Cinema Scene
Sorry for the play on words, but this is a list of all the films I've seen in theatres (for better or worse). I tried to arrange them in the order I saw them in theatres (or at least remember seeing them).
Oh, and sorry for any typos. Is it just me or is it sometimes hard to type here on IMDB in those little text boxes? Just me? Oh, well...
Oh, and sorry for any typos. Is it just me or is it sometimes hard to type here on IMDB in those little text boxes? Just me? Oh, well...
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- DirectorIgor KovalyovNorton VirgienStarsElizabeth DailyChristine CavanaughKath SoucieThe babies gets lost in the forest after Tommy Pickles gets a new baby brother.If you were a Nickelodeon kid in any way, shape, or form - you loved the Rugrats. Period. Me and my brother were no exception and we watched the Rugrats like nobody else. For that reason, when the movie came out it was a big deal to Nick kids everywhere. Being born in 1995, I was obviously very young (3 years old) and, for that reason, I vaguely remember actually going to see it. I mostly remember watching it on VHS after it came out, but I do have glimpses of going to see it in theatres, such as: Noticing the Rugrats stickers on the glass at the concession stand, and laughing at certain sequences that appealed to my 3 year old mindset (i.e. any scenes depicting urination or monkeys).
Of course, from a Rugrats fan perspective, the movie kind of killed the series. Dill sucks. God. What an annoying baby. I don't care too much for babies anyway, but Dill was so annoying and anytime he's on screen it makes me want to go all "A Child Called It" on his ass. Not to sound too mean or anything, but Didi (the mom) should have considered an abortion. But yeah Dill killed the series. Granted, certain episodes of Rugrats at that point when the color palette changed are kind of boring and dull, but still when Rosemary's Baby came about. RIP - DirectorBrenda ChapmanSteve HicknerSimon WellsStarsVal KilmerRalph FiennesMichelle PfeifferEgyptian Prince Moses learns of his identity as a Hebrew and his destiny to become the chosen deliverer of his people.I was really young and I vaguely remember going to see this because I was barely 3. All I remember is being bored with the movie and playing in the floor with another kid who was my age. I remember my family went with this other family (they were friends and had kids the same age as me and my brother). Obviously they chose this movie. I haven't ever gone back to watch the film. Even when I was a kid bible stuff kind of off-put me as far as entertainment goes. Like, I left all the bible and Christian stuff behind on Sunday even at that age, and it was just always kind of weird and educational when I'd be exposed to forms of entertainment with religious aspects.
- DirectorJohn LasseterAsh BrannonLee UnkrichStarsTom HanksTim AllenJoan CusackWhen Woody is stolen by a toy collector, Buzz and his friends set out on a rescue mission to save Woody before he becomes a museum toy property with his roundup gang Jessie, Prospector, and Bullseye.Me and my family saw this on a Sunday night after, you guessed it, church. I remember mostly the climax at the airport and that heart-breaking "When She Loved Me" sequence.
Obviously, the Toy Story movies are just masterpieces in and of themselves. It's hard to rank them all because they're all so great and they're all, like, this collective loving entity. - DirectorBritt AllcroftStarsAlec BaldwinCody McMainsRussell MeansThomas the Tank Engine searches for gold dust that will allow his magical friend Mr. Conductor to return home, while also helping a girl restore her grandfather's enchanted locomotive.Gimmie a break, I was 5. This was the first movie I remember wanting to go see in the theatres because I was a huge fan of Thomas the Tank Engine. Again, I was 5. Which, I have to say, I loved Thomas and I still hold that little blue bastard close to my heart. Granted, keep in mind: This was long before the days of dumbed-down CGI children's shows that Thomas the Tank Engine eventually became. This was when the show was, more or less, people filming a train set with a reliance on narration (here's looking at you Ringo Starr, George Carlin, and Alec Baldwin). Even now I appreciate that format of the show and the simplistic yet beautifully way it was shot. I never really got into the US version Shining Time Station and, being one of the last kids of the VHS era, I knew Thomas from the VHS compilation releases.
Anyway, as far as the movie goes? Even then I knew it was not that good of a movie. Sure, I was excited to see Thomas on the big screen, but I was like Kathy Bates from Misery (1990) in a way because I was internally thinking "Have you all got amnesia!? That isn't Thomas' voice! Where's Schemer!? James doesn't sound like that! This isn't fair!" It's one of those movies where, in retrospect, I couldn't imagine being a parent having to sit through this film. There's literally nothing, I feel, to appeal to the adults. Not even Peter Fonda's noble what the hell performance. - DirectorStig BergqvistPaul DemeyerStarsChristine CavanaughElizabeth DailyCheryl ChaseWhile on a family vacation in Paris, the Rugrats attempt to help Chuckie find a new mom while stopping his dad from marrying a conniving businesswoman who hates kids.Again, since I was really young, I don't remember too much about going to see this; however, I do remember watching that scene where Chuckie is in the plane looking out into the clouds and seeing formations of his dead mother. I guess I remember because, even at 4 or 5 years old, I thought it was cheesy. Kudos to the people for wanting to add diversity and the Asian character of Kimi, but it's just all kind of annoying adding in new characters who are annoying and unlikable. This is one of those movie where I loved the villain and was rooting for them and I still think it'd be hilarious if Coco had won.
- DirectorJon TurteltaubStarsBruce WillisSpencer BreslinEmily MortimerAn unhappy, disliked image consultant gets a second shot at life when he is mysteriously confronted by an eight-year-old version of himself.I think I fell asleep during this one because it didn't appeal to me, or at least, maybe it was a little too mature to keep the interest of a 4 or 5 year old? I think so because it wasn't too long ago that this movie was coming on Showtime or something and I watched it again and had a difficult time trying to keep interested in it even at age 20.
