Larry H's Movie Reviews for 2006
Index of Movies:
Dreamgirls | The Good Shepherd | Rocky Balboa | Blood Diamond | Bobby | Casino Royale | Babel | A Good Year | The Prestige | Borat | Stranger Than Fiction | Flags Of Our Fathers | Man of the Year | The Departed | All the King's Men | The Black Dahlia | Hollywoodland | Crank | The Illusionist | Invincible | Little Miss Sunshine | Snakes on a Plane | My Super Ex-Girlfriend | The Night Listener | World Trade Center | Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby | Miami Vice | You, Me, and Dupree | Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest | Superman Returns | A Prairie Home Companion | Cars | The Break-up | X -Men: The Last Stand | Poseidon | United 93 | The Sentinel | Lucky Number Slevin | Failure to Launch | Capote | Firewall | The Pink Panther | Good Night and Good Luck | Glory Road | End of the Spear | Family Stone | Syriana | Brokeback Mountain
This experience began very badly. There must have been a bus unload about 30 kids each with a parent outside AMC Loew's and there was only one ticket sales clerk and obviously the crowd did not care that Larry H. had arrived and was ready to go to his Friday afternoon movies. If the staff doesn't get a grip on this situation I'm taking my business elsewhere; easy big fella.
"Dreamgirls" is about a young singing group of three women striving for stardom in the 1960's. The women are "Afro-American" and suffer from the race atmosphere of the times. The movie is adapted from a book by Tom Eyen which was also a Broadway musical. Direction and screenplay is by Bill Condon ("Gods and Monsters").
I was looking forward to this movie, but was disappointed for about the first twenty minutes of the film until Jennifer Hudson (finalist #7 on American Idol) sang her first of several spectacular solos. Then I began caring about the characters and the story. Ms. Hudson, age 25, was "introduced" in this her first movie but it definitely will not be her last. You will also see her on stage picking up an Oscar at the 79th Annual Academy Awards. Her songs came from a beautiful set of pipes that looped through her gut and exploded from her heart. Her performance was breathtaking and will be the most memorable aspect of this very well done movie. When she was on the screen, the audience was electrified and responded with applause and verbal outburst; it was the best performance of any man, woman, or child this year. If she doesn't win, it will be a result of jealously because she was the right person as a soul singer with a broken heart and nerves of steel. She gave me goose bumps more than once.
Jamie Foxx, Beyonce, and Eddie Murphy (might win an Oscar) were very good. Their only problem is that the rookie Hudson knocked it out of the park. This is not a great movie but it is significant for its poignant story and wonderful performances, costumes, music, and hair. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 91. Larry H.
"The Good Shepherd" is bad and Bobby DeNiro is going to be sick when the audiences turn away from his highly touted "masterpiece." They got it half right; it's a piece of something. How could Bobby D. let this happen? I didn't like or care about any of the characters; the story was slow and boring and I wanted them all to die. But nooooooobody died and the movie took almost three brutal hours.
This is a movie about Edward Wilson (Matt Damon) from his days at Yale 1939 in the Skull and Crossbones secret men's society through his days with the CIA and the debacle of the Bay of Pigs of April 1961. Good cast and seemingly interested subject. Ironically, the acting was above average but the movie was uninteresting.
The whole experience was painful. Monique H. and I entered theatre #23 at the local AMC just as the movie was about to start and there were no two seats together so we quickly grabbed singles. That meant that Larry H. had to sit by two people and Larry H. was not happy about it. Then at about the one hour mark, I thought about walking but decided that I couldn't do that to DeNiro. Then a few folks started leaving, going to the concession stand, chatting, and fidgeting; it was ugly. And I hung in there for two more LONG hours to the bloody finish and all I can say to DeNiro is "you owe me big time!" He has not directed a film for almost 13 years and now I know why; he ain't that good at it and screenwriter Eric Roth should be taken out back and beat with a chain. Merry Chritmas and Peace to all moviegoers. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 75. Larry H.
Rocky! Rocky! Rocky! I'be been waiting for this movie so I slipped out of the office around 12:30 and rushed to Loew's before the staff knew I was gone; that's not too hard since they don't pay much attention to me normally.
Sylvestor Stallone (DOB: 7-6-46) returns as the aging fifty-somthing Italian Stallion who now owns a small restraunt in Philadelhia and works the dinner crowd by telling them old boxing stories and posing for photos still wearing the dumb hat and crooked smile. His beloved Adrian died several years earlier and Rock greives her loss daily. He sits in a folding chair near her grave; he stores the chair in a tree in the cemetery. His heart is broken for Adrian and he is not scared to shed tears for her. The only character from the old days is Paulie the brother-in-law (Burt Young) who is back at the meat packing plant. Rocky has a grown son who does not like living in Rocky's shadow and is struggling to find his way.
My favorite lines of the movie:
1. Yo, Robert.
2. How ya doing?
3. Rocky, Rocky, Rocky!
4. Fighters fight.I liked everything about this movie, but Rocky and I've been pals for thirty years so I'm extremely prejudice. I got goose-bumps and tears throughout the movie. I bought into every corny line and shtick that writer and director Sly Stallone could dish out. The big fight (of course Rocky gets back in the ring) is beautifully choreographed, and when the music bellowed in surround sound I was inspired just like I was 26.
And Rocky and I ain't scared to have our photo taken with our shirt off. I'm thinking of posting a photo of me and Rocky shirtless on my web page at larryharrison.com. "I think I still got something left in the basement." Rocky 'n Roll.
Grade 92. Larry H.
This is a gut-wrenching movie about the love of a father for his son and family and the civil war in Siera Leone circa 1999 fueled in large part by the illegal trade of diamonds. "TIA" is the common expression for an explanation of the craziness of people slaughtering each other without remorse. "This Is Africa."
The movie will be long remember for its social comment about the world's responsibility to cooperate in the registration of these "blood diamonds," but I will remember this movie for its monumental death and cruelty. The part that ripped my heart the most was the killing of children and forcing young brainwashed boys to become killers of their countrymen. I considered walking out numerous times but decided that I had to stay to the end even though I will never see this movie again and do not recommend it to most of you; only the emotional strong and spiritual fit should attempt watching this bloody sadness. I am drained and sad. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 90. Larry H.
This movie could have also been name "1968." It is a "period piece" of that very eventful year: President Johnson announces that he will not seek or accept his party's nomination for President in March; Dr. King is assassinated in April; the Tet Offensive orchestrated by the North Vietnamese Jan-June, Richard Nixon is elected President in November, and Larry H. graduated from Bay City High School May 1968. And Bobby Kennedy is shot by Sirhan B. Sirhan in the Ambassador Hotel the night he won the Californian primary.
Martin Sheen's boy, Emilio Estevez, wrote and directed this movie about the events leading up to and surrounding the actual assassination of Robert Francis Kennedy. The story is primarily from the perspective of the hotel employees and campaign staff with actual TV news snippets of Kennedy in the background as the day of the primary ominously gets closer. No one plays the character of Bobby Kennedy; Estevez relied on actual taped coverage which was skillfully woven into the character development of the players at the hotel who were eagerly preparing for and anticipating the arrival of Kennedy at the Ambassador Hotel.
Early in the movie, I was disappointed that there were not more behind-the-scene revelations about Bobby Kennedy as he proceeded to make history in California in June of 1968. There were so many soap-opera type characters introduced at the hotel that I thought I was watching an old TV episode of "Love Boat." But Estevez pulls the star-studded cast together in a compelling story and a gut-wrenching ending in the kitchen of the hotel.
I attended this flick alone, and there were only three others in the audience in this very small theatre and they were all women of the 60's sitting together and they had no hesitation to talk in a stage whisper, laugh, or gasp whenever the mood hit them. They outnumbered me so I let it go. I'm confident that I was about their ages, but they did not look near as good as my classmates from Bay City. Here's a shout out to my old classmates and friends of the 60's: you must see this movie for the music, clothes, and hairdo's. And don't try to deny it; we really did look like that! Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 90. Larry H.
Well, I finally made it to see this box office hit of the continuing James Bond series starring Daniel Craig. I didn't think Craig would measure up to my 007 standards but I have to admit he's pretty good. He can kick, choke and shoot with the best of them. He's a cross between Steve McQueen and Kevin Costner. He's no Steve McQueen, but nobody is; I have a poster of Steve hanging in my house.
This Bond is very efficient at killing and knocking people in the head with the cool steady fist of a MI6 Double 00 agent. And the plot also calls for Bond to win at a high stakes ($150 Large) game of Texas Hold'em so he can stop a bad guy from financing terrorists. Many fast cars, cool guns, and pretty women and this year's Miss Galore is played by Eva Green who is an Andie McDowell look alike. I've been sweet on Andie for a long time; I don't have her poster so maybe Monique H. will get one for me this Christmas. Just kidding, Monique H., I was just checking to see if you were reading these comments since you passed on the chance to see this flick.
