Wannabe Movie Buffs

Hiatus

2010-08-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Obviously we have neglected this blog - which we loved- for quite sometime. Pretty much after I became pregnant, I let this fall to the wayside. Now that our baby is here, it's still on a back burner (way in the back). SO . . . maybe we will pick this up again. Maybe we will review new release DVDs . . . maybe we will get to go the movies again someday (maybe). However, for now, this blog is on hiatus. A baby induced hiatus.

We apologize, to our adoring fans . . . all two of them (Hi, Mom!)

The Hurt Locker

2010-02-21T09:57:00.001-08:00

****' 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

2010-02-21T09:38:00.001-08:00

****' 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

2010-02-21T09:10:00.000-08:00

***** 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

2010-02-21T08:46:00.000-08:00

***** 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

2010-02-21T08:23:00.001-08:00

**** 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.

Public Enemies

2009-12-18T21:46:00.000-08:00

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.

2009-12-18T21:37:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-18T21:17:00.001-08:00

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.

2009-12-18T21:06:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-18T20:56:00.000-08:00

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.

TBA

2009-09-12T01:45:00.000-07:00

Movies Viewed and Soon to be Reviewed:

500 Days of Summer

District 9

Inglorious Bastards

The Soloist

Public Enemies

Julie & Julia

We will get these up soon- I know the world is waiting!

I Love You Man

2009-09-12T00:03:00.000-07:00

41/2 Stars: ****'

Oh My Gosh!! This movie is SO funny. We Red Box-ed it and oh man- it was great. First of all, Paul Rudd is the best. I've been a fan ever since Clueless, and I just think he is so adorable. I also can't say enough good things about Jason Segel- great comedic timing and the perfect "Tweedle Dee" to Paul Rudd character's "Tweedle Dum".

Quick witted and sweet, the story line moves quickly to make for a great comedy. Paul Rudd plays quite the lovable dork. Since being newly engaged, he realizes he has spent his life focused on relationships with girls, rather than living by a "bro code". Trying his best to make new guy friends, Rudd is able find the perfect "man friend" match in Segel to deliver a true laugh-out-loud comedy.

After supporting roles in films like Knocked Up, Rudd finally takes the lead- and the result is fantastic. We were also pleasantly surprised with Rashida Jones, from the office, who played off Rudd's awkward banter perfectly. Robbie and I both had to pause the movie several times because we are laughing so hard.

Star Trek

2009-06-12T22:16:00.001-07:00

5 Stars *****

This movie was: GREAT! Robbie and I both loved it. It was a great blend of action, plot and humor. As someone who isn't a super Star Trek fan, but enjoys the "fantasy" genre, I was able to really be drawn into the world of Star Trek.

It was also nice to see that not only could I enjoy the movie as a "non-fan", but the hard core fans could also connect with the film. There was something for everyone. The movie did a great job of bridging the gap between the old school story line and introducing the plot in a way to attract a whole new crowd of fans (myself included).

The special effects were phenomenal. I really appreciate it when I forget that I'm watching a "special effect" and momentarily forget that warp speed, raging Romulans and being

"beamed" up are actually fictional. Way to go CGI, you fooled me again!

Great cast, great story and great production.

Sunshine Cleaning

2009-05-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

4 Stars: ****

I loved Sunshine Cleaning. I loved it. It was clever, moving, sincere and touching. (Too many adjectives?) I could definitely tell that this was from the same producers as Little Miss Sunshine (which I also deeply love).

The story is character driven, but also has a interesting plot to move us along. As two "down and out" sisters find themselves on the brink of financial and personal ruin, they form a crime scene clean-up company; and of course along the way find closure and meaning in their family's relationships. I know this may seem too chick flick and typical (besides the crime scene clean up), but you can expect something fresh and novel from the Little Miss Sunshine team- and that's what you get. The movie is witty and has just the right amount of real-life drama and subtle humor to make for a film.

I was already a huge fan of Amy Adams and Emily Blunt before this movie, but this increased my admiration for them even more. They do such a wonderful job of recreating the tension and love that is often shared between sisters. You also can't go wrong with Alan Arkin and Steve Zahn (my husband's look-a-like) in supporting roles.

All around the movie has a great cast, with great screen writing and cinematography. The movie is both funny and touching and makes you leave the theater with a smile and a feeling of optimism that didn't have upon entering.

The Wrestler

2009-05-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

1 1/2 Stars: *'

I'm just going to dive right in: we did NOT enjoy this movie. Robbie I both had extremely high expectations, which may have been part of the problem, as we were greatly let down. After great reviews, one crazy Golden Globe speech and a million ridiculous TMZ bits, we were expecting greatness!

