Mitten and Moustache go to the Movies!

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

2010-10-04T15:12:00.001-04:00

Please feel free to read and comment here. Thanks!

2010 ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL

2010-04-15T21:30:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone!

I managed to get press access to the festival and will try to attend as much as I can this week. I'll keep you posted on my Examiner.com column here. Enjoy!

FANTASTIC MR. FOX

2010-01-08T17:51:00.000-05:00

Read and comment here. Enjoy!

CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS

2010-01-08T17:01:00.002-05:00

Read and comment here. Enjoy!

A SERIOUS MAN

2009-11-18T21:48:00.000-05:00

Read and comment here. Enjoy!

DISTRICT 9

2009-09-29T20:28:00.000-04:00

Read and comment here. Enjoy!

ART & COPY

2009-09-22T21:43:00.002-04:00

Please read and comment here. Enjoy!

HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE

2009-07-20T11:40:00.005-04:00

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Director: David Yates
Category: kids
Rating: PG
Running time: 2hr 33mins

Terri says:

The best part about the Harry Potter film adaptations is they get darker and darker each time. Having not read the books, but supported by HP readers, the latest installment seemed to jump around a lot making the storyline a tad shaky. However, even if you don't follow the books and/or films, Half-Blood Prince is sure to keep your attention. Overall, I don't feel as if they could have done any better without the film being over four hours. I do think they adapted the film as best as they could given the text and its antsy following since this was supposed to come out last November since what's-it-called took it's place... that's right, Twilight.

VERDICT: 3.5

THE HANGOVER

2009-07-20T11:31:00.005-04:00

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Director: Todd Phillips
Category: Comedy
Rated: R
Running time: 1hr 40 mins

Terri says:

This is yet another "Frat Pack" summer flick that is about as random as you can get. I can only imagine what the pitch was like... At any rate, there is not much to say here. It's dirty and hilarious. It's been a while since I've seen it (and pretty much old news at this point), but I remember it was enjoyable and good to have a beer or two afterwards.

VERDICT: 3.0

ANVIL! THE STORY OF ANVIL

2009-06-08T20:46:00.004-04:00

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Director: Sacha Gervasi
Category: Documentary, musical
Rated: Not rated
Running time: 1 hr 30 mins

Terri says:

My first impression of Anvil! was the film was a big joke and not a documentary (Spinal Tap part two?). I realized a few minutes in these musicians were not acting and they were being themselves. After this realization, my attitude went from light-hearted to involving, caring and serious. What changed my mind so drastically was the purgatory rather than hell this band that's been together for over 20 years would stop at nothing to stay together.

Anvil went through the ringer on their tour through Europe with new manager/longtime fan Tiziana Arrigoni. Though she means well, she manages horribly to the point where the band did not make a penny for their performances even though they are known as the greatest Canadian metal band. The audience's hearts break when lead singer Steve "Lips" Kudlow pours his heart out to friend/Anvil's drummer Robb Reiner, who could pass easily for his brother. It's strange to see so much love and passion come from members of a metal band.

If you've seen Anvil! be referred to as a real-life Spinal Tap, here's why: a visit to Stonehenge (like Spinal Tap's classic song), disputes with management, mediocre success and fights between the Lips and Robb are frequent (like Nigel and David). From those references, you do have a giggle inside your head (especially when they visit Stonehenge). Besides that, Anvil! is very much separated from the spoof metal band and does deserve to be taken seriously.

Overall, this film is recommended for all interested. The language is rough at times and there are light illegal substance references and usage, so I would not recommend this for audience members under the age of 17. Don’t see this movie if you’re expecting to see another Spinal Tap movie. This is a movie story with an unpredictable setting, which makes it even greater of a film.

VERDICT: 4.0

ANGELS & DEMONS

2009-05-26T21:31:00.005-04:00

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Director: Ron Howard
Category: Drama, suspense
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 2 hr 18 mins

Terri says:

Angels & Demons exceeded expectations in both style and storytelling. Unlike the controversial subject The Da Vinci Code tackled, Angels used existing Vatican monuments similar to National Treasure movies... for grown-ups. Yes, it is really corny to use that comparison, but it's true. What's also great about this adaptation is the audience doesn't feel like they are being spoon-fed information by having the riddles eagerly explained to them. Instead the experience is more educational as the exciting plot unfolds...

In case you haven't heard what the film is about, Harvard professor/symbolist Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) is requested by the Vatican to help uncover clues as four Roman Catholic cardinals are being help hostage after the Pope passed away. In the meantime, physicist Vittoria Vetra (Ayelet Zurer) is on a quest to track down a canister of antimatter strong enough to take out Vatican City and part of Rome. Working together, Langdon and Vetra are guided by police and Camerlengo Patrick McKenna (Ewan McGregor).

What I'm impressed with most is the acting done by McGregor. Besides being devastatingly handsome, he proves his talent to go past the mainstream status of the movie (unlike the Star Wars prequel films) and more along the lines of Big Fish in terms of getting into character. He is a phenomenal actor and pleased he is getting roles (and recognition) he deserves without selling out. Hanks was better in this film as Langdon rather than Da Vinci Code showing a bit more humor and being more at ease with Brown's protagonist. Zurer played the role well, however, it seems like her role should have been more prominent that it was portrayed much like Audrey Tautou's role in Da Vinci Code. I am not sure this was close to her portrayal in Brown's novel, but it seemed Zurer was thrown in the scenes at times.

Overall, it's an entertaining piece and recommend it to anyone who's interested. Oh yeah and by the way, if you're squeamish to violence, be prepared to keep one hand free every now and again.

VERDICT: 3.5

IS ANYBODY THERE?

2009-05-11T16:30:00.000-04:00

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Director: John Crowley
Category: Drama
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 35 mins

Terri says:

One of the best differences to see about an American film from a British film is the British could care less if the film would be a box office success. Seeing this film spontaneously (and beating out the other options of I Love You, Man and the Wolverine movie), the outcome was mixed.

Clarence (Michael Caine) is a retired musician living in a husband and wife owned retirement home. He befriends the couple's young son, Edward (Bill Milner), who has a growing fascination with death and what happens in the afterlife. Meanwhile, Edward's mom (Anne-Marie Duff) is struggling to keep the place up and running while his father (David Morrissey) is starting to go through a mid-life crisis with their 18 year-old maid.

The main focus is on the friendship between Clarence and Edward, but the tension between the mom and dad was equally addressed. Even though the storyline line was wonderful, I felt like the little boy's life outside his home should have been explored more. There were tiny scenes at school or with a friend, but there should have been more elements in a different setting. What was also a plus is to see the heartache that goes along aging. It was neither glamorized nor blown out of proportions. Caine and Milner were fantastic in their roles. Duff was equally superb to Caine and Milner, but proved she was a better talent than her very attractive husband, James McAvoy. Overall, I think I'd see this again if it were on cable or on instant Netflix. It was good, but not great.

VERDICT: 2.5

GHOSTS OF GIRLFRIENDS PAST

2009-05-09T18:31:00.001-04:00

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Director: Mark Waters
Category: Romantic Comedy, Fantasy
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 40 mins

Terri says:

Using Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol structure for a chick flick, playboy photographer Connor Mead (Matthew McConaughey), who has more girlfriends and ex-girlfriends than Austin Powers, reluctantly going to his younger brother's wedding (Breckin Meyer) with a closet bridezilla (Lacey Chabert). When he first arives, he runs into his first love Jenny (Jennifer Garner). Haunted by his reputation with the ladies, he is visited by his dead Uncle Wayne (Michael Douglas), his inspiration for who he has become. Uncle Wayne warns Connor that three ghosts will visit him about his past relationships.

One of the things I've missed in films like this is the element of fantasy. The idea of living a dream and taking it as reality and being okay with it is actually refreshing. Yes, it's a silly idea, but why not take it with a grain of salt? That's the greatness of film where you can mix reality with fantasy and it be acceptable. McConaughey and Garner actually meshed well together and Meyer's role is a huge step forward from Rat Race, even though he had a good role. Who really had a great minor role was Douglas as a very suave, jerky playboy. I loved to hate McConaughey's jerkiness and cracked up at the stereotypical bridesmaids and groomsmen. I wished the past, present, and future ghosts had equal screen time (the past ghost took up 1/4 of the movie).

In all, I don't recommend this for guys unless they deserve to be punished and tortured. For the ladies, it can either be considered theatre, rental, or cable material.

VERDICT: 2.5

2-MINUTE RUNDOWN

2009-04-30T17:24:00.006-04:00

I am short on time lately so I haven't been posting as much as I would like to. For this reason, I am going to give a brief rundown so that you see or pass on the following:

GIGANTIC
Starring: Zooey Deschanel, Paul Dano, John Goodman

The only gigantic thing about this movie was the extent to which it sucked. After the likes of Elf and The Happening there's no denying that Deschanel should stick to music instead of acting -- she always plays the same character! -- but Dano, who actually put some of his own money on the line for this film should know better. Not only was it painfully slow but it failed to deliver any kind of real message and John Goodman was oddly miscast. To sum it up: boy meets girl, both have a crap childhood, boy adopts Asian baby, the end. Your money would be better spent on Netflix and a fast-food combo meal.

OBSESSED
Starring: Beyoncé Knowles, Ali Larter, Bruce McGill, Jerry O'Connell

If you watched the behind-the-scenes footage that E! aired on release week then there's no point in seeing this film because they spoiled the ending. This moderate-paced stalker flick is entertaining enough without any real surprises. The catfight between Larter and Knowles at the end of the film is less suspenseful than it is funny with its "come and git ya some, bitch!" lingo. The theater where I saw the movie was actually filled with laughter versus edge-of-your-set anticipation. Neither Larter nor Knowles will win an Oscar for this film although McGill did give a pretty solid performance. Eh, if you have money to waste check it out.

ADVENTURELAND
Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Martin Starr, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader

I produced a series of interviews during SXSW that included one with Bill Hader and director Greg Mottola regarding the release of this film. They were such likable people that perhaps my opinion is now biased but I really liked this movie. It's definitely not deep but it's a beginning-of-summer flick that will remind you of everything interesting and fun about being young and living in the moment, a la Can't Hardly Wait. Eisenberg and Stewart's characters are easy to relate to. It's totally worth the money if you need something light.

OBSERVE AND REPORT
Starring: Seth Rogen, Ray Liotta, Michael Peña, Anna Faris

This is the worst movie that I have seen in a long time. That's all.

SUNSHINE CLEANING
Starring: Amy Adams, Emily Blunt, Alan Arkin

If you go into this movie expecting Little Miss Sunshine you are going to be disappointed. While some of the dark humor is present, it's definitely a film in a different category -- actually the dark side of chick flicks. Blunt, Arkin and Adams are all perfectly cast. This one has been out a while but if you haven't seen it, it's entertaining.

I LOVE YOU, MAN
Starring: Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Rashida Jones, Andy Samberg

I'm completely indifferent. This movie didn't make me angry nor did it make me laugh until it hurt. But hey, it's better than Observe and Report. Paul Rudd gives the most humorous performance -- albeit somewhat uncomfortable -- while Segel is better on How I Met Your Mother. The fact that I didn't actually remember Andy Samberg being in this film isn't good, right?

It looks like X-Men Origins: Wolverine and 17 Again are next up for me although I am going to have to see the latter alone since everybody my age seems to have something against Zac Efron. What's if 17 Again is the next Big and you sat it out?

