by Becca L.
I’m sure those of you who heard of it were all very excited when Repo! came to DVD. Knowing that “rock opera” is the socially acceptable way of saying “musical”, I could hardly contain myself. Sure, it has Paris Hilton in it, but it also has Sarah Brightman, and she wouldn’t do anything that bad, would she? And it’s the “Genetic Opera”, that’s gotta be fun! It was not.
Showing posts with label Review: Movie. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Review: Movie. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Friday, June 12, 2009
Movie Review: Constantine
by Chris
Maybe, it’s the evil in me but I just enjoy movies with demons. I like to see demons being slain, I like to see demons slaying humans, I like to see demons eating humans, or demons eating other demons. I’m not really picky. I on the other hand am not a big Keanu Reeves fan. So, naturally I was torn. Save myself some grief and refrain from watching yet another movie where Keanu Reeves portrays all of TWO emotions or ignore the fact that Mr. Neo is in this film and enjoy another demon movie. Naturally I chose the latter or you wouldn’t be reading this review, would you?
Let’s talk about Keanu’s part in the film and get it over with. Reeves plays John Constantine, a man who can see demons and exorcise them directly back to Hell. Well, half-demons actually, but that’s kind of irrelevant. At first glance Constantine may seem like your clichéd chain-smoking badass. And he pretty much is, except for the fact that he can see demons. At a young age this drove him into committing suicide. Yes, not attempting, committing. Technically he was dead for 2 minutes, went to Hell, and came back or some other such bull. I must have dozed off at that part. The character of John Constantine is semi-interesting but pretty conventional. And as expected, Reeves played him with the emotional range of a tree stump.
Some of the other characters were interesting, like Shia LaBeouf’s character Chaz. Or was it Chad? Who cares, he’s a sidekick. My point is that despite the fact that I don’t remember his name he was pretty interesting. Screw Constantine, Chaz/Chad should have his own movie. Angelia is a detective who comes to Constantine for help after her sister kills herself. Her character is just as clichéd as Constantine. I’ve only seen it done about a trillion times before by Ashley Judd (not that she did it any better). Midnight, who was an interesting character, was the owner of a shady bar for half-breeds. He attempted to stay a neutral in the whole Heaven vs. Hell war.
Outside of the characters (very few of which are interesting and the few that are, are featured least often) the storyline was pretty cool. Probably because it came from a DC Comics graphic novel. Constantine is stuck between a war between Heaven and Hell where half-breeds live among us and demons are trying to escape to the real world. He must stop the son of Satan from using a holy dagger or some other generic mystical item from enslaving the Earth. There was an undertone to this film about Constantine’s smoking habits, which made me wonder was this movie produced by the American Heart and Lung association?
So I conclude with three words that best describe this movie. Mediocre, mediocre, and mediocre. Constantine is like being in limbo, it’s not really Hell but it’s certainly not Heaven either.
Maybe, it’s the evil in me but I just enjoy movies with demons. I like to see demons being slain, I like to see demons slaying humans, I like to see demons eating humans, or demons eating other demons. I’m not really picky. I on the other hand am not a big Keanu Reeves fan. So, naturally I was torn. Save myself some grief and refrain from watching yet another movie where Keanu Reeves portrays all of TWO emotions or ignore the fact that Mr. Neo is in this film and enjoy another demon movie. Naturally I chose the latter or you wouldn’t be reading this review, would you?
Let’s talk about Keanu’s part in the film and get it over with. Reeves plays John Constantine, a man who can see demons and exorcise them directly back to Hell. Well, half-demons actually, but that’s kind of irrelevant. At first glance Constantine may seem like your clichéd chain-smoking badass. And he pretty much is, except for the fact that he can see demons. At a young age this drove him into committing suicide. Yes, not attempting, committing. Technically he was dead for 2 minutes, went to Hell, and came back or some other such bull. I must have dozed off at that part. The character of John Constantine is semi-interesting but pretty conventional. And as expected, Reeves played him with the emotional range of a tree stump.
Some of the other characters were interesting, like Shia LaBeouf’s character Chaz. Or was it Chad? Who cares, he’s a sidekick. My point is that despite the fact that I don’t remember his name he was pretty interesting. Screw Constantine, Chaz/Chad should have his own movie. Angelia is a detective who comes to Constantine for help after her sister kills herself. Her character is just as clichéd as Constantine. I’ve only seen it done about a trillion times before by Ashley Judd (not that she did it any better). Midnight, who was an interesting character, was the owner of a shady bar for half-breeds. He attempted to stay a neutral in the whole Heaven vs. Hell war.
Outside of the characters (very few of which are interesting and the few that are, are featured least often) the storyline was pretty cool. Probably because it came from a DC Comics graphic novel. Constantine is stuck between a war between Heaven and Hell where half-breeds live among us and demons are trying to escape to the real world. He must stop the son of Satan from using a holy dagger or some other generic mystical item from enslaving the Earth. There was an undertone to this film about Constantine’s smoking habits, which made me wonder was this movie produced by the American Heart and Lung association?
So I conclude with three words that best describe this movie. Mediocre, mediocre, and mediocre. Constantine is like being in limbo, it’s not really Hell but it’s certainly not Heaven either.
Movie Section Special: Top Ten Must-See Before College Movies
by Andrew
You’ve seen everything in theaters. You’ve watched “The Matrix: Reloaded” so many times that you’re beginning to understand what the architect was saying. You’ve watched the entire “Lord of the Rings” trilogy in one sitting (with or without bathroom breaks). You can quote line for line “Kill Bill.” You are the king of movies. But odds are pretty good that there’s one or two (or even ten) movies on this list that you haven’t seen and need to see by the end of high school. So gather up your friends and start heating the popcorn…
10. Monty Python and The Holy Grail
Why you should see this movie: The Monty Python troupe retells the classic story of King Arthur’s quest for the Holy Grail in the most ridiculous ways possible. God, the killer rabbit, Tim, the French guards, the castle Anthrax, the Dark Knight; the list of great things in this movie could go on and on forever. The DVD collector’s edition even includes a Lego version.
