"Alex Rider: Operation Stormbreaker"

Sarah Bolger
Robbie Coltrane
Stephen Fry
Damian Lewis
Ewan McGregor
Bill Nighy
Sophie Okenedo
Alex Pettyfer

PG       93min      2006

“Alex Rider: Operation Stormbreaker” is totally a British produced film and was imported into American. It’s a quick paced film that you don’t realize 90 minutes has gone by. It’s entertainment for the whole family. As it’s British produced its imbued with British sensibility and an almost entirely British cast.

The book that the movie is based on was only about 200 pages, which lent itself to the quick pace. It moves by at lighting speed and having read the book I know some things that happen in the book that didn’t happen on screen. It could feel like a lot of things weren’t explained properly. If you watch the movie and don’t like it I suggest you read the book and then give it another shot.

I think where Anthony Horowitz made changes for the movie improved and moved the story along much better. As I have only read Stormbreaker, and don’t know what’s coming to Alex Rider in the future; I do know that Jack Starbright knows Alex is a spy sooner and one character is introduce in this movie instead of the third book.

Everyone in the family can watch it and enjoy it. Stormbreaker takes itself more serious that ‘Cody Banks’. There is not any foul language and relatively small amount of violent for an action film. It moves so fast that the kids will enjoy it also.

This movie was film entirely in England. The cast is English except for Alicia Silverstone and Mickey Rourke. They have their own sensibilities and it comes through in the film and it’s not a bad thing either. If you liked ‘Cody Banks’ you’ll like Alex Rider better.

The DVD is a little thin on extras. It gives you about six featurettes and that's it. There is one about where Anthony Horowitz talks about the reasons for the differences in the book and movie. Two features about stunts and the marital arts of the film and one feature about the special effect shots of the film. There are no delete scenes and no outtakes. Overall its a bare DVD.

I give it 3/5 Gs.

"The Prestige"

Hugh Jackman
Christian Bale
Michael Caine
Piper Perabo
Samantha Hall
Scarlett Johansson

PG13           128min           2006

“The Prestige” is a story of two magicians in a bitter rivalry of one-up-manship in a race of ‘Who is the Best Magician’.

You hear ‘The Prestige’ and it sounds unremarkable but this movie is a gem in disguise. This is one of the best movies I have ever seen. This is no exaggeration. This movie is compelling and thought provoking. It has so many things happening all the same time. But just as with all magic tricks once its revealed it loses some flare and at the same time keeps you questioning the characters’ motives.

These characters take rivalry and demented to another whole level. The things that they do to each other are some times inhumane and insane. The answers to some of your questions are throughout the entire film. Some are in plain site and other are vaguely alluded to. A smart person will figure out some of the clues early on and others you will never be figured out even in the ending credits.

If you don’t like it is because it left you with too many unanswered question. This is one of the reasons I liked it. Watch again or debate it with a friend and you still will never have all your questions answered. I have never come out of a movie this satisfied and have so many questions unanswered. This is what makes the movie so entertaining.

The way Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale deliver their dialogue and the emotional state of the characters is key in this movie. This is some of the best acting I have seen from Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, and Michael Caine. This is acting at its best.

This one should be seen in the theaters. “The Prestige” should not be missed. If you don’t see this in the theaters you will kick yourself. Only blown up to 16 feet due you catch the clues laid out in front of you. It definitely should be up for some awards. This movie will not disappoint you.

I give it a resounding 5/5 Gs.

"All the King's Men (2006)"

Sean Penn
Jude Law
Kate Winslet
James Gandolfini
Mark Ruffalo
Patricia Clarkson
Anthony Hopkins

PG13           128min           2006

“All the King’s Men”, based on the novel by Robert Penn Warren, is about a man Willie Starks’s (Penn) humble beginnings to Louisiana Governor. How power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely, and that destruction and betrayal goes hand in hand with corruption.

Sean Penn gives an Oscar worth performance. His performance stands out in a film with exceptional performances. Everyone in this film is excellent. All the Kings Men should get an Oscar for the entire ensemble.

This story is riveting and keeps you in your seat. The inspiration for Willie Stark is Huey Long, Louisianan State politician, Governor from 1928-1932 and Senator 1932-1935. It shows you that Willie Starks a good intended man is corrupted when politics comes into play. This one should not be missed its will worth its price.

This movie is better to be seen on DVD. The extras on the DVD are will worth it and enhance the experience of the movie. Never having heard of Huey Long it made me want to read up on him. It seems that he was a color full character that demanded the same reform as Willie Stark. Huey Long made it all the way to Senator with ambition of running for President.

Everyone loves a good underdog story. If you missed it at the movies or want to see it again, All the King’s Men, is worth giving a look to. It has strong performances from the entire cast. The story grabs you and keeps you intrigue. The DVD extras enhance the movie when you find out about the history behind this movie, inspired by 1946 Pulitzer Prize winning novel of the same name.

I give it 5/5 Gs.

"Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby"

Will Ferrell
John C. Reilly
Sacha Baron Cohen
Lesile Bibb
Michael Clarke Duncan
Amy Adams
Gary Cole


Unrated       122min       2006

“Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” is a Will Ferrell vehicle driven to absolute hilarity. Ferrell stars as Ricky Bobby, NASCAR’s #1 Racecar driver that lives by the motto “If you’re not first you’re last”. After being on top he has a devastating crash and has to pick himself up from the bottom.

This movie is totally hilarious with a few too many homoerotic moments thrown in. It was one moment after another. They would throw in a funny moment and then a homoerotic moment and if you were laughing at the funny moment you would miss the homoerotic moments.

Talladega Nights is a movie of total escapism. Will Ferrell and cast did a great job in this comedy. With all the homoerotic moments and it being the unrated, uncut version, I would have thought to have seen at least one pair of breast. It was hinted at several times but no cigars.

Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly played well together as redneck best friends. This movie screamed redneck pride from the beginning moments to the very end. This cast enjoyed making this movie. The “dinner pray” scene will go down as one of the funniest scenes of all-time. It’s like the Matrix you cannot be told about it you can only see it to appreciate how funny it truly is.

Overall it’s a totally hilarious NASCAR comedy full of homoerotic jokes that distracted me from the funny moments. It’s a comedy that will have you laughing you’re a** off because of the cast ability to bring the comedy. It stand right up their with other Will Ferrell’s movies like Old School and Anchorman.

