THE DARKEST HOUR (Dec 25, 2011)

Starring:  Emile Hirsch, Olivia Thirlby, Max Minghella, Rachael Taylor, and Joel Kinnaman

Director:  Chris Gorak

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime:  89 min

Genre:  Action | Horror | Sci-Fi | Thriller

I found this film to be a bit disappointing only for the fact that I had greater expectations for it and more than likely because there wasn’t any interaction with the aliens. You've gotta have interaction with something you can see in order to make it a good alien movie!  What movies placed the bar so high you ask?  Why would you need to look any further than “ALIEN” not to mention “COWBOYS AND ALIENS” and of course the one that took the bar to the top “AVATAR”.  

Now we are engaging in a fight with a invisible alien drawing it’s life source from the earths minerals..  Really?  Ok, but if it’s action and excitement you are looking for, please pass on this one.  If you’re a Sci-Fi junkie, you might like this to a certain extent, but once you have the desire to view state of the art animation I believe this will leave you somewhat wanting more when you leave the theater.

My Rating: 1 1/2 Mugs of Guinness - aka; 1 1/2 Stars for those not enjoying the better life with Irish Ale.

“Let’s Talk Movies” All input is appreciated, and I hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it.  Don’t forget to become a fan, and use the boxes below to give your reaction to it - Good, Bad, or Ugly....  Also, please help in getting this site greater recognition by clicking on the box “Recommend this on Google” (it’s the +1 box) 

AZ-Tom

WE BOUGHT A ZOO (Dec 23, 2011)

Starring:  Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson, Thomas Haden Church, Elle Fanning, Patrick Fugit, J.B. Smoove, Angus Macfadyen, and John Michael Higgins

Director:  Cameron Crowe

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime:  124 min

Genre:  Comedy | Drama | Family

I need to say this is probably the best family movie I have see this year.  In the short synopsis that IMDb gave the film fell far short of what this film is actually about.  It is most definitely more than a man moving his family to the countryside to renovate and re-open a struggling zoo.

This film is based on a true story, and the cast chosen to portray the actual individuals involved is perfect!  The cast, Benjamin Mee (Matt Damon), Duncan Mee, (Thomas Haden Church), Dylan Mee (Colin Ford), Rosie Mee (Maggie Elizabeth Jones), and Kelly Foster (Scarlett Johansson) play out the story of a man and two children who had recently lost their mother/wife to cancer.  With that said, the story line could have been one of a dark saga but instead it is a great comedy/drama which takes the family through some rough times, but at no time was it dark and shadowed.  

You will fall in love with Rosie from the beginning and never fall out of love with the antics and drama that unfolds throughout.  Their father (Damon) is simply trying to do his very best to make a family atmosphere for the children.  The stumbling stone that was placed in their path is that the house they fell in love with was at one time a ZOO.  This is as far as I want to go with the movie, more will simply spoil your movie going enjoyment.  

Trust me when I offer this one up for a “MUST SEE”

YOUNG ADULT (Dec 09, -2011, Ltd Rel.)

Starring:  Charlize Theron, Patrick Wilson, and Patton Oswalt

Director:  Jason Reitman

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 94 min

Genre:  Comedy | Drama

Finally it opened up in this area, I guess they decided to take it off the Limited Release market and let the rest of us to try to minimize their losses... Read on, you will understand.

After looking forward to seeing this one, "yikes", I was not that impressed with the movie, even though it has a decent story line it wasn’t carried out in a manner that is going to make it a big box office draw.  Granted, it has Charlize Theron playing the part of a struggling writer, Mavis Gary and plays the part well.  After receiving an e-mail from her high school boyfriend Buddy Slade (Patrick Wilson) notifying her of the birth of his daughter she is tossed into a state of mind believing that destiny has brought them back together.  Through the birth announcement she believes that he is reaching out to her in desperation by e-mailing her this message.  The movie actually went fairly well upfront, but as the story continues it becomes rather hum-drum and ends up being quite slow and meaningless towards the end.

I am certain that given the time and budget this movie could have been much better, but that’s hollywood for yah.

Note:  This film was written by Diablo Cody which was the same writer of Juno, and I’m sorry to say that this one doesn’t quite make the same impact that Juno did!  I am going to go out on a limb here and say I don’t think the casting or writing will win any acclaim in this film.  Having a total $12 million budget and only 30 days to film

THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO (Dec 23, 2011)

Starring:  Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Stellan Skarsgard, and Robin Wright

Director:  David Fincher

Rated: R  -  Runtime:  158 min

Genre:  Drama | Thriller

One thing you will want to know.... Disregard the length of the film, once you have seen it you will ask yourself where did the time go!!!

