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I don’t know about your neck of the woods, but it’s snowing here.  SNOW-ing.  Big, white, puffy flakes.  Sigh. 

On the bright side, it’s perfect weather to pop some corn, whip up some hot cocoa, snuggle in, and watch an exceptional film.  Don’t know what to watch?  Well, I’m glad you asked.  I highly recommend Les Choristes (“The Chorus”).  Yes, it’s a French film – but don’t be alarmed.  As long as you can read, it’s all good. 

You can check out my full review over at The Complete Woman blog …

Love and money … you have mixed them both.

Rating: R

Genre: Drama

The Lowdown:  Don’t miss this one

The gist:  Jamal Malik (Dev Patel), an 18 year-old from the slums of Mumbai, is one question away from winning India’s “Who Wants To Be a Millionaire?”  But what can a slumdog possibly know?  Arrested for cheating, Jamal must prove his innocence.  He does so by telling the story of his life in the slums, the escapades of his brother (Madhur Mittal), their adventures at home and on the run, and his never-ending love of Latika (Prem Kumar).  Each experience – each snapshot of his life – holds an answer to the questions.  And the reason the show is so important.

My take:  Slumdog Millionaire is loud, vivid, and edgy.  Danny Boyle (director) and Loveleen Tandan (co-director, India) not only tell us a story, they skillfully transport us to the moment.  They direct the sounds, the pace – practically the smells – in such a way that viewers are offered a rare opportunity to experience it all, without leaving the theatre.  Simon Beaufoy (screenplay; adopted from novel by Vikas Swarup) masterfully weaves the intricacies of life in a way that entertains.  And the actors are superb.  All of them.  From the main, adult actors – to the child actors (including Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail as youngest Salim; Ayush Mahesh Khedekar as youngest Jamal; and Rubiana Ali as youngest Latika).  It is one of those rare films where all involved deserve recognition.  No film is perfect; no doubt this one is no different.  However, it possesses such a hold, it’s difficult to notice what might be wrong.  All you can see is the life.  The story.  It’s a story of love and of destiny – a story of humanity.  And it should not be missed.   

An aside:  In case you’ve been in a hole for the last couple days, Slumdog Millionaire won 8 Oscars – including Best Motion Picture of the Year.

The time for revenge has come

Rating:  PG-13

Genre: Action - drama

Verdict: Don’t miss the action

The gist: As a CIA “Preventer” Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson) spent his life saving the world from catastrophe.  Now he’s trying to mend the one tragedy that slipped through – a broken relationship with his daughter, Kim (Maggie Grace).  After years of estrangement, it’s the toughest assignment he’s encountered.  Just when it seems there may be hope, Kim asks his permission to travel to Paris with a friend.  As an act of good will, he reluctantly agrees.  But his worst fears are soon realized when Kim and her friend Amanda (Katie Cassidy) are taken to be sold as sex slaves.  Now Bryan has no other choice but to take revenge.       

My take:  This movie is Liam Neeson. He carries the film.  His character is flawed, but immensely likeable.  When it comes to revenge you do not want to be on his bad side.  Just waiting to see what he will do next is a thrill in itself.  The action sequence is where Pierre Morel (Director) and the writers (Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen) appear strongest.  They keep the action flowing at a neck breaking pace.  A couple of surprises help maintain suspense – one of which actually produced audible gasps from the audience.  And let’s be serious.  That’s always some good times.  My only real complaint is the portrayal of Kim.  She’s gangly and spastic in the beginning – which might be expected for a teenager – but she never changes.  There’s one moment of raw emotion.  Then it’s over.  No, action flicks are not known for their realistic qualities – however, portraying situations with an air of realism helps suspend disbelief, making the movie all the stronger.  Still, despite flaws, Taken is one exhilarating ride.  See for yourself.             

