The Blind Side

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: November 20, 2009

DVD Release Date: March 23, 2010

Plot 411: A well-to-do Memphis woman takes in a homeless kid who grows up to become an NFL athlete.

Review: The movie was really emotional, endearing, inspirational and heartwarming, but I don't know if Sandra Bullock really deserved the Oscar. I mean, she did a great job in a difficult role and pulled off the bossy, no-nonsense character, but I don't think the performance was exceptional. Bullock plays Leigh Anne Tuohy, a woman who saw a child in need and extended her hand to help. She took in Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), a boy from the other side of town who had been in and out of system. His mother was a drug addict. He was essentially alone. Tuohy opened up her family and their home to help him succeed. She supported him when no one else would. She fed and clothed him and even became his legal guardian. This is a story about love. Also great in this film is Jae Head, the actor who plays Tuohy's younger son. He is precocious and extremely funny. Tim McGraw, Lily Collins and Kathy Bates round out the cast.

Watch It: Because Bullock's character is extremely likable despite her pushy ways.

Skip It: If you're looking for a football movie because that's not what this one's about.

Eat Pray Love

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: August 13, 2010

DVD Release Date: TBD

Plot 411: After a bad divorce, a woman travels to Italy, India and Indonesia to find her balance.

Review: Liz (Julia Roberts) realizes one day that the life she lives with her husband Stephen (Billy Crudup) is not the life for her anymore. She has grown apart from him despite her love for her. She files for divorce and struggles to find herself but ends up falling into the arms of another man (James Franco). She struggles to find herself after years of co-dependency and decides to take a yearlong vacation to revitalize her spirit and give herself a new perspective. Unfortunately, even Julia Roberts cannot save this movie. I was hoping to walk away refreshed and inspired with a feeling that I could fulfill my dreams. I was hoping this movie would show me that Liz overcame her obstacles and was able to climb mountains afterwards. But this movie was a lot more subtle than that. It was a lot more introspective than I was expecting. The movie didn't profess any kind of wisdom. It didn't call to my spirit of adventure like a lone wolf howling into the night. I think this kind of journey is something that can only be experienced firsthand. It definitely was not captured on film. Also in this film are Richard Jenkins and Javier Bardem.

Watch It: For a quick trip around the world to three very different countries.

Skip It: And get out there and have your own spiritual journey.

Did You Hear About The Morgans?

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: December 18, 2009

DVD Release Date: March 16, 2010

Plot 411: Separated couple Meryl and Paul Morgan witness a murder and are put into the witness protection program.

Review: Meryl (Sarah Jessica Parker) and Paul (Hugh Grant) are a high-power New York couple who have been separated for several months due to Paul's one night stand. He has tried to win Meryl back but has been unsuccessful. After a night out where they an attempt to patch things up, the couple witness the murder of one of Meryl's clients. They are temporarily placed in protective custody in Ray, Wyoming until separate accommodations can be arranged. Here they are forced to work out their marital problems. This sounds like the plot of a murder mystery or suspense thriller, but it's really a rom com in disguise . . . or not. Parker is pretty much revisiting her character from Sex In The City - a sophisticated New Yorker who is an optimist when it comes to love. Grant reprises his role again (and yes, I do me "role" singularly). Has he ever played someone other than the funny and slightly awkward British dude? If you can overlook this, the movie is pretty much par for the course. I mean, it's not belly-aching funny but it has its moments. This is mostly due to Grant. Perfect characters in this film are Emma (Mary Steenburgen) and Clay (Sam Elliott), the law enforcement officers who look after Paul and Meryl in Wyoming. They are superbly cast. I love them in these roles.

Watch It: But don't expect too much from it. It's just a mediocre rom com.

Skip It: And watch Something's Gotta Give for a more mature rom com that's twice as funny and definitely got a better script.

Thr3e

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: January 5, 2007

DVD Release Date: April 24, 2007

Plot 411: A serial killer targets a seminary student in his next game.

Review: Marc Blucas is Kevin Parson, a Ph.D. student in seminary school. He was raised by his aunt when his parents died, and after a difficult childhood, he is trying to find meaning in his life. A serial killer known as Riddle Killer has targeted him as the next victim. With the help of his best friend Sam (Laura Jordan) and a cop (Justine Waddell), who has also been Riddle Killer's target, he tries to figure out a way to stay alive and capture the killer. Despite all the markings of a good thriller, this movie really fell short of my expectations. It was like a generic version of the first Saw movie. It didn't have all the blood and gore, but it still tried to use many similar elements (serial killer, confused victims, sins, biblical passages, determined cops, etc.). However, this movie was unable to carry out most of the gimmicks. There wasn't enough suspense. There wasn't enough mystery. There wasn't enough messed up childhood. There wasn't enough of everything. Unfortunately Blucas just doesn't seem able to carry a show as the lead actor. Even the twist ending doesn't seem to have much effect on the outcome.

