07/28
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (Frank Capra, 1939) A
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is an American 1939 comedy/drama film starring James Stewart and Jean Arthur, about one man's effect on American politics. It was directed by Frank Capra – his last film for Columbia Pictures, the studio where he made his name – and written by Sidney Buchman, based on Lewis R. Foster's unpublished story. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was controversial when it was released, but also successful at the box office, and made Stewart a major movie star. Aside from Stewart and Arthur, the film features a bevy of well-known supporting actors, among them Claude Rains, Edward Arnold, Guy Kibbee, Thomas Mitchell and Beulah Bondi. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington was nominated for 11 Academy Awards, winning for Best Screenplay.
In 1989, the Library of Congress added Mr. Smith Goes to Washington to the United States National Film Registry, for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Angels & Demons
07/28
Angels & Demons (Ron Howard, 2009) C
Angels & Demons is a 2009 American film adaptation of Dan Brown's novel by the same name. It is the sequel to The Da Vinci Code, even though the novel Angels & Demons was published first and takes place before the novel The Da Vinci Code. Filming took place in Rome, Italy, and the Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California. Tom Hanks reprises the lead role of Robert Langdon, while director Ron Howard, producer Brian Grazer, and screenwriter Akiva Goldsman also return.
Angels & Demons (Ron Howard, 2009) C
Angels & Demons is a 2009 American film adaptation of Dan Brown's novel by the same name. It is the sequel to The Da Vinci Code, even though the novel Angels & Demons was published first and takes place before the novel The Da Vinci Code. Filming took place in Rome, Italy, and the Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California. Tom Hanks reprises the lead role of Robert Langdon, while director Ron Howard, producer Brian Grazer, and screenwriter Akiva Goldsman also return.
Monday, July 27, 2009
New in Town
07/27
New in Town (Jonas Elmer, 2009) B-
New in Town is an American romantic comedy film, directed by Jonas Elmer, starring Renée Zellweger and Harry Connick Jr. It was filmed in Winnipeg and Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada, and in Los Angeles and South Beach, Miami, Florida, US.
New in Town (Jonas Elmer, 2009) B-
New in Town is an American romantic comedy film, directed by Jonas Elmer, starring Renée Zellweger and Harry Connick Jr. It was filmed in Winnipeg and Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada, and in Los Angeles and South Beach, Miami, Florida, US.
Night at the Museum 2
07/25
Night at the Museum 2 (Shawn Levy, 2009) B
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (known outside of North America as Night at the Museum 2), is a 2009 American comedy film and the sequel to the 2006 adventure comedy film Night at the Museum. The film stars Ben Stiller, Amy Adams, Owen Wilson, Hank Azaria, Christopher Guest, Alain Chabat, Steve Coogan, Ricky Gervais, Bill Hader, Jon Bernthal, Patrick Gallagher, Jake Cherry, Rami Malek, Mizuo Peck, and Robin Williams. It was released in theaters on May 22, 2009.
Night at the Museum 2 (Shawn Levy, 2009) B
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (known outside of North America as Night at the Museum 2), is a 2009 American comedy film and the sequel to the 2006 adventure comedy film Night at the Museum. The film stars Ben Stiller, Amy Adams, Owen Wilson, Hank Azaria, Christopher Guest, Alain Chabat, Steve Coogan, Ricky Gervais, Bill Hader, Jon Bernthal, Patrick Gallagher, Jake Cherry, Rami Malek, Mizuo Peck, and Robin Williams. It was released in theaters on May 22, 2009.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
07/24
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Frank Oz, 1988) A-
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a 1988 American comedy film directed by Frank Oz. The screenplay by Dale Launer, Stanley Shapiro, and Paul Henning focuses on two con artists who ply their trade on the French Riviera. Although it is not officially credited as a remake of Bedtime Story, it closely follows the plot of the 1964 film starring David Niven and Marlon Brando.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Frank Oz, 1988) A-
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a 1988 American comedy film directed by Frank Oz. The screenplay by Dale Launer, Stanley Shapiro, and Paul Henning focuses on two con artists who ply their trade on the French Riviera. Although it is not officially credited as a remake of Bedtime Story, it closely follows the plot of the 1964 film starring David Niven and Marlon Brando.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Monkey Business
07/23
Monkey Business (Norman Z. McLeod, 1931) B+
Monkey Business (1931) is the third of the Marx Brothers' movies and the first not to be an adaptation of one of their Broadway shows. The film stars the four brothers: Groucho Marx, Chico Marx, Harpo Marx, and Zeppo Marx, and screen comedienne Thelma Todd. It is directed by Norman Z. McLeod with screenplay by S. J. Perelman and Will B. Johnstone. The story takes place in large part on an ocean liner crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
Monkey Business (Norman Z. McLeod, 1931) B+
Monkey Business (1931) is the third of the Marx Brothers' movies and the first not to be an adaptation of one of their Broadway shows. The film stars the four brothers: Groucho Marx, Chico Marx, Harpo Marx, and Zeppo Marx, and screen comedienne Thelma Todd. It is directed by Norman Z. McLeod with screenplay by S. J. Perelman and Will B. Johnstone. The story takes place in large part on an ocean liner crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
The Italian Job
07/21
The Italian Job (Peter Collinson, 1969) A-
The Italian Job is a British caper film, written by Troy Kennedy Martin, produced by Michael Deeley and directed by Peter Collinson. It was released in 1969 and was very popular in Britain; subsequent television showings and releases on video have established it as something of a national institution in the UK, with a cult following elsewhere.
Its distinctive soundtrack was composed by Quincy Jones, and includes two well-known songs, "On Days Like These" sung by Matt Monro over the opening credits, and "Getta Bloomin' Move On" (usually referred to as "The Self Preservation Society", after its chorus) during the film's climactic car chase. Lead actor Michael Caine can be clearly heard among the singers in the latter.
In November 2004, the magazine Total Film named The Italian Job the 27th greatest British film of all time. The line "You were only supposed to blow the bloody doors off!", said by Michael Caine in the film, was voted the favourite film one-liner in a 2003 poll of 1000 film fans.
The Italian Job (Peter Collinson, 1969) A-
The Italian Job is a British caper film, written by Troy Kennedy Martin, produced by Michael Deeley and directed by Peter Collinson. It was released in 1969 and was very popular in Britain; subsequent television showings and releases on video have established it as something of a national institution in the UK, with a cult following elsewhere.
Its distinctive soundtrack was composed by Quincy Jones, and includes two well-known songs, "On Days Like These" sung by Matt Monro over the opening credits, and "Getta Bloomin' Move On" (usually referred to as "The Self Preservation Society", after its chorus) during the film's climactic car chase. Lead actor Michael Caine can be clearly heard among the singers in the latter.
In November 2004, the magazine Total Film named The Italian Job the 27th greatest British film of all time. The line "You were only supposed to blow the bloody doors off!", said by Michael Caine in the film, was voted the favourite film one-liner in a 2003 poll of 1000 film fans.
Monday, July 20, 2009
The Pink Panther
07/20
The Pink Panther (Blake Edwards, 1963) A-
The Pink Panther, directed by Blake Edwards and co-written by Edwards and Maurice Richlin, is a 1963 comedy film, starring David Niven, Peter Sellers, Robert Wagner, Capucine and Claudia Cardinale.