Why only #10: Because you should have seen this movie long ago, probably before high school! It’s a bit childish, and it’s more British humor that not every one agrees with. It also has what everyone calls the worst movie ending of all time.
9. Dogma
Why you should see this movie: Two angels, who were kicked out of heaven for all eternity, have found a loophole in the Catholic dogma to get back into paradise. God’s missing, so the task of stopping the duo is left up to the “Last Zion,” the 13th disciple, and Jay and Silent Bob. Amidst all the bad comedy are some very important religious questions too.
Why Only #9: This film makes fun of almost every major world religion. If you can’t laugh at yourself and your ideals, this is not your movie. It’s also a Jay and Silent Bob movie which means elementary school cheap laughs through potty-humor and stoner jokes.
8. The Evil Dead Trilogy (Evil Dead, Evil Dead II, Army of Darkness)
Why you should see these movies: Meet Ash. All he wanted to do was have a quiet weekend with his girlfriend at a cabin in the mountains. Too bad the previous occupant was translating the Necromonicon (or the book of the dead) in his free time and left all his notes on tape right out in the open. The result is an ultra-gory trilogy with some of the best one-liners ever. The director: Sam Rami, who would later go on to direct two little movies called Spiderman and Spiderman 2.
Why only #8: They’re classic bad movies. One moment they’re terrifying, the next you’re laughing you head off at the horrible moon in the background, which isn’t for everyone. None of the movies flow together that well (Evil Dead has five people at the mountain cabin; Evil Dead II says there were only two). Plus, these films make Kill Bill look like Disney (1 and 2 could have gotten an NC-17 rating, but were instead “not rated” to reduce negative press).
7. Office Space
Why you should see this movie: The creators of “Beavis and Butthead” put together this comedic look at the workplace, but don’t let that discourage you. Peter Gibbons wakes up one morning and decides he doesn’t like his job, so he’s going to get fired. And if he can’t get fired, he’ll just have to make it so he never needs to work again. Think “Dilbert” with an “R” rating.
Why Only #7: The TV version gets played on Comedy Central about once a month and cuts out some of the best parts while the commercials prevent an emersion into Peter’s world. The ending is just about as abrupt and pointless as Monty Python.
6. Se7en
Why you should see this movie: Perhaps the most horrifying and underrated horror film of all time; and I really like horror films. Two police officers, the underrated Morgan Freeman and the overrated Brad Pitt, track a killer who takes lives based on the seven deadly sins: gluttony, greed, sloth, pride, lechery (lust), wrath, and envy. After watching this movie you’re never going to forget those sins.
Why Only #6: This movie is truly terrifying. It isn’t a “jump out of the shadows” scary like Alien; this is “please don’t let this be what I think it is” scary like Silence of the Lambs and it doesn’t let up. That’s good for some and bad for others. Brad Pitt is only in chick-flicks is also deeply engraved in some minds.
5. Fight Club
Why you should see this movie: If guys set up the “Ya-Ya Sisterhood” what would it be about? Beating the life out of each other is a pretty good guess. Throw in a message on the dangers of post-modernism and soap in the wrong hands and you’ve got this movie. Plus there’s an ending here that puts M. Night Shyamalan’s greatest twists to shame.
Why Only #5: More Brad Pitt, and considering that he’s holding a large bar of soap on the DVD cover you might get some wrong ideas (get your mind out of the gutter). The violence is rarer than you’d think, but when it occurs you get a little queasy.
4. Reservoir Dogs
Why you should see this movie: Before Pulp Fiction there was this: Quentin Tarantino’s first film. Five strangers, each with code names, attempt to pull off the perfect crime, only one of them is an undercover cop. But which one is it? The acting is brilliant. The dialogue is great. The end result is a perfect movie.
Why Only #4: Confusing ending that’s hard to piece together perfectly. Quentin Tarantino makes a guest appearance as Mr. Brown that makes you very happy he dies after the opening scene. Mr. Blonde is one sick (expletive deleted).
3. Big Lebowski
Why you should see this movie: Several mobsters break into the house of Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski, pee on his rug, then realize they have the wrong Jeffery Lebowski and leave. Things go downhill from there in a movie about bowling, money, nihilists, detectives, porn, and finding a new rug for the Dude. Its also by the guys that did Fargo and O Brother Where Art Thou? John Goodman is hilarious.
Why Only #3: It may be the best comedy ever made, but #2 and #1 aren’t comedy. The TV version on Comedy Central takes about ¼ of the movie (not kidding here), mainly the good parts. You’re either going to love or hate the oddball plot.
2. Equilibrium
Why you should see this movie: What the Matrix sequels should have been. Amazing fights, excellent (comprehendible) philosophy, an unemotional main character that puts Keanu Reeves to shame. Odds are you’ve seen it on the bottom shelf at Blockbuster and passed it by. Once you’ve seen it you’ll be kicking yourself for a very long time for doing so.
Why Only #2: Only one “cult movie” deserves higher billing, only because Equilibrium’s initial concept is so strange. Also the re-viewing rate of this movie is a little lower then the #1 movie, simply because watching the same action sequence over and over gets a little dull.
1. The Shawshank Redemption
Why you should see this movie: Called by some the best film ever made, it had the bad luck to come out in the same year as Forest Gump, Pulp Fiction, Interview with the Vampire, and Four Weddings and a Funeral. Andy Dufresne must serve back to back life-sentences in Shawshank prison for a crime he may-or-may not have committed. Based on a short story by Stephen King (which many people find unbelievable after watching) and incredibly acted by Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins, you NEED to see this movie.
Why #1: My roommate stated he hadn’t seen this movie and was almost lynched on the spot. When someone went and got the movie and he proceeded to IM people while the movie was playing, someone turned off the movie and everyone walked out, glaring at my roommate. This movie commands that much respect and deserves every bit of it.
Honorable Mention. Donnie Darko
Why Honorable Mention? I haven’t seen this movie yet, but have heard great praise for it on the dorm floor. I didn’t feel right putting it on the list, but didn’t feel right leaving it out entirely. It looks great and horrifying at the same time. Donnie Darko is plagued by a giant rabbit named Frank who predicts the end of the world unless Donnie stops it (apparently by doing some very bad things). One of these days I’ll need to get around to seeing it…
Final Note: Looking back on this list I realize that every movie here is rated “R” with the exception of Monty Python (PG) and Evil Dead (unrated). Kids under 17, check with parents. Kids over 17, steal the car and rent these movies, then check with parents if you have younger siblings. Enjoy!
