Shakespeare In Love

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: December 11, 1998

DVD Release Date: December 7, 1999

Plot 411: Will Shakespeare has writer's block until he meets his love Viola, who inspires the play that would become Romeo and Juliet.

Review: After discovering his lover cheated on him, Will Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) is unable to write his next play. But, because the playhouse in which his plays are performed is in serious debt, he must sojourn on. He casts a young man named Thomas Kent, who is really a woman named Viola (Gweneth Paltrow), as the lead actor. However, he soon learns that she is a woman and they embark on a torrid love affair. This jump starts his writing juices and he finishes off the play. The play mirrors much of their doomed relationship though as Viola is already promised to someone else (played by Colin Firth). I love that this movie is filled with wit and laughter. They are able to incorporate many of Shakespeare's later plays through references or exact dialogue. It's a creative storytelling style, especially for drama nuts. But, even if you're not familiar with the bard's work, you'll still find this to be a highly entertaining and well-acted rom com. There's support from many superb actors, such as Geoffrey Rush, Judi Dench, Tom Wilkinson, Rupert Everett and even Ben Affleck (if you consider him superb).

Watch It: For a great interpretation of history, even if it's not completely accurate.

Skip It: Or hold off until you've read a bit of Shakespeare so you can get the jokes better.

Innocent Voices / Voces inocentes

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: November 10, 2004 (Puerto Rico) / October 14, 2005 (USA)

DVD Release Date: October 9, 2007

Plot 411: A young boy and his family are caught in the middle of the Salvadoran civil war of 1980.

Review: Based on the life of Oscar Torres, this movie focuses on the lives of innocent people who are caught in the crossfire of a civil war. Chava (Carlos Padilla) is an 11-year-old boy who lives with his mother, sister and brother. Chava's father left them when the war first broke out, forcing his mother to work nights while he stays home to care for his siblings. Despite still being a child, Chava is forced into adulthood as he watches the war develop from the sidelines. Each night the Salvadoran army and the guerrillas shoot up his home and surrounding neighborhood. Armed soldiers patrol the streets near his school. U.S.-backed government soldiers recruit 12-year-old boys for their army. The contrast between the youthful games Chava and his friends play and the violence and death that is happening around them is shocking. However, even in this unstable environment life goes on. It is amazing to see people adapt to such unthinkable circumstances. This is the true strength of the human spirit.

Watch It: Because it gives you a dose of life so unlike that of the average American's. It'll open your eyes.

Skip It: And get down to business. Google the civil war and read up on the real events.

Lyricist Lounge: Dirty States Of America

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: April 20, 2004

DVD Release Date: June 1, 2004

Plot 411: A doc about the evolution of Southern rap and its connection to the region's culture.

Review: This was a pretty interesting and raw look at the history and evolution of rap music and hip hop in the South. Interviews with game changers - both underground and Billboard chart toppers - gave really insightful anecdotes about the realities of the development of the music. Most interesting is the fact that many of the artists are probably millionaires without even signing with a major record label. The ingenuity and hustle that these artists have, combined with the talent and passion for the music, proves the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. Despite their comments that everything is slower in the south (especially when compared with places like New York or L.A., where most of the hip hop hoopla is), these guys are essentially making their millions and living under the radar. It's ingenius of them to avoid the politics and red tape of big corporations and go the independent route. I'm assuming they probably have less education than these Fortune 500 corporate schmucks but can most likely claim they are just as successful.

Watch It: If you're a music lover or just want to hear some bass-thumping beats.

Skip It: If you're really looking for a well-put-together doc as far as production goes.

The Young Victoria

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: December 18, 2009

DVD Release Date: April 20, 2010

Plot 411: An 18-year-old girl steps up to lead her country and finds herself pulled in different directions.