Watch It: If you've got nothing better to do?

Skip It: And rewatch Saw.

Dancer In The Dark

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 8, 2000 (Denmark/Finland/Norway/Sweden) / October 6, 2000 (USA)

DVD Release Date: March 20, 2001

Plot 411: A woman makes the ultimate sacrifice to ensure her sun has a bright future.

Review: Selma (Bjork) and her son are immigrants from Czechoslovakia living in the US in this bittersweet musical. She works in a factory and rents a little trailer outside of her landlord's home. Unfortunately, an eye disease runs in her family and she's slowly losing her sight. She is saving her money so that her son can get surgery to prevent blindness. When she confides in her landlord about this secret, events unfold that bring even more hardship upon her. This movie started really slow, and I found my attention wandering. However, the drama really picked up and Bjork's performance was amazing. The singing and dancing throughout the film was a little odd as I somehow only connect musicals with happiness. This movie had very little happiness in it. I think this would've worked better without the musical aspect by presenting an even bigger impact because the music and dance distracted from the emotional mother/son relationship and all the sacrifices that were made. Another unique aspect about this movie is the various camera angles. They really served to add perspective and emotion to the movie, especially when they represented Selma's point of view. Bjork's voice fluctuates between haunting and sweet as she sings. I think this is perfect for the role of Selma. Also in this film are Catherine Deneuve, David Morse and Peter Stormare.

Watch It: For a heart-wrenching story about love and loss. It's sorta like Chicago but not as glamorous and sparkly.

Skip It: Because it's pretty weird and definitely not for everyone.

Amelie

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: April 25, 2001 (France/Belgium/Switzerland) / November 16, 2001 (USA)

DVD Release Date: July 16, 2002

Plot 411: An isolated girl devotes her life to making others happy and eventually finds happiness for herself.

Review: Audrey Tautou stars as Amelie, a young woman who works in a cafe. She has spent her entire life separate from other people and is always on the outside looking in. She is shy and quiet. When she finds a tin box hidden in the wall of her bathroom, she decides to find its owner and return it to him. Once she sees how much joy this causes, she decides to continue to help people and act like a guardian angel. She receives joy through their joy, even if she is unable to experience it for herself. This movie is pretty amazing from a visual and creative standpoint. One could say that this movie is odd or quirky, maybe even weird, but I think it's intriguing. It's completely obvious that Americans would never be able to make a film like this. This movie is light and funny, charming and sweet. It's almost dream-like in some scenes. I love the colors of the sets and costumes. They're so vibrant sometimes that they seem unreal, and yet this film is set in modern Paris. It's interesting how the every day is woven with the fantastical.

Watch It: If you've ever felt like you're different.

Skip It: If you're one of those mainstream-only moviegoers. This is indie AND foreign. Take that!

Say Anything

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: April 14, 1989

DVD Release Date: March 5, 2002

Plot 411: A slacker applies himself for the first time when he tries to win over the class valedictorian.

Review: Lloyd Dobler (John Cusack) is a nice guy with very little ambition in life. But when he sets his sights on an impossible goal - dating Diane Court (Ione Skye) - he works the hardest he's ever had in his life. This is one of the best high school rom coms around despite being over 20 years old. What makes this movie great is the characters. Lloyd represents the everyman in his insecurities and dreams. He is part of all of us and his struggles to win Diane over are easily relatable. Most people are neither truly exceptional or completely useless. We just hover around mediocre until we find something that we're passionate about. Lloyd is passionate about Diane. The movie is a simple in concept but highly effective in execution. It also contains some very good music (though very time specific) in the score.

Watch It: If you've ever made a fool of yourself for love.

Skip It: If you're looking for something more dramatic out of Cusack, like Stand By Me.

Rescue Dawn

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: July 4, 2007

DVD Release Date: November 20, 2007

Plot 411: A U.S. pilot is shot down while on a combat mission and is taken prisoner.

Review: In 1966, Dieter Dengler (Christian Bale) is out on his first top secret mission when his plane is shot down. Barely surviving the crash, he wanders the jungles of Laos and is captured by the local army. He soon meets a group of POWs who have been captured for years. The group consists of fellow armed forces members as well as the flight crew of a commercial airline. Dengler immediately begins to plot their escape to the disbelief of everyone else. They have been physically and psychologically tortured to the point that they have become complacent and do not believe they can survive outside the torture camp. This is an intense portrayal of the human spirit and one's will to survive. The events are almost too horrible to be true and yet they are based on real events (though there is some contention to the accuracy of the movie). As the movie unfolds you witness how easy it is for your spirit to be broken. Simple things that are taken for granted in every day life are treasured and longed for in extreme situations. People's true natures are revealed under such stressful situations. The actors did a tremendous job dropping their weight to portray the starving POWs. Physically being able to embody the extremes really enhanced the visual effects. This, in addition to the set dressing and surrounding landscape, really helped center the movie and bring the audience back in time. This really is an excellent film. Also in this film are Steve Zahn and Jeremy Davies.