This DVD is packed with special features. The outtakes are so hilarious you wonder why these weren't in the movie. Outakes of the product places. Featurettes of Will Ferrell at Talladega.

I give it 3/5 Gs.

"The Butterfly Effect 2"

Nick Lively
Erica Durance
Dustin Milligan
Gina Holden
David Lewis
Andrew Airlie

R           92min           2006

“The Butterfly Effect 2”, is the same as the first movie. This time around Eric Lively plays Nick who a year after he loses the woman he loves, played by Erica Durance, of Smallville fame, his best friend and his girlfriend in a car wreck is left in a dead end job and headaches from the crash. When he realizes that he can look at a photo and go into the past he starts to change his life for personal gain.

The sequel just doesn’t work as well as the first. With such a great premise, you wouldn’t think that it could go wrong. The demise of this film sits squarely on the backs of NEW LINE CINEMA. This sequel is far inferior to the first but superior in the fact that the studio only gave the filmmaker 20 days to shoot this film. No film that relies heavily on the story can be cohesively filmed in twenty days. I don’t think any decent film can be shot in less than forty days, as always there are exceptions to the rule.

The entire conflict in contained a two-year period. The lack of time to film plagues it and it shows in the story told. In one instance Nick goes back one year and lands a promotion that causes him to become an asshole over night with no provocation or explanations. There is no way someone becomes an asshole that quick.

There are plot holes big enough to fit a hump back whale through. When Nick has a drastic change in his life he doesn’t remember the year as clearly as Evan did in the first. Several major events in his life that he should remember he doesn’t. There was some scene that did not play well in the film and it really didn’t move the plot along.

Next time a different approach should be taken. Maybe it should be a girl and take more than 20 days to film it. From these two films we learned that its genetic and the only way to get a grip on “the butterfly effect” is to commit suicide or give up trying to control everything. Something that would be interesting to see handled by a woman.

I not saying you will like it, but if seen enough of the The Butterfly Effect and are looking for a new take on it’s premise, give it shot.

I give it 2/5 Gs.

"Lady In the Water"

Paul Giamatti
Bryce Dallas Howard
M. Night Shyamalan
Jeffrey Wright
Sarita Choudhury
Bob Balaban
Noah Gray-Cabey

PG13           110min           2006

“Lady in the Water” is a movie written, produced and directed by M. Night Shyamalan that uses a bedtime story he tells his children as the plot device to a very interesting film about a man finding a woman swimming in the apartment pool after hours. This chance encounter drives this story of finding one’s true self and purpose in a chaotic world.

Mr. Shyamalan has brought another find tale to the screen. This one doesn’t shock you as the “Sixth Sense” and its more plausible than “The Village”. It’s an engrossing tale. I was halfway through it when I fell asleep…it will stay with you through the night. I woke up several times during the night with images from the movie in my dreams and I would think I should just finish it. It should be noted that it wasn’t that the movie was boring, it was just that I was that tire and shouldn’t have started it that tired anyway.

Bryce Dallas Howard, Opie’s little girl, brings in a strong performance and she’s believable in the part. I found that this film has a strong performance by M. Night Shyamalan, himself. In his other screen acting ventures him seemed small and meager. This time there was more of a confident in him, a strong sense of maturity. Paul Giamatti’s performance it what makes you care about the other character and the situations that each faces.

It ended kind of flat and left you think “this was it”, but you should not hold it against the movie. Most fairy tales are like that. It moved at a great pace, as one question was answered another one question would arise, until you were left with one ending question ‘What happens next?”. You want to know what becomes of these characters and you want to see their futures played out.

Overall it was another good film in a strong stable of works by M. Night Shyamalan. Strong performances by Paul Giamatti, M. Night Shaymalan, and Bryce Dallas Howard in her first lead or second if you count how she stole the movie from Joaquin Phoenix in “The Village”. It has a stirring “bedtime” story for adults as while as M. Night Shyamalan’s children.

I give it 4/5 Gs.

'Invincible'

Mark Wahlberg
Greg Kinnear
Elizabeth Banks
Kevin Conway
Michael Rispoli
Kirk Acevedo

PG           105min           2006

‘Invincible’ is the Disney dramatization of Vince Papale; From a bartender and substitute teacher in South Philadelphia to a wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles in 1976.

Having taken place before I was born it was a great tale to learn about. It gives a great tale of following your dream and them coming true. You away from this tale with a enormous amount of admiration for Vince Papale. It was a great tale in the tradition of Walt Disney and their underdog takes in sports.

‘Invincible’ is a great tale for about fight to make your dreams come true. With everything against Papale, he fought tooth and nail and was given a shot by Dick Vermeil. If the first lesson this film teaches is never give up on you dream, the second is that everyone needs someone to give them an opportunity.

Watching this film you can relate to Vince Papale because of the acting from Mark Wahlberg. Wahlberg portrayed him as a guy trying to survive in the seventies facing his dream but never forgetting his friends and family. You will admire Papale because of that fact, where so many celebrities find fame and their dreams to forget who they were to begin.

‘Invincible’ is in that same caliber of ‘The Rookie’ and my personal favorite ‘Rudy’. This is a great inspiration film for anyone who has dreams of becoming a professional athlete. It shows hard work, sacrifice, dedication and opportunity make dreams come true. This film makes another fine addition to the Walt Disney tradition of underdog athletes.

I give it a 4/5 Gs.

'Jet Li's Fearless'

Jet Li
Shido Nakamura
Betty Sun
Yong Dong
Hee Ching Paw
Yun Qu
Nathan Jones
Brandon Rhea

PG13           103min           2006

Jet Li’s Fearless is the story of Chinese Martial Arts Master Huo Yuanjia (1869-1910). Huo Yuanjia was the founder and spiritual guru of the Jin Wu Sports Federation.

The only thing that this film can boast is that its Jet Li’s final martial arts epic. Maybe his acting translated be in Chinese market better than the American market because I have never found his acting that impressive. This film to me didn’t bring anything new in his resume. It kept me thing back to his film ‘The One’.

As a martial arts epic it wasn’t that impressive. May its suppose to be because its based on a true story. If it was then it got lost in translation. Some may find it impress and most of the people that I found who were impress have not seen may martial arts epic.

