Aeon Flux

Charlize Theron
Marton Cskokas
Jonny Lee Miller
Sophie Okonedo
Frances MacDormand
Peter Postlethwaite

PG13           93min           2005

“Aeon Flux” is based on the MTV’s cartoon of the same name, reimagined and reinterpreted. In a world of the future Aeon Flux is a warrior fighting against the oppressive regime of Trevor Goodchild.

When this film was announced I thought it was an ambitious undertaking. Never fully understanding what I was watching, from the hand full of episodes I saw late night when I had insomnia. It is an interesting story that felt was incomplete and poorly executed story telling. The special effects, stunts, and locations are the only redeeming qualities of this film.. I commend Charlize Theron for taking the part and coming back after her injury.

There really isn’t anything that stands out in this film. I was mildly entertained by the cartoon and maybe that’s one of the reasons I don’t get this film. The characters were under-developed and you really don’t get some of the characters’ motivation. Even after the reveal it leaves you question why anything happened in the first place.

The special effects in this film are stunning. This is nowhere near ‘The Matrix’ but they motive the story. They are cool to look at. The effects are in a heighten reality that lend to the evolution of mankind. The effects make all the stunts more believable.

The stunts as proved by Charlize Theron’s accident were risky and looked cool on film. Even stunt was fluid and moved the story. Combined with special effects it really made you think, ’what was practical and what was green screen?” This one of the few film where the stunts stood out from the story.

The locations of this film are just beautiful. It paints this future as an utopia, where everything is beautiful, peaceful, and serene. Not on scene in this film is dark or depressing even when it should. If the future could turn out like this everyone would want to live forever.

The three elements of special effects, stunts, and locations combine to create a stunning film. The breaking in sequence is a combination of all three that is just one part of this story. The story is at a lost and the characterization leaves something to wanting. This film is ok at best. But if you are truly a fan of the television show you may be a fan of this film.

I give it a 2/5 Gs.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Georgie Henley . . . . . . . . . . .Skandar Keynes
William Moseley . . . . . . . . . . Anna Popplewell
Tilda Swinton . . . . . . . . . . . .James McAvoy

PG 140min 2005

This being my first post as guest contributor to Gary's blog "Movies at a Glance", I must say there could not be a better movie to celebrate my first review with. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, was a spectacular movie. Definitely geared towards kids as they were the main characters in the movie. However, this movie has a little something for everyone. Sci-fi, medieval themes, action, intense story plot, and great special effects. The Chronicles of Narnia, follows the lives of four European children in a WWII era. An accidental discovery during a game of hide and seek leads to mystery, excitement, and adventure. There hasn't been a story plot so unique since the Harry Potter Series. If you are looking for a fantastic movie that will appeal to parents and kids a like you have got to see The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Jackie rates The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe 5/5 stars.

The Marksman

Wesley Snipes . . . . . . . . . .Emma Samms
William Hope . . . . . . . . . .Warren Derosa
Serge Soric . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tim Abell
Gabi Burlacu . . . . . . . . . . .Peter Youngblood Hills

R 95min 2005

“The Marksman” is a direct to video starring Wesley Snipes & Emma Samms. Wesley Snipes players a covert op soldier with a special in marking target, hence the name of the movie, that must stop a rogue general from restarting a power planet in Chechnya. Then betrayal ensues and then Snipes changes the plans. Emma Samms plans covert ops planner with a history with Snipes, who helps him figure out the true nature of the Russians.

There are far better action movies on the market, than “The Marksmen”. If you are in a Wesley Snipes mood there are better direct to videos from Wesley. Chasing Liberty or Unstoppable are better choices. It’s not the bottom of the barrel but it is fairly predictable. It was strange to see a mature Emma Samms in a movie. When I picture Emma Samms, it from her hey day on Dynasty, she is still a beautiful woman.

2/5 Gs



What do you think the future of the Blade franchise be?

Four Brothers

Mark Wahlberg . . . . . . . . . . .Tyrese Gibson
Andre Benjamin . . . . . . . . . ..Garrett Hedlund
Terrence Howard . . . . . . . . . Josh Charles
Sofia Vergara . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fionnula Flanagan

R 109min 2005

John Singleton brings us a rousing tale of four adopted brothers that come back to town for their mother’s friends. When they get information that their mother’s death may be suspicious, they come a four man wrecking crew to get justice for their mother. The movie is a strong emotional story and grounded in reality. This great movie about family and the lengths we go to protect our family.

