First Blood (1982)

Saw this as a kid and decided to check it out again. I'd forgotten most of the plot, but as it turns out, there wasn't much of a plot to forget. No matter, because this film is all about the action. I had a blast seeing this classic again.

Rating: B

Gone Baby Gone (2007)

A well crafted film for Ben's first directorial effort. Part thought-provoking, part thriller. I don't see myself running out to see it again, but it's a decent rental.

Rating: C

300: Rise Of An Empire (2014)

Entertaining and bloody, but not bloody entertaining.

Rating: C

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009)

An excellent supporting cast made for some funny scenes, but they were too few and far between. The overall plot and story devices were a train wreck. Mostly appealing to the 8 and under crowd.

Rating: C-

I’m Not Scared (Lo Non Ho Paura) (2003)

Thought I was going to be watching a scary Italian film for Halloween, but it turned out to be a weak abduction plot. The cinematography and child actors were good, but the script needed some work and a little creativity. Nothing to get excited about.

Rating: C-

The Gatekeepers (2012)

An Israeli documentary about the history of the Israel Palestine problem from the perspective of former heads of the Shin Bet, Israel’s intelligence agency. Very informative and nicely edited. I learned a lot.

Rating: C+

The Tale of Despereaux (2008)

Too much narrative and hokiness for kids, and too slow and dull for adults. I dozed off several times.

Rating: D+

Equilibrium (2002)

The Book "The Giver" meets the video game Half Life 2. Don't expect a highly plausable story, watch it instead of the ass kicking.

Rating: C

Centurion (2010)

A somewhat ambiguous storyline, where the viewer isn't quite sure which side he's supposed to be rooting for, and therefore doesn't feel as invested in the film. The action borders on cartoony at times. When your blood spatter is CGI, it's hard for it not to be.

The scenery is gorgeous. Beautiful country. Overall, it's not bad. You could do much worse when seeking out a good action fix.

Rating: C

Enron: The Smartest Guys In The Room (2005)

If you were like me, you tuned out whenever Enron stuff came on the news. It was too depressing and complicated. That's why it was nice to have someone make a nice documentary about the whole thing, so I could be educated and entertained at the same time.

Rating: C+

The Internship (2013)

Basic Hollywood recycled drivel. A few funny lines and moments. Revenge of the Nerds meets a 90 minute advertisement for Google.

Rating: D

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

The Expendables (2010)

Big on action stars, light on everything else—especially writing and acting. Ho hum plot with mostly boring fight scenes. Occasionally an exploding body, decapitation, or well placed blade would illicit a reaction from the audience. These guys should have been able to deliver the goods. Instead they crapped out something mildly entertaining.

Rating: D

Lady In The Water (2006)

Not my favorite M. Night film by a long shot, but interesting as usual. I think his childhood fascination with this story clouded his perception of it's real mass appeal. It's a stretch to go along with the premise, and not rewarding enough if you do. Given the right source material, he can do wonders. This source was lacking.

Rating: C-

Kick-Ass 2 (2013)

A huge disappointment after such an entertaining original. The style and tone are all wrong. The dry, dark humor has been replaced with cheesy quips and teen clichés. The violence in the first was shockingly brutal. Here it’s cartoony and ridiculously over-the-top. CGI effects look bottom dollar. That van scene was the worst. I forgive Chloe for being a part of this project. I’m sure it was contractual.

Rating: D

Human Nature (2001)

I had high hopes for this because of the involvement of Charlie Kauffman and Spike Jonze. Just like Adaptation and Being John Malkovich, the story is completely out there. A super hairy girl desires to live in the woods where she feels accepted. A boy raised in the woods by his apelike father is captured and forced to learn the ways of man. Too bad this interesting setup never went anywhere.

Rating: D

The Incredibles (2004)

Back when Pixar was on top of the world. Incredibles is a lot of fun for kids and adults alike. Slick story, creative characters, cool animation, and plenty of laughs.

Rating: B

Rocky Mountain Express (2011)

Watched this IMAX film at the Omaha Zoo. Neat documentary about the transcontinental Canadian railroad. Amazing scenery, interactive maps, and historical information. Fun to see on the big screen.

Rating: C+

You Kill Me (2007)

There's something to be said about a well told story. An engaging film, with unique characters, and some nice dark humor to boot. Loved both Tea Leoni and Ben Kingsley in this.

Rating: B

Cold Mountain (2003)

What a great supporting cast! Kidman and Jude law were adequate, but it was the small performances by Philip Seymour Hoffman, Natalie Portman, Giovanni Ribisi, and others that made it fun to watch. My favorite cameo was Jack White of The White Stripes. Not happy with the downer ending, or else I would have rated it higher.

Rating: C

Shadow Dancer (2012)

A mostly thrill-less IRA thriller.

Rating: C-

A Serious Man (2009)

Fantastic job depicting 1967 as well as daily Jewish life. Quite compelling despite there not being a riveting plot. Uncertain as to the point of the film. The ending didn't do me any favors either. I need a bit more resolution to walk away from this amicably.