You’ve seen everything in theaters. You’ve watched “The Matrix: Reloaded” so many times that you’re beginning to understand what the architect was saying. You’ve watched the entire “Lord of the Rings” trilogy in one sitting (with or without bathroom breaks). You can quote line for line “Kill Bill.” You are the king of movies. But odds are pretty good that there’s one or two (or even ten) movies on this list that you haven’t seen and need to see by the end of high school. So gather up your friends and start heating the popcorn…
10. Monty Python and The Holy Grail
Why you should see this movie: The Monty Python troupe retells the classic story of King Arthur’s quest for the Holy Grail in the most ridiculous ways possible. God, the killer rabbit, Tim, the French guards, the castle Anthrax, the Dark Knight; the list of great things in this movie could go on and on forever. The DVD collector’s edition even includes a Lego version.
Why only #10: Because you should have seen this movie long ago, probably before high school! It’s a bit childish, and it’s more British humor that not every one agrees with. It also has what everyone calls the worst movie ending of all time.
9. Dogma
Why you should see this movie: Two angels, who were kicked out of heaven for all eternity, have found a loophole in the Catholic dogma to get back into paradise. God’s missing, so the task of stopping the duo is left up to the “Last Zion,” the 13th disciple, and Jay and Silent Bob. Amidst all the bad comedy are some very important religious questions too.
Why Only #9: This film makes fun of almost every major world religion. If you can’t laugh at yourself and your ideals, this is not your movie. It’s also a Jay and Silent Bob movie which means elementary school cheap laughs through potty-humor and stoner jokes.
8. The Evil Dead Trilogy (Evil Dead, Evil Dead II, Army of Darkness)
Why you should see these movies: Meet Ash. All he wanted to do was have a quiet weekend with his girlfriend at a cabin in the mountains. Too bad the previous occupant was translating the Necromonicon (or the book of the dead) in his free time and left all his notes on tape right out in the open. The result is an ultra-gory trilogy with some of the best one-liners ever. The director: Sam Rami, who would later go on to direct two little movies called Spiderman and Spiderman 2.
Why only #8: They’re classic bad movies. One moment they’re terrifying, the next you’re laughing you head off at the horrible moon in the background, which isn’t for everyone. None of the movies flow together that well (Evil Dead has five people at the mountain cabin; Evil Dead II says there were only two). Plus, these films make Kill Bill look like Disney (1 and 2 could have gotten an NC-17 rating, but were instead “not rated” to reduce negative press).
7. Office Space
Why you should see this movie: The creators of “Beavis and Butthead” put together this comedic look at the workplace, but don’t let that discourage you. Peter Gibbons wakes up one morning and decides he doesn’t like his job, so he’s going to get fired. And if he can’t get fired, he’ll just have to make it so he never needs to work again. Think “Dilbert” with an “R” rating.
Why Only #7: The TV version gets played on Comedy Central about once a month and cuts out some of the best parts while the commercials prevent an emersion into Peter’s world. The ending is just about as abrupt and pointless as Monty Python.
6. Se7en
Why you should see this movie: Perhaps the most horrifying and underrated horror film of all time; and I really like horror films. Two police officers, the underrated Morgan Freeman and the overrated Brad Pitt, track a killer who takes lives based on the seven deadly sins: gluttony, greed, sloth, pride, lechery (lust), wrath, and envy. After watching this movie you’re never going to forget those sins.
Why Only #6: This movie is truly terrifying. It isn’t a “jump out of the shadows” scary like Alien; this is “please don’t let this be what I think it is” scary like Silence of the Lambs and it doesn’t let up. That’s good for some and bad for others. Brad Pitt is only in chick-flicks is also deeply engraved in some minds.
5. Fight Club
Why you should see this movie: If guys set up the “Ya-Ya Sisterhood” what would it be about? Beating the life out of each other is a pretty good guess. Throw in a message on the dangers of post-modernism and soap in the wrong hands and you’ve got this movie. Plus there’s an ending here that puts M. Night Shyamalan’s greatest twists to shame.
Why Only #5: More Brad Pitt, and considering that he’s holding a large bar of soap on the DVD cover you might get some wrong ideas (get your mind out of the gutter). The violence is rarer than you’d think, but when it occurs you get a little queasy.
4. Reservoir Dogs
Why you should see this movie: Before Pulp Fiction there was this: Quentin Tarantino’s first film. Five strangers, each with code names, attempt to pull off the perfect crime, only one of them is an undercover cop. But which one is it? The acting is brilliant. The dialogue is great. The end result is a perfect movie.
Why Only #4: Confusing ending that’s hard to piece together perfectly. Quentin Tarantino makes a guest appearance as Mr. Brown that makes you very happy he dies after the opening scene. Mr. Blonde is one sick (expletive deleted).
3. Big Lebowski
Why you should see this movie: Several mobsters break into the house of Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski, pee on his rug, then realize they have the wrong Jeffery Lebowski and leave. Things go downhill from there in a movie about bowling, money, nihilists, detectives, porn, and finding a new rug for the Dude. Its also by the guys that did Fargo and O Brother Where Art Thou? John Goodman is hilarious.
Why Only #3: It may be the best comedy ever made, but #2 and #1 aren’t comedy. The TV version on Comedy Central takes about ¼ of the movie (not kidding here), mainly the good parts. You’re either going to love or hate the oddball plot.
2. Equilibrium
Why you should see this movie: What the Matrix sequels should have been. Amazing fights, excellent (comprehendible) philosophy, an unemotional main character that puts Keanu Reeves to shame. Odds are you’ve seen it on the bottom shelf at Blockbuster and passed it by. Once you’ve seen it you’ll be kicking yourself for a very long time for doing so.
