Welcome to Reel Reviews. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases.

This week, we’re watching Death Race.

What I Liked: I have to say going into a movie with little expectations, it was a whirlwind of action! You can’t help but duck, squirm and look around with your mouth open for a moment or two. What lacked in storyline and acting, made up for it in explosions and pure neanderthal testosterone. “oh oh oh oh” (Tim Allen grunt)

What I Disliked: Besides every other scene being a slow motion music video splice, the acting and storyline are not what this film will be known for. No Oscars here except for maybe a sound editing nod or other technical awards. If you like other Statham flicks, you may find it a bit more appealing.

Would I Recommend?: Yes for someone who is looking for straight up action!! I see a lot of guys dragging their girlfriends to this one as penance for making them see Sex In The City a few weeks earlier.

Score: 6 out of 10

- Michelle Schenck

 

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What I Liked: Get ready for action, violence, fast cars, and plenty of gruesome deaths. Death Race has everything you expect in a film about prisoners in a not too distant future racing one another for their freedom, and high television ratings.  Jason Statham from The Transporter fame plays Jensen Ames, a prisoner hand picked by a cruel warden, played remarkably well by Joan Allen, to be her champion in the Death Race. Joan Allen is the most entertaining to watch in this film.  A villainous who is cold, calculating, and dangerously self confident. The other villains of the film, various convicts each with their own uniqueness and objectives, help keep the story moving. Tyrese Gibson plays Machine Gun Joe, one of these convicts, and he does a good job.  But it isn’t anything we haven’t seen him play before. New comer Natalie Martinez adds the eye candy to the screen as the hero’s navigator and besides just her looks her acting is pretty impressive for the role she is given.

Jason Statham is enjoyable as the hero of the film, but doesn’t really amaze you.  What does amaze you is the action sequences of the races which are full of explosions and gripping excitement. You get so pulled in you can’t wait for the next scene.  You’ll find yourself laughing out loud, clapping, and definitely cheering.

What I Disliked: The action sequences are so packed, that sometimes it is hard to figure out what exactly is happening. So many of the cars look alike you can’t really tell whose crashing into who, whose car is getting shot at, and whose car has just exploded until their names and faces are shown to the viewers at home. The camera work wants to put you right in the middle of it all, but only seems to add to the confusion. And because of all this action, there isn’t any time to really explore the other characters including Jensen Ames assigned pit crew. What are they in for, why are they on the pit crew? What are they getting out of it?

Would I Recommend?: For action lovers and lovers of death, destruction, and mayhem you need to see this movie. But if you’re looking for an award winning piece of film, avoid this at all costs. This film is strictly an adrenalin rush. So much so that they have to put a disclaimer at the end of the movie reminding you that the action was all done by professionals. And that’s because you get so caught up in the action, you don’t want it to end.

Score: 7 out of 10

- John T. McMillin

 

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What I Liked: Death Race is no joy ride! This is a thrill a minute, edge of your seat, don’t blink slaughter expedition.  My heart raced through the movie as fast as the racers. Jason Statham (as lead character Jensen Ames) delivers in another stunt filled hit about an ex-race star framed for murder and forced to participate in a prison race to the death. Joan Allen gives a stunning performance as the cold-blooded warden Hennessy who orchestrates the high profit death race competition. Tyrese Gibson is also great as Jensen’s adversary in the competition. This movie provides excellent entertainment with nonstop action, suspense, gorgeous guys and great special effects.

What I Disliked: Death Race was too murky, violent and gory for my taste. There was nothing left to the imagination. Although it was a bit much for me, it was the aggressively brutal scenes and bloodshed that made this movie great. One scene made me think of Final Destination II. You see every bit of the splattering and exploding heads. They did a great job of showing these effects even up close. For me this movie is the Fast and the Furious with a Final Destination of Batman’s Gotham City.

Would I Recommend?: If you like gruesome scenes of sadism, bloodshed and vicious cruel behavior amongst mankind assembled as entertainment, then this movie is just what you’d order.  This movie is rated R for Ruthlessness, Raunchy, Rude and a Really Rough Ride. This is not for children, elders or the weak at heart (that includes me).

Score: 9 out of 10

- Tanisha Speight

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Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you - yes, we mean you - jump into the forum link below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching Tropic Thunder.

What I Liked: I laughed out loud so much during this movie.  I have to say that I went in expecting it to suck horribly based on the previews and once I threw out the hopes that the film would be good it actually ended up being awesome!  Ben Stiller truly has outdone himself in this flick!  This movie is the best worst movie ever made.  Before seeing this film I said Snakes on a Plane was, but Tropic Thunder has now taken the title!

What I Disliked: It’s one of those movies you go to when the theater first opens so you can slip in because you don’t want anyone to know you went to see it.  It’s also the movie you don’t want anyone to know you loved it!  I also didn’t particularly enjoy the constant spouting off of expletives!  I thought I had the mouth of a sailor, but I’m a saint compared to the mouths of the men in this film!

