Steal A Pencil For Me

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: November 9, 2007

DVD Release Date: May 13, 2008

Plot 411: The true story of how love can sustain you despite unimaginable hardships that you may face.

Review: This documentary was definitely compelling and emotional. It's the story of two lovers, Jack and Ina, who meet in Nazi-occupied Holland during WWII. Jack, who was already unhappily married to Manja, fell instantly in love with the beautiful Ina. However, in addition to already being married, Jack was poor and Ina was from a rich, diamond-manufacturing family. When all three of them are herded to concentration camps, they are confronted with the reality of death and illness. Despite this and Manja's protests, Jack and Ina's love does not die. Instead, it grows through letter writing. They wrote to each other in secret, expressing their love and fears. In these quiet moments that are stolen minutes of fantasy from the harsh reality that was their lives, they are able to find comfort and even hope for a better future.

Watch It: For a reality check that'll swiftly kick you in your butt and make you thankful for all that you have in your life.

Skip It: Because there's some real footage used that may be disturbing for young viewers.

Girl 27

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: July 27, 2007

DVD Release Date: October 16, 2007

Plot 411: The true story of a Hollywood scandal during the "golden age" of cinema.

Review: In 1937, Patricia Douglas was a young woman trying to make it in Hollywood. She and other girls reported for a casting call at an MGM exec's ranch thinking they'd be extras in a movie. Unfortunately for Douglas, this was not to be. Instead of a movie set, the ranch was prepared for an MGM sales convention. The girls were a reward from the big wigs at MGM to their salemen from across the country. At the party, Douglas was forced to drink alcohol, then attacked by one of the salesmen. Courageously, especially for this time period when women apparently "asked for it," she filed a report on the rape. But the heavy hand of MGM was able to cover up the scandal through bribes and slander discrediting Douglas. There is so much that is disgusting about the injustice of what happened that the film is sometimes hard to watch. The corruption of the studios, law enforcement, journalists and even the justice system is incredible. As far as the unveiling the story, I think the filmmaker's purpose was a noble one. But, there are times when I also question whether or not he was in it for the glory and not to set a wrong right.

Watch It: And be horrified at the ease in which powerful men ruined a girl's life.

Skip It: Because while the film makes you anticipate hearing from the real Peggy, the actual footage is quite disappointing.

How To Train Your Dragon

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: Marhc 26, 2010

DVD Release Date: TBD

Plot 411: A young Viking doesn't fit in with the rest of his people and befriends their long-time enemy.

Review: Jay Baruchel voices Hiccup, the son of a Viking leader named Stoick (Gerard Butler). Everything about Hiccup screams the antithesis of a Viking. He is scrawny and weaker than his peers, which adds to the ridicule he receives from just about everyone in town. He just isn't able to fit into his society depsite all his best efforts. However, this attribute turns out to be his saving grace. I won't say any more because it would ruin the already quite predictable plot for you. Needless to say, this film isn't touting any new moral lessons for us, or our kids, to learn. Still, the action was really enjoyable and there were some definite funny moments. Craig Ferguson is good as Gobber, an old warrior who must teach the next generation to fight dragons. The best part for me was the animation. How do they manage to make clouds, water and fire look so real? It even looks like you can reach out and touch Hiccup's hair as the ocean breeze blows it around. These tiny details make you realize that DreamWorks is definitely the studio leading the pack. Also providing voice support in this film are America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse and Kristen Wiig.

Watch It: Because it's definitely better than the trailers make it out to be.

Skip It: If you usually turn on the subtitles so you can understand all UKish dialects. You might want to wait for the DVD for this one.

Up In The Air

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: December 4, 2009

DVD Release Date: March 9, 2010

Plot 411: Ryan's job is to fire people and it takes him across the country all year long. When new technology is introduced, he finds himself grounded with the definite possibility of becoming obsolete.

Review: As a one man firing squad, Ryan (George Clooney) is hired by companies to let their employees go. Because of this, he travels the U.S. extensively and is rarely home. He is working his way toward becoming a very distinguished frequent flyer. Ryan likes his life in the air and lives without many connections to people. He is even distant from his family, preferring instead to interact with people he meets briefly while waiting for his plane. Unfortunately for Ryan, a young gun named Natalie (Anna Kendrick) has proposed a new firing system to their boss (played by Jason Bateman). With this system, people like Ryan will be grounded because firing will be done via webcam. This will eliminate the need to fly and decrease overall expenses for the company. Because management is eager to roll this new system out, Ryan is tasked with showing Natalie the ropes of their biz and testing out the new system. On first glance, the concept of this movie is pretty lackluster. Who cares about the implementation of new technology and some guy's attempt to earn frequent flyer points? But, this movie will definitely surprise you. Underneath all the petty superficial stuff is a movie with a real message that'll make you think about your life and make you reevaluate your life choices. As Ryan says, "What's in your backpack?" Depending on where you are in life, I think you'll find Ryan's philosophy either intriguing or completely moronic.

Watch It: For its Chinese fortune cookie wisdom about life and the great twist at the end.

Skip It: Because it was Oscar-fare and those flicks are usually pretty boring if you're not into that kinda thing.

Cop Out

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: February 26, 2010

DVD Release Date: TBD

Plot 411: Two suspended cops stumble upon a kidnapping when they try to sell a baseball card.

