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Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
Video Test
Here is a video test done by my almost 6 year old daughter (and my son who you can hear in the background towards the end). If it looks good we're almost ready to begin.
Thank you for watching,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Slacker Me is BACK!!
Hey Readers, *take deep breathes*
I know a new post after over a month of nothing, no reviews or update blogs, but don't worry I'm back and this time with a vengence. Since summer is blockbuster movie time I've viewed tons of movies. Yes, I realized in the beginning of July that there were just too many to keep the reviews going on a constant basis without causing confusion for those who don't read everyday...don't worry I know we all have other things to do than play around online all day...so I decided to hold off on blogging until the movies calmed down a little and so now I'm back.
I have tons of movies to review for you, I'm sure most of you will have seen some of them already but please bare with me. I also decided to take a new twist to the blog. My new idea is to video blog instead of spending time writing down what I think I can just talk to you :) Yes, it is very nerve racking to think my face will be out there for everyone to see but it will save me time and give me the chance to get my review across faster, in a fun way. This also means that I can record my thoughts faster, like a few minutes/hours after I see the movie instead of days/weeks or months later. I'm still fine tuning the process at the moment so it may still be a few days for it to be up and running, but fear not once I get into the swing of things I'll be posting more often and with my fun flair.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
I know a new post after over a month of nothing, no reviews or update blogs, but don't worry I'm back and this time with a vengence. Since summer is blockbuster movie time I've viewed tons of movies. Yes, I realized in the beginning of July that there were just too many to keep the reviews going on a constant basis without causing confusion for those who don't read everyday...don't worry I know we all have other things to do than play around online all day...so I decided to hold off on blogging until the movies calmed down a little and so now I'm back.
I have tons of movies to review for you, I'm sure most of you will have seen some of them already but please bare with me. I also decided to take a new twist to the blog. My new idea is to video blog instead of spending time writing down what I think I can just talk to you :) Yes, it is very nerve racking to think my face will be out there for everyone to see but it will save me time and give me the chance to get my review across faster, in a fun way. This also means that I can record my thoughts faster, like a few minutes/hours after I see the movie instead of days/weeks or months later. I'm still fine tuning the process at the moment so it may still be a few days for it to be up and running, but fear not once I get into the swing of things I'll be posting more often and with my fun flair.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Twilight Saga: Eclipse - 2010
Starring:
Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Launter.
Rating:
PG-13 for intense sequences of action and violence, and some sensuality.
Movie description:
As a string of mysterious killings grips Seattle, Bella, whose high school graduation is fast approaching, is forced to choose between her love for vampire Edward and her friendship with werewolf Jacob.
Review:
First of all let me say that I now believe the third time is definately the charm. Hands down this is my favorite Twilight movie to date. Could it be the high budget or special effects...I'm not sure however I can say that this movie followed closer to the book than the other two, brought the danger and darkness to another level and finally the fight scenes showed how dangerous the vampires can be and why Bella should have ran the second she figured out Edward was one. Kristen played Bella again flawlessly, as Taylor continued to prove his muscles are not the only thing about him that people should notice. Rob, I'm happy to say, finally showed me the Edward I was waiting for, the caring, loving side that I fell in love with in the books. True, he still had his 'Rob' moments of tormented soul, but the drama helped the story this time around instead of just causing Edward to seem like a complete jerk. The others, vampires and werewolves alike, also did a great job is bringing out their inner creatures causing the final fight scene to be breathtaking and flawless as well.
Down side: Hmmmm, being an obsessed reader of the books I could point out several things that were not in the movie, but honestly the movie was perfect the way it was and I think if the smaller missing parts would have been included, I don't know if it would have had the same flow and fast pace. I also thought the parts which were moved around or altered fit the movie perfectly and didn't seem to be out of place at all. Really, I don't know if I would actually change anything about it as I think the movie worked well and contained everything it needed to cover the important parts of the book.
Twilight, action, vampire and werewolves fans will love/like this movie. Even some high adrenaline action fans may like it, but it just depends if they can handle the gushy romantic parts. Sci-fi fans will probably not like this movie, unless they are a secret Twilight/vampire/werewolve fan.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Launter.
Rating:
PG-13 for intense sequences of action and violence, and some sensuality.
Movie description:
As a string of mysterious killings grips Seattle, Bella, whose high school graduation is fast approaching, is forced to choose between her love for vampire Edward and her friendship with werewolf Jacob.
Review:
First of all let me say that I now believe the third time is definately the charm. Hands down this is my favorite Twilight movie to date. Could it be the high budget or special effects...I'm not sure however I can say that this movie followed closer to the book than the other two, brought the danger and darkness to another level and finally the fight scenes showed how dangerous the vampires can be and why Bella should have ran the second she figured out Edward was one. Kristen played Bella again flawlessly, as Taylor continued to prove his muscles are not the only thing about him that people should notice. Rob, I'm happy to say, finally showed me the Edward I was waiting for, the caring, loving side that I fell in love with in the books. True, he still had his 'Rob' moments of tormented soul, but the drama helped the story this time around instead of just causing Edward to seem like a complete jerk. The others, vampires and werewolves alike, also did a great job is bringing out their inner creatures causing the final fight scene to be breathtaking and flawless as well.
Down side: Hmmmm, being an obsessed reader of the books I could point out several things that were not in the movie, but honestly the movie was perfect the way it was and I think if the smaller missing parts would have been included, I don't know if it would have had the same flow and fast pace. I also thought the parts which were moved around or altered fit the movie perfectly and didn't seem to be out of place at all. Really, I don't know if I would actually change anything about it as I think the movie worked well and contained everything it needed to cover the important parts of the book.
Twilight, action, vampire and werewolves fans will love/like this movie. Even some high adrenaline action fans may like it, but it just depends if they can handle the gushy romantic parts. Sci-fi fans will probably not like this movie, unless they are a secret Twilight/vampire/werewolve fan.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Monday, June 28, 2010
Twilight Saga: New Moon - 2009
Starring:
Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Launter, Billy Burke
Rating:
PG-13 for some violence and action.
Movie description:
Life is great in Forks, Washington for Bella Swan but when Edward suddenly leaves her after an incident at her birthday party, her whole world is turned upside down. With Bella's heart broken, she turns to Jacob (Jake) her best friend to fill the void that was left by Edward. As Bella spends more time with Jake, she learns that there's more than vampires in the town of Forks.
Review:
First of all let me just say that this movie, for me, beat the first one hands down. The beginning started off in a similar way to the first, with Bella speaking, but that is really the only similarity. This movie followed closely to the book, which can be rare. I particularly liked the way blank pages in the book were explained in a unique way and also other times as Bella explained how she felt to the audience who had not read the books. Introducing the werewolves was flawless and the action sequences were amazingly detailed, engaging and fast paced. Special effects, props and layouts for each scene were great. All the actors did an incredible job with the movie but special props have to go to Taylor Launter for his portrayal of both the young, innocent Jacob and the regretful, harder Jacob that comes later. By now everyone knows how hard Taylor worked on his body for this movie, but his performance through his acting is were I give him the most credit.
Twilight fans, fantasy fans and vampire fans will like/love this movie. Sci-fi fans and high-adredine action fans may want to give this a miss, but there are a few action scenes if you can handle the teen-type romantic parts.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Launter, Billy Burke
Rating:
PG-13 for some violence and action.
Movie description:
Life is great in Forks, Washington for Bella Swan but when Edward suddenly leaves her after an incident at her birthday party, her whole world is turned upside down. With Bella's heart broken, she turns to Jacob (Jake) her best friend to fill the void that was left by Edward. As Bella spends more time with Jake, she learns that there's more than vampires in the town of Forks.
Review:
First of all let me just say that this movie, for me, beat the first one hands down. The beginning started off in a similar way to the first, with Bella speaking, but that is really the only similarity. This movie followed closely to the book, which can be rare. I particularly liked the way blank pages in the book were explained in a unique way and also other times as Bella explained how she felt to the audience who had not read the books. Introducing the werewolves was flawless and the action sequences were amazingly detailed, engaging and fast paced. Special effects, props and layouts for each scene were great. All the actors did an incredible job with the movie but special props have to go to Taylor Launter for his portrayal of both the young, innocent Jacob and the regretful, harder Jacob that comes later. By now everyone knows how hard Taylor worked on his body for this movie, but his performance through his acting is were I give him the most credit.
Twilight fans, fantasy fans and vampire fans will like/love this movie. Sci-fi fans and high-adredine action fans may want to give this a miss, but there are a few action scenes if you can handle the teen-type romantic parts.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Twilight - 2008
Starring:
Kristen Stewart (Panic Room), Robert Pattinson (Remember Me), Taylor Launter (Cheaper by the Dozen 2), Peter Facinelli (Supernova) and Cam Gigandet (Never Back Down)
Rating:
PG - 13 for some violence and a scene of sensuality
Movie description:
To give her mother and new step father some space, Bella, decides to go and live with her father, Charlie, in the small Washington town of Forks. Soon after she encounters a mysterious young man in the form of Edward, who holds a dark secret. Will they be able to be together or will his secret put them both in mortal danger?
Review:
I'll put everyone to ease immediately and say I am a huge Twilight fan, obsessed is a word I have heard quite a few times since I discovered the books, however we are talking about the movie. I have said this many times before but will do so again....It is very, very rare that a movie based on a book will cover every detail, every part we love and be exactly like the book. When going to see a movie based on a book put the book out of your mind. If you go into the movie thinking about the book, guess what you already condemed it before the previews got done.
As a stand alone movie it was great. Not an Oscar winner by any means but a watchable, entertaining movie with a new twist to an old myth. I have been a vampire fan for as long as I can remember and the new twist to the vampires, in Twilight, was a welcome change. (That could also be a reason I love the books) For me the movie did drag a little in the beginning and the little inside jokes for people who had read the books were nice, but I could tell people in the theatre who had never read them were a little confused. The special effects were lacking a little in the sparkling that looks more like sweating department, but the wire work seemed to go smoother and became more realistic. The actors chosen for the roles fit perfectly, Kristen brough Bella to life and interacted with everyone seemlessly. All the Cullens, the Blacks, the Humans and the Nomads also seemed to fit. Personally my only casting problem was Rob, which could be due to the fact that I'm English and can't help picturing him as Cedric Diggory from Harry Potter. Watching Rob for me was hard at first but as the movie progressed I felt he did start to become more like Edward, although I did feel he needed to smile more. After speaking with people who never read the books, only seen the movie, I got the same kind of feed back, the movie was good but not worth all the hype and sadly I tend to agree.
Vampire, drama and romantic fans will like/love this movie. Action and sci-fi fans may want to miss it, I know the trailer appears to make it seem action packed but really it is not. There is a small part with blood and fighting but nothing that lasts very long. If you like vampires and want to see a new take on them this is the movie for you. Of course fans of the book may also love it, but as mentioned be prepared for missing parts and more action.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Kristen Stewart (Panic Room), Robert Pattinson (Remember Me), Taylor Launter (Cheaper by the Dozen 2), Peter Facinelli (Supernova) and Cam Gigandet (Never Back Down)
Rating:
PG - 13 for some violence and a scene of sensuality
Movie description:
To give her mother and new step father some space, Bella, decides to go and live with her father, Charlie, in the small Washington town of Forks. Soon after she encounters a mysterious young man in the form of Edward, who holds a dark secret. Will they be able to be together or will his secret put them both in mortal danger?
Review:
I'll put everyone to ease immediately and say I am a huge Twilight fan, obsessed is a word I have heard quite a few times since I discovered the books, however we are talking about the movie. I have said this many times before but will do so again....It is very, very rare that a movie based on a book will cover every detail, every part we love and be exactly like the book. When going to see a movie based on a book put the book out of your mind. If you go into the movie thinking about the book, guess what you already condemed it before the previews got done.
As a stand alone movie it was great. Not an Oscar winner by any means but a watchable, entertaining movie with a new twist to an old myth. I have been a vampire fan for as long as I can remember and the new twist to the vampires, in Twilight, was a welcome change. (That could also be a reason I love the books) For me the movie did drag a little in the beginning and the little inside jokes for people who had read the books were nice, but I could tell people in the theatre who had never read them were a little confused. The special effects were lacking a little in the sparkling that looks more like sweating department, but the wire work seemed to go smoother and became more realistic. The actors chosen for the roles fit perfectly, Kristen brough Bella to life and interacted with everyone seemlessly. All the Cullens, the Blacks, the Humans and the Nomads also seemed to fit. Personally my only casting problem was Rob, which could be due to the fact that I'm English and can't help picturing him as Cedric Diggory from Harry Potter. Watching Rob for me was hard at first but as the movie progressed I felt he did start to become more like Edward, although I did feel he needed to smile more. After speaking with people who never read the books, only seen the movie, I got the same kind of feed back, the movie was good but not worth all the hype and sadly I tend to agree.
Vampire, drama and romantic fans will like/love this movie. Action and sci-fi fans may want to miss it, I know the trailer appears to make it seem action packed but really it is not. There is a small part with blood and fighting but nothing that lasts very long. If you like vampires and want to see a new take on them this is the movie for you. Of course fans of the book may also love it, but as mentioned be prepared for missing parts and more action.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Monday, June 14, 2010
Angel (TV Show) - 1999 to 2004
Starring:
David Boreanaz, Charisma Carpenter, Alexis Denisof
Rating:
Unrated
Description:
The vampire Angel, cursed with a soul, moves to Los Angeles and aids people with supernatural-related problems while questing for his own redemption.
