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**** STARS

Every so often a film will come out and its universal charm and message captivates a generation with its unique message. Pixar’s “Wall-E” is that film that breaks down barriers and touches people at their core. The beauty about Pixar’s films is that they illicit emotions from inanimate objects and silence, this films first 30 minutes proves that a lot can be said without saying anything at all.

I could pick this film apart in so many fun, thought provoking ways but that would be the over analytical adult in me trying to make sense of this simple little story of two robots coming together and learning how to love. There are no heavy handed spiritual revelations or religious undertones in this movie. This is a cartoon where you must suspend disbelief and the idea of a “soul” becomes irrelevant. The story unfolds in such a fluid and realistic fashion that you never once pause in disbelief.

The sweet story of a sensitive robot and his search for love and friendship may sound simple but Pixar’s distinct brand of storytelling gives this animation an edge none of their other movies have. There are some dark themes in “Wall-E” that had me pausing and realizing how deep some of these messages truly are. The way Pixar depicts the catastrophic environmental damage and the evolution of the human body in the future doesn’t depict people in the same loveable manner as the mish mash of robotic characters seen on screen.

I think that animation allows people to learn different things that live action sometimes can miss and this love story is one of a kind and wholly original. I will echo what many critics are saying that this film will garner a Best Picture Academy Award nod. Not since “Beauty & the Beast” was released over 15 years ago has another other animated film been worthy of the nomination. As of right now this is my favorite film of 2008 and I doubt any other film will move me more.

WATCH THE “WALL-E” MOVIE TRAILER BELOW:

** 1/2 STARS

Over 5 years ago Ang Lee released his version of the “Hulk” to scathing reviews and little fanfare from audiences. His looney translation of the popular comic angered fans and made the film a phenomenal flop. Edward Norton’s recent outing as “The Incredible Hulk” is a fun ride but the pay off at the end feels empty. But this time around I walked out of the theater much more satisfied then the last time I saw the big green monster on the silver screen.

Most of the excitement and thrills in this film come from Edward Norton’s testosterone charged action scenes as Bruce Banner. Once the “Hulk” comes on the screen the pay off doesn’t feel worth the wait. The visual effects in this movie don’t cohesively exist with the real life actors and backdrop they feel more like animation than CGI. When the “Hulk” is on screen he doesn’t look real and at times he borders on looking cartoonish.

The performances in “The Hulk” save it from sinking into campy B-movie territory. Liv Tyler does a sweet job as Betty Ross the love interest to Bruce Banner. One of the most fun aspects of this movie is watching Tim Roth chew up the scenery as the evil Emil Blonsky (who later turns into “Abomination”). Edward Norton is terrifically cast as Banner but the rest of the script doesn’t rise above being silly and familiar.

If you put some of the visual styles aside, this movie was fun and entertaining. I would be lying if I didn’t say that I was a tad bit disappointed by this latest rendition of the popular green superhero. I can’t help but feel that a truly incredible “Hulk” film is still waiting to be made. Norton’s sexy charismatic personality and acting aren’t enough to make this film a classic along the lines of “Spiderman 2″ or “Batman Begins”.

** 1/2 STARS

After the huge success of “The Sixth Sense” M. Night Shyamalan has been under intense scrutiny with each new release. Many would say the quality of his work has deteriorated with each new film he puts out. I am a big fan of Shyamalan’s distinct brand of direction and storytelling. Unfortunately this movie’s pay off is not as fulfilling as his other big hits “Signs” and “Unbreakable”, this movie fits somewhere between his least successful movies “The Village” and “Lady in the Water”.

The main think that hampers down this film is the terrible acting by Mark Wahlberg as a “Science teacher”; it was so bad it became distracting during some of the more intense scenes. Shyamalan’s realistic and at times hilarious dialogue saves him from completely ruining the entire movie. Zooey Deschanel does a good job as Wahlberg’s constantly brooding girlfriend and keeps Wahlberg from completely missing the mark. But as usual in a film by Shyamalan, the supporting characters and various extra’s have some of the best moments in “The Happening”.

