Taken (2008)

Luc Besson helped write this tight thriller, and direction duties went to relative newcomer Pierre Morel, who helmed the exciting French action movie "District B13". If you're looking for a wild ride, go see that. But in the meantime, you should check out Taken in the theater. It's perfectly paced, nicely set up, well acted, and keeps your heart in a state of perpetual attack. Very satisfying to say the least.

Rating: B+

Quantum of Solace (2008)

I had high expectations following the fantastic rebirth of James Bond. Sadly, they were mostly unfulfilled in this complicated mess of intrigue and chase scenes. The plot was all over the place, and then they had to go and throw in a bunch of explosions at the end, as if to let the audience know the old days were coming back.

I can't bear the thought of returning to bimbo rocket scientists and ridiculously named villains. I guess Casino Royal was just a fluke to get people hooked again. Well it won't work. No more opening weekend ticket prices for me. You'll be lucky to get a DVD rental out of me in the future when it comes to new James Bond pics.

Rating: C

Equilibrium (2002)

I couldn’t buy into the premise of the movie—that a population would forgo all emotion in favor of peace. Additionally, I didn’t believe the emotionless performances of the actors. The bald men on the show Fringe did a better job than this futuristic population. Acting was laughable and the dialogue was embarrassing. Even Christian Bale came off as amateur hour in this one. As for the action, it was like the Three Stooges were trying to rip off The Matrix. A failure.

Rating: F

Largo Winch II: The Burma Conspiracy (2011)

A similar formula to the first, but at least this time we knew who the main characters were. Some terrific action and fighting sequences. It’s fun to see studios outside Hollywood do their version of a summer popcorn movie. Sharon Stone’s appearance doesn’t do the sequel any favors, unless you enjoy overacting coming from a 24 year old face imposed on a sixty year old body. Ok, her body is smoking too, but she’s still old. Perhaps they needed an American actress with some name recognition, but at a cut-rate price? Still, I’d watch a third one if they made it.

Rating: C+

Æon Flux (2005)

Stupid previews and their expectation raising trickery. The film wasn't all bad. Some cool special f/x, hot costumes, and creative ideas. It was a weaker version of The Island, sort of. Truthfully, I enjoyed Charlize Theron much more in this season of Arrested Development.

Rating: D+