Review: This was a really unique look at the British monarchy because it was portrayed in a very relatable way. Emily Blunt stars as Princess Victoria, the sole heir to the throne. She is held under the thumb of her mother (Miranda Richardson), who is in turn ruled by her advisor Lord Melbourne (Paul Bettany). Her uncle, King Leopold of Belgium (Thomas Kretschmann), also has his hand in the pot and pushes his nephew, Prince Albert (Rupert Friend), upon her. The movie portrays Victoria as a willful and stubborn young woman. She was no wilting flower. She is unwilling to be treated like an infant or a female. She's quite empowered. I also found her relationship with Albert fascinating. His thorough support for her allowed her to have the confidence she need to rule the country. The set and costumes are amazing as they usually are in these period pieces. I cannot attest to the accuracy of the film or how it was portrayed, but I think it's a wonderfully new take on the royals. Also in this film are Jim Broadbent and Mark Strong.

Watch It: If you like history, fashion or politics.

Skip It: If you're completely uninterested in period pieces as there's no real action in this movie otherwise.

Hotel Rwanda

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: February 4, 2005

DVD Release Date: December 22, 2004

Plot 411: A man fights to keep his family safe and protect those who cannot protect themselves.

Review: Don Cheadle stars as Paul Rusesabagina in this movie based on the true story of one man's attempt to keep his family safe and save his fellow countrymen. When civil unrest breaks out into full-on war, Paul does all he can to save his family and friends from execution. Through bribes and other political corruption, he is barely able to keep everyone safe. As the danger becomes more imminent, Paul takes in orphans and other displaced people into the hotel while continuing the outward appearance of normalcy to dissuade any suspicions. This movie will tear at your heart and make your stomach twist into knots. It portrays violence, corruption, political upheaval and the human spirit. Before I saw this film, I only thought of Cheadle as the guy on the Ocean's Eleven movies. However, he completely owns this movie and this role. His performance here is such a departure from the bomb-loving Brit. Somehow, through his performance, you as an audience member walk away a changed person. It's as if you've actually lived through the turbulent times with him and have somehow managed to survive. It's amazing and you leave feeling grateful that these events did not happen to you. Also in this film are Nick Nolte, Sophie Okonedo, Joaquin Phoenix, Fana Mokoena and Jean Reno.

Watch It: For a moving experience that'll challenge your views on life.

Skip It: Because it really is hard to stomach all the senseless violence.

Munich

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: January 23, 2005

DVD Release Date: May 9, 2006

Plot 411: When Israeli athletes are slain at the 1972 Olympics, the Israeli government authorizes a secret group to eliminate those responsible for the massacre.

Review: Eric Bana plays Avner, a Mossad agent who was selected to lead an elite team of men to seek revenge for the killings in Munich. The men, who include a driver (Daniel Craig), a forger (Hans Zischler), an explosive expert (Mathieu Kassovitz) and a clean up man (Ciaran Hinds). One by one, targets are discovered through Avner's informant Louis (Mathieu Amalric). This movie is an intense revenge story based on true events that really gets you involved. At times, I found it hard to follow the plot. However, that's more my fault than anything else. I lack a full understanding of the events because a) I wasn't born yet and b) I'm just bad at historical stuff. The movie shows you how a battle can become sloppy due to highly explosive emotions. Fighting of any kind affects all players in significant manners that may not be fully realized during the experience and can only be recognized when it is too late. The psychological and emotional pressure the team felt is palpable and yet you understand their heated desires as well. Diplomacy would've been a welcome distraction I bet. I'm sure things didn't play out in real life as it did in the movie, but it's definitely gotta make you wonder about all the Black Ops happening in the world today. Do you really want to know about it?

Watch It: Because it's seriously really good.

Skip It: If you're one for historical accuracy. Steven Spielberg has apparently taken some liberties judging by the kinds of criticisms this movie has received.

Red Cliff / Chi bi

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: June 30, 2008 (South Korea) / November 25, 2009 (USA)

DVD Release Date: July 29, 2009 (Finland)

Plot 411: Two leaders join forces to fight against the corrupt Prime Minister.

