NACHO LIBRE (PG) 1/2 Silly, and somewhat boring parody of the Mexican wrestling film genre. Ignacio (Jack Black) has been raised by monks at an orphanagebut finds himself inexplicably drawn to wrestling. Pursuing his dream, he becomes a wrestler, though not very good at actually winning. PG for violence.
NADINE (PG) 80 minutes * * All Nadine (Kim Basinger) wanted to do was get back some photos she wishes she hadn't had taken. Instead, she finds herself in the middle of a murder and a land deal gone bad. Her husband (Jeff Bridges) is trying to help, but she really just wants him to go away too. Bridges does a nice job here, but we never really believe Basinger. The combination gives us a mediocre and rather forgettable film, though fans of the two leads might find it interesting at some level.
THE NAKED BROTHERS BAND: THE MOVIE (NR) 76 minutes * * Even fans of the Nickelodeon television show this springs from may find it more than a little tedious at times. There are a few cute bits, and there's no denying that young Nat Wolff is extremely talented. Unfortunately, most of the rest of the people here aren't. More than 30 minutes at a time of this is a little difficult to justify, especially when the music is interrupted by bad acting.
THE NAKED BROTHERS BAND: POLAR BEARS (NR) 67 minutes * * The Wolff brothers and their friends raise money for the polar bears who are losing their homes from global warming and help their friends who are still recovering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina. For Naked Brothers Band fans only.
THE NAKED GUN (PG-13) 81 minutes 1/2 As with most films in this genre, it's better when seen with a bunch of friends late at night when you aren't really watching the TV anymore anyway... PG-13 for language and sex.
THE NAKED GUN 2 1/2: THE SMELL OF FEAR (PG-13) 80 minutes BOMB Those who enjoyed the first one might like this, but all evidence of quality and talent is missing from this film.
NAKED GUN 33 1/3: THE FINAL INSULT (PG-13) 75 minutes * Filled with cameo appearances, especially at the "Academy Awards" ceremony. More of the same as far as comedy, lampooning numerous contemporary films with minimal success. The funniest material appears during the credits.
NAKED LUNCH (R) 112 minutes * Bizarre art trash film from director David Cronenberg about a writer's downhill slide into drug abuse and depression. A message from the Interzone is delivered to Bill (Peter Weller) by a talking bug's butt, telling him to kill his wife. But it's just a hallucination as he's addicted to a powdered insecticide. The film almost tries to make a point toward the end, but lapses into insanity again. Adapted from the William Burroughs novel. R for sex, violence, and language.
THE NAMESAKE (PG-13) 113 minutes * * * What's in a name? Gogol (Kal Penn) finds that the name he has been given means far more than he imagined, both to his parents and to himself. The story follows him as he struggles to grow away from his family while staying close, valuing his traditional upbringing while becoming more modern, and as he gains a more clear sense of who he is and what that really means. Nice work by Penn. PG-13 for sex and language.
NANCY DREW (PG) 93 minutes * * 1/2 Nancy is going with her dad on an extended business trip to California. The house they are staying in has a mystery that needs to be solved... even though Nancy has promised she won't do any sleuthing while they are on this trip. Trying to fit in at the school is a bit difficult, and makes Nancy really want to focus on the mystery at hand. Emma Roberts does a very nice job here. Primarily for the 8-12 crowd, but others in the family should enjoy it as well.
NANKING (R) 86 minutes * * * Taken from the diaries, journals, letters and notes of the people of Nanking who lived through the horrors of World War II and the years just preceeding it. Several survivors are interviewed as well, and their accounts will tear at your heart. R for violence.
THE NANNY DIARIES (PG-13) 101 minutes * * 1/2 After graduation, Annie (Scarlett Johansson) begins a journey of self-discovery, stumbling into a career as a nanny. She learns much about life and about herself. We learn too much of it through narration rather than through just watching it happen. Johansson gives a heartfelt performance, and Laura Linney's shrill one off-sets it quite well. They are two talented actesses, and that's what makes this worth watching. Based on the novel by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus. Filmed in New York. PG-13 for language.
NANNY MCPHEE (PG) 92 minutes * * * After their mother dies, the Brown children work their way through seventeen nannies before Nanny McPhee (Emma Thompson) arrives. But as she explains to them, "There is something you must understand about the way I work. When you need me but do not want me, I must stay. When you want me but no longer need me, I must go. It's sad really, but there it is." Delightful fairytale about family, love, good wishes, and dreams that can come true. Emma Thompson adapted the script from the Nurse Matilda books and does a wonderful job as Nanny McPhee, doing the work that needs to be done. PG for cartoonish violence.
NAPOLEON DYNAMITE (PG) 92 minutes * * Coming of age film about misfit Napoleon Dynamite (Jon Heder). There are some funny bits here and there, but this is too slow paced and keeps losing our interest. Tina Majorino adds a few bright spots to the film as Napoleon's shy friend Deb, but it's not enough to give this the strength it needs. PG for language.
NARC (R) 99 minutes * * Jason Patric stars as Nick Tellis, a former undercover narcotics officer, who gets a second chance by helping with the investigation of the death of another undercover narcotics officer. The story is the same tired one we've heard before about cops gone bad, but the performances of Patric and Ray Liotta give it some credibility. It definitely betrays its low budget origins, but at times that actually lends itself to a more realistic feeling to the film. R for violence and language.
NARROW MARGIN (R) 93 minutes * * * This remake of a 1952 film stars Gene Hackman and Anne Archer with Hackman protecting murder witness Archer as they travel by train through the Canadian Rockies. Plenty of tense and eventful scenes with some great stuntwork. Editing is a little sloppy in spots, but Bruce Broughton's music does a great job of keeping our mood right where it needs to be for every segment of the film.
NARUTO THE MOVIE 2: LEGEND OF THE STONE OF GELEL (NR) 92 minutes * * 1/2 Attacked by a mysterious knight while returning a lost ferret, Naruto and friends find themselves caught in a struggle between those who want to use the powerful Stone of Gele to create a utopia without war and those who want to hide it so it won't be misused. Reasonably good adventure story that fans of the series should enjoy and just might intrigue others enough to get them to watch episodes of the series. Not rated, but the violence is typical of the series and the language is very brief.
THE NASTY GIRL (PG-13) 92 minutes * * * 1/2 A young Bavarian girl enters an essay contest and the research she embarks upon (about her home town during World War II) leads her to dig deeper and deeper into the truth, which most people want to leave buried. Director Michael Verhoeven presents a visually stunning film that mixes theatrical backdrops and actual location work in this adaptation of a true story. PG-13 for language and violence.
NATIONAL LAMPOON'S GOLDDIGGERS (PG-13) 81 minutes BOMB Cal and Len grew up in an orphanage together and became best friends. They have an idea... marry a couple of rich old women and inherit their fortunes. Of course, the women they choose have an idea of their own... marry a couple of young fools, insure them, and then kill them. It's definitely one of the most boring comedies you'll ever watch... Don't say you weren't warned. PG-13 for language and violence.
NATIONAL LAMPOON'S LOADED WEAPON 1 (PG-13) 76 minutes * 1/2 Mercifully short parody of several films including the Lethal Weapon series. Notable only for the number of cameo appearances, this is like most other films of it's genre... better when viewed when you're low on sleep and with lots of friends who are in the same condition.
NATIONAL LAMPOON'S SENIOR TRIP (R) 84 minutes BOMB Ten kids in detention write a letter to the president and get invited to Washington. Tommy Chong is their bus driver. A few amusing characters, but a story that goes nowhere and would barely have made a funny skit for "Saturday Night Live".
NATIONAL LAMPOON'S VAN WILDER (R) 88 minutes * 1/2 Van (Ryan Reynolds) has been in college for seven years and his father has decided it's long enough. Now Van is faced with paying for things himself, or perhaps finally moving on. This is yet another of those films with the strange mix of a very sound message (about growing up and taking responsibility) and a style of presentation that is crude and vulgar and very deserving of its "R" rating. R for language and sex.
NATIONAL SECURITY (PG-13) 83 minutes * Hank (Steve Zahn) just watched his partner get killer during a robbery and through a series of events ends up as a security guard. His path crosses taht of Earl Montgomery (Martin Lawrence), police academy reject, and the rest is history. Zahn does fairly well here, but Lawrence lets the one-liners fly no matter the circumstance. Part of the problem here is the old one of not knowing how to balance comedy and drama. There is some very nice stuntwork here, but the script just does such a poor job of telling us the story that we almost don't notice. PG-13 for violence and language.
NATIONAL TREASURE (PG) 121 minutes * * * Generations of his family have spent their lives looking for the treasure. Hot on the trail, Ben (Nicolas Cage) reaches a dead end of sorts and the man who was helping him decides to cross him and try something extreme. Ben sees no option but to go for it himself, despite the increased risks. Fun adventure film with plenty of comic relief as well and a great soundtrack by Trevor Rabin. Cage almost has too much fun with this! PG for violence and language.
NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS (PG) 117 minutes * * * They say that there is a book that is kept by the presidents of the United States, passed from one to the next, full of national secrets. A book that must never be seen by anyone else for fear of how it could change the perception of history, and thus the future. Ben (Nicolas Cage) needs to see if there is information in the book that will clear his family's name from being implicated in the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. It's another fun adventure film with bits of humor scattered throughout. Part history, part conspiracy theory, and lots of fun. PG for violence.
THE NATIVITY STORY (PG) 94 minutes * * * Retelling of the biblical story of the birth of Jesus, beginning with King Herod ordering the death of all the infants in the area and then flashing back to one year before. The script elaborates on the story in a few spots, but most will find this a faithful presentation. It's a beautiful production, and a nice religious film for the holidays. PG for violence.
NATURAL BORN KILLERS (R) 112 minutes * * 1/2 Another Oliver Stone "beat-you-over-the-head-with-an-idea" film, portraying Mickey and Mallory, fictional serial killers who become media stars. Part of what Stone is after is to tap into the macabre part in all of us that continues to watch a story, real or unreal, when it deals with people being killed. The major weakness here is the same as with most of Stone's films, that is, his inability (or unwillingness) to let the camera and music tell the story once in awhile. If you can get past that, it is a fascinating piece of work, though most people will find it rather unsettling to watch.
NATURE'S GRAVE (R) 85 minutes 1/2 Peter (James Caviezal) and Carla (Claudia Karvan) are taking a camping trip with friends. She doesn't really want to be here, and when things start going wrong, it seems to justify her desire to leave. On the one hand, this trip is supposed to help their marriage, but we don't really see anything to save. Both characters, and they are the only two in the film, are unpleasant, and seem to do little but yell at each other. R for language, violence, and sex.
NAVY SEALS (R) 107 minutes * * Action/thriller that pits the Navy's elite team against some Middle Eastern terrorists. Charlie Sheen, Michael Biehn, Joanne Whalley- Kilmer, and Bill Paxton aren't bad at all, but the story is full of holes that really weaken the overall effect.
NECESSARY ROUGHNESS (PG-13) 104 minutes * * The Texas State Armadillos have to train a new football team. It's a bizarre cast of characters they use, and they have to play "iron man" football, but you know they'll win. It's a "losers who make good" story for adults. It does have it's moments, though not so many that you'll be too impressed. The low budget hurts this more than anything else. PG-13 for language.
NEEDFUL THINGS (R) 117 minutes * * Following faithfully in the steps of most adaptations of Stephen King books to the big screen, this is a pale shadow of the original material. This one relies heavily on your having read the book before you see the film. Yet, the ending is totally reworked, losing all of its mysterious and sinister aspects. Nice production quality, but it's all empty inside. R for violence and language.
THE NEGOTIATOR (R) 135 minutes * * Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey star in this suspense/thriller about cops gone bad. Danny Roman's (Jackson) partner uncovers information about some dirty cops and then turns up dead. Roman is framed for the murder and has to prove his innocence. The idea of a negotiator calling in another negotiator is interesting and Jackson and Spacey play their parts very well. The film takes a long time to set the stage though, and could've been better served by cutting several scenes from the first hour. Actors like Jackson and Spacey don't need all the extra time to draw us in and most of the supporting characters here are of little importance the way the story is played. R for violence and language.
NELL (PG-13) 108 minutes * * * * A backwoods girl who has been raised in isolation comes under the scrutiny of a small town doctor and a university research scientist when her mother dies. Jodie Foster gives an astounding performance in this story about solitude, friendship, love, and the need to be in relationship to other people. From the play Ideoglossia, this is a beautiful piece of work that also stars Liam Neeson and Natasha Richardson. Filmed in North Carolina. Rated PG-13 for nudity and language.
THE NET (PG-13) 111 minutes * * Angela Bennett (Sandra Bullock) has a computer disc that some people want very badly. In fact, they erase her identity as they attempt to retrieve it. The suspense here is short-circuited by overly long sequences that drain the intensity and place too much emphasis on Bullock's acting. She can't carry this all by herself when the story is made to be so boring. It's not a bad film, but trimming five to ten minutes off would have helped tighten it up.
NEVER BACK DOWN (PG-13) 106 minutes * * Moving to Orlando wasn't Jake's (Sean Faris) idea, but his little brother is a tennis star, so that's where they go. Making friends in a new place isn't Jake's strong suit, (neither is acting Faris' strong suit), but he finds a fight club, which seems like a good place to start. Good fight scenes, but the story and the acting are very shallow. PG-13 for language, sex, and violence.
NEVER BEEN KISSED (PG-13) 100 minutes * * 1/2 Drew Barrymore is Josie Geller, assigned to undercover work for the newspaper that involves her going back to high school, which was not the most pleasant of experiences the first time around. Barrymore is wonderful here, having the chance to sink her teeth into a well-developed role. Leelee Sobieski shines here as well, playing the girl who first befriends Josie as she goes back to school. It's a predictable story, but the cast wins us over and makes this fun to watch. PG-13 for language.
NEVER DIE ALONE (R) 82 minutes * * 1/2 "King" David (DMX) gets out of prison and sets up a new business selling heroin. It goes quite well for awhile and then things begin to take a turn for the worse. Paul (David Arquette) is a writer, immersing himself in the culture of the streets to get a better feeling for the story he's writing. When he ends up lending King a helping hand, he finds himself in possession of a record of King's activities. Something that some other people would gladly kill him for. Based on the Donald Goines' book and also featuring a very nice performance from Michael Ealy. R for language, violence, and sex.
NEVER TALK TO STRANGERS (R) 81 minutes * Psychologist meets and falls for a surveillance consultant... and now someone is sending her dead flowers and killing her cat. No surprises here, though Rebecca DeMornay and Antonio Banderas are pleasant enough to watch. The story is just so much rehashed thriller with no creativity.
THE NEVERENDING STORY II: THE NEXT CHAPTER (PG) 88 minutes * * It's a really thin story this time around as we follow Bastian on another adventure in Fantasia. Even the small ones in the audience didn't seem too impressed by this. It does wrap up nicely, but the kids may not sit still long enough to get there.
NEVERWAS (PG-13) 100 minutes * * * When Zach (Aaron Eckhart) goes to work at the psychiatric institute where his father spent a good deal of time, he discovers more than he expected. His father wrote a children's book about a magical land, a land that one of the current residents of the institute seems to know a great deal about. Is Neverwas real? Zach can't believe that it's possible, but life has taught him to be a bit cynical. The film does a wonderful job of balancing both the magical and the real as Zach learns about his father and in the process, about himself. Ian McKellan and Brittany Murphy are standouts in an amazing cast that also includes William Hurt, Nick Nolte, Alan Cumming, and Jessica Lange. PG-13 for language.
THE NEW GUY (PG-13) 81 minutes * * 1/2 Dizzy (D.J. Qualls) is a loser. No, really... the ultimate loser. He ends up getting expelled from school and sent to prison. Luther (Eddie Griffin) takes him under his wing and teaches him self-confidence which Dizzy then uses to become the most popular kid in school. Of course, your past never really leaves, and Dizzy must come to terms with that and decide who his real friends are. Wonderfully fun look at friendship and the high school scene with a top-notch performance from Qualls. Eliza Dushku plays the popular cheerleader who falls for him, and who is hiding something of her own past as well. Filled with great cameos and hilarious parodies of numerous films. Not slapstick, but nicely worked into the story. PG-13 for language.
NEW IN TOWN (PG) 91 minutes * * 1/2 Always a hard worker, Lucy (Renee Zellweger) is ready to volunteer to go and administrate the changes needed at the old plant. She's a pro, but New Ulm, Minnesota is more than a little different from Miami. Of course things don't exactly go as planned, but there is this guy (Harry Connick Jr.) Zellweger and Connick are charming and the story does have some fun humor. You've seen it before, but it works as a brief diversion. PG for language.
NEW JACK CITY (R) 96 minutes * * 1/2 Violent, but moralistic look at the beginnings and problems of the "crack" industry. The solution proposed at the end of the film will only create other problems, but... From the Van Peebles school of filmmaking, with lots of pop video style material and strong moral messages. R for violence and language.
A NEW LIFE (PG-13) 100 minutes * * Alan Alda wrote, directed, and stars in this moderately entertaining look at a couple who divorces and begin to reestablish their own lives. Ann-Margret, Hal Linden, and Veronica Hamel co-star.
THE NEW WORLD (PG-13) 132 minutes * * * 1/2 Virginia 1607, ships arrive on the shores of a land far across the ocean. Interactions between the natives and the new arrivals are cautious at first, then friendly, then tragic. Slow-moving and beautifully photographed, using an approach that is somewhat abstract. There are ways in which this story of how one world of existence was affected by that of another is almost hinted at rather than boldly stated, perhaps finding even more of the truth in the telling. Some of the almost operatic quality will definitely be lost on the small screen.
NEW YORK I LOVE YOU (R) 93 minutes * * * Wonderful anthology film with eleven different stories of life and love in New York. The cast is amazing and the stories present an interesting variety of characters and moods. The segments are fairly brief and the film wanders between them as though walking down the street. Glimpses of lives, quick looks at people and at pieces of New York. Featuring Bradley Cooper, Ethan Hawke, Christina Ricci, Orlando Bloom, Robin Wright Penn, James Caan, John Hurt, Chris Cooper, Julie Christie, Cloris Leachman and Natalie Portman, who also directs one of the segments. R for language and sex.
NEW YORK MINUTE (PG) 86 minutes * * 1/2 Jane (Ashley Olsen) is the organized one and she's supposed to give a speech on which her college scholarship depends. Roxy (Mary-Kate Olsen) is skipping school to catch the filming of a music video where she hopes to be able to get someone to listen to her demo. If you've followed Mary-Kate and Ashley's video film career, you'll find that this is a nice transitino to the big screen. It's similar, yet moves them to the next logical step in their careers. PG for language.
NEWSIES (PG) 116 minutes * * * 1/2 Musical story of the newsboy strike of 1899. Outstanding choreography and solid direction from Kenny Ortega and great music from Alan Mencken. Of course there are spots where the story isn't too logical, but that's fairly typical for musicals. If you enjoy a show with alot of dance and like to watch talented young performers, you won't be disappointed. PG for language.
THE NEWTON BOYS (PG-13) 117 minutes * * 1/2 1919, the days when the streets of towns were deserted at night, and the only alarms banks had were the neighbors who might wake up and holler for help. It was in this environment that the Newton boys pulled off the most successful series of bank robberies in history. Not that they didn't get caught in the end, but they lived to ripe old ages. The film has a rather laid-back style, which is somewhat awkward when we're watching the more active scenes. Matthew McConaghey, Ethan Hawke, Skeet Ulrich, and the rest, all seem comfortable here, but the film lacks the energy it needs in some spots. Don't miss those segments with the real Newton boys during the credits! PG-13 for language and violence.
NEXT (PG-13) 87 minutes * * * (Cris (Nicolas Cage) is just another one of many Las Vegas magicians... but there's one small difference. Cris can see the future. Only two minutes ahead, but it comes in handy. The FBI thinks it would come in really handy for a case they're working on. But Cris doesn't want to be a government experiment. Adapted, and quite different in some ways, from Philip K. Dick's novel, "The Golden Man". There are definitely some problems here as far as the story. We never learn much about the villains, and we never get to explore why Cris is able to see farther into the future when Liz (Jessica Biel) is around. But the rest of the story work well enough, and Cage's performance shows us a man who has fun with his talent, while at the same time feeling frustrated at how others don't understand the problems it can cause. As wonderful as it seems, seeing the future isn't what you might expect. "Here's the thing about the future... every time you look at it, it changes... because you looked at it. And that changes everything else." PG-13 for violence and language.
THE NEXT BEST THING (PG-13) 103 minutes * * * Real-life best friends Madonna and Rupert Everett star in a story about two people who can't seem to win at love and decide to settle for the next best thing... each other. Everett and Madonna both do great work here, giving consistent and solid performances. Everett gives the film a touch of humor, but the film is for more drama than comedy, much like life itself. No matter who it is that makes up your family, it takes work to keep it going. PG-13 for language.
NEXT DAY AIR (R) 80 minutes * 1/2 A mis-delivered package of drugs creates confusion and trouble. the mix of comedy and drama doesn't really work very well here. The performances are reasonably good, but seem hesitant at times, perhaps unsure of whether they are supposed to be funny or serious. Starring Donald Faison, Mike Epps, and Mos Def. R for language, violence, and sex.
NEXT FRIDAY (R) 91 minutes * 1/2 Debo is getting out of jail and so Craig is leaving town to live with his Uncle Earl to avoid the beating he's sure to get. Of course, Earl's family and neighborhood have their own problems. It's just another crazy Friday, whether it's your neighborhood or someone else's. A few funny bits here and there, but nothing much to speak of. And way below the caliber of material that these guys should be putting out. R for language.
THE NEXT KARATE KID (PG) 103 minutes * * Miyagi (Pat Morita) has his hands full this time. He's taking care of the granddaughter of a friend, and she has a major attitude problem. Of course, she also knows a little karate, which is all the edge Miyagi needs. His new student has a lot to learn... will he be able to teach her in time? Have we seen this all before? Actually, it's not too bad, but relies more heavily on the philosophy behind karate and less on action until late in the film. PG for language and violence.
NEXT OF KIN (R) 104 minutes * * Patrick Swayze is the big draw here. It's a story of the mafia and hillbillies coming into conflict with familiy loyalties at stake. Justice mixed with revenge is the order of the day. The ending is rather awkward, but the story had some problems anyway. R for violence and language.
NICK & NORA'S INFINITE PLAYLIST (PG-13) 84 minutes * * 1/2 Nick (Michael Cera) is still hung up on his old flame Tris, who has quickly moved on. His friends want him to move on as well, and there is this girl... Norah (Kat Dennings) like Nick, but can she get him to see that he needs to stop thinking about Tris? Adapted from the novel by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, this teenage romance is cute and funny. It reminds us that the easiest way to miss out on life and love is if you forget that it's all about jsut being yourself. PG-13 for language and sex.
NICK OF TIME (R) 83 minutes * * John Badham's flair for action and a talented cast (Johnny Depp, Christopher Walken, Marsha Mason) give this a little spark. Unfortunately, the idea that someone would kidnap your child and use them as a hostage to get you to commit a murder for them, just doesn't work. When we forget what the basic premise is, we can feel some of the tension, but we keep being reminded and return to thinking how foolish it all is.
NIGHT AND THE CITY (R) 100 minutes * * Harry Fabian (Robert DeNiro) is a two-bit lawyer who decides that it's time to bring back ringside fighting the way it used to be, with more excitement and less glitter. Trouble is, Harry's luck has never been very good. The film tries to recapture the sense of the 1950's and does a good job as far as the look and the sound. The acting, however, doesn't come off nearly as well. DeNiro delivers one of the worst performances of his career, with a stumbling, awkward performance that makes us shudder. Jessica Lange does a good job, but she is a single star in a sea of darkness. It's an uneven film that is only a shadow of what it might have been. R for language and violence.
NIGHT ANGEL (R) 82 minutes 1/2 Wasted film interpretation of the myth of Lilith, cohort of Satan, following her antics as she tries to take over a fashion magazine. R for violence and nudity.
NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM (PG) 104 minutes * * * Larry Daley (Ben Stiller) was just trying to get a job to show how he actually could be a responsible adult and a better father. Little did he know that being the night watchman at the Museum of Natural History would involve an ancient curse and museum exhibits that come to life each night. Fun and magical film that does a nice job of entertaining all ages. Stiller does a nice job here, and it's great to see Dick Van Dyke and Mickey Rooney here too. Adapted from the book by Milan Trenc, this film is a great reminder that history CAN come alive, just visit a museum near you! PG for violence and language.
NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: BATTLE OF THE SMITHSONIAN (PG) 100 minutes * * 1/2 The Museum of Natural History is going high tech, so most of the exhibits are being packed up and shipped to the basement of the Smithsonian. Once the tablet that brings the exhibits to life is in a different place, Kahmunrah, brother of Ahkmenrah, is alive and wants to take over the world. It's another fun adventure, though a bit non-sensical in parts, there's still a good mix of excitement, danger, romance, and comedy. PG for violence and language.
A NIGHT AT THE ROXBURY (PG-13) 77 minutes * 1/2 The Butabi brothers want to run their own nightclub, but they have a bit of trouble getting into their "favorite" club... ever. Chris Kataan has some talent, but his sidekick is more like a lead weight than a straight man. The only other real highlight here is some reasonably good dance music. As with most Saturday Night Live skits-turned-movies, this would've been served better had it stayed a skit. PG-13 for language.
