (Higgins) is the flamboyant trainer, and Stefan Vanderhoof (McKean) is his reasonable partner. They enjoy dressing Agnes and their own dog as characters from movies. And finally there is the reigning champion, poodle Rhapsody in White. Rhapsody in White is owned by wealthy socialite Sherri Ann Cabot (Coolidge) who is married to a much older man, and the trainer Christy Cummings (Lynch), who have an interesting relationship...


Director Christopher Guest specializes in mockumentaries: fake documentaries. I only ever watch the televised dog shows when I can't find the TV remote on Thanksgiving after the parades. But pet owners tend to be fascinating...and this film does not disappoint! John Michael Higgins steals the show as Scott, but the whole cast is incredible. There are many laugh out loud moments.

Best in Show (2000) 90 minutes
Rating:PG-13 for language and sex-related material.
Director: Christopher Guest
Starring: Jennifer Coolidge as Sherri Ann Cabot
Christopher Guest as Harlan Pepper
John Michael Higgins as Scott Donlan
Michael Hitchcock as Hamilton Swan
Eugene Levy as Gerry Fleck
Jane Lynch as Christy Cummings
Michael McKean as Stefan Vanderhoof
Catherine O'Hara as Cookie Fleck
Parker Posey as Meg Swan

Thanksgiving movies?

Why aren't there Thanksgiving movies? Various tv channels have weeks dedicated to Halloween movies and then Christmas ones (actually it's like a month worth of Christmas movies!)...but what about the holiday in between???? I guess it isn't as commercial as the other season: Halloween candy and Christmas is all about the gifts, but still where is the love for Thanksgiving? There are barely any Thanksgiving songs.... Work on that Hollywood!

"We've got ANOTHER holiday to worry about. It seems Thanksgiving Day is upon us."
"I haven't even finished eating all of my Halloween candy."

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973) minutes

Peppermint Patty invites herself, Marcie, and Franklin to the Brown's for Thanksgiving...unfortunately Charlie Brown (and family) is supposed to go to his grandmother's for dinner. Linus suggests having two dinners: a small one for their friends and then grandma's house for the real dinner with family. With Snoopy and Woodstock's help, they get the table and food ready. Will their guests be satisfied with the "feast"?
A stable Thanksgiving film....they always show it on TV. Honestly, it isn't a holiday without a Peanut's special. My only problem...where's Lucy?

It's America Charlie Brown: The Mayflower Voyages (1988)

Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Woodstock, Lucy, Linus, Peppermint Patty, Marcie, Schroeder, Sally and Pigpen are pilgrims traveling on the Mayflower, beginning in England. They survive the wilds of the ocean and the sickness onboard, and learn from the Native Americans they meet. Finishing with the first Thanksgiving feast and a rendition of the classic Peanuts song with Schroeder on piano, Lucy on trumpet, and Snoopy beating the drum.
The Peanuts characters are involved in all aspects of life on the Mayflower and at the New World. They interact with the historical figures, and add some of their own humor to different situations.

My Top Disney Films #6

#6 The Emperor's New Groove

"Uh-oh."
"Don't tell me. We're about to go over a huge waterfall."
"Yep."
"Sharp rocks at the bottom?"
"Most likely."
"Bring it on"

Arrogant emperor Kuzco (Spade) has everything he could want: a man to sing about him, Theme Song Guy (Jones) and people to do everything he says. When he fires his "scary beyond all reason" advisor Yzma (Kitt), she tries to kill him...but with the "help" of her assistant Kronk (Warburton) she turns him into a llama instead. Kuzco, the llama, ends up seeking help from llama herder Pacha (Goodman) who he hates.
Pacha and Kuzco begin the journey back to the palace. Meanwhile, Yzma has declared herself the new emperor, until she learns that Kuzco is still alive...so she goes looking for him with Kronk, which involves getting directions from a squirrel.

Squeaky, uh, squeak, sqeaker, squeakin'.

In the middle are Pacha's pregnant wife Chicha (Malick), daughter Chaca (Kelso), and son Tipo (Linnetz).

The reason I chose this film:
There are so many memorable lines in this film! While you expect a cute kids movie, this film delivers clean adult humor and a complicated but incredibly funny story. David Spade's dry humor lends itself to the story and makes Kuzco even funnier. While the story is about Kuzco, Kronk and Yzma get more laughs. The dialogue between Eartha Kitt and Patrick Warburton (who delivers every time) is smart and funny and moves at a fast pace. Kronk is probably my favorite character. I want to become a Junior Chipmunk and be versed in all woodland creatures, lol.  Also, this is my roommate's favorite Disney movie and in her top 5 favorite movies.

The Emperor's New Groove (2000) 78 minutes
Director: Mark Dindal
Starring: David Spade as Emperor Kuzco
John Goodman as Pacha
Eartha Kitt as Yzma
Patrick Warburton as Kronk
Wendie Malick as Chicha
Kellyann Kelso as Chaca
Eli Russell Linnetz as Tipo
Tom Jones as Theme Song Guy

My Top Disney Films #7

#7 Hercules

"Aren't you...a damsel in distress?"
"I'm a damsel, I'm in distress, I can handle this. Have a nice day."

