Public Enemies

Sarah- 4 Stars:****
Robbie- 1 1/2 Stars: *'

As you can see, Robbie and I had different opinions on this movie. I loved it! He fell asleep . . .

What I loved about this movie may have been the very things that made Robbie dislike it. The movie seemed very honest, not over the top with unbelievable action scenes. The cinematography matched this with a muted, yet classic tone.

It also had a great focus on the people and character relationships rather than skipping from action scene to the next. I loved the depiction of John Dillinger and his girlfriend Billie Frechette- it was so moving and heartbreaking all at the same time. You were rooting for him all along, even though he was "America's public enemy #1". The portrayal of 1930's FBI and J. Edgar Hoover was also fascinating as the hunt for Dillinger became increasingly public and top priority.

Johny Depp was flawless as usual, and Christian Bale and Marion Cotilland were a fantastic compliment.

3 Stars: ***

I watched this movie with a group of friends who love to cook and eat (as it is meant to be watched) and really had a great time. I wouldn't say I loved this movie, but I would definitely say I liked it very much. Perhaps it was the incredible high hopes and build up that I had for this movie, but it was just a little bit short of what I was hoping for.

However, Meryl Streep (who can do no wrong in my eyes) did a WONDERFUL job of portraying Julia Child and my main criticism of the movie was that I wanted more of that story, and less of the blogger Julie. Her performance was completely believable and lovable. I felt as if Julia and I would have been great friends as I forgot that I was watching Meryl as Julia, and was entranced with Ms. Child herself.

Amy Adams, whom I also usually love in any role, was just not as engaging. I didn't care enough about the whiny blogger, her bad fashion and semi-cute hair cut. I wanted more Julia Child as I said before, and also left the movie wanting a more conclusive and dramatic ending. Overall good- but not the best.

This Is It

Five Stars: *****

This Is It needs very few words: it was AMAZING.

As big Michael Jackson fans, it was very interesting to see rehearsals and a side of MJ that is rarely seen, him as an artist and real person. The cameras at his rehearsals were not meant to be a professional film crew, which sets the stage to see Michael at his most honest and candid.

The movie takes the footage from his final rehearsals for his last tour and edits them flawlessly. If this wins an Oscar for editing, I would not be surprised (and I don't believe I've ever said that about a movie). The way in which the various bits of film were put together gave the effect of watching an actual performance.

This movie left me wanting more- regardless of the tabloids stories, rumors and scandal surrounds Michael, his talent as an entertainer is clear in this ingenuous documentary.

4 Stars: ****

This is definitely a potential cross-over movie for sci-fi and action lovers alike, although I would not put it on the same level as Star Trek. However, the story line is compelling and the alternate vision of South Africa, infested with a new alien race is surprisingly believable. This is not your typical alien film.

Peter Jackson certainly did a great job of entertaining his audience and commenting on the condition of the human race simultaneously.

We both really enjoyed District 9- we were on the edge of our seats until the final moment . . . the combination of suspense and humanity was very satisfying.

500 Days of Summer

31/2 Stars: ***'

This movie was adorable in every way. It was also realistic- which Robbie and I appreciated. Although I usually appreciate a good romantic comedy regardless of the "could this happen in real life factor", it was nice to have that.

And who doesn't love a good musical break with cheesey dancing to an awesome Hall & Oats classic. Who?

I have also missed Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who finally comes back with a crush-worthy performance. I personally have loved him since 10 Things I Hate About You, and it was about time to see him in his full glory.

Well done, Marc Webb, well done.