MADEA GOES TO JAIL

2009-03-14T16:10:00.009-04:00

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Written and directed by: Tyler Perry
Category: Comedy
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 43 mins

Terri says:

Wanting to see The Wrestler and Revolutionary Road, I was reluctant to see this. Fortunately, this movie was hysterical and so glad I saw this (thanks, sissy: read her review here). Having not seen Tyler Perry's Diary of a Mad Black Woman and other works, I'm interested in seeing more of what he's done. I think the reason why I enjoyed this so much is the location is oh-so-familiar - it's filmed right here in Atlanta! I saw on IMDb a critic was completely against Atlanta being a filming location (and hated the movie), and I disagree. Maybe in this particular film the scenery wasn't so great, but what about Buckhead, Virginia Highlands or Little Five? What also helps with my enjoyment is seeing the one stereotype that bugs the heck out of me in a scene stealer - the soccer mom. I call them something else, but we'll stick with "soccer mom." It's interesting to see Perry's mixture of comedy and drama. Sometimes it works, other times it doesn't transition very well. The acting was all right, but I was really surprised to see "Rudy" from The Cosby Show (Keshia Knight Pulliam) all grown up!

Overall, I'd recommend this if you're in the mood for a good laugh. It's refreshing to see humor different from the toilet humor comedies and the crappy wannabe's (Miss March? Please.).

THE VERDICT: 2.5

WATCHMEN

2009-03-12T11:23:00.008-04:00

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Director: Zack Snyder
Category: Action, Superhero
Rated: R
Running time: 2 hours 43 mins

Terri says:

Before I begin, I must address that I have not read the graphic novel, but went to the theatre with an open mind.

The main criticism I have against the film is the director and screenwriters failure to explain the backstory of Watchmen. Clearly the characters are explained more thoroughly in the novel, otherwise it wouldn't be ranked as one of Time magazine's 100 best novels. I felt that the storyline should have been explained more and less concentration on the action sequences. In particular, I felt the story of the Comedian (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and Sally (Carla Gugino), the mother of Laurie Jupiter (Malin Akerman) could have been more thorough. That brings me to another criticism that all the Watchmen not being fully developed. Silk Spectre II (Akerman), Ozymandias (Matthew Goode), Dr. Manhattan (Billy Crudup), Nite Owl II (Patrick Wilson) and Rorschach (Jackie Earle Haley) all seemed to lack character. I'm not expecting a full-blown character study, but a better grasp of who they are could have been done.

Gugino, Wilson and Crudup did the best acting job. Akerman was terrible and clearly not worthy of an action movie, not to mention an important piece of work with a great reputation. The intimate scenes were not good at all due to the major lack of chemistry and acting experience. One thing I will say was very well done was the cinematography- it was gorgeous! Overall, I felt like seeing the animated comic book movie would be a better fit. I felt that Sin City was far more interesting to see and would think a team of directors (Tarantino, Rodriguez, etc.) could have done a better job and Alan Moore being the sole writer for this unnecessary project.

THE VERDICT: 1.9

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

2009-02-01T12:15:00.006-05:00

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Director: Danny Boyle
Loveleen Tandan (co-director: India)
Category: Drama, Romance, Bilingual (English/Hindi)
Rated: R
Running time: 2 hours

Terri says:

Danny Boyle is finally getting recognition for his work. I didn't love this much as I love Shallow Grave and Trainspotting, but it was up there. He did a marvelous job on this great story. Jamal (Dev Patel) appears on India's take on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" and is accused of cheating because he knew all of the answers. While at the police station, he explains how he knew all of the answers in flashback. Patel's character is cute as a button and his outlook on life is the most realistic form of happiness you will currently see on film. The camera techniques are fresh without using the Michael Bay "dumbing it down" shots. Told in both English and Hindi, the way the subtitles are seen in the picture as opposed to at the bottom to take away from the "you're seeing a movie effect." Even if you are not a fan of foreign films, PLEASE see this movie!

The only complaint I have with Slumdog Millionaire is the over-killing media hounding on this film. Call me a snob, but that takes away from its beauty. This is a sweet, touching film and it should be kept as a beautiful secret that receives recognition. I think of Crash (by Paul Haggis, not David Cronenberg even though his was awesome) and how much I loved it when I saw it in theatres, and now loathe it due to the annoying media attention. That would be lovely if this got the best picture award, but will it be rewarded for the right reasons?

THE VERDICT: 4.0

NOTHING LIKE THE HOLIDAYS

2008-12-22T09:31:00.008-05:00

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Director: Alfredo De Villa
Category: Comedy, Drama
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 38 min

Terri says:

If you're expecting an ethnic Christmas Vacation, you won't find it here.

Mauricio Rodriguez (John Leguizamo) and his wife, Sarah (Debra Messing), go to his family's house to celebrate Christmas. They come home to see his brother, Jesse (Freddy Rodriguez), back from Iraq, his sister, Roxanna (Vanessa Ferlito), back from California waiting for her acting career to start, and his parents, Edy and Anna (Alfred Molina and Elizabeth Pena). Their holiday starts out at dinner when Anna announces she wants to divorce Edy, and he doesn't question her declaration.

Even though the story was predictable, the approach wasn't able to branch off into something fresh. Luiz Guzman stole the show when he was on screen playing Johnny, the family's gay cousin/friend (I can't remember how he was connected). May I also mention Messing was actually good in this movie? After thinking with my sister Will and Grace should be called "Jack and Karen," I was impressed with her role. In short, apart from the wisecracks and the brother-sister fighting, the interest was lost. Even though the idea was great, the editing/story line became too complicated and should have used the KISS method (KISS is 'keep it simple stupid').

THE VERDICT: 2.5

FOUR CHRISTMASES

2008-11-28T14:04:00.004-05:00

Director: Seth Gordon
Category: Comedy, Romance
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 22 mins

Mitten says:

Watch the preview to this movie before you go. Four Christmases is true to the preview and you'll get exactly what you expect.

Kate (Reese Witherspoon) and Brad (Vince Vaughn) have successfully avoided two sets of divorced parents for 3 consecutive Christmases by pretending to spend their holidays helping underprivelaged children. This Christmas, however, they're caught on the news when their flight to Fiji is cancelled and the family phone calls start pouring in. Kate and Brad decide to cram time with each family into one day -- thus the title, Four Christmases. Vaughn is hilarious although he plays his typical character/role as he drags Witherspoon to visit his white-trash dad (Robert Duvall) and brothers (Tim McGraw & Jon Favreau) and then the house of his overtly-sexual mother (Sissy Spacek) who is in a relationship with his childhood best friend. In turn, Witherspoon takes Vaughn into the "Cougar Den" -- her mother's (Mary Steenburgen) home where every woman is man-hungry and on the prowl -- and then on to her visit her father (Jon Voight). Along the way, Kate and Brad realize what family really means to them.

This movie has some laughs and some slow moments. While I wouldn't call it the highlight of holiday movie season, it wasn't the worst thing I have seen either. The church scene where Witherspoon's mother volunteers she and Vaughn to play Mary and Joseph in order to impress her love interest, Pastor Phil (Dwight Yoakam) is a riot.

See this one if you have some extra time on your hands and have already seen all the heavy-hitters that are presently in theatres. If you want to see something really hilarious by director Seth Gordon, stay in and Netflix The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters.

THE VERDICT: 3.0

TWILIGHT

2008-11-23T21:22:00.007-05:00

Director: Catherine Hardwicke
Category: Romance, Drama, Action
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 2 hrs 1 min

Mitten says:

If you are thinking about seeing this movie, then most likely you have read the series which is amazing. The movie, on the other hand, is a complete and utter let-down.

In a nutshell, a mortal (Kristen Stewart as Bella Swan) and a vampire (Robert Pattinson as Edward Cullen) fall madly in love with each other although they come from two conflicting worlds. If you're interested in the whole spiel, then click here for a plot synopsis.

Twilight disappoints on several counts:

(1) The special effects are terrible. They are beyond terrible. They are embarrassing.

(2) With the exception of Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Billy Burke, the actors in this movie are either grossly miscast, or they can't act to save their lives. Many scenes in this film looked no better than high school drama class.

(3) The dialog is terrible. The books are not profound, but the dialog is playful and appropriate in the written version of Twilight. Melissa Rosenberg (who is primarily a television writer) really screwed the pooch on this movie because the dialog presents itself like a big screen version of The O.C. In many places the dialog is not even relevant. For example, Bella says at some point that Edward speaks like he is from another time. In the book, Edward is actually from the 1800's. In the movie, Pattinson says nothing reminicent of the 1800's nor does he speak with the flair of that time, whatsoever. Why was this line included? It's one of many that fail the movie this way.

(4) Where Harry Potter has the look of a big-budget film, Twilight comes across as low-budget, while I am sure this film cost way more than some of the best films that have come out this year.

(5) Kristen Stewart and Rob Pattinson have no chemistry.

(6) Apparently the director told each individual who is cast as a vampire that in order to look "like a vampire" they must open their eyes unusually wide and glare. This is not only ridiculous but it makes the Cullens come across as comical instead of scary.

(7) The movie was ill-paced and lacked scenes that were important to the plot, such as the history on most of the vampires and the scene where Bella cuts her finger in chemistry class which causes an upset with thirsty vampire Edward.

Yes, this movie killed it at the box office, but I contend it's because the books were so good. My sister, who is also a fan, was extremely disappointed. I saw the film at 12:01am the Thursday night before it came out and was in a theatre full of excited fans. For the most part, everybody was walking out afterwards either shaking their heads. I heard one girl say to her friends, "I'll rent the next one, if I even do that." Agreed.

Bust!

THE VERDICT: 1.5

HAPPY-GO-LUCKY

2008-11-17T14:34:00.008-05:00

Director: Mike Leigh
Category: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hr 58 mins

Mitten says:

Times are tough so why not spend your "fun money" on something that makes you happy? I thoroughly recommend Happy-Go-Lucky -- one of the best comedies I have seen in a long time. It's chock full of British humor and is focused on witty dialog that really will tickle you if you can follow the thick Brit accents.

Sally Hawkins is Poppy, a single, 30-year-old, primary school teacher who is -- gasp! -- completely happy with her life. She lives with her best friend is a small London flat and the two have a blast. Poppy is faced with several challenges (a student who is being abused at home, a driving teacher who is aggressive and paranoid, a stolen bike) but she faces each obstacle gracefully, never losing her cool while continuing to focus on the positive.

Sally Hawkins is hilarious with her campy and colorful outfits and stiletto boots.

While this movie might sound cheesy it's anything but. It preaches that happiness really does increase the quality of life but reminds us that there's always a thin line between being a doormat and being diplomatic. I left the theatre with a positive outlook and a smile on my face. Turn off the nightly news and check out this film . . . it's a breath of fresh air.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

QUANTUM OF SOLACE

2008-11-17T10:40:00.005-05:00

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Director: Marc Forster
Category: Action, Suspense
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 46 mins

Terri says:

First off, I must say I praise Forster to keep the retro-feel for the opening credits. Bond films aren't Bond films without sleek, sexy, creative credits as you hear the decent Jack White with Alicia Keys song, "Another Way to Die." This 22nd Bond film is set up as a sequel to Casino Royale, so it helpful to watch it before you see it. This is good and bad for the sake of Bond films. Bond films were made to stand alone so fans can watch them in any order. If you're expecting to see hot love scenes, sorry because they're not really here - (gasp!) - the bedroom kissing scene is quite nice though. If you're here to see gorgeous Bond girls, Olga Kurylenko and Gemma Arterton, and Mr. Craig look sharp, you've come to the right movie. If you're looking for the classic action, you'll also be pleased. One thing I missed was classic film references seen in Casino Royale (see here). Could they have used a bit more humor? Probably. Instead of the witty dialogue, it was replaced with the relationship between M and Bond. Not in a romantic way, of course, but in a mother/son aspect, which worked but may have been too much. The best acting went to the villain, Mathieu Amalric (who played the character Dominic Greene), who did an exceptional job The Diving Bell and the Butterfly.