Review: Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan play veteran cops Jimmy and Paul, who have an interesting nine-year partnership on the force. After a drug bust goes bad, they are suspended for 30 days without pay. This throws a kink into Jimmy's plans because he needs the money to finance his daughter's (Michelle Trachtenberg) wedding. Jimmy decides to sell his prized baseball card but is robbed in the process by Dave (Seann William Scott). Tracking Dave down leads Jimmy and Paul to a Mexican drug lord, who is attempting to expand his territory, and a kidnapped woman (Ana de la Reguera). Also featured in this buddy cop comedy are Rashida Jones as Paul's wife, Adam Brody and Kevin Pollak as cops in the gang unit and Jason Lee as Jimmy's ex-wife's second husband. Willis plays the straight man to Morgan's funny man routine in this raunchy bromance. The movie probably deserves a second viewing because Morgan has some hilarious lines that get lost because you're still laughing at his last joke. He also spends a lot of time yelling, which garbles up what he's saying. Throw in Scott and the laughs keep rolling in. I'm sure there are going to be tons of outakes in the Special Features reel on the dvd. The movie took me by surprise. I thought there'd be a lot more action in it, but it was a pleasant surprise that this movie was a laughfest. It ended up being better than I thought it'd be. The plot and everything else is pretty irrelevant though. I just wanted to see more of Willis and Morgan together.

Watch It: For a surprisingly funny flick about two friends just trying to get through the day. It's their ninth anniversary after all.

Skip It: If you're offended by a bunch of swearing or are looking for more of an action thriller cop show.

Astro Boy

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: October 23, 2009

DVD Release Date: March 16, 2010

Plot 411: When his son dies, a scientist goes to extreme measures to bring him back.

Review: I don't even know how to express how much I disliked this movie. It was such a yawnfest. I've never read the manga so I can't compare the film to it, but this movie was kind of a time waster. Set in a time when technology is advanced enough to create robots who do everything for humans and when humans are disinterested in preserving the planet (kind of similar to Wall-E), a scientist (Nicholas Cage) is strong armed to create a peace-keeping robot. However, during a demonstration of this robot, his son Toby (Freddie Highmore) is killed. In this grief, the scientist creates a robot with his son's memories and physical features, but he soon realizes that this robot cannot replace his son. Banished from his home, the robot boy (later named Astro) finds his way to Surface, which is actually the surface of the earth. Because of the earth's impending destruction, the citizens created Metro City, which floats in the sky above all the waste. I dunno . . . the plot has shades of Wall-E and doesn't even come close to replicating its environmental themes. It doesn't seem to condemn science and technology enough. It doesn't seem to applaud humanity enough. The action sequences weren't all that impressive. It wasn't outstandingly funny. This move just wasn't anything.

Watch It: If maybe you enjoy the manga and want to see it come to life?

Skip It: For a better-quality animated film.

Only The Brave

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: February 17, 2006

DVD Release Date: November 10, 2009

Plot 411: During WWII, many Japanese Americans volunteered to fight for their country despite facing outright racism in many parts of the country. This is their story.

Review: This was a great portrayal of the lives of the men in the 100th/442nd regimental combat team in both civilian and military life. Starring Lane Nishikawa, Jason Scott Lee, Mark Dacascos, Yuji Okumoto, Tamlyn Tomita and Pat Morita, this film was set in France as they soldiers tried to save a stranded Texas unit that was surrounded by Germans. Through flashbacks, the audience gets a glimpse of what life was like for many of the soldiers. The use of Pidgin is highly entertaining and carried out pretty authentically for the most part. However, on occasion, it sounds forced. I think this has more to do with the actors' abilities than their grasp of the slangs. Movies like this are a necessity in a world that sometimes fails to recognize or remember its past. Lessons can be learned through past actions if only we pause to acknowledge them. It's quite sad that this film didn't get a wider release. It seems to have made the film festival rounds but was not picked up for a wide release.

Watch It: If you have relatives who perhaps were part of this elite group of men for a better understanding of what they may have gone through and why they may not talk about it.

Skip It: If you're already a history buff and perhaps have already done your research on this group of men. I'm not sure how accurate any of this is and it might set off warning lights in your mind if you're proficient in all the goings on.

The Men Who Stare At Goats

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: November 6, 2009

DVD Release Date: March 23, 2010

Plot 411: A reporter meets a psychic superman and follows him from Kuwait to Iraq during the War on Terror.

Review: George Clooney is pretty much my hero. He has managed to have a successful career doing major blockbuster films as well as small, independent movies that inspire him. He doesn't seem to drown in the money or fame like other celebrities. Instead, he puts in his time doing mainstream projects, then distributes some more meaningful affairs. In this latest film, Clooney plays Lyn Cassady, a former Army soldier who was selected to serve with an elite group of men. These men, led by Bill Django (Jeff Bridges), were tasked with using alternative methods to win wars. This includes psychic powers, shape shifting and mind control - basically all paranormal activities available. Pretty out there stuff, right? While in Kuwait, Lyn meets a budding journalist named Bob (Ewan McGregor) and teaches him some of the techniques. The audience just tags along with Bob and mimics his awe and disbelief. Can this really be true? The movie definitely isn't for everyone, with it's far out premise and wry humor. I enjoyed it though. Interestingly enough, it's based on a book and research, so it appears the military really did look into this type of technology (can you even call it that?). Also in this film are Kevin Space and Stephen Root.

Watch It: If you like Burn After Reading. It sorta has that same vibe, but the humor is definitely more dry and delivered in a dead-pan manner.

Skip It: If, after watching the trailer, you're already bored. This movie is pretty dialogue heavy without much action.

Whiteout

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 11, 2009

DVD Release Date: January 19, 2010

Plot 411: The first-ever murder on Antarctica forces a U.S. marshall to confront her past in order to resolve her current problems.