NIGHT FALLS ON MANHATTAN (R) 109 minutes * * 1/2 A drug dealer kills three police officers and puts one in the hospital, but was he allowed the right to defend himself? First half of the movie deals with the court case and gets a bit tedious. Makes for an uneven film as the second half takes shape. Interesting, but many won't want to sit through the first half to get to the second. Andy Garcia does a good job, but Richard Dreyfuss doesn't have much to work with as far as script. R for violence and language.
A NIGHT IN THE LIFE OF JIMMY REARDON (R) 90 minutes * * 1/2 Less the story of a high school senior who can't get the girl he wants and more the story of that same boy and his relationship with his father. Director William Richert wrote the book (Aren't You Even Going to Kiss Me Goodbye) and adapted the screenplay for this rather wordy project, with far too many voice-overs that we really don't need. River Phoenix does a nice job using the camera to highlight what he is saying and doing rather than allowing the camera to shape him. A nice soundtrack from Bill Conti sets the mood, but the ending to the film is rather unsatisfactory.
THE NIGHT LISTENER (R) 77 minutes * * * Late night radio talk show host Gabriel Noone (Robin Williams) begins to feel an attachment to one of his young fans as his own personal life is hitting a rough spot. But is this person who they say they are? The more he tries to discover, the more questions he has. Low-key performance from Williams that works nicely in this slightly suspenseful story. Based on a novel by Armistead Maupin, and also starring Toni Collette, Sanda Oh, and Rory McCulkin. It's a short film, but the story will stay with you for awhile. R for language.
NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (1990) (R) 85 minutes * * 1/2 This remake of the original, though written by George Romero, who directed the first, doesn't carry the same impact. It's in color this time and relies too much on the grotesque and not enough on the ideas within the story. Tom Savini's direction emphasizes these effects as one might expect with his expertise in the field of special effects. The social commentary is still there, but the original is still more impressive. R for violence, language, and general grotesqueness.
NIGHT OF THE RUNNING MAN (R) 89 minutes * * This adaptation of Lee Wells' novel is interesting, but rather predictable. Scott Glenn, Andrew McCarthy, Wayne Newton, and John Glover make up the talented cast, but this probably won't be a film you remember for long.
THE NIGHT OF THE WHITE PANTS (R) 83 minutes * * * Max (Tom Wilkinson) used to be a wealthy man. Now he is losing his house. But that's just the beginning of all the craziness in his life. He's about to spend the evening with his daughter's boyfriend (Nick Stahl)... well, he was her boyfriend until she found out that he was selling drugs to her brother... it's difficult to understand someone else unless you've had the same experience. Max may finally be on the right track to understanding his family and to reconnecting with them as well. Wilkinson and Stahl work well together and the story is an interesting combination of the unusual, the awkward, and the endearing. R for language.
NIGHT WATCH (R) 108 minutes * * There are those who watch the night and those who watch the day, to make sure the balance is kept in place. But one will come who makes a choice, and that choice will upset the balance... Sounds impressive, but the film has the feel of a disjointed music video and is not that easy to follow. There are some nice effects, but one wonders if Sergei Lukyanenko's novel was as difficult to read as this is to watch. And although the end of the film does make a bit more sense, it leaves us wondering if there is supposed to be a sequel... though not all that excited about seeing it. R for violence and language.
THE NIGHT WE NEVER MET (R) 94 minutes * 1/2 Kevin Anderson, Matthew Broderick, and Annabella Sciorra (all strangers at the beginning of the film) share an apartment with the typical complications. Part of the problem here is that the characters don't start interacting with each other quickly enough. Good actors can have a really rough time when the script and director don't give them a chance to work.
NIGHTBREED (R) 96 minutes * * * Boone is having dreams about monsters. His doctor tells him that the monsters are personifications of his sins. The place called Midian that Boone dreams of is a fabrication created to house his sins. The only thing is, as Boone and many others soon find out, Midian is real... and so are the monsters! This adaptation of Clive Barker's novel, "Cabal" is filled with fascinating characters and an incredible amount of story. This isn't a horror film that will make you scream or shock you with gross special effects, though there are some wonderful effects. And what this WILL do, is stay with you long after you've finished watching it. You'll wonder what else could happen... and if Midian is real. R for violence, language, and nudity.
THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (PG) 71 minutes * * * The creative mind of Tim Burton spins us a story about Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, and his wish to be a part of the Christmas season instead of Halloween. Part fantasy, part parable, with fascinating characters that come to life through stop-motion animation. Danny Elfman's score is amazing as well, making the soundtrack alone worth buying. Creative, unique, and tremendously enjoyable.
A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (2010) (R) 90 minutes * * 1/2 This remake of the classic 1984 horror film gives us a darker version of the story with less humor. Though it's true that the humor in the original was a bit macabre, at least it was there. For those who are very familiar with the story already, the tone here manages to create some chills despite the familiarity. R for violence and language.
A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 4: THE DREAM MASTER (R) 87 minutes * * * Kristen Parker, the last of the children of Freddy's killers finally bites the dust here, but she manages to pass her powers along to another girl who is able to control her dreams. Alice, along with her friends Dan and Debbie, forms the new triangle of power. The story here is by far the best of the sequels, but the acting is not what it needs to be. Some great special effects from Dream Quest, Kevin Yagher, and John Buechler are here too. A very solid entry in the series.
A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 5: THE DREAM CHILD (R) 84 minutes * * The "dream child" of the title is the unborn baby of Lisa Wilcox, our heroine from Part 4. It is through the dreams of this unborn child that Freddy is now entering the world of reality. It's an interesting idea and it ends well too. The big surprise is that the special effects are very poor. Filmed in dim light whenever possible, they look cheap and ruin much of the intesity the film tries to deliver.
NIGHTS IN RODANTHE (PG-13) 94 minutes * * * Adrienne (Diane Lane) is filling in for her friend by watching her beachfront bed and breakfast. There's only one guest. Dr. Paul Flanner (Richard Gere), who is hoping to see his estranged son. As a hurricane shakes the world around them, Adrienne and Paul find a love that both inspires and changes them. Lane and Gere do nice work here, though it's likely that this will appeal mostly to those who think Harlequin romance novels are how love really works. PG-13 for sex and language.
NIM'S ISLAND (PG) 90 minutes * * * Nim (Abigail Breslin) and her father live on an island they found during a long voyage after her mother is swallowed by a whale. When her father disappears during a short research trip, Nim is left to fend for herself. Danger is just around the corner, but so is a friend. They will have much to learn from each other, but that will just make the adventure even more exciting. Fun film for the whole family with great performances by Breslin, Jodie Foster, and Gerard Butler. Adapted from the novel by Wendy Orr. PG for violence and language.
9 (PG-13) 72 minutes * * 1/2 Technology has advanced to a point where everything ends up being destroyed. Almost all that is left are the 9. They witnessed the end, and if they can survive, and learn from what happened, they will be able to begin again. An unusual film, filled with symbolism and metaphor, but there clearly are bits of the story we are missing. Though quite dark in its mood in a few spots, the overall message is one of hope. As one of the characters notes, "The world is ours now. It's what we make of it." PG-13 for violence.
NINE (PG-13) 108 minutes * * * 1/2 The great film director Guido Contini (Daniel Day-Lewis) is about to begin shooting his latest masterpiece... but he has no script. In fact, he doesn't even have much of an idea, and is struggling with how to deal with this absence of creativity. His last couple of endeavors haven;t been so good either, and the more he tries to hold on to his past success, the more it all seems to slip through his grasp. Sometimes, it's only when it's all stipped away that you can tell who you really are. An absolutely stunning cast, with wonderful production numbers. Director Rob Marshall gives us a musical with a touch of Fellini that is sure to win quite a few awards. The cast also features Marion Cotillard, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Kate Hudson, Fergie, and the inimitable Sophia Loren. PG-13 for language and sex.
NINE DEAD (R) 84 minutes * * Nine people have been kidnapped. But why? Every ten minutes, one of them will die until they figure out the answer to that question. It's an interesting idea, and a bit more straightforward than the "Saw" series. Melissa Joan Hart is definitely miscast here, but the rest of the cast does reasonably well. R for violence and language.
NINE LIVES (R) 108 minutes * * * The lives of nine women are explored in this powerful drama. Nine short films, each exploring a few moments in each woman's life, yet telling us so much about them. Some of the stories are connected more directly than others, but there's a sense in which they are all connected and we are connected to all of them as well. Nice work from all involved! R for language and sex.
NINE MONTHS (PG-13) 96 minutes * * 1/2 Sam (Hugh Grant) may be a child psychologist, but he doesn't want a child of his own... The real stars here are Tom Arnold and Joan Cusack, who work very well together and liven things up every time they're on screen. Grant and Julianne Moore are less likeable and their scenes together tend to drag. Adapted from the French film "Neuf Mois", by writer/director Chris Columbus.
THE NINES (R) 93 minutes * * * 1/2 He's an actor, suffering a bit of a breakdown, who now finds himself under house arrest. He's a writer, he's a videogame designer... he's a nine. But what is a nine? Fascinating exploration of humanity and divinity with intriguing performances. The ending is "the best of all possibilities", and slowly works its way through the film until it's just there. Definitely a film that will keep you thinking for awhile after watching it. R for langauge and sex.
1969 (R) 91 minutes * * * * Playwright Ernest Thompson makes his directorial debut with this wonderful period piece about the end of the 1960's. The incredibly talented cast features Robert Downey Jr., Kiefer Sutherland, Bruce Dern, Winona Ryder, and many more, who give us a glimpse into a year filled with struggles and with friends. Thompson packs a great deal of material into the script in an expert manner, and the songs are well chosen to highlight the atmosphere. R for language.
NINJA ASSASSIN (R) 91 minutes * * 1/2 Raizo (Rain) has trained a a ninja since he was young. Leaving the clan that has been his family, he is now in the process of serving up justice for the brutal murders they have committed over the years. The fight scenes are beautifully choreographed with scenery and cinematography that add an extra level of artistry. R for violence and language.
THE NINTH DAY (NR) 90 minutes * * * Father Henri Kremer (Ulrich Mattes) has been released from the prison camp at Dachau for nine days. Nine days in which he will be faced with many opportunities, challenges, and decisions. Adapted from the book "Pfarrerblock 25487" by Jean Bernard, on whom the character of Kremer is based. It's a powerful film with noteworthy performances by both Mattes and August Diehl. Director Volker Schlondorff gives us a story that is full of tension between despair and hope, faith and doubt, choices that are sometimes made in more extreme circumstances than most of us can imagine.
THE NINTH GATE (R) 127 minutes * * 1/2 There is a book that was written by Satan himself, the reading of which can conjure him. Three copies are known to exist, but are any of them authentic? It's an interesting idea, but we soon tire of the search and long for the climactic scenes we know will come at the end. Johnny Depp gives an appropriately creepy performance, but the film is far too long to sustain the suspense. Adapted from the book El Club Dumas and rated R for violence and sex.
NIXON (R) 181 minutes * * * As is typical of Oliver Stone movies, this film does drive its point into the ground a little bit too much. Still, if the portrait of Nixon as a child is close to accurate, the picture of the man is probably close as well. The big disappointment here is that there are so many well-known actors who are seen in roles that are important, but are on screen for a very short time. Anthony Hopkins does well as Nixon, but the real standout is Joan Allen as Pat Nixon. Settle in and relive a little history through the eyes of Oliver Stone as he takes a look at Richard Nixon. R for violence and language.
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN (R) 117 minutes * * * 1/2 Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) has a feeling that someone might be coming after the two million dollars. What he doesn't know is that Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) isn't like most people. It may not be the "old days", but the west is still wild. Intense story adapted from Cormac McCarthy's novel with subtle, strong performances from Bardem, Brolin, and Tommy Lee Jones. Another fine piece of work from the brothers Coen. Filmed in New Mexico. R for violence and language.
NO END IN SIGHT (NR) 99 minutes * * 1/2 Straightforward documentary that traces the history of the war in Iraq. Beginning with information on how the stage was set, both in Iraq and within the United States government, and how mistakes were made with regard to the ways in which war should be waged if success is to be expected. The film does a reasonably good job of steering away from opinion and simply uncovering the details of the events. The criticism that is offered is focused more on the management of the war than on the reasons for its beginning.
NO ESCAPE (R) 113 minutes * Ray Liotta escapes a maximum security prison in the year 2022 and finds himself in a jungle with other inmates. Can they survive and create a workable society? Who cares? This asks the question, "can the uncivilized become so when left to the wild?" Unfortunately, the story is rather boring and trite, with performances that are lifeless, at best.
NO GREATER LOVE (PG) 104 minutes 1/2 Christian drama about a woman who leaves her family due to depression, how they family copes, and what they do when she comes back into their lives. The characters have almost no depth, and the dialogue and acting remind us of a reayy bad soap opera. It also seems that when in doubt, most of the characters resort to screaming or crying. Sorry people, that isn't acting. PG for language.
NO HOLDS BARRED (PG-13) 89 minutes 1/2 This Hulk Hogan vehicle has virtually nothing to recommend it. Fake fight scenes that are worse than normal, a plot that is almost non-existent, and acting that... well, it isn't. This is only for diehard fans of Hogan.
NO IMPACT MAN (NR) 88 minutes * * * Colin Beavan is what some people might consider and eco-extremist. Having done a great deal of study and written quite a bit about how people can reduce their impact on the environment, he decides to try to live for a year without making any negative impact on the environment. He expects his wife and daughter to comply as well, which could be a bit more difficult. Interesting, informative, and somewhat humorous at times as well.
NO RESERVATIONS (PG) 100 minutes * * 1/2 It's hard enough to be a great chef in New York. But when Kate (Catherine Zeta-Jones ends up taking care of her niece, and her boss brings in another chef to help (Aaron Eckhart), Kate is faced with a few more challenges than she anticipated. Based on "Bella Martha", with Zeta-Jones giving a rather passionless performance, though Echkart does a nice job compensating for it and Abigail Breslin delivering another fine performance in her young career. PG for language.
NO SUCH THING (R) 98 minutes * * * When Beatrice (Sarah Polley) sets off to find clues about the disappearance of her fiancee, she never expects to find that the monster that people have mentioned is real. Then she begins to get to know him. As with most Hal Hartley films, this is filled with metaphor and philosophical dialogue/monologue. It's part biting satire of media and popularity, and part lyrical fairytale. Can we live without fear? Can we live without monsters? Something to ponder. R for violence and language.
NO WAY OUT (R) 110 minutes * * * When a politician's mistress turns up dead, it's up to Lt. Cmdr. Tom Farrell (Kevin Costner) to find the killer. The problem is, Farrell was having an affair with her too. Intense pacing and plenty of action keep us involved right up until the end... which is a bit disappointing and seems to drift away from the direction we'd been going all along. Based on the novel "The Big Clock" by Kenneth Fearing.
NOBLE THINGS (R) 95 minutes * * Returning home to Texas, Jimmy Wayne (Brett Moses) struggles with the sacrifices that his father and brother have made for him, and how it hasn't worked out as well as any of them planned. It's a story of brotherly love, but also of unfulfilled promise and of guilt. The dialogue is rather stiff and much of the acting lacks the polish needed to make the film flow more smoothly. And the sentimental ending doesn't really help either. R for violence and language.
NOBODY'S BABY (R) 108 minutes * * * Offbeat story with Skeet Ulrich delivering a very nice performance as an orphan who finds himself looking after another orphan. This does a nice job of mixing the humor of a couple of characters who never seem to be able to get things to go their way, with the sentimentality of the need for family and love. Gary Oldman co-produced and co-stars as Ulrich's friend, along with supporting roles by Mary Steenburgen, Radha Mitchell, and Anna Gunn. An overlooked film that is definitely worth a look. R for language, violence, and nudity.
NOBODY'S FOOL (R) 106 minutes * * * 1/2 A slice of the life of Donald "Sully" Sullivan (Paul Newman). One could say that he's a real character in this small northeastern town... but he's been around the block a few times. Enough to know how to handle most anything that comes his way. Richard Russo's book comes alive on the screen and Newman fits the part so well that it's sometimes hard to tell where Sully ends and Newman begins. A nicely paced and absorbing story that keeps you watching. Filmed in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, and Hudson, New York. R for language and brief nudity.
NOBODY'S PERFECT (PG-13) 86 minutes * 1/2 Extremely predictable film that does manage to be a little fun to watch toward the end. It's about a guy who's too shy to talk to the girl he's interested in, so he disguises himself as a girl and ends up being her roommate. Chad Lowe stars as Steven/Stephanie, but don't expect too much. PG-13 for sexual language.
NOMAD (R) 103 minutes * * 18th entury Kazakhstan is the setting for this story of a divided country that must unite to survive. Lots of emphasis here on the viual aspects of the film, with plenty of battle scenes and nice photography. Character development is fairly low on the list of priorities though, and aside from a little detail with a couple of the main characters, we know and care little about virtually everyone in the film. R for violence.
NORBIT (PG-13) 100 minutes * Norbit (Eddie Murphy) has always been a bit of a loser. But he's not the only one who has bad luck with relationships. This is nowhere bear as entertaining as Tyler Perry's "Madea" films, in part because of the script, but even the characters are less appealing here. This clearly has the look of a contractual obligation for both Murphy amd Thandie Newton. Not a film you'll mind missing. PG-13 for lots of foul language.
NORTH (PG) 82 minutes * Elijah Wood stars as the title character who wins the right to choose his own parents but can't find the "perfect" folks anywhere in the world. Thick morality mires the script, but no more than the annoying stereotyped characters North meets along the way. Notable for a wonderful collection of actors who gives brief and mediocre performances.
NORTH COUNTRY (R) 121 minutes * * Charlize Theron is good here, but the story (about women's rights to work without fear of mistreatment by men) is far from strong. The more dramatic sequences are all offset by artistic photographic moments that leave us wondering why. Even the closing court scene, which does manage to have some power despite being a bit overplayed, is followed by an ending sequence that hardly fits the film at all. Nice supporting work from Frances McDormand. R for language, violence, and sex.
NORTH FACE (NR) 116 minutes * * * The north face of the Eiger is one of the less forgiving climbs. German pride and the upcoming olympic games added an extra incentive to take the risks, but bad weather and a concern for fellow climbers would keep Andreas (Florian Lukas) and Toni (Benno Furmann) from reaching the summit. Their next challenge was to survive making the descent. A powerful story and awe-inspiring scenery help us feel the intensity and struggle that these courageous men faced.
NORTH SHORE (PG) 91 minutes * * An Arizona boy goes to Hawaii and quickly loses everything except his surfboard... which breaks the second time he goes out. He begins working for and living with Chandler (Gregory Harrison) who shapes boards and has an approach to surfing that is both scientific and spiritual. Nice to see several pro surfers in the film (Laird Hamilton, Gerry Lopez, Mark Occoluppo, and Alex Rogers), but not much aside from scenery and surfing to see here.
NORTHERN LIGHTS (NR) 91 minutes * * Nate (Eddie Cibrian) goes to Alaska to get away from the big city crime scene that got his partner killed. Instead, he finds himself dealing with a 15-year-old homicide that may be connected to the one that just happened. Cibrian's performance is a bit lackluster, but the supporting performances have just enough to keep this a little more interesting. Part of the problem, of course, is the cliche-ridden script.
NOT ANOTHER TEEN MOVIE (R) 82 minutes 1/2 But it IS... full of tastless humor, stereotypes, and parodies of other movies. It fails miserably as far as its intended audience because many of the films it parodies are ten to fifteen years old and haven't been seen by today's teens. There are a few cute cameo appearances (by people from those films), but we should've seen more. The soundtrack is definitely worth a listen, but don't waste your time on the film. R for sex, violence, and language.
NOT EASILY BROKEN (PG-13) 96 minutes * * 1/2 Adapted from the book by T.D. Jakes, this is the story of a marriage that is being put to the test. Clarice (Taraji P. Henson) is recovering from a car accident and Dave (Morris Chestnut) is beginning to wonder why she is pushing him away... and if he should look elsewhere for what he needs in a relationship. What is it that makes a marriage work, and how can you stay true to the vows that were made? PG-13 for language.
NOT FORGOTTEN (R) 88 minutes * * When his daughter is kidnapped, Jack Bishop's (Simon Baker) search for her will lead him right back to what he has been trying to put behind him. Some things cannot be forgotten... or forgiven. Chilling ending with a nice job by Chloe Grace Moretz, but Baker doesn't seem to fit very well here. His performance is two-dimensional and he seems disconnected from the story at times. R for violence, sex, and language.
NOT WITHOUT MY DAUGHTER (PG-13) 111 minutes * * 1/2 Sally Field gives an emotional performance as a woman who goes with her Iranian husband back to his homeland. When he decides to stay, she finds out that she has no right to take her child out of the country. It's definitely a one-sided story and most of the characters aside from Field's are rather one-dimensional. Since she is able to leave the country, why not leave the country and then hire someone to get the daughter out?
THE NOTE (NR) 86 minutes * * A note that falls into the hands of a journalist after a place crash leads her to believe that she should deliver it to the person it was written to. Featuring bad acting by most of the cast, and a script that makes it even worse as it drips with sentimental emotion and predictability. Almost as bad as a soap opera, which is likely the reason that Genie Francis was asked to take the lead role. Adapted from the novel by Angela Hunt.
THE NOTE II: TAKING A CHANCE ON LOVE (NR) 87 minutes * Torn between the love she feels for her once estranged daughter and for her new romantic partner, Peyton (Genie Francis) gets advice from one of her readers who disagrees with Peyton's views on love and relationships. More of what was in the first film with an even less creative storyline. More tiresome than anything else.
THE NOTEBOOK (PG-13) 118 minutes * * * Love story with James Garner and Gena Rowlands struggling as she loses her memory of all their years together. He reads her the story of their lives, which we see acted out by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. These flashback sequences are nicely done, but its the segments with Garner and Rowlands that keep us watching. The story itself is overly romantic and sentimental during the flashbacks, but perfectly romantic and sentimental in the present day sequences. PG-13 for sexuality.
NOTES ON A SCANDAL (R) 88 minutes * * * Two women, each with their own secrets, begin a friendship. But what will happen when they each learn what the other is hiding? Powerhouse performances from Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett make this somewhat mediocre thriller worth watching. It's a one-note twist that we've seen before, but it's just great to watch these two at work! R for language and sex.
NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH (R) 101 minutes * * After writing an article that reveals the identity of a CIA agent, Rachel (Kate Beckinsale) is asked to reveal her source. She refuses. Writer/director Rod Lurie presents an interesting dilemma, especially once you learn who the source of Rachel's information is, but most of the story tends to drag because there just isn't that much to tell. R for language, sex, and violence.
NOTHING BUT TROUBLE (PG-13) 88 minutes 1/2 Nothing but a waste of time... Chevy Chase, John Candy, Dan Ackroyd... plenty of talent here, but things just never get rolling. There are some wonderful costumes and props, but the story got lost somewhere along the way... sort of like the characters do in the rather strange town of Valkenvania.
NOTHING LIKE THE HOLIDAYS (PG-13) 94 minutes * * 1/2 The Rodriguez family have gathered for Christmas. It's not going to be a pretty sight, but they are family. Nothing all that surprising or interesting here, but the ensemble cast works well together. Featuring John Leguizamo, Alfred Molina, Elizabeth Pena, and Debra Messing. PG-13 for language.
NOTHING TO LOSE (R) 94 minutes * * 1/2 Nick (Tim Robbins) is having a bad day. So when "T" (Martin Lawrence) tries to rob him, Nick has nothing to lose by taking a risk. This film has a rather good mix of comedy and drama although the transitions are a bit choppy at times. Excellent camera work during the dramatic sequences is what helps gives those segments the strength they need. There is a nice twist fairly late in the film, but otherwise the story doesn't have much in the way of anything interesting. Robbins and Lawrence keep it afloat better than most. R for language and violence.
NOTORIOUS (R) 114 minutes * * * The story of Biggie Smalls (Jamal Woolard) and the battle of the east and west coast rappers. Pieces of the lives of Tupac, Puff Daddy, Lil' Kim, and Faith Evans, among others, are included here. The story is clearly a little one-sided, but the acting is quite good, and we find ourselves drawn in to this tale of talent and conflict. R for language and sex.
THE NOTORIOUS BETTIE PAGE (R) 85 minutes * * 1/2 Gretchen Mol stars as Bettie Page, whose upbringing in a conservative religious family didn't stop her from becoming a famous pin-up model. When a senate investigation into pornography targeted some of her photos as examples, she became even more famous. Mol does an excellent job here, but the story just seems to wander through her life in a somewhat disinterested fashion without much in the way of supporting roles, almost as if no one really knew her. While that may or may not be true, it doesn't help us to connect with her character. R for sex and language.
NOTTING HILL (PG-13) 118 minutes * * * William Thacker (Hugh Grant) is minding his own business, working in his little travel book shop in England, when who should walk in but major American film star Anna Scott (Julia Roberts). Something clicks and they find themselves bumping into each other and falling in love despite their different life styles. Hugh Grant has outdone himself here, giving a fine performance in a well-written part. But what really makes the film a treat are the supporting characters. Thacker's family and friends are both funny and sincere, providing the heart of the film as they support this newfound love. PG-13 for language.
NOVEMBER (R) 69 minutes * * Courteney Cox stars in this psychological drama about a photographer who is trying to piece together the events surrounding the death of her boyfriend during a robbery. The story is told repeatedly from slightly different vantage points, but if you're paying attention, the clues are there and the outcome is no surprise. Cox does a nice job here, but the material is rather thin. R for violence and language.
