Reed's Movie Blog

Morning Glory (2010)

2011-05-06T15:11:00.000-07:00

Dramedy - Extremely ambitious hard-working intelligent young woman takes on the task of reviving a struggling morning TV show. Fun script, fine acting make this a great little movie to watch. Rachel Adams stars and Harrison Ford plays the burnt-out and famous news anchor. 107 min.

Machete (2010)

2011-03-03T20:12:00.000-08:00

Action - Former Mexican Policeman is betrayed by his own boss. Our hero (Mexican version of Sylvester Stallone) kicks some serious ass for his ultimate revenge. Entertaining and but almost comic book outrageous. There is not a dull moment, and Danny Trejo's face is a piece of work ! Robert Deniro plays a cracker politician delightfully. 105 min.

Iron Man (2008)

2010-12-26T07:56:00.000-08:00

Action Drama - what a fun movie this was ! Weapons manafacturer/inventor/genius (Robert Downey) undergoes a major change of heart when he is kidnapped in the middle East by buyers of his company's weapons. Excellent acting and rapidly moving story make this a great little movie to watch. Fascinating special effects as well. Jeff Bridges plays an awesome villain ! 125 min.

Crazy Heart (2009)

2010-10-09T22:42:00.000-07:00

Drama/Music - Bad Blake is an aging country star and alcoholic. Tough on the road alone but he struggles on weakly until he meets the "right" girl. Things start to change. Will he kick alcohol ? Will he get to keep the girl ? Gritty real acting by Jeff Bridges makes this a pleasure to watch. The music is not bad either. 111 min.

Julie & Julia (2009)

2010-10-01T23:05:00.000-07:00

Dramedy based on a true story of slightly impoverished New Yorker Julie Powell aspiring to master French cooking following Julia Child's masterpiece cookbook. Julie is enamored with Julia's reputation and career, and vows to complete all 524 recipes in 365 days while blogging her trials. Movie shines as it time flashes back and forth contrasting modern day Queens, New York (Julie's apartment) and 1950's Paris, France (Julia's home). Awesomely acted by Meryl Streep (Julia) and Amy Adams (Julie). About 2 hours.

It's Complicated (2009)

2010-09-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

Rom/Com - Man and Wife divorce and then get together for an affair years later. Lots of funny scenes and warmheartedness. A bit Hollywoody in its flair and overacting, but I enjoyed it immensely. Starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, Steve Martin. 114 min.

What's Love Got to Do with It (1993)

2010-08-28T15:51:00.000-07:00

Drama/Documentary/Music - Inspiring tale of how Tina Turner rose to fame fighting off her abusive husband and jealous co-stars, belting out song after song with brilliance and magic. Acting is fabulous and so is the music. Angela Basset plays Tina Turner and Laurence Fishburne plays Ike Turner. Must see. 118 min.

Crossing Over (2009)

2010-08-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

Drama - Los Angeles Immigration Officials and FBI fight to hold down the numbers of illegal immigrants. This film is a multi-story scenario involving Mexicans, Iranians, and Koreans. Romance, violence, morals, and plenty of action make this a powerful film to watch. Harrison Ford plays the immigration official, Ray Liotta plays a desk worker with power to approve green cards, and Ashley Judd is an attorney for the illegals. 113 min.

Nomad: The Warrior (2006)

2010-08-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

Action Drama - Kazak warriors are seriously threatened by Genghis Khan. One boy is destined to become a great leader to unite the 3 Kazak tribes in the fight against oppression. GREAT actors, action, photography and story. This movie has it all. 112 min.

The Mistress of Spices (2005)

2010-08-21T17:29:00.000-07:00

Drama/Romance- Tilo becomes a master of the science of spices, and she moves from India to San Francisco to run a spice shop. Ancient traditions bind her to her craft yet she falls in love with a Western man who tempts her devotions. Awesome actress, so lovely, and/but the story is simple. 96 min.

Avatar (2009)

2010-08-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

Sci Fi/Animation - awesome tale of Jake, a paraplegic war veteran sent to a foreign planet, Pandora to make friends with indigenous aliens and evacuating them so that US military can mine their rich resources. Jake falls in love with these people and his loyalties are tested. Romance, Action, and Morals. Winning makeup and computer graphics! Great movie. 160 min.

Date Night (2010)

2010-08-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

Action Comedy - New York - married couple seek diversion from their children by a night out in the city. Major dramas begin when they are mistaken by mafia thugs for somebodies else! Steve Carell and Tina Fey are extremely funny and entertaining, I loved this film! 88 min.

Livin' for Love: The Natalie Cole Story (2000)

2010-08-12T19:24:00.000-07:00

Biographical Drama - Natalie Cole (daughter of Nat King Cole) struggles for success in the music scene despite her mom's heated resistance and major episodes with drugs and self-doubt. Natalie plays herself and I found this movie entertaining and educational (I didn't even know of Natalie before watching this film). 120 min.

