TWILIGHT

A teenage girl (Kristine Stewart) moves to the Pacific Northwest to live with her father. While learning about the many social clicks at her new school she meets and befriends a gorgeous school mate who happens to be a vampire (Robert Pattinson).

I can't recommend Twilight. The adapted screenplay is very simple and sophomoric, which I guess shouldn't be a surprised since the film involves goofy teenagers and scenes that take place in a school cafeteria and shopping for prom dresses. Twilight feels like an after-school special. Do they make after-school specials anymore? I've read a few reviews that insinuate that Twilight is a film that promotes abstinence. Huh? I don't buy it. In simple terms, Twilight is a teenage love story that will span 4 movies all based on a series of books by Stephanie Meyer.

Jamie gives Twilight a generous "5". Although I wasn't impressed with this first installment, it may benefit from a better 2nd and 3rd effort. Its difficult to judge a sum without the whole. At the end of the film there is an insinuation that "werewolves" will play a major plot point in the next edition. Is there a 10 year old girl out there who has read the books that can comment on this?

Twilight is directed by Catherine Hardwicke. She was not hired to direct the next movie. I hope the next director gives the second installment a darker feel and perhaps a little more blood and gore. It seems un-American to have a movie about vampires and not have fake Hollywood blood flow across the screen. Somewhere Bela Lugosi is turning over in his grave at the lack of blood and gore in Twilight. And don't get me started on the the vampire's "glistening skin". Or how about the vampire's talent of climbing tress with a horny teenage girl on his back? On second thought, Twilight gets a "4".

If you liked Twilight, check out 2003's Thirteen and 2005's Lords of Dogtown. Both of these films are directed by Hardwicke and are much better than any kiddie vampire flick. Heath Ledger will forever be remembered for exercising his demons as the Joker and for kissing cowboys, but in Lords of Dogtown he gives a great performance as a surf board maker who can't shake a hippie-lettuce addiction. .

Great Films: A River Runs Through It

I've seen A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT countless times. It is one of the more beautifully photographed films I've ever seen. Robert Redford's direction and narration is top notch.

No need to be into fly-fishing to appreciate Brad Pitt's under-rating acting ability. Boy, does he look young in this film!

Jamie says "10".

Australia

After inheriting a cattle ranch in the outback of Australia, a British aristocrat (Nicole Kidman)takes on the task of herding over 1500 head of cattle across hostile land to the town of Darwin, Australia. To help in the treacherous task she enlists ranch staff and a cattle drover (Hugh Jackman) who she eventually falls in love with. All of this takes place during the backdrop of WWII.

Australia is full of problems. There isn't much chemistry between the two leads and the screen play practically combines 2 stories. Once the cattle drive portion is complete, the Japanese attack on Darwin, Australia begins. There is no continuity between the two portions of the films. The movie could literally be 2 separate films. Because of this, each story didn't have enough time to develop.

However, the worst part of the movie is actually much simpler. Australia is one of the more poorer made epic films that I've seen. Many of the films scenes take place on a sound stage. It seems there was no effort to make set pieces such as rocks, trees, and the sunset to look remotely real. During an action sequence that involved a cattle stampede it looked as if the actors were filmed on fake horse in front of a "blue-screen". Once again, no effort was made in making this action sequence look real. Over the past decade movies such as The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Titanic, and the Matrix featured top notch special affects. Why Australia failed in this area I find fascinating.

Australia is in a time-warp. Just because the film takes place in the 1940's doesn't mean it should be filmed as if it was made in the 1940's. Jamie says "4".

Australia is directed by Baz Luhrmann. He also directed Moulin Rouge and Romeo + Juliet. All three of these films I've found to be border-line unwatchable.

The King of Pop: Top 10 Movies of 2008

Entertainment Weekly is my favorite magazine. I consider it my weekly pop culture bible.

Stephen King writes a bi-weekly column for the periodical titles The Pop of King. Everyone knows he is a great writer...but he is also a great columnist. King never disappoints while pointing out the most important as well as the most ridiculous aspects of the crazy world of pop culture.

In true King fashion his is the first Top Ten film list I've seen this year. Do you agree with his list?

Stephen King's Top 10 Movies...

1. The Dark Knight
2. Slumdog Millionaire
3. WALL-E
4. Tropic Thunder
5. Funny Games
6. The Bank Job
7. Lakeview Terrace
8. The Ruins
9. Redbelt
10. Death Race

I've seen 7 of King's Top 10. Three of those seven have a chance to be in my Top 10 list...Which will be released a few days before the Oscar telecast.

Tropic Thunder

To create an actual realistic Vietnam War film, movie producers drop their prima-dona actors into an actual "conflict" without them knowing it. The actors believe hidden cameras are recording all of their actions while taking on fake hostile fire from the enemy.





Tropic Thunder is very funny. Usually, a comedy is funny in the beginning and slowly loses steam throughout the film. Tropic Thunder is different in that it gets funnier as the movie goes on. At press time, it's the funniest film released in 2008. Jamie says "8".

Everyone involved, shines in their roles however, Tom cruise is by far the most memorable. Who knew Cruise could be funny? He is almost unrecognizable playing a bald, hairy chested, huge egoed movie producer who is willing to let his actors "die in the shit" if it means making a profit. I'm not over stating when I say the 10-12 minutes of screen time he has is simply hilarious. It won't happen, but Tom Cruise deserves a supporting actor nomination.

Ben Stiller directs Tropic Thunder. Stiller has been a huge Hollywood player for the past decade, but has been on the scene for nearly 25 years. Below is Stiller's top 5 films.