Review: In this thriller, U.S. Marshall Carrie Stetko (Kate Beckinsale) must investigate a murder, just days before she is supposed to rotate out of Antarctica, when a scientist is found dead miles away from any kind of research base. One death leads to another and now things are getting serious in the coldest place on Earth. A U.N. rep, played by Gabriel Macht, shows up at a crime scene to investigate, but he has his own secrets that he doesn't share with Stetko. Also in this film are Tom Skerritt (looking extremely old these days), Alex O'Loughlin (complete with his yummy Aussie accent) and Columbus Short. This was a middle-of-the-road thriller because while it had some suspenseful scenes, it was also predictable as hell. There was a fair amount of action, especially considering the setting of minus 55 degrees celsius, being totally isolated and being confined to only a few different sets. One negative was the CGI snow and blizzard. Sometimes it looked fine and other times a child could see it was fake. I don't really know how it works so maybe some parts are harder to animate than others?

Watch It: And marvel at how Beckinsale manages to still look beautiful in the harshest weather conditions ever.

Skip It: Because somehow Beckinsale doesn't manage to pull off the cop role despite trying to be all hardcore. There's something about her that is too fragile for me to believe that she's lived in the ice and snow of Antarctica for a couple years.

Terminator Salvation

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: May 21, 2009

DVD Release Date: September 9, 2009

Plot 411: John Connor msut find his teenaged father in order to fulfill the prophecy that he will be the world's savior.

Review: Christian Bale stars as 30-something John Connor, a soldier in the Resistance fighting against the machines of Skynet. According to his mother's tape-recorded messages, he must make sure his father Kyle Reese (Anton Yelchin) is safe and can carry out his destiny. At this point in time, Reese is a mere teenager and John is older than he is. However, he is to grow up and travel to the past where he will meet John's mother, Sarah Conner. Yes, it's kind of confusing. You just might want to watch the original Terminator films to get a grasp on things. I didn't bother doing that so I can't really expound on the whole time travel plotline. However, in this film we're introduced to Marcus Wright (Sam Worthington), a prisoner on death row who donated his body to science. He reawakens many years later during John Connors era only to discover that things are suspiciously wrong. For some reason, he didn't look like the same Sam Worthington from Avatar. Physically, he seemed bigger than he was in Avatar. Also, his face looked different to me. Maybe I wasn't really paying attention to him during Avatar? I also noticed that he'd slip in and out of an accent, which was a bit annoying (He's originally from the UK and schooled in Oz, so I guess it might be hard to shake an accent.). There's a storyline with him and Moon Bloodgood that could've been scrapped entirely. While the effects were pretty great during the set pieces and battles, the plot kind of dragged for me. I found myself wondering when this thing was really going to begin. Helena Bonham Carter and Common are also featured in this film.

Watch It: For a CGI-packed action flick and a cameo of young Arnold.

Skip It: If Bale's guttural Batman voice annoys the hell out of you. He too slips in and out of this throughout the film.

Everybody Wants To Be Italian

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 5, 2008

DVD Release Date: February 3, 2009

Plot 411: A romantic fishmonger who was dumped by his girlfriend eight years ago still believes she is his soulmate until he becomes friends with a veterinarian and the definition of fate becomes hazy.

Review: Jake (Jay Jablonski), the owner of a fish market, has been chasing his married ex-girlfriend for eight years trying to convince her to get back with him. His friends think he's crazy and introduce him to a nice girl named Marisa (Cerina Vincent) at an Italian singles event. The unique thing is that neither Jake or Marissa are Italian, but they are surrounded by well-meaing Italian friends and neighbors that add a ton of humor to this film. After an awkward first date where Jake tells Marisa about his "girlfriend," things become rocky. However, Jake challenges her to be friends and she accepts. As they get to know each other, misunderstandings between them occur, but in a cheeky rom com way, everything wraps up in the end. The best part of this film is the banter between Jake and his two friends at the market Steve (John Capelos) and Gianluca (John Enos III). These two guys are totally unabashed by what they say or how they act. They're two of the most real characters in the film - just guys being guys. While definitely not the worst rom com I've seen, it's nothing to write home about. There really isn't any chemistry between Jablonski and Vincent despite all of their physical beauty. In reality, the Jake character is quite obnoxious and annoying. Penny Marshall and Dan Cortese have small cameos in this film.

Watch It: If you're a fan of Boston because the film seems to take the audience to many different neighborhoods.

Skip It: If you're looking for an emotional rom com with some feeling behind it.

Atlantic City

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 3, 1908 (France) / April 3, 1981 (USA)

DVD Release Date: May 14, 2002

Plot 411: A girl with big dreams is caught up in a mess when her estranged husband shows up with drugs in tow.

Review: Susan Sarandon is Sally, a girl just trying to make it as a casino dealer in Atlantic City. However, when her husband Dave (Robert Joy) and her sister Chrissie (Hollis McLaren) turn up at her workplace, Sally is forced to give them a place to stay despite her personal feelings. Dave, a petty thief, has plans to sell drugs in Atlantic City but soon discovers that the thugs the drugs belong to are after him. Former runner for the mob Lou (Burt Lancaster) has secretly been infatuated with Sally, his next-door neighbor, for quite some time and is finally given the opportunity to interact with her when Dave asks for his help as a runner. He thinks she can make him feel young again because he longs for the old days when the mob ran the town. The lives of the characters all intersect as drug deals unravel. This movie had a lot to say about the changing of times, how people deal with aging, one's identity and self-esteem and the innocence of youth. It contrasted the lifestyles of hippies and of soon-to-be yuppies as progress and development changed the landscape of people's lives during this time period. Lou reminisces about how powerful he was when he had a purpose in life running numbers for the mob, but in reality, he was just a low-ranking errand boy. To be honest, I thought this film was quite slow going despite the great acting of Lancaster and Sarandon. Even with the addition of "bad guys," this film is more focused on the lives of the characters than on the action one assumes would be involved when drugs in the picture.