The Ghost Writer (2010)

2010-08-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

Suspense Drama - A ghostwriter hired to complete the memoirs of a former British prime minister uncovers secrets that put his own life in jeopardy. Well written and well acted. Ewan McGregor as writer and Pierce Brosnan as politician. 128 min.

Planet 51 (2009)

2010-08-06T15:10:00.000-07:00

Action/Adventure/Animation - USA astronaut lands on an alien planet. Amazing thing is the aliens speak English ! And they seem to be living a 1950's lifestyle ! Unfortunately the leaders want to capture and destroy our astronaut hero. Fun watching but not my favorite animated film. 91 min.

Circle of Friends (1995)

2010-06-27T15:05:00.000-07:00

Irish Drama - based on the novel written by Maeve Binchy - Ireland in the 1950's, three girls grow up together and attend the same university in Dublin. Drama begins here as two of them fall for the same guy. Interesting characters, each from different family backgrounds and all struggling to find their individual ways. Benny is strong and warm-hearted, Nan is beautiful to look at but a bit twisted morally, and Eve is the well balanced personality that seems to hold the trio friendship together. Well acted and beautifully photographed. Slow moving but it grabs you in the final chapters. Enjoyable movie. 112 min.

Find Me Guilty (2006)

2010-06-20T21:09:00.000-07:00

Courtroom Drama - based on the 1980's trial of Mobster Jackie DiNorscio who refuses to testify against his friends despite offers to reduce his jail sentence. Jackie also refuses a lawyer and insists on representing himself in court despite his limited education. Interesting wiseguy dialogs, and some fine acting, especially by Vin Diesel who plays Jackie DiNorscio. 125 min.

El Secreto de Sus Ojos (2009)

2010-06-19T17:30:00.000-07:00

Drama (Spanish with English titles) - The Secret in Their Eyes - a murder mystery set in Buenos Aires. Former court employee is writing a novel, and this digs up a world of memories of events, corruption, love, and denial. Benjamin, the author, is obsessed with the truth of who raped and killed a young and intelligent Argentine woman. He has a drunken co-worker and a woman judge (who he is secretly in love with) as his partners in solving the case. Solid entertainment this is and with some subtle humor. One of the better movies I have seen. 127 min.

Forrest Gump (1994)

2010-06-19T17:14:00.000-07:00

Dramedy - Unusually entertaining film about a slightly mentally challenged man with a lot of heart and a lot of luck. Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks), our hero, grows up in Alabama and witnesses desegregation, the Vietnam war, and Watergate. Forrest is slow of thought but charismatic and outright honest. His love for his childhood sweatheart (Jenny) inspires him to push for excellence in everything he attempts. Well done movie with fine performances, especially Tom Hanks. 157 min.

The Object of My Affection (1998)

2010-06-12T23:10:00.000-07:00

Rom/Com - Young woman falls in love with her gay male roommate. When she becomes pregnant by her arrogant fiance, she asks her roommate to help her raise the child. Interesting story line, and Jennifer Aniston's charm pulls this movie along. 112 min

Wimbledon (2004)

2010-06-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

Rom/Com Sports Drama - Tennis love story... British tennis player approaching retirement has a last chance to make a showing at Wimbledon. Struggling with his lack of confidence, he finds belief and inspiration while falling in love with the rising star of women's tennis. Fun performances and nice tennis action, but the story is quite predictable. 100 min.

The Tao of Steve (2000)

2010-06-05T23:31:00.001-07:00

Dramedy - Intelligent and philosophical underachiever excels at seducing girls and entertaining his buddies. Interesting things happen when he meets a woman who is not so easily seduced. Fine performances and a fun script. Filmed in beautiful New Mexico. 87 min.

About Schmidt (2002)

2010-06-04T23:32:00.001-07:00

Drama - Retired Insurance Salesman (Jack Nicholson) comes to grips with his life, realizing he may have wasted most of it. A most unusual and introverted character, Schmidt is fascinating to watch. And a bit sad. Fine cast includes Kathy Bates. 125 min.

2 Days In The Valley (1996)

2010-06-01T00:20:00.000-07:00

Crime Drama with comedy - Olympic skier hires professionals to kill her boyfriend so she can collect life insurance money. As expected, some things go wrong. Lovely views of the San Fernando Valley and a plot that clicks. Fun movie and fun characters. Danny Aiello, Jeff Daniels, James Spayder, Keith Carradine, many more. 105 min.

The Last Mimzy (2007)

2010-05-30T23:00:00.001-07:00

Children's Sci-Fi - Two children find unusual items on a secluded beach in Washington and are led to the metaphysical. The artifacts contain highly advanced intelligence from a future generation of alien-like humans. Sent to earth to find a missing link to solve their problems. Fun acting and fine photography, the story moves quickly though it is not always clear what is happening. 90 min.