In Greek mythology one character stands out above the rest, Hercules (Donovan). Herc is born with incredible strength and impressive parentage: Zeus (Torn) and Hera (Samantha Eggar), the king and queen of the gods. However, his jealous uncle Hades (Woods) sends his imbecilic, shape shifting cronies Pain (Goldthwait) and Panic (Frewer) to get rid of the infant. They end up making him mortal (although he is still incredibly strong) and is raised by mortals.
Growing up with incredible strength that he can't control, Herc learns about his true parentage and sets out to become a hero so he can go home. With his winged horse Pegasus and satyr Philoctetes (DeVito), takes hero training. As Greece watches, he is able to face and defeat every foe he encounters...but he has one weakness: (see below)

Megara (Egan). Meg works for Hades, who is still trying to get rid of Herc.

Reason I chose this film:
This is the first in a long line of Disney films that openly mocks itself and Disney in general...and it works. The characters are entertaining, especially James Woods as Hades. And the music is amazing! The muses, who essentially tell the story, sing most of the songs and are voiced by Broadway stars...making their songs even more powerful and entertaining, although the best song is Meg's "I Won't Say I'm in Love." It isn't like any other Disney film...and it changed the look of Disney, although it doesn't receive as much recognition as other Disney films.

Hercules (1997) 92 minutes
Director: Ron Clements and John Musker
Starring: Tate Donovan as Hercules
Danny DeVito as Philoctetes
James Woods as Hades
Susan Egan as Megara
Bob Goldthwait as Pain
Matt Frewer as Panic
Rip Torn as Zeus
Charlton Heston as the Narrator

The Muses

Lillia White as Calliope the Muse of Epics (Lead Muse)

Vaneese Y. Thomas as Clio the Muse of History (Muse with ponytail)
Cheryl Freeman as Melpomene the Muse of Tragedy (Muse with long hair)
La Chanze as Terpsichore the Muse of Dance (Muse with frizzy hair)
Roz Ryan as Thalia the Muse of Comedy (short Muse)

My Top Disney Films #8

#8 Sleeping Beauty

"Well, I'm really not supposed to speak to strangers, but we've met before."

The birth of Princess Aurora brings forth all the magical creatures in the area. The three good fairies, arrive to bless the princess. Flora (Felton) in pink, gives the gift of beauty, Fauna (Allen) in green, gives the gift of music, but Merryweather (Luddy) in blue is interrupted by the prescence of the evil Maleficent (Audley) who curses the princess: when she turns 16 she will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die. The good fairies are unable to do Maleficent's curse, so Merryweather uses her gift to alter the story, Aurora won't dies, she'll sleep until she is awoken by a kiss from her true love.
The fairies, and the King and Queen, know that Maleficent won't allow her plan to be changed, so they form a secret plan (see below)

But I don't want tea!

to save her life. The fairies put away their magic wands, and under the cover of darkness, leave the castle with the baby. Sixteen years later they prepare for Aurora (now Briar Rose)'s birthday, while she walks through the forest singing with her animal friends. While she is strolling around, she is met by the handsome Prince Phillip (Shirley) to whom she is bethroved (although they do not know each other), and they fall in love. Back at the cottage, the fairies try to make a perfect birthday gown and cake for their beloved Rose/Aurora, but their efforts are in vain. So Merryweather breaks out the wands, and Flora and Merryweather fight sending magical sparks up the chimney, alerting Maleficent to their location.

Reason I chose this film:
I love the fairies*...they are very funny and endearing, and my favorite part of the film. I love the story, and the way it is drawn. Maleficent was always incredibly scary, as are her minions, so while I always liked this film, it was never my favorite because she was a bit to intense for me. I'm not a fan of the song, maybe it's Aurora's voice, or maybe it's just the song...it's memorable, but not my favorite.

*I love the fight between Flora and Merryweather. I like Merryweather more, but the pink dress is prettier (I'm a pink girl)...but I can accept the blue

Sleeping Beauty (1959) 75 minutes
Director: Clyde Geronimi
Starring: Mary Costa as Princess Aurora / Briar Rose
Bill Shirley as Prince Phillip
Eleanor Audley as Maleficent
Verna Felton as Flora
Barbara Luddy as Merryweather
Barbara Jo Allen as Fauna

Run Fatboy Run

"Go on then, run!"
"Isn't there some kind of like... special technique?"
"Well... yeah... you put one leg in front of the other over and over again really really fast."

Five years ago Dennis (Pegg) ran away from his pregnant girlfriend Libby (Newton) at the altar. He continues to disappoint her by continually messing up, although she has allowed him to be a part of their son Jake's (Fenton) life. Dennis still has feelings for Libby, but their relationship is complicated by the arrival of her new boyfriend Whit (Azaria) who is the opposite of Dennis. Whit is in top shape, and preparing to run a 26 mile marathon...Dennis is out of shape (although he is not fat, he just has a little gut), but to prove himself, he decides to run the marathon as well. Dennis has never finished anything, smokes and drinks a lot, and has never run a marathon.

His best friend, Libby's cousin Gordon (Moran) is a gambler, and bets his card buddies that Dennis will finish the race. To protect his investment he becomes Dennis' coach, despite being out of shape himself. He also enlists Dennis' landlord Mr. Goshdashtidar (Patel) as the assistant coach. Dennis is behind on his rent and is continually locked out of his apartment by Mr. G or his daughter Maya (de Beaufort). If he finishes the race his overdue rent will be overlooked, otherwise he will be out on the street. With the race just 3 weeks away Dennis must train for the grueling 26 miles, and find a sponsor for the race (it is for charity).