Watch It: For a character piece that has larger societal implications.

Skip It: Because everything just looked drab and disheartening. Although, I'm pretty sure this is what the filmmakers were going for, it was also gritty because of the age of the film and probably the film-to-dvd transfer wasn't all that good.

Criminal

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 10, 2004

DVD Release Date: April 12, 2005

Plot 411: A career criminal hooks up with a kid who is in a jam and they stumble upon a big league heist.

Review: John C. Reilly plays Richard, a career criminal with twos strikes against him. He lives his life as one long con job and takes whatever he can from everyone around him. When his long-time partner disappears on him, Richard recruits a young Mexican guy named Rodrigo (Diego Luna). He quicky changes his name to Brian to make him sound "white" and decides to test out Brian's skills. As Richard and Brian move from one mark to the next, they come across a heist that is too good to be true. This gig is the largest job that Richard has ever been confronted with and he just about foams at the mouth in anticipation of the rewards. This was an interesting take on heist films. It gives us a look at the tricks people play to survive as a thief. While other films make criminals look glorious and slick, this film's characterization of a con man is unimpressive. Reilly is totally unlikable in this role and is unapologetic for his actions. I guess this is a true nature of a shyster. Luna does pretty well, even while speaking English.

Watch It: For a slightly different type of con movie. This film shows that life as a criminal is not all flash like in Ocean's Eleven.

Skip It: Because despite being a heist film, it's kind of slow going for the most part.

Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken

Rating: G

Movie Release Date: May 24, 1991

DVD Release Date: June 17, 2006

Plot 411: A young girl dreams of excitement and longs to be part of a traveling horse diving show.

Review: This movie is a tragedy . . . not because of anything in the plot, but because this is Michael Schoeffling's (aka Jake Ryan in Sixteen Candles) last acting role to date. Sigh. The film is based on the true story of Sonora Webster (Gabrielle Anwar), a teen who headlined a traveling show of diving horses during the Depression. After many difficult weeks of proving herself to Dr. Carver (Cliff Robertson) and training with his son Al (Schoeffling), she trains for the show. The film highlights her determination, guts and passion. It adds a dose of romance when Al and Sonora fall for one another. It adds a touch of drama when Sonora loses her sight in an accident. But, overall, it's a nice, feel-good movie that's great for Disney. I remember watching this as a kid and enjoying it. As an adult, it just feels like an afterschool special-type movie. The CGI effects of the diving horse and rider are pretty lame, but it was the '90s. No Avatar technology was available. Anwar is beautiful amidst the grass, dirt and sunshine that surrounds her character's poverty.

Watch It: For a sweet love story and an inspiring female empowerment flick.

Skip It: And pop in Sixteen Candles instead.

Dreams / Yume

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: May 11, 1990 (France) / August 24, 1990 (USA)

DVD Release Date: March 18, 2003

Plot 411: A series of short films that are basically pro-environment PSAs delivered in the most spectacular colors.

Review: There are so many socio-political and environmental themes flowing through these short films that I don't even know where to start. Each dream is like Akira Kurosawa's interpretation of where we, as humans, used to be, where we are now and where we're headed. They're apparently based on real dreams he's had throughout his life. Interesting. It's difficult to describe this movie more specifically without going into each individual dream, because each dream can be treated as an entirely different movie. I think it may actually take away from the viewing experience to go into all the details so I will refrain from doing so now. However, just know that you are in for a feast for the eyes. There is minimal dialogue throughout the film, but the visuals are just gorgeous. There are several large set pieces with many actors, which really stick with you. In general, the dreams range from magical (with wonderful use of the smoke machine), visually stunning (clothing and color palette of the different worlds), emotional (ala my favorite short called "The Tunnel") to foreboding (hint: red Mt. Fuji). This movie makes great use of music, sound effects and lighting and they all seem to be a character rather than just an accent. The dreams may seem confusing at first, but they're really heavy handed once they get going.

Watch It: Because it's my opinion that, visually, it doesn't get any better than this. Even despite the outdated CGI portions, this film is just amazing to look at.

Skip It: Because you'll be confused as hell during it, but if you stick it out till the end, it'll be easier to connect the dots.

Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: N/A

DVD Release Date: December 19, 2008

Plot 411: Wannabe villian Dr. Horrible must prove he's a bad guy in order to join the ranks of the Evil League of Evil.

Review: Parody, sarcasm and singing . . . I think I've died and gone to heaven. Apparently this was a creative enterprise by Joss Whedon that was developed and produced for the web during the 2008 writer's strike. It stars Neil Patrick Harris as Dr. Horrible, Nathan Fillion as Dr. Horrible's nemisis Captain Hammer and Felicia Day as Penny, Dr. Horrible's crush. In order for Dr. Horrible to get into the union of evil doers, he's got to do something, well, evil. When his attempts at evil are interrupted by Captain Hammer, he must resort to bigger and badder things. Throughout it all, he documents his life in a video blog. This film is smart and funny and probably worth more than one viewing. The singing is actually really good and Harris is so awesome in this role. It makes me wonder if I need to start watching How I Met Your Mother just for him. Anyone into that show and would recommend it? Fillion is hiliarious as an arrogant, macho man of a hero who is completely shallow. There is no depth to him at all. I love how this film flips the traditional superhero movie by sharint the first-person viewpoint of the villian.

