Friday, March 30, 2007
The Last Mimzy
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “E.T.” meets “Alice Through the Looking Glass” in this fun tale about two siblings who find toys from the future which can save a dying world.
The kids begin to display unusual powers after playing with some magical crystals and a stuffed bunny named Mimzy. After a statewide blackout, government agents swoop in to investigate. In the movie, the kids are charming and the adults are clueless. In the audience, the adults will probably see right through this obvious plot, but the kids will probably enjoy this adventure/mystery/fantasy story where the kids get to do all of the cool stuff. It is a good family film.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “Mimzy whimsy” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “E.T.” meets “Alice Through the Looking Glass” in this fun tale about two siblings who find toys from the future which can save a dying world.
The kids begin to display unusual powers after playing with some magical crystals and a stuffed bunny named Mimzy. After a statewide blackout, government agents swoop in to investigate. In the movie, the kids are charming and the adults are clueless. In the audience, the adults will probably see right through this obvious plot, but the kids will probably enjoy this adventure/mystery/fantasy story where the kids get to do all of the cool stuff. It is a good family film.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “Mimzy whimsy” stars out of 4.
Meet the Robinsons
It’s “Jimmy Neutron” meets “Back to the Future” meets “The Jetsons” meets “Snidely Whiplash” as an orphaned inventor boy seeks to find his mother, but discovers something else when time travelers from the future arrive and disrupt his life. This Disney animation centers around two boys, Lewis and Wilbur, who being stalked by an evil bowler hat guy. So many weird side characters are introduced and skimmed over that you don’t really get to know them well enough to remember their names. It’s entertaining enough for the kids, but it isn’t Disney magical. It’s funny, but not hilarious. The film does have some surprising twists revealed by the end. A nostalgic cartoon of Mickey and company building a ship is presented before the main attraction.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “keep moving forward” stars out of 4.
It’s “Jimmy Neutron” meets “Back to the Future” meets “The Jetsons” meets “Snidely Whiplash” as an orphaned inventor boy seeks to find his mother, but discovers something else when time travelers from the future arrive and disrupt his life. This Disney animation centers around two boys, Lewis and Wilbur, who being stalked by an evil bowler hat guy. So many weird side characters are introduced and skimmed over that you don’t really get to know them well enough to remember their names. It’s entertaining enough for the kids, but it isn’t Disney magical. It’s funny, but not hilarious. The film does have some surprising twists revealed by the end. A nostalgic cartoon of Mickey and company building a ship is presented before the main attraction.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “keep moving forward” stars out of 4.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Blades of Glory
If you love figure skating, you might enjoy this film, but if you hate figure skating, you will probably love this silly send up to pairs skating, the Olympics, athletes, their fans, and the media. The title, “Blades of Glory”, along with the two rival skaters, Jimmy MacElroy (Jon Heder) and Chazz Michael Michaels (Will Ferrell), score a perfect 6.0 in the naming department. Jimmy and Chazz clash as the robotic technician vs. the improv daredevil, but must join forces to capture the dream. Expect over the top hilarious hijinx, appearances by skating celebrities, and some surprise cameos. This clever spoof of competitive sports is outrageously funny. It pokes fun of the agony and ecstasy of some famous sporting events. And lastly, no mascots were harmed while making this film.
Alien gives it 3 “the Galloping Peacock and the Lone Wolf doing the Iron Lotus” stars out of 4.
If you love figure skating, you might enjoy this film, but if you hate figure skating, you will probably love this silly send up to pairs skating, the Olympics, athletes, their fans, and the media. The title, “Blades of Glory”, along with the two rival skaters, Jimmy MacElroy (Jon Heder) and Chazz Michael Michaels (Will Ferrell), score a perfect 6.0 in the naming department. Jimmy and Chazz clash as the robotic technician vs. the improv daredevil, but must join forces to capture the dream. Expect over the top hilarious hijinx, appearances by skating celebrities, and some surprise cameos. This clever spoof of competitive sports is outrageously funny. It pokes fun of the agony and ecstasy of some famous sporting events. And lastly, no mascots were harmed while making this film.