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee (2007)

2010-05-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

Drama - based on the novel of the same name - tells the story of a Sioux tribe led by Sitting Bull and their resistance to being put on reservations. The hero of the story is a young Sioux warrior who is persuaded to adopt white ways thereby eventually achieving a medical education and marrying a white woman. Fine performances all around and a vivid historical look at governmental mistreatment of the red man. 132 min.

A Scanner Darkly (2006)

2010-05-23T22:21:00.000-07:00

Animation - based on psychological novel by Phillip K. Dick. Undercover drug agent (Keanu Reeves) accidentally becomes addicted to "Substance D" while spying on his own drug infested household and friends. Many complications arise as he falls in love with female drug dealer (Winona Ryder) and wrestles with himself when collecting evidence to convict his buddies. Unusual film with very in depth dialog (drug paranoia) and convincingly drawn cartoon characters. Also starring Robert Downey and Woody Harrelson. 100 min.

Punch-Drunk Love (2002)

2010-05-23T16:28:00.001-07:00

Rom-Com, Awkwardly shy and somewhat neurotic small business owner (Adam Sandler) struggles to create a romance with a delightful girl (Emily Watson). Unusual story has some really fun moments. 95 min.

Wonder Boys (2000)

2010-05-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

Dark Comedy - University professor goes through a cloudy and unsuccessful period in wake of his first novel. Bizarre circumstances include his falling deeply in love with the head of the English Department's wife (Frances McDormand), and dangerous intimacies with two of his students. Michael Douglas is perfect as the aging professor. Cast also includes Tobey Maguire and Robert Downey. Clever clever tale. 112 min.

Tropic Thunder (2008)

2010-05-07T23:54:00.000-07:00

War comedy (funny!!) with over the top performances by Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black, Nick Nolte, and others. Wonderful satire on all great war films (Bridge Over River Kwai, Rambo, Apocalypse Now). Photography and special effects truly impressive. 107 min.

The Truth About Cats and Dogs (1996)

2010-05-05T23:22:00.000-07:00

Rom/Com - Female veterinarian with a radio show falls for a guy caller but is not confident to form a relationship. A girl friend offers to help but it mistakenly turns into an awkward love triangle. Fun with a message. And some nice performances. 97 min.

A Fish Called Wanda (1988)

2010-05-01T14:02:00.000-07:00

Comedy - entertaining mix of British and American humor. Four thieves plan a bank robbery in London and succeed (almost). One of the four is captured. The remaining three struggle to find out where the captive one hid the loot. Plenty of double crossing and malintent as greed takes over. Jamie Lee Curtis plays a charming seductress and Kevin Kline is a violent-loving fool. Many many fun moments. 112 min.

Persepolis (2007)

2010-05-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

Animation (French) by Iranian author Marjane Satrapi - serious cartoon version of life in Iran under Khomeni. Follows a young girl's escape from the Iranian revolution and her adjustments to school life in Europe, and finally her return to her home country. Sometimes comical but often dark, packed with messages. Nearly 2 hours.

Ladder 49 (2004)

2010-04-16T23:32:00.001-07:00

Action/Drama - Baltimore Fire Department - friendship, courage, and romance. Great photography with some excellent performances by John Travolta and Joaquin Phoenix. New firefighter Jack Morrison must chose between glory and family, job and friends. Fast pace story, impressive stunt work, and a fine music soundtrack. 115 min.

Flushed Away (2006)

2010-04-11T22:08:00.001-07:00

Animation/Adventure/Comedy - domestic rat meets a sewer rat and their worlds collide. Lots of chase and near-death cartoon stuff. Fun music. Cute characters with voices by Hugh Jackman, Kate Winslet, and Ian McKellen. 85 min.

The Year of Living Dangerously (1983)

2010-04-08T23:11:00.001-07:00

Political Drama - Australian reporter (Mel Gibson) in Jakarta falls in love with a British spy (Sigourney Weaver). Some fine acting all around and a unique philosophical monolog by Billy Kwan (Linda Hunt). Plenty of action too. 115min.

Mother (1996)

2010-04-05T21:04:00.000-07:00

Dramedy - recently divorced writer seeks the source of his women problems and his writer's block by moving in with his mother. Not a comedy as much as a psychological study, it is well-acted and does have a message. Albert Brooks and Debbie Reynolds. 104 min.

The Scent of Green Papaya (1993)

2010-04-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

French/Vietnamese Drama - lovely film of a Vietnamese servant girl growing up in Saigon. Scarce on dialog but very rich on photography. A zen-like slow-moving and/but powerful film if you make the time and mood to focus in on it. 104 min.

Beauty Shop (2005)

2010-04-01T22:55:00.000-07:00

Comedy - Queen Latifah owns a beauty shop and it is not easy ! Lots of character interaction here and clever black dialog between ladies especially. An entertaining educational film with upbeat message. Fine performances. No major masterpiece but a fun piece of work 105 min.

Appaloosa (2008)

2010-03-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

Western - New Mexican town hires a pair of professional gunmen to protect them from outlaws. Intrigue begins when one of them falls in love with a high maintenance maiden. And the law is so easily circumvented in the wild West. Fine performances by Ed Harris, Viggo Mortensen, Renée Zellweger, and Jeremy Irons. A most unique story too. 1 hr. 56 min.