Watch It: And give it a chance to get going. The beginning is a little slow but just sit back and wait for it. When it hits, it hits hard.

Skip It: If you don't like Monty Python because this has a very similar vibe . . . well, at least to me it does. Then again, it can't be so like Monty Python because I really liked this one and thought most of the MP flicks I've watched are just okay (Yes, I know . . . it's the horror of horrors to speak ill of MP).

American Pastime

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: May 13, 2007

DVD Release Date: May 22, 2007

Plot 411: The Nomura family is relocated from Los Angeles to Topaz Relocation Camp in Utah during World War II and finds comfort in baseball.

Review: This film is about the lives of Japanese Americans during WWII who were interned in camps because of the color of their skin. It follows the Nomura family from L.A. to Utah as they settle into barracks behind barbed wire fences. They face discrimination by society and by the military guards that oversee them. However, with their dignity in tact, they manage to form a life within the fences that is as close to normal as possible. Depsite the injustice they continue to hold their heads high and never complained about their situations. Aaron Yoo plays Lyle, the youngest son of Kaz (Masatoshi Nakamura) and Emi (Judy Ongg), who gave up a college athletic scholarship when the war broke out. He is angry and bitter and pulls away from his family, including his older brother Lane (Leonardo Nam). He finds comfort in the jazz music he plays and befriends Katie (Sarah Drew), the daughter of one of the guards (Gary Cole) and music teacher to the children.

Watch It: For a rare film that openly addresses the atrocities that happened on U.S. soil during WWII and manages to do it with dignity.

Skip It: If you're purely looking at it from a movie perspective. While the subject matter is compelling, the storytelling is weak. It wasn't as poignant and emotional as I think it could've been. With a topic like this, why not "go for broke?"

Hula Girls / Hura Garu

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: September 23, 2006 (Japan) / July 13, 2007

DVD Release Date: November 6, 2007

Plot 411: When the local coal mine plans to lay off 2,000 workers in a small town in northern Japan, some residents decide to establish a new enterprise against tremendous odds.

Review: A sleepy coal mining town is rocked when the mine announces that it needs to lay off its workers in order to survive. Many of the workers have been mining for over 30 years and know nothing else. A new enterprise, the Joban Hawaiian Center, is suggested but meets mounting disapproval from the residents. Despite opposition, several girls volunteer (even against their families' wishes), and an esteemed dancer (Yasuko Matsuyuki) from Tokyo is brought to teach them to dance hula and other Polynesian dances. The teacher is consumed with her own personal problems, including arrogance and self-pity. She clashes with the townsfolk and her students with her city views. This movie was based on true events that occured in Iwaki in 1965. It looked at Japanese values and how they clashed with modernization. It addressed friendship, honor, filial piety, sacrifice and many other traditional values in an interesting way. There were many touching scenes and the film can completely sweep you up in the drama. You will whole-heartedly cheer for the girls as they struggle against society to find themselves. It is so easy to empathize with both sides of the issue and as a viewer you are torn. This is the bittersweet wonder that this film creates for you.

Watch It: For a movie not so much about hula dancing but about what can be accomplished when you are truly dedicated and driven.

Skip It: And really miss out on a truly great movie.

Her Minor Thing

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: January 1, 2005

DVD Release Date: January 16, 2007

Plot 411: A news reporter lets slip a very personal detail about his girlfriend that wreaks havoc on her life.

Review: Jeana (Estella Warren) is dating her dream man, a news reporter named Tom (Michael Weatherly), and has just received the key to his newly purchased home. She believes their relationship is getting serious and has decided that Tom will be her first lover. However, as she anticipates their overseas holiday, Tom lets it slip on air that he's dating a virgin. All of Sacramento is clued in to Jeana's secret and her life turns into one chaotic nightmare. Encouraged by her roommate Caroline, played by Rachel Dratch, Jeana decides to get those cruise tickets back from Tom so she can go on her dream vacation. She swears off men, even when she meets and befriends Paul (Christian Kane). The completely predictable twist is that Paul is also Tom's new cameraman, the person Tom was speaking to when he let the secret slip. This was an average rom com if I ever did see one. The acting wasn't hugely impressive, although Weatherly's performance is pretty darn close to his role on NCIS. Perhaps there's more to that cocky, jokester than just a character? Kane seems to hold his own but doesn't seem to command the screen like a leading man should. He is better on the tv show Leverage though, and I think I prefer him in that role. Warren's performance isn't really believable. The entire time all I could do was stare at her unbelievable bee-stung lips. I bet there's an actress or two who would kill for them.

Watch It: If you're a Weatherly fan as he continues to be entertaining and a jerk at the same time.

Skip It: For a film that'll pick as side: romance or comedy. This one toed the line but never really committed to either and probably failed because of it.

Ikiru / To Live

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: October 9, 1952 (Japan) / March 25, 1956

DVD Release Date: October 6, 2003

Plot 411: A man who has lived a shadow of a life aims to create meaning during the remainder of his time on earth.