Review:
Angel was one of the best characters in the series of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, in my opinion, so when I heard about his spin off it was a must see for me. I personally loved Angel's back story and this series continued his story perfectly. Cordelia, who was extremely annoying in Buffy, came into her own as Angels loyal side kick. Some one who knew his past and still decided to work for him, becoming close friends in the process. Wesley also decided to join the group, which enables him to become more than just a boring Giles wannabe. The seasons were more violent, action packed and thought out than the Buffy seasons but I feel the storylines started to drag towards the end of Season 4. Season 5 was still a great action packed series, yet again towards the end certain situations caused us all to take a step back and gasp out loud in almost horror and upset at it. Many people agree that though the series was overall amazing and very entertaining the grand finale was lacking. I have as expected brought the entire series because I love the action and storylines, but the ending always leaves me wanting more.
If you like Vampires, action in the form of sword/fist fighting and creature violence, fantasy type situations this type of series is for you. Romantics, drama and fantasy fans may like/enjoy/love these series but Sci-fi fans may want to give this series a miss.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Critic
David Boreanaz, Charisma Carpenter, Alexis Denisof
Rating:
Unrated
Description:
The vampire Angel, cursed with a soul, moves to Los Angeles and aids people with supernatural-related problems while questing for his own redemption.
Review:
Angel was one of the best characters in the series of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, in my opinion, so when I heard about his spin off it was a must see for me. I personally loved Angel's back story and this series continued his story perfectly. Cordelia, who was extremely annoying in Buffy, came into her own as Angels loyal side kick. Some one who knew his past and still decided to work for him, becoming close friends in the process. Wesley also decided to join the group, which enables him to become more than just a boring Giles wannabe. The seasons were more violent, action packed and thought out than the Buffy seasons but I feel the storylines started to drag towards the end of Season 4. Season 5 was still a great action packed series, yet again towards the end certain situations caused us all to take a step back and gasp out loud in almost horror and upset at it. Many people agree that though the series was overall amazing and very entertaining the grand finale was lacking. I have as expected brought the entire series because I love the action and storylines, but the ending always leaves me wanting more.
If you like Vampires, action in the form of sword/fist fighting and creature violence, fantasy type situations this type of series is for you. Romantics, drama and fantasy fans may like/enjoy/love these series but Sci-fi fans may want to give this series a miss.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Critic
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Vampire/Werewolf Month IS HERE!!
JUNE is finally here so Vampire/Werewolf movies will be reviewed ALL month long!
I have some great movies already lined up to watch/rewatch and review, but I'm always up for suggestions so do not hold back. Please keep in the mind that the same guidelines are still in effect so any suggestions for R rated movie will not be taken into consideration.
All reviews are leading up to the release of Eclipse coming June 30th, 2010...so watch this space!
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
I have some great movies already lined up to watch/rewatch and review, but I'm always up for suggestions so do not hold back. Please keep in the mind that the same guidelines are still in effect so any suggestions for R rated movie will not be taken into consideration.
All reviews are leading up to the release of Eclipse coming June 30th, 2010...so watch this space!
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Shrek Forever After - 2010
Starring:
Mike Myers (Austin Powers), Cameron Diaz (Charlie's Angels)
Rating:
PG for mild action, some rude humor and brief language.
Movie description:
Rumpelstiltskin tricks a mid-life crisis burdened Shrek into allowing himself to be erased from existence and cast in a dark alternate timeline where Rumpel rules supreme.
Review:
I am a huge Shrek fan so when I saw a trailer about a new movie it was instantly on my to watch list. Watching the movie I was not disappointed. I laughed, I cried and my children, 1 and 5 both loved it. I know it's been said that sequels are never as good as the original and I'm a firm believer that this is true around 90% of the time. Watching Shrek 4 I was not expecting it to be as good as the first one, and I don't think it could have been even if they had changed anything, but it was great entertainment. Fans of the Shrek movies will like/love this one, people who are not big fans of the series will probably hate it. I would say do not expect it to be as original as the first one and stay clear of the expensive 3D version, but aside from those little things just relax and enjoy the show.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Mike Myers (Austin Powers), Cameron Diaz (Charlie's Angels)
Rating:
PG for mild action, some rude humor and brief language.
Movie description:
Rumpelstiltskin tricks a mid-life crisis burdened Shrek into allowing himself to be erased from existence and cast in a dark alternate timeline where Rumpel rules supreme.
Review:
I am a huge Shrek fan so when I saw a trailer about a new movie it was instantly on my to watch list. Watching the movie I was not disappointed. I laughed, I cried and my children, 1 and 5 both loved it. I know it's been said that sequels are never as good as the original and I'm a firm believer that this is true around 90% of the time. Watching Shrek 4 I was not expecting it to be as good as the first one, and I don't think it could have been even if they had changed anything, but it was great entertainment. Fans of the Shrek movies will like/love this one, people who are not big fans of the series will probably hate it. I would say do not expect it to be as original as the first one and stay clear of the expensive 3D version, but aside from those little things just relax and enjoy the show.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Robin Hood - 2010
Starring:
Russell Crowe (Gladiator) and Cate Blanchett (Lord of the Rings)
Rating:
PG-13 for violence, including intense sequences of warfare, and some sexual content.
Movie description:
The story of an archer in the army of Richard Coeur de Lion who fights against the Norman invaders and becomes the legendary hero known as Robin Hood.
Review:
I know, I know, reading the title and seeing the trailer you think, Oh bloody hell not again! Yes, again. Hollywood has decided to make yet another Robin Hood movie, however after seeing it I can honestly say there has never been one like this. Do not go into the movie thinking that this is the same because it really is not. I would consider this to be a prequel..how Robin became known as a traitor and outlaw while Richard was away from England. Although I would consider this a 'before' type movie there really is no movie available, even though we all know how many Robin Hood movies there are, to be the story that continues, however for the director and cast this posses a huge benefit as the possibilities for a sequel are limitless. The new twist to an old legend makes for big laughs, high emotion and excellent sword fighting. The acting, locations, props, storyline and action were all amazing and in my opinion deserve recognition at award ceremonies for this year.
Action, drama, fantasy and romantics will love this movie, however I must warn the romantics not to expect a love story like Prince of Thieves because it is nothing like that. This movie focuses more on the characters and the storyline, with the romance kind of just happening along the way. Be prepared for realism, which accounts for most of the violence. Sci-fi fans will want to stay clear unless they like Robin Hood and sword fighting.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Russell Crowe (Gladiator) and Cate Blanchett (Lord of the Rings)
Rating:
PG-13 for violence, including intense sequences of warfare, and some sexual content.
Movie description:
The story of an archer in the army of Richard Coeur de Lion who fights against the Norman invaders and becomes the legendary hero known as Robin Hood.
Review:
I know, I know, reading the title and seeing the trailer you think, Oh bloody hell not again! Yes, again. Hollywood has decided to make yet another Robin Hood movie, however after seeing it I can honestly say there has never been one like this. Do not go into the movie thinking that this is the same because it really is not. I would consider this to be a prequel..how Robin became known as a traitor and outlaw while Richard was away from England. Although I would consider this a 'before' type movie there really is no movie available, even though we all know how many Robin Hood movies there are, to be the story that continues, however for the director and cast this posses a huge benefit as the possibilities for a sequel are limitless. The new twist to an old legend makes for big laughs, high emotion and excellent sword fighting. The acting, locations, props, storyline and action were all amazing and in my opinion deserve recognition at award ceremonies for this year.
Action, drama, fantasy and romantics will love this movie, however I must warn the romantics not to expect a love story like Prince of Thieves because it is nothing like that. This movie focuses more on the characters and the storyline, with the romance kind of just happening along the way. Be prepared for realism, which accounts for most of the violence. Sci-fi fans will want to stay clear unless they like Robin Hood and sword fighting.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Letters to Juliet - 2010
Starring:
Amanda Seyfried (Mama Mia), Christopher Egan (Eragon)
Rating:
PG-13 for brief rude behavior, some language and incidental smoking
Movie description:
A young American woman on vacation in Italy finds the fictional lover's Verona courtyard where people write letters to Juliet about their problems and are given answers by a group of women known as the secretaries of Juliet. Intrigued by the idea she begins to help them and comes across a letter that has been hidden at the wall for almost 50 years. Believing the woman deserves a response she replies and an adventure beyond anything she could have imagined begins.
Review:
Here is one for the hopeless romantics and drama fans. No sci-fi/fantasy or action here so you may want to stay clear if romantic, chick flick movies are not your thing. This is a great movie to watch either curled up to the one you love or with a group of your friends in the mood for a mushy romance. Like I said no action here. I really enjoyed this movie. It pulled on my heart strings and caused that really nice, awwww feeling in my stomach. Some women may find this movie a little bit of a tear jerker, so if you are sensitive to this type of movie be sure to take some tissue or wear waterproof make up. The acting was incredible, the script original and the places there were able to film are breath taking. This is a great sweet ride, which will not disappoint.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Letters to Juliet
Amanda Seyfried (Mama Mia), Christopher Egan (Eragon)
Rating:
PG-13 for brief rude behavior, some language and incidental smoking
Movie description:
A young American woman on vacation in Italy finds the fictional lover's Verona courtyard where people write letters to Juliet about their problems and are given answers by a group of women known as the secretaries of Juliet. Intrigued by the idea she begins to help them and comes across a letter that has been hidden at the wall for almost 50 years. Believing the woman deserves a response she replies and an adventure beyond anything she could have imagined begins.
Review:
Here is one for the hopeless romantics and drama fans. No sci-fi/fantasy or action here so you may want to stay clear if romantic, chick flick movies are not your thing. This is a great movie to watch either curled up to the one you love or with a group of your friends in the mood for a mushy romance. Like I said no action here. I really enjoyed this movie. It pulled on my heart strings and caused that really nice, awwww feeling in my stomach. Some women may find this movie a little bit of a tear jerker, so if you are sensitive to this type of movie be sure to take some tissue or wear waterproof make up. The acting was incredible, the script original and the places there were able to film are breath taking. This is a great sweet ride, which will not disappoint.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Letters to Juliet
Date Night - 2010
Starring:
Steve Carell (Evan Almighty), Tina Fey (SNL
Rating:
PG-13 for sexual and crude content throughout, language, some violence and drug reference
Movie Description:
In New York City, a case of mistaken identity turns a bored married couple's attempt at a glamorous and romantic evening into something more thrilling and dangerous. Can they survive their date night and each other?
Review:
Personally I believe anyone who is or has ever been married will enjoy this movie. It has the basic everyday married couple going through the motions, kids, work, house, babysitter and then it is time for their date night...and the laughs just keep on coming. From the moment the movie started there were only maybe two or three parts that turned serious, the rest of the time the laughs were plenty. Steve and Tina were the perfect, average couple who get pulled into one crazy, wild night they never expected. It was also great to see other actors/actresses I love make appearences and just add more to the movie. The acting was incredible by all involved, the sets were amazing and the storyline was original and held you in your seat.
WARNING: I feel I must issue a warning as the rating, PG-13, may give a false impression to some. The F word is said once, and though the scene is perfect and very funny, you may want to watch the movie first before allowing your 13 + children to see it.
Aside from the language, which was not a huge problem for me, the movie was definately a keeper and I plan to owe it when it comes out. Action, romantics and drama fans will like/love this movie, while sci-fi/fantasy fans may want to avoid..unless your married and/or have kids.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Steve Carell (Evan Almighty), Tina Fey (SNL
Rating:
PG-13 for sexual and crude content throughout, language, some violence and drug reference
Movie Description:
In New York City, a case of mistaken identity turns a bored married couple's attempt at a glamorous and romantic evening into something more thrilling and dangerous. Can they survive their date night and each other?
Review:
Personally I believe anyone who is or has ever been married will enjoy this movie. It has the basic everyday married couple going through the motions, kids, work, house, babysitter and then it is time for their date night...and the laughs just keep on coming. From the moment the movie started there were only maybe two or three parts that turned serious, the rest of the time the laughs were plenty. Steve and Tina were the perfect, average couple who get pulled into one crazy, wild night they never expected. It was also great to see other actors/actresses I love make appearences and just add more to the movie. The acting was incredible by all involved, the sets were amazing and the storyline was original and held you in your seat.
WARNING: I feel I must issue a warning as the rating, PG-13, may give a false impression to some. The F word is said once, and though the scene is perfect and very funny, you may want to watch the movie first before allowing your 13 + children to see it.
Aside from the language, which was not a huge problem for me, the movie was definately a keeper and I plan to owe it when it comes out. Action, romantics and drama fans will like/love this movie, while sci-fi/fantasy fans may want to avoid..unless your married and/or have kids.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Star Trek - 2009
Starring:
Eric Bana (Troy), Zachary Quinto (Heros), Chris Pine (Princess Dairies 2), Karl Urban (Doom)
Rating:
PG-13 for sci-fi action and violence and brief sexual content
Movie Description:
A chronicle of the early days of James T. Kirk and his fellow USS Enterprise crew members.
