Orphan (Bob says 4 out of 4)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES (2 points)
Once upon a time, there was a nine-year-old child who was adopted by a family in a suburban neighborhood. The child had burned down the house he lived in with his biological parents, and now there are signs that the youngster is dangerous, maybe even a killer. What movie am I describing? If you think I'm talking about Orphan, think again. Actually this was a screenplay I had written in film school during the spring of 2004. That's why I was taken off guard when I came across a movie that fit the exact same description. In Orphan, however, the child is female, along with other differences that make the 2009 film an original story. But it does make you wonder. When I came up with the idea for my screenplay, entitled Nathan, I had no idea that killer children had been made into several films previously. The Bad Seed and The Omen are the two most popular, while The Good Son and Children of the Corn were not applauded by many. What makes The Orphan unique is the twist ending, which I must admit, took me by surprise.

2. Would I watch it again? YES (2 points)
One of these days, I want to write a final draft of my own script. But it always helps to research why similar stories went well or bombed. The Orphan works and is a film I may like to view again for some enjoyable research.

Coraline (Bob says 3 out of 4)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES (2 points)
I loved the visuals in this film. Henry Selick, director of A Nightmare Before Christmas, creates another unique and dark world using stop-motion animation to tell the story. Coraline, our protagonist with a few more flaws than the average cartoon heroine, is frustrated that her parents pay little attention to her. Her family has just moved and her only potential playmate is Wybourne Lovat, a kid she believes talks way too much. One day, Coraline discovers a small door in her house which opens up a tunnel to another world. The new world appears to be an alternate universe of where she is now. Her parents are attentive and give her whatever she wants and Wybourne smiles but doesn't speak. The only oddity is the new parents have black buttons attached to their eyes and Coraline must agree to wear buttons as well if she wants to stay. Like the new Christmas Carol movie, this film is pretty dark for young children, but will be very entertaining for older kids and adults. Selick does a great job with this movie, I liked it.

2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE (1 point)
It wouldn't be my first choice for a repeated viewing, but I could do a lot worse. It might wear out its welcome if watched too often, but once in a blue moon maybe if someone else has it on.

Drag Me to Hell (Bob says 1 out of 4)

1. Did I enjoy it? SOME OF IT (1 point)
Sam Raimi likes to do what Gremlins did well, create a movie with horror and black comedy. I thought he did this successfully in The Evil Dead, although he went too over the top with its sequels. Drag Me to Hell is a movie that works some of the time, but not enough of it. The makeup and special effects are certainly well done, as is the acting. Where I think it went wrong is the writing and direction. As are the trappings of many horror films, this one relies too heavily on music to make us jump and startle us. Mrs. Ganush also seems pretty unbelievable in this film. Ganush is the old woman in the story who curses Christine, a young loan officer who refuses to extend her another loan on her mortgage payment. We see scenes with Ganush playing with her false teeth a lot, biting Christine on the mouth, and destroying her car. What disappointed me most, however, was that I was able to predict the ending. Raimi makes it a little too obvious, although the twist I'm gathering was supposed to be a surprise. It wasn't.

2. Would I watch it again? NO (0 points)
Raimi is a talented director, but he didn't quite win me over this time out. I think he has the potential to win me over with future films, however.

The Cove (Bob says 3 out of 4)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES (2 points)
This film actually has a lot of suspense in it for a documentary. Ric O'Barry, former dolphin trainer for the TV series Flipper turned animal activist, joins filmmaker Louie Psihoyos and his crew as they travel to Taiji, Japan. While the town seems to promote dolphins, O'Barry has become aware of a remote cove off its shores where fishermen capture and brutually kill dolphins by the thousands. The killings are so numerous that the entire cove's water turns blood red when the fishermen conduct their "work". Because the Japanese officials in the town want the practice covered up, they refuse to let Psihoyos take any cameras to document what is happening. O'Barry and the crew decide to do it anyway, making a secret trek in the night to plant hidden cameras all around the cove. These scenes are as intense as any thriller. The film also packs with it a lot of emotion, as we find out some of the dolphin meat is being used for school lunches, even though it has dangerously high levels of mercury in it. You can also see how remorseful O'Barry is, who realized that the dolphins he trained for Flipper were so unhappy with their captivity that one "chose" to end his life by refusing to breathe when he had the opportunity. O'Barry then spent his life freeing dolphins held in captivity, being jailed on many occassions. This is a fascinating story that I knew nothing about before watching. What a nice surprise.

2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE (1 point)
I may not be as passionate as O'Barry about his cause, but he did make me feel that way while I was watching it. I encourage anyone to see this film, it will make you aware of an issue that threatens not only dolphins, but anyone who has one for supper.

Just Another Love Story (Bob says 3 out of 4)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES (2 points)
I really like film noir. It's dark, it's mysterious and it's full of adventure. This story is a modern film noir from Denmark that came out to limited release in the United States last January. The film follows Jonas, a man with a wife and kids living in the suburbs who is likeable but growing weary of his life's routines. One day, however, he and his family witness a tragic car accident while driving down the road. Jonas feels responsible for the woman who survives, as she swerved around his car before hitting another one. Jonas discovers her name is Julia and decides to visit her in the hospital while she's in a coma. When he arrives, his family mistakenly assumes he's Julia's boyfriend Sebastian and encourage him to spend time with her and not run out. Now, in real life, Jonas would explain he is not the boyfriend, but that would end the movie pretty quickly. Instead, Jonas spends more and more time with Julia, even as she wakes from her coma but doesn't remember who she is or what happened to her. The plot has many twists which I won't reveal here, but remember that most film noir's have consequences when a main character makes a bad choice, and most noirs do not have a happy ending.

2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE (1 point)
With the many films I watch each year, it's very difficult for me to take time out and watch a movie for a second time. This certainly would not be a bad choice for a repeated viewing, so you never know. It would be fun to rent again with a few other people who haven't seen it. The first time you watch a great movie, you're absorbed by the film. The second time, you have the fun of watching others be absorbed by it too.

The Great Buck Howard (Bob says 2 out of 4)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES (2 points)
Anytime you meet a person who is really famous or was at one point, you're in awe and will never forget the experience. I'll never forget meeting and talking to Ron Santo, a radio broadcaster and former third baseman for the Chicago Cubs. His playing days may have been long over, but it was still an incredible moment. So it is for fans of Buck Howard, played by John Malkovich. His days of drawing huge crowds to his magic shows might be finished, but those who come to his performances still love him. The film actually follows Colin Hanks' character Troy Gable, a young man who quits law school and is approached by Howard to be his road manager. Troy dreams of becoming a writer, but accepts Howard's offer to support himself. He discovers Howard is quite demanding and full of himself for a man past his glory days, but greatly admires his signature trick of guessing which audience member is secretly holding his fee for that night's performance. I suspect this is true of any celebrity one might get to know behind the scenes. They are talented but still flawed like the rest of us, perhaps even more so. Troy will eventually move on to other jobs and experiences, but he will never forget his time working with Buck Howard. Great performances by everyone involved, including cameos by Tom Hanks, Tom Arnold and various real-life talk show hosts.