Review: Takashi Shimura is Kanji Watanabe, the section chief of the city's public affairs division. He has spent his life believing that he is sacrificing everything for the betterment of his son. However, when he finds out he has stomach cancer and only has a year to live, he reconsiders his life and accomplishments to find that he hasn't done anything of value. Wavering from utter dispair to confusion, denial to absolutely driven, Watanabe searches for a way to make his life meaningful during his remaining days. Even though this film is over 50 years old, all of its themes are still so relevant. What the hell does that say about our society (in general, not just in Japan)? This movie covers the ineptitude of government, the apathy of workers, the microcosm that each person lives in despite their physical nearness to others and the unlived life. It's telling that the real truths are divulged only after the characters are thoroughly drunk. Only then are they able to drop their inhibitions and admit their feelings. There's so much to say about each of these themes and director Akira Kurosawa manages to comment on them all. I enjoyed a lot of his movie-making techniques, such as the absolute stillness of Watanabe's world when he is totally consumed with his problems. There is no noise from his environment and no score to emphasize his emotion. Kurosawa just lets him be. Another technique I liked was how Kurosawa used things in the environment to frame the subject. The way in which Kurosawa moves the plot along is quite interesting as well. I think American films would've ended when the main character dies, but Kurosawa manages to keep the movie going and keep you interested in what's happening. In this film, the loose ends aren't tied up nicely upon Watanabe's death. There is still more story to tell.

Watch It: For a master class on storytelling and editing techniques.

Skip It: If you're really critical of the image quality. It's in black and white and could definitely use some cleaning up. I don't know if they can do that or not, but some portions of the film are extremely dark and it's hard to see the action on screen.

Evening

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: June 29, 2007

DVD Release Date: September 25, 2007

Plot 411: A woman on her death bed remembers her life and the choices she made in it.

Review: Whoa, this movie was really heavy and covered all kinds of themes. I wasn't really prepared for it when I popped it in yet soon found myself totally engrossed in it. The film was about a woman named Ann - as an old woman on her death bed and a young woman at the start of her life. Through memories and flashbacks, the audience sees different aspects of her life and the choices she made. Some of those choices were made methodically. Other choices were left up to chance. The movie dealt with first loves, lost loves and one true love. It reflected upon aging, family and mother-daughter relationships. It covered parenting and the fears parents have about messing up their kids' lives. It talked about the mystery of life and how we are shown a path that we either take or don't. It depicted the societal pressures of the rich and the ways in which children who are born into that environment deal with their struggles. There were so many life lessons to be told in this film and the cast was really awesome. Young Ann is played by Claire Danes, who I think did a pretty good job. The older Ann was played by Vanessa Redgrave, who put in an awesome performance. Ann's grown children were played by Toni Collette and Natasha Richardson (Redgrave's real daughter). Ann's best friend Lila was played by Mamie Gummer and Meryl Streep, who are real life mother and daughter. Glenn Close, Hugh Dancy and Patrick Wilson also play prominent roles.

Watch It: If you're ready for a quietly powerful character drama about life and th outcome of your choices. It'll make you look at your life a little more intently.

Skip It: If you've got a big day ahead of you that wouldn't do well with puffy eyes.

Seven Briders For Seven Brothers

Rating: G

Movie Release Date: July 22, 1954

DVD Release Date: June 13, 2000

Plot 411: A new bride discovers she has married into a family of seven unruly brothers.

Review: Milly (Jane Powel) falls in love with Adam (Howard Keel), an Oregon backwoodsman who comes into town to purchase supplies and to find himself a wife. She marries him shortly after their initial meeting and happily leaves the town for his farm in the mountains. Upon her arrival, she finds that he lives there with six rowdy bachelor brothers. At first she is shocked by the situation and upset for being duped into marriage. However, she soon begins setting things right and guides them toward finding their true loves. Seven Brides For Seven Brothers has just the right balance between drama and music. Everyone in the cast seemed to be exceptional dancers and singers. I have no clue whether or not their singing voices were dubbed in though. The dance numbers were great and done in such a lively and robust style that it was a total contrast to numbers I've seen by Fred Astaire. This movie was really enjoyable and humorous because of the overly comedic physicality of some of the scenes. I especially liked the dance off at the barn raising party.

Watch It: Even though some of their clothes are shockingly bright. I mean, I cannot even fathom how mountain men got their hands on such fabrics.

Skip It: If high stepping, fake punches and weirdly operatic singing is just too much cheese for you.

Alice In Wonderland 3D

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: March 5, 2010

DVD Release Date: TBD

Plot 411: Alice returns to the land she visited as a child and thinks she's living a dream.

Review: Tim Burton's version of Alice In Wonderland is just so Tim Burton. The movie aesthetics and visuals do not seem like they could be done by anyone but Burton. The colors and bleakness of the settings and the dark nature of the so-called children's film are obviously Burton's signature. Watching it in 3D was probably not necessary though. It didn't have the same all-encompassing feel that Avatar did. In fact, I think it could've pulled the audience in a lot more than it did, which is a damn shame. Some of the CGI work was pretty bad. It looked like I was watching video game graphics. Despite this, I still enjoyed it a great deal. I'll probably rent it when it comes out on DVD. Somehow, I didn't find Anne Hathaway all that appealing in this movie. She really got on my nerves with all her twirling and fluttering about. I did, however, love, love, love Helena Bonham Carter. She did a perfect job as the Queen of Hearts. What does it say when I relate more with the bad queen than the good one? Of course, Johnny Depp played the Mad Hatter. Really, he was just re-doing his Jack Sparrow routine but with a snazzier-looking outfit and caked on makeup. Also providing voice acting are Stephen Fry as the cheshire cat and Alan Rickman as the caterpillar.

Watch It: For a Burton re-envisioning of all your favorite Wonderland characters.

Skip It: And watch the regular version. No need to pay extra for IMAX 3D or Disney Digital 3D.

The Diving Bell And The Butterfly / Le scaphandre et le papillon

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: May 23, 2007 (Belgium & France) / November 30, 2007 (USA)

DVD Release Date: April 29, 2008

Plot 411: A man is struck with a horrible disease that leaves him paralyzed and trapped in his own body.

