Trapped in 5150

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas meets Reservoir Dogs. This was a low budget film created in the heart of the Barrio and starred an all Latino cast. At first glance, you may think that this movie would be pretty bad due to the poor acting of most of the actors in this film. But, surprisingly, I found this movie to be pretty entertaining. After local gang warfare causes one gang to seek refuge in an abandoned building in the city, they find themselves in a whole new mess because the building is not so abandoned. A meth-head was using the building to cook up his meth and the gang soon finds that he is insane and looking to kill.
An interesting mix of the urban gang life and a thriller horror movie, I think that this movie is entertaining. Dont look for this movie to EVER win an award of any type or get any type of acclaim, but the story is compelling enough and the horror is horrifying enough to keep you in front of your screen.

my elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 6.5/7

The Lost

I havent seen Lacy Chabert since Party of Five but she is back to show that she is still alive, or sort of.... She plays a Sanitorium patient with Disassociative personality Disorder and plays the role of 5 missing girls ranging from a little kid to a french prostitute. Step in Armand Assante. As a Psychologist dealing with this EXACT disorder, he learns from Chabert's older sister (Dina Meyer) that he had diagnosed her with the disorder years ago and there is MUCH more going on than just the disorder. She soon blackmails him to travel to SPAIN to rediagnose/figure out her past which includes a murderer (dont know why she was in Spain) and thus begins a story of twists and turns of the supernatural degree.
Like most supernatural thrillers, you dont actually get the whole picture until the climactic ending. You'll NEVER be able to guess whose fault it all is...... Because they give NO indication AT ALL as to the culprit in this movie. Very "B Movie". Besides the main three actors I think that there was no other person on that set with any experience.

my elementary grading scale: Needs Improvement
1-10: 5

End of America

End of America is a documentary of Naomi Wolf, the author of the same-titled book, that takes a look at America and draws comparisons to Nazi Germany of the 1930's and 40's. Her take on America is that we are following the same 10 steps to fascism that Germany took to lead into its Nazi regime. Very outlandish comparisons resume throughout the documentary that claim that the government has been using events such as 9/11 to evoke fear and use that to create a fascist state.
I totally think that Naomi Wolf is a Moron. But I did like watching the documentary. To say that America is plotting to turn Fascist is so backwards and to compare America's situation to that of a country where millions and millions of people were murdered, put into concentration camps, sought the extermination of a race to create a "perfect" race, and say that our government was similar to them at the time is RIDICULOUS!!!! Wolf states that the governments goal is to evoke fear in its people...Well, how much fear is created when you say that the U.S. is leading to a Nazi-like state?????? Definitely a conversations starter. Enjoy it. Take a deep breath and try not to talk to the TV...

my elementary grading scale: Exceeding Expectations
1-10: 8.5/9

Australia

Set during WWII, the wife of a cattle rancher is forced to take over her estranged husbands cattle farm in the outback of Australia. Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman are the stars of this Aussie love/adventure story. This movie was pretty good. I've always been a fan of Australia and the scenery in the movie is great and really gives you a good look at what its like to live out there. It was almost as if Australia became one of the characters because it played a major role in the movie. The terrain, weather, and locations were very important to the outcome of the truamatic and important events throughout the movie.
This movie is very very long however. Almost 3 Hours (165 min.)!!!!!! So make sure you have time to relax before starting the show. I kept thinking the movie was going to be over and then there was more. Fortunately, the Aborigines, fight scenes, dynamic characters, and story were enough to keep me entertained. More of a date movie maybe. Not the one you go see with the boys. But, I was by myself and I liked it.

my elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 7.5

Role Models

Who wouldnt want Paul Rudd or Sean William Scott as their big brother? Its probably a very short list. Role Models is a story about two men who have to pay for their crimes by becoming part of the Sturdy Wings Program (mock up of the Big Brother Big Sister Program) and in doing so, become attached to the abnormal kids they get put in place with. I watched this twice before writing my review because there are so many parts and lines that deserve being watched again. The cast is full of familiar faces from the Judd Apatow Community and each and every one does their part and then some in contributing to a very comedic movie.
The obscure references, off-beat, lude and sometimes cruel humor in this movie is sure to give you your ab workout for the night. If you enjoy Judd Apatow, you will enjoy this movie.

my elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 7.5/8

He's Just Not That Into You

The cat has been let out of the bag. The age old secrets that men have been using for years to manipulate women to meet our needs have finally been outed. I can honestly say that I am not TOO familiar with most of the situations in this movie, but I can say that I have definitely used some of the techniques that got these women so frustrated with the male species. I don't know if I am breaking "Man Law" or going against the ancient code of male secrets, but I was kinda relieved that some of these situations were brought into the light by this movie. I was getting sick and tired of hearing story after story with my friends and relatives, the female ones, of guys treating girls like crap and getting away with it. I hope that enough women see this movie and take some key pointers from the likes of Jennifer Anniston, Jennifer Connelly, Drew Barrymore, and surprisingly Justin Long.
Not a movie for kids due to the adult situations but I recommend this movie to all of those girls out there who have NO CLUE as to whats goin on.... I guarantee that all men who go and see this with there significant other, will have a long, detailed, informative discussion about the rules and regulations of the male mindset and dating practices..... Buyer Beware!!!!

