Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Step Up 3D
It’s Pirates versus the Samurai in a hip-hop dance version of "Westside Story". Rival dance troupes square off in dramatic competitions leading to the big World Jam. It is a predictable plot, but high-energy, creative and electrifying choreography along with some stunning 3D work make this film really pop. The characters are colorful and dance with attitude. You won’t be able to take your eyes off of the dance scenes. It is a fun show.
Alien gives it 3 "tearing it up" stars out of 4.
It’s Pirates versus the Samurai in a hip-hop dance version of "Westside Story". Rival dance troupes square off in dramatic competitions leading to the big World Jam. It is a predictable plot, but high-energy, creative and electrifying choreography along with some stunning 3D work make this film really pop. The characters are colorful and dance with attitude. You won’t be able to take your eyes off of the dance scenes. It is a fun show.
Alien gives it 3 "tearing it up" stars out of 4.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore
It’s "G-Force" meets "James Bond" in this spy spoof sequel of the original that Alien never saw. The little kiddies will probably enjoy this silly show with cheesy lines and actions. Some adults may like the parody of their favorite espionage thrillers. This 3D film is filled with pet jokes. Stay through the credits for a final transmission from Mr. Tingles. But, Alien thought the best part was the 3D Road Runner vs. Wiley Coyote cartoon short at the beginning of the film. That’s all, folks.
Alien gives it 2 "world domination" stars out of 4.
It’s "G-Force" meets "James Bond" in this spy spoof sequel of the original that Alien never saw. The little kiddies will probably enjoy this silly show with cheesy lines and actions. Some adults may like the parody of their favorite espionage thrillers. This 3D film is filled with pet jokes. Stay through the credits for a final transmission from Mr. Tingles. But, Alien thought the best part was the 3D Road Runner vs. Wiley Coyote cartoon short at the beginning of the film. That’s all, folks.
Alien gives it 2 "world domination" stars out of 4.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Ramona and Beezus
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
Ramona (Joey King) and Beezus (Selena Gomez) are two popular characters from Beverly Cleary’s 1950’s classic children’s novel series. This modern update explores the timeless issues of family dynamics and making lemonade when life deals you lemons. Ramona is a middle child with an active imagination that gets her into trouble. This "G" rated film is family friendly and targets the younger kiddies. Alien read Cleary’s works as a child and has read her stories to his daughters.
Alien gives it 2 "everything’s terrifical on Klickitat Street" stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
Ramona (Joey King) and Beezus (Selena Gomez) are two popular characters from Beverly Cleary’s 1950’s classic children’s novel series. This modern update explores the timeless issues of family dynamics and making lemonade when life deals you lemons. Ramona is a middle child with an active imagination that gets her into trouble. This "G" rated film is family friendly and targets the younger kiddies. Alien read Cleary’s works as a child and has read her stories to his daughters.
Alien gives it 2 "everything’s terrifical on Klickitat Street" stars out of 4.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Salt
Who is Evelyn Salt? Is she a Russian sleeper agent or a framed fugitive involved in a presidential assassination plot? Angelina Jolie is Bond, Bourne, MacGyver, and Mrs. Smith on a mission impossible. This movie is an action-packed thrill ride. Don’t expect much realism in a script that’s not too hard to figure out, but it is still a lot of fun to watch. For a tasty mindless treat, try adding Salt to your summer movie diet.
Alien gives it 3 "hunker down in the bunker" stars out of 4.
Who is Evelyn Salt? Is she a Russian sleeper agent or a framed fugitive involved in a presidential assassination plot? Angelina Jolie is Bond, Bourne, MacGyver, and Mrs. Smith on a mission impossible. This movie is an action-packed thrill ride. Don’t expect much realism in a script that’s not too hard to figure out, but it is still a lot of fun to watch. For a tasty mindless treat, try adding Salt to your summer movie diet.
Alien gives it 3 "hunker down in the bunker" stars out of 4.
The Kids Are Alright
A happy family unit gets shaken up when the kids seek out their birth father (Mark Ruffalo). The parents (Annette Bening & Julianne Moore) are lesbians. Human relationships and frailties are explored with this awkward family twist. Great acting and a smart script make this film entertaining. It is funny, sad, and emotional. Rated "R" for language, a little drug use, nudity, and sexual content.
Alien gives it 3 "doctor, landscaper, and restaurateur" stars out of 4.
A happy family unit gets shaken up when the kids seek out their birth father (Mark Ruffalo). The parents (Annette Bening & Julianne Moore) are lesbians. Human relationships and frailties are explored with this awkward family twist. Great acting and a smart script make this film entertaining. It is funny, sad, and emotional. Rated "R" for language, a little drug use, nudity, and sexual content.