1. There's Something About Mary
2. Meet the Parents
3. Dodgeball
4. Tropic Thunder
5. Reality Bites

In Bruges

After completing a job in England, two hit men played by Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson are told to take a two week leave of absence in Bruges, Belgium. The older hit man wants to enjoy the time off in the slow paced town, but the younger hit man can't stand being in the most medieval town in Europe.

In Bruges is a really good film. The plot has drama, comedic under-tones, and a surprisingly amount of effective suspense. Ralph Fiennes plays the boss of the 2 hit men. It won't happen, but he deserves an Oscar nomination. He is a great actor and gives his all in his portrayal as a frustrated ruthless killer/boss. In Bruges was released earlier this year and only found modest success on the indy film circuit. You would be well served to check it out as a DVD rental. Jamie says "8".

The film was directed by Martin McDonagh. He also wrote the screenplay. If this is an indication of projects to come...I will look forward to his future offerings.

BURN AFTER READING

Two nit-wits who work at a Washington D.C. fitness center come across a disc containing the memories of an ousted CIA official. They concoct a plan to black mail the CIA official in hopes to get money so they can pay for various plastic surgery procedures.

Burn After Reading will make my list of the most disappointing films of 2008. One would think with a cast that boasts some of the best talent working in Hollywood today (Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Frances McDormand, John Malkovich, Tilta Swinton) and directed by the Coen Brothers, reigning winners of the best Directing Oscar...this bunch could come up with a better effort than this. The performances are not bad, however, the material is stale. The screenplay tries to hard to be original and unique. When a Coen Brothers film fails, it's usually because of the screen-play. Their stories and language are always original, but sometimes their style does not fit with the setting of their tall-tales. In this case, the setting is Washington D.C. The wacky characters simply didn't feel natural in this setting. Burn After Reading?...More like Burn After Watching. Jamie says "5".

The Coen Brothers are one of my favorite directors. They have directed and co-wrote 13 films. Below are my 5 favorite Coen Brothers Films.

1. Raising Arizona

2. Fargo

3. O Brother, Where Art Thou?

4. No Country For Old Men

5. Miller's Crossing

WALL-E

In the distant future a lone robot, WALL-E, is charged with cleaning up all of the trash on Earth after all humans have abandoned the planet to live in outer-space. After years of being alone and being lonely WALL-E is surprised to find a soul-mate when a robot returns to Earth to find living plant life.

Pixar has always done a good job of making sure both children and adults are entertained by there cartoon product. WALL-E maybe the first time that they over-thought their concept and made it too smart for children to enjoy. WALL-E is a good flick, but its themes of loneliness and environmental concerns might be lost on children.

WALL-E's most successful moments take place when the lonely robot is scene roaming the trashy streets of the abandoned city-scape that is his charge. Once his adventure takes him and the audience to outer-space my interest wained slightly due to the regression to typical plot-lines of chase sequences and "saving the day". However, as a whole WALL-E succeeds as a movie that should be given a chance by anyone who has enjoyed the past work of the Pixar studio. Jamie says "7".

Pixar has released 9 feature films. Below I rank 8 of them from best to worst. I've never seen "A Bug's Life".

1. Toy Story

2. Toy Story 2

3. Finding Nemo

4. The Incredibles

5. Monsters, Inc

6. Cars

7. WALL-E

8. Ratatouille

Eagle Eye

A slacker (Shai LaBeouf) is quickly introduced into the world of American espionage when he starts receiving phone calls threatening him with bodily harm if he doesn't do what the caller asks. With the FBI on his tale, he is thrown into this adventure with a woman (Michelle Monaghan) who is receiving the same kind of phone calls.







Eagle Eye is a satisfying thriller. I can't believe I'm saying this, but there was way too much action. The action was well done, but all of the chases and car crashes took away from the suspense of the plot. Also, when the bad guy is reveled, I was disappointed. I understood the point that the film was trying to make but I thought the bad guy was a little far fetched. Eagle Eye should be seen in the theater as it is an over-all a good action flick. The film also stars Billy Bob Thorton as the FBI agent on the tales of the protagonists. Jamie says "7".

You Don't Mess With the Zohan

Tired of all the fighting in his country, legendary Israeli commando Zohan (Adam Sandler) fakes his own death and goes to New York, where he can fulfill his fondest dream: to become a hairstylist. Zohan's sexy way with a cut and curl makes him a hit with Manhattan's women, but when enemy Arabs spot him, Zohan has to call on his military skills if he is ever to wield scissors again

Other than Billy Madison, I don't find Adam Sandler's shtick funny or entertaining. Actually, whenever I tell a fellow movie fan how much I enjoyed Billy Madison I secretly do an inner body cringe. One can't blame someone for thinking it was a childish, sophomoric, dim-witted act in film-making. However, I like it to this day and find myself always sucked it to its silly humor whenever it airs on TBS or TNT.

You Don't Mess With the Zohan is one of many Sandler comedic vehicles that falls flat with me. The premise is dumb and uninteresting. What few laughs exist do not make up for poor acting by Sandler and over acting by his usual band of merry misfits such as Rob Schneider. Has Schneider ever been in a good film?

Over the past few years Adam Sandler has tried his skill in a few dramas. Although those films have not made lots of cash, his performances garnered some good reviews. His act is already old for me. If he wants to keep whatever good will exists between he and his fans, I think he should participate is a few more dramas while his career is still relevant to a select few.