Enjoyable...I liked Simon Pegg's other big films, Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead, better, but still an entertaining film. The best scenes involved Gordon (who was in Shaun of the Dead). You never know what he'll do, and the anticipation helps him steal the show. Simon Pegg is a likeable slacker, and his charm saves Dennis, making him likeable and even sympathetic. This is the first time I've seen Hank Azaria play the straight-man (or a straight man), and I feel like his talents are being wasted as Whit.

Ultimately you know how the film will end, and can predict some jokes (like the blister scene, which was shown in the trailer), but there are surprises throughout. Dennis' relationship with Jake is endearing, and almost tearful...as is the marathon scene (the later parts). There are big laughs in the spin class (see pic above) and the training scenes (and his scary short shorts). A good Friday night movie (after a long week).

Rent it: it's Simon Pegg, I think that's really all I need to say
Dude, it's quotable: most of Gordon's lines are hysterical, along with some other zingers

Run Fatboy Run (2007) 100 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for some rude and sexual humor, nudity, language and smoking.
Director: David Schwimmer
Starring: Simon Pegg as Dennis Doyle
Thandie Newton as Libby
Hank Azaria as Whit
Dylan Moran as Gordon
Harish Patel as Mr. Goshdashtidar
India de Beaufort as Maya G. Das
Matthew Fenton as Jake

Forgetting Sarah Marshall

"Do you want to put some clothes on!"
"Oh, would you like to pick out the outfit that you break up with me in!"

Peter (Segel) has a good life. For the last five years he has been writing music of a successful C.S.I.-esque show and dating the lead, Sarah Marshall (Bell). She arrives at their apartment, and proceeds to break up with a nude Peter (it is awkward, and the quote above is part of their conversation). She leaves, and he is left to wallow. Everything in the apartment reminds him of their 5 years together, and on television he learns that she has a new beau, rocker Aldous Snow (Brand). Peter's step brother Brian (Hader) suggests a vacation, so Peter decides to go to Hawaii to forget about his misery.

Of course, he ends up staying at the same resort as Sarah and Aldous. He divides his time between crying and drinking, but eventually decides to interact with people. He takes surfing lessons from stoner Chuck (Paul Rudd) and begins a friendship with the hotel receptionist, Rachel (Kunis), and learns how to have fun again.


This is my first Judd Apatow film...well, the first one I finished (I watched the majority of "Superbad"), and I don't really feel like I was missing much. This film was a little too raunchy for my tastes: we see Peter naked twice, lots of sex (mostly played for laughs), and there is a subplot about newlyweds Darald (McBrayer) and Wyoma (Thayer) which is all about their sex life. There were laughs, like Peter's Dracula "rock opera" with puppets (probably the funniest part of the film), and the dinner scene (with the four main characters). Overall, while some parts were funny, it was hard to connect with all the characters. I like Jason Segel (I love "How I Met Your Mother") and he had some good moments, and I like Jack McBrayer (he is incredible on 30 Rock) but I just couldn't enjoy his scenes here (even though the characters he plays are similar). The interactions with Peter's step brother and his wife (Cackowski) weren't particularly interesting or funny...and Jonah Hill stalking Aldous was just weird. Russell Brand was probably the most memorable character, while the two main women (Kristen Bell and Mila Kunis) just didn't seem plausible... I can appreciate aspects of the film, but I don't think I would watch the whole thing again. I am curious about other Apatow films (like "Knocked Up"), but based on this film, and the parts I saw of "Superbad" and "Walk Hard," I don't think I'm missing much.

--: It was o.k., but definitely not for everyone....if you like this kind of humor, go for it..
--: I can't recommend this film...but it hasn't really changed my opinion of the actors involved... if they cut out the nudity (I don't need / want to see it...what happened to the whole "less is more" scenario?) and the newlyweds subplot it would be better....

Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008) 112 minutes
Rating: R for sexual content, language and some graphic nudity
Director: Nicholas Stoller
Starring: Jason Segel as Peter Bretter
Kristen Bell as Sarah Marshall
Mila Kunis as Rachel
Russell Brand as Aldous Snow
Bill Hader as Brian Bretter
Liz Cackowski as Liz Bretter
Maria Thayer as Wyoma
Jack McBrayer as Darald
Jonah Hill as Matt (the Waiter)
Paul Rudd as Chuck

My Top Disney Films #9

#9 Finding Nemo

[exasperated] "Who's that? Who else would it be? It's me!"
"Are... are you my conscience?"
[sighs] "Yes, I'm your conscience. We haven't spoken for a while. How are you?"
"Eh, can't complain."
"Good. Now, Dory, do you see anything?"
"Yes, I see... a light. Hey, conscience, am I dead?"
"No, I see it too."

Marlin (Brooks) is a cautious fish. His wife and all but one of his children are killed by larger fish. His surviving child, Nemo (Gould) has a crippled fin, and is overprotected. On his first day of school, after being publically embarassed, Nemo goes into open water and is captured by a diver. Marlin swims after their boat, but isn't fast enough. Luckily, he meets Dory (DeGeneres) a fish with short term memory problems, who can read and saw the direction the boat was heading. On their journey to Sydney, Australia they have run ins with sharks, a whale, jellyfish (see below)

Squishy!

and some surfer-dude turtles.

