Movie Night: The Princess Bride.

Review #232: The Princess Bride.

Cast
Cary Elwes (Westly), Robin Wright (Princess Buttercup), Mandy Patinkin (Inigo Montoya), Chris Sarandon (Prince Humperdinck), André the Giant (Fezzik), Christopher Guest (Count Tyrone Rugen), Peter Falk (The Grandfather/Narrator), Fred Savage (The Grandson), Wallace Shawn (Vizzini), Billy Crystal (Miracle Max), Carol Kane (Valerie), and Peter Cook (The Impressive Clergyman) Directed by Rob Reiner (This Is Spinal Tap - #108)

Review
To begin with, I'd like to say a few words: My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die. The whole cast and their characters (even the short ones) are memorable to the very end. It's been said before by others, and I'll say it here, this film is funny. But it isn't one of those films that simply just have good funny lines and just that, it is a combination of adventure, romance, and comedy which works out well for everyone. It is fitting that the person who wrote the screenplay also wrote the book that this is adapted from, which keeps the films roots close together (Kind of like what happened with Holes) 25 years after this film's original release it still leaves an impressive mark that will last forever. But of course that might be inconceivable for some. As you wish, everyone.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: San Francisco.

Review #231: San Francisco.

Cast
Clark Gable (Blackie Norton), Jeanette MacDonald (Mary Blake), Spencer Tracy (Father Tim Mullin), Jack Holt (Jack Burley), Jessie Ralph (Mrs. Burley), Ted Healy (Mat), Shirley Ross (Trixie), Margaret Irving (Della Bailey), Harold Huber (Babe), and Edgar Kennedy (Sheriff) Directed by W. S. Van Dyke.

Review
To begin with, the film is based on the 1906 earthquake of San Francisco. In the long run, the film is a grand spectacle. The cast does a great job, especially at the end, with the despair and misery captured well given the circumstances of the situation. Lastly, the film recreates the earthquake in the last few minutes, and it looks beautiful even to this day. All in all, this film still has entertainment value, that while being a bit dated and slow at times, still holds up after over 70 years.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Great Mouse Detective.

Review #230: The Great Mouse Detective.

Cast
Barrie Ingham (Basil), Val Bettin (David Q. Dawson), Vincent Price (Professor Rattigan), Susanne Pollatschek (Olivia Flaversham), Candy Candido (Fidget), Alan Young (Mr. Flaversham), and Frank Welker (Toby/Felicia) Directed by Burny Mattinson, Dave Michener, Ron Clements and John Musker (Aladdin - #156)

Review
The film is based off the Basil of Baker Street books, which were about a mouse detective similar to Sherlock Holmes. The film has a lot of fun with that premise indeed. To begin with, the acting is decent, with the dynamic between Ingham and Bettin working for the most part. But the main stanout is Vincent Price. He's delightfully wonderful here, threatning in tone and voice. The animation looks allright, it's aged well. All in all, the film is entertaining enough to grant interest for everyone.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Novie Night: She's the Man.

Review #229: She's the Man.

Cast
Amanda Bynes (Viola Hastings), Channing Tatum (Duke Orsino), Laura Ramsey (Olivia Lennox), Robert Hoffman (Justin Drayton), Alex Breckenridge (Monique Valentine), Brandon Jay McLaren (Toby), Clifton Murray (Andrew), James Kirk (Sebastian Hastings), David Cross (Principal Horatio Gold), and Vinnie Jones (Coach Dinklage) Directed by Andy Fickman.

Review
In light of Amanda Bynes' ongoing craziness, I've updated the review just for kicks. What is typed following this statement is the original review, which was written almost a year ago. Here you go...
Apparently this is inspired off the play Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare, but honestly if I didn't read the credits in the beginning saying that, I would've thought it was just an idea made on the spot. Then again, if they hadn't given credit, someone would've made the complaint. Who? Nobody knows. Anyway, even with that, the film doesn't really suffer or benefit because it hits and misses with its jokes with a predictable story (Sister impersonates brother, gets involved in a love story that happens to have a soccer (which is a shock, given America's boredom of soccer) game added in), and Amanda Bynes while doing a decent job, cannot save the film from cliche land. So why am I not giving it a lower rating? Because it does have some sort of okay moments that are splintered within in the forgettable moments,and it makes a mostly forgettable film that would only be known due to its star.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Inherit the Wind.

Review #228: Inherit the Wind.

Cast
Spencer Tracy (Henry Drummond), Fredric March (Matthew Brady), Gene Kelly (E. K. Hornbeck),  Florence Eldridge (Sara Brady), Dick York (Bertram T. Cates), Donna Anderson (Rachel Brown), Harry Morgan (Judge Mel Coffey), Claude Atkins (Rev. Jeremiah Brown), Elliott Reid (Prosecutor Tom Davenport), and Paul Hartman (Deputy Horace Meeker) Directed by Stanley Kramer.

Review
In the last review, I talked about Gene Kelly and what he did for singing and dancing. Here, he does none of that, but he's still good in a supporting role. Why did I add that last part? It's to mention the main two leads, Tracy and March. They play off each other well, given the proceedings. The film keeps you interested all through out, and the film can still be watched today with no real problems of age. All in all, the cast works, with no real problems. Happy belated (100th) birthday to Gene Kelly. I said it was his birthday, yet I didn't say that in the last review (I'd edit it, but it wouldn't make a difference) Oh well. A hidden gem for the age. Gloomy, but useful film.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Singin' in the Rain.

Review #227: Singin' in the Rain.

Cast
Gene Kelly (Don Lockwood), Donald O'Connor (Cosmo Brown), Debbie Reynolds (Kathy Selden), Jean Hagen (Lina Lamont), and Millard Mitchell (R.F. Simpson) Directed by Stanley Donen (#137 - Bedazzled) and Gene Kelly.

Review
Eugene Kelly was born on August 23, 1912, which was 100 years ago. Kelly revolutionized dancing and singing in movies. You might be wondering why this is important to list. Because what I happen to review today is all that and more. The whole cast does a great job (especially Kelly and Reynolds) I have to admit, the music and songs are good. I have reviewed a musical before, let me use some words from it: "This is a good film with music in there that helps the story and does not ruin anything, unlike some other musicals," (#073 - The Lion King) In this film, the music does makes you smile and laugh at times and truly doesn't ruin a thing. After 60 years, the film's legacy has grown to be considered one of the greatest musicals/films ever.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country.

Review #226: Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country.

Cast
William Shatner (James T. Kirk), Leonard Nimoy (Spock), DeForrest Kelley (Leonard McCoy), James Doohan (Montgomery Scott), Walter Koenig (Pavel Chekov), Nichelle Nichols (Uhura), George Takei (Captain Hikaru Sulu), Kim Cattrall (Valeris), Mark Lenard (Sarek), Grace Lee Whitney (Excelsior Communications Officer), Brock Peters (Admiral Cartwright), Leon Russom (Chief in Command), and Kurtwood Smith (Federation President) Directed by Nicholas Meyer.

Review
Two years after the bad reception of Star Trek V, this film would be released in time for the show's 25th Anniversary, but would it work better then the last one? In a word, yes. First off, the effects are good, a step up from the fifth one (Standout effect being the Praxis effect) While I find the Klingon blood a bit silly, it doesn't outright ruin the effects, which is a good thing. The acting is good, with the main trio (Shatner, Nimoy, and Kelley) and Plummer doing a great job. The plot is more defined here, keeping you interested throughout. The film was directed by Nicholas Meyer, who directed Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (which is considered by many to be the best out of all the Star Trek movies), and it is a good thing that he returned to direct the last film for the Original Series cast (Except for Shatner, Doohan, and Koenig, who would return in Star Trek: Generations) Roddenberry would not live to see the release of the film, but he did get to see an early version of it days before dying. 21 years later, this film still holds up as a new generation of films would soon follow.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Star Trek V: The Final Frontier.

Review #225: Star Trek V: The Final Frontier.

Cast
William Shatner (James T. Kirk), Leonard Nimoy (Spock), DeForrest Kelley (Leonard McCoy), James Doohan (Montgomery Scott), Walter Koenig (Pavel Chekov), Nichelle Nichols (Nyota Uhura), George Takei (Hikaru Sulu), Laurence Luckinbill (Sybok), and David Warner (St. John Talbot) Directed by William Shatner.

Review
Well, well, well. It's been a while since I have reviewed a Star Trek film. A really long while (#9 - Star Trek) Anyway, this is the fifth out of six Star Trek films based on the original series created by Gene Roddenberry (One thing I neglected to mention in the Star Trek review) You might wonder how I found the film. I'm channel surfing at night, and I just so happen to find this film, and I figured, "What could go wrong?" I realized soon after that I might just regret it. Guess who's writing and directing? Shatner, who else? The whole film is a mess, from beginning to end. Its story is lame (Premise in one line: Trying to find "God" at the center of the galaxy), the villain isn't as much a villain as in Vulcan Elvis, and is a disappointment overall. Shatner, Nimoy, and Kelley are a good trio, though, and they do have some fun moments, but at other times the film fizzles out. The effects are off at times, especially with the "Impenetrable Barrier" Shatner said this near the film's release, "Star Trek V is the epitome of my career, my experiences, my hopes and dreams. It is the quintessential me" After 23 years, it does represent the feelings I have: Shattered hopes, dull dreams, and reeking of Shatner all over. This nearly killed the franchise, which would have a sequel two years later to hopefully heal the wounds....

Overall, I give it 3 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Casino Royale (1967)

Review #224: Casino Royale.

Cast
David Niven (James Bond), Peter Sellers (Evelyn Tremble), Ursula Andress (Vesper Lynd), Orson Welles (Le Chiffre), Woody Allen (Jimmy Bond), Barbara Bouchet (Miss Moneypenny), Deborah Kerr (Agent Mimi), and John Huston (M) Directed by Ken Hughes, John Huston (#081 - The Maltese Falcon and #094 - The Misfits), Joseph McGrath, Robert Parrish, and Val Guest.

Review
Well, this is...weird. It has been 45 years since its release back in 1967 (Which by sure coincidence this year is also the 50th anniversary of #150 - Dr. No, the first Bond film) I'm thinking that this was an experiment. An experiment to make an absurd, big casted film. The film does have some good moments, sometimes hampered by some dull stretches at times. Oddly, this is my first film reviewed with Sellers and Allen. When I think of Sellers, I think of Pink Panther. When I think of Allen, I think of that guy who stole the Oscar from Star Wars. Oh and that guy from Antz. Now when I think of this film, I'll think of the opening theme and comparisons to Batman (1966 - #177) It's a weird fest that can be entertaining in any mind.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: North by Northwest.

