THANK YOU GEORGE LUCAS!!!!!!!
FINALLY EVERYONES FAVORITE TRILOGY AND THE LAST THREE FILMS ARE HEADING TO BLU-RAY DVD!
ALL THE STAR WARS FILMS WILL BE RELEASED ON BLU RAY IN FALL OF 2011!
RATED: PG-13
Prices : 75.99-99.99 OUR GUESS FOR THE BOX SET
NEW ON DVD 8-31-10
WHY DID I GET MARRIED TOO?
RATED R
(LANGUAGE, SEXUAL REFERENCES)
HARRY BROWN
RATED R
(VIOLENCE, LANGUAGE)
MARMADUKE
RATED PG
(RUDE HUMOR)
WHY DID I GET MARRIED TOO? If you are a Tyler Perry fan and you didn’t see the movie in theatres, this DVD rental is for you (even fans may not want to buy this one). Otherwise, save your money for another week. Rated: PG-13 (language, sexuality, domestic violence) “Cop Out” stars Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan as long time police partners Jimmy Monroe and Paul Hodges that perform police work in their own way. A simple stake out and drug bust turns into a warzone when Monroe and Hodges are on the scene. When the witness is gunned down, the “couple of dicks” are suspended. This forces Jimmy to sell his beloved baseball card to afford his daughters dream wedding. It gives Paul too much time to suspect his wife (Rashida Jones) of cheating on him. Yet another mix up when Jimmy gets robbed at the memorabillia store and loses the valueable card to a nickle and dime thief Dave (Sean William Scott). This puts our zany detectives on a path that will bring them full circle in this mad cap comedy. There are some very funny moments supplied by addition cast members Susan Essman as a soccer mom packing heat and there is the 10 year old that is the king of car theft in NY. Jason Lee makes an appearance as he does in all of Kevin’s films. If you are a fan of Smith and SW Scott, then pick up the Blu-Ray for tons of bonus features that include special excerpts and commentary from Smith and Scott during the film!!!!!!! Rated R (Language, violence, drugs) When I first read the original book by author Stieg Larrson, I was amazed. He had depth and a scary story line. And I was hooked on the series. So surprise for me when I discovered the series had already been made into films, although they are all Swedish sub-titled ones! Hence, me reviewing them! The original title of the book is “Man som hatar kvinnor” which translates to “Men Who Hate Women”. And the title is very appropriate! Much has been thrown about in the Hollywood scene as it is being remade as I write and the hunt is on for the leads for this adaptation. But I digress…let’s talk about the beautifully adapted Swedish version. Main character Mikael Blomkvist (played by Michael Nyqvist) is an investigative reporter who has just been on trial for libel against a huge business tycoon and loses. He has a small prison term ahead of him but before he goes, he is approached by a retired businessman to do an investigation on a 40 year old mystery. Little does Mikael know, but this same businessman has used a company to do an extensive background check on him…enter our strange, damaged computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (remarkably portrayed by Noomi Rapace). Lisbeth continues to follow Mikael after her assignment out of curiosity. In doing so, she starts to see patterns that he is missing in his new investigation, and decides to tell him. This in turn leads them on a wild chase to only discover there has been a horrific serial killer on the loose for 40 years. We also get a glimpse into each of the main character’s lives, and much more than we might want. The two eventually fall into a relationship and the story continually surprised me, even though I guessed the killer’s identification pretty quickly. I just did not know the whys and how’s, which gets explained neatly in the end. There is quite a bit of graphic violence and mistreatment of women, hence the original title. There are a few rape scenes that are not for the weak at heart. That being said, the movie is a not-to-miss thriller. You will have a hard time following the dialogue at times. It does race on, and it really helps to have already read the book. I already cannot wait to finish the next two books and watch their films! One of the suprise hit comedies is out on DVD this week, SHE'S OUT OF MY LEAGUE! The rest of the humor comes from the banter and dialogue provided by Kirks buddies Jack (Mike Vogel), Devon (Nate Torrence) and Stainer (T.J.Miller) who also work with Kirk at the airport and attempt to talk him out of getting back together with Marnie. This all changes when Molly (Alice Eve) a blonde and perfect “10” forgets her I-Phone at Kirk’s checkpoint and has him return it to her. When I hear Martin Scorsese has a film coming out starring Leonardo DiCarprio I’m the first one in line to see it. Martin’s new film “Shutter Island” based on a Dennis Lehane’s novel of the same name. The film, a psychological thriller taking place in the 1950’s in an asylum for the criminally insane stars Leo, Ben Kingsly, Mark Ruffalo, Michelle Wiliams and Jackie Earl Haley. Teddy Daniels (Leo DiCaprio), a U.S. Marshall and veteran of WWII, is sent out to Ashecliff Hospital on Shutter Island to investigate a patient that had gone missing. Daniels is teamed with a new partner Chuck Aule (Mark Ruffalo) for this assignment that holds more meaning to Daniels than meets the eye. Upon arrival the marshalls notice that the hospital is under armed guards and surrounded by and electric fence, not to mention it’s an island in the Atlantic Ocean. Not exactly condussive to a woman taking off barefoot in the middle of the night. Teddy and chuck are stymeed at every turn by the physician running the Asylum, Dr. Cawly (Ben Kingsley).
