Movie Review: Is "Sex and the City 2" Really That Bad?

Sex and the City 2

I have to admit, the trailers for Sex and the City 2 looked really bad -- why are they going to a desert? And then came the critics' reviews. Most were unfavorable. But is the movie THAT bad? I say, no. Any fan of the original HBO series and subsequent 2008 hit movie will surely find some joy in the sequel. Although not as funny as the original -- and way too long at nearly two-and-a-half hours -- it's still a blast catching up with Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), Samantha (Kim Cattrall), Charlotte (Kristin Davis) and Miranda (Cynthia Nixon). And, of course, the men in their lives and their other passions -- as they settle into middle age (yipes!). The bottom line -- once again, the strong actresses rise above a so-so script.

Writer/director/producer Michael Patrick King probably could have found a better setting for the bulk of the movie -- but he chose Abu Dhabi (though actually filmed in Morocco) because he needed a place where excess and richness were allowed. How else to show off $50,000 dresses? With a recession still raging at home, New York City was out of the question. But sadly, it's the Big Apple that added so much of the charm to the series. That's why it's in the title. Instead, the trip to the desert added too much silliness -- and the parodied Muslim customs often missed the mark.

Still, there are enough humor-filled and touching moments to recommend that fans ignore the critics -- and revisit with some old friends. Also stars the excellent returning cast of Chris Noth, John Corbett, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler, Jason Lewis, Willie Garson and Mario Cantone. With cameos by Liza Minelli, Penélope Cruz , Tim Gunn and Miley Cyrus. [Rated R; in theaters now]


Grade: B

Movie Review: Is "Sex and the City 2" Really That Bad?

Sex and the City 2

I have to admit, the trailers for Sex and the City 2 looked really bad -- why are they going to a desert? And then came the critics' reviews. Most were unfavorable. But is the movie THAT bad? I say, no. Any fan of the original HBO series and subsequent 2008 hit movie will surely find some joy in the sequel. Although not as funny as the original -- and way too long at nearly two-and-a-half hours -- it's still a blast catching up with Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), Samantha (Kim Cattrall), Charlotte (Kristin Davis) and Miranda (Cynthia Nixon). And, of course, the men in their lives and their other passions -- as they settle into middle age (yipes!). The bottom line -- once again, the strong actresses rise above a so-so script.

Writer/director/producer Michael Patrick King probably could have found a better setting for the bulk of the movie -- but he chose Abu Dhabi (though actually filmed in Morocco) because he needed a place where excess and richness were allowed. How else to show off $50,000 dresses? With a recession still raging at home, New York City was out of the question. But sadly, it's the Big Apple that added so much of the charm to the series. That's why it's in the title. Instead, the trip to the desert added too much silliness -- and the parodied Muslim customs often missed the mark.

Still, there are enough humor-filled and touching moments to recommend that fans ignore the critics -- and revisit with some old friends. Also stars the excellent returning cast of Chris Noth, John Corbett, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler, Jason Lewis, Willie Garson and Mario Cantone. With cameos by Liza Minelli, Penélope Cruz , Tim Gunn and Miley Cyrus. [Rated R; in theaters now]


Grade: B

Movie Review: The Bourne Duo Reunites

Green Zone

With a successful partnership that included the hits The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum, it was only logical that director Paul Greengrass and star Matt Damon would team up again. And although the familiar intense action and visceral editing are also back, the overall results are not as rewarding this time around.

Green Zone opens up seven years ago -- during the U.S.-led invasion and early occupation of Baghdad. Damon plays Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller -- who with his team of Army inspectors -- is dispatched to find weapons of mass destruction believed to be stockpiled in the Iraqi desert. Rocketing from one booby-trapped and treacherous site to the next, Miller searches in vain for deadly chemical agents but stumbles instead upon an elaborate government cover-up.

The plot also stumbles at times -- due to a tricky mixture of fact and fiction -- and a clichéd script by Brian Helgeland (The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3). And I question some of the casting. Damon (Invictus, The Informant!) does well with the material -- but the same cannot be said of co-stars Greg Kinnear (as a Special Intelligence official) and Amy Ryan (as a Wall Street Journal reporter). Although usually strong actors, they're not believable in their roles here. Brendan Gleeson (In Bruges) also seems a bit out of place as the CIA Baghdad bureau chief. Bottom line: there's some good action in the film -- and it raises some interesting questions on unearthing the truth -- but ultimately, it's only mildly thrilling. [Rated R; opens tomorrow]

Grade: B-


Notes:

• An alphabetical archive of other film reviews can be found by clicking on the icon in the left menu.
• If you're looking for a truly great film about the war in Iraq, rent The Hurt Locker -- which deservedly won Best Picture at Sunday's Academy Awards ceremony.