Rating: R

Genre:  Drama

Verdict: Clint Eastwood knows how to make ‘em

The Gist:  Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) has two great loves: his wife and his 1972 Gran Torino.  Everything and everyone else manages to simply get beneath his skin.  When his wife dies things only get worse.  His family wants to stick him in a retirement home.  His wife’s priest, Father Janovich (Christopher Carley), is intent on keeping his promise to watch over him.  Thao (Bee Vang), the teenage son of the Hmong family next door, attempts to steal his Gran Torino as gang initiation.  And to add insult to injury, this old Korean War veteran’s neighborhood is being taken over by Asians.  But when he kicks gang members off his property – saving Thao from their clutches in the process – he suddenly finds himself a hero.  Whether he wants it or not.  And the road traveled that point forward proves despite racial slurs and ornery demeanor, actions speak louder than words. 

My Take: What is there to say but I loved this movie.  The storyline (Dave Johannson and Nick Schenk) provides a strong foundation with characters and situations relevant for today.  Chances are most of us have known a Walt Kowalski.  Most of us understand the threat gangs bring to our own backyard.  Most of us have our own demons to fight.  Add to that a strong screenplay (Nick Schenk) and intent direction (Clint Eastwood) and you’ve got a film that not only entertains, but offers valuable insight.  The characters are memorable.  The dialogue makes you laugh – if only because you cannot believe Kowalski actually said that.  Out loud.  Thao’s sister, Sue Lor (Ahney Her), has some great lines as well – as anything thrown at her, she can dish right back.  The same goes for Barber Martin (John Carroll Lynch).  And the symbolism says what words cannot.  Yes, there’s swearing a plenty and racial slurs to cover most everyone – but it’s there for a reason, rather than simply shock value.  Those are the characters – that’s how they talk.  Pure and simple.  There is also violence, but nothing graphic.  As a matter of fact, the worst act of violence is not actually shown – for which I am thankful.  It’s hard enough watching after the fact.  This, of course, proves you do not have to actually depict horrific events in order to get the gut-wrenching response.  All in all – from laughter to tears – this is a wonderful film that should not be missed.   

An aside:  If you are at all prone to tears, bring Kleenex.  Lots and lots of Kleenex.  I went to this movie with my mom and grama – so there were three generations of bawlers.  All in a row.  It was pitiful. 

Also, I’ve read reviews/comments that did little more than criticize the racism of this film.  It’s just one more example of the way political correctness has created a whole new form of bigotry.  No, racial slurs are not right – but if that is all you are taking away from this film, you are missing the point entirely. 

Life isn't measured in minutes, but in moments

Rating: PG-13

Genre: Drama/Fantasy/Romance

Verdict: A masterpiece

The gist:  Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt) was "born under unusual circumstances" - being born a man in his eighties and aging backwards.  We follow his extraordinary journey from birth at the close of WWI New Orleans to the 21st century.  We see the world through his eyes - from grand adventures to everyday life.  Through it all we discover that whether traveling forward or backward, all that makes up life - joys, disappointments, loves, dislikes, even our place in history - are but fleeting moments.  And the fact that they will not last, makes them all the more precious.        

My take:  The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is one of those rare films that has it all.  Is it far-fetched?  Yes.  Is it long?  Very.  But it's greatly entertaining.  For starters, it has a strong screenplay (Eric Roth and Robin Swicord); one that makes you laugh one minute, cry the next.  With a blend of past and present, fantasy and reality, it becomes more than a mere tale.  Fantastic as it may be, it's life.  This is reinforced with an amazing cast of actors, including Brad Pitt (Benjamin), Cate Blanchett (Daisy), Tilda Swinton (Elizabeth Abbott), Julia Ormond (Caroline), and Taraji P. Henson (Queenie) - just to name a few.  Finally, David Fincher (director) takes all the pieces and creates a visual masterpiece full of grandeur.   Put it all together and this film offers what few films can: a sweet escape from reality, while offering viewers valuable lessons for the very thing they seek to escape. 

An aside:  I will admit, I drug my feet when it came to this movie.  The thought of someone aging backwards was a little too much for me.  I'm all for fantasy, but that seemed just a little too weird.  But really, when you think of it - how many of us have said, "If I could just go back ... "  Well here you go.  So if you're not sure if you want to see the movie, take it from someone in your shoes - put your reservations aside and go to see the film.  Then take the message to heart - and savor each moment life affords you...   