Why Did I Get Married Too? is the sequel to Tyler Perry’s 2007 Why Did I Get Married? Basically, it’s a rehash of the first. Four couples go on an annual vacation to catch up and to discuss their marriages (this time to the Bahamas; the first movie was in Colorado during the winter). This wife thinks her husband is cheating on her. That husband thinks his wife is cheating on him. Another couple is splitting up (they don’t talk any more). One can’t find a job. An ex-husband keeps popping up. Throw in the death of one of the main characters and that’s the movie in a nutshell.
DVD is available in both standard and Blu-ray. contains bonus out-takes and behind the scenes with Tyler Perry.
Running time: 121 minutes
THE SQUARE
This is probably the best movie you didn't see this year at the theater!!!
The first thing I have to tell you is to watch the short film "Spider" in the DVD extras first! This will get you ready for the suprises and thrills in the feature film "The Square". There is also a tie in between the film.
The Square is a story of money, sex and murder. Set in Australia, Raymond (David Roberts) a general contractor and his secret lover Carla (Claire Van Der Bloom) have dreams of running away together, they just need money. What starts with Raymond skimming cash off his books leads to arson, extortion and finally murder. Then the two lovers find themselves drowning in the very mess they created!
So don't miss the Square on DVD!
FURRY VENGENCE/ THE LAST SONG
This week the DVD releases give everyone a NO WIN rental situation! It's SAP or CRAP on DVD!!!
Furry Vengence has Brendan Frasier still trapped in crappy kids films about animal revolting against a builder (Frasier) destroying their forest. If you need something to amuse a pre-kindergarden child or that blind, deaf relative Furry vengance is just the film!
The Last Song, aka Miley Cyrus has a new cd out!! Her new marketing strategy is to have sap king writer Nicolas Sparks write a part for her to bore us for 90 minutes as we hear her squeal in the background soundtrack. This is aweful unless you are a 12 year old girl who thinks Miley invented music. Remember she is the spawn of daddy mullet Billy Ray, you know she can't act!
Stay at home and watch reality TV this week, nothing was released on DVD!
both films rated PG (pitiful garbage)
COP OUT
Formats: Standard and the “Rock Out w/ your Cop Out” edition on Blu-ray
GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO
(THIS WEEK RAVEN SITS IN FOR TONI)
RATED R (RAPE, LANGUAGE, VIOLENCE)
FORMATS: STANDARD AND BLU RAY DVD
SHE'S OUT OF MY LEAGUE
Jay Baruchel stars as Kirk, an airport transit authority worker who hasn’t got over his ex-girlfriend, Marnie (Lindsay Sloane). The main reason for this is that his parents treat her and her new boyfriend like they are part of the family! Talk about living in hell. Kirk also has an older brother and pregnant wife still living at home that continually dog him. Mary Jo Rupp (That’s 70’s Show) is hilarious as Kirk’s mom as she referees all the mayhem going on in this “family”.
Rated R(language, drug use. sexual situations)
Formats: Standard and Blu Ray DVD
WHEN IN ROME
It is not very often that I come across a film that isn't even worth a dollar to rent at the local DVD store, but ocassionally they suface like scum on the ocean. This is the case with 2010's worst film 'When In Rome'. Josh Duhamel and Kristen Bell star in this romantic comedy that contains no laughs. The story is predictable, girl go to Rome, meets guy and makes a wish. Then a bunch of B-list comedians follow her back to NYC! This is the hoakiest bunch of schlock I have seen in years, and if you wait long enough and must see it you may be able to buy it at the dollars store in a few weeks.
Rated PG-13 (language)
Formats: standard and Blu-Ray
SHUTTER ISLAND
Shutter Island was the best thriller of 2009 and now its on DVD! What are you waiting for GO RENT IT!
Rated R (Language, Violence, Disturbing Images)
Formats: Standard and Blu Ray
THE WOLFMAN
The story is the same but the special effects have been vastly improved as Universal remakes one of the studio's horror classics "THE WOLFMAN". This time around Benicio Del Toro is in the title role as an actor who returns to his disfunctional home to find his brother's killer. He also discovers the family secret...they are Werewolves!
The film also stars the great Hugo Weaving, Anthony Hopkins and Emily Blunt. This version of the Talbot terrors is far more boring than the classic original, but it makes up the gap with special effects, including Del Toro's transformations.
I recommend this DVD for a dollar just for the updates and it includes a directors cut that is unrated. The DVD also includes deleted scenes that didn't make the final cut.
Rated R (violence, gore)
Formats: Unrated standard and unrated Blu-Ray
EXTRAORDINARY MEASURES
There is nothing extraordinary about the film “EXTRAORDINARY MEASURES” accept for maybe the payroll. The film stars Brendan Fraser, Keri Russell as John and Aileen Crowely, parents trying to find a cure for Pompea disease before their two kids die from it. Ys it is based on a true story and actual events but it is done in a made for TV movie style and is only missing the Hallmark ribbon.
The best thing about the film is Harrison Ford as the research expert on the disease that goes “all in” with the Crowelys to try to save the kids. If you are a sap lover this may be worth the dollar rental but definitely no more than that.
Rated PG (Language)
Formats: standard and Blu-Ray
IT'S COMPLICATED
Strep and Baldwin are divorced parents reunited at their son's graduation.Once you throw in single architect Steve Martin, jealousy rekindles the romantic fires in Baldwin! This menage-a-trois is a real laugh riot!
It's Complicated was one of the best romantic comedies of 2009 and now it is out on DVD!