my elementary grading scale: Exceeding Expectations
1-10: 8

The Yes Man

Or... Liar Liar: The New Batch. This was a cool movie, but it did constantly bring to mind Jim Carey's former storyline. Yes, the old one was about telling the truth and the new one was about saying yes.... it basically caused similar situations. For all the Flight of the Conchords fans out there, this is a chance to see Bret and Gemaine's boss at work in a movie. He does a great job as Carey's boss and has the same idiotic humor as in his tv-show.
Even though I say that its similar to Liar Liar, I do like it. Maybe because I liked Liar Liar too. All Jim Carey fans can expect is the same facial expressions, humor, physical comedy that we have all grown to love. Its funny.

my elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 7

Walled In

Hey! Has anyone seen the new Mischa Barton movie about the apartment building modeled after a pyramid and owned by a psychotic family???? You haven't? I didnt think so. I don't recall ever hearing about this so I imagine it went straight to DVD or something. So you get the gist, this movie would be the equivalent to Hannibal Lector building and operating an apartment building and the tenants paying the price for it.
I dont know if I am a chauvinist, or old fashioned, but having Ms. Barton play the role of a Detonation Engineer who is en route to becoming partners with her father in the explosives industry, is just not that believable. Is that bad to say? Part of making a movie is being able to cast people in to the story that seem realistic and in this case, it was not.

my elementary grading scale: Needs Improvement
1-10: 5.5

The International

Okay I apologize to those involved with the making of this movie, but I promise you, I would have found more entertainment watching the Senate filibuster on CNN. Usually, a Clive Owen and Naomi Watts movie should induce some sort of excitement but I assure you that it was full of disdain. I really think that Owen and Watts simply made this movie together for the chance to hang out on set after the the cameras were done rolling.
A failed attempt at Lord of War and a Bourne Identity(ish) storyline. If you want to sit down and watch a movie that you will be SURE to not get any enjoyment out of....go see it. If that doesnt sound like a good plan to you...go watch Lord of War again.

my elementary grading scale: Needs Improvement
1-10: 4.5

The Wrestler

Mickey Rourke delivers as "The Ram" and is just as exciting to watch as he was in Sin City. I was pretty impressed as he really played the role of a "has-been" wrestler struggling to redeem himself. If you don't know by now, I am a fan of redemption stories and this is "the one".
Fans of wrestling will enjoy this movie, and simply fans of great movies will really enjoy it. Though it was fiction, it seemed very true to life and believable and Rourke does a great job. I highly recommend this movie. Plus, Marisa Tomei will always have a special place in my heart thanks to George Costanza and his tomfoolery.

my elementary grading scale: Exceeding Expectations
1-10: 8.5/9

Twilight

This movie MAY be directed towards teen girls because of the strapping lads they cast as the leading men in this movie, however, vampire enthusiasts like myself can still find this movie entertaining. It was definitely a new approach to an old story as we find a vampire family living in suburbia struggling to fit in and live a "vegetarian" (non-human and only animal) lifestyle.
I hear they are going to be making sequels and one is already in the works, so you may as well start watching now to be on the up-and-up by the time the next movies come out. There is enough story outside the teen romance to keep you entertained and for most, exluding a few friends, you will like this movie.

my elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 7

Nick and Norahs Infinite Playlist

The straight guy in a gay rock band finds romance. Sorry for giving away the plot but I think that you will still enjoy this movie knowing the basis. Michael Cera once again pulls off his quirky performance and you just cant help but root for the guy. Definitely directed more to teens than adults, I definitely could reminisce back to the days of High School and the importance music played in friendships and dating. Im sure you will agree. Music is the soundtrack to our lives!!! I think that we can listen to music and remember exactly who we were with, what we were doing, where we were, and how we felt, just by the single song. Here Cera's love interest falls in love with him simply for the playlists that his (ex)girlfriend is throwing away. Interesting story.

my elementary grading scale: Exceeding Expectations
1-10: 8

My Bloody Valentine

Another Horror movie not released around Halloween put out to give us our fix of blood, gore, and fear. Jensen Ackles fans (of Supernatural) will be pleased with his performance as the lead character as he returns to his hometown where a gruesome murder took place in his past. I like this movie. Mass murdering coal miner movies now have a foundation to go off of. It is definitely the typical horror movie script but Like I said before, that is WHY we watch horror movies.

my elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 7

Inkheart

Not a good movie. You don't even need to continue reading this entry. There is nothing more to say about it if you just want to know if you should see it or not.... seriously stop reading. really.
I don't like Brendan Fraser. Plain and simple. I can deal with him in The Mummy trilogy but only for the sake of EVERYTHING else in those movies. I dont know what it is about him, but the guy just irritates me. Brendan Frasers character supposedly is able to bring stories to life by the sound of his voice. Well, I dont like his voice. Needless to say, a movie starring him and showing him throughout the movie, is not gonna be my choice at the ticket box office. However, I watched, just so I can talk about it.
Its like a Harry Potter for boring people. Overused story lines and characters, talking animals, and magic. Leave it to J.K. Rowling...

