Mammoth (2009)

All I can say is Gael García Bernal.

4 out of 5 stars.

Theater: Netflix

Love and Other Drugs (2010)

First of all, I have been a friend to illness at times in my life...and am no stranger to medicine. Especially, since I have dated an array of various types of doctors - not relevant. Nonetheless, medicine effects peoples lives - some more than others. This film ties medicine, sickness and work ethic together and somehow trys to answer the age-old question of, 'how does one have it all (make money, make time, be smart, fall in love, learn, feel...etc.)'? And, of course, fails. I don't believe that anyone, especially a hollywood film holds the answer to any of lives questions - especially not this one. Although, Anne Hathaway (not a fan) does an excellent job portraying her character, something (maybe Jake's acting) falls short. In summary, a poorly done love story (that is VERY well hyped up by the media - and gives the effect that this film is not as badly done as it actually is). I say, wait for video unless you are bored for a film and have already seen, "Conviction". I give it a 2 out of 5 stars.

PS
For Jake fans, you see his butt (still not worth $13)!

Theater: Clearview at First and 62nd Cinemas, UES (on one of the most beautiful nights in NYC).

The Age of Innocence (1993)

This film appears to audiences as an unrealistic portrayal of the choices men "used to" make...in a very beautifully done era. I think, if this story is true (it was dedicated to Scorsese's father) that it's ones personal opinion whether the plot - was the right or wrong choice. Some liberal minded men and women, might agree that the decision to be with a person purly has to do with lust...others, 'the ideal package'. In my humble opinion, its very sad and wrong when a man enters a marriage and is not absolutely, completely faithful in every way that marriage/commitment intends it to be. I'm not saying that there was or wasn't cheating in this movie, its up to you. My personal opinion, is that all of the main characters were in the wrong place at the wrong time...and I certainly would not want to be the wife (in any era, corsets and money, or not). If love is ideal, it is with the one person who you have chosen - and that is it. I give it a 3 out of 5 stars for the simple fact that if this is a real story, then I pity Martin Scorsese's mother.

Love Story (1970)

I haven't seen a true romance film in such a long time due to a horrible relationship I was in. Recently, I felt ready to - and my first choice was this film directed by Arthur Hiller. Having spent much time in Boston and living in NYC, I can relate to the hard work, education and money issues that this couple faces - all the while thinking how lucky they were to have one another. This is a love story based around the 'need' for another, but is displayed in a graceful way of 'want and desire'. This couple genuinely loves one another and they help each other to grow - as individuals. I'm not a fan of Jennifer, Ali MacGraw's character but I do like the way (as a couple) they just seem to work - and of course, how easily the man falls in love with the woman. Seemingly unrealistic, yet realistic at the same time, this portrayal of love...just fits. Just as they do. I adore this film, along with it's sister flick "The Way We Were". 5 out of 5 stars.

Theater: Netflix

Conviction (2010)

I'm not a huge fan of Hilary Swank (or law school). She always plays these women that are very manly or boyish that tend to give up on the feministic ideals (that I now find important) of life. Maybe its not Hilary but her characters that I'm not a fan of. Having said that, who is not a fan of Minnie Driver? I adore her, her characters and her all around appeal. I think she is fabulous. Its interesting seeing her as a 'friend' of the main character and not having a big role. She impacts Hilary's character but due to stubbornness the audience really doesn't get to see the effects of Minnie's character until much later on in the end of the film - possibly too late. Overall, this film illustrated strong women giving up on the family portion of life (and romantic love), but in general working very hard and making sacrifices for what they believe in. And, isn't that refreshing? Typically, Hollywood hits contain no sacrifices just miracles i.e. you can accomplish your goals without any real hurdles (unless it comes in the disguise of an action flick or romance curve - ultimately being an alluring portion of the film). As a dramatic woman myself, I cried...so for anything that achieves the success of emotion, it must be good. Strong plot, strong women and Minnie Driver. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars.

PS. And, let's not forget that Juliette Lewis makes an appearance (well, actually two)!!!

Theater: Clearview at First and 62nd Cinemas, UES - NYC

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)

How to describe the classic that is "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid?" Having watched this film in 2010, at the age of 26, I am left wondering if this is what major Hollywood films used to be like??!! If this is so...wow, has the industry taken a nosedive downward (can a nosedive be in any other direction?)! This film has a well-rounded and complicated plot, along with a love interest situation that leaves audiences wondering. It's a classic cowboy flick with comedy that surpasses time and looks that equally surpass Brad Pitt (who is now, how old??). Not only do I now want horseback riding lessons (and a cowboy), but I give this film a 4 out of 5 stars! Great, great, great :)

Theater: Watched it at my NYC loft on the UES on my lovely new projector (with
fabulous company) - NYC

Wall Street (2010)

Where to begin? After seeing the first "Wall Street", living and working on wall street, and moving BACK to NYC from Los Angeles...I have to honestly say that this movie does absolutely NO justice to any of the aforementioned "streets" - Sad. Very, very, very sad. The plot is all over the place. The "acting" and characters are really not built upon in a way in order for audiences to identify with anyone ever, AT ALL, and it really just does not hold viewers interest (or mine). Funny, my dad turned to me and said, "They could have gotten a prettier girl for the lead (opposite Shia)." And ya know, he is right. All she does is cry, and not even while being pretty doing it. For the sake of my time thinking any more about this film, I give it a 2 out of 5 stars (and that is only because the original was AMAZING).