Andre Benjamin a.k.a. Andre 3000 makes a great emotional entry into movies. His performance lets you know that he can have a great future in movies just as Mark Wahlberg has done for himself. The center and heart of this movie is Evelyn Mercer played by Fionnula Flanagan. Her performance is crafted as the emotional centers of each brother given insight to each character.




How far would you go to avenge for your family?

The Island

Ewan McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . Scarlett Johansson
Djimon Hounsou . . . . . . . . . . . Sean Bean
Steve Buscemi . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Michael Clarke Duncan
Ethan Phillips . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brian Stepanek

PG13 136min 2005

“The Island”, this year’s Michael Bay movie, if you did not know it was a Michael Bay movie you did once it started. It has a look and feel of Armageddon; the texture, the scene, the way the movie looked. Ewan McGregor and Scarlet Johansson stars as insurance policy clones of people told that “The Island” is the last pollutant free zone after the rest of humanity is dead. The only way to get to the “The Island” is by lottery.

This is a movie is what I call a science to be movie not science fiction. It supposedly takes place in 2019. It will probably take place in 2069. If is not secretly happening now, doubtful. "The Island" is a good action movie, very entertaining. I liked all of the concept cars in the film, especially the concept MACK truck. I would like to see it turned into a television show and see how society deals with the clones walking around.

4/5 Gs

Painkiller Jane

Emmanuelle Vaugier. . . . . . . . . . . .Tate Donovan
Richard Roundtree . . . . . . . . . . . . .Eric Dane


Sci Fi Channel


"Painkiller Jane" is based on a comic book of the same name. It has a decent plot, pretty effective action scenes, and it kept me interested. Its one if not the best Sci Fi Channel movie I have scene.

Emmanuelle Vaugier, who can be seen in Saw 2, stars as an army captain that is infected by a biological agent that enhances her. She can run faster, see further, think and processs more information, and can self-heal. You can just imaginae what the rest of the story is. But don't let that stop you from watching. Tate Donovan is one of the scientist studying her, more believable in the part, than his Jimmy Cooper from "The OC". Richard Roundtree as the colonel with parternal feeling and Shaft-appeal for Jane.

"Painkiller Jane" didn't fill comic booky. The ending did setup the premise as a television series. Produce injunction with, NBC Universal, it could be a poosiblity. A real slim possiblity though. "Painkiller Jane" is Dark Angel having a baby X- Files. You know it has strong parent but can never replace the originals.

Overall is was an ok movie, a strong television pilot; but then again just look at "Thoughtcrimes" by the USA Network some television movie pliots stay just movies.

2/5 Gs




In the "War on Terrorism" how much civil liberities, also know as freedoms, are you willing to give up?

Against the Ropes

Meg Ryan . . . . . . . . . . . . .Omar Epps
Tony Shalhoub . . . . . . . . . Tim Daly
Kerry Washington . . . . . . . Joe Cortese
Charles S. Dutton

PG13 110min 2004

Inspired by the true events of Jackie Kallen's life, ,Against the Ropes is a about a woman finding success in the male dominated arena of boxing promotion. Meg Ryan is outstanding in her portrayal of Jackie Kallen. She is supported by a stellar cast that includes the director Charles S. Dutton. The is a great inspirational film.

3/5 Gs



Do you think Meg Ryan lost her girl next door appeal?

The Dukes of Hazzard

Johnny Knoxville . . . . . . . . . . .Seann William Scott
Jessica Simpson . . . . . . . . . . . Burt Reynolds
Joe Don Baker . . . . . . . . . . . . Lynda Carter
Willie Nelson

Unrated 107min 2005

Although this is a modern reinvention of "The Dukes of hazzard", it still finds cousins Bo(Scott), Luke (Knoxville), and Daisy (Simpson) Duke trying to save their Uncle Jesse's (Nelson)farm from Boss Hogg (Reynolds) and Sheriff Roscoe P. Coltrane (M. C. Gainey).

