Midnight in Paris (2011)

To Be Continued...http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi853581081/

The Hangover Part II (2011)

I am a HUGE, HUGE Zach Galifianakis fan. HUGE. After doing stand-up in LA at the Upright Citizens Brigade, I adore all things Zacky poo - from his skinny stand-up days to his fat wanna-be Jack Black current persona, he rocks. HOWEVER, does the spin-off to 'The Hangover' compare to its first amazing 'Wedding Crasher'-type film comparison?! Sadly, no. Its a slightly funny - definitely R RATED flick with some surprise moments BUT its almost frame for frame replica-style as an exact copy of the original doesn't work. Short on time or short on material, one can only guess what producers where thinking (or not thinking) but this remake is unfortunately not holding up to the original. Using the same plot (but different 'out-of-nowhere location ie Bangkok'?!), and similar characters minus two important roles the FABULOUS Heather Graham and Rachael Harris (the actress that played Stu's wife) - just doesn't have the same 'HAVE YOU SEEN THE 'THE HANGOVER' YET??!!!' momentum. Without some hilariously crazy women, this version lacked some...relationship spunk. Also, copying a plot and scenes in what seemed like a lazy and uninspired manner really hindered the comedy aspect. There's a good laugh here and there but nothing that memorable. I give this one a 2 out of 5 - Sorry, Zack but I still love you, my little poo, poo.

Theater: A small theater on Holiday in Whippany, NJ.

Bridesmaids (2011)

As a future member of SNL (big smurk), I just adore Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph! They are both so spot-on in their humor and body language - and lets not forget, their dancing!!! This film is ready for its chic-lit audience to dance, drink (legal in theaters?) and have a FAB-U-LOUS time! Similar to the brother flick, "The Hangover" these ladies know how to have a blast of a time but in louboutin heels (Rose Byrne's gorgeous character) and "OH-so-short" dresses (Ms. Wiig). I really enjoyed the realistic plot and Ms. Wiig's very real character as not all big budget films have to be fantasy driven. She's a hard working gal going through hard times...does she make it through? We sure hope so! With the help of friends, new and old, this film is just in time for a wintry-like summer in NYC, along with our roller coaster of an economy everywhere. Grab your crazy, unstable lady friends, or your best gay and go have some laughs! Definitely check out this entertaining, stylish (for) Chi-town based film. 4 out of 5 stars.


Theater: Clearview Cinemas, Upper East Side, NYC

PS
Big points for a seemingly less product placement-like of a movie!

The Verdict (1982)

A strong film with a spectular plot. I am in awe with the immense emotion and will that the actors (on both the Defense and Plaintiff) portray. Currently, a much younger actor might have been casted in Paul Newman's place...and what a loss to viewers that more sophiscated dramatic acting isn't chosen over external appearances. Mr. Newman was fantastic. In our 21st century culture of re-doing classics, we can try but we never come close. 5 out of 5 stars.

Theater: Midtown West, NYC

Blue Valentine (2010)

This movie was probably the worst that I have seen in years. Trashy. A horrible depiction of the poor or struggling. This film much like "Love and Other Drugs" was overly hyped due to the 'celebrities' in the film offering a MUCH better reputation of it than it deserved. I was very excited to see this film going in and even invited a new friend to help celebrate its release. It was filmed like a documentary and offered many scenes out of focus that would have been much better otherwise. Way too many tasteless sex scenes that did not help grow the characters. I never knew them going in - and I never knew them after scenes like the ones mentioned above - nor would I want to know them. It was the most slow moving (for no reason), plotless, loveless, tasteless film - that I have seen. If American audiences are trying to see a documentary type film - please just go watch one. That style for a drama does not work. The only nice thing I can say about this film is that Ryan Gosling has a great agent and knows what characters to choose - talk about typecasting. Regardless, he is talented. Michelle Williams should stick to Dawson's Creek. I walked out of the film. Save your money.

0 out of 5.

Clearview Upper east side - NYC

Blue Valentine (2010)

COMING SOON!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYgr_iGATB4

True Grit (2010)

Beautiful still shots, images that take your breath away and a lovely story about fearlessness. Although, a sad tale "True Grit' was a gorgeously directed film. The design and wardrobe were perfection. On to the faults, casting. I am not a fan of Hailee Steinfeld. I really felt as I watched that she was reading a script or was acting in a dramatic play. Matt Damon was fantastic as always and really led audiences to believe that he was a heartless fool and ultimately, a loving friend. This film had action, true passion and a great way of depicting friendship. I say, see it in theaters, true beauty much like true grit must be seen in the dark.

4 out of 5 stars.

Theater: Regal Union Square Stadium 14 (worst date ever) - NYC