Son Of Rambow (2007)

An original and fun indie British film in the same vein as Billy Elliott. We need films like these to cleanse our palette of all the Hollywood popcorn crap polluting our minds. Don't get me wrong. Pollution is fun, as long as you take breaks to breath in the fresh indie air.

Rating: B-

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+

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (Pyjamas) (2008)

I classify this under "Great Movies You'll Only See Once". I didn't know much going in beyond it being rated really high by almost everyone. Deservedly so. The performance by the little boy was Oscar worthy. His eyes alone could out-act half of Hollywood's elite. The film says a lot about war without being preachy and artificial.

Rating: B+

Hugo (2011)

A slow, beautifully shot story that differs from the one the previews are selling. Mostly because the real story isn’t great movie trailer material. Hugo is a real labor of love from Scorsese and other film preservationist collogues of his. Johnny Depp produced. Terrific performances from Chloe, the kid playing Hugo, and Kingsly. Slow, but deep. Enjoyed it. The 3D was unnecessary though.

Rating: C+