Another thing that I didn't like about 'Jet Li's Fearless' was the subtitle. I really didn’t care for them as they distracted me from the action and took my focus from the film to the subtitles. If you are a fan of Jet Li then you may like it. For me it seem Jet Li had already did this and better in other film.

I give it 2/5 Gs.

"Eragon"

Edward Speleers
Jeremy Irons
Sienna Guillory
Robert Carlyle
John Malkovich
Garret Hedlund
Djimon Hounsou


PG           104min           2006

"Eragon" is tale of, a farm boy who is chosen by a dragon's egg -- a discovery that leads him on a predestined journey where he realized he's the one person who can defend his homeland of Alagaesia against an evil king.

Eragon is reminisant of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings series and based off a novel by Christopher Paolini. It has characters with the British imagined names and tale of dragons, orcs, magic, dark sorcerers and kings. Filmed in Hungary it has scenes with the most striking landscapes that you forget to watch the movie.

Fairly well acted with a cast that features Jeremy Irons as Brom, Eragon's mentor, John Malkovich as King Galbatorix, Sienna Guillory, from Resident Evil: Apocalypse, as Arya, Djimon Hounsou as Ajhad, and newcomer, Edward Speleers as Eragon.

It’s an entertaining movie for with amazing special effects. The dragon, Saphira, voiced amazingly by Rachel Weisz, is a stunning work of computer animation. If by design or not Saphira overshadows the picture with is majestic poses and movement. The effects makes you want to ride her with her power and grace; “Only a rider may command its dragon”.

Just as the movie starts to pick up it ends. Eragon leaves you with a WTF feeling. There are definitely sequels coming. If you have never read the book it does make you want to see more. Having at this point never read the books I was entertained. As is with most movies based on books I maybe disappointed with this movie.

I give it a 3/5 Gs.

Having now finished Eragon and its sequel Eldest; I'm disappointed with this movie. Its one of the worst book to movie translations. I stand by my review but it could have been so much more. Only have reading Paolini's descriptive narratives due you realize that this film was too fast paced and skipped several major plot points that are crucial sequel hard.

If you have the time in your life to read check out this two books. They are part of a trilogy called Inheritance, with the third due out sometime in the future. You won't be disappointed with the books as they are so much more engrossing that the film.

I would still like to see a sequel just to see how they recover from the bludder that the film maker made of these books.

"Inside Man"

Denzel Washington
Clive Owen
Jodie Foster
Christopher Plummer
Willem DaFoe
Chiwetel Ejiofor


R 129min 2006

“Inside Man” is about a bank robbery and the cat mouse game played between the owner of the bank, the robbers, and the cops sent in to diffuse the escalating hostage situation.

Inside Man is Denzel Washington and Spike Lee’s fourth collaboration and is a more commercial movie than most expect from Spike Lee. It is an exciting film that puts a turn on the bank heist movie. As I watched this movie I wondered why it was never tried. Once you sit back and think about it so many things were left to risk, that things could have gone wrong and changed the outcome of this film.

This film works because of Spike Lee direction and the cast put together. Inside Man is lead superbly by Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, and Jodie Foster. The supporting cast is just as strong too featuring Christopher Plummer, Willem Dafoe, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, you may not know his name but you’ve seen his face. He was in Serenity, Four Brothers and Love Actually.

It made sense and was suspenseful to the end. It wasn’t black or white but the true color of life… gray. It’s your morality that should tell you who is good and who is bad. Even though Spike Lee clearly defines the good and bad.

Overall “Inside Man” is a good film, with patented Spike shot. It tales a very good story with a bank heist as a backdrop and a stellar cast. If you like and member of this cast you won’t be disappointed. The DVDs has twenty minutes of re-cut or deleted scenes and a nice little interview with Spike Lee and Denzel Washington talking about their 4 collaborations.

I give it a 4/5 Gs

"Brick (2005)"

Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Nora Zehetner
Lukas Haas
Noah Fleiss
Matt O'Leary
Meagan Good
Brian White

R           110min           2005

“Brick” places film noir in the setting of high school. After receiving a note and a phone call from his ex-girlfriend and her subsequent death. Brendan (Gordon-Levitt) sets out to find out who killed and why.

I caught this as a preview during a DVD I was watching and was immediately intrigued. I was not disappointed. Brick is a movie of its own cloth and Film noir is not for everyone and instead of it setting in the 40s and 50s, it set in modern time, in a high school, with a language of its own.

The language maybe off putting at first or put close caption on. The dialogue is key to figuring the mystery and as the movie progress it will come to you. Written and Directed by Rian Johnson, he created a tale of mystery and fil noir that reminds you of something William Shakespeare might write.

As this is his first feature film he set a great foundation to his directing career. This film should not be missed. The DVD is a little bare-bone but the commentary is a funny thing to hear. The commentary runs a talk show host by Rian Johnson, the end is the funniest as Rian Johnson and Noah Segan imitated the producer, instantly a classic DVD commentary.

I give it a 4/5 Gs.

'Idlewild'

Andre Benjamin
Antwan A. Patton
Paula Patton
Terrence Howard
Faizon Love
Malinda Williams
Cicely Tyson
Macy Gray


R           121min           2006

‘Idlewild’ is a musical set in the Prohibition-era American South, where a speakeasy performer and club manager contend with gangsters who have their eyes on the club while his piano player and partner must choose between love and his obligations to his father.

Not many musical groups could pull off what ‘Outcast’ did with this film. ‘Outcast’ has brought to the screen a modern musical for the ages. It’s not only is it entertaining but boasts some great acting from cast of some of the best African-American talent. The story isn’t that in depth but the musical numbers make up for it.

‘Outcast’ has brought to the screen that tailored to their strengths as a group. Antwan “Big Boi” Patton is the ruggish club owner doing what it takes to make his club a success. Andre Benjamin is a mortician by day and a piano player but night longing for something more. ‘Bug Boi’ for the most part brings to musical numbers to life while ‘Andre 3000’ a rising talented actor, carries the acting of the duo.

The musical numbers are modern, relatable and flow with the story. It’s complimented by the acting by Terrence Howard, Macy Gray, another rising actress in her own right, and Paula Patton. Neither overshadowed each other, which in most musicals one or the other does. This fact lends itself to being a widely acceptable musical.