Review:
First of all I would like to point out that I never was or have ever been what people call "Trekkies", although I have seen enough of the show to know the key players, like Bones, Scotty, Spock and of course Kirk. That being said I loved this movie. It has everything a sci-fi fan would enjoy, great fighting scenes, new worlds, new races (of course if you are extremely into Star Trek they are not really new to you) and of course the new found friendships and crew of the U.S.S Enterprise, that the movie focuses on. Even Star Trek fans will really like this new take on a classic TV show. This movie begins when Kirk is a baby and follows him as he become the Captain of the Enterprise along with the crew most of us know by heart. There are some familiar faces, Leonard, the original spock making an appearence seemed to me to bring heart to the movie and remind the Trekkies that every possible part of the movie was looked at in great detail to ensure no one would be upset. The movie itself showed the great care and planning that must have gone into it. The actors/actresses were amazing, the sets incrediable and of course thanks to the time of technology we live in, the effects were breathtaking.
Personally I don't see a downside to this movie. We all know the journey did in no way end when Kirk became Captain, it in fact began, so we expected the openended conclusion that occured. If I wasn't a Trekkie before this movie came out I think I just might be now. Action, sci-fi, drama and even some fantasy fans will love this movie. There is a touch of romance for the romantics but don't count on a lot of it as the action out weighs it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Eric Bana (Troy), Zachary Quinto (Heros), Chris Pine (Princess Dairies 2), Karl Urban (Doom)
Rating:
PG-13 for sci-fi action and violence and brief sexual content
Movie Description:
A chronicle of the early days of James T. Kirk and his fellow USS Enterprise crew members.
Review:
First of all I would like to point out that I never was or have ever been what people call "Trekkies", although I have seen enough of the show to know the key players, like Bones, Scotty, Spock and of course Kirk. That being said I loved this movie. It has everything a sci-fi fan would enjoy, great fighting scenes, new worlds, new races (of course if you are extremely into Star Trek they are not really new to you) and of course the new found friendships and crew of the U.S.S Enterprise, that the movie focuses on. Even Star Trek fans will really like this new take on a classic TV show. This movie begins when Kirk is a baby and follows him as he become the Captain of the Enterprise along with the crew most of us know by heart. There are some familiar faces, Leonard, the original spock making an appearence seemed to me to bring heart to the movie and remind the Trekkies that every possible part of the movie was looked at in great detail to ensure no one would be upset. The movie itself showed the great care and planning that must have gone into it. The actors/actresses were amazing, the sets incrediable and of course thanks to the time of technology we live in, the effects were breathtaking.
Personally I don't see a downside to this movie. We all know the journey did in no way end when Kirk became Captain, it in fact began, so we expected the openended conclusion that occured. If I wasn't a Trekkie before this movie came out I think I just might be now. Action, sci-fi, drama and even some fantasy fans will love this movie. There is a touch of romance for the romantics but don't count on a lot of it as the action out weighs it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Pandorum - 2009
Starring:
Ben Foster (X-men 3, Get Over It), Dennis Quaid and Cam Gigandet (Twilight, Never Back Down)
Rating:
R for strong horror violence and language
Movie Description:
Two crew members aboard a seemingly abandoned spaceship wake up in the sleeping chamber with no memory of what they are doing, where they are going or even why. With Lt. Payton staying behind to guide him via radio, Cpt. Bower ventures into the ship and begins to uncover the terrifying reality. Slowly the spacecraft's shocking, deadly secrets are revealed and the astronauts find their own survival is more important than they ever could of imagined.
Review:
I mentioned this movie on my last blog, in passing, but I did note that Ben Foster did an amazing job. This movie basically rides on Ben's shoulders, he is the person you follow for around 95% of the movie. It is through Ben's Character, Bower, that you discover the situation and history of the spacecraft they are on. That being said Cam and Dennis both also do a great job in the movie. I think both Horror fans and Sci-fi fans will like this movie, however there are plot holes and small unrealistic characterstics that could have been more thought out and may draw attention away from the originality, action and suspense the movie has.
Really I'm not sure if there was a specific bad part, but after the movie is over you do get to thinking about it and some parts may seem a little silly, for example without giving anything away a scientist who knows expert level martial arts, that is never explained as to why she does.
Overall if you can look past the holes and deal with the small 'yeah-okay' type moments it is a fun ride. Lots of suspense, scenes that make you jump, horror and action with a fanstatic ending twist that no one will see coming. As I stated above Ben Foster does an amazing job at holding the movie and your attention, while other cast members like Cam and Dennis bring the story home.
I do completely agree with the rating for this movie as the violence does tend to get a little bloody here and there and also the language, there is at least one scene where the F bomb is used at least 4 times. So not for the faint of heart but totally worth a look if you like sci-fi, alien/creature and a little adrenaline.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Ben Foster (X-men 3, Get Over It), Dennis Quaid and Cam Gigandet (Twilight, Never Back Down)
Rating:
R for strong horror violence and language
Movie Description:
Two crew members aboard a seemingly abandoned spaceship wake up in the sleeping chamber with no memory of what they are doing, where they are going or even why. With Lt. Payton staying behind to guide him via radio, Cpt. Bower ventures into the ship and begins to uncover the terrifying reality. Slowly the spacecraft's shocking, deadly secrets are revealed and the astronauts find their own survival is more important than they ever could of imagined.
Review:
I mentioned this movie on my last blog, in passing, but I did note that Ben Foster did an amazing job. This movie basically rides on Ben's shoulders, he is the person you follow for around 95% of the movie. It is through Ben's Character, Bower, that you discover the situation and history of the spacecraft they are on. That being said Cam and Dennis both also do a great job in the movie. I think both Horror fans and Sci-fi fans will like this movie, however there are plot holes and small unrealistic characterstics that could have been more thought out and may draw attention away from the originality, action and suspense the movie has.
Really I'm not sure if there was a specific bad part, but after the movie is over you do get to thinking about it and some parts may seem a little silly, for example without giving anything away a scientist who knows expert level martial arts, that is never explained as to why she does.
Overall if you can look past the holes and deal with the small 'yeah-okay' type moments it is a fun ride. Lots of suspense, scenes that make you jump, horror and action with a fanstatic ending twist that no one will see coming. As I stated above Ben Foster does an amazing job at holding the movie and your attention, while other cast members like Cam and Dennis bring the story home.
I do completely agree with the rating for this movie as the violence does tend to get a little bloody here and there and also the language, there is at least one scene where the F bomb is used at least 4 times. So not for the faint of heart but totally worth a look if you like sci-fi, alien/creature and a little adrenaline.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
GalaxyQuest - 1999
Starring:
Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman
Rating:
PG for some action violence, mild language and sensuality
Movie Description:
The crew from a cult Sci-fi TV show, 20 years ago, have to play their roles for real when a group of Aliens come to a convention and ask for their help.
Review:
I really love this movie and I think anyone who is a fan of sci-fi/action movies will think the same. I personally think this movie has something for everyone, except people who hate sci-fi of course. If you hate sci-fi then stay clear, other wise you should enjoy it. The acting, storyline and effects are amazing and really pull you into the story. Tim Allen plays the Commander, a self centered ego maniac who usually cares only about himself and not his crew, perfectly. The humor is timed beautifully and the action keeps you on your toes until the very end. This movie is one every sci-fi fan should own.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman
Rating:
PG for some action violence, mild language and sensuality
Movie Description:
The crew from a cult Sci-fi TV show, 20 years ago, have to play their roles for real when a group of Aliens come to a convention and ask for their help.
Review:
I really love this movie and I think anyone who is a fan of sci-fi/action movies will think the same. I personally think this movie has something for everyone, except people who hate sci-fi of course. If you hate sci-fi then stay clear, other wise you should enjoy it. The acting, storyline and effects are amazing and really pull you into the story. Tim Allen plays the Commander, a self centered ego maniac who usually cares only about himself and not his crew, perfectly. The humor is timed beautifully and the action keeps you on your toes until the very end. This movie is one every sci-fi fan should own.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Monday, May 17, 2010
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves - 1991
Starring:
Alan Rickman (Snape), Kevin Costner (Waterworld), Christian Slater (Alone in the Dark), Morgan Freeman (Bruce Almighty)
Rating:
PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and warfare, some sensual material and brief language
Movie Description:
Coming back from the Crusades with a new companion, a moore who was imprisoned with him called Azem, Robin does not receive the welcome he hoped for. Instead he finds the country at the mercy of Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham. To help the people and to avenge his father murder, Robin takes up arms against those in control and ends up becoming the hero he was made famous for.
Review:
Of all the Robin Hood movies I have seen, this is one of my favorites. I believe this movie holds something for everyone, creepiness, humor, action, drama and romance. I don't remember much about this movie when I saw it for the first time, as a child doesn't tend to understand even if they like the movie, but watching it again as an adult I like it so much more. The acting is amazing from all the actors/actresses, the storyline amazing and the stunts are mind blowing. Keep in mind this movie was made in 1991, so no matrix type effects here, but it doesn't slow the movie down in anyway. The only problem I have for the movie has to be Kevin speaking with an American accent...compared to the others he is very obvious, but as the story develops you forget about it. Alan Rickman, what can I say he is one of the coolest villians and plays them so well it is no wonder that he keeps receiving more of them. (No one could have played Snape better). Morgan Freeman is a classic actor with skills no movie can do justice too, but this one comes close.
I would recommend this movie to everyone, except maybe someone who can not deal with the harsh fighting scenes, remember PG-13 in the 90's was not the same as today so view it because you let children or people with weak stomachs watch it. That being said it is in no way a gory movie, they only keep the fighting very realistic which may be hard for some to watch. Romantics, who can handle the fighting, and action fans will love this movie. Sci-fi and fanstasy fans may not like it as much but could still enjoy the storyline and fight scenes.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Alan Rickman (Snape), Kevin Costner (Waterworld), Christian Slater (Alone in the Dark), Morgan Freeman (Bruce Almighty)
Rating:
PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and warfare, some sensual material and brief language
Movie Description:
Coming back from the Crusades with a new companion, a moore who was imprisoned with him called Azem, Robin does not receive the welcome he hoped for. Instead he finds the country at the mercy of Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham. To help the people and to avenge his father murder, Robin takes up arms against those in control and ends up becoming the hero he was made famous for.
Review:
Of all the Robin Hood movies I have seen, this is one of my favorites. I believe this movie holds something for everyone, creepiness, humor, action, drama and romance. I don't remember much about this movie when I saw it for the first time, as a child doesn't tend to understand even if they like the movie, but watching it again as an adult I like it so much more. The acting is amazing from all the actors/actresses, the storyline amazing and the stunts are mind blowing. Keep in mind this movie was made in 1991, so no matrix type effects here, but it doesn't slow the movie down in anyway. The only problem I have for the movie has to be Kevin speaking with an American accent...compared to the others he is very obvious, but as the story develops you forget about it. Alan Rickman, what can I say he is one of the coolest villians and plays them so well it is no wonder that he keeps receiving more of them. (No one could have played Snape better). Morgan Freeman is a classic actor with skills no movie can do justice too, but this one comes close.
I would recommend this movie to everyone, except maybe someone who can not deal with the harsh fighting scenes, remember PG-13 in the 90's was not the same as today so view it because you let children or people with weak stomachs watch it. That being said it is in no way a gory movie, they only keep the fighting very realistic which may be hard for some to watch. Romantics, who can handle the fighting, and action fans will love this movie. Sci-fi and fanstasy fans may not like it as much but could still enjoy the storyline and fight scenes.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Iron Man 2 - 2010
Starring:
Robert Downey JR, Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle and Scarlett Johansson
Rating:
PG-13 for sequences of intense sci-fi action violence and some language
Movie description:
Tony Stark is back as this time his alter ego Iron Man may be causing some problems with not only the government and his friends but also in the form of a villian called Ivan, who has harnessed the power of the Iron Man suit and creates whips made out of the same material. Can Tony overcome everything or will he lose everything, his life included?
Review:
Since I loved the first movie there was never any doubt that I would see this one as well. The trailer showed a fast paced, action filled adventure with a new villian, the movie did not disappoint. However the opening scene was not as dramatic as the first movie, so I felt it began a lot slower than the first, although as it started right were the last movie left off so I couldn't help but smile. Aside from the beginning of the movie the rest was very fast paced, the acting was amazing and the few smaller storylines as well as the main one came together perfectly at the end.
One of my pet peeves is when someone is replaced during a movie sequel/s. The first movie had an incredible actor as Tony's best friend/military guy and finding out that he got replaced had me worried, as it always does, as you never know if the knew person will fit perfectly or just be another random person. In this movie though I hated the idea that this person was replaced, you know who if you've seen the first movie, Don fitted the part perfectly and only for a few seconds did I think 'oh he's the replacement'. Don brought the same attititude and caring to match Tony's and together they made the perfect best friend combination.
Action, sci-fi, fantasty and comic book lovers will enjoy this movie. Romantics and Horror fans may want to avoid, but there is some romance if you can hold on through most of the movie.
***Quick note: There IS an extra scene at the end of the credits, so make sure you stick around for it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Robert Downey JR, Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle and Scarlett Johansson
Rating:
PG-13 for sequences of intense sci-fi action violence and some language
Movie description:
Tony Stark is back as this time his alter ego Iron Man may be causing some problems with not only the government and his friends but also in the form of a villian called Ivan, who has harnessed the power of the Iron Man suit and creates whips made out of the same material. Can Tony overcome everything or will he lose everything, his life included?
Review:
Since I loved the first movie there was never any doubt that I would see this one as well. The trailer showed a fast paced, action filled adventure with a new villian, the movie did not disappoint. However the opening scene was not as dramatic as the first movie, so I felt it began a lot slower than the first, although as it started right were the last movie left off so I couldn't help but smile. Aside from the beginning of the movie the rest was very fast paced, the acting was amazing and the few smaller storylines as well as the main one came together perfectly at the end.
