Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Christmas Movies! I mean... "Holiday" Movies
As it is the season, I've made a list (with a short reason) of the top ten Christmas movies that no celebration of the holiday should be without. I've got some old classics and some new favorites. Let the countdown begin!
10. Home Alone- A classic, I still wonder how it's even possible those two guys are still alive to make a sequel. They should have quit while they still had their dignity...
9. Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas- I enjoy the one with Jim Carrey, but who says you can't watch that and the cartoon version. Just don't start speaking in rhyme!
8. The Santa Clause- I love it; it answered so many questions for me in regards to Santa. Who knew fireplaces just appeared if there wasn't one? Denny's--it's an American Institution! Yuk.
7. White Christmas- The songs in this are great. I mean everyone loves a white Christmas even if the only way you can get it is to watch Bing Crosby tap dance with Danny Kaye. Hope you're more superior than a cockerspaniel.
6. Miracle on 34th Street- I'm partial to the new one because I love looking at Dylan McDermott, but if you're more traditional, go for the black and white. If only more people believed in Santa and all the "intangibles" he entails, how different the world would be.
5. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation- So hilarious, I always have to watch this for it to be officially Christmas. Just remember being enrolled in the Jelly of the Month Club is the gift that keeps on giving the whole year.
4. Elf- This movie is so funny and really cute to boot. Grab a roll of Tollhouse cookie dough and watch it with someone you love and you don't care who knows it. Afterwards, hum some carols because the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.
3. A Muppet Christmas Carol- Of course there has to be some version of Dicken's immortal classic in the lineup, and in my opinion, this is the best version (although I do enjoy Scrooged with Bill Murray). The songs are fantastic, and who doesn't love those little muppets? It's always nice to hear the story from someone who knows it like the back of their hand...
2. A Christmas Story- There's a reason why TBS has 24 hours of A Christmas Story every Christmas eve. This movie is amazing, and I'm surprised kids still don't want a Red Rider BB gun. No holiday celebration is complete without seeeing Ralphie look like a pink nightmare. (Which little fact, the actor that plays Ralphie is in Elf as the guy who reassures Will Farrell that he isn't a "cotton-headed niny-muggins.") Someday I'll be introduced to Chinese turkey... Fa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra.
1. It's a Wonderful Life- Ok, you got to know this was coming. I know it's old and for a while it got a little overplayed, but I still think this movie is amazing. If only I could get someone to lasso me the moon. Maybe I should ring some bells...
If you have time, I think you should watch some Claymation movies too because they are great. You know what I'm talking about: Santa Claus is Comin' to Town, The Little Drummer Boy, The Year Without a Santa Claus, and of course Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer. I'm sure being a dentist instead of an elf would be really rewarding.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Out with the Old, In with the new...
Let us now take a moment to remember the shows we loved that, for this point in time, will no longer be with us. (But, not to fear fans of "24," "Lost," and "Scrubs" for they will return in January)
There will be of course several returning champs vying for our attention and DVR space this season. Loyal followers of "Boston Legal," "The Shield," and "ER" will probably cry at the end of the season for these shows will not be returning for another round. Personally, I'm excited for "The Office," and "Chuck," and I'm pleased that USA felt "The Starter Wife" needed more than a six-episode miniseries (let's hope it won't ruin it).
However, there are several newcomers that are ready and willing to take out their elder opponents for our ratings. Has anyone else noticed the growing trend of shows that are "The [verb]ist/er"? There's "The Closer," and "The Cleaner," and now "The Locator," and "The Mentalist."
Also, many of these new contenders seem almost exactly like previous things we've seen/heard about. There's a show on HBO (sorry for those who don't subscribe, not to worry, neither do I) called "True Blood" that sounds an awful lot like a racier version of the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer. Since the movie Crash did so well at the Academy Awards, Starz has decided to make a television series by the same name and along the same theme (obviously trying for an Emmy to go with that Oscar). Based on the book Robinson Crusoe, another T.V. show "Crusoe" hopes to put a little twist on the classic novel.
Then there's the remakes, such as an updated, modern, more "true to life" version of "90210" that I'm sure many young, corruptable teenagers will latch on to, and a remake of "Knight Rider" whose main character is significantly more promising than it's predecessor (David Hasselhoff). Also, since we Americans love to take television shows from other countries, "Hole in the Wall" based off of the Japanese tetris like game show looks rather promising in the "watch people make fools of themselves" category.
A few shows are getting a lot of buzz, and hopefully they can live up to it, is a new J.J. Abrams creation titled "Fringe," and Hellboy turned biker show "Sons of Anarchy." Oh, what a fantastic Fall television season awaits us... let the recording begin!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Mamma Mia!