Although I have not read the books, I have been told by someone who has that this particular portion of the trilogy is as good as reading the book.  Not often will one hear that, it seems that in the readers mind so much more is left to the imagination and with that said, we all know where the human imagination can take us.  Worlds unknown....

The movie was just short of being PERFECT!  The opening intro to the movie was fantastic in its artistic value.  

As the movie continues it leaves you questioning where is this going?  Upon taking the position of investigating the disappearance of one of the family members some 30 years earlier, Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) finds himself on an island inhabited by one extremely dysfunctional family, all living in separate estates and for the most case none of which speak to each other.  He’s provided with a cottage from which to work with nothing or no one other than the cat.

The scenes between the time Mikael takes the job on the island and requesting the use of an assistant are at the least exciting, jaw dropping, intense, and leaves the audience with a sense of wonderment as to what will happen next.

The movie progresses rapidly from there, and brings into the equation a somewhat withdrawn private investigator / computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara).  From that point forward there is no question that this is a nail biter, so keep your hats on because it’s a bumpy and exciting ride with a new twist thrown your way at nearly every turn.

THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN (Dec 23, 2011)

Starring:  Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, and Daniel Craig

Director:  Stephen Spielberg

Rated: PG  -  Runtime:  107 min

Genre:  Animation| Action | Adventure | Family | Mystery

Spielberg did it again, I stand in awe of the his unsurpassed capabilities to take a film, be it completely live action, combined live action and animation, or as this one totally animation and make it a Feature Film in the industry.  I believe The Adventures of Tintin is just this type, and I think we should plan on seeing more of this series from him in the future.  Though I give credit to Mr. Spielberg, the movie couldn’t or wouldn’t have been the same if it were not for the writer Steven Moffat...must give credit where credit is due!

To the film - The presentation was fantastic, the animation was state of the art, so darn realistic that one can hardly believe how far we have advanced!  In short, another 5 star presentation by a master.

It is not only an adventure for the audience but integrated the humor of the good captain Haddock and the bumbling interpol detectives Thomson and Thompson with the antics that closely matching that of the Barney Fife, being totally unaware of their present surroundings and situations.  

I can’t say I have recently been to a animated film such as this that kept my attention to detail and storyline as did this one.  Bottom line:  Great film - don’t miss it, and not to worry, all the kids will love it too! 

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED (Dec 16, 2011)

Starring:  Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Jesse McCartney

Director:  Mike Mitchell

Rated: G  -  Runtime:  87 min

Genre:  Animation | Comedy | Family | Fantasy | Music

Ok - 2 out of 3 is pretty good for this weekend!

Well ladies and gentlemen, we have reached the pinnacle of the success of Alvin and the Chipmunks, and have now started the downward spiral.  This movie is only for the enjoyment of the younger crowd, 5 and under.  I looked around the theater beaming with hundreds of empty seats, and those that were taken were with parents with a gaggle of kids (yah, I know gaggle = geese), but this is what it reminded me of, a mother tending to at a minimum of 6 little ones.  The adults were bored, the youth were wiggling and dancing around in their seats.  So I guess if this was how this film was marketed, then they accomplished there goal.

With the huge improvement in animation, I think this film has been left behind.  Having a budget of 80 million dollars on a 87 minute film equating to $915.5K per minute and having major stars doing the soundtrack, only to have their voices transposed into a synthetic squeakiness, at times not fully understandable.  I believe they have gone “overboard” (pun intended)! You will never know that Christina Applegate or Anna Faris share in the voices heard in the movie.  

However none of the adults seemed to enjoy any of the content of the movie, not even the ill attempts at humor.  Sorry, for the bad news, but on a brighter note perhaps we won’t be subjected to Alvin and the Chipmunks again!!  My thoughts only, and will appreciate any rebuttal to this, as I am sure if there are any out there who enjoyed the film and were over the age of 5, please write and let us know.

My Rating: 1 Mugs of Guinness - aka; 1 Star for the younger group!

“Let’s Talk Movies”  All input is appreciated, and I hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it - Good, Bad, or Ugly... Also, please help in getting this site greater recognition by clicking the box "Recommend this on Google" (it's the +1 box).   

AZ-Tom

SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS (Dec 16, 2011)

Starring:  Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Jared Harris, Rachel McAdams, Noomi Rapace, Stephen Fry, and Eddie Marsan

Director:  Guy Ritchie

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime:  129 min

Genre:  Action | Adventure | Crime | Mystery | Thriller

Ok, two films, two good ones! Where will the 3rd take us?  Stay tuned - 

I made the assumption before I entered the theater that this one might just be a let down from the prior, and especially after seeing MI the night before.  

