#54--Daybreakers--Day 125

I was not expecting to like this movie at all, but I really enjoyed it! It was actually a vampire movie that showed...vampires killing? What!? They don't just sparkle and fall in love with humans?! PREPOSTEROUS! This movie takes place in 2019 and the entire world is overrun by vampires and the human race is almost completely extinct. Due to the lack of humans, the vampires are beginning to go through blood withdrawal and therefore are morphing into these crazy bat-like creatures! Ethan Hawke, a hematologist and several other scientists are searching for either a cure to vampire-ism or a blood substitute. It really is a great movie, but I wouldn't suggest it if you have a weak stomach, because there is definitely a lot of bodies being torn apart. Like I said, it's a REAL vampire movie!

3.5/4 out of 5.

#53--The Vicious Kind--Day 124

I really enjoyed this movie. Britney Snow is dating this frat brother that decides to take her to his home over Thanksgiving vacation. While home his crazy insomniac brother starts to fall in love with her because she reminds him of his old girlfriend who had recently cheated on him. This movie has a very indie film to and yet was classified as "comedy." This movie definitely had some amusing parts, but overall was definitely not a comedy. Some parts of this movie did drag a little bit, but I think I liked it so much because it was real. The emotions that every character was feeling were so real that you couldn't help, but get swept up in it. I also feel that everyone in their life feels lost like Caleb's character, or has loved someone who hasn't been loved in return like Peter's character, or has been in the middle of all of it like Britney Snow's character. I really enjoyed this movie, but I do realize that there are probably many who may not.

4 out of 5.

#52--Havoc--Day 124

Anne Hathaway as a gansta?? Yup, it's true! This movie is about a bunch of white, rich kids who are bored and feel unloved so they start a gang. However, after witnessing an altercation with the Latino gang downtown Anne Hathaway's character, Allison begins to think differently. Continually drawn to danger and excitement she starts hanging out with Hector's Latino gang because she finds it more thrilling. Obviously, this is a slippery slope. Overall, I was surprised by how good this movie was. It wasn't rated very highly on Netflix so I wasn't hoping for anything spectacular, but I enjoyed it! The only thing that would have made this movie better would have been if the ending was more conclusive. There is something about Anne Hathaway that usually really annoys me, but I do have to say that she was really good in this movie.

3 out 5.

#51--Gossip--Day 122

This movie was really good! When I first read the plot I wasn't really sure how it could develop into an entire movie, but it did quite nicely. James Marsden and his two roommates decide to plant the rumor that they Kate Hudson was raped after passing out by her boyfriend Joshua Jackson. The rumor grows out of control and eventually Kate Hudson believes it herself and decides to press charges. Marsden's female roommate then begins her own investigation to discover that Marsden and Hudson had actually dated in high school and that it had been rumored that he had raped her. Without giving anything else away the conclusion of the movie holds several twists. Overall this ended up being a much better movie than I thought it would be. I don't know if I would ever need to watch it again, but it was decent.

3 out of 5.

#50--Pandorum--Day 122

Two engineers on a spaceship, Payton and Bower wake up from eight years of hyper sleep confused and lacking most memory to find that several shipmates are dead and that there are random creatures loose picking off people one by one. Bower believing his wife is on the ship goes on a search to find her. Overall the movie was kind of slow, but I thought it had a good ending. I was surprised to see where the ship actually turns out of be at the end of the movie. It was an okay movie. I wish Ben Foster would appear in more movies because I like him. He's not an exceptional actor, but he's decent. I feel like he hasn't really been given the opportunity to prove what he can do.

3 out of 5.

#49--The Bodyguard--Day 122

Haha. Wow there is absolutely no reason to review this movie. The best thing that came out of it was Whitney Houston's version of "I Will Always Love You." Yup, that's about it. Oh, Whitney Houston should never act. Ever again.

1.5 out of 5.

#48--Shawshank Redemption--Day 121

So I'm on an old movie kick apparently. Well, actually an old, free, Netflix watch instantly movie kick. I cannot believe it took so long for me to watch this movie!! I had been told about how fabulous this movie was, but it took way to long for me to actually watch it. Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman star as prisoners in Shawshank.I didn't think that I would ever see a prison movie that I enjoyed as much as the Green Mile, but I think that I have finally found one of equal quality. We'll just ignore the fact that technically it came out a lot earlier than the Green Mile. I didn't think that I would like this movie, but I absolutely loved it! Excellent.

4.5 out of 5.

#47--This Film is Not Yet Rated--Day 121

This documentary focuses on the inconsistencies in the MPAA rating system. It was really interesting the ways in which many of the movies I have seen have been altered in an effort to comply with the ratings. Most of the time the ratings have little to do with the amount of killing or language, but more with sex. If a film is to get an NC-17 rating, it is impossible for films to get any funding. Often times films that show women getting intense sexual pleasure and/or gay sex are immediately slapped with an NC-17 label because it is too "risque" aka straight up bullshit. This was a pretty interesting documentary. There was a lot of facts that I found really interesting throughout the documentary. It wasn't amazing, but decent.

3 out of 5.