Meanwhile, Nemo is the newest addition to the fish tank in a dentist office. The leader of these fish, Gil (Dafoe) is a master of escape, and begins formulating a plate to liberate the occupants of the tank which involves Nemo taking a risk, and everybody getting a little dirty.

Reason I chose this film:
This is my favorite Disney / Pixar film. I had the opportunity to see this film in theaters twice and was impressed by the technical advances (it looks pretty impressive). There are lots of apparent themes (or as my father says, "themes for parents"). Plus, this film is willing to laugh at itself and similar types of films.

Finding Nemo (2003) 100 minutes
Director: Andrew Stanton and Lee Unkrich
Starring: Albert Brooks as Marlin
Ellen DeGeneres as Dory
Alexander Gould as Nemo
Willem Dafoe as Gil
Brad Garrett as Bloat
Allison Janney as Peach
Austin Pendleton as Gurgle
Stephen Root as Bubbles
Vicki Lewis as Deb / Flo
Geoffrey Rush as Nigel

My Top Disney Films #10

#10 The Lion King

"Let me get this straight. You know her. She knows you. But she wants to eat him. And everybody's okay with this? [jumps up suddenly] Did I miss something?"

The Pride Lands are ruled by King Mufasa (Jones), who has a son Simba (Thomas) to carry on his legacy. Mufasa, and his assistant Zazu (Atkinson), teach Simba about becoming king...with hands-on pouncing lessons. While things seem to be going well for the royal family, darkness lurks around the corner in the form of Mufasa's brother Scar (Irons). With a little help from Scar (and a herd of wildebeest), Mufasa is killed and Simba is on the run.

After running away, Simba is rescued by an unlikely pair: smelly but sensitive warthog Pumbaa (Sabella), and the "brains of the outfit" meercat Timon (Lane) who teach Simba (Broderick) "hakuna matata: it means no worries" (see below).

Don't you sing with all your friends?

They are happily living in the present, until Simba's past catches up with him and literally knocks some sense into his head.

Reason I chose this film:
There is so much to talk about in this film. The songs are strong and memorable (Elton John and Tim Rice), you relate to the characters, there is a good balance between serious storytelling and humor. Timon and Pumbaa steal the show...hands down, and are voiced by two talented actors. You can't help but react to the death of Mufasa and other important events, and the film takes you through a series of emotions. It is a good film, not my favorite, but still good.

The Lion King (1994) 89 minutes
Director: Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff
Starring: Matthew Broderick as Adult Simba
Jonathan Taylor Thomas as Young Simba
James Earl Jones as King Mufasa
Jeremy Irons as Scar
Ernie Sabella as Pumbaa
Nathan Lane as Timon
Robert Guillaume as Rafiki
Rowan Atkinson as Zazu
Moira Kelly as Nala
Whoopi Goldberg as Shenzi
Cheech Marin as Banzai
Jim Cummings as Ed

My Top Disney Films #11

#11 Oliver & Company

"Picture the city. 8th and Broadway. The crowd's hustling. The traffic's roaring. The hot dogs are sizzling."
"I love a story with food in it."

A homeless kitten named Oliver (Lawrence) can't find food, so he teams up with the streetwise dog Dodger (Joel) who runs off without sharing the profits. Oliver follows him, and learns that Dodger and his canine pals steal from humans to survive. The gang is Rita (Ralph) the sassy female, Francis (Browne) the soap opera lover with a broad vocabulary, Einstein (Mulligan) the big dumb one, and Tito (Marin) the fiery Chihuahua. They live on a barge, and need to make a huge profit because their "owner" Fagin (DeLuise) owns money to the slimy Mr. Sykes (Loggia). Sykes comes to collect, bringing his two evil dobermans. While Fagin negotiates with Sykes, the gang defends Oliver against the dobermans...and they decide to let him join their gang.

The next day, during their heist, Oliver gets stranded. Thankfully, he is found by a little girl named Penny (Gregory) who immediately falls in love, and takes him home, must to the chagrin of her pampered dog, Georgette (Midler, see below).

I'd like a different mirror, please

Georgette doesn't like sharing the spotlight, and is thrilled when the gang shows up to rescue Oliver. Oliver is not happy, but he is the key to Fagin's salvation.

Reason I chose this film:The music is great...and it should be with Billy Joel and Bette Midler in the cast. I am currently listening to "Why Should I Worry" on my iPod (I like Billy Joel). This is an updated version of Charles Dicken's classic Oliver Twist, with animals in the main roles. The dogs are funny, but Midler's Georgette manages to steal the show. From her opening number ("Perfect Isn't Easy") to her response to Tito's advances (she calls him a "bug-eyed creep) she is the funniest character on the screen. Tito is a close second, he has some classic lines. I saw this film when it was originally in theaters, and I even had a Dodger ornament (it was pretty hard core). 

Oliver and Company (1988) minutes
Director: George Scribner
Starring: Joseph Lawrence as Oliver
Billy Joel as Dodger
Cheech Marin as Tito
Richard Mulligan as Einstein
Roscoe Lee Browne as Francis
Sheryl Lee Ralph as Rita
Dom DeLuise as Fagin
Robert Loggia as Sykes
Natalie Gregory as Jenny
Bette Midler as Georgette

My Top Disney Films #12

#12 AristoCats

"We were just practicing biting and clawing."
"Aristocats do not practice biting and clawing, and things like that. It's just horrible."
"But someday, we might meet a tough alley cat."