One of my pet peeves is when someone is replaced during a movie sequel/s. The first movie had an incredible actor as Tony's best friend/military guy and finding out that he got replaced had me worried, as it always does, as you never know if the knew person will fit perfectly or just be another random person. In this movie though I hated the idea that this person was replaced, you know who if you've seen the first movie, Don fitted the part perfectly and only for a few seconds did I think 'oh he's the replacement'. Don brought the same attititude and caring to match Tony's and together they made the perfect best friend combination.
Action, sci-fi, fantasty and comic book lovers will enjoy this movie. Romantics and Horror fans may want to avoid, but there is some romance if you can hold on through most of the movie.
***Quick note: There IS an extra scene at the end of the credits, so make sure you stick around for it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Friday, May 7, 2010
Iron Man - 2008
Starring:
Robert Downey JR, Jeff Bridges, Gwyneth Paltrow and Terrence Howard.
Rating:
PG-13 for some intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence, and brief suggestive content.
Movie description:
Tony Stark is a spoiled grown up child who loves the fast life and fast women even more. All that changes when he is faced with a life and death situation which causes him to create a robotic suit to win his freedom. Returning home he decides to use the suit to make life better for people. Will Tony be able to keep the suit secret long enough to help people or will his secret get out and into the wrong hands?
Review:
Even though I had never heard of Iron Man before the movie trailer came out, I immediately place it on my to watch list. I am a huge fan of Marvel characters such as Spiderman, Hulk and Superman, so learning about a new character was very exciting. When reading my review, just remember I have never read the comic of Iron Man so I can not compare it only the movie and for me the movie did not disappoint.
The opening scene set the tone for the entire movie, fast paced, humor and set up Robert as the perfect, rich kid with the I don't give a darn attitude. Gwyneth plays a loyal, lovable personal assistant who you just hope can keep up with Tony and his indiscretions, which she does extremely well. I personally love Jeff as the bad guy, I think that playing a bad guy suits him and he also did not disappoint. Overall the acting was amazing, the special effects were perfect and the storyline was incredible. Admittedly I was completely shocked by the ending, of course I knew with the character being a comic book they would need to have room for a sequel but WOW, I was totally shocked. I was even impressed by some of the one liners that just had me laughing out loud, "Well, it's not like you haven't caught me in worse situations than this," being one of them.
I would say that action and sci-fi fans will really like/love this movie. Romantics and horror fans may want to give it a miss, even though it may hint at romance nothing happens.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Robert Downey JR, Jeff Bridges, Gwyneth Paltrow and Terrence Howard.
Rating:
PG-13 for some intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence, and brief suggestive content.
Movie description:
Tony Stark is a spoiled grown up child who loves the fast life and fast women even more. All that changes when he is faced with a life and death situation which causes him to create a robotic suit to win his freedom. Returning home he decides to use the suit to make life better for people. Will Tony be able to keep the suit secret long enough to help people or will his secret get out and into the wrong hands?
Review:
Even though I had never heard of Iron Man before the movie trailer came out, I immediately place it on my to watch list. I am a huge fan of Marvel characters such as Spiderman, Hulk and Superman, so learning about a new character was very exciting. When reading my review, just remember I have never read the comic of Iron Man so I can not compare it only the movie and for me the movie did not disappoint.
The opening scene set the tone for the entire movie, fast paced, humor and set up Robert as the perfect, rich kid with the I don't give a darn attitude. Gwyneth plays a loyal, lovable personal assistant who you just hope can keep up with Tony and his indiscretions, which she does extremely well. I personally love Jeff as the bad guy, I think that playing a bad guy suits him and he also did not disappoint. Overall the acting was amazing, the special effects were perfect and the storyline was incredible. Admittedly I was completely shocked by the ending, of course I knew with the character being a comic book they would need to have room for a sequel but WOW, I was totally shocked. I was even impressed by some of the one liners that just had me laughing out loud, "Well, it's not like you haven't caught me in worse situations than this," being one of them.
I would say that action and sci-fi fans will really like/love this movie. Romantics and horror fans may want to give it a miss, even though it may hint at romance nothing happens.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Last Chance Harvey - 2008
Starring:
Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson
Rating:
PG - 13 for brief strong language
Description:
In London for the daughter he barely knows, Harvey is having a rough few days. His family has replaced him with a stepfather who is always there to help, when he is not, and his job is slipping away towards a younger, hip generation. Then he meets Kate in the airport bar. Can Harvey redeem himself through one last chance and possible find romance along the way or will he do what he has always done and lose everything he holds dear?
Review:
Honestly reading the title of this movie I was nervous. It's one of those titles that just screamed to me "can't end well" and because of my assumptions it took me a while to even watch the movie. However I am happy to report that I am completely happy to be wrong in this case. Though the movie does hold some predictable parts, the acting was amazing from both Emma and Dustin, which you would expect from A listers like these, and from other members of the cast that I am unfamiliar with. The humor was witty, the emotion cut deep and the drama was worthy of an applause. The movie ends the way you hope it will, with some twists along the way. All in all a great movie, not original or completely bad, but somewhere in between. If you are looking for a good emotional type movie, then I would recommend this one. Action/Fantasty/Sci-Fi buffs should avoid this one.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson
Rating:
PG - 13 for brief strong language
Description:
In London for the daughter he barely knows, Harvey is having a rough few days. His family has replaced him with a stepfather who is always there to help, when he is not, and his job is slipping away towards a younger, hip generation. Then he meets Kate in the airport bar. Can Harvey redeem himself through one last chance and possible find romance along the way or will he do what he has always done and lose everything he holds dear?
Review:
Honestly reading the title of this movie I was nervous. It's one of those titles that just screamed to me "can't end well" and because of my assumptions it took me a while to even watch the movie. However I am happy to report that I am completely happy to be wrong in this case. Though the movie does hold some predictable parts, the acting was amazing from both Emma and Dustin, which you would expect from A listers like these, and from other members of the cast that I am unfamiliar with. The humor was witty, the emotion cut deep and the drama was worthy of an applause. The movie ends the way you hope it will, with some twists along the way. All in all a great movie, not original or completely bad, but somewhere in between. If you are looking for a good emotional type movie, then I would recommend this one. Action/Fantasty/Sci-Fi buffs should avoid this one.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Proclaimed Movie Critic
Monday, April 12, 2010
Clash of the Titans - 2010
Starring:
Sam Worthington (Terminator Salvation), Liam Neeson (Do I really need to list all the movies he has been in?) and Ralph Fiennes (Voldemort)
Rating:
PG - 13 for fanstasy action violence, some frightening images and brief sensuality
Description:
Perseus was raised as a fisherman by his father and mother, yet knowing he was not born to them. After a tragedy which caused him to lose the only family he ever knew because of Hades, Perseus is filled with revenge. Will Perseus find a way to take his revenge and live to tell the tale or will he take a fanstatic journey to save a city condemed by the gods themselves and learn about himself along the way?
Review:
First of all I wanted to say this is NOT a remake. However there some similarties to this movie and the movie of the same name released in the 80's. Yes, there are parts of the storyline still there but really this focuses more on all characters not just Perseus and his bride like the first movie.
As an individual movie (as in not comparing it to the old) this was excellent. It had something for everyone, action, a little romance, a little drama and did I mention the action. The creatures appeared flawlessly and the interaction was incredible, as was the acting, the sets and the costumes. Sam Worthington made a fanstatic Perseus and played the part beautifully, giving Perseus all the traits that you would imagine he would have. Liam Neeson and Ralph Liennes played their parts to perfection as god brothers Zeus and Hades.
The only problem with this movie was, I hate to say it, Ralph. As much as we love his work, Voldemort was not alive in ancient greece so should not have appeared on several occasions. Ralph is amazing at playing a villian and he does it extremely well, however I do not know if it was the voice he made for Hades or the mannerisms but something about his character kept coming back to Voldemort. Luckily for Hades, Zeus and Perseus were there to take some attention away from him so it was not a huge distraction.
Overall I really liked this movie and will probably own it, but as I said fans looking for the same type movie as the first one may be disappointed. Action and romance fans may like this movie a lot while Sci-fi/fanstasy fans may like it a lot more. For the adrenaline junkies out there the action is not in short supply so this movie is very paced and will not disappoint.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Appointed Movie Critic
Sam Worthington (Terminator Salvation), Liam Neeson (Do I really need to list all the movies he has been in?) and Ralph Fiennes (Voldemort)
Rating:
PG - 13 for fanstasy action violence, some frightening images and brief sensuality
Description:
Perseus was raised as a fisherman by his father and mother, yet knowing he was not born to them. After a tragedy which caused him to lose the only family he ever knew because of Hades, Perseus is filled with revenge. Will Perseus find a way to take his revenge and live to tell the tale or will he take a fanstatic journey to save a city condemed by the gods themselves and learn about himself along the way?
Review:
First of all I wanted to say this is NOT a remake. However there some similarties to this movie and the movie of the same name released in the 80's. Yes, there are parts of the storyline still there but really this focuses more on all characters not just Perseus and his bride like the first movie.
As an individual movie (as in not comparing it to the old) this was excellent. It had something for everyone, action, a little romance, a little drama and did I mention the action. The creatures appeared flawlessly and the interaction was incredible, as was the acting, the sets and the costumes. Sam Worthington made a fanstatic Perseus and played the part beautifully, giving Perseus all the traits that you would imagine he would have. Liam Neeson and Ralph Liennes played their parts to perfection as god brothers Zeus and Hades.
The only problem with this movie was, I hate to say it, Ralph. As much as we love his work, Voldemort was not alive in ancient greece so should not have appeared on several occasions. Ralph is amazing at playing a villian and he does it extremely well, however I do not know if it was the voice he made for Hades or the mannerisms but something about his character kept coming back to Voldemort. Luckily for Hades, Zeus and Perseus were there to take some attention away from him so it was not a huge distraction.
Overall I really liked this movie and will probably own it, but as I said fans looking for the same type movie as the first one may be disappointed. Action and romance fans may like this movie a lot while Sci-fi/fanstasy fans may like it a lot more. For the adrenaline junkies out there the action is not in short supply so this movie is very paced and will not disappoint.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Self Appointed Movie Critic
Thursday, April 1, 2010
How to Train Your Dragon - 2010
Starring:
Gerard Butler (300), Jay Baruchel (Knocked Up) and America Ferrera (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants)
Rating:
PG for sequences of intense action and some scary images and brief language
Description:
Hiccup is a viking. And when you hear the word viking you are probably not picturing in your head a scrawny boy who likes to invent things and usually causes more problems than solves. Hiccup is a well known disgrace to his villiage for all his mess ups, and the fact that his father is the leader of the village just makes matters worse. Can a close encounter with a legendary dragon help Hiccup become the viking the village is waiting for or will it change everything he thought he knew and help him find the courage he needs to be happy as himself?
Review:
I will admit straight away, and everyone who knows me can verify this, I love dragons, in fact I collect them. So when the trailer came out I was immediately wanting to see it. In a way being a fan of dragons makes me a harder critic as I know everything about them, but this movie was perfect. The animation, storyline and characters were all done beautifully.
The dragons were scary, funny and sometimes cute. The action did not disappoint either, which was surprising for a children's movie but not for a dragon movie. Some children may find the action sequences a little intense so I would recommend viewing it before just to see for yourself whether or not it would be suitable for your own kids. My 5 year old daughter said it was a little scary towards the end, but she still loved it. For this movie I would recommend seeing the 3D version as the flying scenes are amazing. Without giving anything away the ending is good, however you may need to explain to younger children the situation as they may not understand. Don't worry its nothing extremely rude or bad, it just may confuse some children.
I did not realize until after seeing the movie that it was based on a book. With the movie being as amazing as it was I will definately be purchasing the book and will post a review on it once I have read it. This movie is definately one I will be owning when it comes out, I just hope the book is as good.
Overall I would recommend this movie to all dragon, fanstasy, action fans and children 5 +. Romantics may like the boy likes girl portion of the movie, but as its a children's movie don't expect much more than that. Sci-fi fans will want to miss this one unless they like dragons.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Gerard Butler (300), Jay Baruchel (Knocked Up) and America Ferrera (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants)
Rating:
PG for sequences of intense action and some scary images and brief language
Description:
Hiccup is a viking. And when you hear the word viking you are probably not picturing in your head a scrawny boy who likes to invent things and usually causes more problems than solves. Hiccup is a well known disgrace to his villiage for all his mess ups, and the fact that his father is the leader of the village just makes matters worse. Can a close encounter with a legendary dragon help Hiccup become the viking the village is waiting for or will it change everything he thought he knew and help him find the courage he needs to be happy as himself?
Review:
I will admit straight away, and everyone who knows me can verify this, I love dragons, in fact I collect them. So when the trailer came out I was immediately wanting to see it. In a way being a fan of dragons makes me a harder critic as I know everything about them, but this movie was perfect. The animation, storyline and characters were all done beautifully.
The dragons were scary, funny and sometimes cute. The action did not disappoint either, which was surprising for a children's movie but not for a dragon movie. Some children may find the action sequences a little intense so I would recommend viewing it before just to see for yourself whether or not it would be suitable for your own kids. My 5 year old daughter said it was a little scary towards the end, but she still loved it. For this movie I would recommend seeing the 3D version as the flying scenes are amazing. Without giving anything away the ending is good, however you may need to explain to younger children the situation as they may not understand. Don't worry its nothing extremely rude or bad, it just may confuse some children.