Watch It: For a really intense and harrowing depiction of life as a POW.

Skip It: And brush up on your history before watching the film. This may really help to enhance your understanding of the film and make the experience better.

American Gangster

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: November 2, 2007

DVD Release Date: February 18, 2008

Plot 411: An honest cop goes after one of New York's most infamous drug dealers.

Review: Originally from the south but living and working up north as the right-hand man for a major drug lord, Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington) quickly learns the ins and outs of running an illegal empire. When his boss dies, he decides to take over the territory and has no qualms about killing anyone in his way. He soon grows his empire by purchasing heroin directly from the source, something no one has done before, and marketing the product as blue magic. His product is cheaper and better than his competitors and he soon holds the largest market share. His nemisis in this movie is Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe), who is an honest cop in a sea of corruption. Despite his failing marriage, undercover work and lack of popularity on the force due to his Boy Scout ways, he manages to be promoted and put in charge of stopping the spread of drugs in New York. This is a movie based on true life, which already makes it a lot more interesting than some other flicks. Washington and Crowe are like to seasoned heavy weights going at it. Even though they lead separate lives for much of the film, you can still see how they are connected. I love how the filmmakers contrast good and evil, right and wrong thoughout the movie. It makes you see that people are complex beings and cannot only be judged from one perspective. Also in this film are Josh Brolin, Chewetel Ejiofor, Ted Levine, Carla Gugino, Cuba Gooding Jr, Armand Assante and Idris Elba.

Watch It: For a gritty, noir-like film about drugs, corrupt cops and capitalism.

Skip It: And its unapologetic violence.

3:10 To Yuma

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 6, 2007 (Russia) / September 7, 2007 (USA)

DVD Release Date: January 8, 2008

Plot 411: A former soldier joins a band of lawmen to escort an outlaw to the train that'll transport him to jail.

Review: Even if you're not particularly a fan of Westerns, you might like this one. It stars Russell Crowe as Ben Wade, the leader of a gang who steals from stagecoaches. Wade and his gang cross paths with soldier-turned-farmer Dan Evans (Christian Bale) when he steals Evans' horse in order to escape the law. Evans is desperate to save his home but is behind on payments. When he is offered money to help transport Evans to jail, he agrees. Along the way the two banter back and forth and you soon realize that the men are actually quite similar. Despite their divergent lives, the two live by a code of honor. While the set up to the movie is a bit slow, it soon picks up and becomes action packed. Gun fights and chases help liven up the movie and are interspersed with quiet moments between the two main characters. Both men try to outsmart and out think each other, and in another life may have been great friends. Also in this film are Luke Wilson, Ben Foster and Alan Tudyk.

Watch It: For a gun-toting good time.

Skip It: Perhaps in favor of the original?

Hot Fuzz

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: February 14, 2007 (UK & Ireland) / April 20, 2007 (USA)

DVD Release Date: July 31, 2007

Plot 411: When a cop becomes too good at his job, making his fellow officers look bad, he is transferred to the safest town in England.

Review: Simon Pegg and Nick Frost join forces once again and the end product is one gut-busting comedy. Pegg plays Nicholas Angel, a hot shot cop who has all the right moves. Because of this, his superior packs him up and sends him to a small town. Frost is Danny Butterman, a young cop in town who is awe-inspired by being Angel's partner. This set up creates scenes that are hilarious, like when the two are called in to investigate missing swan. The banter between the two partners volley back and forth. Frost does a great job at playing the fool once again. If you liked Shaun Of The Dead, then this movie is for you. It has a lot of the same comedic beats that'll have you rolling. You've got to be in tune with the British sense of humor though as it's a bit different than American movies. Also in this film are Bill Nighy, Jim Broadbent and Timothy Dalton.

Watch It: And check out the blooper reel

Skip It: Because it's not completely a comedy or an action flick that most people are used to.

Atonement

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 7, 2007 (UK) / December 7, 2007 (USA)

DVD Release Date: March 18, 2008

Plot 411: A lie separates two lovers and destroys the relationship between two sisters.

Review: Young Briony (Saoirse Ronan) has a crush on the housekeeper's son Robbie (James McAvoy) despite the distinct age difference. Robbie humors her, believing it to be a harmless child's crush that she will outgrow. Robbie really has eyes for Briony's older sister Cecilia (Keira Knightley), and even thought here is a difference in social status between them she also has feelings for him. When their passions consume them one night, Briony witnesses the interaction and misinterprets what happens. A child's misunderstanding leads to the separation of two lovers and the destruction of a family. Dubbed as the love story that surpasses the romance in Titanic, I went into this film expecting a lot and was completely surprised by the plot. I just really didn't expect it to turn so dark. I was looking for flowers and sunshine, and while there is some of that in this movie, it mostly turned out to be stormy weather. In general, I also found everything less relatable than Titanic. Maybe the ship's isoation on the sea is more romantic? I liked the similar themes of a timeless and eternal love that is tested, however, the darkness of Atonement somehow resonated more than the powerful love story. The film is more a character drama that looks at people's motives and actions than the story of true love. Marketing did a good job to obscure that.

