Friday, May 31, 2013

After Earth

A more appropriate title would've been "After Death," or perhaps "After I Am Legend."

This was a MAJOR sigh, especially for a movie written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan.  I expected so.much.more (then again, maybe not, the story is by Will Smith). 

It wasn't all bad, there were like 2 good parts (seriously).  And the speech (about fear) by Will Smith that they show in EVERY preview of the movie was really good too (really great point).

So, on to the plot.  The movie takes place in the future, after Earth is no longer a suitable planet for humans (ha ha, get it?).  Will Smith is the commander of the protectors (known as rangers) of the human race, and his son, Jaden (who plays his son in the movie), aspires to become a ranger, like his Dad.  Fast forward (as explained in the previews), the pair end up on Earth battling it's elements.  That's about it in a nutshell.  I was extremely bored for the first 75% of the movie.  It was VERY similar to watching Will Smith wander around Earth by himself (talking to himself) with his dog during the movie "I Am Legend."

Yup, I expected more.  So, for you sci-fi fans, I would stick to this summer's previous sci-fi releases, "Star Trek" and "Oblivion."

Rating:  1.5/5 stars

P.S. Zoe Kravitz (Lisa Bonet & Lenny Kravitz' daughter) did a pretty good job!

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Peeples

I was dragging my feet on this one.  I couldn't decide whether I should see it because it appeared to be really silly, and it looked like a cross between "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner,"(which has already been redone), and "Meet The Parents."  Since it will not be playing in a whole lot of theaters tomorrow due to the new releases of "After Earth," and "Now You See Me," as well as a pretty decent review from a friend, I decided to check it out today.

If you haven't heard of it, "Peeples" is about a couple (Craig Robinson & Kerry Washington), that have been dating for a while; the boyfriend knows everything there is to know about his girlfriend, but, hasn't met her family, the Peeples.  Hoping to finally meet them, he surprises her family on a weekend getaway.

Very much like "Meet the Parents," (so, I won't tell you about it, as it would ruin it and make it way too predictable), however, it has different types of family members and the plot has a few twists.  I chuckled quite a bit (not to be confused w/ laughing).  I really liked the brothers, and the mother (S. Epatha Merkerson), and you can never go wrong with Kerry Washington.  Her facial expressions really crack me up.  Side note, she may be on the path of Morgan Freeman; I haven't seen her in a bad role yet.  (Something to think about).  Anyway, on to the rating....

Rating:  2.5/5 - It was decent, (actually not bad for a free movie - I used my pass I got from the Iron Man 3 theater screw up).  So, when it makes it to Redbox (or the dollar theater), check it out! :-)

P.S. there are some good movies coming out later this year:  Kevin Hart in "Laugh At My Pain," "The Best Man Holiday), "Baggage Claim," and "The Butler," which is based on a true story starring Forrest Whitaker.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

At Any Price

I'm quite sure you've never heard of this one, I wouldn't have either if I hadn't gone to see so many independent films this month! :-)

"At Any Price" caught my eye because it stars Dennis Quaid, Heather Graham, and Zac Efron.  I think its neat that all these "big" stars are making movies for smaller studios, and they're pretty good movies too.  Anyway, the movie is about a family that owns a farm in Iowa.  As with any other family, they have their share of problems; the father wants his rebellious son to take over the family business one day, and the son wants no part of it.  Along with that, the family is faced with a crisis that could definitely change their lives as they know it.

I don't know if I would be pressed to see this on the big screen.  While decent, I can see why a "blockbuster movie studio" may not have decided to pick this one up.

Rating:  2.5/5 stars - I will say though, that Zac has come quite a ways since "High School Musical," his acting was pretty good!!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Hangover 3

The Wolfpack is back!!!!  Yes, for the 3rd and final time, Phil, Stu, Alan, an Doug are together again for one final adventure!

I have to be honest though, I was a little hesitant about seeing "Hangover 3," as I was NOT a fan of Hangover 2; it was much too detail oriented, intricate, overdone, and just too much.  I'm glad I decided to see part 3 though, because it was NOTHING like part 2!  It was the perfect formula, just like the original Hangover.  This one is centered around Alan and his issues, however, (as usual), everyone else (including Mr. Chow) ends up with some part in the action.  I laughed, and laughed, and laughed.

Yup, I can definitely see this one again, and I will more than likely add it to my collection along with the original. 

Rating:  4/5 stars - make sure you don't jump up as soon as the screen goes black, there is some more to see (but, you won't have to stay and watch all the credits though).

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Now You See Me

"Now You See Me" will be in theaters May 31st, and I could quite possibly be in line to see it again!  Yup, it was that good!!

The movie is about a group of 4 illusionists that pull off massive tricks involving millions of dollars.  You never know what's coming, who did it, how it was done...I could go on forever (you get the point).  When it was over, I definitely added it to my list of "do overs."  For me, it was on the scale of "The Sixth Sense."

Anyway, it stars superstar Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network), Woody Harrelson, Mark Ruffalo (Avengers' Hulk), Michael Caine, and the always on point, Morgan Freeman.  Seriously, has Morgan EVER made a bad movie??! :-)

Rating:  4.5/5 - great action scenes, tons of "make you think moments," and a whole lot of good acting!