Duchess (Gabor) and her talented children live a pampered life. Daughter Marie (English) is a diva in training, son Berlioz (Clark, the gray one) is a piano virtuoso, and Toulouse (Dubin, orange one) is a master painter. They live with their wealthy owner, Madame (Baddeley), and have their every need met by her butler Edgar (Maude-Roxby). When Madame's lawyer Georges (Lane) comes to write her will, she decides to leave everything to her cats. Edgar overhears the plan, and decides to get rid of the cats.

He drugs the cats, and drops them by the side of the road. Thankfully, they are found by the street wise alleycat, Thomas O'Malley (Harris) who offers to show them the way home. Along the way they meet a slew of interesting charcters: the geese sisters Abigail and Amelia and their "marinated" Uncle Waldo, and a bunch of swinging cats (see below).

Don't eat me...I just want to learn how to be a cat!

Meanwhile, back at Madame's their mouse buddy Roquefort (Holloway) tries to keep tabs on Edgar and find the cats before it is too late.

Reason I chose this film:
These are a bunch of swinging cats...the music is great (Everybody Wants to be a Cat). My brother likes to quote the line "You're not a lady...you're nothing but a sister." There are lots of good lines between the siblings, plus, they are completely adorable. The supporting characters are great: Scat Cat and the band, the geese, and the two dogs...and they almost manage to steal the show.

AristoCats (1970) 78 minutes
Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
Starring: Phil Harris as O'Malley
Eva Gabor as Duchess
Sterling Holloway as Roquefort
Scatman Crothers as Scat Cat
Dean Clark as Berlioz
Liz English as Marie
Gary Dubin as Toulouse
Charles Lane as Georges Hautecourt
Hermoine Baddeley as Madame
Roddy Maude-Roxby as Edgar

My Top Disney Films #13

#13 Peter Pan

"All of this has happened before, and it will all happen again.

Wendy Darling (Beaumont) is a storyteller. She often tells her brothers, the studious John (Collins) and the young Michael (Luske), stories about a boy who never grew up, Peter Pan (Driscoll). But her stories (and use of their fathers good cuff links and shirt front) frustrate their father (Conried), and she will be moved out of the nursery so she can grow up. Their parents leave for the evening, and Peter Pan appears and decides to take the children to Never Land with him. With a little help from his fairy friend, Tinkerbell, sprinkles them with pixie dust and teaches them how to fly.

In Never Land they are attacked by the pirate, Captain Hook (also Conried), and then by the Lost Boys (see below).

Yes, I am an animal lover...

Peter banishes Tinkerbell (who is jealous of Wendy), and takes Wendy to meet the mermaids, while Michael and John go hunting for Indians with the Lost Boys, while Captain Hook and his first mate Mr. Smee (Thompson) plot.

Reason I chose this film:
There have been many versions of J.M. Barrie's story...and many different film versions (2003's live action Peter Pan, and 1991's Hook). Having never read the book, I can't say how close this is to the story (according to imdb.com, this is the farthest from the original story), but it has a certain charm. No it is not politically correct (there is a song "What Makes the Red Man Red"), but if you can overlook that, you will witness the charm of the story. Never Land is beautiful and without this film Disney wouldn't have Tinkerbell, their mascot (who opens all of their films...well, she used to). Captain Hook is mostly played for laughs, as is the crocodile, but overall it is very entertaining.

Peter Pan (1953) 77 minutes
Director: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
Starring: Bobby Driscoll as Peter Pan
Kathryn Beaumont as Wendy Darling
Hans Conried as Captain Hook / Mr. Darling
Bill Thompson as Mr. Smee / Other Pirates
Heather Angel as Mrs. Darling
Paul Collins as John Darling
Tommy Luske as Michael Darling
Candy Candido as Indian Chief
Tom Conway as Narrator

My Top Disney Films #14

#14 Cinderella

"Oh, that clock! Old killjoy. I hear you. 'Come on, get up,' you say, 'Time to start another day.' Even he orders me around. Well, there's one thing. They can't order me to stop dreaming."

Cinderella (Woods) lives as a servant in her own house after her father dies and she is left in the care of her evil stepmother, Lady Tremaine (Audley). Every day she waits on Lady Tremaine and her two obnoxious stepsisters, Drizella (Williams) and Anastacia (Bliss), and their evil cat Lucifer. While her life isn't great, she still has hope: her entourage of singing animals (mice, birds), her dog Bruno, and her dreams.

Meanwhile, the King and Grand Duke (both Van Rooten) are looking for a way to get Prince Charming (Phipps) married. They decide to have a ball, where every "eligible young woman" is invited, and he gets to pick. The Tremaine's get all dolled up and destory Cinderella's hopes of going to the ball (her mice design a suitable dress, but her jealous stepsisters rip it to shreds, literally). Luckily, her Fairy Godmother (Felton) shows up and fixes everything with a little magic. A pumpkin carriage with mice as horses, the horse as coachman, and Bruno (the dog) as the other attendant, and a sparkly new dress (below).

Oooo sparkly!

BUT she only has until midnight to dance her heart out.
Reason I chose this film:
Apparently, this when this was rereleased in the 1980s this was my first Disney experience (in theaters, but I don't remember...so it doesn't count). While Snow White is the first Disney film (which I can respect as such, but it isn't one of my favorites), and the first Disney princess...this film is much more interesting, and the first definitive Disney Princess film (in my opinion). The mice, Jacques and Gus (both MacDonald), practically steal the entire film. They are the funniest characters and the most endearing (I didn't like cats for awhile because of Lucifer chasing the cute mice...not that I liked mice).