When you can live forever, what do you live for?

Rating: PG-13

Genre: Fantasy/drama/romance

Verdict:  It doesn't suck (seriously; couldn't be helped!)

The gist:  Mid-way through her Junior year of High School Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart)moves from sunny Arizona - where she lived with her mom and her new husband - to the small, misty town of Forks, Washington - where she will live with her father.  Clumsy and shy, it doesn't take Bella long to capture the hearts of her fellow classmates.  All, it would seem, except for Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson).  Edward is like no one she has ever met - and it is more than his striking looks.  He's intelligent, witty, fast, strong, and pale-skinned.  He also reads minds, hasn't aged since 1918, and drinks blood to survive.  He's a vampire.  And so begins the story of the ultimate forbidden love - that between a vampire and his mortal.      

My take:  While not the best movie ever, Twilight is an enjoyable ride.  Like the books, the premise of a vampire loving a mortal draws you in.  The actors are aptly cast and strong in their roles.  My only real complaint in regard to acting is the lab scene:  Edwards looks as if he could puke.  I'm not sure if this was Pattinson's depiction or that of the director (Catherine Hardwicke) - but it was a bit unnerving.  Other than that, Stewart and Pattinson maintain a strong chemistry.  And the whole of acting talent proves with a tighter storyline, stronger dialogue, and enhanced special effects, this movie could have been pure magic.  Still, it serves as a fun diversion to real life.            

An aside:  Yes, I'm just now getting around to seeing the movie, but - and you might want to sit down before I tell you the next bit - I have yet to read the series.  GASP!  I know, I've failed in my girly duties.  If it makes you feel any better, it is top on my list for 2009 - right after I finish reading on the mound of books currently piled upon my nightstand.  Of course this will not help you now, since I cannot accurately compare the movie to the book.  However, I'm fairly certain the books is better than the movie.  Pretty sure. 

[Drum-roll please ... ]

Some stories are as vast as a continent …

Rating: PG-13

Genre: A little bit of everything – Action/Adventure/War/Romance/with a sprinkling of Comedy

Verdict: A modern-day-classic

The gist: Lady Sarah Ashley (Nicole Kidman), an uptight English aristocrat, travels to Australia with the intent to rid herself of a cattle ranch called Faraway Downs. Through a series of unforeseen circumstances, she partners with the roughhewn Stock-man Drover (Hugh Jackman) and begins a journey of epic-proportions. It is a journey that will include greedy cattle barons, unforgiving landscapes, racial injustice, and overall perilous circumstances; a journey that will cross the boundaries of love and hate, war and peace. Through it all she will learn that the place to which you think you belong, may be vastly different than where you truly belong.

My take: This movie gives the essence of a classic. Yes, it’s long – but Baz Luhrmann (Director) packs a lot in those 2 hours and 35 minutes. Too much? It may be argued. But despite a few moments in the beginning where you are trying to catch up, it’s easy to follow. The writers – Stuart Beattie, Baz Luhrmann, Ronald Harwood, and Richard Flanagan – offer a little something for everyone. Setting the story in the 1930’s and 40’s, as well as tying it together with another classic, lends to the old time feel. And the wealth of acting talent rivals the scope of the work. To name a few: David Wenham’s performance of Neil Fletcher is reminiscent of an old-time villain. Brandon Walter’s portrayal of the half-caste boy, Nulla, manages to break your heart and turn right around and make you smile. Hugh Jackman makes a very good cowboy (and he caused several women in the audience to inhale audibly when he walked into the “ballroom.”). Nicole Kidman steals the show in the first part of the movie. And David Gulpilil strikes a regal King George. Is the film perfect? No. But it’s larger than life and entertaining. It’s all that a good epic should be – a vast setting, a long journey, love, peril, heroic deeds … a search for home. All wrapped in a piece of history that must never be forgotten.