Oh how wrong I was, this one out did even the last Sherlock Holmes and leaves me with nothing short of saying wow!  I enjoyed the action throughout as well as the continuous bantering between Holmes (R. Downey Jr) and Watson (Jude Law).  

This film was one that kept the audience’s attention, and provided everyone with a laugh or five.  Well written, produced, and directed, this film in my estimation is the best of the Sherlock Holmes movies so far.

Here we have another movie this week that is a must see!!!   Don’t miss it, you will enjoy it completely.

My Rating: 4 Mugs of Guinness - aka; 4 Stars for those not enjoying the better life with Irish Ale.

“Let’s Talk Movies”  All input is appreciated, and I hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it - Good, Bad, or Ugly... Also, please help in getting this site greater recognition by clicking the box "Recommend this on Google" (it's the +1 box).  

AZ-Tom

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL (IMAX only - Dec 16, 2011)

Starring:  Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Paula Patton, and Simon Pegg 

Director:  Brad Bird

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime:  133 min

Genre:  Action | Adventure | Thriller

For all you ACTION Junkies, this is the one you want to see First this weekend!  Great performances by all the actors, as usual there is enough intense action in this movie that I don’t believe anyone in the theater was anything but on the edge of their seats.  Did it keep the audiences attention you ask?  Oh heck yah, without saying this is probably one of the best Mission Impossible movies that has been put out.  

After seeing it, let us know what you thought about the scene at the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the tallest building in the world *829.84 meters, or 2,723 feet tall* (for those of you wanting a quick breakdown, a half mile high would be 2,640 feet), both when Ethan (Tom Cruise) is clinging to the outside of the structure, and where he runs through the streets in chase of his adversary only to find himself caught in the midst of a sand storm.  Amazing action and camera work for sure.  
Not leaving out a tremendous 2 thumbs up for the acting, the beauty added by Jane (Paula Patton) and of course the bits and pieces of comedy laced throughout by Benji (Simon Pegg)!  

THE DESCENDANTS (Dec 09, 2011)

Starring:  George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, and Amara Miller

Director:  Alexander Payne

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 115 min

Genre:  Comedy | Drama

I finally found this one, it opened up close to me which gave me the opportunity to go and see what the critics have been raving about.  Here’s how it went...

I was surprised at the content of the film.  It seems that a movie with this type of story line doesn’t show up this time of the year.  Being the season for rejoicing and merriment, this one kinda puts a damper on the happiness.

I have reservations on whether Clooney was the right choice for the actor portraying the part of  Matt King (the land baron and lawyer).  Even though he plays the part of a father dealing with two daughters who has been estranged from his wife for some time quite well, I think the movie portrays him in somewhat less than what the ordinary joe (that’s me) would think a lawyer would act.

As for the scene where he goes running down the street in his slippers, well that was kinda goofy to say the least, really? Who wouldn’t grab the keys to the car sitting only feet from the front door instead of running clip-clop, clip-clop down the street which seemed to be at least 6 blocks?

In content the movie was fairly good, not one that I want to see a second time, but

THE SITTER (Dec 09, 2011)

Starring:  Jonah Hill, Ari Graynor, and Sam Rockwell

Director: David Gordon Green

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 81 min

Genre:  Comedy 

Right out of the box, I am going to give this movie my thumbs up.  Yep, both of em!  Usually when you think Jonah Hill you don’t think young kids but when this movie was cast I don’t think they could have chosen a better actor to portray this part.  The thumbs up go out not only to the actors but as well to the writers and director.  Great job!

Noah (Jonah Hill), being a somewhat laid back individual which somehow becomes the right guy being there at the right time and becomes not only the right guy, but in this movie the BEST is presented excellently in this film.  You will find yourself laughing at nearly every turn of events throughout the film, that’s a promise!!

The children of a Doctor Pedulla (DW Moffett) and Mrs Pedulla (Erin Daniels) who have set up a date for Noah’s Mom needs a babysitter at the last minute because of a sitter cancellation and Noah digs deep into his inner self to make it happen so his Mom doesn't have to cancel the date.  

NEW YEARS EVE (Dec 09, 2011)

Starring:  Ashton Kutcher, Jessica Biel, and Sarah Jessica Parker

Director: Garry Marshall

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime: 118 min

Genre:  Comedy | Romance

I got around to seeing this last night and my comments are nothing short of good movie for all to see.  The writers did a fantastic job intermingling the lives of several people during the 12 to 15 hour period prior to and including the drop of the ball on New Years Eve in New York City.  