Evan Almighty (2007)

2010-03-26T22:37:00.000-07:00

Comedy- a sequel to Bruce Almighty, God comes to an idealistic congressman (Steve Carell) to build him an ark. And working in very mysterious (and funny) ways, God succeeds in changing the world. Lots of fun moments with Steve Carell's genius. Goofy but entertaining. Morgan Freeman plays God. 96 min.

The Witches of Eastwick (1987)

2010-03-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

Comedy - The devil as a man (Jack Nicholson) terrorizes a tranquil New England town with the help of 3 female alliances (Cher, Susan Sarandon, Michelle Pfeiffer). Some really fine performances (Veronica Cartwright) and lovely photography propel this story along. Fun. 2 hours.

Absence of Malice (1982)

2010-03-06T22:47:00.000-08:00

Newspaper Drama - eager young reporter (Sally Field) investigates an alleged gangster (Paul Newman) suspected of foul play in the death of a union leader. Plenty of twists and turns as the media, the law, and the underworld all do their dance. Entertaining. 117 min.

The Hoax (2007)

2010-03-05T23:22:00.000-08:00

Drama - loosely based on a true story.. 1971, desperate writer claims he has Howard Hughes's cooperation to write Hughes's autobiography. Backed with boldness, wit, and intensive research via associations with Hughes's former staff, writer Clifford Irving bluffs his way into a million dollar contract with a major publisher. Eventually the shit hits the fan. Finely paced movie with excellent performances. Richard Gere plays Irving movingly. 1 hr. 55 min.

Tully (2002)

2010-02-24T23:24:00.000-08:00

Human Drama - Father and two boys work a small town farm in rural Nebraska. Summer comes and a neighbor girl returns from college to liven things up. Just fine acting, and nice scenes of the Mid-Western countryside. The story meanders like a stream at first and but with some rapids too. Pleasant film to watch ! 104 min.

Ghost Town (2008)

2010-02-23T22:47:00.000-08:00

Rom/Com: Anti-social dentist has a near death experience which triggers a major personality change and results in his being able to communicate with ghosts. Unusual story and/but well acted. Ricky Gervais and Greg Kinnear. 102 min.

Laurel Canyon (2003)

2010-02-19T23:26:00.000-08:00

Human Drama - Record producer woman lives in Laurel Canyon, a hip suburb of Los Angeles and makes records in her own studio. She is a bit wild, smokes pot, drinks, and has lovers. Meanwhile, her son is struggling to become a psychiatrist and doing his residency at a nearby hospital. Dramas begin when the son moves into mom's house with his MD fiance who is working on writing her PhD thesis. Separate worlds meet, collide, mix, and learn. I liked this movie and especially the lead actress Frances McDormand (the mom). 101 min.

Valentine's Day (2010)

2010-02-19T23:12:00.000-08:00

Rom/Com at the box office - star-studded cast, and lots of fun moments. I laughed. Story revolves around a guy running a flower shop in down-town Los Angeles. Many parallel stories of love/romance, and they come to him for Valentines Day flowers. Lovely actors such as Julia Roberts, Kathy Bates, Hector Elizondo, Queen Latifah (to name a few). Light and fluffy and fun. 125 min.

Sundown (1941)

2010-02-07T00:19:00.001-08:00

World War II Drama about British forces in Africa. Gun sales and native uprisings. Acting is pretty good, story is so-so, and the photography terrible. Gene Tierney provides some eye candy. 91 min.

The China Syndrome (1979)

2010-02-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

Intense drama focusing on fear of what might happen if a nuclear power plant had a "melt down" and released radioactive substance to the environment. Jane Fonda plays a star news reporter interviewing a nuclear plant information officer when a major "accident" appears to occur in the control room. Michael Douglas is the photographer who secretly films the chaos that ensues. Things get interesting when they bring the film to the TV station and the owner refuses to cover the story. Excellent pacing, I really enjoyed this movie (except the ending). 2 hours.

Kitty (1945)

2010-02-04T21:06:00.000-08:00

Drama - England - Late 1700's. Paulette Goddard plays a guttersnipe (thieving and uncouth) who is taken in by an aristocrat (Ray Milland) who wishes to market her outstanding outward beauty. He plans to marry her off to a duke, and cash in on her wealth. So he trains her intensely in the social arts of conversation, dance, how to dine, etc. She falls in love with him and him her (but he doesn't know it). Lots of twists and turns, the story keeps us guessing. Fine performances and script. 103 min.

Cinderella Liberty (1973)

2010-01-29T20:46:00.000-08:00

Human Drama - James Caan plays a sailor who falls in love with a prostitute. With almost unconditional love, he supports her and her son through some very hard times. A roller coaster of joy and anguish, strong performances make this movie "realer" than life. Nearly 2 hours.