My Top 5 Adam Sandler Films:
1. Spanglish
2. Billy Madison
3. The Wedding Singer
4. Punch Drunk Love
5. Reign Over Me

THE RUINS

Bright sun, warm waters and sandy beaches beckon countless Americans every year, particularly young adults seeking inexpensive fun. Enter Amy and Stacy, two best friends who bring along their very different boyfriends--focused med student Jeff and free-spirited partier Eric. As the group's vacation nears its end, they journey into the lush Mexican jungle in hopes of seeing some ancient Mayan ruins. But when they arrive at the magnificent site, an unexpected event drives the frightened travelers to the top of the crumbling stone structure, where they confront hidden deadly horrors and engage in a brutal battle for survival.

Surprisingly, The Ruins started out as a pretty good horror flick. In fact, it was a better than average horror flick up to the last 60 seconds of the film. The Ruins provide suspense and more than enough "gross-out" scenes (FYI...I watched the un-rated version on DVD) that all good horror films should deliver. Unfortunately, I think the movie studio ran out of cash. During the climatic finish, simply stated...the movie ended. I felt short-changed, not that horror films have a reputation of finishing strong, I still expected more. Although I enjoyed a few aspects of The Ruins, especially of who/what the "bad guy" was or wasn't....the film didn't have enough bang at the end to easily recommend. Jamie says "5".

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army

After an ancient truce existing between humankind and the invisible realm of the fantastic is broken, hell on Earth is ready to erupt. A ruthless leader who treads the world above and the one below defies his bloodline and awakens an unstoppable army of creatures. Now, it’s up to the planet’s toughest, roughest superhero to battle the merciless dictator and his marauders. He may be red. He may be horned. He may be misunderstood. But when you need the job done right, it’s time to call in Hellboy (Ron Perlman). Along with his expanding team in the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense—pyrokinetic girlfriend Liz (Selma Blair), aquatic empath Abe (Doug Jones) and protoplasmic mystic Johann—the BPRD will travel between the surface strata and the unseen magical one, where creatures of fantasy become corporeal. And Hellboy, a creature of two worlds who’s accepted by neither, must choose between the life he knows and an unknown destiny that beckons him.

The first Hellboy was very under-rated. It made a modest haul at the box office and I gave it a "6". After seeing it a few more times...it deserves a "7". Hellboy 2: The Golden Army also gets a "7". Both films have great action sequences and Ron Perlman as Hellboy is great. Make sure to catch both films on DVD.

WANTED

25-year-old Wes (James McAvoy) was the most disaffected, cube-dwelling drone the planet had ever known. Until he met a woman named Fox (Angelina Jolie). After his estranged father is murdered, the deadly sexy Fox recruits Wes into the Fraternity, a secret society that trains Wes to avenge his dad’s death by unlocking his dormant powers. As she teaches him how to develop lightning-quick reflexes and phenomenal agility, Wes discovers this team lives by an ancient, unbreakable code: carry out the death orders given by fate itself. With wickedly brilliant tutors—including the Fraternity’s enigmatic leader, Sloan (Morgan Freeman)—Wes grows to enjoy all the strength he ever wanted. But, slowly, he begins to realize there is more to his dangerous associates than meets the eye. Wes will come to learn what no one could ever teach him: he alone controls his destiny.

Wanted is an odd action movie. It's a cross between The Bourne series of films and at the same time has elements from The Matrix. I was pleasantly surprise to learn that Jolie only had a supporting role as the assassin Fox. I've feel that Jolie is over exposed and over-rated. She does a poor job in Wanted. Part of the problem is that she is so skinny in this film, she actually looks sickly. She is very unappealing on screen and for that matter off screen also.

I like James McAvoy. Over the past few years he has built his resume up quit nicely. The plot of this film fits him because in reality...McAvoy is very small in stature. Although I like him, I can't see him doing other action movies like this one. Wanted is a good theater film with lots of action. Leave your brain at the door and enjoy the ride. Jamie says "6".

Strange Wilderness

After the genial, beloved TV host of the popular wildlife show "Strange Wilderness" passes on to the great nature special in the sky, his son Peter Gaulke takes over the series--and things are never the same. Ignorant, bumbling and blissfully unaware of his own lack of talent, Pete sprinkles his documentary narrations with dubious factoids. When the ratings sink to an all-time low and the show is about to be canceled, Pete and his filmmaking partner Fred Wolf realize they have to come up with "something big" to save the series. It looks like they've hit the jackpot when Pete lucks into a map of the legendary Bigfoot's secret cave. But when the clueless producer leads his ragtag crew to the wilds of Central America to film the elusive beast, they encounter a string of disasters.

Because I see so many movies, ultimately, I see a lot of really bad movies. Every once in awhile a movie comes along that is so bad that it makes otherwise normal bad movies seem to be Oscar contenders. Strange Wilderness (SW) is that bad. SW is one of the most amateur-ish made films I've ever seen. Often times the camera is off-centered and the actors don't seem to know what to do on screen. Although I'm sure SW cost nearly nothing to make in Hollywood terms...One has to wonder if the embarrassment of participating in this film won't hover over the actors, directors, and producers for the remainder of their careers. Jamie says "0".

Step Brothers

Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby co-stars Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly re-team with that film's director, Adam McKay, to tell the tale of two pampered best friends whose single parents fall in love and decide to marry. McKay and Ferrell share screenwriting credits, and Judd Apatow and Jimmy Miller produce.

I'm not a big Will Ferrell fan. Semi-Pro, from earlier this year, was awful. However, maybe Step Brothers is an example of movies to come. Step Brothers is a hilarious movie. From beginning to end there were more than enough laughs to make it one of the funniest films I've ever seen. Not only did I think it was funny, but fellow theater goers thought it was funny also because the entire crowd was laughing along with me. It will deserve a second viewing on dvd because the theater was laughing so often that I missed many of the verbal hilarities do to too much crowd laughter.