I enjoyed this movie and give much of the credit to one of the screenwriters, Paul Haggis, who is the world's greatest writer of great movies. Recently, he's written "Crash," "Million Dollar Baby," and "Flags of Our Fathers." The boy's good. I want to be Paul Haggis when I grow up and I expect to be fully grown within the next four years. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 88. Larry H.
We saw this movie Saturday night at Loew's. I say "we" because "she's back" and I had to buy her dinner first. Early in the movie I tried to lift the armrest but Loew's chairs do not allow for such comforts or suave moves.
I'm sitting here on Sunday night eating pizza and watching Sunday night football trying to write about "Babel" but I just don't have it in me.
This is an unusally and surprisingly well done movie about love and communication of three families intertwine by life's twist. The settings are Japan, Morroco, and Southern California/Mexico. The story jumps back and forth between characters; the editing is superb and the flashbacks and flash-forwards are seemless. I liked all the many characters and was intrigued by the stories and did not mind that much of the movie relies on subtitles.
This is an important movie because of the unique and innovative direction by Alejandro González Iñárritu. It will also be remember for Brad Pitt's performance from a big star that took a small part with limited screen time along with his co-star Cate Blanchett. I want to see this move again soon. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 92. Larry H.
"A Good Year" is a bad movie and contributed to an even worse day for me. I can't believe that I didn't go to the new James Bond movie. What the heck was I thinking? I know; I heard on the street that this was a good movie. That just shows that some of you people do not have street cred.
Russell Crowe stars as a Cary Grant wannabe who inherits his uncle's French winery and estate. Crowe is a rich, successful, shady bond trader in London who doesn't care much for the French and I don't care much for him so we're even. I knew I had to "walk" when he was playing tennis and did something that was designed to make the audience laugh and my only reaction was disappointment when he didn't die. I did not like any of the characters; not even the good looking bimbos.
Since Monique H. did not want to go to this movie and in fact turned down my invitation, do you think there's a way I can blame this whole affair on her? Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 69W. Larry H.
This was the third movie I'd seen in 24 hours; all at AMC. I'm not switching my allegiance from Loew's at The Fountains, but it just worked out that way. So, I'm driving to the movies Saturday afternoon and I look over in the passenger seat and darned if Monique H. is not riding shotgun. That girl sure likes going to the movies lately; not sure what's got into her.
We both loved this movie about two magicians that are competing for fame in early 1900's Britain. There are many twists and turns/magic. The script and acting are solid and the entire story captured my attention. Monique H. wanted to give it a hundred but she is young and easily influenced by the big screen. Go see it. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 93. Larry H.
PS I lifted the arm wrest about thirty minutes into this flick getting ready to make my move, but she's on to my tricks. More to follow.
I'm too old for this movie. I arrived back at AMC theatres ten minutes before the previews began for the four o'clock showing of "Borat." I had to see what made this movie so successful that it earned $26 million last weekend. The crowd was large, varied, and mostly teenagers that had just gotten out of class on a Friday afternoon and were looking for a party. The first three teenage boys that ambled up the stairs convinced me that they were on drugs; you know the look and attitude. Then the teenage girls started rolling in and more knot-head boys and all of them looked like they were drugs. Ok, I was wrong. Maybe they all weren't on drugs but they sure had a tilt and a mumble...and a smell. I apologize to all of my young friends; I hope I'm not getting too old.
Sacha Baron Cohen has created his alter-ego Borat from Kazakhstan who has come to America to make a documentary of "US and A." So he and his buddy drive across America looking for Pamela Anderson of "Baywatch" because Borat has fallen in love with her after seeing her on TV. And along the way he manages to insult and make fun of every religion and ethnic group available. The Jews seem to take the biggest hit, but Borat is an equal opportunity offender.
Some of his stuff is funny and I managed a chuckle here and there, but not near as many chuckles as my teenage friends. It is rated "R" but I'm not sure how it dodged an "X" rating. Every gag line is centered on the bathroom or sex or both. Or body parts; especially female body parts. I considered leaving but curiosity got the best of me. If I was Catholic, I would have to say three Hail Mary's and two Rosaries for my sinful attendance at this decadent piece of...hey wait a minute, Larry H., where do you get off talking trash like that? You get my point.
Lovely weather we're having. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 70. Larry H.
I have a lot on my mind and I need to get it off my chest. I've been travelling or working on recent Fridays, but I'm kicking up my heels today. Monique H. and I were already in the theatres by 11:30 am holding hands like two young lovers (and when she was looking the other way, I lifted the armrest between us and put my arm around her.) She cooed. Querry: how many cliché references to body parts appear in this first paragraph?
We love Will Ferrell. This movie is his Jim Carrey coming out party. After several movies where he was paid $20 million, Carrey decided he needed to stop acting goofy (which made him rich and famous) and thought he'd star in a quirky movie ("The Truman Show") that further displayed his acting talents. Carrey was wonderful in that movie, but we wanted him to go back to being Ace Ventura. Same with Ferrell; his performance in this movie as the number-crunching IRS agent Harold Crick is memorable. Ferrell even sat and walked like a Harold Crick, but I still see him as "Elf" or the guy on SNL tyring to perform the perfect cheer.
Harold Crick (there's a million dollar name) hears a female narrating his life as it is happening. The plot twist reveals that the narrator is a famous author (Emma Thompson) who routinely kills all the heroes in her books. She is currently writing a book about an IRS agent named Harold Crick. The storyline is wacky, but I bought into it for the sake of the show so it's not too bad albeit a bit of a stretch for an American audience.
Harold Crick seeks pychiatric help, but is quickly referred to a professor of literature (Dustin Hoffman) to help him sort out the mystery. The acting was top of the line: Ferrell, Thompson, Hoffman, love interest Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Queen Latifah. I liked all the characters The script is clever, complicated, and creative. (literaton intended). Zack Helm is credited with writing and should be rewarded with serious nomination consideration.
I have other important things to say, but I must go now for I have a ticket for the four o'clock kickoff of "Borat." Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 89. Larry H.
Yesterday I was in Matagorda County with George H. looking around his new ranch, branding heifers, and chasing big bucks. And the Friday before that, I had to work. No movies for me can cause crankiness.
I got an early start this beautiful Saturday morning and was in the theatre with popcorn and Mr. Pibb in hand by 10:25 am to see the latest Clint Eastwood directed movie about the Battle of Iwo Jima where the Americans invaded a very small Japanese Island that was heavily fortified by Japanese troops that had dug in for desperate combat in spite of weeks of bombing prior to the landing by the Marines. The battle scenes were from the Americans' perspective with close-up bloody scenes of young men dying in agony and separated body parts.
Clint has created a movie of intensity and cruelty that demonstrates the pain of war; it is a classic attempt to make sense of the futility of human combat. Clint is a moviemaker at his best; I was emotionally invested in this movie start to finish. My only complaint from my perspective as an audience member is that Clint did not give me enough time to breathe, relax, and get ready for the next gut-wrenching scene.
The photo of the raising of the flag over Iwo Jima continues to be one of the most vivid symbols of World War II and "victory." Much of the movie is centered on the Americans that participated in that famous photo and their efforts back home to help raise money by selling war bonds. And the effects of war on young men thrust into experiences of death, loss, and fear that most of us will never know.
I didn't want to tell You People this until now, but about 30 months ago four separate private jets landed within an hour of each other at the Sugar Land Municipal Airport: Producers Clint Eastwood and Steven Spielberg and Co-writers William Broyles, Jr. and Paul Haggis. They were in town for a secret power meeting at the Sugar Land Marriott; we fooled the local press. The five of us met privately for about three hours to discuss final plans for the filming of "Flags of our Fathers." Spielberg wanted to send out for some sushi, but I quickly reminded him that we were in Sugar Land, Texas, and we didn't eat stuff like that. There was a small argument, but my super nachos won out.
This movie will definitely garner nominations in film editing and cinematography and possibly Best Picture. Many of you will not like this movie and leave the theatre disappointed, but most will be in for a memorable experience of a lifetime. Rock 'n Roll. (Ok, I was lying about the power meeting, but sometimes my imagination gets out of control.)
Grade 93. Larry H.
I wanted to see this movie because I needed some comic relief. Bad idea; this movie is not funny. If you've seen the one-liners on the recent TV commercials for "Man of the Year," you've seen every joke in this misleading flick. Director Barry Levinson and the producers are guilty of false advertising by appealing to those of us that like Robin Williams' humor and hyper-activity and expected more of the same in this spoof about a comedian running for President.