Forty Shades of Blue (2005)

2010-01-26T20:38:00.000-08:00

Drama - Russian girl living with a former Rock & Roll legend who has grown rich and famous. She is coping well enough, not in love but loved. But then the old man's son arrives at the house. Serious love triangles begin. Inspiring performances and long silent takes set this film apart. Filmed in Memphis, Tennessee. Starring Rip Torn, Dina Korzun, Darren E. Burrows. 108 min.

Dan in Real Life (2007)

2010-01-25T23:19:00.000-08:00

Romantic Comedy - Advice columnist falls in love with his brother's girlfriend. Really funny family reunion features him dying to be with the girl but fighting with himself furiously. Meanwhile, he is single parenting his 3 daughters who are coming of age. Steve Carell stars and proves he can do drama as well as comedy. Fun movie. Juliette Binoche plays the hot young woman of his heart. 99 min.

Letters From Iwo Jima (2006)

2010-01-19T22:53:00.001-08:00

World War II Drama -humanistic- The Battle of Iwo Jima (seen from a Japanese point of view). Awesomely realistic depiction of the horrific 5 week battle ending in 27,000 deaths. Unlike many Island battles, here the commanding Japanese General had the troops surrender the immediate beaches while digging trenches and tunnels deep into the mountainous hills allowing them to fight until the bitter end. Many (most) of the Japanese died in defence of the Island, or committed suicide. Though the U.S. declared it "secured" some sources say several thousand Japanese troops remained on the Island refusing to surrender. Excellent performances (Ken Watanabe as the General), superb direction by Clint Eastwood. 2 hrs.21 min.

From Here to Eternity (1953)

2010-01-18T15:21:00.000-08:00

WW II - Drama/Romance - Hawaii - army barracks prior to Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Politics and daily life obscure the tropical paradise. Sergeant falls in love with the General's wife, a retired boxer is severely pressured to return to the ring, a happy-go-lucky Italian soldier does jail time, and an over-zealous General is forced to resign. All brilliantly portrayed by fine actors (Burt Lancaster, Deborah Kerr, Montgomery Clift, Frank Sinatra, Ernest Borgnine, Philip Ober, Donna Reed) 2 hrs.

The Book of Eli (2010)

2010-01-14T22:43:00.000-08:00

Denzel Washington stars as Eli, a lone survivor of total devastation. Remaining is chaos, evil, and greed. Eli holds the last remaining King James Bible, with which he hopes to redeem society. Plenty of violence and special effects. Gary Oldman plays the villain who would slay Eli if he could. Entertaining with good performances. The story is a bit formulatic. About 2 hrs.

Friendly Persuasion (1956)

2010-01-13T22:42:00.000-08:00

Oldie but Goodie ! Indiana during the civil war. Will the Quakers fight or just stand by as their homes are ransacked by rebel troops? Awesome performances and Gary Cooper is perfect as the man who DOES NOT want to fight but WILL if absolutely necessary. Starts slow but builds nicely. Comedic elements spark this classic. Anthony Perkins (Psycho) plays Gary Cooper's son! Dorothy McGuire as the mother. Most entertaining. 2 hrs. 29 min.

Bustin' Loose (1981)

2010-01-09T21:01:00.001-08:00

Comedy - Richard Pryor plays an ex-con whose parole officer assigns him the job of transporting delinquent kids across the United States in a school bus. Story starts slow and formulatic but warms up to a joyous climax. Fun performances by all. 104 min.

Sólo con tu Pareja (1991)

2010-01-03T14:40:00.000-08:00

Mexican Comedy - promiscuous bachelor falls in love with his next door neighbor. But he must face the wrath of several former lovers. Fine photography and music. The acting is enjoyable though the story is kind of dumb. Entertaining though. 94 min.

Gone with the Wind (1941)

2010-01-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

Epic Drama of Civil War - based on the novel by Margaret Mitchell. Starring Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O'Hara, daughter of wealthy Irish land owner. And Clark Gable as Rhett Butler, a world-wise and wealthy admirer- he courts Scarlett though she is obsessed with another man. Awesome acting and a fine representation of life in the South as it was before the civil war. A classic worth seeing many times. Nearly 4 hours in length.

Samba (1995)

2009-12-29T17:43:00.000-08:00

Comedy from Hungary - Overly zealous actor/director raises his son to be an actor. Fun glimpses of theatre training and hardships of an actor's life. Some pretty scenes of rural Hungary. Acting is fine despite being a low budget film. 98 mins

Sanjuro (1962)

2009-12-27T19:06:00.000-08:00

Samurai Drama by Akira Kurosawa - black and white - action, wit, and comedy. Staring Toshirô Mifune as a uncouth vagabond with awesome fighting skills. In Clint Eastwood-like fashion he finds himself a hero to the weak as he helps cleanse the village of corrupt and powerful foes. Fine combination of seriousness and humor. A fun look at Japanese life several hundred years ago. 96 min.