#46--What's Eating Gilbert Grape?--Day 119

So, yes, I realize that I am 17 years behind the curb on this film, but I've always wanted to see it. Therefore, I'm justifying its review. First, of all I can't believe that 1993 was seventeen years ago. Secondly, this movie is just one of the many examples that prove both Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio rarely choose bad films. After seeing this it really pisses me off that people associate Leo's breakout film as Titanic considering this was four years prior and his acting is about 10x better. Overall, this movie is both uplifting and depressing. I'm not going to bore everyone by giving a plot synopsis because I'm one of the few people who haven't seen this movie. However, if you haven't I totally recommend you check it out.

4 out of 5.

#45--The Young Victoria--Day 118

I've been wanting to see this movie for so long because I think Emily Blunt is adorable and I love Paul Bettany, but I was incredibly disappointed by this film. First, of all it was extremely, extremely, slow. I felt like I was watching the four hour version of Pride and Prejudice. I learned a tad bit about her life, but it felt like it dragged on forever. Unless you're really curious about this time period and/or love Queen Victoria I don't recommend this movie. At least, not for casual browsing on a Saturday night.

2 out 5.

#44--The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus--Day 118

Heath Ledger's last movie. :( This was a very interesting movie, but not particularly entertaining. Doctor Parnassus makes a deal with the devil that he will give his daughter to the devil on her 16th birthday unless he takes so many souls. In order to take these souls he forms a "carnival group" and then entices people through a portal into the land of their imaginations. The "carnival group" then stumble across the character of Tony who helps them. He also continually steps inside the mirror which is where Heath's doubles in the film: Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell, and Jude Law step in. Overall, the movie is very slow and drags quite a bit. Definitely not anything spectacular, but then again perhaps the script was altered quite a bit to facilitate the parts that Heath had already filmed. Nonetheless, I will forever miss seeing Heath in a new film.

2 out of 5.

#43--How to Train Your Dragon--Day 118

So, I went to see Iron Man 2 at the drive-in which means...DOUBLE FEATURE. The movie that was showing before Iron Man 2, was How to Train Your Dragon, which I was a little skeptical of, but turned out great.

This was the first time in an extremely long time that I saw a kids movie, and it was awesome! It's somewhat of a typical storyline. A boy who doesn't fit in his Viking village dreams of slaying a dragon to impress his father; however, when he finally has the chance he cannot. Rather, he ends up bonding and training with an adorable dragon he names, "Toothless." This is a great family film and I would recommend it to people of all ages!

3.5 out of 5.

#42--Iron Man 2--Day 118

It is officially summer which means that I will be catching up on movies so that I can reach my goal!!

Iron Man 2 was pretty freaking fabulous. It wasn't AS amazing as the first, because quite frankly no movie really ever is as good as the first (Pirates for instance?); however, it was pretty close! Like the first, the character of Tony Stark is a conceited yet hilarious asshole and as much as I loved Terrence Howard, Don Cheadle fills his shoes quite nicely, maybe even better.But then again I LOVE Don Cheadle. The only thing this movie needed a little more of was Scarlett Johanson kicking ass and the final battle between the Iron Men and Mickey Rourke. Overall, the plot was great and the movie didn't really drag (which I was afraid of). I was also extremely impressed with Mickey Rourke in this movie. His accent and just overrall evilness was awesome. This movie is really awesome and I would DEF recommend going to see it in theatres! Don't wait for it to come out. It is worth $10!

4 out of 5.

#41--Clash of the Titans--Day 82

Holy freaking Craken! I had to think about this movie for a little bit before I decided to actually do my review. Overall, it was a fairly decent movie and definitely worth seeing. I was planning on seeing it in 3D; however, 1.) our theatre still has "How to Train Your Dragon" in 3D in that theatre and 2.) this movie was not originally shot in 3D. They pushed the release date and made it 3D in the hopes of making more money off of it. Thus, I decided it probably would not have been that amazing in 3D anyway.

A group of men from Argos begin a journey with a demi-God, Sam Worthington to cut off the head of Medusa to kill the Craken. Of course huge challenges arise along the way. Thus, my biggest problem with this movie was that it would take a half an hour to get anywhere and then when they did get to where they needed to the battles would be like 5 mins. For instance, probably the entire first hour the goal is to reach Medusa, when they get there a lot of people die and Sam Worthington kicks ass (hopefully this isn't a spoiler, much more happens, I promise). Overall, the special effects are pretty ridiculous...the creatures in this movie are UNBELIEVABLE. I can also say that Sam Worthington has somewhat stepped up his acting abilities in the movie. I mean, he barely spoke in Terminator, he spoke in Avatar, but he was an Avatar the whole time so it wasn't really him. This movie it's him the whole time and he's speaking! Though I couldn't say he's phenomenal he's definitely a crazy awesome new action star, which I may or may not be in love with. The verdict is still out on that one.

I think that what this movie needed a little bit more of was some humor. It's a great guy flick, but if you wanna rope the girls in with something more than Sam Worthington you need some humor. Think Pirates, if it had a little bit of the humor Johnny Depp provides this movie would be insane! Nonetheless, this movie was pretty good. I recommend you see it, maybe not more than once, but see it.

3 out of 5.

#40--Spread--Day 80

I would not recommend the first hour of this film. It's basically Ashton Kutcher screwing many many women. However, the last half hour makes the entire movie worthwhile when he finally finds the female version of himself (Margarita Levieva). I debated whether or not to even finish this movie, but I'm very glad I did, because the very boring semi-porno turns into a movie about real shit. Furthermore, it has a "real shit" ending, which is invigorating because who doesn't get sick of unrealistic endings?