- DirectorGarry MarshallStarsJulie AndrewsAnne HathawayHector ElizondoMia Thermopolis has just found out that she is the heir apparent to the throne of Genovia. With her friends Lilly and Michael Moscovitz in tow, she tries to navigate through the rest of her sixteenth year.To be honest with you, the day I saw this movie was one of the best days of my childhood. Not because it had anything to do with the movie being this godsend or anything, but it was just one of the first days that was really "all about me" so to speak, because it was my birthday week, I believe. That day, we went to the grand opening of this store that sold a bunch of Thomas the Tank Engine merchandise, my parents spoiled me with that (for the record, I still have all that stuff. Yeah, it sits in a box, but I like to believe that their materialistic contributions to my happiness didn't go to waste). After that, we went to see this in the packed out theatre. I remember my dad blaring Metallica on the way to the theatre and now I laugh at that because it's kind of mismatched. It was so funny and very entertaining - I mean, never had being clumsy seemed so amusing on screen. This movie is a guilty pleasure. It has its flaws, but compared to the grand scale of its genre and target audience, it could have been a lot worse. What can I say? It's a good movie, alright?
- DirectorLawrence GutermanStarsAlec BaldwinTobey MaguireJeff GoldblumA look at the top-secret, high-tech espionage war going on between cats and dogs, of which their human owners are blissfully unaware.Both of my grandparents have never been the type to ever go to the movies, much less take their grandkids there. If you've ever had 2 sets of grandparents you'll know that one set was always secretly more fun than the other. My mom's parents were not that set but the efforts to be so certainly never went unnoticed. I remember they one time randomly decided to take me and my brother to the theatre to see this when it came out. I have no idea why. I don't remember anything about this film and, from what I have recalled over the years, I think I might consider myself lucky in that department.
- DirectorAndrew AdamsonVicky JensonStarsMike MyersEddie MurphyCameron DiazA mean lord exiles fairytale creatures to the swamp of a grumpy ogre, who must go on a quest and rescue a princess for the lord in order to get his land back.Me and my parents saw this one while my brother was at some lame church camp. I remember the theatre was packed out and it was one of the first times I remember me and my family enjoying the same movie because the good thing about Shrek is how it appeals to adults almost more than children. When it came out on VHS, I'm pretty sure we bought it that day.
- DirectorChris ColumbusStarsDaniel RadcliffeRupert GrintEmma WatsonAn orphaned boy enrolls in a school of wizardry, where he learns the truth about himself, his family and the terrible evil that haunts the magical world.Seeing how it was, arguably, the most popular "family" movie of that year (at least, having a young targeted audience and being PG), even though nobody in my family had any total pre-existing knowledge about Harry Potter, it was all the rage to go see this movie. I remember being so captivated by the film and, upon buying it on home video, me and brother tried to convert people to its wonder. Like, "no really, this movie is great."
I love the Harry Potter movies (all of them), but I don't consider myself a "fan" because it seems as though even the slimmest definition of "Harry Potter fan" doesn't apply to me due to my lack of fandom knowledge. - DirectorRobert RodriguezStarsAlexa PenaVegaDaryl SabaraAntonio BanderasUsing high tech gadgets, two kids have to save their reactivated OSS top spy parents when they're taken by an evil, high tech enemy.I saw this at the drive-in - sitting in the back of a Red Blazer. I remember when this movie came out there was heavy promotion. I remember drinking Hi-C drinks with the fooglies from the movie on the side. I remember the VHS viewings (and previews) vividly and it's one of those movies that I'm actually kind of able to appreciate more as I get older. It's cool because this kind of movie should be so lame and stupid, but it's actually not.
- DirectorSimon WincerStarsPaul HoganLinda KozlowskiJere BurnsAustralian Outback adventurer Mick "Crocodile" Dundee travels to Los Angeles with his young son while his longtime companion suspects foul play at a movie studio.If I remember correctly, this was shown at my local drive-in with Spy Kids. I just remember being at the drive-in and this movie playing and me and my brother not caring about it.
- DirectorRaja GosnellStarsMatthew LillardFreddie Prinze Jr.Sarah Michelle GellarAfter an acrimonious break up, the Mystery Inc. gang are individually brought to an island resort to investigate strange goings on.Like the experience with "Cats and Dogs", I randomly saw this one with my brother and grandfather. I don't really know why because nobody in my family has ever been a Scooby Doo fan. I mean, kids my age were definitely Scooby Doo fans and I had definitely seen some episodes before (every time I went to the dentist they always had them playing in the kids waiting room). I imagine the sentiment was more along the lines of "Hey! This a kid's movie! You guys are kids! Let's go!" and we're just like "Um, okay...thanks?" I guess because I was really young I did enjoy the movie but, of course, as I got older - not so much. Granted, certain parts aren't that bad and, regardless, it's kind of entertaining, but yeah for the most part just not for everyone not for me.
- DirectorTuck TuckerStarsSpencer KleinFrancesca Marie SmithJamil Walker SmithArnold and company must recover a stolen document needed in order to prevent the neighborhood from being bulldozed.The Hey Arnold series is great. I loved it then and I love it now. It holds up really well, and I still love to watch re-runs of the series. The movie, however? Very...dull. Even as a kid I wasn't impressed with the movie and, I don't know, even as a kid I never really cared about the "great movie expectations." In that, anytime they made "Such and such: THE MOVIE" it's always some type of big convoluted adventure and, I get it (that's where the whole "THE MOVIE" part comes in) but as a kid I didn't find the appeal of the adventure in this one. Very forgettable. Supposedly, this was originally slated to be a made-for-TV movie and "The Jungle Movie" finding Arnold's parents was to be the actual movie but it was switched around and The Jungle Movie never happened. Well then.
- DirectorSam RaimiStarsTobey MaguireKirsten DunstWillem DafoeAfter being bitten by a genetically-modified spider, a shy teenager gains spider-like abilities that he uses to fight injustice as a masked superhero and face a vengeful enemy.I mostly remember watching certain parts of this in the theatre and, if anything, I remember everything else me and my family did that day other than actually seeing this film. We went to the Dollar Tree before hand because I remember they had a lot of cool balloons and I was obsessed with airplanes at the time and I got this plastic WWII fighter-like plane that I believe the French used. As far as the movie goes I need to go back and watch it because I remember liking all 3 to some degree and, also, Tobey McGuire will always be Spider Man. I mean, I don't care about superhero movies as an entirety and people who take them too seriously frankly annoy me, but those new Amazing Spider Man movies just look really annoying and it makes me wanna watch these again.