Why Only #2: Only one “cult movie” deserves higher billing, only because Equilibrium’s initial concept is so strange. Also the re-viewing rate of this movie is a little lower then the #1 movie, simply because watching the same action sequence over and over gets a little dull.
1. The Shawshank Redemption
Why you should see this movie: Called by some the best film ever made, it had the bad luck to come out in the same year as Forest Gump, Pulp Fiction, Interview with the Vampire, and Four Weddings and a Funeral. Andy Dufresne must serve back to back life-sentences in Shawshank prison for a crime he may-or-may not have committed. Based on a short story by Stephen King (which many people find unbelievable after watching) and incredibly acted by Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins, you NEED to see this movie.
Why #1: My roommate stated he hadn’t seen this movie and was almost lynched on the spot. When someone went and got the movie and he proceeded to IM people while the movie was playing, someone turned off the movie and everyone walked out, glaring at my roommate. This movie commands that much respect and deserves every bit of it.
Honorable Mention. Donnie Darko
Why Honorable Mention? I haven’t seen this movie yet, but have heard great praise for it on the dorm floor. I didn’t feel right putting it on the list, but didn’t feel right leaving it out entirely. It looks great and horrifying at the same time. Donnie Darko is plagued by a giant rabbit named Frank who predicts the end of the world unless Donnie stops it (apparently by doing some very bad things). One of these days I’ll need to get around to seeing it…
Final Note: Looking back on this list I realize that every movie here is rated “R” with the exception of Monty Python (PG) and Evil Dead (unrated). Kids under 17, check with parents. Kids over 17, steal the car and rent these movies, then check with parents if you have younger siblings. Enjoy!
Movie Review (DVD): The Sixth Sense
by Kelsie
The Sixth Sense is a great movie about a boy who can see the dead. Cole (played by Haley Joel Osmond) lives with him mom, but is not willing to share his secret with her. He has told nobody. Then along comes a man to help him get over his fear of being scared. Cole finds that he can confide in him, and tells him about his troubles. "I see dead people," Cole told him. He is then told to try and help these spirits because certain dead people have come back to look for what they wanted to see. He didn't want to have to do this, but it was the only solution to make them stop visiting him. A young girl ghost visits him, but nobody knew how she died. Then it is up to Cole to talk to her and find out the mystery behind her death.
Through his journeys of trying to help them, Cole discovers that the people don't know they are dead, but think they are living their life normally. Cole finds that the ghosts aren't that scary when he talks to them. Eventually Cole tells him mother what has been bothering him, but it doesn't bother him as much because he knows how to handle it.
I think this is an excellent movie, but not for the faint of heart.
The Sixth Sense is a great movie about a boy who can see the dead. Cole (played by Haley Joel Osmond) lives with him mom, but is not willing to share his secret with her. He has told nobody. Then along comes a man to help him get over his fear of being scared. Cole finds that he can confide in him, and tells him about his troubles. "I see dead people," Cole told him. He is then told to try and help these spirits because certain dead people have come back to look for what they wanted to see. He didn't want to have to do this, but it was the only solution to make them stop visiting him. A young girl ghost visits him, but nobody knew how she died. Then it is up to Cole to talk to her and find out the mystery behind her death.
Through his journeys of trying to help them, Cole discovers that the people don't know they are dead, but think they are living their life normally. Cole finds that the ghosts aren't that scary when he talks to them. Eventually Cole tells him mother what has been bothering him, but it doesn't bother him as much because he knows how to handle it.
I think this is an excellent movie, but not for the faint of heart.
Movie Review: Fat Albert
by Chris
Hey, hey, hey. Ring a bell? No? Well, actually most of you have probably heard of Fat Albert, but are too young to have actually watched the cartoon. If you have, then admit it. You’re old. Get over it. I was actually expecting this movie to suck but it, in fact, did not. At least it didn’t suck too badly. The kids from Fat Albert find their way out of the television to the real world and hilarity ensues. That’s the extremely abbreviated version. Yes, I know it sounds like something that belongs on Nick Jr. and I would agree. At times the humor was pretty juvenile and the whole thing was pretty formulaic. A formula that produces mediocre films. Yet, that doesn’t mean it completely sucked. In fact, some times I actually found myself laughing. There were plenty of parts that were entertaining as well. The Fat Albert characters look colorful in contrast to the bland people and world around them. That changes during the course of the movie as they begin to “fade away”. You should look for appearances from Aaron Carter and B2k’s Omarion as well as a brief appearance by Joel Madden . . . you know, the guy from Good Charlotte. Formulaic, but fun, this movie is probably worth your time but wouldn’t be at anyone’s #1 spot.
Hey, hey, hey. Ring a bell? No? Well, actually most of you have probably heard of Fat Albert, but are too young to have actually watched the cartoon. If you have, then admit it. You’re old. Get over it. I was actually expecting this movie to suck but it, in fact, did not. At least it didn’t suck too badly. The kids from Fat Albert find their way out of the television to the real world and hilarity ensues. That’s the extremely abbreviated version. Yes, I know it sounds like something that belongs on Nick Jr. and I would agree. At times the humor was pretty juvenile and the whole thing was pretty formulaic. A formula that produces mediocre films. Yet, that doesn’t mean it completely sucked. In fact, some times I actually found myself laughing. There were plenty of parts that were entertaining as well. The Fat Albert characters look colorful in contrast to the bland people and world around them. That changes during the course of the movie as they begin to “fade away”. You should look for appearances from Aaron Carter and B2k’s Omarion as well as a brief appearance by Joel Madden . . . you know, the guy from Good Charlotte. Formulaic, but fun, this movie is probably worth your time but wouldn’t be at anyone’s #1 spot.
Movie Review: The Punisher
by Nichelle
The Punisher is a Marvel Comic Origin and has been made as a movie. I think the movie is better then the comic. Hopefully, once you see it, you’ll think the movie is better.
Starring Tom Jane & John Travoltra
“Jane” goes out to seek “Travoltra”, the murder of his family. Once “Jane” starts to look and people start to get in his way, nothing will stop him.
The Punisher is a Marvel Comic Origin and has been made as a movie. I think the movie is better then the comic. Hopefully, once you see it, you’ll think the movie is better.