This movie is just a fun, funny, feel good movie (I know, great alliteration). If anything, you should go see it just to see Meryl Streep, Collin Firth, and Pierce Brosnan dressed up in crazy costumes and singing. Now, it is a musical, in which the songs were written before the play. So, some of the plot points seem forced just to fit with the song. Despite this, the movie still had a fairly strong, if at times outlandish, plot that worked.
I'm sad that no one in the theater got up and started dancing, which believe me I did some singing and dancing in my seat (to which my brother told me to shut up and stop). The songs, all from ABBA, are just fun to sing along to, and kuddos to all the actors for showing their musical voice talents. I thought the choreography in this movie was great, and the set (Greece) is just breathtaking.
My rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
It's not the greatest movie ever made, but it's definitely a fun, feel good, girl's night out type of movie. And, not only was the movie fun for me to watch, but it looked like the cast had just as much fun making it. Julie Walters is hilarious, as always, as well as Meryl Streep and Christine Baranski. Great, happy movie to go see, especially if you just saw The Dark Knight.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
As promised...
Kung Fu Panda: 4.5 out of 5 stars
This movie is hilarious. As soon as I came out of the theater, I wanted to see the movie again. Jack Black, being his characteristic self, is awesome, and the movie is great. It is an excellent movie for kids, and although you may be one not interested in a CGI/animated film, please make this movie an exception. This movie is so funny, and has a good moral to boot.
Iron Man: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Robert Downey Jr.--the ideal actor for this role--is Iron Man. I really admire his comeback, and I hope that we can see more of him (which if you've seen The Incredible Hulk, I'm sure we will). The movie is hilarious and action-packed. I could have used a little more "romance" love-story, but I'm okay for the point being. I loved that this superhero is a cocky, egotistical, sarcastic one, and again, Downey is the perfect man for the job.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (4): 3.5 out of 5 stars
Well, if you have seen it you know why I gave the lower rating. It was still an entertaining movie, but the origin of the "crystal skull" is a little too much. Very Speilberg, but I mean really, did that have to be the whole plot? Harrison Ford is old, and he knows it, so his jokes about his age were classic. Shia LeBouf is awesome and handsome; he was great for the role. I'm glad that "Marion" (Karen Allen) from the first movie came back because she was my favorite Indy girl by far. Good movie, not great, but good.
Made of Honor: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Yeah, I was sad about this rating as well. But, I'll be honest, this movie was just not that great. I love Patrick Dempsey as much as the next women (or man for that matter), but he was not playing to his strengths in this movie. He meant to be a "playa," but in his previous roles (especially that in Enchanted), he is just not the type. It was not believable. Not to mention that it was basically like a man version of My Best Friend's Wedding (only with a happier ending), this movie, although somewhat humorous, fell flat many a time.
Prince Caspian:3.6 out of 5 stars
May I just say, the crew has matured very well, and the new addition of Prince Caspian was very nice as he was very cute. I loved that this movie went right into the action. I suppose sequels have that luxury since they assume we have already been introduced to the characters. Although I have not read this book (I know I'm a failure as an English major), I followed the story well enough; however, I was slightly disappointed at the lack of love story between Lucy and Prince Caspian. There is a hint, and then slight teaser at the end, but I was begging for more. I'm excited for the next in the series.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
The Dark Knight
Good, you bought your tickets online right? Very good.
Believe me, you are in for a treat. This movie was amazing. I know that there was alot of hype, but I believe it lived up to all of it. The acting was superb, the special effects were truly fantastic, and the story plot was riveting.
My rating: 4.7 stars out of 5
I know what you're thinking; if I loved the movie so much and forced you to buy tickets before I even told you my rating, why did I only give it a 4.7 stars? Well, my quibbles as to why I gave it a lower rating are rather small in comparison to the awesomeness of this movie. First, the positives:
1. Like I said, the acting was terrific.
Heath Ledger (who has one more film coming out) might just receive an Oscar posthumously for this role. While I love Jack Nicholson's portrayl of The Joker as much as the next guy, Heath's acting and his performance of The Joker fits very will with the film. He's dark, creepy, and scary, but at the same time, he's funny. Heath's humor, however, is more of a dark humor as opposed to Nicholson's campy humor.