Movie Review: The Bourne Duo Reunites

Green Zone

With a successful partnership that included the hits The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum, it was only logical that director Paul Greengrass and star Matt Damon would team up again. And although the familiar intense action and visceral editing are also back, the overall results are not as rewarding this time around.

Green Zone opens up seven years ago -- during the U.S.-led invasion and early occupation of Baghdad. Damon plays Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller -- who with his team of Army inspectors -- is dispatched to find weapons of mass destruction believed to be stockpiled in the Iraqi desert. Rocketing from one booby-trapped and treacherous site to the next, Miller searches in vain for deadly chemical agents but stumbles instead upon an elaborate government cover-up.

The plot also stumbles at times -- due to a tricky mixture of fact and fiction -- and a clichéd script by Brian Helgeland (The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3). And I question some of the casting. Damon (Invictus, The Informant!) does well with the material -- but the same cannot be said of co-stars Greg Kinnear (as a Special Intelligence official) and Amy Ryan (as a Wall Street Journal reporter). Although usually strong actors, they're not believable in their roles here. Brendan Gleeson (In Bruges) also seems a bit out of place as the CIA Baghdad bureau chief. Bottom line: there's some good action in the film -- and it raises some interesting questions on unearthing the truth -- but ultimately, it's only mildly thrilling. [Rated R; opens tomorrow]

Grade: B-


Notes:

• An alphabetical archive of other film reviews can be found by clicking on the icon in the left menu.
• If you're looking for a truly great film about the war in Iraq, rent The Hurt Locker -- which deservedly won Best Picture at Sunday's Academy Awards ceremony.

Movie Review: Brooklyn's Finest

Director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) returns to the cop beat with another gritty crime drama, Brooklyn's Finest. Authentically shot on location, the film follows three seemingly unconnected stories of NY's finest. But hey, it's a movie -- so you know things will converge at some point.

Ethan Hawke (reunited with his Training Day director) plays a father who already has five kids and twins on the way -- and financial problems that make all the drug money laying around so very tempting. Don Cheadle is a detective that's been undercover for so long, he bonds more with a drug dealer (Wesley Snipes) than with the fellow cops that are trying to nab the crook. And then there's Richard Gere (Amelia), a veteran officer who's just a week away from retirement -- but just can't seem to go out quietly.

It's a bit long -- and may be too violent for some. And sure, we've seen movies about corrupt cops before. But Hawke, Cheadle and Gere are all so good at not playing by the rules that they save the script from being cliché. The tense plot kept my interest right up to the explosive climax. A strong supporting cast includes Lili Taylor and Ellen Barkin. [Rated R; opens tomorrow]

Grade: B


Note:

• An alphabetical archive of other film reviews can be found by clicking on the icon in the left menu.
• With only a few more days til the big night, please vote in the Oscar poll at left.
  

Movie Review: Brooklyn's Finest

Director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) returns to the cop beat with another gritty crime drama, Brooklyn's Finest. Authentically shot on location, the film follows three seemingly unconnected stories of NY's finest. But hey, it's a movie -- so you know things will converge at some point.

Ethan Hawke (reunited with his Training Day director) plays a father who already has five kids and twins on the way -- and financial problems that make all the drug money laying around so very tempting. Don Cheadle is a detective that's been undercover for so long, he bonds more with a drug dealer (Wesley Snipes) than with the fellow cops that are trying to nab the crook. And then there's Richard Gere (Amelia), a veteran officer who's just a week away from retirement -- but just can't seem to go out quietly.

It's a bit long -- and may be too violent for some. And sure, we've seen movies about corrupt cops before. But Hawke, Cheadle and Gere are all so good at not playing by the rules that they save the script from being cliché. The tense plot kept my interest right up to the explosive climax. A strong supporting cast includes Lili Taylor and Ellen Barkin. [Rated R; opens tomorrow]

Grade: B


Note:

• An alphabetical archive of other film reviews can be found by clicking on the icon in the left menu.
• With only a few more days til the big night, please vote in the Oscar poll at left.
  

TGIF Movie Review: The Return of Mel Gibson

Edge of Darkness

Edge of Darkness is a film adaptation of the 1985 BBC television series of the same name -- both directed by Martin Campbell (Casino Royale) and produced by Michael Wearing. But the biggest buzz surrounding the film is focused on Mel Gibson's return to the screen after a long absence. In his first major starring role since 2002's Signs, Gibson plays Boston Detective Thomas Craven -- whose daughter (Bojana Novakovic) is brutally murdered right before his eyes. Craven sets off on a mission to investigate her murder -- learning that his daughter's activism played a key role, but that corporate and political cover-ups are hiding the truth.