One never looses the interaction of the subjects as they move back and forth from one individual to another as the day progresses.  Taking notice of the audience, all were either glued to the screen or laughing at the content of what had just taken place.  In short, this film is "so" worth seeing, as it brings to the mind of the viewer all the things that this single moment in time every year means and what to reflect on as it ends.

All the stars in this movie (and there are many) played the parts about as good as anyone could possibly expect.  Again, I find myself on a retake of the S.J. Parker as I

YOUNG ADULT (Dec 09, 2011, Ltd Rel.)

Starring:  Charlize Theron, Patrick Wilson, and Patton Oswalt

Director:  Jason Reitman

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 94 min

Genre:  Comedy | Drama

Not sure why but I can't find that it has opened anywhere near or around me, so now it is up to all you movie goer's to help me get some information about the film and how you rated it.  I will post your responses here! So bombard me with comments Please! 

My Rating: xx Mugs of Guinness - aka; xx Stars for those not enjoying the better life with Irish Ale.

“Let’s Talk Movies”  All input is appreciated, and I hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it - Good, Bad, or Ugly... Also, please help in getting this site greater recognition by clicking the box "Recommend this on Google" (it's the +1 box).  

AZ-Tom

TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY (Dec 09, 2011)

Starring:  Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, and Tom Hardy

Director: Tomas Alfredson

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 127 min

Genre:  Thriller

Opened today, Stay tuned!! 

My Rating: xx Mugs of Guinness - aka; xx Stars for those not enjoying the better life with Irish Ale.

“Let’s Talk Movies” All input is appreciated, and I hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it - Good, Bad, or Ugly... Also, please help in getting this site greater recognition by clicking the box "Recommend this on Google" (it's the +1 box). 

AZ-Tom

THE MUPPETS (Nov 23, 2011)

Starring:  Amy Adams, Jason Segel, and Chris Cooper

Director: James Bobin

Rated: PG  -  Runtime: 98 min

Genre:  Comedy | Family | Musical

This is the last of the new releases that opened in our area which I haven’t seen.  Therefore I am offering this prior to seeing the movie, ok it’s another Muppet segment which has had the same content, same players, and basically the same endings and I'm not expecting too much from it.  If it brings even 1 full blown laugh from me I will need to re-adjust my thinking and perhaps they can resurrect the death of the Muppets in my mind.  Let’s see how this plays out after I see it..... Stay tuned!! 
As I suspected, not a single laugh from the entire audience!  The appearance by Amy Adams and Jason Segel were at best a desperation attempt at keeping something afloat, be it a sorry attempt at maintaining their status as a 'star' or perhaps they were extremely overpaid in hopes that the Muppets could be resurrected once again.  I believe the Muppets have outlasted the expiration date on the package.  

ARTHUR CHRISTMAS (Nov 23, 2011)

Starring:  James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent, and Bill Nighy
Director:  Sarah Smith
Rated:  PG - Runtime: 97 min
Genre:  Animation | Comedy | Drama | Family
A great story for the kids, showing the younger generation that indeed Santa didn’t simply sit back on his laurels and let the modern world pass him by.... But, if you still want your kids to believe that Santa is going to slip in on Christmas night and somehow manage to get his fat body down your chimney then this may not be the film you want your kids to see.  And they will like the lead in with Justin Bieber singing Santa Clause is Coming to Town.  You can watch the preview, simply Click Here.  (Sorry about the 30 seconds of commercial leading in)

Just kidding parents, I am sure you can explain how it’s just a movie to a 4 year old and it’s not real.  Yah, been there done that and it doesn’t work !!!!  My youngest son is 29 and still believes that somehow Santa is going to grace his apartment

HUGO (Nov 25, 2011)

Starring:  Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Christopher Lee

Director: Martin Scorsese

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime: 127 min

Genre:  Adventure | Drama | Family | Fantasy | Mystery

Being set in the 1930 timeframe about an orphan taken in by his uncle upon his fathers unexpected death the film was done as well as any of the mixed animation/real-time films produced this past year.  

The writers, producers, and director did a marvelous job bringing to the big screen the story of Hugo (Asa Butterfield) who was forced to deal with the untimely death of his father (Jude Law) and his unending devotion to finish the restoration of the “automaton” that his father found as an unwanted toy of someones imagination.  

Hugo lives in solitude, amidst the walls of the train station in Paris, France managing a day to day existence.  The film will take you through the struggles, adventures, a new found friendship in Isabelle (Chloe Grace Moretz), an old shop owner in the station Georges Melies (Ben Kingsley) as well as the interactions with his nemesis, the station inspector (Sacha Baron Cohen-better known to you as Borat and Bruno).