‘Idlewild’ doesn’t have a in-depth story but it’s a complete and fulfilling story. If the musical number were taken out it would still hold up as a complete story but it’s the musical numbers that make it worth watching. You could skip this film but you would miss out on a surprising good film.

I give it a 3/5 Gs.

'Proud'

Ozzie Davis
Albert Jones
Jeffrey Nash
Eric LaRay Harvey




PG           87min           2004

‘Proud’ is the true story of the only African-American crew to take a Navy warship into combat in World War II.

This film is sad that more African-American veterans aren’t recognized for their war efforts in America’s campaigns. It is also riveting even with its low budget quality. It features one of Ozzie Davis’s last performances. It’s a tale that should be pasted on to other generations.

‘Proud’ is a great African-American tale of overcome the ignorant stereotypes. It must have been a major showcase for African-American at the time. It’s something that should never be forgotten and should be taught.

The film showed another instant of American prejudice toward African-American. I glad that they were recognized in the end. But it also man me wonder how many more veterans fought and died for America and aren’t recognized.

The tales and heroics of Veterans should be taught to future generation so that they can remember and learn from the mistakes of the past. I’m glad that Congress and President Clinton got around to recognizing this soldiers for their bravery and heroics. The British fleet should also commend them.

I give it 4/5 Gs.

"Superman Returns"

Brandon Routh
Kevin Spacey
Kate Bosworth
Parker Posey
Frank Langellan
James Marsden
Sam Huntington

PG13           154min           2006

"Superman Returns" is Bryan Singers re-launching of the Superman franchise. It stars Brandon Routh as Clark Kent/Superman returning to Earth after leaving for 5 years. The world has moved on without Superman and it finds Lois Lane played by Kate Bosworth, a mom and a fiancée to Richard White, Perry’s nephew. The world also finds Lex Luther played by Kevin Spacey, free and looking to cause chaos to the world again.

At first I was skeptical having been a child when Superman 1 and 2 came out, that Routh wouldn’t be up to the challenge of playing Clark Kent/Superman. Others will play the part but Christopher Reeves will always be Superman to me. Christopher Reeves really made believe a man could fly. I was totally wrong. Br4andon Routh embodied the role. There are several moments in the film when he looks and sound just like CR. If you watch Superman 1 and 2 and then watch Return you will see what I mean.

The movie felt like a prequel for another film instead of a continual. I’m unclear as to Brian Singer intention overall I enjoyed the movie very much. Superman Returns with all its technological advanced special effects is straight I candy for senses. Hearing Superman’s cape ripple in the wind is subtle but makes this movie worth its weight in gold.

If this was just a prequel to re-launch the franchise, “The Death and Life of Superman” should be two and three. It gives a most intriguing story to be told and it would probable take two movies to do it justice. The story if followed as in the comics gives characters to use in spin-offs. Superman Returns is a great addition to the franchise.

I give a 4/5 Gs. If you like this then you'll love Superman (1978) and Superman II: The Donner Cut.

'Shadowbower'

Helen Mirren
Cuba Gooding jr.
Stephen Dorff‘
Vanessa Ferlito
Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Macy Gray
Mo’ Nique



R           93min           2005

‘Shadowboxer (2005)’ is about a female assassin, Rose, who is diagnosed with terminal cancer; she decides to carry out one final killing, assisted by lover and stepson, Mickey that changes their lives forever.

I didn’t know what to expect from this film, I rented because of Cuba Gooding Jr. It’s a stark departure from anything I’ve seen him in. ‘Shadowboxer’ is a compelling and sometime rough movie to watch. The casting is eccentric and not the ‘Hollywood’ choices. The performances by Gooding and Mirren are what drive this film.

‘Shadowboxer’ is a compelling drama that tells a tale that makes you wants to watch and at the same time turn away. There is some rough and shocking violence in this film. It’s violence that assassins who be adjusted to and off-putting to the average person.

The casting of this film is best described as eccentric; the actors cast in the part are so different that they complement each other and play to the actors’ strengths. Even with some of their over-the-top performance it works for the characters; lends to them being slightly psychotic and drives the story.

Helen Mirren and Cuba Gooding Jr. lead this stellar cast. Mo’ Nique is believable as a jealous crack addict. Mirren and Gooding make one of the most interesting pair from a psychological point of view. It their relationship that compels you to watch. Their like a car wreck that you know you should turn away from but can.

I give it 5/5 Gs.

'V for Vendetta'

Natalie Portman
Hugo Weaving
Stephen Rea
Stephen Fry
John Hurt



R 132min 2005

‘V for Vendetta’ is a shadowy freedom fighter known only as "V" uses terrorist tactics to fight against his totalitarian society in a future Britain. Upon rescuing a young woman, from the secret police, he also discovers an ally in her.

The fact that it was based on a comic book and the subject matter drew me to want to see this film. Having never read the comic, I found this film that stirred something dormant inside me. It reconfirmed to me how easily governments can lose touch and start to dominant the people.

How the people must keep checks on it government, lest we lose our rights. Patriots to their countries should what this and find relevance to their own situation. The government called V a terrorist. I feel he was a freedom fighter fighting to give people their rights back.

If you look at the political tones of ‘V for Vendetta’, they strike relevant in today’s world. This is the story plot that made me interested in this film and why it one of my favorites.

Hugo Weaving performance in the way he rattles off some of his monologue are a feature that should be awarded. Although you never see his face, his performance is mesmerizing and spectacular. Look at just his perform no one can be disappointed in this film.

Natalie Portman also gets a strong performance. I was too keen on the accent that she used but I did believe her emotion. It’s a world that me as an American would never want to live and its starting to take shape in America.

I give it 5/5 Gs.

'Take the Lead'

Antonio Banderas
Rob Brown
Yaya DaCosta
Alfre Woodard
Dante Basco
John Ortiz
Laura Benanti
Jenna Dewan
Marcus T. Paulk

PG13           108min           2006

‘Take the Lead’ is based on a true story, about a ballroom dance teacher motivating the troubled students in a school detention to make changes, in their lives, by introducing them to ballroom dancing.