Danny Huston (The Aviator, The Constant Gardener) plays the shady businessman who heads up the ridiculously fictitious corporation where Craven's daughter worked. Most intriguing is Ray Winstone (Beowulf, The Departed), who plays a government agent sent to cover up the murder. Robert De Niro had originally been cast in Winstone's role, but walked out due to creative differences. Smart move. Although there are some surprisingly hard-hitting action scenes, the ridiculous plot points win out. It gets laughable after a while when one-by-one, characters that know the truth and fear for their lives, decide to stay put as sitting ducks. Wouldn't you find a better place to hide than your own home? For the most part, Gibson -- looking quite weathered and worn -- rises above the silliness to deliver an entertaining performance. So ultimately, I'm left with only a minimum recommendation for a so-so thriller thanks mostly to Gibson's return. [Rated R; opens today]

Grade: B-


Note:

• An alphabetical archive of other film reviews can be found by clicking on the icon in the left menu.
  
• Reminder: Oscar nominations are announced next Tuesday morning! Check back for updates, polls and predictions.
  

TGIF Movie Review: The Return of Mel Gibson

Edge of Darkness

Edge of Darkness is a film adaptation of the 1985 BBC television series of the same name -- both directed by Martin Campbell (Casino Royale) and produced by Michael Wearing. But the biggest buzz surrounding the film is focused on Mel Gibson's return to the screen after a long absence. In his first major starring role since 2002's Signs, Gibson plays Boston Detective Thomas Craven -- whose daughter (Bojana Novakovic) is brutally murdered right before his eyes. Craven sets off on a mission to investigate her murder -- learning that his daughter's activism played a key role, but that corporate and political cover-ups are hiding the truth.

Danny Huston (The Aviator, The Constant Gardener) plays the shady businessman who heads up the ridiculously fictitious corporation where Craven's daughter worked. Most intriguing is Ray Winstone (Beowulf, The Departed), who plays a government agent sent to cover up the murder. Robert De Niro had originally been cast in Winstone's role, but walked out due to creative differences. Smart move. Although there are some surprisingly hard-hitting action scenes, the ridiculous plot points win out. It gets laughable after a while when one-by-one, characters that know the truth and fear for their lives, decide to stay put as sitting ducks. Wouldn't you find a better place to hide than your own home? For the most part, Gibson -- looking quite weathered and worn -- rises above the silliness to deliver an entertaining performance. So ultimately, I'm left with only a minimum recommendation for a so-so thriller thanks mostly to Gibson's return. [Rated R; opens today]

Grade: B-


Note:

• An alphabetical archive of other film reviews can be found by clicking on the icon in the left menu.
  
• Reminder: Oscar nominations are announced next Tuesday morning! Check back for updates, polls and predictions.
  

Movie Review: Another British Costume Drama

The Young Victoria

In most historical accounts, we see Queen Victoria as the old, record-breaking monarch dressed in mournful black. This film serves as an early account of the Queen who ruled the United Kingdom of Britain and Ireland for 63 years. And we learn why she mourned for so many of those years. Emily Blunt (Sunshine Cleaning, Devil Wears Prada) stars as the young Victoria -- whose uncle is the current, but ailing King William IV. At the film's onset, we learn how protective everyone is about the heir Victoria -- since the King and his brothers have no other viable heirs. She is so protected that even into her late teens, someone is required to hold her hand each time she navigates the stairwell of her castle. She is raised in near isolation -- with her spaniel, Dash, being her closest companion.

The film focuses on the dramatization of some of the events preceding and following Victoria's coronation at age 18, focusing on her early reign and romance with her first cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (Rupert Friend of The Libertine, Pride and Prejudice). What first appeared to be an arranged union, later blossoms into true love. We only witness the early years of their marriage -- but we learn that his tragically early death resulted in her long, mournful reign. One thing that bothered me about the film were some obvious historical inaccuracies (I won't spoil the enhanced dramatizations -- but you can find a list on Wikipedia after you see the film). But what is lacking in story -- is made up visually in the amazingly detailed and grand sets and costumes.

As these British-themed costume dramas/period pieces go, I still prefer this year's earlier release -- Bright Star -- a bit more. This one felt a bit rushed in its storytelling. Clocking in at just over an hour-and-a-half, I didn't feel a true development of the passion between the two leads. For the first time in a long time, I actually think a film could have benefited with some added length! But Blunt and co-stars Miranda Richardson (Victoria's mother) and Jim Broadbent (King George IV) are excellent as always. Look out for Princess Beatrice of York, Victoria's great-great-great-great granddaughter, in a cameo role. Beatrice's mother, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, served as an executive producer of the film. Directed by Canadian Jean-Marc Vallée (C.R.A.Z.Y.). [Rated PG; opens today]

Grade: B

Note:

• Click the film reviews icon in the upper left column for a full alphabetical archive of other movies reviewed this year.