This is a dark and sad story of an election gone wrong by a conflicted Robin Williams who thinks he has also fallen in love with a computer expert (Laura Linney) who feels compelled to explain to him why he did not win the election due to a computer glitch. And the bad guys are chasing her and she was given an injection of drugs yada, yada. This sounds worse than I thought. What a disappointment!
On a bright note, Monique H. and I went to Fuddrucker's on the way to Loew's at the Fountains and ate so much that I didn't have any room for popcorn and Mr. Pibb. That doesn't sound like a bright note either; dang, I'm so discombobulated. I was about to go to sleep during this movie so I had to get some Milk Duds to snap me out of it. Whew, that was close. This is a good weekend to rent a movie. I strongly recommend "A Prairie Home Companion" on DVD. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 77. Larry H.
"The Departed" is apropos for this movie since many good guys and bad guys get whacked. But it is very difficult to keep up with who gets their brains spilled onto the sidewalk without a program. Shoot, it's hard to tell who is and isn't a good guy. Or a rat two-faced *******. That Jack Nicholson sure can cuss. Jack plays Frank Costello the local mob boss in present-day Boston. Everyone in this flick has a Boston accent; you know the one that makes a Texan cringed when we hear it even though we assign a certain charm to their pronunciation of "r's".
This movie will get many nominations and accolades but my favorites choices are: Best Actor - Leonardo DeCaprio (not Jack) and William Monahan for Best Screenplay. Don't get me wrong; Jack is very believable as the evil, sociopath Irish godfather and will probably get a nomination, but Leo is my pick and I love Jack. Matt Damon as the native South Bostonian (now there's a stretch) is adequate but nothing spectacular. The supporting cast of Alec Baldwin, Martin Sheen (with a Kennedy accent - now there's a stretch) and Markie Wahlberg are very good. The ensemble cooks.
DeCaprio and Damon play cops that are and then again maybe not moles/snitches/informants for and against Jack's Frank Costello that may or may not be involved romantically with the same psychiatrist (Vera Farmiga) for the State Police. See what I mean; better pay attention or get a program for this story. Monahan has weaved quite a web.
And then there's Marty Scorsese; we call him "Marty" in the biz. Marty's patented intensity and violence is thumb-printed all over this movie. And his directorial skills empower the screen; that's why the adjective "Scorsesean" is used frequently and people don't ask who or what you are referring to.
This movie is not for all of You People, but if you hear that it's the best Scorsesean product since "Goodfellas," I say maybe the best since "Gangs of New York." I was enthralled with the twists and jerks in this movie and I've never minded if a dude gets his head blown off provided he's got a good killn' comin'. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 93. Larry H.
"All the King's Men" and Humpty Dumpty fell down again. This fall was in Louisiana by Governor Willie Stark, loosely patterned after Governor Huey Long's reign during the 40'-50's. I love Louisiana politics; they're more crooked than Texan politicians and proud of it. One of the executive producers is none other than Democratic strategist James Carville who grew up in and around the scenes of this movie so he probably kicked in some money just for old times' sake.
Monique H. and I saw this movie last Saturday night and I'm just getting around to writing about it; been busy and confused. I've forgotten some of my juicier comments about this flick so I'll just make up some crap. Just kidding; you know You People can count on me to bring the truth!
Ok, it breaks down this way: Sean Penn is Willie Stark and turns in a nomination-worthy performance again. Penn is the Humphrey Bogart of our generation - not too pretty but sure can act. Jude Law is one of the governor's assistants and he brings good looks and piercing eyes...again. Kate Winslet is a fox and Anthony Hopkins is an old fox.
We watch as Willie Stark begins in local politics and then takes on the big oil and money by appealing to the people and "the hicks" of Louisiana. "Your will is my strength, and your need is my justice." The big boys try to impeach him and the fight is on. Willie forgets who is wife is from time to time and only steals money when needed. The movie is based on the novel by Robert Penn Warren no kin to Sean Penn. Monique loved this movie, but she is a sucker for movies from the old days. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 89. Larry H.
This movie stinks. Rock 'n Roll
Grade 65W. Larry H. Note: Monique H. stayed for the entire movie. I met her in the lobby after the flick. I was blurry-eyed. She claims the movie became interesting after I walked. I doubt that!
Was George "Superman" Reeves murdered or did he commit suicide? After seeing about two thirds of this movie, I don't care. As a youngster in 1959, I was saddened when I heard about Superman's death. I was ok with that memory and now they've screwed it up.
Adrien Brody plays private detective Louis Simo who is hired to determine the real cause of death. I didn't like his character or the horse he rode in on. As a matter of fact, I didn't like anyone in this flick; it was BS - Boring and Slow.
About an hour into this painful experience, I nodded to Monique H. that I was going to get some Milk Duds which is a sure sign of disinterest. If you see a lot of folks going to the concession stand, as happened in this Loew's theatre, then you can bet the movie is a "dud". Hey, all I really needed was some milk since I already had the "duds." I can't believe I just said that.
When a man is with another person at the movies, which is not the preferred arrangement but sometimes it can not be avoided, and that man is bored to tears but does not want to "walk" thus causing the other person to miss out on their movie epxerience, that man must sit quietly praying for the other person to see the light. And then it happened. Monique H. looked over at me and whipered "...do you want to walk; I hate this movie?" And who said God doesn't answer prayers. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 69W. Larry H.
Before attending this movie, I described it as a "shoot 'em up," but that's about like calling "Pulp Fiction" a story about some interesting guys that get into sticky situations. I refer to "Pulp Fiction" because the segment about Bruce Willis the crooked boxer and his troubles in the pawn shop run by the rednecks came to mind when watching this movie.
The opening scenes involve our "hero" getting injected with a Chinese Cocktail that will surely result in his agonizing death within an hour unless he receives repeated hits of adrenalin either through fear-induced natural means or drugs. Meanwhile, our hero goes on a killing and destruction rampage in his efforts to save himself and kill the person that injected him. Our guy is very good at killing people.
The story is full of violence, profanity, blood, sadness, and down-right sadism, but it's pretty interesting. I considered walking in the opening minutes, but the curiosity of "watching this car wreck" got the best of me and I actually found myself pulling for this maniac as he went about his spree of terror on the streets of LA.
The crowd of six single men should tell you something. The guy sitting in front of me and over a couple of seats had dreadlocks below his shoulder and only made three cell phone calls; under the circumstances it seemed normal. However, at one point in the movie, he turned to me as though we were sitting together and were best friends and while motioning to the screen asked "...is that Dwight Yoakam?" I replied as though I was glad my best friend had finally bothered to speak to me and said "...I'm not sure." We did not speak again until the movie was over. Then we stood side by side to watch the credits roll and sure enough the part of the wacky doctor was played by Yoakam. My new best friend was very happy and I appropriately congratulated him. We didn't exchange phone numbers, but we're buds I'm pretty sure.
Who should go to this movie? Only those who are seriously spiritually fit. This movie is decadent with a capital "D" but with a certain charm and wit. Definitely has cult potential. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 86. Larry H.
I saw this movie on Labor Day afternoon with Monique H. yet again. We were in theatre 12 at Loew's at the Fountains.
We had just eaten a big lunch at Chili's so I was not hungry for popcorn which really throws me off my game. So I ate a box of Milkduds and got on a sugar high.
Edward Norton is Eisenheim the Illusionist in 1900 Viena and he is so very good at his "magical" performances that the Crown Prince, who is now courting the Illusionist's childhood sweetheart, orders the Chief of Detectives (Paul Giamatti) to sleuth around and come up with trumped-up charges and shut down the performances. Uh oh, forbidden love and magic spell T-R-O-U-B-L-E!
Neil Burger wrote and directed this mystical gem and Paul Giamatti almost steals the show from Norton but not quite as both of these actors are at the top of their game. I'm coming down from my sugar high now so I will be taking a nap. Bye, bye. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 90.5 Larry H.
Monique H. and I saw this one in Austin at Barton Creek Cinemark; fancy theatres with entrance from the top and nice chairs.
We were hung over from the super hot direct-sun UT North Texas football game earlier on Saturday on Labor Day weekend, but we managed to take a nap and get our second wind and eat Mexican food and see a flick.
This movie is set in the mid 70's when NFL's Philadelphia Eagles were struggling so they hired a fresh face from the college ranks Coach Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear). He immediately reached out to the community by holding open tryouts for a "walk on" to make the team. Well, a thirty year old bartender name Vince Papale (pronounce Popolli) played by Mark Wahlberg was chosen and played on special teams. The story is fun and exciting if you like "local guy makes good as hero" stories and a good old fashion love story and who doesn't?