I did not realize until after seeing the movie that it was based on a book. With the movie being as amazing as it was I will definately be purchasing the book and will post a review on it once I have read it. This movie is definately one I will be owning when it comes out, I just hope the book is as good.
Overall I would recommend this movie to all dragon, fanstasy, action fans and children 5 +. Romantics may like the boy likes girl portion of the movie, but as its a children's movie don't expect much more than that. Sci-fi fans will want to miss this one unless they like dragons.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
The Last Song - 2010
Starring:
Miley Cyrus (Hannah Montana), Greg Kinnar (Stuck on You) and a relatively new actor Liam Hemsworth (Knowing)
Rating:
PG for thematic material, some violence, sensuality and mild language
Movie description:
If there's one thing Roni does not want to do for the summer its spend time with her enstrangled father. Can this summer provide an experience of self discovery so deep that they become closer than they once were or can a new boyfriend in the form of Will, simply pull her further and further away? Either way this will be a summer to remember.
Review:
First off let me say that as Hannah Montana I am not a fan of Miley. Although the movie was a million times better than the TV show. When seeing this trailer it looked intriguing and since we are all praying for summer to come sooner rather than later I thought it would be worth a look. And I was right.
Without giving anything away I must warn action fans to stay clear. Yes, it does say that there is some violence but really it is one scene and is over before the adrenaline has time to spread in your body. This movie is a romantic, family type drama and ladies I prewarn you water proof make up and tissues may be a good idea. The acting and storyline were both incredible. While watching the movie Miley disappeared and became the young woman the story detailed. Honestly I both hoped and had my fingers crossed that she would be successful in making the transition from Disney Channel star to Actress and I feel that this movie proved she could do it. Her real life and movie boyfriend, Liam, plays Will the very gorgeous stranger who seems to realize there is more to Roni than she lets on and is determined to find out what it is. Through the course of the movie the chemistry between Miley and Liam is clear, and although most scenes are away from other people they do not keep the chemistry between themselves. Greg, who plays Roni's father, is as always amazing. He is not only funny, but charming, caring and at times soulful. Both Miley and Liam interact with Greg perfectly, as well as the young boy who plays Roni's little brother.
I would recommend this movie to hopeless romantics and people who love the drama type cryfest movies. Again action and sci-fi fans may want to pass on this one.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Miley Cyrus (Hannah Montana), Greg Kinnar (Stuck on You) and a relatively new actor Liam Hemsworth (Knowing)
Rating:
PG for thematic material, some violence, sensuality and mild language
Movie description:
If there's one thing Roni does not want to do for the summer its spend time with her enstrangled father. Can this summer provide an experience of self discovery so deep that they become closer than they once were or can a new boyfriend in the form of Will, simply pull her further and further away? Either way this will be a summer to remember.
Review:
First off let me say that as Hannah Montana I am not a fan of Miley. Although the movie was a million times better than the TV show. When seeing this trailer it looked intriguing and since we are all praying for summer to come sooner rather than later I thought it would be worth a look. And I was right.
Without giving anything away I must warn action fans to stay clear. Yes, it does say that there is some violence but really it is one scene and is over before the adrenaline has time to spread in your body. This movie is a romantic, family type drama and ladies I prewarn you water proof make up and tissues may be a good idea. The acting and storyline were both incredible. While watching the movie Miley disappeared and became the young woman the story detailed. Honestly I both hoped and had my fingers crossed that she would be successful in making the transition from Disney Channel star to Actress and I feel that this movie proved she could do it. Her real life and movie boyfriend, Liam, plays Will the very gorgeous stranger who seems to realize there is more to Roni than she lets on and is determined to find out what it is. Through the course of the movie the chemistry between Miley and Liam is clear, and although most scenes are away from other people they do not keep the chemistry between themselves. Greg, who plays Roni's father, is as always amazing. He is not only funny, but charming, caring and at times soulful. Both Miley and Liam interact with Greg perfectly, as well as the young boy who plays Roni's little brother.
I would recommend this movie to hopeless romantics and people who love the drama type cryfest movies. Again action and sci-fi fans may want to pass on this one.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
The Bounty Hunter - 2010
Starring:
Gerard Butler and Jennifer Aniston
Rating:
PG - 13 for sexual content including suggestive comments, language and some violence
Movie description:
An ex-cop turned bounty hunter finds out that his next job is his ex-wife, who skipped court while investigating a murder cover up. Once reunited this at odds couple find themselves not only trying to survive each other but people who are trying to kill them.
Review:
The trailer for this movie was extremely funny so I knew it was a must see, however I was concerned that like some many other movies the trailer would reveal all the good parts. I am glad to be wrong. This movie was very well written, acted and played out on screen. It was very funny, romantic and held enough action with sexual content for the men. Butler, played a great character the ex-cop/bounty hunter with a soft side for his ex-wife. Jen, played a great reporter trying the land a huge story, skips court and finds out her ex has to take her to jail.
I believe this movie has everything and should be suitable for everyone. The action is fast paced for those adrenaline junkies amoug us, the romance has the perfect Awww factor and the laughs just come on coming. Sci-fi fans may want to avoid this movie as it is all action, comedy and romance.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Gerard Butler and Jennifer Aniston
Rating:
PG - 13 for sexual content including suggestive comments, language and some violence
Movie description:
An ex-cop turned bounty hunter finds out that his next job is his ex-wife, who skipped court while investigating a murder cover up. Once reunited this at odds couple find themselves not only trying to survive each other but people who are trying to kill them.
Review:
The trailer for this movie was extremely funny so I knew it was a must see, however I was concerned that like some many other movies the trailer would reveal all the good parts. I am glad to be wrong. This movie was very well written, acted and played out on screen. It was very funny, romantic and held enough action with sexual content for the men. Butler, played a great character the ex-cop/bounty hunter with a soft side for his ex-wife. Jen, played a great reporter trying the land a huge story, skips court and finds out her ex has to take her to jail.
I believe this movie has everything and should be suitable for everyone. The action is fast paced for those adrenaline junkies amoug us, the romance has the perfect Awww factor and the laughs just come on coming. Sci-fi fans may want to avoid this movie as it is all action, comedy and romance.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sherlock Holmes - 2009
Starring:
Robert Dowling JR (Iron Man), Jude Law (The Holiday) and Rachel McAdams (The Notebook)
Rating:
PG - 13 for intense scenes of violence and action, startling imagines and a scene of suggestive material
Movie description:
Detective Sherlock Holmes and his sometimes relunctant partner Watson engage in a battle of wits and brawn with a nemsis, who plans on destroying England. The catch is they thought he had already been killed. Is this a case of the supernatural at work or just another great mystery that can be solved with logic?
Review:
Watching the trailer for this movie I was intrigued. Being from England tales of Sherlock Holmes were everywhere, including TV shows, movies and books by the time I was old enough to take interest. One of my favorites was an older movie about the Young Sherlock Holmes, which detailed how Watson and he first met this portion of course is speculation and no books have specifically come to light which tells actually that. Anyway, this movie was my favorite as I loved both the intelligence, hint of danger and the darkness of it. This movie in 2009, although not a sequel, is my favorite regarding the grown up Sherlock and situations he may have faced. Sherlock, played by Robert, is simply everything you would want him to be, annoying while interesting, humorous while completely serious and above all intelligent as you guess him to be with a hint of scumbag thrown in. Watson, played by Jude, was also perfectly cast. He showed the loveable and loyal character we know and love. The movie was overall excellent. Riveting in the acting whether it be romance, mystery or action it did not disappoint. I feel that some movies allow the special effects to do the talking and with this movie I felt the story held its own, which in my opinion made the effects even more amazing.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes Sherlock Holmes, action and mystery movies. Romantics may enjoy it, however there is very little of it to be seen.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Robert Dowling JR (Iron Man), Jude Law (The Holiday) and Rachel McAdams (The Notebook)
Rating:
PG - 13 for intense scenes of violence and action, startling imagines and a scene of suggestive material
Movie description:
Detective Sherlock Holmes and his sometimes relunctant partner Watson engage in a battle of wits and brawn with a nemsis, who plans on destroying England. The catch is they thought he had already been killed. Is this a case of the supernatural at work or just another great mystery that can be solved with logic?
Review:
Watching the trailer for this movie I was intrigued. Being from England tales of Sherlock Holmes were everywhere, including TV shows, movies and books by the time I was old enough to take interest. One of my favorites was an older movie about the Young Sherlock Holmes, which detailed how Watson and he first met this portion of course is speculation and no books have specifically come to light which tells actually that. Anyway, this movie was my favorite as I loved both the intelligence, hint of danger and the darkness of it. This movie in 2009, although not a sequel, is my favorite regarding the grown up Sherlock and situations he may have faced. Sherlock, played by Robert, is simply everything you would want him to be, annoying while interesting, humorous while completely serious and above all intelligent as you guess him to be with a hint of scumbag thrown in. Watson, played by Jude, was also perfectly cast. He showed the loveable and loyal character we know and love. The movie was overall excellent. Riveting in the acting whether it be romance, mystery or action it did not disappoint. I feel that some movies allow the special effects to do the talking and with this movie I felt the story held its own, which in my opinion made the effects even more amazing.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes Sherlock Holmes, action and mystery movies. Romantics may enjoy it, however there is very little of it to be seen.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Friday, March 26, 2010
Cirque du Freak: Vampire's Assistant - 2009
Starring:
John C Reilly (Step Brothers), John Hutcherson (Zathura) and introducing Chris Massoglia
Rating:
PG - 13 for sequences of intense supernatural violence and action, disturbing imagines, thematic elements and language
Movie Description:
Meet Darren, straight A student and all around normal guy that is until him and his best friend Steve receive tickets to a freak show. Seeing the amazing freaks is nothing compared to the events that follow. Soon Darren is faced with a choice which may cost him more than his family and friends.
Review:
This movie looked amazing from the trailer and I love vampires so I decided to give it a chance. I am so glad I did. Great special effects, storyline and acting on all counts. To me this movie had everything, action, romance and a little dark side that is a must have for any vampire movie. What I did not know about this movie is that it was based on a book, or rather a series of books, so the to be continued ending was unexpected. That being said the ending did not feel sudden, through out the movie I got the feeling that there would be more to come than just the one movie so the ending felt right even though it is always frustrating to wait :). I have since heard that the movie is nothing like the books, as I haven't read them I can't say I agree or not, but I will say that this movie has given me the interest I need to read them in the future and that for me is a great achievement.
Overall action fans, high school type romance fans and comedy fans may like this movie and people who like/love vampires will too. Die-hard action fans may be able to watch this movie, just don't expect huge amounts of adrenaline.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie buff
John C Reilly (Step Brothers), John Hutcherson (Zathura) and introducing Chris Massoglia
Rating:
PG - 13 for sequences of intense supernatural violence and action, disturbing imagines, thematic elements and language
Movie Description:
Meet Darren, straight A student and all around normal guy that is until him and his best friend Steve receive tickets to a freak show. Seeing the amazing freaks is nothing compared to the events that follow. Soon Darren is faced with a choice which may cost him more than his family and friends.
Review:
This movie looked amazing from the trailer and I love vampires so I decided to give it a chance. I am so glad I did. Great special effects, storyline and acting on all counts. To me this movie had everything, action, romance and a little dark side that is a must have for any vampire movie. What I did not know about this movie is that it was based on a book, or rather a series of books, so the to be continued ending was unexpected. That being said the ending did not feel sudden, through out the movie I got the feeling that there would be more to come than just the one movie so the ending felt right even though it is always frustrating to wait :). I have since heard that the movie is nothing like the books, as I haven't read them I can't say I agree or not, but I will say that this movie has given me the interest I need to read them in the future and that for me is a great achievement.
Overall action fans, high school type romance fans and comedy fans may like this movie and people who like/love vampires will too. Die-hard action fans may be able to watch this movie, just don't expect huge amounts of adrenaline.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie buff
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Robin Hood (TV Show) - 2006
Starring:
Jonas Armstrong and Richard Armitage (both english actors so if you don't know them you can google their names)
Rating:
Made for English TV so no rating but I would probably say PG - 13 since there is a lot of violence and some blood.
Description:
The classic tale of Robin Hood given a new revamp using a younger Robin, Jonas, as he returns from the Holy Land to find the country in ruins and the people deperate for help. Instead of taking his place as noble of Locksley beside the horrid Sherrif and Guy of Gisborne, Robin leaves his home, riches and position, to live as the outlaw we have come to know as a legend.
Review:
Before this Kevin Costner's version of Robin Hood was my favorite, now my opinion has changed. Jonas plays the perfect Robin Hood, showing the true emotion and struggles that each person deals with in real life. This Robin Hood contained everything that you would imagine the real Robin Hood, if there was one, would have dealt with. All the names we know and love are included Little John, Will Scarlet etc. There are also some characters I was not familar with but came to know and love through the TV show, Much the trusted best friend/sidekick being one of them.
Season 1:
The series for me started off with a bang. The introduction of each person was flawless and seemed to fit well within the storyline for the episode they were in. Each episode during this season was created with the stories of Robin Hood we know, from meeting Little John to the introduction of Maid Marian. The action was frequent and entertaining as well as held its own when it came down to just focusing on the emotions of the moment.