As far as how I see the movie overall, it was okay. I remember liking Casino Royale more, which disappointed me. I praise Forster for focusing on something deeper other than seeing Craig in a tuxedo. I love that the love scenes were omitted, but it took away from the "Bond style," if that makes sense. It might be the first time ever Agent 007 didn't sleep with the Bond bombshell or was involved romantically. I read the credits were "a post-modern look at modernism" (see trivia link below). I guess that carried on to the entire story. Otherwise, I guess I was looking for cheesiness, which is rare.

For a ton o' trivia on Quantum of Solace, I will refer you to this site.

VERDICT: 3.0

CHANGELING

2008-11-08T13:03:00.007-05:00

Director: Clint Eastwood
Category: Drama (based on a true story)
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hrs 21 mins

Mitten says:

The preview to this film does not do it justice. It's actually much more intense than what they show you ahead of time. While it clocks in at nearly two and a half hours, time is well-paced and because of the intensity of the subject matter, goes by in a flash.

Angelina Jolie is Christine Collins, a single mother in 1920s-era Los Angeles whose son goes missing from home one evening while she works overtime. The boy is returned to her a month later by the LAPD, only it is not her son, but an imposter. Based on true events, the story takes a turn for the macabre when Collins questions the LAPD -- in a sincere attempt to enlist help in finding her son -- only to find herself bound to a psychiatric institution for refusal to comply. Collins discovers that she is not the only woman subject to the institution's brutality for questioning the LAPD. With the help of a local priest/radio-show host (John Malkovich), Collins seeks justice for the crimes against her, her son, and the women that fell in harm's way. The LAPD exerts so much effort in covering their mistakes that the serial-killer behind the Wineville Chicken Coop Murders almost walks. One honest investigator turnes the tide.

This movie deals with heavy issues -- corruption of power, women's rights, single motherhood, faith, and questioning authority -- so if you're up for some substance, check it out.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

RACHEL GETTING MARRIED

2008-11-06T16:14:00.000-05:00

Director: Jonathan Demme
Category: Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hrs 56 mins

Mitten says:

Holy Blair Witch Project! [WARNING: I'm no film-school expert, but this movie seemed to be filmed with hand-held cameras.] Although it's extremely touching and realistic, I had to take a 10 minute bathroom break because I thought I needed to throw-up. If you suffer from motion sickness, do yourself a favor and take some Dramamine an hour before you head to the theatre. Blarg.

Rachel Getting Married delves into the family dynamics centered around Anne Hathaway's release from rehab for substance abuse and her reunion with her family at sister Rachel's (Rosemarie DeWitt) wedding. Similar to The Savages, a glimpse into Hathaway's world is painful and self-effacing, yet is packaged with far more realistic and accessible human emotion than the afformentioned. While the new-age shenanigans of this family are a bit offputting, the topics of forgivness and closure are resoundingly universal.

Hathaway shines as a twenty-something, constantly in and out of rehab, seeking closure after a death in the family that could have been avoided had she not been so selfish. This film explores the aftermath of a pivotal moment that chips away at a family as they try to see past their anger and forgive. The most interesting ties in the spectrum of this family are the bond of sisterhood between Hathaway and DeWitt, the anger and abandonment aparent in the maternal relationship between Hathaway and Debra Winger, and the unconditinal love for Hathaway from father Bill Irwin.

If you are sensitive about the drug addiction of a loved one don't see this movie, but if you're up for prodding into the human condition, give it a whirl. Hathaway gives her best performance to date.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

SEX DRIVE

2008-11-06T13:56:00.000-05:00

Director: Sean Anders
Category: Comedy
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hrs 49 mins

Mitten says:

I almost didn't see this movie because I read so many reviews that said it's a one-trick-pony that wouldn't appeal to anybody who is past their teens. Well, given that this movie is rated R, most teens can't get into it so that should be the first clue that there's some adult humor in there. Secondly, Superbad was chock full of dick and fart jokes and the world seemed to love it, so there. [Superbad blew though, if you ask me.]

That being said, Sex Drive was funny. Main character Josh Zuckerman stars as a nerdy, teen virgin who meets a hot chick on the internet and decides (with the encouragement of ladies-man best friend Clark Duke) to take off across the country to get some. They bring along Zuckerman's secret crush and best friend Amanda Crew. The journey takes them through an Amish village lead by Seth Green and into a scandal that has them risking their lives for a little booty. Clark Duke's character is really nothing more than an amalgam of Jonah Hill's last few characters (and since he starred in a bit-role in Superbad it's no surprise that he ganked Hill's persona), but James Marsden more than makes up for that shortcoming by playing Zuckerman's jerk-off brother who is obsessed with muscle-cars and uncovering presumably dormant homosexuality in others.

Go with your buddies to see this one. It's not groundbreaking but it has some good laughs -- especially when Zuckerman wears the "donut with a Mexican sombrero" costume belonging to his mall-based employer.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

PRIDE AND GLORY

2008-11-03T14:39:00.001-05:00

Director: Gavin O'Connor
Category: Action, Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hrs 9 mins

Mitten says:

Pride and Glory is a cop film that delves into the minds of the NYPD, relying on in-depth character analysis coupled with the typical shoot-em-up flavor that's usually associated with this genre of film. Don't get me wrong. The gore is definitely present, but it presents itself in a way that advances the plot and comes off as necessary rather than gratuitous.

Brothers Edward Norton and Noah Emmerich, alongside brother-in-law Colin Farrell, work as police/investigators for the NYPD. Jon Voight, also a one-time officer, stars as Norton and Emmerich's father in this action/drama that pits familial loyalty against loyalty to the police department, ultimately making each character choose their own path to righteousness. Norton and Farrell are perfectly cast as the primary cat and mouse --with Norton being the anxious, yet intelligent brother-in-law to Farrell's deeply ambitious, violent character.

Pride and Glory is not chock full of mystery, as it's more about the characters' final decisions than unfolding plot-twists. This movie is filmed to look very dark and gritty and has some disturbing points of violence but the characters are worth a trip to the theatre -- especially Farrell's character.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

SYNECDOCHE NEW YORK

2008-11-02T17:46:00.010-05:00

Director: Charlie Kaufman
Category: Drama, Comedy
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hr 4 min

The Mole Says:

Synecdoche New York is, as expected, another cryptic, surreal, and personally reflective story from Charlie Kaufman. He wrote and directed this one, taking on an inarguably bold project for his directing debut. The film stars Philip Seymour Hoffman as a play director, the first indication of the autobiographical connection between Kaufman and Seymour’s character Caden. Troubles with family life at home as well as Caden’s seemingly justifiable hypochondriac attitude escalate as the story drifts into the surreal. After a break with his wife, huge gaps in time begin to occur, which alarm Caden, yet inexplicably become expected and routine. After winning a large endowment from an artistic foundation, Caden decides to take on his life’s work of creating a completely original play written to mirror life verbatim. The play is never open to the public because the rehearsals are constantly changing to mimic more recent occurrences. Likewise to reality, the play’s set is constantly being expanded to accurately reflect Caden’s life setting in New York. As characters evolve in the surreal, anachronistic setting, so do the actors playing them in rehearsals. Caden begins to see his reality as a scripted tale having little to do with himself. As these characters dive deeper into themselves, life begins to imitate art into an irreversible whirlpool of conscious realizations as the world outside the warehouse set crumbles.

Wow, there was so much to this movie, I’m wondering if that summary actually makes sense to those of you that haven’t seen it. I know it’s a good movie cause I’m still trying to figure out most of it and it’ll probably stay with me for a week or two as I drift through my surreality. Kaufman is the king of writing philosophically driven stories that metaphorically attach fictional characters to real people in our world. The curtain between reality and fiction is blurred while you’re watching a film about a play that blurs the curtain between reality and fiction. And so on, and so on (Warehouse within warehouse). My head might explode if I keep thinking about it. A number of other issues such as mortality and free will are presented in the film. I’m sure there might (maybe) even be a few that I missed. Ultimately, the movie takes on a fatalistic view which might be a bummer if you’re more of a sunshine and rainbows type of person. Regardless, it could be the most poetically ambitious films I’ve seen. I’m somewhat confused, a little down-trotted, but definitely going to see it again.

syn·ec·do·che : a figure of speech in which a part is used for the whole or the whole for a part, the special for the general or the general for the special

THE VERDICT: 4.5

TWILIGHT

2008-10-13T20:31:00.019-04:00

Director: Catherine Hardwicke
Category: Action, Drama, Romance, Horror
Rated: PG-13
Running time: TBA

MITTEN SAYS:

I feel like a kid at Christmas time! Twilight -- the movie adaptation of the best-selling, young-adult book-series by Stephenie Meyer -- is coming out in just 39 days . . . on November 21, 2008. While books are typically a better medium than movies because movies have time constraints and lack the deep, descriptive elements of literature, this film has been cast perfectly so it's going to be exciting to see how it compares to the novels. Each person who was cast in Twilight looks exactly as I had imagined them when I was reading the series, with the exception of Esme and Rosalie.

The cast includes:

Kristen Stewart (Bella Swan)
Robert Pattinson (Edward Cullen)
Billy Burke (Charlie Swan)
Peter Facinelli (Dr. Carlisle Cullen)
Elizabeth Reaser (Esme Cullen)
Nikki Reed (Rosalie Hale)
Ashley Greene (Alice Cullen)
Jackson Rathbone (Jasper Hale)
Kellan Lutz (Emmett Cullen)
Cam Gigandet (James)
Edi Gathegi (Laurent)
Rachelle Lafevre (Victoria)
Anna Kendrick (Jessica)
Taylor Lautner (Jacob Black)

Check out a Widget with the official trailer and an e-card by clicking here.

And yes, Edward Cullen is perfect.

The Duchess

2008-10-09T20:14:00.015-04:00

Director: Saul Dibb
Category: Drama
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 45 mins

MITTEN SAYS:

I wasn't sure if I could tolerate another Keira Knightley period-piece, but as it turns out, I am rather glad that I saw The Duchess. While it's safe to say that most period-pieces move like molasses, this one -- about Georgiana: The Duchess of Devonshire -- is even-paced and embodies a depth of character that is usually overshadowed in these types of films by enormous costumes and flowery social events. While both the costumes and the events are present, they play a secondary role in the story.

In her late teens, Keira Knightley (as The Duchess of Devonshire) is given to Ralph Fiennes (The Duke of Devonshire) by her mother. She obliges happily until she realizes that her new marriage has less to do with love and more to do with providing The Duke with an heir to his throne. This film delves into women's rights (or lack thereof), politics, monogamy, and double-standards of the time -- all through the eyes of the ever-fashionable yet emotionally-abused Georgiana. With surprising depth, The Duchess draws lines between familial love, romantic love, and friendship -- portraying the necessity of each while ultimately forcing Georgiana to choose which matters most in life.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

HOW TO LOSE FRIENDS & ALIENATE PEOPLE

2008-10-06T12:06:00.014-04:00

Director: Robert B. Weide
Category: Comedy, Romance
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hr 50 mins

MITTEN SAYS:

Similar to Run Fat Boy Run, this comedy is exactly what you would expect -- a predictable plot with some hilarious, no-so-brainy moments popping up here and there from Simon Pegg. Although this movie could have been edited down a good 25 minutes, it's worth seeing if you need something lighthearted and have the time to spare.