This was a well done movie with first rate acting. So don't fumble the ball, go see it. Rock 'n Roll
Grade 87. Larry H.
I wish I could say that I discovered this film and now I'm telling all of you to go see it. The truth is that Debbie L. emailed me with a glowing report and she's a bona fide movie freak so I made plans to see it.
Last Friday was moving day for Eric H. back to that school in Austin (I can't name the school because many Tech and A&M fans read this stuff and they get all hinky). After we got the boy moved in to the satisfaction of Monique H., I strongly suggested that we see "Little Miss Sunshine."
The 7:00 PM showing of this movie was at the theatre near the UT campus which is a step back in time circa 1970 but I was very excited because quite frankly I've wanted to see a movie at the Dobie Mall since the early 70's but I was always too busy having other kinds of fun when I was hanging with my peeps in Austin.
Dang, I haven't said a word about the movie. Ok, here goes: it's huge! Stop what you're doing and see the movie today. I laughed a lot and cried a little. It's got Best Picture written all over it. The cast and writing are outstanding and those of us that were at the Sundance Film Festival already knew it. Note: I've never been to Sundance except to ski, but I dreamed I went and Bob Redford asked me to say a few words at the awards banquet and I was a smash hit. Whew, glad I got that off my chest. I'm writing this Sunday morning on my laptop on my lap and I think I'm breathing my own air.
I'm not even going to tell you what this movie is about - just trust me. The cast of veterans and rookies is super: Steve "The Office" Carrell, Toni Collette, Greg Kinnear, Alan Arkin, Abigail Breslin, Paul Dano, and for you "24" devotees, a few scenes by Mary Lynn "Chloe" Rajskub. The screenplay by Michael Arndt is a shoo-in for a nomination.
Never trust anybody that's says "trust me." Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 94. Larry H.
There were about six people already in Theatre #16 at AMC/Loew's, but two of them were sitting in my assigned seats. So I slithered all the way to the top and sat in one of the seats that are literally at the top of the stairs which allows me to stick my legs down the stairs until I'm quite comfortable because there are no seats in front of me. When I first sat down I was a little disoriented because those top row seats are a long way from the screen, but after a couple handfuls of popcorn, I'm good to go.
I went to this movie primarily because SLJ was the lead. If SLJ is your dog, you, too, could call him "SLJ." Some of you know him as Samuel L. Jackson and that's ok. He's a huge movie star and carried this film almost single-handedly. His character is not far removed from Jules Winnfield ("Pulp Fiction") except he has no hair and instead of a gangster hit man he's a FBI agent escorting an important witness against the mob from Hawaii to LA. But when SLJ speaks, the other characters had best listen or he might have to shoot them in the leg. "I'm sorry... did I break your concentration?"
Snakes. A lot of mean big-mouth ready-to-bite venomous snakes infiltrate the big jet and chaos ensues. I hate snakes.
I almost left numerous times, but the action kept pulling me back to the point that I realized I could not turn away from this "car wreck" even though I was looking around the floor to see if snakes were coming to bite me. I figured that if there were snakes in the theatre that they'd bite the people in my assigned seats first then I'd have time to take cover. As a precaution, I reeled in my legs to diminish the target.
If you are squeamish about reptiles biting people in the privates and poking out their eyeballs, then you need to pass on this flick. But if you can get over the silly plot and your own snake phobia, then this is actually a well-done "Airplane" meets "Twilight Zone." Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 84. Larry H.
I got up this Saturday morning feeling particularly perky; is that manly? Anyway, I decided that I'd better get involved in an inside sport due to the August heat so I wondered what I should do for fun? I got it! I'll go to the movies.
As I was backing down my driveway on the way to a 11:35 kickoff at Loew's, I decided to call Mabel H. (my momma) to see if she wanted to party. "Mabel, I'll be there in 10 minutes; do you want to go to the movies?" She quickly replied "...I'll be ready." She didn't ask which movie because she's a party animal and never saw a movie that she didn't like other than "The Texas Chainsaw Masssacre." So off we go to Theatre 8 which is one of the very small auditoriums and we sat on the third row middle. Mabel doesn't hear so well, but she says that she "hears now and then" but she is clever so she can follow a movie just fine thank you.
Luke Wilson plays a plain-dressing insecure guy who is looking for a meaningful relationship. He works in a rather boring office in New York City that is also blessed with a Super Hero (Uma Thurman) crime fighter called the G-Girl. She wears a big "G" on her clothes and flies faster than Superman and saves the metropolis routinely. Come to find out, this Super Hero has needs, lots of needs, and falls for Luke. Luke digs her for awhile but decides to break it off. Bad idea. Super G breaks bad and flies through the roof - literrally.
Mabel H. loved this movie even though "I don't like Uma." Why not Mabel? "I just don't like the way she looks and acts...even though she is a good actress." When Mabel gets it in for you, you're done. But she loves me so I don't care.
I thought this movie was boring and silly. One of the highlights was Luke's sidekick Vaughn played by Rainn Wilson who is Dwight Schrute on the Thursday night TV series "The Office." Mabel, what number grade do you give it? "I haven't gotten into giving movies numbers like you do." But if you were giving it a number grade would you give it at least a 90? "Yeah, I think so." Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 73. Larry H. Grade 90. Mabel H.
This is a suspense thriller with Hitchcockian overtones. I've heard other promos tout this movie in the same breath as Hitch, but I think the comparison is legit.
Robin Williams as Gabriel Noone is a host of a New York radio show that reveals stories that are semi-biographical of his character's life. Gabriel has recently broken up with his lover Jess and is struggling in his own life when he strikes up a telephone relationship with a 14 year old Wisconsin boy (Pete) dying of HIV who has written a fascinating manuscript about his life of sexual and mental abuse. Pete's foster mother is Donna. The plot thickens when Gabriel becomes suspicious that perhaps Donna and Pete are really the same person especially since their voices sound identical on the phone.
The need to know the true identity of Donna and the existence of Pete compels Gabriel to go to Wisconsin to find out for himself. The story becomes very dark and foreboding...and scary and eerie. Director Patrick Stettner does a good job; he's no Alfred Hitchcock, but who among us is? Robin Williams proves again that he's not just a wild man on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, but an accomplished actor equally comfortable in serious roles. His character is akin to his role as a shrink in "Good Will Hunting" but spookier.
I found myself repeatedly thinking that I would need to see this movie again because I was confident that I was missing some of the clues and nuances. But you people that think you're soooo good at figuring out stuff in movies should not miss this opportunity to take a friend (or spouse) and display your insightful comments. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 90. Larry H.
I had to see this movie on the first day even though it came out on a Wednesday instead of the standard Friday opening. It threw me off my schedule, but I'll go to another movie Friday around noon and all will be right with the world.
Monique H. tagged along again; have you noticed that she keeps showing up? Before the movie started, we were talking a lot and shoveling in the popcorn and having a good time and careful not to disturb our neighbors (the crowd for this 4:30 showing was small) but when the seriousness of the tragedy of the imploding of the Twin Towers began about 10 minutes into the film, we were completely silent along with the entire crowd. The awful events of 9-11-01 came rushing back into my memory and to see an accurate and believable re-enactment of that dreadful morning is stunning.
Director Oliver Stone has presented a masterpiece and captured at least some of the atmosphere, heroics, pain, fear, and anguish of one of our nation's worst nightmares. The movie is primarily from the perspective of two New York Bus Terminal (Port Authority) police officers who were first responders trapped in the rubble at ground zero. The story then develops their characters through flashbacks and family reactions. The audience must endure watching these two badly injured heroes buried in the tangled web of concrete and steel desperately holding onto life while praying for a rescue.
Nicolas Cage and Michael Pena were superb as the two cops that volunteered to go into the World Trade Center at a time when they were not sure if they would come out alive and some of their fellow cops did not make it. Maria Bello as Mrs. John "Sarge" McLoughlin was particularly effective representing the emotions of the audience and clinging to every tidbit of information to learn the fate of love ones during the chaos.
This movie will be nominated for Best Picture so go see it. This will not be the last film about 9/11 but it will be one of the historical markers. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 94. Larry H.
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby
Will Ferrell is Ricky Bobby the NASCAR driver of #26 in this spoof of my favorite racing sport. And it's funny. I was in Lubbock this past weekend for Trent B's wedding so I had to alter my routine. I went to the 11:05 showing on Saturday morning with Monique H. and our friends Gary and Jana L. The crowd was large and popcorn was good at this Cinemark 16 in one of Lubbock's big strip malls.