Would I Recommend?: I would recommend it only to people I know can appreciate the humor and silliness.  This is definitely not the movie to bring the kids to considering all of the foul language.  Don’t rush to watch this one in the theaters either.  Wait until it comes out on DVD and have drinks with it.  Something tells me had I been intoxicated the movie would have been even better!

Score: 5 out of 10

- Ashley Grant

 

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What I Liked: “I’m the dude playing the dude disguised as another dude.”

This statement from Robert Downey, Jr.’s character in “Tropic Thunder” can be used to describe the movie itself.  “Tropic Thunder” is the sharply satirical film playing the gross-out, politically-incorrect comedy flick disguised as an action/war genre spoof.

I’m always a sucker for the “film within a film” idea, so I enjoyed seeing “Tropic Thunder” push this concept to the extreme.  (The movie is about the making of a Vietnam war film—that’s based on a book that’s based on the experiences of a Vietnam vet—and the lead characters are actors playing soldiers in this film...and so on.) “Tropic Thunder” skewers, satirizes and spoofs a variety of topics with a variety of success.  Some of the successes include the war movie genre; the profit-obsessed, cutthroat movie-making industry; the veracity of memoirists; product placement in films; obsessed, over-dedicated Method actors; racism and racial stereotypes; and the Oscars.

The casting was perfect, including a startling cameo appearance by a major movie star (whose name I won’t mention here to avoid any spoilers).  Robert Downey, Jr. dominated the film as the successful, blond Australian actor Kirk Lazarus, who undergoes a controversial skin-pigmentation procedure in order to portray a black soldier and then refuses to break character for any reason.  Several of the film’s funniest moments were when Lazarus was confronted by Alpa Chino (Brandon T. Jackson), a black actor who’s upset about the lead role going to a white actor portraying a black man.

What I Disliked: The gross-out, blood-and-guts gore and scatological jokes added little to the film’s humor or snarkiness to me.  (I’m hoping that these elements were included in the movie as some sort of spoof or social commentary that I just didn’t catch, because I was looking away from the screen and cringing.  I doubt it, though.) Jack Black’s character, used mostly for slapstick and sight gags, was the most underdeveloped and least interesting of the group.  Jack Black’s role was basically...Jack Black on heroin.

Would I Recommend?: I enjoyed “Tropic Thunder” much more than I thought I would.  I’m glad I gave it a try, because Robert Downey, Jr.’s performance alone makes this movie worth seeing.

Score: 8 out of 10

- Lisa Ciurro

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Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you - yes, we mean you - jump into the forum link below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching Pineapple Express.

What I Liked: “Pineapple Express” is another huge Apatow Productions success! I never knew how much more enjoyable a dirty cop murder mystery could be when potheads who can barely function are the ones trying to solve the crimes! Ordinarily this type of plot combined with nonstop violence bores me to death, but this movie is so silly and fun it actually kept me engaged. There are several hilarious fight scenes that are so great I keep reenacting them with my friends. The script is terrific and has a lot of memorable one-liners. Seth Rogen does well as usual. I really enjoyed seeing James Franco let loose and do such a funny, grungy role because I had gotten so tired of seeing him in these highly commercialized movies (like the “Spiderman” series) or in cheesy military roles like “Flyboys” and “Annapolis.” I also enjoyed Danny McBride’s performance and hope he continues to do more comedy. I love how values like friendship and loyalty make it into the movie, but as usual with Apatow P roductions films the feel good mushiness doesn’t come across as annoying or contrived. Shockingly, a bit of a drugs-are-bad (or at least not productive) attitude is conveyed as the lives of the main characters become really messed up. I thought this strategy was very mature and while possibly just a ploy to keep parents from getting too mad, at least it gives younger viewers something to think about.

What I Disliked: I’m sure my enjoyment of this film is limited by the fact that I have never experimented with marijuana at all. I can only relate but so much, and this probably affects how funny I think the movie is. The story takes a little while to get going, and some of the drug use scenes drag a little bit.

Would I Recommend?: I’d definitely recommend this for anyone with a good sense of humor who isn’t easily offended by marijuana.

Score: 7 out of 10

- Jessica Conrad

 

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What I Liked: This drug-based comedy brought to you by Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg supplies some high laughs in spots. Rogan plays Dale, a process server who gets through each day by smoking marijuana. But after witnessing a murder, he runs to his overly-stoned dealer Saul (James Franco), who joins him in his run from the bad guys. It’s a chase movie with the munchies, as the two bumble their way to getting out of trouble.

Franco has some good moments as the over-feeling dealer who just wants someone to call a friend; Danny McBride steals some scenes as the drug middleman who supplies Saul but works for the guy who is trying to kill the doped-up duo.

