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.

Gigantic

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: April 3, 2009

DVD Release Date: August 11, 2009

Plot 411: Brian has wanted to adopt a Chinese baby all his life and he's not sure how his new girlfriend will fit into the picture.

Review: I have no idea what the point of this movie is and would probably not recommend it to anyone. It strives for that cool, indie feel that examines the characters rather than builds up large set pieces. However, even the characters are difficult to grasp and I didn't feel connected to any of them. Brian (Paul Dano), a mattress salesman, is in the process of trying to adopt a Chinese baby. He's only 28 years old and single, but he's diligent in this desire for adoption. While at work he meets a girl named Happy (Zooey Deschanel) and they develop a relationship. Brian is awkward and weird. Happy is quirky and cute but also flighty and lost. She comes from wealth and John Goodman plays her father who gives her anything she wants. She doesn't have a real job and because of him, she doesn't really need one. Throughout the film Brian is constantly getting into altercations with an unidentified man (Zach Galifianakis). The purpose of this is completely unclear to me. Has anyone else seen this and do you know what the hell's happening?

Watch It: Maybe if you like Deschanel's quirky character? However, I didn't even find her very likable in this film. I thought she was much better in (500) Days Of Summer.

Skip It: Because it's pretty much a waste of your time.

Coyote Ugly

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: August 4, 2000

DVD Release Date: January 16, 2001

Plot 411: Jersey girl tries to make it in the big city as a songwriter and experiences city life in all its glory.

Review: This is one of those "follow your dream" type movies that, of course, has a happy ending. Despite the predictability of the plot, I really liked this film because of the great soundtrack. At the time, the cast was made of a variety of unnotables except for John Goodman. However, some of the cast seem to have gone on to bigger and better things, including Tyra Banks, Bridget Moynahan and Maria Bello. Unfortunately, the lead couple haven't really broken out into the biz as I had hoped. I suppose Hollywood is a tough mistress to please. The movie is about a girl (Piper Perabo) trying to live her dream of becoming a songwriter. But when she moves to New York, she discovers many obstacles to achieving that dream. Luckily for her, she meets a strapping young stud (Adam Garcia) who believes in her and they live happily ever after. Well sort of.

Watch It: For unforgettable tunes and some incredible dance numbers atop the bar.

Skip It: If you're not one for weepy romances.

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