In the end, I believe you will find that you will want to stand up and applaud the outcome of his journey and the ending which brings the happiness of this season.  Giving expecting nothing in return!

HAPPY FEET TWO (Nov 18, 2011)

Starring:  Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, and Pink

Director: George Miller

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime: 100 min

Genre:  Animation | Comedy | Family | Music

Ok, I'm caught up but let's not stop there, we still need your comments to get the total experience.

What do I need to say, I LOVE IT!!!!  Huge happy feet movie fan, love the first one and thought they out-did themselves in the delivery of HF2.  The animation, and 3D effects are great.  You, the kids, grandparents and the entire audience will be trying to pop the bubbles coming from the screen at the end of the movie, think I’m kidding?  Look around everyone will be doing it.

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - PT. 1 (Nov 18, 2011)

Starring:  Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattison, Taylor Lautner, and Dakota Fanning

Director: Bill Condon

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime: 117 min

Genre:  Adventure | Drama | Fantasy

Now that I have totally caught up I had the opportunity to spend the time to see this episode of Twilight.

After seeing this one I am overly impressed with the content, story line and the delivery of the entire movie!  I know, this is out of character for me as that I have not a been a huge fan of Twilight since the very first one.  But here the plot switches around from time to time actually giving the movie goer the suspense that I believe has been missing since #1.  

J. EDGAR (Nov 9, 2011)

Starring:  Leonardo DiCaprio, Judi Dench, Naomi Watts, Josh Lucas, and Damon Herriman

Director: Clint Eastwood

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 137 min

Genre:  Biography | Drama

Moving through these quickly to catch up, so I really need your comments to get the total experience.

After sitting through this movie, I have this to say.  They could have knocked a half hour out of the film with ease and what happened to trying to keep the attention of the audience?  The continually moving from past to present in this film made it hard to follow and in short ...  boring.  

I was extremely disappointed in this film, after the wait for it to come out I thought it was one I can put on the back shelf and probably never look at again.  My suggestions to the movie goer’s skip this one, you won’t be in the dark when it comes to the Oscars cause I don’t think it will make it.... But I’ve been wrong before....ask my wife....

As for the delivery by DiCaprio, once again I believe he

JACK AND JILL (Nov 11, 2011)

Starring:  Adam Sandler, Katie Holmes, and Al Pachino

Director: Dennis Dugan

Rated: PG  -  Runtime: 91 min

Genre:  Comedy

Moving through these quickly to catch up, so I really need your comments to get the total experience.

Pachino, in my estimation is what made the film, I think Sandler acting out both Sister and Brother parts were ok, however a bit corny in places.  Sandler has better to offer and

11-11-11 (Nov 11, 2011)

Starring:  Timothy Gibbs, Michael Landes, Denis Rafter, and Wendy Glenn

Director: Darren Lynn Bousman

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 89 min

Genre:  Horror | Thriller

Unfortunately, this film never made an opening here in my area, I was looking forward to seeing it and would love to hear from you if you got to see it and how you rated it.

Rated: (Sorry, couldn’t rate it... Can you help out?)

IMMORTALS (Nov 11, 2011)

Starring:  Henry Cavill, Mickey Rourke, Stephen Dorff, Freida Pinto, and Luke Evans

Director: Tarsem Singh

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 110 min

Genre:  Adventure | Action | Drama | Fantasy

Moving through these quickly to catch up, so I really need your comments to get the total experience.

Cavill (Theseus) coupled with the relentless bad guy Rourke (King Hyperion) brought to the screen a great action/adventure movie, need I say more?  It rivals 300, if not

TOWER HEIST (Nov 4, 2011)

Starring:  Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck., and Alan Alda

Director: Bret Ratner

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime: 104 min

Genre:  Comedy | Crime

I’m moving through these quickly to catch up, so I really need your comments to get the total experience.

Stiller (Josh Kovaks) played the part as well as I thought could be expected, and of course Murphy never disappoints me in any movie, he simply has the facial expressions and line delivery that never falls short of comedy at it’s best.  The casting couldn’t have been better for the parts portrayed, with the exception of Alan Alda. 

A VERY HAROLD AND KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS (Nov 4, 2011)

Starring:  John Cho, Kal Penn, N.P.H., and Danny Trejo

Director: Todd Strauss-Schulson

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 89 min

Genre:  Comedy

I’m moving through these quickly to catch up, so I really need your comments to get the total experience.