Watch It: Definitely if you're into period pieces as the English clothes, houses and gardens are beautiful.

Skip It: If you're expecting some sweeping romance, which, I think, is what I went into this film expecting.

Hairspray

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: July 13, 2007

DVD Release Date: November 20. 2007

Plot 411: The fat chick gets the last laugh - and fights against racial prejudice.

Review: Tracy (Nikki Blonsky) and Penny (Amanda Bynes) are huge fans of Corny Collins (James Marsden) and his dance show. They can barely make it through school before rushing home to catch the program. When the show announces auditions, Tracy is eager to try out. However, her mom (John Travolta in drag - shudder) doesn't like the idea. The show and its manager Velma (Michelle Pfeiffer) supports segregation and only allows black kids to dance once a month on a special day. The kids practice their moves in detention, where Tracy is sent when she skips school. When Velma cancels "Negro Day," Tracy organizes a rally to protest. The movie also stars Zac Efron, Christopher Walken and Queen Latifah. Now this musical is more of what I'm used to. It's lively and upbeat with great singing and dancing all the way through. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Even Walken's creepy weirdness was charming in this role. Despite focusing on something as common as one girl's dream of dancing stardom, this movie is also able to incorporate serious topics like racial equality, segregation and prejudice. Not only does it comment on the black/white divide of the '60s, it highlights negative perceptions about body image too. Not bad for a movie where everyone is busy singing and dancing.

Watch It: For the great musical elements.

Skip It: If you enjoyed Sweeney Todd as this is the polar opposite of that.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: December 21, 2007

DVD Release Date: April 1, 2008

Plot 411: A man unjustly accused returns home to seek revenge on his persecutors.

Review: Corrupt Judge Turpin (Alan Rickman) sentences Benjamin Barker (Johnny Depp) to life in prison in order to seduce Barker's wife Lucy (Laura Michelle Kelly). Many years later, Barker returns under a new name - Sweeney Todd - and is anxious to reunite with his wife and daughter. However, when he learns that Turpin assaulted Lucy, Todd desperately seeks revenge. He reestablishes his barbershop above the shop of pie maker Mrs. Lovett (Helena Bonham Carter). She becomes a willing participant as Todd indiscriminately kills his customers by helping him dispose of the bodies through her meat pies. This movie definitely wasn't what I was expecting, but I enjoyed the darkness of it. I loved the set design and dramatic costume and make up that all the characters had. Depp's singing could have been better (but he's not as bad as Pierce Brosnan in Mamma Mia!). Of course, since this is a Tim Burton film, there are similar visual styles between this and something like Corpse Bride and Beetlejuice. It was darkly humorous and contained some violent scenes that took me aback. It wasn't that they were totally appalling. They were just unexpected as I had thought this was just a regular musical.

Watch It: If the idea of blood and singing flicks your Bic.

Skip It: If you're relationship with musicals are more of a light-hearted affair.

Gone Baby Gone

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: October 19, 2007

DVD Release Date: February 12, 2008

Plot 411: A child is missing and a private investigator must wade through the sordid underworld of Boston to recover her.

Review: This is the movie where Ben Affleck's baby brother Casey proves he's a much better on-screen talent and where Ben's real talents behind the camera are revealed. Casey stars as Patrick, a street smart private eye who is enlisted by a woman (Amy Madigan) to find her niece Amanda (Madeline O'Brien). Amanda was abducted while her mother (Amy Ryan) visited a neighbor. Since the cops aren't getting anywhere, Patrick takes the case and uses his local sources to uncover the truth. However, the truth is never as it seems. This movie is a crazy-good cop thriller that is, in some ways, vey much like those noir films. The seediness of the circumstances, the fine line between cops and criminals and the city all mix together to form a truly great show. The movie excellently deals with tough topics that ask you to reevaluate your moral compass. Like many aspects in life, this movie slips into a grey area rather than remain firmly planted in either black or white. Also in this movie are Michelle Monaghan, Morgan Freeman and Ed Harris.

Watch It: For a dark and gritty cop movie that takes advantage of its neighborhood and its culture.

Skip It: If you're not prepared to question your own morals.

Norbit

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: February 9, 2007

DVD Release Date: June 5, 2007

Plot 411: Eddie Murphy playing multiple roles to varying degrees of success.