And P.S., how come I didn't know Common was in this movie?? #addedplus :)

Friday, May 17, 2013

THE ICEMAN

I had to list this movie, "THE ICEMAN" in all caps, because that is exactly how it should be emphasized.  The movie is based on a true story of a contract killer that worked for the mafia.  Richard (Richie) Kuklinski was just that, "ice cold," and completed his contract missions (to earn money to support his family) without batting an eye.

I was surprised that I never heard of this man (he was arrested in '86), but, then again, I haven't heard of half of the criminals that were arrested in the '80s and '90s, unless it was local or a really huge story that made national news.

I am really impressed with the limited release and independent films that have been coming out lately, they have been really good.  I would definitely recommend checking out this movie, especially if you like gangster type mafia movies.  It wasn't very gory (which I liked) and kept up with the time period when everything actually took place.  I was also surprised that there were a lot of stars in this movie; Ray Liotta, Winona Ryder, David Schwimmer (Ross from 'Friends'), Chris Evans (Captain America), Michael Shannon, and James Franco.

Rating:  3.5/5 stars

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Star Trek Into Darkness

Okay, "Trekkies," Captain Kirk & his crew are back to take on a new nemesis of Starfleet Command!  As expected, this movie does not disappoint; there are TONS of special effects, great action scenes, and space adventures.  Kirk still flies by the seat of his own pants, and Spock doesn't let you down with even more logic to annoy Kirk & the good doctor McCoy, and if you're a true fan, the similarities between this film and some before it will be enjoyable.

I'm definitely more of a Star Wars than Star Trek fan, but, I am definitely a fan of this new generation of Enterprise crew and I truly enjoy seeing them on the big screen.  Both series (especially this movie) contain intricacies involving explanations and details that the average person would need a Star Wars & Star Trek encyclopedia/dictionary to totally comprehend (I'm quite sure both exist, lol), but, I am not complaining!  Anyway, I liked "Into Darkness" as much as the 1st Star Trek released in '09, I could easily see it again, and will be adding to my DVD collection.

Rating:  4.5/5 stars - there is no surprise after the credits, but, the theme music is phenomenal (if you decide to stay).  They really need to consider making a "Star Trek in concert" like they did Star Wars.  It would be GREAT!!! :-)

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Fast & Furious 6

I checked out a sneak preview of "Fast & Furious 6" tonight.....LOVED IT!!!!  100% action!  This franchise and the "Die Hard" franchise will never get old to me. 

This one starts where 5 left off with a new journey for Dom and company.  Ludacris and Tyrese are definitely my favorite of the crew, they have a new found talent, comedy.  The 2nd set of movies (4, 5, & 6) are my favorite, and the studio has already announced this week that part 7 is currently being made.

So, if you're looking for action and lots of fast driving, crazy stunts, (and a few surprises), this is your movie.  Make sure you don't jump out of your seat as soon as the credits start.  Oh yeah, make sure you don't jump in your car and take off flying down the street either, you may get a ticket lol.

Favorite quote:  You've gone from Shaggy to Scooby. This is something we don't doooo. - Tej Parker (Ludacris)

Rating:  3.5/5 stars

Monday, May 13, 2013

The Sapphires

I think I will call this month "Independent Movie Month."  I saw another one today (independent film, that is), called "The Sapphires."  My Dad has been talking about it for almost two months, and since I TOTALLY trust his judgment (even more of a movie critic/expert than me), I've been waiting and waiting for it to make it to the theaters here in Charlotte.

The movie setting is Australia, takes place during the mid-'60s, and is about 4 Aborigine girls (2 cousins and 2 sisters), and their quest to become a famous singing group, while facing racism and adversity.  I would compare this to a mix of "Sparkle" (the original, not the remake) and "The Five Heartbeats." 

Rating:  4/5 stars - TOTALLY loved it; about 1.5 hours long, great story and music.  Be on the lookout for it!

Sunday, May 12, 2013

The Great Gatsby...not so great

Seriously, not so great.  I'm glad I didn't read the book or see the original movie w/ Robert Redford, as I'm sure I wouldn't have made it through the entire 2 hours and 25 minutes of it.  Ok, here's why I didn't like it:

1.  The movie is supposed to be based in the 1920's era - so tell me why some of the background   music that was playing during the movie was "H to the Izzo, V to the Izzay" and "Your love has got me looking so crazy right now."  Yes, you read that correctly, Mr. & Mrs. Carter themselves could be heard during the soundrack.  Correct me if I'm wrong, but, I'm pretty sure there was no rap back then, and those songs didn't come out until the 21st century.  Sad.  Of course, when you (Jay-Z) are the Executive Producer, I guess you are allowed to have your music playing on the soundtrack.  Please stick to rap and I guess basketball.  Sigh.

2.  The movie was boring.  The cinematography was great, as were the colors, the extravagant party scenes, and the actors (especially Leo).  In fact, I'm sure the movie will get a nod when Oscar season rolls around, but, I caught myself checking my watch several times.