It is the first entry in what became a film franchise, concerning the adventures of bumbling Inspector Jacques Clouseau (played by Peter Sellers) and his attempts to locate the Pink Panther diamond. The film also introduced the cartoon character of the same name, in an opening credits sequence animated by DePatie-Freleng Enterprises. In 2006, MGM released a new film with the same title, based on the series, starring Steve Martin as Clouseau. A sequel to this was released in 2009 and titled The Pink Panther 2.
The Pink Panther was shot in Italy, Paris, and Los Angeles, California. It was originally released theatrically by United Artists, and is now available on VHS and DVD from MGM Home Entertainment. The Technirama film was shot in an aspect ratio of 2.20:1 in Technicolor. Promotional taglines for the initial release included "A Madcap Frolic Of Crime and Fun" and "You only live once, so see The Pink Panther twice!" The film is number 62 on Bravo's list of "100 Funniest Movies". The score was listed at #20 on AFI's 100 Years of Film Scores.
The Pink Panther (Blake Edwards, 1963) A-
The Pink Panther, directed by Blake Edwards and co-written by Edwards and Maurice Richlin, is a 1963 comedy film, starring David Niven, Peter Sellers, Robert Wagner, Capucine and Claudia Cardinale.
It is the first entry in what became a film franchise, concerning the adventures of bumbling Inspector Jacques Clouseau (played by Peter Sellers) and his attempts to locate the Pink Panther diamond. The film also introduced the cartoon character of the same name, in an opening credits sequence animated by DePatie-Freleng Enterprises. In 2006, MGM released a new film with the same title, based on the series, starring Steve Martin as Clouseau. A sequel to this was released in 2009 and titled The Pink Panther 2.
The Pink Panther was shot in Italy, Paris, and Los Angeles, California. It was originally released theatrically by United Artists, and is now available on VHS and DVD from MGM Home Entertainment. The Technirama film was shot in an aspect ratio of 2.20:1 in Technicolor. Promotional taglines for the initial release included "A Madcap Frolic Of Crime and Fun" and "You only live once, so see The Pink Panther twice!" The film is number 62 on Bravo's list of "100 Funniest Movies". The score was listed at #20 on AFI's 100 Years of Film Scores.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
The Hangover
07/17
The Hangover (Todd Phillips, 2009) B+
The Hangover is a 2009 comedy film directed by Todd Phillips, who also directed the films Road Trip, Old School, and Starsky & Hutch. The main plot follows four friends who travel to Las Vegas for a bachelor party, only to wake up the next morning not remembering a thing and missing the groom, whose wedding is scheduled to occur the next day. The film stars Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, and Heather Graham. The film was released in North America on June 5, 2009 to critical praise and box office success.
The Hangover (Todd Phillips, 2009) B+
The Hangover is a 2009 comedy film directed by Todd Phillips, who also directed the films Road Trip, Old School, and Starsky & Hutch. The main plot follows four friends who travel to Las Vegas for a bachelor party, only to wake up the next morning not remembering a thing and missing the groom, whose wedding is scheduled to occur the next day. The film stars Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, and Heather Graham. The film was released in North America on June 5, 2009 to critical praise and box office success.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The Producers
07/16
The Producers (Mel Brooks, 1968) A
The Producers is a 1968 comedy film written and directed by Mel Brooks, which tells the story of a theatrical producer and an accountant who attempt to cheat their investors by deliberately producing a flop show on Broadway. The film stars Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder and features Dick Shawn.
The Producers was the first film directed by Mel Brooks, who won an Academy Award for his screenplay.
The Producers (Mel Brooks, 1968) A
The Producers is a 1968 comedy film written and directed by Mel Brooks, which tells the story of a theatrical producer and an accountant who attempt to cheat their investors by deliberately producing a flop show on Broadway. The film stars Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder and features Dick Shawn.
The Producers was the first film directed by Mel Brooks, who won an Academy Award for his screenplay.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Watchmen
07/12
Watchmen (Zack Snyder, 2009) A-
Watchmen is an American superhero film released in 2009, based on the 1986 comic book limited series Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. Set in an alternate 1985, the film follows a group of former vigilantes as tensions heighten between the United States and the Soviet Union while an investigation of an apparent conspiracy against them uncovers something even more grandiose and sinister.
Watchmen (Zack Snyder, 2009) A-
Watchmen is an American superhero film released in 2009, based on the 1986 comic book limited series Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. Set in an alternate 1985, the film follows a group of former vigilantes as tensions heighten between the United States and the Soviet Union while an investigation of an apparent conspiracy against them uncovers something even more grandiose and sinister.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
The General
07/11
The General (Clyde Bruckman & Buster Keaton, 1927) A+
The General is a 1927 silent comedy released by United Artists based upon the Great Locomotive Chase from 1862. Buster Keaton starred in the film and co-directed it with Clyde Bruckman. It was adapted by Al Boasberg, Bruckman, Keaton, Charles Henry Smith (uncredited) and Paul Girard Smith (uncredited) from the memoir The Great Locomotive Chase by William Pittenger. The film was a box-office disaster at its original release, but is now considered by critics as one of the greatest films ever made.
The General (Clyde Bruckman & Buster Keaton, 1927) A+
The General is a 1927 silent comedy released by United Artists based upon the Great Locomotive Chase from 1862. Buster Keaton starred in the film and co-directed it with Clyde Bruckman. It was adapted by Al Boasberg, Bruckman, Keaton, Charles Henry Smith (uncredited) and Paul Girard Smith (uncredited) from the memoir The Great Locomotive Chase by William Pittenger. The film was a box-office disaster at its original release, but is now considered by critics as one of the greatest films ever made.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Zelig
07/02
Zelig (Woody Allen, 1983) A-
Zelig is a 1983 American mockumentary written and directed by Woody Allen.
Zelig (Woody Allen, 1983) A-
Zelig is a 1983 American mockumentary written and directed by Woody Allen.
Ordinary People
07/01
Ordinary People (Robert Redford, 1980) A
Ordinary People is a 1980 American film drama that marked the directorial debut of Robert Redford. The story concerns the disintegration of an upper middle class family member in Lake Forest, Illinois, following the death of the oldest son. The screenplay by Alvin Sargent was based upon the 1976 novel by Judith Guest. The film was a critical and commercial success, winning that year's Academy Award for Best Picture and various other major film awards.
Ordinary People (Robert Redford, 1980) A
Ordinary People is a 1980 American film drama that marked the directorial debut of Robert Redford. The story concerns the disintegration of an upper middle class family member in Lake Forest, Illinois, following the death of the oldest son. The screenplay by Alvin Sargent was based upon the 1976 novel by Judith Guest. The film was a critical and commercial success, winning that year's Academy Award for Best Picture and various other major film awards.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
On Her Majesty's Secret Service
06/30
On Her Majesty's Secret Service (Peter R. Hunt, 1969) A-
On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) is the sixth spy film in the James Bond series, based on the 1963 novel of the same name by Ian Fleming, and the only one to star George Lazenby as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. In the film, Bond faces Blofeld, who is planning on unleashing a plague through a group of brainwashed "angels of death" (which included early appearances by Joanna Lumley and Catherina von Schell) unless his demands are met. Along the way, Bond meets, falls in love with, and eventually marries Contessa Teresa di Vicenzo.