Alien gives it 3 “the Galloping Peacock and the Lone Wolf doing the Iron Lotus” stars out of 4.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Disturbia
The “Hardy Boys” team up with “Nancy Drew” to “Stakeout” the “Zodiac” in the “Burbs”. Shia LeBeouf takes a voyeuristic interest in his neighbors when he becomes space challenged, Martha Stewart style. Under house arrest, troubled teen Kale (LeBeouf) feels bored silly, gets a crush on his new neighbor, Ashley (Sarah Roemer), and suspects his creepy neighbor, Mr. Turner (Davis Morse), is a serial killer. It is predictable, but there is good tension and a few twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. This thriller is geared towards the You Tube generation who has never seen Hitchcock’s “Rear Window”. If you like to be scared, you might like this one.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “Tower of Twinkies” stars out of 4.
The “Hardy Boys” team up with “Nancy Drew” to “Stakeout” the “Zodiac” in the “Burbs”. Shia LeBeouf takes a voyeuristic interest in his neighbors when he becomes space challenged, Martha Stewart style. Under house arrest, troubled teen Kale (LeBeouf) feels bored silly, gets a crush on his new neighbor, Ashley (Sarah Roemer), and suspects his creepy neighbor, Mr. Turner (Davis Morse), is a serial killer. It is predictable, but there is good tension and a few twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. This thriller is geared towards the You Tube generation who has never seen Hitchcock’s “Rear Window”. If you like to be scared, you might like this one.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “Tower of Twinkies” stars out of 4.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Pride
In this fish-out-of-water story, the fish are disadvantaged black youths who are actually in the water. Inspired by true events, the movie tells the inspirational story of swim coach Jim Ellis’ struggle to save a Philadelphia rec center, help the neighborhood kids, and stand up against discrimination during the 70’s. Terrence Howard gives another dynamic and charismatic performance. Bernie Mac’s comedic style is subtle, but scene stealing. This movie proves you can make an entertaining family film with a message, without resorting to sex and foul language. This touching movie will put a smile on your face and bring a tear to your eye. Even though it is a bit cheesy and contrived, Alien is always a sucker for a good underdog story. Besides Philadelphia Department of Recreation, PDR also stands for pride, determination, and resilience. Footage of the real coach and the PDR kids is a nice touch at the end of the film.
Alien gives it 3 “brothers don’t swim” stars out of 4.
In this fish-out-of-water story, the fish are disadvantaged black youths who are actually in the water. Inspired by true events, the movie tells the inspirational story of swim coach Jim Ellis’ struggle to save a Philadelphia rec center, help the neighborhood kids, and stand up against discrimination during the 70’s. Terrence Howard gives another dynamic and charismatic performance. Bernie Mac’s comedic style is subtle, but scene stealing. This movie proves you can make an entertaining family film with a message, without resorting to sex and foul language. This touching movie will put a smile on your face and bring a tear to your eye. Even though it is a bit cheesy and contrived, Alien is always a sucker for a good underdog story. Besides Philadelphia Department of Recreation, PDR also stands for pride, determination, and resilience. Footage of the real coach and the PDR kids is a nice touch at the end of the film.
Alien gives it 3 “brothers don’t swim” stars out of 4.
Monday, March 19, 2007
I Think I Love My Wife
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
Chris Rock directs and stars in this romantic comedy about an investment banker with the perfect life except he is obsessed about not having sex with his wife. Along comes a flirtatious girl from his past and turns his world upside down. Told from the male perspective, Alien thought it was only moderately funny and contained too many unnecessary F-bombs. Chris Rock is charming, but none of the other characters are very likeable.
Alien gives it 2 “Viagra nightmare” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
Chris Rock directs and stars in this romantic comedy about an investment banker with the perfect life except he is obsessed about not having sex with his wife. Along comes a flirtatious girl from his past and turns his world upside down. Told from the male perspective, Alien thought it was only moderately funny and contained too many unnecessary F-bombs. Chris Rock is charming, but none of the other characters are very likeable.