Review: Norbit (Eddie Murphy), a nice guy, is married to a witch of a woman named Rasputia (Eddie Murphy). She has ordered him around since the day they met and he does nothing to stop it. When Norbit is reunited with Kate (Thandie Newton), a childhood friend, Rasputia's ire is unstopable. Entering the mix are Rasputia's brothers (played by Terry Crews, Clifton Powell and Lester Speight) and Kate's fiance (Cuba Gooding Jr.). I don't know how or why the idea of Murphy playing multiple characters exists in our world. But, somehow it does and there are only so many times this can work right? This concept keeps repeating over and over, even when the laughs aren't as loud and the jokes aren't as funny. I agree that the dinner table scene in The Nutty Professor is freaking hilarious, but I don't think there's been anything close to that since then. Why does he continue to use the same gag over and over?

Watch It: For Rasputia in all her glory.

Skip It: For Murphy classics from the 1980s.

I Am Legend

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: December 7, 2007 (Japan) / December 11, 2007 (USA)

DVD Release Date: March 18, 2008

Plot 411: A cure for cancer mutates and turns humans into monsters leaving those who are immune to the mutation to fight for their lives.

Review: Robert Neville (Will Smith) has made an important discovery, the cure for cancer. However, a few years later, this cure turns into a curse as the strain kills most of Earth's population. The remaining people evolve into light-sensitive beings who have increased agility and speed but decreased mental capacities. Neville, who is immune, finds himself alone in New York desperately trying to find a cure. His only companion is his dog Sam, but he hopes to find other survivors and broadcasts a message on the radio each day in hopes that someone will hear him. I really enjoyed everything except for the ending of this film, which I found illogical. However, other than that, this movie was highly entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat. I suppose the movie plays on some of our basic fears - the fear of the dark and the fear of being alone. These are essentially very simple concepts but are completely effective in this situation where Robert is alone in the world. We immediately empathize with him and the situation in which he finds himself. What could be worse than knowing that the world is dead and every night is a struggle for you to survive? Injected into such a grim life are the every day routines that Robert manages to complete in an effort to remain normal. Since it's Will Smith, you know it'll be funny.

Watch It: Because it's a good end-of-the-world thriller.

Skip It: Because the end ruins the entire thing.

Good Luck Chuck

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 21, 2007

DVD Release Date: January 15, 2008

Plot 411: Every girl Chuck sleeps with ends up marrying the next guy she dates. This isn't a problem until Chuck wants to get serious with a girl.

Review: Chuck (Dane Cook) is a good luck charm for woman. Every girl he has sex with ends up finding and marrying her true love afterwards. The rumor has circulated from friend to friend and Chuck is bombarded with women. His friend Stu (Dan Fogler) encourages him to go with the flow because when will he ever have this chance again. Besides, the good luck charm theory is just a rumor after all . . . or is it? Chuck meets Cam (Jessica Alba) at a wedding and becomes infatuated with her. He wants to get serious but is unsure about the rumor, which has suddenly morphed into a curse. He doesn't want to sleep with Cam if she'll only find happiness with someone else. This movie is juvenile and stupid, and I really don't recommend it. It's filled with coarse humor that is barely even funny. The jokes don't move the plot forward and seem to just fill time. Everyone's talent is wasted in this movie.

Watch It: If you're brain dead or seeking to be once the film is over.

Skip It: At all costs.

Kung Fu Panda

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: June 5, 2008 (Russia, South Korea, Ukraine) / June 6, 2008 (USA)

DVD Release Date: November 8, 2008

Plot 411: When the Valley of Peace is threatened, a master must select a kung fu master who can protect the special scroll from falling into evil hands.

Review: I had a great time watching this animated action comedy starring Jack Black as Po, a fat, uncoordinated panda who dreams of becoming a kung fu master. Po, the son of a noodle shop owner (James Hong), and doesn't have training in martial arts. But when a prophecy predicts that Tai Lung (Ian McShane) will come to their village in search of the Dragon Scroll, Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) must find someone worthy enough to protect it. Among the talented martial artists are Po's heros, the Furious Five - Tigress (Angelina Jolie), Monkey (Jackie Chan), Mantis (Seth Rogen), Viper (Lucy Liu) and Crane (David Cross). The reason I enjoyed this movie is because it engaged the entire audience. Mimicking live action kung fu movies out of China or Hong Kong, this plot is driven by Po's transformation from a nobody to a somebody. His journey is filled with ups and downs, and it isn't till he finds it within himself to be the best that others begin to respect him. Both adults and children can understand the desire to be more than one appears. Rarely do we have the chance to prove ourselves like Po does, and the audience is able to accompany him on his hero's journey.

Watch It: For a fun, action-packed movie for the entire family.

Skip It: And you miss a movie that simply, yet effectively, promotes good moral themes for kids.

Old Dogs

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: November 25, 2009

DVD Release Date: March 9, 2010

Plot 411: Two old friends cope when one discovers he has 7-year-old twins.