I hope you spare yourself of wasting any precious time watching this movie.  If you do feel the need though, try watching grass grow or paint dry; I promise it will be more entertaining.

On another note though, I've changed my mind about "The Hangover 3, since they showed practically the whole plot in the preview of this movie, I may actually check it out; it looks pretty good!

Happy Mother's Day all!!

Rating: 1.5/5 stars

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

The Company You Keep

"The Company You Keep" is about a former radical (Robert Redford) who has been in hiding for 30 years until one of his former partners (Susan Sarandon) is caught and a local reporter (Shia LaBeouf) gets wind of his identity and is determined to expose him and his background/story, regardless of who may get hurt in the process.  The movie keeps you guessing about who did what, whether the truth will ever come out, and how will it all end.

Directed by Robert Redford, there were a bunch of "headliners" in this movie:  Nick Nolte, Terrence Howard, Chris Cooper, Stanley Tucci, and Sam Elliott.  I enjoyed it, especially since a portion of the movie was filled in the "U.P." of Michigan, w/ several "hints" of Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan.  But, I also enjoyed the story, reminded me a lot of the movie "Spy Game," also directed by Redford.  This is another limited release movie that actually doesn't even have a rating.  Not fast paced in the least, but, good.

Rating:  3.5/5 stars

Monday, May 6, 2013

Mud

"Mud" is another independent type film, only released in a few theaters.  I'm glad I saw the preview for it during another movie, because I never would have heard about this one.

So, Mud is about 2 little boys that live near a river in Arkansas.  While out exploring, they happen upon a drifter (who also happens to be a fugitive), who goes by the name 'Mud' (played by Matthew McConaughey).  I'll admit, Matthew McConaughey accounts for about 95% of the reason I was interested in this movie (I'm kind of a fan), however, it was pretty good.  I thought it would be much slower than it actually was; for a movie that was 2 hours and 10 minutes long, it didn't feel like it was that long.  Don't get me wrong, there is about 5 maybe 10% worth of action in this movie, however, it didn't realy need it.  Anyway, the boys get pulled into Mud's life and the mysteries surrounding him.  Reese Witherspoon and Sam Shepard also star.

Rating:  2.5-3/5 stars

Friday, May 3, 2013

Iron Man 3

4 words:  Best.Iron.Man.EVER!!!!!!

Seriously, it really was the best one.  There were several scenes that I had to physically close my mouth after I saw them; new toys, same Tony Stark, new and better than ever special effects.  Yeah, it was the best one. 

So, Iron Man has a new villain. His name is "The Mandarin."  And, Tony Stark has to once again save the world, wait city, planet, whatever.  The point is, he has to do what he does best.  What else can I say?  It's a superhero movie w/ a great cast, plot, etc.  Don Cheadle did a really good job as well.  I was a little annoyed w/ his role (played by Terrence Howard in the 1st movie), but, this time, I liked his character a lot! Sir Ben Kingsley (The Mandarin) did a really good job too; (if I hadn't seen him last week on one of the late night shows, I wouldn't even realized he was in the movie), and the guy that "fixed" Tony Stark in the 1st Iron Man makes a brief appearance in this one.  So, if you're a fan, you'll enjoy it.  And oh yeah, make sure you stay 'til the VERY end of the movie (after ALL the credits), nothing major, but make sure you stay.

Icing on the cake:  5/17 - Star Trek Into Darkness
                               5/24 - Fast & Furious
                               7/3 -   The Lone Ranger
                               7/26 - The Wolverine
                               11/8 - Thor: The Dark World

AND, I got a free movie pass because there was a power outage, and the movie went out.  When it was restarted, it was about 5 minutes ahead of where it was cut off, THEN, (about 30 minutes into the movie), they restarted it again!  (FYI - ALWAYS go to customer service when something like this happens, they'll comp you) Ah well, still enjoyed it!! :-)

My new favorite quote:  "Failure is the fog through which we glimpse triumph" - Aldrich Killian

Rating: 5/5 stars (hands down, this was a no brainer for me! :-)

Thursday, May 2, 2013

The Big Wedding

"The Big Wedding"  is about a wedding.  No, seriously.  Ok, ok.  The movie is about a young couple that is all set to walk down the aisle, and as with every other movie about weddings (and weddings in real life, I might add), they have their fair share of family issues that they are presented with all at once.

Pros: 
    1.  Robert DeNiro, Katherine Heigl, and Diane Keaton star (oh yeah, Robin Williams too!).
    2.  There are some truly funny, laugh out loud moments.
    3.  There are some interesting twists that I wouldn't have guessed.

Cons:
    1.  The movie was short (1 hour, 30 minutes).  I think they could have done more if it was longer.
    2.  It was a lot like all the other movies about weddings ("American Wedding," "License to Wed").

I admit though, I knew it would be predictable (to an extent), and I knew it would be a chick flick (it really was - sorry husbands and boyfriends), but, I did enjoy it.  I liked that it was funny - not make up stuff funny - just funny.  The characters' actions and words were definitely something to laugh at.  And, I almost cried for like half a second.  I definitely wouldn't break the bank and pay the outrageous "after matinee" movie costs, but, if you have time, check it out. :-)

Rating:  2.5/5