The Dink (2026)

 

I felt obligated to see this one as an avid pickleballer. The opening premise and character introductions were actually pretty good, but it descended into lame tropes from there. 

Rating: C-

Nightmare Alley (2021)

 

Had to check out the new Guillermo Del Toro release. Even if his films aren’t always good, they are always interesting. Excellent cast, acting, and direction. Didn’t love the story, but mainly because I didn’t buy the ending. 

Rating: C

The Brave One (2007)

Not Jodie's finest moment. Maybe her bloodiest? She looks terrible in this film—I think it's the hair. Her revenge killings aren't as rewarding as I hoped they'd be. Perhaps because they are too random. This film didn't jive well for me. I need to see Panic Room again. A much much better film.

Rating: C

Casa de los Babys (2003)

John Sayles is hit or miss, and this was a big miss. I liked the authenticity of the local people and film location. I liked the concept of the film. I even liked the actresses (for the most part) playing lead roles. It's too bad the "story" or lack thereof, left much to be desired. The movie drags, and when you finally arrive at the end, you realize you really didn't arrive anywhere. Wasted potential.

Rating: D

The Help (2011)

Watching movies like The Help makes me want to run out and watch Django Unchained again. I love seeing ignorant douchebags get their comeuppance, especially if it takes the form of buckshot to the face.

In The Help, retribution for white injustice comes in a milder form, through a tell-all book from the perspective of the housekeepers. It’s a heartwarming story that gets a bit dramatic at the end, but that can’t be helped when it’s a Hollywood picture.

Rating: C+

Life as a House (2001)

Life as a House is a wonderful, moving film. Kevin Kline and Kristen Scott Thomas are at their very best. Hayden Christensen has never been better. His crap role in Star Wars was the exact opposite of his performance in this one. Loved Jena Malone's character as well.

Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.

Rating: A

Step Brothers (2008)

Needlessly vulgar, but still pretty dang funny a lot of the time. The drum kit violation was one of my favorite scenes.

Rating: C

Elf (2003)

Quirky and fun. Will Farrel is allowed to run wild -- that's worth the price of admission alone. The ending was a bit cheesy, but the journey there makes you feel better.

Rating: B-

The Proposal (2009)

A complete formula movie, but not without merit. I don’t understand America’s love affair with Sandra Bullock. She’s far too old to be doing romantic comedies—regardless of how much work she’s had done to her face. (a lot) But there were quite a few funny lines which made the film bearable. However, the ending was beyond preposterous.

Rating: C-