This Bond film is the second in what is considered the "Blofeld Trilogy", coming between You Only Live Twice and Diamonds Are Forever. This trilogy is of interest not only for the three different Blofeld actors (Donald Pleasence in You Only Live Twice, Telly Savalas in On Her Majesty's Secret Service, and Charles Gray in Diamonds Are Forever) but for its two Bond actors (Sean Connery, then George Lazenby, and back to Connery).
This is the only Bond film to be directed by Peter R. Hunt, who before was a film editor or second unit director on every previous film. Though its theatrical release was not as lucrative as its predecessor You Only Live Twice and Lazenby's performance was much criticized, On Her Majesty's Secret Service grossed over $87 million worldwide and was met with positive critical reviews.
On Her Majesty's Secret Service (Peter R. Hunt, 1969) A-
On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) is the sixth spy film in the James Bond series, based on the 1963 novel of the same name by Ian Fleming, and the only one to star George Lazenby as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. In the film, Bond faces Blofeld, who is planning on unleashing a plague through a group of brainwashed "angels of death" (which included early appearances by Joanna Lumley and Catherina von Schell) unless his demands are met. Along the way, Bond meets, falls in love with, and eventually marries Contessa Teresa di Vicenzo.
This Bond film is the second in what is considered the "Blofeld Trilogy", coming between You Only Live Twice and Diamonds Are Forever. This trilogy is of interest not only for the three different Blofeld actors (Donald Pleasence in You Only Live Twice, Telly Savalas in On Her Majesty's Secret Service, and Charles Gray in Diamonds Are Forever) but for its two Bond actors (Sean Connery, then George Lazenby, and back to Connery).
This is the only Bond film to be directed by Peter R. Hunt, who before was a film editor or second unit director on every previous film. Though its theatrical release was not as lucrative as its predecessor You Only Live Twice and Lazenby's performance was much criticized, On Her Majesty's Secret Service grossed over $87 million worldwide and was met with positive critical reviews.
Body of Lies
06/29
Body of Lies (Ridley Scott, 2008) A-
Body of Lies is a 2008 American spy film based on the novel of the same name by David Ignatius about a CIA operative who goes to Jordan to track a high-ranking terrorist. The film is directed by Ridley Scott, written by William Monahan, and stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Russell Crowe, Vince Colosimo, and Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani. Production took place in Washington D.C. and Morocco. Body of Lies was released in the United States on October 10, 2008.
Body of Lies (Ridley Scott, 2008) A-
Body of Lies is a 2008 American spy film based on the novel of the same name by David Ignatius about a CIA operative who goes to Jordan to track a high-ranking terrorist. The film is directed by Ridley Scott, written by William Monahan, and stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Russell Crowe, Vince Colosimo, and Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani. Production took place in Washington D.C. and Morocco. Body of Lies was released in the United States on October 10, 2008.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Tootsie
06/25
Tootsie (Sydney Pollack, 1982) A+
Tootsie is a 1982 comedy film that tells the story of a talented but volatile actor whose reputation for being difficult forces him to go to extreme lengths to land a job. The movie stars Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange, with a supporting cast that includes Teri Garr, Dabney Coleman, Charles Durning, Bill Murray, Sydney Pollack, George Gaynes, Lynne Thigpen and Geena Davis (in her film debut). Tootsie was adapted by Larry Gelbart, Barry Levinson (uncredited), Elaine May (uncredited) and Murray Schisgal from the story by Gelbart. It was directed by Pollack. It is an example of a classical comedy.
Tootsie (Sydney Pollack, 1982) A+
Tootsie is a 1982 comedy film that tells the story of a talented but volatile actor whose reputation for being difficult forces him to go to extreme lengths to land a job. The movie stars Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange, with a supporting cast that includes Teri Garr, Dabney Coleman, Charles Durning, Bill Murray, Sydney Pollack, George Gaynes, Lynne Thigpen and Geena Davis (in her film debut). Tootsie was adapted by Larry Gelbart, Barry Levinson (uncredited), Elaine May (uncredited) and Murray Schisgal from the story by Gelbart. It was directed by Pollack. It is an example of a classical comedy.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Blazing Saddles
06/24
Blazing Saddles (Mel Brooks, 1974) A+
Blazing Saddles is a 1974 satirical Western comedy film directed by Mel Brooks. Starring Cleavon Little and Gene Wilder, it was written by Brooks, Andrew Bergman, Richard Pryor, Norman Steinberg, and Al Uger, and was based on Bergman's story and draft.[2] The movie was nominated for three Academy Awards, and is considered one of the great American comedies, coming in at number six on AFI's 100 Years... 100 Laughs list.
Blazing Saddles (Mel Brooks, 1974) A+
Blazing Saddles is a 1974 satirical Western comedy film directed by Mel Brooks. Starring Cleavon Little and Gene Wilder, it was written by Brooks, Andrew Bergman, Richard Pryor, Norman Steinberg, and Al Uger, and was based on Bergman's story and draft.[2] The movie was nominated for three Academy Awards, and is considered one of the great American comedies, coming in at number six on AFI's 100 Years... 100 Laughs list.
Max Payne
06/24
Max Payne (John Moore, 2008) D
Max Payne is a 2008 American noir action film based on the 2001 video game of the same name by Remedy Entertainment. It was written by Beau Thorne and was directed by John Moore. The film stars Mark Wahlberg in the title role as Max Payne, Mila Kunis as Mona Sax, and Beau Bridges as BB Hensley. The film revolves around revenge, centering on a policeman's journey through New York City's criminal underworld, as he investigates the deaths of his wife and child.
Max Payne (John Moore, 2008) D
Max Payne is a 2008 American noir action film based on the 2001 video game of the same name by Remedy Entertainment. It was written by Beau Thorne and was directed by John Moore. The film stars Mark Wahlberg in the title role as Max Payne, Mila Kunis as Mona Sax, and Beau Bridges as BB Hensley. The film revolves around revenge, centering on a policeman's journey through New York City's criminal underworld, as he investigates the deaths of his wife and child.
The Jackal
06/24
The Jackal (Michael Caton-Jones, 1997) B+
The Jackal is a 1997 suspense film starring Bruce Willis, Richard Gere, Diane Venora and Sidney Poitier. It was directed by Michael Caton-Jones. While its title is similar to the 1973 film The Day of the Jackal, it shares only the main story point of an anonymous assassin and some general plot elements.
The Jackal (Michael Caton-Jones, 1997) B+
The Jackal is a 1997 suspense film starring Bruce Willis, Richard Gere, Diane Venora and Sidney Poitier. It was directed by Michael Caton-Jones. While its title is similar to the 1973 film The Day of the Jackal, it shares only the main story point of an anonymous assassin and some general plot elements.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Hollywood Ending
06/23
Hollywood Ending (Woody Allen, 2002) B
Hollywood Ending is an American film written and directed by Woody Allen, who also plays the principal character. It tells the story of a once-famous film director who suffers hysterical blindness due to the intense pressure of directing.
