The Hours

A Resurrection (R) 2012

Directed by Steven Daldry

Starring:  Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, Nicole Kidman, Ed Harris, Toni Collette, Claire Danes, Jeff Daniels, Stephen Dillane, Allison Janney and John C. Reilly

Here We Go:  The Hours explores the parallels between the lives of three women during different periods of time.  This movie is, in one word, exquisite.  The stories run together with such fluidity that you never feel as though you've just been cut off from a story, but rather that you're excited to see what is going to happen next.  The director hits every mark, and film quickly transforms into art.  Nicole Kidman as Virginia Woolf is engrossing, and there were several times when I forgot that I was watching Nicole Kidman and not Virginia Woolf.  And Julianne Moore as a severely depressed wife and mother is so painfully real.  It takes more than a halfhearted effort at emotional drama to impress me, because frankly, I'm not all too interested in sap.  But this movie made me a fan and I am genuinely happy that I took the time to experience this beautiful piece of work.

Bottom Line: Watch it!

Lawless

Lawless (R) 2012

Directed by John Hillcoat

Starring:  Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Jessica Chastain, Gary Oldman,Guy Pearce, Mia Wasikowska, Jason Clarke and Dane DeHaan

Here We Go:  Think old Western flick mixed with a '20s gangster film.  The Bondurant brothers are running a bootlegging business during Prohibition and have to deal with a new local lawman trying to stick his hand into their earnings.  This movie really has an outstanding all around cast that takes a decent, but not great, script and makes a good movie.  Shia LeBeouf is just right as the weakling little brother but it is really Tom Hardy and Jason Clarke that make this movie.  Both were very well cast and you truly believe they could be good ole' boys cooking up some moonshine in your backyard.  

Bottom Line:   Watch it!

Cloud Atlas

Cloud Atlas (R) 2012

Directed by Andy Wachowski, Lana Wachowski and Tom Tykwer

Starring: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, Keith David, James D'Arcy, Xun Zhou, David Gyasi, Susan Sarandon and Hugh Grant

Here We Go:  From the 19th century to the 1970s and then well into a futuristic society, Cloud Atlas shows how the lives of  individuals change and touch each other across the span of many lifetimes.  Ok, what?  If not for the amazing actors, the fantastic sets, and being able to see the significant transformations of each person over time, I probably would have stopped this movie after 10 minutes.  I was so lost and had so many questions that there really wasn't any good reason for me to go on.  Then, towards the end, things started to make sense and the moral of the story/ending was really just so beautiful and profound.  I went from lost and confused to having a striking Ah-ha Moment.  If that you're looking for something that is going to be a light, airy movie that you don't have to give your full attention, this isn't the one for you.

Bottom Line:  If you like a movie that is full of intricate detail, watch it!

Beautiful Creatures

Beautiful Creatures (PG-13) 2013

Directed by Richard LaGravenese

Starring:  Alden Ehrenreich, Alice Englert, Jeremy Irons, Viola Davis, Emmy Rossum, Thomas Mann, Emma Thompson, Dame Eileen Atkins, Kyle Gallner, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Margo Martindale and Zoey Deutch

Here We Go:  When I initially saw previews for this movie I had high expectations without really knowing what it was about.  The more previews I saw, the lower my expectations.  That being said, I still went into this movie thinking it was going to be entertaining and it did not disappoint.  The overall concept of the movie (based on the novel of the same name) was kinda like taking Twilight and mixing it in a jar with Charmed and seeing what comes out.  The finished product was not bad but the story just didn't seem to reach its full potential.  Jeremy Irons was very well cast and the leads of Alice Englert (Lena) and Alden Enrenriech  (Ethan) were excellent.  There is room for a sequel here but with a poor box office performance this was probably the one and only film in the series.  

Bottom Line:  Watch it.