Season 2:
Most TV shows fall on there second season. I personally feel that this did not, however there were parts that I did not like. Jonas continued to bring Robin Hood to life in an amazing and realistic way, all the while the Sherrif and Guy tried to find knew ways to torment him. I have to say that towards the end of this season, Maid Marian was getting a little annoying and it was no shock to me that the end of the season came with it some sorrow. I won't spoil it for people in case they want to watch it, but it was for me very touching and very much needed.
Season 3 - last season:
For me season three was the downfall of this series and not for the reasons that I have read before, regarding Maid Marian. With several people leaving the show at the end of season 2, season 3 saw new faces, which is risky and new storylines. Aside from the obvious new female characters that appeared, there was also the arrival of Prince John, who I have to say is one of the best performances I have seen. The Prince John of this Robin Hood delivered an amazing and convincing villian. He matched Robin Hood in everyway his opposite. The more love Robin had for the people the more hatred John has, it worked perfectly. Sadly Prince John did not appear through out the entire season and vanished after only a few episodes, which caused the rather tiresome Sherrif, Guy and Robin triangle to continue. Although the season ended on a rather sad/happy note, the last two episodes (the ending two parter) was a disappointment. There were so many holes in the storyline that it was hard to look pass them. The actors/actresses did the best they could with what they were given and still they delivered perfectly until the end...regrettably it was not enough to see the rating stay up and the possibility of another season.
All fans of Robin Hood should check out this TV show from the BBC. Even though there will not be another season, I feel they wrapped up everything with the last two episodes and made the story of Robin Hood come to life once more. Watch out for Jonas Armstrong, who played Robin, I have a feeling that this young man will appear in more movies and become a very big star, if he hasn't already.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Jonas Armstrong and Richard Armitage (both english actors so if you don't know them you can google their names)
Rating:
Made for English TV so no rating but I would probably say PG - 13 since there is a lot of violence and some blood.
Description:
The classic tale of Robin Hood given a new revamp using a younger Robin, Jonas, as he returns from the Holy Land to find the country in ruins and the people deperate for help. Instead of taking his place as noble of Locksley beside the horrid Sherrif and Guy of Gisborne, Robin leaves his home, riches and position, to live as the outlaw we have come to know as a legend.
Review:
Before this Kevin Costner's version of Robin Hood was my favorite, now my opinion has changed. Jonas plays the perfect Robin Hood, showing the true emotion and struggles that each person deals with in real life. This Robin Hood contained everything that you would imagine the real Robin Hood, if there was one, would have dealt with. All the names we know and love are included Little John, Will Scarlet etc. There are also some characters I was not familar with but came to know and love through the TV show, Much the trusted best friend/sidekick being one of them.
Season 1:
The series for me started off with a bang. The introduction of each person was flawless and seemed to fit well within the storyline for the episode they were in. Each episode during this season was created with the stories of Robin Hood we know, from meeting Little John to the introduction of Maid Marian. The action was frequent and entertaining as well as held its own when it came down to just focusing on the emotions of the moment.
Season 2:
Most TV shows fall on there second season. I personally feel that this did not, however there were parts that I did not like. Jonas continued to bring Robin Hood to life in an amazing and realistic way, all the while the Sherrif and Guy tried to find knew ways to torment him. I have to say that towards the end of this season, Maid Marian was getting a little annoying and it was no shock to me that the end of the season came with it some sorrow. I won't spoil it for people in case they want to watch it, but it was for me very touching and very much needed.
Season 3 - last season:
For me season three was the downfall of this series and not for the reasons that I have read before, regarding Maid Marian. With several people leaving the show at the end of season 2, season 3 saw new faces, which is risky and new storylines. Aside from the obvious new female characters that appeared, there was also the arrival of Prince John, who I have to say is one of the best performances I have seen. The Prince John of this Robin Hood delivered an amazing and convincing villian. He matched Robin Hood in everyway his opposite. The more love Robin had for the people the more hatred John has, it worked perfectly. Sadly Prince John did not appear through out the entire season and vanished after only a few episodes, which caused the rather tiresome Sherrif, Guy and Robin triangle to continue. Although the season ended on a rather sad/happy note, the last two episodes (the ending two parter) was a disappointment. There were so many holes in the storyline that it was hard to look pass them. The actors/actresses did the best they could with what they were given and still they delivered perfectly until the end...regrettably it was not enough to see the rating stay up and the possibility of another season.
All fans of Robin Hood should check out this TV show from the BBC. Even though there will not be another season, I feel they wrapped up everything with the last two episodes and made the story of Robin Hood come to life once more. Watch out for Jonas Armstrong, who played Robin, I have a feeling that this young man will appear in more movies and become a very big star, if he hasn't already.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Twilight Movie Reviews News!!
With the release of the New Moon DVD/Blue ray coming up this Friday, March 19th at midnight I know that Twilight fans like me will be dying to watch the preview of Eclipse included in some copies for the much anticipated movie coming out on June 30th, 29th for those of us with midnight showing tickets :), and some maybe shocked that having watched it once again I will not be posting a review for it this weekend.
Even though I am reviewing all movies I watch/rewatch I will not be posting any review of Twilight or New Moon, even when I own the movie. I have decided to make June Twilight month. I know you're thinking so what does this mean for me? This means that during the course of June I will be reviewing only movies that have some tie to Twilight and/or are vampire/werewolf related. In the two weeks leading up to the midnight showing of Eclipse, I will review first Twilight, then New Moon.
Now I know some of your maybe thinking well, she loves Twilight its not like she'd say anything bad about it? Wrong. As with each movie I review I will try to keep an unbais opinion and review these movies with the same critical eye I use for others. For those who care the dates are listed below:
June 15th - review of Twilight
June 22nd - review of New Moon
June 30th - review of Eclipse
As mentioned above all other movies reviewed during June will contain some link to Twilight and/or vampires/werewolves.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Even though I am reviewing all movies I watch/rewatch I will not be posting any review of Twilight or New Moon, even when I own the movie. I have decided to make June Twilight month. I know you're thinking so what does this mean for me? This means that during the course of June I will be reviewing only movies that have some tie to Twilight and/or are vampire/werewolf related. In the two weeks leading up to the midnight showing of Eclipse, I will review first Twilight, then New Moon.
Now I know some of your maybe thinking well, she loves Twilight its not like she'd say anything bad about it? Wrong. As with each movie I review I will try to keep an unbais opinion and review these movies with the same critical eye I use for others. For those who care the dates are listed below:
June 15th - review of Twilight
June 22nd - review of New Moon
June 30th - review of Eclipse
As mentioned above all other movies reviewed during June will contain some link to Twilight and/or vampires/werewolves.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
I am Legend - 2007
Starring:
Will Smith
Rating:
PG - 13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence
Movie description:
When the annoucement came that a cure for cancer had been found no one knew what the future would look like. Robert Neville, played by Will Smith, is the last survivor living in New York, ground zero, working on a cure while trying to avoid heading into the dark where the mutantions of the cancer cure now reside. Can he find the cure and save the planet from this man made horror or will the creatures he's trying to save kill him before he has a chance?
Review:
At first viewing, I remember not liking this movie much simply because of the ending, if you've seen it you know why. There are very few stories and I mean a few, either told by TV show, books or movies that you can have an ending like this and it not come off as a very bad negative thing. Although I have to say that watching this movie again has made me appreciate it alot more. I feel watching this movie again that it ranks up there with movies such as Gladiator, where the same type of ending occurs, yet you feel it was appropriate and not at all awful. I admit to seeing the alternate ending, which can be seen on the DVD, and I do like it a little better yet it still doesn't have the same type of impact as the original.
Honestly, this movie has a similar type of zombie/vampire type vibe at times, yet the creatures do not distract from the brilliant character that Will helped us come to know during the course of the story. The storyline is exellant as is the special effects, eleborate sets and the beautiful dog, Sam, but really nothing can stop the fanstatic acting of Will Smith. Of all the movies Will Smith has done over the years, I truly believe that this is one that he will become the Legend for.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes, holy crap what was that type movies and real, hard core, male emotions. Romantic's and comedy buff's may not enjoy this movie as much as others, but you should still watch it at least once because the entire movie is a work of art.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Will Smith
Rating:
PG - 13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence
Movie description:
When the annoucement came that a cure for cancer had been found no one knew what the future would look like. Robert Neville, played by Will Smith, is the last survivor living in New York, ground zero, working on a cure while trying to avoid heading into the dark where the mutantions of the cancer cure now reside. Can he find the cure and save the planet from this man made horror or will the creatures he's trying to save kill him before he has a chance?
Review:
At first viewing, I remember not liking this movie much simply because of the ending, if you've seen it you know why. There are very few stories and I mean a few, either told by TV show, books or movies that you can have an ending like this and it not come off as a very bad negative thing. Although I have to say that watching this movie again has made me appreciate it alot more. I feel watching this movie again that it ranks up there with movies such as Gladiator, where the same type of ending occurs, yet you feel it was appropriate and not at all awful. I admit to seeing the alternate ending, which can be seen on the DVD, and I do like it a little better yet it still doesn't have the same type of impact as the original.
Honestly, this movie has a similar type of zombie/vampire type vibe at times, yet the creatures do not distract from the brilliant character that Will helped us come to know during the course of the story. The storyline is exellant as is the special effects, eleborate sets and the beautiful dog, Sam, but really nothing can stop the fanstatic acting of Will Smith. Of all the movies Will Smith has done over the years, I truly believe that this is one that he will become the Legend for.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes, holy crap what was that type movies and real, hard core, male emotions. Romantic's and comedy buff's may not enjoy this movie as much as others, but you should still watch it at least once because the entire movie is a work of art.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Where the Wild Things Are - 2009
Starring:
Max Records and Catherine Keener
Rating:
PG - mild thematic elements, some adventure action and language
Movie description:
Adaptation from Maurice Sendak's classic children's story about a disobedient little boy called Max who goes to bed without supper, only to create a new world full of wild things who name him King before returning to his room for bed.
Review:
Not being originally from America I had never heard of this until I saw the trailer for the movie. Regrettably for me this movie was terrible, which in turn makes me not want to read the book. From the trailer it seemed very children appropriate, very fun and moving along at a steady pace, I was wrong on all counts. This movie was far from being suitable for children, very much an emotionally sad movie and moved along at a snail's pace, which just seemed to make it worse. Honestly I saw no point to the movie at all. The boy Max didn't really seem to learn anything through out the entire movie so I felt there was no moral to the story, which may have improved its appeal enough to allow my children to watch it.
Honestly I would not recommend this movie to anyone, which is rare for me to say as there is usually someone out there who would like it. I really can not think of anyone who would actually like this movie and recommend it to others. It saddens me when a well known book is made into a movie and fails to deliver, usually it is more the fans of the book and the author I feel bad for.
Thank you for you reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Max Records and Catherine Keener
Rating:
PG - mild thematic elements, some adventure action and language
Movie description:
Adaptation from Maurice Sendak's classic children's story about a disobedient little boy called Max who goes to bed without supper, only to create a new world full of wild things who name him King before returning to his room for bed.
Review:
Not being originally from America I had never heard of this until I saw the trailer for the movie. Regrettably for me this movie was terrible, which in turn makes me not want to read the book. From the trailer it seemed very children appropriate, very fun and moving along at a steady pace, I was wrong on all counts. This movie was far from being suitable for children, very much an emotionally sad movie and moved along at a snail's pace, which just seemed to make it worse. Honestly I saw no point to the movie at all. The boy Max didn't really seem to learn anything through out the entire movie so I felt there was no moral to the story, which may have improved its appeal enough to allow my children to watch it.
Honestly I would not recommend this movie to anyone, which is rare for me to say as there is usually someone out there who would like it. I really can not think of anyone who would actually like this movie and recommend it to others. It saddens me when a well known book is made into a movie and fails to deliver, usually it is more the fans of the book and the author I feel bad for.
Thank you for you reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Monday, March 15, 2010
Remember Me - 2010
Starring:
Robert Pattinson, Pierce Brosnan and Emilie de Raven
Rating:
PG - 13 for violence, sexual content, language and smoking
Movie description:
Tragedy leaves its mark on people in different ways, which is clear in the cases of Tyler, played by Robert, and Ally, played by Emilie. After a brief scuffle with a NY cop, Tyler lands in jail with his roommate. Even though Tyler holds no grudge against the cop, his roommate presuades him to contact the cops daughter, Ally, and get close to her. Can a romance bloom between the two broken souls or will the truth behind Tyler's bruises and their first conversation seperate them?
Review:
First of all I would like to say that this movie is not for the faint of heart. It is very much a drama based movie, with emotions running extremely low for a major part of it. I will not give away any spoilers but I will say that both Rob's character, Tyler and Ally, Emilie's character have suffered great family tragedies and this movie shows how they and their families deal with it. The ending is definately a shocker and very heartbreaking, again no spoilers, but I will say that some people will hate this movie because of the ending, or should I say how the ending effects the people who watch it.
I have to say also that I almost disagree with the rating for this movie. For a PG - 13 they seem to push the limits almost to the point that an R rating may have been more suitable. The violence in the movie is not bloody but can be a little graphic and hard to watch. The language was not that bad but the use of the F bomb was really not necessary in the scene it was used in. The sexual content again felt like it was a little much for a PG-13 rating but was done tastfully.