How funny? I thought I was going to have to give Monique H. oxygen she was laughing so hard. The first half of this movie was hilarious, but Monique H's gaffawing was contagious; I had tears in my eyes. I know that Ricky Bobby was blaspheming when he selfishly prayed to the Lord Baby Jesus because he preferred the "Christmas Jesus" but as you well know, it clearly states in the book of Hezakiah that it's not a sin if you are "...out of town whilst you witness another's blasphemy."
Will Ferrell co-wrote, starred and had a piece of the action so he's gonna get rich off this flick. He is all over this movie and he can cut it. He must be making $20 large these days. Even though we NASCAR fans take our racing very seriously, we know everything is ok with this movie because Junior makes a cameo appearance - case closed. The last part of the movie was a bit of a drag and little slow in the turns, but brought it home in the final straightaway. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 87. Larry H.
The new Detective Sonny Crockett (Colin Farrell) and Detective Ricardo Tubbs (Jamie Foxx) is every bit as cool as and more deadly than Don Johnson or Philip Michael Thomas were in their TV series of the 1980's. Foxx and Farrell are huge in their roles so much so that a sequel seems to be a done deal.
The basic setup has not changed: two get-things-done kinds of cops in Miami who wear hip clothes and look like movie stars chase bad guys and do it their way. This time our two heroes are chasing some heavily armed dope dealers as they go undercover to catch the evildoers. I liked everybody in the first part of the show and then the love-interest middle part bored me a little, but the ending shootouts were wonderful.
Warning: this is not a chick flick. If you do not like fast cars, hot women and big guns that blow people's heads off and put large holes in their torso, then go see "The Ant Bully." This movie is rated "R" and I'm not so sure it shouldn't have been rated "X." There is plenty of cussing and fighting and lovin'.
I was with a crowd of macho men (2:45 pm) that howled with approval with each head shot; at one point we hollered in unison as a particularly well-placed shot pierced the forehead of a bad guy. The shot was by a police woman so maybe it is a chick flick.
Speaking of chicks, I'm running real late for my dinner date with Monique H. so I better skedaddle; not that I'm scared or anything. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 88. Larry H.
If you like Owen Wilson, you'll like this movie. Is it as good as "Wedding Crashers"? No. Is it as good as "Behind Enemy Lines"? No. "Starsky & Hutch"? Maybe.
Owen "Nose" Wilson, who has the most dominant hair since Robert Redford, plays Dupree. Dupree is a down-on-his-luck goofball that moves in with his best friend Carl Peterson (Matt Dillon) who just got married to cutesy Kate Hudson whose rich and overbearing father is Michael Zita-Jones Douglas. Dupree is charming but a complete screw-up and finally wears out his welcome sometime after he sets the house on fire.
The plot and dialogue are sophomoric but what'd ya expect? I like all these actors so I was patience and kind while watching this drivel, but the last fifteen minutes is so sweet and loveable that it is worth the wait. Did I just say "sweet"? See what that movie did to me.
I give this movie a "96"; meaning if it's 96 degrees outside, how can you go wrong by watching a silly summer movie? Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 85. Larry H.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Ho,ho,ho...and a dead man's chest...and a bottle of rum. And all that pirate crap. Arrrrgh. Best Line by Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) when one of his co-horts says "...I've got your back" and Jack replies "it's me front I'm worried about."
Captain Jack is back again as the super-hero prirate who is a cross between the Three Stooges, Spider Man, Dean Martin, and Zorro. Jack is only worried about Jack and finding the Dead Man's Chest and if he has to be disloyal or kiss a fair maiden (Keira Knightley) or sword fight Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) then so be it. Or if he has to fight Captain Davey Jones who is "undead" and has about 25 tenacles hanging off his face and neck with each tenacle wiggling like an hyper earthworm.
This second act of Disney's "Pirates of the Caribbean" is not as good as the first "Pirates." There were some big laughs; at least I laughed real loud. But this movie was appropriately seen on a Saturday morning (had to work again Friday afternoon) because it is a cartoon. The plot is irrelevant, the scenery is pretty, and the music by Hans Zimmer is wonderful. (I think he just changed his name to Hans Zimmer so it would sound musical.)
Director Gore Verbinski should have to walk the plank for his efforts and by my calculations this flick was 50 minutes too long. (I bet he didn't change his name to Verbinski.) Gore V. directed the first Pirates: "The Curse of the Black Pearl" which shows to go you that directing ain't easy. Johnny Depp is as cool as ever and he will live long and prosper, but even Mr. Cool couldn't save this mess. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 75. Larry H.
It's a bird; it's a plane; no... it's Superman! The opening credits and music (John Williams) were awesome and I got goose bumps. I've loved Superman for 50 years. I'm not saying I've got a man crush on him or anything but I like him because he stands for Truth, Justice, and the American Way...and bullets bounce off his chest and he's faster than a speeding locomotive...blah, blah, blah.
Here's the deal: I hate this Lois Lane (Kate Bosworth) and unfortunately there's way too much Lois in this Superman version. I understand the writers and director (Bryan Singer) trying to rekindle the sparks after a five year hiatus by Superman who has been at Krypton doing some really important stuff. I'm very sketchy on the details of this movie because my mind wandered and occasionally I dozed off.
The big winner in this flop is Brandon Routh, the newcomer, who plays Superman; it was not his fault. Routh turns in a first rate performance and we'll see a lot of him in the future, but Lois was lousy. Early in the show, she's about to kiss Superman and I wanted to holler "...have some dignity, Supe, and dump this bimbo!" But being the professional moviegoer that I am, I sat quietly eating my refreshments. A bright spot: Kevin Spacey as Lex Luthor.
And then I started having a giant urge to walk out, but I lost my courage. Some of you people get all huffy when I walk and then brag about it. So I started squirming in my seat and looking at my watch when I wasn't asleep. When I thought I couldn't take anymore, I realized that I had another hour to go. I admit that walking out on Superman on a Fourth of July weekend is unpatriotic and borderline blasphemy, but a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do. But I hung in there just so I could rip it when I got out and warn you people. On the other hand, I predict that many will adore this movie. That's ok; those kinds of people are probably Trekkies.
Here's the mathematical breakdown: 15. The first five minutes and the last ten are delightful, interesting, and fun. But that middle 139 minutes are painful. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 69. Larry H.
I had to work this Friday afternoon; what's the world coming to? But God rewards those who wait according to the book of Hezekiah. I had been moping around the house this fine Saturday: too hot to go to the gun range and seemed like everyone else was happening. Eric H. was on his way to play soccer in 90 degree heat and Monique H. was building some drawers and cabinets for her closet. She had hammers and power tools buzzing; sorry but I don't do woman's work so off to the movies for me.
I showed up at Theatre #18 at AMC Loews at the Fountains with a 'tude. I was prepared to walk or hiss at the first sign of a disappointing movie just to show the world who was in charge. I knew very little about this movie other than Garrison Keillor wrote the screenplay and plays himself as the radio personality that he is. Yeah, that's right, the guy from Minnesota that tells stories and sings songs and has a hound dog face.
The plot is simple: this is the last radio show for "A Prairie Home Companion" and the very seasoned cast of singers and crew react and reminisce about their lives. And what a cast! Meryl Streep, Lily Tomlin, Kevin Kline, Woody Harrelson, John C. Reilly, Lindsay Lohan, Virginia Madsen, a very pregnant Maya Rudolph, and The Axeman Tommy Lee Jones. Pound for pound this is one of the best ensembles of actors ever to work together on the big screen. Every character was perfect! This cast is probably better than the cast of "Crash" if that's possible; not sure yet; will have to ponder. Best Picture Nomination? Slam dunk for me.
Other than the acting, the only good parts were the singing, sets, screenplay, editing, music, costumes, makeup, lighting, sound, and the magnificent directing by Robert Altman. Meryl Streep and Lily sang a duet that made me cry and almost caused me to stand up and shout "Amen!" I was tapping my foot throughout and completely changed my 'tude to one of satisfaction and triumph for having skillfully chosen this film to fill my Saturday afternoon. If Monique H. is willing, I'm going to see it again tonight. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 94. Larry H.
As I was entering Theatre #16, three-year old Anderson (knee high to a grasshopper) and his mother were in front of me. Anderson was wearing khaki shorts and a ball cap and seemed enthusiastic about going to this movie. I did not know Anderson previously but his momma called him "Anderson" so I feel secure in my reference to him. Theatre #16 is one of the gigantic venues and sure enough Anderson and his momma set behind me; I heard Anderson giggling often. Anderson and his ilk were well represented in this G-rated Disney-Pixar flick.
Pixar and its sometimes partner Disney still know how to make a first class animation. The script was cute and clever; the computer animation was excellent. It had Pixar pretty and Disney dynamics.
