The Namesake (2006)

I'm always up for a film that gives me an inside look at a culture I'm mostly unfamiliar with. The pacing is slow--but on the upside, character development is both intimate and rich. Some very touching scenes and a sweet story. A little more editing couldn't hurt though.

Rating: B-

The Yards (2000)

A lot of big names in this one, although it didn't make a big splash at the box office. Acting was good, story held my attention, and suspense was satisfactory.

Rating: C

Warrior (2011)

Having MMA showcased in a major motion picture shows how far the sport has come. The plot isn’t anything special. This territory has been covered in countless boxing movies. It’s the acting that helps Warrior rise above average status. A lot of heavy themes are covered. The cage fighting itself would have been better suited in an R rated film. My mom wouldn’t agree, but I felt it was a little watered down.

Rating: C+