Rated PG-13 (Sexual Situations, Language)
Formats: Standard and Blu-Ray DVD
PIRATE RADIO
Are you ready to rock???? I was, so I picked up "PIRATE RADIO" on DVD!
Pirate Radio stars Rhys Ifans, Bill Nighy and Phillip Seymore Hooffman as a group of British and American disc jockeys that have taken to the seas to revolt against British law that outlawed the playing of rock n roll music.
The film, based on actuall events from the 1960's is very entertaining and is jam packed with Rock classics on the soundtrack. The things these guys go through to elude the authorities is hilarious and the end will have you on the edge of your seat!
The film is very funny but has some strong language and drug use in it so not for the kiddies. But if you are looking for a funny film that will have your toes tapping, then PIRATE RADIO is just the trip you want to take!
Rated R (Drugs, Language)
Formats: Standard and Blu-Ray DVD
SHERLOCK HOLMES
Robert Downey Jr. is back and he left the armor at home. Downey has team with Guy Ritchie and Jude Law to bring the world's greatest detective to the big screen....SHERLOCK HOLMES!
Sherlock Holmes find our team nearing the end of their storied career together. Dr. Watson (Law) is about to move in with his fiance, leaving Holmes (Downey Jr.) on his own. This is dangerous for everyone in London. The film, now on DVD is about their last case together, a satanic mystery surrounding Lord Blackwood (Max Strong). Blackwood has been murdering young girls around town until holmes and Watson catch him and he is hung for his crimes. All is well until Blackwood rises from the grave! That's when the games afoot!
Watch for the darken figure of Holmes' arch enemy Prof. Moriarty who is introduced for the sequel.
This is spectacular and should be viewed on Blu-Ray DVD!!!
Definately rent this DVD, and if you are a big fan of the fictional detective or Downey Jr/Law then I would recommend the purchase!!!
Rated PG-13 (violence, disturbing images)
Formats: standard DVD, Special Edition w/ comic book, Blu-Ray combo pack
THE BLIND SIDE
What may look like another rags to riches sports movie on the outside, let me tell you that "The Blind Side" is far more than that! The Blind Side tells the trus story of Micheal Oher, a child deserted by his crack addicted mother, forced to live on the streets. That is until a "pitbull" named Leigh Anne Tuohy stumbles across him and takes him in.
After an informal adoption by the family over thanksgiving, Oher uncovers a talent for football that will become historic.
The Blind Side is a wonderful story featuring Tim Mcgraw, Kathy Bates and Sandra Bullock in the part she won an oscar for this year! Blind Side also features some actuall football footage, the actual college coaches that recruited him and in the closing credits, a slideshow of the real Micheal Oher and Tuohy family.
Football fans and fans of really good films should not just rent this but make it part of your home DVD collection!
Blu Ray owners get an additional treats with deleted scenes and footage of Bullock and Touhy one on one and a round table with the coaches in the film.
Rated PG-13
Formats: Standard and special edition BLU RAY DVD
DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE MORGANS?
Well did you hear about the Morgans????? If You did you have stopped reading this about now knowing that this is a horrible film and should have been burned instead of being released on DVD!
Hugh Grant and SJP aka "horseface" as the flick fanatic reffers to her star in this romantic comedy..NOT! they witness a murder and have to go to Montana to hide out. It's the whole city slicker thing without the talent or a good script. Half way through I began to root for the hit man!
This is awful and not even worthy of a dollar to rent it. If you are a fan of either one of these "actors" just waut a few weeks and you can get it new at the local store for $5.00 in the dump bin!
Rated PG-13 (Violence, Sexual Content)
Formats: Standard and Blu Ray
2012
Roland Emmerich is back and he once again wants to destroy the world. This time, Roland is using the Mayan calender and John Cusack to tell the tale of destruction in his latest film "2012", just out on DVD.
2012, what it lacks in story and character developement, it makes up in breathtaking special effects! As you may have heard, the Mayans centuries ago predicted the planet would end in the year 2012. John Cusack, Amanda Peet and Woody Harrelson show us what that fateful time might just look like.
I would recommend this to rent (on BluRay if you have it), but only the hard-core destructo will be buying this one.
Rated PG-13 (Language, Violence, Destruction)
Formats: standard and BluRay
LAW ABIDING CITIZEN
Gerard Butler stars in this modern take on the classic film “Death Wish”. Butler is a victim of a home invasion that leaves him injured and his wife and child dead. Jamie Foxx plays the assistant D.A> that is more interested in his stats than in justice. When the murderer gets a light sentence, Butler takes action into his own hands. He decides to inflict damage to everyone involved in this judicial joke, and the body count is rising!!! The twist is people continue to die after Butler’s character is in custody????
Law Abiding Citizen was mostly overlooked at the theater, but it should not be missed on DVD! It is well worth the price of a rental, and if you are an action flick fan some stores have it at a bargain prioce of $9.99!
Rated R (violence, language, part. nudity)
Formats: Standard and Blu Ray DVD
ZOMBIELAND
OK IT’S TIME TO NUT UP OR SHUT UP!!!!
Woody Harrelson and Jesse Eisenberg are giving us the crash course on how to survive in a world overrun by ZOMBIES!!!!
I am not one for the horror films, but Zombieland is one of those unique films that has you laughing as much as jumping. Zombieland was one of the funniest films of 2009!