Starring Tom Jane & John Travoltra
“Jane” goes out to seek “Travoltra”, the murder of his family. Once “Jane” starts to look and people start to get in his way, nothing will stop him.
Movie Review: The Order of the Pheonix
by Nathan
For Harry Potter fans, the fifth movie- “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”- launched mere days before the seventh and final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (due out July 21, 2007). This movie is just as, if not more, blockbuster than the other films. Directed by David Yates and written by Michael Goldenberg, this movie is about as cannon from the book as it is possible to be- and considering that the book is over 850 pages, that’s a feet worth mentioning!
Just as dark and complex as the book, yet light-hearted at the same time. Newcomers to the series include Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood), Helena Bonham-Carter (Belatrix Lestrange), and Imelda Staunton (Dolores Umbridge), all of whom bring their respected characters to life. I was deeply impressed by all three> Luna is one of my favorite characters, and she was exactly as I imagined. Umbridge made me cringe just as she did in the book, and Belatrix was completely demented.
Many of the lines in the movie were verbatim from the book. However, the pacing seemed off. Some parts were fast, while others were slower. Fred and George’s dramatic flight from school with fireworks, and the final battle in the Ministry were my favorite scenes. Of course, I went to the IMAX, where I saw the final battle in 3-D!
Although some scenes were cut such as the St. Mungos scene and the Sanpe’s Worst Memory scene (although that was a flashback), the director did a fantastic job with the move. My first disappointment with it was Daniel Radcliffe’s (Harry’s) lack of full emotions. He had many emotions, but they weren’t the same as the book. For example, Harry shouted a plethora of times in the book, using a capital letters to express his frustrations. My second disappointment was that Order of the Phoenix is the longest book in the series, yet it is the shortest film at a whopping 2 hours and 15 minutes. Since I saw in at the IMAX, the final 20 or so minutes were in astounding 3-D, which definitely brought the book’s climax to life.
All-in-all, I would have to say that I was extremely impressed with the film. Film rating: 4 out of 5.
For Harry Potter fans, the fifth movie- “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”- launched mere days before the seventh and final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (due out July 21, 2007). This movie is just as, if not more, blockbuster than the other films. Directed by David Yates and written by Michael Goldenberg, this movie is about as cannon from the book as it is possible to be- and considering that the book is over 850 pages, that’s a feet worth mentioning!
Just as dark and complex as the book, yet light-hearted at the same time. Newcomers to the series include Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood), Helena Bonham-Carter (Belatrix Lestrange), and Imelda Staunton (Dolores Umbridge), all of whom bring their respected characters to life. I was deeply impressed by all three> Luna is one of my favorite characters, and she was exactly as I imagined. Umbridge made me cringe just as she did in the book, and Belatrix was completely demented.
Many of the lines in the movie were verbatim from the book. However, the pacing seemed off. Some parts were fast, while others were slower. Fred and George’s dramatic flight from school with fireworks, and the final battle in the Ministry were my favorite scenes. Of course, I went to the IMAX, where I saw the final battle in 3-D!
Although some scenes were cut such as the St. Mungos scene and the Sanpe’s Worst Memory scene (although that was a flashback), the director did a fantastic job with the move. My first disappointment with it was Daniel Radcliffe’s (Harry’s) lack of full emotions. He had many emotions, but they weren’t the same as the book. For example, Harry shouted a plethora of times in the book, using a capital letters to express his frustrations. My second disappointment was that Order of the Phoenix is the longest book in the series, yet it is the shortest film at a whopping 2 hours and 15 minutes. Since I saw in at the IMAX, the final 20 or so minutes were in astounding 3-D, which definitely brought the book’s climax to life.
All-in-all, I would have to say that I was extremely impressed with the film. Film rating: 4 out of 5.
Movie Review: The Amityville Horror
by Kelsie
So this was a really good movie!!! I thought that it wasn’t one of those run of the mill movies that people watch because its supposedly good, or something like they have to!! It was really enjoyable, and woo-hoo spooky!!! Haha though I am a jumpy person and so every little thing made me jump out of my skin!!! J This is a remake, so im not entirely sure how good the first one is, but hey!! Give it a go!!!
It’s the story of the DeFeo family, and how they were all brutally killed by the eldest brother of the family. Then a couple years down the road, another family, the Lutz family move in to that exact same house, not realizing what terrible things were done previously. Very shortly after they move in, George Lutz starts to hear voices telling him to kill them all. The exact same voice that was telling Ronald Defeo to kill his family.
Yeah, so its pretty darn spooky and very enjoyable. You should watch it sometime if ya haven’t already!!!
So this was a really good movie!!! I thought that it wasn’t one of those run of the mill movies that people watch because its supposedly good, or something like they have to!! It was really enjoyable, and woo-hoo spooky!!! Haha though I am a jumpy person and so every little thing made me jump out of my skin!!! J This is a remake, so im not entirely sure how good the first one is, but hey!! Give it a go!!!
It’s the story of the DeFeo family, and how they were all brutally killed by the eldest brother of the family. Then a couple years down the road, another family, the Lutz family move in to that exact same house, not realizing what terrible things were done previously. Very shortly after they move in, George Lutz starts to hear voices telling him to kill them all. The exact same voice that was telling Ronald Defeo to kill his family.
Yeah, so its pretty darn spooky and very enjoyable. You should watch it sometime if ya haven’t already!!!
Movie Review: The Devil Wears Prada
by Kelsie
Alright. So the movie wasn’t nearly as great as I’d heard it would be. I thought it might be a little more action and a little less of the exact same thing happening to the exact same people over and over and over again. Oh well.
So this movie, yeah, it’s about this girl who wants to work with a fashion magazine. Trouble is, she’s not really that type of person. Then she finds her nitch, and things start to work out for her. Then something happens, and her associate gets shoved down in the ranking as she moves up. And it all ends out like every single other movie like this does, everyone’s all happy and the world moves on.
So anyway, it’s eh overall. If you are desperate and have nothing better to watch, why don’t cha just give it a shot!!
Alright. So the movie wasn’t nearly as great as I’d heard it would be. I thought it might be a little more action and a little less of the exact same thing happening to the exact same people over and over and over again. Oh well.