Review: Despite being an emotionally difficult and exhausting film to watch, this movie is incredible. Based on the true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, editor of French Elle, the movie gives the audience an all-to-real feel of locked-in syndrome. This medical phenomenon describes a person's completely normal mental abilities and non-existent physical abilities. Mathieu Amalric plays Bauby and is absolutely amazing in his performance of a man who is utterly paralyzed and only able to use one eye to communicate with the outside world. The way in which the film demonstrates this point of view is really creative and creates a claustrophobic feeling for the viewer. The film begins with Bauby waking up from a coma and his confusion surrounding his condition. This first person point of view is really jarring at first, but it succeeds in creating the right viewing atmosphere and putting the audience in Bauby's shoes. The film later opens up through Bauby's memories and we're able to see him through other people's vision. I really enjoyed how the film captured the highs and lows that life has to offer and makes you realize that your life is all too short.

Watch It: For a life-changing, yet somewhat depressing movie about the human spirit.

Skip It: Because I heard that some of the facts about this film are not accurate. It might just be more satisfying to read the book.

Paris, je t'aime

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: June 21, 2006 (France) / May 4, 2007 (USA)

DVD Release Date: November 13, 2007

Plot 411: The city of love serves as the backdrop of 18 short films about love.

Review: This film was a vignette about love, in all of its forms. Each story covered a different type of love, featured different groups in society and was the vision of different directors. The shorts provided a brief glimpse into people's lives, and the last movie about an American tourist's first visit to Paris wraps up the entire film quite nicely (albeit in very bad American-accented French). I liked how so many different versions of love could be incorporated into this project: young love, old love, new love, mother-son, father-daughter, lost love, found love, etc. Some of my favorite shorts are about a mime family, a couple who resorts to prostitutes to liven up their marriage and a mother who sings a Spanish lullaby to a child that is not her own. In a way, it's similar to Love Actually, but the audience isn't given as much time with all the characters. Just when you start liking them, their story is over and we're moving on to the next short. Some of the topics are humorous while others are simply heartbreaking. However, all of the shorts depict real situations that we all may face in life, and this is what makes the film perfect. Some of the actors in these films are Juliette Binoche, Willem Dafoe, Nick Nolte, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Elijah Wood, Emily Mortimer, Rufus Sewell, Natalie Portman, Gena Rowlands and Gerard Depardieu.

Watch It: If you're a fan of indie movies because each short film felt like an artistic endeavor.

Skip It: If you like to have a definite resolution at the end of your movies. Many of these will leave you hanging or make you want to see more.

We Live In Public

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: August 28, 2009

DVD Release Date: March 2, 2010

Plot 411: Documentary about a technology genius' who predicts the future of the internet.

Review: This movie was pretty trippy because of its accurate portrayal of our everyday lives as it merges with technology. The film follows Josh Harris, a dot com wiz who was worth billions in the '90s and his artistic creations and visions of the future. His ideas were way ahead of his time, and what seemed to be a social experiement back then is pretty darn close to reality today. He created a quasi-society where everything was filmed and captured, broadcasted and watched. It was the YouTube and Facebook of its time. People willingly signed up for this 30-day experiment and all of its excesses. Josh's social experiment revealed the innate human desire to control and manipulate. It also captures a movement similar to the flower children of the '60s. The people initially enter into this society with altruistic dreams of art and progress, yet it devolves into quite a bit of chaos in the end.

Watch It: For an accurate depiction of today's society that was predicted more than 15 years ago.

Skip It: As the harsh reality of of it is that this film is graphic in its portrayal of the human condition at its best and worst and the truths that are revealed about our society is not all that pretty.

The Ugly Truth

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: July 24, 2009

DVD Release Date: November 10, 2009

Plot 411: Opposites attract and sparks fly in the age-old battle of men vs. women.

Review: OMG, this movie was so BAD! And that's bad in a bad way, not bad in a good way. Katherine Heigl plays tv producer Abby who is a neurotic control freak of a woman. When her boss brings in chauvinistic Mike (Gerard Butler) for a new segment on her show, she is determined to hate him. However, when some of his dating tips help her snag her doctor neighbor Colin (Eric Winter), she is at least willing to hear him and his outrageously sexist remarks. First off, the CGI in this movie is absolutely horrendous. It was like watching a movie from the 1950s where the actors are in front of a moving background screen. I mean, c'mon reallhy? In 2009 they can't do any better than that? Another bad thing about this film is that it doesn't develop characters for which you actually care. Even with some of the predictable character arcs in place, I really didn't like or care for Abby or Mike. To top it off, Butler's off-and-on accent was just distracting throughout the entire film. Sometimes you could hear his Scottish brogue and other times you couldn't. Pick a team Gerry, pick a team.

Watch It: Maybe if you enjoy Heigl as Dr. Izzie Stevens from Grey's Anatomy. You might actually cut her some slack if you do.

Skip It: For 27 Dresses or P.S. I Love You if you're really feeling in the mood for a rom com.

Stepmom

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: December 25, 1998

DVD Release Date: April 13, 1999

Plot 411: A woman struggles to win over her boyfriend's children despite all her good intentions.