Besides that, there is so much to look at, and it pioneered many technical aspects used in later Disney films. According to imdb.com, this film was a gamble for Disney: Snow White was their only hit, and they didn't have much money...and none of those problems show. This film stands the test of time, and still gives little girls the hope that they too can become a princess! It was also the first Disney film to become a live action musical (Rogers and Hammerstein in 1957, starring Julie Andrews).

Cinderella (1950) 74 minutes
Director: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
Starring: Ilene Woods as Cinderella
Eleanor Audley as Lady Tremaine
Verna Felton as Fairy Godmother
Rhoda Williams as Drizella
James MacDonald as Gus / Jacques
Luis Van Rooten as King / Grand Duke
Lucille Bliss as Anastasia
William Phipps as Prince Charming

My Top Disney Films #15

As I have stated before, I enjoy Disney films... Looking at my personal collection of films, I own quite a few few Disney animated films (and I'm not ashamed to admit that). In honor of that I have decided to talk about my top 15 Disney Animated Classics (includes Pixar films).

____________________________________________________________________
#15 Robin Hood

"One more, one more hiss out of you, and you are walking to Nottingham."
"Snakes don't walk: they slither. So there."

With King Richard (Ustinov) the lion away at the Crusades, his brother Prince John (also Ustinov) has taken control of the English crown. Prince John has a terrible temper, but is a big momma's boy. With the aid of his assistant Sir Hiss (Thomas) and the evil Sheriff of Nottingham (Buttram) he is overtaxing the people of Nottingham. The people can barely scrape enough money together to buy food, or new clothing for themselves. Saving them from starvation is the fox Robin Hood (Bedford) and his best pal Little John (Harris). They repeatedly rob Prince John, with their various disguises, and give the money to the people. After Robin Hood publically humilates the Prince, the taxes are tripled and most of the town is arrested. It's up to Robin to save the day (and the town).

The love of his life, Maid Marian (Evans), also helps out the people by befriending the kids below

Aren't they adorable?

after they shoot an arrow into the castle grounds. And by her side is the outspoken Lady Cluck (Shelley) who likes to cause trouble. My favorite characters are the Sheriff's vulture cronies Trigger (Lindsey) who carries a cross-bow and has an itchy trigger finger, and Nutsy (Curtis) the dumb one.

Reason I chose this film:
Even though many characters / scenes (such as the Dance) are from previous films, it still has an energy to it. There have been many versions of Robin Hood, but this is probably one of my favorites. This is the one I have seen the most (my brother used to love this Disney film)...and the characters are feisty. The children are adorable (as the picture above shows). The songs aren't the best or entirely memorable, but they are o.k. Most of the songs are performed by Roger Miller (the Rooster), who also narrates the story.
It might not be the best, but for nostalgia sake, I still enjoy it!

Robin Hood (1973) 83 minutes
Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
Starring: Roger Miller as Allan-A-Dale (Rooster)
Peter Ustinov as Prince John / King Richard (Lions)
Terry-Thomas as Sir Hiss (Snake)
Brian Bedford as Robin Hood (Fox)
Monica Evans as Maid Marian (Fox)
Phil Harris as Little John (Bear)
Andy Devin as Friar Tuck (Badger)
Carole Shelley as Lady Kluck (Chicken)
Pat Buttram as Sheriff of Nottingham (Wolf)
George Lindsey as Trigger (Vulture)
Ken Curtis as Nutsy (Vulture)

The Haunted Mansion

"How wonderful. You want to kill a ghost."

Jim Evers (Murphy) is a workaholic, much to the chagrin of his business partner / wife Sara (Thomason). They decide to take the family on a vacation, but take a short delay to look at a prospective sale. The house is owned by Master Gracey (Parker) and has been in his family for generations. However, the history of the house haunts him, and he wants to sell. While the family joins him for dinner, a storm prevents them from leaving the mansion. Creepy butler Ramsley (Stamp) shows the family to their rooms, and knows the secrets of the house. As the evening wears on, the family is separated and each learns of the spectres who inhabit the mansion.

Jim is sent on a quest by gypsy, Madame Leota (Tilly) who only appears in a magic crystal ball. Song Michael (Jefferies) and daughter Megan (Davis) meet the other servants of the house, Ezra (Shawn) and Emma (Waters). And Sara learns the history of the house from Gracey. A company of ghostly apparitions and zombies to add to the mayhem.


Like Pirates of the Caribbean, this film is based on the Disney ride by the same name. However, this film is not as good as POC. It is a good idea, but the story doesn't live up to the hype. The characters of Master Gracey and Sara are underdeveloped...and way too much time is given to Eddie Murphy's Jim. I like Eddie Murphy, but this film has a lot of problems. Some characters manage to rise above, like Jennifer Tilly's Madam Leota, but there is too many "main" characters to truly appreciate the ones that do a good job.

The sets are incredible. I have never ridden the Haunted Mansion ride, but apparently the film stays true to the ride. The outside of the mansion is magnificent, and the interior does not disappoint. Some of the special effects are good, like the ghosts in the cemetery, but the rest isn't good enough, like the zombies. Overall it is an entertaining film that children will probably enjoy...I can't say the same for the adults who watch. I was entertained...but my expectations were low to begin, and I watched it on television, so it was free!

