Windtalkers (2002)

 

John Woo directs this over-budget stinker. There is a sprinkle of Navajo code stuff, but it’s mostly endless monologues and battle scenes. 

Rating: D

Flyboys (2006)

It's worth seeing just for the great dog-fighting action sequences. The script is so-so, but the special effects are outstanding.

Rating: C

Everest (2015)

I’ve never understood the lunacy of wanting to climb Mt. Everest. Then again, I run ultramarathons, and people say the same thing about long distance runners. I get the sense of accomplishment that comes from doing something hard, but the risk of life is just too great to be worth it.

The movie itself does a good job of walking the casual viewer through what it’s like to prepare for and hike Mt. Everest. The story is compelling and a bit depressing.

Rating: C+

The Ring (2002)

More jumpy than terrifying, this was a well made 'scary' movie. It used similar techniques to The Sixth Sense and The Blair Witch Project, in that it relied more on the fear of what wasn't there rather than throwing lots of gore and monsters in your face. Did a nice job of tying things up at the end.

Rating: C+

Smokin’ Aces (2006)

This is worth seeing just to watch Jeremy Piven do his thing. As for the film, I get what they were trying to do. A hit is out on some guy, and every crackpot assassin comes around to pay a visit. Nothing new here plot-wise. Still, it's a decent flick. Lots of big names and familiar faces along the way.

Rating: C

The Ring (2002)

More jumpy than terrifying, this was a well made 'scary' movie. They used similar techniques as The Sixth Sense and The Blair Witch Project, in that it relied more on a fear of what wasn't there rather than throwing lots of gore and monsters in your face. Did a nice job of tying things up at the end.

Rating: C+

Torque (2004)

So bad it was funny. The bullet bike chick fight scene/Pepsi ad was one of the most ridiculous things I’ve ever seen. Also, what was Adam Scott doing in this film? Very strange casting. I would have given this a straight up F if it weren’t for the slick sound and effects. But seriously. Terrible.

Rating: F+