Also, the same I saw this was also the first day I saw my father cry (not at the movie, though). - DirectorPeter HowittStarsRowan AtkinsonJohn MalkovichNatalie ImbrugliaAfter a sudden attack on MI5, Johnny English, Britain's most confident, yet unintelligent spy, becomes Britain's only spy.I remember me and mother saw this one and we originally were going to see Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, but we were both apprehensive about its PG-13 rating and thought it might be too scary for me (I remember seeing a scene in the previews I'm pretty sure with sharks swimming in the water and I was afraid of sharks at the time). I'm really glad we saw this instead though because, even though I probably haven't seen it since then, I remember it was really funny and really amusing. I remember me and my mom just gave it a rave review to my father and brother and, when it came out on Pay Per View, we rented it again and made them watch it and we all laughed at it. Also, I remember how cool it was that Natalie Imbruglia was in the film because when her cover of "Torn" came out, that song was my shyte.
- DirectorMark WatersStarsJamie Lee CurtisLindsay LohanMark HarmonAn overworked mother and her daughter did not get along. When they switch bodies, each is forced to adapt to the other's life for one freaky Friday.Even now this is a pretty fun movie, man. It's certainly one of the best remakes of its kind and, ever since I saw it in theatres, I've always really loved this movie. As a kid, I always preferred the older live-action Disney movies over the animated ones, and I loved the Jodie Foster "big two" Disney movies - Freaky Friday and Candleshoe. I was excited about the remake because I like Jamie Lee Curtis and every kid back then loved Lindsay Lohan. I don't remember much about my initial thoughts on the film because, like I said, even now I love it and have seen it multiple times since it came out (namely on repeated TV viewings). The part where they're on that talk show and Anna's embodiment of Tess causes her to act wild and erratic on it is so brilliantly funny. "I- I don't remember reading ANY of this in your book!" -"Hello! It's called 'reading between the lines!"
- DirectorJohn EngNorton VirgienPriit PärnStarsJodi CarlisleLacey ChabertTim CurryThe Rugrats get tangled in an exotic adventure, where they're helped by the Thornberrys, a family that travels the world making nature documentaries.I was so exited to see this when it came out - not only because I loved Rugrats (though the series had gone downhill) and I loved The Wild Thornberrys but because of Nickelodeon's "Odorama" card to accompany the film. You had to go to Burger King to get one and, not too long before the movie, we went. I remember only 2 of the smells - peanut butter and feet. I wasn't brave enough to smell the bad ones but, still, I was excited. On the way to the theatre, however, I realized that, halfway there, we had forgotten them. I protested the trip and demand we either turn around or go back by Burger King to get a new one. My parents insisted that the "theatre would probably hand them out" but I knew they weren't going to. They didn't. And the whole time I just sat there feeling left out on the fun. Hey, I was 8.
- DirectorRob MinkoffStarsEddie MurphyMarsha ThomasonJennifer TillyA realtor and his wife and children are summoned to a mansion, which they soon discover is haunted, and while they attempt to escape, he learns an important lesson about the family he has neglected.I wasn't really dying to see this when it came out, but I wasn't opposed to seeing it when the opportunity presented itself to me. Me and my brother joined these friends of my parents' for an outing. I mostly just remember feeling awkward the whole time around people I had never been with outside the company of my parents. Anyway, the movie didn't impress me even at a young age. There were parts that were humorous but, even then, it was just all really predictable to me and, ultimately, forgettable.
- DirectorBo WelchStarsMike MyersSpencer BreslinDakota FanningTwo bored children have their lives turned upside down when a talking cat comes to visit them.This is lame, but here it goes: I saw this on a "date" with my "girlfriend" at the time (I put "girlfriend" in quotes because I was 8 at the time so anything before puberty doesn't count - plus my mom with us). This was one of those movies that they also screened for us in school when it came out on home video and my fellow classmates loved to reference and quote the "Son-of-a-BLEEEEEP!!!" scene. I'm sure as a kid I enjoyed the film to some degree, but now times have changed (although my laughing at Alec Baldwin's beer belly scene hasn't).
- DirectorAndrew AdamsonKelly AsburyConrad VernonStarsMike MyersEddie MurphyCameron DiazShrek and Fiona travel to the Kingdom of Far Far Away, where Fiona's parents are King and Queen, to celebrate their marriage. When they arrive, they find they are not as welcome as they thought they would be.As a kid it was always a treat to go to the movies because, like when you're older/ an adult, you just don't get much of say-so in when you go. I remember going to see this because it was so random and out-of-the-blue and you always remember those spur of the moment surprises from when you were a kid. I remember loving Shrek 2 and, when it came out on DVD, I'm pretty sure I rented it again and again because it was so good. As time went on, however, I found myself becoming less impressed and enthralled with it with each viewing. It's still a good movie and certainly a worthy sequel but, I don't know, as I get older it's just not as ever as good as I remember it being.
- DirectorStephen HillenburgMark OsborneStarsTom KennyJeffrey TamborRodger BumpassSpongeBob takes leave from Bikini Bottom in order to track down, with Patrick, King Neptune's stolen crown.Like The Rugrats Movie, when the SpongeBob Movie came out every kid who had ever watched Nickelodeon and every parent who had ever watched Nickelodeon with their kids, went and saw this movie. It was the event of every childhood existence. I totally saw this with my church's youth group. Hell of an outing, huh? I remember when we left the theatre, I overheard this woman say "That was the silliest movie I've ever seen. The Incredibles was better." This statement really got to me, in that, it was kind of the perfect summation of the movie at large. It WAS silly because it was meant to be and, if anything, it was kind of a "f_ck you" to The Incredibles and the sense of "serious" animated movie. Sure, The Incredibles was/is a better movie, but at least SpongeBob didn't care whether you liked it or not. That said, even now and then, the movie had its flaws. It wasn't as good as the TV show by any means, but it was amusing. Make no mistake, the movie killed the series and, if anything, a lot of the reason why the show sucks now is because of the humor incorporated in some of the movie's downfalls.