Hollywood Ending (Woody Allen, 2002) B
Hollywood Ending is an American film written and directed by Woody Allen, who also plays the principal character. It tells the story of a once-famous film director who suffers hysterical blindness due to the intense pressure of directing.
Scoop
06/22
Scoop (Woody Allen, 2006) B+
Scoop is a 2006 romantic comedy/murder mystery written and directed by Woody Allen and starring Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson, Ian McShane, and Allen himself. Focus Features released the film, which was rated PG-13 by the MPAA for "some sexual content."
Scoop (Woody Allen, 2006) B+
Scoop is a 2006 romantic comedy/murder mystery written and directed by Woody Allen and starring Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson, Ian McShane, and Allen himself. Focus Features released the film, which was rated PG-13 by the MPAA for "some sexual content."
Monday, June 22, 2009
What's New Pussycat?
06/22
What's New Pussycat? (Clive Donner, 1965) B+
What's New Pussycat? is a 1965 comedy film directed by Clive Donner and starring Peter Sellers, Peter O'Toole, Romy Schneider, Capucine, Paula Prentiss and Ursula Andress. It was Woody Allen's film debut, as well as his first produced script. The Academy Award-nominated title song by Burt Bacharach (music) and Hal David (lyrics) was sung by Tom Jones. The movie poster was painted by Frank Frazetta.
What's New Pussycat? (Clive Donner, 1965) B+
What's New Pussycat? is a 1965 comedy film directed by Clive Donner and starring Peter Sellers, Peter O'Toole, Romy Schneider, Capucine, Paula Prentiss and Ursula Andress. It was Woody Allen's film debut, as well as his first produced script. The Academy Award-nominated title song by Burt Bacharach (music) and Hal David (lyrics) was sung by Tom Jones. The movie poster was painted by Frank Frazetta.
Appaloosa
06/20
Appaloosa (Ed Harris, 2008) B+
Appaloosa is a 2008 American Western film based on the 2005 novel of the same name by crime writer Robert B. Parker. The film was directed by Ed Harris and co-written by Harris and Robert Knott. Appaloosa stars Harris alongside Viggo Mortensen. The film premiered in the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival, was released in select cities on September 19, 2008 and expanded into wide-release on October 3, 2008.
Appaloosa (Ed Harris, 2008) B+
Appaloosa is a 2008 American Western film based on the 2005 novel of the same name by crime writer Robert B. Parker. The film was directed by Ed Harris and co-written by Harris and Robert Knott. Appaloosa stars Harris alongside Viggo Mortensen. The film premiered in the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival, was released in select cities on September 19, 2008 and expanded into wide-release on October 3, 2008.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Small Time Crooks
06/20
Small Time Crooks (Woody Allen, 2000) B+
Small Time Crooks is an American comedy film, released in 2000, starring Woody Allen and Tracey Ullman. Allen also wrote and directed the film.
Small Time Crooks (Woody Allen, 2000) B+
Small Time Crooks is an American comedy film, released in 2000, starring Woody Allen and Tracey Ullman. Allen also wrote and directed the film.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Kill Bill: Vol. 1
06/18 Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (Quentin Tarantino, 2003) A-
Kill Bill is the fourth film by writer-director Quentin Tarantino, starring Uma Thurman as The Bride. Originally conceived as one film, it was released in two separate 'volumes' (in late 2003 and early 2004) due to its running time of approximately four hours. The movie is an epic-length revenge drama, with homages to earlier film genres, such as Hong Kong martial arts movies, Japanese samurai movies and Italian spaghetti westerns; an extensive use of popular music and pop culture references; and aestheticization of violence. Filming took place in California, Texas, Beijing, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Mexico.
Kill Bill is the fourth film by writer-director Quentin Tarantino, starring Uma Thurman as The Bride. Originally conceived as one film, it was released in two separate 'volumes' (in late 2003 and early 2004) due to its running time of approximately four hours. The movie is an epic-length revenge drama, with homages to earlier film genres, such as Hong Kong martial arts movies, Japanese samurai movies and Italian spaghetti westerns; an extensive use of popular music and pop culture references; and aestheticization of violence. Filming took place in California, Texas, Beijing, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Mexico.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Death Proof
06/13
Death Proof (Quentin Tarantino, 2007) B+
Death Proof is a 2007 film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino. The film centers around a psychopathic stunt man who stalks young women before murdering them in staged car accidents using his "death proof" stunt car. The film is a tribute to muscle car, exploitation, and slasher film genres of the 1970s. The film stars Kurt Russell, Zoë Bell, Rosario Dawson, Vanessa Ferlito, Jordan Ladd, Sydney Tamiia Poitier, Tracie Thoms, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Rose McGowan.
Death Proof was released theatrically in the United States as part of a double feature with Robert Rodriguez's Planet Terror under the collective title Grindhouse in order to replicate the experience of viewing exploitation film double features in a "grindhouse" theater. The films were released separately outside the United States and on DVD, with Death Proof going on sale in the United States on September 18, 2007.
Death Proof (Quentin Tarantino, 2007) B+
Death Proof is a 2007 film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino. The film centers around a psychopathic stunt man who stalks young women before murdering them in staged car accidents using his "death proof" stunt car. The film is a tribute to muscle car, exploitation, and slasher film genres of the 1970s. The film stars Kurt Russell, Zoë Bell, Rosario Dawson, Vanessa Ferlito, Jordan Ladd, Sydney Tamiia Poitier, Tracie Thoms, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Rose McGowan.
Death Proof was released theatrically in the United States as part of a double feature with Robert Rodriguez's Planet Terror under the collective title Grindhouse in order to replicate the experience of viewing exploitation film double features in a "grindhouse" theater. The films were released separately outside the United States and on DVD, with Death Proof going on sale in the United States on September 18, 2007.
The Spirit
06/13
The Spirit (Frank Miller, 2008) B
The Spirit is a 2008 American comic book adaptation, written and directed by Frank Miller and starring Gabriel Macht, Eva Mendes, Sarah Paulson, Dan Lauria, Paz Vega, Jaime King, Scarlett Johansson, and Samuel L. Jackson. The film is based on the newspaper comic strip The Spirit by Will Eisner. OddLot and Lionsgate produced the film.[2] The Spirit was released in theaters in the United States on December 25, 2008, and on DVD and Blu-ray on April 14, 2009. Despite being a commercial and critical failure, it has earned a small cult following due to its rather zany mix of genres including film noir, slapstick, and tongue-in-cheek humor.
The Spirit (Frank Miller, 2008) B
The Spirit is a 2008 American comic book adaptation, written and directed by Frank Miller and starring Gabriel Macht, Eva Mendes, Sarah Paulson, Dan Lauria, Paz Vega, Jaime King, Scarlett Johansson, and Samuel L. Jackson. The film is based on the newspaper comic strip The Spirit by Will Eisner. OddLot and Lionsgate produced the film.[2] The Spirit was released in theaters in the United States on December 25, 2008, and on DVD and Blu-ray on April 14, 2009. Despite being a commercial and critical failure, it has earned a small cult following due to its rather zany mix of genres including film noir, slapstick, and tongue-in-cheek humor.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Shaun of the Dead
06/12
Shaun of the Dead (Edgar Wright, 2004) B
Shaun of the Dead is a 2004 British romantic zombie comedy film directed by Edgar Wright, starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, and written by Pegg and Wright. The plot focuses on Shaun, a young man who is attempting to get some kind of focus in his life as he reconciles with his ex-girlfriend and settles his various issues with his mother and stepfather. At the same time he has to cope with an apocalyptic uprising of zombies that is destroying society.