Elizabeth I (2005)

2009-12-25T22:55:00.000-08:00

Historical Drama - Awesome depiction of Queen Elizabeth of England and her powerful reign. Skillful acting, witty script, beautiful photography, and costuming make one terribly impressive movie ! Originally for television and later for DVD. Helen Mirren plays the queen. (also starring Hugh Dancy, Jeremy Irons, Toby Jones) 211 minutes.

Antz (1998)

2009-12-15T22:11:00.000-08:00

Comedy/Animation - Awesomely well done look at the life of ants, and in particular, one worker ant with plenty of personality ! "Z" the worker ant (voiced by Woody Allen) falls in love with the Queen Bee to be, Princess Bala (voiced by Sharon Stone). Such adventures they have as they attempt to battle the caste system and the traditional ant "do as your told" mentality. Really really fun movie. (incredible cast of voices include Sylvester Stallone, Anne Bancroft, Danny Glover, Gene Hackman, Christopher Walken, Jennifer Lopez and more) 83 min.

Prelude to a Kiss (1992)

2009-12-14T17:07:00.000-08:00

Comedy/Fantasy - young New York businessman (Alec Baldwin) falls for lovely female bartender (Meg Ryan) and the two decide to marry happily ever after. HOWEVER on their wedding day a most unusual event transpires - something that seriously alters both their destinies. This is not your typical boy meets girl rom/com - this movie explores gender and why people love each other or don't. Mixing comedy with fantasy midway through the movie may cause some viewers discomfort. The performances are real and the performers lovable. 106 min.

The Rainmaker (1956)

2009-12-14T16:53:00.000-08:00

Drama/Western/Play - romantic comedy - poetic idealistic con-man arrives on a cattle ranch plagued with drought. He claims he can bring rain ! A miracle if he can, but his real miracle is the changes he manages to catalyze in his short visit to this dysfunctional ranch family. Acting is fine (Burt Lancaster, Katharine Hepburn, Lloyd Bridges, Wendell Corey) 121 min.

A Face in the Crowd (1957)

2009-12-08T21:16:00.000-08:00

Drama - a nobody and drifter is discovered in a small town jail by a radio programmer looking for talent of any type. Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes possesses a lovely singing voice and an innate talent to tell engaging stories. "Lonesome" soars to fame via radio and later syndicate television. Awesome looks at what vast popularity can do to a weak personality. Brilliantly played by Andy Griffith as "Lonesome" and Patricia Neal as his female radio partner. 126 min.

Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

2009-11-18T23:16:00.000-08:00

Comedy/Drama - based on Truman Capote's novella of a free-spirited witty girl in New York bent on making lots of money charming wealthy men. Plot thickens when a writer moves in upstairs and takes a deep and sincere interest in our flighty hero. Awesome acting by Audrey Hepburn and music by Henry Mancini make this film a smashing success. 1 hr. 54 min.

High Noon (1952)

2009-11-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

Classic Western - showdown gunfight is scheduled at High Noon in a small town. The hero is a law-upholding sheriff (Gary Cooper) and the villain is a recently released convict (with outlaw friends) bent on revenge. Problem is the Marshall has no deputies! Looks like suicide for the Marshall but he is full of guts and grit (and other interesting qualities). The music is a delightful departure from the overuse of symphony and FITS the action. Performances are so REAL-(Grace Kelly and Lloyd Bridges appear in this film). Shot in black and white. A must see for anyone who likes Westerns! 111 min.

Door to Door (2002)

2009-10-18T22:22:00.000-07:00

Human Drama based on the true story of Bill Porter, a very successful door-to-door salesman despite his handicap of cerebral palsy. Though Bill walks with a limp and struggles to talk, he manages to develop close relationships with a lot of people in Portland, Oregon. Exquisitely acted by William H. Macy and featuring lovely Kyra Sedgwick as his caring assistant. Inspiring. 90 min.

Badlands (1973)

2009-10-17T22:43:00.000-07:00

Drama - Somewhat shocking adventure-filled Bonnie and Clyde-like story loosely based on the Charles Starkweather / Caril-Ann Fugate murders of the 1950's. Two seemingly normal people fall in love and when meeting resistance of any kind, resort to severe violence. Martin Sheen plays Kit and Sissy Spacek plays Holly. Awesome photography of the mid-West and fine performances make this an interesting film. 105 min.

Juarez (1939)

2009-10-10T21:38:00.000-07:00

Historical Drama - Mexico - Emperor Maximillian establishes a pseudo government in Mexico with the help of Napoleon of France. And Mexican leader Benito Juarez (a popular champion of the people's rights) is displaced by force. Problems begin as the people rally behind former leader Benito Juarez. Finally, Napoleon (under U.S. pressure) withdraws his army from Mexico leaving Emperor Maximillian behind with virtually no army! Very well acted by Paul Muni as Juarez and Brian Aherne as Maximillian. Bette Davis plays Maximillian's wife who goes insane. Lovely black and white oldie but goodie. 2 hrs. 12 min.