2. Would I watch it again? NO (0 points)
This was a nice movie to watch, but I don't think it's one that I'll be rushing to Blockbuster to see again. Some films work well just with one experience and this is probably one of them. But I do encourage viewers to see it once, it's a small comedic drama that's a fun look at working with a former celebrity behind the scenes.

Disney's A Christmas Carol (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
If you have the opportunity, please see this film in the 3-D format. This film is perfect for it, and makes you feel like you're part of the ride as Ebenezer Scrooge gets dragged through the sky by the ghosts of Christmas in this computer animated version of the Charles Dickens' classic. A Christmas Carol has been been made into more films than any other Christmas story that I know. My personal favorite is the 1951 version starring Alastir Sim. This film might be the runner-up. Robert Zemeckis, who used the "live action" performance technique for his animated feature The Polar Express, uses the same technique here with even greater success. This is a pretty dark version for kids, but it is quite faithful to the book and keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. Jim Carrey's Scrooge is not as good as Sim's, but that's a standard I suspect no one will meet.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
I'm curious how the film will hold up in two dimensional format, but I suspect the great visuals and performances will still carry it through. With the exception of Up, this is the best animated feature this year.

Funny People (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
"What are you watching?" My dad asked inquisitively.
"Funny People," I hollered back.
"Well this doesn't seem like a very funny movie," he retorted.
Obviously Dad wasn't watching the comics during their standup bits. But this film is in fact more of a dramedy than anything else. Adam Sandler plays what might be a fictional version of his real self, a comedian whose career took off after making several hit comedic films. Unlike Sandler, however, George Simmons finds out he has cancer that may be terminal unless a very experimental treatment happens to work. George decides to hire aspiring stand up comedian Ira Wright to write him some jokes and keep him company. We learn that beneath the fame and the attention he receives from his very willing female fans, George is alone. What viewers may first take as a film about the struggle to stay alive is actually a film about a man struggling to become a better human being. Does Sandler have the same issues as Simmons does? It's hard to say, but I suspect this character is an authentic portrait of many celebrities today: Happy and on top of the world on the outside, but a mess deep down. Thank goodness for Ira then, who is the one person who can build a relationship with him and tell him not what he wants to hear, but what he needs to hear.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Adam Sandler seems to be going the same route as Jim Carrey: alternating between pure comedy and taking roles with a more dramatic spin. This film develops more of the latter, and proves to me once again that Sandler is capable of taking roles that have more than one dimension to them. I hope to see him win a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Dramatic Role someday. He can get there.

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I have a theory that if there is a story that was both made into a book and made into a film, you will like the one you encountered first. In my case, I read the book version of Cloudy many years ago as a child and loved it. The story was fantastic and the pictures ignited my imagination and actually made me very hungry. The film version, which I saw a few weeks ago, is not bad, but like many things after your childhood has ended, the magic is not the same. A part of that might be the computer animation. I would have preferred this film be hand drawn or maybe even made into a live version. This might sound like a negative review, but I actually think kids will like it just fine. Most likely they have not read the story, so they have no previous expectations going into the movie. I was mildly entertained too and although it didn't make me feel like a kid again, I applaud the filmmakers for paying homage to a great story.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
But I will be singing "It's Raining Sunshine" for quite a while. Animated films often have very catchy closing songs, at least they do this year. The question is, what food would you want it to rain?

The Informant! (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Matt Damon loves to play complicated characters. You might think a character like Mark Whitacre who goes undercover for the FBI while also participating in illegal activities himself would be an implausible piece of fiction writing. Not this time. This story is based on real events and Mark Whitacre really did take millions of dollars from the very company he was helping the FBI bust for price fixing. Steven Soderbergh, who also directed The Girlfriend Experience earlier this year, does a great job in holding back what the Whitacre character is really up to in early scenes. When Whitacre tells his first lie, I was upset with him, but thought he was simply under stress rather than having a trick up his sleeve. It turns out he played me too.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
This movie did not do well at the box office as because it was marketed wrong. Yes, there are amusing portions of this film, as Whitacre's lies get so complex it's ridiculous. But this is not the kind of comedy that has you busting a gut every five minutes. Ignore the trailers that suggest it is. If viewers go into it looking for a quirky drama, I think they'll be much more pleased with the film. I might watch this once more to see if I can tell what Whitacre is up to earlier in the movie, but beyond that, I don't think I would watch it more than that. Just don't give up on it altogether, as many viewers did.

This Is It (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Growing up, I would not call myself a Michael Jackson fan. I knew little about his music and more about such items as how he'd grab his crotch as part of a dance move, his addiction to plastic surgery that I often joked turned him from a black man into a white woman, and of course, the accusations that Michael had been involved with several young boys he had taken to his Neverland Ranch. As the years went by, I picked up several of his songs from the Thriller album, but kept my admiration for MJ's talent very casual. When it was announced last June that he had died, I was surprised as many of his fans were, not aware of any poor health stories about him in recent years. I decided to listen to his hit singles over the decades of his career and found myself gaining a new respect for his artistry. This film takes his artistry and his incredible showmanship to the next level. While some films, such as Shine The Light, are better suited for hardcore fans who know their rock stars' songs by heart, This Is It is highly accessible for even casual admirers like myself. What's fascinating is the tremendous creativity and preparation that went into what was to be MJ's final tour. In such songs as Smooth Criminal, Jackson's interactions with Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca are seamless special effects. The dance moves throughout the film are incredible, and you can feel the excitement the dancers and singers had about the experience working with Michael.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This film is a visual and audio extravaganza, with dynamite songs and performances by everyone involved. This is not a film about Michael Jackson's troubled personal life, but about the creativity that went into the greatest concert he never performed.

Munyurangabo (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Given only limited release this past May, this film is the first feature in the Kinyarwanda language. It's about two boys: the title character, orphaned because of the Rwandan genocide, and Sangwa, who left home three years ago to make it on his own. The boys travel to the countryside looking for vengeance. On their way, the boys decide to visit Sangwa's family. Sanga's mother is overjoyed to see them, but his father is ashamed and disappointed in his son. Most of the film takes place here, as the boys try to decide if they want to build a new life with this family or continue with their quest for blood. I found this film interesting and dramatic, although I recommend the film Hotel Rwanda even more than I do this film. Still, this was a rare chance to see a film in a language I have never heard before, and those firsts are always a good thing.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
This was a good film, but probably not a top ten film for me given all the excellent choices out there this year. Still, give this film a rental if you get an opportunity.