Shaun of the Dead (Edgar Wright, 2004) B
Shaun of the Dead is a 2004 British romantic zombie comedy film directed by Edgar Wright, starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, and written by Pegg and Wright. The plot focuses on Shaun, a young man who is attempting to get some kind of focus in his life as he reconciles with his ex-girlfriend and settles his various issues with his mother and stepfather. At the same time he has to cope with an apocalyptic uprising of zombies that is destroying society.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Scarface
06/10
Scarface (Brian De Palma, 1983) A
Scarface is a 1983 epic crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma, written by Oliver Stone and starring Al Pacino as Tony Montana. A remake of Howard Hawks' original 1932 film of the same name, the film tells the story of a fictional Cuban refugee who comes to Florida in 1980 as a result of the Mariel Boatlift. Montana becomes a gangster against the backdrop of the 1980s cocaine boom. The film chronicles his rise to the top of Miami's criminal underworld and subsequent downfall in tragic Greek fashion.
The film is dedicated to Howard Hawks and Ben Hecht, who were the writers of the original.
Scarface (Brian De Palma, 1983) A
Scarface is a 1983 epic crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma, written by Oliver Stone and starring Al Pacino as Tony Montana. A remake of Howard Hawks' original 1932 film of the same name, the film tells the story of a fictional Cuban refugee who comes to Florida in 1980 as a result of the Mariel Boatlift. Montana becomes a gangster against the backdrop of the 1980s cocaine boom. The film chronicles his rise to the top of Miami's criminal underworld and subsequent downfall in tragic Greek fashion.
The film is dedicated to Howard Hawks and Ben Hecht, who were the writers of the original.
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels
06/10
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (Guy Ritchie, 1998) A
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is a 1998 British crime film directed and written by Guy Ritchie. The story is a heist film involving a self-confident young card sharp who loses £500,000 to a powerful crime lord in a rigged game of three card brag. In order to pay off his debts, he and his friends decide to rob a small-time gang who happen to be operating out of the flat next door. The film garnered Guy Ritchie international acclaim, and introduced actors Vinnie Jones, a former Welsh international football player, and Jason Statham, to worldwide audiences. In 2000, Ritchie won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for Best Motion Picture Screenplay. In 2004, the magazine Total Film named Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels the 38th greatest British film of all time.
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (Guy Ritchie, 1998) A
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is a 1998 British crime film directed and written by Guy Ritchie. The story is a heist film involving a self-confident young card sharp who loses £500,000 to a powerful crime lord in a rigged game of three card brag. In order to pay off his debts, he and his friends decide to rob a small-time gang who happen to be operating out of the flat next door. The film garnered Guy Ritchie international acclaim, and introduced actors Vinnie Jones, a former Welsh international football player, and Jason Statham, to worldwide audiences. In 2000, Ritchie won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for Best Motion Picture Screenplay. In 2004, the magazine Total Film named Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels the 38th greatest British film of all time.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Pineapple Express
06/09
Pineapple Express (David Gordon Green, 2008) B+
Pineapple Express is a 2008 American comedy film directed by David Gordon Green, written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg and starring Rogen and James Franco with cameo appearances by Ed Begley, Jr. and James Remar. Producer Judd Apatow, who previously worked with Rogen and Goldberg on Knocked Up and Superbad, assisted in developing the story, which was partially inspired by the buddy comedy subgenre. The film was released on August 6, 2008.[1] Franco was nominated for a Golden Globe award for his performance in the film.
Pineapple Express (David Gordon Green, 2008) B+
Pineapple Express is a 2008 American comedy film directed by David Gordon Green, written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg and starring Rogen and James Franco with cameo appearances by Ed Begley, Jr. and James Remar. Producer Judd Apatow, who previously worked with Rogen and Goldberg on Knocked Up and Superbad, assisted in developing the story, which was partially inspired by the buddy comedy subgenre. The film was released on August 6, 2008.[1] Franco was nominated for a Golden Globe award for his performance in the film.
Lonely are the Brave
06/09
Lonely are the Brave (David Miller, 1962) B+
Lonely are the Brave is a 1962 film adaptation of the Edward Abbey novel The Brave Cowboy. It stars Kirk Douglas as modern cowboy Jack Burns, Gena Rowlands, and Walter Matthau as a sheriff who empathizes with Burns but must do his job and chase him down. Douglas has said that this is his favorite movie.
Lonely are the Brave (David Miller, 1962) B+
Lonely are the Brave is a 1962 film adaptation of the Edward Abbey novel The Brave Cowboy. It stars Kirk Douglas as modern cowboy Jack Burns, Gena Rowlands, and Walter Matthau as a sheriff who empathizes with Burns but must do his job and chase him down. Douglas has said that this is his favorite movie.
Over Her Dead Body
06/09
Over Her Dead Body (Jeff Lowell, 2008) D
Over Her Dead Body is a comedy film starring Eva Longoria Parker, Paul Rudd, Lake Bell, Jason Biggs, Lindsay Sloane, Colin Fickes and Stephen Root. It was written and directed by Jeff Lowell. Kate (Eva Longoria Parker) dies on the day of her wedding to fiancé Henry (Paul Rudd). He subsequently begins a relationship with psychic Ashley (Lake Bell) who becomes haunted by Kate trying to sabotage their relationship.
Over Her Dead Body (Jeff Lowell, 2008) D
Over Her Dead Body is a comedy film starring Eva Longoria Parker, Paul Rudd, Lake Bell, Jason Biggs, Lindsay Sloane, Colin Fickes and Stephen Root. It was written and directed by Jeff Lowell. Kate (Eva Longoria Parker) dies on the day of her wedding to fiancé Henry (Paul Rudd). He subsequently begins a relationship with psychic Ashley (Lake Bell) who becomes haunted by Kate trying to sabotage their relationship.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Cashback
06/08
Cashback (Sean Ellis, 2006) C
Cashback is the name of two films directed by Sean Ellis: a 2004 short film and a 2006 feature film. Both were produced by Lene Bausager, starring Sean Biggerstaff, Michelle Ryan and Emilia Fox. The feature was released by Gaumont in late 2006. Left Turn Films produced both films.
Cashback (Sean Ellis, 2006) C
Cashback is the name of two films directed by Sean Ellis: a 2004 short film and a 2006 feature film. Both were produced by Lene Bausager, starring Sean Biggerstaff, Michelle Ryan and Emilia Fox. The feature was released by Gaumont in late 2006. Left Turn Films produced both films.