Ironically, movie critics do not agree. Over all, critics gave Step Brothers average to poor reviews. What can I say...They are wrong. Jamie says "9".

The Dark Knight

With the help of Lieutenant Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman sets out to destroy organized crime in Gotham for good. The triumvirate proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a rising criminal mastermind known as the Joker, who thrusts Gotham into anarchy and forces the Dark Knight ever closer to crossing the fine line between hero and vigilante.

The Dark Knight is the rare movie experience that exceeds the media hype of its pre-release. For months movie fan have been bombarded with clips of the menacing Joker tormenting Gotham city. For months movie fans have read media reports stating that the late Heath Ledger deserves to be nominated for a supporting Oscar for his portrayal of the messy-make-upped Joker. The Dark Knight does not disappoint. More "crime-saga" than super-hero movie, The Dark Knight exceeds on all levels including drama, action and thriller film aspects.

All actors involved in the film do a great job. Christian Bale, always solid in every film he is in, as Batman is suburb as well as Michael Caine, Aaron Eckert, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Gary Oldman, and Morgan Freeman. But of course the high light of the film is Heath Ledger as The Joker. Every time he is on screen his performance is chilling. Larger than life, Ledger played The Joker as a crazy emotionless psychopath. His performance will not just be remembered as his last, but also as one of the most memorable villainous portrayals in film history. Time will be the ultimate judge, but I predict his version of The Joker will be mentioned in the same breathe as Hannibal Lector when talking about the all-time great movie villains.

Of course its easy for actors to give memorable performances when the director is maybe the best in the business working today. When will Christopher Nolan make a bad film?

As of press time...THE DARK KNIGHT is the best film of the year so far. Jamie says "9".

HANCOCK

John Hancock (Will Smith) is an unhappy and reluctant superhero who is living in his own world. For some unknown reason, Hancock is depressed and has started drinking very heavily. He has saved many lives in Los Angles over the years, but in doing so, he has no regards for damaging buildings, trains, roads, cars, or anything that gets in his way to get the job done. The last time he captured several criminals, it cost the city $9 million to fix the damages. The public has had enough of Hancock, and they want him to stop or go to another city. Then one day, Hancock saves the life of Ray Embrey (Jason Bateman) from being run over by a train. Ray is a Public Relations executive who now can go home to his wife and child, because Hancock was there. Ray owes Hancock his life, and he makes it his mission to change his superhero's image and have the public cheering him. Ray's wife, Mary (Charlize Theron), believes Hancock can not be fixed, and she doesn't want Ray to be hurt.

Hancock will make my list of the 10 most disappointing films of 2008. The first half of the film was very promising. Will Smith's portrayal of a lushful super-hero is very memorable and funny. Unfortunately, the screenplay takes a wrong turn at the the film's halfway point. I don't know if one could call it a plot twist, but the story surprising takes its characters away from from where the first half of the film is taking them. This change in story-line ruined the entire film for me. Hancock gets a "3".

Hancock is directed by Peter Berg which is his 5th effort in this role. Although Hancock isn't his best, his first 4 films deserve to be seen: The Kingdom (6), Friday Night Lights (9), The Rundown (9), and Very Bad Things (6).

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

In 1957, intrepid archaeologist Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) is on the verge of losing his job at a prestigious university thanks to some questionable activities he's undertaken recently. He then meets up with a young rebel named Mutt (Shia LaBeouf) who asks Indy to go on another grand adventure: recover a legendary skull made out of crystal which allegedly will allow its owner to rule the world. Traveling down to Peru to an ancient lost city, Indy and Mutt must dodge an evil Russian agent, Irina Spalko (Cate Blanchett), who is after the same object.

I learned 2 things while watching the 4th installment of the Indiana Jones series. 1) Nazis are better villains than Russians. 2) Religious artifacts are much more interesting than spacemen and flying saucers. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull was disappointing. Jamie says "3".

27 Dresses

DON'T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB!

Jane (Katherine Heigl) is the living embodiment of the old saying "always a bridesmaid, never a bride." Just when she thinks her life can't get any lonelier, her sister Tess (Malin Akerman) announces her engagement to the man of Jane's dreams. But which sibling will eventually end up standing at the altar first?

Katherine Heigl shouldn't quit her day job. Like most actors who star on popular television shows...they all dream of finding success on big screen films. Last year Heigl found success in "KNOCKED UP". However, most of of the films success was given to the director/writer and other actors. I tended to agree. Heigl wasn't bad in the film, she simply wasn't memorable.

The same can be said for 27 DRESSES. She isn't bad in the film, she isn't memorable. To her credit, I don't know if being memorable is possible was starring in a film like 27D. One of my biggest pet-peeves in romantic-comedies is when a good looking / hot chick can't find a date. 27D suffers from this tired premise. Jamie says "4".

IRONMAN

Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is a billionaire industrialist whose forte is building weapons of mass destruction. When he's severely injured while testing one of those weapons in Afghanistan, he's kidnapped by insurgents and has to build a suit of iron armor to escape his captors. After returning to the U.S., Stark refines his iron creation and transforms himself into a flying metallic repulsor-ray-firing superhero. When his biggest business rival, Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges), gets his hands on Stark's original plans, he creates an even bigger iron adversary to defeat Stark once and for all.

The first summer blockbuster of 2008 didn't disappoint. Iron Man is a great action family friendly movie. Robert Downey Jr. is great as the hard living, hard drinking millionaire who has a change of heart. Luckily for us, his change of heart is still bad news for Arab terrorists. Check this one out before it leaves theaters. Jamie says "8".

THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES

Jared Grace (Freddie Highmore) moves into an old house with his family, including his twin brother Simon (also Highmore) and sister Mallory (Sarah Bolger), that they've inherited from their great uncle Arthur Spiderwick. When bizarre things start happening on the estate, Jared finds a book that holds the secret to the mystery, which includes several strange creatures who lurk in the shadows. Based on the bestselling series of books.

With movies like THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES adults must watch with the eyes of a child. Reality must be placed aside and you must believe in the unbelievable things that Hollywood movie magic presents. THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES is a kids/family movie. I tend to grade such movie with the following criteria: When watching a kids/family movie would kids like it as well as the adults watching it with them. In this case, the answer is yes. The film is far from perfect but the special effects are good and I enjoyed the themes of family bonding to be well received. Jamie says "6".

DEFINITELTY, MAYBE

As a father (Ryan Reynolds) goes through a difficult divorce, his young daughter (Abigail Breslin) starts questioning him on his entire romantic history. So, he tells her the tale of the three great loves of his life and she must guess which woman eventually became her mother. Is it the sweet-as-pie girl-next-door Emily (Elizabeth Banks)? His best friend (Isla Fisher)? Or the flaky journalist (Rachel Weisz)?

As chick-flicks go...DEFINITELY, MAYBE won't be difficult for a guy to sit through. Ryan Reynolds is fun to watch as he uncomfortably relates the tall tale of his 3 great loves of his life. Usually I dislike child actors, however, Abigail Breslin has won me over the last 3 years. While watching I kept thinking..."thank GOD Dakota Fanning isn't n this".

The one plot point that I has issue with was that the daughter is approximately 10 years old. This is the very first time she has inquired about how her mother and father met? I give DEFINITELY, MAYBE a "6". The film is simply...OK.

Take note of Isla Fisher. In a post from almost 3 years ago I stated that she was going to be a big star. She's not quit there yet...But she's getting close.

DOOMSDAY

In the future, the aggressive Reaper virus has wiped out most of the Earth's population, and the only way authorities can think to contain it is to wall off infected areas. The plan works for a while, until the virus reappears in non-infected areas years later. That's when a team of specialists led by Eden Sinclair (Rhona Mitra) is forced to drive into the infected areas and figure out a cure before humanity is totally eliminated from the planet.

DOOMSDAY is a cross between Mad Max movies, 28 Days Later, Escape From New York, and any film that takes place in medieval times. DOOMSDAY is crazy fun. Are you squeamish? Don't see this movie. Its very bloody and intense. I hope there's a sequel. Jamie says "7".

THE BANK JOB: The First Really Good Movie of 2008

Terry (Jason Statham) is a car dealer who just wants to put his old crooked life behind him and start all over with a new family. However, when Martine (Saffron Burrows) offers him the job of a lifetime — robbing a bank on London's famous Baker Street — Terry can't resist. After breaking into the bank and stealing cash and jewelry from dozens of safety deposit boxes, only then does Terry find out what he's really being used to steal: sexy photos taken of a royal family member. Based on a true story.

THE BANK JOB is the first really good movie of 2008. As a new release last weekend, it was disappointing to see that it only had the 5th highest gross of the week. It received good reviews for its slick storyline and good performances. Jason Statham has been around now for a decade. A poor-man's Bruce Willis, he is very entertaining to watch. Below, I have his top 5 films. THE BANK JOB is directed by Roger Donaldson...he is a real pro that never gets mentioned as one of this generations great directors. His top 5 directorial efforts are below. THE BANK JOB gets an "8".

Jason Statham's Top 5 Movies

1. The Bank Job

2. The Italian Job

3. The Transporter

4. Cellular

5. Snatch

Roger Donaldson's Top 5 Movies

1. No Way Out

2. Thirteen Days

3. The Bank Job

4. The Recruit

5. White Sands

Vantage Point

When President Ashton (William Hurt) is assassinated while making a speech in Spain, it's up to two Secret Service agents (Dennis Quaid, Matthew Fox) to find the culprit. Even though dozens of cameras on-scene, including one held by an American tourist (Forest Whitaker) and ones managed by a TV news producer (Sigourney Weaver), the truth of what happened isn't evidently clear. Even the question of just who was assassinated remains to be settled.

There are some exciting moments in VANTAGE POINT, however, the shtick of the plot gets old quick. The re-telling of the same 20 minutes gets old after the second time. There are 5 or 6 re-tellings of the 20 minutes in question. Each point of view gives the viewer more and more info on who the assassin is.

All of the points of views were a little to gimmicky for me. When it comes down to it, the entire story isn't that exciting. Jamie says "5".

Semi-Pro

Kissing his career good-bye...

In 1976, Jackie Moon (Will Ferrell) is a washed-up one-hit wonder who uses his brief moment of fame and fortune to buy a professional basketball team. He purchases the Flint Michigan Tropics, elevates himself to their top player and quickly transforms the team into the worst franchise in the fledgling ABA league. The Tropics are on the verge of being disbanded when the ABA folds into the NBA, so Jackie must rally his fellow players to actually win a game before they're forced to call it quits.

Will Ferrell's game is getting tired. Semi-Pro is Ferrell's forth foray into the sports genre. The same lame jokes that bombed in Blades of Glory are re-hashed here. Ferrell is slowly joining the "I'm Not Funny" club as its third member...Robin Williams and Whoopie Goldberg are getting lonely. Semi-Pro gets a "1".