As a general rule, I don't like animations, but this one was so well done that I hesitate to criticize it. And equally important, Anderson and his friends laughed and screamed with glee in all the right places. And so did Momma Anderson. I laughed a couple times.
At first I was very alert because the opening scene is a take-off of a NASCAR race at the imaginary Motor Speedway of the South complete with pit stops and bump draft strategies so I thought we might have a revolutionary story about NASCAR, but it turned out to be a character development of "cars" with movie star voices and syrupy personalities. But Anderson was very happy. And I was complacent and merely reminisced how much fun it was when I took Eric H. to the movies when he was Anderson's age, but alas Eric H. turned 20 today and being seen in public with Larry H. is not on his radar screen unless there is food or money involved. If you are a fan of animation and/or know any of Anderson's friends that would like to go to the movies, then please take them. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade A-- Larry H.
I've told you people before: You've got to have character development. Spielberg knows it, I know, the whole county knows it. But this movie moved right into the break-up and intense couple's arguing between Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Anniston before I knew them well enough to care. And I never recovered. This was a classic God Bomb Theory movie. I haven't mentioned it in a while so I'll repeat it: "Dear God, please send down a bomb to end this movie so I can get on with my life."
This movie has some big laughs and a clever script, but I didn't like either character. When they couldn't decide how to divide the condo at a time when their "break-up" was pretty advanced, I wanted to scream out "...take a buzz saw and cut it down the middle and then set it on fire and then bulldoze it flat." But nooooo, the director made me watch a very painful, pitiful split between two actors I actually like.
I don't hold a grudge against Vince and Jennifer if they promise never to do this again. I've got my own problems. As I was finishing my popcorn, I noticed that a single kernel had slipped into my shirt near my stomach and I couldn't reach it even though I dived in after it. I let it go until I was walking out of the theatre and noticed a tiny piece of popcorn was now tumbling down my left leg and it was kicking and screaming all the way down to my socks. I shook my leg like an ole cow and the interloper hit the floor with a thud. Whew...that was close to a 911. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 72. Larry H.
Eric H. talked me into seeing this latest flick about the Marvel comicbook superheroes. I walked out on X-Men 2; this is a.k.a. X-Men 3.
I stayed the whole movie so let's get that out of the way. The beginning character-powers development was my favorite part. Things got a little slow in the middle and heated up toward the end.
Our heroes are mutants with special powers such as "...walking through walls, flying, throwing fire, causing things to turn into ice upon touch, reading minds, moving metal/cars/bridges etc. and a myriad of other fantastic "powers." Come to find out, there are many "mutants" that live among us and that brings up the age-old question: "which of you are mutants?" You know who you are, but I do not. I have suspected that several of you are at least partially mutant or have mutant tendendcies. If you are wondering if I know about your powers, then expect a private email from me.
The crowd was large and dominated by the twenty-something class of folks that clearly had "mutant tendencies" and laughed eerily at some of the jokes that we mere mortals did not catch. It was spooky.
Anyway, Professor Xavier (Patrick Stewart), Logan (Hugh Jackman) and the gang (including Halle Berry) are back with Kelsey "Frasier" Grammar as the Secretary of Mutant Affairs for the Unite States Government. I told you that things were getting so serious that the US of A had to create a new cabinet position to deal with the mutant situation. You don't have to have seen the previous movies to understand this one, but if you have seen the two privous X-Men movies, then wild horses couldn't keep you from seeing this flick, so go and enjoy. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 84. Larry H.
I finally made it to the one-week old Cinemark Rosenberg 12. I love going to a new theatre complex especially since this newest group of theatres is just down the highway from me. It's located on Highway 59 South/Reading Road between The Home Depot/Chili's and the The Budweiser Distributorship. And the facilities still have a fresh smell and there were only about 30 cars in the parking lot when I left shortly before 2:00 pm on this gorgeous Friday. The chairs were comfortable, the sound system was above average, and the latrine facilities were handsome if you like earth tones and automatic plumbing.
Don't let the so-called critics scare you off from this movie. I enjoyed it immmensely. You know the story: rogue wave knocks luxury liner over/topsy turvy and those that don't have the guts to climb "up" are doomed to death by drowning and explosions. I admit that this version called "Poseidon" is not better than the 1972 "The Poseidon Adventure" becaue of one main reason: Gene Hackman was huge in the original movie and this ensemble of Josh Lucas, Kurt Russell, Emmy Rossum, Richard "Red Buttons" Dreyfuss and the obligatory skank and prima dona were adequate but not as memorable as the fallen preacher turned reluctant leader portrayed by Hackman.
Footnote: gotta go - I'm on my way to the Champ Car races at Reliant Park.
Director Wolfgang Petersen delivers a fast-paced genuinely suspenseful movie and that's pretty tough to do when most of us are intimately familiar with the plot. I liked all the characters as they struggled to make it to the "top" of the boat so I was pulling for them and was sad when things did not go their way. I think I'll take Monique H. to see it again; she loved the original. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 92. Larry H.
I didn't go see "Mission Impossible 3" because I have TMI about little Tommy Cruise and he doesn't seem as much fun as he use to be.
I missed the opening of "United 93" last week about the hijacked airliner that went down near Shanksville, PA, on September 11, 2001. My only hesitation about the movie involved my concerns about the raw emotions that would be stirred up if I saw this movie. And I was right. It is gut wrenching and a painful reminder of our losses and sadness of 9-11.
Writer and Director Paul Greengrass has pieced together what appears to be a historically accurate version of that fateful morning. Obviously, there is some speculation about what really happened on Flight 93, but Greengrass' screenplay was believable.
Much of the movie is from the Flight Controllers perspective who had the unique opportunity to see firsthand and before the rest of the nation that we "...were under attack by someone". Within minutes of the beginning of the movie, I feared that I had made a mistake; I could not finish my popcorn and Mr. Pibb and I had a painful hiccup. I considered leaving the movie but I did not want to be a girlie man so I stayed, but I was keeping tabs on the time because I was ready for the movie to end.
I didn't cry, but it was very emotional and spiritual for me. Watching those passengers call their loved ones to tell family members one last time that they loved them was powerful and memorable. And then to witness the patriotism and courage of the passengers of United 93 rush the hijackers knowing about the two crashes into the World Trade Center was heroism at its best.
I do not plan to see this movie again for a very long time. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 94. Larry H.
This movie was very personal to me. I have been anticipating this thriller about the Secret Service for a while because Kiefer "Jack Bauer" Sutherland from the TV hit "24" was starring along side Michael Douglas and Eva "Desperate Housewives" Longoria. I'd hoped that Jack...er, I mean Kiefer would have a larger role than Douglas, but I noticed in the opening credits that Douglas was also one of the producers so I didn't think Jack had a chance...dang it, I did it again.
Pete Garrison (Douglas) was a legend in the Secret Service because he took a bullet during the Reagan assassination attempt in 1981. The plot thickens quickly because there is an obvious plan to kill the president and Garrison is having a secret affair with the First Lady (Kim Basinger). Secret Service Agent Dave (aka Jack Bauer) is in charge of the investigation of the suspected "mole" within the Secret Service that is supposedly involved in the assassination plot. And Eva Longoria the rookie agent just tags along behind Dave wearing a low cut blouse with an occasionally close-up shot of her backside aka buttocks area.
About 45 minutes into this flick, we lost video, but after about five minutes we were good to go and back in the action. Two side notes: Kiefer's character drove a fully loaded black Chrysler 300 which is fast becoming the standard for the power automobile instead of the Lincoln Towncar. Ed Harris and his thugs also drove a black Chrysler 300 in "History of Violence." Second note: these agents, including Jack, did not demonstrate the proper combat grip on their pistols - very disappointing.
I was really enjoying this show and was fully engaged when the screen went black again at about the one hour mark. And shortly thereafter, a lady came in Theatre 11 at First Colony AMC and announced that we had two choices: 1) get your money back or 2) go across the way and start a new showing of the "The Sentinel" that was starting soon. The auditorium emptied quickly; about half went to the nearby theatre and about half us stood in line to get our money back and a free pass for a future show. I stood in the middle perplexed and finally decided that I could not force myself to sit through another hour of the movie that I'd just seen. I was terribly conflicted and unsatisfied.
Highpoint: as I was walking out of the theatre, a lady walked up to me and asked where I got my shirt; I explained to her that Monique H. had purchased the shirt for me as a 25th wedding anniversary gift online at the "24" web page. On the back of my black shirt, it reads "...if you don't watch 24, you don't know Jack" and a picture of Kiefer Sutherland holding a semi-automatic pistol. After I take a nap, I might go back to Loew's or AMC and try to catch the last half of this movie. Meanwhile, I can only credit this movie with half a numerical grade. Rock and Roll!
