March 31, 2012

Movie Night: Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.


Review #114: Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.

Cast
Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia Organa), Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian), Frank Oz (Yoda), James Earl Jones (Darth Vader), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Alec Guinness (Obi-Wan Kenobi), with Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker (C-3PO and R2-D2). Directed by Irvin Kershner.

Review
Greetings, fellow person who wants to check out Star Wars reviews by me. I would strongly advice to check out the Redux Review of this film, which contains more words by me, along with being a better review in general: Movie Night: Redux - Special Edition: The Empire Strikes Back.
Thank you.

This sequel is reportedly the best of the Original Trilogy, but I will see if it is or not. The acting is good as usual, especially from Hamill, Ford, Fisher, and Oz. Hamill had to deal with being in a swamp for months with only animals and a 3-foot puppet for company, so it really shows credibility in Hamill's performance. The action is good, especially the Hoth battle and The Duel. The influences Lucas uses are evident here, especially with Cloud City. The film starts a few years after IV, and things are tough and all. The film makes sure it's not a happy tale, and it's the only one in the series to not have a positive ending. (meaning it doesn't look good for the main characters) Anyway, the film is dark, with looming issues and all, with the biggest revelation of all time (even if it might be a little hindered with the Special Edition). A good film that is the middle part of a trilogy that's getting to it's end. (Before I forget, I'd recommend Star Wars Begins and Building Empire as they are great documentaries on the films)

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

March 30, 2012

Movie Night: Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.

Review #113: Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.

Cast
Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Alec Guinness (Obi Wan Kenobi), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia Organa), Peter Cushing (Grand Moff Tarkin), James Earl Jones (As the Voice of Darth Vader, David Prowse-Physical Features), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker (As C-3PO and R2-D2 respectively) Directed and Written by George Lucas.

Review
Greetings. If you are looking for a better review of this film, check out my Redux - Special Edition of this film, released four years later: https://movienightcentral.blogspot.com/2016/03/redux-special-edition-star-wars-1977.html

This is probably the most influential films of all time, as it inspired many people and filled their eyes with wonder, from 1977 to the present. Even watching it over and over it still impresses you, and that is one of the qualities in this great film. First off, the action is excellent. It has a good amount, with a battle in the beginning, the middles, and the end, not really boring you at all. The acting is excellent, especially from Alec Guinness, adding to his other good roles, (That might be obscured by some due to this great movie and such) yet it's little flaw is the fact that Mark Hamill (Despite his best) acts like...A whiny teenager who really grates on you a bit, yet it does not hurt the film much. The effects are still excellent to this day. (Even with the additions in the Special Edition) It has a good story to it, and it can be watched first even if it is the 4th overall due to it being the start of a new story to connect to the old one. A great movie that started it all, that inspired many parodies, tributes, ideas, and more. It's only just the beginning...

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

March 22, 2012

Movie Night: Gattaca.

Review #112: Gattaca.

Cast
Ethan Hawke (Vincent Anton Freeman/Jerome Eugene Morrow), Uma Thurman (Irene Cassini), Jude Law (Jerome Eugene Morrow), Loren Dean (Anton Freeman), Gore Vidal (Director Josef), Xander Berkeley (Dr. Lamar), Ernest Borgnine (Caesar) Directed by Andrew Niccol.

Review
The film is a delight to watch, as it's a smart film that makes you interested in the film rather than just be a science-fiction film. It raises questions and makes you wonder what would happen if we picked people because of genes rather then personality (Even if a sickened man goes to the one place different from Earth-Space) The acting is good, and the locations they use, especially the double helix staircase, is excellent. All in all, it's a good film to watch any day.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

March 16, 2012

Movie Night: Jason and the Argonauts (1963).

Review #111: Jason and the Argonauts.

Cast
Todd Armstrong (Jason), Nancy Kovack (Medea), Gary Raymond (Acastus), Laurence Naismith (Argos), Niall MacGinnis (Zeus), Michael Gwynn (Hermes), Douglas Wilmer (Pelias), Jack Gwillim (King Aeetes), Honor Blackman (Hera), John Cairney (Hylas), and Patrick Troughton (Phineas). Directed by Don Chaffey with stop motion by Ray Harryhausen.

Review
This is a classic, pure and simple to the point. The film has star power, effects, story, and just plain usefulness. The acting is allright, with a decent story, considering the fact the mythology is slightly changed from the myth and all (Because none of them is expected to be perfect) But I think the most breakout thing is Ray Harryhausen's special effects, especially the skeletons. It is truly beautiful looking, still looking real compared to today's, but then again it's not exactly a fair comparison. But either way, it helps the film in little ways, not too much, making this film a must see.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

March 14, 2012

Movie Night: On the Waterfront.

Review #110: On the Waterfront.

Cast
Marlon Brando (Terry Malloy), Karl Malden (Father Barry), Lee J. Cobb (Michael J. Skelly aka "Johnny Friendly"), Rod Steiger (Charley "the Gent" Malloy), Eva Marie Saint (Edie Doyle), Pat Henning (Timothy J. "Kayo" Dugan), John F. Hamilton ('Pop' Doyle), Ben Wagner (Joey Doyle), and James Westerfield (Big Mac) Directed by Elia Kazan (#104 - East of Eden and #109 - A Streetcar Named Desire)

Review
This film is truly a classic, with great acting from Brando, Saint, and Malden, along with Cobb (who I've already talked about a little in 12 Angry Men). The film is dramatic in tone, never letting go and making you think along with being interested. It shows the lesson to not give in due to suspicions of being left out or possibly death. The film's most famous scene has a reason to be famous, and I feel the last scene is a bit memorable in it's drama and other such things. It's funny how I was slated to review this early, back in February (February 11th to be exact), but I didn't get to personal reasons. But now, I have watched the film in its entirity. And I don't regret it.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: A Streetcar Named Desire.

Review #109: A Streetcar Named Desire.

Cast
Vivien Leigh (Blanche DuBois), Marlon Brando (Stanley Kowalski), Kim Hunter (Stella Kowalski), Karl Malden (Harold Mitchell), Rudy Bond (Steve Hubbel), Nick Dennis (Pablo Gonzales), and Peg Hillias (Eunice Hubbel) Directed by Elia Kazan (#104 - East of Eden)

Review
This film was adpated from the classic play by Tennessee Williams, with Brando, Hunter, and Malden as the roles, with Jessica Tandy as DuBois. In the film, he was replaced by another player of the play (in London). Anyway, the film has good acting, dramatic style, and just plain old fashion writing that you don't see a lot anymore. Leigh steals the show, as she should be, commanding this role easily (winning an Oscar for it along with Hunter and Malden, strangely Brando lost in his catagory). The film is not flawed, not too different from the play, given the circumstances and all. In short, a good film.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

March 4, 2012

Movie Night: This Is Spinal Tap.

Review #108: This Is Spinal Tap.

Cast
Michael McKean (David St. Hubbins), Christopher Guest (Nigel Tufnel), Harry Shearer (Derek Smalls), Rob Reiner (Marty Di Bergi), Tony Hendra (Ian Faith), R.J. Parnell (Mick Shrimpton, drummer), David Kaff (Viv Savage), June Chadwick (Jeanine Pettibone), Bruno Kirby (Tommy Pischedda, limo driver), Ed Begley, Jr. (John "Stumpy" Pepys), Danny Kortchmar (Ronnie Pudding), Fran Drescher (Bobbi Flekman), Patrick Macnee (Sir Denis Eton-Hogg) Directed by Rob Reiner.

Review
This is the essential rockumentary, that is the lesson you've learned after watching this movie (Also to power your things up to 11). The film has decent acting (you really can't have bad acting in a rockumentary), but it's most important thing that it has is its music. Two words: So Cool...It's a film that satarizes other rock bands and while not being very smart and all, it makes up for it by being enjoyable and just plain awesome. Actually, it's not just "plain", it's rocking awesome. It's cool, funny, rocking, 11venating, and most of all cool.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 11 stars.

Movie Night: Beetlejuice.

Review #107: Beetlejuice.

Cast
Michael Keaton (Betelgeuse), Alec Baldwin (Adam Maitland), Geena Davis (Barbara Maitland), Winona Ryder (Lydia Deetz), Catherine O'Hara (Delia Deetz), Jeffrey Jones (Charles Deetz), Annie McEnroe (Jane Butterfield), Glenn Shadix (Otho), Sylvia Sidney (Juno), Robert Goulet (Maxie Dean), Maree Cheatham (Sarah Dean), Dick Cavett (Bernard), and Susan Kellermann (Grace) Directed by Tim Burton (#040 - Batman )

Review
The film razzles and dazzles with an interesting story that evolves into a fest of effects and comedy, yet still making the film enjoyable. It's fun to watch anytime, especially in the nighttime. Keaton and Ryder stand out with their acting, with Keaton playing Beetlejuice so crazy and so good. Ryder plays the strange and Gothic Lydia (better then other goth girls in other films) who is impressive in this role (doing more roles in later life). The film is likeable and it makes you watch, not being a bore once. This will always be a classic for years and years to come...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

March 3, 2012

Movie Night: Some Like It Hot.

Review #106: Some Like It Hot.

Cast
Tony Curtis (Joe/Josephene), Jack Lemmon (Jerry/Daphene), Marilyn Monroe (Sugar), George Raft (Spats), Joe E. Brown (Osgood). Directed by Billy Wilder.

Review
This film still holds up after over 50 years (that of course doesn't matter), and the premise still holds up (this premise being used for other films with some good results (One being already reviewed here), and others...Not so good). The film has alright acting (especially in a comedy) and some good jokes that make this film a classic. It doesn't bore you, it actually make you interested in it, serious or not. Nevertheless, this is a good film that deserves every honor it receives even to this day.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

February 26, 2012

Movie Night: What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?


Review #105: What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?

Cast
Bette Davis (Jane Hudson), Joan Crawford (Blanche Hudson), Victor Buono (Edwin Flagg), Maidie Norman (Elvira Stitt), Anna Lee (Mrs. Bates), B. D. Merrill (Liza Bates), Marjorie Bennett (Dehlia Flagg), and Dave Willock (Ray Hudson) Directed by Robert Aldrich.