Review #223: North by Northwest.

Cast
Cary Grant (Roger Thornhill), Eva Marie Saint (Eve Kendall), James Mason (Phillip Vandamm), Martin Landau (Leonard), and Leo G. Carroll (The Professor) Directed by Alfred Hitchcock (#219 - Rope)

Review
This was the last film Hitchcock made in the 1950's, which had Dial M for Murder, Vertigo, The Man Who Knew Too Much, and other various films, and this does feel like the end of one decade and the thesis of the next decade. It feels like a spy film with its involvement of a plot with agents, numerous chase scenes, a leading man and lady, mistaken identity, a villain, and an important object. Grant and Saint do a wonderful job, which usually is essential to make a film, but there is more to it as well, with suspenseful action and soundtrack with a dynamic climatic fight on Mount Rushmore to make a classic romantic thriller. It truly is a great film.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: WALL-E.

Review #222: WALL-E.

Cast
Ben Burtt (WALL-E), Elissa Knight (EVE), Jeff Garlin (Captain B. McCrea), Fred Willard (Shelby Forthright), John Ratzenberger (John), Kathy Najimy (Mary), Sigourney Weaver (Computer), and MacInTalk (Auto) Directed by Andrew Stanton (#155 - Finding Nemo)

Review
The film uses emotions conveyed silently with occasional voices, like a silent film. And in the end, the film still works out (Fun fact: Pixar watched Chaplin and Keaton films to help animate) In a film like this, it doesn't use much acting, but when it does (like I said a few lines ago), it works. The animation is extensive and good. It can make you range in emotions while watching to chuckling to a bit of sadness (depends on the range of person). It's a useful film that is entertaining and interesting to the end. It takes inspirations from films (Such as 2001: A Space Odyssey and Short Circuit) and uses it to its advantage. It's a love story (sort of) mixed in whit other elements to make a good, if not great film. Truly an another success for Pixar.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Good Burger.

Review #221: Good Burger.

Cast
Kel Mitchell (Ed), Kenan Thompson (Dexter Reed), Jan Schweiterman (Kurt Bozwell), Abe Vigoda (Otis), Shar Jackson (Monique), and Sinbad (Mr. Wheat) Directed by Brian Robbins (#147 - Norbit)

Review
This film is apparently base off a sketch off a television show (named All That) on Nickelodeon. I say apparently because I've never heard of it (Sadly it sounds less stupid then the modern Nickelodeon) Anyway, the film is...Weird. The beginning sequence is weird, with talking burgers with eyes. The characters are introduced soon after, with varying results. Mitchell and Thompson are good, given what they have to deal with. The film has a giant load of energy, resulting in odd actions (You'd never think an exploding burger would ever happen in a film) It's weird at times with some jokes that misfire but others that do make you at least chuckle. And because I'm a stickler for anniversaries, this film is 15 years old. I don't know whether to celebrate or cringe. The rating might be weird, but given the last film reviewed here...yeah.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Green Lantern.

Review #220: Green Lantern. Cast Ryan Reynolds (Hal Jordan / Green Lantern), Blake Lively (Carol Ferris), Peter Sarsgaard (Hector Hammond), Mark Strong (Sinestro), Angela Bassett (Dr. Amanda Waller), Tim Robbins (Senator Robert Hammond), Temuera Morrison (Abin Sur / Green Lantern), Geoffrey Rush (Tomar-Re / Green Lantern), Michael Clarke Duncan (Kilowog / Green Lantern), Taika Waititi (Thomas Kalmaku), and Clancy Brown (Parallax) Directed by Martin Campbell (#173 - Goldeneye, #285 - Casino Royale) Review My first question is: "This was made for how much?" The answer is $200 Million, which is odd, given that this film doesn't look like it. This is Warner Brothers' attempt to venture into a different superhero not named Batman or Superman. And it...doesn't work out well. The biggest problem is that it has tries for more style then substance. Reynolds is allright, given what he has to work with, but the other characters aren't really memorable. I kept calling the others "girl interest", and "Guy with effects make him look like the kid from Mask". The effects aren't even that memorable. My question is "How come the costume looks CGI and not just something they could've made?" Is it me or does Jordan's mask look like a [green] Fruit Roll-Up stretched out? Maybe it's just me. All in all, the film just isn't as memorable, and is a failure by Warner and DC to have a new hero franchise to rival Marvel (Which already has a giant head start that won't end anytime soon) But Reynolds is succeeding either way (Given that he'll be playing Deadpool a few years from now) And lastly, this film blows the opportunity for Lantern to rise to something more. Overall, I give it 5 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Rope.

Review #219: Rope.

Cast
James Stewart (Rupert Cadell), John Dall (Brandon Shaw), Farley Granger (Phillip Morgan), Douglas Dick (Kenneth Lawrence), Joan Chandler (Janet Walker), Cedric Hardwicke (Mr. Henry Kentley), Constance Collier (Mrs. Anita Atwater), Douglas Dick (Kenneth Lawrence), and Edith Evanson (Mrs. Wilson) Directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

Review
Before I begin, today is Alfred Hitchcock's 113th birthday (born August 13, 1899). You might be wondering why I'm not reviewing something more known (such as Psycho, Rear Window, Vertigo, North by Northwest) The reason is because I wanted to review something different for a change. The film is an interesting experiment, filmed with long shots with no interruption (In short the effect of a single take while actually being 10), all operating in real time. The performances are good, especially from Stewart and Dall. While the film takes its time before getting to its climax, it is intriguing enough to keep you watching. And lastly, the directing is good. And that is all you need in a good film.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Batman & Robin.

Review #218: Batman & Robin.

Cast
George Clooney (Batman/Bruce Wayne), Chris O'Donnell (Robin/Dick Grayson), Arnold Schwarzenegger (Mr. Freeze), Uma Thurman (Poison Ivy), Alicia Silverstone (Batgirl), Michael Gough (Alfred Pennyworth), Pat Hingle (Commissioner James Gordon), John Glover (Dr. Jason Woodrue / Floronic Man), Elle Macpherson (Julie Madison), Vivica A. Fox (Ms. B. Haven), and Robert Swenson (Antonio Diego / Bane) Directed by Joel Schumacher.

Review
This film takes Batman Forever's flaws and makes them worse. Once again, a different actor plays Batman (Perhaps he changes his appearance on a regular basis) The acting varies from not good to manageable. Clooney just doesn't has the charm or tragic nature to convey Batman. O'Donnell is actually worse, feeling more whiny this time. Silverstone isn't really there in the acting sense she's nearly transparent. It makes you wonder why Batman needs partners if they really aren't that helpful. Gough does his best given what he has to deal with. And now to the villains. Schwarzenegger...Oh dear. He is a decent actor, but the ice puns...They. Never. End. Thurman is decent, but Ivy isn't really threatening or evil. There's a third villain, if you can call him that, named Bane. I'm still wondering why they included him if he does nothing other then just growl and smash things. The film relies too much on effects which starts to run old fast. The cheese level is at 10 at points, but even the 60s show had some fun. This is a film that varies from trying to be serious to "Bat-Credit Card" It also a weird amount of shots of bat-nipples and other weird shots...Weird. And so this film killed the franchise, with the proposed sequel, Batman Triumphant being canceled (which would've had Scarecrow, Harley Quinn, and the Joker in a hallucination of Batman's mind). This film is the worst of the series, with not much if any, redeeming qualities.

Overall, I give it 3 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Batman Forever.

now superceded with this review: https://movienightcentral.blogspot.com/2022/06/redux-batman-forever.html

 
Review #217: Batman Forever.

Cast
Val Kilmer (Batman/Bruce Wayne), Chris O'Donnell (Robin/Dick Grayson), Tommy Lee Jones (Two-Face), Jim Carrey (Riddeler/Edward Nygma), Nicole Kidman (Chase Meridian), Michael Gough (Alfred Pennyworth), Pat Hingle (Commissioner James Gordon), Drew Barrymore (Sugar), Debi Mazar (Spice), Elizabeth Sanders (Gossip Gerty), and René Auberjonois (Dr. Burton) Directed by Joel Schumacher (Phone Booth - #197)

Review
Warner Brothers wanted a family friendlier Batman after the results of Batman Returns three years earlier (While it made money, the studio thought it could've made more) And so Tim Burton was whisked to just being the producer while Schumacher directed this. Anyway, the villians are more light in tone, less tragic and more...odd. Jones does a decent job, but he doesn't convey the tone of Two-Face (In other words: He acts more like the Joker then Two-Face) Carrey steals the show (Which is typical with the villians), he channels Frank Gorshin with silliness and the typical Carreyesque act. Lastly, O'Donnell does a decent job, not too bad. The scenery looks charming at times, even if the Batmobile can *sighs* climb walls. One question: How come the title is Batman Forever? Can he live forever or is it just me? All in all, the film can be allright to look at points, but it isn't as great as the other two. Now, let me see what's next on my schedule...Oh dear.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Catwoman.

Review #216: Catwoman.

Cast
Halle Berry (Patience Phillips / Catwoman), Benjamin Bratt (Detective Tom Lone), Lambert Wilson (George Hedare), Frances Conroy (Ophelia Powers), Alex Borstein (Sally), Sharon Stone (Laurel Hedare), Michael Massee (Armando), Byron Mann (Wesley), Kim Smith (Drina), and Peter Wingfield (Dr. Ivan Slavicky) Directed by Pitof.

Review
Catwoman has been one of Batman's long running adversaries, and she has been adapted to film before, being played by Julie Newmar, Lee Meriwether, Eartha Kitt, Michelle Pfeiffer, and most recently Anne Hathaway, so it shouldn't be hard to make a good Catwoman film. Shouldn't be. The first flaw is that it is severely dull at times, such as the beginning, where it trudges along slowly. Then the action comes in and it is...pretty boring. It isn't memorable by any means. The acting is meh, not really interesting, the only one who tries is Halle Berry, but not even she can save this film. The film is boring, undeveloped, and unsuccessful in its approach. After 8 years, it still is a big flop. One more question: Who names their kid Patience?

Overall, I give it 2 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Flash Gordon.

Review #215: Flash Gordon.

