The Hurt Locker

****' 4 1/2 Stars

A interesting look into the War in Iraq. This film is apolitical, which makes it all the more engaging, as it just focuses on the soldiers experiences. Full of suspense and amazing special effects, this movie truly delivers. In a male dominated field of film making, Kathryn Bigelow gives a refreshing version of a war, action movie.

Following a bomb squad in American-occupied Iraq you get a sense of the hardships of war and the emotional toil of combat. Probably the best movie portrayal of the Iraq War, the acting is impeccable and the cinematography and special effects nothing short of amazing.

A must see.

(Good luck to Kathryn up for best director against her ex-husband James Cameron.)

Inglorious Basterds

****' 4 1/2 Stars

A typical Tarantino film - Inglorious Basterds is incredibly violent, with just the right dose of dark humor and satire. Set during WW II, you almost don't mind the violence, as most of it is directed as those Nazi a-holes.

This movie has intrigue, suspense, love and great acting. "The Basterds" are an American team sent in to terrorize and exterminate as many Nazis as possible. Their brute tactics and cavalier attitude about killing the Germans is almost endearing! All of the acting was superb, however Brad Pitt, B.J. Novak, and Melanie Laurent all shined for me, especially. Additionally, Christoph Waltz is one of the best villains I have ever seen on the silver screen. You love to hate him.

Tarantino's unique style shines through and perfectly compliments all the other film's elements: the dark content, humorous nature of the script and comic book violence that is truly Tarantino's niche.

A Serious Man

***** 5 Stars

Robbie and I loved this movie . . . that is, after we were able to digest it all about 10 minutes after the credits started to roll.

The film definitely leaves you asking: "What the heck?" initially, in true Coen brother style. However, the movie is very reflective of real life, which often leaves you asking, "What the heck?" as well.

The casting, cinematography, design and costuming is excellent, as it really gives you a sense of a Jewish community in the Mid-west during the 1960's. The movie is both though provoking and oddly humorous, as we follow the middle-aged Jewish college professor and family man trying to lead the life of a "serious man".

Thanks Coen brothers, you've done it again.

Up

***** 5 Stars

This adorable and touching animated adventure has all the elements of a great movie. During the course of the film I literally laughed, cried and waited in suspense to see where these characters, that I had grown to love, ended up.

Although the plot may be fantastic, the human element to the story was undeniable. You honestly cared about all the characters: the old man, chubby boy scout and talking dog. The graphics are amazing (which is no surprise for a Pixar film) and lures you into this exotic world of floating houses and chocolate loving birds.

Above all, this film gives the reminder to take nothing for granted with an entertaining story and first-rate graphics. Talking dogs and a message to better your life - can you ask for anything more??

Up In The Air

**** 4 Stars

Although, not your average feel good movie, it does make you stop and think about what it means to live in the "2000's". To echo many "real" movie critics, George Clooney gives the performance of his career. Since this movie is highly character driven (my favorite), the sincere performance of all the leading and supporting actors really drives the relevancy of this film home.

Again, this movie doesn't necessarily give you the brightest outlook on life, but there is the glimmer of hope that through some soul-searching we may all find at least a piece of some American Dream happiness.

This film deserves all the accolades it has gotten: from the cinematography, to the script, to the acting it really gives a honest look at the human condition in today's society.