A story about helping the “discarded” students find motivation, inspiration and hope in ballroom dancing. Antonio Banderas it the only person you can see playing this part. It a stirring drama with some amazing dance sequence. It an entertaining film that is over even before you know it.

‘Take the Lead’ is another tale of how someone takes it upon himself or herself to change the course for those students that are “discarded”. It is yet again another example of giving kids motivation to change and something to raise their self-esteem. When everyone else thought these kids were nothing he gave them something. It something that parents, teachers, and communities have been slacking in as of late.

Antonio Banderas is the only action that you can see playing this part. When you here what this movie is about the first actor that comes to mind is him. He is the only choice and does a good job in the role. Although he is the lead in this film the dancing its the star of the show.

What makes ‘Dancing with the Star’ so popular is what makes this film so good. The choreography is spectacular. You want to learn ballroom dancing. It shows the flexibility and the showmanship of it. The actors are believable in their dancing.

From the beginning you know ‘Take the Lead’ was successful because only happy ending are told in movie. This one is no different but what is entertaining is the journey that the students make during this film and the things that they have to overcome to see the light of day. It’s a dramatization of life that you will enjoy.

It has the standard stuff of featurette, deleted scenes, and trailers. It has nothing that stands out to make the special features original.

I give it 3/5 Gs.

"Miami Vice (2006)"

Jamie Foxx
Colin Farrell
Li Gong
Naomie Harris
Luis Tosar


Unrated           134min           2006

“Miami Vice” is a grittier update of the 80s television show. This incarnation find Crockett (Farrell) and Tubbs (Foxx) drug running and blurring the undercover lines to bring down a drug kingpin supplying the eastern seaboard.

Those that loved the show may not prefer the movie. As a kid of the eighties and a post 9/11 world prefer the movie. It dramatized what the war on drug and what, even fictionalized, that those soldiers go through. This version is the one I would watch on television.

It was a good action drama, Under Michael Mann’s direction, Jamie Foxx and Colin Farrell held their own. I didn’t see the theatrical release and cannot say what was added but I think the movie may have felt convoluted with anything missing.

The action in “Miami Vice” was action with suspense. The camera shot and use of hand-held made you feel that you were part of the action, which added to the suspense and kept you in the moment. Where it shines is that it feels more documentary that a movie. It added to the realism of it, just another case in these officers’ lives, going undercover in the war on drugs.

I give it 4/5 Gs. If you liked this you’ll like Rush (1991).

'Stay Alive'

Jon Foster
Samaire Armstorng
Frankie Muniz
Jimmi Simpson
Sophia Bush
Wendell Pierce
Adam Goldberg
Milo Ventimiglia

Unrated           100min           2006

“Stay Alive” is about a group of young adults, into video games, play a video game that starts to kill the players as they died in the game.

The things I seen in my life lend me to believe in the supernatural and I rarely watch scary movies. Its more shocking than scary but it left me leaving horror video games alone. I watched too many horror movies as a little kid that scarred my psyche.

‘Stay Alive’ was filmed in Louisiana it has that bayou feel. It just has that spooky feel. Having never been to Louisiana, it does seem to be a spooky place from everything I’ve read and heard about the place. It’s the birthplace of American voodoo.

The most disappoint thing about this film, there is no clear ending. It leaves an ambiguous ending. It’s either harmless or will leave the world decimated without young people as in 'Nightmare on Elm Street'. If it was done to setup sequels then it was a poor setup and made me question the relevance of these characters.

‘Stay Alive’ was inventive in its story. It was more suspense than horror. It was predictable from the moments you saw the characters interact with each other and the characters’ reactions to situations were really unbelievable.

A few featurerttes and some deleted and extended scene make up the special features. The standard boilerplate stuff.

I gave it 2/5 Gs.

'Accepted'

Justin Long
Jonah Hill
Adam Herschman
Blake Lively
Columbus Short
Maria Thayer
Lewis Black

PG13           90min           2006

‘Accepted’ is a comedy about a high school senior than doesn’t get into any college he applies to and instead of going to community college he decides to start his own.

It a funny film you enjoy even with the unbelievable plot. It’s so irreverent that you wish it were possible to pull off. Justin Long, of the Mac/PC commercial and Ed, stands out in this film of relative unknowns. It has all the comedic moments that make it just as memorable as the American Pies.

Every most high school senior are faced with rejection from a school, but at South Harmon Institute of Technology they say yes. Everyone is accepted. This is the college everyone wants to go to. Half the classes offered I would have taken. Then I wonder all colleges have to start somewhere

Justin Long leads this cast of characters that have comedic punch year ahead of their years. This cast did a great job of selling this movie. You believed these friends would get together and start a college, to get out of disappointing their parents.

‘Accepted’ gives that idea college experience with humorous moments. Not all the funny moments are in the trailer. Your constantly laugh wondering how they will pull the next crisis out. “Ask me about my wiener?” has an extended version on the DVD that is totally hilarious.

This DVD is packed with special features. The auto commentary is just down right funny. The featurettes get truly behind the scene and gives you the realization that it was a funny set to be on. The cast and crew were friends and had a good time making this film.

I give it 3/5 Gs.

"The Lake House"

Keanu Reeves
Sandra Bullock
Shohreh Aghdashloo
Christopher Plummer
Ebon Moss-Bachrach

PG       105min      2006

“Lake House” had Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock reuniting again since Speed. Keanu an architect that buys a lake house to refurbish and finds a letter left by future tenant Sandra Bullock.

“Lake House” has a nice love story wrapped in a science fiction time travel film. It was a house built on a deck of cards. It loses some of its logic during the movie; this is the major problem, because of it the story gets implausible and loses it momentum. It changes it own theories to fit itself. Left major plot holes that you could drive a eighteen-wheeler through.

The science-fiction part loses some of its logic middle ways through the film. That as side you can still enough this movie but just a little less. The question left open nagged at me throughout the rest of the picture. It kept distracting me every time something contradictory came on the screen.

Once the time-travel logic unraveled the rest of the story started to not make sense. This the characters should have done and didn’t. People they met and should have remembered. Little things that gnawed away at the story.

At the end of the movie it left question to the story that took away from the enjoyment of the movie. It made you question ‘what you just saw’. I don’t think the writer gave his audience enough credit. Even a simple child could break the foundation of this movie.