Review: Dan (Robin Williams) and Charlie (John Travolta) are two sports marketing execs determined to land a major international deal. However, it's around that time that Dan meets up with a old flame (Kelly Preston) and learns he's the father of two kids - Zach (Connor Rayburn) and Emily (Ella Bleu Travolta). Together, Dan and Charlie must wade through the waters of parenthood and score big with their potential clients. Well, there were definitely a lot of recurring jokes about how old Dan and Charlie are, which got a bit stale after a while. Despite that, this was a good family movie that kids will enjoy. There are some slapstick moments that were funny, but other comedic moments just didn't work. Somehow the best part of the movie was a classic hit-to-the-groin gag. I guess stuff like that never gets . . . old? Hardy har har! Also in this movie are Seth Green (love him), Lori Laughlin, Bernie Mac (RIP), Matt Dillon and Justin Long.

Watch It: For all it's family goodness.

Skip It: And watch Mrs. Doubtfire instead for an even more rolicking good time.

The Mask

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: July 29, 1994

DVD Release Date: March 26, 2007

Plot 411: An unassuming man finds a mask that gives him extraordinary powers.

Review: Stanley (Jim Carrey) is a nice guy who everyone walks all over until he finds a magical mask. When he puts it on, he turns into Mr. Popular, the complete opposite of his personality. With his newly found bravery, he seeks comical revenge on all his bullies. With the mask, he can bend reality and make all his desires appear. However, the police become suspicious about the mask's power and of Stanley's connection to it. The mob also wants to get their hands on the powerful maks. Can Stanley still come out on top and win the girl (played by Cameron Diaz)?These were the days when Jim Carrey was at his best. His comical facial features are hilarious, proving he was in top form. The wacky fantasy animation just adds to the hilarity of each scene and pushes everything over the top. While the animation techniques look dated, I think they're acceptable because this movie is very cartoonish. It's a fun movie that kids will still enjoy for its outrageousness. The dog is also cute.

Watch It: For classic Jim Carrey lines like, "Smokin'!" or "Somebody stop me!"

Skip It: If you like more of Carrey's sophisticated works like Eternal Sunshine Of A Spotless Mind.

Brothers

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: December 3, 2009 (Israel) / December 4, 2009 (USA)

DVD Release Date: March 23, 2010

Plot 411: A family must cope after they're told their Marine son/husband/brother is killed in the war.

Review: Sam (Tobey Mcguire) is serving another tour overseas when his helicopter is shot down. His wife Grace (Natalie Portman) and the rest of his family, including his brother Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal), are told he is dead. Tommy, who has just been paroled from jail, becomes an integral part of the family and helps Grace with her two children. Tensions rise when (spoiler alert) Sam is finally rescued and returns home. This is a really great drama about families at the best and worst of times. I love how intimate the relationships are between characters. There are really awesome moments of rebellion, pride, love, heartbreak, depression and so many other extremes. The actors really do a lot with a look or a frown, simple movements that transmit exactly what they are feeling to the audience. Despite war being a big part of the plot, I think the major focus of this film is the people's lives. How do they cope when confronted with challenges? The movie's strength is that it makes you question what you would do in a similar situation. also in this film are Clifton Collins Jr., Sam Shepard and Mare Winningham.

Watch It: For a good example of the human aspects of war.

Skip It: Because there is a torture scene that's kind of intense. However, rather than show it outright, it only implies the actions and lets your mind do the rest. This is quite possibly worse, especially in the context of the film.

Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears A Who!

Rating: G

Movie Release Date: March 3, 2008

DVD Release Date: December 9, 2008

Plot 411: An elephant discovers an entire world on a speck of dust and must protect it from the other jungle animals.

Review: Horton (Jim Carrey) is a lovable elephant who hears a small sound emitting from a speck of dust floating in the air. He decides to house the speck on a clover because he thinks there may be creatures living on the speck. Indeed, there is the entire community of Who-ville, including its mayor Ned (Steve Carell), his wife (Amy Poehler), daughters (Selena Gomez) and son JoJo (Jesse McCartney). The animals in Horton's jungle do not believe that there might be life on the speck, and led by Kangaroo (Carol Burnett), they turn into a mob looking to destroy the speck. Can Horton save Who-ville from destruction? I really enjoyed this movie for all its wonderful dialogue and heartfelt message. The lilting gait of the narrator as he reads Dr. Seuss' classic story drives home the power of Seuss' words and emphasizes the impact he has on today's children. I didn't realize I knew so many lines from the book until I was miraculously able to recite them with the film. Today's technology merely enhances a story that is over 50 years old. Also providing voice talent are Will Arnett, Seth Rogen, Isla Fisher and Jonah Hill.

Watch It: For inspiration to make a difference in other people's lives and to firmly stand your ground when you are faced with opposition.

Skip It: And read the book first. This is definitely a must.

Evan Almighty

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: June June 22, 2007

DVD Release Date: October 9, 2007

Plot 411: The sequel to Bruce Almighty, God reveals himself to a newly elected congressman.