Review
The film is a thriller and an excellent drama with Bette Davis doing a great job as the twisted Baby Jane (even if she looks like Betty White...). Anyway, the film delivers slight chills (Not like a horror film...A good one anyway) It's stunning, it's madness, and it's wonderful for it. The mystery develops over the film, and at the end it delivers it with a twist that's not so Shamalyan at all in the sense that it makes a good end for a good film. Hard to believe this is the first film I've seen on Davis or Crawford's. And I didn't regret seeing it one bit.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

February 25, 2012

Movie Night: East of Eden (1955)

Review #104: East of Eden.

Cast
Julie Harris (Abra Bacon), James Dean (Caleb Trask), Raymond Massey (Adam Trask), Richard Davalos (Aron Trask), Burl Ives (Sam the Sheriff), Jo Van Fleet (Cathy Ames/Kate Trask), and Albert Dekker (Will Hamilton) Directed by Elia Kazan.

Review
The film is based on the classic novel of the same name by John Steinbeck, even if it's only the last 80 pages, but still a good film nonetheless. Dean steals the show with his acting, his first out of three sadly. In fact, this was the only film released when he was alive. The film is a good parallel to the Cain and Abel story strangely enough. It's got good acting, good atmosphere, and a good plot to keep it going in this tragic, but satisfying film.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Romeo + Juliet (1996)

Review #103: Romeo + Juliet.

Cast
Leonardo DiCaprio (Romeo Montague), Claire Danes (Juliet Capulet), Brian Dennehy (Ted Montague), John Leguizamo (Tybalt Capulet), Pete Postlethwaite (Father Lawrence), Paul Sorvino (Fulgenio Capulet), Diane Venora (Gloria Capulet), Paul Rudd (Dave Paris), and Vondie Curtis-Hall (Captain Prince). Directed by Baz Luhrmann (Moulin Rouge!)

Review
Well, well, well, look what we have here. This is a "modern retelling of the classic story by William Shakespeare. And it is not a great retelling really. The casting is allright, especially with Romeo and Lawrence. However, at points it gets silly and stupid, such as the beginning scene, in which shouting is the only thing heard (And guns, so there ya go) It's a weird little film that uses the same dialouge from the play, cuts things out (such as the servent scene and others), and yet doesn't feel like a retelling. It feels like someone wanted to make Romeo and Juliet, but they were too lazy to just use the city of Verona, so they just used Verona Beach and messed around with the naming. It doesn't satisfy the modern audiance much in terms of making it big extravagence, and it doesn't impress the buffs of the play, making this an odd experiment that's point was...I don't know. Maybe it was to jump start plans for Hamlet 2000...

Overall, I give it 5 out of 10 stars.

February 22, 2012

Movie Night: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.

Review #102: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.

Cast
James Stewart (Jefferson Smith), Jean Arthur (Ms. Simmons), Claude Rains (Joseph Paine), Edward Arnold (Jim Taylor), Thomas Mitchell (Diz Moore), and Guy Kibbee (Hubert Hopper). Directed by Frank Capra (#319 - It's A Wonderful Life and #456 - It Happened One Night)

Review
This film is a classic that is well acted and well done. James Stewart is the best in this film, he plays such an innocent naive man who evolves into a man who defends himself even in times of doubt and exhaustion. Arthur does great too, playing a woman who has been corrupted by greed, but she comes to come back full circle. But the one who makes his moments is Rains as the antagonist of this film. He's evolved once from a man who cared and compromised into a machine of himself. The film teaches lessons and makes it's case in a informative format. It truly is a great film after 73 years.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

February 17, 2012

Movie Night: Glory.

Review #101: Glory.

Cast
Matthew Broderick (Colonel Robert Gould Shaw), Denzel Washington (Private Silas Trip), Morgan Freeman (Sergeant Major John Rawlins), Cary Elwes (Major Cabot Forbes), Cliff De Young (Colonel James Montgomery), Andre Braugher (Private Thomas Searles), Jihmi Kennedy (Private Jupiter Sharts), Alan North (Governor John Albion Andrew), and John Finn (Sergeant Major Mulcahy) Directed by Edward Zwick.

Review
This film is based on the 54th Infantry, led by Robert Gould Shaw, as it was the first all African American regiment in the Civil War. The film is told by Shaw's perspective, and it is a good film. The acting is good, especially from Washington (earning a Best Supporting Oscar for it) and Freeman (one of his many roles that he does great in). The film is grand with its locations, its battles, and especially its musical score, which is booming and perfect for a movie like this. The film has one flaw that some do point out. The flaw is that they focus on Shaw more, rather then the Regiment itself for about half the film. The purpose should be focusing on the Regiment, not just the man leading it, but I suppose the point was to have a unifying arc, and Shaw fits the bill. If you want a film dedicated to the Regiment, or interested in seeing a movie to honor the men and women who died in war for Memorial Day, or you just want to see a fragment of the Civil War, then this film is for you.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

February 10, 2012

Movie Night: Blade Runner.


Review #100: Blade Runner.

Cast
Harrison Ford (Rick Deckard), Rutger Hauer (Roy Batty), Sean Young (Rachael), Edward James Olmos (Gaff), M. Emmet Walsh (Harry Bryant), Daryl Hannah (Pris Stratton), William Sanderson (J. F. Sebastian), Brion James (Leon Kowalski), Joe Turkel (Dr. Eldon Tyrell), Joanna Cassidy (Zhora Salome), James Hong (Hannibal Chew), and Morgan Paull (Dave Holden) Directed by Ridley Scott.

Review: 
Welcome fellow viewers redirected to this review due to clicking the link from the review of the sequel, Blade Runner 2049. There have been some edits made to make it feel a bit more natural, as opposed to how it was back in 2012. The original review will be included on the bottom of this edit (in italics) for anyone curious to see the differences.

This is a film that is different from other 1980s entertainment flicks (such as The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Aliens), in that it is a neo-noir that is certainly mysterious and alluring at the same time due to its visuals while also being an incredibly entertaining science-fiction film. The version that I watched is The Final Cut (with a 117 minute run-time), which Scott had complete artistic and editorial control, as opposed to the original release cut, which had voice-overs by Ford. In any case, he seems to just blend into this environment as well as one would expect from him that lends itself to making for a useful experience. The rest of the cast is also commendable, such as Hauer, particularly near the climax. The visuals are good, with fine cinematography by Jordan Cronenweth that certainly spans itself all over the film. It may not seem as fast as other films of its time, but it definitely resonates with you on numerous levels, whether emotional or intellectual. This is a classic that certainly stands out from other science-fiction or neo-noir movies, having a distinct style and influence that still stands today. The story is adapted from Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, by Phillip K. Dick, who has had numerous stories of his adapted into movies (such as Next, Paycheck, The Adjustment Bureau, Total Recall, and Minority Report). This film has been changed from the original 1982 version (that was forced on Scott by the studio), and that's a good thing as this version is more of Scott's vision that shows how good a director he is.

This is a film that is different from other 80s flicks (Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Aliens) as it relies on it's visual side and undertones to speak a story and not just action or...voiceovers (The version I was watching is The Final Cut) Anyway, the acting is good, especially from Harrison Ford. He really blends in, as he tries to do something different from previous films. I won't remember him as much as I do Han Solo or Indiana Jones, but I at least will remember him as an alright character. The visuals are good, with good cinematography all over the film. This is a classic that why it may not be exact and like every other film, it is still a good film. This film has lasted just about 30 years, and like Tron it has gotten better with age. The story is adapted from Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, by Phillip K. Dick, who has made many books that have been adapted into films (Next, Paycheck, The Adjustment Bureau, Total Recall, and Minority Report) This film has been changed from the original version, and that's a good thing as this version is more of Scott's vision that shows how good a director he is. And so this ends the 100th Review. I thank all who have read these reviews, and I hope for 100 more.

And so this ends the 100th Review. I thank all who have read these reviews, and I hope for 100 more.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

February 9, 2012

Movie Night: Mutiny on the Bounty (1935).


Review #099: Mutiny on the Bounty.

Cast
Charles Laughton (Captain Bligh), Clark Gable (Fletcher Christian), Franchot Tone (Byam), Herbert Mundin (Smith), Eddie Quillan (Ellison), Dudley Digges (Bacchus), Donald Crisp (Burkitt), Henry Stephenson (Sir Joseph Banks), Francis Lister (Captain Nelson), and Spring Byington (Mrs. Byam) Directed by Frank Lloyd.

Review
Greetings fellow readers who clicked the link from the review of The Man Who Laughs, which referenced this review due to the (MS Paint) created square that displays this as the 99th review having a color scheme that was replicated for the aforementioned review in honor of it being the 999th. In any case, enjoy this review from 2012.

First off, let me say that this is a good film. It is lavish in the sense that there's many actors and such, with some being the focus, such as Gable and Laughton's characters. The acting is good, not too shabby. The historical accuracy may not be totally accurate, but then again it is based on a novel that already messed up the history of the real life events. Compare that to the 60s version of the same name with Marlon Brando, or the Mel Gibson's The Bounty, or even Errol Flynn's In Wake of the Bounty... The film is well-done, with Gable (reviewed previously by me in #094 - The Misfits) and Laughton being the main big winners here. It like I said is a good film, even with the remakes and the age of the film, being over 75 years old. Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 3, 2, 1.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

February 6, 2012

Movie Night: Tron.

NOW SUPERCEDED: https://movienightcentral.blogspot.com/2022/07/redux-tron.html 
Review #098: Tron.

Cast
Jeff Bridges (Sam Flynn/CLU), Bruce Boxleitner (Alan Bradley/Tron), David Warner (Ed Dillinger, Sark, Master Control Program), Cindy Morgan (Dr. Lora Baines/Yori), Barnard Hughes (Dr. Walter Gibbs/Dumont), and Dan Shor (Ram). Directed by Steven Lisberger.