Overall I thought the movie was funny, fast moving, but I thought the casting needed improvement.  I would venture to say that many found the interaction with NPH in heaven with Jesus was taken a bit too far.  

PUSS IN BOOTS (Oct 28, 2011)

Starring:  Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, and Zach Galifianakis.+++

Director: Chris Miller

Rated: PG   Runtime: 90 min

Genre:  Animation | Comedy

I’m moving through these quickly to catch up, so I really need your comments to get the total experience.

Great flick, the animation was excellent, the use of Humpty Dumpty was a bit weird.  Overall I loved it !  You gotta love Puss chasing the light on the floor.  If you’re a cat owner or love to tease a cat then you know what I mean!

THE RUM DIARY (Oct 28, 2011)

Starring:  Johnny Depp, Giovanni Ribisi, and Aaron Eckhart+++

Director: Bruce Robinson

Rated: R   Runtime: 120 min

Genre:  Adventure | Drama | I’m adding Comedy

I’m going to be short and to the point, and want to know what you thought of the movie.

Depp, his roommate Michael Rispoli, and the great performance by Giovanni Ribisi made this movie worth going to.  It’s not one of Depp’s better films, but nonetheless, he does bring a certain quality unmatched by many others to the screen.

ANONYMOUS (Oct 28, 2011)

Starring:  Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave, and David Thewlis+++

Director: Roland Emmerich

Rated: PG-13   Runtime: 130 min

Genre:  Drama

Unfortunately, this film never made an opening here in my area, I was looking forward to seeing it and would love to hear from you if you got to see it and how you rated it.

Rated:  (Sorry, couldn't rate it can you help out?)

IN TIME (Oct 28, 2011)

Starring:  Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried, Olivia Wilde, and Cillian Murphy

Director: Andrew Niccol

Rated: PG   Runtime: 109 min

Genre:  Sci-fi | Thriller

I’m moving through these quickly to catch up, so I really need your comments to get the total experience.

Wow, cudo’s to the director and writers, I thought the movie was done very nicely.  It wasn’t so far fetched that the audience felt detached from the film.   I’m just sorry Olivia Wilde couldn’t have been in the film longer.  Seyfried and

THE THING (Oct 14, 2011)

Starring:  Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton, and Ulrich Thomsen 

Director:  Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.

Rated: R  - Runtime: 103 min 
Genre: Horror | Mystery | Sci-Fi

Horror, Thriller Junkies get your fix on this action packed flick!

It is packed with the stuff you Sci-Fi-ers are in search of, extreme interaction with alien life form and human beings.  And when I say “extreme” I mean just that.  

Remember the first time you saw the 1979 release of “Alien” starring Sigourney Weaver and how you basically sat glued to the edge of your seat?  Well this one comes close, it may not have Weaver in it but Winstead plays her part very nicely.

If it’s action and suspense you’re looking for, don’t pass this one up.  The acting was ok, the writers did what they could to make it as realistic as possible,

THE BIG YEAR (Oct 14, 2011)

Starring:  Owen Wilson, Jack Black, and Steve Martin 

Director:  David Frankel

Rated: PG  -  Runtime: 100 min 
Genre: Comedy

In my estimation, no one could see the three stars listed above and not think this is gonna be a funny movie.  Bottom line, they met my expectations.  I heard it said prior to the release that they thought “it’s a movie about birds, what could be funny about that?”.  Oh you of little faith, Steve Martin, Jack Black, and Owen Wilson?  Really, one is funny, all three of these actors together just raised the “funny-factor” by 3!

Setting the stars aside, we are given a movie directed by the same person bringing us “The Devil Wears Prada”, and “Marley and Me”.  You gotta know something good is in hand.

Humor, comedy, mishaps, and even elation is evident throughout the film.  This is one I think you will want to see!, (and No, the trailers don’t spoil it for you).

The film begins with 3 avid bird watchers, one of which already holds the world record, setting out on a 365 day adventure to locate the most species of birds in North America. 

FOOTLOOSE (Oct 14, 2011)

Starring:  Kenny Wormald, Julianne Hough, and Denis Quaid

Director:  Craig Brewer

Rated: PG-13  -  Runtime: 113 min
Genre: Comedy | Drama | Music

The production of this movie followed the original with only a few deviations, but as for the content it is worth seeing if you remember the original.  For those of you who don’t remember seeing the original or weren’t around when it released back in 1984 it is well worth your dime to see it!

Giving my oversight, well let’s just put it this way, it isn’t Kevin Bacon, and I believe that his performance in the 1984 original version set a bar that will be hard to duplicate or exceed.  However, with that said Kenny Wormald (Ren), Julianne Hough (Ariel), and Denis Quaid (Ariel’s father, Rev. Shaw) did a great job in the reproduction of Footloose.