Paranormal Activity (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
This movie will actually scare you. Most horror movies provide one or two jumps for its audience if they're halfway decent, but rarely do I see a film like this where I'm disturbed, engaged with the movie's suspense, and genuinely uneasy even a few hours after the movie's over. It's that good. Roger Ebert correctly points out that horror films need not rely on quick cuts to create their desired effect. This movie relies on long shots and no music, definitely separating it from the pack. Stylewise, it's in the same vein as the Blair Witch Project, with the main character documenting the enfolding events using his own camera. But this movie is creepier than Blair Witch in my opinion. The movie follows a couple that records their investigation of a possible paranormal presence in their house. Katie, a student hoping to go into teaching, claims that this presence has been haunting her since she was a child, moving from house to house as she does. Micah, her boyfriend, seems more excited by the chance to capture the events on film than to truly be concerned about his girlfriend or the seriousness of the danger. I felt his character was a little one dimensional in that way, playing the part that many horror films have of a naive idiot who does exactly the opposite of what he should do. But that is forgiveable because the primary objective of a horror movie is to scare its audience, and boy does it succeed.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This film debued at the Screamfest Film Festival in 2007, and it apparently had a different ending than the one I saw in the theater for its nationwide release. I look forward to watching it on DVD with its two other endings promised by its director to be included. Horror films seem to be the creepiest when they take place in our own backyard. Better yet, in our house. In our bedroom while we sleep.

Monsters vs. Aliens (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
Unfortunately, I am not the proper audience for this film. Kids will love the movie and its unique looking cast of characters. Monsters vs. Aliens is not a bad film, the dialogue is amusing at times and the plot is about average. Unfortunately, there isn't much attempt to give this movie any heart or love for the characters, which Up did so well. I didn't find myself caring that much about what happened in the story or the characters within it.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This movie was meant to be watched in a 3-D movie theater, whereas I watched it on my TV at home. If I saw it in that capacity, perhaps the striking visuals would make the movie more exciting for me. I will say that I learned the Purple People Eater song through this film, which I will proudly play each Halloween.

Zombieland (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Here's a film that works from start to finish. There have been a lot of zombie films made over the years, but it's nice to see one that isn't afraid to be tongue-in-cheek with its approach. Don't get me wrong, the zombies are still creepy looking and disgustingly eat the flesh of hapless victims, but the film's focus is on the amusing relationships between Columbus, Tallahassee, Wichita and Little Rock. Tallahassee more than anything wants to enjoy the simple pleasure of eating a Twinkie, and I suspect the viewer will want to go out and grab a few after the show is over. What really won me over though was the cameo by Bill Murray playing a version of himself, which includes a scene paying homage to the Ghostbusters movies that made me smile.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Great jobs by the two male leads in this film. Woody Harrelson has been picking some great films to take part in lately, scoring last year with Transsiberian and Seven Pounds. Jesse Eisenberg also has had a good year, doing a fine job in the underrated Adventureland from earlier this year. Let's hope both of these guys keep up the great work in 2010.

Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs (Jason cravenly says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy the movie? YES
I was taken back to a childhood joy.
There was something about this movie that reduced me to a child. Not in temperament, intelligence, or even physicality, but in wonderment. I was again watching Sesame Street and the Muppet Show. I was in joy. The same feelings of anything was possible because these puppets seemed more real that most of the people I met flowed from out of my heart.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
Of course.

The Hurt Locker (Jason explosively says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Not a morality play but a mortality play.
The movie is about people's reactions to two very simple questions. 1. Am I aware of my mortality? 2. Can I deal with that realization when I do realize my morality. Our three protagonists exemplify the varied ways people deal with the two questions. First is Eldridge. He is aware he could die any moment, as he directly tells his psychologist, but incapable of dealing with it. Plagued by doubt and fear he enters a deepening depression. Next is Sanborn. He's an interesting one. While aware of other's mortality he has not realized yet how close to death he is. Then when he does come close to death at the end of the movie, he is able to deal with this realization. Faced with finality of existence, he chooses family. Lastly is that cocky son of a bitch William James. William knows he could die at any moment and he has made peace with that.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
True catharsis only work if one engages them.
While I was dating my wife I had the hardest time dealing with how much time we spent together. I had to spend time away from Suzanne so I could remember why I love her. Movies were my respite. I'd watch some emotionally taunt movie and emerge into the daylight missing my wife. "Baby, baby...," I'd cry. The movie would act as a catharsis purging me. Truthfully these movies, like the English Patient, Summer of Sam, and the Hurt Locker, would literally wring me dry like some old time washing machine.
The Hurt Locker works for me on this cathartic level because of Sanborn. When he said he didn't want to be out there anymore. When he said I want a family. When he said I want a son. I resonated with that. I wanted to be with my family. I wanted to be with my son.

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
For awhile, the Harry Potter films became very episodic, introducing a few new characters that would be involved in a dilemma solved at the end by Harry and his two loyal friends. This one begins the same way but takes a new direction into some of the darkest adventures yet. We find out some huge revelations about characters we've followed from the beginning, and one of them meets his maker. Pretty intense stuff for kids, yet the film does have a PG rating. The special effects and overall look of these films are first rate, and the latest entry is no exception.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
As with the majority of these films, the movie does suffer from overlength. There are very few films that need to exceed the two hour time slot, but I suppose with six films already in the series, pushing portions of these films into the next one would probably mean twelve movies. Maybe in ten or twenty years, I'll revisit these films, but not in the near future. Did I mention I fell asleep during Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone? Gimme a break, it was long too.

The Girlfriend Experience (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Steven Soderbergh often enjoys making low budget, independent films along with his larger commercial releases. This is another one of his experiments, which I think works very well. Sasha Grey, who in real life is an established porn star, proves she can hold her own in mainstream films. She plays Christine, an expensive call girl who will take the part of her client's dream girlfriend, going out to dinner, listening to his small talk and problems and at the end of the evening, providing sex, if he wants. Christine is interviewed by a journalist, who's fascinated by her and also how she can juggle her line of work and maintain a real relationship with her boyfriend. Sasha is a knockout and it is no wonder she is a success in porn films. As this film makes clear though, I would never want to be in her boyfriend's shoes. When your girlfriend pretends to be someone else's girlfriend for a living, the experience can easily tempt her into seeking out a real relationship with her client, not to mention the fact that she sleeps with numerous men. This is a rare look into a profession that brings both excitement and heartache, false relationships and wrecked ones.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This film is rather short for a feature, but captivated my attention from start to finish. A character study with both realism and insight.

Away We Go (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
John Krasinski from The Office teams up with SNL alum Maya Rudolph as Burt and Verona in this independent dramedy. The couple is thinking of relocating after Burt's parents announce they are moving overseas. With a baby on the way, the couple travels across the country visiting friends, family and old co-workers trying to figure out what setting and group of people they'd like to live the closest to. The answer could be none of the above. I enjoyed this film and its independent feel. Plenty of strange characters along the way, some really funny parts and a very sad moment near the end when Burt realizes his niece is going to grow up without a mother.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
Unless asked by someone else who hadn't seen it yet, this is probably just a one-time rental for me. Krasinski is a great actor and I look forward to his future projects.