Tallahassee (Woody) and Columbus (Jesse) are crossing the country avoiding the undead and in search of a safe place to re-establish themselves. The two met on the road, each a veteran zombie killer. In zombieland it is good to have a set of rules of do’s and don’ts , weapons and of course Twinkees!!!!
In search of a really good comedy, don’t just rent this one….Nut up and buy it TODAY!!!!!
Rated R (Language, Violence)
Formats (Standard, 2 disc Nut up or Shut up edition and Blu ray DVD)
GAMER
2009 was the year the film indusrty tried solving the over-crowding prison by racing them to the grave in 'Death Race' and now make them pawns in a bloody video game in 'GAMER"
Gamer stars Gerard Butler, Micheal C. Hall (Dexter) and Ludacris in this tale of kill or be killed with only the best gaining parole and their life back. sound familiar?
this one is just as bad as the rest. it is a violent murderfest with bits of nudity sprinkled in to keep guys focused.
I wouldn't blow even a dollar on this one unless maybe you x-box is on the fritz and you need a fix until you can get back into call of duty, then it is right up your alley.
Rated R (Violence, Language, Nudity)
Formats: Standard and BluRay DVD
CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS
2009 was the year of the animated film and Sony pictures gave us one of the best with ‘Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs’.
“Cloudy w/ Meatballs” is based on the classic children’s book about a boy who invents a machine that rains food! Flint Lockwood (voice of Bill Hader), a local inventor who stumbles across an invention that storms pasta and pancakes instead of just rain and hail. He not only solves the world’s hunger crisis and saves his dying hometown in one step. Flint also meets the love of his life, weathergirl Sam Sparks (Anna Faris), who is there covering the savory phenomenon.
“Cloudy w/ Meatballs” is a fun story that is a full course feast of entertainment for the entire family! Rent this, better yet buy this dvd so your kids can see it whenever they want!
Rated: PG (fantasy violence)
Formats: standard and Bluray DVD
JENNIFERS BODY
Megan Fox stars in the title role in this flick that is a cross between Carrie and Mean Girls. Jennifer's Body is the story of the most popular girl in school who is sacrificed by a satan worshiping rock band only to come back to life for revenge against all boys! Not much story content here, but it will appeal to the guys and fans of Megan Fox, who runs around in her underwear. It is woth a rent if you like comedic horror films or just want some mindless violence. The film also co-stars Adam Brody (OC) and Amanda Seyfried (Mama Mia)
Rated R (violence, language, sexual themes)
Formats: (standard and Blu Ray)
500 DAYS OF SUMMER
Looking for that perfect DVD for your dinner and a movie night? I have just the right recipe for you with ‘500 days of Summer’.
This quirky romantic comedy follows a retrospect of Tom Hansen’s (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) year long romance with co-worker Summer Finn (Zooey Deschanel). The opening line of the narration tells you this isn’t a love story, and prepares you for the relationship turmoil that is to ensue. This will have a few tugs at the heartstrings for the girls and enough comedy for the guys. 500 Days of Summer also has a great soundtrack featuring music from The Clash, The Smiths and Regina Spektor that will have you tapping your feet as the film plays.
500 Days of Summer is one of the best films of 2009, and is worth a rent, and once you see it you will want to own it!
Rated R (Sexual Theme, Language)
Formats: Standard and Blu Ray DVD
THE HANGOVER
This week you have the opportunity to pick up the funniest film of 2009 on DVD, ‘The Hangover’!
The Hangover is about a group of buddies that take their bachelor party on the road to Las Vegas. Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis and Justin Barth star as the quartet of party animals heading to sin city for one last weekend of debauchery for Doug (Barth) before he gets married on Sunday morning. There is the usual, drinking and gambling in addition to stealing a police car, waking up with a tiger in the bathroom and a baby in the closet! Want to know how this happened, SO DO THEY! No one remembers what happened to them and most important where they lost Doug!
This film is hysterical! There are bonus features that include the lost photos from the infamous night of pleasure. This is the perfect film to start your Blu-Ray collection, available everywhere for as low as $15.99!
Unrated/Rated R
Formats: Standard, 2 disk bonus set, Blu Ray bonus set
PUBLIC ENEMIES
I am finally glad to see Public Enemies hit DVD! I missed it at the show and now got the chance to catch up on it at home.
Johnny Depp is public enemy number one John Dillinger. Dillinger was a depression era bank robber that was elusive and had a robin hood like following with the public. That was until J. Edgar Hoover enlisted his new FBI agents led by Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale).
Public Enemies is loaded with action and a ton of gun fire, it seems every one was a horrible shot back then. The one thing the film lack was the character backdrounds of other famous criminals in the film like Pretty boy Floyd (who is gunned down in the first 15 mins.) and Alvin Karpis (Giovanni Rabisi).
Director Michael Mann who brought us Miami Vice and Heat, knows action so rent this DVD and you wont be disappointed!
MPAA RATING: R (VIOLENCE, LANGUAGE)
FORMATS: STANDARD AND BLU-RAY
UP
Yay!! ‘UP’ is available on DVD!! I have been looking forward to this one. I think you’re really going to like this animated treasure, no matter what your age!!
Crotchety old Carl Fredricksen (Ed Asner’s voice) has a very unusual way to avoid a metropolis closing in on his territory and being sent to a retirement home…he decides to attach a ridiculous amount of helium balloons to his beloved home and fly away!! Little does he know, he has a stow away—a young Wilderness Explorer named Russell (Jordan Nagai’s voice) whose sole purpose is to attain the coveted badge for assisting the elderly, crabby or not!