So this movie, yeah, it’s about this girl who wants to work with a fashion magazine. Trouble is, she’s not really that type of person. Then she finds her nitch, and things start to work out for her. Then something happens, and her associate gets shoved down in the ranking as she moves up. And it all ends out like every single other movie like this does, everyone’s all happy and the world moves on.
So anyway, it’s eh overall. If you are desperate and have nothing better to watch, why don’t cha just give it a shot!!
Movie Review: Music and Lyrics
by Mary
Music and Lyrics is the best movie of 2007 so far. Hugh Grant shines as Alex Fletcher an 80’s pop star has been who is content singing at high school reunions, amusement parks and maybe appearing on a show called “Battle of the 80’s Has-Beens”. When he is given one week to write a hit song for teenage pop sensation, Cora, he seeks the help of unknown (even to herself) lyricist, Sophie Fisher (Drew Barrymore). The witty banter and clever jokes results in a hilarious love story. The onscreen connection between this dynamic duo is instant. Unfortunately it isn’t long until creative differences rise over their new song “A Way Back into Love”. And it turns into the classic “boy loses girl” story.
That Dynamic duo isn’t the only thing that makes this movie great. The soundtrack is full of catchy songs that everyone loves! The songs such as “Pop! Goes My Heart” and “Way back into love” are infectious and you will be singing them long after you leave the theater. This wonderful movie has been raved by critics everywhere and is playing in a theater near you!
Music and Lyrics is the best movie of 2007 so far. Hugh Grant shines as Alex Fletcher an 80’s pop star has been who is content singing at high school reunions, amusement parks and maybe appearing on a show called “Battle of the 80’s Has-Beens”. When he is given one week to write a hit song for teenage pop sensation, Cora, he seeks the help of unknown (even to herself) lyricist, Sophie Fisher (Drew Barrymore). The witty banter and clever jokes results in a hilarious love story. The onscreen connection between this dynamic duo is instant. Unfortunately it isn’t long until creative differences rise over their new song “A Way Back into Love”. And it turns into the classic “boy loses girl” story.
That Dynamic duo isn’t the only thing that makes this movie great. The soundtrack is full of catchy songs that everyone loves! The songs such as “Pop! Goes My Heart” and “Way back into love” are infectious and you will be singing them long after you leave the theater. This wonderful movie has been raved by critics everywhere and is playing in a theater near you!
Movie Review: Pursuit of Happiness
by Yatzi
In 1981, Chris Gardner was a struggling salesman in little needed medical bone density scanners while his wife worked in double shifts to support the family including their young son, Christopher. In the face of this difficult life, Chris has the desperate inspiration to try for a stockbroker internship where one in twenty has a chance of a well-paid full time job. Even when his wife leaves him because of this choice, Chris clings to this dream with his son even when the odds become more discouraging by the day. Together, father and son struggle through homelessness, jail time, tax seizure and the overall punishing despair in a search that would make Gardner a appreciated millionaire.
In 1981, Chris Gardner was a struggling salesman in little needed medical bone density scanners while his wife worked in double shifts to support the family including their young son, Christopher. In the face of this difficult life, Chris has the desperate inspiration to try for a stockbroker internship where one in twenty has a chance of a well-paid full time job. Even when his wife leaves him because of this choice, Chris clings to this dream with his son even when the odds become more discouraging by the day. Together, father and son struggle through homelessness, jail time, tax seizure and the overall punishing despair in a search that would make Gardner a appreciated millionaire.
Movie Review: The Aviator
by Calvin
Howard Hughes (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) a 30something millionaire, already made a fortune improving oil drills, decides to go to Hollywood and shoot films. In short time he turns from producer to director of a WWI fighter movie, “Hell’s Angles”, which took him 3 years to make for 2 reasons: 1 the change from silent to sound movies, and 2 Hughes’ perfectionism. As the movie progresses, we come to find he has OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, that’s when some one has to be exact on everything. For example: if his cloths touched the floor, or weren’t folded right, he would have to burn them.). However his film was the biggest hit of his time, even though Hollywood never really accepted him. After making Jean Harlow (played by Gwen Stefani) a star, and having a romantic relationship with Katharine Hepburn (played by Cate Blanchett), the eccentric inventor’s passion for aircrafts, he began to design new planes, break air speed records, founded “trans-world Airlines, flew around the world, and risked his life testing the aircrafts he designed. At one point in the movie, he is test flying a new plane that he had just designed. But he crashed into a house breaking his arm, torching the new plane, and severely damaged the house. He makes many enemies in his later life, yet he still manages to thrive.
Kudos to the producer! This was a very thrilling movie that surprises me time and time again.
Howard Hughes (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) a 30something millionaire, already made a fortune improving oil drills, decides to go to Hollywood and shoot films. In short time he turns from producer to director of a WWI fighter movie, “Hell’s Angles”, which took him 3 years to make for 2 reasons: 1 the change from silent to sound movies, and 2 Hughes’ perfectionism. As the movie progresses, we come to find he has OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, that’s when some one has to be exact on everything. For example: if his cloths touched the floor, or weren’t folded right, he would have to burn them.). However his film was the biggest hit of his time, even though Hollywood never really accepted him. After making Jean Harlow (played by Gwen Stefani) a star, and having a romantic relationship with Katharine Hepburn (played by Cate Blanchett), the eccentric inventor’s passion for aircrafts, he began to design new planes, break air speed records, founded “trans-world Airlines, flew around the world, and risked his life testing the aircrafts he designed. At one point in the movie, he is test flying a new plane that he had just designed. But he crashed into a house breaking his arm, torching the new plane, and severely damaged the house. He makes many enemies in his later life, yet he still manages to thrive.
Kudos to the producer! This was a very thrilling movie that surprises me time and time again.
Movie Review: Below
by Nichelle
If you have a problem with water, the movie “Below” is not what you want to watch.
There’s a war going on and the navy found 3 survivors. After rescuing them, then they had to go underwater so they couldn’t be seen. Not knowing that somebody on the ship is a killer, people start to die and nobody knows why. Who is killing all these people? You’ll find out when you watch “Below”.