Review
So as I was asking for review ideas, and this won over Blade Runner 3-2. Now does this mean anything? Probably. Or not. Anyway, this film is dazzling to the eyes, like 2001 was in 1968. The film has allright acting with a good storyline that has undertones to it. Of course this was when Disney actually did things like this (#92 - The Black Hole) Of course, I must mention the effects. Wow, they're great. They are featured most of the film, and they keep you entertained. It's a classic that was once overlooked, but it is now getting the respect it deserved. Here's to 30 years of it, and to hopefully 30 more. Of course there was a sequel, but let's not talk about it. End of Line. Countdown is now: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2...

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Small Soldiers.

Review #097: Small Soldiers.

Cast
Gregory Smith (Alan Abernathy), Frank Langella (Archer), Kirsten Dunst (Christy Fimple), Tommy Lee Jones (Chip Hazard), Phil Hartman (Phil Fimple), George Kennedy (Brick Bazooka), Jim Brown (Butch Meathook), Ernest Borgnine (Kip Killigan), Clint Walker (Nick Nitro), Bruce Dern (Link Static), Kevin Dunn (Stuart Abernathy), Ann Magnuson (Irene Abernathy), Jay Mohr (Larry Benson), David Cross (Irwin Wayfair), and Denis Leary (Gil Mars) Directed by Joe Dante.

Review
This is a bit similar to Gremlins (#096), with our lead hero releasing the villans to the world, destroying things, and ultimately losing to another toy/gremlin. But the film does try to distance itself a little, with action and slight laughs all over the film. It may be a little dark, but compare it to Gremlins, which had microwaved heads and more. This is just a cherry to that cake, really. It has excellent effects with good voice acting and standard acting that entertains you for two hours (Make that 1:50). It's not a great film, but it at least is enjoyable. Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3...

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

February 4, 2012

Movie Night: Gremlins.

Review #096: Gremlins.

Cast
Zach Galligan (Billy Peltzer), Phoebe Cates (Kate Beringer), Hoyt Axton (Rand Peltzer), Frances Lee McCain (Lynn Peltzer), Corey Feldman (Pete Fountaine), Frank Welker (Stripe and Mogwai), Howie Mandel (Gizmo), Keye Luke (Grandfather), John Louie (Grandson), Dick Miller (Murray Futterman), Jackie Joseph (Sheila Futterman) Directed by Joe Dante (#007 - Looney Tunes: Back in Action)

Review
The film is thrilling after it begins innocently enough with little mogwai and such. The acting is standard, but we know we really are here for. The gremlins. The gremlins are excellent in effects and personality. It's a dark film, especially when the lead actress delivers why she doesn't celebrate Christmas. It's interesting when you see the Gremlins and the characters duke it out rather then see the beginning, but never the less it's still an interesting film to watch. We are close to 100 Reviews. Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Wall Street.


Review #095: Wall Street.

Cast
Michael Douglas (Gordon Gekko), Charlie Sheen (Bud Fox), Daryl Hannah (Darien Taylor), Martin Sheen (Carl Fox), John C. McGinley (Marvin), Terence Stamp (Sir Larry Wildman), James Karen (Harry Lynch), Hal Holbrook (Lou Mannheim), Sean Young (Kate Gekko), and James Spader (Roger Barnes) Directed by Oliver Stone.

Review
This film is a classic, pure and simple. Sheen and Douglas play each other off so well, with Douglas being the main man here, doing an excellent job, especially with his "Greed is good" Stone mixes so many things from different periods of time to get them all matched into respective characters. The one single flaw is Daryl Hannah. I don't know why, but her acting here is...Dull. I know she plays basically a lackey to Gekko, but couldn't they at least make her do a better job at it? The film is excellent in value that makes you interested and a little bit smarter at the end. We are close to 100 Reviews. Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

January 28, 2012

Movie Night: The Misfits.

Review #094: The Misfits.

Cast
Clark Gable (Gay Langland), Marilyn Monroe (Roslyn Tabor), Montgomery Clift (Perce Howland), Thelma Ritter (Isabelle Steers), and Eli Wallach (Guido) Directed by John Huston.

Review
This is an eery film, when you think about it. This was Monroe and Gable's last roles, and Clift was getting to his last few as well. It's well acted with an allright script from Arthur Miller (The Crucible, Death of a Salesman) as it does its script justice. It's ending is a little sad considering this again was the two's last roles. The film is sad, dramatic, and all around an allright film for what it's worth. We are close to 100 Reviews. Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6...

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Review #093: 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Cast
Keir Dullea (Dr. David Bowman), Gary Lockwood (Dr. Frank Poole), William Sylvester (Dr. Heywood R. Floyd), Douglas Rain (HAL 9000), Daniel Richter (Chief man-ape), Leonard Rossiter (Dr. Andrei Smyslov), Margaret Tyzack (Elena), and Robert Beatty (Dr. Ralph Halvorsen) Directed by Stanley Kubrick.

Review
Redux Review: https://movienightcentral.blogspot.com/2018/05/redux-2001-a-space-odyssey.html

This is a spectacular film, pure and simple. It's on a grand scale all by itself that precedes all the other science fiction classics in style and form. It though is not a perfect film. It's a film that boggles the mind at points, with little dialogue (In fact the first and last 15 minutes have 0 lines of dialogue). However, this a good thing. It's a visual experience that doesn't need dialogue to explain it. That is a lesson called "Show, don't tell". I think the best part of the film is the Star sequence. It's an amazing use of the technology they had at the time, mystifying and dazzling all. Ironically it won Kubrick his only Oscar (there you can see how the Academy isn't exactly perfect). The technology in the film isn't like what would really happen in 2001, but some stuff is accurate surprisingly. But that's not the point. The point of the film is to entertain and dazzle the viewer. This one of Kubrick's many great films that truly is worth it. We are close to 100 Reviews. Countdown: 10, 9, 8, 7...

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Black Hole.

Review #092: The Black Hole.

Cast
Maximilian Schell (Dr. Hans Reinhardt), Anthony Perkins (Dr. Alex Durant), Robert Forster (Captain Dan Holland), Joseph Bottoms (Lieutenant Charlie Pizer), Yvette Mimieux (Dr. Kate McCrae), Ernest Borgnine (Harry Booth), Tom McLoughlin (Captain S.T.A.R.), Roddy McDowall (V.I.N.CENT), and Slim Pickens (B.O.B.) Directed by Gary Nelson.

Review
The film is unlike other Disney films in the fact it's more suited for more then just kids. And for that reason, it succeeds. The film has special effects unlike other films, such as Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. The acting's standard good, and the robots are great. they're unlike other droids of their time, such as R2-D2 or Dewey. I like those droids and the others as it's imaginative and useful. The film has action, even if it is in the last 25 minutes. But it's still a good film for what it's worth. And with this review, Robot Week ends. It was great to do reviews involving robots, especially one every day. Now then, what number are we on? Number 92? We're getting closer and closer now. 10, 9, 8...This ends Part VII of Robot Week. Thank you for your appreciation.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

January 27, 2012

Movie Night: Silent Running.

Review #091: Silent Running.

Cast
Bruce Dern (Freeman Lowell), Cliff Potts (John Keenan), Ron Rifkin (Marty Barker), Jesse Vint (Andy Wolf), with Mark Persons (Drone 1 - Dewey), Cheryl Sparks & Steven Brown (Drone 2 - Huey), and Larry Whisenhunt (Drone 3 - Louie) Directed by Douglas Trumbull.

Review
This is a simple film. And a good film indeed. It has a simple plot with simple things, but it makes up for it with its good acting and effects. I like the droids in this film, it's a creative process they used, with amputees in the roles of the droids, and this was before other films that used the process with differences. It has a simple message, to not mess around with the earth, and it has one of the saddest endings in movie history. It's a good film that delivers in being entertaining...In the mind at least. It's not a perfect film, but it is a classic that will keep living on after nearly 40 years. Now then, there's one last film left for this week. Let's see if it's got enough to end it right...10, 9...This ends Part VI of Robot Week.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

January 26, 2012

Movie Night: Terminator Salvation.

Review #090: Terminator Salvation.

Cast
Christian Bale (John Connor), Sam Worthington (Marcus Wright), Anton Yelchin (Kyle Reese), Moon Bloodgood (Blair Williams), Bryce Dallas Howard (Kate Connor), Common (Barnes), Helena Bonham Carter (Dr. Serena Kogan/Skynet), and Michael Ironside (General Ashdown). Directed by McG.

Review
So. We have seen how the films have evolved in a sense. From a good sci-fi film, to a great sequel, to Arnold saying "Talk to the hand", to...this. The only reason that the casting credits is different from others is because this cast has done other, better films then this. This is the fourth film in this series, and it is the worst. The film feels like a prequel, as we already know who lives since the film is set years before Resse is sent back to 1984. We already know what happens, so what's the point of the film? I...don't know. It's supposed to jump start the series again, to get the action rolling. Well, you get the action, but not much else. The name of the film "Salvation" is the exact opposite of what happens. The shades in the film are brown, black, and...not much else. One of the terminator reminds me of Transformers, which doesn't make me feel better... The acting is just standard, but with no memorable actors to help, such as Arn- (He's in for one scene, with CGI. It looks really impressive for the most part) The film is standard stale, with a non-memorable plot that differs from the first 3 and has little else, actors that do standard jobs, and dull colors to make you just forget it. It makes you wonder why would anyone want a Terminator 5, considering that you really can't do much with the series anymore. Now then. Let's get to a better reality. Where are those two I asked for? Countdown stars now. 10...This ends Part V of Robot Week.

Overall, I give it 3 out of 10 stars.

January 25, 2012

Movie Night: Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines.


Review #089: Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines.

Cast
Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator / T-800), Nick Stahl (John Connor), Kristanna Loken (T-X), Claire Danes (Kate Brewster), David Andrews (Robert Brewster, USAF), and Mark Famiglietti (Scott Mason). Directed by Jonathan Mostow.