- DirectorGarry MarshallStarsAnne HathawayCallum BlueJulie AndrewsNow settled in Genovia, Princess Mia faces a new revelation: she is being primed for an arranged marriage to an English suitor.This also was a church trip but, honestly, I probably would have saw it in theatres anyway. I liked the first film and everyone in my family did as well so, for that reason, I was pretty eager to see this film. Wow. What a disappointment and what a bad sequel. I mean, if you felt kind of embarrassed for liking the first one, you feel no embarrassment hating this one. I actually watched it again recently to see if it was as bad as I remember and, while not totally, it still was a pretty bad movie. It almost feels like night and day actually, like, the characters feel totally different. I think the premise was cool that Mia had only a limited amount of time to be married but, I don't know, they just made the new characters unlikable and the old characters didn't feel the same. And the humor? "Ding dang dong" anyone? No thanks. I will say that, like the first one, the part where Julie Andrews is in court and says "Shut up" is pretty damn funny - but that's it.
- DirectorKerry ConranStarsGwyneth PaltrowJude LawAngelina JolieAfter New York City receives a series of attacks from giant flying robots, a reporter teams up with a pilot in search of their origin, as well as the reason for the disappearances of famous scientists around the world.This was one of the greatest movie-going experiences I've ever had. I had no idea this movie had been released when it came out. My mother wanted to see it and I came along with her, having absolutely no idea the film existed - let alone what the plot was. I loved feeling like I was watching an old movie, and I loved that it had this comic book/ film noir feel to it, without being this superhero piece per say. I loved especially that Jude Law was a likable hero and that his character wasn't this macho-male, strong silent type, and I loved that Gwyneth Paltrow was this sarcastic, brassy female. After this movie came out, I was horrified that nobody my age had seen it or heard of it, like I had. Even now, it's completely one of the most underrated films of that decade and it will always be a personal favorite of mine. I remember that year constantly playing "Sky Captain" in my backyard with neighborhood kids. It sounds lame, but it was a refreshing break from playing Freddy Krueger and pretending to kill my fellow neighborhood friends.
- DirectorBrad SilberlingStarsJim CarreyJude LawMeryl StreepWhen a massive fire kills their parents, three children are delivered to the custody of cousin and stage actor Count Olaf, who is secretly plotting to steal their parents' vast fortune.This is, also, a pretty underrated movie. It pisses me off when people say it's a Harry Potter rip-off. True, the success of Harry Potter and book series adaptations, was growing, but I liked that this film (and the original books) had a sense of humor and darkness to them that overtly separated them from anything out there. Granted, I never read all the books because, by Book 6, I was like "Holy god, by now if they don't have a consistent foster-home, they need to take matters in their own hands." This movie, however, did a great job at incorporating the series' darkness and sense of humor, but also not making it too dark and depressing. Plus, Meryl Streep's character in this film, Aunt Josephine, is one of her best characters. I don't really mind that it never got a sequel, for it does work well as a standalone film and, like the books, it would have just become overkill, I think, had they attempted to do the whole series.
- DirectorAlfonso CuarónStarsDaniel RadcliffeEmma WatsonRupert GrintHarry Potter, Ron and Hermione return to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for their third year of study, where they delve into the mystery surrounding an escaped prisoner who poses a dangerous threat to the young wizard.We randomly saw this on a Saturday afternoon and the theatre was pretty packed out. I remember being captivated by the time-travel sequence because it was the first time I had really seen it be done so innovatively in a film before.
Film wise (from what I gather) Harry Potter fans either love or hate this one. It's not my favorite (it might even be my least favorite), but I appreciate the film and the direction it took the series (though I really love the feel of the first 2 films). - DirectorTim BurtonMike JohnsonStarsJohnny DeppHelena Bonham CarterEmily WatsonWhen a shy groom practices his wedding vows in the inadvertent presence of a deceased young woman, she rises from the grave assuming he has married her.Maybe I need to see this one again but I remember it being very underwhelming. Like, yeah it was beautifully shot and crafted but, movie wise, I don't remember it being that entertaining. Even as a kid I remember, during the big skeleton musical number, thinking to myself: "I'm getting kind of bored, now." I haven't seen it since it came out some 10 years ago so maybe it's time for a re-watch but, again, it's a beautiful film but certainly (In my opinion) the first of Burton's downward cinematic spiral.
- DirectorSteve BoxNick ParkStarsPeter SallisHelena Bonham CarterRalph FiennesWallace and his loyal dog, Gromit, set out to discover the mystery behind the garden sabotage that plagues their village and threatens the annual giant vegetable growing contest.I was going through a Wallace and Gromit phase when this came out. I still love them pretty well. The movie is pretty good but (admittedly) I haven't seen it since it first came out. Again, I guess I'm just always really weird and pessimistic about big-screen movie adaptations, for they just don't ever really do much for me. Even still, this one is harmless and it's good, but I'd take any of the short films over this one any day (except maybe "The Wrong Trousers" - always been my least favorite W&G short).
- DirectorWayne WangStarsAnnaSophia RobbJeff DanielsEva Marie SaintA mischievous dog befriends a lonely young girl in a new town and helps her make new friends.Ugh. I saw this one, more or less, as a school assignment. At the time, I was living in a small town in Tennessee and if there's one stereotype about the south that is true, it's that they love a "good book about a dog." (Quoting Relative Strangers there) I kid you not, we read that stupid Because of Winn-Dixie book 2 straight years in a row. When the movie came out, I think my teacher was offering extra credit for anyone who went to see it that weekend. Never one to turn down an excuse to go to the movies, my mom took me and brother to go see it. I don't remember exactly what my initial thoughts were going in. I guess maybe it was mostly curiosity because I had never before been in a situation where I had actually read a book and then had a movie be made of it right after I had read it, you know? I didn't like that book, but I didn't hate it as much as I do now. Needless to say, I didn't like the movie and thought it was lame.
- DirectorAngela RobinsonStarsLindsay LohanMichael KeatonCheryl HinesMaggie Peyton, the new owner of Herbie, Number 53, the free-wheelin' Volkswagen bug with a mind of its own, puts the car through its paces on the road to becoming a NASCAR competitor.I hold a soft place in my heart for Herbie: The Love Bug. The Love Bug (1968) was the first movie I ever fell in love with. I remember being a kid and being so absorbed with that film – it was the first time I discovered the magic of movies. I remember absorbing myself into the film – pretending I was the characters. I loved escaping into the world of movies and how, in the movies, anything could happen. Yeah I knew that cars weren’t really alive but, because the film portrayed it in such a believable manor, it was almost as if there could be real magic in the world that you see in the movies. Sure, I got older and other films came along but, even now, The Love Bug and Herbie holds a special place in my heart.