Seeking a Friend for the End of the World

Seeking a Friend for the End of the World (R) 2012

Directed by Lorene Scafaria

Starring:  Steve Carell, Keira Knightley, Melanie Lynskey, Connie Britton, Adam Brody, Gillian Jacobs, Patton Oswalt, T.J. Miller, Melinda Dillon, Rob Corddry, Rob Huebel and Amy Schumer

Here We Go:  The end is coming and Dodge (Carell) finds himself abandoned by his wife and in the company of a younger companion (Knightley) who may make all the difference in the world.  I expected this to be more comedy than anything else, but I was surprised to find that there was more to it than a typical Steve Carell movie.  The storyline isn't anything sci-fi and there aren't any weird aliens or special effects.  It truly is about the journey of two people who are literally facing the final days of Earth.  There are definitely some funny moments, so it's good for the guys, but it's also touching, sad and sweet.  No matter what, it's refreshing to watch a movie about the end of days that doesn't involve the demolition of NYC or any other been there/done that stuff.

Bottom Line:  Try something different, and watch it!

Hyde Park on Hudson

Hyde Park on Hudson (R) 2012

Directed by Roger Michell

Starring:   Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Colman, Samuel West, Elizabeth Marvel, Elizabeth Wilson, Eleanor Bron and Olivia Williams

Here We Go:  The behind the scene angle of Hyde Park on Hudson shows Franklin D. Roosevelt (Murray) and his relationship with his cousin, friend, confidant, and possible love interest, Daisy (Linney), introduces a side of FDR that not many have seen.  It's a little hard to process the idea of Murray as FDR, but then the story begins and Murray just falls right into character.  You literally stop seeing the comedian and start seeing the former President of the United States.  Now, before you start thinking of the relationship between FDR and Daisy as something horrifying, I'll just clarify that they were actually 6th cousins, which is enough of a distance to keep that gag reflex from creeping up on you.  Anyway, the movie has some funny moments (most involving the scenes with visiting Royals), and some scandalous revelations that give you a new perspective of this historical figure.  In any case, it was a good movie and it helped to humanize FDR while making him likable, regardless of his questionable lifestyle. 

Bottom Line:  Watch it!

Zero Dark Thirty

Zero Dark Thirty (PG-13) 2011

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow

Starring:  Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Ehle, Mark Strong, Kyle Chandler, Édgar Ramírez, James Gandolfini, Chris Pratt, Reda Kateb, Scott Adkins and Taylor Kinney

Here We Go:  This is based on the known "facts" surrounding the hunt for Osama Bin Laden so anyone who will enjoy this movie probably already knows the plot.  That being said, the movie is still very well done and, despite knowing the eventual climax, the director still manages to build up a sense of anticipation as you wait for the final operation to be carried out successfully.  It's a long movie that doesn't seem long and the production team paid just enough attention to detail for it to seem realistic without bogging down viewers with details that may have made the movie too long and unwatchable.  Jessica Chastain and Jason Clarke were particularly well cast and both gave excellent performances.  

Bottom Line:  Its not for everyone but we suggest you watch it!

Flight

Flight (R) 2012

Directed by Robert Zemeckis

Starring:  Denzel Washington, John Goodman, Don Cheadle, Melissa Leo, Brian Geraghty, Bruce Greenwood, Kelly Reilly, Tamara Tunie, Garcelle Beauvais, James Badge Dale, Rhoda Griffis, Kwesi Boakye, Michael Beasley and Adam Tomei

Bottom Line:  Watch it, but maybe not right before having to board a plane.

Here We Go:  A pilot (Washington) with a substance abuse problem is caught in the middle of an investigation after having to crash land a severely malfunctioning plane while intoxicated and on drugs.  The story is gripping and completely terrifying as the intense time of the crash landing crawls by in such real detail.  Washington is always personable and likable, and that applies even here as he struggles as an addict.  This movie has good acting (and much needed comic relief from Goodman), action, drama and a solid ending.  

Les Misérables

Les Misérables (RATING) 2013

Directed by Tom Hooper

Starring:   Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, Eddie Redmayne, Aaron Tveit, Samantha Barks, Colm Wilkinson and Bertie Carvel

Here We Go:  The lives of people from different backgrounds intersect during the time surrounding the French Revolution, and light is shed on the personal struggles that they all face.  About 98% of this movie is done in song, which I thought might be more than I could sit through, but it was enjoyable.  The entire cast was amazing; however, special recognition goes to Jackman and Hathaway for their abilities to convey such intensely raw emotion - while singing!  The movie is largely dramatic, but there are some funny scenes (mainly involving the innkeeper and his wife).  To be honest, the ending had me in tears, which is an accomplishment in itself.