NOW AND THEN (PG-13) 97 minutes * * * 1/2 The stories of the lives of four women, remembering their childhood times together. The summer which they remember with the most affection is the one during which they began to grow apart from each other. Gaby Hoffman is the most outstanding of the young girls, but Thora Birch and Christina Ricci are always a delight to watch as well. Set in Shelby, IN, but filmed in Savannah, Georgia. PG-13 for language.
NOWHERE TO RUN (R) 91 minutes * * 1/2 Jean Claude Van Damme is an escaped convict who helps out widow Rosanna Arquette and her two kids as they are "fighting" a big corporation. Boring story, and Van Damme is never going to be nominated for an acting award, but Arquette and the two kids (Kieran Culkin, and Tiffany Taubman) make it worth a look.
THE NUMBER ONE GIRL (R) 80 minutes 1/2 Hollywood martial arts star is invited by long-time friend to be a judge for a beauty contest. The top four girls are supposed to be "hands-off", but when he ignores the rule, trouble ensues. The real trouble here is a horrible script and mediocre action sequences. Vinnie Jones and Pat Morita have a few moments where you can see that they actually have some talent, but the script gives them so little to work with that even that is hard to see. R for violence, language, and sex.
THE NUMBER 23 (R) 93 minutes * * * It was just an old book in a used bookstore, but it was a story of obsession... and it sounded like his own life. Walter Sparrow (Jim Carrey) finds himself drawn into a world where the number "23" is everywhere. The more he tries to unravel the mystery, the more he becomes controlled by it. Carrey does a wonderful job here, spinning and falling through the story, taking us with him through his mad obsession. While this is an unlikely candidate for an Oscar nod, it clearly shows that Carrey does have what it takes to deliver strong, dramatic performances and to do it more than once. R for violence, language, and sex.
NUNS ON THE RUN (PG-13) 90 minutes * * 1/2 Eric Idle and Robbie Coltrane star as two bungling henchmen who try to do a job on their own and end up hiding in a convent disguised as nuns. The story works pretty well early on, but loses momentum. The low-budget doesn't help much either. Still, there are some good laughs along the way. PG-13 for language and nudity.
NURSE BETTY (R) 105 minutes * * * When Betty (Renee Zellweger) wintesses her husband's murder, something snaps. Reality and imagination blur together and she begins to live as if the characters in her favorite soap opera are real. Zellweger's performance carries the film well, innocent, desperate, romantic, dramatic, and humorous. It's a story about who we are, who we want to be, the dreams we hold close, and the faith we need to have in ourselves. This is one of those often over-looked films with loads of charm that is sure to bring a smile to your face. Chris Rock's performance is a bit strong, but Morgan Freeman manages to keep him in line pretty well. R for violence and language.
THE NUTCRACKER (G) 86 minutes * * New York City Ballet version of the classic piece "featuring" Macauley Culkin. Beautiful sets and costumes as one might expect, but the dancing early on is of rather mediocre quality. Special dance numbers later in the film fare much better. Not really of much interest to those who don't enjoy the ballet.
NUTS (R) 117 minutes * * * Somewhat lengthy adaptation of Tom Topor's play with a strong performance by Barbra Streisand. The intensity of some of the dialogue helps quite a bit, as do the supporting performances of Richard Dreyfuss and the rest of the cast. Nice photography throughout, especially in some of the sequences with Streisand and Dreyfuss.
THE NUTTY PROFESSOR (PG-13) 90 minutes * * Fantastic special effects work by Rick Baker in this remake of the Jerry Lewis comedy. The idea of going from fat to fit rather than strange to suave works a little better and Eddie Murphy does alright. There just isn't much to make this film really stand out. It's pleasant enough and is good for a few laughs, but don't expect it to be on your list of favorites.
THE NUTTY PROFESSOR (2008) (PG) 71 minutes * * Animated version of the story with Drake Bell providing the voice for Harold, grandson of Professor Julius Kelp (Jerry Lewis). Drinking a special potion his grandfather created makes Harold supercool, but there may be some side effects. OK cartoon version for the kids, but adults will probably want to skip this one. PG for language.
NUTTY PROFESSOR II: THE KLUMPS (PG-13) 99 minutes * The most memorable sequence from the first film, around the dinner table, is stretched into a long sequence at the beginning of this film, and the film goes downhill rapidly from that point. Little more than a collection of jokes about sex and bodily functions, this is a terrible waste of Eddie Murphy's talents. There are some cute outtakes at the end, so I recommedn watching the first five minutes and skipping to the end. You won't miss much in between. PG-13 for language.
O (R) 89 minutes * * * Things aren't going the way that Hugo wants them to. He's not being appreciated. But he has a talent for manipulating people... his peers in particular... and so the game begins. This is a fascinating modernization of the story of Othello. Liberties are taken here and there, but except for the times that style is emphasized over content, it works well. R for violence, sex, and language.
O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU? (PG-13) 103 minutes * * * Everett, Pete, and Delmar... three convicts on the run and the adventures that ensue. One of the more fun adventures involves them recording a song to earn a few buck that becomes a hit while they're too busy running to even notice. Only Joel and Ethan Coen could have come up with a version of Homer's "The Odyssey" that's set in the rural south with a bluegrass music soundtrack. It's most definitely unique. Those who enjoy the work of the Coen brothers will find it a treat. Those who don't will probably find it a bit too strange to enjoy. PG-13 for language.
THE OBJECT OF MY AFFECTION (R) 107 minutes * * 1/2 Dumped by his lover, George (Paul Rudd) moves in with Nina (Jennifer Aniston). When she gets pregnant with her boyfriend, she decides that George would make a better father, but he isn't really interested. She's starting to fall in love with him, despite his sexual preference and things are getting complicated. The characters are likeable here, though events are still rather predictable. Aniston is fairly good here as well, though Rudd is the one with the best performance. The story needed some tightening up, which would have helped us feel like things were headed somewhere instead of wandering around before getting to the point we already knew was going to be made anyway. R for language and subject matter.
OBSERVE AND REPORT (R) 82 minutes 1/2 Ronnie (Seth Rogen) is a mall security cop who has to deal with a flasher who is disrupting business at the mall. His ineptness in dealing with the situation results in the involvement of the local authorities as well. The humor here, if you can even call it that, is very negative, violent, and mean-spirited. Anna Faris' performance saves this from the worst rating, but just barely. Filmed at the Winrock Mall in Albuquerque, New Mexico. R for language, violence, and nudity.
OBSESSED (PG-13) 100 minutes * * The new temp at Derek's (Idris Elba) office has her sights set on none other than Derek himself. It doesn't matter to her that he's married, though her grasp on reality is a little shaky at best. Things are clearly going to get worse for Derek before they get better. The performances here are reasonably good, but the story is tired and we're ready for it to end long before it does. PG-13 for sex, violence, and language.
OCEANS (G) 79 minutes * * * As you might expect from a Disney Nature film, the photography is exceptionally beautiful. Though Pierce Brosnan provides narration, the film really doesn't tell a story. Instead, it wanders through the various oceans on the planet, showing the tremendous diversity of life and interactions between numerous life forms. The interaction between the diver and the great white shark at the end of the film is particularly amazing to watch.
OCEANS 11 (2001) PG-13) 110 minutes * * * Remake of the classic heist film from 1960 about a plan to rob several Las Vegas casinos. The story has been updated quite well and the cast is a treat to watch as they try to work together to accomplish the unthinkable. I wouldn't say this is better than the original, but it's a classy and well-made update. PG-13 for language.
OCEAN'S THIRTEEN (PG-13) 116 minutes * * 1/2 When Reuben (Elliott Gould) gets double-crossed on a casino property deal, the crew goes back into action to settle the score for their friend. It's one slick move after another with plenty of twists and turns to keep us interested. The biggest complaint here is that we don't get to see enough of the whole team. What we do see is nice, and the story works well, leaving us more pleased than we were with "twelve". PG-13 for language and violence.
OCEANS TWELVE (PG-13) 119 minutes * * Benedict (Andy Garcia) wants his money back and the eleven have to become twelve to get it done. The only trouble is, Benedict isn't the only one who's after "Ocean's 11". Although this sequel has glimmers of energy every once in awhile, it relies heavily on the first film and just never manages to carry it's own weight. Annoying photography in a few spots as well, and the ending seems very misplaced. PG-13 for language and violence.
OCTOBER SKY (PG) 101 minutes * * * 1/2 It's 1957 and the Russians have launched Sputnik. The cold war is heating up and four industrious young boys from West Virginia begin experimenting with model rocketry. What starts as a hobby soon becomes an obsession, but the demands of a mining town can sometimes get in the way of dreams. Jake Gyllenhaal does a wonderful job as Homer Hickam, creating a picture of a dreamer who won't give up. This is a well-structured film that will keep your interest throughout and perhaps remind you that there are dreams worth dreaming and that with dedication and hard work, you can make them come true. PG for language and violence.
THE ODD COUPLE II (PG-13) 91 minutes * * 1/2 Felix (Jack Lemmon) and Oscar (Walter Matthau) haven't seen each other for years... and they like it like that! But they're about to have a reunion thanks to their children who are about to get married... to each other! Lemmon and Matthau have worked together on so many projects that have all capitalized on these same basic characters that there isn't much of a difference here. They work well together, and we find their conflicts and frustrations amusing. In the end, it is the two actors who make this work, rather than the script, which is far below what one would expect from Neil Simon. PG-13 for language and violence.
OFF THE MAP (PG-13) 107 minutes * * * There was a time when Bo was young that her father was always depressed. It wasn't too long after that when a young man from the IRS came to audit her family and ended up staying. The desert of New Mexico can have that effect on you sometimes... It's a gentle story of one particular summer that slowly works its way into your heart. Valentina DeAngelis does a very nice job as Bo, and Joan Allen and Sam Elliott do great work here as well. The film has a very natural "feel" to it, relaxing us as we learn along with Bo, some of the important lessons of life, love, and loss. PG-13 for language and nudity.
OFFSIDE (PG) 90 minutes * * 1/2 In Iran, only the men are allowed inside the stadium to watch the soccer games. It doesn't stop women from trying, but if they are caught, they risk both prison and disgrace. But sometimes risks are worth taking, and national pride can often erase differences, at least for awhile. It's an interesting character study, but the story remains just distance enough that we don't connect well until the very end. PG for language and violence.
O'HORTEN (PG-13) 86 minutes * * 1/2 With retirement just ahead, Odd Horton (Baard Owe) is beginning to realize just how much is still uncertain. The strange events that are happening to him this evening are forcing him to rethink just about everything. Gentle and a bit unusual at the same time. PG-13 for nudity.
OLD DOGS (PG) 84 minutes * * Dan's (Robin Williams) not really good with kids. Now, not only does he find out that he has two children he didn't know about, but he has to take care of them for two weeks. His buddy Charlie (John Travolta) probably isn't going to be much help. Not much substance here, but there are a few laughs, and fans of Williams and Travolta shouldn't be too disaapointed. PG for violence and language.
AN OLD FASHIONED THANKSGIVING (NR) 87 minutes * * 1/2 There's a rift between her mother and grandmother that Tilly (Tatiana Maslany) doesn't understand. What she knows is that her family is struggling to make ends meet and that her grandmother could help. Reconciliation and help are just around the corner. TV movie adaptation of a Louisa May Alcott short story.
OLD GRINGO (R) 115 minutes * * * 1/2 Jane Fonda, Gregory Peck, and Jimmy Smits deliver excellent performances in this story of a young Mexican general, an older American writer, and the woman who knew them both. Based on Carlos Fuentes' novel, this is a fine study of three strong characters. Set in 1913, during Pancho Villa's revolution, their chance encounter will change the way they look at life.
OLD JOY (NR) 71 minutes * * 1/2 Kurt (Will Oldham) and Mark (Daniel London) plan a camping trip to a semi-hidden paradise known as Bagby Hot Springs, deep in the Cascade mountains of Oregon. Adapted from a short story by Jonathan Raymond, this is a quiet, gentle film about two men, coming to terms with becoming adults, remembering their more radical younger days, and understanding what it means to have and to be a friend. It's a very relaxing film, with a quiet beauty that is not easy to find in a film. Not-rated, but essentially PG-13 for language and nudity.
OLD SCHOOL (R) 86 minutes * 1/2 Mitch (Luke Wilson) is recovering from a broken relationship, Frank (Will Farrell) is having trouble with his new wife, and Beanie (Vince Vaughan) just wants to help his friends. The result is that a new fraternity starts in Mitch's house with numerous, somewhat funny happenings resulting. This is another of those films that has trouble with the balance between comedy and drama, drifting more toward drama as the film moves along. The soundtrack is worth a listen though - great collection of songs!
OLIVER & COMPANY (G) 72 minutes * * * Not one of Disney's better efforts, this animal version of "Oliver Twist" suffers from mediocre animation throughout. The cast of voices is wonderful, with Bette Midler, Billy Joel, Cheech Marin, and Dom Deluise among others, but the songs are weak, with "Savoir Faire" being the only one that's very memorable.
OLIVER TWIST (2005) (PG-13) 125 minutes * * 1/2 Faithful adaptation of the classic Dickens' novel with Ben Kingsley doing a nice job as Fagin. Sets and photography do a nice job of creating the atmosphere though Barney Clark's performance as Oliver leaves a bit to be desired. Nice soundtrack by Rachel Portman. PG-13 for violence and language.
THE OMEGA CODE (PG-13) 93 minutes * The Omega code (aka. the Bible code) is based on the theory that there is a secret code that has predicted all major events that have occured since the Bible was written and will do so until the end of time... which is, of course, almost upon us. Despite whether you believe this, what is hard to dispute is how absolutely atrocious the script is for this film. Casper Van Dien does nothing to help, and Michael York and Michael Ironside both look like they wish they were doing something else. Based on Hal Lindsey's interpretations of the scriptures and rated PG-13 for violence.
OMEGA SYNDROME (R) 92 minutes 1/2 White supremacists kidnap the daughter of a former soldier. He and his buddies go after them. Looks like it was put together over a weekend for about $100. They used 26 stunt people for this, but I'm not sure why.
THE OMEN (2006) (R) 106 minutes * * The 1976 classic horror film is given another turn in this remake, but it doesn't even come close to the original. Not only are there far too many cheap noise scares when creepy chills would have been more effective, but the acting is far from top quality. To even think of comparing Liev Schreiber to Gregory Peck is ludicrous, and while Julia Stiles is usually quite good, she seems puzzled by her character in this film. Mia Farrow is appropriately creepy and Marco Beltrami's soundtrack fits well, but it just isn't enough to lift this out of mediocrity. R for violence and language.
ON A CLEAR DAY (PG-13) 95 minutes * * 1/2 After being laid off from his job, Frank (Peter Mullan) decides to challenge himself, and tackle a few personal demons along the way, by swimming the English channel. His friends are willing to help, but know that this is something that Frank will still have to deal with on his own. It's an interesting story, but never really goes deep enough into the character to bring us all the way in, though it does finish fairly well. PG-13 for language.
ON DEADLY GROUND (R) 97 minutes * * This Steven Seagal film is very strong on environmental ethics, but not so strong on quality performances or special effects. Aside from a few explosions and a handful of martial arts sequences, not much money was spent on this one. In fact, the production quality tends to get worse as the film goes along. It's too bad, because the message is a good one and tends to get lost as we lose interest in the film. R for language and violence.
ONCE (R) 84 minutes * * * He (Glen Hansard) plays music in the street to earn a little extra. During the day, he plays the songs people want to hear, but at night, he plays a bit of his own material. When she (Marketa Irglova) hears the music, she is drawn to him. They find themselves working together and falling for each other, though sometimes love and music don't work exactly the way we expect. It's a bittersweet story about a guy and a girl and how music brings them together for awhile. A wonderful piece of work with excellent music and fine performances all around. R for language.
ONCE AROUND (R) 110 minutes * * * Renata (Holly Hunter) is bouncing back from a broken relationship, right into the arms of super salesman Sam Sharp (Richard Dreyfuss). Except that Sam can't quite sell a few of her family members on his good intentions. It's a wonderfully acted film, with a cast who grab your attention from the first minute and don't let go until the end.
ONCE UPON A CRIME (PG) 89 minutes * Wonderful cast, wasted in an unfunny comedy/mystery about a missing dachshund. The mystery isn't bad, but the comic elements are dumb and distracting and waste the talents of this cast. Eugene Levy is credited with directing, but the film seems to have little in the way of direction, as scenes that have little to do with anything interrupt us throughout.
ONCE UPON A FOREST (G) 65 minutes * * 1/2 Environmental awareness cartoon for the kids as the effects of chemical waste are felt in the forest. Cute characters, but with the musical talents of Michael Crawford, Ben Vereen, and James Horner, this should've been a bit better. The kids will probably enjoy it, but it's doubtful they'll sit through it more than once.
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS (2005) (PG) 86 minutes * * 1/2 Disney's adaptation of the Broadway production uses the same writing team that created the 1964 TV movie and moves Carol Burnett from the role of princess to that of queen. (Burnett was also the princess in a 1972 TV movie version as well.) It's a fun story, the music is good, and Tracey Ullman plays the role of the princess with flair. Zooey Deschanel does a nice job as well, and Burnett and Tommy Smothers (as the king) have fun here as well. The story has undergone a little updating here and there which wasn't really necessary, but seems to be something that Disney just can't stop themselves from doing. Fun for the kids, but the PG rating is definitely in order for some of the topics addressed.
ONCE UPON A TIME IN MEXICO (R) 96 minutes * * * El Mariachi is back! Although by virtue of having Antonio Banderas as El Mariachi this is a sequel to Desperado, there are ways in which it brings the original El Mariachi to mind as well. Sometimes the inventiveness and energy that results from working with a very small budget can really help a film. The story is obviously one that director Robert Rodriguez has fun with, and the cast appears to enjoy themselves as well. Johnny Depp is a delight, Salma Hayek is sexy yet fun, and Mickey Rourke, Cheech Marin, Willem Dafoe, Ruben Blades and the rest, seem to have stepped right out of a legend onto the screen. The violence is a bit much in spots, as if Rodriguez gets a little overzealous while telling us the story. Still, it's fun, and that's what we expect from a film like this. Budding directors take note: there are incredibly few directors who can direct, produce, edit, photograph, and score their own films and make it work. Rodriguez is one of them! R for violence and language.
ONCE UPON A WEDDING (PG) 88 minutes * * A Caribbean island where the wealthy live on one side and the poor live on the other. Of course, when the rich daughter of El Comandante (Esai Morales) falls for one of the poor islanders, everything will change. That includes the fact that El Comandante's right hand man has a plan to take over the island. The plays very much like a movie for children, but there are no younger characters in the film to keep them interested. Instead, what we have is a film that is great for families to watch, but that few will find that appealing. Nothing harmful or poorly done, just not very interesting or all that funny. PG for language.
THE ONE (PG-13) 81 minutes * * 1/2 Interesting premise... that there are multiple parallel universes and that by killing yourself in another universe, the energy is distributed among your other selves. Of course, somebody has to get greedy and try to become all-powerful... The special effects are top-notch, and there's plenty of action and great martial arts fight scenes, choreographed by Cory Yuen. The ending is somewhat disappointing though and as short as this is, there was plenty of time to follow up on a few things. Jet Li does some nice work here as do Delroy Lindo and Jason Statham, who play the multiverse police out to apprehend the villain. Filmed in Los Angeles. PG-13 for violence and language.
ONE DAY YOU'LL UNDERSTAND (NR) 88 minutes * * 1/2 Uncovering the history of his family and what happened during World War II is both troubling and obsessive for Victor (Hippolyte Girardot). He can't seem to stop himself, but uncovering the tragedy and the lies help him to understand his family and himself in ways he never anticipated. Despite this, we seem to feel a distance from Victor that keeps us from connecting with the story at times. A little more depth and emotion would have helped this quite a bit.
ONE EIGHT SEVEN (R) 115 minutes * * Samuel L. Jackson and John Heard star in this mix of "Dangerous Minds" and "The Substitute". Teacher Trevor Garfield (Jackson) has already been stabbed in the back (literally) by a student, and as he takes on a temporary position, at a different school, it doesn't take long before he reaches his limit. There is some powerful story here, but it's weakened by dialogue that too often sounds idiotic. Watch either of the films already mentioned and leave this one unless you're a real fan of Jackson's work. R for language, violence, and nudity.
ONE FINE DAY (PG) 102 minutes * * * Michelle Pfeiffer and George Clooney star in this story of two divorced (and extremely busy) people bump into each other and discover that they may have finally found what they were looking for. Mae Whitman is adorable as Pfeiffer's daughter, Maggie, and this is some of Pfeiffer's best work in quite awhile. James Newton Howard provides the soundtrack for this romantic story that is sure to be one you'll like. PG for language.
ONE GOOD COP (R) 100 minutes * * * Artie Lewis (Michael Keaton) is a good cop. When his partner dies in the line of duty, Artie finds out that he's the legal guardian for his partner's three children. Although a good deal of the story seems to have been cut out, we still get a great performance from Keaton. We see the tough cop who can definitely handle the action, a sensitive husband who cares about his wife and her feelings, and a man who is learning what it means to be responsible for children and who is struggling to see if that is something he really wants. All things considered, this is a good film that is hurt by a script with some weaknesses and a director who apparently couldn't compensate for the problems created by the script. R for violence.
ONE HOUR PHOTO (R) 89 minutes * * Quiet and unassuming, Sy (Robin Williams) is the photo guy at the local SavMart. He goes home to his pet hamster and eats his lunch at work by himself. He dreams of having a family, a dream he's becoming a little obsessed with, especially since he just got fired from his job. Williams is fascinating to watch, as usual, but the story just isn't big enough for his character. And it feels a little mundane to blame Sy's behaviour on childhood abuse. The soundtrack is quite nice, with an approach that is both melodic, yet rather creepy, and the films does have a nice, stylish ending, though it's a bit much for a film that's been so simple up until that point. R for language and nudity.
101 DALMATIONS (G) 95 minutes * * 1/2 The live action approach actually works very well in this Disney remake of the classic cartoon. Glenn Close is the perfect Cruella De Vil, and most of the other actors do an adequate job. Things really drag during the second half of the film, despite Michael Kamen's soundtrack and John Hughes' screenplay. Like so many other recent movies, this seems to have been made purely to capture the box office for a few weeks with no interest in making a quality film, worthy of being compared to its predecessor.
102 DALMATIANS (G) 94 minutes * 1/2 Basically this is the same story as the first film with less detail and a feeling that it was put together in a hurry. The closing minutes make you wonder how Glenn Close could have sunk so low as she is dipped in batter, made into a cake, and squirted with icing by dalmatian puppies. The really young members of the audience are mildly entertained, but that's mostly due to watching the puppies.
ONE MISSED CALL (PG-13) 83 minutes * 1/2 The phone rings... it's a call from a friend... the moment before they die... sometime in the near future. Based on the Japanese film which was also adapted as a brief Japanese television series. As with many US adaptations, the scares are less subtle and the music just isn't as creepy as the original version. There are a few good scares here, but the Japanese version has quite a few more. PG-13 for violence.
ONE NIGHT WITH THE KING (PG) 115 minutes * * 1/2 Adapted from the novel Hadassah by Tommy Tenney and Mark Andrew Olsen, this is the story of Esther, also known as Hadassah, and how she was able to influence a king and to rescue her people from certain death. Fairly elaborate production with very nice sets, costumes, and props. Luke Goss does a nice job as King Xerxes, and Tiny Lister has a nice supporting role as well. Tiffany Dupont is less than memorable as Esther, though not as disappointing as Peter O'Toole's two minutes on screen. Script and editing both needed some work here as the film drags in several spots. PG for violence and sensuality.
ONE TRUE THING (R) 123 minutes * * * Elly (Renee Zellweger) and her mother (Meryl Streep) were never close, but Elly's father (William Hurt) has asked her to come home and care for her mother, who is undergoing cancer therapy. Solid performances from all three actors help make this story of family a powerful one that rings true. A bit of a tearjerker in spots, but not enough to draw us away from the points the film tries to make about the "one true thing" that makes life worth living. Filmed in Maplewood and Morristown, New Jersey. R for language.
ONG-BAK (PG-13) 101 minutes * * Just before the festival of Ong-Bak, which happens only once every 24 years, vandals remove the head of the town's statue of Ong-Bak. Tony Jaa goes off to retrieve it. He's learned the art of Muay Thai, but has also been instructed not to use it because it is so dangerous. Jaa does fairly well here, but the claims that he's the next Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan might be a bit premature. The film's editing is not helpful to the overall effect, repeating and slowing down many of the action sequences to let us see them over and over is not necessary... or all that interesting. PG-13 for violence.
ONG BAK 2 (R) 89 minutes * * 1/2 Tien (Tony Jaa) is given the chance to become a Pha Peek Krut pirate because of his tremendous bravery. It's a great honor for one so young, and he trains well and becomes one of the best. But there is a truth he does not yet know that will soon become clear to him. Jaa co-directs this sequel and the story seems to cut loose a little more with better fight scenes than the first. R for violence.
THE ONION MOVIE (NR) 76 minutes * A collection of short skits and bits presented as a news program. Much like everything else Onion, there are some hilarious bits, while others aren't funny at all. Some segments are sharply satirical, and others are trashy or offensive. Fans of the Onion will like this better than most, but there's just not much here to like.