What I Disliked: After “Superbad” (also written by Rogan and Goldberg), I expected more from this movie. This script pushed a lot harder for both laughs and that sense of friendship between its main characters. It’s not a flop but it’s definitely on par with their past work.

The direction by David Gordon Green was adequete but jumped at time, helping to point out plot flaws.

Would I Recommend?: If you are looking for a summer escape, some silly moments and dudes smoking alot, this movie will do the trick. But don’t expect something as hilarious as “Superbad.”

Score: 6 out of 10

- Don Smith

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Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you - yes, we mean you - jump into the forum link below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor.

What I Liked: There were plenty of cool effects and stunts in the third installment of the Mummy franchise. Maria Bello as the Evelyn character was a good choice to replace the unfortunate loss of Rachel Weisz. I enjoyed Alex O’Connell (Luke Ford) and Lin (Isabella Leong), they were nice additions to the cast. Jet Li was a great choice to play the emperor and his character started out strong.

What I Disliked: The film had plenty of action but the plot was thin. It started off well with the discovery of the emperor’s tomb and all the booby traps but after the first third of the film it really turned into a fight scene that never ended and I almost fell asleep. I was so excited that Jet Li was playing the villain but was very disappointed with his lack of screen time, also complicated by his mummified appearance for half the film and his shape shifting into various monsters. He only had a couple good fight scenes, but overall his talents were wasted and his character could have been played by anybody. Luke Ford is only thirteen years younger than Brendan Fraiser so to be playing his son was a stretch and they really looked silly standing next to each other. I felt that the love story between Alex O’Connell (Luke Ford) and Lin (Isabella Leong) fell short and lacked development. Brendan Frasier’s chemistry with Maria Bello was not as strong as the chemistry he had with Rache l Weisz.

Would I Recommend?: I’d save your money, stunts and effects aren’t enough to carry this one.

Score: 5 out of 10

- Nick Conrad

 

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What I Liked: Indiana Jones meets Lord of the Rings meets Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. This movie contains elements of each of these movie genre and kept my interest despite the complex maze of fantasy, historical elements of China, the himalayas intertwined with legends and lore of the eastern hemisphere. The movie sets and atmospherics completed the illusion and didn’t have a studio back-lot feel. The plot and story--line was able to keep the movie light and enjoyable with references to pop culture and the occasional situational humor. Also the film has a pleasant touch of romance.

What I Disliked: The fight scenes seemed to be blurred by CGI and camera effects making it hard to appreciate the martial art talents of Jet Lee, Michelle Yeoh and the others.

Would I Recommend?: Yes if nothing else but to see how this story manages to combine so many elements of Chinese culture and history, such as the Great Wall, Ming Dynasty, Terracotta Army and Shangri-la.

Score: 7 out of 10

- Michael Ritenour

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Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you - yes, we mean you - jump into the forum link below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching Step Brothers.

What I Liked: The comic premise inherent in the blending of two families - especially when the live-in children are an immature 40 rather than the expected 14. It had the potential to be a very funny movie. Mary Steenburgen gave a sympathetic portrayal of the maternal role. I did like the honesty of the promos in accurately portraying the tone and quality of the movie.

What I Disliked: It’s too long for the shallowness of the material - crass visual humor, based on unkindness and the shock value of parts of the human anatomy.  The mainstay ‘’funny’’ areas of flatulence and masturbation are, as usual, heavily featured.

Would I Recommend?: Will Ferrell is fair to his fans by serving them exactly what they expect, and this is another solid offering in his usual format. Fans of Will Ferrell should like this movie.  The other target audience is obviously the 14-year-old boy the main characters aspire to be. However, most teenagers I know would find this movie too immature to enjoy, even during these rainy summer days.

Score: 5 out of 10

- Marian Hill

 

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What I Liked: Ludicrously hilarious! OMG! You will LOL! Writers Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and John Reilly are a collaboration made in a comedic heaven. The concept of two coddled adult men living at home brought together by their parents’ marriage to become brothers is humorous in itself.

Casting Ferrell and Reilly to portray the two is a recipe for a summer comedy hit. When the movie started, I was shocked by the foul language and vulgar antics. Once I picked my jaw off the floor, I couldn’t stop laughing. It was funny from the opening scene to the post-credit encore.  This is a must-see.

What I Disliked: At some points it was a bit over the top, but that is what made this movie so droll. There were a few dry and slow moments in the beginning and middle. I think they could have done more to avoid that. Overall, it was very funny and entertaining.

I think every adult wishes he or she could still have the comforts of home, without the responsibility. I think this movie speaks to that in an extreme comedic way. No matter how solemn or profound you may be, you will laugh during this movie.