Bottom Line:  Watch it...maybe with a tissue nearby.

Django Unchained

Django Unchained(RATING) 2013

Directed by Quentin Tarantino 

Starring:  Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Walton Goggins, Dennis Christopher, James Remar, Michael Parks and Don Johnson

Here We Go:  Quentin Tarantino fills the screen with a cast beyond the big names.  Two thumbs and a big toe up!  Western.  Lots of action, unbelievable wit, dark humor and lots of blood.  Slave, Django (Foxx), sets out on a quest to reunite with his slave wife, Broomhilda (don't ask, you'll find out).  The outcome is greatly attributed to his relationship with bounty hunter, Dr. Schultz (Academy Award winner, Christopher Waltz).

Bottom Line:  This is a must see!

The Help

The Help (PG-13) 2011

Directed by Tate Taylor

Starring:  Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Bryce Dallas Howard, Octavia Spencer, Jessica Chastain, Ahna O'Reilly, Allison Janney, Anna Camp, Cicely Tyson, Mike Vogel and Sissy Spacek

Here We Go:  The Help takes place in the early 1960s, where color lines and social standings divide the people.  Eugenia (Stone) decides to write a book from the perspective of the help, and it turns their southern town upside.  As the maids tell their stories and you experience what life is like for them at work and in their private lives, the injustices and absurdities that they are forced to suffer through have such a strong impact.  However, what will really stay with you are all of the moments of strength and the power of friendship.  The casting is spot on, and the movie captures the same emotional spirit as the book (although some details are missing, the viewer isn't missing out).  This movie is one for the shelf.  It's worth watching, and it's certainly worth owning.

Bottom Line:  Watch it!

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games (PG-13) 2012

Directed by Gary Ross

Starring:  Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Wes Bentley, Toby Jones, Alexander Ludwig and Isabelle Fuhrman

Here We Go:  It can be hard for popular novels to make it to the big screen and live up to the detailed expectations of the book, but this film was on point.  During a time when the world has been reduced to enclosed Districts, the citizens scrape by while those who live in The Capitol prosper.  The Hunger Games basically pull two citizens from each District, drop them into a environment controlled by The Capitol, and the players' progress is broadcast for all to see as they kill each other off.  The last one standing wins.  It's a twisted and emotionally charged concept.  Even without reading the book, you'll have a good understanding of what's going on.  Lawerence is so believably cast as Katniss that you truly feel as though you're going through each step and decision right along with her.  Prepare to walk away from this movie wanting to operate a bow and arrow like a champ.  While this movie caters to a younger crowd, people of all ages will find it well done and disturbingly entertaining.  

Bottom Line:  Watch it and get ready for the second movie to follow!

A League of Their Own

A League of Their Own (PG) 1992

Directed by Penny Marshall

Starring:  Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, Lori Petty, Rosie O'Donnell, Jon Lovitz, David Strathairn, Garry Marshall, Bill Pullman, Megan Cavanagh, Tracy Reiner, Bitty Schram, Don S. Davis, Renee Coleman and Ann Cusack

Here We Go:  In telling the story of the All American Girl's Professional Baseball League, this movie really pulls the viewer in.  During a time when men were at war, business was struggling, and women were asked to take on different roles in society, it's interesting to see the perspectives of the characters in this film.  Madonna plays a dancer, Davis and Petty come from the farm, and many of the other female baseball players are housewives.  You get to see them all grow from those roles into strong, confident women who can really play ball.  Although there are some heavy and emotional moments, so much of the movie is light, funny and entertaining.  It's a Tom Hanks movie, so can you really go wrong?  

Bottom Line:  Watch it and then watch it again!