Grade 45. Larry H.
I have not been to the movies in weeks and I was suffering from the DT's, but I'm better now. When I bought my ticket at First Colony AMC for the 12:05 pm showing for this opening day, I told the sales clerk I wanted to see "Selvin". And she politely said "...so how many for Slevin?" And being the quick wit that I am, said "...one," and acted like I'd said "Slevin" all along. What kind of a name is "Slevin" anyway?
Well, it's Josh Hartnett's character who is mistaken for his friend Nick by the local mafia and is forced to whack somebody for the Boss (Morgan Freeman) or they will kill Slevin who they insist is Nick. The plot thickens and then throw in Ben Kingsley as a rival boss man called "The Rabbi", Bruce Willis as a mysterious Hit Man, Stanley Tucci the cop and you have a pretty complicated plot. So complicated that I almost went to sleep during the middle of this flick.
The beginning and especially the end are fun and interesting, but that character-development-middle was painful. The movie was perplexing to me because I liked all the characters yet became bored with the slow, detailed script. However, I did not walk out (partially because I needed a movie fix to stop the DT's) and I was rewarded with an ending-saving 20-30 minutes.
Just a hint to the ladies, most of the first 15 minutes involves Josh walking around with only a towel around his waist. Oh, I forgot to mention that Lucy Liu is the next door neighbor that hooks up with Slevin and wants to help him solve the mysteries that seem to follow him. Bad guys repeatedly hit him in the stomach when they first meet him and at least twice punch him in the nose resulting in multiple fractures.
This movie is rated "R" but it seemed like an "X" so be warned. This is a close call but it is at least worth the price of a matinee ticket. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 85. Larry H.
I'd heard that "Eight Below," the movie about the dogs in trouble, was a very good flick so I was planning to see it, but it didn't start until 1:20 pm and I was ready to go by noon. So I got the brainy idea to watch "Failure to Launch" for an hour or so and then I figured I'd walk out because it sounded like a stupid movie about a 35 year old (Matthew McConaughey) that refused to move out of his parents' (former quarterback Terry Bradshaw and Kathy Bates) house. And the obligatory love interest was Sex in the City's Sarah Jessica Parker who is hired by McConaughey's parents to get him to move out of the house so they could enjoy their retirement years in peace and alone.
I never made it to the dog movie. This darn flick surprised me. I liked all the characters and thoroughly enjoyed this silly love story. It was charming, loveable, interesting, funny, and one gets to see Terry Bradshaw's bare butt 2-3 times. He walks around his "naked room" upstairs while he feeds his fish. Every man ought to have a naked room. The audience laughed loud and often.
I had not seen SJP in a while and my first impression reminded me of the old horse joke: "hey, why the long face?" I know that's tacky but it's true. My second impression was: excuse me...isn't Eric H. coming home today for Spring Break? Suppose he never leaves? I guess I'd have to hire a good lookin' babe to coax him back to school or to move to some other abode. Just a thought, Monique H., don't get yourself all twisted. Boomerang Kids!
If you want to see a good lighthearted picture with zero redeeming value, this is for you. Your neighbors will be going; the crowd was very large today at noon. McConaughey and Parker are big box office draws. We have a hit. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 88. Larry H.
I've made a big mistake and I want to correct it. Philip Seymour Hoffman is now my vote for Best Actor and Catherine Keener for Best Supporting Actress Honorable Mention. I've been trying to see "Capote" for weeks, but it's showing in only three theatres in the greater Houston area, so finding a convenient time has been challenging. I promised myself that I would definitely see it yesterday (Saturday) but it was raining so I had to go home and take a nap. But this morning Monique H. and I went to early church and went to the 11:10 am show at Greenway Plaza.
Philip Seymour Hoffman (you have to say all three names each time) was outstanding as the whiny, misunderstood Truman Capote. The movie is primarily about Capote's firsthand research of the brutal murders of a Kansas family of four in November 1959 and his relationship with the criminals that committed the murders and the resulting best seller "In Cold Blood." His interviews of murderer Perry Smith and Capote's reactions created a deeply conflicted and complex character superbly captured by soon-to-be Best Actor and Executive Producer Philip Seymour Hoffman.
Philip Seymour Hoffman did not merely rely on Capote's flamboyant clothes and shrill voice with a slightly noticeable Southern lisp, but added his own texture to a severely self-absorbed egomaniac that betrayed even his friends. This Capote was not particularly likeable but he sure wasn't boring. Catherine Keener, as his childhood friend the legendary author Harper Lee, was steady and believable, but she, too, suffered Capote's rejection and betrayal. When the eccentric author had the audacity to question the success of Harper Lee's "To Kill A Mockingbird" as he slowing blew smoke out of his mouth and nose, I wanted to slap him. And that is great acting.
The movie almost attains greatness, but will have to suffice with a "very good." However, the skill of Director Bennett Miller coupled with the lighting, music, and editing of this film made it a memorable experience. If you do not see this movie before the Oscars are presented on March 5th, you will be surprised about the hoopla, except now you know because Larry H. just told you. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 93. Larry H.
This is the second Saturday in a row that Monique H. has surprised me with "...hey, let's go to movie then out to eat." I think she's up to something
Our new routine has her buying the tickets while I get the popcorn and drinks. One can do both at the same time in Loew's unlike stupid AMC where one has to wait in line in the freezing cold. I think that's one of the reasons AMC bought out Loew's so they could learn how to build a nice theatre. Heck, they should have just hired me. But I digress
When we got settled into our seats, the trailers were running and I was enjoying them since we were early. Then I felt something tapping, tapping, tapping on my left forearm as I was reaching for another handful of popcorn. I knew it could not be Monique H. as she is very aware of the rules of no touching and heaven forbid someone would try to talk once in the theatre. But, there it was, one of her long index fingers almost poking in her effort to get my attention so she could share something. I tried to answer her quietly and let it go. And darn if it didn't happen four more times. I don't want to go on and on about this, but she just recently came off probation; you might remember some time ago she acted pretty badly at a show and I had to sit her down for six months. If she didn't make me laugh all the time, I'd have to...think I'll just skip to the movie.
Harrison Ford stars as VP of Security of a bank in Seattle and some bad guys kidnap his family so he will perform some computer tricks and miraculously transfer $100 million into the bad guys Grand Cayman account. Yawn. Who cares? I didn't like Ford, his family or the bad guys. But I did like Fords' bank assistant who was none other than Chloe (Mary Lynn Rajskub) from the TV series "24". She had that same goofy look and quirky smile that she has perfected as the computer nerd on "24." She had a lot of face time on the big screen and I trust it will be good for her career.
Speaking of careers, Harrison Ford needs to be careful that he does not become a has-been. But he can still attract the more mature audience. I told Monique on the way out of the theatre "...that group is from the original Star Wars generation...not one teenager." As Johnny M. told me about this movie earlier this week, "...if you can believe that Harrison Ford can beat up a bunch of 25 year old men, then it's a pretty good movie." Not. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 79. Larry H.
A very weird Saturday. Yesteday, I went to the following places: Skeeter's (breakfast), Academy, Toys R Us, Star Furniture, Randall's, Ninfa's (dinner), Conn's, The Stein Mart, Office Max, and finally to AMC Loew's Theatres at the Fountains for an eight o'clock showing of Steve Martin's "The Pink Panther." And there was one constant in all of those shenanigans: Monique H.!
You know I don't like going to the movies with the masses, but if Monique H. wants to go out Saturday night for a dinner and a movie, I'm in. We live closer to AMC First Colony, but Dianne W. warned me about going to movies on Saturday night when the teenagers are on the prowl, so we went to my old stomping grounds. And I had to sit by someone (ugh); the theatre was crowded.
And the laughter was deafening. Steve Martin as the bumbling Inspector Clouseau is a riot. His stupid accent is classic. Monique H. and I both came out of the movie trying to outdo the other while speaking Steve Martin French. I won of course with my rendition of "damburgdert." (Hamburger)
The plot has not changed much from the original Blake Edwards movies - Clouseau is chosen by the Chief Inspector (Kevin Kline) to lead an investigation of the murder of a famous French soccer coach who was killed with a poison dart to the "occipital lobe." Clouseau is suppose to fail so the chief can step in and win the French Medal of Honor.
The compulsory foxy chick is played by none other than the foxiest of chicks - Beyonce Knowles. This is all you need to know. If you want to watch slapstick humor from start to finish, then this movie is for you. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 87. Larry H.
I tried to see this movie last Friday, but Loew's aka AMC and the real AMC did not have the film available for showing even though it was listed in their advertisements. Unfortunately, I went to both theatres, but was rejected each time as I stepped forward to buy my ticket. Must have been a communist plot!