Would I Recommend?: I would definitely recommend Step Brothers to anyone who wants to laugh. However, this is not for children, young teens, the modest reserved or weak at heart. It is definitely not a ‘’family night’’ movie, if you have children. However, it is great for a guys’ or girls’ night out, or adult date movie. The ‘R’ Rating is well earned for its unrefined and sexual subject matter and excessive profanity.

Score: 9 out of 10

- Tanisha M. Speight

 

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What I Liked: What’s better than two grown men acting like 10-year-olds? Will Ferrell and John C. Riley acting like 10-year-olds. If you watched the last few Ferrell films and asked yourself where all the funny went, perhaps he was just saving it for this. Writer and Ferrell’s BFF Adam McKay have worked together on such classics as ‘’Anchorman,’’ ‘’Talladega Nights’’ and many ‘’Saturday Night Live’’ sketches.

Now, despite the gratuitous language, they’ve finally made a film that goes back to their roots and resurrects the energy they once had during the days of SNL. I’m sure many people will agree with me, but rather than a Ferrell fan, I’m more of a J.C. Riley one. And he’s always entertaining to watch (’’Walk Hard’’ ).

What I Disliked: There are a few points that people may not find very entertaining about this film. Yes, this is an extremely R-rated film, so please don’t take yours or your neighbor’s children for a fun weekday afternoon movie; I think they may be better off watching ‘’The Dark Knight.’’ Second, if you have in fact enjoyed Ferrell’s last few, like ‘’Semi-Pro,’’ don’t expect this to be quite so massive. ‘’Step Brothers’’ is a simple film about two very simple boys and their parents. Lastly, what really did get to me was the language. I know the writer was trying to express the childishness of these two men, but honestly it seemed a little much. You decide.

Would I Recommend? Though it does feel as if the Ferrell train is losing steam, much like his SNL comrades of the past decades, I think this one extends his half-life at least until he makes another ‘’Bewitched.’’ Perhaps he should take the dramatic route for the next few films if there is anything we can learn from Adam Sandler’s career.

Score: 7 out of 10

- Nizar Babul

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What I Liked: DARK KNIGHT devotees will be impressed with the scrupulous portrayal of Batman, his entourage, his adversaries, and his surroundings. Heath Ledger’s phenomenal, intense portrayal of the Joker is haunting and frightening. Ledger’s interpretation is gut wrenching, and watching him left me emotionally drained. Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent complements Christian Bale’s Batman/Bruce Wayne. However, Eckhart undergoes a disturbing, albeit mesmerizing, metamorphosis later in the film that is not for the weak of heart – or stomach.  This transformation is just one of many special effects: unbelievably stunning and mind-boggling.

What I Disliked: THE DARK NIGHT’s PG-13 rating should be respected – families with young children (who scare easily or who are prone to nightmares) should select another film to see as a family. The storyline is dark and foreboding. The evil on the screen – brutal and raw in Gotham’s malevolent metropolis – seems palpable.  The nonstop action, with twists and turns rivaling any rollercoaster ride, unsettled my stomach as well as my heart and soul.  This is not a movie for the weak hearted or thin skinned.

Would I Recommend?: Those who have been waiting for this sequel will not be disappointed.  Anyone who wants glorified comic book action with a brooding, rich soundtrack and perverse, intimidating villains should see THE DARK KNIGHT. Those who are looking for escapist fare, who have no allegiance to Batman or his world, will be wise to look elsewhere for their fantasy and good feeling film fix.

Score: 9 out of 10

- Courtenay O’Connell

 

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What I Liked: After a summer of,in my opinion, complete big budget movie letdowns, I grasped on to “The Dark Knight” for salvation. Thankfully, it delivered. After growing up with the 80s and 90s versions of Batman, that were more comical than comic book, it’s refreshing to see Christopher Nolan’s, dare I say, darker versions.

Christian Bale gives us things none of the other Batmans have. He is a better blend of handsome, cocky and cunning than the rest. He even out-handsomes George Clooney.

The supporting cast was also great. With names like Freeman, Caine and Oldman how couldn’t they be?
And then there’s Heath Ledger as the Joker. This performance really proves what a talent Hollywood lost in his passing. He is menacing, insane and completely encompasses the role. Jack Nicholson was basically Jack Nicholson as the Joker. Ledger was just the Joker.

What I Disliked: I would of liked to know more about Heath Ledger’s Joker. We know nothing about where he came from, who he really is, why he torments Batman and Gotham City the way he does. The said, while watching the movie it did not bother me.  But while reflecting on the film, I am very curious about the ins and outs of such an amazing villain.

Would I Recommend?: I highly recommend this movie. Though not for the younger bunch, teens and beyond will thoroughly enjoy “The Dark Knight”. It is the kind of movie that leaves you wanting more, and I’m sure there’s something in the works to eventually satisfy your need.