--: there are some funny one-liners here and there
--: don't compare it to POC, or you will be sorely disappointed...but if you accept it for what it is, you will survive the film.

The Haunted Mansion (2003) 99 minutes
Rating: PG for frightening images, thematic elements and language
Director: Rob Minkoff
Starring: Eddie Murphy as Jim Evers
Terence Stamp as Ramsley
Nathaniel Parker as Master Gracey
Marsha Thomason as Sara Evers
Jennifer Tilly as Madame Leota
Wallace Shawn as Ezra
Dina Waters as Emma
Marc John Jefferies as Michael
Aree Davis as Megan

Dip huet seung hung: The Killer

"You're an unusual cop."
"Well, you're an unusual killer."

Ah Jong (Yun-Fat) is an assassin with a conscious. During a job, he accidentally injures a singer named Jennie (Yeh), who begins to lose her vision. Because he cares for her and feels guilty about her condition, Ah Jong decides to do one final job to pay for an operation to restore Jennie's sight. After completing the job, Ah Jong rescues a young girl caught in the middle of a shoot out, literally. This action is noticed by the cop tracking him, Li (Lee), and the Triad who were doing the shooting.

As the story continues, Ah Jong and Li have a mutual admiration for each other as they try to protect Jennie and stay one step ahead of the Triad who are tracking their progress.


This film was my introduction the Hong Kong cinema. One of the most memorable aspects of this film is the relationship between the two male leads. They have similar personality traits / ideals, but are on opposite sides of the law. This is best illustrated in Jennie's apartment (a "Mexican Standoff") as the two men aim guns at the other, but continue to adjust their movements and speech to keep Jennie from knowing the truth (that Ah Jong is a killer). Some people see a homoerotic relationship between the two (the music is romantic when they are together), but I don't think that was director John Woo's intention.

The Killer is heavy in symbolism, such as the final shootout in the church (and he has a fascination with the dichotomy between black and white). The character of Fung Sei (Kong) is also interesting. He is friends with Ah Jong and shares his profession, but not his ideals. The difference between Ah Jong's relationships, and the way the different ways the other characters react to him gives him depth and in spite of his profession, you (the audience) want him to find redemption.

--: this is a very violent film. There is blood, lots of death (120 according to imdb.com), so it is like most action films
--: I would recommend the film, you have to read subtitles, but it is worthwhile

~ for more information check out Hong Kong Film Net ~

The Killer [Dip huet seung hung] (1989) 111 minutes
Rating: R for pervasive strong violence and some language
Director: John Woo
Starring: Chow Yun-Fat as Ah Jong (Jeff)*
Danny Lee as Inspector Li Ying
Sally Yeh as Jennie
Chu Kong as Fung Sei (Sydney)*

*The English subtitles change Ah Jong's name to Jeff or John, and his friend Fung Sei becomes Sydney.

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day

"Not everything comes along just when we want it. There are times when decisions just have to be made, or you certainly will miss out."

Guinevere Pettigrew (McDormand) is desparate. After being fired from her last few jobs, the employment agency refuses to help her, and she is living on the streets. While at the agency, she hears about a job for American actress Delysia Lafosse (Adams).

Delysia is also desparate. She wants to get the lead in a big play, and is willing to do anything to get the part. When Miss Pettigrew arrives, she helps Delysia sort through her relationships (she is dating three men). First there is Phil (Payne) the ambitious, young producer of a new stage show, which she wants the main part. Then there Nick (Strong) who runs the nightclub she sings in, and who she currently is living with. And finally there is Michael (Pace), the pianist who loves her. Delysia is impressed and hires Miss Pettigrew as her social secretary. After getting a makeover, Miss Pettigrew is asked to help patch up the relationship of Delysia's friend Edythe (Henderson) and her ex-fiance Joe (Hinds). And it's only her first day!


I love the screwball comedies of the 1930s (actually I love pretty much any film from the 1930s) which this film wants to be. I wasn't impressed with the trailers for this film, but I was pleasantly surprised. Amy Adams is adorably clueless, but in a feasible way. The rest of the cast does not disappoint, including Lee Pace as Michael. Pace is incredible on "Pushing Daisies," and he brings the same charisma to this part, without overplaying his part. Overall once you get into the story, you know what will happen (or what you want to happen)...but you don't know how it will be executed, and in both cases it does not disappoint.

--: this is a cute, funny film...perfect for a girls night out (or in)
Rent it: to see a modern take on a classic genre of film

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day (2008) 92 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for some partial nudity and innuendo.
Director: Bharat Nalluri
Starring: Frances McDormand as Miss Pettigrew
Amy Adams Delysia
Ciaran Hinds as Joe
Lee Pace as Michael
Mark Strong as Nick
Shirley Henderson as Edythe
Tom Payne as Phil

3:10 to Yuma

"You know, squeezin' that watch won't stop time."