Easy Virtue
06/08
Easy Virtue (Stephan Elliott, 2008) B
Easy Virtue is a social comedy based on Noël Coward's play of the same name. The play was previously made into the silent movie Easy Virtue (1928) by Alfred Hitchcock. This version is directed by Stephan Elliott, written by Elliott and Sheridan Jobbins, and stars Jessica Biel, Ben Barnes, Colin Firth and Kristin Scott Thomas. Easy Virtue is a social comedy in which a glamorous American widow, Larita, impetuously marries a young Englishman, John Whittaker, in the South of France. When they return to England to meet his parents, his mother takes a strong dislike to their new daughter-in-law, while his father, Jim, finds a kindred spirit. Family tensions escalate. The score contains many Coward and jazz-age songs, some of which are sung, or partially sung by John.
Easy Virtue (Stephan Elliott, 2008) B
Easy Virtue is a social comedy based on Noël Coward's play of the same name. The play was previously made into the silent movie Easy Virtue (1928) by Alfred Hitchcock. This version is directed by Stephan Elliott, written by Elliott and Sheridan Jobbins, and stars Jessica Biel, Ben Barnes, Colin Firth and Kristin Scott Thomas. Easy Virtue is a social comedy in which a glamorous American widow, Larita, impetuously marries a young Englishman, John Whittaker, in the South of France. When they return to England to meet his parents, his mother takes a strong dislike to their new daughter-in-law, while his father, Jim, finds a kindred spirit. Family tensions escalate. The score contains many Coward and jazz-age songs, some of which are sung, or partially sung by John.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Three Kings
06/07
Three Kings (David O. Russell, 1999) A
Three Kings is a 1999 satire war drama film written and directed by David O. Russell from a story by John Ridley about a gold heist in the style of Kelly's Heroes. It takes place during the 1991 Iraqi uprising against Saddam Hussein following the end of the first Persian Gulf War.
The movie stars George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Ice Cube and Spike Jonze. Film critic Roger Ebert described it as a "weird masterpiece, a screw-loose war picture that sends action and humor crashing head-on into each other and spinning off into political anger." The film gets its name from the character Conrad's outburst: "We three kings be stealin' the gold...", a parody of the Christmas carol We Three Kings of Orient Are.
Three Kings (David O. Russell, 1999) A
Three Kings is a 1999 satire war drama film written and directed by David O. Russell from a story by John Ridley about a gold heist in the style of Kelly's Heroes. It takes place during the 1991 Iraqi uprising against Saddam Hussein following the end of the first Persian Gulf War.
The movie stars George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Ice Cube and Spike Jonze. Film critic Roger Ebert described it as a "weird masterpiece, a screw-loose war picture that sends action and humor crashing head-on into each other and spinning off into political anger." The film gets its name from the character Conrad's outburst: "We three kings be stealin' the gold...", a parody of the Christmas carol We Three Kings of Orient Are.
Run Fatboy Run
06/07
Run Fatboy Run (David Schwimmer, 2007) B+
Run Fatboy Run is a 2007 British romantic comedy directed by David Schwimmer, written by Michael Ian Black and Simon Pegg, and starring Simon Pegg, Dylan Moran, Thandie Newton, Harish Patel, India de Beaufort and Hank Azaria.
Run Fatboy Run (David Schwimmer, 2007) B+
Run Fatboy Run is a 2007 British romantic comedy directed by David Schwimmer, written by Michael Ian Black and Simon Pegg, and starring Simon Pegg, Dylan Moran, Thandie Newton, Harish Patel, India de Beaufort and Hank Azaria.
Good Night, and Good Luck
06/07
Good Night, and Good Luck (George Clooney, 2005) A-
Good Night, and Good Luck is a 2005 film directed by George Clooney. The film was written by Clooney and Grant Heslov and portrays the conflict between veteran radio and television journalist Edward R. Murrow and U.S. Junior Senator Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin, especially relating to the anti-Communist Senator's actions with the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.
Good Night, and Good Luck (George Clooney, 2005) A-
Good Night, and Good Luck is a 2005 film directed by George Clooney. The film was written by Clooney and Grant Heslov and portrays the conflict between veteran radio and television journalist Edward R. Murrow and U.S. Junior Senator Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin, especially relating to the anti-Communist Senator's actions with the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.
Leatherheads
06/07
Leatherheads (George Clooney, 2008) B+
Leatherheads is a 2008 American sports comedy film from Universal Pictures directed by and starring George Clooney. The film also stars Renée Zellweger and John Krasinski.
Leatherheads (George Clooney, 2008) B+
Leatherheads is a 2008 American sports comedy film from Universal Pictures directed by and starring George Clooney. The film also stars Renée Zellweger and John Krasinski.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Superbad
06/05
Superbad (Greg Mottola, 2007) A-
Superbad is a 2007 American comedy film directed by Greg Mottola and starring Jonah Hill and Michael Cera. The film was written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, who began working on the script when they were both thirteen years old; they completed a draft by the time they were fifteen.[2] The film's main characters have the same given names as Rogen and Goldberg. The film was one of a string of hits by producer Judd Apatow, producer of The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Talladega Nights.
Superbad (Greg Mottola, 2007) A-
Superbad is a 2007 American comedy film directed by Greg Mottola and starring Jonah Hill and Michael Cera. The film was written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, who began working on the script when they were both thirteen years old; they completed a draft by the time they were fifteen.[2] The film's main characters have the same given names as Rogen and Goldberg. The film was one of a string of hits by producer Judd Apatow, producer of The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Talladega Nights.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Australia
06/04
Australia (Baz Luhrmann, 2008) A-
Australia is a 2008 epic romance film directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. It is the second-highest grossing Australian film of all time, trailing Crocodile Dundee. The screenplay was written by Luhrmann and screenwriter Stuart Beattie, with Ronald Harwood. The film is a character story, set between 1939 and 1942 against a dramatised backdrop of events across Northern Australia at the time, such as the bombing of Darwin during World War II. Production took place in Sydney, Darwin, Kununurra, and Bowen. The movie was to be released on 13 November 2008 in Australia and 16 November 2008 in the United States; however, Fox announced that it had pushed back the release dates in both Australia and the United States to 26 November 2008, with subsequent worldwide release dates throughout late December 2008 and January and February 2009.
Australia (Baz Luhrmann, 2008) A-
Australia is a 2008 epic romance film directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. It is the second-highest grossing Australian film of all time, trailing Crocodile Dundee. The screenplay was written by Luhrmann and screenwriter Stuart Beattie, with Ronald Harwood. The film is a character story, set between 1939 and 1942 against a dramatised backdrop of events across Northern Australia at the time, such as the bombing of Darwin during World War II. Production took place in Sydney, Darwin, Kununurra, and Bowen. The movie was to be released on 13 November 2008 in Australia and 16 November 2008 in the United States; however, Fox announced that it had pushed back the release dates in both Australia and the United States to 26 November 2008, with subsequent worldwide release dates throughout late December 2008 and January and February 2009.
Four Rooms
06/04
Four Rooms (Allison Anders, Alexandre Rockwell, Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, 1995) B+
Four Rooms is a 1995 anthology film telling four stories set in a Los Angeles hotel on New Year's Eve. Tim Roth stars as the principal character of the frame tale; he also takes part to a greater or lesser degree in the four stories, which feature Quentin Tarantino, Antonio Banderas and Madonna, among others.