I found this version funnier than the television show, although I cherish the television show, it is one of those fond memories from childhood that you like to visit. The DVD has a lot of features including 2 sets of Additional Scenes and 2 Gag Reels. It is not tongue in cheek but it does have a little fun with itself.

There are a couple of easter eggs on the DVD. On the menu screen with Bo Duke highlight the Z in Led Zepplin. On the screen featuring Boss Hogg highlight his ring.

2/5 Gs



Having seen the movie and the television show which do you like?

House of Sand and Fog

Jennifer Connelly . . . . . . . . . . Ben Kingsley
Ron Eldard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Frances Fisher
Kim Dickens . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shohreh Aghdashloo
Jonathan Ahdout . . . . . . . . . . .Navi Rawat

R 126min 2003

House of Sand and Fog" is an emotionally griping story anchored by Oscar caliber performances by Jennifer Connelly and Sir Ben Kingsley. This movie... it hits you in the heart and keeps hold of it.

Having experienced a similar situation as a child it tugged at my heart. You feel for both Connelly & Kingsley's characters. This situation happens everyday in America which is disheartening. "House of Sand and Fog" is a great film.

5/5 Gs



Should the city have paid for it is crime, if you rob someone don't you have to pay for your crime?

Equilibrium

Christian Bale . . . . . . . . .Taye Diggs
Emily Watson . . . . . . . . . Angus MacFadden
Sean Bean . . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Harbour
William Fichtner . . . . . . .Dominic Purcell

R 107min 2002

Equilibrium is a fresh take on an old story done in the post Matrix style of filming. It has a strong plot, and very few logic miss cues. Christian Bale and Taye Diggs lead a strong group of performers for an action movie.

Set in a future were society has acheived world peace but at the cost of what makes us human, our feelings. Equilibrium gives you that Orwellian future setting where government control is totalatarian and its punishment is swift and direct, if caught "sensing", death is your punishment

Preston (Bale) is one of tish society's top enforcer, when he misses one of his emotional inhibiting drugs it opens him up to a revolution.

Equilibrium starts running its engine from start to finsh. a hidden gem in the video store.

5/5 Gs



Before Adam and Eve bit the apple did they have emotions?

National Lampoon's Gold Diggers

Will Friedle . . . . . . . . .Chris Owen
Louise Lasser . . . . . . . Renee Taylor
Nikki Ziering

Unrated 90min 2003

This is the funniest, dumbest, moronic movie I have ever seen. It's a modern day "Cheech and Chong" movie. National Lampoon's Gold Digger was made to please the lowest common dominator, males. This movie will make you laugh up a lung and half your guts.

Friedle (Boy meets World) and Owen (Sherminator from American Pie) are great as a pair of bumbling brothers trying to "achieve" the American dream... Nikki Ziering, aspiration wanting to be achieve by large population of men. Its a great guy movie.

2/5 Gs



In American society, where capitalism reigns supreme is gold digging really wrong?

City of Angels

Nicolas Cage . . . . . . . . .Meg Ryan
Andre Braugher . . . . . . . Dennis Franz
Colm Feore . . . . . . . . . Robin Bartlett

1998 PG13 114min

I was bored Ied look through my stack of old VHSs and found a this tape with "City of Angels" and a few other movies on it. So I watched "City of Angels", a movie that I never quite got. I watched it because it has "Uninvited" by Alanis Morissette, I did say I was bored.

After watching it I found it tragic yet beautiful. Its definitely a "chick flick" but a good one. I don't think that in today's society anyone can or will ever find a love that strong. Everyday people try to find a love that will make them happy, whether it be with GOD or someone else. In the back of our minds we want to find that love, that one in a million love, that love that transcends death and forever.

That is what is appealing about the movie. Even in our society we want what eludes us. City of Angels is a very romantic movie that can be enjoy with your significant other.

2/5 Gs



Do we live in a society that can truely achieve what this movie offer or are People today are too jaded and self-centered to find that type of love?

Spanglish

Adam Sandler . . . .Tea Leoni
Paz Vega . . . . . . . . .Cloris Leachman
Shelbie Bruce . . . . .Sarah Steele
Ian Hyland

PG13 131min 2004

How do I explain this movie?. . . A family drama that show a mirror to certain aspect of two culture while finding love in all manners of your life. It made me understand a few things about perception and misconception people have.