Movie Review: Another British Costume Drama

The Young Victoria

In most historical accounts, we see Queen Victoria as the old, record-breaking monarch dressed in mournful black. This film serves as an early account of the Queen who ruled the United Kingdom of Britain and Ireland for 63 years. And we learn why she mourned for so many of those years. Emily Blunt (Sunshine Cleaning, Devil Wears Prada) stars as the young Victoria -- whose uncle is the current, but ailing King William IV. At the film's onset, we learn how protective everyone is about the heir Victoria -- since the King and his brothers have no other viable heirs. She is so protected that even into her late teens, someone is required to hold her hand each time she navigates the stairwell of her castle. She is raised in near isolation -- with her spaniel, Dash, being her closest companion.

The film focuses on the dramatization of some of the events preceding and following Victoria's coronation at age 18, focusing on her early reign and romance with her first cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (Rupert Friend of The Libertine, Pride and Prejudice). What first appeared to be an arranged union, later blossoms into true love. We only witness the early years of their marriage -- but we learn that his tragically early death resulted in her long, mournful reign. One thing that bothered me about the film were some obvious historical inaccuracies (I won't spoil the enhanced dramatizations -- but you can find a list on Wikipedia after you see the film). But what is lacking in story -- is made up visually in the amazingly detailed and grand sets and costumes.

As these British-themed costume dramas/period pieces go, I still prefer this year's earlier release -- Bright Star -- a bit more. This one felt a bit rushed in its storytelling. Clocking in at just over an hour-and-a-half, I didn't feel a true development of the passion between the two leads. For the first time in a long time, I actually think a film could have benefited with some added length! But Blunt and co-stars Miranda Richardson (Victoria's mother) and Jim Broadbent (King George IV) are excellent as always. Look out for Princess Beatrice of York, Victoria's great-great-great-great granddaughter, in a cameo role. Beatrice's mother, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, served as an executive producer of the film. Directed by Canadian Jean-Marc Vallée (C.R.A.Z.Y.). [Rated PG; opens today]

Grade: B

Note:

• Click the film reviews icon in the upper left column for a full alphabetical archive of other movies reviewed this year.

Movie Review: You've Been Warned!

2012

Let me start off by saying that I love a good big-screen disaster movie. Sure, you have to suspend reality, accept the fact that there will be cheesy acting, laughable spoken lines and plots with huge holes -- but you're bound to be entertained by some fun action and special effects, right? Well that's with a good disaster movie. 2012 is not a good disaster movie -- it's just a disaster.

Clocking in at nearly two-and-a-half hours, the film feels longer than the actual three years we have left to live -- that is if you believe in the Mayan lore that the world will end on December 21, 2012. Director/co-producer/co-writer Roland Emmerich is a master of the genre, but 2012 does not live up to his past successes (Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow). Why? Where do I start? Miscasting, a bad script, limited action, sub-par special effects, ridiculous ethnic stereotyping and the movie's unnecessarily long running time are all factors.

Starting in 2009, an academic researcher (Chiwetel Ejiofor) leads a group of people in a fight to counteract the apocalyptic events that were predicted by the ancient Mayan calendar -- and are suddenly proving right with scientific support. Luckily, the U.S. Chief of Staff (Olive Platt) and President (Danny Glover) believe him -- and they start an international effort to plan for the inevitable. Too bad the plan can only save a small fraction of the world's population. How on earth will they decide who should be saved? And can they pull it off in such a short amount of time?

Flash forward three years and we meet Jackson Curtis (John Cusack), an unsuccessful science fiction book writer who now works as a limousine driver. In formulaic fashion, Curtis is estranged from his wife and his two kids. On a trip to Yellowstone, Curtis stumbles upon a whack-job radio jockey (played by Zombieland's Woody Harrelson) who convinces him that the end of the world is truly going to happen. And you guessed it -- Curtis now has a chance to redeem himself with his ex-wife (Amanda Peet) and kids -- if only he can save them from the disaster quickly ensuing all around them. I'm sure you can guess the ultimate outcome.