So, the best part of this movie hands down is Margarita Levieva, gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous!! I knew she looked familiar and I just could not figure it out, so of course I went to the source of all knowledge imdb.com, which informed me she also appeared in "The Invisible." BINGO! I knew I had been madly in love with her at some other point of my life. Probably one of the most gorgeous people I've ever seen and makes the movie that much more enjoyable.

3 out of 5.

#39--The Box--Day 80

I would just like to point out that despite being 41 movies/days behind I am determined to be completely caught up by the end of summer. I will accomplish this goal!

The Box...hmmm. Cameron Diaz and James Marsden are really, terribly, obnoxiously, cheesy in this film. I still do not know how I feel about this film. First of all, it was WAY TOO LONG! There were so many unnecessary parts that it felt like I was watching this movie for an eternity. It also really bothered me that in the beginning the movie was realistic, but as the movie continued it got waaay too science fiction-y. Furthermore, without spoiling the ending, don't expect to be happy. I feel that the movie ends and everyone's lives are shittier, yes there was a lesson to be learned, but it wasn't really learned. One thing I can is that Richard Matheson writes some craazzy stories. After seeing this movie I looked the short story up online which the movie is based off of, and he is also the author of "I Am Legend" and "What Dreams May Come." (Which I would also like to read.) I really like to read this short story because I feel that the film did not do the story justice by any means. One amazingly positive aspect of this book? Not one smoking scene in the entire movie. Not one!! After the credits there was even a disclaimer acknowledging this! I was so impressed that the movie earned some brownie points.

2.5/3 out of 5.

#37--Brothers--Day 77

I still am not completely sure how I felt about this movie. My mom loved it, but I'm still not so sure. The movie is definitely very depressing. It's very difficult for me to watch torture scenes so while Tobey McGuire was being held as POW I had a little bit of trouble watching some of the scenes. I think this movie definitely makes a statement about the tortures and pains of this never ending war; however, I think that it could have been carried out better. I think that the movie In the Valley of Elah makes the exact same statement, but in a much more powerful way. This movie progressed rather slowly. I actually fell asleep at various parts. Thus, overall, it was okay to see once, but I probably won't ever watch it again.

2.5/3 out of 5.

#36 Shutter Island--Day 77

AMAZING! Gooo see it! Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio are simply amazing! I know that a lot of people may not have felt the same way about this movie, but I really enjoyed it. I spent the entire movie trying to figure out how it was going to end and I just couldn't. There were so many twists and surprises I was both shocked and saddened at the end of the movie. It wasn't too much of a surprise that Ben Kingsley was creepy, he just always is. The movie wasn't overly scary there were definitely some parts that I had to close my eyes, but overall was more mysterious and suspenseful than anything else. If you like movies that DO NOT end the way you are expecting them to than you will thoroughly enjoy this movie.

4 out of 5.

#35 The Men Who Stare At Goats--Day 77

This movie was surprisingly pretty good. I've really enjoyed George Clooney's roles lately. He takes on a character very similar to the one in Burn After Reading Very comical. This movie is astounding because it is based mostly on a true story, which is just ridiculous to fathom: the government spending money to teach soldiers to telepathically stun enemies, etc. Although, I'm not a big Ewan McGregor fan I didn't particularly mind him in this movie. His interactions with George Clooney probably helped. Plus, Jeff Bridges is absolutely hilarious! I would definitely see this movie again and advise people to see it at least once.

3/ 3.5 out of 5.

#34 Armored Day 77

I apologize to anyone who pays the money to see this. It's terrible. A slow movie ends with an anti-climatic ending. The only upside Milo Ventimiglia and Skeet Ulrich were in it. They're quite attractive. The entire story takes place in a warehouse, one guy is in a truck with money the others are pissed and try to get him out. People die. The ending provides no twists or surprises. What you see is what you get with this one.

1.5 out of 5.

#33 Alice in Wonderland 3D--Day 77

I have not admitted defeat just yet! I have several movie reviews to write and then will probably go on another fairly long hiatus until summer. During summer I'm fully devoted to achieving my goal!

SO Alice in Wonderland. I saw it first in 2D during the midnight showing and I LOVED it! Johnny Depp/Tim Burton/Helena Bonham Carter is just the best combination ever! The make up and special effects are awesome. There are also some great one liners throughout the movie. I've never seen the original Alice in Wonderland (gasp!) so this was a whole new experience for me! I have decided that Tim Burton just needs to re-do every single Disney movie creepily awesome. My life would improve dramatically! After seeing this movie in 2D I decided it was IMPERATIVE to see it in 3D because quite frankly, it was made to be seen that way, and I was right. It was 10x more amazing in 3D. I do suggest spending the extra money to see this movie in 3D. Overall, amazing movie!

4 out of 5.

I suck!

Yes, I realize I'm nine days behind and ten movies behind. Yes, I realize I've been sucking at this lately, but I'm crazy busy with school and midterms next week. My goal is to catch up over the next two weeks, but probably not until Spring Break. Fingers-crossed!!