At first glance I thought Adam Sandler was miss cast in the part. But I gave it a shot and it turns out that he can pull it off. It had the right amount of drama and comedy that made him perfect for the role. Tea Leoni perform was awesome. She made root for John and Flor.

Spanglish is a satisfing story told through a college essay to Princeton. It can make you laugh and cry and entertain you. If you have not seen it got out and rent it. Its worth the rental.

3/5 Gs



How do you think the world sees us? How do we see the work? As Americans are we suposse to save it or are we suppose to find a harmony with or nations and ourselves?

Bruce Almighty

Jim Carrey . . . . . . . .Morgan Freeman
Jennifer Aniston . . .Philip Baker Hall
Catherine Bell . . . . .Lisa Ann Walter
Steve Carell . . . . . . .Nora Dunn

PG13 101min 2003

I was talking to my sister and she to me that she had to watch this movie for philosophy class. She explained some philosophic topic to me. So I watched it again and it still didn't appeal to me. Jim Carrey's acting reminded me of a sane Riddler. It was just over the top of the top.

The movie did have its moments. Morgan Freeman as GOD was a inspirated choice. But overall I felt it was an empty movie made to capitalize on Jim Carrey and Jennifer Aniston appeal.

1/5 Gs



If GOD gives us sign and we don't heed the signs and GOD knows that we won't heed those sign why doesn't he give us better signs?

Ice Princess

Joan Cusack . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kim Cattrall
Michelle Trachtenberg . . . . .Hayden Panettiere
Trevor Blumas

G 99min 2005

"Ice Princess" is the story of Casey Carlyle (Trachtenberg), a nerdy kid, being pushed by her mother to apply for a scholarship to an Ivy League school. In order to get the scholarship she must display a physic project and in the process of trying to proving her physic theory in ice skating, she applies her practical theory on herself.

"Ice Princess" is a cute little film by Disney. It shows that you can be smart and an athlete. That hardwork and not drug leads to success.

3/5 Gs



Today's sport climate is geared to cheat. Is it still worth watching sports knowing that there are athletes excelling by using performance enhancers. Is it still entetaining or just will at all cost?

Million Dollar Baby

Clint Eastwood . . . . . . . . . . Hilary Swank
Morgan Freeman . . . . . . . . .Jay Baruchel
Mike Colter . . . . . . . . . . . . Lucia Rijker

PG13 132min 2004

4 Oscars won in 2005: Best Directing for Clint Eastwood, Best Motion Picture, Best Support Actor for Morgan Freeman, and Best Actress for Hilary Swank.

Directed by Clint Eastwood "Million Dollar Baby" is taken from 3 short stories, 'The Monkey Look', 'Million Dollar Baby' and 'Frozen Water' in "Rope Burns: Stories From the Corner", a collection of short stories based on the experiences of fight manager and cutman Jerry Boyd.

This movie deserves all the accolades that it receives. It's a very moving drama that will having you crying at the end.

5/5 Gs



Why do you watch women sports?

We Don't Live Here Anymore

Mark Ruffalo . . . . . . . .Laura Dern
Peter Krause . . . . . . . .Naomi Watts

R 99min 2004

"We Don't Live Here Anymore" is based on the short stories: 'We Don't Live Here Anymore' & 'Adultery' by Andre Dubus. This is a tale of two couples who's marriages are filled with the things not said. Look for that missing something in each others spouse revealing thaqt the grass is not neccessariy greener on the other side.

Terrifically acted. Based on statistics you know what would happen still a entertain movie to see Naomi Watts in.


3/5 Gs



Does adultery happen that common in or societies? Can people from other societies marriage can survive adultery?

Spartan

Val Kilmer . . . . . . Tia Texada
Derek Luke . . . . . . Kristen Bell

PG13 106min 2004

Spartan is about an US government agent, play by Val Kilmer, is assign to find the President's daughter, played by Kristen Bell(Veronica Mars), after she's been kidnapped. During his investigation he find a more nefarious plot has been hatched. Once he discovers the plot he must go "off the reservation" to save the President's daughter.