As usual, Pixar has mastered the art of animation for the entertainment of us all. There are many clever jokes along with numerous colorful characters to keep everyone interested. Watch for such wonderful talents as Christopher Plummer, the voice of Charles Muntz, John Ratzenberger as Construction Worker Tom and Delroy Lindo as Beta just to name a few. There is also a fabulous short animation at the beginning that is not to be missed.
It is not often that I advise people to purchase DVD’s, but in this case, it really is worth that hard earned dollar and it’s coming out in time to make it a great inexpensive gift for the holidays! If you have or are planning to get a Blu- ray player, be sure to get the Blu- ray version of this movie. There are behind the scene documentaries, a game and much more.
MPAA Rating: PG for peril and action
Run time: 96 minutes
ORPHAN
Anyone who knows me knows that I am not a fan of scary movies. I have to say that I was not looking forward to seeing ‘Orphan’. But, of course, I “tagged along” with The Flick Fanatic and I’m here to report that it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Actually it was quite interesting!
John and Kate Coleman (Peter Sarsgaard and Vera Farmiga) agonizingly decide to adopt an older child- Esther (Isabelle Fuhrman) - after losing their 3rd to a stillbirth. Kate, still fragile from Jessica’s death and trying to overcome her resulting alcoholism, puts all her effort into embracing their new family addition. I don’t want to give too much away, but there are numerous “accidents” and “incidents” that seem to surround Esther and Kate begins to wonder about and investigate her sketchy background.
This movie is definitely worth seeing-even if you’re a fraidy-cat like me!
Rated R (Violence, Language,Sexual Reference)
Formats: Standard and Blu Ray (Includes atl. ending)
TRANSFORMERS:REVENGE OF THE FALLEN
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So I decided to spend part of my Saturday watching ‘Transformers’ and ‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’ and let me just tell you that I should have stopped at the original! I really enjoyed ‘Transformers’ when it came out. I liked the “origin-like” story line, learning about the characters and it had just the right amount of humor and action. Regrettably, Michael Bay greedily decided to ride its popularity and create a sequel. I really wish he had let it stand alone and if anyone wanted to see more, they could have found the cartoon on cable television! ‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’ brought back most of the previous crowd: Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf), Mikaela Banes (Megan Fox), Major Lennox (Josh Duhamel), Agent Simmons (John Tuturro) and Ron and Judy Witwicky (Kevin Dunn and Julie White). Unfortunately, he introduced several new people who were nothing less than irritating. Plus, the story line turned into a ridiculous 2 ½ hours of silly, slap-sticky baloney with juvenile humor and a brainless plot. If you LOVED, LOVED, LOVED ‘Transformers’, I wouldn’t even tell you to see this one. I just think it would make you a little sad that you ruined the original by seeing the sequel!! Really, if you’re that much into the concept of ‘Transformers’, find a comic book or one of the toys or that channel on cable television! |
THE PROPOSAL
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Whoever would have thought that the United States government would deport someone back to Canada? Well, that’s what Margaret Tate (Sandra Bullock) thought when she shockingly finds herself in a situation she cannot control. As Tate, a high powered, no nonsense editor in chief scrambles for a solution, she comes up with ‘The Proposal’ forcing her often abused assistant Andrew Paxton (Ryan Reynolds) into a marriage made in anything but heaven. The comedy leads the incompatible couple to Paxton’s hometown in Alaska where a number of outrageous events occur. I must say that I was a little apprehensive to see yet another romantic comedy starring Sandra Bullock, but happy to report that I was pleasantly surprised. I just loved Bullock and Reynolds together and really enjoyed the cast being rounded out with Mary Steenburgen and Craig T. Nelson as the Paxton parents, Grace and Joe in addition to a delightful performance by Betty White as Reynold’s Grandma Annie. No matter what country you hale from, ‘The Proposal’ is definitely worth a trip to your favorite rental place. |
GHOSTS OF GIRLFRIENDS PAST
This week we get a refreshing look at Matthew McConaughey’s talent….NOT!!! McConaughey stars in ‘Ghosts of Girlfriends Past’, his latest “effort” to show off his abs.
Connor Mead (McConaughey) is a confirmed bachelor trying desperately to convince his brother Paul (Brechin Meyer) not to get married. The so-called romantic comedy is fused with ‘A Christmas Carol’esque story line where Connor’s role model Uncle Wayne (Michael Douglas) attempts to change his mind about his shameless lifestyle by visiting his past, present and future girlfriends. The film also stars Jennifer Garner and includes Emma Stone and Lacey Chabert.
I must say that I left this movie wondering what these actors were thinking when they agreed to this. How can they possibly want to be involved with such a lazy, insulting film? Did they even read the script? Maybe they’re just looking for a pay day? Well, if that were true, I guess they were sorely disappointed considering its box office take. All I can say is don’t waste your time, money or brain cells on this one!!