Mickey Rourke did make an amazing comeback with this film- we can all agree on that. I was even mildly rooting for him during oscar season because he was such an under-dog. Even the story of how The Wrestler began production was intriguing- with all on again, off again funding and studio backing. However, in my humble opinion, that is probably why the movie got to be so huge. It only takes a few sold critics and a bit of a media buzz to create acclaim for a movie like this well after it came out.

Honestly, I feel like I'm the only one saying "the Emperor is wearing no clothes", but this movie was unentertaining and raunchy. First of all, I don't know what I truly expected because the main character whips his bleached blond, mangily hair around the whole movie wearing bloody, neon green stretch pants. Secondly, the crux of the movie is bad WWF wrestling matches, so no surprise there at my lack of enthusiasm. Thirdly, I am just not personally interested in Marisa Tomei's gross boobs, I'm just not.

The problem was that I had already seen the whole movie when I watched the preview and oscar clips. He's old and sad. He loves a stripper. His daughter hates him. He wears spandex. The end. Again, to Mickey's credit, he did do a good acting job. Very believable and moving during the "emotional" scenes. But he was playing himself, so how hard can that be, and then on top of that he was being emotional about "pro" wrestling . . . so . . .

I woke up from the end of this movie feeling bored, dirty and depressed. Sorry, world, I have to disagree with you on this one.

Watchmen

2009-03-31T21:16:00.000-07:00

3 Stars ***

Robbie liked this movie way more than I did. But since I'm writing this review; I'm telling what I think- or at least mostly what I think.

First of all, let me say the special effects were quite stunning. The film style is unique and the action sequences were very well done. It was directed by Zack Snyder, who also directed 300. He likes to do the whole "freeze frame" thing during the really intense fight scenes or actions scenes.

The previews for Watchmen appeared to very epic. Maybe that's why Robbie was so drawn to the film. However, I didn't find the film incredibly life changing. I think that this movie was primarily for people that were already invested in the graphic novel's characters and story line. The film didn't draw me in at all as an "outsider" to the Watchmen story.

My biggest problems were with the crazy, wax face Nixon character and the ever prevalent blue penis. All the Nixon shots were ridiculous. It looked like a high school make-up job. On top of the make-up department's blunders, the CIG people must have had a great time creating the glowing, blue penis of Dr. Manhattan, which can be seen 75% of the movie. Why we couldn't have just seen the good Dr. from the waist up during the film is beyond me. We could have gotten the fact that he goes around naked without being distracted by his neon genitals. Just my opinion.

Secondarily, I thought the love scenes were gross. Ew. That's all I have to say about that.

I thought 300 was near amazing. But this fell a little short of my expectations, although like I said, Robbie really enjoyed the action and plot of Watchmen.

The Bank Job

2009-02-28T15:24:00.001-08:00

3 Stars: ***

Okay, so it's Jason Stathom, I know; but don't be so quick to judge. This movie is anything but, Transporter 4.

The fact that this is movie is based on a true story is really quite incredible. If it wasn't real, I might say it is too over the top- but this all really did "go down".

The producers also did a fantastic job of recreating 1970's London. From the costumes to the cars to the buildings- everything just felt spot on.

You are rooting for the blue collared, small-time-criminal, yahoos the whole time. The characters are lovable and relatable. Although the plot grows more intense as the movie progresses, you are still invested in the actual characters.

It was refreshing to see Mr. Stathom in a relatively different setting than his usual movies. Rather that watching him jump over unfinished, flaming bridges in race cars, we actually got to see him act . . . and he wasn't half bad. The Bank Job's plot is suspenseful and the characters are endearing- it's so crazy, it has to be true.

He's Just Not That Into You

2009-02-16T19:52:00.000-08:00

3 1/2 Stars ***'

He's Just Not That Into You was originally meant by the authors for a funny/random coffee table book (perhaps for sale at an Urban Outfitters-esk store?) according to an Oprah interview. However, it's surprise success spawned the movie He's Just Not That Into You, which focuses on the harsh reality of the dating world. A comical look at the wistful delusions of women and the chauvinist and dumb-witted ways of men, the movie delivers just the right amount of romance with comedic timing.

The all star cast is balanced throughout the entire movie. No one person carries the film, which makes it a smorgasbord of pop-culture icons. The cast includes: (the cheesy) Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Connelly, Kevin Connolly, Bradley Cooper (two gentlemen that I have had a celebrity crush on for quite a while), Ginnfer Goodwin (who I looove), Scarlett Johansson, and Justin Long.