RAMBO

Thinking his days of war and bloodshed are behind him, John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) lives a peaceful life in the jungles of Thailand. Even when Christian aid workers ask the former warrior to take them up the Salween River into Burma to deliver medical supplies, he refuses because he knows how dangerous a trip like that can be. The missionaries go anyway, and when they don't come back, Rambo crosses the border himself and dispatches Burmese soldiers with his traditional gusto to save the kidnapped innocents.

RAMBO received bad reviews from most critics. Although I knew this, as I paid for my ticket, I thought there was still a good chance of liking RAMBO. John Rambo solves problems with violence. Most critics are liberal, so any character that solves problems with violence can not receive a good review. RAMBO is a good movie with a great message. There are bad people in the world and sometimes kicking butt involves killing those bad people. Jamie says "7". Beware, RAMBO is bloodier than any horror movie you'll ever see. RAMBO is rated "R" for a reason.

JUMPER

One day, Davey (Hayden Christensen) discovers he has an amazing ability. He can teleport himself to any location at will. Using his newfound power to rob banks, Davey unwittingly becomes a target of National Security Agency officers and another person with the same exact power. Based on the popular young adult novel by Steven Gould.




Jumper is directed by Doug Liman. Until this disaster, Liman, resume was impressive; Swingers, Go, The Bourne Identity, Mr. & Mrs. Smith. All of these films were smart and interesting. Jumper is boring with poor special effects. Rent Liman's other films. Jumper gets a "2".

TOP TEN MOVIES OF 2007

Believe it or not, I usually have a difficult time creating my top 10 list each year. Typically, after choosing which film is my favorite, I find it to be painstaking effort to categorize the other films on the list. Over the years I’ve come to the conclusion that sometimes on a second viewing, a film that was placed as an Honorable Mention should have been placed in the top 10. I take my movie watching skills and ability very seriously. I have a responsibility to get the list as accurate as possible knowing that it will shape the course of your lives over the next few months.

This year I took extra effort to make sure each film is placed in its rightful position. Be confident that this top 10 list is the list to end all movie lists that encompass 2007. At post time I’ve viewed 101 films that were released in 2007. Like I stated above…I take my job seriously. A short review of most of these films can be found in previous postings. Enjoy.

THE TOP TEN MOVIES OF 2007

1. No Country For Old Men
2. There Will Be Blood
3. Away From Her
4. The Hoax
5. Into the Wild
6. Live Free or Die Hard
7. The Lookout
8. Juno
9. The Bourne Ultimatum
10. Rescue Dawn

Honorable Mentions..in no particular order
Knocked Up
The Mist
Black Book
Joshua
Smokin’ Aces
The Astronaut Farmer
300
Transformers
Oceans 13
1408
Year of the Dog
Grindhouse
Michael Clayton
Breach
The Kite Runner
Things we Lost In the Fire
Dan In Real Life
The King of Kong: Fistful of Quarters
The Assassination of Jesse James By the Coward Robert Ford

THE TOP TEN WORST MOVIES OF 2007

As each year passes the year in question is usually remembered by one or two trends. For me, 2007 will be remembered for the failure of the "Hollywood nti-war" film. You may be asking..."What film's are you talking about?". If you ask that question, my point has already been made. Several anti-war films were released in 2007. Almost all received glowing reviews...And all were box-office bombs. Do you remember these films: Lions For Lambs, In the valley of Ellah, Grace Is Gone, and The Kingdom. The Kingdom made just over 50 million, but one can assume with its star power of Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Garner that it cost a pretty penny to be made and distribute. The other films made less than 10 million each.



One of these years Hollywood will give us what we want...Good movies. Most movie goers view movies as entertainment. We don't want to solve the world's problems when seeing a movie. We realize the world's problems can't be solved by sitting in a movie theater.

Why should American movie audiences trust Hollywood when they make and produce drek like the movies on the list below? My hope is that you haven't seen the films below. I hope that after seeing the films on this list that it will prevent you from seeking them out at the local rental out-let. My hope is that when you walk by these movies at your local rental out-let that you feel a sence of pride by not succumbinbg to the big Hollywood machine that continues to feed American audiences crap movies while we smile and ask for seconds.

THE TOP TEN WORST MOVIES OF 2007



1. NEXT Nicholas Cage never ceases to amaze me with his poor film choices. NEXT is an un-explainable action/sci-fi flick. See my review from November 2007.

2. PERFECT STRANGER Has halle berry been in good film since winning an Oscar 6 years ago? See my review from December 2007.

3. GHOST RIDER Nicholas cage officially gets a life-time acheivement from the "bad-movie" society for appearing in 2 of 3 worst movies of the year. See my review from december 2007.

4. DELTA FARCE Like you, I find larry the cable Guy hilarious when guesting on Bob & Tom and seeing him do stand-up on Comedy central. For whatever reason, his act doesn't translate well to the big screen. See my review from Novemeber 2007.

5. BALLS OF FURY I took one for the team by renting this pathetic immitation of a sports movie about an under-ground ping-pong tournament. For more, see my review from December 2007.

6. Shrek The Third Has a third-quel ever dropped so far below its 2 predicessors? I actually heard children crying in the theater while watching this mess of a movie.

7. FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER Like Ghost Rider above, another comic book adaptation bites the dust. Who knew there were surf boards in outer-space?

8. HOSTEL 2 One of the more disappointing films of the year. The first Hostel was legitimately scarey. This edition tried to be funny. It wasn't comical or scarey. Hopefully this will put to bed the "torture porn" films of the past few years.