Cast
Sam J. Jones (Flash Gordon), Melody Anderson (Dale Arden), Topol (Dr. Hans Zarkov), Timothy Dalton (Prince Barin), Max von Sydow (Ming the Merciless), Ornella Muti (Princess Aura), and Brian Blessed (Prince Vultan) Directed by Mike Hodges.

Review
First off, this film is adapted from the comic strip by Alex Raymond in 1934. It had already been adapted to film serials, television series, and even radio. It was written by Lorenzo Sample Jr (Who had also written Batman (1966) - #177), and it shows. Colorful effects with good design and a variety of acting talents, including (say it with me here) BRIAN BLESSED. Sydow does an allright job, given what he has to work with (Jones is decent, even if he reminds me of He-Man) It's funny how George Lucas has said he took inspirations from Flash Gordon for Star Wars, and I can see why. Action and flair with loads of fun (including having the soundtrack by Queen) to go with it. A shame there would be no sequel.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Shrek.

Review #214: Shrek.

Cast
Mike Myers (Shrek), Eddie Murphy (Donkey), Cameron Diaz (Princess Fiona), John Lithgow (Lord Farquaad), Vincent Cassel ("Monsieur" Robin Hood), Conrad Vernon (Gingerbread Man), Chris Miller (Geppetto / Magic Mirror), Cody Cameron (Pinocchio / The Three Little Pigs), Simon J. Smith (Three Blind Mice), Christopher Knights (Three Blind Mice and Thelonius), Aron Warner (Big Bad Wolf) Directed by Andrew Adamson (#162 - Shrek 2) and Vicky Jenson (#164 - Shark Tale)

Review
In a way, I'm kinda glad that I'm done reviewing Dreamworks related films for a while (If there were more, I'd have to rename myself "Animation Movie Night", and that would get...Well...) Anyway, the film had a bit of a weird process of being made, with Chris Farley originally being cast as Shrek until his death in 1997, afterwards being replaced by Mike Myers. Did I mention this was based off a book? (by William Steig) But despite all that, this film is good. Aside from the charming animation, the acting is good, with enough jokes to keep interest for everyone to the very end. This was Dreamworks' first big success (bigger then Prince of Egypt, Antz), which would cement them as an animation powerhouse (who may or may not be as good as Pixar. Some say the latter). Either way, this film would be the basis for a very successful film series.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Puss in Boots.

Review #213: Puss in Boots.

Cast
Antonio Banderas (Puss in Boots), Zach Galifianakis (Humpty Alexander Dumpty), Salma Hayek (Kitty Softpaws), Billy Bob Thornton and Amy Sedaris (Jack and Jill), Constance Marie (Imelda), Guillermo del Toro (Comandante, Moustache Man), and Mike Mitchell (Andy "Jack" Beanstalk) Directed by Chris Miller (#163 - Shrek the Third)

Review
This film is a spin-off of the Shrek franchise, and it works well enough to not have to depend on it for guidance. The acting is good, with Banderas stealing the show. The film has some good action and while not being entirely different from other animated films, it has enough charm in visuals and gold old action with some fun to win out in the end. It's good stuff for cat lovers as well (I couldn't resist saying that).

To the 97 people who have read this review: How did this review attract you, and how has this managed to be the highest rated one ever?

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Men in Black II.

Review #212: Men in Black II.

Cast
Tommy Lee Jones (Agent K), Will Smith (Agent J), Lara Flynn Boyle (Serleena), Johnny Knoxville (Scrad), Rosario Dawson (Laura Vasquez), Rip Torn (Zed), Tony Shalhoub (Jeebs), and Tim Blaney (Voice of Frank the Pug) Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld.

Review
Greetings, fellow reader who clicked the hyperlink from the review of Kingsman: The Golden Circle. Enjoy this review from 2012. In retrospect, this is an okay sequel that doesn't really strive to do anything too special that the first film hadn't done, although I still found it to be decent entertainment, mostly because of Jones and Smith. The third film is the best of the two sequels, ultimately. 

Five years after the success of the first film, this was released. And it works for the most part. It's a decent enough sequel that has some of the stuff that made the first good in the first place: Good effects, with a good enough cast fit into a usual run-time. It has some laughs and is worth seeing at least once for anyone. Ten years after this, there would be a sequel (at the rate of time they're going, the next will be in 2027/2032). All in all, this is a pleasant sequel and one of many successes for Will Smith.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Men In Black.

Review #211: Men in Black.

Cast
Will Smith (James Edwards/Agent J), Tommy Lee Jones (Agent K/Kevin Brown), Vincent D'Onofrio (Edgar the Bug), Linda Fiorentino (Dr. Laurel Weaver/Agent L), Rip Torn (Zed), and Tony Shalhoub (Jack Jeebs) Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld (#005 - Get Shorty, #077 - The Addams Family, and #078 - Addams Family Values)

Review
Greetings fellow viewer who decided to click the link from the reference in my review of Kingsman: The Secret Service. Back in the old days of Movie Night, reviews were not as developed as you might see in 2017 - in any case, Men in Black is a nifty comedy that works due to Smith and Jones being particularly great together on-screen while having a good sense of humor to it that certainly invited two more installments - with varying quality. Enjoy this review from 2012:

Before I begin, I will mention that this is based off the comic of the same name by Lowell Cunningham (I swear that having a review of another comic book movie is purely coincidental in every way. Maybe) This film was released a year after Smith's success in Independence Day (#193), and he works well here once again. Smith and Jones make a good pair, and the supporting cast and characters are good as well. The effects and makeup are good, it keeps you interested all the way. This film would inspire two sequels, one of which is coming next.

Reference of how many films I've done that were based on comic book films: 15.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Cat in the Hat.

Review #210: The Cat in the Hat.

Cast
Mike Myers (The Cat in the Hat), Spencer Breslin (Conrad Walden), Dakota Fanning (Sally Walden), Kelly Preston (Joan Walden), Alec Baldwin (Larry Quinn), Amy Hill (Mrs. Kwan), Sean Hayes (Mr. Hank Humberfloob / The Fish), Danielle Chuchran and Taylor Rice (Thing One), and Brittany Oaks and Talia-Lynn Prairie (Thing Two) Directed by Bo Welch.

Review
I almost considered doing this whole review in rhyme, to make it a bit like the book. It would be more likable then then the whole film. The film's opening credits start out nice, but looks can, and in this case, are deceiving. The film starts out meh, with our characters being introduced (Some decent, some...weird) Then...We get our Cat. I...don't know how to describe it. The costume looks decent, but Myers simply doesn't capture the spirit of the original (I almost forgot to mention the 1957 classic by Dr. Seuss [Theodore Geisel]) We get into the second problem afterwards: The humor. Look, there can be humor, it lightens the tones, but in this film, it simply feels out of place. It feels like something you would find in a PG-13 comedy (I'd mention the content, but...No.) The film is simply a mess, with more uses of the color green in the film then fun (Green cars, green trees, green walls, green curtains, green hills, green clothes, green signs) Let me try to do a rhyme:

This film is a dull bore,
Watching it feels like a chore.
Spend your time reading the book,
As this film made my head shook.
Even the Grinch has a better film,
With this not footing the bill.
There are plans for a CGI remake,
It will not be as fake.
This film is dullingly lame,
As you shake your head in shame.

Well, I tried.

Overall, I give it 2 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Shrek Forever After.

Review #209: Shrek Forever After.

Cast
Mike Myers (Shrek), Eddie Murphy (Donkey), Cameron Diaz (Princess Fiona), Antonio Banderas (Puss in Boots), Walt Dohrn (Rumpelstiltskin), Jon Hamm (Brogan), Jane Lynch (Gretchen), Craig Robinson (Cookie), Julie Andrews (Queen Lillian), and John Cleese (King Harold) Directed by Mike Mitchell.

Review
The last time I mentioned this movie was while back ago: I called it "Better, better then this film [Shrek the Third]" And...it hasn't really changed. The story feels less like the last two, trying to go back to the film series' roots. The acting is decent, yet we still after 10 years, feel for them. This is after all the last Shrek film (There were rumors that there would be a fifth, but it was decided to end the franchise with this, which was a good idea) It isn't as good as the first or second, but it at least is a fitting end to the film series. And yet it goes on in other ventures, such as a Musical, TV specials, a spinoff, comics, and more.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Caddyshack.

Review #208: Caddyshack.

Cast
Chevy Chase (Ty Webb), Rodney Dangerfield (Al Czervik), Ted Knight (Judge Elihu Smails), Michael O'Keefe (Danny Noonan), Bill Murray (Carl Spackler), Sarah Holcomb (Maggie O'Hooligan), Scott Colomby (Tony D'Annunzio), Cindy Morgan (Lacey Underall), Dan Resin (Dr. Beeper), and Henry Wilcoxon (Bishop Fred Pickering) Directed by Harold Ramis (#138 - Bedazzled)

Review
Oh gee, an old review that likely needs updating. 2012 me needed a bit more improvement from 2018 me.

Happy...August everyone. Anyway, after 32 years, this film still holds up as a classic. The acting is decent, with Murray stealing the show (who I have covered before: Ghostbusters - #026, Ghostbusters II - #031, Scrooged - #075, Tootsie - #084). The film has some good lines, which are still being repeated to this day. There are some crude gags and there are good gags as well. I hadn't reviewed a golf film until today (could be worse, I could be watching Dorf on Golf). The film is still memorable to this day, gophers and all.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

Review #207: Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

Cast
Matthew Broderick (Ferris Bueller), Alan Ruck (Cameron Frye), Mia Sara (Sloane Peterson), Jeffrey Jones (Edward R. Rooney), Jennifer Grey (Jeanie Bueller), Lyman Ward (Tom Bueller), and Cindy Pickett (Katie Bueller) Directed by John Hughes (The Breakfast Club - #046)

Review
I haven't talked about John Hughes in a while. A really long while. But here we are, with Hughes directing and writing for the fourth out of eight films. This film, like I said in The Breakfast Club review, is a fun film to watch. Hughes makes sure his characters are actually characters, which is always a good thing. They do change a bit as the film progresses, especially Frye. The landmarks in Chicago are used greatly by Hughes, who said "I really wanted to capture as much of Chicago as I could. Not just in the architecture and landscape, but the spirit." And...It is captured. The film is (I actually almost forgot to mention) funny. Bueller breaking the fourth wall, dancing in a parade and many other things are the highlights in a film that has been praised, analyzed and more (such as getting a brief run on TV). A good flick, enjoyable to say the least.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Arthur (1981)

Review #206: Arthur.