Theater: United Artists: Upper East Side, (64/2) NYC

The Town (2010)

I have gone to Boston many times for work and I have to say that I never ran into any men that looked and acted quite like Ben Affleck does in his movie, "The Town". Maybe because I, myself am in the 'Yuppie' parts? Who knows. All I can say is if men like this character that Ben portrays are in the ghetto...well then, here I come! This film is set in Charleston, Boston and gives the allusion (or trys) of tough white kids having it hard on the streets. Not very certain this comes across but what does is family issues and drug problems, and how to deal (if you can). Ben steals the stage. I have heard other reviewers saying that this film doesn't compare to "Cry Baby Cry", not having seen that, I cannot comment. I can say that in my opinion this film was an entertaining watch. I thought it realistic and solid. 3 1/2 stars.

Theater: AMC Upper Westside, NYC

The American (2010)

Sitting in my seat in my typical (and noisey) NY movie theatre (by my old office in the New York Times Building) I watched "The American" with George. I had glanced at reviews from other critics and while watching the film I thought about how they were exactly right. In this film, its all about George. There is no other actor that stands out. Since Mr. Clooney is so talented, in my opinion, he actually pulls it off. The movie, a love story (again, in my opinion) is brilliant and alluring. I cried. In short, this film has a very foreign film sense about it, interesting and realistic plot, along with a romantic ending. 4 out of 5 stars.

Theater: AMC, Times Sq., NYC

Almost Famous (2000)

Jacqueline:

Having never watched this movie upon its original release, watching this for the first time in 2010 is a bit...well, odd. Its a film based in the seemingly late 60's and has a bunch of events and run-ins reminding me a lot of my childhood in South Florida with my very Catholic parents. Enough said. Beautiful shots of the sunrising, green landscapes and of course, hot people doing drugs and one another. I am in love with the druggy-look Kate Hudson goes for. Such a stretch for her. Its a party film, entertaining and I could see why in 2000, she won a Golden Globe. We obviously didn't have a competing drug film out.

3 out of 5 stars

Theater: Larchmont, with my roomie :) - Los Angeles, CA

Popular Theaters in (& around) LA!

https://www.arclightcinemas.com/ArcLight/faces/Home.jsp

http://www.manntheatres.com/chinese/

http://www.amcentertainment.com/CenturyCity/

http://www.laemmle.com/ (Santa Monica, Sunset, all over...)

And the most raved about, cemetry screenings: http://cinespia.org/

The Expendables (2010)

Jacqueline:

The Expendables was exactly that, expendable. This film definitely used up everything and I mean, everything that action films use. It was loud, it was sweaty and most of all, it was LOUD. Not really sure what the plot was here...but man oh man, was this movie loud. Also, just incase you are thinking about going to 'Times Square' to see this film, don't. Its loud enough without all the football players yelling like they are in the film, or at a Dallas Cowboys event. Horrible. But this is coming from someone who lives for 'Volver', 'Y Tu Mama Tambien' and 'Habla Con Ella'.

Lots of luck. 2 out of 5 stars.

Theater - ArcLight Cinemas, LA

The Other Guys (2010)

Jacqueline:

I am sad to report that all of the funny and laughable parts are already in the previews :( Do not run to this 'Will Ferrell' flick. Instead, see 'Dinner for Schmucks' twice!!! [2 out of 5 stars]

Theater - AMC/IMAX Century City 15 - Los Angeles, CA

Dinner for Schmucks (2010)

Jacqueline:

I love little dead animals!!!!!!!!!!!! Hilarious movie, filled with a great ending and really cute (weird) things going on. Definitely a 'fun' film. I say, go for a night with the gals (or guys) have drinks before (or after) and LAUGH. Besides, that's what we are all here for...right!!!??? :) 4 out of 5 stars (because I laughed/smiled a lot).

