Election (1999)

 

A reminder that bad decisions have consequences, but don’t necessarily ruin your life. I’d forgotten how sad some of these characters are. Worth a second viewing, but not as good as I remembered it. 

Rating: C+

No Hard Feelings (2023)

An implausible script that veered too far into the ridiculous. Parts were funny, but as a whole it was a let down. 

Rating: C-

The Tale of Despereaux (2008)

Too much narrative and hokiness for kids, and too slow and dull for adults. I dozed off several times.

Rating: D+

The Stepford Wives (2004)

It started out ok, but went progressively downhill. By the end, the plot was so flimsy it completely fell apart. I had no personal investment in any of the characters. Besides a few moments, it wasn't very funny either.

Rating: D-

Strangers With Candy (2005)

I was sorely disappointed with this big screen adaptation of the small screen series. In addition to not being as smart, funny, dark, and poignant, the movie lost some of the best key players, who were mysteriously replaced with sub par actors. Any single episode of the show Strangers With Candy could put this film to shame. And shame is exactly what they should be feeling for letting the fans down with this cheap imitation.

Rating: D-

You Can Count On Me (2000)

It took me until halfway through the movie to be sure I’d already seen it. Not a winning endorsement. There are some interesting characters, but nothing really grabbed me. The kid is the most likeable thing about the film.

Rating: C

Glory (1989)

From the opening scene, I couldn’t help but think, “What a bunch of morons!”. Surely men weren’t so stupid back then as to walk straight into their enemies bullets and cannon fire without so much as a strategy or defense? Get behind a freaking tree for heaven’s sake!

I’ve heard it’s an honorable way to fight, but is it honorable to lead men into a massacre? During the scenes that did not involve fighting, it felt more like a high school production. Very heavy handed and a lot of overacting.

Rating: C-

Tower Heist (2011)

Somewhat entertaining, despite absolute stupidly and massive plot holes, as only Brett Ratner can deliver. A competent cast and bits of witty dialogue kept things afloat.

Rating: C-

You Can Count on Me (2000)

Laura Linney is terrific and Mathew Broderick does a solid job too. Excellent dialogue and character development. What an indie film should be.

Rating: B-