Captain Phillips (2013)

Tom Hanks is a fine actor and this was somewhat gripping at times, but I didn’t get swept up in the story like I did with Greengrass’ United 93 or Bourne films. I enjoyed that recent Dutch movie about piracy more.

Rating: C+

Minority Report (2002)

Much of this film had a similar feel to Spielbergs previous movie, A.I. Of course, both take place in the future and deal with darker material. Lot's of cool futuristic stuff to keep an eye out for on the sidelines of the main plot, which keeps you guessing.

Rating: C+

Mother (Madeo) (2009)

A Korean film about a mentally challenged boy and his doting mother. The plot surrounds a murder mystery, which keeps you guessing right to the end. There are some strange elements that take away from the story, such as the strange dancing scene right at the beginning. Overall, a nice effort though.

Rating: C

Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of our Lives (2012)

An in depth documentary about GMOs. Really good information that is likely only being consumed by those already in the know. But that’s ok. Those of us who watch these things are able to influence dozens of others to live healthier, which in turn causes much needed shifts in America’s buying behaviors. If only it didn’t take decades for these shifts to happen.

Rating: C+

Saints And Soldiers (2003)

It's hard to believe thise movie was made for under a million bucks. It looks and sounds great. The story is decent, as is the acting. Not often you can find a war movie for the whole family. Check it out.

Rating: C+

Danielson: A Family Movie (or, Make a Joyful Noise Here) (2006)

I'm curious to find out if this movie can be enjoyed by people who are repulsed by the music of Daniel Smith and his clan. For me, it was the perfect way to delve deeper into the Danielson history and see how everything is connected. I hadn't realize Sufjan Stevens originated as part of this group. 

Rating: C+

Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014)

I enjoyed the story development more than the “action-packed” second half. Mostly by the numbers, but entertaining.

Rating: C

My Week With Marilyn (2011)

This is the type of film I tend to put off seeing because I think it will be dull or overly dramatic, but I enjoyed it. Terrific performance by Michelle Williams as Marilyn.

Rating: C+

Iron Man (2008)

Great job on the back story and build-up. Less entertaining when the evil Iron Man comes into the picture, as we are forced to endure another formulaic super hero vs. villain throw-down. The best parts are when Robert Downey Jr. is saying something. Anything. He made the whole movie.

Rating: C+

Night Watch (Nochnoy Dozor) (2004)

The first in a Russian Sci-Fi trilogy. Visually stunning, but a bit lacking in other departments. Good enough to make me want to see the second two.

Rating: C

Planeat (2010)

Another reminder to those trying to eat healthier. A lot of good information here that will likely only be viewed by those already converted. A bit bland at times during the data portions. It’s the real life stories that are most inspiring.

Rating: C

American Hustle (2013)

A-list actors putting on a clinic of how it’s done. David O’ Russell, one of my favorite directors, makes the 70’s shine like it hasn’t in a long time. Nonstop eye candy on screen. The story played second fiddle to everything else going on, and I was ok with that. Certainly some nomination-worthy material here, although it wouldn’t be my pick for Best Picture.

Rating: B+

In The Bedroom (2001)

What a mood this movie brings into the room. Very heavy and depressive, but very well done. The performances are so believable. I was completely sucked in.

Rating: B

Live Free Or Die Hard (2007)

For an ancient franchise about an ancient cop, this version holds up pretty well. The plot is ok, if you don't focus too hard. Plenty of good action sequences to keep the heart pounding, and the comic relief ain't bad either. Enjoyed the cameo by Kevin Smith as the nerd hacking master.

Rating: C

Veronica Mars (2014)

Being a super fan of the series, I was definitely the target audience for this movie. It's no easy task piecing together a feature film based on a TV show, especially a decade later. Dead Like Me? Fail. Strangers With Candy? Fail. The list goes on and on.

Hats off to Rob Thomas for making something as good as or better than most of the episodes. Seeing the gang all back together was a real treat.

Rating: C+

Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985)

With the sequel came a new director, and a much poorer film. The storyline isn't bad--Rambo has been serving time smashing rocks and is offered a chance at freedom in exchange for helping to rescue some POWs in Viet Nam.

Unfortunately, the level of cheese has been turned way up. Dialogue from virtually everyone is terrible, especially the lone female who struggles to serve as the love interest. Action is over-the-top and phony. Stallone took a major step backwards with this film.

Rating: D+

Triangle (2009)

I read a few theories about this movie online after seeing it. I get what they were going for, but these time warp movies with looping plotlines always frustrate me. Even when I understand them, they still don’t make sense. They never resolve in a way in which I feel satisfied, which I guess is their point, but I don’t watch movies to feel unsatisfied.

Rating: C-

How To Make Money Selling Drugs (2012)

A ballsy documentary that fronts as a video game style guide to getting into the drug business, but is actually a drug legalization opinion piece. Very entertaining and professionally made. Potentially eye opening to those who aren’t familiar with these issues. For the converted, like myself, it’s a nice recap of how we got here and where we stand now.

Rating: B-

I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead (2003)

An interesting story that unfortunately unravels at the end. We are left wondering what happened to half the characters.

Rating: C-

The Black Balloon (2008)

Australia’s What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.

Rating: B-