The movie was directed by Allison Anders, Alexandre Rockwell, Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino with each of them directing one segment of the film. Original music by Combustible Edison.
Four Rooms (Allison Anders, Alexandre Rockwell, Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, 1995) B+
Four Rooms is a 1995 anthology film telling four stories set in a Los Angeles hotel on New Year's Eve. Tim Roth stars as the principal character of the frame tale; he also takes part to a greater or lesser degree in the four stories, which feature Quentin Tarantino, Antonio Banderas and Madonna, among others.
The movie was directed by Allison Anders, Alexandre Rockwell, Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino with each of them directing one segment of the film. Original music by Combustible Edison.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
American Gangster
06/03
American Gangster (Ridley Scott, 2007) A
American Gangster is a 2007 crime film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Washington portrays Frank Lucas, a real-life gangster from Harlem who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes returning from the Vietnam War. Crowe portrays Richie Roberts, a detective attempting to bring down Lucas' drug empire.[2] Filming was done on location in New York City. American Gangster was released in the United States and Canada on November 2, 2007. The film was also nominated for two Academy Awards, including a notable Best Supporting Actress nomination for Ruby Dee who appears on screen for less than 10 minutes.
American Gangster (Ridley Scott, 2007) A
American Gangster is a 2007 crime film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Washington portrays Frank Lucas, a real-life gangster from Harlem who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes returning from the Vietnam War. Crowe portrays Richie Roberts, a detective attempting to bring down Lucas' drug empire.[2] Filming was done on location in New York City. American Gangster was released in the United States and Canada on November 2, 2007. The film was also nominated for two Academy Awards, including a notable Best Supporting Actress nomination for Ruby Dee who appears on screen for less than 10 minutes.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
The President Is Coming
06/02
The President Is Coming (Kunaal Roy Kapur, 2009) B
The President Is Coming is an English language Indian film directed by debutante Kunaal Roy Kapur based on his own popular play by the same title which was premiered at the Royal Court/Rage Theatre Festival in Mumbai in January 2006. The film is written by Anuvab Pal stars Konkona Sen Sharma as a Bengali writer and social activist. The film explores a day in the life of 6 contestants who will stop at nothing as the US President is coming to town. Konkona plays as Maya Roy, one of the six contestants who will represent New India in front of the President.
The President Is Coming (Kunaal Roy Kapur, 2009) B
The President Is Coming is an English language Indian film directed by debutante Kunaal Roy Kapur based on his own popular play by the same title which was premiered at the Royal Court/Rage Theatre Festival in Mumbai in January 2006. The film is written by Anuvab Pal stars Konkona Sen Sharma as a Bengali writer and social activist. The film explores a day in the life of 6 contestants who will stop at nothing as the US President is coming to town. Konkona plays as Maya Roy, one of the six contestants who will represent New India in front of the President.
War, Inc.
05/31
War, Inc. (Joshua Seftel, 2008) B
War, Inc. is a 2008 political satire film starring John Cusack and Hilary Duff and directed by Joshua Seftel. Cusack also co-wrote and produced the film. A working title of the film was Brand Hauser: Stuff Happens. The story is partly inspired by Naomi Klein's article "Baghdad Year Zero".
War, Inc. is thought to be a spiritual successor or informal sequel to the 1997 film Grosse Pointe Blank. Both films are black comedies with similar styles and themes, and both films star John Cusack as an assassin and Joan Cusack as his assistant, with Dan Aykroyd in a supporting role. In an interview, Joan Cusack said, "I think, in a way, [War, Inc.] was a Grosse Point Blank 2."
War, Inc. (Joshua Seftel, 2008) B
War, Inc. is a 2008 political satire film starring John Cusack and Hilary Duff and directed by Joshua Seftel. Cusack also co-wrote and produced the film. A working title of the film was Brand Hauser: Stuff Happens. The story is partly inspired by Naomi Klein's article "Baghdad Year Zero".
War, Inc. is thought to be a spiritual successor or informal sequel to the 1997 film Grosse Pointe Blank. Both films are black comedies with similar styles and themes, and both films star John Cusack as an assassin and Joan Cusack as his assistant, with Dan Aykroyd in a supporting role. In an interview, Joan Cusack said, "I think, in a way, [War, Inc.] was a Grosse Point Blank 2."
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Dr. No
05/26
Dr. No (Terence Young, 1962) B+
Dr. No (1962) is the first James Bond film, and the first to star Sean Connery as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. Based on the 1958 Ian Fleming novel of the same name, it was adapted by Richard Maibaum, Johanna Harwood, and Berkely Mather. The film was directed by Terence Young, and produced by Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli, a partnership that would continue until 1975.
Dr. No (Terence Young, 1962) B+
Dr. No (1962) is the first James Bond film, and the first to star Sean Connery as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. Based on the 1958 Ian Fleming novel of the same name, it was adapted by Richard Maibaum, Johanna Harwood, and Berkely Mather. The film was directed by Terence Young, and produced by Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli, a partnership that would continue until 1975.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Mamma Mia!
05/24
Mamma Mia! (Phyllida Lloyd, 2008) B+
Mamma Mia! (promoted as Mamma Mia! The Movie) is a 2008 stage-to-film adaptation of the 1999 West End musical of the same name, based on the songs of successful pop group ABBA, with additional music composed by ABBA member Benny Andersson. Produced by Universal Pictures in partnership with Playtone and Littlestar,[2] it became the highest-grossing film musical of all time. The title originates from ABBA's 1975 chart-topper "Mamma Mia".
Mamma Mia! (Phyllida Lloyd, 2008) B+
Mamma Mia! (promoted as Mamma Mia! The Movie) is a 2008 stage-to-film adaptation of the 1999 West End musical of the same name, based on the songs of successful pop group ABBA, with additional music composed by ABBA member Benny Andersson. Produced by Universal Pictures in partnership with Playtone and Littlestar,[2] it became the highest-grossing film musical of all time. The title originates from ABBA's 1975 chart-topper "Mamma Mia".
Harsh Times
05/24
Harsh Times (David Ayer, 2006) B+
Harsh Times is a 2006 American crime film set in South Los Angeles. The film stars Christian Bale, Freddy Rodriguez, and Eva Longoria, and was written and directed by David Ayer, who wrote the script for the Academy Award-winning film Training Day. The film was distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) Pictures and Bauer Martinez Entertainment. Ayer says that the film's characters are greatly based on the people he knew when he lived in South Central.
Harsh Times (David Ayer, 2006) B+
Harsh Times is a 2006 American crime film set in South Los Angeles. The film stars Christian Bale, Freddy Rodriguez, and Eva Longoria, and was written and directed by David Ayer, who wrote the script for the Academy Award-winning film Training Day. The film was distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) Pictures and Bauer Martinez Entertainment. Ayer says that the film's characters are greatly based on the people he knew when he lived in South Central.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
100 Girls
05/23
100 Girls (Michael Davis, 2000) D
100 Girls is a 2000 comedy film written and directed by Michael Davis. It tells the story of a college student's (Jonathan Tucker) efforts to find a mystery girl with whom he had sex in an elevator during a black out.