#32--Whip It!--Day 33

This movie was pretty good. Ellen Page is so freaking adorable you just can't not like her! Plot: Basically Ellen Page lies about her age and starts playing roller derby behind her parents back. It sounds like it has the same general plot of a billion other movies you've already seen before, but it really has a lot of unique quirks that make this movie different. First, of all to anyone who has seen Juno Ellen Page brings the same fabulous sarcasm and humor to this movie that she did to that one. Secondly, I learned a lot about roller derby watching this movie. And lastly a random side note: this movie was directed by Drew Barrymore, which really surprised me. I just wouldn't have expected her to direct a movie like this one.

It's definitely a movie I could watch a couple of times. It also made me REALLY want to start a roller derby team!

3 out of 5.

#31--My One and Only--Day 33

Sorry for the delay, school has been busy. Going to try to catch up today!

Terrible. Terrible. Terrible. I saw Kevin Bacon's name and I thought maybe this will be decent. I'm not really a fan of Renee Zellwegger, but she is particularly bad in this movie. Basically the whole movie she tries to go from guy to guy to take care of her and drags her two sons along. Yup, that's all that happens.

1 out 5.

#30--Nine--Day 30

I'm still not sure how I feel about this movie. It chronicles the life of Italian director Guido Contini. It definitely has a power house cast including Dame Judi Dench, Nicole Kidman, Daniel Day Lewis, Penelope Cruz, Marion Cotillard, etc. However, despite the great cast this movie didn't really fly. If it hadn't been a musical it probably would have been reaaally boring, I believe that is saying something considering some people think musicals are boring. The random solo performances were what made me keep watching this movie.
Daniel Day Lewis is no doubt an absolutely amazing actor, but the script in this movie just lulls. Furthermore, I'm really not sure why everyone was making such a big deal about Kate Hudson performing because her voice isn't that great. In my opinion Judi Dench's solo was better. However, the woman who put everyone else to shame in this movie was by far Marion Cotillard. She is beautiful and incredibly talented! This movie further proved that she deserved her Oscar for La Vie En Rose and was amazing as the long-time girlfriend of Johnny Depp in Public Enemies. I am really hoping to see more of her in the future!

2 out of 5.

#29--Sorority Row--Day 30

Typical scary movie, but somewhat of a unique plot. A group of sorority girls try to play a joke on a guy that cheated on one of their sister's so they fake her death; however, then she actually gets killed, and starts haunting everyone involved. I know that while I was watching this I should have felt bad for the sorority girls that were being brutally murdered, but I have waay too many bad experiences with sorority girls (MOST of them are everything they are cracked up to be (I do have some friends that are in sororities and they do not take on the stereotypical roles so frequently exhibited, so props to them.)) to care. Hopefully that doesn't get anyone's thongs in a twist...it's just how I feel. Overall, it isn't too gory. I mean obviously people are getting killed there is some gore, but it's not anywhere near close to the gore exhibited in Rob Zombie movies. Somewhat surprised by the ending and Rumer Willis actually managing to look attractive in this movie soo...

3 out of 5.

#28--Post Grad--Day 29

This movie like pretty much every Alexis Bledel movie is cheesy and cutesy. Basically Ryden (Alexis Bledel) graduates assuming she'll get a job at this publishing company that she's always dreamed about working at. Unfortunately, she doesn't get the job and then is forced to go home and try to find a job while living with her parents. Underneath is the classic boy likes girl, but girl likes other guy plot. It was really awesome to see Michael Keaton in a movie. I haven't seen him in anything in awhile, and I absolutely love him.
Overall this movie was okay. It definitely resonated with me in the sense that I'm terrified I'm going to graduate and not be able to do anything with my life. Furthermore, she was waaay more prepared (including three internships) than I am; therefore, I'm feeling even less prepared to apply to grad. school. Regardless Post Grad is a movie worth seeing once, but not a movie that you're going to watch again.
3 out 5.

#27--Edge of Darkness--Day 29

Ahh...I'm getting very behind. I've been busy with schoolwork, actual work, and the Superbowl, but hopefully I can get caught up today. Hopefully.

Sooo...Mel Gibson's "comeback" film, or at least he's hoping. First and foremost he should probably stop insulting reporters while the cameras are still running, being an anti-Semite, and mass producing children with young women if he wants to make a legitimate comeback. But all that aside it was a fairly decent movie. I was surprised by the beginning because I assumed based on the commercials that his daughter was kidnapped then found dead or just found somewhere dead, but Thomas Craven (Mel Gibson) finds his daughter in his house before she is dead and she actually dies in his arms, which is much more haunting. He then goes on a rampage to try to uncover why she has been so brutally murdered. It takes a little bit for Mel Gibson to morph into a killing machine, but once he does it is good.
I thought this movie was going to be too Taken-ish but it really wasn't. Mel Gibson uncovers secrets he didn't think he was going to and once he finally gets into killing people the pace of the movie really picks up. I approve of this movie, but not really of Mel G. as a person.

3 out of 5.

#26--The Stepfather--Day 26

This movie was in some ways better than I thought and in some ways worse. It was better in the sense that I actually made it through the whole movie. It was kind of a suspenseful movie, but it lacked any real scariness. Which was surprising because the movie starts off creepy as hell. Dylan Walsh leaves his house and his dead step kids and wife are scattered around the house. I was braced for a ridiculous movie, but it got progressively worse. It was just worse in the sense that it was too long. The movie would have been a lot better if it was shortened by at least 45 mins. There was waay too much "suspicion" and unnecessary content. The ending was good, I thought it would have been better if more people had been injured and/or killed. That's all I'll say without giving it away.