Score: 8 out of 10

- Stephanie Powers

 

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What I Liked: Expectations were high after 2005’s “Batman Begins” and this stunningly dark sequel exceeds every one.

Christian Bale returns to the iconic super-hero role to help rid Gotham City of its latest crime wave. The supporting cast of Gary Oldman (Lt. Gordon), Michael Caine (Alfred) and Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox) all stand out as they reprise their previous roles. Maggie Gyllenhaal takes over the part of Rachel Dawes from predecessor Katie Holmes and shows her how it should have been done in the first place. Aaron Eckhart plays District Attorney Harvey Dent, Dawes’ new love interest and the pivotal role in the story’s development.

Not unexpectedly (as seen from trailers and previews), it is Heath Ledger as the film’s main villian which shines the brightest. Unswaying and psychotic, Ledger’s Joker becomes chaos incarnate in an already troubled city. His performance cuts a swath through this movie like a machete through the jungle.
It’s sinister, twisted and pitch-perfect.

The script, by director Christopher Nolan and brother Jonathan, is a five-act masterpiece, exploring ideas of order and anarchy and how those states affect us as social creatures. This bleak examination holds a mirror to ourselves as humans through the interaction of Batman as vigilante, the Joker as villian and Dent as the man wishing only to attain order and fairness, just not knowing how far he will go to get it.

A fair amount of new “Bat-toys” are introduced, with special note of the Bat-cycle, for fans to enjoy.

Expect Oscar nods for Ledger, cinematography and the script.

What I Disliked: The movie, at two and a half hours, moves forward relentlessly with action and intensity, especially after the first 30 minutes and almost becomes physically tiring.

Also, while much of the violence is implied, it is still intense. Some scenes may be too graphic for younger children. (This is not your Saturday morning Batman cartoon.)

Would I Recommend?: I highly recommend this film on many levels. Fan-boys will swoon; film fanatics will salivate; the rest should sit back and enjoy the shadowy rollercoaster ride which is “The Dark Knight.”

Score: 9 out of 10

- Don Smith

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What I Liked: This was a wonderful family movie that leaves you with the feeling you’ve just ridden your favorite ride at an amusement park.  It should also influence those who haven’t read Jules Vern’s book to do so.  There is action, adventure and just enough touches of comedy—sometimes corny, but it still makes you laugh.

What I Disliked: As an audience, we’ve been spoiled by computer graphics.  I don’t know if it was because I saw the 3-D version, but I didn’t think the graphics were done as well as we’ve seen in other action-adventure movies.

Would I Recommend?: I would highly recommend this movie (in fact, I called three people upon leaving the theatre to tell them to make plans to see it).  It is appropriate for all ages without any bad language or nudity, yet exciting enough for the adults.

Score: 8 out of 10

- Lauretta Pesce

 

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What I Liked: A new Theme Park has opened for the Summer, and it’s called “Journey to the Center of the Earth”.  This ride staring Brenden Frasier is one exciting ride after another.  From breathtaking scenery to rousing action the movie takes you from one ride to another as the main characters attempt to run escape from a world inside a world.  The plot may seem pretty insipid, but it works in this fun family film.  Brenden Frasier is believable as a geologist searching for information on his missing brother.  He explains about the earth and rocks they come across as if he really does know what he is talking about.  Anita Briem who plays mountain trek guide Hanna does a very good job of playing a tough woman, not your damsel in distress.  And Josh Hutcherson does a phenomenal job pulling off the role of the bored, scared, excited, and grieving emotions of a young teenager.  The 3d effects are amazingly entertaining.  Some more obvious gags than others but each one will bring a smile to your face. The film is shot to make you feel you are with the characters in every scene, one adventure after the other.

What I Disliked: With it being a family film some of the jokes are over the top and sometimes seemed forced.  Brenden Frasier sometimes overplays his role in his attempt to get adults and children to laugh together.  And one scene in particular with man eating plants is so over the top you are left groaning more than laughing.

Would I Recommend?: This is a definite must see for those who enjoy flat out fun with out a lot of thought.  There are a few scenes that made even adults jump so be prepared.  But a few moments later you’ll be squealing in delight.  With the rising cost of Theme Park Admissions, it almost seems like after you see this movie you’ve already rode several roller coasters.  It’s a great summer ride you definitly want to try.

Score: 8 out of 10

- John T. McMillin

 

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What I Liked: For very small children, they might find the few and far between action sequences semi-impressive. If you have a hankering for Science Fiction flicks,as I do, you may be atrracted to this film but do not be fooled. If you are at the age where you can differentiate between a good script and bad one, this movie will not be in any way memorable.

What I Disliked: It seems like Brendan Frasier made this film to abide his time until his third Mummy movie comes out later this summer. No ones acting seems genuine, the dialogue is lacking any form of substance so you leave with an overall feeling that it could have been SO much better. When young Sean, played by Josh Hutcherson, whips out his cell phone thousands of miles under the earth and talks to his mother while he wards off scary possessed sea creatures, you wonder if anyone will be annoyed you have to leave the theatre as quickly as possible.