For the most part, the cast members seem to be cringing with each line of ridiculous dialogue. Danny Glover's performance is downright laughable. And John Cusack (Say Anything, Being John Malkovich, Serendipity), who has found success in so many different genres before, is ill-suited for action-adventure. He is not convincing as a strong lead in peril -- but how can you blame him? It must not be easy to act -- or react -- to things that aren't really there, but added later by today's technology. Sadly, the computer-generated special effects fall mostly short. Except for a few thrill rides in flight, the images look fake. Studios need to step it up now that audiences expect more-realistic effects. To sum up -- just in case we really only have three years to live -- don't waste your valuable time with this ridiculous film. [Rated PG-13; opens today]


Grade: C


Note:

• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews -- including last week's review of Precious -- which opens wider today.
  

Movie Review: You've Been Warned!

2012

Let me start off by saying that I love a good big-screen disaster movie. Sure, you have to suspend reality, accept the fact that there will be cheesy acting, laughable spoken lines and plots with huge holes -- but you're bound to be entertained by some fun action and special effects, right? Well that's with a good disaster movie. 2012 is not a good disaster movie -- it's just a disaster.

Clocking in at nearly two-and-a-half hours, the film feels longer than the actual three years we have left to live -- that is if you believe in the Mayan lore that the world will end on December 21, 2012. Director/co-producer/co-writer Roland Emmerich is a master of the genre, but 2012 does not live up to his past successes (Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow). Why? Where do I start? Miscasting, a bad script, limited action, sub-par special effects, ridiculous ethnic stereotyping and the movie's unnecessarily long running time are all factors.

Starting in 2009, an academic researcher (Chiwetel Ejiofor) leads a group of people in a fight to counteract the apocalyptic events that were predicted by the ancient Mayan calendar -- and are suddenly proving right with scientific support. Luckily, the U.S. Chief of Staff (Olive Platt) and President (Danny Glover) believe him -- and they start an international effort to plan for the inevitable. Too bad the plan can only save a small fraction of the world's population. How on earth will they decide who should be saved? And can they pull it off in such a short amount of time?

Flash forward three years and we meet Jackson Curtis (John Cusack), an unsuccessful science fiction book writer who now works as a limousine driver. In formulaic fashion, Curtis is estranged from his wife and his two kids. On a trip to Yellowstone, Curtis stumbles upon a whack-job radio jockey (played by Zombieland's Woody Harrelson) who convinces him that the end of the world is truly going to happen. And you guessed it -- Curtis now has a chance to redeem himself with his ex-wife (Amanda Peet) and kids -- if only he can save them from the disaster quickly ensuing all around them. I'm sure you can guess the ultimate outcome.

For the most part, the cast members seem to be cringing with each line of ridiculous dialogue. Danny Glover's performance is downright laughable. And John Cusack (Say Anything, Being John Malkovich, Serendipity), who has found success in so many different genres before, is ill-suited for action-adventure. He is not convincing as a strong lead in peril -- but how can you blame him? It must not be easy to act -- or react -- to things that aren't really there, but added later by today's technology. Sadly, the computer-generated special effects fall mostly short. Except for a few thrill rides in flight, the images look fake. Studios need to step it up now that audiences expect more-realistic effects. To sum up -- just in case we really only have three years to live -- don't waste your valuable time with this ridiculous film. [Rated PG-13; opens today]


Grade: C


Note:

• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews -- including last week's review of Precious -- which opens wider today.
  

Movie Review: PRECIOUS

Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire

Clareece "Precious" Jones is an obese, illiterate 16-year-old living with an incredibly vile mother (Mo'Nique) in 1987 Harlem. Precious already has one kid (and you'll be horrified when you learn why the child has Down Syndrome) -- and she's pregnant again. Kicked out of her high school, she is invited to an alternative school -- where she hopes to finally move her life in a new direction. A better life -- that for now, she's only been able to fantasize about in her daydreams.

Newcomer Gabourey Sidibe is excellent in the title role as the teen whose hopes and dreams have been continually squashed due to her troubled home life. How is it possible that this girl even has dreams and a sense of humor after enduring so much physical and verbal abuse? Mo'Nique is superb as the worst mother on the planet -- she makes Mommie Dearest Joan Crawford look like June Cleaver. For any actress to pull this off would be amazing -- but for a comedian to do so is nothing short of a miracle. The rest of the supporting cast is also top-notch. Kudos to Mariah Carey for abandoning her real life glitz and beauty in a smaller, but strong role as a social worker. Finally, Glitter is deservedly behind her. Meanwhile, I didn't even recognize fellow singer/actor Lenny Kravitz until the credits rolled. All of these stars transformed so much for their roles -- it's truly a wonder to behold. Paula Patton (Idlewild) rounds out the fine cast as the teacher of the alternative school.

Warning -- this drama, expertly directed by Lee Daniels (Shadowboxer), is NOT an easy movie to watch. But you'll be glad you did because it will remind you that no matter how bad you may think your life is, someone always has it worse than you. And hopefully it will remind you that the human spirit is so strong -- it can prevail over any horror -- if you only let it.

With Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey as executive producers, the movie has been getting a lot of buzz -- and deservedly so. The film has already won the Audience Award and the Grand Jury Prize for best drama at the Sundance Film Festival -- and the equivalent of the audience award at the Toronto International Film Festival. With ten films to be nominated for an Academy Award next year, this one is a definite shoo-in for a coveted spot. And if the Academy gets it right, we will see Oscar nominations for performances as well. It's a powerful film -- and it should not be missed. [Rated R; opens in limited release today, wider 11/13]

Grade: A

Note:

• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews.

Movie Review: PRECIOUS

Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire

Clareece "Precious" Jones is an obese, illiterate 16-year-old living with an incredibly vile mother (Mo'Nique) in 1987 Harlem. Precious already has one kid (and you'll be horrified when you learn why the child has Down Syndrome) -- and she's pregnant again. Kicked out of her high school, she is invited to an alternative school -- where she hopes to finally move her life in a new direction. A better life -- that for now, she's only been able to fantasize about in her daydreams.

Newcomer Gabourey Sidibe is excellent in the title role as the teen whose hopes and dreams have been continually squashed due to her troubled home life. How is it possible that this girl even has dreams and a sense of humor after enduring so much physical and verbal abuse? Mo'Nique is superb as the worst mother on the planet -- she makes Mommie Dearest Joan Crawford look like June Cleaver. For any actress to pull this off would be amazing -- but for a comedian to do so is nothing short of a miracle. The rest of the supporting cast is also top-notch. Kudos to Mariah Carey for abandoning her real life glitz and beauty in a smaller, but strong role as a social worker. Finally, Glitter is deservedly behind her. Meanwhile, I didn't even recognize fellow singer/actor Lenny Kravitz until the credits rolled. All of these stars transformed so much for their roles -- it's truly a wonder to behold. Paula Patton (Idlewild) rounds out the fine cast as the teacher of the alternative school.

Warning -- this drama, expertly directed by Lee Daniels (Shadowboxer), is NOT an easy movie to watch. But you'll be glad you did because it will remind you that no matter how bad you may think your life is, someone always has it worse than you. And hopefully it will remind you that the human spirit is so strong -- it can prevail over any horror -- if you only let it.

With Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey as executive producers, the movie has been getting a lot of buzz -- and deservedly so. The film has already won the Audience Award and the Grand Jury Prize for best drama at the Sundance Film Festival -- and the equivalent of the audience award at the Toronto International Film Festival. With ten films to be nominated for an Academy Award next year, this one is a definite shoo-in for a coveted spot. And if the Academy gets it right, we will see Oscar nominations for performances as well. It's a powerful film -- and it should not be missed. [Rated R; opens in limited release today, wider 11/13]

Grade: A

Note:

• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews.

Movie Review: Does "Amelia" Soar?

Amelia

Directed by Mira Nair (The Namesake, Monsoon Wedding), Amelia covers the life of legendary aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart (played by two-time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank). Once again, Swank proves to be an amazing actress by totally immersing herself in the role -- she truly soars. Unfortunately, the script doesn't match her quality. With the feel of a Lifetime TV movie, the film never really gets off the ground -- but it's saved from a total crash and burn with fine performances by Swank and co-star Richard Gere as Earhart's husband, publisher George Putnam.

I'll admit that I learned a bit about Earhart that I didn't know (or at least forgot from my history classes). Her 1928 flight across the Atlantic was heralded around the world for being the first by a female aviator -- but she was merely a glorified passenger. Her career had its ups and downs -- with failures mixed in with the celebrity glory. And besides her marriage, Earhart also carried on a long-time affair with fellow aviation pioneer Gene Vidal (Ewan MacGregor). For the most part, neither love feels authentic on screen -- as both are pretty glossed over. The biggest mis-step is that the script fails to explain how such an incredible woman -- so advanced in her independent thinking -- came to be. We learn very little of her childhood, upbringing or early adult years that molded her.

But all is not totally lost. Even though we know the outcome of Earhart's 1937 mission to fly around the world, Nair keeps us interested in playing it out. You'll feel some tense action as Earhart and her navigator lose sight of their goal. As with the earlier flight scenes, you actually feel like you're up in the air with them. Sadly, although a few clues are given for their disappearance, it seems we'll never truly get the answers to one of the biggest mysteries of all time. But another mystery is why Academy Award winning screenwriter Ron Bass (Rain Man) keeps us guessing on what drove Earhart's independent spirit. [Rated PG; opens today]

Grade: B-

Note:

• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews.