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 100 mins
Formats: Standard and Blu-Ray DVD
X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE
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Okay…so in the last review I said I wasn’t a fan of sequels, but in this case I’ll make an exception. Why? Because Hugh Jackman is yummy!! Actually, this is a prequel….’X-Men Origins Wolverine’ where we get to learn why Logan is the way he is and meet some new characters along the way. The tale begins with best friends learning that they are actually brothers who have some very fascinating (and deadly) abilities. On the run and vowing to look out for each other, James (Jackman) and Victor (Live Schreiber) can be seen fighting together in several wars, beginning with the Civil War and ending with Vietman (I didn’t know that they are also immortal!). Later, the brothers get recruited into a specialized faction that includes other “talents”: Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds), John Wraith (Will I Am), Chris Bradley (Dominic Monaghan), Fred Dukes (Kevin Durand), and Agent Zero (Daniel Henney) led by William Stryker (Danny Huston). This is where we find out how polar opposite James’ and Victor’s personalities are-which is to say the James actually has a conscience!! I must say that although a lot people seemed disappointed, I didn’t mind it- possibly because I never seem to do any research or pay attention to any of the hype!! I guess that’s why I’m the Tagalong…just along for the ride with little or no expectations!! So…if you’re a comic book (or comic book movie) fanatic, you’re probably not going to like this one very much. But if you just want to watch Hugh Jackman -who happens to have an “in the buff” scene (swoon)-with a new cast of hotties, I would recommend a rental!! MPAA Rating: PG-13 intense sequences of action and violence, some partial nudity |
CRANK 2: HIGH VOLTAGE
Remakes and sequels are really not my favorite things, moviewise. Most of the movies that I like can stand alone and rarely, in my opinion, need an epilogue or more of the same with different characters. But, apparently, my opinion was not solicited when it came to making another ‘Crank’…this one being ‘Crank: High Voltage’.
Think a fall from a helicopter is fatal?? Well, here we are again watching Jason Statham as Chev Chelios (even his name seems unnatural!!), with his heart-pounding (pun intended here as his real heart has been replaced with a robotic one!), non-stop, fast action debauchery-funny at times, crazy and unbelievable most of the rest. Returning as Chev’s girlfriend, Eve Lydon, is Amy Smart and Dwight Yoakam resurrects his Doc Miles role-keeping Chev “revved” up.
If you’ve seen (and liked) ‘Crank’, ‘Crank: High Voltage’ ups its anti with more outrageousness for you to love!! If you haven’t seen it but it’s your kind of movie, you may want to rent both at the same time so you can get the background from the first. For myself, I’m sure I can find something much more original to entertain myself with.
MPAA Rating: R-strong bloody violence, crude and graphic sexual content, nudity, language
Runtime: 96 minutes
Formats: Both Standard and Blu-Ray DVD
STATE OF PLAY
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Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck, Rachel McAdams, Helen Mirren, Robin Wright Penn, Jason Bateman, Jeff Daniels….looks like a list of red carpet personalities, doesn’t it? Well, this is the cast you’ll see in ‘State of Play’, yet another movie that didn’t do well at the box office for reasons I can’t explain. Seasoned newspaper reporter Cal McAffrey (Crowe) and State Representative Steven Collins (Affleck) star as former college roommates in this classic crime drama/thriller that will keep you guessing. The plot includes political intrigue with a supposed suicidal mistress, an extremely intense and ambitious blogger (McAdams) and a tough as nails newspaper editor (Mirren). All in all, I liked it. I just want to let you know that it is dialogue driven rather than action packed. I would definitely recommend this as a rental while you are waiting to see the next red carpet awards event! MPAA Rating: PG-13 some violence, language, drug content |
DUPLICITY
So when I saw the DVD releases this week, I almost forgot that I saw ‘’. This is one of those movies that didn’t seem to get a lot of attention even though it has an A-List cast and an appealing plot line.
Julia Roberts and Clive Owen star as Claire Stenwick and Ray Koval, government espionage experts turned corporate spies in this snappy-if not convoluted- story of super secret, patent pending intrigue. The twists and turns are plentiful as we try to learn the history of Claire and Ray and get a glimpse into serious industry competition and deceit led by Richard Garsik (Paul Giamati) and Howard Tully (Tom Wilkinson). Although this movie can be very confusing for some, and The Flick Fanatic was getting tired of all my questions, I liked it. The movie’s got a decent pace that keeps you guessing, but it really does explain itself in the end. Have fun figuring out this one over the weekend!
RATED: PG-13
FORMATS: STANDARD AND BLU-RAY DVD
HANNAH MONTANA:THE MOVIE
So…first there was the TV show, then the “in your face” merchandising, some concerts and now….. ‘Hannah Montana: The Movie’!! All I can say is “Enough, already!!” But, apparently sentiments such as this will most likely fall on deaf ears as long as Hannah continues to bring in the almighty dollar…which I have every intention of saving you from spending on this particular movie!!
Miley Cyrus stars as Hannah Montana, a teenage girl who has no control over her own destiny and wishes to find a way to coexist with her true persona Miley Stewart. Leading a “double life” can be problematic when you are pulled in numerous directions by your best friend- Lilly Truscott (Emily Osment), your dad- Robby Ray Stewart (played by real life dad Billy Ray Cyrus) and your overindulgent manager-Vita (Vanessa Williams), so dad decides to take Miley back to her hometown of Crowley Corners Tennessee so she can gain a better point of view as to what’s most important.
The story line is abundantly tired, the acting is almost mediocre, and the music is so teen-y!! If you’ve got pre-teen girls at home who just can’t seem to get enough of the beloved Hannah, by all means disregard all of the above. If not, the only Montana I would recommend is the one located northwest of the great state of Missouri !!
Rated G
Formats: Available in both standard and blu-Ray DVD
FAST AND FURIOUS
Ever notice how boring and long the week is and how exciting and speedy the weekend goes? That’s how I felt about ‘Fast and Furious’!! The dialogue and story line are sluggish and dreary, but when you get to the car scenes, it moves.