Tulpan (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I can't say I've ever watched a movie about a shepherd from Kazakhstan before. You'd think such a story wouldn't be very interesting. It is. Asa, a discharged sailor from the Russian navy, desperately wants to fulfill his dream of shepherding his own land, but his boss will not allow him to be a herdsman unless he has a wife and realistic dreams. Unfortunately, his only prospect in the desert climate is Tulpan, but she does not show interest. Asa lives with his sister's family, but is frustrated because the sheep on his brother-in-law's land are dying. Will Asa become a shepherd, or will he give up his dream and settle for a job with his friend in the city? I love films that transport me to different worlds and cultures and still draw me with its story and characters. This is one of those films.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
I might not be as captivated with multiple viewings for this one, but then again, the enchanting spell of the film might carry it through. A film not easy to forget.

District 9 (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Never have I seen a movie with aliens made quite like this before. Having a news-documentary feel for a good portion of the picture, the film documents aliens, who came to South Africa in 1982, being relocated from a government camp to another settlement. Wikus van der Merwe leads the relocation effort, but is one day sprayed in the face by a strange container found in one of the alien homes. He begins mutating into an alien himself and is suddenly running from his own government. One cannot help but think about minorities in the United States that have been sent to internment camps (Japanese in World War II) or relocated (Native Americans). This film will either be loved or hated by viewers, and I loved it.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
The best science fiction films, while entertaining, also have some captivating themes or messages behind them. This picture certianly does too, while retaining some good acting, great makeup and special effects and a compelling story.

Silent Light (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
Believe it or not, I liked almost the entire film, and this came very close to receiving 2/2. What turned me off was the final dramatic revelation in the film, which has a meaning that is open to interpretation. The film is about a Mennonite community in the northern part of Mexico. Johan, a husband and father of two kids, is deeply troubled. He has fallen in love with another woman, but still cares very much about his family. He agonizes with friends, his father and ultimately to God over what to do about his situation, whether to choose Esther, his wife, or Marianne, his lover. Johan has told Esther about the affair from the beginning, and she is crushed and paralyzed to do anything about it. The final third of the film I won't reveal, you must watch it yourself and decide whether you're okay with the climax. I was not, particularly because there is no explanation given and I wanted to see Johan's reaction to the event.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
I would watch it again if someone wanted to watch the film with me and discuss it. The acting is first rate and there's great cinematography. I really wanted to praise this film from start to finish, but I just can't. Sometimes films are ruined by trying too hard to tie up loose ends, but this one warranted at least a few items to come together.

Transformers 2: Revenge Of The Fallen (Jason vehemently says 0 out 2)

1. Did I enjoy this movie? NO!!!
So your telling me no Autobot or Decepticon ever thought "Hey, why don't we use this star-eater on any of the other billion stars in the f@#$ing universe." WHAT!?!
2. Would I watch it again? NO!

Land Of The Lost (Jason kindly says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES!
A bad movie that constantly caught me off guard with its imagination, creativity, and humor.

To be honest, this movie did horrible critically and financially. Many called it a failure and I can see why after having watched it. But to me the only failure was the filmmakers failing to decide what kind of movie they wanted to make. Was this movie suppose to be a farce for Gen Xers of a television show that failed to realize how ridiculous it was. Or was this suppose to be a solid action adventure for the preteen crowd. A shame because that catapult the carnotaur was amazing pacing and execution. Wait...was that a pun?

2. Would I watch it again? YES!
I love dinosaurs. I love kids who ask if dinosaurs have boobies. This movie is win-win for me.

Aliens In The Attic (Jason reminisingly says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? Yes! For some reason when I went to see this movie with Suzanne, I said to her something peculiar. "I have a feeling this is another Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead, and if it is we're in for a good time." It was, and we did.

There were a few things in Aliens In The Attic that caught my attention. First was how the twins hand cramped up from working the controller during the grandmother-boyfriend battle. My friends would always laugh when we played Marvel vs. Capcom because my hands would cramp up to the point I would drop the controller and get my but kicked. Next, I felt bad for the grandma. You know the parents were thinking she was going senile with all the confusion and blacking out. Lastly, this is the second movie I've seen this year that borrows from Dude, Where's My Car. The Hangover uses the "so high don't remember last night and now must retrace steps" while Aliens In The Attic borrows the "aliens become giant aliens".

2. Would I watch it again? NO!
I was perfectly content with the movie until I saw Kevein Nealon, Tim Meadows, and Andy Richter together. If only those three were the ones who had to stop the aliens. Now that would be hilarious.

The Hurt Locker (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
It seems that I've been watching a lot of heavy movies lately. Perhaps it's making up for the lighter fair and escapist action movies that were coming out earlier this year. When I say I enjoyed this film, it does not mean I had a smile on my face and felt wonderful butterflies after it was finished. The Hurt Locker is a tough film, but very well made as it depicts several characters' experiences serving together as an American bomb squad unit in Iraq. While it's a little too slow-paced for my taste, there are nevertheless some great moments of tension in the movie that had me metaphorically biting my nails waiting to see what would happen next. Jeremy Renner does a fine job as Sgt. William James, a man who is willing to take a few more risks on his missions than his comrades are comfortable with. But his job in Iraq is what he's devoted his life to, and he's great at it. Plenty of familiar faces in this war thriller, including Guy Pearce, Ralph Fiennes and David Morse.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
Not a film I would watch repeatedly, but a good film nonetheless. This movie did not get much publicity, but watch for possible Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for Renner's work in this film. Definitely worth a look if you haven't seen this one.

Crossing Over (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy the film? YES
This film was actually made in 2007, but didn't get a limited release in theaters until earlier this year. Harrison Ford leads an all-star cast about various stories dealing with immigrants in the United States. Some are legal, some are illegal. Ford plays Max Brogan, an immigration officer who, along with the rest of his team, breaks into a warehouse with plenty of illegals. Brogan feels compassion, however, for a Mexican woman who will now be separated from her young son after being deported. Brogan finds her son and tries desperately to locate her. That's just one plotline. There's another story about an illegal Australian immigrant who will do anything for a green card approval supervisor to let her stay in the country. Another story involves a student who reads a paper in her class stating that she understands how the 9/11 hijackers must have felt. The school wrongly assumes she agrees with the hijackers' actions, and soon her own family is in danger of being deported. There are more stories than just these three. All of them are compelling and well acted. The problem is the film tries to tell too many for one film. Crash and Magnolia both did a good job weaving multiple characters' stories into one movie, but this one spreads it just a little too thin. Nevertheless, the movie is not boring and done as best as it can given its flaw.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
If this film was split in two, with half the stories told in part one, the other half in part two, this would be a 2 point review. But it's still a good film, and great to watch along with Sin Nombre.