Would I Recommend?: No- unless you absolutely need to take the younger kids to something on a Saturday afternoon. Regret from buying the movie tickets may or may not set in directly afterwards.

Score: 4 out of 10

- Michelle Schenck

This week, we’re watching Hancock.

What I Liked: There is a lot more to “Hancock” than its previews let on! I think Hancock’s character is a very original concept - a careless, sloppy, superhero slacker who is really just a very human person dealing with the pressures of immortality, extraordinary power, and loss of identity. Will Smith does a surprisingly decent job of evoking sympathy in a couple memorable scenes about loneliness and isolation. There are also a few very funny scenes involving the creative uses of superhero powers. The soundtrack is great and really helps to set the right mood for each scene. There was a lot more plot in store than I was expecting!

What I Disliked: “Hancock” felt like two entirely different stories squished badly into one movie. Halfway through the movie, just after Hancock cleans up his image, you realize the reason for all the weird information gaps and all the massive tension between Hancock and the wife of his public relations coach. The movie takes a dramatic turn away from what the previews lead you to expect. Instead of the two different stories complimenting one another, I feel that all the mystery ruins the first half of the movie by causing serious confusion about what’s going on, as well as robbing the audience’s ability to understand Hancock’s character because nothing is known of his past. Once the new storyline is introduced, everything becomes very rushed in a blur of explanations and action. Too much chemistry and emotion rides on just a couple scenes and it’s really not sufficient. Next thing you know, the abrupt ending leaves you feeling unsatisfied. I think “Hancock” would have been better o ff focusing on just one story.

Would I Recommend?: Yes, “Hancock” is an ok way to pass the time if you’re in the mood for a light hearted superhero movie without a lot of violence – at least compared to similar movies. Just don’t expect any emotional fulfillment!

Score: 5 out of 10

- Jessica Conrad

 

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What I Liked: Hancock was a pretty funny flick.  Will Smith’s character was sarcastic, drunk, and sported an extremely cocky attitude.  His bad boy antics left me wondering what on earth he could possibly do next.  It was a refreshing deviation from the squeaky clean superhero image we are used to seeing on the big screen.  I greatly appreciated the fact that, unlike other staples of the superhero genre, Hancock did not get bitten by any mysterious spiders; he did not wake up one day to find himself in a pile of toxic waste; and he was not from any distant, uncharted planet that no longer exists.  Hancock was a superhero because, well, he just was.

What I Disliked: Although his dialogue was great, Smith’s idea of portraying a careless, drunken, delinquent superhero mainly consisted of holding a bottle while squinting his eyes and pursing his lips.  I found his “bad boy” performance lacking.  Charlize Theron’s character went from inconsequential to essential in about 0-60 seconds.  Her only purposes were to serve as Hancock’s opponent in a very short and disappointing fight scene and to provide a much needed, last minute back story.

Would I Recommend?: I would recommend the film although parents of small, impressionable children should be aware that there is some foul language in the movie.

Score: 6 out of 10

- Jessica A. Locke

 

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What I Liked: The only redeeming quality was that it dealt with some of our blighted societal flaws, like prisons—homelessness—substance abuse and mental illness, which don’t get much consideration as part of our World. But once again the movie only briefly touches on some solutions, unless you consider the marketing director trying to rebrand this dysfunctional superhuman character as a palatable persona.

What I Disliked: The First quarter of the movie is vulgar, complacent, violent disrespectful, drunk, obnoxious and aggressive; which can describe any number of day to day encounters, which don’t really appeal to me as either funny, or entertaining as I hope for better in myself and my Country. The story line and Actors seem to lead us by the nose through a malaise of absurd situations, exaggerated—idiotic sequences with situational humor that delivers an uncomfortable laugh or grimace at its peculiarity.

Would I Recommend?: I wouldn’t recommend this for any categories of appreciation on any level other than boredom and no other options.

Score: 1 out of 10

- Michael Ritenour

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What I Liked: If you’ve “Wanted” it, you’ll get action, drama, humor and more. This movie has it all. It opens with a laugh and ends with a bang. This movie is nonstop with excellent yet violent fight scenes that keep you intrigued. The star studded cast could not have been better. James McAvoy (lead character Wesley Gibson), Morgan Freeman and Angelina Jolie all deliver excellent performances.  Wanted provides a riveting action thriller audiences won’t soon forget.

What I Disliked: I didn’t like that it ended. I Wanted more, more, more. It was not a predictable movie at all. It will keep you guessing and wanting an encore. You will probably see it again and buy the DVD. I know I will.