Review
This is a film I had forgotten to review a while long ago (man that sounds redundant), and so I will do it justice. As such, let us see if this film is any better then the two before it. And in a few words it is not so. It's a decent film, as it has action to entertain you. The plot is not as interesting as the first two, but the film at least doesn't make that happen on purpose. It tries hard to revive the series, and it succeeds. The film isn't as good as the first two, but it is at least decent. This film basically sells all that the first two did in story all to just to revive this franchise, So...We have 3 films in which the Terminator is our real hero, and now we have a fourth on our hands. Who's the hero? Batman? Oh wait, that Batman...What's the name? Salvation. Huh. Fitting title, isn't it? This ends Part IV of Robot Week.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

January 24, 2012

Movie Night: Short Circuit.

Review #088: Short Circuit.

Cast
Ally Sheedy (Stephanie Speck), Steve Guttenberg (Newton Crosby, Ph.D), Fisher Stevens (Ben Jabituya), Austin Pendleton (Dr. Howard Marner), G. W. Bailey (Captain Skroeder), Tim Blaney (Number 5), Brian McNamara (Frank), and Marvin J. McIntyre (Duke) Directed by John Badham.

Review
It figures to have an 80s flick be in Robot Week. No, not that one. But you get this flick. And so we have a story that's easy thin for the most part, but of course who could predict this story? No one? Any one? Oh wait, no one's here...Anyway, this film at least has some enjoyment, with it's gags and slight robotic-ness, which at least will make you remember. Heck, I was going to review without watching, as I already could remember the gags and such, but I decided to watch. The acting's standard, and the robot looks decent for the most part. This ends Part III of Robot Week.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

January 23, 2012

Movie Night: Robots.

Review #087: Robots.

Cast
Ewan McGregor (Rodney Copperbottom), Halle Berry (Cappy), Greg Kinnear (Phineas T. Ratchet), Mel Brooks (Bigweld), Robin Williams (Fender Pinwheeler), Amanda Bynes (Piper Pinwheeler), Drew Carey (Crank Casey), Jennifer Coolidge (Aunt Fanny), Harland Williams (Lug), Jim Broadbent (Madame Gasket), Dianne Wiest (Lydia Copperbottom), Stanley Tucci (Herb Copperbottom), Natasha Lyonne (Loretta Geargrinder), and Paul Giamatti (Tim the Gate Guard) Directed by Chris Wedge.

Review
The film starts out well, with an innocent plot, simple and standard, yet alright. The last part it gets better, albeit slightly predictable. Yet it's still a decent film. Why? The animation is well done, making it look like a robotic city, impressing you enough to just make you forget about the story a little, and with all the voices they used, it makes you like the film, even if it is short and slightly predictable. This ends Part II of Robot Week.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

January 22, 2012

Movie Night: I, Robot.

Review #086: I, Robot.

Cast
Will Smith (Det. Del Spooner), Bridget Moynahan (Dr. Susan Calvin), Alan Tudyk (Sonny), Bruce Greenwood (Lawrence Robertson), James Cromwell (Dr. Alfred Lanning), Chi McBride (Lt. John Bergin), Shia LaBeouf (Farber), Fiona Hogan (VIKI), Terry Chen (Chin), and Adrian Ricard (Granny). Directed by Alex Proyas.

Review
The film is an actioned packed "adaptation" of a book, and it's still decent. There I said it. I like this film. Not like in the sense of a great film, just decently good. It's an action flick that at least makes you think, if only for about a few seconds. The acting is good, especially from Smith, showing one again he can carry a film. It's good fun and it does a decent job at being a film with decent effects that make it seem futuristic (Set in 2035), and a balenced film all around. It may not be a great film, but it at least is entertaining enough (With Will Smith as your lead, you can not fail) This begins Robot Week, and ends Part I. A film reviewed every day involving robots in each of the films.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

December 31, 2011

Movie Night: Duck Soup.

Review #085: Duck Soup.

Cast
Groucho Marx (Rufus T. Firefly), Harpo Marx (Pinky), Chico Marx (Chicolini), Zeppo Marx (Lt. Bob Roland), Margaret Dumont (Mrs. Gloria Teasdale), Louis Calhern (Ambassador Trentino of Sylvania), Raquel Torres (Vera Marcal), Edgar Kennedy (Lemonade vendor), Edmund Breese (Former President Zander), and Edwin Maxwell (Former Secretary of War) Directed by Leo McCarey.

Review
This is a classic comedy film, pure and simple. It was underrated in the 30's, but it has developed a rating of highness as time goes by. Things get better as they grow old, and new people like myself will like the first time they see it. It's funny to the last. My favorite scene is the mirror scene as it just makes me giggle as the scene progresses. I recommend it for comedy buffs as it is a comedy all around. Happy New Years.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

December 30, 2011

Movie Night: Tootsie.

Review #084: Tootsie.

Cast
Dustin Hoffman (Michael Dorsey / Dorothy Michaels / Emily Kimberly / Edward Kimberly), Jessica Lange (Julie Nichols / Nurse Charles), Teri Garr (Sandra "Sandy" Lester), Dabney Coleman (Ron Carlisle, The Soap Opera Director), Bill Murray (Jeff Slater, Michael's Room-Mate), Charles Durning (Leslie "Les" Nichols, Julie's Father), Sydney Pollack (George Fields, Michael's Talent Agent), George Gaynes (John Van-Horn / Dr. Medford Brewster), Geena Davis (April Page), Doris Belack (Rita Marshall), Lynne Thigpen (Jo), and Estelle Getty (The Middle Aged Woman) Directed by Sidney Pollack.

Review
This is one of those classic comedies that always leaves a imprint on you, if not a memory of it. This was my first time watching it, and I feel the film works well. The acting is good, so good for Jessica Lange that she won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress, actually the whole thing got Oscar Nominations all aroung the board, winning just one. The film is balenced as it is a good film to watch all around.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

December 20, 2011

Movie Night: The Iron Giant.

Review #083: The Iron Giant.

Cast
Eli Marienthal (Hogarth Hughes), Vin Diesel (The Iron Giant), Jennifer Aniston (Annie Hughes), Harry Connick, Jr (Dean), Christopher McDonald (Kent Mansely), and John Mahoney (General Rogard) Directed by Brad Bird.

Review
This film is based on The Iron Man, by Ted Hughes. Now then, this film is a Dis-No wait, it's a Warner Bros Animated film. This film is beautifully animated, with a good story and good lessons to go along with it. This is the start for Brad Bird, who would go on to win 2 Best Animated Feature Oscars for Pixar (The 2 films I just listed) The robot is really cool looking, it is the main attraction that gets the screen-time, but the beauty of the film is that it makes you wait for it, savoring the fun for all. It's a throwback to the 50's, with Duck and Covers, the style, and other little stuff in there. A recommended film. This starts Season 2 (Which lasted from December 20, 2011 - December 19, 2012)

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

December 19, 2011

Movie Night: Christmas with the Kranks.


Review #082: Christmas with the Kranks.

Cast
Tim Allen (Luther Krank), Jamie Lee Curtis (Nora Krank), Dan Aykroyd (Vic Frohmeyer), Julie Gonzalo (Blair Krank), M. Emmet Walsh (Walt Scheel), Elizabeth Franz (Bev Scheel), Erik Per Sullivan (Spike Frohmeyer), and Cheech Marin (Officer Salino) Directed by Joe Roth.

Review
It feels...not fitting for this film review to be the season finale of Season 1 of reviewing films here on Movie Night. Oddly enough, this film was based off a John Grisham novel, Skipping Christmas. Anyway, this film tries to sell us on the Kranks, and I personally feel the film makes the neighbors a little too crazy, as they just don't leave the Kranks alone. It's more fun to see the neighbors losing then to see the actual ending (The last few minutes tries to make Luther look like a jerk, who (of course) warms up but it feels like a cliche, which is full in this film) The film has decent acting, as Curtis and Allen work well together. But the film feels so...Off. It tries so hard to work everything up to be funny and heartwarming, yet the film just doesn't fall into place. You never feel like you should care at all about why they are skipping Christmas, because you just can't care about any of this. No one comes off as sympathetic, because no one seems natural in their motivations.

Overall, I give it 4 out of 10 stars.

December 10, 2011

Movie Night: The Maltese Falcon (1941).


Review #081: The Maltese Falcon.

Cast
Humphrey Bogart (Sam Spade), Mary Astor (Ruth Wonderly/Brigid O'Shaughnessy), Gladys George (Iva Archer), Peter Lorre (Joel Cairo), Barton MacLane (Lieutenant Dundy), Lee Patrick (Effie Perine), Sydney Greenstreet (Kasper Gutman), Ward Bond (Detective Tom Polhaus), and Jerome Cowan (Miles Archer) Directed by John Huston.

Review
This is a classic film that should be watched at least once by people who like film. Yes, that's my first line. And it's truthful straight down to the last period. The acting is good, especially from Bogart. The film has a style to it that helps the film makes its case for a good film, if not already from the acting. The story's good, making you interested in it for the entirety of the film. This film is the stuff that dreams are made of...

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Hunt for Red October.

Review #080: The Hunt for Red October.

Cast
Sean Connery (Captain 1st Rank Marko Aleksandrovich Ramius), Alec Baldwin (Dr. Jack Ryan), Scott Glenn (Commander Bart Mancuso), Sam Neill (Captain 2nd Rank Vasily Borodin), James Earl Jones (Vice Admiral James Greer, CIA Deputy Director - Intelligence (DDI), Jeffrey Jones (Skip Tyler), Joss Ackland (Ambassador Andrei Lysenko), Richard Jordan (Dr. Jeffrey Pelt, National Security Advisor), Tim Curry (Dr. Yevgeniy Petrov), Peter Firth (Senior Lieutenant Ivan Putin), Ronald Guttman (Senior Lieutenant Melekhin), Stellan Skarsgård (Captain 2nd Rank Viktor Tupolev), Fred Dalton Thompson (Rear Admiral (Lower Half) Joshua Painter), and Courtney B. Vance (Sonar Technician Submarines Second Class Ronald Jones) Directed by John McTiernan.

Review
This film is great. Simply put, it has everything someone needs to be entertained, but learn something at least. Sean Connery is the main lead, overshadowing Baldwin, and he does a great job. Connery makes the film more big by his prominent preformance, taking some if not at least 70% of the film. The plot is good, not messed up or too hard. The film is the parallel to Top Gun, bringing light to submarines, yet this one is a better film, that would inspire sequels, but played by a different actor...