Sin Nombre (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
The next two films I write about both deal with immigrants, this one about the dangerous journey to cross the border (illegally) and the second about the hardships immigrants face once they get inside the United States. Both films are worth your time, but this one is the best. Sin Nombre deals with two stories, one about Willy aka El Casper, a teenager running away from his gang after avenging the death of his girlfriend. Only problem is the person he killed was the gang leader, so he decides to stow away on a train that his leader originally intended to rob. The other story is about a family determined to cross the border with hundreds of other illegal immigrants on the top of a train. This is the same train Willy and his gang attempt to hijack. This is an excellent film, though not a feel good movie. It was especially difficult to watch the violence the two leading girls in the film experience, although I think a main point of the film besides the immigration aspect is the great danger of the gang culture. And this is a nasty gang. To enter, you have to kill a member of the rival gang. Casper's young friend, El Smiley, has to do just such a thing. Gangs seem to take the place of a family for those who don't have one or do not like their own. Smiley is uneasy about killing at first, but the young kid gets used to it quickly because he wants to belong.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Someone in this film does make it to the United States. It is heartbreaking when we discover the main characters who don't. I've never put too much thought into the immigration issue, although even after seeing this film, I still think immigrants need to enter this country through legal means. But that does not take away from the great sacrifices so many people experience trying to get to the land of opportunity.

Sita Sings The Blues (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
What an original film this is! Put together mostly by one woman on her computer, the film tells two parallel stories. The first is a retelling of the Indian epic tale The Ramayana, about a Hindu goddess who accompanies her husband Lord Rama on fourteen year exile in the forest. Rama treats her very poorly, more concerned about his image than his own wife. When the exile is finished, Rama takes his place at the throne but kicks her out for reasons we learn are again more about appearances than anything his devoted wife has really done. Throughout this story, Sita sings some great jazz numbers, which are actually from 1920's artist Annette Hanshaw. The songs fit so well to the plot, which I have always said is how songs should be used in musicals and film in general. The second story is a modern day story of a woman living in California with her boyfriend. The boyfriend gets a six month position working in India, and when he is offered to stay longer, his girlfriend moves there with him. However, he has grown tired of this relationship, and when she gets a brief job in New York, he tells her not to come back. Depressed, she finds a book called the Ramayana, and begins writing the tale we have just seen about Sita. What I found so cool is the modern tale is the actual story of what happened to the writer and director of this movie. Who knew that a breakup could produce such great rewards as this movie? Sita Sings The Blues is very colorful and imaginitive in its animation, as simple as the movements for many of the characters appear. This is turning out to be a great year for animated films, Sita being right up there with great films such as Up.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This movie unfortunately did not make it to mainstream theaters due to legal issues involving the music, but it found an audience online and was given a lot of attention at Ebertfest this past April. Along with Julia, Sita Sings the Blues is a film that passed under the radar of most viewers but is well worth your time.

Goodbye Solo (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I've only seen one bad "Taxi movie", appropriately titled Taxi starring Queen Latifah. Other than that, my luck has been pretty good. In Goodbye Solo, a taxi driver named Solo, with ambitions to be a pilot someday, picks up William, an older man who offers to pay him if he will take him to Blowing Rock. Since Blowing Rock has a peak with updrafts that cause objects dropped from it to fly upwards, Solo is genuinely concerned that William only wants one way transportation to the location and seems quite depressed. Throughout the film, Solo does his best to develop a relationship with this man and help him see the joys of life. But William seems determined to go to this peak, regardless of his fondness for Solo and his daughter. I really admire characters like Solo who try to reach out to someone, not by lecturing them on the bad choice he's about to make, but by simply befriending the man and showing him the joys of relationships that life has to offer.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
I have to admit I wanted a traditional Hollywood ending to this film, but it seems the writer and director are telling us that the central part of this movie is the unlikely bond these two men develop, not the outcome of the very compelling plot. And because that aspect is done so well, I commend it and encourage viewers who did not see this film in theaters to rent it at the first opportunity.

Julia (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Here's a movie you may not have heard of. It's called Julia, and only got a limited release in theaters this past May. Tilda Swinton stars as a middle aged alcoholic still enjoying the late night party life. Despite being fired from her job, Julia only goes to few AA meetings at the insistence of her friend Mitch. Then one day she runs into a Mexican woman at a meeting who asks for a very unorthodox favor. If Julia will help kidnap her son from the boy's grandfather, Julia will get a large cash reward. Julia eventually agrees, but she's got a plan of her own. Swinton has never played a role like this and does a great job playing all the various emotions her character goes through during the film. There's also plenty of suspense, drama and some black comedy thrown in for good measure.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
What a shame this movie never got a wider release. It would have been well deserved. If you're a fan of Swinton or just want to see a unique movie that never has a dull moment, put this one on your Netflix or rent it at your local video store.

Tyson (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy this film? YES
"If he wasn't here, I probably wouldn't be alive today. The fact that he's doing so well gives me the motivation to stay alive." That's a line right out of Rocky V that Rocky Balboa's manager, Mickey Goldmill, says to him in a flashback sequence. What I didn't know was that most of that speech was not written by Sylvester Stallone at all, but from an interview by Cus D'Amato, Mike Tyson's trainer, mentor and father figure. Tyson gives a lot of credit to D'Amato for his success, taking a young kid going down the wrong path and teaching him to respect himself and learn the art of boxing. When I was a kid, I had a favorite player for every sport: Andre Dawson for baseball, William "The Refrigerator" Perry for football, Michael Jordan for basketball and Mike Tyson for boxing. The man showed an intensity and a fearless attitude that made me admire him greatly. After D'Amato's death, however, it seems that Tyson was never the same. Although he did gain the heavyweight championship of the world, Tyson freely admits he became sexually promiscuous (hurting both of his marriages) and very fearful of everyone around him. Then came the rape charges, which he spent several years in prison for. The life and career of Mike Tyson is nothing short of one of the greatest tragedies in the modern sports world. By 2005, Tyson's final fight, it's clear that his fire and love for boxing is gone. What's so compelling is how honest Tyson is about his mistakes and how emotional he becomes when talking about D'Amato. What will become of Tyson's future? Even the man himself isn't sure what direction he's headed. Maybe watching a few Rocky movies is just the therapy he needs.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This film is compelling from start to finish. I actually felt sorry for Tyson watching this movie and hope there will be a Tyson II in another ten years that shows how he turned his life around for the better.

Bruno (Bob says 0 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy this film? NO
There is a scene which I found amusing in this film. Bruno is trying to get two Middle Eastern leaders to make peace. He takes both of their hands and begins singing a song. Now that is funny. A few parts I let out some laughs due to embarrassment rather than really enjoying what I saw. However, 95% of the film I found so offensive, so inappropriate, that for me it has to go down as one of the worst films I have ever seen. There is one movie, Silent Night Deadly Night, which I despised more. Barely. That was because there is a scene with a man dressed in a Santa Claus suit who pulls a car over, kills the driver, then takes the driver's wife, strips her, rapes her and stabs her brutally in front of the woman's children. Absolute crap. This film has a scene just as bothersome to me. Bruno has decided to become a heterosexual and decides to go see a minister who specializes in counseling men who struggle with same sex attractions. At one point, the minister gives a straight forward invitation for Bruno to accept Jesus as his personal Savior. Bruno responds by saying the minister's lips would be great for giving a man oral sex. What a slap in the face to myself, Christians around the world, and ultimately to God. As I was sitting in the theatre, I was reminded of Ephesians 5:3-4, which says, "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. ⁴Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." Writer and actor Sacha Baron Cohen creates material intended to generate laughs through offensiveness with his body of work. With this film, all does is offend.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
It was even a mistake not to walk out the first time when I knew the line had been crossed. This film is the leading candidate for the worst film of 2009.