Dorian Gray

Dorian Gray (2009) R

Directed by Oliver Parker

Starring: Ben Barnes, Colin Firth, Ben Chaplin, Rebecca Hall, Rachel Hurd-Wood, Caroline Goodall, Emilia Fox, Douglas Henshall, Fiona Shaw and Maryam d'Abo

Here We Go:  Oh Dorian...what a screw up you are.  The innocent Dorian (Barnes) is influenced by a man with no moral compass to just do whatever he wants and lead a life of indulgence.  Eventually, Dorian becomes a complete creep and basically takes down those closest to him.  Watching this movie was like watching something on how STDs happen, followed by why not to do drugs, and then the downfalls of alcohol.  As Dorian continues to butterfly as the world's biggest warning label, you see that people are aging and he's not.  Good concept, but it felt like the movie dragged on for awhile and the repetitive debauchery quickly became dull.  The ending was well done and there's a even a jump-in-your-seat moment.

Bottom Line:  Watch it but only if it's free....or if you want to scare a troublesome teenager straight.

Magic Mike

Magic Mike (2012) R

Directed by Steven Soderbergh

Starring:  Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, Cody Horn, Olivia Munn, Matt Bomer, Riley Keough, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez, Gabriel Iglesias, James Martin Kelly and Caitlin Gerard

Here We Go:  Are the men in this movie hot?  Absolutely.  Will any man watching this with their woman benefit from the aftershock of this movie?  More than likely.  Because this movie is strictly about eye candy.  If you're watching this movie for any other reason, you're either crazy or...nope, you're just crazy.  At the end of the day, Magic Mike is about aging male strippers who live like teenagers.  It's just kind of a sad picture of a group of immature degenerates.  Then the dancing starts again, a fireman takes the stage and all is well again.

Bottom Line:  Watch it, fast forward, watch the dancing, fast forward, watch more dancing....  The end.

My Week with Marilyn

My Week with Marilyn (2011) R

Directed by Simon Curtis

Starring: Michelle Williams, Eddie Redmayne, Kenneth Branagh, Dominic Cooper, Julia Ormond, Emma Watson, Judi Dench, Zoë Wanamaker, Toby Jones, Derek Jacobi and Dougray Scott

Here We Go:  There were times during this movie where you can just see Michelle Williams get it.  She literally embodies Marilyn and you feel swept away by the realness of an untouchable Hollywood icon.  My Week with Marilyn is effortless.  This movie makes an hour and a half seem like you're standing there along with the people involved each day in these private moments.  So, whether you're a fan or not, you will walk away from this movie satisfied and feeling as if you know more about the person than the actress.

Bottom Line:  Watch it!

The Next Three Days

The Next Three Days (2010) PG-13

Directed by Paul Haggis

Starring:  Russell Crowe, Elizabeth Banks, Brian Dennehy, Lennie James, Olivia Wilde, Ty Simpkins, Helen Carey, Liam Neeson, Jason Beghe, Aisha Hinds, Allan Steele, RZA, and Daniel Stern

Here We Go:  What a nail-biter!  John (Crowe) is desperate to free his wife (Banks) from jail for a crime that she adamantly denies committing.  He watches his son falling apart without his mother and John struggles to keep his family intact.  Eventually, he knows that his only chance of saving his family is break his wife out.  The lengths to which this character plans her escape results in a chain of events that keeps you on the edge of your seat.  The script is well written, the characters are believable, and I was particularly impressed with Banks' acting.  The movie is a bit long at 2+ hours, but you never notice it because the story and pace are excellent. 

The Bottom Line:  Watch it!

The Master

The Master (2012) R

Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams,Laura Dern, Ambyr Childers, Rami Malek, Jesse Plemons, Kevin J. O'Connor, Christopher Evan Welch, and Madisen Beaty

Here We Go: Joaquin Phoenix plays a degenerate sailor with nothing to do but drink himself to death. He meets up with a charismatic "genius," played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, and the two immediately take to each other. This is should be a character study, but instead is an exercise in pretension. Phoenix's character is abrasive and crude, while Hoffman is by far the best part, as a charlatan who may or may not be based on Scientologist creator L. Ron Hubbard.

Bottom Line: Skip it, and watch one of P.T. Anderson's good flicks. Also NOT kid safe, random sex with sand, and bizarre old lady nudity for no reason.