Would I Reccommend?: I recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys a good action thriller with a side of comic relief. You will not regret spending the ten spot on admission during this recession. Forget the popcorn though, it will get cold LOL This movie is rated R and unsuitable for children.

Score: 10 out of 10

- Tanisha Speight

 

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What I Liked: *SIGH* I’m having trouble coming up with anything.

What I Disliked: I know this film is not meant to be taken seriously, but I can’t get past the totally idiotic plot. The magician-like stunts and effects can’t save this awful movie. Don’t even get me started on how they can curve bullets around obstacles to hit their targets. The maturity level is for young males age 12 to 15 but I think there is too much violence for that age group, so perhaps a few drunken college age males will enjoy it. The assassins in the film are part of an ancient group called The Fraternity that has been hunting down bad guys for ages. Nobody bothers to completely explain how the names come up for their hit list. It is vaguely described that a loom, yes I am not kidding - you know, the device that weaves yarn or thread - contains secret binary code thread patterns that tell the assassins who to kill. We will never know why they trust the loom or how this came about. Later in the movie assassin leader Morgan Freeman is found out to be creating fake loom rea dings so that he can kill and profit however he wants. James McAvoy stars a young account manager who is totally bored with his 9 to 5 job and falls for the fraternity group’s tall tales hook line and sinker. He is held at gunpoint early on in the film and forced to shoot the wings off of flies, seriously!! He is also severely beaten many times by his assassin trainers for having a bad attitude. Angelina Jolie is back with her I’m-a-tough-girl face in another senseless action movie beating up men and pulling off amazing stunts even though she has a runway model body with no muscle.

Would I Reccommend?: No. I don’t know how I sat through this garbage.

Score: 1 out of 10

- Nick Conrad

 

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What I Liked: This movie has a stellar cast, Morgan Freeman (looking earnest) James McAvoy (looking pained) and Angelina Jolie (looking beautiful). Some of the motor stunts were impressive.

What I Disliked: Ah, the list...the hackneyed excuse for a plot, the wasted opportunities for (what is it called..) acting, the gratuitous violence and random sex.  I think it’s unfair that the elementary school student who obviously completed the screenplay was not credited - since for a six year old the level of dialogue was impressive. One can understand that characterization, at that age, is asking too much.  Hence, the one-dimensional figures are not such a surprise.  The credits list comic book inspiration for the movie and it is completely true to the form - the roles have the depth and emotional range of cardboard cut-outs. It is fortunate that other comic book adaptations did not conform to the same method, otherwise the genre would have ceased production.  In the interest of fairness, however, I need to mention that there was a gentleman seated behind me at the screening who enjoyed the movie. He cheered as the teeth were knocked out (in slow motion) or the hero veeeery sl oooowly decided to insult his nemesis (an overbearing woman boss) with extremely trite curses. I can only suppose that the familiarity of the plot and dialogue proved comforting.

Would I Reccommend?: I usually like action movies. I’m a “Die Hard” fan, so I found it strange to keep checking my watch and mentally calculating how much longer “Wanted” had to run. The emotional range of this movie reminded me of Tomb Raider - in its obvious transfer from video game format - although that movie benefited from a markedly better plot. If you enjoyed Angelina Jolie in Tomb Raider, you might find this movie acceptable. Otherwise, I would use “Wanted” as a base line against which to measure other atrocious movies.

Score: 4 out of 10

- Marian Hill

Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you - yes, we mean you - jump into the forum link below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching Get Smart.

What I Liked: I must apologize for not being born in the late 50’s to appreciate all of the references to the original series, but I still caught a few. Steve Carell was a great choice for Maxwell Smart for this new iteration of the show. He really seems to make every character he plays seem tailor made for him and this is no exception. The film did do a nice job of balancing humor and action but I think that in their effort to stay true to the original series, they dumbed down a lot of the story and dialogue and tried to bring in new younger viewers. The rest of the cast worked well together and who can deny Hathaway’s soft yet gorgeous features.

What I Disliked: Whereas Carell gives his all to the Maxwell Smart character, Hathaway seems to be phoning in her performance at times and leads me to think that she may not have what it takes to play a “strong female action character.” The chemistry doesn’t always work between them two either. They do pay homage to the original series and jokes related to those work well, but several other jokes do fall flat.

Would I Reccommend?: Fans of the original will still enjoy this modernized version I’m sure, but for the sequel, (which I’m sure they’ll be others and I’d love to watch Carell as Smart again) filmmakers are going to have to go bigger and better. Definitely take a date to watch it if not for Hathaways’s good looks and giant explosions, Steve Carell’s unparalleled ability at delivering awkward lines...and loving it.