Review: Isabel (Julia Roberts) is dating a man (Ed Harris) many years her senior and finds it almost impossible to become friends with his children (Jena Malone and Liam Aiken). The kids are hurt and angry due to their parents' divorce and think of Isabel as the enemy. They don't like her and don't respect her. The ex-wife, Jackie (Susan Sarandon), also despises her because she is so young and inexperienced. However, when push comes to shove, the welfare of the children take precedence and everyone learns to live, love and work together. This was an incredible movie that was made during Roberts' heyday. I feel like during this time she could do no wrong. Everything she touched turned to gold as she was America's sweetheart. The movie cleverly juxtaposes sadness and hope. It demonstrates the simple power of love and the importance of family. Sarandon and Roberts worked so well together. This is definitely a tear jerker.

Watch It: And you'll want to phone your mother just to tell her you love her.

Skip It: Unless you don't have any plans the following day. Otherwise, you'll have to find a way to make red, puffy eyes the hottest fashion trend.

I Can Do Bad All By Myself

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: September 11, 2009

DVD Release Date: January 12, 2010

Plot 411: A woman must taken in her niece and nephews when their caretaker, her mother, goes missing.

Review: This is the worst Tyler Perry movie I've ever seen. I think the script was really bad. Most of Perry's movies possess a deeper meaning that is relatable to most audiences. You are able to pull something from it no matter where you are in your life. The plots all seem to have a purpose that is fulflled by the end of the movie. However, the pace of this movie was just dreadfully slow. Instead of building up emotionally, like most of Perry's movies, this one seemed to drag along and I found my mind wandering. Major character development seemed to stagger forward instead of evolve. Some of the lines were cheesy as all hell. Taraji P. Henson plays April, a nightclub singer who doesn't possess the ability to love anyone. She lives her life apart from her family and is in a relationship with a married man (Brian J. White), thus creating a barrier between herself and the world. When her mother, the guardian of her sister's children, goes missing, she is forced to take in her niece and two nephews. She also takes in Sandino (Adam Rodriguez), on the advice of her paster, because he is down on his luck. I think Rodriguez should stick with CSI: Miami instead of going to the big screen. He doesn't exude the pressences of a leading man. The film made good use of Gladys Knight, Marvin Winans and Mary J. Blige by killing an unknown number of minutes by giving them solos.

Watch It: Maybe if you enjoy Tyler Perry overall. If you don't like him, this movie will make you hate him.

Skip It: Because Madea is barely in this movie and I've gotta say that she's probably the best part of the film.

The Crazies

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: February 26, 2010

DVD Release Date: TBD

Plot 411: People in a small town start going crazy and begin killing other people.

Review: Timothy Olyphant plays David, the sheriff in a small Iowa town. During a baseball game, the town drunk enters the field with a gun. David confronts the man and ends up killing him when the man tries to shoot him. Later David realizes the man was crazy and that other townsfolk are going crazy as well. When the military comes in to evacuate the people, David is separated from his pregnant wife Judy (Radha Mitchell). David and his deputy (Joe Anderson) go behind enemy lines to rescue her. Overall, I thought this was an okay movie but found that there were a lot of illogical plot holes. The big set pieces and kill scenes were interesting for the most part. Besides some jump scare sequences, the film wasn't really scary and I wouldn't consider it a horror flick. I thought Olyphant and Mitchell did fine as the lead characters, but I didn't find them too likeable. There was just no connection to them despite their portrayal of a loving couple. I think I'm going to try and catch the original 1973 version and see how it compares.

Watch It: For an action/science fiction mixed breed of a movie.

Skip It: If you want a zombie movie because the crazies aren't zombies.

Biker Boyz

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: January 21, 2003

DVD Release Date: June 10, 2003

Plot 411: Underground racing combines fast rides with big egos.

Review: After the success of The Fast And The Furious, bikers needed their own adrenaline-pumping movie so this flick was made. Of the two, I prefer the plot of Fast but to each his own. There are some technical flaws in both movies that I think real car and bike enthusiats will pick up quite quickly. However, for the layperson (like me) all the flash, sizzle and vroom vroom was pretty cool. Laurence Fishburne is Smoke, the reigning biker king in the underground world of sport bike racing. He is challenged by many up-and-comers, including Kid (Derek Luke), constantly and he must defend his turf and title from them. There is a thin thread that ties the story together, but it's probably not worth mentioning. The acting is pretty horrible, but the actors do what they can with what they are given. Luke was way better in Glory Road. Other stars in this film include Orlando Jones, Kid Rock, Larenz Tate, Djimon Hounsou, Lisa Bonet, Dante Basco and Tyson Beckford.

Watch It: If you like fast action and stunts with a background of hip hop music.

Skip It: Your focus on plot and character development cannot be distracted by shiny metal things.

Hook

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: December 11, 1991

DVD Release Date: March 21, 2000

Plot 411: Peter Pan returns to Neverland as an adult who doesn't remember his past as leader of the Lost Boys.

Review: I remember loving this movie as a kid because of all the magic and wonder. It was also fun and action packed, telling a well-known tale with a twist. However, after watching this trailer, the movie feels outdated. The CGI has definitely be surpassed by today's technology. Robin Williams plays Peter Banning, the former Peter Pan who left Never Never Land to live in the real world. Since then, he has become a workaholic who rarely spends time with his family. He has lost all memories of his former self and the joy and freedom he used to possess. When Peter's son and daughter are kidnapped by Hook (Dustin Hoffman), Tinkerbell (Julia Roberts) takes him back to Neverland to save them. The movie is a follow up to the original film and addresses issues such as love, work/life balance, adventure and freedom. I think it has a nice overall message and advises people to stop and smell the roses once in a while. This movie also stars Maggie Smith as Wendy and Dante Basco as Rufio.

Watch It: To pause and think about what is truly valuable in your life.

Skip It: In favor of the 1953 animated version.