Alien gives it 2 “Viagra nightmare” stars out of 4.
TMNT
Cowabunga, dudes! Those heroes in a half shell (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) are back to entertain the next generation. This amphibious pop culture phenomenon began in the 80's as a parody of Marvel Comics’ “The New Mutants” and Frank Miller’s “Daredevil” and just took off. This new film starts with Shredder gone and the turtle team split up doing their own things. However, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael, Master Splinter, April O’Neil, and Casey Jones join forces again when a 3,000 year old astrologic event reoccurs involving a portal, 13 demons, immortality, and stone statues. This Hong Kong animated film is merely an extended Saturday morning cartoon for the kiddies and a nostalgic remembrance for grown up kiddies. Alien awaits the return of his favorite neighborhood Spiderman. ‘Nuff said.
Alien gives it 2 “bo staff, katanas, nunchakus, and sais” stars out of 4.
Cowabunga, dudes! Those heroes in a half shell (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) are back to entertain the next generation. This amphibious pop culture phenomenon began in the 80's as a parody of Marvel Comics’ “The New Mutants” and Frank Miller’s “Daredevil” and just took off. This new film starts with Shredder gone and the turtle team split up doing their own things. However, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael, Master Splinter, April O’Neil, and Casey Jones join forces again when a 3,000 year old astrologic event reoccurs involving a portal, 13 demons, immortality, and stone statues. This Hong Kong animated film is merely an extended Saturday morning cartoon for the kiddies and a nostalgic remembrance for grown up kiddies. Alien awaits the return of his favorite neighborhood Spiderman. ‘Nuff said.
Alien gives it 2 “bo staff, katanas, nunchakus, and sais” stars out of 4.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Dead Silence
Why do clowns, dolls, and dummies look so eerie when lit for horror films? It’s “Chucky” meets “Magic” meets “Phantom of the Opera” in this ghost story of a ventriloquist’s revenge, supposedly, based on a children’s nursery rhyme. A young man returns to his hometown to bury his wife and solve the mystery of Mary Shaw and her dolls. The filmmakers of the “Saw” series use all of the classic horror flick elements, but nothing is effective in this awfully dull movie. Dead silence is also pretty much the reaction in the theater to this film. The only piece of near entertainment comes as the surprise twist in the last couple of minutes. But if you scare easily or are creeped out by puppets, you might have a good time.
Alien gives it 1 “Billy #57 in Raven Fair” star out of 4.
Thank you BW & SacTicket
Why do clowns, dolls, and dummies look so eerie when lit for horror films? It’s “Chucky” meets “Magic” meets “Phantom of the Opera” in this ghost story of a ventriloquist’s revenge, supposedly, based on a children’s nursery rhyme. A young man returns to his hometown to bury his wife and solve the mystery of Mary Shaw and her dolls. The filmmakers of the “Saw” series use all of the classic horror flick elements, but nothing is effective in this awfully dull movie. Dead silence is also pretty much the reaction in the theater to this film. The only piece of near entertainment comes as the surprise twist in the last couple of minutes. But if you scare easily or are creeped out by puppets, you might have a good time.
Alien gives it 1 “Billy #57 in Raven Fair” star out of 4.
Thank you BW & SacTicket
Reign Over Me
If you aren’t ready to face the pain and suffering from 9/11, then you may not be ready for this film about two former college roommates who help each other deal with their personal problems. It’s about New York, loss, friendship, and finding your way. Adam Sandler and Don Cheadle dominate the screen with their emotional and touching portrayals of lost souls. Sandler gives a magnificent performance as the disturbed Charlie and Cheadle is superb as the unhappy man with the seemingly perfect life. A talented supporting cast fills out the scenes with interesting characters. This quiet drama will bring tears to your eyes as well as make you laugh at the little comedic surprises. By the end, you’ll be rooting for these two buddies.
Alien gives it 3 “dynamic duo on a scooter” stars out of 4.
