Music And Lyrics (2007)

I like the idea of a washed-up has-been getting a second chance, however I wasn't feeling the magic in the romance department. Parts were cute, but overall, it was poorly written and moderately acted. Barrymore's character was highly annoying at times, with her pen clicking and constant mess making.

Rating: D+

Million Dollar Arm (2014)

Sometimes you just want a predictable, feel-good Disney movie. Million Dollar Arm is that movie.

Rating: B-

Spider-Man 2 (2004)

After a disappointing and cartoony Spider-Man debut, I didn't expect Spider-Man 2 to turn out any better. I was wrong. The sequel was superior in so many ways.

The villain here is much more credible and somewhat reality based. There's no glossy, plastic suit to draw attention away from the action. I thought the mechanical arms would turn out novelty-like, ala Inspector Gadget, but instead they looked fantastic.

In addition to some really cool action and fight scenes, there was plenty of character and story depth that I felt was lacking in the first.

The final battle between the bad guy and Spider-Man was not formulaic. Spider-Man was not beaten to a bloody pulp, only to come back and finish off the villain. They changed things up a bit. Overall pretty entertaining.

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

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

Margin Call (2011)

A fictionalized look at the beginnings of the recent financial crisis. Fine acting elevates a somewhat dry narrative.

Rating: C

Premium Rush (2012)

I think Quicksilver, with Kevin Bacon, was the last bike messenger movie I saw. Can’t say I was chomping at the bit to see another one. This film felt beneath JGL’s talent level. Maybe he used it as a way to get in shape for another role? Very average film with a lot of biking action.

Rating: C

It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)

Two terrific performances from Keir Gilchrist and Zach G. I thought this would be a lighthearted comedy, but it’s more of a dramedy. The film is based on a book. It feels very personal. The scenes don’t feel manufactured. Zach gets to show his range as an actor—outside the zany or deadpan roles he’s normally cast.

It’s an emotional movie and I got caught up in it. I also thought the editing was unique and creative. It added a lot to the film. A near flawless effort from a movie I’d never heard of. That almost never happens.

Rating: B+

The Proposal (2009)

A complete formula movie, but not without merit. I don’t understand America’s love affair with Sandra Bullock. She’s far too old to be doing romantic comedies—regardless of how much work she’s had done to her face. (a lot) But there were quite a few funny lines which made the film bearable. However, the ending was beyond preposterous.

Rating: C-