Movie Review: Does "Amelia" Soar?

Amelia

Directed by Mira Nair (The Namesake, Monsoon Wedding), Amelia covers the life of legendary aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart (played by two-time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank). Once again, Swank proves to be an amazing actress by totally immersing herself in the role -- she truly soars. Unfortunately, the script doesn't match her quality. With the feel of a Lifetime TV movie, the film never really gets off the ground -- but it's saved from a total crash and burn with fine performances by Swank and co-star Richard Gere as Earhart's husband, publisher George Putnam.

I'll admit that I learned a bit about Earhart that I didn't know (or at least forgot from my history classes). Her 1928 flight across the Atlantic was heralded around the world for being the first by a female aviator -- but she was merely a glorified passenger. Her career had its ups and downs -- with failures mixed in with the celebrity glory. And besides her marriage, Earhart also carried on a long-time affair with fellow aviation pioneer Gene Vidal (Ewan MacGregor). For the most part, neither love feels authentic on screen -- as both are pretty glossed over. The biggest mis-step is that the script fails to explain how such an incredible woman -- so advanced in her independent thinking -- came to be. We learn very little of her childhood, upbringing or early adult years that molded her.

But all is not totally lost. Even though we know the outcome of Earhart's 1937 mission to fly around the world, Nair keeps us interested in playing it out. You'll feel some tense action as Earhart and her navigator lose sight of their goal. As with the earlier flight scenes, you actually feel like you're up in the air with them. Sadly, although a few clues are given for their disappearance, it seems we'll never truly get the answers to one of the biggest mysteries of all time. But another mystery is why Academy Award winning screenwriter Ron Bass (Rain Man) keeps us guessing on what drove Earhart's independent spirit. [Rated PG; opens today]

Grade: B-

Note:

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Movie Review: A Classic Children's Book Comes to Life

Where the Wild Things Are

Based on the classic 1963 children's book by Maurice Sendak, the film version of Where the Wild Things Are had to expand upon the story -- which in its original format is only ten sentences long. Director/co-writer Spike Jonez (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation) does a good job bringing an enhanced story to life -- it's visually a treat to behold.

Max (Max Records from The Brothers Bloom), a rambunctious and sensitive boy from a broken home, feels misunderstood and runs away from his mother (Catherine Keener). With a vivid imagination, he sets sail and lands on an island where he meets mysterious and strange creatures whose emotions are as wild and unpredictable as their actions. The Wild Things desperately long for a leader to guide them, just as Max longs for a kingdom to rule. When Max is crowned king, he promises to create a place where everyone will be happy. But Max soon finds that ruling his kingdom is not so easy and that relationships prove to be more complicated than he originally thought.

The Wild Things are truly the stars of the film. The costumes and CGI work are amazing -- and the voice cast is near perfection. Past HBO stars James Gandolfini (The Sopranos) and Lauren Ambrose (Six Feet Under) are joined by Catherine O'Hara, Forrest Whitaker and Paul Dano. All are excellent, but Gandolfini (The Taking of Pelham 1-2-3) is especially revealing as the complex Carol.

Co-written by David Eggers, the film is not perfect. The writing falls a bit short at times -- especially when Max abruptly departs from the island and returns home. And I'm still scratching my head at earlier scenes in the non-fantasy portion -- where it's winter one moment followed shortly by Max running away -- with no snow on the ground, but summer trees in full bloom lining the street. Why would Jonez pay so much attention to detail elsewhere, but make such a bewildering mistake in continuity there? Not the masterpiece I had hoped for, but still an enjoyable film. A final note: think twice about bringing the smaller kids -- it's a bit too dark and angry for them. [Rated PG; opens today]

Grade: B


Note:

• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews.

Movie Review: A Classic Children's Book Comes to Life

Where the Wild Things Are

Based on the classic 1963 children's book by Maurice Sendak, the film version of Where the Wild Things Are had to expand upon the story -- which in its original format is only ten sentences long. Director/co-writer Spike Jonez (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation) does a good job bringing an enhanced story to life -- it's visually a treat to behold.

Max (Max Records from The Brothers Bloom), a rambunctious and sensitive boy from a broken home, feels misunderstood and runs away from his mother (Catherine Keener). With a vivid imagination, he sets sail and lands on an island where he meets mysterious and strange creatures whose emotions are as wild and unpredictable as their actions. The Wild Things desperately long for a leader to guide them, just as Max longs for a kingdom to rule. When Max is crowned king, he promises to create a place where everyone will be happy. But Max soon finds that ruling his kingdom is not so easy and that relationships prove to be more complicated than he originally thought.