If you aren’t ready to face the pain and suffering from 9/11, then you may not be ready for this film about two former college roommates who help each other deal with their personal problems. It’s about New York, loss, friendship, and finding your way. Adam Sandler and Don Cheadle dominate the screen with their emotional and touching portrayals of lost souls. Sandler gives a magnificent performance as the disturbed Charlie and Cheadle is superb as the unhappy man with the seemingly perfect life. A talented supporting cast fills out the scenes with interesting characters. This quiet drama will bring tears to your eyes as well as make you laugh at the little comedic surprises. By the end, you’ll be rooting for these two buddies.
Alien gives it 3 “dynamic duo on a scooter” stars out of 4.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Shooter
What is cooler than a sniper that can take a head shot from over a mile away. Mark “The Marksman” Wahlberg plays the more-brains-than-brawn “Rambo”/”Commando” type. This classic frame up story begins when government agents come knocking at the door of the reclusive ex-sniper. He retired after his last mission ended badly, but he is persuaded to give it one more patriotic try for his country. Of course, when the tables are turned on him, he goes on the run with hardly any help trying to prove his innocence and uncover his framers. He is a resourceful marine with “MacGyver” survival instincts. About the only important thing here is the thrill of the chase. The audience pretty much senses what is going to happen, but the fun is in witnessing how it happens. If you like conspiracy theories, covert government operations, and vigilante justice with bullets flying and big ball of fire explosions, you may enjoy this action thriller. Don't expect realism, just lots of shoot'em up fun.
Alien gives it 3 “hits dead center with a 1 ½ inch spread” stars out of 4.
p-TN
What is cooler than a sniper that can take a head shot from over a mile away. Mark “The Marksman” Wahlberg plays the more-brains-than-brawn “Rambo”/”Commando” type. This classic frame up story begins when government agents come knocking at the door of the reclusive ex-sniper. He retired after his last mission ended badly, but he is persuaded to give it one more patriotic try for his country. Of course, when the tables are turned on him, he goes on the run with hardly any help trying to prove his innocence and uncover his framers. He is a resourceful marine with “MacGyver” survival instincts. About the only important thing here is the thrill of the chase. The audience pretty much senses what is going to happen, but the fun is in witnessing how it happens. If you like conspiracy theories, covert government operations, and vigilante justice with bullets flying and big ball of fire explosions, you may enjoy this action thriller. Don't expect realism, just lots of shoot'em up fun.
Alien gives it 3 “hits dead center with a 1 ½ inch spread” stars out of 4.
p-TN
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Premonition
Too bad Denzel already took the movie title “Déjà Vu”. It’s “Final Destination” meets “Memento” as the “Lake House” lady (Sandra Bullock) does the time warp tangle again, only it’s a solo performance this time. A napping wife and mother bounces back and forth in time before and after her husband’s death. Is she crazy with grief or is she foreseeing the future? Do you believe in fate or can you change destiny? Alien enjoyed the tense ride of the out-of-sync mystery/psychological thriller, but was unsatisfied with the destination. When the film makers reached their critical crossroads, they took just the wrong path. Maybe the DVD will have alternate endings. If you think about the plot too much, it won’t make much sense.
Alien gives it 2 “black crow” stars out of 4.
Too bad Denzel already took the movie title “Déjà Vu”. It’s “Final Destination” meets “Memento” as the “Lake House” lady (Sandra Bullock) does the time warp tangle again, only it’s a solo performance this time. A napping wife and mother bounces back and forth in time before and after her husband’s death. Is she crazy with grief or is she foreseeing the future? Do you believe in fate or can you change destiny? Alien enjoyed the tense ride of the out-of-sync mystery/psychological thriller, but was unsatisfied with the destination. When the film makers reached their critical crossroads, they took just the wrong path. Maybe the DVD will have alternate endings. If you think about the plot too much, it won’t make much sense.