ONLY THE LONELY (PG-13) 100 minutes * * Sentimental romance story of a 38-year-old bachelor who lives at home with his mother. Ally Sheedy does an admirable job as the love interest, but we never really believe John Candy as the bachelor. The relationship between them is too tense and puts a stress on the film that never leaves.
ONLY WHEN I DANCE (NR) 77 minutes * * 1/2 Rather dry documentary that follows two teens from Rio de Janeiro as they try to pursue their dreams of professional dancing careers. The film doesn't do much to really involve us in the lives of these talented young people.
ONLY YOU (PG) 104 minutes * 1/2 Faith (Marisa Tomei) is about to be married... but she thinks she may really be in love with another man. She hasn't met him yet, but she knows his name. The dialogue is absolutely horrible and Tomei and Robert Downey Jr. struggle with it valiantly, but to no avail. The more interesting part of the story actually centers around Faith's sister-in-law who accompanies her on her trip to Italy in search of the mystery man of her destiny. PG for language.
OPEN RANGE (R) 133 minutes * * * Just a couple of cattlemen driving a small herd across open range... it's a story that evolves slowly, like most of Kevin Costner's work. It's a good story, one of conflict, love, and the old west's struggles to adapt to newer ways. Adapted from the book "Open Range Men" by Lauren Paine and co-starring Robert Duvall, it's a solid piece that offers entertainment and quality acting. The biggest problems are the length and Costner himself. Duvall does a great job, but Costner once again does little more than amiably walk through his role. It does manage to work fairly well in this story, but it's still the same old character he's played before. R for violence and language.
THE OPEN ROAD (PG-13) 83 minutes * * 1/2 With his mom refusing to sign for the surgery she needs until she sees her ex-husband, Carlton (Justin Timberlake) has his job cut out for him. His dad (Jeff Bridges) is not the most cooperative person. The trip home is going to be a long one, but it will allow for plenty of time to think. And maybe some time for a father and son to figure out how to talk to each other again. Nice performances, especially the supporting role of Kata Mara, but the story is a bit tired. PG-13 for language.
OPEN SEASON (PG) 78 minutes * * Boog had a nice life until Elliot came along. Now he's out in the wilderness... and hunting season is starting. Amusing in spots, but Elliot is too annoying and we have a hard time liking Boog that much, though we sympathize with how upset he gets with Elliot. Voices by Martin Lawrence, Ashton Kutcher, Debra Messing, and Gary Sinise. PG for language and violence.
OPEN SEASON 2 (PG) 68 minutes 1/2 Elliot is getting nervous about marrying Giselle and Mr. Weenie is "found" by his family and needs rescuing. The characters are still annoying, still throwing rabbits (which isn't funny anymore), and now voiced by a secondary, lesser-talented cast. Not really much to recommend this. PG for language.
OPEN WATER (R) 78 minutes 1/2 The poor sound quality and just plain bad cinematography at the beginning of this film do a nice job of setting you up with what to expect... nothing. Not very suspenseful despite the fact that the idea itself is interesting and could have been handled much more effectively. And, if you manage to sit through the whole film, you'll definitely be disappointed by the ending. R for violence, sex and language.
OPEN WATER 2: ADRIFT (R) 88 minutes BOMB More of the same as the first. What's worse is that the characters are even less appealing and appear to be even less intelligent. And this time, the ending is not only disappointing, but it doesn't seem to make sense. Then again, what made sense about making this film, which, by the way, isn't a sequel, just another story about people dying out in the ocean. R for R for violence, sex, and language.
OPERATION CONDOR (PG-13) 86 minutes * 1/2 Although not one of Jackie Chan's better films, this is still fun to watch. The story drags a bit too much as we follow everyone around as they try to find the long lost gold of the Third Reich. The martial arts and stuntwork are average for a Chan film, which puts them a few notches above most others. PG-13 for violence.
OPERATION DUMBO DROP (PG) 104 minutes * * 1/2 Ray Liotta is a new captain who finds himself, in the middle of the Vietnam War, struggling to replace a sacred elephant for a strategic village. A rather strange topic for a Disney film, but the characters are somewhat entertaining. Filmed in Thailand.
OPIUM: DIARY OF A MADWOMAN (NR) 105 minutes * * 1/2 Dark, moody, and surrealistic look at a doctor (Ulrich Thomsen) and patient (Kirsti Stubo) at a mental hospital. Both tortured souls, he finds her fascinating, and she realizes that his interest provides her with some hope. Mesmerizing and almost serene at times, but depressing at others as we can tell early on that their unusual love story will never be able to go very far.
OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS (PG-13) 97 minutes * * Dana Carvey stars as a street-wise, fast-talking con man from the south side of Chicago. He stumbles onto the perfect con, but falls in love at the same time. Things start falling apart when he decides to be honest, but it all works out in the end. What a surprise. Carvey's talents are evident, but they aren't put to very good use here.
THE OPPOSITE OF SEX (R) 100 minutes * * * 1/2 Cynical comedy with a hard edge it not to everyone's tastes, but Don Roos has delivered an amazing script with fascinating characters. Christina Ricci and Lisa Kudrow are perfect here. Bitter towards life, but for different reasons, they frame the story as it moves along, slapping us in the face more than a few times. We laugh at some of the extremes, but there's a truth here that cuts through the bitterness. Roos has a talent for writing strong parts for female characters (Boys on the Side) and displays it again here. Ricci and Kudrow both grow in these parts, showing us talents we hadn't seen before. Bravo! Filmed in California. R for language and sex.
OPPOSITE SEX (R) 81 minutes * * Arye Gross and Courteney Cox star in this comedy of the struggles of two people from different backgrounds in a budding relationship. The passion and romance are a bit strained here, but the comic bits make it fun to watch. R for sex and language.
ORANGE COUNTY (PG-13) 77 minutes * * It takes Shaun (Colin Hanks) awhile to decide what he wants to do with his life. When he finally does, nothing seems to go quite the way he's expected. Not really the slapstick comedy you might think, but this suffers from that age-old struggle to balance comedy and drama, never quite achieving what it needs. Hanks is a bit too earnest to be believable and despite the heart of the film, which seems to be in the right place, the energy doesn't seem to get us past the first twenty minutes. PG-13 for language.
THE ORDER (R) 98 minutes * * 1/2 Alex (Heath Ledger) is a priest of the Carolingian order, an order that values knowledge above all else. When his mentor dies under rather mysterious circumstances, Alex must discover what happened. What he discovers is that sin-eaters are still around and that it was the Catholic church that hid the truth. But why? And what does it mean, now that he knows? Religious suspense rather than horror is the story here, and it's a story that dares to make you think a little. It's definitely interesting, but its supernatural tone keeps it just unreal enough that it loses an element of fear and some of our attention as well. R for violence.
THE ORDER OF MYTHS (NR) 76 minutes * * 1/2 The oldest celebration of Mardi Gras in the United States is in Mobile, Alabama, and the separation between white people and people of color is still strong enough that there are actually two celebrations. In 2007, for the first time, the kings and queens from the two celebrations cross those lines, breaking ground for new possibilities. Tradition has value, but truly respecting the traditions of others involves understanding relationship.
ORIGINAL GANGSTAS (R) 95 minutes * Fred Williamson stars in this film about original gang members from years ago who come back to kick some sense into the current gang. Typical film about empowering the residents to take back their community is mostly of interest for its cast. Pam Grier, Paul Winfield, Isabel Sanford, and Jim Brown among others are fun to watch. Filmed in East Chicago and Gary, Indiana, which happens to be Fred Williamson's home town.
THE ORIGINAL KINGS OF COMEDY (R) 113 minutes * 1/2 Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and Bernie Mac do live stand-up comedy for almost two hours. If you love their material, you'll enjoy this, but it's not a great movie. Few live recordings work well and when you have an irritating stage camera that keeps running back and forth on its track, it's somewhat distracting. There are a few "backstage" moments and the best comic sequences come from Harvey, which is probably why he works well as the headliner. R for language.
ORIGINAL SIN (R) 111 minutes * An arranged marriage, based on a lie, leads to one deception after another. The pacing is terrible, and by the time we get to the potentially interesting twists and turns during the last thirty minutes, we no longer care. Angelina Jolie is almost too aloof, and Antonio Banderas is never really convincing as a distraught husband. Weak direction makes the uneven script even worse, and the length of the film just adds to the problem. Based on the book, Waltz Into Darkness, and rated R for sex and violence.
ORPHAN (R) 116 minutes * 1/2 At first, Esther (Isabelle Fuhrman) seems like the perfect child for the Coleman's to adopt, but then they get to know her... and she gets to know them. She's cold-hearted and manipulative, though when the twist happens near the end and we learn why, believability has so completely disappeared that we don't even care. There are a number of creepy bits early on, but too many cheap noise scares ruin most of the effect. Adorable Aryana Engineer steals every scene she's in, and is one of the few things that keeps us watching. R for violence and language.
THE ORPHANAGE (R) 97 minutes * * * Laura (Belen Rueda) and her husband return to the orphange where Laura spent her childhood with the intention of reopening it as a home for children who have physical disabilities. The building still has some other "guests" staying there though. The film moves a bit slowly at first, but is wonderfully creepy during the second half and finishes with an almost magical ending that is far from sinister. Nice work! R for violence.
OSCAR (PG) 104 minutes * * * The dialogue is great in this comedy that features Sylvester Stallone in a rather uncharacteristic role. He does a nice job here and has an excellent supporting cast. The music has a snappy, upbeat rhythm that fits and the cast keep straight faces during the whole show, which makes it even funnier. Don't overlook this just because you can't imagine Stallone in a comedy, it really is worth watching! PG for language.
OSMOSIS JONES (PG) 88 minutes * * * Clever and creative story of Osmosis Jones, a white blood cell in the body of Frank (Bill Murray). Frank is not a person who takes particularly good care of himself, and as we see through the animated experience of what goes on inside him, there can be some problems. Accomplishing an amazing feat, the film manages to be educational, entertaining, dramatic, and hilarious. Featuring appropriately gross performances from Murray and Chris Elliott, it's a film that kids will love and parents should manage to find entertaining as well. PG for language.
OSS 117: CAIRO, NEST OF SPIES (NR) 89 minutes * * 1/2 A combination of James Bond and Inspector Clousseau, Hubert Bonisseur de La Bath (Jean Dujardin) is a secret agent who seems to stumble into the right place at the right time. The film does a nice job of recapturing the feel of older spy films, bringing back to the big screen a fun character last seen in 1970.
THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL (NR) 89 minutes * * 1/2 BBC adaptation of the Philippa Gregory novel about Mary and Anne Boleyn and their relationship with King Henry VIII. Straightforward drama with few frills, and not a great deal of passion, though the performances are more than adequate.
THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL (PG-13) 112 minutes * * * Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson star as Anne and Mary Boleyn, both of whom King Henry VIII is interested in courting as mistress. Adapted from Philippa Gregory's novel, which focuses on the story mostly from the perspective of the Boleyn family. Nice period film, though Eric Bana's portrayal of Henry is less than convincing. PG-13 for sex and violence.
THE OTHER END OF THE LINE (PG-13) 101 minutes * * 1/2 She's just a voice on the phone, but she seems to really care. He's just a customer, but he seems to be so nice. What would happen if they met? The story is a bit uneven at times, but the romance is sweet and Jesse Metcalfe and Shriya give this just enough charm to make it work. It's a nice, gentle romantic film. PG-13 for sex and language.
THE OTHER MAN (R) 84 minutes * 1/2 Suspicious that his wife is having an affair, Peter (Liam Neeson) decides to track down the other man in her life (Antonio Banderas). Neeson's character is undecided about how to do this and with what to say when he actaully confronts his rival. On the one hand, we have a little sympathy for Peter, but when the twist is revealed late in the film, we find ourselves wondering what the big deal was. R for language and sex.
OTHER PEOPLE'S MONEY (R) 98 minutes * 1/2 Larry Garfield (Danny DeVito) is a Wall Street businessman who takes over companies, disolves them, and sells the pieces for a profit. We have the usual fight from those who love the company, those who are willing to sell out even though you thought they wouldn't, and the last minute save by someone who can pull the right strings. It's a tired script that does a great injustice to a fine cast. Gregory Peck, Piper Laurie, Dean Jones, and DeVito deserve better than this. R for language.
THE OTHER SISTER (PG-13) 126 minutes * * * 1/2 Carla (Juliette Lewis) is sent away to a special school for eight years. Her problems are just too much for her parent to deal with while raising two other daughters. Now she is returning home, but she wants to be on her own. While this is primarily Carla's story, it's nice to see that the film presents a well-rounded picture of the whole family. This is a wonderful example of solid acting by an ensemble. It's a heartwarming picture that reminds us how important it is to love and to let go. PG-13 for language.
THE OTHER WOMAN (NR) 87 minutes * * Derek's (Ted Whittall) new intern Nicole (Lisa Marie Caruk) is intent on marrying her new boss. But his wife Jill (Josie Bissett) isn't going to give up without a fight. Jason Priestley directs this TV movie adaptation of Joy Fielding's novel that feels much like a standard soap opera. Not a great deal of depth to the characters here, and the acting is mediocre at best.
THE OTHERS (PG-13) 100 minutes * * 1/2 Welcome to a somewhat spooky house where the current inhabitants discover that they aren't alone... the previous occupants are still around. Reasonably good use of music, light, shadows, etc. which give us the right ambiance, but it still manages to drag a bit. The ending is nice as well, but there are too many hints along the way that manage to spoil things. Nicole Kidman is in her element here, and Alakina Mann delivers a superb debut performance as her daughter Anne. Filmed in Spain. PG-13 for language and suspense.
OTIS (NR) 98 minutes * 1/2 Otis (Bostin Christopher) is a serial killer. He likes to toy with his victims. Sort of like this film toys with us. At first, we think this is a straightforward horror film, though it soon becomes apparent that it's more of a satire. Unfortunately, the story drifts back to horror and then to satire again. Satire would have been the better choice as it would have been a treat to see a film that satirized horror rather than becoming a parody. This one misses the mark on any scale, though Christopher manages a performance that we remember.
OUR FAMILY WEDDING (PG-13) 99 minutes * * The families of this engaged couple haven't met yet... but that's about to change. Actually getting along with each other is going to take awhile. There are plenty of fun little bits of comedy here, but some of the characters here try a little too hard to be funny. There are a couple of nice supporting performances here from Regina King and Anjelah Johnson. America Ferrera does a nice job, but the film is far too much for her to deal with on her own, and by the time we get to the end, it just sort of wanders around and then stops. PG-13 for language.
OUR FATHERS (R) 126 minutes * * 1/2 Based on the book by David France, this takes a look at the sexual molestation scandal that rocked the Catholic church. The responsibility reached farther and affected more people than anyone thought possible when it started. Standard dramatic performances, with an emphasis on the legal issues and the church's ability to keep the details hidden for so long. Also starring Christopher Plummer, Brian Dennehy, and Daniel Baldwin. Filmed in Toronto, Ontario. R for language.
OUT COLD (PG-13) 85 minutes BOMB Small time Bull Mountain ski resort is being sold to a major (as in Lee Majors) developer. The local ski bums don't want that to happen. And with the way they act, who would want to hang around anyway... and that includes the audience... Jason London is a far cry from being a superlative actor, but he deserves better than this. PG-13 for language and nudity.
OUT FOR JUSTICE (R) 87 minutes * * 1/2 Two kids from the same neighborhood in New York. One grows up to become a police officer, who is a little bit of a renegade and is able to do things his own way without much interference from his supervisor. The other one is on drugs, deals drugs, and is now killing people just because he's in the mood. We never learn much about Richie (William Forsythe), but he's the bad guy who's going to get it in the end so it doesn't matter, right? Wrong! Without a well-developed villain, a hero is nothing. Stephen Seagal does show some improvement here as an actor, but he's still stuck in the same genre. R for violence and language.
OUT OF SIGHT (R) 116 minutes * * George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez are on different sides of the law, but sometimes the chemistry between two people doesn't know those boundaries. This adaptation of Elmore Leonard's novel is acted well (watch for bit parts by Michael Keaton, Samuel L. Jackson, and Nancy Allen) but the photography is annoying. There are a couple of nice sequences, but someone was trying for a film noir style that just didn't happen. It won't be quite as noticeable on video, but it still takes a toll on the overall effect. R for violence and language.
OUT OF THE BLUE (NR) 99 minutes * * * On November 13, 1990, something in the mind of David Gray (Matthew Sunderland) snapped. He killed thirteen people before the police were able to finally stop him. Adapted from the book Aramoana, by Bill O'Brien, the film tells a story of violence and terror in a poetic and gentle way that is both effective and haunting. Writer/director Robert Sarkies weaves and interesting and thoughtful tale of one man and the effect his actions have on a community.
OUT OF TIME (PG-13) 103 minutes * * Matt Whitlock (Denzel Washington) is having an affair, involved in a double homicide, an insurance fraud, has tampered with evidence, and even more may be going wrong. The story does a nice job of intensifying as it progresses, but it borders on getting too convoluted at times. Everything pulls together at the end, but it seems to happen a bit too easily and too quickly... like most TV movies... PG-13 for violence and language.
THE OUT-OF-TOWNERS (PG-13) 86 minutes * * Their last child leaves for school and now Nancy and Henry have to figure out what to do with their lives. Goldie Hawn and Steve Martin work well together and the script isn't too bad. Still, this suffers from being a remake and just doesn't quite have the spark of the original. Fans of Hawn and Martin probably won't be disappointed, but better direction might have given this the extra energy it seems to be lacking. PG-13 for language.
OUT TO SEA (PG-13) 101 minutes * * 1/2 Yet another odd couple/grumpy old men outing with Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau on a cruise ship flirting with women. This has its moments, but is mostly fluff and hard to distinguish from so many similar outings. It's nice to see Donald O'Connor and Gloria De Haven, but their parts are too small to show off their true talent. PG-13 for language.
OUTBREAK (R) 121 minutes * * 1/2 It's a killer virus from the jungles of Africa... and it's on the loose! Reasonably good entry in the disaster genre, but the main cast are less interesting than the supporting cast. James Newton Howard's soundtrack helps keep the tension high when it needs to be there. Perhaps a little long, but most people will find this an exciting film that they'll remember for quite awhile. R for violence and language.
OUTING RILEY (NR) 84 minutes * * 1/2 It's time for Bobby Riley (Pete Jones) to let his Irish Catholic family know that he's gay. But how will he tell them and will they believe him? Low-key comedy/drama with entertaining performances, though the comments made directly to the camera tend to distract from the flow of the story.
OUTLAW (NR) 96 minutes * 1/2 A unlikely group of people who have in common a feeling that the law has let them down or betrayed them decide to form a vigilante group. Most of them aren't all that committed to it at first, though the idea does have its appeal for them. The story doesn't seem to have much focus until late, and we've lost most of our interest by then despite the reasonably good performances by the cast.
OUTPOST (R) 85 minutes * * When a group of mercenaries stumble across an old World War II bunker, they wonder if they might have found a stash of Nazi gold or treasure. Instead, they discover creepy, undead Nazi soldiers who start killing them off, one by one. The weak acting is offset fairly well by some nice camera and effects work. R for violence and language.
OUTRAGE (R) 86 minutes * * * Documentary about politicians who are gay and why they keep their sexuality hidden while in office, and why they support so much anti-gay legislation. As Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, "the lady (or in this case the politician) doth protest too much". It's clearly a double standard, and not an easy life to live, but that's hardly an excuse for supporting legislation that denies so much to so many. There are those who are working to change the system, but it's a long and slow process. R for language.
OUTRAGEOUS ANIMATION (NR) 84 minutes * 1/2 Huge collection of animated short films, but many of these just aren't that good, or are just rude. Among the best included here are, "Haploid Affair", "Flush", "Spaghetti", "Rondino", and "Jac Mac & Rad Boy". There are other, better collections than this.
OVER HER DEAD BODY (PG-13) 89 minutes * 1/2 Kate (Eva Langoria Parker) and Henry (Paul Rudd) have their wedding plans interrupted by an accident. Henry slowly accepts that life must move on and begins to have a romantic interest in Ashley (Lake Bell), a psychic his sister asked him to see in an attempt to help him move on with his life. But Kate hasn't exactly moved on either, and she's not very happy about Henry's interest in Kate. It's a cute story, but there's almost no chemistry between the leads. This is writer/director Jeff Lowell's first feature film and the direction should have been left to someone else. PG-13 for language and sex.
OVER THE HEDGE (PG) 75 minutes * * * 1/2 Absoultely delightful animated feature about the adventures of a group of wild animals who find themselves surrounded by surburbia and being helped by a raccoon who has another agenda they aren't aware of until it's almost too late. A stellar cast of voices, but what really makes this succeed are a story that just never seems at a lack for comic lines that keep you rolling, and animation that takes extra care in creating facial expressions that are virtually perfect in their ability to play on your emotions. Hammy, in particular, will keep you laughing long after the film is over. Featuring the voices of Gary Shandling, Steve Carell, Bruce Willis, Wanda Sykes, William Shatner, Nick Nolte, Thomas Hayden Church, and many more. PG for language.
OVERBOARD (PG) 109 minutes * * * 1/2 Spoiled rich girl falls overbaord, gets amnesia, and ends up with a poor handyman who has lost his wife. It's always fun to watch Goldie Hawn and this is yet another of those films that you just can't help have fun watching. There's a bit much foul language for a PG film, but the light tone of humor and the message about the importance of love and family over money help soften it a bit.
OVEREXPOSED (R) 79 minutes 1/2 Someone is stalking the soap opera stars. Low-budget suspense film that actually does manage to give us a nice story move, but it's comes so late in the film that most people have already given up on it. The closing scene comes across more humorous than I'm sure it was intended as the cast all seem to want to say something profound, but nobody wrote it, so they just play a mediocre song instead. Produced by Roger Corman and featuring David Naughton and Karen Black.
PACIFIC HEIGHTS (R) 96 minutes * * If you decide to fix up an old house and rent part of it out while you live in the rest, you'd better be careful who you rent to. They might be scheming to take the house away from you. Michael Keaton does a wonderful job as the sinister James Danforth, but the film moves along too slowly, removing most of the suspense. Events are staged too carefully, with props obviously shown to us before they are used and music swelling to a crescendo with each potentially suspenseful scene. We're never able to really let go and have fun with this because we're always being reminded that we should already know what's going to happen. R for violence, language, and nudity.
THE PACIFIER (PG) 90 minutes * * Lt. Wolf's (Vin Diesel) new assignment is to protect the children of a scientist who has been killed. His secret formula may be in the safe deposit box his wife is going to open, but it may still be in the house. It's cute, formula Disney entertainment with Diesel doing a nice job of making it look fun and easy. PG for violence and language.
THE PACKAGE (R) 103 minutes * * 1/2 Political thriller starring Gene Hackman as Sergeant John Gallagher, a man caught in the middle of a conspiracy. The tension builds well through much of the film, but as things progress, it somehow manages to get rather boring and even tedious at times. Nice cast of supporting characters that includes Joanna Cassidy, Tommy Lee Jones, and Pam Grier.
THE PAGE TURNER (NR) 78 minutes * * 1/2 Melanie (Deborah Francois) gives up playing the piano after a bad experience involving a judge at the music conservatory where she auditions. When she's a little older, the opportunity arises for her to become a page turner for the woman who treated her so badly. It's a classy and chic production, but there are no real surprises here, and most of the characters are rather difficult to like.
PAGEANT (NR) 92 minutes * * * The Miss Gay America competition recognizes the best female impersonator using a number of different criteria. This documentary follows several competitors as they get ready for the different categories in this final competition. Nice work following the different people and their reactions and progress as the competition moves along.
THE PAGEMASTER (G) 68 minutes * * 1/2 The story of a boy lost in a storm who finds refuge in the library and becomes intrigued by the world of books. Nice idea that is rather interesting for a movie to promote, but the mix of live action and animation is less than it should be. Great character voices help keep things interesting along the way, thanks to Christopher Lloyd, Whoopi Goldberg, Patrick Stewart, Leonard Nimoy, and Frank Welker.
THE PAINTED VEIL (PG-13) 120 minutes * * * Adaptation of the W. Somerset Maugham novel, filmed before in 1934 and 1957 (as The Seventh Sin). While Naomi Watts is no Greta Garbo, she still does a fairly good job. This version manages to holds its own against the 1934 version quite well, thanks to a fine performance from Edward Norton and more extensive location footage shot in China. It's a classic story of love, infidelity, and justice, with a solid, if slightly sentimental ending. PG-13 for sex and violence.
PALINDROMES (NR) 97 minutes * * * Aviva wants to have babies... lots of babies. But her first attempt to begin is cut short by her parents. She runs away to find freedom, love, and possibilities. While she does find these things, she also discovers that she can't be something she isn't. It's a fascinating look at innocence, love, and motherhood through the mind of director Todd Solondz. While it is a story of adolescent sexuality, it is also a sensitive story of a young girls search for love - both to give and to receive. In a strikingly unique move, he chose to have the role of Aviva played by eight different actors who vary not only in age, but in race, sex, and size. It reminds us that we aren't always who we appear to be on the outside, but we are still who we are. And it challenges us to keep rethinking the way we are looking at this character. Not rated due to sexual subject matter.