As I see it, Kenny(Ren) played the part out excellently, maybe not to the expectations of the movie goers looking for the Kevin Bacon performance, but his counterpart Julianne (Ariel) set the bar far exceeding that of her reproduction counterpart, Lori Singer in the original.  This girl can dance!  Not to mention, her looks and the knock out eyes.  Her eyes grab your attention in every close-up scene.  

For those of you not familiar with the film let me give you a short synopsis.  In this version of the film, Ren’s mother has passed away leaving him to move to his uncle’s place in Texas to live and finish school.  

The town where he relocated had a event 3 yrs prior which sent the town into a turmoil, passing laws which set restrictions on the children of the town.  

From there, you can kinda get the picture, along comes a boy with a free spirit looking to make a change in the life of the town.... And so the story continues,  can’t give you anymore or else I’ll ruin it for you who have not seen the original.  

Go see the movie and come back an let us know what you think.

I Rate it:  2 1/2 mugs of Guinness 

Good content, great dancing, and again as with the 1984 version great soundtrack!

“Let’s Talk Movies” ... Please let us know what you thought of the movie....

I appreciate all input, and hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it.  

AZ-Tom

REAL STEEL (Oct 7, 2011)

Starring:  Hugh Jackman, Dakota Goyo, and Evangeline Lilly

Director: Shawn Levy

Rated: PG-13   Runtime: 127 min
Genre: Action | Drama | Sci-Fi

Jackman (Charlie Kenton), Goyo (Max Kenton), and Lilly (Bailey Tallet) play the significant parts in this production.  The casting in my estimation could not have been any better.  The three listed here gel very nicely.  Their parts, being distributed fairly evenly were taken on with commitment leaving you, the audience with a terrific performance.

The story line makes you believe in a fathers reunion with his son, regardless of the circumstances which took them apart.  The acting was superb, the 3 main characters work so well with each other and bring to the screen the realism that’s so often missing.  

Young Max, given up to his mother when he was young finds himself without a mother due to her passing away and a father (Charlie) once a professional boxer turned to robotic boxer who is engulfed in the sport with little or no time for anything else.

The story continues with the court dates set for the adoption of Max to the deceased wife’s sister Aunt Debra (Hope Davis).  However, the court does not see it so, as a mother without a will the next of kin becomes the legal guardian.  However, an agreement between Charlie and Aunt Debra’s new husband Marvin (James Rebhorn) was made with the option that Charlie takes Max for the summer while the Aunt Debra and Uncle Marvin take a European vacation.  

................Now the plot gets good.....................

This movie is well worth the time and money to see it.. (see if you can find on the IMax format, for those of you who may be in the Phoenix, East Valley, it is playing at the IMAX 12, Signal Butte/Baseline.... The “Wow” factor!).

The graphics, animation, and special effects are....“AWESOME”.  

I am not going to spoil anymore of the movie other than to say the ending is one you won’t want to miss!

I think I gave you just enough info to get you to see it and come back and tell the rest of us what you thought, we’ll look forward to hearing from you soon!!!      

I Rate it:  4 1/2 mugs of Guinness.  
Great movie for the adults and kids as well!

“Let’s Talk Movies” ... Please let us know what you thought of the movie....

I appreciate all input, and hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it.  

AZ-Tom

IDES OF MARCH (Oct 7, 2011)

Starring:  Ryan Gosling, George Clooney, Paul Giamatti, and Philip Seymour Hoffman

Director: George Clooney

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 101 min
Genre: Drama

Hey, didn’t I tell you Ryan Gosling had the potential to be a great actor?  Yep, this is a far cry from how we saw him in “Drive”.

The portrayals of the characters by Gosling, Giamatti, and Hoffman were excellent. 

I did however, see areas in Clooney’s part that didn’t seem to match up with the intense situations.  In my estimation Clooney’s part was much too subdued.

Gosling (Stephen Myers), plays the part of the young, energetic, dynamic aide, Hoffman (Paul Zara), Stephen’s somewhat pompous superior, Clooney (Gov. Mike Morris), the Governor headed for greatness in the upcoming election, and their nemesis Giamatti (Tom Duffy), the oppositions campaign chief. 

The story opens with the Ohio Primaries to see who can win the the necessary votes in the mid-west to continue on.  From there, the story escalates  to deception, lies, cover-ups, firing’s and hiring’s of internal staff etc.  

And of course, what piece of political history wouldn’t be without it’s dirty laundry and we have it here as well.  Almost makes me think of the Bill and Hillary regime, how about you?