3 out 5.

#25--New York, I Love You--Day 26

I'm a sucker for anything with multiple story lines. At first I didn't think that I would like this movie, but my opinion was very quickly changed! This movie illustrates so many different, unique, life experiences and traditions that we don't even realize all exist. I love how this movie emphasizes that all of these completely different stories or experiences take place in NYC. I love the subliminal message of coexistence in this movie. Furthermore, it dispelled a lot of stereotypes about men, women, African American, White, Orthodox Jew, mentally challenged, etc. I've never seen a movie grapple so intricately with such issues. I also loved that each story line dealt with very different emotions: love, comedy, strength, pain. I highly recommend this movie if you're in the mood for something different and real.

4 out of 5.

#24--Blood Diamond--Day 24

I know this isn't a new movie. I've decided that every now and then if I don't have the opportunity to review a new movie due to time or money limitations (b/c of college) I'm just going to review some of my random favorite movies. You will just have to deal with it because this is MY blog. Kidding. Kind of. So for tonight I've decided upon one of my more recent favorite films.

This movie delves into the very bloody, dangerous, and deadly African diamond trading corporation. Djimon Hounsou (who won an Oscar for this role) stars as Solomon Vandy who has discovered a giant diamond that he is hoping to barter for his son back (his son has been kidnapped and brainwashed into being a child soldier). He teams up with Leonardo DiCaprio, a South-African, who has promised to help him get his son back and Jennifer Conolley, an American reporter.

Like most Leo DiCap movies it's depressing and incredibly moving. The first time I saw this movie I cried and then vowed to never buy an African diamond. It really makes you think about the price other people are paying around the world for things we take for granted. We walk in or past stores full of diamonds and never think about the fact that people are dying or having their families ripped apart just for our hands to look nice.

4.5 out of 5.

#23--I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell--Day 23

Worse than the book...how is this possible!? Tucker Max's adventures from the same titled book, "I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell" chronicles the adventures of a drunken, womanizing, asshole. The book was semi-interesting because it's almost impossible to believe that someone so horrible actually exists, but that should have been the end of it. This book should have never become a movie. Not only should Tucker Max not be able to make a living off his dick antics, but its pathetic that there are women in this world that solicit him for sex. Mmm...there's nothing like ignoring the Women's Liberation Movement and wanting gonorrhea. This movie makes me sick.

0 out of 5.

#22--2012--Day 23

This movie is amazing! Yeah, like all end of the world movies the main stars manage to survive death defying situations multiple times, which is highly unlikely in real life. Nonetheless, the special effects in this movie are incredible. I particularly like the part where LA falls into the ocean. Woody Harrelson is hilarious as a nutty radio broadcaster who has unveiled a sinister agenda. The movie is a little long, but a lot of it is necessary. I didn't feel as though anything could be cut out, which is how I felt about Avatar. Furthermore, even if I hated the whole movie the ironic ending of what and where is now classified "The New World" is genius; definitely some subliminal messages.

Two of the people that went to this movie with me said it was cheesy (which was interesting 'cause they have horrible taste in movies), but I will acknowledge this claim. The fact that John Cusack and family don't die about 20 times is cheesy, but like I said the special effects and ending are too great to cast this movie aside. I was very disappointed in some of the bad reviews because I thought it was really good. I've definitely see movies that were WAAAYY worse that were classified "Awesome!" cough. Inglorious Basterds. cough.

4 out 5.

#21--The Final Destination--Day 22

This final destination movie has pretty much the same plot as all of the rest. Kid has a premonition, some people get saved from a freak accident, and then death follows them around and knocks them off one by one in the order they were supposed to die. Basically, these movies are interesting merely because it is impossible to figure out how the writers will figure out how to kill everyone off in such ridiculously fascinating ways. This movie was average, the best final destination movie will always be the first one because that is when you are introduced to the concept of death hunting you. All the rest just follow the same blood bath suit, but I made it through it without falling asleep so it def. wasn't terrible despite having the same plot.

2.5/3 out of 5.

#20--Sherlock Holmes--Day 19

I was kind of disappointed with this movie. I love Rachel McAdams and Robert Downey Jr. so I was really looking forward to this. It definitely depicts a much darker take on Sherlock Holmes. This movie has a little bit of everything. Some action, some comedy (because Sherlock Holmes is a sarcastic ass), some romance, and some mystery. I was love this time period, the costumes, cars, etc. The only problem is that there are very long stretches of the movie that reaaallly drag out. The movie definitely did NOT need to be 2 hours long and at times I got sick of the bickering between Holmes and Watson.
I think anyone who enjoys crazy Sherlock Holmes tales of mystical mysteries will enjoy this movie, but it's a movie that you can really only watch one or two times.

3 out of 5.