I can’t say too much without giving away Shyamalan’s signature “hook” or “twist”, but this one is subtlety creepy and very effective. The “R” rating leads way for Shyamalan to show us his spin on gore and I have a sinking suspicion that he could put out an awesome horror movie on the scale of Brian De Palma’s “Carrie” or Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining”. The graphic death scenes are what make me recommend this film the most.

Once again M. Night is dividing audiences with his unique style of storytelling with “The Happening”. I happen to like his imaginative and childish look at life. This movie is like a pleasant (and disturbing) long drawn out episode of “The Twilight Zone” or “Tales From The Crypt” episode and for fans of the quirky genre this will be satisfying. As far as summer movie fare goes this was a nice chilling ride at the cinema.

WATCH “THE HAPPENING” MOVIE TRAILER BELOW:

*** 1/2 STARS

I was not only surprised by how much I liked “Kung Fu Panda” I was blown away by the non-stop action and originality of the whole film. The computer animation is only rivaled by that of the magicians at Pixar. The fresh, vibrant and crisp images on the screen are spectacular, it only helps that the story and characters are just as fresh and exciting.

This comedy is truly about story and it doesn’t rely on pop culture references, fart jokes or screwball antics to tell it’s tale. The action sequences will take your breath away they are so captivating. The ancient Chinese setting and wide array of various talking animals makes this a creative and superb piece of family entertainment. This is one of the best computer animated films I have ever seen.

The voice work by Jack Black as “Panda” and Dustin Hoffman as “Master Shifu” is absolutley superb and side splittingly hilarious. All of the dialog in this movie is snappy and crackling with wit and new jokes. There is not one frame in this film that feels familiar or recycled from other animated features. “Kind Fu Panda” is a stand alone piece of entertainment who’s charm can reach all ages.

The underlined themes and plot in “Panda” are perfect for little ones, and it doesn’t come of preachy or heavy handed. All of the gorgeous animation and terrific character work make this cartoon a shoe-in for a Best Animated Oscar nomination. I can easily call “Kung Fu Panda” one of my favorite films of 2008 so far, rush to go see this one folks!

WATCH THE EXTENDED “KUNG FU PANDA” TRAILER BELOW:

*** STARS

I have seen every episode of the “Sex & the City” cable TV series. I am a die hard fan. So if you don’t care for the TV show then there is no way this film will change your mind and win you over. This is a film made for the fans and it works as a great companion to the landmark HBO series. If this movie were cut down to make 5 episodes, they would be the best 5 episodes in the show’s 6 season lifespan.

Like a warm blanket or an overdue reunion with an old friend, the “Sex & The City” movie made me giddy with excitement within the first few moments when I heard the theme song during the opening credits. All 4 actresses slide into their most notable roles with ease and a comfortable precision that translates into superb acting and terrific comedic timing by them all.

This film strikes all the right emotional notes and comedic punches. I found myself laughing out loud and taking mental notes of the many classic one-liners. The most endearing thing about the series and these characters is the strong bond between four friends. This movie is a greeting card to female friendships and independent women everywhere (and of course, their gay pals).

I felt that the “Sex & the City” movie was thoroughly enjoyable and it stayed true to the heart of all these characters that fans have come to love and know like the back of their hand. As the movie ended you started to get the feeling that this won’t be the last time we will see these characters on the big screen. The wit and integrity of the classic HBO show has only been heightened by this hugely successful big screen addition.

**1/2 STARS

“The Strangers” is not for people with weak stomachs and jittery nerves. From the first few beginning frames we get the sense that this film is serious and mean business. The drab art direction and frighteningly quiet moments in this film are what make it so unique. But when it comes down to the nitty gritty gore in “The Strangers” it all seems a bit familiar, like we’ve been there and done that before.

Many critics like this film because of the simple nature and (excuse the pun) execution of the horrific events that play out over one night. Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman play a dysfunctional couple who find out they actually do love each other after being tortured and scared shitless by masked intruders.

All of your classic horror film gimmicks and tricks are stuffed into this one and a half hour nerve racking snuff film; the skipping old timey record player, the masked serial killers, the slow moving victims and all of the “what the hell are you thinking” moments that frustrate horror movie fans.

The shocking and cruel ending in this movie makes it a stand out in the genre. In this age of horror porn slasher flicks with no point, “The Strangers” packs a punch that leaves you feeling satisfied and creeped out. The best kind of horror movies are the ones that you can’t shake after you leave the theater and “The Strangers” does a good job of traumatizing the viewer.