‘Fast and Furious’ bring back the original team of Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel), Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker), Letty (Michelle Rodriguez) and Mia Toretto (Jordana Brewster) with high-speed cars and an abundance of eye candy for guys and gals. That’s the good news. The bad news…they let them speak!
If you’re looking for something with substance or Oscar worthiness, don’t inconvenience yourself. If it’s a no-brainer, fast forward through the bad acting, lookin’ to escape from the dreadful week you just had, go ahead and rent it for that one dollar from the Red Box. It really is barely worth that!
Formats: Standard, 2Disk bonus and BluRay (includes Badoleros mini movie)
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Language, Drugs)
Running Time: 99 mins
CORALINE
Ever wish you had someone else’s parents? Think that your friend’s mom is so much cooler or nicer or funnier than your own? Well, meet Coraline…the master of longing for a better set of parents who would do all the things she thinks they should. But after discovering a secret world where her wishes actually come true, Coraline comes to appreciate the meaning of the movie’s tag line “careful what you wish for”.
I was very mesmerized by this movie. I am not one to mention the technical, but I loved the animation. I watched the 3D version (the movie comes with 4 sets of 3D glasses) and the 2D without noticing much of a difference (again, that may be due to my lack of savvy). There were a lot of great characters with a talented cast of voices such as Dakota Fanning (Coraline), Teri Hatcher (Mother and Other Mother), Keith David (cat) and Ian McShane (Mr. Bobinsky).
I do want to let you know that I believe the MPAA got it wrong this time. I wouldn’t recommend this movie for children under the age of 13. I am truly appalled that this movie is being marketed as a children’s movie. My own niece (who is almost 6) watched it with her sisters who are much older. My sister had trouble getting her to go to sleep because she was afraid of her closet’s open door! I want to thank the Fanatical Two-Lauren and Syd- for their sweet concern for the little ones. They are totally correct when they say it can be “creepy” for certain viewers!!
MPAA Rating: PG for scary images, some language and suggestive humor
Run Time: 100 minutes
Well, shockingly enough, I did not see any of the movies that became available on DVD this week! So, The Flick Fanatic rented ‘The Horsemen’ for me to watch and tell you about.
‘The Horsemen’ stars Dennis Quaid as Aidan Breslin who is not able to juggle his family life with his professional one successfully. A widowed father to Alex (Lou Taylor Pucci) and Sean (Liam James) and an intensely dedicated forensic specialist, Breslin has gotten himself mixed up in some very heinous crime scenes centered on the four horsemen of the apocalypse.
I must say that I was very intrigued with the story line. I really wanted to follow Breslin on this seemingly intellectual thriller until I began to discover that intellectual may be a bit of a stretch considering the dialogue. I was also disappointed in the depth of the characters-or lack thereof-as well as some of the performances.
Considering that I had not even heard of this movie before looking into the new DVDs coming out this week, I wouldn’t bother with this one. After all, the creators of the movie didn’t seem to!!
MPAA Rating: R (for grisly and disturbing content, some sexual images)
Run Time: 110 minutes
Formats: Standard and Blu-Ray DVD
KNOWING
'Knowing' begins in 1959, with a classroom of elementary students drawing pictures to put in a time capsule to be opened 50 years in the future. Enter John Koestler (Nicolas Cage) in 2009, whose son Caleb (Chandler Canterbury) is about to receive a 50 year old envelope from Lucinda (Lara Robinson), a very disturbed girl, who instead of drawing offers a series of seemingly random numbers.
Koestler becomes obsessed with cracking the code only to find out its explosive secret!
'Knowing really had me from the beginning of the film. I was interested to find out what it all meant and where the story was going to take me. It even had some cool special effects (plane crash). Unfortunately, when I did finally find out, it only made me feel disappointed and wishing that I didn't 'Know" anything at all!
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Violence, Language)
Run Time: 121 mins.
Formats: Both standard and BluRay DVD
12 ROUNDS
Well when my rental of choice ended up being ‘12 Rounds’, I knew it was slim pickins at the DVD rental department this week! And let me just start by saying that if I have to tell you that the special features were the best part of the DVD, then they were even slimmer than originally thought.
‘12 Rounds’ a WWE Production (that should have been my first clue to question my selection!) starring John Cena as Detective Danny Fisher, begins with FBI agents on a hot trail of international scoundrel Miles Jackson (Aidan Gillen). Danny Fisher enters the scene by inadvertently nabbing Miles-on foot, no less-as Miles’ girlfriend is accidentally killed. After escaping from prison and on the one year anniversary of his capture, Miles kidnaps Fisher’s girlfriend Molly Porter (Ashley Scott) and concocts a series of tasks-12 of them to be exact- that must be completed in order to save her life.
What can I tell you, except that the only thing worse than the acting in this film is the dialogue! I found myself wondering if the WWE production staff helped with the script!! I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t tell you to pass this one up!
MPAA Rating: PG-13 intense violence and action
Run Time: 108 minutes
Formats: DVD & BLU-RAY(both theatrical and unrated versions included)
Who doesn’t love to shop? Finding bargains, using coupons, staying within your budget…Oh…wait a minute, that’s how I shop!! Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher) has a completely different style in ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’. Spending hideously beyond her meager salary has landed her in serious difficulty, forcing her to figure out a solution while avoiding an extremely fanatical debt collector. Ironically, Rebecca finds herself hired on at a financial magazine writing an advice column for the economically challenged, all the while trying to get a coveted position at the fashion magazine, Alette.
‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’ has some funny moments and a rather interesting cast in Joan Cusack and John Goodman who portray Rebecca’s parents and Hugh Dancy whose affection Rebecca is vying for. The movie is definitely not the best romantic comedy I’ve seen, but not the worst either. If you like Isla Fisher, give it a rent. Otherwise, grab your checkbook and see if a reasonably inexpensive shopping spree is in your future -but stay on the right side of your credit score!!
MPAA Rating: PG mild language
Run Time: 104 minutes
GRAN TORINO
An Asian community creates an unlikely hero in Clint Eastwoods’s latest gem ‘Gran Torino’. Walt Kowalski (Eastwood) portrays a crotchety old man determined to hold on to his home and vintage ’72 Gran Torino- as well as his dignity- in a gang infested suburb of Detroit .
Eastwood is absolutely brilliant as Kowalski, complete with racial slurs a-plenty originating from his stint in the Korean War. While disowning his selfish family, he befriends his teenage next door neighbors to become an endearing human being with a quick wit and no apologies.
I couldn’t possibly tell you all the intricate story lines and fantastic performances by Christopher Carley, Bee Vang and Ahney Her (Father Janovich, Thao Vang Lor and Sue Lor, respectively) in this short blurb, but suffice it to say, you must see this film! I further believe it is worth the purchase price. You will definitely want to watch this film again and again.
MPAA Rating: R-language, some violence
Run Time: 116 minutes
Special Features: 2 featurettes- Manning the Wheel
Gran Torino-more than a car
Blue Ray features : Behind the story
DEFIANCE
While I know ‘ Revolutionary Road ’ had a great deal of attention, I wanted to let you all know about ‘ Defiance ’ this week.
It is an incredible account of the Bielski brothers, Tuvia (Daniel Craig),
Zus (Leiv Schreiber) and Asael (Jamie Bell) who refuse to tolerate the Nazi’s slaughter of their parents as well as the devastation and abduction of the rest of their village in Eastern Europe .
Taking refuge in the Lipiczanka Forest in West Belarus , the brothers find themselves in a real life “Survivor” situation, if you will, as others are sympathetically brought to the forest in an effort to ensure their existence. Tuvia and Zus are often at odds as to how to handle this situation, both having convincing arguments- Zus feeling that they cannot possibly “take care” of so many and Tuvia feeling the compassion for his fellow “castaways”.
‘ Defiance ’ is well worth your time, be it via rental or purchase. I know I found the story to be so fascinating, that I felt compelled to learn more about it.
MPAA Rating: R (violence, language)
Runtime: 2 hours, 17 minutes
Formats: Standard DVD & BluRay
NEW IN TOWN
Power Exec is sent from Sunny Miami to icy Minnesota to close a small town factory in the so-called comedy 'New In Town'. Culture shock abounds in this predictable romantic comedy starring Renee Zellweger and Harry Connick Jr. Unfortunately, the stars are not what make this movie mildly entertaining. Blanche Gunderson (Siobban Fallon) and Stu Kopenhafer (played by the great J.K. Simmons) are the ones who actually make this movie bearable. But bearable isn't worth the time or money in my opinion. Rather, entertain yourself by getting out your copy of "The Game Of Life". Either that or your own life is sure to be much more fun!!
MPAA Rating: PG (language, suggestive material)
Run Time: 97 minutes
Formats: standard DVD, BluRay
PAUL BLART: MALL COP
This is the story of a plump, segue ridin', hypoglycemic single dad livin' with his mom...what's not to like?!
Kevin James is 'Paul Blart Mall Cop', an honorable guy with a serious passion for mall security. Co-written by James, Mall Cop is lighthearted fun with Keir O'Donnell as the devious plan master and Jayma Mays as the love interest. The sweetly overprotective performances by his on-screen daughter (Maya Rodriguez) and mother (Shirley Knight) are great and there's tons of special features on the Blue Ray version that were very entertaining. If you're in the mood for some fun with a little action, give Paul Blart a chance! If you decide to buy it, the Blue Ray version seems worth the extra few bucks.
MPAA RATING: PG
RUN TIME: 1 HOUR 31 MINUTES
FORMATS: SINGLE DISC DVD
BLUE RAY
Other notable releases this week:
My Bloody Valentine 3D (comes with 4 sets of 3D glasses!)
TAKEN
Liam Neeson stars as Bryan Mills, a retired government operative trying desperately to reconnect to his daughter, Kim, played by Maggie Grace. While playing normal weekend dad to his counterpart of overindulgent ex-wife (Famke Janssen) and stepfather (Xander Berkely), Mills finds himself begrudgingly agreeing to allow his daughter to travel to Paris with another teenage girl. Conditions and restrictions aside, Kim is kidnapped by a group of very unscrupulous "baddies" whom daddy must maim, mutilate and kill to find his baby. 'Taken' is a pretty good mix of story, intellectual thriller and action. Special features are non-existent on the standard DVD, but 'Taken' is definitely worth a rental fee from your favorite source.
*MPAA rating: PG13 (violence, sexual content, language, drug references)
*Running time: 91 minutes
*Available formats: Single disc extended version
Extended harder cut
Blue Ray extended cut 2 disc version
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