#19--Food, Inc.--Day 19

So this movie is a little bit older than the other ones I have reviewed, but hey, I'm a poor college student and can't afford to go to the movies EVERY night. This documentary was awesome and sickening. It was very much like King Corn, information wise; however, it was portrayed more interestingly. Michael Pollan who's most famously known for his book "In Defense of Food" and Eric Schlosser, who is an investigative journalist and who's book Reefer Madness is AWESOME put together a great documentary.
I'm very interested in sustainable agriculture so I loved this film. Even if you weren't you would still enjoy this film because it is very eye opening to what really goes on in a lot of meat factories, and it's waaay more reasonable than a PETA advert.

Documentary Wise: 4 out of 5.

#18--9--Day 18

This movie written and directed by Shane Acker and produced by Tim Burton was awesome! Tim Burton movies never cease to amaze me! Basically man and machine go to war, and man dies. 9, Elijah Wood, wakes up after being created by his master where he finds a talisman. He takes the talisman and begins a journey, not really sure of his destination. He eventually stumbles across beings like himself (1, 5, etc.) and makes a plight to rescue 2, who was captured in an effort to save him. They find the talisman and then create this creepy machine. I don't want to give too much away so I'll leave it at that. It may not sound incredibly exceptional, but it is really good.
Like all Tim Burton movie's it contains a very unique plot and the numbered creatures are adorable. Plus, it's backed by a great cast including: Christopher Plummer, Martin Landau, Elijah Wood, and Jennifer Connelly. It's the first animated movie I've seen in a while that wasn't rainbows and sunshine and directed towards children. I was really tired and I was still able to stay awake and enjoy it!

3.5 out 5.

#17--The Tooth Fairy--Day 17

I can't help it. I love Dwayne Johnson. I loved the Game Plan, Gridiron Gang, etc. I'm not sure why, but I think he's awesome. This is a really great kid's movies and a good mindless comedy for some adults. Dwayne Johnson, a hockey player, is forced into servitude as a tooth fairy (commissioned by Julie Andews) after trying to tell Ashley Judd's daughter that the tooth fairy does not exist. I don't know what's better Dwayne Johnson in fairy wings or in a tutu, both are sure to ensure a chuckle. There is a large portion of the ending that revolves around hockey and it may not be a super fabulous movie with amazing plot twists, but it's definitely a cute movie.

3 out of 5.

#16--Leap Year--Day 16

Very much a chick flick. Very much like every other chick flick ever produced. Every now and then it's good to indulge in one; however, this particular one I wouldn't advise. If it wasn't for the adorable-ness of Amy Adams and the dashing-ness of Matthew Goode I probably never would have made it through this movie. It's saving grace aside from the attractive cast was the beautiful, scenic, Ireland.

I really don't even know what else to say. This usually happens with movies that aren't that great.

2.5 out of 5.

#15--Couple's Retreat--Day 16

Couple's Retreat has some parts that are really funny, but overall it is WAAAYYY too long. Furthermore, the movie becomes one big therapy session rather than a funny comedy about couples in therapy. Vince Vaughn has spurts of rambling on for 20 mins. that really aren't that funny and Jon Favreau is a disgusting womanizer. The women in this movie are beautiful, which may be why the group of guys that went along enjoyed it so much. Overall, the movie wasn't completely terrible, but 2.5 hours was way too long.

2 out of 5.

#14--Zombieland--Day 14

So every movie I've seen with Jesse Eisenberg I have not been impressed by. Yes, I think he's adorable, but both The Education of Charlie Banks and Adventureland were just as terrible as Zombieland. Abigail Breslin is adorable and Woody Harrelson is hilarious, but other than that...not much happens in this entire movie, which really makes me wonder why they've started filming a second one already. I suppose it was nice to see a zombie movie that wasn't just horror and had a little comedy, but...overall, I just wasn't impressed.

2 out of 5.

#13--Boondock Saints 2--Day 12

Dear Skeptics, I was one too until I saw this movie.
It is just as amazing as the first one. The entire, and when I say entire I mean, ENTIRE cast from the original movie is back, including David Della Rocco (Rocco) and William Dafoe. I know, I know, they died how are they in this movie? Don't ask questions, just see it. With William Dafoe dead enters Julie Benz as Eunice Bloom determined to help the saints wipe out a group of men who killed a Catholic priest and made it look like their dirty work.
The movie is full of Irish drinking, fabulous one-liners, amazing gun fights, and just down-right dirty fun, which is why we all loved the first one, right? Basically, if you are a Boondock Saints fan, it is imperative you see this movie! And without giving too much away they set it up for a freaking RIDICULOUS trilogy ending. Can't wait!!

4 out of 5.

#12--Legion--Day 12

Wow. Where to start? Take everything you know about the birth of Christ and flip it 360 degrees, and you have Legion. With a phenomenal cast in roles you don't traditionally see such as Tyrese (in a somewhat meaningful and not just funny stereotypical one-liners), Dennis Quaid (as a hick with a gun), and Kate Walsh (as a mother that resents her daughter for the death of her husband, a very dark role...nothing like Grey's or Private Practice). Paul Bettany heads the cast as an angel who disobeys God and comes to protect a pregnant woman (Adrianne Palicki), very far from the pious Virgin Mary.
The movie has religious connotations, but is so dark. The angels, like everything else, is the complete opposite of what you would expect. Their wings are black, they are coated in armor, their hair is dark, and they are tan. Like the Book of Eli I feel that this movie wouldn't have been as good as it was had it not had such a unique and innovative story line.
My only problem with this movie was the ending. Perhaps that is because it doesn't really end. The ending of this movie is very ambiguous, here's to hoping it does well enough that we can get a wicked sequel. (I mean, c'mon, the Pink Panther got a freakin' sequel?)
I did miss a couple of minutes of the beginning of this movie; however, because the bulb in the projector went out and by the time someone figured it out we had lost about 5 minutes of the movie, which they did not start over. Nonetheless, I recommend this movies, because I think everyone who sees it will take away very different connotations and parts.