If you have a problem with water, the movie “Below” is not what you want to watch.
There’s a war going on and the navy found 3 survivors. After rescuing them, then they had to go underwater so they couldn’t be seen. Not knowing that somebody on the ship is a killer, people start to die and nobody knows why. Who is killing all these people? You’ll find out when you watch “Below”.
Movie Review: Step Up
by Yatzi
Okay, to begin, this movie is rated PG-13. It is an exciting movie in which a street dancer is forced to do community service in an arts school. There he meets a young girl who asks him to help her, for a showcase. Through out this adventure in ballet and street dancing he learns the meaning in life and that it is not all just parties and games. In this it shows that little kids will follow what you do, so set a good example. I would give it a 10 in my rating. I totally recommend this thrilling, awesome, dancing, killing (literally) movie.
Okay, to begin, this movie is rated PG-13. It is an exciting movie in which a street dancer is forced to do community service in an arts school. There he meets a young girl who asks him to help her, for a showcase. Through out this adventure in ballet and street dancing he learns the meaning in life and that it is not all just parties and games. In this it shows that little kids will follow what you do, so set a good example. I would give it a 10 in my rating. I totally recommend this thrilling, awesome, dancing, killing (literally) movie.
Lady in the Water
by Abby H.
This M. Night. Shyamalan thriller is somewhat different from what I expected when walking into the movie theater, but I’ve got to say that it was definitely worth my money. This movie keeps you on the edge of your seat, just waiting to see what will take place next. The movie is quick to get right into the action, with the mysterious appearance of a woman who seems like she does not know where she came from. She shows up at an apartment complex, leaving the landlord to figure out how to solve the mystery. Piece by piece he finds out about the lady by learning from those living in his apartment complex. This movie is highly worth the investment if you enjoy watching movies that really make you think. You will definitely find that you go away really considering things, since this is a movie where not all the questions are answered.
This M. Night. Shyamalan thriller is somewhat different from what I expected when walking into the movie theater, but I’ve got to say that it was definitely worth my money. This movie keeps you on the edge of your seat, just waiting to see what will take place next. The movie is quick to get right into the action, with the mysterious appearance of a woman who seems like she does not know where she came from. She shows up at an apartment complex, leaving the landlord to figure out how to solve the mystery. Piece by piece he finds out about the lady by learning from those living in his apartment complex. This movie is highly worth the investment if you enjoy watching movies that really make you think. You will definitely find that you go away really considering things, since this is a movie where not all the questions are answered.
Movie Review: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
by Abby H.
In most normal circumstances, I am a firm believer that the book is always better than the movie. Being the very stubborn individual that I am, I usually just refuse to watch a movie if I have already read the book and enjoyed it. I guess my logic behind this is that I will probably not like the movie and it will ruin the vision I had in my mind that the author had painted for me in the book. However, the other day I was intrigued to sit and actually watch The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie.
I must say, this book is one of my all time favorites, and when I first saw the previews for the movie, I already had this vision in my mind of the book being pulverized by Hollywood and decided I had no interest in seeing it. However, the other day, I decided to be open-minded, and turned on the movie. I found that the producers did a fabulous job of following the book, almost to all points, and instead of ruining the vision I had in mind while reading the book, they more or less brought that vision to life in this movie.
Though a few minor things are changed in the movie, the plot is the same and the main actresses do a great job of bringing Lena, Carmen, Tibby, and Bridgette to life. If you read the book and enjoyed it, I would definitely recommend seeing the move and even if you did not read the book, I would still recommend checking out the movie because it is just a good story in general that all can enjoy.
In most normal circumstances, I am a firm believer that the book is always better than the movie. Being the very stubborn individual that I am, I usually just refuse to watch a movie if I have already read the book and enjoyed it. I guess my logic behind this is that I will probably not like the movie and it will ruin the vision I had in my mind that the author had painted for me in the book. However, the other day I was intrigued to sit and actually watch The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie.
I must say, this book is one of my all time favorites, and when I first saw the previews for the movie, I already had this vision in my mind of the book being pulverized by Hollywood and decided I had no interest in seeing it. However, the other day, I decided to be open-minded, and turned on the movie. I found that the producers did a fabulous job of following the book, almost to all points, and instead of ruining the vision I had in mind while reading the book, they more or less brought that vision to life in this movie.
Though a few minor things are changed in the movie, the plot is the same and the main actresses do a great job of bringing Lena, Carmen, Tibby, and Bridgette to life. If you read the book and enjoyed it, I would definitely recommend seeing the move and even if you did not read the book, I would still recommend checking out the movie because it is just a good story in general that all can enjoy.
Movie Review: DaVinci Code
by Kate
I think that this is one of those movies where you keep shoving popcorn in your mouth because it’s so thrilling. At least that’s what I did. In the beginning, Jacques Saunière, the curator of the Louvre is forced to his death by the utterly creep albino, Silas. Silas works for Opus Dei, a prelature of the Catholic Church. The Chief of police, Bezu Fache contacts, Dr. Robert Langdon, a professor visiting Paris for a conference. Langdon, then goes to the Louvre, where he meets Agent Sophie Neveu, who is Saunière’s granddaughter. She thinks that he left a code for them to figure out. This code leads them on a wild chase through out Europe. Little do they know, their chase is just the start of a huge mystery that has been going on for ages. Jacques Saunière was a member of the Priory of Sion, an ancient society.
I don’t wish to give away the whole story, but I just want to say that I think the end was a bit off. The whole movie builds up to this amazing height and then it just stops. It’s sort of like they give up. Sofie and Robert find some papers dating back to the time when Jesus Christ was crucified.
Langdon then figures out where their ‘treasure’ is. He never actually finds it and digs it up, but you just know, that he’s found where it is.
It’s definitely a movie to see.