WATCH “THE STRANGERS” MOVIE TRAILER BELOW:

**1/2 STARS

It has taken over 20 years for the latest “Indiana Jones” to come to theaters, and except for the entire “buzz” that has surrounded it, “The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” just feels like another bloated big budget popcorn flick that is crushed under the weight of all of its own bells and whistles. I love the “Jones” franchise and I wanted this film to live up to the hype, but I couldn’t help but feel that this movie won’t elicite the same compulsive multi-viewings as it’s three predecessor’s do.

It is sad to say that the fuzzy memories, the familar characters and even John Williams familiar score can’t save “The Crystal Skull” from an over explained premise, silly plot drivers and an over the top ending. What this film has going for it is it’s sweet sense of humor and Harrison Ford’s charm. Even at his age, Ford is able to keep up with the non-stop action, making it look seamless. Also, Cate Blanchet was inspired casting as the evil Communist set on finding the crystal skull’s secrets.

There were three key scenes in “Indiana Jones 4″ that had me rolling my eyes and feeling as if Spielberg created blasphemy, but I can’t give these spoilers away on this blog. Let’s just say that the addition of Shia Labeouf may have made this movie just a tad too silly for its own good. The action is superb, it’s the quieter moments that had me cringing.

I walked out of this movie happy to see old friends, but also asking myself “was the whole thing even necessary”? Lastly, the movie was way too long and it felt forced at points in the middle, but the whole nostalgia behind the franchise and character make it worth the viewing experience on the big screen. I’m just afraid that out of all 4, this one will not hold up to the test of time.

*** STARS

As a youngster I was in love with the Narnia books. At the time my innocent mind made no connections to the thinly veiled Christian propaganda that C.S. Lewis is so famous for incorporating into the series. Thankfully “Prince Caspian” doesn’t have the same obvious winks and nudges to the story of Jesus and that makes this film a much more authentically fun ride.

The one thing this fantasy series has going for it is the stellar performances by its leading young cast. The four kids in this film have an abundance of charm and wholesome good looks that shows off their ability to react to non existent talking animals in front of a green screen. The effects and make up in this film definitely take a supporting role and they are worth an Oscar nomination come next award season.

The story of “Prince Caspian” takes place 1,200 years after the events of the first movie which allows us to be introduced to a whole new crop of cool creatures and characters. The focus is less on the magic in this movie and more on the mythology of Narnia which makes “Caspian” feel more involved than the rushed set up of “The Lion, the Witch and The Wardrobe.”

The epic battle scenes and “kid friendly” violence in “Caspian” are what movie geeks will really love about this movie. Although we see people being lanced by swords, pummeled by arrows and mauled by talking animals there is no blood shed to be found. After all this is Disney violence folks.

I enjoyed this movie quite a lot a summer popcorn flick, and I was very pleased with the set up for the next film being released in 2010 titled “Voyage of the Dawn Treader.” The “Narnia” films will never be “Lord of the Rings” which is fine. This sort of fun child like fantasy has its place for kids and adult film buffs alike. As a fan of the book series at least I can say it is faithful to the story and what more can you ask?

** STARS

I am sad to announce that the first official disappointment of the summer season is here, although it doesn’t land with a thud, the distinct whimper of a so-so movie can be heard within the 2 hours of this film. The idea of a “Speed Racer” movie sounded like a great idea, but even the creators of “The Matrix” (The Wachowski Brothers) can’t muster up enough imagination to keep me on the edge of my seat with their latest outing.

If it wasn’t for the eye popping visuals, some semi-good acting (by Emille Hirsch and Matthew Fox) and the neon drenched special effects I wouldn’t be able to halfway recommend this movie at all. “Speed Racer” eventually becomes hampered by its paper thin plot and slapstick moments with Chim-Chim and Speed Racer’s annoying little brother Spritle.

I wouldn’t be surprised if young adults and teens flock to this film, it is being marketed like soda or candy, and much like those things this movie is the equivalent of junk food. Its fun to consume in the beginning, but it eventually leaves you feeling a bit empty and loaded down. It’s a shame that the visuals became the selling point and main gimmick in “Speed Racer, with a great story this could have been an exhilarating ride.