9. BLADES OF GLORY similar to Balls of Fury, except this involves comepetive figure skating. Will Ferrell is in danger of becoming an SNL also-ran.

10. GOOD LUCK CHUCK Another stand-up trying to convert o films. Dane Cook misses the mark by a mile in this stupid gross-out comedy.

DISHONORABLE MENTIONS

NORBIT-Another stinker from Eddy Murphy
SAW IV-Enough all ready!
CATCH & RELEASE-A romantic comedy that involves a dead guy who cheated on his fiance and his best friend who swoops in to pick up the peices of the fiance's broken heart...Sounds funny doesn't it? This film stars jennifer Garner. I like jennifer Garner. Instead of this aweful film, check her out in 2007's JUNO and THE KINGDOM.

THERE WILL BE BLOOD

At the turn of the 20th century, Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis) is a poor prospector who finally strikes it rich when he finds oil. However, money doesn't quite bring happiness and, in fact, it brings a whole host of new problems with which he has to contend.




There Will Be Blood is one of the top 5 films of 2007. Most of the credit goes to Daniel Day-Lewis. Simply stated, he might be the most talented actor working/living today. His performance in TWBB is a power-house. His character has two monologues that I will remember for the rest of my life.


Some of the credit also goes to Paul Thomas Anderson, director of TWBB. TWBB is his fifth directorial effort. The previous 4 films are all very watchable and entertaining. His "Boogie Nights", released in 1997 is one of my all-time favorite films. His and Day-Lewis's careers are similar in that they are very picky when it comes to the projects they work on. Because of this, there is always a built up anticipation that makes me want to see their films on opening weekend.

In the Name of the King

Farmer (Jason Statham) just wants to live a peaceful life, but he's forced into action when his wife (Claire Forlani) is kidnapped by the dark army led by the villainous Gallian (Ray Liotta) who is out to take over King Konreid's (Burt Reynolds) throne.



A BAD BEGINNING TO 2008

I watch a lot of movies. When I watch a movie 2 things rarely happen: 1) When I finish watching a film I rarely say "This is an instant Top Ten favorite film of all time. 2) When I finish watching a film I rarely say say "This is an instant Top Ten worst film of all time". In the Name of the King made me say the 2nd option. In fact, It might be the worst big budget release ever. Jamie says "0". If you decide to see this film and like it. Please don't tell me. If you like it...We can no longer be friends.

Halloween

In this update of John Carpenter's classic horror movie, director Rob Zombie goes deep into the psychology of what makes a serial killer. Disturbingly evil even as a little kid, a young Michael Myers (Daeg Faerch) kills his sister and is sent to a mental hospital where he's treated by Dr. Loomis (Malcolm McDowell) who becomes obsessed with his young patient. Years later, an adult Michael (Tyler Mane) escapes and goes on a killing spree, especially going after a trio of beautiful teenagers (Scout Taylor-Compton, Danielle Harris, Kristina Klebe) on the scariest night of the year.





Halloween is Rob Zombie's third directorial effort. His first, House of 1000 Corpses, was a fun horror film but disappointing in that it was unmemorable. The Devil's Rejects, his second effort, was actually OK. Zombie seems to excel is directing bad people doing bad things. The Devil's Rejects had some of the most disturbing images I've ever seen on film.

Because of his first 2 efforts I was excited to read that he would be remaking Halloween. Unfortunately, the movie was a disappointment. Or, I should say the second half of the film was a disappointment. The first hour shows how "Micheal Meyers" becomes a psychopath. As a child his home life is a mess. His mother is a stripper, her live-in boyfriend is an abusive loser, and his sister is a mouthy tramp. Micheal spends his afternoons alone torturing and dissecting dogs and cats. Although disturbing, this introduction to the horror that will follow is well done.

The second half of the film turns into a normal 80s slasher flick. Nothing original happens while Micheal kills innocent by-standards and anyone else who gets in his path. A trademark of 80's slasher flicks was how the victims got killed. I'm embarrassed to say, that it was entertaining to see how the movie makers could come up with new ways to "off" the nameless victims in their films.

If the horror genre is your favorite, you'll like Halloween. If you want to see a good film, rent something else. Jamie says "5".

Lisa Schwarzbaum of Entertainment Weekly: Top Ten Films of 2007

1. There Will Be Blood

2. No Country For Old Men

3. I'm Not There

4. Persepolis

5. No End In Sight

6. Zodiac

7. Lady Chatterley

8. 4 Months, 3 Weeks & 2 Days

9. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

10. Knocked Up

Lisa's 5 Worst of 2007

1. I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry

2. Evening

3. Evan Almighty

4. The Hottest State

5. Because I Said Go

Stardust

In the English village of Wall, a young man (Charlie Cox) goes on a journey to woo Victoria (Sienna Miller). During his travels, a falling star (Claire Danes) takes him into a fantasy world that acquaints him with a witch (Michelle Pfeiffer) and a pirate (Robert De Niro).

Stardust reminded me of The Princess Bride. Both are mature fairy tales that both children and adults can enjoy. Stardust isn't as good as The Princess Bride, but it still may be worth picking up at the video store.

Two things bothered me about Stardust. Its production value seemed very low. Some of the special effects looked cheap and amateurish. Also, I hated seeing my all-time favorite actor, Robert De Niro, dress up in ladies attire. Jamie says "6".

Hot Rod

Rod Taylor (Andy Samberg) is the world's greatest stuntman. In his own mind, anyway. When his abusive stepfather, Frank (Ian McShane), needs a life-saving heart operation, kind-hearted Rod plans the ultimate jump — over 15 buses! — to raise enough money for the surgery.

