10/14/04
Feature Reviews:
I (HEART) HUCKABEES: - A wacky existential satire that is both funny and annoying. Director David O. Russell (SPANKING THE MONKEY, THREE KINGS) has only half a good idea here. Yes, his actors are game (Jason Swartzman, Lily Tomlin, Jude Law, Dustin Hoffman, Mark Wahlberg, Naomi Watts, and Isabella Huppert) but the flimsy storyline isn't able to make this more than occasionally entertaining. Rated R for language and brief nudity. The Grade: B-
SHALL WE DANCE - A romantic comedy that is pleasantly unpredictable as far as romantic comedies goes. Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez head a solid cast in this remake of Masayuki Suo's 1998 Japanese film. Lighthearted and fun in dances across the screen with ease and a comic lack of grace. Stanley Tucci is particularly good as a closet "ballroom dancer." It ain't rocket science but is a pleasant mainstream watch. Rated PG-13 for language. The Grade: B-
Team America: World Police - A puppet political satire that is visually stunning but only occasionally hilarious. This is a definitely a must see if you are a fan of puppets or the South Park duo of Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Otherwise, you might find yourself interested for about forty five minutes. Some great set pieces, funny songs, but a lame sense of pace and a mostly tired satirical plotline. Still, there are some classic moments. Rated R for language and other stuff. The Grade: B-

Also Opening: AROUND THE BEND, DIG!, THE FINAL CUT, HER MAJESTY.

DVD Picks: THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION - 10TH ANNIVERSARY - Not only do you get the beloved movie based on a Stephen King novel but you score the soundtrack CD and a collector's box.

eric
(fin)

10/07/04
Openings: RAISE YOUR VOICE, ROSENSTRASSE, SAINTS AND SOLDIERS, TYING THE KNOT

Reviews: FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS - A football movie based on a true story. What a novel concept. Actually FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS is a watchable, interesting film that is nicely shot and has solid performances. It isn't as gripping as the classics in the genre (HOOSIERS or REMEMBER THE TITANS) but even if you aren't a sports fan you will be entertained by the exciting drama that unfolds. Directed by Peter Berg. Starring: Billy Bob Thorton, Lucas Black and Dexter Luke. Rated PG-13 for language and brief nudity/sexuality. The Grade: B-

DVD Picks: JOHN CASSEVETES FIVE FILMS Godfather of the Independent Director - This includes Shadows, Faces, A Woman Under The Influence, The Killing of a Chinese Bookie, Opening Night. THX 1138 - DIRECTOR'S CUT - George Lucas' classic debut feature.

eric
(fin)