Cast
Dudley Moore (Arthur Bach), Liza Minnelli (Linda Marolla), John Gielgud (Hobson), Geraldine Fitzgerald (Martha Bach), Jill Eikenberry (Susan Johnson), Stephen Elliott (Burt Johnson), Thomas Barbour (Stanford Bach), Ted Ross (Bitterman), and Barney Martin (Ralph Marolla) Directed by Steve Gordon.

Review
This review has been revised since the original review, citing my newfound appreciation for it. It figures, I mention any kind of movies in reviews of other movies, and somehow it comes back to be reviewed (Heh, what's next, Batman and Robin?). Anyway, the cast is excellent, I find that Moore does well (Given he has to play a drunken millionaire). You might wonder which Arthur is better portrayed, Brand or Moore. Personally, Moore is better. I feel that he is simply more fun to watch and more...lovable then Brand. It's fun to watch and has a good theme to go with it (Best That You Can Do is the title, and it actually got an Oscar for Best Original Song). The film is more balanced that gives you a good laugh or two. It's been 10 years since Moore's death, an there are people out there that still miss him. A good film, better then the 2011 version.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Dick Tracy.

Review #205: Dick Tracy.

Cast
Warren Beatty (Dick Tracy), Al Pacino (Bigboy Caprice), Madonna (Breathless Mahoney), Glenne Headly (Tess Trueheart), Charlie Korsmo (The Kid/Dick Tracy Jr.), Seymour Cassel (Sam Catchun), Charles Durning (Chief Brandon), Dick Van Dyke (John Fletcher), Dustin Hoffman (Mumbles), and William Forsythe (Flattop) Directed by Warren Beatty.

Review
First off, this film is adapted from the comic strip (about a detective who fights crime against various villains) created by Chester Gould in 1931. This already had a few adaptations to films, radio, comic, TV, and novels. Anyway, this film has some similarities to Batman, which had been released a year earlier. Both have dark elements, riveting action, and even the same composer (Danny Elfman) The colors and style in this film are excellent, you see a limited but comic like feel invoked all around. The acting is good, but the fact there is an all star cast in the first place is more interesting. It has good makeup (that garnered an Oscar) The hype for the film might've been a bit much (again sounding familiar to Batman...). The story isn't as developed as Batman, but this film still has enough colors and fun to keep you interested and entertained. The sad thing is that after over 20 years, There have been 0 sequels (though Beatty has recently got the rights back, but he is 75, there's that obstacle), but either way, this is something that will be remembered for being a decent film.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Freaky Friday (2003)

Review #204: Freaky Friday.

Cast
Jamie Lee Curtis (Dr. Tess Coleman), Lindsay Lohan (Anna Coleman), Chad Michael Murray (Jake), Mark Harmon (Ryan, Tess's Fiance), Harold Gould (Grandpa Alan), Stephen Tobolowsky (Mr. Elton Bates), Christina Vidal (Maddie), and Ryan Malgarini (Harry Coleman) Directed by Mark Waters (#151 - Mean Girls)

Review
This film is a remake of another film from 1976 (which already had a TV remake in 1995). Anyway, Curtis and Lohan are a good pair in this film, Curtis especially (proving once again that she can work in a comedy) and Lohan do fine jobs. The film has its moments that at least make you chuckle in a relatively decent run time (97 minutes). It's weird to think this film is almost nine years old (at least I'm reviewing it on a Friday, so there ya go), and yet it still is a decent film.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Arthur (2011).

Review #203: Arthur.

Cast
Russell Brand (Arthur Bach), Helen Mirren (Lillian Hobson), Jennifer Garner (Susan Johnson), Greta Gerwig (Naomi Quinn), Luis Guzmán (Bitterman), Nick Nolte (Burt Johnson), and Geraldine James (Vivienne Bach) Directed by Jason Winer.

Review
I am aware that this is a remake (The first being made in 1981 with Dudley Moore, who I've covered before) However I haven't seen the film, so there ya go. Anyway, Russell Brand is...I don't know how to describe him other then a mix of a off-my-meds pirate with a bit of hazes added in. But playing the role of a rich alcoholic, he just works. Brand and Mirren have some good deliveries that keep the film from just being a remake. It can stand on its own legs and not need to be collapsed by fears of being not as good. A decent film that doesn't have much against it.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Volcano (1997).

Review #202: Volcano.

Cast
Tommy Lee Jones (Mike Roark), Anne Heche (Dr. Amy Barnes), Gaby Hoffmann (Kelly Roark), Don Cheadle (Emmit Reese), Jacqueline Kim (Dr. Jaye Calder), Keith David (Lieutenant Ed Fox), John Corbett (Norman Calder), Michael Rispoli (Gator Harris), and John Carroll Lynch (Stan Olber) Directed by Mick Jackson.

Review
The film is easy to describe in a few words: "Volcano pops up in Los Angeles, cheesiness ensues." Tommy Lee Jones at least does a good job, given what he is in (he sure has been in a lot of situations from a FBI marshal to Ty Cobb) The characters are introduced in a snap but aren't much in terms of memorable territory. The cheesiness factor ranges from scene to scene, but my "favorite" is when the lava is destroying a house (man, that's weird to type), and the dog is trapped there. He looks around...and barks at the lava before going out the doggy door. That alone is laughable. The effects are decent, they look believable enough, but the last thing I'll mention (probably most important) is the relatively changing science in the film. Characters get close to lava without feeling much and when toughing the lava are dead with the touch (you might as well use TV Tropes to help you understand volcanoes) At points, the lava isn't much threatening, as it moves slower then a snail at points. I might as well mention this film is 15 years old (it doesn't feel that way though)...But the last question is: Is it better then Dante's Peak? Probably, but it doesn't matter given that both are slightly forgotten, and that is probably for the best.

Overall, I give it 5 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra.

Review #201: G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra.

Cast
Channing Tatum (Conrad S. Hauser / Duke), Marlon Wayans (Wallace A. Weems / Ripcord), Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (Hershel Dalton / Heavy Duty), Rachel Nichols (Shana M. O'Hara / Scarlett), Sienna Miller (Anastasia DeCobray / Ana Lewis / The Baroness), Ray Park (Snake Eyes), Saïd Taghmaoui (Abel Shaz / Breaker), Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Rexford G. "Rex" Lewis / The Doctor / Cobra Commander), Christopher Eccleston (Laird James McCullen XXIV / Destro), Lee Byung-hun (Thomas Arashikage / Storm Shadow), Jonathan Pryce (The President), Dennis Quaid (General Clayton M. Abernathy / Hawk), and Karolína Kurková (Courtney A. Krieger / Cover Girl) Directed by Stephen Sommers.

Review
It's been a few days since my last review, and given the subject matters of the last two films, let's dissapoint with this film. First off, I'm not a follower of G.I. Joe (Sadly, the most I've heard of it was on That 70's Show, and that as a debate over if it was a doll or an action figure), but with this film, I wouldn't want to. The acting is standard, with not much substance to help out. And to certain fans of one actor, you'll be dissapointed that he is in this at all (Those fans? Probably 3rd Rock from the Sun or something) The action isn't much better, at one point I went to sleep at the underwater part (and I had to rewind the film, that's a first) I have one question (among others) Why do they need to steal their own warheads? Why build a base under the polar icecaps? With all the silliness, they could've had the base in space and it would've made sense. You know, with Transformers, there were Robots and humans to go with it. This is just humans and some tech that desn't have much style, but can be a film of dumb fun. Just turn off the brain, ignore everything, and don't sleep at the end. There will be a sequel to this, but after 4 years does anyone really care? Not really.

Overall, I give it 5 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night's Top 200 Films.

Here is my Top 200 Films. Keep in mind that just because they're in the below 100 position, it doesn't mean they're bad, they just aren't as good as other films, and if they're really low, then they have no excuse. (From 001 all the way to the lowly 200. It was a tough list to make, especially at the top, but I did it)

001. Citizen Kane.
002. Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.
003. Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.
004. Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.
005. Tron.
006. Blade Runner.
007. Terminator 2: Judgement Day.
008. 2001: A Space Odyssey.
009. Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
010. Forbidden Planet.
011. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
012. Rebel Without A Cause
013. On the Waterfront
014. A Streetcar Named Desire
015. Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
016. Batman (1989)
017. The Maltese Falcon (1941)
018. Casablanca
019. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2
020. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
021. The Iron Giant
022. Finding Nemo
023. Ghostbusters
024. The Wizard of Oz
025. The Dark Knight
026. 12 Angry Men
027. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
028. Mutiny on the Bounty
029. The Sixth Sense
030. Frankenstein (1931)
031. Dracula (1931)
032. A Christmas Carol (1984)
033. American Graffiti
034. Coraline
035. Gojira
036. Ace in the Hole
037. To Kill a Mockingbird
038. Sullivan's Travels
039. East of Eden
040. What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?
041. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
042. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
043. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
044. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
045. Captain America: The First Avenger
046. Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
047. The Terminator
048. Die Hard
049. The Hunt for Red October
050. Iron Man
051. X-Men 2: X-Men United
052. X-Men
053. Super 8
054. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1.
055. The Invisible Man (1933)
056. Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol
057. Die Hard with a Vengeance
058. Ratatouille
059. The Lion King
060. Monsters, Inc
061. Shrek 2
062. Some Like It Hot
063. For a Few Dollars More
064. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
065. Stand By Me
066. Rollerball
067. Rambo: First Blood
068. The Running Man
069. A Fistful of Dollars
070. Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix
071. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
072. Scrooge (1951)
073. Rocky
074. Chicken Run
075. Megamind
076. The Transformers: The Movie
077. Holes
078. The Fugitive
079. Dr. No
080. Freedom Writers
081. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
082. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
083. Peter Pan (1953)
084. Wall Street
085. Matilda
086. Alice in Wonderland (2010)
087. Glory
088. The Misfits
089. Guess Who's Coming To Dinner
090. Gattaca
091. Aladdin
092. The Addams Family
093. Addams Family Values
094. Halloween (1978)
095. Marty
096. Cheaters
097. The Man From Snowy River
098. The Shining
099. Batman Begins
100. Thor
101. X-Men: First Class
102. Smokey and the Bandit
103. The Fifth Element
104. Tootsie
105. Hot Shots!
106. The Mask
107. Duck Soup
108. Beetlejuice
109. This is Spinal Tap
110. Network
111. Easy A
112. The Breakfast Club
113. Face/Off
114. Selena
115. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
116. The Exorcist
117. Clash of the Titans (1981)
118. Looney Tunes: Back in Action
119. Blazing Saddles
120. Spaceballs
121. A Christmas Story
122. Jason and the Argonauts
123. Ghostbusters II
124. Get Shorty
125. Gremlins
126. Glory
127. Full Metal Jacket
128. Die Hard 2
129. Silent Running
130. Rollerball
131. The Black Hole
132. Star Trek
133. Inception
134. Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure
135. Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey
136. Chronicle
137. Cheaters
138. Flushed Away
139. Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron
140. Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
141. Tomorrow Never Dies
142. Goldeneye
143. Bedazzled (1967)
144. Austin Power: The Spy Who Shagged Me
145. Mean Girls
146. The World Is Not Enough
147. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
148. Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story
149. Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
150. Independence Day
151. Phone Booth
152. The Ring
153. I, Robot
154. Robots
155. Madagascar 2
156. The Island
157. Batman (1966)
158. The Cannonball Run
159. Robocop 2
160. Terminator 2: Rise of the Machines
161. Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones
162. The 6th Day
163. The Expendables
164. The A-Team
165. Top Gun
166. X-Men 3: The Last Stand
167.The Fast and Furious (2001)
168. Small Soldiers
169. Zookeeper
170. Role Models
171. Short Circuit
172. Die Another Day
173. Sweet 15
174. Austin Powers in Goldmember
175. Scrooged
176. The Ringer
177. Planet 51
178. Plan 9 from Outer Space
179. Fantastic Four 2: Rise of the Silver Surfer
180. Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
181. Crocodile Dundee
182. Shark Tale
183. Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace
184. Shrek the Third
185. Maximum Overdrive
186. Bedazzled (2000)
187. Goal! The Dream Begins
188. Romeo + Juliet (1996)
189. Transformers
190. Fantastic Four
191. Crocodile Dundee II
192. Robocop 3
193. Norbit
194. Christmas with the Kranks
195. Just Go With It
196. A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)
197. The Room
198. Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen
199. Terminator Salvation
200. Birdemic: Shock and Terror.