Spartan is a must see for every movie watcher. It's a great suspenseful thriller. The naive it will make your mouth drop open. The empathetic will cry. Its fiction that easily could be reality.

5/5 Gs

In American headlines, I never once saw the media give this situation as a possibility for the headline? Was it because it was responisble journalism or are we the camels?

Fantastic Four (2005)

Ioan Gruffudd . . . . . . . . . . . .Jessica Alba
Chris Evans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael Chiklis
Julian McMahon

PG13 115m 2005

Spider-Man ushered the era of comics and the Fantastic Four is the latest iteration. Set in New York as all Marvel comics are finds 4 scientists and their financier on a daring outer space mission to test a theory. When a cosmic storm changes all 5 our heroes and nemesis are born.

It has your standard array of special effects, none better than the Human Torch. This is a good translation of the comic from what I know of the characters. This is one worth seeing I give it

4/5 Gs.



What will be the next superhero movie?

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)

Brad Pitt................Angelina Jolie
Vince Vaughn...........Adam Brody
Kerry Washington......Keith David
Chris Weitz.............Rachael Huntley
Michelle Monaghan.....Stephanie March
Jennifer Morrison

PG13 120min 2005

One of the best romantic comedies. It's "The Long Kiss Goodnight" meets "When Harry met Sally". Mr & Mrs Smith is a relationship driven movie than makes you root for these to characters. I find their disfunctional relationship more believable than a relationship between a fallen angel and human.

The DVD of this movie is straight out bare, for all the reported reshoots. A lot of the scenes in the trailer aren't in the movie. There were scenes with Keith David that were cut. There are 3 commentaries and only 3 deleted scenes.

The case when you open it gives you the idea that a second disc should have come in it. Listening to the directors commentary , which is a bit boring, he makes reference to the second disc. So, maybe it was not finished for the release.

Overall this is a great movie.

4/5 Gs

Do you think Angelina and Brad are for real or just public relation ploy?

Batman Begins

Christian Bale . . . . . . . . . Morgan Freeman
Michael Caine . . . . . . . . . Liam Neeson
Katie Holmes . . . . . . . . . Gary Oldman
Cillian Murphy . . . . . . . . Rutger Hauer
Ken Wantanabe

PG13 141min 2005

Batman Begins starts at the beginning of the Dark Knights reign. Bruce Wayne comes back to Gotham to bring order, justice, and to save the city that his father held dear. Its by far the best Batman Movie. Its a great relaunch of the Batman and one of the must see movies for the summer '05.

In the deluxe edition the second disc comes as a intereactive comic book. It can be view as a normal menu. Some of the special features are the how Christopher Nolan and David Goyer thought to reinvent the Batman Franchise; How Christan Bale went about becoming Batman. Overall all the other features on Batman Begins are good and informative. With the reinvention of Batman a stellar success, maybe Superman can fly again.

5/5 Gs

Which Batman villian do you want to see next and wjo should play them?

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith

Ewan McGregor         Natalie Portman
Hayden Christensen   Ian McDiarmid
Samuel L. Jackson     Jimmy Smits
Frank Oz                   Anthony Daniels
Christopher Lee

PG13           146min           2005

Sixth and final installment by George Lucas. This finds the birth of Darth Vader and the empire. The darkest of the sixth but also the best. Its been said that people over 30 like the original and people under 30 like the newer ones. Whichever ones you like this one continues in the Lucas tradition, bringing to a close, a great saga, in film history. Star Wars by George Lucas will be missed.

4/5 Gs



Should the final three be complete or has Star Wars run its course?

Blade: Trinity

Wesley Snipes
Kris Kristofferson
Dominic Purcell
Jessica Biel
Ryan Reynolds
Paker Posey
Triple H
Callum Keith Rennie
James Remar
Natasha Lyonne

R       112min       2004

Blade: Trinity finds Blade wanted by the FBI as a rogue covenant of vampires awaken the first vampire Dracula, to make the humans the minority race.

It was a disappointment in but it was still an ok action movie. It has some cool action scenes. I found myself liking the vampires more than I like the heroes. Snipes performance was more wooden and hollow than his first two outtings. Ryan Reynolds, Parker Posey and Dominic Purcell stole the show.