An aside: I read a review that insisted this movie fails to live up to old-fashioned or classic films, due to inflated acting and sappy scenes. So the question begs to be asked: has this person ever watched an old movie? All classics have a hint of drama or sap – but that’s part of their charm. Pity everyone can’t appreciate it …

Feelings get you killed.

Rating: PG-13

Genre: Western

Verdict: Keep on a-ridin’…

The gist: Two infamous lawmen (Ed Harris and Viggo Mortensen) are hired by the town of Appaloosa to keep the town safe from the evil rancher, Randall Bragg (Jeremy Irons). Having worked alongside one another, keeping peace, town after town, year after year, they are more than competent for the job. But then Ms. Allison French (Renee Zellweger) pulls into town and the line of law and love begins to blur.

My take: It’s never a good sign when you wonder when-in-the-world a movie is going to end. And I felt that way a good part of the movie. It’s not that it was so very bad. As a matter of fact, it has a lot going for it – a strong cast, promising storyline, opportunity for strong character development. There are a couple elements of surprise and an amusing line here or there, but overall it fails to rise to the occasion. The overall pace of the movie is slow. The tagline doesn’t really fit the storyline. And while both Mortensen and Harris provide strong performances, there is still not quite enough for viewers to invest in. For example, the story is grounded in the friendship between the two law men, Virgil Cole (Harris) and Everett Hitch (Mortensen) – but I felt more intrigued by the relationship between Hitch and his “whore” Katie. A successful western must have gritty adventure and strong characters as real as the baked soil on which they trod. They bring the wild-west alive – as they draw to a close you feel as though you too could tame the open plains. Sadly, the only thing I felt when this movie ended was a hint of relief.

An aside:  I will say I'm feeling some love for the official website...

Never leave your partner behind.

Rating: PG

Genre: drama-romance

Verdict: See it; live it

The gist: As a firefighter, Lt. Caleb Holt (Kirk Cameron) is a hero to everyone, but his wife (Erin Bethea). After ten years of marriage, it seems their relationship is little more than a heap of ashes. Before he files for divorce, Caleb’s father (Harris Malcom) challenges him to The Love Dare. Each day, for 40 days, he must he must perform a selfless act of love. Despite Caleb’s aversion to his father’s newfound faith, he agrees. And as he goes thru the steps, he begins to see anew that fireproof doesn't mean the fire will never come. It means when [it does] … you will be able to withstand it.

My take: Fireproof is a good movie, with a great message. The cast is made up of volunteers; and while it's obvious many are not professionals, others shine.  Kirk Cameron gives a strong performance as Caleb Holt. Ken Bevel, as Michael Simmons, also deserves recognition. His performance in the train incident is so convincing I actually gasped – out loud – and had to avert my eyes (which was a tad humiliating, I might add). In addition, the actors who play his neighbors, fellow fire fighters, and Catherine’s co-workers provide the much needed comic relief for the film. Lastly, Christian films tend to waffle between sappy and preachy. While Fireproof has elements of both, it remains a joy to watch. And if you allow it, it just might strengthen your marriage. How many big budget films can boast that?!

An aside: The premise of this movie has sparked a book, The Love Dare. Have I read the entire book myself? Um, no, no I have not. But I know the movie makes some very strong points – and I read the sample chapter. That said, I highly recommend this book for anyone who is married … for marriage counseling … for wedding presents … basically, I recommend this book all around!

Nothing's as big as your first love.

Rating: PG

Genre: Comedy-romance

Verdict: Can’t help falling for this one

The gist: Ten-year-old Gabe (Josh Hutcherson) has it all together.  He has his loving -albeit dysfunctional - parents Adam (Bradley Whitford) and Leslie (Cynthia Nixon), his friends, and his sports.  He's living the good life.  Then Rosemary Telesco (Charlie Ray) walks into his karate class - and everything changes.  Sure, he's known her since kindergarten, but suddenly he sees her with different eyes.  In a blink he feels the awe and misery that is first love.  And New York will never be the same ...  