A barn burns, a stagecoach is robbed, and several lawmen (Pinkertons) are killed...drawing two very different men together. After his barn is burned to the ground, Dan Evans (Bale) needs money to save his family and his dying farm. Meanwhile outlaw Ben Wade (Crowe) and his cronies have successfully robbed the stagecoach and killed all but one of the Pinkertons standing in their way. After celebrating, Wade is captured and a team is formed to take him to justice: transport him to the train station (a 3 day trip) to board a train bound for the prison in Yuma. A random group of men form the posse to transport Wade. Dan volunteers for the reward money, Byron (Fonda) is the head Pinkerton who has been tracking Wade for a long time, Doc Potter (Tudyk) to take care of Byron's wounds, Butterfield (Roberts) the head of the local railroad, Tucker (Kevin Durand) the muscle with a big mouth, and Dan's hot-headed son William (Lerman) who is ashamed of his father.

As the posse heads towards the station, they are pursued by Wade's cronies, led by his menacing second-in-command Charlie (Foster), leaving destruction and death in their wake. Wade is smart, smarter than the majority of his captors, and uses that knowledge to push their buttons and using their emotions to his advantage. It becomes a battle of bullets and of wills (Dan or Wade). Who will survive the trip to the station?


The story is rather simple, but it isn't a simple film. It is not predictable...although it is reminiscent of "High Noon." In a time when western style films are not made, more accurately, they are not made well; "3:10 to Yuma" recalls the heyday of westerns, while still reflecting modern sensibilities. Wade wears the customary black clothing (and owns a black hat, although he is hatless for the majority of the film), but overall the lines between good and evil are blurred. It is clear that Christian Bale is the hero and Russell Crowe is the main villain, but both men lose their scenes (and the film as a whole) to the antics of Ben Foster as Charlie. He commands the screen with his performance: people believe his words, and he wears a verging-on-psychotic expression, keeping you on edge. The two female characters serve minor purposes and then are absent for the remainder of the film (they only appear in the early scenes). There are entertaining / unexpected appearances by actors in minor roles (Peter Fonda is one).
 
As I mentioned before, this is not a complex story: you already know the basic plotline, catching the 3:10 train to Yuma. It is how the characters develop, and how they reach their destination that make the film work. This is a modern take / homage to old western films...and as such it makes up for all the crappy western films made in the last few years (and the anti-western western films that Clint Eastwood used to make...).

Rent it: I haven't seen the 1950's version of the film (I knew Christian Bale was in this film, and honestly that was enough for me...plus Alan Tudyk is amazing!), so I can't really compare the two, but apparently there are differences in the plotlines of the two films...(I digress).
Dude, it's quotable: the lines don't necessarily translate well, but in the heat of the moment the lines really pack a punch (and are funny / ironic)

3:10 to Yuma (2007) 122 minutes
Rating: R for violence and some language.
Director: James Mangold
Starring: Russell Crowe as Ben Wade
Christian Bale as Dan Evans
Logan Lerman as William Evans
Dallas Roberts as Grayson Butterfield
Ben Foster as Charlie Prince
Peter Fonda as Byron McElroy
Alan Tudyk as Doc Potter

Wallace & Gromit in the Curse of the Were Rabbit

"I'm just crackers about cheese"

It's a rabbit infestation! Days before the towns annual Giant Vegetable Competition, it is up to the Anti-Pesto Team, Wallace (Sallis) and Gromit, to keep the veggies safe. The capture the rabbits humanely and keep bring them home. They are contacted by the hostess of the competition, Lady Tottington (Carter) to get rid of her rabbit problem in a humane way, much to the chagrin of boyfriend Victor Quartermaine (Fiennes) who has a problem with senseless killing...he likes it, but it has become a problem.

Then the problem gets bigger...much bigger in the form of a large rabbit, also known as the Were Rabbit, who only feeds at night is ravaging the vegetables. As the villagers panic and begin forming angry mobs, it is up to Wallace and Gromit to stop the Were Rabbit before Victor shoots him. With Lady Tottington backing them, and secretly falling for Wallace, things could get harey (yes, I know...it's a bad pun, but I had to do it!).
Time and again Aardman Animation has proven itself. Excellent storytelling (you can follow it), entertaining characters (non-verbal communication) and smart humor (and they're British!)...what more can you ask for.


Wallace and Gromit have proven themselves in a series of short films, but left the audience wanting more...but there is no doubt that they can handle more time. Fans of the shorts (or Aardman Animation) already know what to expect, but it is easy for newcomers to find their way. The rabbits are a wonderful (and adorable) addition to the cast. I laugh at everything they do! And it was interesting seeing how the rest of the town views the gadgetry of Wallace, and to see how he relates to other humans (not just women he is in love with, or mute animals). Beyond the usual humor of the series, the writers reference classic horror films (in humorous ways).

The voice talents are also impressive. Peter Sallis continues to bring warmth and humor to Wallace, and in this film to the character of Hutch as well (I won't talk about this character because it gives away too much of the plot). Ralph Fiennes is brilliant as Victor, at first I didn't even realize it was him! He is the perfect villain, menacing while still overly funny. And Helena Bonham Carter was a great choice as Lady Tottington. Overall it is a great film!

Dude, it's quotable: it is laugh-out-loud funny (even after multiple viewings)
Rent it multiple times: you can't fully appreciate the film until you've seen it a few times. I saw it in theatres twice, and I own the film, and I still find knew aspects of the story, and new things to laugh at/about.

Wallace & Gromit in The Curse of the Were Rabbit (2005) 85 minutes
Director: Nick Park and Steve Box
Starring: Peter Sallis as Wallace / Hutch
Ralph Fiennes as Victor Quartermaine
Helena Bonham Carter as Lady Tottington