THE PALLBEARER (PG-13) 94 minutes * * 1/2 Strange little film about a guy who has horrible luck with women. That is, until the mother of a high school classmate he doesn't remember reaches out to him for comfort when her son dies. This is a mix between Woody Allen and Neil Simon as far as the story and most of its appeal is based on the earnestness of David Schwimmer's performance in the lead role.
PALMETTO (R) 109 minutes * * Harry (Woody Harrelson) is an honest reporter who landed in jail after being framed. Now he's out on the streets in need of money and right smack in the middle of another situation that doesn't look too promising. Harrelson does a good job here, but the plot gets too complicated, especially towards the end, taking twists and turns that muddle the story and have us wanting this to just explain itself and be over. Elisabeth Shue struggles with the overtly flirtatious role she has and Gina Gershon is sidelined in a fairly small role. Some bad directing and editing decisions result in this being a mediocre suspense film, though worth watching for Harrelson. R for violence, language, and sex.
PANDORUM (R) 101 minutes * * 1/2 In a future where the population of Earth has grown so large that the battle for resources leads to a war that decimates the population, the residents of a spaceship discover that they are the only living members of the human race. But they are about to discover something else that's on board the ship with them. Grim and pessimistic look at the future, and the story seems almost as canned as the characters are on board the ship. The effects make up for some of it, and Dennis Quaid and Ben Foster do what they can to make it exciting. R for violence and language.
PANIC (R) 93 minutes * * * Interesting and rather quirky little film about a hitman who is questioning his line of work. Going to a therapist is making it more confusing since he's started flirting with a girl he met in the waiting room, and since his latest target is supposed to be his therapist. Great acting by the entire cast. It's a film that one might expect to see William Macy in, but Donald Sutehrland, Neve Campbell, Tracey Ullman, and John Ritter do nice work as well. For those who like their comedy on the darker side, this is definitely a treat. R for language and violence.
PANIC ROOM (R) 108 minutes * * 1/2 This wastes little time in getting us into the panic room itself, a small hidden security room inside the house that Meg (Jodi Foster) has just purchased. The only problem is that the people who've broken in are after something in that room. Foster is convincing, but that's no surprise, and Howard Shore delivers a nice soundtrack. The difficulty lies with the story itself. As we near the end, there's little the story can do to keep us interested. Much as Meg and her daughter are trapped in a small room, we find ourselves trapped in a small story with only one way out. It's definitely worth a look for Foster's performance, but not for much else. R for violence and language.
PAN'S LABYRINTH (R) 113 minutes * * * 1/2 Spain 1944. The civil war is officially over, but there are still those who are resisting the new fascist regime. The young stepdaughter (Ivana Baquero) of a particularly vile fascist, finds that the fairytale worlds she has read about may be more real than she had imagined possible. Writer/director/producer Guillermo del Toro has skillfully woven a magical fantasy tale and a violent war story together into a fascinating experience that is part truth, part metaphor and a visual masterpiece. The violence is a bit extreme in a couple of scenes, though it does clearly establish how evil Ofelia's stepfather is. R for violence and language.
PANTHER (R) 120 minutes * * * One of the best Van Peebles productions. This film takes us through the earliest days of the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense. Perhaps a bit more tame than the actual events, but this is very watchable, thanks to fine performances from a cast loaded with talent.
PAPARAZZI (PG-13) 81 minutes * 1/2 Bo Laramie's (Cole Hauser) latest film is a big hit and he's now a popular figure. So popular that the paparazzi are taking pictures of his every move. It's a bit more than he's used to, and when push comes to shove and there's an accident that injures his wife and son, Laramie responds with violence. How far will it escalate? Hauser's two-dimensional acting doesn't help this film much, but Tom Sizemore does a nice job as the most irritating of the paparazzi. PG-13 for violence and language.
THE PAPER (R) 107 minutes * * * 1/2 A day in the life of a tabloid newspaper is full of ups and downs, murder and mayhem, and much more. The story here is woven together on so many levels it's like a Steven Sondheim musical. Elements that might appear at times to be incongruous actually end up resulting in a perfect fit. It makes this both intense and fun to watch, and gives us a feel for what it might really be like to do this for a living. R for language and violence.
PAPER CLIPS (G) 79 minutes * * * Powerful documentary that chronicles the work done by the students and faculty of Whitwell Middle School in Tennessee on a holocaust project. The film does a nice job of covering the details and outcome of the project, though more time talking to the youth involved could have made this film even more effective. There seems to be a focus on how much the adults who were working on the project learned and that they were surprised by how much they were affected by the project. That's important, but seems to be stressed a bit too much until the end of the film.
PAPER HEART (PG-13) 85 minutes * * 1/2 Life sure isn't a fairy tale, but what does that say about love? Comedian/musician Charlyne Yi takes a trip across the country interviewing friends and strangers about love and relationships. These interviews are the best part of the film. What's not so great is the staged romance between Michael Cera and Yi. Cera knows how to play awkward. Yi simply is awkward. The film does have some cute things to say about love, but those are in the interviews as well. PG-13 for language.
PAPRIKA (R) 86 minutes * * 1/2 Unusual images throughout this tale of a machine that allows people to enter into your dreams as well as record them. In the wrong hands, it could spell big trouble. Paprika is a young therapist, who joinces forces with a detective to discover who has the machine and how to get it back. Amazing images, but the understanding the story might take a second watching if you want to catch everything. R for violence and sex.
PARADISE (PG-13) 108 minutes * * * Willard (Elijah Wood) has to go stay with his mother's best friend for a few weeks one summer. His mother is dealing with her ninth month of pregnancy and the fact that her husband probably won't be coming home. Things are so great where Willard's staying either, but maybe things will change. This is a quiet film, relaxed and gentle in many ways, but dealing with the hurting and healing that occur in relationships. Touching and memorable, the performances carry the film, in particular, a very strong performance from Don Johnson. We feel like we know these characters before the end of the story, and that's part of what a film like this is all about. PG-13 for language and nudity.
PARADISE NOW (PG-13) 87 minutes * * * Said and Khaled have been chosen for the highest honor of self-sacrifice to further the cause of their people and their faith. When events don't proceed exactly as planned, they both find themselves with more time to explore just what this sacrifice can mean. Thought-provoking look at the motivations that surround the idea of suicide missions. Golden Globe winner for best foriegn film and an Academy award nominee in the same category. PG-13 for language.
PARANOID PARK (R) 78 minutes 1/2 Paranoid Park is a skateboard park where Alex is making new friends. An accident while with one of these new friends results in the death of a security guard. Alex struggles with what to say or if he should say anything at all. There are plenty of fresh faces here, which adds to the realism of the film, but the acting suffers and the script lacks the strength needed to compensate for it. Filmed in Portland, OR. R for language and sex.
PARANORMAL ACTIVITY (R) 85 minutes * Home movie/reality style film about a couple who has some strange things going on in their home. They set up a camera and record what happens. There isn't really much to this until the final moment of the film, and efen that is mostly a cheap noise scare. Not nearly as inventive as "The Blair Witch Project", but that didn't stop this from making a ton of money at the box office. R for language.
THE PARENT TRAP (PG) 123 minutes * * * * Quite simply, this is one of the best remakes I've ever seen. The cast itself is sheer perfection. Not only are Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson fun to watch, but Lindsay Lohan is a great find as young Haley/Annie. Even the supporting cast, with a special commendation to Lisa Ann Walter for her performance as Chessy. It's a fun film, that the family will enjoy and the story has only been tweaked here and there to update things from the original. Disney films have been all over the board in the last few years, but this one is right on the mark. Don't miss it! PG for language.
PARENTHOOD (PG-13) 119 minutes * * * * Ron Howard's golden touch makes this film about families and parenting and perfect combination of entertainment and wisdom. The script is delightful with the ability to take us from laughter to tears and back again. The interactions between members of different generations reminds us of how much we can learn from others if we will only listen. The cast is exceptional and thanks to their collective experience, we find ourselves quickly drawn into the story. This is definitely a film that should not be missed! PG-13 for language.
PARIS (R) 123 minutes * * * These are the stories of Paris. A dancer, waiting for a heart transplant and learning to appreciate every moment of life, his social worker sister who is learning how to move on with her life, a college professor who is discovering the importance of taking risks and enjoying what life has to offer. It's romance, it's fashion, it's exciting... it's Paris! Great performances, though the stories are a bit disjointed at times. R for language and sex.
PARIS, JE T'AIME (R) 113 minutes * * * * Fascinating collection of short films or scenes, artfully woven together to paint a picture of the many faces of Paris, and of love. With an amazing array of fabulous talent (both in front of and behind the camera), and many moments of absolute brilliance, this is a gem to treasure. It's likely that you'll find some scenes more to your liking than others, but they all fit together to describe Paris. If you haven't already fallen in love with the city, you will by the end of the film! R for language.
PARIS 36 (PG-13) 115 minutes * * * 1/2 Accused of murder, Pigoil (Gerard Jugnot) begins his confession. It's a story of a wife who has left him for another and how this began a series of terrible events in his life. Absorbing story with strong performances and characters. Nora Amezeder won a couple of different awards for her performance as Douce. PG-13 for sex, violence, and language.
PARK (R) 81 minutes * * * A collection of rather quirky characters find their way to a hillside park in Los Angeles. A young woman who wants to end it all and a nerd hopes to get lucky with his co-worker who is actually there to meet someone else. There is also a suspicious wife and her best friend, and four co-workers who are just there to "have lunch". An interesting and unusual little film with plenty of truisms about relationships and love. R for sex and language.
PASSED AWAY (PG-13) 93 minutes * * 1/2 Johnny Scanlan (Bob Hoskins) had never really considered his family to be all that strange. In fact, he never really thought that much about it at all until his father died. But now he has to plan the wake for his father and deal with the relatives as they arrive, and he begins to notice just how strange they are. It's the observations of a misunderstood outsider, a mysterious young woman, that teach Johnny a lesson he should have known all along. Although the cast assembled here is extremely impressive, the film doesn't work as well as it should. What we have is a collection of some great short scenes that don't flow together, as if a good bit of material was removed to keep the film close to the 90 minute mark. Hoskins' character is the only one we connect with at all, and that's unfortunate, because more depth with the other characters might have made this a great film. PG for language.
PASSENGER 57 (R) 81 minutes * * 1/2 Formula action/suspense film aboard an airplane with Wesley Snipes as the hero. It's good to watch as far as Snipes, but if you've seen one of these, you've pretty much seen them all. The villains are fairly good here, but are (of course) outwitted in the end.
PASSENGERS (PG-13) 84 minutes * * 1/2 Counseling airline passengers after a crash, Claire (Anne Hathaway) discovers that the airline might be hiding something. She also discovers that she is hiding something too. The film has a powerful and emotional ending, but getting there definitely has a few rough spots. Not the least of these is that the story works better on an emotional level than it does a logical one. Perhaps part of our purpose in life is to help each other find our way. PG-13 for violence and sex.
PASSION FISH (R) 127 minutes * * * A soap opera actress is involved in a taxi accident in New York and is crippled. As she recuperates at home, she chews up home care nurses by the dozens, until she finds just the right one. A girl who has been through detoxification herself, so she can help Mary Alice with her own. Mary McDonnell gives an inspirational performance in this film from director John Sayles. A film with memorable characters whose challenges are inspirational and whose humor is real. R for language.
THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST (R) 119 minutes * * 1/2 Director Mel Gibson does get some points for style here, but as with "Braveheart", we have too many scenes with slow-motion and/or extremely graphic violence that really isn't necessary to carry the point. The flashbacks also seem to happen at rather inopportune times and can be confusing if you don't already know the story. Speaking of the story, it definitely strays from the scriptural version in a few spots. Interesting bits have been added, most of them harmless enough, but they don't really add anything important either. Jim Caviezel does a wonderful job, but it's Gibson's over-involvement in the project and lack of understanding about how to use the camera to help tell the story that do this the most damage. R for violence.
PATCH ADAMS (PG-13) 110 minutes * * * 1/2 Absorbing, if a bit overly sentimental, story of real-life doctor Hunter "Patch" Adams. Robin Williams plays the lead with his usual gusto, though the real Patch was supposedly even more outrageous. It's a tear-jerker in several spots, but if this doesn't grab ahold of you and work its way into your heart... And I have to repeat the line from the preview that sums up the film: "You treat a disease, you win, you lose. You treat a patient, I guarantee you win, no matter what the outcome." Bravo! Filmed in San Francisco, CA and Ashville & Chapel Hill, NC. PG-13 for language and nudity.
PATHFINDER (PG) 83 minutes * * * Magical and inspiring folklore from Lapland. Beautiful Norwegian scenery and a story that wraps you up in history and tradition. The PG rating is for the violence, which is definitely part of the story as it emphasizes the importance of the direction the boy takes in the efforts to mislead those who would do his friends harm.
PATHFINDER (2007) (R) 99 minutes * Inspired by the 1987 film of the same title, this takes that beautiful legend and uses it to pit Native Americans against Vikings. There's plenty of action, not much dialogue, poor lighting, and drab colors. Nonsensical and in poor taste, but the actors give it a good try. R for violence.
PATHOLOGY (R) 89 minutes * Medical students studying pathology begin to play a game. Can you figure out how your classmate killed the victim? It begins to get out of hand and too many people are dying for others not to find out. Emotionless performances are the real killer in this boring "thriller". R for violence, sex, and language.
THE PATRIOT (R) 156 minutes * * * 1/2 It isn't always easy to remain a pacifist when your home is destroyed, your children and friends are being killed, and those who are responsible ignore your pleas for reason and mercy. Intense and even a bit disturbing at times, the film doesn't hesitate to talk about revenge, patriotism, freedom, hatred, and more in the same breath. It's a bit overly graphic at times, in the same vein as "Braveheart", but what moves this a notch ahead is how well balanced the acting is throughtout. This is much more of an ensemble cast film that features Mel Gibson, rather than being a one man presentation. Nice job! Filmed in South Carolina. R for violence.
PATRIOT GAMES (R) 111 minutes * * * 1/2 An American tourist happens to be passing by as an assassination attempt is made on a member of the British royal family. He intervenes and saves the potential victim, killing one of the attackers in the process. But Jack Ryan (Harrison Ford) is no ordinary tourist. He's a former CIA employee, and when things begin to get more dangerous, he starts working for them again in an attempt to save his family and himself from an angry renegade IRA member who is the brother of the man he killed. The story is well-paced and James Horner's music, great photography, and the special effects all add to the mix. And don't forget Thora Birch, who turns in a wonderful performance as Ryan's daughter. Even the slight twist at the end is a crowd pleaser in this film! R for violence and language.
PATTI SMITH: DREAM OF LIFE (NR) 106 minutes * * * For eleven years, Steven Sebring followed Smith with his camera. Performances, interviews, and pieces of her life are melded together to form a portrait. Singer, songwriter, and poet, this is a complex and beautiful look at the life and artistry of Patti Smith.
PAUL BLART: MALL COP (PG) 97 minutes * * 1/2 No one takes their job as seriously as Paul Blart (Kevin James). He's a mall cop who is dedicated to the work. When a crew comes in to take hostages and try to collect a ransom, Blart is the man on the inside... though his ability to really help is not quite equaled by his ability to make mistakes. James does a great job with the physical comedy here, and we can help laughing at (and with) him as he bumbles his way through the film. Great stunt work too! PG for language and violence.
PAUL MCCARTNEY: THE SPACE WITHIN US (NR) 114 minutes * * * Concert film concert film of McCartney's 2005 tour including various interviews and backstage sequences. There are ways of looking at this that make it seem perhaps a little overly flattering of McCartney, then again, there aren't all that many people who've had the amount of influence over the music industry that he's had for the past 40 years or so.
PAULIE (PG) 84 minutes * * 1/2 Paulie is a parrot who can talk. More than that, he knows how to really communicate. But he finds that talking only gets him into trouble most of the time, separating him from the little girl he loves, and landing him in a research institute. The story is told in a series of flashbacks featuring the talents of Gena Rowlands, Buddy Hackett, and Cheech Marin. Tony Shaloub is his Russian friend who sees things through to the end, and Trini Alvarado is featured as well. It's a gentle film with a few bits of humor and excitement that has a flavor of the charm that makes films like "Princess Caraboo" so appealing. PG for language.
PAY IT FORWARD (PG-13) 115 minutes * * * What does the world mean to you? What does the world expect of you? The assignment is to come up with an idea that will change the world, and young Trevor McKinney (Haley Joel Osment) may have ddiscovered something that could do it. Trouble is, change rarely happens overnight, but then again, sometimes we have an effect on others that we aren't even aware of. Helen Hunt and Kevin Spacey are wonderful as Trevor's mother and teacher, and the film weaves together well. Filmed in Las Vegas. PG-13 for language and violence.
PAYBACK (R) 97 minutes * * Porter (Mel Gibson) is a man who knows exactly how much his life is worth... $70,000. That's how much his partner double-crossed him for. Now he has to get his money back, which will involve quite a bit of manipulating. Gibson does alright here, but could really use a partner. The film just isn't all that exciting. Considering it was released almost a year after originally scheduled, this may be the reason. R for violence and language.
PAYCHECK (PG-13) 114 minutes * * Yet another Philip K. Dick story makes its way to the big screen. This one is about a man who does work for a company after which they erase his memory. It comes in handy for stealing creative ideas from others and then not able to trace where they came from. Until they figure out how to send him into the future to see what's going to happen. The course of the film is devoted to Michael (Ben Affleck) trying to figure out what happened from a handful of clues he left himself. That part of the film works fairly well. It's the science fiction aspect that is full of holes that aren't addressed very well. It ends up playing things a bit too much "by the numbers". PG-13 for violence and language.
PCU (PG-13) 77 minutes 1/2 It's pre-frosh weekend at Port Chester University. OK, that's the setting... This is what you get when you combine "Animal House" and "House Party", but decide you aren't going to spend much money on the project. The result is a film that sorely lacks the personality of the films it copies.
PEACEFUL WARRIOR (PG-13) 115 minutes * * 1/2 Adapted from the autobiography of Dan Millman, "Way of the Peaceful Warrior", this story follows Dan, played by Scott Mechlowicz, from his days as a risky, rude, and fairly talented gymnast, to his discovery of something else within. It will take an encounter with an unusual and mysterious mentor (Nick Nolte), and a life-altering accident, but Dan will find that there is something more than he was expecting... or even dreaming was possible. Despite all of this, the film remains rather lifeless at times, and our attention wanders. Not bad, but nothing to rave about either. PG-13 for sex and language.
THE PEACEMAKER (R) 119 minutes * * * Nuclear weapons have been stolen and are on their way to the middle east. Can they be stopped in time to avert a worldwide disaster? Thanks to Hans Zimmer's intense soundtrack, this film involves you right from the start. As with most adventure/suspense films, there are aspects of the story that are stretched a bit too far, but the pacing is good. George Clooney and Nicole Kidman work well together, so even though we've seen this all before, it's still fun to watch. Filmed in New York, Slovakia, and Macedonia. R for violence and language.
PEARL HARBOR (PG-13) 172 minutes * * * Big-budget action film version of the attack on Pearl Harbor from Michael Bay and Jerry Bruckheimer. Dramatic license is taken in several spots, but we expected that. What's a little disappointing is to have an extra 45 minutes of film at the end that really don't have a good point to make. The tide of the war didn't really change with a rather ineffectual bombing run on Tokyo that we made after the attack on Pearl. It changed with a different sort of bombing that we did a little bit later. Anyway, the cast does a very good job and the story does give us a nice mix of romance and war with sequences that allow Bay and Bruckheimer to exercise their action film expertise. PG-13 for violence and language.
THE PEBBLE AND THE PENGUIN (G) 68 minutes 1/2 Among the worst of feature-length cartoons you can subject yourself to, as we follow a penguin who is trying to rescue his girl and give her a rock. Boring, with poor animation, way too much narration, and only one good song by Barry Manilow. Stay away!
PEDRO (NR) 90 minutes * * 1/2 Pedro Zamora (Alex Loynaz), star of MTV's "The Real World: San Francisco", who lived his battle with HIV in front of the cameras and became an example of what it means to be sincere, real, and to love, no matter what the odds. Powerful and emotional story, but the acting lets us down a little bit.
THE PELICAN BRIEF (PG-13) 135 minutes * * Two supreme court justices have just been murdered, and law student Darby Shaw (Julia Roberts) has an idea as to who might have done it. It's a far-fetched idea, but since everyone who reads here idea keeps turning up dead, it must be on track! The story here is really hard to swallow, and mediocre performances from Roberts and Denzel Washington don't help. It drags on far too long, though the ending plays well. Adapted from John Grisham's best-seller and rated PG-13 for violence and language.
PENELOPE (PG) 80 minutes * * 1/2 Modern fairytale about a curse that can only be broken by the faithful love of one of her own kind. Penelope's looks drive virtually everyone away from her, so breaking the curse may be rather difficult. But remember, "it's not the power of the curse, it's the power you give the curse." Not without charm, but misses the mark as far as being sentimental, which would have made it better. PG for language.
PENNY DREADFUL (R) 90 minutes * * After seeing both of her parents die in a car accident, Penny (Rachel Miner) has a phobia of cars. So she goes on a trip with her therapist and ends up trapped in a car with a psychotic hitchhiker. Aside from some major flaws with that idea in the first place... this does score points for an inventive title, some reasonably good suspense on a very modest budget, and an ending with a sense of humor. R for violence, sex, and language.
THE PEOPLE UNDER THE STAIRS (R) 98 minutes * * Fun, satirical horror film from Wes Craven. No cheap scares here! Just remember, it isn't always the people UNDER the stairs that you should be scared of...
THE PEOPLE VS. LARRY FLYNT (R) 125 minutes * * * 1/2 Director Milos Forman and the scriptwriters have given us a well-balanced picture of a very controversial figure. This is the best work Woody Harrelson has done in years and Courtney Love has established herself as an actress with a great deal of talent. This isn't a film that will appeal to everyone, but it does ask some important questions and does so in a surprisingly non-judgmental fashion. R for language and sex.
PERCY JACKSON & THE OLYMPIANS: THE LIGHTNING THIEF (PG) 112 minutes * * * Lightning has been stolen, and Zeus (Sean Bean) has given an ultimatum. It must be returneed within fourteen days or he will go to war with Poseidon (Kevin McKidd) as he thinks it is Poseidon's son who has stolen it. But Percy (Logan Lerman) doesn't know where the lightning is, or that he is even the son of Poseidon. His life is about to change. Fun adventure that does a nice job of looking at mythology through a modern lens. Nice supporting work by Steve Coogan, Rosario Dawson, Uma Thurman , and Pierce Brosnan. Adapted from the novel by Rick Riordan. PG for violence.
THE PEREZ FAMILY (R) 109 minutes * * 1/2 Marisa Tomei is Dorita Evita Perez, a girl who wants to become a U.S. citizen but needs a family or person to sponsor her. We're reminded of the old adages, "You'll find love where you least expect it", and "If you love someone set them free". I kept expecting people to break into song all the way through this... maybe it would have been better that way... fans of Tomei won't be disappointed, but others might find it less appealing. R for language.
A PERFECT DAY (NR) 90 minutes * * Sentimental film based on the novel by Richard Paul Evans. Robert Harlan (Rob Lowe) loses his job and finishes the book he'd been working on in his spare time. It becomes a best seller and he becomes a jerk. He sees the error of his ways, thanks to some intervention by the mysterious Michael (Christopher Lloyd). Mediocre performances by the supporting cast make Lowe work harder than he should have to on this trite story.
A PERFECT GETAWAY (R) 103 minutes * * 1/2 On their honeymoon in Hawaii, Cliff (Steve Zahn) and Cydney (Milla Jovovich) manage to offend a couple of hitchhikers. Could they be the murderous couple that was mentioned in the news? Or is it the new trail companions that they stumble across the next day? Take note of the title and you may have the answer! The extended black and white retrospective sequences are a bit unnecessary. Still, the story does a nice job of creating doubt and shifting sympathies. Filmed in Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and Kauai, Hawaii. R for violence and language.
THE PERFECT HOLIDAY (PG) 92 minutes * * * When young Emily (Khail Bryant) asks the department store Santa (Morris Chestnut) to find a man to give her mother a compliment, she has no idea what she has set in motion. Charming holiday film with a wonderful cast and a story that is sure to please. Queen Latifah and Terrence Howard have small, and quite funny bit parts as Mrs. Christmas and Bah Humbug. PG for language.
THE PERFECT MAN (PG) 97 minutes * * 1/2 Holly's (Hilary Duff) mom keeps herself and her girls on the move. Every time a relationship breaks up, she packs up and moves. But Holly is tired of it all and wants to find a place to stay. The only problem is that she may have learned how to leave better than she's learned how to stay. The cast does a nice job here, but the script never really gets anywhere although there are a couple of light comic relief bits for the supporting characters. PG for language.
A PERFECT MURDER (R) 103 minutes * 1/2 Based on the play, "Dial M for Murder", this comes off as little more than a slick, but trashy remake. The twists and turns in the story are obvious and annoying, and the modernization serves only to add to some of the story holes we already knew were coming. Michael Douglas and Gwyneth Paltrow look good together, but they're cold, plastic people about whom we care very little. James Newton Howard's soundtrack is worth a listen, but the film is very disappointing. R for violence and language.
THE PERFECT SCORE (PG-13) 87 minutes * 1/2 Matt and Kyle have a plan to steal the SAT scores. Of course they're going to need some help... There's not a great deal of depth to the material, and the characters are a bit too nice. Scarlett Johansson and Erika Christensen's experience and talent show, but the end result is still forgettable for the most part. PG-13 for language.