Public Enemies (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
A lot of people I spoke with said this film was too slow for them to enjoy. If they think this movie's slow, they would think the film Last Year at Marienbad never started its engine. I didn't feel the same way about Enemies, however. There are slower moments, yes, but I was never bored and was fully engaged in this great period piece starring Johnny Depp as the infamous gangster John Dillinger. I suspect people who didn't like this film were expecting a tense action film. But that's not what director Michael Mann had in mind here. Instead, he gives a snapshot about the life of Dillinger, his girlfriend, his partners in crime and the men who tried to bring them down. A great finale includes Dillinger watching a Clark Gable film which forshadows exactly what will happen to him. John knows he will be killed and refuses to spend the rest of his life locked up in a cell.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Johnny Depp has never compromised with his work, always taking interesting outsider roles instead of conventional ones that might make more box office profit. I applaud Depp for sticking to his guns and I applaud this movie. A good trip to the theater and a good rental as well.

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (Bob says 0 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
BORING BORING BORING. Way too many sequels and remakes are made these days. You wonder if writers are running out of original ideas. Even more likely, studios simply care more about making a profit at the box office than coming up with good films. Audiences don't seem to care either, as evidenced by Transformers and this film doing quite well at the box office. In my opinion, moms and dads need to spend more time interacting and playing with their kids than shutting them up with clunkers for preschoolers like this. And people wonder why the SAT scores continue to decline...

2. Would I watch it again? NO
I actually fell asleep for about 10 minutes of the film while sitting in the theater. If I'm having a restless night and can't get any shut eye, I know now what will do the trick.

The Taking of Pelham 123 (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Denzel Washington and John Travolta give adequate performances in this thriller about a terrorist who hijacks a train and will only talk to Washington's character. This film felt a lot like 24 lite, having the quick pacing of the hit TV show without as much excitement. Still, the leads do well enough to carry us through for one viewing, and the audience could do much worse.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
Ultimately, the film is pretty forgettable and is just another day at the office for its stars. For fans of this genre, I would recommend they follow the 24 TV show if they don't already.

The Proposal (Bob says 0 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
So someone came up with this oh so original story idea of a guy and a girl who can't stand each other as the story begins, but by the end of the movie fall in love. Oh and they have to pretend they're married so she can stay in the country by marrying an American citizen. The problem with so many chick flicks is they are unbelievably predictable, which is what a chick flick audience wants apparently. Now, a lack of originality can be forgiven if there are enough believable dramatic touches or perhaps great comedic ones. For the most part, this film doesn't have either. Oscar Nunez, known for his role in the TV series The Office, plays a very different role here, but I don't think it worked. The one person who had a number of funny moments that did pay off was Betty White. I would have liked to have seen a film based on her character, the crazy but lovable grandmother celebrating her 90th birthday. But, the focus is on the two leads, and aside from a chance to see a scene with Sandra Bullock in nothing but a bath towel, you're not missing much.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
Guys, only go to this if you're with a date who loves these kind of films. Girls, if your man is the one paying for it, knock yourself out.

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
The Ice Age films continue with this third installment in the series, and this one is actually pretty decent. Ray Romano, Queen Latifah and company are all back and do very well in their prehistoric roles. What I like best about these films, however, is the character of Scrat and his beloved acorn. While having smaller parts in the first two films, this time his character is expanded and interwoven more often with the other characters. He now also has a love interest/adversary, who also wants the acorn. I saw this film in 3-D, which added to the fun of this movie too.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
This is a pretty clear 1 out of 2 points for me. An entertaining film, but nothing beyond that to warrant multiple viewings. Viewers who'd pick animated films as one of their favorite genres, however, might disagree. This is a cute movie for sure and worth your ticket of admission. That we can all agree on.

The Hangover (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
This film has some pretty funny parts. I especially thought the lines given to Zach Galifianikis were great. I've grown to love Ed Helms from The Office, and it was great to see him here. I think though, that I heard so many great things about this movie that I was a little underwhelmed when I actually saw it. I had the same problem with Napoleon Dynamite and Pineapple Express. Funny, yes. But not as much as I expected. The origin of the tiger in this movie could have had a better story, although the method these guys use to get him out of their hotel is quite hilarious. This comedy is not without its faults, but it passes the funny test in my book.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
Usually comedies have to be pee in your pants funny for me to watch it over and over, I don't think I'd go that far with this one. But, people should check it out while it's still in theaters. They'll get a solid laugh or two.

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (Bob says 0 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed the first Transformers movie, not having watched the previous incarnations growing up. I did have a transformer action figure or two, which were pretty cool. There were portions of this film that I liked. Optimus Prime returns, and he's an awesome character and leader. I would have liked to have seen him more than he appeared this time out. The special effects are also first rate, but the amount of explosions and action sequences are overkilled here. One of the main problems is the movie is too long. It could easily have been condensed into a 90 minute feature that would have been fine. They also needed to cut out a lot of annoying characters, especially Sam's mother and Leo, his college roommate. Leo has no purpose in this movie except to scream like a girl and make Sam look better than him. The mom character is terrible, Sam would be better off if he was only raised by his dad. The story is pretty cliche too, I'd stick to the first film and forget about this one. Not all good movies should be given a sequel. Most are better off on their own.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
I was pretty bored watching this movie, glancing at my watch often. There's a lot happening on screen, but very little substance. And yet, it's doing well at the box office. I guess this is catered to people who like effects movie that make you go "ooo" and "ahh." I prefer going to the Fourth of July fireworks for that sort of thing.

Friday The 13th (Bob says 0 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
In preparation for the Freddy vs. Jason film that came out in 2003, I made a decision to watch every Friday The 13th and Nightmare On Elm Street movie made up to that point. Once you've made that kind of commitment, it's hard to stop when new sequels, or in this case remakes, come out. Having not seen a Friday movie since I saw the last film in the theater, I was looking forward to sitting down and watching it. "Maybe they'll actually try to make this remake scary," I thought to myself. No such luck. It's the same old schtick as the others, with oversexed teens hanging out at Crystal Lake and one by one being slaughtered by Jason in gruesome ways. For hardcore Jason fans, they might like this B-movie. The bad dialogue, acting, blood-and-guts mutilation and soft porn sex is what they expect, and it delivers all of those in abundance. But I was hoping this time around the filmmakers were going to be serious about scaring me. Apparently not.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
There's nothing unique about this movie; it's a remake that is just more of the same. Give me a story where I actually care about the heroins before you wipe them out. The original Nightmare On Elm Street did that well.