my elementary grading scale: Experiencing Difficulty
1-10: 3.5

The Uninvited

Horror movies with girls are scarier than with boys. Whenever I see that the killer is a woman, I am slightly more scared. The Uninvited went right along those lines... After a "crazy" chick gets back from the asylum, daddy's new girlfriend begins her reign of terror.
Lots of creepy spontaneous shots of scary images, obscure bendable people, and blood.... I'm glad it was just a movie.... I was scared. The first time I started to watch I had to stop... It was too dark in the house and I had to turn some lights on after 30 minutes into the movie. I guess I am a wuss...but i guess that makes for a good scary movie. Elizabeth Banks does a surprisingly good job as a non-comedy actress.... props to her.

my elementary grading scale: progressing satisfactorily
1-10: 6.5

Gran Torino

Clint Eastwood is a B.A.! Even at the ripe old age of 78 he can still kick butt. An angry old man was he who struggled to keep up with the changing times and neighborhood. Kind of a redemptive movie in that you see a veteran of the Korean War come around at the end. And we know all Americans love stories of redemption. Its in our blood or something. I highly recommend this movie just so that you can pick up some good insults to throw out at youngsters when you are an old fogey.
Entertaining the whole way through, comedy is mixed in with Eastwoods character and the storyline is good. You can follow it the whole way through without question and it still keeps you waiting for the next scene. Go see it!

my elementary grading scale: Exceeding Expectations
1-10: 8.5

Underworld: Rise of the Lycans

Part 3 of a monster movie series... Like they say, sequels are only good if they are planned for at the time of the original.Not sayin its bad.... just not great. New Actress, same story line, but its a prequel. Vamps hate Werewolves and vice versa, so lets make a hybrid to solve the prob. I like vampire movies and this is your typical dark, emotionless, bloody vampire movie with romance somehow weasled in there. Its the type of movie that if you like the genre, then you will like the movie. Its not the type of movie where you say, " wow that was good acting!" or you wouldnt say it was bad. They acted JUST like vampires and werewolves. The new main girl is okay...she is no Kate Beckinsdale.

my elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 6.5

Push

Star Wars on Earth! I think this may have been a better name.... I honestly paused this movie like 20 times when watching.... aka: I was bored. This movie portrays what would happen if Jedis walked the earth and fought eachother. I like Star Wars. But only "a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away". Jedis in present day fighting in the streets didnt have the same effect on me as George Lucas' version.
And another thing. Dakota Fanning. She is grown up now and has lost some of her childlike charm that she had in I am Sam, War of the Worlds, and her others..... She was a child actor so she has grown up in the biz, so her acting is very real and she does a good job...but Dakota is not who I am wanting to see in this role.....
Overall, its sci-fi, mystery, suspense(ish), and some action wrapped up into an okay movie. The effects are cool though..... Darth Vader woulda kicked all their butts.

my elementary grading scale. Needs Improvement
1-10: 5.5

Paul Blart: Mall Cop

Kevin James fans, enjoy the movie! I myself am a fan. But if I wasn't, I can see how people would equate this to every other "stupid" humor movies. Kevin James does a great job of being the Kevin James we all, most of us, love and for that reason, I enjoyed it. I feel that most people with a GED or above could have written the script for this movie however. I might have watched Mr. James doing a stand-up routine and enjoyed it a little more but I dont think stand up routines sell too many tickets at the movie theaters.
I am definitely NOT knocking stupid humor movies because I am a bold defendant of Dumb and Dumber, Zoolander, Kung Pow: Enter the Fist and all the like.... but I DO think this movie could be a little better. Like I said, Kevin James fans....Enjoy the movie.

My grade on the elementary grading scale: Progressing Satisfactorily
1-10: 6

Friday the 13th

Jason is Back!!! Again...... but this time its a remake so I guess its okay. I relate this to the Halloween remake because it gives a look back to a time where the killer was still trying to find himself. His inner Chi if you will.... Why does Jason wear a hockey mask? Well, now you will know..... Why does he have so much anger? well, guess what???? It's all here folks.
This, I believe, would make the 12th Jason movie and it definitely has its place. I knew what I was getting in to when I sat down, and the capabilities and advancements of modern movie making did not let me down. Its the basic horror movie plot, but is that not the reason we go see them???

My grade on the elementary grading scale: Exceeding Expectations
1-10: 7.5

And So It Begins.....

Hello Very Few,
This is it. Due to peer pressure from a friend, I have finally been convinced to start blogging about all the movies I have been fortunate/unfortunate/forced to see. I will start with the most recent movies and work my way back. I'm still trying to figure out how I am going to format this, but I think its going to be a blog/movie type deal....... Let me just tell you what I have seen, that is popular, in the last couple weeks.... Friday the 13th, Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Push, Underworld: Rise of the Lycans, Gran Torino, The Uninvited, Inkheart, My Bloody Valentine, Nick and Norahs Infinite Playlist, Twilight, and The Wrestler......plus many obscure, old, OLD, and various movies along with. I told you I had a lot of time.