Review: Steve Carell reprises his role as Evan Baxter, the anchorman from Bruce Almighty, but this time the movie is set in Virginia where Evan is a new congressman. God chooses Evan as his unknowing disciple and weird things begin to happen to Evan. Animals follow him around. He receives ancient tools in the mail. His facial hair grows rapidly and uncontrollably. Finally God instructs him to build an ark and prepare for an impending flood. To the world, including his co-workers and family, Evan seems insane. Will he listen to God's word? This movie unravels in a similar vein as its predecessor, but it is definitely more heavy handed and less effective. The jokes aren't as funny. The humor isn't as great. Despite being a good physical comedian, somehow Carell doesn't fill the shoes left vacant by Jim Carrey. Also in this film are Morgan Freeman, Lauren Graham, John Goodman, Wanda Sykes and Jonah Hill.

Watch It: During a family movie night with the kids. They'll probably enjoy it.

Skip It: Completely. Pop in The 40-Year-Old Virgin instead.

Bruce Almighty

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: May 23, 2003

DVD Release Date: August 24, 2004

Plot 411: What would you do if God handed over the keys to the world?

Review: Despite Bruce's (Jim Carrey) ambition to be an anchorman on the news, he continues to receive assignments that are barely more than fluff pieces. After one really bad day at work, he calls God (portrayed by Morgan Freeman) out and accuses Him of not doing a good job. God hands over his power to Bruce to teach him a lesson. Bruce instantly abuses the power by granting all of his own wishes rather than helping others. Despite all his strength, he begins to lose touch with his life, including his girlfriend Grace (Jennifer Aniston). In classic Carrey form, this movie uses a lot of physical humor and relies on the star for audience buy in. Bruce (and Carrey himself) is a likeable guy who many people can relate to and is inherently good despite his shortcomings (just as most of us are). He falls victim to all that it means to be human, and we're presented with the outcome. This movie is laugh-out-loud funny, surprisingly so at times. Even the supporting actors, which include Steve Carell, Catherine Bell and Philip Baker Hall, provide a good comedic base for the film.

Watch It: For a good moral message presented with humor.

Skip It: Because, although it's entertaining, I wouldn't consider it one of Carrey's best works.

License To Wed

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: June 3, 2007

DVD Release Date: October 30, 2007

Plot 411: A young couple must complete a pre-marital course led by an eccentric priest.

Review: Sadie (Mandy Moore) and Ben (John Krasinski) take a crash course in marriage so they can hold their ceremony in Sadie's family's church. The course is led by Reverend Frank (Robin Williams) who isn't quite what they expect. He puts them through outrageous exercises and intrudes on their lives to test their love and sanity. Can the couple survive the guerrilla warfare set by the priest? This movie is pretty stupid. What happened to Robin Williams anyway? Where did movies like Patch Adams go? Or Good Morning, Vietnam? Has it really come to this Robin? Really? I'm just flabbergasted. Also connected with this movie (why I do not know) are Eric Christian Olsen, Christine Taylor and Peter Strauss.

Watch It: If you're looking for a sub-par rom com.

Skip It: For any of the movies listed above.

Coraline

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: February 9, 2009

DVD Release Date: July 21, 2009

Plot 411: A bored little girl discovers a hidden doorway that leads her to an extraordinary life.

Review: Coraline (Dakota Fanning) moves into a new home with her parents (voiced by Teri Hatcher and John Hodgman), but they don't even have time to unpack because they need to finish writing a catalog. Bored out of her mind, Coraline explores her new home and finds a hidden doorway. One night she goes through the door and enters a new and exciting world. Everything appears to be the same but is completely better in every way. The only distractingly different thing is that her new parents have button eyes and want her to stay forever. For a children's film, this movie was extremely scary and unnerving so I don't think it's fit for younger kids. The animation is sort of Tim Burton-esque and just creepy all around. Even the opening credits are disturbing and could have actually been the opening of a horror movie. It instantly reminded me of Tales From The Crypt for some reason. This movie is definitely on the cutting edge of not only animation but imagination. It easily creates a new world into which you are pulled. The contrast in color and texture between the real world and the other world are instantly recognizable, and the moral lesson is a good one. Also providing voice talent are Keith David, Jennifer Saunders and Ian McShane.

Watch It: Because it's one of the first movies in a long time that actually gave me chills. It's just messed up that it's a kid's movie.

Skip It: If you like your cartoons all Winnie the Poohish.

Eagle Eye

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: September 16, 2008

DVD Release Date: December 27, 2008

Plot 411: Jerry receives instructions from a mysterious caller and must follow her instructions or face being arrested.