Watch for it, it's a great one liner !!! “You broke the one law you can’t, you can lie, you can cheat, you can steal, but you can’t fuck the interns” 

Great movie, good writing, and excellent casting, overall, a great flick!  “Go See This One”

I Rate it:  4 mugs of Guinness!

If this movie doesn’t get the Oscar nod who’s gonna be the scapegoat?  Hmm; let’s look.
Producer: George Clooney
Director: George Clooney
Co-Writer/Screenplay: George Clooney
Actor: George Clooney
Got the picture?  

 “Let’s Talk Movies” ... Please let us know what you thought of the movie....

I appreciate all input, and hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it.  

AZ-Tom

WHAT’S YOUR NUMBER? (Sep 30, 2011)

Starring:  Anna Faris, Chris Evans, and Ari Graynor

Director: Mark Mylod

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 106 min
Genre: Comedy | Romance

Anna Faris, well simply put I enjoy seeing on the screen.  She is the personification of the actor who brings to the film all she has.  You might think of her as the dumb blonde, but this is the part she is playing.  If you see her speak off screen, she is well versed, and doesn’t give off that “dumb blonde” facade.

This film is no different, Anna (Ally Darling) has made the film what it is!  It's funny from the moment you set down, some slapstick comedy, nonetheless she has delivered for your enjoyment a magnificent acting job.  

Just a few parts I want you to watch for; 1) the scene in the bar with her sister and girlfriends where she declares her quest of “no more sex”, 2) the interaction she has with her old boyfriend from England, this one scene from meeting him on the street to the scene in the bar, is one of the funniest, 3)  the scene with the ex-lover who is the puppeteer, and finally 4) the scenes with Chris Evans (Colin), throughout the film they work great together.  

I really want you to go see the film, if you don’t walk away with a great laugh, you better see a doctor.... 

Something’s wrong with the part of your brain that controls humor.  It’s called “humor-tumor”

I Rate it:   3 1/2 Mugs of Guinness 
Oh hell, I was laughing still, so I drank the rest of the 4th mug, you might as well too.

“Let’s Talk Movies” ... Please let us know what you thought of the movie....

I appreciate all input, and hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it.  

AZ-Tom 

50/50 (Sep 30, 2011)

Starring:  Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anjelica Huston, and Anna Kendrick

Director: Jonathan Levine

Rated: R  -  Runtime: 100 min
Genre: Drama | Comedy

This is a very light hearted film, but starts out with a different appearance.  This is a period of time in Adam's (Levitt) life, after being told he has cancer, that could have been very difficult.  Soon you will find yourself laughing at even some of the parts that if you look back, may have been a bit on the dark side.  

This is where the comedic approach of Kyle (Rogen) takes over.  What could have been subjective, is now humorous.

As the plot unfolds you find yourself amidst the quirkiness of Adam and his oh so very young phycologist, Katherine (Kendrick), bantering back and forth as the movie progresses.

The interaction with Adam’s mom Diane (Huston), and Adam seem to be as it would be in everyday life, “mom’s gonna take care of her children” but that’s not how Adam wants it.  In the end, ............. Nah, I’m not gonna give that away, go see the movie and then you can report back on what you thought!

I Rate it:  3 1/2 mugs of Guinness 
Worth the money to step out and see!

“Let’s Talk Movies” ... Please let us know what you thought of the movie....

I appreciate all input, and hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it.  

AZ-Tom

DREAM HOUSE (Sep 30, 2011)

Starring:  Daniel Craig, Rachel Weisz, and Naomi Watts

Director: Jim Sheridan

Rated: PG-13   Runtime: 92 min
Genre: Drama | Mystery | Thriller

There isn’t much I can say about this film that won’t give away what I consider to be an excellent plot.  Most films now pretty much give away the entire plot and ruin any twists that come into play during the film, but this one takes a twist that is not ever mentioned or alluded to during any of the trailers.  

You are going to like this one if you enjoy a film which has that special twist that sets it apart from the others!  It kept me guessing throughout the movie which way it was going to play out.  That’s the kind of movie I think we are all looking for.  So many times the final scenes in the movie are already expected simply for the fact that with the release of all the damn trailers, they tend to give it away.

Excellent job by the cast and writers, cudo's to you all !!!

Well, this one is different!  That’s a promise.  If you disagree, please let us know.

I Rate it:   4 1/2 mugs of Guinness 
Strongly recommend seeing this one.

“Let’s Talk Movies” ... Please let us know what you thought of the movie....

I appreciate all input, and hope you come back here after every movie and let us know how you rate it.  

AZ-Tom