Simon Pegg stars as the honest but snarky editor of a small Brit publication. He relocates to New York to chase his dream of mingling with celebrities after he is hired by Sharp's, an US Weekly-style magazine spearheaded by editor Jeff Bridges. Kirsten Dunst, in a less-than-standout-role stars as his coworker in the most gossip-oriented section of the magazine. Along the way, he develops a crush on celeb-of-the-moment, Megan Fox, who -- surprise, surprise -- plays the vixen/airhead role to a T. The film touches on the topics of synthetic celebrity and journalistic integrity, ultimately challenging Pegg to choose between his reputation as a reporter and the dark side of fame.

THE VERDICT: 3.0

NICK & NORAH'S INFINITE PLAYLIST

2008-10-03T18:28:00.011-04:00

Director: Peter Sollett
Category: Comedy, Drama
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 30 min

MITTEN SAYS:

I really didn't know what to expect when I decided to see Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist but it turned out to be a surprisingly great movie. It's one of those "best night of my life" films -- like 200 Cigarettes Can't Hardly Wait -- that has its characters fall in love all over New York City's live-music scene, from Arlene's Grocery to The Bowery Ballroom, Crash Mansion and more. This film had everybody in the theatre laughing out loud.

Michael Cera stars with his classic neurotic nervousness as Nick, the bassist of an all-gay, drummer-less band who has just had his heart ripped out by a bitchy girl who is far too attractive for him. Kat Dennings is Norah, the understated daughter of a music mogul who attracts attention from aspiring musicians primarily because of her ability to pass music on to her father. The two high-school seniors cross paths at Arlene's Grocery on the Lower East Side one weekend and embark on a crazy night filled with romantic drama as they hop from one live music venue to the next in pursuit of a secret, late-night show by their favorite band. Cera's band and Dennings' wasted best friend provide added laughs in a film that's well worth seeing.

THE VERDICT: 4.5

MY BEST FRIEND'S GIRL

2008-10-03T17:20:00.013-04:00

Director: Howard Deutch
Category: Crass slap-stick flick packaged as a Romantic Comedy
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hr 51 min

MITTEN SAYS:

My Best Friend's Girl is packaged as a cutesy, Kate Hudson flick and for that reason I went and saw it with my parents during a visit to Texas last week. Romantic comedies are typically safe, but alas, I was blindsided. This movie was far more in the vein of Knocked Up or Superbad, but dare I say, a hell of a lot more crass than both combined. Watch this preview and tell me if you would expect a romantic comedy:

While Dane Cook has always lacked any apparent talent, he plummets to new depths in a role that has him spouting off horribly crass, sexually-explicit, one-liners that would not be funny no matter who you're sitting next to. The basis of the plot is summed up in the title: My Best Friend's Girl. Jason Biggs loses the interest of co-worker and love of his life, Kate Hudson because he's simply too nice. He asks his best friend, Cook -- who takes men's exes on dates and subjects them to a horrible time so that they can see that their "nice-guy" exes are a way better deal -- to work his magic on Hudson. In a move that is, ahem, no big surprise, Cook falls for Hudson and wants to be a slightly better man for her. (Please note the use of the word "slightly") Why she falls for him, the movie never really clarifies.

All in all, I wasted 1 hour and 51 minutes of my life and got to see Alec Baldwin (who cameos as Cook's disgusting father) verbally imitate the sound of his girlfriend's lady parts during an orgasm, all while sitting with my parents. Alas, Moustache said I deserved what I got for paying money to see anything involving Dane Cook. Dually noted!

THE VERDICT: 1.0

NIGHTS IN RODANTHE

2008-10-03T17:12:00.003-04:00

Director: George C. Wolfe
Category: Romance, Drama
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 1 hr 37 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Have you ever been out with one of your guy friends and they see a cute girl and say something like "Are you tired . . . because you've been running through my mind all night long!" and then your face gets red-hot for them because they are one big douchebag cliche and aren't even aware of it? Well, in a nutshell, that's Nights In Rodanthe.

This deflated romantic comedy has Diane Lane playing the role of a woman going through a separation because of an unfaithful husband. To get away from it all, she holes up in Rodanthe at her best friend's beachside bed-and-breakfast and promises to look after the lone guest who will be arriving the next day. Enter Richard Gere . . . a plastic surgeon who accidentally killed a patient and has come to Rodanthe to seek forgiveness from the patient's family and regain respect from his son, played by James Franco.

Neither the plot nor the dialog of this movie are deep. While some decent scenery does exist, it's overshadowed by cliche after cliche. At one point in the movie, a hurricane hits Rodanthe and although Lane and Gere are scrambling to bolt the windows shut and are scared for their lives they still take the time to have sex, mid-storm, after Lane basically trips and falls into Gere's arms. My mom did mention afterwards that Katrina victims were probably a little less concerned with a "roll in the hay" (her words) than getting the hell out of Dodge.

[SPOILER ALERT!]

Apparently there is some giant lesson to be learned about love and while the only realistic part of the movie is the sudden death of Gere, only this mush-fest could make sudden death come across as trite.

THE VERDICT: 1.0

BURN AFTER READING

2008-09-22T09:43:00.005-04:00

MovieWeb - Movie Photos, Videos & More

Directed by Ethan and Joel Coen
Category: Comedy, crime
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hr 36 min

TERRI SAYS:

It has been quite some time since I've had a grin of pleasure from such a smart movie. If you're looking for laughs accompanied by a knee-slapper, this isn't the film for you. (Think deadpan humor.) Kicking The Ladykillers and Intolerable Cruelty out of the water, Burn After Reading is more along the lines of Fargo. You should know that other than No Country For Old Men, the films referenced above are all I've seen from this dynamic duo, and wish to see the rest of their works. I know that fact drops me 10 points down on the movie buff scale and you'll say "you haven't seen (insert Coen Brothers movie not mentioned above)?!" However, I think you'll recover quickly and move on with your life.

Anywho, I wanted to point out that the casting couldn't have been better. John Malkovich and Brad Pitt give classic performances for two entirely different personalities. Malkovich is such a jerk, but you can't help but side with him due to reasons you shall find out when you see it. Pitt gives one of his best performances since Fight Club playing such a moron! The rest of the cast (George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton and J.K. Simmons) also give performances that leave you as happy as finishing a yummy cupcake. In short, expect dry humor, be weary of unexpected twists, and love the performances.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

THE HOUSE BUNNY

2008-09-08T23:53:00.009-04:00

Director: Fred Wolf

Category: Comedy, teen

Rated: PG-13

Running time: 1 hr 37 min

TERRI SAYS:

Bunny falls in the category of, "I need a distraction to get rid of the pain." There were two bits that amused me. The first is the way Anna Farris remembers people's names. The second is the way one of the sorority sisters tries to pick up a guy (it involves dropping timber). The moral of the story I got out of it is girls need to be who they are and have confidence in themselves. If they try to dumb it down or lower themselves, they're duped. Has it been done before? Yes. Was it a waste of time? Pretty much. :-/

THE VERDICT: 2.5

WALL-E

2008-07-06T19:32:00.004-04:00

Director: Andrew Stanton
Category: Animation
Rated: G
Running Time: 1 hr 43 min

MITTEN SAYS:

I have not been happy with Disney and Pixar lately because that have released a slew of movies that are unintelligent, boring, and quite honestly all look the same. Before I saw Wall-E I heard mixed reviews -- some said that it was too depressing or sad for children -- but I think it's a very smart movie and feel that the children in the theater where I saw it thoroughly enojoyed it.

In a nutshell, Wall-E is a trash compactor that resembles Johnny 5 from Short Circuit. He's the last thing left on Earth besides trash and spends his days salvaging objects that have some connection to humanity [i.e. lightbulbs, rubix cubes, old movies, etc.]. Humans have evaucated Earth because they have made it unlivable and inhabit a giant aero-cruise ship where they are massively obese and have given up thinking for themselves -- from what they wear to what they eat. To say any more would ruin the movie, especially for children. Wall-E is a story about loving and caring for others and about taking care of the planet and our resources. Yes, it's less slap-stick than recent Pixar films and doesn't rely heavily on fart jokes -- so if that's what you're looking for this wouldn't be it. If you want your children to respect the planet and each other, I highly recommend this film.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

THE FALL

2008-07-01T12:12:00.007-04:00

Director: Tarsem Singh
Category: Drama, epic, action
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr 57 min

MITTEN SAYS:

This movie is totally worth seeing. There were some people that walked out of the theater complaining that they didn't get it but I honestly think they just weren't paying attention. If you are a fan of Tarsem Singh's The Cell, this one is every bit as visual but with a better plot.

In 1920's California, immigrant Catinca Untaru find herself in the children's wing of a hospital with a broken arm after an accident at the orchard where she and her family pick oranges for a living. This is apparently her debut film, but she is one of the best, endearing child actresses I have seen in a long time. She gets bored and explores the hospital eventually finding Lee Pace -- an actor with a death-wish. The two become fast friends and they spend their days in his room with Pace telling Untaru an epic tale that continues from day to day. The visuals in the present are accurately reminiscent of the 1920s while the visuals in the "story world" are stunning and often look more like modern art than movie sets. Pace preys on Untaru's innocence and newfound friendship to help carry him down a dark path where he eventually has to decide between living or dying.

THE VERDICT: 4.5

SAVAGE GRACE

2008-07-01T11:46:00.005-04:00

Director: Tom Kalin
Category: Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr 36 min

MITTEN SAYS:

I am really surprised that the movies The Dreamers and Young Adam were NC-17 and this movie isn't. It is definitely not one that you want to get stuck in with your parents.

Julianne Moore is Barbara Daly, the wife of trust funder Brooks Baekeland [Stephen Dillane]. His family comes from money and she married into money. The two have a fairly twisted relationship -- always cheating, manipulating, embarrassing each other in front of company, throwing crazy tantrums. Neither work -- although they are flush with money -- and both have disfunctional sexual identities. As it seems, their only son, Tony [Eddie Redmayne], falls victim to their disfunction. After Brooks has an affair and runs away with son Tony's first sexual encounter, Blanca [Elena Anaya], Barbara has a nervous breakdown that leads her to find solace in sex with strangers, her son's homosexual playmate Sam [Hugh Dancy], and even her son. Battling between caring for his twisted mom and drawing the line at what feels morally wrong, Tony grows up with a disfunctional family -- especially in the sex department -- and ultimately is a product of their shortcomings. Their very vices ultimately lead to their downfall.

This movie is slow and uncomfortable. Be careful who you see it with. It's probably not the best date movie and the outcome might leave you a bit disturbed since it's based on a true story. They do, however, really capture the essence of the late 1940s, 50s, and 60s to a T.

THE VERDICT: 3.0

GET SMART

2008-07-01T11:27:00.006-04:00

Director: Peter Segal
Category: Comedy, Action
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr 50 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Get Smart was my favorite television show when I was a kid -- granted, it wasn't its first run. It was syndicated on Nickelodeon and I never missed an episode. That being said, the 2008 movie version starring Steve Carell as Agent 86/Maxwell Smart and Anne Hathaway as Agent 99 is exactly what I thought it would be.