4 out of 5.

P.S. With this movie Paul Bettany has officially proven to me he is completely underrated and will now be added to my list of favorite underrated actors which includes: Giovanni Ribisi, Kevin Spacey, and Edward Norton! Chances are anytime any of these people are in a movie you're going to have to think/be surprised/completely blown away at the end of the movie!

#11--Halloween II (Rob Zombie Version)--Day 11

Typical Rob Zombie, very bloody, VERY GRAPHIC, not overly scary, AWESOME soundtrack. Halloween II kicks off where Halloween left off. It definitely strays from the original movies, which was one of the things Rob Zombie said he liked about doing the second movie was the fact that he could play with the plot a little more. Creepy like all of the Halloween movies. Really not too much to say about it. If you enjoy the Halloween series you'll enjoy Rob Zombie's version because he takes them to a darker, more graphic level. Not amazing, not terrible.

2.5/3 out of 5.

#10--Smokin' Aces 2: Assassins Ball--Day 10

Basically four top assassins are hired to kill Walter Weed. The whole movie is then carrying out this process. An ok guy movie. A lot of macho gun fighting and Martha Higareda is hott as hell. Definitely not anywhere near as good as the first movie, but the ending has a twist to it.

2.5 out of 5.

#9 The Book of Eli--Day 8

This movie was really interesting and not what I was expecting. Although, I really wasn't sure WHAT to expect. The commercials are very vague. Basically, everyone in the world was fighting a great war, and here's where I speculate because it was never completely clear, whether or not that war was based on religious beliefs or something else. Then God gets pissed and a bright light flashes and everyone's annihilated except for a few. Eli hears a calling to take "the book" to the West. On his way he takes out very vagabonds and then comes to a small town. This is where he meets Gary Oldman (who is absolutely amazing no matter what movie he is in) who is desperately searching for the book, in which Eli possesses. I refuse to give anymore away. This book really didn't have a lot of action. It actually moved very slowly, but because the audience had really no idea what was going to happen it was never boring. The mystery of the movie is what made the entire movie awesome.
It was refreshing to watch a movie a mainstream movie with such strong religious connotations. I'm not a religious person; however, the movie was so different from anything I've seen in a long time. I think that's why it was so enjoyable.
On a side note Mila Kunis is quite kick ass in this movie (esp. in her aviators) and it was wonderful to see Jennifer Beals (formerly from The L Word, which I LOVE!) in a new movie.

4 out of 5.

#8--The Blind Side--Day 8

This movie was much better than I was expecting it to be. Sandra Bullock is absolutely gorgeous and amazing as the wife of an ex-NFL star who takes in a homeless kid, Michael Oher, who eventually goes on to play for the NFL, as well. This is a truly inspiring movie and if you don't tear up at least once during this movie you have no soul!! Really enjoyed it, perfect movie for anyone!

4 out of 5.

#7: Gamer--Day 7

The concept for this movie was sick! Inserting neurons that regenerated in people's brains so that gamer who paid for the subscription could control them. They had death row inmates sign their consent and then "fight" to the death aka Call of Duty, but with real people. Some money went to keep the prison system afloat the rest went to the creepy man who thought of it all, Castle. (Michael C. Hall) Maybe it's just me, but I think this idea is genius and the US should consider this for real! Haha. Of course this plan goes completely awry when Gerard Butler tries to break free and Michael C. Hall decides he wants to control the world. Lots of people die and race around in cars; however, the ending is extremely anti-climatic. Overall awesome concept if it hadn't had such a lame ending and lulled in a few spots this movie could have been incredible!

3 out of 5.

#6 (500) Days of Summer--Day 4

I loved this movie! It has a lot of characteristics that classify it as a chick flick, but it actually has a realistic ending! Furthermore, there wasn't any points in the movie where I felt overwhelmed by cheesy dialogue, plot, etc. Zooey Deschannel is cute as a button as Summer, a girl, not looking for love, and Joseph Gordan-Levitt is perfectly mopey and love-struck for her throughout the movie. They're quirky on-screen chemistry is electric and with plenty of funny lines such as "Ya know, the guy at the gym with a face that looks like Brad Pitt and has abs like Jesus" there is never a dull moment.
Definitely one of the best movies I've reviewed so far! I definitely would recommend this more for my women "followers" (that was a joke, since I'm pretty sure I'm the only person reading this), but for the men whose wives/gf's make them watch it, you'll enjoy it, too!

4 out of 5!