Movie are about escapism in the post 9/11 world. Audiences want something that is grounded in reality. That mean that it has to be plausible even if its improbable. That’s why we send the dollars to see these films. Hollywood has lost its creativity and is suffering for it. In this era of time we anyone can setup a home theater, why spent the money going out when you can stay in for a fraction of the cost.

It’s basically a bare DVD. It has a few bloopers. A few behind the scene feature, but nothing extenisive.

I give it 2/5 Gs.

"Monster House (2006)"

PG           91min           2006

“Monster House” is the tale of the haunted house on the street. When D.J. kills his neighbor Mr. Nebbercracker he comes back to get revenge by inhabiting his house. Now D.J., his best friend Chowder, and a girl scout Jenny must prove the house is really haunted and exorcize Mr. Nebbercracker.

Everyone has known about the haunted house in their neighborhood. “Monster House” takes this tale and turns it on its head. This movie is fun and entertaining and keeps you laughing using funny situations. When Jenny enters the headquarters for the first time, her observations will have you laughing. Although the story goes out there you still take the trip. The big name talent didn’t over shadow this movie.

“Monster House” is about-facing your fears of the unknown based around a haunted house. The three main characters are in that awkward phase just before puberty, Facing growing up and losing that innocence.

These characters keep you watching because you want to know what there going to do next. The situations that they get into are funny and keep the plot moving; even when the story goes into left field you want to go along for the ride. Everyone has known something scary. These kids face their fear in the form of haunted house and decide to face it, destroy it and along the way forming a tripod of friendship.

Monster House had the voicing talents of Kevin James, Nick Cannon, Jason Lee, Steve Buscemi, Maggie Gyllenhaal. It’s the Voicing talents of the three unknown children stars that shine in this film. They imbue the character with the emotions and flare that you see on the screen. Some of this be name talent was wasted on the character and they didn’t out shine the three stars. When you figure out the voice behind the character its like finding a great prize in the “Cracker Jacks” box.

Overall Monster House is a great film because it’s funny and entertaining. The has a nice story about friendship, growing up and facing your fears. The “Hollywood” talent in this film doesn’t out shine the unknown actors and is a treat when you figure them out. It has something for everyone, young or old.

I give it 4/5 Gs.

"Cars (2006)"

G           116min           2006

“Cars” is an animated movie where the cars talk and have distinct personalities. When a up an coming arrogant racecar gets lost in Midwest American, he finds something that has been missing in his life.

Voiced by some of Hollywood’s top talent, a new marketing ploy from film companies, it an interesting story that I didn’t find interesting. The best draw for me was Mader voiced by Larry ”The Cable Guy”, and he was under used. The subject matter was a little to head for them and was done better by several live action films. This movie was totally geared to children with its bright and colorful cars.

Half the funny of these animation movies is not looking at any publicity, so that when I watching it I can figure out the voice behind the characters. Even with the voicing talents of Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt, and Larry “The Cable Guy” could keep me interested. I felt that the performances were hollow, that they weren’t the cars by just voicing them. I didn’t feel the emotion in the voice that should have accompanied the action on the screen. But Larry ”The Cable Guy” did shine as the dim-witted “Mader”

This movie’s subject matter was a little thin for adults and the cars distracted the children from a boring movie. “Days of Thunder” is a much better live action version of “Cars. It just didn’t work for me and it can’t be blamed on me not being the demographic because I absolutely loved “Monster House” and “Over the Hedge”.

“Cars” was geared to kids using bright and colorful cars; as the title implies they were the movie. Made specifically to market something to children. This was made to make children want everything “Cars, toy cars, birthday cakes, and merchandise galore. This was made to be a money making machine.

Cars should have been a live action film. It has a thin plot gear to children not for the purpose of entertainment but for the “envy” of all. It had a weak plot and the voice acting was hollow. Other animation this year out shined this film.

I give it a 2/5 Gs.

"John Tucker Must Die"

Jesse Metclafe
Brittany Snow
Ashanti
Sophia Bush
Arielle Kebbel
Penn Badgley

PG13          89min           2006

When a High School serial cheater’s three girlfriends find out they aren’t the only one… they get even. Enlisting the help of innocent new student Kate Spencer. They plot the downfall of John Tucker in “John Tucker Must Die”.

John Tucker is a funny teen comedy, Formulaic in plot. It’s like other teen comedies and it plays that way. Great school location. Where it shines in that it boasts some of Hollywood’s young talent.

Everyone knows that high school “player” the guy with the stable of women, Jesse Metcalfe, of Desperate Housewives fame, plays him to a tee. Anything that his scorned beauties, played by Sophie Bush (One Tree Hill), Arielle Kebbel (The Grudge 2) and R&B singer, Ashanti, throw at him, he rolls with the punches. These ladies enlist Kate, a shy new student to the school, played by Brittany Snow (American Dream).

The things that they put him through are funny and hilarious. It keeps you laughing. Then you wonder as beautiful as these women are…”Why are they jealous of John Tucker when the quartet could have the rest of the males at their feet”. Queens dethrone John’s kingdom.

Penn Badgley as Scott ”The Other Tucker” was severely under used. A surprise cameo by Jenny McCarthy is one the peaks of this film. The highlight of the film that you will debate with your friends is the thong scene.

I gave it a 2/5 Gs.

"Over the Hedge"

PG           89min           2006

“Over the Hedge” is the story of a raccoon named RJ that uses a mismatched family of forest creatures to repay a debt he owes to a bear named Vincent by invaded a suburban cul-de-sac.

This is a movie that children and adults alike will enjoy. Its an funny and amazing tale with some of Hollywood’s best talent voice these animated creatures. Half the funny of the movie is trying to figure out the voice behind the creatures. I won’t ruin the surprise.

The highlight of this film is Hammy. He steal the show from all the other creatures just as his live action counter part does. The sound this actor makes to go with the animated faces with have you throwing up from laughter.

There is nothing bad about this movie. You would have to be a total Scrooge not to like this film. Its great to watch, it’s great to give as a gift, and it begs ti be watched several more times.

I give it 5/5 Gs.