My take: I’ll be honest. Renting this movie was not my idea. After all, who wants to watch 11-year-olds get more action than you? EXACTLY. But from the moment the movie began, I was hooked.  Jennifer Flackett (writer) and Mark Levin (director) display a fine talent in capturing first love and all its complexities.  This film is much like a time machine - taking you back to those days of innocence.  It beautifully conveys the humor, exhilaration, and complete-and-utter despair of first love.  And suggests to those who have found true love: despite the hardship, disappointment, and sorrow it may bring, love is worth fighting for ...

One ordinary guy is giving the candidates a reason to run.

Rating: PG-13

Genre: Comedy-drama

Verdict: I’d vote for this one

The gist: Bud Johnson (Kevin Costner) is a good guy in a bad place. His wife left him and their twelve-year-old daughter, Molly (Madeline Carroll). They live in a trailer, on a dirt lot, in a little town called Texaco, New Mexico. As you might expect, Bud has a dead-end job, he drinks too much, and his daughter is the adult in the family. But by a freak series of events, “Bud’s” vote does not go thru. And since his will be the deciding vote in the presidential election, Bud suddenly finds himself the voice of America.

My take: If Swing Vote has one thing, it's heart. Bud is the quintessential loveable loser. He’s a mess - and you'd hate him if he weren't so dad-gum likeable.  This, no doubt, is due largely to Costner’s depiction.  Of course, the real star of the show may very well be Madeline Carroll.  She does an exceptional job playing Bud's daughter, Molly.  Kelsey Grammer, Stanely Tucci, and Nathan Lane are always a lot of fun to watch; and Dennis Hopper actually does a decent job of being a likeable sort of fellow.  I suppose, if we were to be fair we should give kudos to most of the cast ... for depicting less-than-perfect people, trying to figure it all out. 

Swing Vote manages to handle some very serious issues with a light hand.  I can tell you now, the audience laughed ... out loud ... throughout the movie.  Yet anyone paying attention will easily see the heart of the matter by the end. 

In a nutshell, I would recommend this film.  No, it will never win any awards.  But sometimes those are the most enjoyable anyway ...   

An aside: I’m always a bit leery of a politically centered film. One political stance always seems to be favored – to the extreme – making the other side seem wretched, at best. This was not the case with Swing Vote. Sure, the candidate’s platforms were polar opposites – but when it came down to it, they both had a running chance. They were both flawed, and yet they both held promise. And so it is that this movie, in many ways, mirrors life. We are only human. We're flawed.  All of us.  When it comes to the election, we may not know which candidate is most truthful in his campaign … who will stand to their convictions when push comes to shove … who will be the better leader. We can, however, understand the issues, discuss the issues, know the issues important to us and those we love - then fight for those.  We can do our part, give our best.  And if the candidates are worthy of anyone's vote, they will do the same. 

A mother. A daughter. Three possible fathers. Take a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget.

Rating: PG-13

Genre: Comedy-romance-musical

Verdict: Take a chance on it

The gist: Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) lives with her mom (Meryl Streep) on an idyllic Greek island. As her wedding nears she has one thing on her mind – finding her father so he can walk her down the aisle. And then it happens – she comes across her mother’s diary from the year she was born. But instead of one fling that summer, her mother had three men she … well … dot-dot-dotted. Three possible fathers. So Sophie does what any irrational young person might do - she invites them all – Bill (Stellan Skarsgard), Sam (Pierce Brosnan), and Harry (Colin Firth) – figuring she'll recognize her father in an instant. Aaah, if only it were that easy, it would not be nearly as much fun.

Based on the play by Catherine Johnson, based on songs by ABBA.

My take: Mamma Mia! is a lot like taking a 2-hour-mini-holiday.  I did not anticipate this mind you.  If the truth were to be known, I wasn't sure I wanted to pay full-price to see a musical ... ABBA music or no.  But despite my misgivings, I'm fairly certain I had a stupid smile plastered on my face the entire time.  Of course really, with ABBA music how could you not?  Yeah, I don't know either.  Much like the music, the film should not be taken too seriously.  It was obvious the cast had a great time making the movie - including Julie Walters and Christine Baranski who played the mother's bffs.  If you sit back and take it for what it is, chances are, you'll have fun as well. 