Angels & Demons (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I have a good friend who was upset about Christians getting all bent out of shape about the unorthodox themes in The Da Vinci Code. After all, it's based on a book that's fiction, what's the big deal? Fair enough. Provided that no filmmakers create fictional movies other than to entertain the audience. And provided that no messages in fiction films ever influence an audience member's way of thinking. If you ask me, "what's the big deal?" is either pretty naive or simply just a form of denial. While some might argue a film critic should not rate a film based on its messages, I disagree. One should not give a thumbs up to a film that he believes is not beneficial to the audience, be it story, acting, effects, or message. Angels & Demons will probably only bother devout Catholics, however, so this sequel did not fall into my same soap box as the previous Dan Brown effort. There are some great scenes of suspense in this film, like when Tom Hanks is locked in the Vatican vault without any oxygen. It also brings up interesting questions: does the Catholic Church hold onto traditions and views even when the truth lies elsewhere? The villain in this film, who is not revealed until the film's end, is a character who has good motives but carries them out in a very violent and evil way. I was surprised that I liked this film, although I will continue to have a proceed with caution mindset when watching another Da Vinci film.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
Probably would only watch it again if it was years down the road and someone wanted to watch and discuss the ideas in the film. On my own movie spreadsheet, I gave the movie 2 1/2 stars, meaning it wasn't bad the first time, but doesn't warrant multiple viewings.

Star Trek (Jason says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Now we can see how awesome the show would of been had Shatner not hogged all the lines.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Not only would I watch Star Trek again, but I want to join Star Fleet. Like yesterday!

UP (Jason says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy the movie? YES
Standing in the lobby, holding Felix tight, tears streaming down my cheek, I silently thank Pixar for telling tales of emotional truth.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Yes, yes, and yes...though not in 3D.

Dance Flick (Jason says 1 out of 2, finally)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Not a critical favorite, nor even a non-critical favorite, the actors earnestness won me over.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
I would absolutely watch the final dance off over and over again. Unfortunately that is the only part I could watch over and over. The filmmakers make a good step in wrapping the satire around a central movie, like Young Frankenstein follows Frankenstein, but they still resorted to the montage comedy shorthand, like Epic Movie or Date Movie, too much for my tastes.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
After hearing about mixed reviews coming out for this film, I wasn't expecting to be wowed much. I had my own reservations: I preferred they do an X-Men 4, not a prequel. I had the same feelings about Star Trek actually. But, having said that, this backstory on Wolverine was done really well and deserves better than it's getting from some people. It was fascinating to see how Logan grew up, being much older than you'd think. A great part of the story is his complicated relationship with his brother. One moment he's about to tear him to shreds, the next he's saving his life (on a much smaller scale, don't we feel this way about our own siblings?) Wolverine gets a girlfriend who is both gorgeous and compassionate, and we identify with Logan when he discovers her "fate" and then her fate (you will know what I mean by this when you see the film.) Great to see Patrick Stewart briefly, oh how I wish they'd do another Star Trek with the Next Generation crew.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This is a fine addition to the other X-Men films, I'd watch this one before the others so you can have the fun of seeing them chronologically. Although I never followed the comics or cartoon versions of X-Men with any consistency, I've really liked the X-Men movies.

Land of the Lost (Bob says 0 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
Granted, I watched this film 15 minutes after the terrific animated film Up, so perhaps the contrast made me dislike this film more than I would normally. Or maybe it just highlights what Up did right and Land of the Lost did wrong. I laughed several times during this film, not because I found the jokes funny (they were not), but because I was amazed at how terrible the movie I was watching really was. Land of the Lost has had two runs as a television show, once in the seventies and once in the early nineties. Both were weird, but not comedies. They focused on the characters and the bonding of a family trapped in a world much different than their own. I had been moved by the show's portrayal of Tom Porter facing the new task of being a single parent and investing in his kids. There was no reason to spoof that show, let alone spoof it so badly. Will Ferrell has fallen far from his SNL days and the hilarious Anchorman. I think he seriously needs to follow the path of Jim Carrey and Adam Sandler by mixing his comedy roles with some drama to show he has some acting chops on him.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
If you offered me a large some of cash, I would consider it if I could nap while it was playing. I'm still waiting for the real version of Land of the Lost, not this urination (literally in one scene) on the memories of a good TV show. I hated this film.

Up (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
A strong candidate to win the Oscar for best animated film. On one level, it's consistently entertaining with great characters. It's got some great humor too, I could tell Pixar was not going through the motions with this one. Russell's opening speech at Carl Fredrickson's is hilarious, as he has to repeat his lines over and over each time Carl opens and closes the door. Pete Docter and Bob Peterson are spot on with my ideas of how dogs think. "A squirrel!" or "A ball! Oh, yes, I want that" stops a dog right in his tracks the way guys sometimes are when a hot chick walks by. On another level, it teaches us some important lessons about love and friendship. Carl is determined to get his house to Paradise Falls if it kills him. The reason is because he made a promise to his late wife Ellie he would do so. But then he builds a relationship with Russell and feels compassion for him as he learns the boy's father is largely absent from his life. Carl realizes his adventures with Ellie, while wonderful, have passed and takes her advice to begin a new adventure, which Carl decides should be as a guardian figure for Russell. Terrific stuff and very impressive to include these themes in a "kids" movie.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
With Wall-E last year and Up this year, Pixar is churning out some timeless tales that combine humor, drama and messages that everyone can appreciate. Edward Asner's voice is perfect for Carl, as it is for many animated characters. A great film.

Earth (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Most of the time when you see animals in movies, they're around for laughs, such as recent animated features like Madagascar 2 and Kung Fu Panda. Archie the bear comes to mind in the live action Dr. Dolittle 2 as well. Those movies have their place, some of them being quite good. But here we have a movie featuring animals just being animals, as God intended them to be. Following several different animal families, we notice how these creatures instinctively travel to find food and water. They are very protective of their young, warding off any predators that might be looking for a meal. There was some great suspense in the episode featuring the lions' attempts to devour the baby elephants. What happens when the lions rethink their strategy and attack is shockingly awesome, as these beasts were not following a script, they were simply being crafty carnivores. I'm trying to think if I've ever seen another live action film with absolutely no people in any scene. This could be a first.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
My no is not intended as a put down for this film. I recommend people give this movie a look. But, I watch quite a few flicks each year and I only say I'd watch a film again if I couldn't bear the thought of seeing it only once. This movie was very nice, but didn't necessarily have me begging for a second viewing. However, I think Disney is doing the right thing by making films like this and should keep it up.

I Love You, Man (Jason says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Sure I brought my one year old to this movie. And yes I missed parts of the movie taking Felix to the lobby. But I still laughed every time I came back. I think that says something.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I would enjoy seeing the parts I missed.

Fast and Furious (Jason says 0 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
Why do people ruin a perfectly good car chase movie with dialogue or characterization. Loud music. Louder cars. Loudest crashes. What more do you need?
2. Would I watch it again? NO
Absolutely not. Not even the director cut with the deleted scenes because I'd still have to sit through all the cliched tough-guy bullshit. Why were all of Braga's men at a cock fight instead of guarding him. Since when did you have to bribe a priest to pray in a church? And good gravy why was Toe-sucker in only one scene?