Review: For the record, I watched the American release of this film. I hope to watch the international version and compare the differences. This film was epic in scale and was set during the Han dynasty. A power-hungry, self-appointed prime minister named Cao Cao forces the emperor's hand to decree war against two other clan leaders. Cao Cao seemingly does so for the prestige it will bring him, but we later find out it is all for a woman (an homage to Helen of Troy?). The clan leaders, Liu Bei and Sun Quan, decide to join forces to defeat the corrupt Cao Cao despite their severe shortage in warriors. Their main military men are strategist Zhuge Liang and viceroy Zhou Yu. This film is rivals the artistic beauty and plot of 300. It is able to capture the beauty and ugliness of war, the selfless sacrifice of soldiers and the skills of quality leaders. The large set pieces are amazing! Even though you can tell CGI is being used, the Chinese somehow make it look artistic rather than hokey. Starring in this film are Tony Leung, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Fengyi and Chang Chen.

Watch It: For its realistic battle

Skip It: Because you might want to watch the international version instead. I hear it's four hours long!

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.

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?"

Gangs Of New York

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: December 20, 2002

DVD Release Date: July 1, 2003

Plot 411: A battle between natives and immigrants erupts in the 1800s just as the Civil War breaks out.

Review: When Amsterdam (Cian McCormack) sees his father get killed by Bill the Butcher (Daniel Day-Lewis), he vows to seek revenge and take up his father's cause. As an adult Amsterdam (Leonardo DiCaprio) returns to New York and learns the inner workings of Bill's illegal activities by becoming one of his henchmen. A weird father-son relationship develops despite Amsterdam's hatred for the man. As he becomes closer to Bill, he is privy to the power that Bill wields and the influence he has on the community. He also learns that many of his father's compatriots are now in Bill's pocket. During this time, Amsterdam also falls for a girl named Jenny (Cameron Diaz) who is a pickpocket and con artist. But, when he learns that she is Bill's on-again-off-again companion, he feels betrayed. When his identity is revealed, Amstedam calls Bill out to a formal fight and bloodshed ensues. This is an action-filled historical piece based on a non-fiction book about the times. Prejudice (or patriotism depending on your take) runs rampant within the Five Points area of New York. Unethical politicians run a corrupt system and have control of the citizens. As the Civil War commences, the warring between local and foreign gangs flares with passion to create a gritty, bloody battle. The grime and filth of the city is captured nicely in the wardrobe and set dressing. Day-Lewis portrays Bill the Butcher with tremendous ferocity and intimidation for a really great performance. DiCaprio is also magnetic and many of his monologues make you want to join his cause.

Watch It: For a rare performance by Day-Lewis. The actor is very cautious about the roles he accepts, but he seems to make very good choices as the characters he plays are all very strong.

Skip It: If you're not into a bloodbath.

Cinderella Man

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: June 3, 2005

DVD Release Date: December 6, 2005

Plot 411: During the Depression, one man came to represent the fighting spirit of Americans everywhere.

Review: James Braddock (Russell Crowe) is an aging boxer whose time in the ring has seemingly come to an end when he breaks his hand. He is forced to take any job he can get as times are tough and money is sparse. His wife Mae (Renee Zellweger) is both relieved and worried with the turn of events. She disliked the danger and violence of the fighting, but without it, money is even harder to come by. In a twist of fate, James' manager Joe Gould (Paul Giamatti) offers him a chance to make a little money against a contestant ranked number two in the world. An underdog all the way, James surprises everyone with a knockout. He continues to win and slowly makes his way up to the number one contender Max Baer (Craig Bierko). With nothing else to bolster their spirits, Americans everywhere soon get behind James' amazing rise. He becomes a shining light during a time that is filled with darkness. Will James be able to beat the odds by rising to the top one more time? This film was pretty emotional and upsetting, but I suppose it is a good representation of the life and times of those who lived through the Great Depression. People were really struggling and survival became a daily task. Putting food on the table to feed hungry mouths became a priority above all else. During this time of struggle, people needed a hero and James Braddock came to represent one for Americans.