The plot isn't very strong -- but who expected it to be? KAOS breaches Control's headquarters, compromising all of Control's secret agents. Data analyst, Steve Carell, is enlisted alongside Anne Hathaway's Agent 99 [who had plastic surgery to change her face, thus keeping her in the game] to get the skinny on what KAOS has planned -- in this case, nuclear weapons. I won't spoil the movie further but will say that Steve Carell did a really good job of playing Maxwell Smart. He got the awkward timing down, however, he did occasionally crack a smile which the totally serious Don Adams never did in the 1960s [making it that much more hilarious when he did something stupid]. My biggest disappointment was that the movie was set in modern day when I was hoping for some of the 60s flair that gave the television show a cool visual vibe.

THE VERDICT 3.0

IN BRUGES

2008-03-11T14:21:00.006-04:00

Director: Martin McDonagh
Category: Action, Comedy, Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr 41 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Hit-men Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson are sent to Bruges, Belgium by boss Ralph Fiennes and ordered to await further instructions. During their first days in the scenic town it becomes clear that Farrell is mentally disintegrating after accidentally shooting a young boy during one of his hit jobs. Gleeson's love of sightseeing puts him at ease while Farrell unravels in a town he despises during his tenor as a tourist. This contrast between Gleeson and Farrell (regarding their relationship with Bruges) foreshadows a point later in the film where Gleeson's self-awareness and Farrell's lack there of proves the determining factor in which will get a second chance at life. Farrell, Gleeson, and Fiennes play "cat-and-mouse" around the historic city as they determine what is morally right, wrong, and what they can each live with.

In Bruges is an awesome action flick but its delivery proves to be as conflicted as its two main characters. At times this film can't decide if it wants to be deep and overly concerned with human emotion or crack jokes at the expendability of human life. It's worth seeing to decide for yourself.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

BE KIND REWIND

2008-02-27T17:16:00.008-05:00

Director: Michel Gondry
Category: Comedy
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr 41 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Gondry, known for Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, The Science of Sleep and countless indie and modern rock videos has always had a knack for being heartfelt, indirectly comedic, and visually forward-thinking. Be Kind Rewind is optically stunning (in-keeping with Gondry's body of work) but for the first time, the comedic aspect takes precedence, creating a movie that outside of his typical style goes for "funny" over "deep".

Jack Black is, well, Jack Black; the lowbrow owner of a local auto repair yard that's bordered by a power plant that Black feels is slowly melting his brain. Danny Glover plays the owner of a local video store around the corner from Black. The store hasn't kept up with technological changes, confining most of its catalog to VHS tapes. Mos Def helps Glover run the store and Mia Farrow stars as the store's most loyal customer. Glover bails town for a trip, leaving Mos Def in charge of the store. In the meantime, Black tries to sabotage the power plant which ends badly. He becomes magnetized and demagnetizes the store's entire video collection, threatening to put Glover out of business. Mos Def and Black eventually scheme to record their own versions of classics such as Ghostbusters over the blank tapes with the help of resident laundromat employee Melonie Diaz and eventually the entire neighborhood.

The visuals and ideas are awesome in this movie while the comedy factor often falls flat due to Black's homogenous ability to garner laughs (think Nacho Libre). Mos Def wins Rewind's MVP award while Farrow comes across is whiney and annoying. The movie ultimately plays out like a formulaic chick-flick but because Gondry is the director my guess is that people who usually don't like predictable sentimentality will excuse Be Kind Rewind because it looks pretty rad.

THE VERDICT: 3.0

CHARLIE BARTLETT

2008-02-25T19:37:00.012-05:00

Director: Jon Poll
Category: Comedy, Drama, Teen
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr 37 min

MITTEN SAYS:

If Ferris Bueller had been on Ritalin and Prozac, would things would have turned out differently? Charlie Bartlett is a present-day Ferris Bueller that mocks modern psychology and the fact that anti-depressants and other mind alterting drugs are apparently easier to come by than a McDonald's combo #1.

Charlie (Anton Yelchin) isn't a normal teen . . . or is he when you really think about it? His dad is in prison for tax evasion, he practically has to parent his own mother and, of course, he comes from money and has access to the best shrinks that that money can by, because after all, there must be something wrong with him other than his disfunctional family, right? He downgrades from prep school to public school after a "fake ID-making" scandal and does his best to fit in, despite a round of pummeling by the school bully. He falls in love with the principal's (Robert Downey, Jr.) daughter as the gap widens between his climbing acceptance among his peers and a battery of misplaced blame from school administrators.

Yes, this movie is predictable. Yes, this movie plays into to tween notion that there should always be a moral when the film wraps. But the clencher is the point is anything but kiddie; pills don't solve problems . . . you actually have to solve them yourself, and god forbid, you might actually feel a little shitty in the problem-solving process! Imagine that!?!?!

So, yes, I really liked this movie but I have a feeling that the millions of people on antidepressants who put their otherwise normal kids on antidepressants because they don't want to deal with them will probably take some offense. This movie addresses a very real, often touchy issue which is probably why it is a teen movie that unconventionally happens to be rated R.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

KID FLICK UPDATE

2008-02-24T15:37:00.002-05:00

MITTEN says:

ENCHANTED
Smart + Original = YES

THE WATER HORSE: LEGEND OF THE DEEP
Smart + Exciting = YES

BEE MOVIE
Cute + Played Out = MEH, OK.

MR. MAGORIUM'S WONDER EMPORIUM
Death + Bad Acting + Creepy Old Men Canoodling Young Girls = NO

THE GOLDEN COMPASS
Hidden Agenda + Violence + Confusing To Kids + Snoozefest = NO

DEFINITELY, MAYBE

2008-02-21T22:35:00.000-05:00

Director: Adam Brooks
Category: Romance, Comedy
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr 45 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Definitely, Maybe? Definitely, meh. Before I really delve in, I would like to preface this review by pointing out that Ryan Reynolds has as much charisma as a baked potato. Just think about that for a minute. . .

The movie takes place in 2008 when 10-year-old Maya's (Abigail Breslin) father Will (Ryan Reynolds) picks her up from school on "sex-ed day" only to be bombarded with questions that he doesn't want to answer regarding the birds and the bees. This segues into a conversation about Maya's mother, who is currently in the throes of divorce from Will. Maya questions the way that her father and mother met which turns into a 1.5 hour long bedtime story regarding Will's dating and sex life from the early 1990s to present day. Talking about booze, threesomes, and cheating with a 10-year-old? That kind of takes the "Romantic" out of "Romantic Comedy".

Will's bedtime story unfolds a tale about the three most significant women in his life; college sweetheart Emily (Elizabeth Banks), vixen journalist Summer (Rachel Weisz) and on-again off-again best friend April (Isla Fisher). Maya obviously knows her mother (although you don't until the end) but does not know the role that she played in her father's younger years. As the story wraps up, Maya's mother ends up being one character and Will's soul-mate is another.

This movie is somewhat enjoyable, but I have become increasingly tired of Hollywood trying to sell broken families as "the new black". Cute? Maybe. But I know for a fact that any kid whose parents are getting divorced is probably not the front-runner in making sure Baked Potato Reynolds hooks up with the one that got away.

THE VERDICT: 1.5

FOOL'S GOLD

2008-02-20T14:39:00.009-05:00

Director: Andy Tennant
Category: Adventure, Comedy, Drama
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr 35 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Director Andy Tennant is known for his lighthearted, sugary fare; Hitch, Sweet Home Alabama, Ever After. Fool's Gold is definitely for those craving something saccharine, however it has just enough action and quirk to come across as a new-age Romancing The Stone.

Enter Finn (Matthew McConaughey) and Tess (Kate Hudson), a bohemian couple in the throes of divorce. The two fell madly in love over treasure hunting; Tess loving the history involved in the process, and Finn angling for adventure and riches. Present day finds Tess fed up with Finn's devil-may-care antics, his lack of responsibility and penchant for squandering funds and finding trouble. Finn, on the other hand is still madly in love with his soon-to-be ex. Donald Sutherland plays the role of the quirky billionaire, whos snobby daughter (Alexis Dziena) and multi-million dollar yacht ultimately reunite Finn and Tess for an over-the-top attempt to finish their ongoing journey; finding sunken chests of booty from the 1700s.

Fool's Gold is lighthearted, if not a bit predictable, but the island scenery provides a much needed reprieve from winter's dreary months. Tess and Finn's love of adventure, and (ahem) sex make for an upbeat excitement-filled romantic comedy.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

THE SAVAGES

2008-02-20T14:05:00.007-05:00

Director: Tamara Jenkins
Category: Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr 55 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Coming from the ultimate critic of Advertising, you might be prompted to roll your eyes when I say this, but The Savages is deceptively packaged as a comedy when it's anything but. On the contrary, The Savages deals with real-life circumstances that every audience member will relate to in one way or another and walk away from feeling ultimately depressed.

This movie follows Wendy (Laura Linney) and Jon (Philip Seymour Hoffman), two eccentric 30-something siblings living in separate areas of New York who have achieved ultimate failure in their careers, relationships, and basic interaction with others. The mental and physical decline of their father forces them to interact with each other in a familial way they are obviously unaccustomed to, while they move him from his home into an assisted living facility. The two attempt to "find themselves" as they half-heartedly attend to their father's needs. This movie does get credit for being completely realistic, however a reality where parents die, lovers leave you feeling empty, and dreams are shattered is not necessarily my idea of entertainment. If you find this movie hilarious, chances are regardless of how dysfunctional you are, you have probably never lost somebody you love.

THE VERDICT: 1.5

NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN

2008-02-15T23:11:00.000-05:00

I don't care how many awards this movie wins. I hated it. HATED IT!

I spent the entire second half milling around the lobby wondering why I paid to be subjected to skulls being blasted by a cattle gun. I think the Cohen brothers deserve to be spanked for allowing guts to take precedence over plot. It has become apparent that The Oscars and The Golden Globes have lowered the bar if No Country For Old Men was deemed the best thing that happened in film this year.

For all of the sheep that think this movie is the best thing that ever happened, you really should get out more.

That's all.

THE VERDICT: 0.5

I'M NOT THERE

2007-12-13T12:49:00.000-05:00

The Mole Says:

Director: Todd Haynes

Category: Drama / Biographical / Independent

Rated: R

Running Time: 2 hr 15 min

“I’m Not There” is a non-chronological and, at times, metaphoric story of the life of Bob Dylan and the many different personas displayed by and cast upon him. A total of six different actors, including both sexes and multiple races, play Dylan in this artistic independent film. None of the characters are actually named Bob Dylan in the film, but each represents a different side, or life if you will, of Dylan. From the opening credits til the closing, the film weaves in and out of the different stories never focusing on one for too long. Some of the reenactments are obvious (ie. Cate Blanchett’s portrayal of Dylan at his first electric show at the Newport Folk Festival) while others are much more ambiguous reflections of what might have been real occurrence or simply an idea associated with the artist. The Christian Bale (folky Dylan), Heath Ledger (fame/family Dylan), and Cate Blanchett (scrutinized rock star Dylan) are the more literal reflections, yet still focused very differently. The Ben Whishaw (narrator/interviewee Dylan), Marcus Carl Franklin (child/blues Dylan), and Richard Gere (Billy the Kid Dylan) fulfill symbolic representations of the different sides of Dylan. Because of the constant switching between characters and unconventional presentation, a standard plot summary is virtually impossible to write without completely telling all six different parts.