For that reason, when Herbie: Fully Loaded came out, I had to go see it. It was just a requirement of me that I had to. I knew that, in order to appeal to my generation that it'd probably pander to lower denominator and, yeah, the film does in many ways. Also, it was hard for me to believe that Herbie would be in a junkyard because, you know, famous racecar. Then again, despite the flaws (needless NASCAR cameos, needless SFX effects) I had a fun time watching the movie. I actually randomly watched in again recently and managed to still find some enjoyment from it. - DirectorTim BurtonStarsJohnny DeppFreddie HighmoreDavid KellyCharlie, a young boy from an impoverished family, and four other kids win a tour of an amazing chocolate factory run by an imaginative chocolatier, Willy Wonka, and his staff of Oompa-Loompas.Like certain candies, this is a good example of "style" not necessarily overtrumping substance. Forget comparisons with the classic original, this film still would have its flaws. Let me clarify this first. This is not a bad movie by any means. It's admirable and has its good qualities but, again, style of substance not so much. The acting is really bad in certain parts and other times its just not that funny and it goes on a little too long. I remember I liked the "I like grapes" line and I also remember, even as a kid, wanting to punch Charlie when he says the line "It's candy. It doesn't have to make sense." Like, what the hell? Who says stuff like that so genuinely?
- DirectorMike NewellStarsDaniel RadcliffeEmma WatsonRupert GrintHarry Potter finds himself competing in a hazardous tournament between rival schools of magic, but he is distracted by recurring nightmares.Funny story about this one: I have a fear of snakes. Actually, most animals freak me out to some degree - especially the reptilian and mean looking ones (except iguanas and chameleons - they're cool). Anyway, needless to say, snakes in movies that are presented in a scary way don't sit well with me. I remember going into the theatre for this one wishing, and hoping, and dreaming, and praying that there wouldn't be a sequence with a snake in it (seeing how I heard some people say it was "scary"). Well, the movie opens with (none other than) a snake slithering throughout a night scene. I was like "Nope! Not happening." So I lied to my mom and said I was going to the bathroom. I kid you not, I hung out in the theatre lobby for a good 15-20 minutes refusing to go back in. I looked pathetic standing in the lobby and outside the theatre's game room watching other kids play. Eventually, my brother came out, yelled at me to come back in, and assured me that the snake was gone. I spent the remainder of the film hiding in my jacket - prepared to cover my eyes at any sign of a snake. Thank God I didn't see the Chamber of Secrets in theatres. Also, no surprise that this was the last Harry Potter film I saw in theatres.
- DirectorAndrew AdamsonStarsTilda SwintonGeorgie HenleyWilliam MoseleyWhile playing, Lucy and her siblings find a wardrobe that lands them in a mystical place called Narnia. Here they realize that it was fated and they must now unite with Aslan to defeat an evil queen.Big screen Disney adaptation of a classic novel? Round up the busses, it's time for a field trip! Saw this with my 5th grade class in theatres. Disney heavily promoted this and, as a result, you could tell what scenes played the most in ads and on Disney Channel. Every kid in the audience repeated a line they had heard in ads ("He's a beaver. He shouldn't be saying anything!" was the main one).
I actually saw this one again in theatres with my brother while my mother went and saw Brokeback Mountain in the next theatre. I haven't seen it since those days but I remember it being a good movie and a fairly beautiful adaptation. I haven't seen any of the sequels. - DirectorJohn LasseterJoe RanftStarsOwen WilsonBonnie HuntPaul NewmanOn the way to the biggest race of his life, a hotshot rookie race car gets stranded in a rundown town and learns that winning isn't everything in life.This was the last movie I saw at a drive-inn some near 10 years ago. My area still has that very same drive-in, I've just yet to really go back. Anyway, Cars isn't a bad movie, it just isn't anywhere near being great. End of story.
- DirectorGil KenanStarsMitchel MussoSam LernerSpencer LockeThree teens discover that their neighbor's house is really a living, breathing, scary monster.Why this film doesn't get more praise and adoration is beyond me and is, frankly, a sin. I remember watching this movie religiously when it came out on DVD and trying to convert everyone around me to its greatness. Seeing it in theatres, however, was just wonderful. I remember witnessing the opening scene of the film, with the camera following this orange leaf as it gets stuck in this little girl's tricycle. Easily one of the greatest opening sequences of any film - animated or not. I remember looking at the film's design and thinking to myself "THAT's fall." When I think fall, I think of this film. When I think of Halloween I think of Michael Myers, I think of Hocus Pocus, and then I soon think of this film.
- DirectorDavid BowersSam FellStarsHugh JackmanKate WinsletIan McKellenThe story of an uptown rat that gets flushed down the toilet from his penthouse apartment, ending in the sewers of London, where he has to learn a whole new and different way of life.I really liked this movie. It was fun and exciting and I liked the characters and the idea of this other world, you know? Plus I thought it was funny and somewhat ingenious that the climax of the film was literally centered around the mass population flushing their toilets at the same time because of the halftime for a major sporting event or something.
- DirectorAndy FickmanStarsAmanda BynesLaura RamseyChanning TatumWhen her brother decides to ditch for a couple weeks, Viola heads over to his elite boarding school, disguised as him, and proceeds to fall for his school's star soccer player, and soon learns she's not the only one with romantic troubles.Going to see this one was an experience because it was the first time I was ever the only one in the theatre. Also, I'm pretty sure the screen/ projection was up too high because there were so many scenes where the boom-mike was visible (I've yet to go back and watch it again on TV or DVD to see if it was the theatres fault or if the film really just has that many goofs).