Theater - AMC/IMAX Century City 15 - Los Angeles, CA

Broken Embraces: Directed by Pedro Almodóvar (With Penélope Cruz, Lluís Homar, Blanca Portillo)

Jacqueline:

I am completely bias when it comes to Pedro Almodovar. He is one of my favorite directors. He brings me back to film class with his color choices (the use of red), locations and a wonderfully thought-out script. The language used to describe some disturbing events romanticize even the most horrid occurrence. Some may not be intrigued by Almodovar's (dare I say) outlandish ideas (or ideals), but as for myself, its breathtaking. This story, much like the reoccurring plots of Woody Allen, is a story already told but the way in which it is expressed…is captivating. Although lengthy, the drawn-out scenes and performances from a glorious cast makes "Broken Embraces" a great watch. This film is no "Volver" but it is a talented movie nonetheless. I could go on and on about this love story, but I will leave you with my 4 out of 5 stars.

Theater - Apt. Hollywood, CA

I Am Comic

Jacqueline:

This comedy show is pretty informative. As a wanna-be professional comedian, I love hearing everyone's ideas and experiences relating to jokes, traveling and 'ethnic' night. Pretty hilarious. As a multi-racial, yet white-looking woman, this is definitely an area that I struggle with and need some information on. Its like, how do you play the race card in a joke while not sounding racist (or if you are, being funny)? So right now, there’s this white guy telling a joke in front of a bunch of African Americans and he is getting no laughs. Although, I have to mention that he is not confident...clearly nervous, pretty sure he ends his skit early. Anyway, without giving too much away, this show definitely documented the skills and hardwork it takes to be a comedian, whether you make it or not. The camera work though (and Raia can attest) was done poorly, not sure if they were trying to show the 'documentary style' or what? Whatever the reason, it didn't work. Funny at times, but mostly informative. I give it a 2 out of 5 (sadly because I want to love all things comedy, but I couldn't love this).

Theater - Apt. Hollywood, CA

Inception

Jacqueline:

I LOVE LEO. Since the day I saw him on that TV show in the ummm...90's (?), I was hooked. He is adorable looking and he can ACTUALLY act. Hell, in this film he ACTS HIS ARSE off. I was stunned by how convinced I was that 'inception' not only can happen, but now I need to go out and get me some sleep (preferably with some of the hard stuff)! Aside from Leo, the film has the guy from "500 Days of Summer", one of my favorite films (again, I'm a romantic, kill me). He is cute but of course, not as mesmerizing as Leo...oh, Leo. Thick, long plot...draped over sleep enhancing drugs and good looking men. Oh, and um, that chick from "Juno" is oddly in it too. She looks like a 5 year old, and they dress her in jeans (my least favorite article of clothing) the entire film. But hey, ya the girl (?) can act. This film, while similar to Leo's previous, "Shutter Island" is a solid movie. My reactions were strong, although I don't believe I cried or screamed (tend to do one or the other). Don't run to theaters (especially if you have seen the brother film, Shutter) but give it a go. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars.

PS.
Saw it at the "Archlight" in Hollywood. Great for films, food and celeb-watching.

Theater - ArcLight Cinemas, LA

Shrek Forever After

Jacqueline:

Funny...I am not a fan of Cartoon movies (i.e. Kid flicks) but this was SO CUTE. Call me a romantic (you're a romantic) but it was really well explained, nice and simple. In the beginning, I wasn't sure what I was dragged into, but trusting my friends judgment, I allowed this seemingly very long film, drag me in. The lovable and unforgettable Shrek and his very large but confident wife, make a great couple. I think its great for kids to see a story with a happy ending and of course, for the cynical parents as well. We saw this at 'Grumman's Theater' in LA, so it was packed (and of course in 3D - Which I SWEAR makes me cross-eyed) with kiddies. My thoughts, rent it with the kids or a fun night with your guy (or gal), but the theaters...are packed with annoying kids (and their parents calming them down). Cute flick, but I could have went for some sushi at the corner of Highland and Franklin inside (sorry). I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

PS.
Sometimes I remember the film much more romantically than my opinion actually is. TRICKED you.

Theater - Grauman's Chinese Theatre, LA

SALT

Jacqueline:

Although beautiful to look at, I have to say that I doubt a 90 pound, thirty-five (complimenting her) year old, could do half the jumps, flips and punches that "Salt" supposedly can. NOT THAT REALISTIC. I don't know...something about the fakeness in that girly run and fake accent that just didn't do it for me. I'm not a fan of her acting so Angelina needed something else to grab my attention in this film...a plot? Oh, I don't know, acting? I will say that the beginning of the film was stronger than the ending...it opens by showing viewers a nice blonde lady, working for the CIA...oops, she was captured and we feel so bad for her - but her hair is totally fake blonde, obviously something will happen with the hair issue...and she's 'in love' with a bug doctor who looks like he would be a bug doctor...and its 'Angelina' - so talk about obvious...I say, see it in the theaters for fun, but its all about the action, no acting here. I give it a 3 out of 5 stars.

PS.
Saw this at the Westfield Plaza in Cenutry City at the AMC. One of my fave places in LA to see a flick ;)


Theater - ArcLight Cinemas, LA