THE PERFECT STORM (PG-13) 122 minutes * * 1/2 Billy's luck hasn't been very good lately, so he decides to take a crew out one more time to a fishing spot a bit farther out... right where the perfect storm is brewing. It's a stellar cast, with George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, John C. Reilly, Diane Lane, Karen Allen, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, and others. The effects are too evident though, and the story too ridiculous at times to believe. There's also the matter of the secondary plot about the small yacht that seems to serve little or no purpose. Far from perfect, the film has a hard time coming close to delivering what it needs to keep us interested to the end. PG-13 for violence and language.
PERFECT STRANGER (R) 102 minutes * * 1/2 When Rowena's (Halle Berry) friend turns up dead, she has a hunch about who did it. Putting her investigative reporter skills to work, she begins to move herself closer to Harrison Hill (Bruce Willis). But sometimes there are more things buried than should be uncovered. There are a few nice twists here, though they aren't that unpredictable, and the story does make some interesting comments on how people may be connected online and not connected in life. That said, it's still the performances of the leads (Berry, Willis, and Giovanni Ribisi) who keep this film on the positive side of average. R for violence, language, and sex.
THE PERFECT WEAPON (R) 80 minutes * * Jeff Speakman's first starring role has him taking on the Korean mob after they kill his martial arts mentor. Speakman's character is interesting and there are some nice supporting roles here, but the story is weak and poorly directed.
THE PERFECT WITNESS (R) 94 minutes * * * Mickey (Wes Bentley) is a struggling filmmaker who happens to catch a murder on tape. Rather than going to the police, he decides to contact the killer and make a documentary. Now an accessory, he finds himself continually drawn more deeply into the disturbing life of a serial killer. Though the story is similar to "Mr. Brooks", this is missing the gloss and instead has an intensity that Brooks doesn't. James (Mark Borkowski) moves with disturbing ease between sadistic killer and family man. But even all in his world is not as he thinks. Very nice thriller! Filmed in Philadelphia. R for violence, nudity, and language.
A PERFECT WORLD (PG-13) 133 minutes * * * A wonderful performance from young T.J. Lowther as a boy who is kidnapped by two escaped convicts. But Butch Haynes (Kevin Costner) ends up being more of a father to the boy than a kidnapper. The difficult part here is believing Costner's character, who is just too nice, too perfect, too idealized for the rest of the story to have any credibility. It leads to several awkward moments when the parable and the reality are forced to meet and just don't mix very well. R for violence and language.
PERFUME: THE STORY OF A MURDER (R) 138 minutes * * * 1/2 Born into the squalor of the fish market, Grenouille (Ben Whishaw) survives despite the odds, and discovers that he has a gift. He's able to distinguish smells far better than most. His attraction to the pleasures of scent drives him to find the perfect scent, and that leads him to darker pursuits. The narration works effectively here, because this is told in the style of a fairytale, though one that is of a more sinister nature. Even the title points to the dual nature of the story, adapted from the novel by Patrick Suskind. Some trimming might have helped with the pacing of the story in a few spots, but it's a fascinating story with unusual characters that will stay with you for awhile. R for sex and violence.
PERSEPOLIS (PG-13) 89 minutes * * * Animated story of a young Iranian girl, growing up during the revolution. After the revolution, she discovers that the new Iran is no better than the old, just different. Beautifully told story, co-written and co-directed by Marj Satrapi, on whose life the film is based. PG-13 for vioelnce and language.
PERSUASION (2007) (NR) 92 minutes * * 1/2 British television production of the Jane Austen classic starring Sally Hawkins as Anne Elliot. While there's nothing particularly outstanding about this production, Hawkins is charming and the sets and costumes are well done. A nice adaptation of one of Austen's less often adapted stories.
THE PEST (PG-13) 81 minutes BOMB Comic version of "The Naked Prey" with John Leguizamo as the victim. This is very much in the style of Jim Carrey's humor, but not as good. Cheaply made and not worth your time. PG-13 for language and nudity.
PET SEMATARY (R) 100 minutes * * 1/2 Fast-paced Stephen King story that starts out relatively well on the big screen. Suspense is built well by both music and camera angles and there is a sense of urgency and emotion in Mary Lambert's direction that fits well with the story. As with the book, the film goes just a little too far at the end, showing us what would have been more effective if left unseen or undescribed. The biggest improvement over the book is the stronger presentation of the character of Victor Pascow, who comes across a bit less negative and a bit more concerned about the fate of the Creed family.
PET SEMATARY II (R) 97 minutes * 1/2 Though returning to the site of the original story, this bears little resemblance to its predecessor. Technically, the film is adequate, but the story is so bad that it's hard to sit through. Edward Furlong and Clancy Brown make a valiant effort, but this is best left to gather dust on the shelf. Filmed in Georgia. R for violence and language.
PETER PAN (2003) (PG) 101 minutes * * * Delightfully magical version of the classic story that does a very nice job of going back to the original material for it's inspiration. The ending does feel a bit rushed, as though a few bits might have been cut out, but Tink's mischievous antics make up for it. Jason Isaacs does a wonderful job as Mr. Darling/Captain Hook, and James Newton Howard's music adds the finishing touch. PG for violence.
PETER'S FRIENDS (NR) 98 minutes * * This British version of "The Big Chill" struggles with a story that flies all over the place, though the characters are interesting and performed well. Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson are just two of these talented actors who needed a stronger script to help them breath more life into characters we have a hard time getting to know.
PHANTASM II (R) 92 minutes * 1/2 This sequel managed to spend more money without doing much more except adding a few more graphic effects. There are a few moments of "greatness" here, but there are some terribly boring spots as well.
THE PHANTOM (PG) 94 minutes * * * Comic strip character Kit Walker aka The Phantom comes to the big screen in this fun adventure film starring Billy Zane. This plays very well on video where the less-than-perfect special effects aren't quite so noticeable. An evil power will be unleashed unless The Phantom can stop three magical skulls from being reunited! 1940's style adventure that reminds us that fun doesn't have to be ultra-realistic or violent. PG for violence and language.
PHANTOM OF THE MALL: ERIK'S REVENGE (R) 87 minutes 1/2 Campy modernization of the classic phantom story that takes place in a mall built on top of the phantom's home. Low budget and low talent production that falls on its face rather quickly despite the mildly inventive idea of the mall setting.
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (1989) (R) 90 minutes * * 1/2 Nice effects (by Kevin Yagher) and superbly moody photography are the highlights in this version of the classic story. Robert Englund stars as the phantom, with Jill Schoelen in the role of Christine. This particular version is a bit more gory than most, but does a nice job with the ending and uses a dream sequence very effectively. Filmed in Budapest.
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (2004) 133 minutes * * This filmed version of the Andrew Lloyd Webber stage musical does have the benefit of having the wonderful songs from the stage production. However, Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossum are not really able to handle the vocals very well at all. The songs are constantly sounding like they are from a very amateur production. Patrick Wilson does fairly well with his part, but when the two leads are weak, it doesn't make much difference. Sets and costumes are very nice, but this is a musical. I'd rather have had them lip synch to the vocalists from the Broadway production than what we have here. As well, there's also a strong synthesizer sound to some of the music that cheapens the sound it should have. Those who have never heard the soundtrack to the theatrical production, or had a chance to see it, will probably enjoy this more than those who have. PG-13 for violence.
PHANTOMS (R) 90 minutes * * As Dr. Jennifer Pailey returns to town with her younger sister, they discover that the residents are all dead or gone. Things grow more mysterious as they go exploring, eventually uncovering what lies at the center. The questions aren't all answered, but there are a few nice chills along the way. A stronger cast and better direction would've helped the film, especially in the early segments. R for violence and language.
PHAT BEACH (R) 82 minutes BOMB Fat boy goes to the beach with a friend who is using him because his father has money. Pathetic dialogue, transparent script, one-dimensional characters... a big "phat" waste of time! R for language and nudity.
PHAT GIRLZ (PG-13) 94 minutes * * Sassy Mo'Nique is tired of what other girls think about her size and designs a smart set of fashions for plus size figures. Funding is a little tough to come by, but when she meets a man who appreciates her, she finds the confidence she needs. No surprises here, except that Mo'Nique's humor is actually toned down just a little. Still, those who enjoy her will enjoy this, but the rest of the cast doesn't get to say a great deal. PG-13 for language.
PHENOMENON (PG) 119 minutes * * * 1/2 George Halley (John Travolta) sees a light in the sky, and now he understands things, can move things with his mind, and has troubles he never thought of. Being different in a small town puts a lot of stress on a person. Travolta is wonderful here, but the best performance is that of Kyra Sedgwick. Her character and performance are what give this movie the edge it needs and what puts it into that "must see" category. As Travolta says in the film... "Everything is on it's way somewhere." Are you ready to go? PG for language.
PHILADELPHIA (PG-13) 116 minutes * * * Andy Beckett (Tom Hanks) is a lawyer who is fired after his firm discovers he's been diagnosed as having AIDS. Hanks does a wonderful job here, and earned an Oscar for it, but too much of the story is in black and white. The law firm is painted as extremely biased, and Beckett's family is incredibly accepting and supportive. A little blurring here and there would have done the story wonders. Bruce Springsteen's song won an Oscar as well.
PHOEBE IN WONDERLAND (PG-13) 95 minutes * * * Phoebe (Elle Fanning) has lots of talent and imagination... and a few problems. The drama teacher at school (Patricia Clarkson) is able to relate to her, but she's one of the few, and it will not be easy for Phoebe, even with the support of someone who understands. Wonderful work by both Fanning and Clarkson, and nice supporting work by Felicity Huffman and Bailee Madison. Life isn't always easy and we often aren't happy. But if you know who you are, you just might be farther along than you think. Filmed in Queens and Long Island, New York. PG-13 for language.
PHONE BOOTH (R) 75 minutes * * Stu Shepherd (Colin Farrell) thinks he has it made. Everything seems to be going the way he wants it to... until he answers a call in a phone booth. Now someone is threatening to kill him and he's not sure what to do. Farrell does a nice job here. It's no easy task to keep the interest of the audience when you're in almost every scene in a film. The script lags a bit in spots, but it's short enough that it still manages to work. Nice twist at the end too, even though it isn't really a surprise if you recognize the voice on the phone. R for language and violence.
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE (R) 97 minutes * 1/2 Joe Paris (Burt Reynolds) has been suspended from the police force and is now a suspect in a murder case. The story sets up a number of suspects for us, and then blithely goes about killing them off. Ned Beatty does a nice job, but Reynolds looks bored and tired, and Teresa Russell's performance is dry at its best. Director Michael Crichton misses the mark by a rather wide margin here.
THE PIANIST (R) 143 minutes * * * Powerful story adapted from Wladyslaw Szpilman's book about his experiences in the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II. As a young pianist from Poland, his world is ripped apart by the war and its effects on his family and friends. Adrien Brody's performance gives us a wonderful portrayal that is both tender and quietly intense. There are some sequences that could have been cut and perhaps made the film a bit stronger, but it's still an impressive film. R for violence.
THE PIANO (R) 116 minutes * * 1/2 Mute since the age of six, Ada (Holly Hunter) speaks and lives through the music she makes with her piano. Now she has been married off to a man she doesn't know in a land far from her home. Her relationship with a former Maori (Harvey Keitel) makes things even more complicated. Most women do seem to like this film, but Keitel's character needed more development and parts of the story are told in a rather awkward fashion. The ending is strange, but somehow manages to be one of the better parts of the film, along with the performance of young Anna Paquin, who earned an Oscar for her role. Filmed in Australia and New Zealand.
THE PICK-UP ARTIST (PG-13) 76 minutes 1/2 He's a charmer, she's the daughter of a mobster. With a cast that includes Robert Downey Jr., Molly Ringwald, Dennis Hopper, and Danny Aiello, you might expect this to be at least somewhat entertaining. Direction seems to have been left to the actors, whose performances are uneven, and the story has far too much complicated background material that we don't need. Not really worth your time unless you're a fan of the leads.
PICTURE PERFECT (PG-13) 98 minutes * * After many episodes of bad luck, Kate (Jennifer Aniston) decides to take herself out of the game. The problem is that her friends and her job force her into playing a different game that may cost her the very thing she'd quit looking for but desperately wanted. Aniston isn't bad, but the script doesn't have much to offer. Her acting is reminiscent of Sandra Bullock, just not quite as strong. Having done more work on TV, Aniston is more aware of the camera, which takes away a tiny bit of the innocence. The most noticeable problem with this film is the persistence of the camera to give us cleavage shots of Aniston, which merely serve to cheapen her character. PG-13 for language.
PICTURE THIS (NR) 88 minutes * * Mandie (Ashley Tisdale) is finally getting the attention of the hottest guy in school. There are only two things standing in her way: his evil girlfriend, and her own over-protective father. Teen romantic fluff piece, with two-dimensional characters, though the performances are fine. Not rated, but suitable for families.
PIECES OF APRIL (PG-13) 77 minutes * * * All April (Katie Holmes) wants to do is fix a nice Thanksgiving dinner for her family. Nothing seems to be going the way she's planned though. It doesn't help matters that she's seen as the odd person of the family. Still, it's just possible that with the help of some neighbors, she'll be able to pull it off and have a dinner that will mean a lot to her family. Holmes does a wonderful job here with a rather quirky character in a somewhat offbeat story. Though there are humorous moments, it's not really a comedy. Patricia Clarkson does a marvelous job as well, playing April's mother who, though she is dying of cancer, still manages to have both a sense of humor, and a sensitive heart. This didn't receive much publicity for theatrical release, but it's a rather nice piece of work. PG-13 for language.
PIGLET'S BIG MOVIE (G) 67 minutes * 1/2 Or not. Piglet's "Big" movie is more a collection of flashbacks to other stores we've already seen framed within a search for Piglet, who is lost. The initial idea is one that could have really been developed, but instead of really writing a story about how Piglet feels unappreciated and unnoticed, they rely on examples from other stories. Children who have already seen the other Winnie the Pooh movies and television shows will not be impressed.
PINEAPPLE EXPRESS (R) 107 minutes * After witnessing a murder, Dale (Seth Rogen) is on the run. Too bad he left a roach of the most rare variety at the scene of the crime. Then again, getting high is more important anyway, right? Most of the film is just two stoners, James Franco playing the other part, yelling at each other and not getting anywhere. Pretty much a waste of talent except for the stunt crew's work. R for violence and language.
PING PONG PLAYA (PG-13) 91 minutes * Dreams of professional basketball are going to have to wait. C-Dub (Jimmy Tsai) needs to help out the family by taking over the ping pong classes his mother was teaching. Of course, he'll learn sportsmanship, integrity, and the importance of family along the way. Harmless enough to almost get a PG, but not all that interesting or funny either. PG-13 for language.
PINK CADILLAC (PG-13) 118 minutes * * Tom Nowak (Clint Eastwood) is a skip tracer for a bail bondsman, but his latest job may turn out to be a bit more difficult. Eastwood and Bernadette Peters both do a good job here, but too much of the rest of the film is just not all that interesting and is only mediocre in quality. PG-13 for language.
THE PINK PANTHER (2006) (PG) 88 minutes * * Remake of the classic comedy with Steve Martin doing his best to fill the shoes of Peter Sellers. While it does have its funny moments, it also feels a bit forced at times. Martin has his own style, and a better approach might have been to do a new pink panther film with Martin in the roles instead of trying to remake a classic. Kevin Kline and Jean Reno have supporting roles here, but its not enough to lift this past mediocrity. PG for language and violence.
PINK PANTHER 2 (PG) 87 minutes * 1/2 The Tornado has been stealing priceless items, so a "dream team" of detectives has been assembled to solve the mystery... and Clouseau (Steve Martin) is in charge. Stellar cast that includes Jean Reno, John Cleese, Lily Tomlin, Alfred Molina, Andy Garcia, Emily Mortimer and Jeremy Irons, but apparently someone forgot to purchase a script. Martin overplays the role of Clouseau even more than in the first film. PG for violence and language.
PINOCCHIO (2002)(G) 93 minutes BOMB Roberto Begnini's labor of love takes the classic story into a world only he can truly appreciate. It's hard to understand all of the... more unique aspects of this film. Things like, why the puppetmaster a giant, why the big fish looks like a shark, and why Pinocchip never really does look like a puppet. There are some beautiful sets and props, but they don't compensate for an ending that ruins what little of the original story was left intact.
PINOCCHIO AND THE EMPEROR OF THE NIGHT (G) 88 minutes * 1/2 Or, the further and rather boring adventures of Pinocchio. Poor animation and editing along with a story that is of little interest to children. Sometimes it's best to leave a classic alone and not try to continue the story.
PIRATE RADIO (R) 122 minutes * * Once upon a time, it wasn't all that easy to hear rock and pop music. But there were DJs who took the risks to play it and change the face of music forever. This is the story of a few of them who took their station to the high seas, where they broadcast, until even there, the British authorities eventually brought them down. A fun look at rock radio in the 1960's, but the story gets off track a bit too often, going into the sex lives of the DJs rather than keeping the focus on the music. R for language and sex.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLD'S END (PG-13) 159 minutes * * 1/2 Third and longest film of the trilogy has plenty of double-crosses and lots of wonderfully dramatic sequences, but also quite a few scenes that are needlessly prolonged. While this isn't really a bad film, the story is overly concerned with wrapping up lots of loose ends, and ends up not doing enough to explain what's happening in this particular piece of the story. In fact, Johnny Depp's humor is toned down here as well, perhaps to make way for more story, or perhaps because Depp just doesn't have quite as much fun this time. There is a very nice bit part for Keith Richards though, as Captain Teague. PG-13 for language and violence.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: THE CURSE OF THE BLACK PEARL (PG-13) 133 minutes * * * 1/2 What fun! Johnny Depp is one of those rare actors who can almost instantly create a memorable character. Jack Sparrow is a pirate with a flair for the dramatic, and the story that has been woven around the scenes in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" rides at Disneyland and Disney World is delightful. Full of adventure and excitement, with bits of humor generously sprinkled throughout. Geoffrey Rush is both sinister and larger than life as the evil pirate who has kidnapped the girl and must be defeated. Greg Cannom has created some very nice and definitely PG-13 worthy special effects, and Klaus Badelt has created a soundtrack that captures the sense of adventure as well as the sinister and somewhat spooky aspects of the film. PG-13 for violence.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST (PG-13) 141 minutes * * * More pirate fun with Johnny Depp and friends! This time out, Turner (Orlando Bloom) needs Sparrpw's (Johnny Depp) compass to offer in trade for Elizabeth's (Keira Knightley) life. But Jack needs the compass to find a special treasure chest that contains the heart of Davy Jones. An excellent soundtrack from Hans Zimmer and great sound and visual effects make this another fun adventure film. The ending clearly sets us up for part three, but that's not really a surprise. I did find some of Davy Jones sea demon cohorts a bit extreme. The effects were well done, but the design seems unnecessary. PG-13 for violence and language.
THE PIRATES WHO DON'T DO ANYTHING (G) 80 minutes * * * Heroes. Villains. Courage. Friendship. Vegetables! Nice little VeggieTales adventure film with a good moral and a few bad puns. OK, quite a few bad puns. Our vegetable friends learn that a hero is the one who does what is right, though sometimes it can be difficult to do.
THE PISTOL (G) 97 minutes * * * The story of basketball legend Pete Maravich, whose father was a coach. As he states at one point, "It's tough being a kid chasing a grown-up dream." That may be, but those are usually the people who leave a real mark in the world. The voice-overs are used a little too much, but otherwise, this is a nice, wholesome film about a real hero.
PISTOL WHIPPED (R) 96 minutes * 1/2 Another wooden performance from Steven Seagal. This time he's a former cop with a sizeable gambling debt who has the chance to start over. The catch is that it will involve becoming a hitman. It's not bad work, until he's asked to kill someone he doesn't think he needs to. The ending here is mildly interesting, but this has little else to offer anyone except Seagal fans.
PITCH BLACK (R) 101 minutes * * 1/2 Knocked off course by an unknown source, their ship is forced to land on a planet that has three suns. There are monsters that live in the dark here too, but with three suns the darkness is only underground. Until the eclipse happens... tomorrow... It's a great story idea, though the way its told leaves us wanting a few more things explained. And, as with any story that happens mostly in the dark, we don't get to see enough of these aliens. Too many hints and not enough information. Graeme Revell's music adds a good deal to the suspense and Vin Diesel's performance as Riddick is near perfection. Filmed in Queensland, Australia. R for violence and language.
PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES (R) 87 minutes * * * Neal Page (Steve Martin) just wants to get home for Thanksgiving. When his flight is cancelled, he makes other arrangements. But so does another rather annoying person, Del Griffith (John Candy), who can find nothing better to do than bother Neal all the way home. The falters in a few spots, but Martin and Candy are both undeniably funny, making this fun to watch.
PLANET 51 (PG) 84 minutes * * 1/2 Glipforg is your average town... it's just on another planet. And their world is about to receive a visitor... from ours. Plenty of fun twists as Glipforg's residents deal with an alien invasion, and the human astronaut has to rely on some of the younger folks in town for help. Featuring the voices of Dwayne Johnson, Jessica Biel, Justin Long, Gary Oldman, Seann William Scott, and John Cleese. PG for language.
PLANET OF THE APES (2001) (PG-13) 114 minutes * 1/2 This "reimagined" version of Pierre Boulle's novel does manage to showcase some amazing prosthetic makeup effects from special effects wizard Rick Baker. Some of the acting is quite good as well, particularly from Tim Roth, who plays the part of Thade. Tim Burton's characteristic style is a little less pervasive, but is still evident and fits the story well. Oh yes, the story... THAT'S the problem. Everything is fine, including the differences from the original film and the book, until we get toward the end. Suddenly, we have a sequence of events that destroy the continuity of the story and make virtually no sense. What's worse is that almost everyone seems to know where the film should've ended, a few minutes earlier. PG-13 for violence.
PLANET TERROR (NR) 100 minutes * * 1/2 Wonderfully campy horror fun from writer/director Robert Rodriguez. Cherry Darling (Rose McGowan) finds herself in the middle of a small group of people fighting to survive in the midst of a few thousand people who have turned into flesh-eating zombies. The film does a wonderful job of capturing the feel of the Grindhouse films of the 1970s. Originally released as part of a double feature that included "Deathproof". This one is a bit more fun, and has the added pleasure of also including the "preview" for the film "Machete", which is a treasure all by itself. Filmed in Austin, Texas and Tulum, Mexico.
PLATOON LEADER (R) 91 minutes * * 1/2 Low-budget Vietnam War film with Michael Dudikoff that actually does fairly well. Dudikoff is a little better than normal here, and director Aaron Norris, brother of Chuck, seems to have a better feel for this story. There are some well-done action sequences and some nice scriptwork in spots as well. The ending is weak, but the trip there is worth a look for those who enjoy war films. Nice job by Robert Lyons in the part of McNamara too! R for violence.
PLAY IT TO THE BONE (R) 118 minutes * 1/2 Two fighters whose time has passed get the chance to fight again in Las Vegas. The bulk of the film is about their trip to Vegas and getting ready to fight each other as they are best friends. Woody Harrelson and Antonio Banderas do nice work, but the film comes up empty and feels more like a commercial for Las Vegas and Mandalay Bay (the hotel where the fight will be held).
THE PLAYER (R) 120 minutes * * * Tim Robbins is Griffin Mill, a film executive who has received a threatening letter from a disgruntled writer. It's a typical venture into Robert Altman's world of star cameos (this one has an incredible list) and in-jokes on the film business. The story is a bit involved, but if you like Altman's films, you'll undoubtedly love this one. Based on Michael Tolkin's novel.
THE PLAYERS CLUB (R) 99 minutes * Ice Cube definitely took on more than he could handle by writing, directing, being executive producer, executive in charge of music, and having a small role in this film. His one-man production about a run-down black strip club has little to offer. New talent may have been found with actress Lisa Raye, who stars in the film, but the sound quality is shoddy, Bernie Mac gives us a cartoonish performance, and the film feels like it was something Ice Cube put together in a couple of weeks... in his spare time. R for language, violence, and nudity.
PLAYING BY HEART (R) 120 minutes * * * Wordy, but fascinating story of relationships in Los Angeles. Written by director Willard Carroll, this manages to cover quite a few varieties of dysfunctional relationships. Still, they keep trying... following their hearts and taking it a day at a time. The cast is incredible, with Sean Connery, Gena Rowlands, Gillian Anderson, Angelina Jolie, Madeleine Stowe, Anthony Edwards, Ryan Phillippe, Dennis Quaid, and a few others. As it weaves the stories together, you'll find yourself drawn in... and hoping for the best. R for language.
PLAYING GOD (R) 90 minutes * 1/2 Taking it all in stride, David Duchovny moves from respected surgeon to mob doctor to FBI snitch all in the course of a year. This film has a wonderful trio of lead actors (Timothy Hutton and Angeline Jolie are the other two), but the script spends too much time elaborating on Duchovny's drug habit and not enough on the interaction of the characters. Most of the supporting cast are pale, two-dimensional stereotypes. The film cries out for better direction as well. R for language, violence, and nudity.