100 Girls (Michael Davis, 2000) D
100 Girls is a 2000 comedy film written and directed by Michael Davis. It tells the story of a college student's (Jonathan Tucker) efforts to find a mystery girl with whom he had sex in an elevator during a black out.
Bambi
05/23
Bambi (David D. Hand, 1942) A-
Bambi is a 1942 animated feature film produced by Walt Disney and originally released to theatres by RKO Radio Pictures on August 13, 1942. The fifth animated feature in the Disney animated features canon, the film is based on the 1923 book Bambi, A Life in the Woods by Austrian author Felix Salten.
Bambi (David D. Hand, 1942) A-
Bambi is a 1942 animated feature film produced by Walt Disney and originally released to theatres by RKO Radio Pictures on August 13, 1942. The fifth animated feature in the Disney animated features canon, the film is based on the 1923 book Bambi, A Life in the Woods by Austrian author Felix Salten.
Gran Torino
05/23
Gran Torino (Clint Eastwood, 2008) A-
Gran Torino is a 2008 American drama film directed by, produced by and starring Clint Eastwood. The film marks Eastwood's return to a lead acting role after four years, his last leading role having been in Million Dollar Baby. The film features a predominantly Hmong cast, as well as Eastwood's younger son, Scott Eastwood. Eastwood's older son, Kyle Eastwood, provided the score. The film opened to theaters in a limited release in North America on December 12, 2008, and later to a wide release on January 9, 2009.
The story follows Walt Kowalski, a recently widowed Korean War veteran. After Kowalski's young neighbour, Thao, tries to steal his Gran Torino and a Hmong gang attacks Thao for failing, Kowalski sets out to reform his neighbour. Gran Torino was a critical success, and became Eastwood's most lucrative film by grossing over $246 million worldwide.
Gran Torino (Clint Eastwood, 2008) A-
Gran Torino is a 2008 American drama film directed by, produced by and starring Clint Eastwood. The film marks Eastwood's return to a lead acting role after four years, his last leading role having been in Million Dollar Baby. The film features a predominantly Hmong cast, as well as Eastwood's younger son, Scott Eastwood. Eastwood's older son, Kyle Eastwood, provided the score. The film opened to theaters in a limited release in North America on December 12, 2008, and later to a wide release on January 9, 2009.
The story follows Walt Kowalski, a recently widowed Korean War veteran. After Kowalski's young neighbour, Thao, tries to steal his Gran Torino and a Hmong gang attacks Thao for failing, Kowalski sets out to reform his neighbour. Gran Torino was a critical success, and became Eastwood's most lucrative film by grossing over $246 million worldwide.
Death at a Funeral
05/23
Death at a Funeral (Frank Oz, 2007) B
Death at a Funeral is a 2007 British black comedy film directed by Frank Oz. The screenplay by Dean Craig focuses on a dysfunctional family attempting to resolve a variety of problems while attending the funeral of the patriarch.
Death at a Funeral (Frank Oz, 2007) B
Death at a Funeral is a 2007 British black comedy film directed by Frank Oz. The screenplay by Dean Craig focuses on a dysfunctional family attempting to resolve a variety of problems while attending the funeral of the patriarch.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
How to Lose Friends & Alienate People
04/24
How to Lose Friends & Alienate People (Robert B. Weide, 2008) B+
How to Lose Friends & Alienate People (Robert B. Weide, 2008) B+
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
04/22
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (George Roy Hill, 1969) A
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (George Roy Hill, 1969) A
Monday, April 20, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me
04/16
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (Jay Roach, 1999) B
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (Jay Roach, 1999) B
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
04/16
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (Jay Roach, 1997) B+
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (Jay Roach, 1997) B+
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Once Upon a Time in China III
03/22
Once Upon a Time in China III (Tsui Hark, 1993) B+
Good entertaining movie.
Once Upon a Time in China III (Tsui Hark, 1993) B+
Good entertaining movie.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Friday, March 20, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
03/18
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (Terry Gilliam & Terry Jones, 1975) A-
Nice comedy.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (Terry Gilliam & Terry Jones, 1975) A-
Nice comedy.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Unfaithfully Yours
03/15
Unfaithfully Yours (Preston Sturges, 1948) A-
Quite a funny movie. Laugh Riot.
Unfaithfully Yours (Preston Sturges, 1948) A-
Quite a funny movie. Laugh Riot.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
There's Something About Mary
03/14
There's Something About Mary (Farrelly Brothers, 1998) A-
Funny movie.
There's Something About Mary (Farrelly Brothers, 1998) A-
Funny movie.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Lanka: The Other Side of War and Peace
03/13
Lanka: The Other Side of War and Peace (Iffat Fatima, 2005)
Lanka: The Other Side of War and Peace (Iffat Fatima, 2005)
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Good Will Hunting
03/10
Good Will Hunting (Gus Van Sant, 1997) A-
Good story and dialogues. The best scene is the confrontation between the two professors about success.
Good Will Hunting (Gus Van Sant, 1997) A-
Good story and dialogues. The best scene is the confrontation between the two professors about success.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
03/07
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (David Fincher, 2008) A+
An astonishing rarity. :)
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (David Fincher, 2008) A+
An astonishing rarity. :)
Friday, March 6, 2009
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!
03/05
Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! (Dibakar Banerjee, 2008) (Hindi) A-
An excellent entertainer.
Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! (Dibakar Banerjee, 2008) (Hindi) A-
An excellent entertainer.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
In the Heat of the Night
03/04
In the Heat of the Night (Norman Jewison, 1967) A
Terrific performances.
In the Heat of the Night (Norman Jewison, 1967) A
Terrific performances.
Enemy at the Gates
03/03
Enemy at the Gates (Jean-Jacques Annaud, 2001) A-
The film is good, but would have been great if some parallel threads or bigger pictures are also there.
Enemy at the Gates (Jean-Jacques Annaud, 2001) A-
The film is good, but would have been great if some parallel threads or bigger pictures are also there.
Monday, March 2, 2009
My Sassy Girl
03/02
My Sassy Girl (Yann Samuell, 2008) B
The film is lacking soul. The Korean original is far better.
My Sassy Girl (Yann Samuell, 2008) B
The film is lacking soul. The Korean original is far better.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Brief Encounter
02/16
Brief Encounter (David Lean, 1945) A+
It has excellent screenplay and brilliant performance. Of course, direction by David Lean is outstanding.
Brief Encounter (David Lean, 1945) A+
It has excellent screenplay and brilliant performance. Of course, direction by David Lean is outstanding.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Monday, February 2, 2009
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Friday, January 9, 2009
01/09
A Room with a View (James Ivory, 1985) A
A beautiful movie shot is exotic natural locations. It's full of warmth and humor.
Enter the Dragon (Robert Clouse, 1973) A
I always avoided this movie thinking it has nothing but fights. I was wrong. It has a decent revenge drama and fine acting. One of Bruce Lee's best.
A Room with a View (James Ivory, 1985) A
A beautiful movie shot is exotic natural locations. It's full of warmth and humor.
Enter the Dragon (Robert Clouse, 1973) A
I always avoided this movie thinking it has nothing but fights. I was wrong. It has a decent revenge drama and fine acting. One of Bruce Lee's best.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
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