Watch It: For a movie based on the true story of one of America's most inspirational, but least known, athletes.

Skip It: If you think inspirational sports movies are for saps.

The Passion Of Joan Of Arc / La passion de Jeanne d'Arc

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: April 21, 1928 (Denmark) / March 29, 1929 (USA)

DVD Release Date: November 9, 1999

Plot 411: The recreation of the capture, trial and death of Joan of Arc.

Review: Silent films are not for everyone. You either love them or hate them. I didn't like this one much, despite the engaging subject matter. The film's pacing just crawled along, and it was hard to stay awake. I had to pause the movie several times throughout the viewing to get up and walk around or else just nod off to sleep. Despite this, I think the movie is pretty well-made, especially for its time. The acting of Maria Falconetti as Joan of Arc is very moving and, at times, completely amazing. I loved the tight shots that focused on her face. Emotion just poured out of her. The movie also seemed less like a movie and more like a play. The way some of the scenes were shot made you feel like you were at the theater and watching the action live. It was almost like a pasion play in its stark set dressing and muted clothes.

Watch It: To experience a classic piece of film history.

Skip It: If you need all the loud crashing sound effects found in movies like Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen.

Public Enemies

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: July 1, 2009

DVD Release Date: TBD

Plot 411: The story of John Dillinger and how he motivates J. Edgar Hoover to create the F.B.I.

Review: Johnny Depp plays John Dillinger, a notorious bank robber during the 1930s who was seen as a threat by law enforcement officials and a celebrity by the public. Dillinger and his friends planned and executed bank heists across the nation while the F.B.I.'s Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale) tracked him down by the orders of J. Edgar Hoover (Billy Crudup). This film seemed to delve deeper into Dillinger's character to uncover the real man. I don't know if any of it is true, of course, but it really felt more like an introspective documentary than a shoot 'em up gangster film. Because of this, the beginning was pretty slow going as if trying to build sympathy for the character. Despite being a killer and bank robber, Dillinger is also portrayed as a protective and respected friend; a showman and master publicist; and a loyal and trustworthy lover. His love interest Billie is played by Marion Cotillard. She does a good job of conveying the inner turmoil of a woman who is tempted to give in to her desires for excitement and love and embrace all the consequences that go along with that choice. Also making an appearance in this film are Stephen Dorff, Channing Tatum and Giovanni Ribisi.

Watch It: For a refreshing new look at Depp.

Skip It: If you're looking for a really good gangster flick with tons of machine gun action.

Defiance

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: December 31, 2008

DVD Release Date: June 2, 2009

Plot 411: A group of brothers lead Jews into the forest toward salvation and fight against German soldiers in World War II.

Review: The courageous story of the Bielski brothers hasn't been told before, and this makes the film that much more important historically speaking. The movie stars Daniel Craig (Tuvia), Liev Schreiber (Zus) and Jamie Bell (Asael) as three of four brothers who helped save over a thousand Jews during the war. Despite their great accomplishments, somehow the emotion and significance of the plot doesn't really seem to translate well. You'd think I would feel very connected to these men and really root for their success. But I didn't feel it. The movie didn't draw any emotions out of me. Yes, intellectually I realized that they were in unique circumstances and were still able to overcome adversity, but I didn't feel emotionally connected to the characters. I don't know if that reflects more poorly on the film or on me. What the film did do well is to capture brilliant moments of cinematography that made you forget what you a war film. Whether it is sunlight shining through trees onto people's faces or the soft-covered trees in the middle of winter, the movie was able to capture a real artistic vision. The contrast between the violence and this beauty is ironic.

Watch It: For a new historical perspective that combats stereotypical ideas of Jews as victims. This movie shows that they were strong and resisted what was being done to them even if the odds were against them.