I think that this is one of those movies where you keep shoving popcorn in your mouth because it’s so thrilling. At least that’s what I did. In the beginning, Jacques Saunière, the curator of the Louvre is forced to his death by the utterly creep albino, Silas. Silas works for Opus Dei, a prelature of the Catholic Church. The Chief of police, Bezu Fache contacts, Dr. Robert Langdon, a professor visiting Paris for a conference. Langdon, then goes to the Louvre, where he meets Agent Sophie Neveu, who is Saunière’s granddaughter. She thinks that he left a code for them to figure out. This code leads them on a wild chase through out Europe. Little do they know, their chase is just the start of a huge mystery that has been going on for ages. Jacques Saunière was a member of the Priory of Sion, an ancient society.
I don’t wish to give away the whole story, but I just want to say that I think the end was a bit off. The whole movie builds up to this amazing height and then it just stops. It’s sort of like they give up. Sofie and Robert find some papers dating back to the time when Jesus Christ was crucified.
Langdon then figures out where their ‘treasure’ is. He never actually finds it and digs it up, but you just know, that he’s found where it is.
It’s definitely a movie to see.
Movie Review: V for Vendetta
by Mandi
When the producers of the Matrix and the 1989 graphic novel “V for Vendetta” collided, they created a movie that would challenge what we think a terrorist really is. V, a masked figure, is out for revenge on a corrupt near-future British government.
Natalie Portman (Star Wars) plays Evey, rescued by V and a daughter of political activists, who gets caught in V’s plan when he rescues her. V is out to destroy the Parliament Building on the 5th of November. The government is forsaking person privacy for national security. With most of the United States dead or involved in civil war, Britain leads the world.
But is V a hero or a terrorist? That’s for you to decided in this twisting movie. Be prepared to think in this movie. Some may view this movie as propaganda or even an excuse for Al Qaeda but how can this be if the book is over 15 years old? Still, the issues of this movie are obviously very real.
In all, the movie was great. It had amazing visual effects and was a change from every movie out there.
When the producers of the Matrix and the 1989 graphic novel “V for Vendetta” collided, they created a movie that would challenge what we think a terrorist really is. V, a masked figure, is out for revenge on a corrupt near-future British government.
Natalie Portman (Star Wars) plays Evey, rescued by V and a daughter of political activists, who gets caught in V’s plan when he rescues her. V is out to destroy the Parliament Building on the 5th of November. The government is forsaking person privacy for national security. With most of the United States dead or involved in civil war, Britain leads the world.
But is V a hero or a terrorist? That’s for you to decided in this twisting movie. Be prepared to think in this movie. Some may view this movie as propaganda or even an excuse for Al Qaeda but how can this be if the book is over 15 years old? Still, the issues of this movie are obviously very real.
In all, the movie was great. It had amazing visual effects and was a change from every movie out there.
Movie Review: Ultraviolet
by Brandon
Action: 9/10
Acting: 7/10
Special Effects: 8/10
Overall Rating: 7/10
The movie starts out with Violet saying "I was born into a world you may not understand." And it goes into a movie that was quite confusing at times.
Violet (Milla Jovovich) was a hemophage which is an enhanced human that has incredible speed and other skills. The government wants to rid the earth of these hemophages. There was a deadly weapon the government was going to use to eliminate all hemophages.
So Violet sets out to retrieve and destroy this “weapon” It turns out to be a young boy called Six (Cameron Bright) who was raised in a laboratory. She was shocked when she realized that she was going to kill a child, because she herself could not have children. So she spent her time protecting the child and trying to make him feel good since he was going to die, or at least that’s what it seemed. I don’t want to tell to much in case you want to go and see the movie.
Ultraviolet was a nice movie; it had great special effects and good actors or actresses. But the story line was hard to follow. It was jumpy and you were easily confused. They impressed the fact that Violet was born into a world you may not understand too much in my opinion. If you like action movies then you should go and see it, or not. You should definitely rent it when it comes out. Not buy though it’s just not buy worthy, well yea it is but still.
Action: 9/10
Acting: 7/10
Special Effects: 8/10
Overall Rating: 7/10
The movie starts out with Violet saying "I was born into a world you may not understand." And it goes into a movie that was quite confusing at times.
Violet (Milla Jovovich) was a hemophage which is an enhanced human that has incredible speed and other skills. The government wants to rid the earth of these hemophages. There was a deadly weapon the government was going to use to eliminate all hemophages.
So Violet sets out to retrieve and destroy this “weapon” It turns out to be a young boy called Six (Cameron Bright) who was raised in a laboratory. She was shocked when she realized that she was going to kill a child, because she herself could not have children. So she spent her time protecting the child and trying to make him feel good since he was going to die, or at least that’s what it seemed. I don’t want to tell to much in case you want to go and see the movie.
Ultraviolet was a nice movie; it had great special effects and good actors or actresses. But the story line was hard to follow. It was jumpy and you were easily confused. They impressed the fact that Violet was born into a world you may not understand too much in my opinion. If you like action movies then you should go and see it, or not. You should definitely rent it when it comes out. Not buy though it’s just not buy worthy, well yea it is but still.
Movie Review: The Exorcism of Emily Rose
by Abby H.
The Exorcism of Emily Rose is a chilling tale about a young college student that was possessed with demons. The movie begins with the medical examiner coming to the Rose home and pronouncing nineteen-year-old Emily dead. The movie then proceeds with the court case against the priest who was Emily's exorcist. His lawyer, Erin Bruner, will try everything she has to see that the priest is not charged with Emily's murder. She makes the attempt to prove in a court of law that Emily Rose was possessed by demons and that her only hope was Father Moore. As the prosecuting attorney tries to blame Father Moore with refusing to let Emily receive medical attention, Ms. Bruner shows that there was no medicine that could help Emily and the thing she truly needed was the power of God.
The Exorcism of Emily Rose is a chilling tale about a young college student that was possessed with demons. The movie begins with the medical examiner coming to the Rose home and pronouncing nineteen-year-old Emily dead. The movie then proceeds with the court case against the priest who was Emily's exorcist. His lawyer, Erin Bruner, will try everything she has to see that the priest is not charged with Emily's murder. She makes the attempt to prove in a court of law that Emily Rose was possessed by demons and that her only hope was Father Moore. As the prosecuting attorney tries to blame Father Moore with refusing to let Emily receive medical attention, Ms. Bruner shows that there was no medicine that could help Emily and the thing she truly needed was the power of God.
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