Teddy Bear (2012)

Teddy Bear is an unconventional Danish love story between a body builder and a Thai woman. His controlling mother is the wrench gumming up the works. Sweet and authentic.

Rating: B

Ruby Sparks (2012)

Somewhere between Weird Science and Stranger Than Fiction lies Ruby Sparks. The movie is playful, but with a dark edge. I liked the outside-the-box thinking that went into the script. Zoe Kazan was incredible in her role. Possibly Oscar worthy. If you enjoy literature, the writing process, and quirky romantic comedies, you’ll love Ruby Sparks.

Rating: B

loudQUIETloud: A Film About the Pixies (2006)

Of all the band reunions happening this past decade, I remember The Pixies being the one I hoped and prayed for. The one that was logistically possible, yet seemingly unobtainable. Then I caught wind of practice sessions. Could it be?

A warm up show date hit the Internet. Holy crap, it was on! LoudQuietloud shows the fans how it all went down. It's the perfect homage to one of the greatest rock bands of our generation.

When the Salt Lake City tour date was announced, it wasn't a question of whether I would go, it was "how soon can I buy my ticket?" Certainly one of the high points of my concert life. They sounded amazing. Watching the film, I actually teared up on multiple occasions. This tour meant so much to so many. Only a true Pixies fan would know what I mean. Watching Frank, Kim, David, and Joey playing live together again, you could tell it meant a lot to them as well.

Rating: B-

Behind The Sun (Abril Despedaçado) (2001)

Enjoyable Brazilian film with great cinematography. Very good performances as well.

Rating: C+

Hungry For Change (2012)

Another nutrition documentary that seems to cater to the already converted, rather than those that are in need of the message. For those that have seen a lot of these docs, you’ll recognize many of the doctors and experts, as well as snippets from other films.

I didn’t care for the dramatized parts sprinkled throughout. Sometimes the tone felt a bit hokey. I did like that they focused on the addictive nature of processed foods, which I haven’t seen addressed in other documentaries yet.

Rating: C

Maria Full Of Grace (2004)

The first Columbian film I've ever seen, and a good one to start with. This film won the audience award at the Sundance Film Festival. It tells the story of a 17 year old girl who gets caught up in drug running into the US. It's really well done and the acting is great.

Rating: B-

If A Tree Falls: A Story Of The Earth Liberation Front (2011)

An intriguing documentary about the Earth Liberation Front. The material was fairly unbiased and handled coherently. Brings to light some important questions that unfortunately rarely get asked.

Rating: C+

Men With Guns (1997)

I've seen an awful lot of John Sayles films. While they aren't all fantastic, they are at least interesting, this one included. This is a Spanish language film about the Mexican indians, soldiers, and poor farmers. Worth checking out.

Rating: C

Lars And The Real Girl (2007)

Brilliant premise, which is only surpassed by the actual film itself. Perfect execution by the actors, screenwriter, and director. Ryan Gosling is exceptional in his role. Everything is played straight, with just the right amount of humor. It's a very touching film that will surprise you with the "realness" of its fake subject matter.

Rating: A-

Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd (2003)

As one might expect, there wasn't much depth to be found. I mainly rented it for the supporting characters. Laughed here and there. Not the greatest origin story.

Rating: C-

Non-Stop (2014)

Despite being riddled with plot holes, it was somewhat suspenseful and entertaining. Outside of United 93, I can’t think of an action movie that takes place on a plane that is remotely plausible. Non-Stop could only be more silly if they added snakes and Samuel L. Jackson.

Rating: C

Kings Of Pastry (2009)

As stressful as this French pastry completion documentary is to watch, it’s got to be 100 times more stressful to compete in. Think of it as the Olympics for pastry chefs. The film follows a couple chefs as they train and compete. So much is on the line, it’s hard not to get caught up in their emotional roller-coaster.

Rating: C+

Happy Endings (2005)

A solid indie film with witty banter, meandering plots, and great acting.

Rating: C+

The Imposter (2012)

Frustrating to watch an entire documentary about a smug, French asshole. It’s a shame Frédéric Bourdin isn’t still rotting away in a prison cell where he belongs.

Rating: C-

Dog Soldiers (2002)

Being a fan of Neil Marshall, I had to check out his early film. One of the better werewolf movies I've seen. The flow was a bit off, but once the terrorizing started, it didn't really matter. Plenty of blood, guts, and fighting for one's life. Make sure and see his supremely awesome "Descent" if you haven't already.

Rating: C

The Bank Job (2008)

Not as engaging as it was rumored to be. An average heist movie, which later, will only faintly linger in your memory. Takes place in 1970's Britain.

Rating: C