Skip It: If you're looking for a war movie with a lot of outrageous special effects. The bombings and shooting in this movie skew toward realism.

Valkyrie

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: December 25, 2008

DVD Release Date: May 19, 2009

Plot 411: During World War II, a group of politicians and military officials plot to kill Adolf Hitler and save Germany.

Review: Not being a history or war buff, I hadn't known prior to watching this movie that there were actually 15 assassination attempts on Hitler and that he survived them all. I don't know if that was due to his own luck, cunning or tight inner circle who protected him. Despite the failures, it's truly amazing that men within Hitler's camp would be brave enough to commit such treason knowing that he was simply nuts. I suppose difficult times bring out the best in people, and WWII was definitely more than a difficult time. Still, there is no guarantee that someone would be willing to risk his life and that of his family's for the greater good. The fact that these men did just that is a testament to the human spirit. The movie focuses on Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg (Tom Cruise) and a group of men trying to save what is left of "sacred Germany." It's based on a true story, which makes their actions even more unbelievable. One problem I had with this movie was simply being able to distinguish the characters from one another. There were so many uniformed men in kahoots that it was hard to keep track who was supposed to do what. Is he a good guy? Bad guy? Involved? Doesn't have a clue? This is definitely one of those flicks you need to watch more than once with the subtitles on. I was concentrating so hard on trying to ID everyone that I didn't even notice the costume, set dressing or landscape at all. The cast also includes Bill Nighy, Kenneth Branagh and Tom Wilkinson.

Watch It: For an easy access to history and what seems like a long overdue curtain call for unsung hero von Stauffenberg.

Skip It: If you watch movies as a means to escape real life. This movie gives you a cold hard look at life's brutal realities.

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Spartacus

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: October 7, 1960

DVD Release Date: March 31, 1998

Plot 411: A slave raises an army of slaves to fight against Rome for their freedom.

Review: This was one of those classics that I'd never seen before so that was the main reason I watched it. However, I ended up liking it a lot. The movie was restored from its original form so the color had that weird orange tint, but other than that it was fine. The plot, of course, is an epic and I can understand why it won so many awards. The struggle of one man with little education who influenced thousands is inspiring. This is one of the greatest stories that highlights the struggle of the poor (in this case, slaves). It's a real underdog-type movie. Needless to say, the acting is wonderful. Kirk Douglas plays the lead while his supporting crew includes Laurence Olivier, Tony Curtis and Jean Simmons. There are huge battle scenes with hundreds of extras and as you know, this is one of the main reasons I like watching these older films. No CGI extras needed. Each extra is decked out in his wardrobe and is an individual whether or not he is directly in front of the camera. The amount of technique and skill involved to shoot these types of scenes must be enormous, especially without the aid of modern computer technology. It makes this movie that much more incredible.

Watch It: For a look at classic film-making techniques telling an epic story on an epic stage.

Skip It: If your idea of a Roman battle is Troy (2004). If that's the case, just forget about it.

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Mongol

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 20, 2007 (Russia) / June 6, 2008 (USA)

DVD Release Date: October 14, 2008

Plot 411: The early beginnings of Genghis Khan.

Review: This was an awesome, awesome movie. The landscape was incredibly harsh but beautiful. It matched the lives and lifestyle of the characters. The movie follows Temujin throughout his early life. He lives the life of an orphan and slave just trying to survive from day to day, which makes it an even more astonishing feat that he became the ruler Genghis Khan. There are vicious battles and deaths but also a deeply moving love story. The movie really captures you and doesn't let you go. It's foreign, so you'll need to read subtitles. But, don't let that discourage you from viewing this one. It's moving in so many ways. The title role is played by Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano, who has also acted in Zatoichi.

Watch It: For a slice of the nomadic warrior's life.

Skip It: If you're an idiot. It's too good to miss.

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The Miracle Match / The Game Of Their Lives

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: April 22, 2005

DVD Release Date: September 12, 2006

Plot 411: The true story of the 1-0 U.S. win over England in their first match in the 1950 World Cup.