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

December 6, 2011

Movie Night: A Christmas Carol (1984)


Review #079: A Christmas Carol.

Cast
George C. Scott (Ebenezer Scrooge), Frank Finlay (Marley's Ghost), Angela Pleasence (Ghost of Christmas Past), Edward Woodward (Ghost of Christmas Present), Michael Carter (Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come), and David Warner (Bob Cratchit) Directed by Clive Donner.

Review
This film is a classic of the Christmas season, as this version is considered the best version of A Christmas Carol by many. I can not argue that, really. Scott delivers Scrooge in such a good way, with the skills he has done in other films of his (Patton being one example), the atmosphere and pace are good, with everything fitting in well to the story. Donner does a good job directing, and he has some experience with A Christmas Carol adaptations before, as he was also the editor in (#076) Scrooge, which is also a good flick. All in all, A Christmas Carol (1984) is truly a Christmas classic and one of the best Carol films I've seen. Merry Christmas.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.


December 2, 2011

Movie Night: Addams Family Values.

Review #078: Addams Family Values.

Cast
Raúl Juliá (Gomez Addams), Anjelica Huston (Mortica Addams), Christopher Lloyd (Uncle Fester), Christina Ricci (Wednesday Addams), Joan Cusack (Debbie), and Jimmy Workman (Pugsley Addams). Directed by Barry Sonnenfield (#211- Men in Black, #212 - Men in Black II)

Review
This film is a entertaining sequel to the first film, as it delivers more fun and morbid humor, but not stale and tired ones, they're different ones that help make the film be itself. Once again, the acting is superb, with Lloyd, Julia, Huston, and Ricci being the large performances. The movie has that ability to be a good sequel that doesn't rely on old jokes, or an used story-line. It's a fine little movie, in conclusion.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Addams Family.

Review #077: The Addams Family.

Cast
Raúl Juliá (Gomez Addams), Anjelica Huston (Mortica Addams), Christopher Lloyd (Uncle Fester), Christina Ricci (Wednesday Addams), Dan Heyada (Tully), Elizabeth Wilson (Abigail), and Jimmy Workman (Pugsley Addams). Directed by Barry Sonnenfield.

Review
This film is based off the classic 1960s television show of the same name, which was based on the comic strip made by Charles Addams. Anyway, this film is a charm to watch. It has good acting (With good casting), with chilling visuals and an alright plot. The film is morbid fun with a good feel to it that doesn't violate or ruin the atmosphere of the film that makes this an alright flick to watch.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

November 30, 2011

Movie Night: Scrooge (1951).

Review #076: Scrooge.

Cast
Alastair Sim (Ebenezer Scrooge), Kathleen Harrison (Mrs. Dilber), Mervyn Johns (Bob Cratchit), and Hermione Baddeley (Mrs. Cratchit). Directed by Brian Desmond Hurst.

Review
This may not be the first film based on A Christmas Carol, but it is the first one I've seen (There will be a review of another adaptation) This movie is a grim tale that tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his greed. It's a story that is entertaining and saddening too. This film has good acting, a story that entertains you and frightens you with brilliant pacing and a classic story that will make you cry with tears of joy at the end.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Scrooged.

Review #075: Scrooged.

Cast
Bill Murray (Francis Xavier "Frank" Cross), Karen Allen (Claire Phillips), John Forsythe (Lew Hayward), John Glover (Brice Cummings), Alfre Woodard (Grace Cooley), Bobcat Goldthwait (Eliot Loudermilk), David Johansen (the Ghost of Christmas Past), Carol Kane (the Ghost of Christmas Present), Robert Mitchum (Preston Rhinelander), Nicholas Phillips (Calvin Cooley), and Michael J. Pollard (Herman) Directed by Richard Donner.

Review
This film is a humorous take on the classic Charles Dickens tale, A Christmas Carol. It is a decent flick that makes sure that it doesn't do bad in its job. Murray does a good preformance. This film isn't exactly a good film in the sense that it doesn't really do much other then what it's supposed to do (It decides to pick this theme rather then another), but it at least tried to be entertaining, and while it may not have been as funny as it could've been, it at least tried.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

November 25, 2011

Movie Night: Monsters, Inc.

Review #074: Monsters, Inc.

Cast
John Goodman (Sully), Billy Crystal (Mike), Steve Buscemi (Randall), Jennifer Tilly (Celia), and James Coburn (Mr. Waternoose) Directed by Pete Docter, David Silverman, and Lee Unkrich.

Review
This is one of many gems of Pixar Animation (Toy Story, Toy Story 2, Toy Story 3, Cars, #153 - The Incredibles, #155 - Finding Nemo, #222 - WALL-E, #288 - Up), as this film succeeds in telling a story with good animation, good acting, and of course a story that sells you the premise. It truly is one those films that will make you scared/laugh/cry...I recommend it for anybody, especially if you need a scare. Or two...

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Lion King.

Review #073: The Lion King.

Cast
Matthew Broderick (Simba), James Earl Jones (Mufasa), Jeremy Irons (Scar), Moira Kelly (Nala), Nathan Lane (Timon), Ernie Sabella (Pumbaa), Rowan Atkinson (Zazu), with Whoopie Goldberg and Cheech Marin. Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff.

Review
This film is gem among Disney flicks (ironically the animators thought Pocahontas would be the better flick). It delivers a story with good acting, top notch animation, and a little humor (Not too much thankfully) added in. It's a film that's also useful for any teachers wanting to use it to teach about science (and how the living turn into the grass). Anyway, this is a good film with music in there that helps the story and does not ruin anything, unlike some other "musicals" It's no wonder they made a musical adaptation a few years after the film. It's a recommended film that makes you love animation. Oh and Disney. A little...

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

November 17, 2011

Movie Night: Frankenstein (1931)

Review #072: Frankenstein.

Cast
Colin Clive (Henry Frankenstein), Mae Clarke (Elizabeth Lavenza), John Boles (Victor Moritz), Boris Karloff (Frankenstein's monster), Edward Van Sloan (Dr. Waldman), Frederick Kerr (Baron Frankenstein), Dwight Frye (Fritz), and Lionel Belmore (Herr Vogel, the Burgomaster) Directed by James Whale (#069 - The Invisible Man)

Review
This film is the first (feature length) adaption of the Mary Shelley book, Frankenstein. It was released in November 1931, the same year as Dracula, so these films are essentially a double feature (separated by months, but still connected nonetheless) Anyway, this film is great. It has good atmosphere, especially the lab and the opening sequence. This film would have many adaptations from many places, from Hammer (Which would make many sequels to it) to Kenneth Branagh's version. The acting is great, especially from Colin Clive. I of course will mention the Monster's design by Jack Pearce. It looks terrifying and menacing, especially with Karloff in the role. A good film that spawned a franchise...

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Dracula (1931).

Hello, if you see this, you should check out the updated review of this film, complete with a review of the Spanish film!

Review #071: Dracula.

Cast
Bela Lugosi (Count Dracula), Helen Chandler (Mina Seward), David Manners (John Harker), Dwight Frye (Renfield), Edward Van Sloan (Van Helsing), Herbert Bunston (Dr. Seward), Frances Dade (Lucy Weston), and Joan Standing (Nurse Briggs) Directed by Tod Browning.

Review
This film is the second adaption of the Bram Stoker novel, Dracula (Nosferatu being the first, though it was unauthorized). Anyway, this film is the first Universal horror film, released in February 1931. The film has great atmosphere, with shots of the castle, shots of spiders, shots of...Armadillos help give the film's touch. The acting is good, especially from Lugosi. He has that stare that gives you the feel he is Dracula. The others do great, especially Renfield. The movie may not be all accurate to the book, but it is still a great horror film.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

November 16, 2011

Movie Night: Sweet 15 (1990).

Review #070: Sweet 15.

Cast
Karla Montana (Marta de la Cruz), Panchito Gómez (Ramón), Jerry Stiller (Mr. Waterman), Tony Plana (Samuel Dela Cruz), Robert Covarrubias (Jorge), Laura P. Vega (Gabrielle 'Gaby' Corea), and Giselle Anthony (Jackie) Directed by Victoria Hochberg.

Review
Here is a rarity: a television film reviewed on Movie Night. 

This (TV) film is being reviewed for the reason I got to watch it at my Spanish class. The film is noted for being watched by many Spanish classes, and I can see why. It shows the heart of Mexican-American culture, more or less. It shows the troubles of a family with a teenager growing to be 15. The acting may be off a little, and the "love interest" is 30 (when he's supposed to be 20-25), but the film is still recommended for any Spanish class.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

November 4, 2011

Movie Night: The Invisible Man.

Review #069: The Invisible Man.

Cast
Claude Rains (Dr. Jack Griffin / The Invisible Man), Gloria Stuart (Flora Cranley), William Harrigan (Dr. Arthur Kemp), Henry Travers (Dr. Cranley), Una O'Connor (Jenny Hall), Forrester Harvey (Herbert Hall), Dudley Digges (Chief Detective), and E. E. Clive (Constable Jaffers) Directed by James Whale.

Review
This is the first film I've covered from the 1930s, and it is a good one to cover. This film is a good adaptation (by H.G Wells) of the book and it entertains the viewer in a 71 minute span. The acting is good (save for Una O'Conner, who screams just a bit too much for my taste) for 1933. Rains is a fine main character. The special effects are great for its time. Actually, they still look great, even for today. The film is dramatic, smart, and a bit cunning. On the whole, this is a fairly capable horror film.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

October 30, 2011

Movie Night: Halloween (1978)

Review #068: Halloween.

Cast
Jamie Lee Curtis (Laurie Strode) and Donald Pleasence (Dr. Sam Loomis) (With Nick Castle as "The Shape") Directed by John Carpenter (The Thing, They Live and Escape from New York)

Review
It is fitting that AMC shows Halloween (Apparently they won't show Halloween II, for some dumb reason) at midnight's time, in the darkness. Anyway, this film is truly scary. This film is a bit like The Exorcist in which the film has a beginning with slight scares and the ending having scares, except Halloween actually frightens you a bit in the beginning. The film has good acting from Donald Pleasance and Jamie Lee Curtis (Who is daughter to Janet Leigh, who starred in Psycho) The film does have some choppy dialogue, but the film still scares and entertains you. It does the scares slowly but steady, building up to a conclusion that mystifies you.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

October 15, 2011

Movie Night: The Running Man.