I do think that Blade has run its course. The franchise could be reworked if centered around the Nightstalkers. The Nightstalkers give more for characterization and plot delevopment. Overall its a film that complements the other two in the 'Blade Trilogy'.

I give it 3/5 Gs




If vampires do or don't exist, would you want to know?

Origin of the Species

Elon Gold
Jean Louisa Kelly
Michael Kelly
Jonathan LaPaglia
Amanda Peet
Sybil Temtchine

R       94min       1998

"Origin of the Species" is story about six college friends, who spent a summer weekend together every year, during this weekend life events are happening to them that makes them realize that its time to grow up.

It's like the 'Real World' taking place over a weekend. This was film with a unknown cast that features Amanda Peet (Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip) and Johnathan LaPalia (Seven) fame.

I give it a 2/5 Gs



What do you think is the real Origin of the Species?

Diary of a Mad Black Woman

Kimberly Elise
Shemar Moore
Tyler Perry
Steve Harris
Tamara Taylor
Lisa Marcos
Cicely Tyson

PG13       116min       2005

Big screen adapatation of Tyler Perry's play of the same name. Its about a women finding strength in the lord and herself, leading her to find a new love; after her life falls apart from a divorce she didn't see coming. It does showcase some of the premeire African-American talent in Hollywood. If you liked the play you'll love the movie.

I give it a 5/5 Gs



Which of Tyler Perry's plays would you like to see turn into a film?

The Village

Bryce Dallas Howard
Joaquin Phoenix
Adrien Brody
William Hurt
Sigourney Weaver
Brendan Gleeson

PG13      108m       2004

"The Village" has a slow first half, of nearly an hour. If you make it through the first half then the movie just breezes by. From viewing other movies by Shyamalan movies, this one disappointed me. Friends have told me that they thought it was a waste of time. I wouldn't go that far. If you step into their situations you might understand their thinking, its not that bad. "The Village" is an OK movie as a stand alone movie but when balance against other M. Night Shyamalan's works its left a little lean.

I give it a 2/5 Gs



Has society degraded to the point where it makes you want to start a new society? What be the structure of your society?

The Life of David Gale

Kevin Spacey
Kate Winslet
Rhona Mitra
Laura Linney
Cleo King
Constance Jones
Lee Ritchey
Gabriel Mann

R       131m       2003

A shocking and amazing tale told by Alan Parker using some of today's best actors. "The Life of David Gale" is a must see. Put all your polictical opinion on the shelf and just sit back, watch this film. You'll be entertained and at the same time asking yourself questions.

I give it a 5/5 Gs



Is the death penalty humane and just punishment?

Chasing Liberty

Mandy Moore
Matthew Goode
Caroline Goodall
Jeremy Piven
Mark Harmon
Annabella Sciorra

PG13       101min       2004

This is a standard Hollywood movie. Girl meets boy, the fall for each other, are separated, and then find each other in the end. It had it's moments of humor. Once the movie ended I felt dissappointed, I thought there should have been more to it. Chasing Liberty left me wanting.

I give it a 2/5 Gs




Do you feel sorry for celebrities with all the things they put up with(i.e. paparazzi & lost of privacy)?

Thirteen

Holly Hunter
Evan Rachel Wood
Nikki Reed
Jeremy Sisto
Brady Corbet
Deborah Kara Unger
Kip Pardue
Sarah Clarke
D.W. Moffett
Vanessa Anne Hidgens
Jenicka Carey

R       100min       2003

A very troubling tale of a girl at thirteen losing control of her life. Although very good, "Thirteen" was an unrelatable tale to me. I asked my mother, an 8th Grade teacher assistant, about it and seh said that this happens very often, which shocked me. It's a good cautionary tale that parents and children should sit together and watch to open some dialog with each other. Partial based on Nikki Reed's life this is very good story. Evan Rachel Wood brings in a great performance pulling the wool over Holly Hunters' eyes. This one should not be missed.

5/5 Gs



Who has it worst at thirteen, boys or girls?