While I'm sure Heath's role will gain more attention because of his passing, the other actors are just as good. Harvey Dent, aka Two-Face, played by Aaron Eckhart, does a great job of portraying a heroic villain. As always, Christian Bale (although, almost like a side character) is great as Batman; Michael Caine is an excellent Alfred (a fun, sarcastic, and loveable Alfred); Morgan Freeman, although not much screen time, is also great; and Maggie Gyllenhal, which as another critic mention (and to which I agree), is an immediate improvement over Katie Holmes. Gary Oldman is also an excellent choice for Commisioner Gordon. I thought everyone was fabulous!
2. The filming and special effects were awesome. I loved the camera angles, and I thought the shots were very well done. The explosions, car chases, and fighting scenes were pretty sweet. Batman is known, not for his superpowers, but for his sweet gadgets that allow him to be like any of the other radioactive, alien superheroes. His gadgets in this film definitely live up to Batman's claim to fame. There is a lovely scene in which Batman ventures out of Gotham City (the first Batman film to ever do so) to Hong Kong to take care of a little "business." Although I wish that they had stayed in Hong Kong a little longer, the shots of Batman swooping down to the nightlife of Hong Kong was breathtaking.
3. The plot and storyline was actually very well done. Some action movies and superhero movies tend to overlook plot in favor of special effects (see the latest Star Wars movies). However, The Dark Knight makes the plot very central to the film, and by doing so provokes very profound questions for its characters, the citizens of Gotham, and the audience. What is a hero? Does Gotham really need Batman? Do we need a superhero or just a scapegoat? Many other questions are brought up in the film that directly compare to the viewers own circumstances in America. Of course, if one is not looking for these "philosophical" questions, the plot is just as good in advancing the characters and storypoints to the climax.
Alhough minor and could almost be overlooked, here are my negatives:
1. I felt like it ran a bit long. I love action, but I felt like the chase scenes went longer than necessary. Some love this, but for me, not so much.
2. It was a little too psychological. While I did enjoy thinking about the implications and questions that came up, I believe The Dark Knight was way more in depth than I wanted it to be. What happens to Harvey Dent, as part of his transformation into Two-Face, is, aside from the obvious physical deformity, much too psychological for my liking. To top off the fact that The Joker is who gets Harvey thinking the way he does, it just makes my brain hurt.
3. Ok, this one's not really a negative, but it is a warning. This movie is very dark, much like Batman Begins, but more so. There were parts that my mom had to look away because it was too much. Do not take your kids. There is a reason why it is PG-13. It is an awesome movie, but very adult. Just so you're warned.
That's it, go enjoy the movie. Afterwards you'll probably need to go see something happy, like Mamma Mia. Also, there's nothing after the credits, so unless you want to pay your respects to all those that worked on the film, don't wait around.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Apologies and Summer Blockbusters
As the first official day of summer, I am officially excited for the summer blockbusters. Last year was full of redundant and mediocre sequels, some good, some unmentionable. However, this summer I am totally stoked for the amazingness of the movies that are about to come upon us. Granted, many came out early, but the ones to follow look just as amazing. I'll try to catch you up on my movie going experiences and my opinions, but for today I'll start off with the movie I just finished watching.
The Incredible Hulk
Can I just say, thank goodness for Edward Norton for making something so much better than the previous Hulk movie. The former movie, simply titled The Hulk, was simply atrocious and in all honesty made me sick. Ang Lee, the director, wanted to make the movie too much like the comic book. (There's a reason why comic books are different than movies.) Anyway, there was alot of picture in picture type shots with different action in all parts of the screen. Very dizzying and busy. He should just stick to martial arts and gay cowboys.
The Incredible Hulk was amazing especially when compared to the previous movie. I'm sure it'll get tons more excitement just because it is better than the old one. As is custom for comic book movies to pay homage to their creator, Stan Lee has an even longer cameo in this movie than in previous ones. After visiting www.artofthetitle.com I have gained a greater appreciation and understanding of the title sequences. In TIH, it definitely has one amazing title sequence that tells the entire story of how Bruce Banner becomes the Hulk by the end of the sequence. This of course leaves the rest of the movie time for amazing action and fighting sequences. I'm glad we didn't have to get bogged down with the back story.
I definitely could have used a bit more humor and some time to calm down. It was very action-packed with several long chase and fighting scenes that after an all-too brief resting period was followed by even more. However, there were a few humorous scenes, and the special effects were truly amazing. Edward Norton and Liv Tyler did a fantastic job of representing their comic book counterparts while still making the character their own.
Now, the movie has been out for a week, so I'm sure many of you have heard that a special someone makes a shocking and somewhat exciting appearance near the end. I won't spoil it for you, but I'm thrilled for what his/ her appearance entails for the future.
Overall, very nicely done; special effects were life-like and amazing; action sequences were thrilling; acting was superb. If I had to give it a rating, I would definitely say 4 out of 5 stars. Like I said, I could have used a few more breaks to catch my breath and some humor, but a great film you all should go see!
