More StrAinge Movie Reviews

Okay...here is another post of movie reviews. Did I mention I'm currently dating my Apple T.V.???

Five Star Movies

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button - I know women like him for a different reason, but Brad Pitt can really act! This movie won the Oscar for Visual Effects, Makeup and Art Direction. Once you see the movie you will know why it received these Oscars. Absolutely Amazing! I also loved the story and the message of this movie. I won't give too much away, but it makes you realize that the meaning of life is the same regardless of which way you are traveling.

The Pianist - The subject matter of this movie is very difficult to watch, but the movie is excellent! The true story of Wladyslaw Szpilman who, in the 1930s, was known as the most accomplished piano player in all of Poland, if not Europe. At the outbreak of the Second World War, however, Szpilman becomes subject to the anti-Jewish laws imposed by the conquering Germans.

Four Star Movies

Milk - The fact that this movie is based on a true story is very powerful and dramatic. I've always been a big fan of Sean Penn ever since his breakout roll in Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Some actors are very good at playing one type of character, but Sean Penn completely immerses himself in every character. You get lost in the experience and forget you are watching a movie.

The Wrestler - Mickey Rourke and Marisa Tomei were excellent in this movie. The story draws you in and the characters are very believable.

Man on a Wire - This movie has a great overall message of following your passion. The movie is based on the life of Philippe Petit, and he is still alive today which gives an authentic feel to the movie. I was touched by the interview at the end.

Benny & Joon - I loved this quirky little movie made in 1993. Johnny Depp plays a delightful character and the story is charming and heartwarming. A real gem!

Gran Torino - Clint Eastwood! Need I say more?

I'm Reed Fish - What can I say? I like quirky movies. I'm also in love with Schuyler Fisk. She is so adorable. I had no idea what to expect from this movie. I only rented it for Schuyler Fisk's music. So I guess it was a pleasant surprise. It has the same feel as Juno which I also liked a lot.






Three Star Movies

Fracture - Anthony Hopkins plays one roll (the psychotic killer) and he plays it very well. This was a very good psychological thriller with a twist. Well worth the time.

Yes Man - Jim Carrey loves these roles and he his very funny. Also, I have never seen a movie co-starring Zooey Deschanel when she wasn't absolutely adorable.

Marley and Me - This movie had a chance to be great. It takes too long to get to the good part at the end. I have to admit that I teared up a bit. I had a dog that was with me for many years, so I can relate. I think the director made some errors in crafting the story, but hang in there because it is worth the two hours.

Taken - Not bad as far as Action Adventure movies go. I'm always intrigued by the "Good Guy" who shoots first and asks questions later. But the "Bad Guys" always say "Freeze" and take the "Good Guy" prisoner. I guess it would be a very short movie otherwise.

He's Just Not That Into You - This was a fun movie. The last five minutes was "Five Star" worthy, but the whole movie is worth watching.

Happy Accidents - Stumbling onto this movie was a "Happy Accident". I was thoroughly entertained. The story slowly unfolds and keeps you engaged. Kind of like a good novel.



Two Star Movies

Seven Pounds - I'm not sure why, but this was not one of my favorite movies.

Flash of Genius - This movie had a chance to be great, but it was too long. They needed to spend less time on the details of the windshield wiper and more time on the characters. I mean...you could watch the trailer and you already know the plot.

Eagle Eye - I guess I was bored.

I've Loved You So Long - This movie didn't do it for me. The subject matter is very dark and it never really captured my attention.

Doubt - You know you are going to get great acting with Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman, but the story was not compelling enough for me.

Junebug - Maybe I'm not "Artsy Fartsy" enough, but this movie didn't do it for me. The acting was good, but the movie doesn't really have a point. It just makes you feel kind of like you've spent two hours being disfunctional.

The Reader - Great acting, but a very bizarre plot.


UNO Star Movies

Happy Go Lucky - Never, Never, Never trust the reviews on iTunes. This was a featured movie that got rave reviews and nothing but positive user reviews. But there was really no point to this movie. I don't mind a movie that follows a quirky British actress around in a series of pointless scenes. But maybe they could consider having some sort of plot that makes it worthwhile.