Overall I liked the movie, even the ending, but I know that some people may have a hard time with it. I think that major action fans could like it, as there are a lot of fist fighting scenes, but they would have to deal with the downer type feel of the movie and the small amount of mushy romantic stuff. Romantics may want to avoid this movie as even thought the trailer makes it seem romantic there are very few scenes of it. Fans of Robert P and general drama movies will appreciate this movie and the great storyline and acting that comes with it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
You can purchase the movie through the following link:
Remember Me
Robert Pattinson, Pierce Brosnan and Emilie de Raven
Rating:
PG - 13 for violence, sexual content, language and smoking
Movie description:
Tragedy leaves its mark on people in different ways, which is clear in the cases of Tyler, played by Robert, and Ally, played by Emilie. After a brief scuffle with a NY cop, Tyler lands in jail with his roommate. Even though Tyler holds no grudge against the cop, his roommate presuades him to contact the cops daughter, Ally, and get close to her. Can a romance bloom between the two broken souls or will the truth behind Tyler's bruises and their first conversation seperate them?
Review:
First of all I would like to say that this movie is not for the faint of heart. It is very much a drama based movie, with emotions running extremely low for a major part of it. I will not give away any spoilers but I will say that both Rob's character, Tyler and Ally, Emilie's character have suffered great family tragedies and this movie shows how they and their families deal with it. The ending is definately a shocker and very heartbreaking, again no spoilers, but I will say that some people will hate this movie because of the ending, or should I say how the ending effects the people who watch it.
I have to say also that I almost disagree with the rating for this movie. For a PG - 13 they seem to push the limits almost to the point that an R rating may have been more suitable. The violence in the movie is not bloody but can be a little graphic and hard to watch. The language was not that bad but the use of the F bomb was really not necessary in the scene it was used in. The sexual content again felt like it was a little much for a PG-13 rating but was done tastfully.
Overall I liked the movie, even the ending, but I know that some people may have a hard time with it. I think that major action fans could like it, as there are a lot of fist fighting scenes, but they would have to deal with the downer type feel of the movie and the small amount of mushy romantic stuff. Romantics may want to avoid this movie as even thought the trailer makes it seem romantic there are very few scenes of it. Fans of Robert P and general drama movies will appreciate this movie and the great storyline and acting that comes with it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
You can purchase the movie through the following link:
Remember Me
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Another Cinderella Story - 2008
Starring:
Selena Gomez and Drew Seely
Rating:
PG - some mild sensuility and language
Movie description:
The classic story of Cinderella with a new dancing twist. Drew plays, pop star Joey, who is just trying to attend regular high school to find his old groove when he meets and dancers with a mystery young woman in a red dress and is blown away by her. The only problem, you guessed it, she runs out of the ball leaving behind her ipod just before midnight. Selena, plays Mary, the regular high school student who works for her mother's horrid, old employer and secretly dances behind the double glass wall of the dancing class. Will Joey find the woman of his dreams before the big dance competition or will they both be sepearated forever?
Review:
Since it's another cinderella story you should already know the end, yet this movie kept my interest as the dancing is amazing. I agree that this story has been done so many times it can be hard to get excited when they find some way to make yet another version but this one exactly had something the others don't, a talented cinderella.
In all the other versions the regular person, who turns out to be gorgeous at the ball, has no talent aside from the fact she is smarter than the 'step mother' thinks and is pretty in a ball gown. This cinderella, Selena, while still beautiful in the ball gown has some amazing talent at both singing and dancing which you get to see in the movie. While the storyline maybe something we have seen before a million times, this talented young cinderella is a first. I believe Selena delivered an amazing performance and is proving that she is more than just another disney channel star. Honestly I was little disappointed by Drew's performance, as a singer he has serious talent, yet in acting you can tell he is still a little new and needs more practice.
This movie is recommended to anyone who enjoys watching dance performances, a little singing and high school type drama. Definiately not for the adrenline or action seekers. The romance level is still high school type, so if you don't mind the rating PG and can handle the high school type situations you should enjoy it.
If you like movies such as High School Musical, Hairspray, Princess Diaries and Grease, you may like this one.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Selena Gomez and Drew Seely
Rating:
PG - some mild sensuility and language
Movie description:
The classic story of Cinderella with a new dancing twist. Drew plays, pop star Joey, who is just trying to attend regular high school to find his old groove when he meets and dancers with a mystery young woman in a red dress and is blown away by her. The only problem, you guessed it, she runs out of the ball leaving behind her ipod just before midnight. Selena, plays Mary, the regular high school student who works for her mother's horrid, old employer and secretly dances behind the double glass wall of the dancing class. Will Joey find the woman of his dreams before the big dance competition or will they both be sepearated forever?
Review:
Since it's another cinderella story you should already know the end, yet this movie kept my interest as the dancing is amazing. I agree that this story has been done so many times it can be hard to get excited when they find some way to make yet another version but this one exactly had something the others don't, a talented cinderella.
In all the other versions the regular person, who turns out to be gorgeous at the ball, has no talent aside from the fact she is smarter than the 'step mother' thinks and is pretty in a ball gown. This cinderella, Selena, while still beautiful in the ball gown has some amazing talent at both singing and dancing which you get to see in the movie. While the storyline maybe something we have seen before a million times, this talented young cinderella is a first. I believe Selena delivered an amazing performance and is proving that she is more than just another disney channel star. Honestly I was little disappointed by Drew's performance, as a singer he has serious talent, yet in acting you can tell he is still a little new and needs more practice.
This movie is recommended to anyone who enjoys watching dance performances, a little singing and high school type drama. Definiately not for the adrenline or action seekers. The romance level is still high school type, so if you don't mind the rating PG and can handle the high school type situations you should enjoy it.
If you like movies such as High School Musical, Hairspray, Princess Diaries and Grease, you may like this one.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Friday, March 5, 2010
Alice in Wonderland - 2010
Starring:
Johnny Depp (Hatter) , Michael Sheen (White Rabbit) and newcomer Mia Wasikowska (Alice)
Rating:
PG - fantasy action violence involving scary imagines and situations, as well as a smoking caterpillar
Movie description:
Alice has grown up, now 19, and during a party, to celebrate an engagment she knows nothing about, she spots the White Rabbit and before you can say off to wonderland she falls down the Rabbit hole once more. Meeting up with all her old friends including Hatter, White Rabbit and the Dweedles, is overcast with a shadow of darkness. Can Alice figure out her destiny and save Wonderland or will she fail and lose all her friends to the anger of the Red Queen?
Review:
From the moment I saw the trailer this movie was a must see for me. Not only because Johnny Depp is one of my favorite actors but also because growing up Alice in Wonderland was one of my favorite cartoons/story...Alison and Alice are extremely similar to young child so I was convinced it was me for the longest time. Anyway, having never read the sequel to Alice in Wonderland I can not say how it measures up but it was Incredible. Tim Burton has done it again. Everything about this movie is amazing, from the actors, the sets, the storyline and the special effects.
There is one small, I wouldn't say problem but could have a negative effect on some people, with this movie and to me it was the return of Captain Jack Sparrow. Now, I just said Johnny Depp is one of my favorites, which is true, and Captain Jack is one of the roles I thought he played perfectly, however there were times when the Hatter was speaking that Jack could be seen sneaking through a little. It could have been the way the hands were used while he spoke or the similarity in the fact that both the Hatter and Jack are insane, but either way he was there at times. Again it was not such a big deal to call it a problem, but some people may not be able to overlook it.
If you love the actors involved, the story of Alice in Wonderland, fanstasy, action and a dragon, this movie is for you. For adults keep in mind that the rating is PG so check it out before you let your kids go just in case. My daughter 5 really loved it but she is a little crazy, like a Hatter. While there is action and some fight scenes, action buffs may not get the adrenline rush they are used to or wanting. There is no romance as the Hatter and Alice have more of a best friend/brother/sister type relationship going on but again great fanstasy for those who just want to leave the real world behind for a little while.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Johnny Depp (Hatter) , Michael Sheen (White Rabbit) and newcomer Mia Wasikowska (Alice)
Rating:
PG - fantasy action violence involving scary imagines and situations, as well as a smoking caterpillar
Movie description:
Alice has grown up, now 19, and during a party, to celebrate an engagment she knows nothing about, she spots the White Rabbit and before you can say off to wonderland she falls down the Rabbit hole once more. Meeting up with all her old friends including Hatter, White Rabbit and the Dweedles, is overcast with a shadow of darkness. Can Alice figure out her destiny and save Wonderland or will she fail and lose all her friends to the anger of the Red Queen?
Review:
From the moment I saw the trailer this movie was a must see for me. Not only because Johnny Depp is one of my favorite actors but also because growing up Alice in Wonderland was one of my favorite cartoons/story...Alison and Alice are extremely similar to young child so I was convinced it was me for the longest time. Anyway, having never read the sequel to Alice in Wonderland I can not say how it measures up but it was Incredible. Tim Burton has done it again. Everything about this movie is amazing, from the actors, the sets, the storyline and the special effects.
There is one small, I wouldn't say problem but could have a negative effect on some people, with this movie and to me it was the return of Captain Jack Sparrow. Now, I just said Johnny Depp is one of my favorites, which is true, and Captain Jack is one of the roles I thought he played perfectly, however there were times when the Hatter was speaking that Jack could be seen sneaking through a little. It could have been the way the hands were used while he spoke or the similarity in the fact that both the Hatter and Jack are insane, but either way he was there at times. Again it was not such a big deal to call it a problem, but some people may not be able to overlook it.
If you love the actors involved, the story of Alice in Wonderland, fanstasy, action and a dragon, this movie is for you. For adults keep in mind that the rating is PG so check it out before you let your kids go just in case. My daughter 5 really loved it but she is a little crazy, like a Hatter. While there is action and some fight scenes, action buffs may not get the adrenline rush they are used to or wanting. There is no romance as the Hatter and Alice have more of a best friend/brother/sister type relationship going on but again great fanstasy for those who just want to leave the real world behind for a little while.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Supernova - 2000
Starring:
James Spader and Peter Facinelli
Rating:
R - sexuality and sci-fi violence
Movie description:
When a deep space rescue ship, Nightingale 229, answer a distress call from a mining planet, the crew, led by new pilot James Spader, encounter a sole survivor in amazing shape. But when they discover a mysterious artifact aboard the survivors escape pod, the lies begin to unravel and the truth revealed.
Review:
First of let me say the rating is perfect for this movie and I don't usually say that. The violence is not that bad, although there is a scene only a few minutes in that is kind of gross for those with a weak stomach. But the sex in this movie is really the only reason this movie is rated R. You see the breasts of both female members of the crew several times, as well as the butts of the males. Some nudity in this movie was understandable for what was happening while at other times it seemed completely unnecessary and only put it to keep the attention of the audience.
That being said the storyline is great, aside from a slight hole that you think about more once the movie ends, and the acting was great from the actors/actresses who were apart of the movie. At the time the movie came out I knew James Spader from Stargate and this movie just made me love his acting more. He stole the show with his bad boy turned good character. While I had no idea who Peter F was at the time I remember thinking he was a great bad guy and watching the movie again I stick with my original thoughts. Peter F was a great villian as he can have the cute innocent, what me?, look while at the same time hold an air of mystery which can change in a second to someone dark and creepy.
This movie may be good for people who like basic sci-fi, nudity and a little action. People who would prefer less nudity and more none-sexual action may want to stay clear. I personally liked the movie, but it would not be my first choice. I would have liked to see more fighting, less nudity and more sci-fi elements as it is a sci-fi movie.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
James Spader and Peter Facinelli
Rating:
R - sexuality and sci-fi violence
Movie description:
When a deep space rescue ship, Nightingale 229, answer a distress call from a mining planet, the crew, led by new pilot James Spader, encounter a sole survivor in amazing shape. But when they discover a mysterious artifact aboard the survivors escape pod, the lies begin to unravel and the truth revealed.
Review:
First of let me say the rating is perfect for this movie and I don't usually say that. The violence is not that bad, although there is a scene only a few minutes in that is kind of gross for those with a weak stomach. But the sex in this movie is really the only reason this movie is rated R. You see the breasts of both female members of the crew several times, as well as the butts of the males. Some nudity in this movie was understandable for what was happening while at other times it seemed completely unnecessary and only put it to keep the attention of the audience.
That being said the storyline is great, aside from a slight hole that you think about more once the movie ends, and the acting was great from the actors/actresses who were apart of the movie. At the time the movie came out I knew James Spader from Stargate and this movie just made me love his acting more. He stole the show with his bad boy turned good character. While I had no idea who Peter F was at the time I remember thinking he was a great bad guy and watching the movie again I stick with my original thoughts. Peter F was a great villian as he can have the cute innocent, what me?, look while at the same time hold an air of mystery which can change in a second to someone dark and creepy.
This movie may be good for people who like basic sci-fi, nudity and a little action. People who would prefer less nudity and more none-sexual action may want to stay clear. I personally liked the movie, but it would not be my first choice. I would have liked to see more fighting, less nudity and more sci-fi elements as it is a sci-fi movie.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The Thief of Bagdad - 1940
Starring:
Honestly, most people who starred in this movie are probably deceased since it was out in 1940 and I've not seen any other movies by them since this one so you can google it to read the information online.
Rating:
PG
Movie description:
Follow the captivating journey of banished Prince Ahman and Abu, the thief, as they go from rags, to riches, face evil enemies and rescue a Princess. Along the way they meet interesting characters and creatures such as a Sultan who has a love of a toys, a monstrous genie, a flying mechanical horse and a gaint spider.