This is George "Pretty Boy" Clooney's movie about the 1950's on-air feud between CBS reporter Edward R. Murrow and Sen. Joseph McCarthy, chairman of the Senate Committee on Un-American Activities. McCarthy was convinced that the government was infiltrated by Communists and that he was destined to out them at all costs.
The movie is shot in Black and White and easily moves between the movie sets and the actual footage from the 1950's that were also B&W. Clooney has made a masterful movie that captures the essences of the opposing forces of independent journalism, government power, and the conscience of the relatively new TV industry.
The acting by David Strathairn is deserving of his nomination as Best Actor and Clooney has sealed his reputation as a great moviemaker, but I didn't enjoy the movie not a little bit. It was just too documentary-esque for me. I want to be entertained when I go to the movies not lulled into near unconsciousness due to boredom. The story about McCarthyism and the suffering by wrongly accused innocent Americans needs to be told, but not on my watch. Clooney's movie garnered six nominations including Best Picture. It will be interesting to see if Hollywood gives some of the big prizes to Clooney et al or did this movie slipped in the back door as a nominee in a very weak year. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 73. Larry H.
I've had my first cup of coffee this fine Saturday morning and now I'm ready to report my Friday goings-on. I dutifully bought my ticket at the Loew's ticket counter at The Fountains with my gift card from my lawyer buddy Gwen R. and approached the concession stand to purchase my God-given right to popcorn and soft drink when I thought I heard the young man behind the counter say "...welcome to AMC." I was in a hurry so I didn't flinch. Then I took a deep breath, and with a slight tilt of the head, inquired "...what did you just say?" And lo and behold he said it again "...welcome to AMC."
As you well know, I'm not one to call attention to myself so I conjured up the energy to speak in a voice that only 20-30 people could have heard and said rapidly "...AMC...did they buy Loew's?...when did this happen...I didn't know about it...when was the memo?...who's in charge here...I demand to see the manager (a long time acquaintance)...doesn't anybody know who I am?...the young man with a sly smile replied "...yeah, AMC bought 'em out about two months ago but this is the first day we've started saying 'welcome to AMC' and with the changes that have already occurred I'm not so sure it's good." Oh, the wisdom from babes. Of course, it's not good. My two worlds have collided; I was bewildered.
Not to be defeated, I marched off to theatre #3 to watch this movie about the 1966 NCAA basketball championship that starred the first all-black starting line-up. I was a sophomore in high school; March Madness had not kicked in yet, but since I was a star on the second team of the Junior Varsity, I was fully aware of the monumental victory over Coach Rupp's Kentucky Wildcats by the little known Texas Western team from El Paso. Josh Lucas plays Hall of Fame Coach Don Haskins who was the only coach in the mid-sixties with the guts to recruit and rely on black players (7) on a college team. I think this is an "A" movie and the A stands for average. I gotta go now; need to write my congressman. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 85. Larry H.
This is an independent film about the connection made in the 1950's between Christian missionaries and the Waodani Tribe of the eastern rainforest of Ecuador. Sadly, the initial contact by five male missionaries results in their brutal deaths. The Waodani warriors were very suspicious of the "foreigners" and speared them to death.
The story is told through the recollection of the son (Steve) of one of the missionaries (Nate Saint) who was killed. Nate and the other men had guns with them but refrained from shooting at their Waodani attackers and merely used the guns to scare them. Nate explained to his young son, Steve, before he flew into the rainforest for the last time that "...we can't kill them because they are not ready for heaven and we are."
Director Jim Hanon does not spare any of the gory details of the deaths of these heroic men. These warriors had the fighting heart of a Mohican and the courage of a lion. And they settled all of their disputes by spearing; there were no negotiations or arbitrations. You crossed a Waodani; you got the sharp end of a spear which was a sign of strength to them. They were super violent and killed each other, too.
But the Waodani Tribe had a god and the wives of the slain missionaries and others continued the work to communicate love and forgiveness over the years and to carry the message to them that their God "...had a son."
The screenplay was taken "from a true story," but the genius was its skillful telling - writing credits by Bill Ewing, Bert Gravigan, and Hanon. Jim Hanon has made a classic which will slowly build into a huge audience. I was emotionally gripped and stunned throughout the movie. The passion and grace of both sides is memorable. The leader of the Waodoni Tribe ("Mincayani") was played by Louie Leonardo, originally from the Dominican Republic, who did a magnificent job of portraying the hate, anger, confusion, and ultimately softness of a great warrior. Don't let this wonderful film slip by you. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 94. Larry H.
I'm in crisis mode; I'm mad as heck and I'm gonna take it some more - they can't beat me! As God as my witness, I will continue to go to the movies...next week.
It all started around mid-morning when I realized that I needed a movie start time around noon - not too far before or after. That's routine for me but I only had one choice at Loew's Theatres: "Family Stone". I quickly tried to google it but the phone rang and I never really got to find out about the movie. Now it's almost noon and I gotta pull the trigger, so I dropped what I was doing and took off for Loew's. I sat down in theatre #8 with my Mr. Pibb and popcorn around 12:10 pm. Two thoughts occurred to me:
- This is a small theatre (capacity 100) and I definitely need to get one of these when I grow up so I can have my peeps over to watch a movie and pop some corn; maybe listen to some tunes.
- Why am I the only man in this theatre? There are five women who seem very happy waiting for the movie to begin.
- Ok, three thoughts: why are all the trailers for the coming attractions about love stories, Woody Allen, and such? Uh-oh.
The movie finally started at exactly 12:30 pm; 30 minutes after the advertised time! And I'm already thinking this could be the fastest "walk" I've ever been involved in. During the opening credits, I became disgusted with the syrupy music and pondered leaving before it started. But I held strong. For about six minutes. As I left, I seriously considered stopping at the bottom of the stairs and looking toward the other five patrons and making some sort of gesture, but being as I'm a professional moviegoer, I merely tucked tail and vanished into the dark.
But also being the glutton that I am, I had the brainy idea that since it was so early I would merely check out the other nine theatres nearby and pop in to catch my movie fix. As I sauntered down Loew's long hall with movies on both sides, I carefully read the titles as they "crawled" across the signage above each entry. I never slowed down. There are mighty slim pickin's at the movies these days. I suppose there will be Academy Award nominations announced January 31st @ 7:30 am CST, but I don't have much feel for the frontrunners this year. Keep the faith, Baby! Rock 'n roll.
Grade: 65W Larry H.
I went to see this movie because I'd heard that George Clooney was a possible nomination for Best Actor in his role as a CIA operative in the Middle East who spoke Farsi and Arabic. I think Clooney is one of the great actors of our time, but unfortunately is overlooked because he's handsome. And for those of us who are punished for our good looks...well, that's just not fair.
This geopolitical mystery tackles the oil industry, the Middle East, and even throws in a hunting trip to Texas. It jumps from one country to the next quicker than a rain.
Another thing: who said two middle-aged ladies out on the town this fine late Saturday afternoon could sit right next to me and whisper throughout the movie? I started to give them a big "hush up" but I was scared of them. I think we all know the rule: nobody sits by Larry H. These two obviously did not get the memo and at one point the blond (bleached) even touched me; I'm sure it was an accident but puh-leeze.
Ok, back to the movie: it was complicated and requires much focus to keep up with a very complicated plot and many characters, but I recommend you wait for the DVD. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 81. Larry H.
I've made some mistakes in my life. Today I ordered Sprite instead of my usual Mr. Pibb and when I shook the popcorn salt shaker too much came out and I ruined my popcorn. Unfortunately, I did not give up trying to eat the salt with my popcorn until it almost made me sick. Some people never learn.
If you've heard that this is a movie about two gay cowboys you are mostly right. The screenplay by Larry McMurtry and Dianna Ossana delves into the forbidden love of two young men that are herding sheep (not cows) on Brokeback Mountain in 1963 Wyoming when they engage in an intense sexual relationship. And then things get complicated. Two young, rugged cowboys in 1963 and in Wyoming no less are not suppose to act that way. And they knew it and suffered greatly for fear of being discovered.
After their first encounter on Brokeback Mountain, they attempt to start "normal" lives by marrying and having children even though they have periodic secret rendezvous by going on overnight "fishing" excursions. The story continues for over 20 years. I liked both of these guys, understood their frustration, bewilderment, and sadness, but I was not rooting for them. I blame Director Ang Lee for letting the deeper character development and texture of the relationship slip away into a meaningless and meandering plot. This will be a much ballyhooed movie and Hollywood will reward it with numerous nominations, but if you think you will not like this movie because of the homosexual content, then don't take the plunge. Rock 'n Roll.
Grade 86. Larry H.
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