Batman Begins (2005)

 

Christopher Nolan and Christian Bale pull the superhero genre out of the muck with a film for adults. Characters are developed slowly. Batman’s backstory is portrayed in a series of flashbacks. Gadgets, abilities, villains, and everything else had at least some foundation in science

Rating: B

First Daughter (2004)

 

A poorly scripted film that leaves you feeling hollow and empty inside. 

Rating: D-

Go (1999)

 

One of those movies where everyone makes bad decisions and reaps the consequences. Except for maybe Katie Holmes. Her job was just to look cute and stay out of trouble. 

Rating: C+

The Giver (2014)

An interesting interpretation of the book. The film brings up a lot of deep, philosophical questions that are worth thinking about from time to time. I’d still recommend reading the book, which is very short.

Rating: C+

Phone Booth (2002)

Decent suspense and an interesting plotline, but no big payoff at the end. I wonder how much Kiefer got paid for literally phoning in his part.

Rating: C

The Gift (2000)

What a creepy little picture. I'm a total wuss when it comes to scary movies, and even though I watched this one during the day, I was still clenching my fist, scrunching down into the couch, and watching through one eye during many scenes.

Cate Blanchett and Giovanni Ribisi are both wonderful in their roles. 
The movie is technically a thriller, but many other elements come into play. It had me guessing (mostly incorrectly) until the end. 

 
Rating: B-

Thank You For Smoking (2005)

Great satire film about smoking, politics, and the media, among other things. Very enjoyable to watch, with plenty of irreverent dark humor to keep you laughing. Aaron Eckhart is wonderful as the speed talking lobbyist representing Big Tobacco without so much as a whiff of guilt. Huge names show up all over the place, likely working for scale, which is often the sign of a quality film. Breathe it in.

Rating: B