This is a true romantic-comedy . . . finally! The characters are believable and honest and the story line is genuinely funny, heart breaking, and most of all: realistic. Each person who watches this movie can relate to some aspect of it. Ginnfer Goodwin is my personal favorite character, probably because she reminds me most of myself when I was dating. However, each woman (and even man) in the film has a sliver of me in them. This funny, bright film leaves you with a smile on your face and just the right amount of cheesy to make even the toughest "man's man" have that little twinge of romance in his heart.

The Reader

2009-02-16T19:09:00.000-08:00

3 Stars ***

Having read the book, and then viewed the movie, I can say that The Reader as an adaptation to the screen was extremely well done. Kate Winslet's acting was flawless: subtle and spot on. We forgot that we were watching "Rose from Titanic" or Kate Winslet for that matter, and were completely enthralled by Hanna Schmitz.

Although a WWII - Holocaust film in some sense, I liked how the focus of the story was the characters, rather than the events of the war. Not that I haven't been moved by many Holocaust films and documentaries, but it was interesting to see the focus and plot be character driven. There are many issues at work within the film that touch on the human experience: namely the effects that the weight of shame, guilt and regrets can have on a life, and the courage it takes to push beyond them.

I expected Ralph Finnes to have a much larger role since he was headlining the movie, but the scenes that he acted were so perfectly executed, he earned his "headline". He was able to bring so much emotion and depth to the role. In addition to Finnes, David Kross did a wonderful job of bringing young Michael Berg to life on screen. In fact, the young Michael carries about three quarters of the movie, and truly holds his own with Winslet.

Aside from all the amazing acting, I was surprised by the very sexual nature of the film. The book has many sensual parts and touches on very delicate issues that revolve around the sexual nature of people and sexuality across generations; however, I thought the movie had some parts that were overly graphic. I felt the message could have come across without such explicit "love" scenes and the (ahem) full male frontal nudity. (Their clothes are off, we see the naked shoulders, they embrace . . . we get the picture. Why the need for the almost porn?)

Slumdog Millionaire

2009-02-16T18:51:00.000-08:00

4 Stars ****

We can't say enough about this out of no-where, surprise crowd pleaser. Slumdog Millionaire truly delivers. As a Bollywood, cross-over film, it has earned its recent acclimation. The plot is compelling and the cinematography is a great mix of Bollywood and Western elements.

The cast is perfect. Even though every single line might not be delivered with oscar worthy flare, the acting fits the movie and keeps you wanting more. The film keeps your interest with flash backs throughout the movie, slowly putting together the puzzle. I'm a big fan of the flashback: piecing the plot together piece by piece, revealing the whole story at the very end.

I also appreciated how the movie kept us engaged with lovable and interesting characters, while hitting on critical issues of poverty, child exploitation and violence in India (and world wide for that matter).

Overall, we loved the film and we definitely left the theater feeling optimistic and positive. Although slightly over the top/cheesy at times, it's a movie we will be watching again, and adding to our personal movie collection.

Revolutionary Road

2009-02-16T18:10:00.000-08:00

4 Stars ****

With the Oscars right around the corner, I just have to share my feelings on this film adaptation. As one who has read the book recently, I really think Revolutionary Road, the movie, did a wonderful job of capturing the essence of the novel.

Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio were amazing. In my opinion, some of the best acting I've seen. I am very shocked that Leo is not up for an oscar, I really think he has earned it with this performance.

The costumes were amazing and the movie extremely well cast. The chemistry between Leonardo and Kate is undeniable, and with great additions to the cast like Kathy Bates and Michael Shannon the film shines on all sides.

Although not the most upbeat movie, by any means, it definitely hits on important issues for any person to consider as we strive toward happiness and fulfillment in life: Who are we? What gives our life meaning? How do we keep going when we feel our life has plateaued? I think that most couples, although perhaps not in the same exact situations, can see shadows of their own relationship in this poignant film.

The First of Many

2009-02-16T17:53:00.000-08:00

So, we are going to give this a try. I've always wanted to do a movie review blog, and now I'm going to reach for my dreams and shoot for the stars! (If only I had an appropriately cheesy quote to pull out at this moment!)

We don't promise to be the most well-written or profound movie bloggers of all time, but we plan to write what we honestly think.

Films may or may not be newly released.

All "Star" Ratings are our of five stars.

Our Self-Proclaimed Qualifications for Writing a Movie Blog:

1. Love of movies

2. Appreciation of many cinematic elements

3. Cross-genre movie appreciation

4. We are cool

5. We are fun

6. (Limited) experience with acting and theater

7. Hot

8. Love to share our recommendations (take 'em or leave 'em)