Paparazzi

Cole Hauser
Robin Tunney
Tom Sizemore
Denis Farina
Tom Hollanden
Daniel Baldwin
Kevin Gage

PG13       84min       2004

Paparazzi is the tale of a rising action star dealing with the major problem of celebritism, the paparazzi. Everyone sees their pictures they've taken when you walk down the grocery isles. Everyone says that they would like to be one. We want the money, the cars, the fans, the free stuff and the groupies. But the other side is a lost of privacy, a camera in your face. I actually like mine. The extremes that Hauser's character goes to get them back is far fetched but entertaining.

I give it a 3/5 Gs.



Has the paparazzi become a hazard to celebrity lives?

Before Sunset

Ethan Hawke
Julie Delpy





R       80mins       2004

Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy capture magic in a bottle a second time around. This sequel picks up 9 years later after the events in 'Before Sunrise' with Jesse (Hawke) and Celine (Delpy). This movie leaves you the same way as first. Excellent performances by both, Hawke and Delpy. For anyone who has loved and lost, in loving, or trying to find your way back to that love this is one you don't want to miss.

I give it a 3/5 Gs



Do you ever get over that first love?

Jersey Girl (2004)

Ben Affleck
Liv Tyler
George Carlin
Raquel Castro
Stephen Root
Jason Biggs
MIke Starr


PG13      102mins      2004

'Jersey Girl' is a touching love story. It chronicles, Ollie Trinke's (Affleck), journey from workaholic ad publicist to a loving father. It is a predictable and formulaic hollywood movie. The introductory performace of Raquel Castro was the highlight of this movie.

I give it a 2/5 Gs



Parents give so much for their children. What would you give for your parents?

'Godsend'

Greg Kinnear
Rebecca Romijn
Robert DeNiro
Cameron Bright


PG13       102mins       2004

This movie is a suspense filled thriller. Cameron Bright's performance is excellent and chilling. It reminds me of the first time I saw 'Children of the Corn'. It gives you one scenario of what can go wrong with stem cell research and cloning. Now a days people get caught up in the fiction part and forget that sooner or later fiction can become reality. We are in a technological boom. Overall I found it to be a enjoyable popcorn movie.

I give it a 3/5 Gs




If a loved one died would you clone them or accept their death, if you could?

Elf

Will Ferrell
James Caan
Bob Newhart
Ed Asner
Mary Steenburgen
Zooey Deschanel
Daniel Tay
Faizon Love

PG           93min           2003

'Elf' is a great holiday movie for a depressed spirit. It starts a little slow but once it picks up it is hilarious. Ferrell's perform makes you remember what is like to be a kid again. Jon Favreau did a spectacular job with this movie. If you can't love this movie then... you've will be visited by three ghost.

I give it 5/5 Gs.

If today you found out you were adopted what would you do?>

Wicker Park

Josh Hartnett
Rose Byrne
Matthew Lillard
Diane Kruger
Christopher Cousins
Jessica Pare
Vlasta Vrana

PG13       90mins       2004

A movie based on "L'Appartement" by Gilles Mimoune. Having never seen "L'Appartement", I found "Wicker Park" a wickly, funny, & twisted love story. Its a movie that should be closely paid attention to. The director uses a lot of flashbacks to tell his story.

I give it 4/5 Gs.

Do you believe in second chance romances?

Garden State

Zach Braff
Natalie Portman
Peter Sarsgaard
Ian Holms
Ron Leibman
Method Man
Jean Smart

R       102min       2004

Braff starred, wrote and directed "Garden State". It is movie about a twentysomething coming back home, after a long absence, to his mother's funeral realizing he has felt anything his adult life stop taking his medicine. It's a great movie. Although I missed this in theatre, the DVD comes with an entertaining commentary with Braff and Portman. It's a touching drama that is accentuated by a awesome soundtrack. A very good indie film.

I give it 5/5 Gs


Do humans really needed to be medicated?

Elektra (2005)

Jennifer Garner
Goran Visnjic
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa
Kristen Prout
Will Yun Lee
Terrence Stamp


PG13       91min       2005

"Elektra" is on the lower echelon of comic book movies. Far inferior to "Daredevil" and I've been told it's nothing like the comic. It told an mediocre story that has some confusing plot points. It will appeal to the male demographic. That doesn't save this movie though. Garner's performance is an example of a strong role model to empowering young females. She does kick butt.

I give it 1/5 Gs



What are other empowering strong female comic book characters beside Wonder Woman and Supergirl?