Barbie (2023)

 

This felt more like an elaborate Broadway stage production, and possibly will be one day. The original songs were weak. Some bits and jokes land, but I wasn’t invested in the plot. Unsurprisingly, the characters are thinly written. It’s hard to get emotionally invested in a bunch of dolls. (except for rare exceptions like Toy Story) 

The third act fell completely flat. In different hands, this premise could have developed into an entertaining movie instead of one that people are just pretending to like. 

Rating: C-

How To Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)

The reviews were very positive for this sequel. Undeservedly so in my opinion. By-the-book storytelling. More flying dragons. A lot of fighting with only like one person dying, thus taking away any real suspense. Very little in the way of humor for adults. I chuckled once or twice.

Rating: D

How To Train Your Dragon (2010)

This was my first foray into the new world of 3D. Went to see a movie with the nephews. The little one lost interest, but the older one was mostly entertained. It held my interest too, but nothing special. It's no Kung Fu Panda or Toy Story. The 3D is a nice gimmick, but that's all it is. I would have been just as entertained in 2D. Not worth forking over the extra green unless it's Avatar.

Rating: C

Real Women Have Curves (2002)

I enjoy films that spotlight cultures different than mine. A sweet story of a fat Latina girl coming to terms with her mother and body. Worth seeing.

Rating: C

Under The Same Moon (La Misma Luna) 2007

A story about a 9 year old boy crossing the border into the US from Mexico to find his mother. Immigration issues are indirectly addressed in a competent manner, without being overbearing about it. A noteworthy performance by the young boy.

Rating: C+

End Of Watch (2012)

More and more I find myself determining whether a movie is good or not based on how it measures up to my favorite television shows. Hopefully it gives me something more than a good episode of TV.

End of Watch is reminiscent of Southland, a fantastic cop show. Both make use of different camera styles and angles to bring the viewer into the action. The plot isn’t readily apparent. It sneaks up on you through slowly intertwining subplots. A nice companion piece to the directors other film—Training Day.

Rating: B-