Review #067: The Running Man.

Cast
Arnold Schwarzenegger (Ben Richards), María Conchita Alonso (Amber Mendez), Richard Dawson (Damon Killian), Yaphet Kotto (William Laughlin), Marvin J. McIntyre (Harold Weiss), Mick Fleetwood (Mic), Professor Tanaka (Professor Subzero), Gus Rethwisch (Eddie "Buzzsaw" Bitowski), Jesse Ventura (Captain Freedom), Jim Brown (Fireball), and Erland Van Lidth De Jeude (Dynamo) Directed by Paul Michael Glaser.

Review
This film has an 80s charm to it, yet it's not really outdated. It still makes you wonder what could happen in the future (admittedly I made a joke about that while watching it) and what television could and might do to us. The acting is solid for the most part (Arnold and his lines with death puns being a good highlight). Dawson is our bad guy (with my jokes about Family Feud, it works for me) but the film uses its message and the action to keep you interested. And so the film is a drama, science fiction (possibly), dystopian futuristic thriller.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

September 4, 2011

Movie Night: Cheaters.

Review #066: Cheaters.

Cast
Jeff Daniels (Dr. Gerard Plecki), Jena Malone (Jolie Fitch), Paul Sorvino (Constantine Kiamos), Luke Edwards (Darius Bettus), Blake Heron (Matt Kur), and Dov Tiefenbach (Irwin Flickas) Directed by John Stockwell.

Review
This film is actually really good. The premise is a true story based on the 94-95 Steinmetz cheating scandal in which a student got the test answers and the team used it to cheat their way to first, before it all came down. The acting is genuine good, considering that most of the cast are just teens. Jeff Daniels plays his role, making you almost sympathetic to the cheaters because..well Whitney Young (the rival school) has won so many consecutive State championships (nine years), and yet they've gotten the better funding and everything. The movie offers the question: Is cheating wrong? And under any circumstances, is it right to cheat? The film does it all, making it a good film.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

August 17, 2011

Movie Night: The Shining.

Review #065: The Shining.

Cast
Jack Nicholson (Jack Torrance), Shelley Duvall (Wendy Torrance), Danny Lloyd (Danny Torrance), Scatman Crothers (Richard Hallorann), Barry Nelson (Stuart Ullman), and Phillip Stone (Delbert Grady) Directed by Stanley Kubrick (#044 - Full Metal Jacket and #093 - 2001: A Space Odyssey)

Review
Let me just say this right off the bat, I have not read the book. For the Review's sake, I will not compare the book to the film, as it would be unfair. This film is...psychologically thrilling. The film actually does scare you at times (Although I find the transitions completely more laughable then scary) Nicholson delivers a creepy performance that scares you (I think he used that skill or the Joker, 4 years later). I think this Redrum thing to be annoying. Why? If you know what it means immediately and it is repeated, it gets on your nerves quickly (not really scaring you). I find the film to be a maze-like entry. It gives you confusion from the start, and it gives you a confusing end that makes you ask questions days or even weeks later, especially the ending, which is one of the most confusing ones in movie history. It's one of those films you'll love for it's confusion or hate for it's oddness.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

August 5, 2011

Movie Night: Clash of the Titans (1981).

Review #064: Clash of the Titans.

Cast
Harry Hamlin (Perseus), Judi Bowker (Andromeda), Burgess Meredith (Ammon), Maggie Smith (Thetis), Siân Phillips (Cassiopeia), Claire Bloom (Hera), Ursula Andress (Aphrodite), Laurence Olivier (Zeus), Pat Roach (Hephaestus), Susan Fleetwood (Athena), Tim Pigott-Smith (Thallo), and Jack Gwillim (Poseidon). Directed by Desmond Davis.

Review
This film is...actually a classic in its own mind. I think the film is good, for the most part. The special effects are still good for their time, actually this is the first time I've seen Harryhausen's special effects (Ironically this would be the last film he'd do in producing or animating) The story is balenced for the most part, having a three act feature, the rise of Perseus, the journey to the Kraken, and the completion of Perseus arc and the end. The acting is great from all, especially Lawrence Oliver. I actually kinda like Bubo, that little Owl that reminds me of R2-D2. Nevertheless, it's an adventure that still is a classic that doesn't age much. No matter how Hollywood tries.......

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

July 30, 2011

Movie Night: The Terminator.

Review #063: The Terminator.

Cast
Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator), Michael Biehn (Kyle Reese), Linda Hamilton (Sarah Conner), Paul Winfield (Ed Traxler), Lance Henriksen (Hal Vukovich), Earl Boen (Dr. Peter Silberman), Bess Motta (Ginger Ventura), and Rick Rossovich (Matt Buchanan) Directed by James Cameron (#001 - Terminator 2: Judgement Day)

Review
This film is in a word a classic. It has good acting for the most part, a good film noir, (which will be referred to as TechNoir) and a great plot. Good effects especially at the end. Good action and also good direction with a young Cameron at the wheel.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.

July 29, 2011

Movie Night: Batman Begins.

Review #062: Batman Begins.

Cast
Christian Bale (Bruce Wayne / Batman), Michael Caine (Alfred Pennyworth), Liam Neeson (Henri Ducard/Ra's al Ghul), Katie Holmes (Rachel Dawes), Gary Oldman (Jim Gordon), Cillian Murphy (Dr. Jonathan Crane), Tom Wilkinson (Carmine Falcone), Rutger Hauer (Earle), Ken Watanabe (decoy Ra's Al Ghul), Mark Boone Junior (Flass), Linus Roache (Thomas Wayne), and Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox) Directed by Christopher Nolan (#054 - The Dark Knight and #055 - Inception)

Review
I find that this film is pretty good, for the most part. It successfully reboots the franchise (which died after the 1997 bomb Batman and Robin) with an origin story that reintroduces people to him, and sets the ball in motion for the sequel. I felt the acting was good, but there were some little gripes. For one, I found the coveted "throat voice" of Christian Bale very, very unconvincing (what's next, Superman having the voice to disguise himself? It would be better then his glasses trick...). I also felt the action was jumbled, so you couldn't really tell what was going on. Scarecrow actually doesn't get a lot of screen time, and he's taken down so easily. And my final little gripe is how the Tumbler looks so...ugly. Is this the Batmobile, or a tank? Look I know there's a scene that says its a tank, but how is this a "mobile"? But nonetheless, the film is good, for what it's worth.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Blazing Saddles.

Review #061: Blazing Saddles.

Cast
Cleavon Little (Sheriff Bart), Gene Wilder (Jim, the "Waco Kid"), Harvey Korman (Hedley Lamarr), Madeline Kahn (Lili von Shtupp, the "Teutonic Titwillow"), Slim Pickens (Taggart), Dom DeLuise (Buddy Bizarre), Mel Brooks (Gov. William J. Le Petomane / Indian Chief), Liam Dunn (Reverend Johnson), George Furth (Van Johnson), Burton Gilliam (Lyle), John Hillerman (Howard Johnson), David Huddleston (Olson Johnson), Richard Collier (Dr. Samuel Johnson), and Alex Karras (Mongo) Directed by Mel Brooks

Review
This film is a classic comedy that satirizes the Old American West myth made by Hollywood. It's enjoyable for the most part, with a good cast and some admittedly off color lines, though this is more than just a movie with some vulgar lines. It's a clever movie, highlighted by how Brooks crafted the atmosphere in order to make a fun world to watch. Little, Wilder, and Korman are the main standouts, doing good jobs (with Wilder later doing better in another film to be reviewed here soon enough here). This film has aged well, and it is a classic.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

July 27, 2011

Movie Night: Captain America: The First Avenger.

Review #060: Captain America: The First Avenger.

Cast
Chris Evans (Steve Rogers/Captain America), Tommy Lee Jones (Colonel Chester Phillips), Hugo Weaving (Red Skull/Johann Schmidt), Hayley Atwell (Peggy Carter), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes), Dominic Cooper (Howard Stark), Neal McDonough (Timothy "Dum Dum" Dugan), Derek Luke (Gabe Jones), and Stanley Tucci (Dr. Abraham Erskine) Directed by Joe Johnston.

Review
So with all the people who said good things about this film, I went with high hopes. I was not dissapointed. Evans does a great job as Rogers/Captain America, doing better then what he did playing the Human Torch. The rest of the cast, especially from Weaving do a great job. The special effects look allright, and I liked the effects for when Steve was weak (beginning part) The film's plot is straightforward and the film sets everything up for The Avengers (It being the final one before it)

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Zookeeper.

Review #059: Zookeeper.

Cast
Kevin James (Griffin Keyes), Rosario Dawson (Kate), Leslie Bibb (Stephanie), Joe Rogan (Gale), Nat Faxon (Dave Keyes), Nick Nolte (Bernie the Lowland Gorilla), Sylvester Stallone (Joe the Lion), Adam Sandler (Donald the Capuchin Monkey), Judd Apatow (Barry the Elephant), Cher (Janet the Lioness), Jon Favreau and Faizon Love (Jerome and Bruce the Grizzly Bears), and Maya Rudolph (Mollie the Giraffe) Directed by Frank Coraci.