#5 The Lovely Bones--Day 4

I absolutely love this book, so needless to say I have been waiting for this movie ever since I heard about it, 2 years ago. I feel that my perceptions of the movie are very flawed because I have read the book. Putting the book aside, it is a good movie, with an interesting plot line. Susie Salmon a 14-yr old who is raped and murdered by one of her neighbors watches her family from heaven as they seek to find her killer. The special effects when Susie is in the "in-between" are awesome. Frightening at some points, beautiful at some points. I really liked the way Susie's "in-between" and her families lives were somewhat synonymous. For instance, one of my favorite scenes in the movie is when Mark Wahlberg (her father) ruins all of his sailboats that he makes and in Susie's "in-between" she is on a beach and all of the sailboats are crashing into the shore. Stanely Tucci is just as creepy as usual; therefore, perfect for his role as the murderer, and Susan Sarandon does a very job at portraying the eccentric grandmother.
Overall, my biggest problem with the movie was that it didn't follow the book. (A typical book-to-movie qualm.)At over 2 1/2 hours Peter Jackson spends too much time in the "in-between" and not enough time developing the plot. The ending strays from the book, the actual murder scene is pretty much non-existent, and her mother's affair with the chief of police is not even in the movie.

3 out of 5.

The Book of Eli comes out today, too. Woo-hoo. Mila Kunis is hot!

#4 Jennifer's Body--Day 3

Hahah. Well let's just say this movie will make anybody's day who thinks Megan Fox is hot or enjoys zombie movies. An hour and a half of Megan Fox jutting out her breasts, exposing her flat stomach, flipping her hair, and eating peoples entrails. It's exactly how it looks and sounds. I'm very curious why Amanda Seyfried chose to tackle this movie. It's obvious she has acting talent (Big Love) and she can sing! (Mamma Mia) Who knew? She should have known better than this movie. Furthermore, it once again goes to show that Megan Fox has absolutely no acting ability and if it weren't for her body she would have no career. She does do an excellent job of playing the conceited "hott girl." But that's mostly because it is the only role she ever plays. Here's to hoping she tries a few new roles in 2010.

2 out of 5.

Random News: Michael C. Fox of Dexter has revealed he is battling cancer. He is almost done with his last treatment and the disease is in remission.

#3 Inglorious Basterds--Day 3

I'm very disappointed. For starters, I'm not much of a Quentin Tarantino fan. I know, I know how could I love movies and not Quentin Tarantino movies? Some of them have just too much gore. Some of them I just find dull, Inglorious Basterds being one of them. It definitely featured the traditional Quentin Tarantino chapter sequences and dark comedy, but it just lulled. There were a few scenes were the action picked up, like when one of the Nazi soldiers got his head beaten in by the "Bear Jew", but overall WAAAY too much dialogue. Furthermore, most of that dialogue was in subtitles. You know it's bad when your boy friend stops reading and just asks you to summarize the scene. The only saving grace for the movie was the ending. If you ask me the whole movie could have been summed up into the last half hour. The far from history explosive (pun intended) ending plot twist made the entire movie.

Maybe 2.5 out of 5, just because of the ending.

#2 Avatar--Day 2

I had the privilege of contributing $8 to Avatar's $1.14 billion gross thus far. I can honestly say that the special effects were some of the best I had ever seen. James Cameron created the beautiful, trippy, flourescent planet of Pandora flawlessly. Had certain parts of the movie been shortened by a little bit the whole movie would have been a lot better. Sometimes it felt like it dragged a little bit; however, the intriguing concept and political and social implications definitely kept me intrigued. My only beef was with the ending..it was unrealistic. I felt good when I left the theatre, but the United States ALWAYS gets what it wants. We pursue until we get what we want and it really doesn't matter if "tree people" are in the way. Apparently, some republicans agree with me. According to Yahoo some conservative bloggers are bashing Avatar because it is "too anti-militaristic." Hahahah. TERRORIST! TERRORIST! KILL! Does anyone think some of today's conservative's are sooo much like McCarthy? COMMUNIST! COMMUNIST!

I really enjoyed getting to see another movie with Sam Worthington. He did a fabulous job of barely speaking as the Terminator in Terminator:Salvation, so it was nice to see him in a role where he actually speaks, and I have a feeling we're going to see A LOT more of him in the coming years. With three movies in 2010 including Clash of the Titans, which looks downright badass, he's clearly the new action hero on the block. 

4.5 out of 5.

SO Psyched For:

Legion, The Book of Eli, Iron Man 2, Robin Hood, From Paris with Love, Wolfman, The Clash of the Titans, first part of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, +so many more! 2010 proves to be an exciting year for movies, including 3 Edward Norton movies!

365 Movie Reviews

I've decided to evaluate 365 movies in 365 days. Starting today January 12 I will begin reviewing new to theatres or recently released to DVD movies. If I miss a day I will post two movies the following day. Basically, the entire goal of this project is to provide my reader's with accurate information about movies. Especially, if it is a movie just in theatres. No one wants to pay $8 (or in our new 3D theatre $11) to see a movie that down right sucks!

#1 Fame Day #1
When Fame was released to theatres I was instantly interested. I've taken dance for over 16 years and every time I see a movie being released with singing and dancing I'm hooked. This time I'm GLAD I didn't pay to see it. Fame is a huge disappointment. The movie chronicles student's as they make their way through a performing arts high school. For a "musical" there is way too much storyline and very little singing and dancing. The only saving grace of this movie was the fact that Naturi Naughton is a break out star with ridiculous pipes! Her voice is absolutely incredible. The only reason I kept watching was because I hoped she would perform more. 2 out of 5.