Movie Night: Citizen Kane.

Review #200: Citizen Kane.

Cast
Orson Welles (Charles Foster Kane), William Alland (Jerry Thompson), Dorothy Comingore (Susan Alexander Kane), Joseph Cotten (Jedediah Leland), George Coulouris (Walter Parks Thatcher), Everett Sloane (Mr. Bernstein), Ruth Warrick (Emily Monroe Norton Kane), Agnes Moorehead (Mary Kane), Ray Collins (Jim W. Gettys), and Paul Stewart (Raymond) Directed by Orson Welles.

Review
This film feels like a detective story, as you are invested into the life of the man known as Kane. The acting is great, with Welles being the main standout (As it should be) This was his first film that he directed, and this is his more remembered (More so then The Magnificent Ambersons) The film grows on you, it turns from seeing a young, grand Kane to the end, where he is alone, old, in his grand palace, Xanadu. The screenplay is great as well. There aren't many effects in this film, but when they are apparent, they're good. My favorite is the rise of the theater along with the shot of the many Kanes walking in his palace. The ending is just great, giving you a twist that hasn't really been done ever since. It has been 71 years since this film was released, and it is still one of, if not the greatest. For people who want to learn how to make films, it is a grand tool for that department. It may not have been respected as it is today back in 1941, but now it is respected as one of the greatest films of our time. And that ends the 200th Review. Thank you for reading, commenting, and just being there for Movie Night. There's still more to come.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Forbidden Planet.

Review #199: Forbidden Planet.

Cast
Walter Pidgeon (Dr. Edward Morbius), Anne Francis (Altaira "Alta" Morbius), Leslie Nielsen (Commander John J. Adams), Robby the Robot, Warren Stevens (Lt. "Doc" Ostrow), Jack Kelly (Lt. Jerry Farman), Richard Anderson (Chief Quinn), Earl Holliman (Cook), George D. Wallace (Steve) Directed by Fred M. Wilcox.

Review
What can I say but wow. This film is still dynamic, still classic after 56 years (56 years ago in 1956...huh) The acting is good, with Pidgeon and Nielson doing the best out of the cast. I must mention Robby the Robot. He is more then just a robot that beeps and bops, he is an important feature that is the pinnacle of science-fiction in the 1950's. Is he the best robot in film? That's very debatable. Some say Gort, some say R2-D2, and some whatever they think is their favorite. Anyway, the story is good, keeping you interested all throughout in this 98 minute tale. But the main importance is the effects. True to this day, they are grand in look and showcase the best in Science Fiction. The last thing I will mention is the electronic music score. It was ahead of its time, before synthesisers took hold, and the music sets the tone for this film. A great film in all. Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Spaceballs.

Review #198: Spaceballs.

Cast
Bill Pullman (Lone Starr), John Candy (Barf), Rick Moranis (Dark Helmet), Mel Brooks (President Skroob/Yogurt), Daphne Zuniga (Princess Vespa), Dick Van Patten (King Roland), and Joan Rivers (Dot Matrix) Directed by Mel Brooks.

Review
It's been a while since I last reviewed something with Mel Brooks (Blazing Saddles - #061 and Robots - #087), but's it been even longer for Moranis (Ghostbusters II - #031). Anyway, the film is an obvious parody of Star Wars, right down to the name, but it does parody other things (such as Alien) There are some good gags with decent acting to go with it in a typical run time. It might've been a little too late to parody it (four years after Return of the Jedi), but it is still a favorite nonetheless. May the Schwartz be with you. Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Phone Booth.

Review #197: Phone Booth.

Cast
Colin Farrell (Stu Shepard), Forest Whitaker (Capt. Ed Ramey), Katie Holmes (Pamela McFadden), Radha Mitchell (Kelly Shepard), Kiefer Sutherland (The Caller), and Paula Jai Parker (Felicia) Directed by Joel Schumacher.

Review
From what I've heard, this film was proposed to be made in the 1960's, but was denied due to not having a reason of keeping the person in the phone booth until the 1990's. Anyway, with the man who gave you "Bat-Credit Card" in the directing position, what could happen? Farrell is alright in this film, as you believe in the character and his metamorphosis as the film progresses. Initially, the film is a bit slow, but it does get better as it goes on. And yes, Sutherland is our "villain" in this film. Honestly, the film looks like that scene from Die Hard with a Vengeance (The one where McClane has to get to a pay phone and answer a riddle), and yet the suspense is enough to keep you interested. It may have a run time of 81 minutes (typical for a comedy but not thrillers), but it at least is entertaining just enough. Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3...

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005).

Review #196: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Cast
Johnny Depp (Willa Wonka), Freddie Highmore (Charlie Bucket), David Kelly (Grandpa Joe), Jordan Fry (Mike Teavee), Julia Winter (Veruca Salt), AnnaSophia Robb (Violet Beauregarde), Philip Wiegratz (Augustus Gloop), Deep Roy (Oompa-Loompas), Geoffrey Holder (Narrator), and Christopher Lee (Wilbur Wonka) Directed by Tim Burton (#040 - Batman, #107 - Beetlejuice, and #132 - Alice in Wonderland)

Review
Yes I realized the irony of it being a Sunday when updating this review from two years ago. The review is fixed up to make it more sensible and less disjointed. Enjoy, and see the original film first. It's odd that I'm reviewing this on a day like this. You think that at least one network would show a Friday the 13th marathon, but no. 

Anyway, this is the second adaptation of the 1964 novel by Roald Dahl (It's a really good book, you should check it out, BTW). The first was already covered here (#131 - Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory). This version follows the book more closely, but is it better? Well...that's a tough thing to say. The acting by Depp is...what's that word? Creepy, but I digress. The rest of the cast do a decent job and all, but even if they are better actors, it doesn't meant we identify more with them, they just feel so distant, so we don't really care all too much when they leave. The original may not have followed the book much, but it made up for it with charm, while the more faithful movie to the book just feels like a cold stone. Wilder managed to have a good deal of fun and mystery to the role. Depp manages to remind me of Michael Jackson more than a candy developer, though not as good a dancer. The movie may be alright, but it barely holds its own when compared to the original film, though if you want a more faithful adaptation of the book, this is for you. Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Megamind.

Review #195: Megamind.

Cast
Will Ferrell (Megamind), Tina Fey (Roxanne Ritchi), David Cross (Minion), Jonah Hill (Tighten/Hal Stewart), Brad Pitt (Metro Man), J. K. Simmons (Warden), and Ben Stiller (Bernard) Directed by Tom McGrath (#165 - Madagascar and #154 - Madagascar 2)

Review
Megamind has been compared to a mix between Superman and Despicable Me, which is a strange combination of films, but is it really? Not so much, but you eventually get over that comparison and start to watch with interest. Ferrell does a good job, he's charming and somewhat sympathetic. The rest of the cast do good as well, such as Fey and Cross, who are both fun to watch. The animation is refined and excellent, the movie is enjoyable and while it may not be a great movie, it at least is a fun one. The plot line is alright, with some good jokes and dynamic action all around to make an excellent film. Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Ace in the Hole.

Review #194: Ace in the Hole.

Cast
Kirk Douglas (Chuck Tatum), Jan Sterling (Lorraine Minosa), Robert Arthur (Herbie Cook), Porter Hall (Jacob Q. Boot), Frank Cady (Mr. Federber), Richard Benedict (Leo Minosa), Ray Teal (Sheriff Kretzer), Lewis Martin (McCardle), John Berkes (Papa Minosa), Frances Dominguez (Mama Minosa), and Gene Evans (Deputy Sheriff) Directed by Billy Wilder (#106 - Some Like It Hot)

Review
Nearly sixty one years old, this film still has some bite. Originally called The Big Carnival, it was not a success initially, but today it is a classic. Cynical and nail biting to the point, it also has good acting from Kirk Douglas, who is the father of another great actor, Michael Douglas, who I mentioned already (#095 - Wall Street). Both can play alluring roles that charm you into watching the movie. Fun fact: Kirk's real name was Issur Danielovitch. Wilder directed, wrote, and produce, and yet this wasn't much of a success back then. But as time passes, so does opinions, and I feel that way as well. Unrelenting yet still realistic with good noir with a good ending shot to top it off. It might be a bit slow in the beginning, but it all tops out in the end. Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6...

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Independence Day.

Review #193: Independence Day.