The Wild Things are truly the stars of the film. The costumes and CGI work are amazing -- and the voice cast is near perfection. Past HBO stars James Gandolfini (The Sopranos) and Lauren Ambrose (Six Feet Under) are joined by Catherine O'Hara, Forrest Whitaker and Paul Dano. All are excellent, but Gandolfini (The Taking of Pelham 1-2-3) is especially revealing as the complex Carol.

Co-written by David Eggers, the film is not perfect. The writing falls a bit short at times -- especially when Max abruptly departs from the island and returns home. And I'm still scratching my head at earlier scenes in the non-fantasy portion -- where it's winter one moment followed shortly by Max running away -- with no snow on the ground, but summer trees in full bloom lining the street. Why would Jonez pay so much attention to detail elsewhere, but make such a bewildering mistake in continuity there? Not the masterpiece I had hoped for, but still an enjoyable film. A final note: think twice about bringing the smaller kids -- it's a bit too dark and angry for them. [Rated PG; opens today]

Grade: B


Note:

• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews.

Movie Review: Whiteout

Director Dominic Sena (Swordfish, Gone in Sixty Seconds) brings us yet another film based on a comic book, Whiteout. Carrie Stetko (Kate Beckinsale), the only US deputy marshal assigned to Antarctica, must investigate the first murder on the frozen continent. But she only has a few days before the long winter begins and all flights are shut down for six months. She crosses paths with UN operative Robert Pryce (Gabriel Macht), also investigating the murder. Tom Skerritt co-stars as a physician nearing retirement. And together, they go through a series of laughable and mostly non-suspenseful twists and turns as fatalities pile up and the killer tries to stop the investigators before they get to the killer.

The action doesn't all take place in the present. Somehow, another incident that happened on the continent over 50 years ago ties in. And, of course we have the obligatory flashbacks to an occurrence that shook up Stetko so badly that she questions her abilities and has trouble trusting anyone. So is everyone who they seem in the current day? You know the answer.

A major problem I had with this "thriller" is that Beckinsale (Serendipity, Pearl Harbor) is miscast in the role. She definitely is better suited for comedy and romance. Overall, the acting is pretty poor -- but you cannot totally blame the stars with the material they've been handed. The script has so many holes, I was thinking that maybe the four writers (yes, four) were sniffing some whiteout? Or maybe the whiteout spilled all over the script and blocked out the better parts? Early on, we learn that it is so cold on Antarctica that you can die outside within five minutes. But you'll have fun counting how many times the writers forget that fact. I only wish I left after the first five minutes of the film. If you're keeping track, I recommend that you see any movie I grade as a B- or higher. So, as you see below, do yourself a favor and skip this one. [Rated R; opens tomorrow]


Grade: C

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Movie Review: 9

Have you noticed that more and more movies are opening on Wednesdays instead of Fridays? Originally, the Wednesday premieres only occurred before long holiday weekends. But now it's a marketing ploy to be had during other weeks, too. So opening today, 9/09/09, we have the latest animated movie -- 9. Oh, and by the way, it's a Wednesday in September, both of which have 9 letters. Today is also the 252nd day of the year. 2+5+2=9. But I digress.

The sci-fi/action film is directed by Shane Acker -- and is based on his 2005 Oscar-nominated short film. Famed director Tim Burton serves as producer. Sound familiar? Well it was just this summer that director Peter Jackson served as a producer of another sci-fi film, District 9 -- based on director Neill Blomkamp's own short film.

Set in a near future, but with nods to evils of the past, 9 shows us that the world's machines have turned on mankind and decimated the human population. But a scientist, in the final days of humanity, had a plan to save civilization by creating a small group of numbered rag-doll like "stitchpunks." When our protagonist 9 comes to life, he must work with the others to find a way to beat the machines and survive. Sound familiar? Well we did just have another post-apocalyptic feature with men fighting machines in the future (Terminator Salvation) -- and let's not forget that men and machines shared (way too much) screen time in the Transformers sequel, too. Well fear not, this movie is better than those.

The strongest animated movie of the year remains Pixar's Up -- but I liked 9 more than the last release in the genre. Unlike the over-rated Ponyo, the appeal of this film goes well beyond the animation. The adventure story, although not completely original, moves quickly and holds your interest. And the voice cast is strong -- lead by Elijah Wood in the title role -- and including John C. Reilly, Jennifer Connelly, Christopher Plummer, Crispin Glover and Martin Landau. [Rated PG-13; opens today]

Grade: B+

Notes:

• Hung up on all the numerology fun based on 9? Click here for more!
• You'll have to hang on until November when Nine, the film version of the stage musical, opens.
• Click here for an alphabetical archive of all movie reviews.