PLEASANTVILLE (PG-13) 116 minutes * * * Once upon a time the world was falling apart and a couple of kids wished it could all be alot more simple. Poof! They end up in an old black and white TV show and it begins to change. With experience, knowledge, and age, frequently come added responsibility. When we think, we change, when we change, we grow. It's the way life works. The use of black and white in contrast to color works very well in a fantasy film like this one. The story carries the film more than the performances, which is probably why the ending feels a bit strange. I won't give it away, but most people do find part of the ending a bit awkward. PG-13 for language and nude artwork.
THE PLEDGE (R) 119 minutes * * 1/2 Jerry (Jack Nicholson) makes a promise to the mother of a young girl who's just been killed... he'll find out who did this horrible thing and bring them to justice. So, despite the fact that he retires from active duty the next day. He becomes obsessed with the case, to the point where neither he nor we are sure that he knows what he's doing. The ending is disconcerting to alot of people, but this isn't really a story about a murder. It's a character study of a man obsessed. Nicholson does a nice job, as you might expect, and Sean Penn's direction does a good job of setting the mood. There are a few rough edges, but it's an interesting piece. R for language and violence.
POCAHONTAS (G) 76 minutes * * * * This is, quite simply, the most stunning piece of work to come out of the Disney studios since "Fantasia". The animation is flawless, and weaves together several different techniques in a manner that is smooth and seamless. Of course, the story is a "what if" rather than an actual presentation of historical fact. What if Pocahontas had been 20 years old when she and John Smith met? Maybe this story, perhaps. Not so much for the kids, this film doesn't try to be cute. It is, instead, a real work of art.
POETIC JUSTICE (R) 104 minutes * * 1/2 Janet Jackson makes her big screen debut in this contrived story of a young woman struggling with loss and love. Maya Angelou's poetry is featured, though immensely out of place, in what is otherwise a fairly shallow love story. The stars look good here, as do the beautiful scenes of coastal California, but there just isn't any depth.
POINT BREAK (R) 119 minutes * * * Surfers who are also bank robbers meet up with the FBI. Actually, they're more than surfers, they're adrenaline junkies, which is where the thrill of robbing banks comes in. Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, and Gary Busey star in a film that features some great surfing and skydiving scenes. R for violence and language.
POINT OF NO RETURN (R) 104 minutes * * 1/2 Maggie (Bridget Fonda) is a hard-core, violent drug addict, convicted of murder, and sentenced to die. The government steps in and gives her a choice... cooperate or die. The government trains her to become a covert agent, whom they will manipulate for their own ends with no regard for her feelings. The cast does a great job here, but the script is a hack job that really butchers the original French version of the film, "La Femme Nikita". Director John Badham does well with the action scenes, but is unable to lend the sensitive touch that the non-action scenes require. R for violence, sex, and language.
POISON IVY (R) 87 minutes * * * Deliciously evil story of a poisonous teenager and the effect she has on a particular family. Drew Barrymore and Sara Gilbert both do nice work here, Barrymore in particular, appears to have a great deal of fun with her character. The ending is a bit off, but the trip there is interesting, with unusual camera angles and lighting that create a mysterious feeling throughout the film.
POKEMON 4ever (G) 74 minutes * 1/2 Ash and friends are up against the Masked Marauder and Team Rocket as they try to capture the Celebi and change it into an evil Pokemon. Lackluster story that lacks the sense of humor of the other entries in this series. Animation is mediocre and the younger members of the audience I saw this with didn't seem very interested.
POKEMON: THE FIRST MOVIE (G) 91 minutes * * Actually two movies... Pikachu's Vacation is a 20 minute long short feature with some rather strange sequences that don't seem to mean anything. The main feature is pleasant enough, with good music and a nice little story about how our different looks don't matter and how helping each other is important. Toward the end of the film, Mewtwo says, "The circumstances of your birth do not matter. It is what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are." The animation is nothing special and it does get tiresome hearing the different pokemon communicate by repeating their names over and over.
POKEMON THE MOVIE 2000 (G) 75 minutes * * Much like the first Pokemon movie, this begins with a shorter film featuring Pikachu entitled, "Pikachu's Rescue Adventure". The rest of the film focuses on the trouble caused by a collector, who doesn't understand the important balance in the Pokemon world. It's a cute way to have some fun with those who collect by those who are Pokemon trainers. The story flows better than it did in the first film, but seems a bit more shallow as well.
POKEMON THE MOVIE 3 (G) 86 minutes * * 1/2 The animation here is noticeably better than the first two feature films and the story is a bit more in depth as well. The Unown Pokemon are still a bit of a mystery at the end of the film, but the message about the importance of friends and family is told well. It's a nice entry in the series.
THE POLAR EXPRESS (G) 91 minutes * 1/2 Chris Van Allsburg's story about a boy who has doubts about Christmas until he takes a trip on the magical Polar Express, adapted for the big screen with Tom Hanks voicing several of the characters. The story is very good, a bit scary in some spots, but the young ones who are paying attention probably won't be that scared. The animated is remarkably lifeless, making it far too easy to disconnect from the emotions of the film until the very end. It's strange, but if you can imagine an animated character forcing a fake smile, that's what seems to happen here. And that's for the few times the characters have anything but a blank expression on their faces. Disappointing adaptated of a fine story.
POLICE ACADEMY 5 (PG) 87 minutes * 1/2 Commander Lassard is retiring from the force and heading back to the academy. Boring story and juvenile humor, with the absence of Steve Guttenberg and Bobcat Goldthwait being the most noticeable aspects of the film.
POLICE ACADEMY 6: CITY UNDER SIEGE (PG) 81 minutes BOMB Same old people, same old story... and it just isn't funny anymore. Definitely a sequel we could've done without.
POLLOCK (R) 116 minutes * * * Life story of Jackson Pollock, an artist possessed by his talent. It's fascinating to watch Ed Harris' portrayal of a man who seems to struggle with the need to express himself. His art is virtually ignored until fellow artist Lee Krasner (Marcia Gay Harden) recognizes his talent and helps him start making the connections that will give him the recognition he deserves. Harris and Harden do great work here. The artistic temperment, the idiosyncrasies, the egos, the frailty... There are some problems with the flow of the film, but it's an unevenness that's fairly typical of first-time direction. There are gems here as well, and most directors would be very lucky to have a film that turns out this well as their first project. Adapyted from the book "Jackson Pollock: An Amaerican Saga", and rated R for language and sex.
POLTERGEIST 3 (PG-13) 94 minutes * 1/2 Carol Anne moves to a new town and the strange spirits follow her there as well. Lots of mirrors, smoke, and mediocre acting. The music helps create a little suspense, but it isn't really enough. Young Heather O'Rourke died just a few months before this was initially released.
PONYO (G) 95 minutes * * * Ponyo is growing up. Much to her wizard father's frustration, she swims away from home and ends up meeting Sosuke, a little boy. The bond between them is strong, but Ponyo's magic only works when she isn't human. Cute story, inspired by "The Little Mermaid", and bright, colorful animation. A wonderful film for the family.
POOH'S HEFFALUMP MOVIE (G) 61 minutes * * 1/2 There are strange noises in the hundred acre wood, and they may be coming from a heffalump! Cute new cartoon with lots of screen time for Roo as he is the first to meet the heffalump. It's short, sweet, and a nice, though not particularly exciting entry in the series. Original songs by Carly Simon.
POOR BOY'S GAME (R) 101 minutes * * Donnie (Rossif Sutherland) just wants to go on with his life, but he has no place to go except home. The young man who he went to prison for beating has friends who want revenge. And Donnie doesn't seem to have much of a choice in how things will happen. The story is very slow-paced and lacks the energy or passion that is needed to involve us. The performances are fine, but direction, editing and script drag this down. R for language, violence, and sex.
POPCORN (R) 85 minutes * 1/2 A film student dreams up a horror film script only to discover that it's her memory of an earlier incident that is resurfacing. And the killer is back to stalk the theater when she and her friends put on a fundraiser. Laughably bad, but it stall manages to be mildly amusing in a few spots. Filmed in Jamaica.
POSEIDON (PG-13) 89 minutes * 1/2 Remake of the classic cruise ship disaster film follows the victims of a rogue wave that has capsized the ship as they try to stay alive until they are rescued. The story gets increasingly unbelievable as it progresses. Mediocre sets and props along with half-hearted performances by Josh Lucas, Kurt Russell, and Richard Dreyfuss among others, sink this film pretty quickly. Watch the original instead! PG-13 for language and violence.
THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE (PG) 117 minutes * * * Action-packed disaster film about a cruise ship capsized by a tidal wave. An Oscar winner for special effects, this is still an exciting film to watch. Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Roddy McDowell, Stella Stevens, Shelley Winters, and many more, do their best to survive in this wild, wet adventure. PG for language.
THE POSSE (R) 105 minutes * * 1/2 Jesse Lee (Mario Van Peebles) is a cowboy haunted by the vision of his father, who was killed for his dreams. Jesse now runs a band of outlaws called "The Posse". It's a tale of some of America's African American cowboys that is, unfortunately, too shallow to do it the justice it deserves. The "look" is all in place, but the script is weak. The film plays it safe and doesn't risk giving us the extremes, cheating us of a more complete view of cowboys we needed to see. R for violence and sex.
POSSESSION (PG-13) 97 minutes * * 1/2 A literary mystery that may uncover a previously unknown love affair of a highly respected author. It could set the literary world on edge. The idea is interesting enough, but never involves us enough to care as deeply as we should. Adapted from A.S. Byatt's novel, this had an ending that is both tragic and endearing. Nice transitions between the past and present day as well. PG-13 for language.
POST GRAD (PG-13) 85 minutes * * Fresh out of college, Ryden Malby (Alexis Bledel) is ready to land her dream job, but they decide to hire someone else. And getting any job at all seems to be much more difficult than she imagined. Of course, she eventually figures out what's really important and everything works out just fine. Lightweight and slightly sentimental comedy that manages to waste the comedic talents of the great Carol Burnett, and doesn't treat Michael Keaton much better. PG-13 for sex and language.
POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE (R) 101 minutes * * * 1/2 Suzanne Vale (Meryl Streep) is an actress with a problem. Maybe the problem is her addiction to drugs, maybe it's her mother, maybe it's her profession and the stresses it produces. We're provided with glimpses of Suzanne's life. A chance to view some scenes, pictures, "postcards" from a time in the life of a struggling actress. Streep is at her best here, giving us a performance that is fragile, sensitive, comic, angry, and much more. Mike Nichols' direction pulls Streep in directions we haven't seen before. And every comic look, every tear, every camera angle in this film has a point. Life on the edge is not a pretty sight. However, if you manage to survive, it can be a very educational experience. Adapted from Carrie Fisher's novel, this gives us a glimpse of her life as well. A glimpse that is both educational and entertaining.
THE POSTMAN (R) 170 minutes * * * Taken captive and forced to serve in a lunatic's army, a man escapes. Seeking a direction for his wandering existence, he happens upon a postal carriers uniform and begins delivering mail and talking about the restored government of the United States. His vision sparks the people into action and they begin to take a stand, making "The Postman" into a symbol that gives them hope and a willingness to work toward making things better. We don't see much beyond the extremes of anarchy and blind patriotism here, which does pull on the emotions, but makes for a story that is hard to accept. Olivia Williams delivers the best performance as Abby, who becomes the postman's woman. The beautiful scenery was filmed in Arizona, Washington, and Oregon. R for language, violence, and sex.
POWDER (PG-13) 106 minutes * * * 1/2 Jeremy Reed (Sean Patrick Flanery) has powder-white skin and has never been around anyone but his family. When his last relative dies, Powder must face the world, with all it's cruelties and fears. The supernatural elements to the story remind us that it's a modern day fable, and though it bogs down in the middle, it's a pleasant film with a powerful message about acceptance and love.
THE POWERPUFF GIRLS (PG) 67 minutes * 1/2 Six-minute short cartoon "Chicken Scratch" with Dexter from Dexter's Laboratory that has him coming down with chicken pox before the feature starts. The main film is the first adventure, so to speak, of the girls as they are created by Professor Utonium as he combines sugar, spice, and everything nice along with "Element X", resulting in three super-powered little girls who have to learn how to use their powers responsibly. The story is fun up through the game of tag (2o minutes) but then it gets old and boring as the girls all too frequently whine while Mojo Jojo goes on his rampage. Strictly for fans of the TV show. PG for violence.
PRACTICAL MAGIC (PG-13) 99 minutes * * 1/2 Dealing less with witchcraft and more with the power of love, this is the story of Sally (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian (Nicole Kidman), sisters who are raised by their Aunts. They learn the craft and of the curse that dooms any man who loves them to an early grave. Bullock is fine here, but Kidman is the one who delivers the stronger performance. Stockard Chaning and Diane Wiest are a treat to watch as well and Camilla Belle, who plays the young Sally, is stunning. The film shifts focus toward the end and deals more with witchcraft, losing some of its impact with the transition. PG-13 for language and violence.
A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION (PG-13) 99 minutes * * * 1/2 Quintessential Robert Altman and a wonderful representation of all things Prairie Home Companion. After all these years, it all comes down to one last performance. But in another sense, does it ever really end? Delightful performances from an all-star cast that includes Garrison Keillor, Meryl Streep, Lily Tomlin, Woody Harrelson, John C. Reilly, Kevin Kline, Virginia Madsen, and many more. Kline's character is a bit unusual as he is trying to figure out why the show has been so popular, and it's an awkward part of the story until late in the film. For fans of the show, it's a fun trip down memory lane, and those who missed it, will have the chance to get a glimpse of the magic that made it so unique. PG-13 for language.
PRANCER (G) 97 minutes * * * * Jessie believes with all her heart that the injured reindeer she discovered is one of Santa's own, so it's extremely important to nurse it back to health. Heartwarming and charming film about innocence, Christmas, and the importance of believing. Great character performances from Sam Elliot, Cloris Leachman, and Abe Vigoda, and a wonderful soundtrack by Maurice Jarre. A great film for the holidays!
PREACHER'S KID (PG-13) 105 minutes * * She's lived her whole life for her father and for God. Angie (Letoya Luckett) doesn't want to abandon either one, but she's feeling a strong urge to break free. Interesting that the show she leaves to tour with is called "Daddy Can I Come Back Home". Not very subtle. Emotionally charged and more than a little unrealistically "perfect" at the end. The music is very good, but the rest is merely adequate. PG-13 for sex and violence.
THE PREACHER'S WIFE (PG) 120 minutes * * Tremendously overrated story of down and out preacher who prays for help and gets a somewhat mischievous angel in response. This is a feel good film that doesn't have the punch it needs and runs on way too long. Whitney Houston's singing is nice, so buy the soundtrack, but skip the movie. PG for language.
PRECIOUS (R) 103 minutes * * * Sixteen years old, still in Junior High School, and pregnant for the second time, Precious (Gabourey Sidibe) is running out of options. Adapted from the novel "Push" by Sapphire, it's a powerful but simple story. Mo'Nique won an Oscar for her performance as Precious' mother, and Sidibe's debut performance earned her a nomination as well. R for violence, sex, and language.
PREDATOR (R) 102 minutes * * Sent into the jungle to rescue a kidnapped dignitary, this group of commandos soon discover an alien warrior who seems to be unstoppable. There are a few exciting moments, but far too much is left unexplained and we can't make sense of it. Then there's the obvious plot hole... if the predator doesn't kill you if you don't have a weapon, why not put down your weapons? Oh... because we wouldn't have a movie that way! Loads of muscle-bound testosterone here... Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, Jesse Ventura, Sonny Landham... and Kevin Peter Hall as The Predator!
PREDATOR 2 (R) 102 minutes * * * 1/2 Taking a cue from the sequel to "Alien", this delivers more predators, and more information about them, with roughly the same amount of action and even better special effects. It's a great cast too, with Danny Glover, Maria Conchita Alonso, Bill Paxton and Gary Busey teaming up to fight the alien warriors. As far as sequels go, this ranks among the best. R for violence and language.
PRELUDE TO A KISS (PG-13) 100 minutes * * Peter Hoskins (Alec Baldwin) is on his way out the door. He doesn't really want to stay at this party until a friend introduces him to Rita (Meg Ryan). They fall in love instantly and everything is perfect... until the honeymoon. That's when Peter notices something a little different about his wife. This is an interesting romantic fantasy, but the supernatural twists may not be what you're looking for. It's well-acted by all and interesting to watch, but the story is a bit strange. The point is well taken though - "never to be squandered, the miracle of another human being." PG-13 for language.
PREMONITION (PG-13) 93 minutes * * 1/2 It's a traumatic experience to hear that your spouse has died. But what happens when you wake up the next day and they are fine? And then the next day they are dead? Linda Hanson (Sandra Bullock) has had a premonition that her involves the death of her husband. But she keeps experiencing it, and looking for details that will let her stop it from happening. The film ends well, but not without some very obvious foreshadowing, and some confusion for us early on as we move from reality to premonition and back again. PG-13 for violence and language.
PRESSURE COOKER (NR) 97 minutes * * * At a school in Philadelphia where 40% of the students don't gradute from high school, Wilma Stephenson runs a culinary education program where her students often earn tens and even hundreds of thousands of dollars of scholarships each year. She can be tougher than most, but she cares, and she brings out the best in her students. Take a look at just one year out of the forty that she's been teaching. Amazing!
THE PRESTIGE (PG-13) 125 minutes * * * Two magician's assistants, both working toward being magicians. After a tragic accident on stage, they become enemies... enemies with different ideas about magic and how to use it. Each of them continues to try to come up with the ultimate illusion, but the paths they take are very different. the story manages to play some tricks on us as well, which is nice. And solid performances from Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale are complimented by the ever-steady presence of Michael Caine. Adapted from the novel by Christopher Priest. PG-13 for violence and language.
PRESUMED INNOCENT (R) 124 minutes * * * 1/2 Rusty Sabitch is a prosecutor who has been accused of murder. Finding himself on the other side of the law is a new experience. He finds himself vctimized and brutalized by the system. Harrison Ford underplays his character here, which is the only real weakness of the film. We have a hard time believing that he's all that concerned about what has happened to him. The supporting performances are wonderful though. Raul Julia, Brian Dennehy, Bonnie Bedelia, Greta Scacchi, and Paul Winfield give this the strength it needs, and a nice little double-twist ending serves us with just the right finish to a very good murder mystery. R for sex, language, and violence.
PRETTY BIRD (R) 93 minutes * * It seems that people have always dreamed of flying. Three men with little in common except this dream, begin to work together on a rocket belt that could be the new personal flying machine... except that they have a difficult time getting along with each other. They are wonderfully quirky characters, but the tension between them overpowers the humor and it becomes difficult to appreciate the story because we begin to dislike the characters. R for language and sex.
PRETTY PERSUASION (R) 106 minutes * * 1/2 Kimberly Joyce (Evan Rachel Wood) wants to be an actress, so she plans out a part to play, involves a couple of her friends, and sets out to ruin the career of a teacher by making some accusations about his inappropriate behavior. But that's just the beginning, and even those around her will be a bit surprised at where she's going with all of this. Wood is impressive as usual, and there are some nice supporting performances by James Woods and Ron Livingston, but the script is a bit shallow until we get toward the end, and the directing is a bit heavy-handed by then. It's still worth a look, but it's not nearly as strong of a film as it should be. R for language and sex.
PRETTY WOMAN (R) 116 minutes * * * Charming, witty, fun modernization of the Cinderella story with Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. Gere and Roberts work well together and make this a delight to watch and James Newton Howard's soundtrack does a nice job of moving our emotions along with the story. And just in case you wondered, Gere wrote and performed the piano solo himself.
PRICELESS (PG-13) 97 minutes * * * She is absolutely beautiful, and he would give anything to be with her... and he will. She has a taste for the finest things in life, which he really can't afford. But can you put a price tag on love? Adorable and feisty performance by Audrey Tautou, complimented quite well by a charmingly confused performance by Gad Elmaleh. Fun romantic comedy, loosely adapted from "Breakfast at Tiffany's".
PRIDE (PG) 103 minutes * * * It may be a run down community recreation center to some, but to Jim Ellis (Terrence Howard) it represents possibility and promise. And to a group of youth from the area, it may just provide an opportunity for them to be more than they ever dreamed possible. For the past 33 years, the real Coach Ellis' is still coaching, still teaching pride, determination and resilience, and still inspiring those around him. Howard gives a solid performance here as do Bernie Mac, Kimberly Elise and the rest. Among the sub-genre of inspirational sports films, this one is definitely quite good. PG for language and violence.
PRIDE AND GLORY (R) 125 minutes * * * Scandal within the ranks of New York's finest threatens to bring down the force and tear apart a family. Ray (Edward Norton) discovers not only that his own brother-in-law (Colin Farrell) is involved, but that the corruption goes even deeper. Solid police drama with great work by Norton and some fine supporting performances by Farrell, Noah Emmerich, and Jon Voight. R for violence and language.
PRIDE & PREJUDICE (2005) (PG) 122 minutes * * * Very nice adaptation of the classic story by Jane Austen about the conflicts when class differences clash with love. Keira Knightley is very good as Elizabeth, but even better is Matthew MacFadyen as Mr. Darcy, lending the role a bit more sensitivity than often seen. Judi Dench and Brenda Blethyn are here as well, and along with Donald Sutherland provide solid supporting performances. Sets and costumes are very nice here as well, and it was especially nice to watch the camera work in the dance sequences which manages to do a wonderful job of helping you feel the motion without becoming too disorienting. PG for language.
PRIMAL (R) 75 minutes BOMB Something is in the woods and it's killing people. I guess it's that guy in the cheap bigfoot suit with fangs. Low budget monster flick with cut-shot photography and bad special effects. Real bargain basement material. R for violence and language.
PRIMAL FEAR (R) 127 minutes * * * I love the ending of this twisted courtroom case film with Richard Gere as the defense attorney. Taken from William Diehl's novel, this has plenty of false leads and great acting by Gere, Alfre Woodard, and others. It doesn't have the extremes of "Silence of the Lambs", but it delivers enough to satisfy and make us remember the ending for a long time.
PRIMARY COLORS (R) 136 minutes * * * With only passing resemblance to the Clinton administration, this is less a story of a presidential campaign and more a story of idealism and innocence abusively run through the political ringer. Henry Burton (Adrian Lester) finds himself working for Jack Stanton's (John Travolta) campaign. Swept along by the excitement and the dream, he finds himself caught off guard and having to make decisions he doesn't like. Billy Bob Thornton and Kathy Bates have the strongest roles here, though most of the acting is first-rate. The script is a bit uneven in spots, but most will find this an interesting and absorbing behind-the-scenes look at politics. R for language.
PRIME (PG-13) 101 minutes * * 1/2 Raphael (Uma Thurman) finds herself in a relationship with a younger man, but it seems to be just what they both need. And at first, her therapist (Meryl Streep) is all in favor of it... until she finds out who the young man is. The script is stiff and awkward at times, and we have a hard time connecting with the characters as a result. The ending does have a nice, bittersweet touch, but it's a bit too little too late. PG-13 for language and sex.
PRIMER (PG-13) 76 minutes * * Two young engineers working on an experiment in a garage on their own time, find they have the ability to travel back in time. The reality of it is something that affects them each differently as they make different choices about what to do with the information they gain. The low budget production values here lend the film a realistic feel at times, but the photography is often distracting. It's an interesting blend of drama, science fiction, and mystery from writer/director Shane Carruth. PG-13 for language.
PRIMEVAL (R) 89 minutes 1/2 Gustave is a local legend. A giant crocodile who has a taste for human flesh. Now a news crew is attempting to catch Gustave. Of course, that doesn't go as planned. The effects are reasonable, but the story is incredibly boring, and more than a bit predictable... surprise, surprise. R for violence and language.
THE PRINCE & ME (PG) 106 minutes * * 1/2 Prince Edward (Luke Mably) just wants to get away from all of the royal "stuff" and experience some real life. When he finally does, what he finds is a little more than he bargained for... a girl who really cares for him. She wasn't looking for love, but she finds a prince, and that maybe she's been missing out on life just as much as he has. Mostly due to Stiles' acting, which tends to feel very genuine, this works fairly well. It's nothing spectacular or out of the ordinary, but it's a tender and romantic film that delivers several nice moments. PG for language.
THE PRINCE & ME II (PG) 94 minutes * 1/2 Kam Heskin is no Julia Stiles, but that's not the real problem here anyway. As the marriage date approaches, tensions run high, and an old flame of Prince Edward's shows up to stir up trouble and try to marry him herself. Of course her attempt fails and everyone loves Paige. The story is boring and old, and Kam is actually the only one who seems to be really trying to make this work. Through no fault of her own, it just doesn't work. Even fans of princess stories will probably find this lacking. PG for language.
THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER (2007) (PG) 85 minutes * 1/2 Updated version of the classic story with Cole and Dylan Sprouse playing the parts of the two young boys who trade places to discover the differences between their worlds of plenty and poverty. The Sprouse twins seem to wander through this without exhibiting all that much in the way of talent. PG for language.
PRINCE OF DARKNESS (R) 97 minutes * * * Moody and atmospheric presentation that has the look and the music down quite well. Director John Carpenter scores most of his own films and has become quite good at creating the mood he intends. The story needs a bit more in the detail department to give us the information we need. The emphasis is on psychological horror here, so don't expect much gore. Nice ending!
THE PRINCE OF EGYPT (PG) 91 minutes * * * The animation is wonderful here, and the Broadway style music that runs through the film adds to the rich and elegant feeling of the whole production. The drawbacks are that you really do need to already know the story of Moses to understand several of the sequences. The story has been stretched a bit, but already knowing it really helps. As well, there is a great deal of implied violence and a good bit of mysticism as well. Younger viewers may get a bit confused and/or scared. That's why it has the PG rating.
PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME (PG-13) 108 minutes * * * An orphan boy, Dastan's (Jake Gyllenhaal) act of courage results in him being adopted by the king and raised as a prince. Treachery and deceit result in the death of the king, and Dastan and the mysterious princess Tamina (Gemma Arterton) have to save the world from destruction. It's a wonderfully adventurous story with stunningly beautiful scenery. The humor seems a bit misplaced at times, but otherwise, it's a fun ride! PG-13 for violence and language.
THE PRINCE OF TIDES (R) 127 minutes * * * * Tom Wingo (Nick Nolte) leaves his precious South Carolina homeland and travels to New York City to help his sister, who has attempted suicide... again. Her psychiatrist is trying to reconstruct the family's history and Savannah just can't remember very much. But Tom has troubles of his own. A failing marriage, a dislike for the big city, a growing infatuation with Savannah's doctor, and the simple fact that he doesn't want to remember everything from his childhood. But the past can be a powerful teacher, if we are willing to learn from it. Pat Conroy's book about self-discovery and loyalty translates well to the screen. Barbra Streisand's direction is superb, and Nolte delivers a first-rate performance. I don't make this kind of substitution often, but I think Angelica Huston would have been a better choice for the psychiatrist. No matter, it's still a fine film that will stay with you for a long time. R for violence and language.
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG (G) 90 minutes * * * 1/2 Tiana just wants to get enough money to start the restaurant she's been dreaming about for years. Her friend Charlotte wants to be a princess. But when the eligible prince actually comes to town, he ends up getting turned into a frog and falling for Tiana. Disney's version of "The Frog Princess" is a jazzy, toe-tapping, fun film with delightful characters and wonderful hand-drawn animation. Randy Newman's soundtrack is wonderful, and a great addition to his considerable portfolio. the scary bits in the film are fairly brief and not too much for most of the youngest in the audience to deal with. Featuring the voices of Anika Noni Rose, Jim Cummings, Oprah Winfrey, Terrence Howard, John Goodman, and Emeril Lagasse.
THE PRINCESS AND THE GOBLIN (G) 78 minutes 1/2 One of the most incredibly boring cartoons ever, with a lackluster story and dialogue that is just plain awful. And then there's that theme song... that's repeated over and over and over...
THE PRINCESS BRIDE (PG) 95 minutes * * * Fairy tale about a princess whose prince must find and rescue her with lots of complications along the way. The film is full of delightful characters and characterizations, but it's overplayed a bit at times as well. Adapted from William Goldman's book and well-directed by Rob Reiner. Mandy Patinkin delivers the best performance, but he's well supported by Chris Sarandon, Robin Wright, Wallace Shawn, Billy Crystal, Carol Kane, Fred Savage, Andre the Giant and several others.
PRINCESS CARABOO (PG) 94 minutes * * * 1/2 One of the most overlooked films that ever hit the theaters. A vagrant foreign girl appears from nowhere... who is she? Could she be the princess that all the townspeople want to believe in? Phoebe Cates gives her best performance here, supported well by Stephen Rea, Kevin Kline, and John Lithgow. What makes this even more interesting is that it's based on a true story.
THE PRINCESS DIARIES (G) 109 minutes * * * Delightful and entertaining "ugly duckling" story, with Mia (Anne Hathaway) discovering that she really is a princess. The hard part will be learning what it really means to be a princess, and growing up along the way. Well-acted and fun to watch, this manages to do it all while keeping it clean enough for a G rating. Great job!
THE PRINCESS DIARIES 2: ROYAL ENGAGEMENT (G) 107 minutes * * * Princess Mia (Anne Hathaway) has turned 21 and now finds out that she must marry within a month if she wants to become queen. This sequel is a bit more romantic than the first as far as story, but is still filled with the humor and charm that made the first one so appealing. A very nice job by all, and a very nice sequel... which is quite rare. Filmed in Los Angeles.
PRINCESS PROTECTION PROGRAM (NR) 88 minutes * * Only a month before her coronation, Rosalinda's (Demi Lovato) life is threatened and she finds herself needing to leave the country and become part of the Princess Protection Program. Posing as Carter's (Selena Gomez) cousin won't be easy... for either one of them. Fun Disney TV movie. Not much depth, but entertaining enough that you won't consider it a waste of time.
THE PRINCIPAL (R) 107 minutes * * Jim Belushi plays the part of a teach who gets in trouble for his violent conduct in a bar and then gets promoted ot the position of principal... at a high school where they send all of the worst juvenile delinquents. Belushi does a great job here, despite a paper-thin story and mediocre music. Well cast, with some nice supporting performances from Lou Gossett Jr., Rae Dawn Chong, and Kelly Minter.
PRIVATE FEARS IN PUBLIC PLACES (NR) 122 minutes * * * 1/2 Interlaced stories tell the journeys and struggles of six individuals as they try to find love and meaning in their lives. The film not only offers a great deal of talented acting, but quite a bit of symbolic imagery skillfully presented through photography by the director. It's a film that is interesting and also designed to make you think a bit as well.
THE PRIVATE LIVES OF PIPPA LEE (R) 93 minutes * * * As Pippa (Robin Wright Penn) and her husband (Alan Arkin) move into a retirement condo, their lives begin to change. Pippa begins to reflect on her past, and wonders what lies ahead. She also starts sleepwalking. A mid-life coming-of-age story with Penn doing a great job. Winona Ryder seems a bit miscast here, and overplays most of her scenes, but it's still an interesting story. R for sex and language.
PRIVATE VALENTINE (PG-13) 95 minutes * Her savings gone, pampered movie star Megan Valentine (Jessica Simpson) enlists in the Army. It sounded like the right thing to do at the time, but it's not as easy as it looks. Neither is making a good movie. Simpson primps and poses for the camera, but it's not enough to keep our interest. PG-13 for language and sex.
THE PRIZE WINNER OF DEFIANCE, OHIO (PG-13) 92 minutes * * 1/2 True story of a woman who won thousands of dollars in contest prizes, which helped put food on the table for a large family during the tough times. Julianne Moore does a nice job here, but the struggles her character faces with a husband who feels belittled by his wife's successes keep this from being a pleasant film to watch. Nice to have the real Ryan family in the closing sequence of the film. PG-13 for language and violence.
PROBLEM CHILD (PG) 75 minutes * 1/2 Junior (Michael Oliver) is a problem child. But if you'd been moved from home to home for all seven years of your life, how could you be expected to act responsibly, to show respect or love, or to care about much of anything? Isn't this supposed to be a comedy though? The acting is carboard at best, and the dialogue is overly rude and actually merits a PG-13 rating.
PROBLEM CHILD 2 (PG-13) 84 minutes 1/2 Another of those sequels to a film where the first one wasn't very good to begin with. Trixie (Ivyann Schwan) is the cute little girl in the neighborhood who is a devil in disguise. Lots of cartoonish violence and nothing much to impress us. PG-13 for crude humor.
THE PRODUCERS (2005) (PG-13) 126 minutes * * * Who would have thought that you could make money by producing a Broadway show that is a flop? That's just what Leo (Matthew Broderick) and Max (Nathan Lane) discover is possible. Adapted from the stage musical that was adapted from the 1968 movie, and directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman, who did the same for the stage production. It definitely doesn't have the same sort of charm as the original, but if you like either Lane or Broderick, you'll find this well worth the time. They both have fun recreating their roles from the Broadway production. PG-13 for language.
THE PROFESSIONAL (R) 104 minutes * * 1/2 Her parents and family now dead, Matilda (Natalie Portman) convinces her neighbor to take her in, and teach her the ways of his profession... a hit man. Portman is perfect, and Jean Reno is convincing as a man who is fascinated by the attentions and the dilemma this young girl bring into his life. Director Luc Besson has a talented eye for both story and presentation.
THE PROGRAM (R) 111 minutes * * A college football program that has had two poor seasons and whose continuation rests on the shoulders of the coach and his current team. James Caan gives a listless performance, though the supporting cast of the team all do fairly well. They give us a better glimpse of the talent and heartbreak you would expect from a story such as this. Filmed at Duke University and the University of South Carolina.
PROJECT X (PG) 102 minutes * * Virgil is a very talented chimpanzee. His talents are going to to go to waste now that he's been sold to the U.S. Air Force for flight experiments involving exposure to radiation. His talents aren't the only ones going to waste. Helen Hunt deserves better than this, as do cinemtographer Dean Cundey, and composer James Horner. Not that this really had the potential to be a four-star film, but Matthew Broderick's acting and poor direction and writing turn this into little more than sentimental mush.
PROM NIGHT (2008) (PG-13) 86 minutes * * Although billed as a remake, this bears little resemblance to the 1980 film. The original is about revenge for the death of a child, where this one is about an teacher who is still obsessed with the student whose family he killed. Brittany Snow does a nice job here, but this is basically just a standard slasher horror film. PG-13 for violence, sex, and language.
PROM WARS (R) 86 minutes * * The boys' schools of Selby and Lancaster are in an all-out war for the right to take the girls of Miss Aversham's and Miss Cronstall's School for Girls to the senior prom. The acting is reasonable, but the story just isn't that exciting or creative. The boys are put through a series of challenges, but these are glossed over in an attempt to get to the end more quickly. it's too bad, as it might have been more fun to actaully see more of that part of the film. R for language and sex.
THE PROMISE (PG-13) 97 minutes * * * In exchange for the promise of beauty and admiration, a young woman will never know the pleasure of a life with the man she loves. At first, she finds this an acceptable arrangement, but as she grows older, it causes her more and more pain. Is there a way around this promise? How much is she willing to risk? Beautiful story, well-told and well-acted, with a sense of magic that wraps you up in it's spell. Written and directed by Kaige Chen. PG-13 for violence and sex.
THE PROMOTION (R) 81 minutes BOMB Doug (Seann William Scott) is due for a promotion from assistant store manager at the grocery... until Richard (John C. Reilly) comes to town. The competition between the two lacks energy and the entire film lacks humor. Even die-hard fans of Reilly and/or Scott are likely to find this a bit boring. R for language.
PROOF (PG-13) 94 minutes * * * Solid performance from Gwyneth Paltrow as the daughter of a brilliant mathematician (Anthony Hopkins) who grew mentally unstable in his later years. She put aside her own pursuits to take care of him and now wonders about her own sanity. Jake Gyllenhaal plays another student at the university where Hopkins character taught, and helps put some of the pieces of the puzzle together as events begin to spin out of control. Nice supporting performance from Gyllenhaal and Hopkins is always a treat to watch. PG-13 for sex and language.
PROOF OF LIFE (R) 125 minutes * * 1/2 Peter Bowman (David Morse) is on his way to work when terrorists take him and several other people hostage. It's a fairly common occurance in some locations, and is a fairly effective way for some terrorist organizations to raise money. The only problem for Peter is that the company he works for has no insurance money to cover this sort of situation as they are in the middle of disolving. The story definitely wanders around before getting to the point, though the performances by Morse, Meg Ryan, and Russell Crowe are solid. The last half hour of the film works well, and things are set up nicely at the beginning. Now, if we just could've fixed the middle... R for violence and language.
THE PROPHECY (R) 93 minutes * * Strange satanic horror film with Christopher Walken as the angel Gabriel. Spouts a rather unique theology involving people choosing to go with Lucifer if they want to go to Hell. The talented cast (Eric Stoltz, Virginia Madsen, Amanda Plummer) are somewhat stymied by a plot that has to explain too many things as it goes along.
THE PROPOSAL (PG-13) 103 minutes * * * Margaret (Sandra Bullock) is going to be deported, so she proposes to her secretary, Andrew (Ryan Reynolds). Margaret is not the most pleasant person, but if Andrew wants to keep his job, he has to do what she asks. Bullock is delightfully snippy here, and Reynolds and Betty White play off of it quite well. In fact, their supporting performances give this the extra edge it needs to make it fun to watch. PG-13 for language and sex.
THE PROPOSITION (R) 97 minutes * * 1/2 Charlie (Guy Pearce) has a dilemma. The only way to save his younger brother is to kill his older brother. The Australian frontier can be a cruel and harsh environment. The film pulls no punches with violence, but Charlie's dilemma along with that of his captor, tend to get lost along the way. In part, this is a fault of the script. It's only the second for Nick Cave, better known for his skills at songwriting. Much like a song, the broad strokes and theme are clear and well presented, but the subtleties are missing, or left to the actors. R for violence and language.
THE PROTECTOR (R) 78 minutes * * It's an honor to be the protector of a sacred elephant, so when his is kidnapped along with its mother, Kham (Tony Jaa) must go find and rescue it. Plenty of bone-breaking, hard-core muay thai action, with no stunt doubles, and no CGI effects either. It's a little thin on plot, but short enough that we don't notice that too much. R for violence and sex.
PROZAC NATION (R) 91 minutes * * 1/2 Adaptation of Elizabeth Wurtzel's autobiographical novel focusing on her struggles to deal with family expectations as well as her own. Christina Ricci is a pleasure to watch as always, immersing herself in the character and creating an intimacy with the viewer that seems second nature to her. Too much of the story is told through voice-overs that serve as comments of self-realization and/or understanding. Michelle Williams and Jessica Lange do nice work here too, but it's definitely Ricci's performance that makes this worth a look. R for language and sex.
P.S. I LOVE YOU (PG-13) 120 minutes * * * 1/2 Holly (Hilary Swank) and Jerry (Gerard Butler) are very much in love and planning for their future. Sometimes life intervenes and plans change. When Holly finds herself alone and wondering where to go, she finds it difficult to let go of the dreams of the past. Letting go of what you loved so much isn't easy, but having loved so much is more than many ever have the chance to do. Swank is delightful here, showing us the passion and the heartache of her character at every turn. And the story, adapted from Cecilia Ahern's novel, slowly works its way into our hearts, reminding us again and again of the importance and the power of love. Complimented by a marvelous soundtrack, this is a truly wonderful, romantic film. R for violence and language.
PSYCHO (NR) 109 minutes * * * * One of Alfred Hitchcock's scariest films has us watching Janet Leigh spend a night in the Bates Motel, run by Anthony Perkins and his "mother". So many other horror and suspense films are measured against this, it's a must see that will keep you shy of the bathroom shower for quite awhile!
PSYCHO (1998) (R) 100 minutes * 1/2 This is a perfect example of how not to make a sequel. Don't try to use new people and remake it shot for shot. There's no heart here, just people going through the paces, repeating what they are told to do with no imagination or feeling for the characters. William H. Macy comes off better than anyone because he brings a feeling for how to create something a little strange beneath the surface of a character. The camera angles and the story itself do manage to create a little suspense, but this is a very pale copy of the original. R for violence and nudity.
PU-239 (R) 91 minutes * * 1/2 Exposed to a lethal dose of radiation at a Russian nuclear plant, Timofey (Paddy Considine) finds himself shunned and left to fend for himself. He decides to steal a little PU-239 to sell to take care of his family. But the people he connects with have little idea of the potential use or value of the material. Interesting low-key drama adapted from a short story by Ken Kalfus. R for violence and sex.
PUBLIC ENEMIES (R) 131 minutes * * * In 1933, John Dillinger WAS big city crime, able to come into town and take any bank he wanted to. But the government decided to put a stop to men like Dillinger, and in doing so, paved the way for syndicated crime. Johnny Depp does a great job here as Dillinger, obviously having fun with the part. The film does run a little long, taking quite a bit of time to set the mood, which is important. Still there are subplots here that could have been trimmed to make this a stronger film that was more direct in its approach. R for violence and language.
` PUCCINI FOR BEGINNERS (NR) 78 minutes * * Allegra (Elizabeth Reaser) is in the middle of a mess. All she wanted was love without complication, but it doesn't really happen that way. Now she's in a relationship triangle and headed for disaster. Another reason her relationships may have trouble could be related to how much she talks. The script is VERY wordy, and at least early in the film, we hear a great deal of moaning and lamenting from Allegra. It all works out fine in the end, but for being promoted as a comedy, there isn't much to find very humorous here.
PUCKER UP (NR) 74 minutes * * * This is definitely one of the more unusual and entertaining documentaries you'll see. The topic is whistling, and the venue is the International Whistler's Convention. We watch parts of the competition and hear interviews with the competitors, as well as learning about the science and history of whistling. It's far more fascinating than I can describe here. Suffice it to say that I'd like to see a sequel. There are three particular bits missing here that a sequel could address... more examples of throat whistling, paletal whistling, and other atypical styles, more information about whistling in countries other than the United States, and more about the younger competitors and what has interested them in this wonderful musical experience. Not rated, but suitable for families.
THE PUFFY CHAIR (R) 83 minutes * 1/2 Josh (Mark Duplass) takes a road trip to see his dad in an attempt to figure out why his life is so messed up. He's bringing along a gift, and his girlfriend and brother end up coming along as well. Family project (Mark wrote it with his brother Jay who directs) that never quite gets where it needs to go. The performances are sincere enough, and there are a few scenes that are quite good. There are other scenes that are painfully bad. R for language.
PULP FICTION (R) 148 minutes * * * 1/2 An astounding piece of work! A film of dark humor and incredible creativity. Presented as a prologue and three chapters of a story, it definitely puts one in mind of a cheap paperback with a graphic story... the ones that you just can't seem to put down once you've picked them up. A bit too violent for some tastes, but the characters are vividly painted in this strange story that will be hard to forget. R for violence, language, and nudity.
PULSE (PG-13) 81 minutes * 1/2 A hacker taps into a strange computer virus that releases an evil that's going to take over the world unless a few of his friends can stop it. OK, so the idea sounds a bit ridiculous. There are actually a few genuinely creepy moments here, thought they aren't enough to pull the whole film together. The original Japanese version of this film is almost thirty minutes longer, which does little aside from making it more confusing... though I'm not sure making it more clear really helps much either... PG-13 for language and violence.
PUMP UP THE VOLUME (R) 97 minutes * * * Mark Hunter (Christian Slater) isn't very happy. He's moved to a new town, has no friends, doesn't like school, isn't very outgoing, has parents who don't understand... but he does have a shortwave radio. It soon becomes a miniature radio station with nightly broadcasts. It's a story about a young man reaching out for understanding and support, a need that most of us have felt at one time or another. Christian Slater turns in a wonderful performance that really stretches his talents. He's accompanied by an equally stellar introductory performance by Samantha Mathis as Nora Diniro. The photography is unique, and with the strange, but effective mixture of music, we have a mood of confusion, upheaval, and desire. R for language.
PUMPKIN (R) 114 minutes * * * Delightfully offbeat film with Christina Ricci starring as Carolyn McDuffy, a girl who's got it all. Or at least she thought she did. But when her sorority decides to work with a group of "challenged" athletes, she finds herself falling in love. She starts seeing the world in a different light, but her friends all think she's throwing her life away. Heartwarming, bittersweet, and darkly comic at times, it's a story that begs for Ricci's ability to bring a quirky character to life as few others can. A pleasure to watch, though it's no real surprise that Ricci does so well here. This sort of character is her specialty. R for language and sex.
PUMPKINHEAD 4: BLOOD FEUD (R) 91 minutes * Pumpkinhead is once again conjured up, this time by a McCoy in love with a Hatfield. He just wants them to be left alone and thinks this might be the answer. Aside from how completely ridiculous that idea sounds, and how bad the acting is, and how amateurish the dialogue sounds... there are some wonderfully gory special effects. Fans of this series may find this an entertaining entry in the series because of the gore, but others will be disappointed by the silliness of the story. R for violence.
PUNCH DRUNK LOVE (R) 86 minutes * * 1/2 Barry (Adam Sandler) is rather eccentric, so the fact that he's fallen completely in love with someone is a rather interesting experience. Not just for him, but for those around him as well. And then there are all of the other things going on is his life at the moment... This is definitely one of the more unique love stories to find it's way to film, and Adam Sandler's performance is quite good, as is Emily Watson's. But we still see many traces of Sandler's immature brand of humor here. He has the talent, but it remains to be seen if he can put it to good use. That's Shelley Duvall singing "He Needs Me". R for language and violence.
PUNCHLINE (R) 123 minutes * * 1/2 This film about aspiring stand-up comics does a great job giving us good lines, both comic and serious, and some nice acting as well. Tom Hanks is the focus of the story, but we also have Sally Field, John Goodman, Mark Rydell, Paul Mazursky, and Damon Wayans. It just doesn't stay with you though. It's just one of those films that you'll see and then pretty much forget what it was all about. R for language.
THE PUNISHER (R) 116 minutes * * 1/2 FBI agent Frank Castle (Thomas Jane) retires after one last case. But the man whose son dies during this last bust, takes out Frank's family and leaves Frank for dead as well. Jane does a great job here though the story leaves quite a bit unexplained. It definitely shows its comic book origins, but in many ways that works fairly well. Filmed in Tampa and Pinellas County, Florida. R for violence and language.
PUNISHER: WAR ZONE (R) 96 minutes * * 1/2 Ray Stevenson dons the skull shirt this time around. As former agent Frank Castle, he's killed hundreds of criminals, but he just slipped up and killed a federal agent. While he's trying to decide what direction he needs to take, one of the bad guys who survived his latest "punishings" (albeit horribly disfigured) is determined to get revenge. Not for the squeamish, the story is full of violence and action, though the style definitely reminds us of the comic books from which it is taken. R for violence and language.
THE PUPPET MASTERS (R) 104 minutes * * 1/2 A small town in Iowa has been invaded by aliens who possess the bodies of humans and use them like puppets. How can they be stopped? An old story that is told fairly well, and with good special effects. Unfortunately, a good deal happens without much light, making it rather hard to see at times. No real surprises, but fans of science fiction and horror will find it an interesting film.
PURE (R) 94 minutes * * * Paul's (Harry Eden) mom has an addiction problem. As she struggles to get it under control, Paul, who is 10, becomes everything from intervener to drug user. He makes friends with a waitress (Keira Knightley) who is a help in some ways and a hindrance in others. Excellent performances by Knightley and Molly Parker, with a stunning performance by young Eden, who was 13 at the time this was filmed. Definitely worth a look. R for language and violence.
PURE COUNTRY (PG) 108 minutes * 1/2 Some people in this world are multi-talented actor/musicians, with an ability to draw you into the stories that their songs tell. Unfortunately, George Strait isn't one of them. Though this tries to be a film about what goes on in the main character's life, the first 25 minutes are almost completely filled with songs being performed. As far as the filmmaking itself, the word amateurish comes to mind. It's a film that relies too heavily on the popularity and talents of a musician who just isn't an actor. Their is one scene worth saving though. It takes place on Dusty's grandmother's porch when his drummer is trying to find just where Dusty has run off to. It's a charming scene that paints a picture of life that is "pure country".
PURE LUCK (PG) 90 minutes * 1/2 Purely unlucky is what Eugene Proctor(Martin Short) actually is, but maybe he'll accidentally trip into the same place where an equally unlucky girl has disappeared so that she can be found. Pretty weak as far as the story, with the entertainment value resting upon Short's pratfalls. There's also quite a bit of violence here that makes it not quite the comedy you might expect all the time. And the girl should have been in this a little more too, Short ends up carrying the whole film and it just doesn't work that well. PG for violence and language.
THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS (PG-13) 113 minutes * * * Can we ever achieve happiness, or is it only something we can pursue? Things haven't been going too well for Chris (Will Smith), but he's determined to succeed. Based on a real life story, Smith does a great job of drawing us into the story. It's definitely a bit one-sided, with an uneven and incomplete picture of Chris' wife, Linda (Thandie Newton). That said, Smith's performance makes it well-worth a look. Filmed in San Francisco, Oakland, and Alameda, California. PG-13 for language and violence.
PUSH (PG-13) 106 minutes * * * Watchers see the future, movers are telekinetic, and pushers... well, pushers can put thoughts in your head. These are just a few of the powerful people whose abilities the government is trying to boost with a special drug. At first, no one survives, but now there is a pusher who did... and she's on the run. Can Cassie (Dakota Fanning) help Mick (Chris Evans) find her before the government agents do? Nice adventure/thriller with another stunning performance from Fanning, who commands our attention throughout the film. Plenty of twists and turns in the plot to keep us interested as well. Filmed in Hong Kong.
PUSHED TOO FAR (PG) 88 minutes BOMB Horrible photography and a nearly non-existent script are the highlights here. Not to worry, this is a fairly difficult film to get ahold of... and for good reason. Filmed in Greenfield, Indiana with music recorded at Pinbrook Studio in Alexandria, Indiana. Rated PG because it's pathetic garbage... oh, I mean for violence and language.
PUSHING TIN (R) 118 minutes * * Air traffic control is stressful work, but you just have to push tin and not think about what's inside. John Cusack is Nick Falzone, one of the best in the business, but Russell Bell (Billy Bob Thornton) is in town now and has made a name for himself by being a bit closer to the edge. Cusack and Cate Blanchett (as his wife) work well together, but the film is uneven and awkward in spots. There was probably a bit more to the story, but then again, that would make this a bit too long to set through. Based on the article "Something's Got to Give" by Darcy Frey. R for language and nudity.
A PYROMANIAC'S LOVE STORY (PG) 91 minutes * * Three love stories intertwine as they have various reactions to the burning of a bakery. The film has a quirky kind of charm to it, but there isn't much depth. Sadie Frost gives us the best performance in a film that is fun to watch, but not very memorable.