Review: As a former soccer player, I have a soft spot for films that promote the sport. But, because I used to play the game, I'm always very critical about whether or not the actors really know their stuff. This is probably the best movie I've seen that shows the audience the skill and technique needed to play the sport properly, and after some research I've discovered that many of the actors have a soccer background. Because of this, the film gets high marks right off the bat. In addition to realistic soccer action, the plot is moving. I didn't feel as emotionally caught up in it as Swimming Up Stream, but it is inspirational in a nationalistic way. The main characters are played by Gerard Butler and Wes Bentley. Other players include Louis and Costas Mandylor (who both played soccer professionally in Australia) and Zachery Ty Bryan. Surprisingly, Gavin Rossdale makes an appearance as one of the English players. That was really unexpected for me, but I suppose he's British and there probably isn't a single British kid who hasn't grown up with dreams of playing for Manchester United or one of the other pro teams.

Watch It: If soccer is your sport of choice, you have a knackering for history or just want to see Butler's athleticism. Butler really does make some impressive saves at the goal.

Skip It: If you prefer the other football in which case I'd recommend We Are Marshall or Remember The Titans.

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Beowulf & Grendel

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: September 5, 2005 (Canada) / January 6, 2006 (USA)

DVD Release Date: September 26, 2006

Plot 411: A clan of Danes are terrorized by a troll who kills their people.

Review: I've read this poem throughout my school years several times and never did I remember it as portrayed in this movie. That's not to say the movie is terrible though, and I'm not really a stickler for a word-for-word translation. For those who are, you might find the film to be ruining a masterpiece. I enjoyed it for what it was, liberal poetic license and all. The landscape of Iceland, where this movie was shot, is magnificent. It's all open spaces, green mountains, stark cliffs and black sand beaches. There is also an obvious moral to the story that the director intends audiences to learn by the end of the film, which is that when people judge others before they fully understand them we all suffer. Grendel is depicted as a beautifully forlorn creature, intelligent and more human, in fact, than the rest of the characters. The audience really empathizes with him by the end of the film. Mostly, I watched this film for Gerard Butler, but somehow he didn't really come through for me in this film. His character, Beowulf, is such a tragic hero.

Watch It: For a liberal interpretation of an old classic.

Skip It: If you find accents difficult to understand as there's no subtitles to read. Even though the accents were only British, Irish and the like, some parts were hard to understand. They used slang that my American ears had trouble following at times.

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The Duchess

Rating: PG-13

Movie Release Date: September 19, 2008

DVD Release Date: December 28, 2008

Plot 411: An aristocratic teen weds the Duke of Devonshire and embarks on journey toward adulthood.

Review: Normally I really dislike Keira Knightley particularly for her screeching, whiney voice. However, I think she did really well in this film as Georgiana, the duchess of Devonshire. She portrayed the duchess as an innocent girl who was excited to wed such a powerful and handsome man. The transition from this innocent teen to wise woman is pretty dramatic and Knightley really does deserve some kudos for it. The many injustices that she faced thoroughly enraged me. There were many a time when I shouted "just leave him already" to the screen. Of course, that is completely illogical considering the time was the 18th century when women had no rights at all. Ralph Fiennes was completely dispicable as William, the duke of Devonshire. Even when he manages to show a little remorse for the error of his ways, I still hated him. And I suppose that's what good actors do. They make you invest your emotions in the characters they portray. Well done. As far as historical accuracy, I have no clue if they got it right or not. I did enjoy the costumes and picturesque nature shots though. It's definitely intriguing to think that this movie is based on truth. Georgiana really was lightyears ahead of her time.

Watch It: For a sneak peek at the lives of 18th century aristocrats.

Skip It: If frou-frou dresses and corsets or guys wearing tights isn't your thing. And no, there's not duels or sword fighting like in The Three Musketeers.

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