Review: Jerry (Shia LaBeouf) returns home to find his apartment filled with bomb-building materials. Thoroughly confused, Jerry receives a call from a woman (Julianne Moore) who informs him that the FBI are coming and he must escape. Instead, he hesitates and is caught by Agent Morgan (Billy Bob Thornton). The next time the woman calls, Jerry listens and soon he finds himself partnering up with Rachel (Michelle Monaghan). This is a good movie for those who like action and suspense. I enjoyed it a lot more than Transformers: Rise Of The Fallen, but then again, that's not saying much is it? I'm still not convinced that LaBeouf is a good actor. He keeps picking these action films, but I don't think he has the right look for them. I thought it was very odd that the two main characters, Jerry and Rachel, didn't end up as a couple. Isn't that how all of these things work? Wonder what that says about me (or how society has condition me to think)? Anyway, the other aspect of this film that was overtly obvious was that technology is becoming too advanced for humans to control, and this is a cautioning tale about the evils of science and technology. Not really new and not really carried out in a new way. Also in this film are Rosario Dawson, Michael Chiklis, Ethan Embry and Anthony Mackie.

Watch It: If you like conspiracy theories and governmental cover ups.

Skip It: Because it's a little heavy handed with its socio-political message.

Because I Said So

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: February 2, 2007

DVD Release Date: May 8, 2007

Plot 411: A helicopter mom creates an online dating profile for her daughter and screens the applicants to find the perfect match.

Review: Daphne (Diane Keaton) is a single mom who raised three girls - Maggie (Lauren Graham), Mae (Piper Perabo) and Milly (Mandy Moore). She is worried that her youngest daughter Milly isn't happy and will never get married. Thus, Daphne gives in to her overbearing nature (aka helicopter mothering) and takes matters into her own hands. I love Diane Keaton and this movie truly plays up her uncanny ability to be neurotic and insane. She is the stereotypical mom who just wants the best for her kids but ends up loving them too much. They become resentful and often feel guilty about it. Yet, in the end, they all love being family. Amazing how much cinema imitates life huh? While this movie is supposed to focus around Milly's search for love, I can't really say that Moore is one of my favorite young actresses. However, I really enjoyed the character of Daphne so much more. Also in this film are Gabriel Macht and Tom Everett Scott.

Watch It: At a movie night with the girls, then dish about all the horrible things your moms' have done.

Skip It: Because it's pretty brainless fun and will probably turn your noggin into mush.

Daybreakers

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: January 6, 2010 (United Kingdom) / January 8, 2010 (USA)

DVD Release Date: May 11, 2010

Plot 411: In a world of 95% vampires/5% humans, vampires must find a way to manufacture blood in order to survive.

Review: Ed (Ethan Hawke) is working to find a viable substitute for human blood to feed the entire world as the population of humans rapidly dwindles. He works for a man named Charles Bromley (Sam Neill), who runs a blood farming company, but is ethically torn. He struggles to keep his own humanity and views humans as a endangered species rather than a food supply. Luckily, there is a group of renegade humans who fight against the vampires in hopes of finding a cure to vampirism. Led by Audrey (Claudia Karvan) and Elvis (Willem Dafoe), the group also searches for wayward humans and tries to provide a safe haven for them. This is an interesting horror, sci-fi movie because it can also serve as an allegory for the present time. Just as we consume our natural resources, the vampires literally consume them by feeding on them. They live in a society that condones the wastefulness and single-mindedness of gluttony just as we seem to. It is only a matter of time before we face a similar fate if nothing is done to change our ways.

Watch It: For a moral gem within a genre film.

Skip It: If you're looking for good special effects. The CGI is pretty awful, but there's a ton of blood and guts.

Salt

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: July 23, 2010

DVD Release Date: TBD

Plot 411: CIA agent Evelyn Salt is accused of being a Russian spy involved in an assassination plot.

Review: Just as Russian expert Evelyn Salt (Angelina Jolie) and her boss Ted Winter (Liev Schreiber) head home for the day, they're called back to interrogate Russian ex-pat Vassily Orlov (Daniel Olbrychski) who claims to have information about a plot to start a war between America and the world. As Salt interviews Orlov, he tells her a story about Russian children who are trained for the ultimate act of terrorism. These children were inserted into American society many years ago and await activation. One of those children was named Evelyn Salt. After this revelation, Salt must prove her innocence and allegiance to America. Despite a few plot holes and a plot that was predictable, this was an enjoyable action-packed thriller that I think many people will like. Jolie is in top physical form and doing a lot of activity - from hand-to-hand combat to riding atop moving vehicles. Despite being out of the game since 2008's Wanted, she's still got her girl power on. One thing I liked about this character is that she didn't use her sex appeal (by way of revealing or skin-tight clothes) to get the job done. She just kicked ass on her own. I found Schreiber to be just as creepy as always. For some reason, he just gives off that vibe to me. Even though I realize this is an action movie and erratic camera movement creates a sense of urgency, I found some of the shots distracting. It's hard to see the true beauty of some fights because the camera is shaking so much and so tight on the subjects. I long for the day when directors reintroduce the wide angle action sequences. C'mon directors! Take a page out of John Woo's action book. Also in this film is Chiwetel Ejiofor.

Watch It: For the wide array of action sequences that go nonstop.

Skip It: If you're susceptible to motion sickness.