The Parallax View (1974)

2009-10-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

Political Drama - Thrilling story of an incredibly talented and curious newspaper man (Warren Beatty) who discovers a link between assassinations and an obscure organization (Parallax Corporation). Lots of tension and intrigue. Well acted. 102 min.

Cactus Flower (1969)

2009-10-07T23:06:00.000-07:00

Comedy Movie based on Broadway Play. Bachelor dentist (Walter Mathtau) lies to his lover (Goldie Hawn) that he is married so that he can enjoy an affair with a future graceful exit. But he falls in love. In his weak attempts to tell the truth he ends up expanding his lie to include a nasty divorce from a fictitious wife. But the lover demands to meet the wife ! So our hero the dentist hires his secretary (Ingrid Bergman) to pose as his fictitious wife. Such a delightful mess. Clever script and just an awesome cast of talent ! Well worth watching despite going back in time 40 years ! 104 min of fun.

Twilight of Honor (1963)

2009-09-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Courtroom Drama - filmed in black and white. Fearless trial lawyer (Richard Chamberlain) defends an alleged murderer in a small town of New Mexico. Quick-paced with fine performances all around. Nick Adams (pictured) plays the accused. An oldie but goodie ! 104 min.

El Lobo (2004)

2009-09-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

Spanish Film - Spy Thriller - based on the true story of a double agent (El Lobo = The Wolf) hired by the Spanish government to bring down a Basque terrorist organization. Twisty-turny and always on-the-edge action with fine and very REAL performances. Eduardo Noriega is awesome as El Lobo. 125 min.

Incantato (2003)

2009-09-23T22:48:00.000-07:00

Italian Dramedy - 1920's Rome and Bologna. Nello Balocchi is a shy professor who falls in love with a blind girl who turns his world around and around. Awesome unique story unwinds in a leisurely lovely way. Stupendous photography and the actors are SO very likable. 103 min.

Gran Torino (2008)

2009-09-22T22:05:00.001-07:00

Drama - grizzly Korean War Vet "Walt" (Clint Eastwood) finds himself with plenty of Chinese neighbors. Plot thickens when the boy next door tries to steal his prize car, the Gran Torino. Walt falls into an unlikely role as protector when he saves the boy and his sister from a neighborhood gang. Interesting old world / new world contrasts, and some heartfelt acting make this movie a good watch. About 2 hours.

Snow Falling on Cedars (1999)

2009-09-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

Mystery/Drama - in 1954 on a small island in the Pacific Northwest, a Japanese-American fisherman is on trial for murder. Prejudice permeates the town as many were killed by the Japanese in World War II. Interwoven with the intense courtroom scenes is a romance between an American boy and a Japanese girl. The photography is exquisite, the acting fine. The story does take its time to unfold, but it has a lot to say. 128 min.

Entertaining Angels: The Dorothy Day Story (1996)

2009-08-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

Drama / Biography - Early 1900's New York - Dorothy Day is a human rights activist, leftist, and newspaper journalist during the depression. When she meets a dynamic and loving Catholic nun she is inspired to help the poor and homeless, not unlike the later Mother Theresa. Plenty of challenges. Fine acting, and though a little predictable, this story educates and entertains. 111 min.

The Method (2005)

2009-08-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

Drama - Spain - high level corporation in Madrid uses a sophisticated psychological testing method. 7 job applicants spend a full day performing various and unusual group tasks while company psychologists watch via video monitors. Fascinating developments - personalities are unmasked, vulnerabilities revealed, and some emotional breakdowns. A most creative movie ! 115 min.

Lovely & Amazing (2002)

2009-08-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

Drama with some comedy too - a "chick flck" - insightful character studies of a mom and her three daughters. An aspiring actress, a potential artist in a bad marriage, and the youngest desperately seeking attention in any form. Very well acted and fun to watch. 92 min.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

2009-08-20T22:23:00.000-07:00

Epic drama about a baby born old... this kid is born old and grows younger ! Story follows his amazing life and one enduring love. Fine acting and a lot of variety. Stars Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. 2 hrs. 46 min.

Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998)

2009-08-02T22:54:00.000-07:00

Awesome period piece - 16th Century France- Kings and Queens and Castles.. lovely costuming and scenery. The prince is in need of a bride and desires not the one chosen for him by his royal parents. Enter a smart talking and courageous peasant girl. Fine acting all around, and a delightful mix of drama with comedic element. Drew Barrymore is outstanding. 121 min.

Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

2009-07-29T22:45:00.000-07:00

Comedy satire - spoofs local television news anchors. Ron Burgundy is a top-rated anchorman for San Diego in the 1970's. He faces serious competition from Veronica Corningstone, a lovely and intelligent female addition to the news crew. Fabulously funny and sometimes ridiculous, there are many priceless moments. Will Ferrell stars - and wrote much of this film. 103 min.