Cast
Will Smith (Steven Hiller), Jeff Goldblum (David Levinson), Bill Pullman (Thomas J. Whitmore), Margaret Colin (Constance Spano), Vivica A. Fox (Jasmine Dubrow), Judd Hirsch (Julius Levinson), Robert Loggia (William Grey), and Randy Quaid (Russell Casse) Directed by Roland Emmerich.

Review
Fixed for your consideration, everyone. This review was originally published two years ago and later transferred here; I've fixed some errors to help make it look a little better. Enjoy, and welcome to Earth.

First of all, happy Independence Day. The movie is almost a hack of Star Wars, but at least Star Wars had control and some sort of plot. It has one scene I find really good though, and that would be the destruction of the White House, it's such a memorable scene and also because it doesn't use much dialogue.  The aliens are decent, if you like beige monsters, but the ships are so dull looking. One thing I notice is in the beginning when the ships start to enter in the Earth, I thought they look like movie tin cans being dropped through a background. Maybe it's just me though. The acting is alright, with Will Smith being the main standout. Look, whatever he's in, he makes the film more enjoyable, it's just his charm that carries the movie.  

There are three things that happen near the end that I find a bit...mentionable. One, why don't the other nations have a plan instead of waiting for the U.S to do one? I'm sure the other nations of the world have scientists and such to figure it too, ya know. Secondly, the president's speech. I won't repeat it here but just search for it and you'll know what I mean. It's either the most over the top speech ever spoken, or...the most over the top speech ever spoken. Third, why did Emmerich delete scenes that help explain the film's end? Apparently, there were scenes to help explain this a bit better, that were deleted in the final cut, like how aliens get hacked by a virus that Google would laugh at, though I guess if you let a ship that previously crash landed 50 years ago in Roswell (just go with it) into your fortress, you deserve what you get. Overall, it's been 16 years, and there hasn't been a sequel. Yet. 

Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8, 7...

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars

Movie Night: Maximum Overdrive.

Review #192: Maximum Overdrive.

Cast
Emilio Estevez (William "Bill" Robinson), Pat Hingle (Bubba Hendershot), Laura Harrington (Brett Graham), Yeardley Smith (Connie), John Short (Curtis), Ellen McElduff (Wanda June), Frankie Faison (Handy), Leon Rippy (Brad), and Christopher Murney (Camp Loman) Directed by Stephen King.

Review
The first thing to mention is that this is Stephen King's only directed film which he also wrote (adapted from a short story of his own named Trucks) It's like he wanted to say, "Hey you think you can adapt my novels to books good? Well I can do better!" But...It isn't. The acting is standard, with Estevez doing his best given the role (It's like he acted angry because he had to be in this film) The action is...well action, standard for an action film. The violence is even more standard, getting a bit old after a while. The one thing I find of note to be worthy is the soundtrack by none other then AC/DC. Pure awesome. The film in a way is enjoyable, even with its bizarre explaining in the beginning that's contradicted in the end. It's a weird film, that can be only enjoyed if you let yourself go (there are films you must do that other wise you'll hate it, like...Transformers 2 *snickers*). Countdown to 200: 10, 9, 8....

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The 6th Day.

Review #191: The 6th Day.

Cast
Arnold Schwarzenegger (Adam Gibson), Michael Rapaport (Hank Morgan), Tony Goldwyn (Michael Drucker), Michael Rooker (Robert Marshall), Sarah Wynter (Talia Elsworth), Wendy Crewson (Natalie Gibson), Rodney Rowland (P. Wiley), Terry Crews (Vincent Bansworth), Ken Pogue (Speaker Day), Colin Cunningham (Tripp),and Robert Duvall (Griffin Weir) Directed by Roger Spottiswoode (#171 - Tomorrow Never Dies)

Review
Schwarzenegger has been in films ever since the 70's (unless you count that Hercules in New York film in 1969...). In the 2000's, he was in a few of them, which...wasn't as stellar (Collateral Damage, Terminator 3 - #089). This...is...yea, let me explain. The acting is decent, Schwarzenegger does his decent performance given his ability. The film has a science-fiction theme to it that is present through some of his other films (#001, #063, #067), but it doesn't feel as well as the others. I feel the film skims over the supposed message to get to the action, which given out actor makes sense. It can have some good action, but it isn't as memorable as his other films. Countdown to 200: 10, 9...

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Transformers: The Movie.

Review #190: The Transformers: The Movie.

Cast
Judd Nelson (Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime), Leonard Nimoy (Galvatron), Robert Stack (Ultra Magnus), Lionel Stander (Kup), Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime), Frank Welker (Megatron), Susan Blu (Arcee), David Mendenhall (Daniel Witwicky), Eric Idle (Wreck-Gar), Neil Ross (Springer), John Moschitta (Blurr), and Orson Welles (Unicron) Directed by Nelson Shin.

Review
This film came after the show attracted kids everywhere with its premise and its usefulness. Anyway, the film may seem like a commercial for the upcoming third season for the show, but I find it is not so black and white as it seems. The voice acting is allright, with Orson Welles, the man who had impressed audiances everywhere 40 years earlier, entertains in his final role...as a planet. The visuals are impreesive, keeping you entertained in a typicalish run time of 84 minutes. I like that it doesn't stray from its themes of destruction fear. Though some might feel that it basically is a way to sell new toys, frankly I don't mind. I didn't grew up with these toys, I grew with Lego, so there ya go. Good visuals with good acting make a decent film. While the three films that would follow 20 years later might have been...whatever you might thnk (Reviews #57 and #58 are my opinions) It may not have been a big success whn it came out, but it at least is recgonized today for being more then meets the eye. Countdown to 200: 10...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Coraline.

Review #189: Coraline.

Cast
Dakota Fanning (Coraline Jones), Teri Hatcher (Mel Jones/Other Mother), Jennifer Saunders (April Spink), Dawn French (Miriam Forcible), John Hodgman (Charlie Jones/Other Father), Robert Bailey, Jr (Wybie Lovat), Ian McShane (Mr. Bobinsky), and Keith David (The Cat) Directed by Henry Selick.

Review
This film was based off the book by Neil Gaiman, which I have not heard of (Though he did write Doctor Who: The Doctor's Wife). Anyway, this film is beautiful in its stop motion animation, as the story is intriguing, keeping you interested as the story unravels. The voice acting is excellent, especially from Fanning and Hatcher. The film is imaginative and engaging with good characterizations in this excellent film.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Sullivan's Travels.

Review #188: Sullivan's Travels.

Cast
Joel McCrea (John L. Sullivan), Veronica Lake (The Girl), Robert Warwick (Mr. Lebrand), William Demarest (Mr. Jonas), Franklin Pangborn (Mr. Casalsis), Porter Hall (Mr. Hadrian), Byron Foulger (Mr. Johnny Valdelle), Margaret Hayes (Secretary), and Robert Greig (Burrows) Directed by Preston Sturges.

Review
I admit that there are comedies out there that aren't in the best quality, but people are entertained. This movie is an excellent lesson in that and more. People even in their worst state feel good with comedy. The acting is good, especially from McCrea. This is a fun and brilliant film that can make you laugh and feel entertained. 70 years and it still holds up.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Holes.

Review #187: Holes.

Cast,
Shia LaBeouf (Stanley Yelnats IV), Khleo Thomas (Hector Zeroni), Sigourney Weaver (Louise Walker), Jon Voight (Marion Sevillo), Patricia Arquette (Kate Barlow), Tim Blake Nelson (Dr. Pendanski), Dulé Hill (Sam), Henry Winkler (Stanley Yelnats III), and Eartha Kitt (Madame Zeroni) Directed by Andrew Davis (#176 - The Fugitive)

Review
Holes is based off the 1998 novel by Louis Sachar, and the film follows it pretty well. There is one thing to distinguish it a bit from most book to film adaptations, and that is that Sachar wrote the screenplay for this film, which gives some of the good part in the film, with the rest just being the acting, atmosphere, wit, and charm. LeBeouf *sigh* can be a good actor, with the films he has been in on this show (#057 - Transformers and #058 - Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen), this is a good one by him. The others in the cast such as Weaver, Voight, Thomas, and Kitt all do a good job in the time they're given. Good cast with good direction make...well, a good film.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.

Review #186: Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.

Cast
Michael J. Fox (Chance), Don Ameche (Shadow), Sally Field (Sassy), Robert Hays (Bob), and Kim Griest (Laura) Directed by Duwayne Dunham.

Review
After the "trilogy" of films reviewed here as of late, I decided to pick something of lesser evil, Disney. Well actually Walt Disney Pictures, but still. While the human characters are mostly standard in acting and dialogue, the film focuses more on the animals and their trip home. Fox, Ameche, and Field do a good job, having some good banter, making you entertained in a reasonably paced 80 minute film that sees these animals transform as the film progresses, which a bit different from all that I've seen in the past few weeks. One thing I almost forgot to mention is that this is a remake of a 1963 adaptation also made by Disney which was based off the novel. This is a decent film that is almost 20 years old.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Room.

Review #185: The Room.

Cast
Tommy Wiseau (Johnny), Greg Sestero (Mark), Juliette Danielle (Lisa), Philip Haldiman (Denny), Carolyn Minnott (Claudette), Robyn Paris (Michelle), Scott Holmes (Mike), and Dan Janjigian (Chris-R). Directed, Written, and Produced by Tommy Wiseau.

Review
Wow. I don't know what to say about this film. With Plan 9 and Birdemic, it took a while, but it all got straightened out. But this...Oh this...First off, the first five minutes are the weirdest part, with generic things said, and introducing our lead, Tommy Wiseau. Oh hai, Tommy Wiseau. He is so bizarre in this film that you wonder what impersonation he is doing, Christopher Walken or Borat. The other actors are generic in tone, ranging from manipulative to...weird. The film may run only 99 minutes, but it feels like there is padding, making you feel bored at times. More bizarre scenes include Denny, throwing footballs, and the rooftop scenes. The story is odd yet generic, with lines that at one point get ridiculous such as: "I did not hit her, it's not true! It's bullshit! I did not hit her! I did not. Oh hi Mark." It goes from unintentionally funny to dull to generic to confusing all in a swoop. The thing I find unbelievable is that this was made for 6 million dollars, which given the film makes you wonder how it could be this expensive. With bad acting, a confused story, unbelievably odd characters, and a strange amount of holes in the story, why would anyone, including me watch this film? It is one of those films you have to see to believe. But is this the worst in this so called trilogy? Plan 9 was so bad its good, Birdemic was beyond the deep end, and yet this is not off the deep end. Bad, but not the worst. I must mention this film is now officially nine years old. Good grief. *throws football across the screen* 

Overall, I give it 3 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Birdemic: Shock and Terror.