Score: 8 out of 10

- Nizar Babul

 

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What I Liked: The movie got some things right: some of Get Smart’s catchphrases, the shoe phone, the theme song playing while Smart goes through a series of doors and into a telephone booth, the CONTROL spy agency, the evil group KAOS and the gadgets.  Steve Carell was an excellent choice for Maxwell Smart.  He was believable and funny in that role, without stooping to imitation or mimicry.  Most of the casting choices were perfect, especially Dwayne “formerly known as The Rock” Johnson, Alan Arkin and David Koechner.

What I Disliked: The movie got some things wrong.  Changing the bumbling, clueless-but-lucky idiot Maxwell Smart character into an intelligent-but-clumsy policy wonk sapped a lot of fun out of the character and the movie.  I wanted to hear more of the familiar and funny Get Smart catchphrases.  Anne Hathaway, while beautiful and talented, was miscast in the role of Agent 99.  She’s too young (although the film gives an explanation for that, which I won’t spoil for you here) and has zero chemistry with Carell.  Terence Stamp’s time as the villain Siegfried was wasted, as he had very limited screen time.

Would I Reccommend?: Yes, although it “missed it by that much.”

Score: 7 out of 10

- Lisa Ciurro

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What I Liked: Edward Norton stars as Bruce Banner, a guy you don’t want to make angry.

Solid action sequences propel a simplistic plot of “boy turns green, boy runs away from girl, boy meets back up with girl, boy has a huge fight (not with girl), boy runs away again.”

Laughs pop up throughout, including a couple fun cameos and a joke about pants.

One of the best parts of the flick was the ending, giving us a second clue this summer of what’s to come for Marvel movies.

What I Disliked: The opening montage, which tries to explain where we pick up the story, seemed confusing and unnessecary, as most of the pertinent information was repeated in exposition later.

And while I realize it’s a superhero movie, I expected better from this line-up of actors. Norton looked unenthused; William Hurt came off as uninterested; Tim Blake Nelson felt way over the top.

Liv Tyler and Tim Roth did well as the “love interest” and “bad guy” respectively, though Roth’s character development jumped from aging soldier to obsessed maniac a little too quickly.

Would I Reccommend?: I’d definitely recommend this film, as the action sequences overshadow any shortcomings. It’s a fun ride with a simple plot and fits in well with the summer movie season.

Score: 7 out of 10

- Don Smith

 

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What I Liked: Love story, war story, and science fiction fable, THE INCREDIBLE HULK should appeal to almost everyone.  The special effects are indeed special, with convincing actors, and a believable story (if logic and intelligence are suspended for two hours).  Cameos pay homage to the Hulk’s creator, as well as his origins.  Unlike IRON MAN, no one has to wait until all the credits roll to see a special twist at the end. Ed Norton as Dr. Bruce Banner, gives a strong portrayal of an outcast scientist attempting to control his anger, and inner monster, i.e. the Hulk. William Hurt, as General Ross, portrays a worthy nemesis and is better than ever.

What I Disliked: Running – lots of running – with explosions – lots of mangled, smashed cars - blood, and comic book violence are excessive, accounting for more than half of the movie. No human can fill the Hulk’s shoes, but the computer generation is inconsistent, lacking true perspective. It’s especially disconcerting when Hulk rescues Banner’s love interest, Betty (Liv Tyler).  He morphs from monstrously huge on the battlefield to just enormous in a cave.  The quick and quirky bedroom scene is more comical than romantic, and might have been better on the cutting room floor.

Would I Reccommend?: Comic book aficionados, especially of the Hulk, will cheer for this remarkable and vivid adaptation. It is especially impressive on the big screen, in a theater of appreciative fans of this genre. Very young children, and those adverse to violence and REALLY loud explosions, should choose another film to see.

Score: 7 out of 10

- Courtenay O’Connell

 

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What I Liked: It was short compared to most action flicks.  If had been any longer it would not have been as good, but even at the length it was the story line was pretty unbelievable.  I understand it was based on a comic book so you’re supposed to get lost in unreality, but it was difficult to do so.  Thank God Edward Norton was in it, because he is at least eye candy.

What I Disliked: The special effects were pretty bad.  There were even blurs in parts of the film where I could tell that it was all computer simulated.  Some explosions seemed unnecessary and it was like they were just there to distract from how bad the movie’s storyline was.  I also really didn’t like Liv Tyler.  She’s just not a good actress.  She made it easy to make fun of scenes that were clearly intended to be serious.  All those moments of her just walking around and staring made it seem like she was just lost.

Would I Reccommend?: As an action film it wasn’t all that great considering the only “real” action was computer animated, but some people like that kind of thing.  It’s not a good love story, so it wouldn’t work for lovey dovey types.  That leaves people that just like Hulk as a story.  I would only recommend it to those that are really interested in flicks based on Hulk and on other comic books.

Score: 5 out of 10

- Ashley Grant

Son Of Rambow
Posted By Ryan Bauer at May 30, 2008 at 10:34 AM

Updated May 30, 2008 at 10:46 AM

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