This summer is chock full of enormous films and I’d like to save you some cash by recommending that you wait to see this movie until it comes out onto DVD. If you want to be dazzled by great effects and get the full summer experience from your blockbuster’s then rush out to see “Iron Man”, because “Speed Racer” doesn’t deliver on the goods it promises.

*** STARS

A lot of people will dismiss “Baby Mama” as a fluffy chick flick based on the previews. As a huge fan of both Tina Fey and Amy Poehler’s I am so glad to report that this film is a sweet comedy with a huge heart and lots of charm. The jokes in this movie are nowhere near as raunchy or dirty as they are in recent adult comedies like “Forgetting Sarah Marshall”, but they work in creating lots of laughs.

It is Poehler and Fey’s chemistry alone that lifts this film from mediocrity and DVD obscurity. “Baby Mama” has been certified as a hit and critics have generally been won over by the duo’s hilarious banter and onscreen relationship. I think both ladies have a great chance at becoming decent film actresses if they pick roles that compliment their spot on comedic timing.

Tina Fey and Greg Kinnear also have a cute and believable relationship in this movie as love interest’s that doesn’t take up too much screen time. The main focus in “Baby Mama” is always on the great one liners and Poehler’s clumsy down to earth performance as the white trash surrogate to Fey’s lonesome professional single woman.

Even though this summer is filled with all kinds of special effects extravaganzas and huge tent pole releases from the major studios, “Baby Mama” is the perfect choice for a side splitting hour and a half of fun in theaters. If you are looking for a simple old fashioned comedy with likeable characters this is a great way to cool off in a cram packed summer of glossy choices.

WATCH THE “BABY MAMA” MOVIE TRAILER BELOW:

*** 1/2 STARS

This summer is going to be a doozy! Already we are off to a surprise bang with the fast paced ultra charged superhero film “Iron Man” starring Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeff Bridges and Terrence Howard. With critics already calling this another “super hero summer” this movie will be hard to top. The fleshed out characters, hilarious dialogue and subtle special effects make “Iron Man” already one of the best comic book films ever made.

I was a bit hesitant when I heard Downey Jr. was cast as the drunken billionaire inventor Tony Stark. But as you will find out by watching this high octane action film, Downey Jr. carries the charisma and bubbly energy that is through out this film. Downey Jr. even bulked up to become the next big action star and it suits him well.

The chemistry between Paltrow and Downey is like a throw back to old school Hollywood. The hilariously flirty banter between them creates a great comic tone that keeps the movie from drowning in testosterone. Director John Favreau put a lot of heart and realism into these characters, which is different for a comic book movie. “Iron Man” sits right next to “Spider Man” as one of the most realistic and human movies about superheroes ever created.

In the next few weeks an avalanche of great looking movies will be forced upon the movie going public. “Iron Man” has already set the bar high for all other action films that dare to come out this summer. This film has already been deemed a classic by many fans and for good reason. The witty dialogue, likeable characters, the down played visuals and high energy make “Iron Man” a stand out in the genre.

** STARS

The summer movie season started with a stoned whimper this past weekend with the let down sequel to the cult pot smoking comedy “Harold & Kumar go to White Castle”. Unfortunately this movie is no where near the laugh out loud brilliance of its predecessor. But something tells me if you smoke enough weed this movie will satisfy your inner child who still laughs at fart jokes.

The premise of this film would have been funnier if the boys were shown gallivanting across Europe instead of being sent to Guantanamo Bay. The political humor in “Harold & Kumar 2″ feels like it is from another sophomoric comedy, it just feels out of place in a stoner buddy film.

The love story in this film takes over the boy’s endless search for the perfect stoner food, which was the plot for the first “Harold & Kumar” movie, and it ruins the sequel. Somehow this movie became a love story/romantic comedy which is just lame. I’d rather see the boys taking hits off a bong watching TV then hear them talk about girls.

The few jokes that do work in this film only do so because of the charming and moronic relationship between the titular characters. Kal Penn and John Cho are the only thing that keeps the rehashed jokes and familiar gags from sinking this film completely.