"Dr. Dolittle 3"

Kyla Pratt
Kristen Wilson
Walker Howard
John Amos
Luciana Carro
Tommy Snider
Calum Worthy

PG           95min           2006

“Dr. Dolittle 3” is about Maya Dolittle being sent to the ‘Durango’ Dude Ranch, by her mother, to find herself. While there, she uses her talent to talk to the animals in order to save Durango from being taken over by a neighboring Ranch

It’s the first adventure without Eddie Murphy and is headlined by Kyla Pratt. It doesn’t have any cursing, sex, or violent. It’s a nice film that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a strong showing from a young actress with an extensive résumé.

‘Dr. Dolittle 3’ is a cute film that will greatly amuse children. Norm MacDonald, his voicing of Lucky is a little crude but still funny. The voicing of the animals steals the show. It you like trying to figure out voice over this movie is one that will keep you puzzled until the credits.

If you are looking for something to placate the tweens and below this is one for you. If you’re looking for something that will entertain you and your family this is one for you. There isn’t anything really objectionable in this film. It has the drunken monkey from the other films; a little crude humor and I think two kisses. It still holds the traditions and values started in 'Dr. Dolittle' and 'Dr. Dolitle 2'.

I give it 2/5 Gs.

"Greenstreet Hooligans"

Charlie Hunnam
Elijah Woods
Claire Forlani
David Alexander
Joel Beckett
Geoff Bell
Kieran Bew

R           109min           2005

“Greenstreet Hooligans” is about a Harvard undergrad is wrongfully expelled and goes to see his sister in London and is introduced into the violent world of football hooliganism.

I have been fascinated with the world of hooliganism and football clubs. There mainly portrayed as big mindless ruffs, fighting and disturbing the peace. This movie them as people joined together in a common cause, standing up for their favorite firm or club, in a extreme way. They are the beer belly painted fan of American football.

‘Green Hooligans’ is a good film if you’re curious about the world of hooliganism. It tells a moving tale of one man’s journey through this world. It has great acting from its main actors. It gives a great example of the world of hooliganism.

Claire Forlanti playing an American in her native Britain was amazing to see. She pulls off the accent convincingly. In a film of Brits Elijah Woods is the only Yank and is the first film that I didn’t see him as Frodo or a kid but as an adult actor. It shows all stages of hooliganism and showed some of the consequences of this life style. It is still a drama and it probably to license in some things but you can imagine men getting together and celebrating football and anarchy.

It portrayed hooliganism as a life style for the young. It is a world of organized chaos and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Hooligans in their fandom have started riots that have lead to deaths. It a world not for the faint of heart and it shows. All the main characters have arch that are satisfying to see, in this film.

‘Green Hooligans’ is a good film if you’re curious about the world of hooliganism. It tells a moving tale of one man’s journey through this world. It has great acting from its main actors. It gives a great example of the world of hooliganism.

I give it 4/5 Gs

"The Family Stone"

Sarah Jessica Parker
Dermot Mulroney
Claire Danes
Rachel McAdams
Diane Keaton
Craig T. Nelson
Luke Wilson

PG13           103min           2005

“The Family Stone” is about an uptight businesswoman accompanies her boyfriend to his family’s eccentric Christmas celebration and finds that she's a fish out of water.

This is a hilarious eccentric family that is dysfunctional, in a good way. Even with all their differences that compliment each other and you can tell that they love each other. These actors together remind you of a family. They remind me of my family.

‘The Family Stone’ puts you in the holiday mood. It tells a timeless tale, with morality and just. The twist and turns this movie takes are what makes this film special and the reality of family. You love them, fight them and keep secrets from them.

The characters are well rounded and believable. Each cast member fits there role with in the story. I don’t know it happen but I stopped seeing them as actor and thought I was just spying in on a family getting together for Christmas. At the end I wanted to see more of this family. It made me nostalgic for the holidays.

The DVD special features are packed with delete scenes, audio commentary, and a few featurettes. The highlight for me was the recipe to the dish Sarah Jessica Parker tries to make for Christmas morning. I hope to make it for the holidays.

I give it 3/5 Gs.

'Firewall'

Harrison Ford
Paul Bettany
Virginia Madsen
Carly Shcroeder
Jimmy Bennett
Mary Lynn Rajskub
Robert Patrick

PG13           105min           2006

'Firewall' is about Harrison Ford playing a security specialist forced to assist robber in a heist of the bank that he's protecting, with the robbers holding his family as insurance.

Its typical Ford doing typical Ford. He’s overcoming in surmountable odds to free his family. I believe the beginning and middle logic of the film. There was nothing original about this film.

It’s Air Force One without him being the President and not on Air Force One. He’s running around outthinking robbers who careful researched and planned this robbery. I find it hard to believe that he could out think these robbers.

“Firewall” is nowhere believable and that’s the flaw of this film. From the action Ford takes to the reaction of the robbers lead brilliantly by Paul Bettany. There were several moments when the robbery should have killed his family and didn’t.

The level of sophistication that these robbers displayed suggested they would have covered all their bases. The girls from ‘Sugar & Spice’ studied movies to rob a bank and did a better job than these robbers.

I gave it 2/5.

'Dirty Deeds (2005)'

Milo Ventimiglia
Lacey Chabert
Tom Amandes
Matthew Carey
Mark Derwin
Charles Durning
Michael Milhoan
Zoe Saldana
Arielle Kebbel
Ray Santiago
Erin Torpey

Unrated           87min           2005“

'Dirty Deeds (2005)' is an American Pie-esc teen comedy in which a high school senior tries to complete the Dirty Deeds, an outrageous series of challenges that must be completed between dusk and dawn on the Friday night of Homecoming Weekend.

I watched the Unrated version so I can say what was in the rated version. ‘Dirtier Deeds’ showcases some of the most outrageous and dirtiest deeds I have ever seen. They were nasty and funny at the same time; its no wonder very few people from this school completed the ‘deeds’.

‘Dirtier Deeds’ is just as raunchy as the American Pies but not as funny. Most of the characters are high school stereotypes. It follows the same basic movements and theme of a teen comedy.

You watch to find out what the next deed was and how was it going to be complete. You never doubt Ventimiglia is going to complete the deeds. It’s about the obstacles that are put in his way. Lacy Chabert, from Party of Five fame, plays the under used love interest. Mark Derwin plays the mob boss who is neither scary or threaten; you never get the feeling Zach is in any real danger around him.