After Hours (1985)

2009-07-27T23:58:00.000-07:00

Dark comedy - New York - girl meets boy in a coffee shop and invites him to her apartment in Soho. The girl has some serious emotional problems and the guy is put off. One thing after another happens to prevent this guy from returning home. It is a nightmare and at the same time funny. Fantastic story. Directed by Martin Scorsese. 97 min.

El Segundo Aire (2001)

2009-07-23T21:57:00.000-07:00

Mexican Comedy/Drama - Upper middle class family - Husband is an architect and wife is a university professor. Julia (the wife) falls for a young ecology student while husband Moises is too busy with work to even notice (at first, anyway). Lots of very uncomfortable and funny scenes in this film, and the actors are extremely likable. Fun. 98 min.

Priceless (2008)

2009-07-17T23:32:00.001-07:00

French Romantic Comedy - money-chasing beautiful girl starts to fall in love with a moneyless employee at a fine hotel on the French Riviera. Numerous adventures and mishaps - such a cute movie. Lovely cast of Audrey Tatou and Gad Elmaleh. 113 min.

The Hobart Shakespeareans (2004)

2009-07-14T21:54:00.000-07:00

Documentary - Education - follows lower income fifth graders in L.A. as they struggle with their studies and the production of Shakespeare's Hamlet. With gifted teacher Rafe Esquith the students learn discipline, fair play, and to never give up. Inspiring and moving. A must see for educators. 52 min.

Saving Face (2005)

2009-07-12T22:49:00.001-07:00

Chinese Romantic Drama - Charming story of finding true love in New York. A fun look at the intense social structure of 1st and second generation Chinese. So very well done. The actors are genuine, and lovely. 98 min.

Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005)

2009-07-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

Science Fiction Comedy - based on a 5 book series! Arthur Dent (main character) is a regular kind of British fellow living in the country side. One day he realizes the earth is literally being destroyed by alien beings. He escapes demise with his good friend "Ford Prefect" who knows how to hitchhike to outer space. Adventures begin with alien planets and strange beings... Crazy and entertaining - weaving absurdity with profound thoughts on existence. I suspect the novel would allow one to pursue the ideas at a more relaxed pace. 110 min.

Milk (2008)

2009-07-08T22:42:00.000-07:00

Drama - San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk was the first openly gay man voted into public office. While fighting for human rights with intelligence and passion he was assassinated in 1978. This film documents his rise to power. Very well acted by Sean Penn. 129 min.

Somersault (2006)

2009-07-07T21:33:00.001-07:00

Drama - Australia - pubescent teenage girl nearly seduces her mom's boyfriend and has hell to pay. Excellent and very real performance by Abbie Cornish playing Heidi, our naive, lovely, lonely and foolish young girl. I found this movie fascinating and enjoyable. 106 min.

2 Days In Paris (2007)

2009-07-04T22:47:00.001-07:00

Romantic comedy - roller coaster ups and downs for French-born Marion and her boyfriend Jack. Jack and Marion are put through the ringer as they visit Marion's home town in Paris and deal with Marion's parents and several of her ex-boyfriends. A funny, sad, and truthful look at love. Julie Delpy wrote, directed and starred in this thoughtful film. 100 min.

25th Hour (2002)

2009-07-03T22:58:00.000-07:00

Drama - New York drug dealer has 24 hours left before starting a 7-year jail sentence. His lover, closest friends, and dad gather around him showing support - trying to get him to believe that things are going to be OK. Fine acting all around. (especially Edward Norton and Phillip Seymour Hoffman) Directed by Spike Lee. 135 min.

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (2007)

2009-06-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Crime Thriller - Financial executive with a drug problem desperately needs money to pay debts. He and his younger brother decide on a perfect crime - robbing their mom and dad's jewelry store ! But things don't go as well as planned. Fine acting and a well-paced story. Stars Philip Seymour Hoffman and Ethan Hawke. 123 min.

In the Bedroom (2001)

2009-06-25T22:51:00.000-07:00

Drama - New England town couple lose their only son just after his high school graduation. This is a story of how they deal with their grief. Fine photography and very real acting by Sissy Spacek and Tom Wilkonson. 130 min.

Aastha: In the Prison of Spring (1997)

2009-06-20T22:51:00.001-07:00

Bollywood Drama - Bombay Professor with young daughter and a faithful wife.... One day the wife is short of cash when buying shoes for her daughter and a wealthy woman bails her out. Problem is the wealthy woman is extremely clever and has an agenda to recruit nice looking women to her shady business enterprise. Fine acting and fascinating story. 2 hrs. 18 min.

Heart and Souls (1993)

2009-06-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

Comedy / Supernatural - San Francisco lawyer Thomas Reilly (Robert Downey Jr.) has a most unusual fate. At birth he is visited by 4 newly departed souls (kind of like angels but more human) who look after him through childhood. But when he becomes an adult, Thomas must repay them by assisting each of them "complete their karma" - that is assisting them in doing what they most wanted to do but couldn't while they were alive. Fantastic story and fine performances. Very upbeat. 104 min