Review
This film is actually a little funny. I didn't have much expectations for this film, but the film at least is trying with some actual good use of voice talents. James does a fine job, as he blossoming into a star. Dawson preforms fine with what she has to go with. The plot is a bit predictable, a bit like...Just Go With It, but the film isn't as lazy, it tries to do something with what it has. It's a bit funny, and enjoyable. The animals actually look good, as they don't try to be cute (probably the opposite), working okay. I swear the posting of the reviews one by one will end soon.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Review #058: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Cast
Shia LaBeouf (Sam Witwicky), Megan Fox (Mikaela Banes), Josh Duhamel (William Lennox), Tyrese Gibson (Rob Epps), John Turturro (Seymour Simmons), Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime), Mark Ryan (Jetfire), Reno Wilson (Mudflap), Jess Harnell (Ironhide), Robert Foxworth (Ratchet), André Sogliuzzo as Sideswipe), Grey DeLisle (Arcee), Hugo Weaving (Megatron), Tony Todd (The Fallen), Charlie Adler (Starscream), Frank Welker (Soundwave/Devastator/Reedman), and Tom Kenny (Wheelie/Skids) Directed by Michael Bay.

Review
This film is the last of "Movies in Oregon", which lasted for 16 reviews (#043-#058), with this being the climax. Or the disappointment. Anyway, this film is actually less enjoyable then the first, as this film tries to have even more close ups of robots (and one's...balls?), explosions, and acting that still doesn't work out. The film tries with the script plagued by a strike that makes Cybertron symbols happen to our Sam, with our transportation to the desert random with robots attacking again. It's a popcorn movie where the popcorn is injected with Powerade while overflowed with Red Bull. Skids and Mudflap makes you want to watch Jar-Jar Binks and appreciate how there weren't two of him. This film tries and fails hard. Thank goodness I've never watched the third film (EDIT: Or the fourth one. EDIT: Or the fifth one).

Overall, I give it 3 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Transformers (2007)

Review #057: Transformers.

Cast
Shia LaBeouf (Sam Witwicky), Josh Duhamel (Captain William Lennox), Tyrese Gibson (Robert Epps), John Turturro (Agent Reggie Simmons), Rachael Taylor (Maggie Madsen), Megan Fox (Mikaela Banes), Anthony Anderson (Glen Whitmann), Kevin Dunn (Ron Witwicky), Julie White (Julie Witwicky), and Jon Voight (John Keller) Directed by Michael Bay.

Review
Yes, this film is actually liked by people (Such as my nephew), though I can't blame him. I, however, am not one of those such. I think this film is average at best with humans that dont really matter to us who just want to see their toys be on screen. Again, anyway. Bay conveys little with the film other then showing to us youngsters (unless of course you can't stop thinking about the little things) that explosions carry the film and outrageous idea such as a giant energy cube in the Hoover Dam found by glasses. The film does not make you interested to watch the classic 80's show (I should watch it though), it makes you want more...explosions. The only thing that saves the film a bit is because the robots (who are supposed to be the focus, as they're you know, Transformers) are the best part.

Overall, I give it 5 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.


Review #056: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Cast
Judith Hoag (April O'Neil), Elias Koteas (Casey Jones), with Corey Feldman (Donatello), Brian Tochi (Leonardo), Robbie Rist (Michelangelo), Josh Pais (Raphael), Kevin Clash (Splinter), and David McCharen (Shredder) Directed by Steve Barron.

Review
This was part of my "Movies in Oregon" series, where I reviewed movies while on vacation at my half brother's house in Beaverton, Oregon. These reviews were originally posted on a site called Star Pirates, and the reviews may have been rushed, so I've fixed this review up a little, in light of the new Turtles film. Enjoy. 

This film is admittedly fun to watch with fun action and actually follows a well balanced plot. It's mostly harmless in the sense that it doesn't really have many flaws for a flick that aims fine, and hits excellently. The acting is decent, with some good animatronics and decent voice acting. The characters are charming, and fun to watch interact with one another. The movie has a balance of action and light-hearted fun that works well for a movie like this. This is a good flick that would inspire two sequels (II: Secret of the Ooze and III) that wouldn't be as good as the first.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Inception.

Review #055: Inception.

Cast
Leonardo DiCaprio (Dom Cobb), Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Arthur), Ellen Page (Ariadne), Tom Hardy (Eames), Ken Watanabe (Mr. Saito), Dileep Rao (Yusuf), Cillian Murphy (Robert Fischer), Tom Berenger (Peter Browning), Marion Cotillard (Mal Cobb), Pete Postlethwaite (Maurice Fischer), and Michael Caine (Professor Stephen Miles) Directed by Christopher Nolan (#054 - The Dark Knight)

Review
The film is...Weird. It's creative yes, but I just couldn't get into it enough. I felt the film wanted to bore me so I literally could dream. At roughly two-and-a-half hours long, it's difficult to watch all of it. I give marks for solid acting and good action though.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Dark Knight.


Review #054: The Dark Knight.

Cast
Christian Bale (Bruce Wayne/Batman), Heath Ledger (The Joker), Gary Oldman (James Gordon), Aaron Eckhart (Harvey Dent), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Rachel Dawes), Michael Caine (Alfred Pennyworth), and Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox) Directed by Christopher Nolan.

Review
This film is the sequel to Batman Begins (which I will review later on this show), and it is better then the first one. But is it better then the 1989 version? I personally think the 1989 version wins on its plot, it's Batman (the 1989 Batman doesn't have sore throat), and just being slightly being better. This film introduces the Joker again to us, and he's...pretty creepy. Sadistic in mind, Ledger plays the role extremely well. I thought Dent was fine, but he was under shadowed by everything. He's the addition to the plot that doesn't really have much influence (as Two-Face anyway) The action is good, and the plot is fine. This film is great, as in my opinion it rivals the 1989 version for "best Batman film", which is saying quite a lot.

Overall, I give it 9 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Role Models.

Review #053: Role Models.

Cast
Paul Rudd (Danny Donahue), Seann William Scott (Anson Wheeler), Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Augie Farques), Bobb'e J. Thompson (Ronnie Shields), Elizabeth Banks (Beth Jones), Jane Lynch (Gayle Sweeney), Ken Jeong (King Argotron), and Kerri Kenney-Silver (Lynette Farcques). Directed by David Wain.

Review
This film tries to be a crude comedy that delivers laughs...and it surprisingly works. the film is actually a little funny with a little inspiration that isn't as jaded and unoriginal as it might sound. The acting is decent, with at least some memorable things happening to pass the time that makes it a decent film for the most part.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Ringer.

Review #052: The Ringer.

Cast
Johnny Knoxville (Steve Barker), Brian Cox (Gary Barker), Katherine Heigl (Lynn Sheridan), Jed Rees (Glen), Bill Chott (Thomas), Edward Barbanell (Billy), Leonard Earl Howze (Mark), Geoffrey Arend (Winston), John Taylor (Rudy), Luis Avalos (Stavi), Leonard Flowers (Jimmy) Directed by Barry W. Blaustein.

Review
The film is typically drawn out, but it does try to have some laughs, with Knoxville doing a fine job for the most part. The film has some laughs, as the film sort of works. It may be typical, but it tries to be a little more then usual, being harmless, but not too bad.

Overall, I give it 6 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Selena.

Review #051: Selena.

Cast
Jennifer Lopez (Selena Quintanilla-Pérez), Jackie Guerra (Suzette Quintanilla), Constance Marie (Marcella Quintanilla), Alexandra Meneses (Sara), Jon Seda (Chris Pérez), Edward James Olmos (Abraham Quintanilla Jr), and Jacob Vargas (A.B. Quintanilla) Directed by Gregory Nava.

Review
This film is about Selena (obviously), the famous singer who brought Tejano music to a new high. The film introduces you to her life from when she and her family performed when she was 10, to her sucess, her secret marriage, all the way until her tragic death on March 31, 1995. The acting is good, especiallly from Lopez in her breakout role. This film is a good biopic about the singer who will always be remembered, Selena (again, obviously).

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 Stars.

Movie Night: Easy A.



Review #050: Easy A.

Cast
Emma Stone (Olive Penderghast), Penn Badgley ("Woodchuck" Todd), Amanda Bynes (Marianne Bryant), Dan Byrd (Brandon), Thomas Haden Church (Mr. Griffith), Patricia Clarkson (Rosemary Penderghast), Cam Gigandet (Micah), Lisa Kudrow (Mrs. Griffith), Malcolm McDowell (Principal Gibbons), Aly Michalka (Rhiannon Abernathy), and Stanley Tucci (Dill Penderghast) Directed by Will Gluck.

Review
Welcome to the 50th Review of Movie Night. This film tries to be the different in comedies by...Well being different. It's funny for the most part as it exploits the high school cliches that happens...All the time actually. Emma Stone does a great job, showing she is blossoming into a (eventual) top actress (as she would show even more in The Help) The script is solid, and the movie is fun to watch with alright acting from the rest of the cast, making this a good film to watch. Thank you for observing 50 reviews here on Movie Night. There is more to come.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The A-Team.


Review #049: The A-Team.

Cast
Liam Neeson (John "Hannibal" Smith), Bradley Cooper (Templeton "Face" Peck), Quinton "Rampage" Jackson (B.A. Baracus), Sharlto Copley (H.M. "Howling Mad" Murdock), Jessica Biel (Charissa Sosa), Patrick Wilson (Agent Vance Burress/Agent Lynch), Brian Bloom (Brock Pike), and Gerald McRaney (Russell Morrison) Directed by Joe Carnahan.

Review
The film doesn't do much to be like the classic 80's show (which I should see) The film has loads of action, all in silly fun (especially the Tank flying through the sky). While the film isn't exactly good, it still manages to get your attention with some memorable things (that thing I just mentioned a line ago) If you want something to spend your time on that while not making you think (it's an action film), it will entertain you.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010).

Review #048: A Nightmare on Elm Street.

Cast
Jackie Earle Haley (Freddy Krueger), Kyle Gallner (Quentin Smith), Rooney Mara (Nancy Holbrook), Katie Cassidy (Kris Fowles), Thomas Dekker (Jesse Braun), Kellan Lutz (Dean Russell), Clancy Brown (Alan Smith), Connie Britton (Dr. Gwen Holbrook), and Lia D. Mortensen (Nora Fowles) Directed by Samuel Bayer.

Review
This film is...I don't know, what's the word for bad? This film tries to be scary, but it actually makes you bored. The acting is predictably standard (Except for Haley, who does try to act his best), as this film doesnot much scare factor. The makeup looks awkward on Freddy, making him look like melted cheese. With the original Freddy (From what I've seen), he actually looks like a burn victim. Here, he looks like he got into a cheese fight. It's predictable with it's attempts at scares, it has a predictable end scene, and it just bores you. It's not fun to watch, even though Haley tries his best, but in the end, it's a predictable stale horror film that makes you want to watch the original.