Alien gives it 2 “black crow” stars out of 4.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Wild Hogs
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “City Slickers” without the cattle drive meets “Deliverance” without the canoes meets “The Magnificent Seven” without three hired guns as four middle aged guys seek adventure on a cross country motorcycle trip while avoiding their mundane and unsatisfying lives. John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence, and William H. Macy are the big name draws for this funny and silly, but predictable comedy. They play it over the top. Expect some surprise cameos. It is a guilty pleasure for those pot-bellied pig baby boomers who still fantasize they are the “Wild Hogs”. If you relax and put your mind on cruise control, you may enjoy the ride. The movie was lots of laughs for the older audience in attendance. A popular ABC reality show is satirized during the credits.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “stay wild or stay at home” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
It’s “City Slickers” without the cattle drive meets “Deliverance” without the canoes meets “The Magnificent Seven” without three hired guns as four middle aged guys seek adventure on a cross country motorcycle trip while avoiding their mundane and unsatisfying lives. John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence, and William H. Macy are the big name draws for this funny and silly, but predictable comedy. They play it over the top. Expect some surprise cameos. It is a guilty pleasure for those pot-bellied pig baby boomers who still fantasize they are the “Wild Hogs”. If you relax and put your mind on cruise control, you may enjoy the ride. The movie was lots of laughs for the older audience in attendance. A popular ABC reality show is satirized during the credits.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “stay wild or stay at home” stars out of 4.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Amazing Grace
This is not a sneak preview. This movie has already released.
An 18th century idealist in the English Parliament tries to save the world by abolishing the slave trade. Good acting and dialogue keeps this historical piece interesting. The origins of the now famous and popular hymn, Amazing Grace, is recounted here. Despite being well made, Alien doesn’t feel this intelligent film will be very popular here in the colonies.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “lawyer’s trickery” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This movie has already released.
An 18th century idealist in the English Parliament tries to save the world by abolishing the slave trade. Good acting and dialogue keeps this historical piece interesting. The origins of the now famous and popular hymn, Amazing Grace, is recounted here. Despite being well made, Alien doesn’t feel this intelligent film will be very popular here in the colonies.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “lawyer’s trickery” stars out of 4.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
300
It’s “Sin City” meets “Troy” meets “Kill Bill” meets “Lord of the Rings” as another Frank Miller graphic novel hits the big screen. The classic story of the bold Spartan battle against the invading Persian army is retold with great style and impact. Learn what it means to grow up Spartan. This inspirational tale tells us about courage, camaraderie, and what is worth fighting for: liberty, justice, and hope. The graphic novel look is captured in the artistry and the slow-mo stop action hand-to-hand combat scenes which draw the audience right into the battle standing toe-to-toe with the Spartans. Clad in little more than a helmet and a cape accents the abs and pecs of the sword and shield wielding warriors. There is lots of blood and gore, plenty of great action, and a little nudity as so few are pitted against so many. The film is peppered with many memorable lines and speeches like “no surrender, no retreat”. The audience was mesmerized. This one maybe worth seeing again, but next time at the IMAX.
Alien gives it 3 ½ “blood drunk” stars out of 4.
p-DS
It’s “Sin City” meets “Troy” meets “Kill Bill” meets “Lord of the Rings” as another Frank Miller graphic novel hits the big screen. The classic story of the bold Spartan battle against the invading Persian army is retold with great style and impact. Learn what it means to grow up Spartan. This inspirational tale tells us about courage, camaraderie, and what is worth fighting for: liberty, justice, and hope. The graphic novel look is captured in the artistry and the slow-mo stop action hand-to-hand combat scenes which draw the audience right into the battle standing toe-to-toe with the Spartans. Clad in little more than a helmet and a cape accents the abs and pecs of the sword and shield wielding warriors. There is lots of blood and gore, plenty of great action, and a little nudity as so few are pitted against so many. The film is peppered with many memorable lines and speeches like “no surrender, no retreat”. The audience was mesmerized. This one maybe worth seeing again, but next time at the IMAX.
Alien gives it 3 ½ “blood drunk” stars out of 4.
p-DS