Reviews Coming Soon: Kung Fu Panda, Iron Man, Indiana Jones 4, Made of Honor, and Prince Caspian
Monday, March 3, 2008
Get LOST!
So, I when I find the spare time, I will catch you up on the previous seasons, or at least link to the guides I like the most, and give you a weekly run-down of the rest of the episodes. In fact, to prove my cleverness, I'll do it in 815 words or less.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
A Valentine's Day Tribute
Lover's Movies:
Pride and Prejudice- What list of romantic movies would be complete without this film? It's got romance, intrigue, and a hunky leading man; what more could one want? If you're a purest, you'll want to go for the 5 hour A&E version with Colin Firth (start now to get it all in!). However, if you just want the romance and the basic story line, go for the new version with Kiera Knightley. Some refuse, but hey sometimes you don't have 5 hours.
While You Were Sleeping- The ultimate romantic comedy that effortlessly balance romance and humor. Sandra Bullock is cute and funny, and Bill Pullman is loveable. It's a great movie with some classic, unforgetably hilarious scenes. Watch with a significant other or even some friends and know that sometimes "things don't always work out the way you plan."
Sleepless in Seattle- A truly romantic movie with humor, disappointment, and hope all rolled into one. The ultimate leading man (Tom Hanks) and leading lady (Meg Ryan) have chemistry that cannot be denied (the movie also references another romance classic An Affair to Remember) which makes this the perfect movie for Valentine's Day (seeing as it is also an important holiday in the movie). If you're liking the Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan action check out You've Got Mail as well.
Ever After- A twist on an old fairytale this one's got a little of everything with a handsome prince, an evil stepmother (and sister), a humorous friend, and an independent Cinderella who doesn't necessarily have to be rescued from her fate. Drew Barrymore plays the perfect confident Cinderella where finally the evil stepsister and mother get their comeupppance (unlike the Disney version). If you want a little more modern Drew Barrymore watch Never Been Kissed, and for a little funnier Drew go with 50 First Dates.
Much Ado About Nothing- What's a Valentine's Day without a little shout out to Romeo himself? An all-star (and culturally diverse) cast brought together by Kenneth Branagh performs Shakespeare's play in a way I'm sure Will would have appreciated. It covers a broad range of emotions, with betrayl, mischeiviousness, pain, humor, love, and eventually happiness for all parties involved. If you're into the more classic, tragic love story, by all means watch Romeo and Juliet (any version, although I'm a little weary of the modern one with Leonardo DiCaprio for those wanting the classic story), and if you're feeling a little more musical try Moulin Rogue.
The Princess Bride- A hilarious movie that not only has a romantic, fairytale-like story, but memorable quotes that bring laughter time and time again. If you're weary of another love story, fairy-tale at first, by the end you will be just like the little boy wanting to know what happens next. I mean who doesn't love some kissing and British accents?
Sweet Home Alabama- A unique love story where the original couple at the beginning aren't who we fall in love with. Reese Witherspoon is simply adorable, and with two very attractive men (good ole boy Josh Lucas, and McDreamy Patrick Dempsey), it's a tough choice. It's cute, funny, and definitely a movie to get one into the holiday spirit.
The Lakehouse- A perfect portrayl of love knowing no bounds, even that of time. Not one for those looking for humor, but is more for those wanting a truly romantic love story. It's a terrific movie with heart-breaking scenes as well as heart-felt ones. Will the two soul-mates finally be together? Only time will tell...
Hitch- For some quirky, funny, romantic movies go with this one. Who doesn't think Will Smith is sexy? Will is the perfect fit for a love doctor, and it is interesting to see if the love doctor gives himself his own prescription. And, as a bonus, we get two love stories for the price of one. Sweet!
Runaway Bride- A classic Garry Marshall movie that brings with it love, humor, and some action. In hopes to receive vindication, Richard Gere hopes to prove his theory about Julia Roberts correct, only to become part of the story. Let's hope your significant other doesn't get any ideas after watching this one.
Hater's Movies:
First Wives' Club- The ultimate men hating movie in which superb actresses, namely Diane Keaton, Goldie Hawn, and Bette Midler, join together to get back at their cheating husbands. They take a stand for themselves and for women everywhere. A great girl power movie that proves that sometimes we don't need men. (Although not a terrific movie, Practical Magic with Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, also deals with women overpowering men. There is a small love story in it though, just to warn you).