- DirectorGary WinickStarsDakota FanningJulia RobertsOprah WinfreyWilbur the pig is scared of the end of the season, because he knows that come that time, he will end up on the dinner table. He hatches a plan with Charlotte, a spider that lives in his pen, to ensure that this will never happen.I was never a fan of the animated movie, even when I was a kid. I guess maybe because it made me sad because, not only did I know Charlotte died but, also, knowing it took place on a farm scared me because as a kid I associate farms with being a scary place where animals died and were hurt. Plus animals are just freaky anyway. Anyway, I only saw this one because it was for a field trip my grade took in 6th grade and, sadly, it was probably one of the last ones we ever took. I think later that year, however, we had to go to this church and be taught about drunk driving and watch these horribly acted live performances of a kid who dies of alcohol poisoning (we got to even watch his funeral too - and there was a mirror in the open casket because IT COULD BE US IN THERE ONE DAY!), but that field trip doesn't really count.
- DirectorMichael LembeckStarsTim AllenMartin ShortElizabeth MitchellSanta, a.k.a. Scott Calvin, is faced with double-duty: how to keep his new family happy and how to stop Jack Frost from taking over Christmas.I saw this one on a Sunday when one of my best friends called me up and randomly invited me and this other girl (who eventually dropped out of high school and supposedly joined a gang...who would fear a gang of tattooed white girls with chestnut hair?) to go see it. I certainly was curious about the movie itself because The Santa Clause (1994) was one of my favorite movies growing up. Actually, funny story about that: My parents were heavy into the taping and bootlegging back in the day. They recorded any and everything on VHS, since this was before the days of DVR. I have stacks upon stacks of taped Buffy the Vampire Slayer episodes, sporting events, and even concerts (Hole, No Doubt, Pearl Jam). Well, my parents had taped The Santa Clause and it shared a VHS tape with parts of Forrest Gump (1994) and Nosferatu (1922) - actually, it was dead last on that tape. I'd always have to stop and rewind it and time it at the point on the tape when The Santa Clause started. Sometimes I'd fall asleep and the VCR would automatically rewind it and it was agonizing fast-forwarding through Forrest Gump and I was always scared I'd stop on a scary part of Nosferatu.
Anyway, The Santa Clause was one of my childhood/ Christmas favorites. Even though The Santa Clause 2 has its flaws, it actually isn't a bad sequel (Molly Shannon's "Man, I Feel Like Some Christmas" still makes me laugh every time). This one sucked though. It just all seemed really uninspired and like nobody really wanted to do it. Very pointless film. - DirectorJoe NussbaumStarsAmanda BynesSara PaxtonMatt LongA modern retelling of Snow White set against students in their freshman year of college in the greek system.I actually don't remember anything about this movie. I just remember getting up at one point to go to the bathroom and, as I exited the bathroom, these tweens about my age asked if I was "emo" (because I was wearing a black hoodie???) to which I responded "Um, I don't think so."
- DirectorStephen J. AndersonStarsDaniel HansenWesley SingermanAngela BassettLewis is a brilliant inventor who meets mysterious stranger named Wilbur Robinson, whisking Lewis away in a time machine and together they team up to track down Bowler Hat Guy in a showdown that ends with an unexpected twist of fate.I remember thinking this movie would suck and, when me and my parents saw it, I remember being kinda pissed at them that they wouldn't let me see Grindhouse - that said, this one was pretty good and I was actually pretty impressed with it. Keep moving forward!
- DirectorAdam ShankmanStarsJohn TravoltaQueen LatifahNikki BlonskyPleasantly plump teenager Tracy Turnblad teaches 1962 Baltimore a thing or two about integration after landing a spot on a local TV dance show.I'm not totally into musicals, but I'm not an "anti-musical" dude who's phobic about them or anything. I saw it the Saturday night after it opened and, really, I had a fun time watching the movie. The entire theatre laughed when Walken and Travolta danced together. I thought it was more amusing that funny. Fun musical numbers though and it kinda did make you wanna get up and dance. My mom bought the soundtrack soon after that and she played it many times in her car during that year.
- DirectorKevin LimaStarsAmy AdamsSusan SarandonJames MarsdenA young maiden in a land called Andalasia, who is prepared to be wed, is sent away to New York City by an evil Queen, where she falls in love with a lawyer.In many ways, this was the biggest movie of 2007. They advertised this like there was no tomorrow and I remember saying many times to myself "That movie is going to earn a bajillion dollars and then some." There's a reason for that though: it had such an ingenious and universally appealing idea. I liked how it was kind of a satire about Disney movies and, while I've seen it many times, I still appreciate it and think it's a good movie.
- DirectorJason ReitmanStarsElliot PageMichael CeraJennifer GarnerFaced with an unplanned pregnancy, an offbeat young woman makes a selfless decision regarding the unborn child.I saw Juno right before it blew up. Like, it was obviously starting to catch on but it hadn't become quite a pop culture phenomenon that it became eventually. I was a little skeptical because I hate the movie Napoleon Dynamite and, to me, this film had that vibe. When it first came on I even leaned back and groaned in my seat because I was feeling a Dynamite vibe coming. Eventually, I fell in love with these characters, yes with the dialogue, and I was even moved in the end. Sure, as time goes on, Juno is never as good as you remember it being and, at the time, snobby people tried to detract from this film's greatness probably due to its popularity. That said, even now, I still appreciate the film and do massively enjoy it. It's good to watch every few years and remember the "first time" feelings you had when watching it.
- DirectorHenry SelickStarsDanny ElfmanChris SarandonCatherine O'HaraJack Skellington, king of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town, but his attempts to bring Christmas to his home causes confusion.I think it was 2007 or 2008 that Disney re-released this, which isn't totally uncommon because I think they've done it again since then. For the record, this is a good movie and certainly is an impressive and ambitious one, but it's one of those movies where I'm so ready for it to be off. I'm not going to say it burns itself out but, once it becomes formulaic, I get bored with it. I prefer Coraline over this one, truth be told.
- DirectorAndrew StantonStarsBen BurttElissa KnightJeff GarlinIn the distant future, a small waste-collecting robot inadvertently embarks on a space journey that will ultimately decide the fate of mankind.One of my all time favorite animated films and, certainly, my favorite Pixar film. I remember the day I saw it. I was looking on IMDB and saw where it was, like, already in the Top 250 at a high position. I thought to myself "Wall-E!? Really!? Are you f_cking kidding me?" My curiosity immediately took over and I think, later that same day, I was on my way to the theatre to see it.