Review #184: Birdemic: Shock and Terror.

Cast
Alan Bagh (Rod), Whitney Moore (Nathalie), Adam Sessa (Ramsey), Catherine Batcha (Becky), Janae Caster (Susan), Colton Osborne (Tony), and Rick Camp (Dr. Jones) Directed by James Nguyen.

Review
What can I say? What can I do? What is this planning to? First off, this film is bad, pure and simple. The acting is so wooden with the worst offender being the generic dialogue and even worse boredom. The first 40 minutes are dating and walking and talking...until you get to the birds. I wonder if Nguyen tried to imitate Jaws and its sequence, but then I realize this is a far worse attempt. The birds are the worst monsters/animals I've ever seen. Far worse then Plan 9 from Outer Space's UFOs, and with even worse attacking them (hangers, seriously?) It is a mind numbing bad film that has no entertainment value whatsoever with multitudes of plot holes (Such as running from a store with food and water to a car that is being attacked by the birds), bland messages, and an even worse fact: There will be a sequel to this. But is this so called bad movie reviewing over? Oh, not yet. This "trilogy" isn't over yet.

Overall, I give it 0 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Plan 9 from Outer Space.

Review #183: Plan 9 from Outer Space.

Cast
Gregory Walcott (Jeff Trent), Mona McKinnon (Paula Trent), Duke Moore (Lt. John Harper), Tom Keene (Col. Tom Edwards), Carl Anthony (Patrolman Larry), Paul Marco (Patrolman Kelton), Tor Johnson (Inspector Dan Clay), Dudley Manlove (Eros), Joanna Lee (Tanna), John Breckinridge (The Ruler), Criswell (Criswell), and almost starring Bela Lugosi. Directed by Ed Wood.

Review
Where do I begin with this film? What could I do to review it?  First off, let us begin with the narration, "Future events such as these will affect you in the future" Apart from that, the narration from there and throughout is beyond absurd. The acting (and characters) from...Any of the cast is poorly done, with Johnson doing the worst with his "flailing arms of death" The thing anyone would mention in this film is the effects. Normally I don't mention effects, but I must mention them: From the bizarre plastic UFO's to the even more bizzare description of them as a cigar, they truly are mentionable. One more thing about effects: When you cut from stock footage of Lugosi to a stand in for Lugosi, make sure that they're both at night. With all of this against the film, what is my opinion? It is not the worst of all time. It is a cheeseful romp that while given the bad effects, acting, and story, it is enjoyable enough to at least watch. Ed Wood at least tried to make something. There are far worse movies out there.  Now then, what rating do I give this? I can't give it 0 for one reason: Too silly to be that bad. This begins the Tour de Worse Trilogy.

Overall, I give it 5 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story.

Review #182: DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story.

Cast
Vince Vaughn (Peter "Pete" LaFleur), Ben Stiller (White Goodman), Christine Taylor (Katherine "Kate" Veatch), Rip Torn (Patches O'Houlihan), Hank Azaria (Young Patches), Justin Long (Justin Redman), Stephen Root (Gordon Pibb), and Alan Tudyk (Steve "the Pirate" Cowan) Directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber.

Review
The film has good moments from most of the cast, with silly but decent at the same time fun. Vaughn and Taylor do well together as does Stiller in his crazed insane performance that is almost as crazy as his performance in Tropic Thunder. Funny at points with a decent cast, the film is a hit and far from a miss. One thing I will mention: This is the 100th review for Season 2 (December 20, 2011 - December 20, 2012).

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Rebel Without a Cause.

Review #181: Rebel Without a Cause.

Cast
James Dean (Jim Stark), Natalie Wood (Judy), Sal Mineo (John "Plato" Crawford), Jim Backus (Frank Stark), Ann Doran (Carol Stark), Corey Allen (Buzz Gunderson), William Hopper (Judy's father), Rochelle Hudson (Judy's mother), Edward Platt (Ray Fremick), Frank Mazzola (Crunch), and Dennis Hopper (Goon) Directed by Nicholas Ray.

Review
James Dean had made only three films before his tragic death, with one reviewed here already (#105 - East of Eden), This is the second of the three, and it is excellent. Dean once again is good, with his teenage angst coming into full mode with Wood, Mineo, and Backus also doing well. I must mention a young Dennis Hopper appears in this film, who would go on to do good films on his own (Easy Rider, Hoosiers, Speed) This film also has good directing, which captures the essence of teenagers and more. Good story in this good film.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Stand By Me.

Review #180: Stand By Me.

Cast
Wil Wheaton (Gordie Lachance), River Phoenix (Chris Chambers), Corey Feldman (Teddy Duchamp), Jerry O'Connell (Vern Tessio), Kiefer Sutherland (Ace Merill), and Richard Dreyfuss (Narrator) Directed by Rob Reiner (#108 - This is Spinal Tap, #232 - The Princess Bride)

Review
This film was adapted from the novella The Body by Stephen King, which I haven't read (Actually I haven't read anything from King nor reviewed any movies from them until now) The acting is good, with young talents doing adult like quality, with Wheaton, Phoenix, and Feldman being the main standouts. This is one of those trip movies, where some go on a trip, but their's is different from most trips, and yet the film can be fun and be serious at times that entertains after over 25 years.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Matilda.

Review #179: Matilda.

Cast
Mara Wilson (Matilda Wormwood), Danny DeVito (Harry Wormwood/Narrator), Rhea Perlman (Zinnia Wormwood), Embeth Davidtz (Miss Honey), Pam Ferris (Agatha Trunchbull), Brian Levinson (Michael Wormwood), Paul Reubens (FBI Agent Bob), Tracey Walter (FBI Agent Bill), Kiami Davael (Lavender), and Jacqueline Steiger (Amanda Thripp) Directed by Danny DeVito.

Review
This film was based of the book Matilda by Roald Dahl, who we have covered before (#131 - Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory). Anyway, this film is has some changes to the film from the book, but what book to film doesn't have these problems? The acting is decent, especially from Wilson, Ferris, and DeVito. Speaking of him, the directing is decent, but what I find a bit odd is the occasional close up shots. They only work if you have something to show, these are just plain weird by any standards. The film has charm that while being a bit off at points is still an entertaining film.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Peter Pan (1953)

Review #178: Peter Pan.

Cast
Bobby Driscoll (Peter Pan), Kathryn Beaumont (Wendy), Hans Conried (Captain Hook/George), Paul Collins (John), and Tommy Luske (Michael) Directed by Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, and Hamilton Luske.

Review
Well, well, well, look at he cycle that I have gone through. I constantly refer to Disney in some of my reviews (#153 - The Incredibles, #156 - Aladdin), and I didn't think I would arrive to this point. But, look where we are. Anyway, this film was made in the so called Golden Age of Disney films, with Cinderella, Snow White, and other films that kids love to this day. The film has a reasonable length with a decent story and fine voice acting. I almost forgot to mention the story is from the 1904 play/1911 novel by J.M Barrie. Anyway, the film is magical and having some points that are at least memorable after nearly 60 years.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Batman (1966)

Review #177: Batman.

Cast
Adam West (Bruce Wayne/Batman), Burt Ward (Robin), Lee Meriwether (Catwoman), Cesar Romero (The Joker), Burgess Meredith (The Penguin), and Frank Gorshin (The Riddler) Directed by Leslie H. Martinson.

Review
This film...I don't know what to think. This is an odd thing to review in the first place, but oh well. Anyway, this film is based off the 1960's television show also named Batman. That show was famous for three things: Campy action, bringing the hero to audiences, and...its campy action. You will lose your sanity after about the first 20 minutes with the Bat-Ladder, the shark repellent, a dolphin saving the duo by crashing into a missile, and...Holy Long John Silver. You could write this off as a cheese fest...But not quite. At its heart, it at least tries to entertain the people that had watched the television show and wanted to see their hero on the big screen that would only be bested 23 years later. West and Ward do make a good pair as does the others. I would compare Romero to Nicholson to Ledger, but that wouldn't be fair. Throughout Movie Night, I've reviewed other Batman films (#040, #054, #062, #217, #218, #269, #316), but there's one other bright side to this film: It's not Batman and Robin.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Fugitive (1993).

Review #176: The Fugitive.

Cast
Harrison Ford (Dr. Richard Kimble), Tommy Lee Jones (Deputy U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard), Sela Ward (Helen Kimble), Joe Pantoliano (Deputy U.S. Marshal Cosmo Renfro), Andreas Katsulas (Fredrick Sykes), Jeroen Krabbé (Dr. Charles Nichols), Daniel Roebuck (Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert Biggs), Tom Wood (Deputy U.S. Marshal Noah Newman), L. Scott Caldwell (Deputy U.S. Marshal Erin Poole), and Julianne Moore (Dr. Anne Eastman) Directed by Andrew Davis

Cast
This movie was based off the classic 1960s TV show of the same name. Ford and Jones are excellent, playing off each other great. Jones does the best job, conveying a sense of ell, doing his job as a US Marshall. As the movie continues on, the doubt against Kimble unravels which you see from Gerard's point of view. One thing I notice is that it turns from escape film to conspiracy as the film gets to the end which feels a bit odd. But nevertheless, this film is heart pounding with good amounts of action in an excellent film.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

Review #175: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

Cast
Elizabeth Taylor (Martha), Richard Burton (George), George Segal (Nick), and Sandy Dennis (Honey) Directed by Mike Nichols.

Review
I must mention that this is the 175th Review. Now, this is a different film then usual, a small cast with big drama. The whole cast is perfect, with Taylor and Burton being the main standouts. This drama is devastating to the bone, with moments of uncomfortable moments that only keep the tension rise until it all explodes. Their are parts with humor that only add to its atmosphere. This film is like 12 Angry Men (#035), a bunch of people all cooped in one set with tension building until it ends in excellence. Truly recommended.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Die Another Day.

Review #174: Die Another Day.

Cast
Pierce Brosnan (James Bond), Halle Berry (Giacinta 'Jinx' Johnson), Toby Stephens (Gustav Graves), Rosamund Pike (Miranda Frost), Rick Yune (Zao), Judi Dench (M), Will Yun Lee (Colonel Moon), Kenneth Tsang (General Moon), John Cleese (Q), and Colin Salmon (Charles Robinson) Directed by Lee Tamahori.

