Peter And Vandy

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: October 9, 2009

DVD Release Date: February 9, 2010

Plot 411: One Manhattan couple's saga of love and all of its ups and downs.

Review: Jason Ritter and Jess Weixler play the starring roles in this indie romantic comedy about love. Every aspect of their relationship is covered - from the awkward first moments to comfortable coupledom - and filmed in a way that captures the good and bad in equal measure. The plot unfolds in medias res and continues non-linearly so you're never quite sure which space in time is the present time. This technique adds to the uncertainty that is inherent in many relationships. Ritter's performance is charming in all his stumblings and sometimes socially inept behavior. Weixler comes across as having certain insecurity and control issues. Both characters are lovable because they are genuinely like people you know. While you stare at the trainwreck that is their relationship, you also see how meant to be they are. This film captures modern-day romances in an honest, unforgiving light that appealed to me. I recognized many people I know in these characters and situations that it's almost scary how realistic this movie is.

Watch It: For another amazing performance by Ritter. I hope he continues his indie trend and stays away from all the mainstream B.S. that's out there.

Skip It: Because there's no real point to the film. It's like every other relationship you know with an indefinite start and end point.

Good Dick

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: October 10, 2008

DVD Release Date: January 26, 2009

Plot 411: A movie store clerk is intrigued by one of his customers.

Review: This is the oddest film I've seen in a while, but in some weird way it's also the sweetest. I enjoyed it even though I didn't totally get it. It has that indie charm and characters that are so true to life. It's not Hollywood fluff. Could this movie be considered mumblecore? Possibly, but with Jason Ritter playing the male lead it's a little hard to say. The plot is about a guy (Ritter) who works in a video store and a girl (Marianna Palka) who comes in every night to borrow erotic videos. The guy (who doesn't have a name in the film) is intrigued by the girl (no name for her either) and does all types of things to start a relationship with her. He's lonely in L.A. and financially strapped despite having a job. His only real friends are his co-workers, and other than the video store, he has no life. The girl is dealing with her own problems, problems that seem very twisted psychologically and emotionally. She's a tough girl who has built walls to protect herself. But what is it that she's afraid of? The guy desperately tries to uncover this mystery with the hope that she'll return his affection. Somehow, it doesn't seem very likely so why does he continue to try? Is he just a masochist? Is she just a mental institution patient?

Watch It: For a film that confuses your emotions.

Skip It: If the mention of erotica has you stumbling backward. But, just so you know, it's not really the main plotline.