The one drawback: it’s really, REALLY hard to stay in your seat and muffle the urge to sing-a-long at full-lung capacity ... Voulez-Vous – a-HA!

An aside: This is most definitely a chick-flick. In a theatre predominately inhabited by females, there was laughter, a few tears, and at the close, applause and cheers. As the lights came back up pure revelry abounded – animated chatter, singing, dancing. And then I turned to see the guy behind me. Poor fellow. Pale and drawn, he was obviously in a state of shock. If he made it out of the theatre before throwing up, it was probably a miracle. So here’s the thing – if your husband/boyfriend/brother/whatever does not enjoy chick flicks LET HIM STAY HOME! Seriously. That’s just cruel. Of course, if your guy is one who refuses to let you out of the house without him then good enough for him!

Rating: G

Genre: Family – Comedy – Drama – Mystery (yes, you read correctly … there is a wee bit of intrigue)

Verdict: L-O-V-E-D it.

The gist: Ten-year-old Kit Kittredge (Abigail Breslin) lives the good life in Cincinnati, Ohio. While the rest of the world struggles in the Great Depression, Kit’s concerns include little more than keeping the Treehouse members in line and becoming a bona-fide journalist. Then everything changes. After losing his job, Kit’s father (Chris O’Donnell) boards a bus to find work elsewhere. In his absence, Kit’s mother (Julia Ormond) takes in boarders. And the boarders are anything but ordinary. There’s Miss Bond (Joan Cusack), the traveling librarian – Miss Dooley (Jane Krakowski), the dancer – Jefferson Berk (Stanley Tucci), the magician – and the uptight Mrs. Howard (Glenne Headley) and her son Stirling (Zach Mills). Kit, her friend Ruthie (Madison Davenport), and Stirling also make friends with a couple of young hobos Will (Max Thieriot) and Countee (Willow Smith). Together this rag-tag team seek to find the best of the times, proving that if you stand together and don’t let the bad get you down, you may very well end up on top.

My take: This is one of those rare films that may never receive public recognition – and yet everyone associated with the film deserves nothing less. The story/script (Valerie Tripp – Kit Kittredge stories/Ann Peacock) is smart enough to be loved by children and adults alike. Patricia Rozema directs the film with a gentle touch. Giving the Great Depression a face, she brings the life and times alive with remarkable clarity … without being overly drab and despairing. And the actors! All the actors – young, old, main, minor, human, animal – were wonderful. No matter the time spent on the screen, they breathed life into their characters. Just like a good book, we were afforded the opportunity to suspend the world in which we live – and live the times and adventures of the characters before us. We laughed, we cried, we laughed because we cried … overall it was some good times. In short, I imagine it will become one of my all-time favorites.

An aside: Okay, I’m gonna come right out and say it – I think the hype surrounding American Girls is a little outta control. I have no little girls of my own – and, quite frankly, if I did and they pleaded with me to splurge on the “Late Night at American Girl Place” package, I think I would be creeped out. I mean really, yikes. That said no one is more surprised than I that such a precious movie could come from such a franchise. Unfortunately, I’m afraid there are many who may skip the film altogether simply because of preconceived notions such as mine. The thing is this movie is for everyone. It speaks of a time when America was in turmoil … many lost all their possessions. And yet, they clung to self respect. They did what they could. They stuck together. Yes, there were bigots – those who turned their nose to the less fortunate. But they did not stand for everyone. If anything we should all watch this movie – young and old alike.  And if the movie mirrors the books, maybe we should read those as well; for it shows us what we should be, in good times and bad. Because when it comes down to it, there are times I wonder if we still have it in us …

Saving The World. And loving it.