Review:
Honestly I don't remember the first time I ever watched this movie but I do recall it being magical. To me this movie has everything, magic, danger, action, suspense and romance. Being a child the special effects were amazing, and still are considering what year this movie was made, of course now, being older you can see some blue screen around the characters and you can tell when a model is being used instead of the actors. That being said the storyline was original at the time it was made, some may see a very close resemblence to Disney's Aladdin, and was carried out beautifully by both the acting and the amazing sets they put together to make it appear as if you were actually seeing the far East.
Overall this movie is fanstatic and I would recommend this anyone who is a fantasy fan. If you like the old school type movies such as Sinbad or Clash of the Titans, and can look past the old style special effects, I'm sure you'll love this movie as much as I do.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Honestly, most people who starred in this movie are probably deceased since it was out in 1940 and I've not seen any other movies by them since this one so you can google it to read the information online.
Rating:
PG
Movie description:
Follow the captivating journey of banished Prince Ahman and Abu, the thief, as they go from rags, to riches, face evil enemies and rescue a Princess. Along the way they meet interesting characters and creatures such as a Sultan who has a love of a toys, a monstrous genie, a flying mechanical horse and a gaint spider.
Review:
Honestly I don't remember the first time I ever watched this movie but I do recall it being magical. To me this movie has everything, magic, danger, action, suspense and romance. Being a child the special effects were amazing, and still are considering what year this movie was made, of course now, being older you can see some blue screen around the characters and you can tell when a model is being used instead of the actors. That being said the storyline was original at the time it was made, some may see a very close resemblence to Disney's Aladdin, and was carried out beautifully by both the acting and the amazing sets they put together to make it appear as if you were actually seeing the far East.
Overall this movie is fanstatic and I would recommend this anyone who is a fantasy fan. If you like the old school type movies such as Sinbad or Clash of the Titans, and can look past the old style special effects, I'm sure you'll love this movie as much as I do.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Monday, March 1, 2010
Whip It - 2009
Starring:
Drew Barrymore (who also directed), Ellen Page (Juno), Daniel Stern (Home Alone Robber) and a bunch of other people I don't know.
Rating:
PG-13 for sexual content including crude dialouge, language and drug material.
Movie description:
In Bodeen, Texas a pageant contender Bliss, Ellen Page, finds she is bored with life. Her father's secret obsession to football, her mother's constant pressure and her dead end witress job. By a twist of fate she finds a flyer for a Roller Derby event and attends instantly falling in love with it. Can Bliss balance her new family, her old family and be her own hero or will everything fall apart?
Review:
This movie was intriguing to me, not only was it Drew Barrymore's first attempt at directing but you don't usually get to watch movies about Roller Derby's. Honestly, I kind of knew what it was but had completely no idea about points or how many people played so this movie opened my eyes to something I didn't know was very entertaining. As far as the movie Drew did herself proud. It was very emotional, funny and down right a pleasure to watch. Though Drew was not seen as much since she was directing, she still appeared enough for me to get my fix of her while still maintaining a great storyline and a fast enough pace that I did not zone out.
Overall the storyline was great and moved at a decent pace, the action was amazing and shot beautifully while the acting brought all of it together in a nice little bundle. Even guys who like action movies may like this as the woman are not the damsel in distress types and the Roller Derby scenes can be brutal at times. There are some lovie dovie type moments, but if you can handle the mush the action is worth it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Drew Barrymore (who also directed), Ellen Page (Juno), Daniel Stern (Home Alone Robber) and a bunch of other people I don't know.
Rating:
PG-13 for sexual content including crude dialouge, language and drug material.
Movie description:
In Bodeen, Texas a pageant contender Bliss, Ellen Page, finds she is bored with life. Her father's secret obsession to football, her mother's constant pressure and her dead end witress job. By a twist of fate she finds a flyer for a Roller Derby event and attends instantly falling in love with it. Can Bliss balance her new family, her old family and be her own hero or will everything fall apart?
Review:
This movie was intriguing to me, not only was it Drew Barrymore's first attempt at directing but you don't usually get to watch movies about Roller Derby's. Honestly, I kind of knew what it was but had completely no idea about points or how many people played so this movie opened my eyes to something I didn't know was very entertaining. As far as the movie Drew did herself proud. It was very emotional, funny and down right a pleasure to watch. Though Drew was not seen as much since she was directing, she still appeared enough for me to get my fix of her while still maintaining a great storyline and a fast enough pace that I did not zone out.
Overall the storyline was great and moved at a decent pace, the action was amazing and shot beautifully while the acting brought all of it together in a nice little bundle. Even guys who like action movies may like this as the woman are not the damsel in distress types and the Roller Derby scenes can be brutal at times. There are some lovie dovie type moments, but if you can handle the mush the action is worth it.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Valentine's Day - 2010
Starring:
Julia Roberts, Jennifer Garner, Taylor Lautner, Taylor Swift, Jessica Alba etc, etc...tons of famous people.
Rating:
PG - 13 some sexual material and brief partial nudity
Movie description:
Intertwining couples and singles in LA break up and make up based on the pressures and expectations of Valentine's Day.
Review:
Honestly, when I first heard about this movie it wasn't good. Critics hated it. I will never listen to them ever again. This movie was very good. The only downside was there are so many characters that the storyline is a little hard to follow if you don't keep up, however everything comes together in the end. The individual stories are both exciting, saddening and very well thought through. This movie was highly anticipated as it stars the newest leading man, Taylor Lautner, his character was not a huge role however he played what he was given extremely well. More seasoned actors/actresses such as Ashton Kutcher and Julia Roberts, delivered the exact type of performaces we are used to seeing from them...nothing but the best.
Definately a romantic movie, sorry lads nothing on fire here, would make a great date night movie if you're looking to snuggle up with that special someone.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Purchase movie at the below link:
Valentine's Day
Julia Roberts, Jennifer Garner, Taylor Lautner, Taylor Swift, Jessica Alba etc, etc...tons of famous people.
Rating:
PG - 13 some sexual material and brief partial nudity
Movie description:
Intertwining couples and singles in LA break up and make up based on the pressures and expectations of Valentine's Day.
Review:
Honestly, when I first heard about this movie it wasn't good. Critics hated it. I will never listen to them ever again. This movie was very good. The only downside was there are so many characters that the storyline is a little hard to follow if you don't keep up, however everything comes together in the end. The individual stories are both exciting, saddening and very well thought through. This movie was highly anticipated as it stars the newest leading man, Taylor Lautner, his character was not a huge role however he played what he was given extremely well. More seasoned actors/actresses such as Ashton Kutcher and Julia Roberts, delivered the exact type of performaces we are used to seeing from them...nothing but the best.
Definately a romantic movie, sorry lads nothing on fire here, would make a great date night movie if you're looking to snuggle up with that special someone.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Purchase movie at the below link:
Valentine's Day
Krull - 1983
Starring:
Liam Nesson, Robbie Coltrane (aka Hagrid)
Rating:
PG - keep in mind this was in 1983 so the content may be too intense for small children.
Movie description:
A princess is kidnapped by an alien force on her wedding day and her new prince sets out with a band of ex-prisoners to rescue her. Along the way the meet both enemies and allies.
Review:
As I was only 2 when this movie came out I can't tell you anything about how it did at the movie theatres, however I do know that it was very popular. I can't remember the first time I watch it only that it was amazing....remember the year it was made, 1983, so don't expect any Matrix style effects. Aside from the effects, which are good considering the year, the storyline is original and the acting excellent. There are some unknown actors in the movie, including the leading man and woman for me, however there are some faces I do know now, Liam Nesson and Robbie Coltrane. Though in this movie neither of them have a huge role they still portray their characters well. Without knowing much about the main actors I can't say how good this movie is compared to others they have starred in, however this movie was truly well done.
This movie is good for a night when you want something sci-fi with a dash of magic, sword fighting and romance. This could be considered a romantic movie as it centers around the prince trying to rescue his bride, but with the sci-fi type fight scenes does not disappoint those looking for the added action. A must see for all sci-fi fans.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Liam Nesson, Robbie Coltrane (aka Hagrid)
Rating:
PG - keep in mind this was in 1983 so the content may be too intense for small children.
Movie description:
A princess is kidnapped by an alien force on her wedding day and her new prince sets out with a band of ex-prisoners to rescue her. Along the way the meet both enemies and allies.
Review:
As I was only 2 when this movie came out I can't tell you anything about how it did at the movie theatres, however I do know that it was very popular. I can't remember the first time I watch it only that it was amazing....remember the year it was made, 1983, so don't expect any Matrix style effects. Aside from the effects, which are good considering the year, the storyline is original and the acting excellent. There are some unknown actors in the movie, including the leading man and woman for me, however there are some faces I do know now, Liam Nesson and Robbie Coltrane. Though in this movie neither of them have a huge role they still portray their characters well. Without knowing much about the main actors I can't say how good this movie is compared to others they have starred in, however this movie was truly well done.
This movie is good for a night when you want something sci-fi with a dash of magic, sword fighting and romance. This could be considered a romantic movie as it centers around the prince trying to rescue his bride, but with the sci-fi type fight scenes does not disappoint those looking for the added action. A must see for all sci-fi fans.
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Demonlition Man - 1993
Starring:
Sylvester Stallone, Wesley Snipes, Sandra Bullock, Denis Leary.
Rating:
R - none stop action violence and strong language
Movie description:
A cop wrongly accused of murder is frozen and reanimated 40 years later to recapture an old nemisis who is terroizing the new none-physical contact, none violent world people live in.
Review:
Aside from the language this movie is one of the best for that blow-them-up type action movie we all on occasion love to watch. The R rating is not just for language and the kick butt action sequences within the first 5 mintues of the film tell you why. The storyline is basic, yet holds your interest as it contains the element of a future society that doesn't believe in any physical contact, which proves useful to the bad guy since no one gets close enough to catch him. Snipes plays one of the best villans, Phoenix, and has no trouble creating the explosive tension between his character and that of Stallone's, Spartan. The onscreen relationship between the two is incredible and the choregraphed fight scences leaving you breathless and begging for more. Bullock's character, Huxley, is the missing link between Spartan's old world and the new none violent world he wakes up in. She explains everything to both Spartan and the audience flawlessly and even adds a comedy element that is surprising and entertaining.
Great movie, but not for people who are either offended by bad language or can not handle brute violence. I hate to play the sexist card but most women may not like this movie. (Yes, I am a woman and yes I love this movie but not everyone agrees with my taste)
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Sylvester Stallone, Wesley Snipes, Sandra Bullock, Denis Leary.
Rating:
R - none stop action violence and strong language
Movie description:
A cop wrongly accused of murder is frozen and reanimated 40 years later to recapture an old nemisis who is terroizing the new none-physical contact, none violent world people live in.
Review:
Aside from the language this movie is one of the best for that blow-them-up type action movie we all on occasion love to watch. The R rating is not just for language and the kick butt action sequences within the first 5 mintues of the film tell you why. The storyline is basic, yet holds your interest as it contains the element of a future society that doesn't believe in any physical contact, which proves useful to the bad guy since no one gets close enough to catch him. Snipes plays one of the best villans, Phoenix, and has no trouble creating the explosive tension between his character and that of Stallone's, Spartan. The onscreen relationship between the two is incredible and the choregraphed fight scences leaving you breathless and begging for more. Bullock's character, Huxley, is the missing link between Spartan's old world and the new none violent world he wakes up in. She explains everything to both Spartan and the audience flawlessly and even adds a comedy element that is surprising and entertaining.
Great movie, but not for people who are either offended by bad language or can not handle brute violence. I hate to play the sexist card but most women may not like this movie. (Yes, I am a woman and yes I love this movie but not everyone agrees with my taste)
Thank you for reading,
Alison
Movie Buff
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Welcome to my blog!!
My love for books, TV shows and movies has inspired this blog. I know alot of people read books or watch TV shows and may pass on a comment or two, but I think movies are watched more often than anything but not everyone reviews them or passes on their thoughts for others. Opinions about movies can be both negative and positive, and heaven knows with free speech in the USA everyone seems to have some kind of input on everything. But I believe these things are about stepping away from reality, watching life through someone else's experiences or just have a good time. So it is with this mind set that I start this blog specifically dedicated to all the books, TV shows and movies I read/watch and my thoughts on them.
Through this blog I will guarantee a few things:
1) You will never read bad language....I would appreciate the comments being the same thank you. However you may see some symbols showing any strong emotions but I don't believe it counts as language.
2) Movie reviews on any R rated movies will be for ones released in the years previous to 2010 as I no longer watch them.
3) I will review both old and new movies, as well as take recommendations from followers who think a movies is so great they want to tell me about it.
4) I will try to remain as open minded and unbais as possible, espeicially when viewing movies I either can't stand or loath entirely.
These things I promise to uphold both to myself and my followers. To see previous movie reviews check out my former blog of:
twilightfanwriters.blogspot.com
Thank you for reading and joining me on this new chapter in my life,
Alison
Movie Buff
Through this blog I will guarantee a few things:
1) You will never read bad language....I would appreciate the comments being the same thank you. However you may see some symbols showing any strong emotions but I don't believe it counts as language.
2) Movie reviews on any R rated movies will be for ones released in the years previous to 2010 as I no longer watch them.
3) I will review both old and new movies, as well as take recommendations from followers who think a movies is so great they want to tell me about it.
4) I will try to remain as open minded and unbais as possible, espeicially when viewing movies I either can't stand or loath entirely.
These things I promise to uphold both to myself and my followers. To see previous movie reviews check out my former blog of:
twilightfanwriters.blogspot.com
Thank you for reading and joining me on this new chapter in my life,
Alison
Movie Buff
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