Calendar Girls- Sometimes all we need to cheer us up is some quality time with the girl friends. This movie is hilarious, and proves that friendship can help us get through the toughest times. If today is not your holiday, get together with a few close friends and watch this movie.
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood- Kind of along the same lines of Calendar Girls, this movie has a lot to do with friendship. But, it is mostly the story about a girl who finally, after hearing the background and real story, connects and truly understands her mother. She knows why her mother is the way she is, and essentially by knowing her mother, she knows herself. An excellent movie that lets us know that despite what happens, our mothers do love us.
The Three Amigos- This is a friendship movie for the guys. Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, and Martin Short join up to create an awesome crime-fighting trio that really is all an act. It has gun fighting, a ridiculous bad guy, and a great ending. There is of course a tiny little love, but really nothing that gets in the way of the comedy that this trio bring to the screen. This movie will bring a "plethora" of laughs as you try not to choke on your popcorn.
City Slickers and The Sandlot- These two are also for the guys. What's a better way to prove your manliness than wrestling up some cattle as a cowboy and playing a mean game of baseball? There's no girls (ok maybe there's a few) in these movies to mess up the manly bonding that can be witnessed in these movies. Along with humor, these two are quite the action adventure movies that any man without a gal would love.
Gone with the Wind- These are for those of you who like a love story but love the tragic, and perhaps all too fitting ending in which the girl does not get the guy. If you're willing to not only watch this long movie, but to watch the ridiculous and really obnoxious Scarlet O'Hara, then perhaps Valentine's Day really isn't for you. But really perhaps it's all worth it for the classic line from our all too favorite Rhett Butler, "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn."
My Girl- Again this goes with those who like a really sad and tragic love story. This movie definitely fits the bill. It's cute, and touching and remind us of the childhood crushes we had when we were young and liked Valentine's Day (you know where everyone was required to give you a Valentine). But, our nostalgia all comes crashing down when we witness the horror that bees can do to someone who is alergic. I cry every time.
Steel Magnolias-Also a crying movie. It kind of combines the friendship movies with a tragic ending. The actresses in this movie are truly amazing, and do an excellent job in portraying a truly Southern friendship at a hair parlor. It is heartbreaking to watch Sally Field's remarkable performance at her daughter's funeral, but then we are relieved when finally laughter breaks up the somber mood. To watch this movie is a very cathartic experience, and maybe on Valentine's Day, that's what you need.
The Terminal- Unlike the tragic love story movies earlier, this one has very little to do with the love story and more to do with one man trying everything he can to fulfill the one promise he made to his father. Your patience will be rewarded because at the end you finally find out what is in that can Tom Hanks keeps caring around. Yes there is a small "love" story with Catherine Zeta Jones, but it really is not central to the plot. It is about a man, stuck in an airport, a few steps from where he wants to be but forbidden to take those steps, trying to survive in a country and language he does not know. How romantic.
Live Free or Die Hard (or basically any action movie like the Bourne series, the Ocean's series etc)- I singled out Live Free or Die Hard because it's recent and basically I think Justin Long is amazing. What I like about this movie is that you don't have to have seen the other Die Hard movies to understand it. It is definitely action packed with explosions and fire right and left (watch the amazing scene with the car and the helicopter). There is only a slightest faint hint of a love interest at the very end, but really is nothing and if you wanted to, you could ignore it completely. If you don't have someone who's stolen your heart, why not watch a movie where someone literally takes someone elses? Ahh what a perfect Valentine's Day.
And for those of you who can't decide, who want many different kind of love stories, some sad and tragic, some happy and romantic, watch Love Actually. It is amazing and has a little of everything. Whatever you end up doing know that we love you! Happy Valentine's Day!
Saturday, February 9, 2008
WELCOME ONE AND ALL!!!
So, this is our first post, Megan and I. Let us introduce ourselves, we are both soon-to-be graduating college students who are procrastinating the inevitable; that is finding a job for after we finally obtain the seemingly elusive degree. We decided to get together and spout off our opinions on the latest movies and television shows (and hopefully bands and music later on and maybe even books) for all of the world wide web to see.
Let's be honest, there's a lot of media out there, some good, some bad, some awesome, and some devastatingly terrible; and that's where we come in. We are here to guide you through the mucky, swampy, marshlands of the media jungle (no not "Lipstick Jungle"... that's later). We'll let you know what is simply "must see" and what is really a waste of your precious time. We know you don't have time to decide what is worth the one or two hours you would have rather spent washing your hair or ironing your shirt.
Feedback is welcome, let us know what shows/movies/music/books you want to know about! Help us, help you because friends don't let friends watch crap. Be looking for future posts on what's new with the media world (because it's better coming from a friend).