Rating: PG-13

Genre: Comedy-Action

Verdict: it’s a go

The gist: Maxwell Smart (Steve Carell) is by and far the best analyst at CONTROL – the super secret spy agency of the US. The story is CONTROL was disbanded following the Cold War and KAOS’ defeat. But you can’t always believe what you hear now, can you? After KAOS breaks into CONTROL, field agents are plucked off one-by-one. With no alternative, the Chief (Alan Arkin) agrees to make Maxwell Smart an agent – Agent 86 to be exact. Together with Agent 99 (Anne Hathaway), Smart must find a way to thwart the evil schemes of KAOS.

My take: Get Smart doesn’t take itself too seriously – and neither should you. It’s light action fare for these hot summer months. The writing could have been a bit stronger and the characters more multi-dimensional. True enough. Still, it was some good times. The humor is goofy. Right again. But is that really so bad? I still laughed. Out loud. And I was certainly not alone.

Another thing the movie has going for it is the actors. Steve Carell, Anne Hathaway, and Alan Arkin were enjoyable to watch – even if their characters didn’t have the strength of depth. And Dwayne Johnson (playing the famed Agent 23) stole many a scene.

So if you’re looking to get away from reality for a couple hours – and have yourself a chuckle or two – I would recommend this movie. If corny humor is above you, then please, stay home. No one needs to hear you blabber on … especially if you’re sitting behind them at, say, the Idaho Shakespeare festival!

An aside: I have never actually seen an original Get Smart episode. I know of the characters, the infamous shoe phone, etc. I do like the fact that the movie gives nod to the television show. Of course, if you reference the original, you better be for mirroring it faithfully. Whether or not it does so, I couldn’t know. So. Do with it what you will …

Get Carried Away.

Rating: R (a fairly strong R, I might add)

Genre: Comedy - romance

Verdict: Definite yes – or definite no, depending on who you are

The gist: The girls are back! Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), Samantha (Kim Cattrall), Charlotte (Kristin Davis), and Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) once again bring fashion, love, and friendship to our lives –only this time it’s on the big screen. They’re a little older, but not the least bit fabulous. Thru the ups and downs they’re finding what’s truly important.

My take: I have to admit, I didn’t really expect much from the movie. A friend and I planned to take in the movie, dinner, and a cosmo – so I planned on some good times. I just didn’t plan on loving the movie as I did. Seems we’ve had a run on mediocre (at best) chick flicks lately. But Sex and the City is different. Sex and the City reminds us what a good chick flick is all about – the laughter, the tears, the love, and the friendships. Just enough reality, sprinkled with a hint of fantasy – that’s what we want. And that’s what we get. Of course, we also get plenty of sex – my one complaint. The scenes are explicit and add no value to the movie. They could have been deleted and the movie would have lost nothing but a few minutes (which, at 2 1/2 hours it could a wee trimming). When it’s all said and done, it’s not the sex you remember anyway (at least not in this case!). No, you come away with something more. You come away with the joy of being reunited with old friends –the dazzling allure of fashion – and the vital importance of girlfriends who have got your back.

An aside: I’m a little surprised the film came away with an R rating. Some of the sex scenes are little more than soft porn. It is SEX and the City, you say. Yes, yes it is. But here’s the thing … you don't have to see something with your eyes to get it.  It’s a little thing called imagination. Imply something and people are pretty quick to fill in the blanks. It’s AMAZING! There’s a rather large group of women who will never see the movie because of the obvious sex scenes. Now, maybe the powers that be do not understand this line of thinking, and therefore do not care – however, if even a couple of those scenes had been removed, some of these women would go and bring in even more money. That’s something they’re bound to understand …

[Go ahead and hum the theme song – you know you want to]

Rating: PG-13

Genre: Action - Adventure

Verdict: It’s Indiana Jones – you’ve gotta see it!

The gist: Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) once again sets for adventure in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Skull. After being blacklisted from his teaching position, Indiana finds himself aiding the search for a crystal skull in the jungles of the Amazon.