First off, that synopsis was hard to write, and I just figured out why; because you pretty much float your way through this movie trying to remember key elements for six different characters that are in the end, the same person. Not as easy to summarize as John McClane battling German terrorists in a high rise on Christmas Eve. Having said that, I thought the idea of using visibly different characters to reflect the different sides/lives of Dylan, literal and symbolic, was creative and innovative. It felt as though it was a two hour dream from Dylan’s psyche about real events in his life mixed in with characters from his anima. A few of the portrayals were more enjoyable to watch than others. Some defining Dylan traits and ideas are seen in the Bale and Blanchett characters, while the worldlier “Ledger Dylan” deals with the cost fame takes on his family. Contrastingly, the ambiguousness of the metaphorical characters leaves more up for interpretation. My largest content criticism is the "Billy the Kid Dylan". I didn’t see that character's relevance (perhaps only Bob himself knows the meaning of that one) and would have been happy leaving the theater 20 minutes earlier having never seen Richard Gere. The only other problem I had with this film was the acting. Very good at times, yet it seemed that each actor was aware, almost too aware, of the fact that they were playing a beloved, influential American icon. Surely, not an easy thing to do, but that awareness led some to overplay the part, especially those with other boundaries to transcend, such as gender. Overall however, I found this film to be unique and innovative. If you are a Dylan fan or have an affinity for films with vague clues not meant to have one definite interpretation, it is a must see. If you don’t care for ambiguity, multiple isolated plots or untraditional storylines, then this film is not for you.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORDSPECIAL GUEST REVIEW

2007-11-16T12:22:00.000-05:00

Director: Andrew Dominik
Category: Western / Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hr 40 min

HOORAY FOR OUTSIDE OPINIONS! MITTEN'S KID SISTER ASHLEY LIVES IN TEXAS, THEREFORE GIVING HER THE UTMOST CRED WHEN IT COMES TO WESTERNS. NUK. NUK. ASHLEY SAYS:

Let me preface this by saying that I am a "Western" addict and a huge Brad Pitt fan. I watched Legends of the Fall at the theater and every single day for 2 months when it first came out on video. Unfortunately, this movie was probably one of the most boring films I have ever seen. I am a huge fan of Lonesome Dove, 310 To Yuma, and Bonanza but this film was a stinker in the Western category. Brad Pitt attempts to be the "rugged cowboy" but is by no means the Robert Duvall we all love from Lonesome Dove. His rugged attempt actually comes across as comical. Throughout the entire movie Brad Pitt (Jesse James) places his tongue on his lip. Instead of being tough like he obviously intends, he looks silly. It reminds me of what "clam tongue" off of Sex and The City would have looked like outside of the mouth. Out of the 4 people I went with (who might I add are movie fanatics), 3 slept during most of the film. The plot lacked excitement all around and this movie was so extremely long! When you think of Jesse James you think of bank robberies, shoot-outs, and action. The only action was in the first 15 minutes of the movie during a train robbery. After that the story was more about drama and the gang's personal relationships with each other. Casey Affleck (Robert Ford) and Brad Pitt have a relationship that's a bit on the strange, creepy side. It was never clear if Affleck idolized James and wanted to be him or if he had romantic feelings for him. Affleck played his typical whiney character only this time he was dealt a majorly dull role. The cinematography was the only redeeming point, but not enough to warrant paying $7.50 or more for admission. The plot was too slow, the acting lacked and the Assassination of Jesse James was an all around bomb in my opinion. I hope Brad's next movie is a vast improvement. Rent this on video when it comes out only if you have seen everything else and have 3 hours of your life to spare.

THE VERDICT: 1.0

CONTROL

2007-11-14T21:00:00.000-05:00

Director: Anton Corbijn
Category: Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hr 1 min

MITTEN SAYS:

Control is about the band Joy Division, and more specifically, an up-close glimpse at the life of lead singer Ian Curtis. This is not a documentary (think Ray or Walk The Line). If you know anything about the history of Joy Divison then it's a given that this film is going to be a tearjerker.

Ian Curtis (Sam Riley) lives in Salford in the late 70's and works his day job as a placement officer at the local employment agency. He marries Debbie Curtis (Samantha Morton) at an early age, moves into a modest home and pushes for them to have a child, thus spelling out his future as a small-town family man. One day friends of the couple find their band Warsaw out of a lead singer and Curtis, being the Bowie-loving eyeliner-wearing lad that he is, trys out and fits right in. Warsaw changes it's name to Joy Division, and in an unexpected turn becomes wildly successful after an appearance on television. After a sudden seizure while on tour, Curtis is diagnosed with epilepsy and it told that alcohol and lack of sleep will irritate his condition. Obviously lack of sleep and the presence of booze notoriously surround most touring bands, and Joy Division is no exception. Curtis's diagnosis spirals him into a deep depression where he develops a "life is short" attitude starts having an affair with hobby journalist Annik Honore' (Alexandra Maria Lara). The majority of the movie depicts Curtis as a tormented artist, struggling to decide whether he wants the devil-may-care, romatic life he shares with Annik or the loving home life he shares with wife, Debbie all while dealing with the success of Joy Division and his frequent bouts with epilepsy.

Control is filmed competely in black and white, a choice that visually personifies depression, regret, and the grittiness of Greater Manchester. Intelligent visuals in this film leave a lot to the imagination, making the film even more sad and aggressive than if scenes were completely visually spelled out. The clothes drying rack in the ceiling of the Curtis household, for example, is strewn with the clothes of a young married couple during his happy days of early marriage. The same object is hung with baby clothes later on and in his last day alive is hung with absolutely nothing, a coincidence that beautifully depicts Curtis's emotional state at the end.

Sam Riley is perfect at portraying Curis as both a tormented family man and a force capable of being a staple in the post-punk movement of the late 70's.

See this movie only if you're a fan of the Joy Division, Ian Curtis, or watching love tear somebody apart.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

INTO THE WILD

2007-11-14T13:06:00.000-05:00

Director: Sean Penn
Category: Adventure / Drama / Biography
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hr 20 min

The Mole says:

Into the Wild is a story about Christopher McCandless, an Emory University graduate in the early 1990s who decides that a conventional life is not for him. This Sean Penn directed non-fictional tale focuses on his journeys, experiences, and life philosophy through the two years after his graduation. Christopher, played by Emile Hirsch, is vastly different from his cohorts and decides he must journey alone to escape society to find the true meaning of life. Coming from a financially privileged, yet very unhappy home, Christopher seems wise beyond his years, but almost detrimentally obsessed in his search for truth. Disparity between social classes and an unfair nepotistic societal system of rewards and wealth seem to be what continually drive McCandless. He takes on a fake name and goes to great lengths to ensure that he cannot be found by his friends and family. Along the way he meets a number of characters, some which restore his faith in humanity, and others who further destroy it. His ultimate goal is to make it to Alaska, where he can live completely in the wild, void of all human contact to find meaning and truth.

Everyone I’ve talked to has said, “read the book before seeing the movie.” But who has time for that? Maybe if I cut The Price is Right out of my morning schedule, but let’s be realistic here. I’m sure the book is a great read, but I thought Sean Penn and Emile Hirsch did a fantastic job of capturing the true thoughts and feelings of McCandless (which is probably an extra stupid thing to say considering I didn’t read the book). As silly as it sounds to say from an apartment in New York, I felt like I could empathize with McCandless’s thoughts on non-materialism and isolationism being a path to finding the true self/God/or Karma (depending on your religion). And I think that was probably a main reason Penn made this film; to try to encourage people to take a step back out of their normal day, relax for a minute, and think about their individual priorities as opposed to society’s overbearing collective priorities. I think Penn succeeded in making a unique and meaningful film that should have people thinking for years to come. Eddie Vedder did the soundtrack for the movie, which fit most of the time, but did feel forced in a few scenes. The cinematography was good in the film and most of the outdoor settings were visually stunning. If you’ve got any fight-the-man-nature-hippie in you and enjoy true stories passionate conviction, then you will probably enjoy this film. I did, although it was depressing at times.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

MARTIAN CHILD

2007-11-07T00:07:00.000-05:00

Director: Menno Meyjes
Category: Drama
Rated: PG
Running Time: 1hr 48 mins

MITTEN SAYS:

Martian Child is a Catch 22. It's completely predictable in most regards but it's heartwarming and quiky enough to be an enjoyable family film. John Cusak is a science-fiction writer who grew up as somewhat of an outcast. His wife recently passed away leaving behind her best friend, quirky Amanda Peet, and a golden retriever, Somewhere. Cusak, who often consults his on screen and real life sister Joan Cusak, decides to adopt a boy, choosing an outsider or "martian boy" that he identifies with due to his own childhood isolation. Bobby Coleman stars as adoptee Dennis, who makes his first on-screen appearance inside of a cardboard box and tells people he is from Mars as a form of coping mechanism. The movie unfolds as one would expect, with John Cusak playing his typical emo/intelligent character, Coleman playing a weird-kid role (think the movie "Powder") and Peet pretty much going to waste. I left the theatre feeling less than enlightened, but was happy to see that my younger cousin had a smile on his face. Take the kids to see this one.

THE VERDICT: 2.5

UPCOMING RELEASE - KURT COBAIN: ABOUT A SON

2007-11-06T14:38:00.000-05:00

Director: A.J. Schnack
Category: Documentary
Rated: NR
Running Time: 1hr 36 mins

Atlanta's Plaza Theatre on Ponce will be showing Kurt Cobain: About a Son starting November 16th. Here's what they have to say about it:

An intimate and moving meditation on the late musician and artist Kurt Cobain, based on more than 25 hours of previously unheard audiotaped interviews conducted with Cobain by noted music journalist Michael Azerrad for his book "Come As You Are: The Story of Nirvana." In the film, Kurt Cobain recounts his own life - from his childhood and adolescence to his days of musical discovery and later dealings with explosive fame - and offers often piercing insights into his life, music, and times. The conversations heard in the film have never before been made public and they reveal a highly personal portrait of an artist much discussed but not particularly well understood.

LARS AND THE REAL GIRL

2007-11-01T01:40:00.001-04:00

Director: Craig Gillespie
Category: Romance, Drama, Comedy
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1hr 46mins

MITTEN SAYS:

Lars and the Real Girl is a lot like The Fountain or The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. Half of the audience left scratching their heads, a fourth were mad that it wasn't as funny as they assumed it would be, and the other fourth loved it. I'm in the percentile that loved it. The preview is pure chicanery (simply because it seems like a Tenenbaum-esque dark comedy) when in reality this movie has quite a bit more depth than an unsuspecting person would expect given that it centers around a twenty-something's romantic affair with a life-size sex doll. Lars (Ryan Gosling) lives in the garage behind his brother Gus (Paul Schneider) and sister-in-law Karin's (Emily Mortimer) house. Lars endures self inflicted isolation much to his relatives' chagrin, to the point that he's even afraid to be touched by others. His social anxiety piques when he decides to order an anatomically correct doll, Bianca. Bianca's arrival and Lar's steadfast idea that she's real are confusing for his family and they talk him into taking her to a doctor/shrink for a check up. The doctor diagnoses Lars as being delusional but clarifies that delusions are often a sign of something deeper and encourages his family to play along. The whole community (his church, family friends, and work buddies) jump on the Bianca bandwagon in attempt to support Lars. To unfold any more of the plot would ruin the movie (if you haven't seen it), but Lars ultimately has to choose his own destiny and deal with the source of his delusion. As always, Gosling is a star and although this movie actually earned a few of my tears it wasn't depressing at all. It's worth seeing, if anything, because it's a refreshing new presentation of a popular subject.