I love the silliness and random jokes in the original film, but this movie is just too scattered and ridiculous to be compared to the first. The only thing I can recommend this film for is just to see Neil Patrick Harris tripping balls on mushrooms…it’s worth the DVD rental alone.

WATCH THE “HAROLD & KUMAR 2″ TRAILER BELOW:

*** STARS

“Forgetting Sarah Marshall” was written by the film’s star Jason Segal (”Knocked Up” & “Freaks & Geeks”) and stars Kristen Bell (”Veronica Mars”), Paul Rudd, Russell Brand, Bill Hader (”Saturday Night Live”), Jonah Hill (”Superbad”), Mila Kunis (”The Family Guy” & “That 70’s Show”) and Jack McBrayer (”30 Rock”). This genius comedy is produced by current Hollywood comedy king Judd Apatow (”40 Year Old Virgin”).

Going into “Marshall” it was hard not to hold it up to Apatow brand name and compare it to his past work. I’m glad to report that the sweet and down to earth style we all have come to love from Apatow and his crew of actor’s is not only in tact, but this film is just as good as his best films. “Marshall” is already one my favorite films of 2008 and one the best comedies of the past ten years in my eyes.

Most of the warmth and belly laughs from this movie come from the fresh real guy charm of its star Jason Segal. Segal’s career is sure to sky rocket after this film’s word of mouth makes this another comedy sleeper hit for Apatow. Besides being hilariously funny, it’s also rather insightful, with some very smart dialog.

Props also go to Mila Kunis who gives a career making comedic performance as Segal’s love interest. The hilarious cast of supporting characters also make this an endearing and fresh adult comedy with all the right potty jokes to make it smart and silly. All I know is I had a smile on my face through almost every scene and laughed out loud more times than I can count. This is the perfect comedy to get adults ready for what looks to be a smoking summer movie season.

** 1/2 STARS

Besides “The Ruins” silly premise, the horror and gag inducing gore and intense action make this film a decent thrill ride for horror fans. This is the kind of film that will find an audience on DVD more than in theaters. Much like “Anaconda”, “The Ruins” has little substance but all the right scary movie tricks to make a cult film.

The actors and characters in this movie are pretty disposable, there is a blonde and a brunette and two hot boyfriends (their names are not important, trust me). For a horror movie, the amount of skin shown in “The Ruins” is pretty weak. The true fun in this movie comes from the dizzying over the top carnage and bloodshed.

For those of you who don’t know the obvious plot (duh!) of this film, the ancient Mayan ruins in the movie hold an evil blood thirsty secret; the plant life growing on it is alive…and hungry! Yes, you heard me right, man eating ancient plants. But what is truly kind of cool and great about this film is that most of the gore is human induced.

This movie has a lot of gore, and not just in a few scenes, but a lot. I recommend this movie to people who loved the horror movies “Cabin Fever”, “Turistas” or “The Descent”. “The Ruins” has that same campy over the top feeling those films did with enough bucket loads of blood and guts to satisfy any true horror movie geek.

WATCH “THE RUINS” MOVIE TRAILER BELOW:

GRADE: C-

Being an avid farce comedy film buff and collector I felt that I should go watch “Superhero Movie” for no other reason but to see Leslie Nielsen back in his element. The Zucker Brothers who produced this film also wrote and directed “Airplane!” the best farce ever made and “The Naked Gun” films. “Superhero Movie” is no where near as brilliant and funny as that classic but it has it’s moments that are best suited for a DVD rental.

The superhero film genre is ripe for poking fun at but somehow the director of this mish-mash of sight gags missed numerous opportunities that seemed pretty obvious. Instead the filmmakers of this comedy go for the current pop culture jokes and superhero film reenactments.

Other classic film comedy farces like “Top Secret”, “Spaceballs”, “Not Another Teen Movie”, and “Hot Shots” have enough brilliant gags and belly laughs to become timeless. For some reason the genre hasn’t been able to produce a winner since “Scary Movie 2.”

“Sueprhero” movie did contain a few really funny moments that make it a much more superior farce than “Epic Movie’, “Meet The Spartans” and “The Comebacks.” Still though this movie is badly acted and it doesn’t have anything worthy of multiple viewings. Watch “Superhero Movie” on cable when you’re looking for brainless fun with a handful of laughs.