Alien gives it 3 "doctor, landscaper, and restaurateur" stars out of 4.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Flipped
Rob Reiner writes and directs this sweet and touching story about family, neighbors, a first crush, and falling in love. It’s he-said-she-said as we hear the inner thoughts in this boy/girl relationship. Set in simpler times (a nostalgic look back at 1957 to 1963), this feel-good film will make you laugh and cry. This wonderful movie must be shared with your loved ones of all ages.
Alien gives it 3 ½ "Save the Sycamore" stars out of 4.
Rob Reiner writes and directs this sweet and touching story about family, neighbors, a first crush, and falling in love. It’s he-said-she-said as we hear the inner thoughts in this boy/girl relationship. Set in simpler times (a nostalgic look back at 1957 to 1963), this feel-good film will make you laugh and cry. This wonderful movie must be shared with your loved ones of all ages.
Alien gives it 3 ½ "Save the Sycamore" stars out of 4.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Charlie St. Cloud
A tragic event detours a promising young man (Zac Efron) in this inspiration film about sailing, two brothers' love, second chances, promises, and letting go. Looks like Zac has finally graduated from high school musicals with this dramatic role. Ray Liotta and Kim Basinger only have bit parts, but the three main actors carry the film well. This moving story will surprise you and may bring tears to your eyes.
Alien gives it 3 "Splendid Splinter" stars out of 4.
A tragic event detours a promising young man (Zac Efron) in this inspiration film about sailing, two brothers' love, second chances, promises, and letting go. Looks like Zac has finally graduated from high school musicals with this dramatic role. Ray Liotta and Kim Basinger only have bit parts, but the three main actors carry the film well. This moving story will surprise you and may bring tears to your eyes.
Alien gives it 3 "Splendid Splinter" stars out of 4.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Easy A
Not scheduled to be released until September 17th.
This modern day twist to "The Scarlet Letter" pokes fun at teenage peer pressure, best friends, liberal parents, high school, and John Hughes films. Olive Penderghast (Emma Stone) tells one lie which leads to another and more as gossip and rumors spread to "ruin" her reputation. Alien thinks it’s creatively funny, but it's not an easy A, more of a B minus in my film school class.
Alien gives it 2 ½ "tangled web" stars out of 4.
Not scheduled to be released until September 17th.
This modern day twist to "The Scarlet Letter" pokes fun at teenage peer pressure, best friends, liberal parents, high school, and John Hughes films. Olive Penderghast (Emma Stone) tells one lie which leads to another and more as gossip and rumors spread to "ruin" her reputation. Alien thinks it’s creatively funny, but it's not an easy A, more of a B minus in my film school class.
Alien gives it 2 ½ "tangled web" stars out of 4.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Inception
It’s "The Matrix" meets "The Sting" meets "Ice Station Zebra" as director Christopher Nolan explores the depths of the unconscious mind in a dream world where reality and the impossible cross paths. Leonardo Di Caprio and Ellen Page lead a team of specialists on a mission to steal secrets. The special effects are absolutely stunning and will blow you away. This intricate layered plot and 2 ½ hour thrill ride will keep your mind thinking and your heart pounding. It’s an imaginative re-creation of the "I must be dreaming" sensation.
Alien gives it 3 ½ "dream state with a kick" stars out of 4.
It’s "The Matrix" meets "The Sting" meets "Ice Station Zebra" as director Christopher Nolan explores the depths of the unconscious mind in a dream world where reality and the impossible cross paths. Leonardo Di Caprio and Ellen Page lead a team of specialists on a mission to steal secrets. The special effects are absolutely stunning and will blow you away. This intricate layered plot and 2 ½ hour thrill ride will keep your mind thinking and your heart pounding. It’s an imaginative re-creation of the "I must be dreaming" sensation.
Alien gives it 3 ½ "dream state with a kick" stars out of 4.
Friday, July 09, 2010
Predators
It’s "Aliens" meets "Avatar" meets predator vs. "Predator" in a homage to the original movie. Alien abduction brings a group of strangers to a wildlife preserve where they must fight for survival. Good action and special effects along with some cheesy lines and the typical bait and lure tactics drive this bit of mindless summer entertainment. Watch out Arnold, Adrien Brody has buffed up to take control of the situation.
Alien gives it 3 "bring it, hunt it, kill it" stars out of 4.