Check out the trailer here:

THE VERDICT: 4.5

DAN IN REAL LIFE

2007-10-30T21:22:00.000-04:00

Director: Peter Hedges
Category: Comedy/Romance
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1hr 35mins

MITTEN SAYS:

Unlike most of the crass, mindless junk that passes for comedy today, Dan In Real Life is smart and endearing. Steve Carell stars as Dan, an advice columnist who writes about everyday problems, while somehow putting out fires of his own. The death of his wife has left him with three adolescent daughters; one who just started driving, one who's sex crazed and thinks she's in love, and one who just wants her father's attention. The family heads to Rhode Island for a holiday with relatives (about 30 extended family memebers) and Carell takes an afternoon to himself, ultimately meeting Marie (Juliette Binoche) in a bookstore. The humor starts to unfold when Carell later finds himself spending the holiday with Binoche because she's his brother's (Dane Cook) girlfriend. Awkward incidents and Carell's quick wit lead to some downright hilarious moments. Dan In Real Life has a human element to it that isn't always present in comedies. You'll find yourself laughing at moments that are very easy to identify with.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

MICHAEL CLAYTON

2007-10-24T22:33:00.001-04:00

Director: Tony Gilroy
Category: Drama/Crime/Mystery
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hrs

MITTEN SAYS:

Michael Clayton isn't groundbreaking, but it's entertaining. Similar to Erin Brockovich, this film has Big Brother (in the form of a huge corporation) coming down on the "little guy" (in the form of farmers and their families dying from chemicals produced by said company). George Clooney leads as Clayton, a man with a mysterious past littered by gambling and family problems. Clayton has been with Kenner, Bach & Ledeen's firm for a decade but instead of becoming a partner, he's up to his eyeballs in debt and works as a self proclaimed "janitor", cleaning up behind the scenes to keep peace between the firm's partners and their clients. All hell breaks loose when Aruther (Tom Wilkinson), one of the firm's leading lawyers, has a nervous breakdown due to his terrible guilt associated with defending the corporate monster, UNorth. Clooney picks up where Wilkinson leaves off, questioning his firm's ethics and the fate of UNorth and their corporate head, Karen (Tilda Swinton). Swinton plays her typical pursed-lipped unlikeable character while Clooney and Wilkinson both deliver. Michael Clayton takes a while to unfold, but it opts for witty dialog over bullets and blasts, ultimately creating a film worth seeing.

THE VERDICT: 3.0

THE DARJEELING LIMITED

2007-10-18T17:00:00.000-04:00

Director: Wes Anderson
Category: Adventure / Comedy / Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr 31 min

THE MOLE SAYS:

In Wes Anderson’s 5th feature film release, he focuses on three brothers traveling India looking for a spiritual awakening, and eventually, we come to discover, their mother. The brothers have been somewhat estranged to each other in recent years, especially after the death of their father one year prior. As the brothers rendezvous on the train (The Darjeeling Limited) they are initially happy to see one another, yet quickly old ways and secrets soon distort the agreeable family image. Owen Wilson plays the bandaged oldest brother, Francis, whose paternal instincts and commands are overbearing at times to his grown siblings. Adrien Brody does a great job of portraying the stereotypical middle brother, Francis, who is somewhat resentful and opposing at times to the oldest brother’s irrefutable “suggestions”. Jason Schwartzman plays Jack, the youngest brother, who is dealing with issues of his own (ie. Hotel Chevalier plot), but does his best to pacify aggressions between his two brothers. Along the path, ridiculous events unfold and non-traditional anticlimactic occurrences confirm that this is a Wes Anderson film.

I saw this movie a few days ago and intentionally took a few days before writing the review. I was hoping maybe a general theme or meaning would present itself upon reflection. It did not. Others with more confidence in their subjective interpretations are welcome to disagree with me. If you’re on the border about seeing this movie, a good test is to download “Hotel Chevalier” which was the original opening scene and is free on iTunes here. If for nothing else than seeing Natalie Portman half naked (which is really enough for most of us) the cinematography and direction is uniquely Anderson and always interesting to watch. Back to the Darjeeling Limited…the Humor is subtle and ironic, but present to the keen observer. Most laughs come from the unlikely situations and dubious resulting dialogue. A clear message is lost in the ambiguity of the story, but open to many different interpretations. The best reason to see this one is the cinematography and unique directing style, which do hold weight. Overall, this movie is worth a viewing, but you might want to wait for video.

THE VERDICT: 3.0

MITTEN SAYS:

I will make the argument that because Wes Anderson is one of the most influential (and hip) directors of this decade the average person will judge him less harshly than they would another director. They will go into his movies with rose-colored glasses and will not hold him to the same standards as they would anybody else.

That being said, I have some kudos and some criticism for Darjeeling. Anderson is known for his character studies and he doesn't fail us in that regard on Darjeeling. The three brothers shine, with Adrien Brody winning the trophy for best performance. Darjeeling threw me on two points though; the plot and the setting. In one regard, the plot cracked me up because it's thin and it's about spirituality thus making the reference to the shallow parts of religion. On the other hand, where Anderson's movies typically move at a quick pace, this one lagged a bit. Secondly, while I understand a director's need to evolve, the setting was so rustic that it didn't always capture the retro-chic, nerdy visual effect that Anderson is famous for.

Darjeeling isn't Anderson's best work, but it's definitely worth seeing.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

SUPERBAD

2007-10-11T15:10:00.000-04:00

Director: Greg Mottola
Category: Comedy/Romance
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr. 54 min

THE MOLE SAYS:

(I realize this movie was released back in August, but after a second viewing I felt a review was in order)

What a dangerous title for a film. It opens itself up to the offended and ostensibly witty critic to say, “The title of this film says it all.” But what this critic might not know is that a fellow by the name of Michael Jackson came along in 1987 and redefined the word “bad” forever. Thanks Mike.

The film takes place in present day California at the end of the school year. It focuses on three, but moreso two buddies as they attempt to come to terms with inevitable life changes post high school and have one last debauched hurrah. Naturally, their two immediate concerns are getting booze and getting laid. Each has a seemingly unobtainable female interest…that is until a fake ID enters the equation. Seth and Evan convince their 3rd and less adored friend, Fogell, to use his recently acquire ID to purchase the liquid aphrodisiacs. Things go awry in the liquor store and Evan and Seth must improvise to obtain the socially enhancing supplies while Fogell, aka McLovin, has his own adventure with the cops.

This movie practiced no self restraint in its use of curse words and filthy sex slang. So much so that it even reminded me of my high school days. I myself, wasn’t offended, but the awkwardness of the father/son pairing to my left bled over into my seat. Guess that’s one way to explain the birds and the bees. Overall, this was a good movie though. It felt like a real reflection of modern high school society, and as mentioned earlier, even took me back a few years to a different set of priorities…well, ok, not that different. While the initial motives of Seth and Evan seem self centered, we find that each has a deeper side and are dealing with more than pure self indulgence. Not exactly a modern day parable, but more than a progression of crass sex jokes. The situational humor really steals the show in a nostalgic way for those that can relate to a common 21st century high school experience. Very entertaining, but not a film to watch with anyone from another generation.

THE VERDICT: 4.0

MITTEN SAYS:

The Mole busted me outright before I even had a chance to get it out there. Yes, I am the person who was going to say, "Superbad? So it's not just a clever title!" But here's the thing . . . I have three critical problems with Superbad:

(1) I did not laugh once. [p.s. this movie is a comedy]

(2) I have already seen Can't Hardly Wait, License To Drive and Fast Times at Ridgemont High and I liked them a lot better.

(3) I am not obsessed with boobs or farts

America went crazy for this movie. What gives?

THE VERDICT: 1.0

ON THE RADAR

2007-10-11T09:57:00.000-04:00

There are several movies coming out that might be worth a mention. If you want to know what's on the horizon, there seems to be a little something for everybody:

SWEENY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET
[Release date: December 21, 2007]
It's about time for another Tim Burton film! Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman, and Sacha Baron Cohen star in the adaptation of this notorious musical. Benjamin Barker (Depp) is an outstanding citizen with a wife and child who is unjustly convicted of a crime. He swears revenge on those who wronged him and returns as Sweeny Todd, a very Edward Scissorhands-esque character. Watch the trailer here.

BEOWULF
[Release date: November 16, 2007]
I will spare you the plot details, as most people probably had to read Beowulf in high school. This epic movie, starring Angelina Jolie, Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, and Crispin Glover shows a new twist on an old story. Based on the preview, the movie has a similar visual feel to 300 and it's also going to be in 3-D if you live near an IMAX. I'm not sure if I'm sold, but since Crispin Glover is Grendel that improves its chances.

DAN IN REAL LIFE
[Release date: October 26, 2007]
Peter Hedges, the director of two great movies, About a Boy and What's Eating Gilbert Grape, is responsible for this new comedy starring Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook and Emily Blunt. Visit the movie's site where you can even stream the soundtrack.

27 DRESSES
[Release date: January 11, 2008]
This lighthearted romantic comedy stars Grey's Anatomy's Katherine Heigl as Jane, a girl who's always a bridesmaid and never a bride. After her sister steals her longtime crush, Jane has to reconsider her life tactics. I'll definitely see this one with my mom, sister, or aunt. Watch the trailer here.

WALK HARD: THE DEWEY COX STORY
[Release date: December 21, 2007]
This spoof of Walk The Line, stars John C. Reilly as Dewey Cox. If you were a fan of Talladega Nights, you'll probably love this one. It's chock full of cameos, with Paul Rudd as John Lennon, Justin Long as George Harrison, Jason Schwartzman as Ringo Starr, Jack White as Elvis Presley, and more. Watch the trailer here.

P.S. I LOVE YOU
[Release date: December 21, 2007]
Hilary Swank stars in this drama about a young grieving widow, who was desperately in love with her husband. As it turns out, he left her a "things to do" list that ranges from the difficult [a trip through the Irish countryside], to the amusing [singing karaoke]. This movie seems lighter than most of Swank's work. Watch the trailer here.

THE HEARTBREAK KID

2007-10-10T13:18:00.000-04:00

Director: Bobby Farrelly, Peter Farrelly
Category: Comedy
Rated: R
Running Time: 2 hrs. 38 min.

MITTEN SAYS:

[DISCLAIMER: I think Ben Stiller is hilarious and I love his dry, uncomfortable, comedic timing more than most actors in this genre.]

This remake opens with a bang! In The Heartbreak Kid, 40-something Eddie (Ben Stiller) is a committment-phobe who has made the wrong decisions when it comes to love, leaving him a bachelor. One afternoon, beautiful blonde Lila (Malin Akerman) gets her purse snatched and Eddie comes to her rescue. A six week whirlwind dating spree ensues between the two until Lila notifies Eddie that her work wants her to relocate abroad. The only way to keep the fireworks going is to marry her, since her company doesn't relocate married couples. With pressure from Eddie's dad, (Stiller's real father, Jerry Stiller) he caves in, ties the knot, and heads to Mexico to spend three weeks on vacation with his new wife, a girl that everybody thinks is too good for him. Once he's there, she turns into a nightmare and he falls for a plain Jane, Miranda (Michelle Monaghan).