Review
Greetings to any viewer who clicked the link from the review of Kingsman: The Golden Circle. Enjoy this review from 2012, to a movie that fails to live up to the other three Pierce Brosnan James Bond films, mostly because it just doesn't have the right spirit that other Bond films have, feeling more like a souped up version of a Roger Moore Bond film - for better or for worse. 

This is the last film to star Pierce Brosnan, and it is the 20th released on the 40th anniversary in 2002. The film has some of the same charm as the other three, but it is missing one thing: Plot. This film is basically action and just that, ignoring plot for over the top action. The one thing I find worse is the invisible car. Look, there's having high tech spy gadgets, but this is just ridiculous. The only thing more ridiculous is if Bond went to space-Oh, well. Ouch. Brosnan does do a good job as always, along with the others, but the film just doesn't have the spirit most films have. After this, the series would be on hold for 4 more years until a new actor was found. This film will be remembered as one of the middle of the road Bond films.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: GoldenEye.

Review #173: GoldenEye.

Cast
Pierce Brosnan (James Bond), Sean Bean (Alec Trevelyan), Izabella Scorupco (Natalya Simonova), Famke Janssen (Xenia Onatopp), Joe Don Baker (Jack Wade), Judi Dench (M), Gottfried John (General Arkady Grigorovich Ourumov), Robbie Coltrane (Valentin Dmitrovich Zukovsky), Alan Cumming (Boris Grishenko), Tchéky Karyo (Dmitri Mishkin), Desmond Llewelyn (Q), and Samantha Bond (Miss Moneypenny) Directed by Martin Campbell.

Review
In 1989, the last James Bond film, Licence to Kill had come and gone with Timothy Dalton also leaving the role. 6 years later with a new actor comes this film. This film shows that after 30 years, this film series could still live on. Brosnan is excellent, he has a bit of humor in him too make you care for the character and have a little fun with it as well. Bean, Dench, and Baker also do good jobs, as the action is good enough with a decent plot. This film is fresh enough to have a new set of legs to keep on going.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

RATING CHANGE: originally a seven, now an eight. Reason listed: None [7/16/2023]

Movie Night: The World is Not Enough.

Review #172: The World is Not Enough.

Cast
Pierce Brosnan (James Bond), Sophie Marceau (Elektra King), Robert Carlyle (Renard), Denise Richards (Christmas Jones), Robbie Coltrane (Valentin Zukovsky), Judi Dench (M), Colin Salmon (Charles Robinson), Desmond Llewelyn (Q), John Cleese (R), and Samantha Bond (Miss Moneypenny). Directed by Michael Apted.

Review
This film is the penultimate film for Brosnan, and it is decent enough to end the 20th century. Brosnan once again does an excellent job, keeping the film float. Richards on the other hand just isn't convincing as a nuclear scientist because of something I call the "Copy and Paste Principle" That is when someone is trying to speak like the role they play, but sound like they read it off a script rather then act the role. The plot is decent, giving us a twist for once, but not too much of a twist. This film has an action packed style that keeps you interested no matter what.

Overall, I give it 007 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Tomorrow Never Dies.

Review #171: Tomorrow Never Dies.

Cast
Pierce Brosnan (James Bond), Jonathan Pryce (Elliot Carver), Michelle Yeoh (Colonel Wai Lin), Teri Hatcher (Paris Carver), Götz Otto (Richard Stamper), Ricky Jay (Henry Gupta), Joe Don Baker (Jack Wade), Vincent Schiavelli (Dr. Kaufman), Judi Dench (M), Desmond Llewelyn (Q), and Samantha Bond (Miss Moneypenny). Directed by Roger Spottiswoode.

Review
This is the 18th James Bond film, released 15 years ago in 1997. Anyway, the last time we saw Bond was reviews ago with a different person (#150 - Dr. No) Brosnan does a fine job in his second film in the role (First being GoldenEye) Pryce is decent, as this villain is more plausible then usual, compared to villains from before (A man with metal claws, a man that loves gold, and more, including Christopher Walken) The rest of the cast is decent, doing their jobs as any other cast tries to do in a Bond film. The story is decent with reasonably alright action and gadgets. This film isn't a great one, but it is a decent one.

Overall, I give it 007 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Review #170: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Cast
Harrison Ford (Indiana "Henry" Jones Jr.), Sean Connery (Henry Jones Sr.), Alison Doody (Elsa Schneider), Denholm Elliott (Marcus Brody), John Rhys-Davies (Sallah), Julian Glover (Walter Donovan), Michael Byrne (Colonel Vogel), Kevork Malikyan (Kazim), and Robert Eddison (Grail Knight) Directed by Steven Spielberg (#126 - Close Encounters of the Third Kind, #168 - Raiders of the Lost Ark, and #169 - Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom)

Review
This film is lighter in tone then Temple of Doom, which is a good thing as once again Harrison Ford is excellent once again. Sean Connery is also excellent, with the father-son relationship having a dramatic and comedic standpoint, and it is good. One thing I hadn't mentioned is that apparently Lucas conceived Jones to be "James Bond without the hardware" When I think about it, that makes sense, considering the adventures to stop evil from collecting things to take over the world. With Connery in this film, it makes it even more like Bond. Before I go off into more of a tangent, I must mention that the story is good. It's different from the first two in a way I won't tell you of, which is good to keep the story fresh. And that ends the Last Crusade. Indiana Jones had 3 films in 8 years, with success following its way. Ford kept his success going from Han Solo into the 80s and beyond with this and beyond. Truly an excellent sequel with excellent directing and writing.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.

REVISED: Rating now 9/10 (June 30, 2023)

Review #169: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.

Cast
Harrison Ford (Indiana Jones), Kate Capshaw (Willie Scott), Amrish Puri (Mola Ram), Ke Huy Quan (Short Round), Roshan Seth (Chatter Lal), Philip Stone (Phillip Blumbertt), Roy Chiao (Lao Che), David Yip (Wu Han), Raj Singh (Zalim Singh), D. R. Nanayakkara (Shaman) Directed by Steven Spielberg (#126 - Close Encounters of the Third Kind and #168 - Raiders of the Lost Ark)

Review
This film has a tone that's...different from the first film. It, like Empire Strikes Back (#114), has darker themes different from its predecessor. A dark fact: This film was originally called Temple of Death. Gee, I wonder why they changed the title. Harrison Ford is excellent once again. Capshaw and Quan are decent at best, with the two being grating on the ears at times, but you do warm up to them after a while. One reference I do like in this film is at the beginning with "Club Obi Wan" This film has excitement mixed in with dark natures that can be fun but can also get a little too close to just freaky at points. A good film still, but not as good as the first (I almost forgot to mention this is apparently a prequel: Only difference? One year before the first one).

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Supplanted by this Redux Review: https://movienightcentral.blogspot.com/2026/06/redux-raiders-of-the-lost-ark.html

Review #168: Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Cast
Harrison Ford (Indiana Jones), Karen Allen (Marion Ravenwood), Paul Freeman (Rene Belloq), Ronald Lacey (Arnold Toht), John Rhys-Davies (Sallah), Denholm Elliott (Marcus Brody), Wolf Kahler (Colonel Dietrich), and Alfred Molina (Satipo) Directed by Steven Spielberg (#126 - Close Encounters of the Third Kind)

Review
For the second time, I will use this word to describe a film: Awesome. It is a great film that feels like an action matinee with Harrison Ford doing an excellent performance with excellent action and an even better story that has adventure and it delivers in many ways. It is the beginning of a wonderful set of adventures for Ford, Spielberg, Lucas, and the rest of the people who continue to watch it to this day.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Gojira.

REDUX REVIEW: https://movienightcentral.blogspot.com/2024/11/godzilla-1954.html

Review #167: Gojira.

Cast
Akira Takarada (Hideto Ogata), Momoko Kōchi (Emiko Yamane), Akihiko Hirata (Daisuke Serizawa), Takashi Shimura (Dr. Kyohei Yamane), Fuyuki Murakami (Dr. Tanabe), Sachio Sakai (Hagiwara), and Ren Yamamoto (Masaji Yamada) Directed by Ishirō Honda.

Review
This is the first world cinema film to come from Japan. Gojira (also known as Godzilla) is a film franchise over 50 years old with 28 films in exactly 50 years (1954-2004). This film is chilling, with good atmosphere, with some night scenes that are genuinely frightening. The effects look good to this day, giving you a scare and two. The setting in Japan with the black and white color of the film make it even more threatening as the effects could be hide any mistakes visible in color. Setting it in Japan after the devastation from World War II only adds to it more. The scene that is chilling is at the near end is with the choir girls singing as the city is in peril. This film may be a bit slow at times, but it is still an achievement in film-making to this day after 58 years.

To whoever finds this, I intend to re-look the film again sometime in 2021.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Flushed Away.

Review #166: Flushed Away.

Cast
Hugh Jackman (Roddy St. James), Kate Winslet (Rita Malone), Ian McKellen (The Toad), Jean Reno (Le Frog), Bill Nighy (Whitey), Andy Serkis (Spike), and Shane Richie (Sid) Directed by David Bowers and Sam Fell.

Review
I began this week with stop motion animation and we end with...computer generated animation. However the animation is meant to look like the traditional clay like figures, which it does. Jackman, Winslet, and McKellen are excellent in their roles (Jackman proving he can do more then just be Wolverine or...Van Helsing). The story is decent, with some good gags that are entertaining enough. This ends Dreamworks Animation Week. Overall, it was a decent week, but how does Dreamworks compare to Pixar, or...Disney? Dreamworks can do good films as I've heard from others, and it can do average to meh as well. But the point is that Dreamworks has good and the meh inside them, and that's all that matters. Thank you for reading this week. This ends Part VII.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Madagascar.

Review #165: Madagascar.

Cast
Ben Stiller (Alex), Chris Rock (Marty), David Schwimmer (Melman), Jada Pinkett Smith (Gloria), Sacha Baron Cohen (King Julien), Cedric the Entertainer (Maurice), Andy Richter (Mort) Directed by Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath (#154 - Madagascar 2)

Review
Madagascar isn't a perfect film, but it is a good film. It is better then Shark Tale and Shrek the Third, but it isn't better then Shrek 2 or Chicken Run. The voice acting is good, especially from Stiller and Rock. The plot is decent, as this film entertains with bright animation, a decently catchy song, and some subtle jokes at points. The film is the start of a franchise (with the second film having already been reviewed). This ends Part VI of Dreamworks Animation Week. Stay tuned for Part VII...

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.