Adventureland (Jason says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Misadvertised as a comedy, Adventureland is a love song to a period in one's life when you feel more lost than found. A coming of age told with a compassion and honesty I admire.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
Absolutely. I'm a sucker for these coming of age stories. Maybe it has to do with how out of place I felt growing up.

Terminator Salvation (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
It's been a trend lately to create new sequels for movie series that have laid dormant for some time (Star Trek, Indiana Jones, Rambo, Rocky). And now we have another Terminator movie, minus Arnold Schwarzenegger and Linda Hamilton (for the most part). What's left is a standard action movie with some special effects that raise it slightly above average. The unexpected cameo near the end was nice, but I did want more. Still, the second chance redemption angle in the script is a good one, and you'll want to see this film if you're interested in seeing anything Terminator related.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
I was entertained watching the film, but it's not as good as the first two films in the series. Christian Bale is a great lead in many films, but it's not the same without Arnold now that he's running California.

Jason's humble opinion of the best ten year period of film, PAGE 2!!!

State of Play (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Who doesn't like a good whodunit mystery? A film like this has the power to draw you in as you attempt to solve the crime before the main characters do (or at least at the same time). I'll fess up and admit I watched quite a few Murder She Wrote episodes when that show was on television. But I was always frustrated because Jessica Fletcher always seemed to put pieces together that I could never pick up on the first viewing. This film has a great twist ending that is neither too difficult to figure out nor so easy that Elmer Fudd could tell you the answer.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
It wouldn't be painful to see this film again, but now that the mystery is solved, the surprises are gone. Russell Crowe is good in this movie, but I would probably watch The Insider or A Beautiful Mind before this film. For those films, surprises aren't necessary for the viewer to want a second helping.

Star Trek (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I was very skeptical whether or not I would like this film. And to be honest, I did not love it as some other Trekkies I saw it with did. But I did like it enough to recommend it. The film looks great and you can tell that the director did not half-ass any of this creation. It was a thrill to see Leonard Nimoy as Spock again, and he has the best performance in the movie. The question is, is the "reboot" idea of Star Trek the best direction for the franchise to take? I would still like to see another film with the Next Generation crew or perhaps one with the characters from Deep Space Nine. But, this film does fairly well with the task it was given, to tell an alternate universe story of how the Original Series crew got together.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
I own all the Star Trek films, and will be adding this to that collection. Having said that, would I watch it again if this was not the case? Yes, I believe I would. This film makes a huge impact on the franchise's direction, so it is guaranteed multiple viewings by anyone who cares about Trek or likes this film.

Taken (Jason says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy the film? YES
The poster for Taken always catches my eye. It is a great piece of graphic design. A dark background with the brooding profile of Liam Neesom sinking into the black space space, illuminated with sharp-edged lettering in a sparse minimal palette. I love it.

"I don't know who you are, but if you don't let my daughter go, I will find you. I will kill you."

And with 22 simple grey tone words the entire movie is laid out for you. Listen, that is everything that occurs in this movie. His daughter is kidnaped. He finds the kidnappers. He kills the kidnappers. It is great. Sure it sounds stupid or simplistic when I say it like that but that is where the filmmakers make a difference. The violence and action is real. No wires, no CGI. That is what I loved about it. With that simplicity the Pierre Morel has crafted something great.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Who wouldn't want to watch Liam Neesom kick ass. This is the bad ass Jedi that should of been in Phantom Menace.

Jason's humble opinoin of the best ten years of film (page 1)

The Uninvited (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I love scary films and whodunit films, and this movie does a fairly good job at both. I thought the sisters were too hard on their father's girlfriend long before they suspected her of foul play, but their reactions are explained at the end of the film. In fact, I was unable to predict the plot twist at the end, though I tried to guess the entire movie.

2. Would I watch it again? NO
The mystery is now solved. Once that novelty is gone, my attention would lag a second time around. Some stories can hold you a second time even though you know what is coming, such as What Lies Beneath. This one, however, may not quite do that. But I could do a lot worse.

Taken (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Mr. Neeson has never kicked so much ass in a movie. If I had a daughter who was kidnapped and I had the skills and training that Mills has, I might act in a similar way. Mills' actions are not executed out of reason. He leaves far too great a body count for that. What he does have is a blood fever so focused on rescuing his daughter that he will take down and punish anyone who stands in his way. This movie chugs an entire can of Red Bull and doesn't look back.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Of course, the second time around, one might begin to analyze and find the flaws in the details of the film. But only watching it every so often might keep it fresh and help us stay in the moment rather than dwell on it.

Bob's Predictions for the TOP TEN BOX OFFICE GROSSES OF 2009

1. Star Trek
2. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
3. The Twilight Saga: New Moon
4. X-Men: Wolverine
5. Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
6. Up
7. Public Enemies
8. Monsters vs. Aliens
9. A Christmas Carol
10. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakwel

Adventureland (Bob says 2 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? YES
We've all had a summer job. You know, those crappy minimum wage jobs where the customers enjoy their experience, but you just need some cash. There's usually a lot of drama that goes on between the staff with these jobs. The owners in charge love their company a great deal, but the games are rigged and your big prize at the end of the day could be a giant panda. Am I talking about my own job? Well, not exactly. I do like working at a movie theater and I don't think anyone is being cheated by going to our theater (unless of course they watch a really bad movie). And yet, I found a lot of similarities in Adventureland to my current job experience. In this film, there's some really funny moments and also some soapy dramatic ones, like the older employee who has an inappropriate relationship with a fellow co-worker. And everyone at work is gossiping about it. Wow, where have I heard this before?

2. Would I watch it again? YES
This is not the best film of the year, nor am I certain if it's top ten material. But any film that resonates with a person's own experience makes it a movie not to be overlooked. I had fun watching it the first time and I'm sure I would again.

Duplicity (Bob says 1 out of 2)

1. Did I enjoy it? NO
Definitely the most confusing film I've seen this year. Julia Roberts and Clive Owen have some chemistry, by it was hard for me to care about that when I was trying to figure out the basic background and plot of the story. The film jumps frequently into different points in time, and a story told in non-linear fashion is fine as long as the audience can eventually catch up to what is going on. For me, revelations revealed were too little too late. In the end, we find the Owen and Roberts' characters both got screwed, but that realization mattered little to me, I was still puzzled.

2. Would I watch it again? YES
Perhaps I would pick up more watching it a second time around. And I suppose if somebody owned it and wanted to watch it with me, I'd oblige them. Then again, I have a lot of other things to do. Or if I don't, I'll think of something.

Jason's predictions for the TOP TEN BOX OFFICE GROSSES OF 2009

1. Star Trek
2. A Christmas Carol
3. Up
4. Transformers
5. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
6. The Lovely Bones
7. Avatar
8. Monsters vs. Aliens
9. New Moon
10. Public Enemies

Bob; Here is the research I did to come to these results. I looked at the patterns from the past 10 years. I also took into account the fact a 3D movie's ticket costs more than 2D, so a popular one could earn a lot of money. If you look on the bottom you can see my choices and the alternates in parenthesis. -Jason