While the first third of this movie is hilarious, a la Meet The Parents, the couple's arrival in Mexico draws a line in the sand, flipping a lighthearted comedy into a raunchy, "don't see this with your parents", type of film. I think my cousin who typically enjoys some on-screen boob action was even taken about by the crass, low-brow sex scenes and nudity not typically associated with Stiller's style of humor. I can dig dirty jokes, but the last half of this movie wasn't even funny, and yawn . . . it was way too long. Additionally, Eddie's dad (Jerry Stiller) was cast as the father who says hip phrases, like "bitches be trippin'". Um, no. Not only was that a waste of his acting talents, but the timing was always off, leaving the sentiment flat.

My recommendation? Sneak in and see the first half, laugh your butt off, and take off before it has time to dissapoint.

THE VERDICT: 1.0

FOR PEOPLE WHO LIKE: Superbad, Scary Movie, general box-office poison.

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE

2007-10-08T23:14:00.000-04:00

Director: Julie Taymor
Category: Romance, Musical, Drama, Rock-Opera
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 2 hrs. 11 min.

MITTEN SAYS:

When I saw the over-the-top preview for this movie, I figured it would be the best musical since The Who's Tommy and was about to keel over with anticipation. The movie didn't come out on its "limited release" date and then it didn't come out on its "nation-wide" release date. By the time it finally made it into theaters, it was almost like the Yeah Yeah Yeah's first album . . . so over-hyped that no matter how awesome it was, there's no way it could possibly live up.

That being said, who doesn't like the songs of The Beatles? Enter Jude (the oh-so-dreamy Jim Sturgess) and Lucy (Marilyn Manson's girlfriend Evan Rachel Wood), two kids from different sides of the world who ultimately find themselves in New York City during the height of the Vietnam War. Lucy wants to start a revolution, Jude becomes absorbed in his art, and Lucy's brother Max (stand-out actor Joe Anderson) get shipped off to war.

While the songs of the Beatles prove to be truly timeless, and some scenes (which I will not spoil) are visually stunning, some of the characters are off-putting, if not down-right cheesy. Bono (as Dr. Robert) should stick with his day job, and while their acting is good, the generic Jimi Hendrix (Martin Luther) and Janis Joplin (Dana Fuchs) characters that wind up playing a lot of club-gigs in this movie totally drove me crazy. Cameos by Joe Cocker, Eddie Izzard, and Salma Hayek were pulled of without a hitch.

Given all the hype, I have to say I was a bit disappointed. While Tommy, Chicago, and even Moulin Rouge prove to be musicals with an interesting plot and enough action that you feel like you're never taking a breather, Across The Universe had too much down time and not enough actual depth for the subject matter. Don't get me wrong, the songs are classics, but the only reason to incorporate music into movies to the extent that it becomes a musical is to prove something magnanimous that can't be delivered with acting alone. This flick could have just as easily been a nice drama with a Beatles soundtrack, give or take the three scenes/numbers that actually blew me away.

THE VERDICT: 3

MOUSTACHE SAYS:

Remember when you first saw the trailer for Star Wars Episode 1: Phantom Menace? Remember (if you’re like me) how you couldn’t stop talking about it for weeks and you were so it excited you could actually feel the mychloridians in your bloodstream about to burst?

Well, after catching the trailer for Across the Universe I was pretty excited for a psychedelic musical rooted in the songs of the Beatles. Come on! Pretty rad, eh? Alas, when the film actually reached the theater, weeks past the actual release date, I found myself a bit disappointed [not Phantom Menace disappointed] but nonetheless, I left the theater feeling a bit let down. There were a couple of really amazing scenes; the one with British comedian/actor Eddie Izzard and one outstanding number at a local draft station. The actual story was dull though and the portrayal of the time period was as cliché as humanly possible. And Bono as a pseudo Tim Leary? Come on! Anyway, if this movie does one thing it reminds you that the Beatles wrote some of the most kick-ass songs of all time . . . if you actually need to be reminded. Overall, this movie wasn’t a complete failure and even had a few shining moments. I think it's worth checking out, or at the very least pick up the soundtrack.

THE VERDICT: 3

THE KINGDOM

2007-10-08T22:51:00.000-04:00

Director: Peter Berg
Category: Drama, Mystery
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr. 50 min.

MITTEN'S FRIEND DAVE "THE MOLE" HASTINGS SAYS:

I’m neither Mitten nor Moustache, but I do contend that I know what makes a movie good and hold my own opinion in the highest regards. After all, who could doubt someone that has spent as much time on his ass watching movies as I have? I was encouraged to review a film, so I picked one that’s more mainstream than average M&M film and saw The Kingdom.

In the film, Jamie Foxx plays a take-charge FBI agent sent to Saudi Arabia to investigate terrorist attacks against a U.S. oil company’s housing complex there. He is accompanied by three other agents and hilarity ensues. Ok, just kidding about the hilarity (although Jason Bateman from Arrested Development does provide some comic relief . . . right up until his torture scene). While investigating the elaborately planned attack, the agents themselves become a target for the Saudi terrorists. The agents must use their judgment to decipher friend from foe, and what started out as an investigation leads to a “kill’em-all-and-let-Allah-decide-who-gets-the-virgins” shootout.

I had been looking forward to this movie for a long time for a few reasons. One is that Matt Carnahan, the writer, is my old college roommate’s cousin’s husband’s brother (and who doesn’t like to rub elbows with the Hollywood elite?) The other is that it looked like a well made action film that might possibly be enlightening to the situation in the Middle East and bring a new perspective to it. I definitely didn’t leave the theater having an epiphany, but it was worth the inflated $11.00, New York ticket price. An hour and 20 minutes into the movie, I did not see how they could cut it short of an additional hour, but the action picked up and I was outta there before two hours were up. The Kingdom was reminiscent of Syriana, but didn’t try to go as deep, which was a good thing. I felt as though they were almost copping out of a fantastically original ending, but better to keep it simple than to loose the audience in a unrealistic whirlwind of contrived twists. The most notable original idea occurs in the last line of the entire movie, which was enough to push me over the edge and give this film a good rating.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

THE KING OF KING: A FISTFUL OF QUARTERS

2007-10-04T17:02:00.000-04:00

Director: Seth Gordon
Category: Documentary
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr. 19 min.

MITTEN SAYS:

Yes! Yes! Yes! If you were alive in the 80s you or somebody you know probably had an obsession with Donkey Kong. No matter how many hours you played it though, you're probably not going to top the sheer obsession of Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe. These two vie for the position of world record holder. Similar to reality television, this documentary definitely portrays each contender in a manner that has the audience rooting for Wiebe (who's backed by a loving family and even sheds tears at some point) and praying for the downfall of 80s title-holder Mitchell (who wears USA-themed ties, sports a sweet mullet, and comes across as a total jerk). The nostalgia factor is high, so if you weren't conscious in the 80s you might opt for another movie, but if you were, this documentary on America's obsession with video games will have you rolling. Check out the official site.

THE VERDICT: 3.5

TWO DAYS IN PARIS

2007-10-02T02:52:00.001-04:00

Director: Julie Delpy
Category: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr. 36 min.

MITTEN SAYS:

Julie Delpy writes, directs, and stars in this hilarious comedy about an odd couple, photographer Marion (Delpy) and her endearing yet totally neurotic boyfriend Jack (Adam Goldberg). The two crash at her apartment in Paris for a few days after vacationing abroad. It just so happens that her apartment is right below that of her parents who are campy, if not completely out of line throughout the entire movie, even going as far as to walk in on the couple while they are having sex just to see if they need their laundry done. Check out the trailer:

This movie is hilarious in a "true-to-life" sense, with Goldberg definitely shining through as the stand-out character. Her liberal upbringing and his worrisome New York Jewish temprement make for some of the funniest scenarios and conversations. For a romantic comedy, I saw as many men belly-laughing as I did women, most likely because there was something in the movie that everybody could identify with.

THE VERDICT: 4.5

FIERCE PEOPLE

2007-10-02T01:48:00.000-04:00

Director: Griffin Dunne
Category: Drama
Rated: R
Running Time: 1 hr. 47 min.

MITTEN SAYS:

Fierce People is nothing if not uncomfortable. Set in 1980's New York and New Jersey, it is the disconcerting tale of a mother (Diane Lane) and son (Anton Yelchin) growing up together and dealing with the realization that people, especially the wealthy, are not always as they might appear. Lane, a beautiful yet self-obsessed drug addict whisks her son away to New Jersey, instead of allowing him to spend the summer in South America with his anthropologist father, in an attempt to rehabilitate herself while allowing him to experience a life of privilege alongside billionaire Donald Sutherland and his family. Through the eyes of a coming-of-age teen, this film parallels the rituals of South America's tribes of "Fierce People" with those of the New Jersey upper class, ultimately concluding that there's danger among all types of people. Drug use, sex and rape plague this film although these controversial subjects are used more for plot advancement than shock value. Anton is a breath of fresh air, Lane is solid and Sutherland plays a glorified version of himself. If you can stomach the graphic nature of this film, there is a solid, if not slightly cliche plot buried in there.

THE VERDICT: 2.5

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, EH? HARDLY.

2007-09-21T18:03:00.000-04:00

Across the Universe, the anti-war 1960's rock opera that I have been waiting for since July is officially on Santa's bad list. I have anticipated the release of this Beatles-inspired musical since July and have made plans to see it twice; once during its limited release on September 14th (ahem, limited releases almost always hit Atlanta), and then today, September 21st on its nationwide release. Well, looky looky . . . it isn't anywhere to be found in theatres! The internet is buzzing with chatter of Sony dropping the ball, thus causing a delayed release. Here's my thought though. If they aren't going to release the movie on time perhaps they could post something on the movie's official site, or on Fandango or Moviefone so I can stop working my Friday nights around a movie that has yet to exist.

Mitten and Moustache go to the Movies!

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

2010 ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL

FANTASTIC MR. FOX

CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS

A SERIOUS MAN

DISTRICT 9

ART & COPY

HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE

THE HANGOVER

ANVIL! THE STORY OF ANVIL

ANGELS & DEMONS

IS ANYBODY THERE?

GHOSTS OF GIRLFRIENDS PAST

2-MINUTE RUNDOWN

MADEA GOES TO JAIL

WATCHMEN

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

NOTHING LIKE THE HOLIDAYS

FOUR CHRISTMASES

TWILIGHT

HAPPY-GO-LUCKY

QUANTUM OF SOLACE

CHANGELING

RACHEL GETTING MARRIED

SEX DRIVE

PRIDE AND GLORY

SYNECDOCHE NEW YORK

TWILIGHT

The Duchess

HOW TO LOSE FRIENDS & ALIENATE PEOPLE

NICK & NORAH'S INFINITE PLAYLIST

MY BEST FRIEND'S GIRL

NIGHTS IN RODANTHE

BURN AFTER READING

THE HOUSE BUNNY

WALL-E

THE FALL

SAVAGE GRACE

GET SMART

IN BRUGES

BE KIND REWIND

CHARLIE BARTLETT

KID FLICK UPDATE

DEFINITELY, MAYBE

FOOL'S GOLD

THE SAVAGES

NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN

I'M NOT THERE

THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD*SPECIAL GUEST REVIEW*

CONTROL

INTO THE WILD

MARTIAN CHILD

UPCOMING RELEASE - KURT COBAIN: ABOUT A SON

LARS AND THE REAL GIRL

DAN IN REAL LIFE

MICHAEL CLAYTON

THE DARJEELING LIMITED

SUPERBAD

ON THE RADAR

THE HEARTBREAK KID

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE

THE KINGDOM

THE KING OF KING: A FISTFUL OF QUARTERS

TWO DAYS IN PARIS

FIERCE PEOPLE

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, EH? HARDLY.

THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORDSPECIAL GUEST REVIEW