My take: The fourth installment of Indiana Jones has much of the original 3 – action, adventure, history, and humor. Not to mention Indiana Jones. Many questioned whether Harrison Ford could still pull it off – whether or not he was too old. This movie proves Indiana’s still got it – the fedora still fits, the song still inspires. Steven Spielberg did a good job of capturing the overall look and feel of the original. It was great to see Karen Allen again (reprising her role of Marion Ravenwood); Cate Blanchett, of course, was great in her depiction of the evil Irina Spalko, and Shia LaBeouf rose to the occasion as the young greaser, Mutt Williams. Where the movie falters, however, is the storyline (George Lucas and Jeff Nathanson)/screenplay (David Koepp). The story simply does not fit with what we know and love about Indiana Jones. Yet the fact that Indiana remains Indiana – and he’s joined by a strong cast of supporting characters, ensures the movie remains a good bet for entertainment.

An aside: [*SPOILERS*] For those of us not around in the 50’s the thought of aliens and Indiana Jones is just plain absurd. Aliens seem much too modern for the likes of Indiana. We don’t want to see him out of place or in such stark contrast with nuclear testing and extraterrestrials. Perhaps in keeping him “innocent” we hope to keep a part of ourselves the same. But time marches on. As my mom pointed out the 50’s were a time of rapt fascination with aliens. People were literally agog with thought of alien abductions. It was the time for such B movies as Angry Red Planet, Earth vs. the Flying Saucers, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and War of the Worlds. Therefore, historically, the storyline is not so far-fetched. Still, it would have taken an extremely tight script - and some great imagination to merge Indiana Jones and aliens in a manner that agreed with our sensibility. It’s a pity though. If the story would have been stronger, this movie would have been a great classic in its own right.

"A hero is a man who does what he can." --Romain Rolland

Rating:  PG13

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-Fi

Gist:  Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) For most of his life he takes his fame, fortune and genius for granted.  He also takes for granted his personal assistant, Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), his close personal friend, Jim Rhodes (Terrence Howard), and his mentor, Obadiah Stane (a bald Jeff Bridges).  But when a business trip to Afghanistan goes bad and Mr. Stark is taken hostage, everything changes.  The terrorist holding him captive are hoarding weapons his company developed.  Men and women in his convoy were killed with the weapons his company developed.  He has received a potentially fatal wound from the weapons his company developed.  And the terrorist want more.  They demand he make the most destructive missile of all.  Instead he builds a programmed suite of armor to escape; deciding that in the future, rather than take lives, he will help save them.       

My take:  First off, my disclaimer - I have yet to read an Iron Man comic.  That said, I have no clue whether or not this movie is an accurate depiction of the original character.  Given it's a movie adaptation, I think it's a safe bet to say it's probably off the mark in one thing or another.  So, if you are a die hard fan of the comic book, perhaps you'd best just stay away, rather than be sorely disappointed and ruined forever.  Or...

Go for the fun of it all.  This movie was pure enjoyment.  Robert Downey Jr. is Tony Stark.  He plays the part to perfection.  Gwyneth Paltrow, Terrence Howard, Jeff Bridges and Shawn Toub (the actor who plays the man who saves Stark's life) all give strong performances.  Even the gadgets came alive superbly.  There is, of course, violence, light swearing, and suggestive behavior - but it is overshadowed by the character development and witty reparte (though not appropriate for young audiences).  I've heard some critics blast the lengthy background story.  Personally, I think it's vital to the character development.  In order to see how far he's come, you must see where he was before.  The only criticism I would have is the final battle scene seemed a bit drawn out.  But it's certainly not enough to keep me from suggesting the movie - and seeing the movie again - and buying the movie.  After all, a great hero is always good to have on hand.              

An aside: I think the true measure of a action/adventure movie is the reaction of the audience.  Half the fun of this movie was watching/listening to the people around me.  There were gasps, claps, and whoops.  Women were calling the bad guys names, guys literally sobbed when a vintage car was destroyed (okay, slight exaggeration; but they did let out a collective whimper).  In other words, for a brief moment in time we were more than a bunch of strangers stuffed into a large IMAX theatre.  We were right there in the middle of the action.  And that, my friend, is what a good movie is all about.