- DirectorLana WachowskiLilly WachowskiStarsEmile HirschMatthew FoxChristina RicciYoung driver, Speed Racer, aspires to be champion of the racing world with the help of his family and his high-tech Mach 5 automobile.I actually loved this movie and I think it's terribly underrated. What a beautiful film too - just this colorful, poppy, spot-on look and feel to the movie. I think it's very cool and I was so glad it was PG because it was a cool kids movie that kids would have fun seeing. I had only seen the original series a couple of times but, either way, I didn't care and, I don't know, maybe because it's my inner Love Bug/ Herbie fandom I maybe have a soft spot for racing movies? Either way, I enjoyed this film and I still do.
- DirectorSteven SpielbergStarsHarrison FordCate BlanchettShia LaBeoufIndiana Jones becomes entangled in a Soviet plot to uncover the secret behind mysterious artifacts known as the Crystal Skulls.I hadn't seen the previous films in a long time when I saw this one. I vaguely remember watching them as a kid and, even then, I always thought the first one was kinda boring and I always was exposed to Last Crusade more for some reason. Either way, I was curious to see this one. I remember it being pretty good up until the ending. (SPOILER) Aliens... Really?
- DirectorJason FriedbergAaron SeltzerStarsCarmen ElectraVanessa LacheyNicole ParkerOver the course of one evening, an unsuspecting group of twenty-somethings find themselves bombarded by a series of natural disasters and catastrophic events.I saw this one with some friends and, I have to admit, compared to the likes of Date Movie and Meet the Spartans, I didn't find this one quite as atrocious. It's not a good movie by any means but, I don't know, some of the jokes were kinda amusing and I thought the Juno parody was rather spot on. Just saying. Giving credit where credit is due.
- DirectorMichael McCullersStarsTina FeyAmy PoehlerSigourney WeaverA successful, single businesswoman who dreams of having a baby discovers she is infertile and hires a working class woman to be her unlikely surrogate.It was funny because during the previews before the film, they showed a trailer for The Strangers (scarier than the actual movie, just saying) and a few screams and gasps erupted and this one girl in the back yelled "Oh hell no I didn't sign up to see that!" Everyone laughed.
I admit that every time this movie is on TV, it's hard for me to say no. It's pretty funny and who isn't Team Amy and Tina? Steve Martin is hilarious in this and I love how he thinks giving the gift of "uninterrupted eye contact" is rewarding. - DirectorCatherine HardwickeStarsKristen StewartRobert PattinsonBilly BurkeWhen Bella Swan moves to a small town in the Pacific Northwest, she falls in love with Edward Cullen, a mysterious classmate who reveals himself to be a 108-year-old vampire.At the time I had a pretty large group of friends and we were all in 8th grade. All of them (except for me) were fans of the Twilight books to some degree and, therefore, when this film came out it was a big deal to them (plus, for better or worse, it was a pop culture phenomenon for its time). I certainly wasn't one to turn down a group outing, but I wasn't exactly looking forward in relishing the fact that I was going to see it opening night. SIGH. I just remember watching the film and thinking constantly to myself: "THIS is the story that people are so in love with? Am I missing something?"
It was a fun night though because I was with a large group of friends and afterwards we ate pizza and partied in a 8th grade clean-cut slightly deviant KIDZ Bop fashion. Also, one of my friend's mom who was driving us around was f_cking crazy and she said 2 of my best friends (who are still my best friends to this day) had "demons" following them because they were/are gay...this was coming from a woman who just took a bunch of 8th grade twats to see Twilight and eventually got divorced and remarried in like 2 seconds. Just saying. - DirectorSeth GordonStarsReese WitherspoonVince VaughnMary SteenburgenA couple struggles to visit all four of their divorced parents on Christmas.It's been a while since I've seen this (I've seen it one other time while half-ass watching it during the holiday season), but I don't remember it being that bad. I think it has a cool premise because the holidays are every stressful in trying to please every different set of families. I don't remember too much about the film but I remember finding it amusing.
- DirectorPatrick LussierStarsJensen AcklesJaime KingKerr SmithTom returns to his hometown on the tenth anniversary of the Valentine's night massacre that claimed the lives of 22 people. Instead of a homecoming, Tom finds himself suspected of committing the murders, and it seems like his old flame is the only one that believes he's innocent.This was a pivotal moment for me because this was the first R-rated film I saw in theatres and, also, was the first scary movie I saw in theatres. I love scary movies but I have kinda generalized anxiety in that I always fear that I'm going to put myself in a situation where I'm trapped and I have to endure that discomfort indefinitely. In other words, I just didn't like the idea of going into a theatre for a horror movie and being disturbed and scared amongst the company of strangers. Rather ironic for me because, even then, I loved horror movies and I seen a fair share of graphic ones. Well, the time had come, and I decided that I was going to see this one because it looked really cool. The original My Bloody Valentine has some admirable qualities but, overall, the characters were annoying and the whole mining aspect wasn't all that appealing. Either way, I realized that I had nothing to worry about and that, if anything, watching horror films with a crowd was more fun (not always, however). I remember how after the film came out, everyone in my class was talking about it the next weekend - primarily because of the "3D tities" as they called it and that whole sequence. Overall, I remember the movie, like the original, being so-so. Some parts were cool other parts lame. I liked the cinematography though and I think, overall, it captured the spirit of the first film well enough.
- DirectorMarcus NispelStarsJared PadaleckiAmanda RighettiDerek MearsA group of young adults visit a boarded up campsite named Crystal Lake where they soon encounter the mysterious Jason Voorhees and his deadly intentions.I suppose after the success of My Bloody Valentine, I caught the "horror bug" and vowed to see as many horror films in theatres as I could...even if they were crappy remakes. In many ways, this is just another Friday the 13th sequel disguised as a remake. Either way, I don't feel much animosity towards this one because Friday the 13th (1980) was a bad movie to begin with. A fun bad movie. But a bad movie that, in my opinion, has always been overpraised. Either way this one was pretty pathetic but, then again, when you compare it to something like Part III or VIII there's not too much of a difference in quality.