‘Dirty Deeds’ can be skipped unless you a fan of one of the actors. There is nothing original that this movie has to offer. This is a raunchy guy film, that has its funny moments. It is something to watch while drinking and laugh. It’s a male movie from the male mind.

There is not much in the way of special features; just a few featurettes.

I give it 3/5 Gs

Suspect Zero

Aaron Eckhart
Ben Kingsley
Carrie-Anne Moss
Harry J. Lennix
Kevin Chamberlin
William Mapother

R           99min           2004

“Suspect Zero” is about an FBI agent tracking is tracking a serial killer, who’s victims are more than meets the eyes and that this secret will lead them to finding the serial killer.

This film wasn’t what I suspected. I saw in a preview and picked it up. I was greatly surprised by this movie. Although it’s a slow moving is it a mentally chaotic intense film. The story was there but it felt incomplete and rushed. Ben Kinsley is stellar as a mentally trouble serial killer.

This is a extremely slow moving film. Although the film the agents are dragging their heels or one step behind. Its didn’t leave the FBI in high regards even though they got there man. It is somewhat satisfying, but is a stain on your mental senses.

Suspect Zero throws a lot of information at you through flashbacks, and newspaper clipping. The clues to solving each murder are there. Some clues are there but don’t make sense until the end. Some of the cut scene should have been left in to make some plot points clear and more apparent to the viewer.

For most viewer this may be above their head. Your like an outside observer with both sides and wonder how the FBI would miss so of the blatant clues by, the spot on acting of, Ben Kinsley. When glimpsing his side you see just how tortured he is, the mental restraint and collapse of his character; this one of the high points of ‘Suspect Zero’.

I give it 2/5 Gs.

The Skeleton Key

Kate Hudson
Gena Rowlands
John Hurt
Peter Sarsgaard
Joy Bryant

PG13           104min           2005

“The Skeleton Key” is a film about a hospice nurse (Hudson) taking care of a older gentlemen in a creepy house with his wife (Rowlands) in Louisiana and the strange occurrences that she stumps upon, where nothing is what it seems.

This film is a creepy suspense tale with a ending that made me laugh, which it wasn’t intended to due. It’s because of the reason given at the end that made me laugh. Then it made me wonder if this could really happen. Our world is definite with having concrete prove, not on believing. To anyone belief is a powerful force and should be discounted.

This movie takes the viewer on the same journey as Hudson’s character searches for clues to solving the mystery of the Skeleton Key. Especially in the bayou, known to be a hot spot for the occult, some mystery should be left unturned. Even if you don’t believe there are forces out there at work.

People discount these forces everyday because there is no proof, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. That fear of the unknown is what this movie relies on and does a great job of conveying it. Miss direction and the slight of hands are use from the very beginning. This is a true suspense thriller.

‘The Skeleton Key’ builds the suspense and tension in you as well as the movie. In the end your relieved for the release of tension, overjoyed for the ending and disappointed that the ride is over. Whether you feel the ending is tragic or comical. It will be satisfying.

I give it 3/5 Gs.

'Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift'

Lucas Black
Nathalie Kelley
Bow Wow
Sung Kang
Brian Tee
Leonardo Nam
Sonny Chiba

PG13           104min           2006

‘The Fast and the Furious 3: Tokyo Drift’ has Lucas Black, a street racer sent to Tokyo by his mother to get away from the trouble he has in America. Living with his father he discovers the underground racing world of Drifting.

It’s on par with the rest of the films. The first that doesn’t star someone from the original and takes the series back to its roots. Black, with his Alabama accent seems like a fish out of water in Tokyo. This time around the story goes back to what started this series.

Tokyo Drift’s story was more about the racing than the story itself. The movie’s story moved to showcase the cars and feature some of the best driving of the series. Drifting is a lot more complicated than you get from ‘Need for Speed’ and the stunt drivers made it look easy from the commentary.

Lucas Black (Sling Blade and Friday Night Lights) plays Sean to a tee. But how much acting really could go into playing a ‘Southern Boy in Tokyo’ went you’re a ‘Southern boy in Tokyo’. ‘Tokyo Drift’ also feature Nathalie Kelley in her feature film debut. She is stunning and not that bad as Neely. Bow Wow is Sean guide into the underworld of drifting and performance adding to his resume.

The story this time around takes a more interesting turn. Black enters the world of drifting and loses a car. Then taken in and mentor, then loses his mentor. Now he must use racing as a way to get out of the trouble his gotten into. This is more race driven, the characters develop around the racing instead of the racing developing round the characters.

I give it 3/5 Gs.

"Tristan + Isode"

James Franco
Sophia Myles
Rufus Sewell
David O’Hara
Mark Strong
Henry Cavill

PG13           125min           2006

“Tristan + Isode” is about second in line to the British crown who falls in love with the Irish princess who would be the future queen of Britain and their love affair that destroys the monarch and starts a war between Ireland and Britain.

“Tritan + Isode” is supposedly the real inspiration for “Romeo and Juliet”. It was neither compelling nor interesting. I disappointed in the story and acting. It was just painful to watch.

This film was a marketed on the basis of “James Franco”. The story was told even before you watched but nothing in it compelled you to watch. You didn’t feel that they passionately love each other. It was more that they were in lust with each other. Young children doing something that there parent told them not too.

I picked it up because it starred Sophia Myles, having seen her in “Underworld” and thought she was under used; I wanted to see what see could do. I wasn’t disappointed in anyone’s acting I was disappointed in the material that they were given. It gives Tristan and Isode no redeeming quality and uses youth as an excuse for stupidity. Not one character questioned their motives or stopped each other.

It gave you nothing interesting to hold on to. Tristan and Isode is a tricky film to pull off and on this they failed miserably at it. Several time during the movie I just stopped watch because it was just too painful to watch. How could two people be this stupid when everything and country depended on them.

“Lust” is a deadly sin and that’s just what they were in. If they truly loved one another they would have put the country ahead of their needs or even come clean. This film did accomplish on thing: Display affairs in a truly light. Affairs affect every around them and can destroy lives needlessly.

This tale has been told far better in “Romeo + Juliet” and “Titanic”. This film is to be seen only if you’re truly a fan of one of the actors.

I give 2/5 Gs