Rating: C

Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams (2002)

Yeah, I watched it. I'm a loyal Robert Rodriguez fan, what can I say. Most of the film is juvenile, as expected, but there are moments that were entertaining.

Rating: C-

The Monuments Men (2014)

A by-the-numbers historical drama, the pieces of which never fully come together into a satisfying, coherent movie. Characters felt shallow. Dialogue was dry. Action was weak. If anything, it made me want to see Inglorious Basterds again.

Rating: C-

The Ringer (2005)

This plot was so much funnier on South Park.

Rating: D+

Punisher: War Zone (2008)

I fully expected this to be terrible. The fact that I still watched it says a lot about how much I like a good violent movie. What elevated this bloodbath above a low level direct-to-video turd was the casting. They pulled in some great cable TV actors. Ray Stevenson played my favorite character from ROME. Dominic West from The Wire is perfectly over the top as Jigsaw. This reboot played more like a comic book film than the last one. If you're in the mood to see bodies hit the floor, this is worth your time.

Rating: C+

Mulholland Dr. (2001)

This is the David Lynch film that put me over the edge. Never again! I don't care if he's the auteur of the century. NOTHING ON THE SCREEN MAKES ANY SENSE!! I didn't major in film at a small art college, so there needs to be some semblance of a sensical story happening on screen. Naomi Watts' fine performance is wasted here. It's buried beneath all the usual Lynch undertones, which have a distinct way of unnerving you as you watch, and then leaving you unfulfilled at the end.

Rating: D-

Waiting For 'Superman' (2012)

A documentary that points out the obvious, yet ignored flaws of our public school system. Not quite as well produced as it could have been, but effective nonetheless. The most powerful moment was the lottery drawing at the end—seeing true joy and disappointment on parent's faces when their children were or were not accepted to attend a charter school. Knowing that not getting in meant subjecting their child to a crap education from worthless teachers who cannot be fired.

Rating: C

The Host (2006)

There was a lot of hoopla surrounding this Korean import, so after watching it, I wondered what was the big deal? Sure, the creature special f/x were pretty cool, but they were just as good in The Relic 10 years ago; and that was far more entertaining. Try focusing on plot, acting, and dialogue in addition to cool computer imagery for a change.

Rating: D

Sid & Nancy (1986)

A testament to how one can appreciate a band’s music, but think the musicians are a bunch of morons. Gary Oldman and Chloe Webb manage to capture what I imagine to be the disgusting nature of the real life relationship this film is about. Could there be two more obnoxious, ignorant, and useless people on the planet? Come to think of it, I didn’t like any of the characters in this movie. It’s a shame punk music is made by a bunch of a-holes.

Rating: D-

Ender’s Game (2013)

I read this series when I was a kid, but forgot almost everything. Consequently, I was able to enjoy the movie on its own merits, rather than comparing it to the book. These children-in-charge movies are all the rage lately, what with the Harry Potter, Twilight, and Hunger Games franchises leading the way. Ender’s Game follows a similar path, however I think it will appeal to adults a bit more than the others.

The actor playing Ender did a great job. Perfect casting. I could do without Han Solo, but whatever. Some good scenes about how to deal with bullies and be a leader in difficult situations. The action sequences are mostly simulated, so this is something you could take the entire family to. I was engaged the whole film and enjoyed it.

Rating: C+

Greenberg (2010)

I'm not sure what I was expecting, but it wasn't whatever transpired on screen. I've seen a lot of indie films like this—kind of pointless dramadies that don't really go anywhere, yet are mildly entertaining. Greenberg was one of the better examples in this category.

Rating: C

National Treasure (2004)

You know right away that the plot is going to be fast and loose with reality when they are searching for an old ship buried under the snow in the artic, and Nicolas Cage shovels a few times only to uncover the very spot where the ship's name appears on the stern. The rest of the movie is a series of incredible coincidences, perfect plans, and impossible luck.

 It's not unwatchable. In fact, they did a decent job with comedic relief and mixing historic facts and cleavor clues. However, the "love" story was beyond lame and completely unbelievable. 

Rating: C

Bully (2011)

This was a difficult but necessary documentary to watch. The footage they capture with the cameras rolling is unreal. Makes you wonder how bad it gets when they aren’t. Most of the school employees they showed were worthless, interested more in either looking the other way or shifting blame.

I was bullied a bit in grade school, and I’ve held a deep seeded hatred for bullies ever since. Hard to believe it’s taken 30 years since then for the topic to receive national attention. Is it that Americans are dumb and slow to react? Maybe. I’m open to alternative theories.

Rating: C+

Shoot ‘Em Up (2007)

A title that lives up to its name. Gratuitous violence in all of its forms. Death abounds as bodies fall like dominoes. Plot is a mere afterthought. Plausibility an ugly step child you refuse to look in the eye. What matters here are bullets, and the speed at which they can be delivered to the assorted parts of our bodies. Carrots play a major role as well, but I'll let you discover that for yourself. Admit it. We all have night's when all we're in the mood for is a high body count and non stop action.

Rating: C+