I haven't watched Saturday Night Live in years. From what I've read, Andy Samberg is supposed to be the next big thing. Hot Rod supplies a few grins, but for the most part, it's a one joke movie: a slacker with a moped wants to become the next Evil Knievel. Even if you think the joke is funny, its impossible to keep it funny for 90 minutes. Jamie says "3".

Ocean's Thirteen

Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and his ever-expanding band of merry men plot their latest heist. Also starring, of course, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Bernie Mac, Don Cheadle and Carl Reiner. And joining the cast are Al Pacino and Ellen Barkin, one of whom will play Danny's love interest.

2007 was a year of "threes" for movies; Shrek the Third, Spider-Man 3, The Bourne Ultimatum, and Ocean's Thirteen all completed the trilogy in all of the franchises.

Ocean's Thirteen is my favorite of the franchise. Its plot was easier to understand than the first 2, and having Al Picino play the mark was brilliant casting. I'm not a big fan George Clooney, but he and his merry band of criminals made Ocean's Thirteen one of the more fun movie going experiences of 2007. Jamie says "8".

The Astronaut Farmer

After a family tragedy ends Charles Farmer's (Billy Bob Thornton) promising aerospace career, he does the next best thing — spending several decades building his own rocket in his barn. But when it comes time to lift-off, the authorities try to stop this "hillbilly" from launching himself into space.

A very good movie from early 2007. The Astronaut Farmer is a great "dreamer" movie. Watching it may just make you try to achieve a goal or dream that you thought was impossible. In my opinion, if your dream doesn't involve building a rocket in a barn to propel yourself into space...GO FOR IT. Jamie says "8".

Top 5 Films of Billy Bob Thornton

1. Slingblade

2. Friday Night Lights

3. The Astronaut Farmer

4. Monster's Ball

5. Bad Santa

Top Ten Money Makers of 2007

2007 was a banner year for Hollywood. Nineteen films made over $100 million. With the current writers strike, will 2008 have the same success? Below are the top 10 grossing films of 2007 including dollar amount in millions and my grade.

1. Spider-Man 3 - $336 – “5”
2. Shrek the Third - $321 – “0”
3. Transformers - $319 – “8”
4. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End - $309 – “4”
5. Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix - $292 – “7”
6. The Bourne Ultimatum - $227 – “8”
7. 300 - $210 – “8”
8. Ratatouille - $206 – Haven’t seen it yet.
9. I Am Legend -$205* – “7”
10. The Simpson’s Movie - $183 – “4”

* As of press date, still collecting box-office revenue

I Am Legend

Based on the classic horror novel by Richard Matheson, Robert Neville (Will Smith) is the last human being on Earth. Everybody else on the planet has been transformed into blood-sucking vampires who all want to feast on Neville's neck.

I Am Legend isn't Will Smith's best movie, but he may give his best performance. Being that Smith's character is the last person on Earth, he has no other actor to play off of. He spends more than the first half of the film talking to himself and convincing himself that he can find a cure for the virus that ravaged the Earth's population.

Although Legend is billed as a horror film, don't let that description stop you from seeing it. Yes, there are several scenes with zombie like vampires chasing Smith's character through the abandoned streets of New York. However, there are several more scenes that involve Smith contemplating his fate as well as remembering his past life with a wife and child.

My one qualm with I Am Legend is that it's a bit anti-climatic. Jamie says "7".

Francis Lawrence directs I Am Legend. He also directed 2005's Constantine ("6").

Will Smith;s Top 5 films

1. Independence Day

2. The Pursuit of Happyness

3. Bad Boys

4. I Am Legend

5. Men In Black

Will Smith has been nominated for 2 acting Oscars. The first for Ali and the 2nd for The Pursuit of Happyness.

Owen Gleiberman of Entertainment Weekly: Top 10 Films of 2007

1. I'm Not There

2. Before the Devil Knows Your Dead

3. Michael Clayton

4. Superbad

5. The Lives of Others

6. Grindhouse

7. Jack Smith and the Destruction of Atlantis

8. Once

9. No End in Sight

10. Zodiac

Owen's Worst 5 films of 2007

1. Youth Without Youth

2. Hannibal Rising

3. Lars and the Real Girl

4. I know Who Killed Me

5. Redacted

Juno

Juno (Ellen Page) is a smart teenager facing a tough decision: what to do after she gets pregnant from a classmate (Michael Cera). Deciding to give the baby up for adoption to a rich couple (Jason Bateman, Jennifer Garner), she has the full support of both her parents (Allison Janney, J.K. Simmons). But is giving the child away really what she wants to do deep down in her heart?

Juno is a good film that has a great chance of being nominated for several Oscars including best actress, best original screenplay, and best film. Ellen Page gives a star making performance and if she gets nominated for an Oscar she has a great chance at winning. Jamie says "8".

This isn't Page's first time giving a great performance. Check out 2005's Hard Candy where she plays a "little-red-riding-hood" like character who turns the tables on a big bad wolf.

Ghost Rider

The story is based on the Marvel character Johnny Blaze, a motorcycle stuntman who becomes the host of a "spirit of vengeance" in exchange for the safety of his true love. At night he's transformed into a fiery demon with superpowers who chases bad guys.

Nicholas Cage strikes again...Or I should say strikes out again. Each year there are several bad movies. Bad movies don't always translate into stupid movies. Ghost Rider is a stupid movie. I'm unfamiliar with the comic book that the film is based on so I might not be able to appreciate the complexities of a stuntman who transforms into a flaming skeleton at night to catch bad guys. Jamie says "0".