Overall, I give it 4 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Expendables.

Review #047: The Expendables.

Cast
Sylvester Stallone (Barney Ross), Jason Statham (Lee Christmas), Jet Li (Yin Yang), Dolph Lundgren (Gunner Jensen), Eric Roberts (James Munroe), Randy Couture (Toll Road), Steve Austin (Dan Paine), David Zayas (General Garza), Giselle Itié (Sandra), Charisma Carpenter (Lacy), Gary Daniels (Lawrence Sparks / The Brit), Terry Crews (Hale Caesar), Mickey Rourke (Tool), Bruce Willis (Mr. Church), and Arnold Schwarzenegger (Trench Mauser) Directed by Sylvester Stallone (#003 - Rocky)

Review
It's a bunch of action stars (old and new) all together to make a movie that seems to be more about action than plot. And that's okay. Anyway this film is...enjoyable to watch. Stallone wanted to reunite all of the action heroes, and he succeeds. The film isn't an award winner, but the film is enjoyable with the fun and action. It doesn't have much acting skills, but it tries to just be what it wants, an action movie. It doesn't care what happens in terms of response, it just wants to be its own film (That will get a sequel soon), and it works.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 Stars.

July 25, 2011

Movie Night: The Breakfast Club.

Review #046: The Breakfast Club.

Cast
Emilio Estevez (Andrew "Andy" Clark), Paul Gleason (Richard "Dick" Vernon), Anthony Michael Hall (Brian Ralph Johnson), Judd Nelson (John Bender), Molly Ringwald (Claire Standish), Ally Sheedy (Allison Reynolds), and John Kapelos (Carl Reed) Directed by John Hughes.

Review
This film is a classic that outlines the high school trouble that some (Okay, fine, most) people have. It's a funny film that has fine acting, and a classic tone for it. The writing is good, with fine directing by Hughes. It's a film that's fun to watch, from beginning to end, with many memorable scenes, characters, and all in all, a memorable movie.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Just Go With It.

Review #045: Just Go With It.

Cast
Adam Sandler (Daniel Maccabee), Jennifer Aniston (Katherine Murphy), Bailee Madison (Maggie Murphy), Griffin Gluck (Michael Murphy), Nicole Kidman (Devlin Adams), Nick Swardson (Eddie Simms), Brooklyn Decker (Palmer Dodge), and Dave Matthews (Ian Maxtone-Jones) Directed by Dennis Dugan.

Review
Well...The film isn't that good. I think the film tries to be funny, but it doesn't really work. According to Wikipedia, it's a loose remake of Cactus Flower (which incidentally won Goldie Hawn an Oscar, though this movie won't win anything). The film has a few flaws (one being not funny), and the main one is that this film feels like a lazy excuse to go to Hawaii. It feels lazy, the runtime even feels lazy. The acting is standard, not being a standout (an example of lazy). Ultimately, the film is...lazy. It does its job of using time, but not much else.

Overall, I give it 4 out of 10 stars.

July 22, 2011

Movie Night: Full Metal Jacket.

Review #044: Full Metal Jacket.

Cast
Matthew Modine (Private/Sergeant James T. "Joker" Davis), Vincent D'Onofrio (Private Leonard "Gomer Pyle" Lawrence), R. Lee Ermey (Gunnery Sergeant Hartman), Arliss Howard (Private/Sergeant Robert "Cowboy" Evans), Adam Baldwin (Sergeant "Animal Mother"), Dorian Harewood (Corporal "Eightball"), Kevyn Major Howard (Private First Class "Rafterman"), Ed O'Ross (Lieutenant Walter J. "Touchdown" Schinoski), and John Terry (Lieutenant Lockhart) Directed by Stanley Kubrick.

Review
This film is one of many by Stanley Kubrick, the director who made influential films in his lifetime. This is one of them. The film takes place in a military base, as we are introduced to Hartman delivering a big shout to the new recruits, which also includes Leonard. Ermey delivers a great performance, playing a role that he actually was in real life. He fits perfectly, and it shows. D'Onofrio's talents are shown as he plays the broken down Leonard. He's insanely awesome in this role. But is the film perfect? No. I think the film suffers from just losing momentum after the middle of the movie, where it had a pretty good sequence with D'Onofrio and Ermey, and it turns into a war film that doesn't grab much of your attention. But I feel the film is still a classic made by the (sadly) former director.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: The Fast and the Furious.

Review #043: The Fast and the Furious.

Cast
Paul Walker (Brian O'Conner), Vin Diesel (Dominic Toretto), Michelle Rodriguez (Leticia "Letty" Ortiz), Jordana Brewster (Mia Toretto), Rick Yune (Johnny Tran), Chad Lindberg (Jesse), Johnny Strong (Leon), Matt Schulze (Vince), and Ted Levine (Tanner) Directed by Rob Cohen.

Review
This film was the first film reviewed on "Movies in Oregon", in which I reviewed films I watched while on vacation in Oregon. Anyway, this film has alright car scenes, with some cool things to help dazzle a bit, like the fashion and music. The acting is decent, with Vin Diesel doing a stand out job, being entertaining to watch, especially his chemistry with Walker. The action is fun, especially near the end, with a riveting scene in the end with the two. Looking back, I was wrong in saying that it lacked discipline; I can't help but be more sympathetic and bump up the rating a star just because of the charisma of the actors, the cars, and the tone.

Overall, I give it 7 out of 10 stars.

June 8, 2011

Movie Night: X-Men: First Class.

Review #042: X-Men: First Class.

Cast
James McAvoy (Charles Xavier), Michael Fassbender (Erik Lehnsharr), Kevin Bacon (Sebastian Shaw), Jennifer Lawrence (Mystique), January Jones (Emma Frost), Rose Byrne (Moira MacTaggert), and Nicholas Hoult (Hank McCoy) Directed by Matthew Vaughn.

Review
EDIT: I've edited this to remove this segment that is in retrospect, stupid to have added: "If you don't read the comics, then the film causes continuity issues for non readers (X-Men 3: The Last Stand's opening sequence in general with Xavier standing 20 years ago when he is paralyzed here in the 1960's)", especially given how the next X-Men film dealt with continuity. 

One notable thing is that the movie is directed by the guy who was supposed to direct X-Men: The Last Stand before departing. Now he has his chance here to make a good movie. Which he did. The cast did their best to be like their adult versions, and the action is good. One is that the film spends way too long on developing and training these guys. I mean, it's development, but it's so long. Another thing to add is that some of the characters are focused on when we know they don't matter to the plot, slowing the film a little bit more. It manages to be a good way to revamp the franchise in terms of quality and history, which is nice.

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

Movie Night: Thor.


Review #041: Thor.

Cast
Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Natalie Portman (Jane Foster), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Anthony Hopkins (Odin), Stellan Skarsgård (Erik Selvig), Kat Dennings (Darcy Lewis), Clark Gregg (Agent Coulson), Colm Feore (King Laufey), Idris Elba (Heimdall), Ray Stevenson (Volstagg), Tadanobu Asano (Hogun), Josh Dallas (Fandral), Jaimie Alexander (Sif), and Rene Russo (Frigga) Directed by Kenneth Branagh.

Review
Greetings fellow viewer who clicked the link from the review of Thor: Ragnarok (2017) or simply wanted to see an old review. To provide some context, I have written a small piece of memories from this film, having seen it when I was 14.

In retrospect, I will say that Thor (2011) is a decent film, but it definitely pales a bit when compared to Iron Man or the film that followed this one, Captain America: The First Avenger. That's not to say that this is a mediocre movie, but it definitely has its issues, such as some of its human characters along with taking a bit of time to really get going. Hemsworth does a capable job, however, and Hiddleston and Hopkins are also fairly good standouts in a movie that has some dazzle in what proves to be fair entertainment.

The film is a exciting film that won't put you to sleep, as the film has action that is done well. The acting is good, especially from Hemsworth. The only flaw I find is that the film takes a little time to go, especially after Thor is banished to Earth. In a way, this is the penultimate film before The Avengers (The final being Captain America - #060).

Overall, I give it 8 out of 10 stars.

June 6, 2011

Movie Night: Batman (1989)

NOW SUPERCEDED BY REDUX: https://movienightcentral.blogspot.com/2022/06/redux-batman-1989.html 

Review #040: Batman.

Cast
Michael Keaton (Batman/Bruce Wayne), Jack Nicholson (The Joker), Kim Basinger (Vicki Vale), Michael Gough (Alfred Pennyworth), Tracey Walter (Henchmen Bob), Robert Wuhl (Alexander Knox), Jack Palance (Carl Grissom), and Billy Dee Williams (Harvey Dent) Directed by Tim Burton.

Review
Prologue: So I was searching for something to watch, when I heard the Batman theme done by Danny Elfman, which signaled that this movie was starting. I immediately turned it to AMC, as I wanted to see how it was...
Long story short, I liked it. Jack Nicholson as the Joker was great. He steals the show as he's crazy and surprisingly funny. Keaton is a great Batman who doesn't need a sore throat infection to be threatening. Basinger is okay, even if she really isn't developed. I liked it's scenery and its action. The Batmobile looks really great, better then the Tumbler in the new one, which looks like...A tank that was dipped with oddities. There were a few things that I noticed that sound off. For one, Jack Napier (Joker) kills Bruce's parents, instead of Joe Chill. Why I know that is unclear, but I suppose even someone as uneducated on comic books like me can know a thing or two about this stuff. Another is more of a minor thing, but the bat wing scene where Batman misses the Joker wide, even though he's clearly right in front of him, and then the Joker brings a long gun and shoots him in one shot. But anyway, the film is stylish, it has good acting from the cast, and it's a good film, that would inspire three sequels not as good as the first, and a reboot trilogy (Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and The Dark Knight Rises), with this still being a good candidate for best Batman movie.

Overall, I give it 10 out of 10 stars.