It’s "Aliens" meets "Avatar" meets predator vs. "Predator" in a homage to the original movie. Alien abduction brings a group of strangers to a wildlife preserve where they must fight for survival. Good action and special effects along with some cheesy lines and the typical bait and lure tactics drive this bit of mindless summer entertainment. Watch out Arnold, Adrien Brody has buffed up to take control of the situation.
Alien gives it 3 "bring it, hunt it, kill it" stars out of 4.
Thursday, July 08, 2010
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
Dragons, eagles, and bulls, oh my!
It’s "Merlin" meets "She’s out of My League" meets "Fantasia" when Merlin’s apprentices (Nicholas Cage and Alfred Molina) do battle with earth’s fate hanging in the balance. Audiences should pretty much know what to expect when Disney magic and Bruckheimer electrifying action team up again. It’s typical Disney family friendly fare with a good dose of humor. Wild car chases and big explosions are Bruckheimer trademarks. In addition to special effects galore, stay through the credits for one last hat trick.
Alien gives it 3 "dragon’s ring, Merlin’s circle, and plasma bolts" stars out of 4.
Dragons, eagles, and bulls, oh my!
It’s "Merlin" meets "She’s out of My League" meets "Fantasia" when Merlin’s apprentices (Nicholas Cage and Alfred Molina) do battle with earth’s fate hanging in the balance. Audiences should pretty much know what to expect when Disney magic and Bruckheimer electrifying action team up again. It’s typical Disney family friendly fare with a good dose of humor. Wild car chases and big explosions are Bruckheimer trademarks. In addition to special effects galore, stay through the credits for one last hat trick.
Alien gives it 3 "dragon’s ring, Merlin’s circle, and plasma bolts" stars out of 4.
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Dinner for Schmucks
Paul Rudd is the straight man in this comedy of errors as his character tries to climb the corporate ladder and marry his girlfriend. All goes wrong when he runs into his candidate (Steve Carell) for the "Dinner with a Winner" contest. Carell is the perfect lovable idiot. Alien found it a lot funnier than he expected. The gags are carefully staged and build to a hilarious climax at the dinner party. Stay through the credits for one more mouse diorama.
Alien gives it 3 "mouse-terpiece" stars out of 4.
Paul Rudd is the straight man in this comedy of errors as his character tries to climb the corporate ladder and marry his girlfriend. All goes wrong when he runs into his candidate (Steve Carell) for the "Dinner with a Winner" contest. Carell is the perfect lovable idiot. Alien found it a lot funnier than he expected. The gags are carefully staged and build to a hilarious climax at the dinner party. Stay through the credits for one more mouse diorama.
Alien gives it 3 "mouse-terpiece" stars out of 4.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Cyrus
A lonely, depressed, and desperate divorced man (John C. Reilly) meets a second chance (Marisa Tomei) in life, but suspects he is being sabotage by her son, Cyrus (Jonah Hill). Catherine Keener rounds out the fine cast. This supposedly light-hearted romantic comedy is more awkwardly funny and uncomfortable at times. The critics will probably love this odd, slow-paced film, but it’s not Alien’s sense of humor.
Alien gives it 1 ½ "white adidas" stars out of 4.
A lonely, depressed, and desperate divorced man (John C. Reilly) meets a second chance (Marisa Tomei) in life, but suspects he is being sabotage by her son, Cyrus (Jonah Hill). Catherine Keener rounds out the fine cast. This supposedly light-hearted romantic comedy is more awkwardly funny and uncomfortable at times. The critics will probably love this odd, slow-paced film, but it’s not Alien’s sense of humor.
Alien gives it 1 ½ "white adidas" stars out of 4.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
The A-Team
This is not a sneak preview. This movie has already released.
I love it when a plan comes together. A retro remake of the classic A-Team TV show explodes onto the big screen with a blast. This homage captures the spirit of the original series. See how the Alpha Team got together. It is an action-packed, shoot'em up, blow'em up, thrill ride with some crazy stunts. It’s mindless fun as the ex-Ranger soldiers of fortune fight to prove their innocence. If you missed the two cameos during the film, just stay seated through the credits to see who they were in the final clip.
Alien gives it 3 "the name is Lynch" stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This movie has already released.
I love it when a plan comes together. A retro remake of the classic A-Team TV show explodes onto the big screen with a blast. This homage captures the spirit of the original series. See how the Alpha Team got together. It is an action-packed, shoot'em up, blow'em up, thrill ride with some crazy stunts. It’s mindless fun as the ex-Ranger soldiers of fortune fight to prove their innocence. If you missed the two cameos during the film, just stay seated through the credits to see who they were in the final clip.
Alien gives it 3 "the name is Lynch" stars out of 4.