- DirectorTyler PerryStarsTyler PerryKeshia Knight PulliamDerek LukeMischievous grandma Madea lands in jail, where she meets a variety of mixed-up characters.Having seen other Tyler Perry movies, I knew going into this film that, despite the title claiming to seemingly be primarily about Madea, I knew this wouldn't be the case. I was right and that's not to say that there's anything wrong with this but, I don't know, the only parts of this movie I remember enjoying were the Madea parts. I think the side story had something to do with a hooker?
- DirectorDennis IliadisStarsGarret DillahuntMonica PotterTony GoldwynAfter kidnapping and brutally assaulting two young women, a gang unknowingly finds refuge at a vacation home belonging to the parents of one of the victims: a mother and father who devise an increasingly gruesome series of revenge tactics.In many ways, I appreciate this remake. It does polish up some of the shortcomings of the original and, for that reason alone (in addition to the 'Virgin Spring' affiliations of the original), one can't really hold the "remake card" against the film. This one, also, is a little more entertaining but, in terms of an "experience" I recommend the original. I think this film should have worked on the characters a little more, for they weren't really that developed and their motivation was solely whether or not if they were good or bad. Also, it totally pusses out in the emotional parts of the original (they should have killed the youngest son and Mari like in the original - period).
- DirectorSteve ShillStarsBeyoncéIdris ElbaAli LarterA successful executive's seemingly perfect career and marriage starts falling apart when his firm hires a seductive office temp.I remember this movie more for the terrible movie going experience I had watching it. Initially, the screen was up too high and then it was too dark and then the sound was too low. Then, it freezes and cuts to black! The light come on and this voice says "Coming soon to Carmike Theatres" or something like that. We wait 5 minutes and then the film resumes (still, the screen is up too high) and the curtains aren't fully back.
Movie wise? Mediocre. I don't think, unlike Fatal Attraction, that Ali Larter was that big of a threat to have to die. - DirectorJaume Collet-SerraStarsVera FarmigaPeter SarsgaardIsabelle FuhrmanA husband and wife who recently lost their baby adopt a 9-year-old girl who is not nearly as innocent as she appears.I was pretty impressed with this thriller and I remember thinking to myself how they were going to pull off the ending and, I must say, it's pretty unexpected and pretty creepy. I love it when Esther hurts that bitchy girl from her class - I laughed my ass off at that scene.
- DirectorDavid R. EllisStarsNick ZanoKrista AllenAndrew FiscellaA horrifying premonition saves a young man and his friends from death during a racetrack accident but terrible fates await them nonetheless.Laughably bad. It's especially hilarious how about an hour into the film they're like "It's over!? Yes! We did it!" I mean, who are you fooling? It'd be one thing if the film was almost over but, at that point, we clearly had about another 40 minutes to go. My biggest problem with this film was the death scenes - they were all set up by otherwise irrelevant occurrences. "Hey, let's randomly throw rocks in this direction." "I have this lucky coin I'm going play with."
- DirectorDavid TwohyStarsMilla JovovichSteve ZahnTimothy OlyphantTwo pairs of lovers on a Hawaiian vacation discover that psychopaths are stalking and murdering tourists on the islands.Very dull movie. Very predictable too. Everyone who saw it was like "Oh wow! I did not see the ending coming!" Really people? Really? (SPOILER) The 2 people the movie wants us to think are the bad guys, of course, aren't going to be the bad guys. And that only leaves the 2 separate couples and, still, it'd be too obvious to make the next likely couple be the bad guys so, if you read beneath the intentionally vague dialogue, you'll figure out who it is. I don't remember much of anything about the film other than it's lame "twist"
- DirectorStewart HendlerStarsBriana EviganRumer WillisCarrie FisherA group of sorority sisters try to cover up the death of their house-sister after a prank gone wrong, only to be stalked by a serial killer.Even though I haven't seen it since it came out, I remember actually liking this one pretty well. I need to see it again, but I remember it being a very well made slasher movie. Wasn't Carrie Fisher their house mother? I think so. That was fun.
- DirectorKaryn KusamaStarsMegan FoxAmanda SeyfriedAdam BrodyA newly-possessed high-school cheerleader turns into a succubus who specializes in killing her male classmates. Can her best friend put an end to the horror?The first time I saw this movie, I was unimpressed. It had moments I liked and then other moments that I thought were dull and didn't balance humor and horror well. But then the film came out on DVD and FX began showing it on TV and, suddenly, I had a desire to relive the film. As time goes on and with each viewing I can't help but like and appreciate the film a little more. I guess, if you want to be a cult film, you can't immediately enforce that on viewers - you have to earn it and, in time, I think Jennifer's Body may achieve that. Plus, being a big fan of Hole and 90s alt. rock, I was enthralled that a movie was named after one of my favorite Hole songs (and kudos for ending with "Violet").
- DirectorRob ZombieStarsScout Taylor-ComptonTyler ManeMalcolm McDowellLaurie Strode struggles to come to terms with her brother Michael's deadly return to Haddonfield, Illinois; meanwhile, Michael prepares for another reunion with his sister.I hated Rob Zombie's 2007 remake of Halloween for many reasons. Namely, because it was a remake and my stubborn male ego wouldn't be objective. When that objectivity died down by the time I got around to seeing it, I realized it was just a sucky, shameless movie all around. Had my father not wanted to see this, I doubt I would have ever gotten around to it. I expected the worst.
I'm not going to say that this was a good horror movie, or ever a good movie, but it wasn't as bad as I thought. I guess I mostly appreciated how this film attempted to be its own movie and not a remake of the original Halloween II (save for the first 15 minutes). Of course, as a standalone film, it's still not good, but I appreciate certain things about it, I guess - if only because it doesn't rape any legacy. - DirectorQuentin TarantinoStarsBrad PittDiane KrugerEli RothIn Nazi-occupied France during World War II, a plan to assassinate Nazi leaders by a group of Jewish U.S. soldiers coincides with a theatre owner's vengeful plans for the same.I was rather nervous to see this in theatres because, initially, I thought it was just going to be about Jews being killed. Thankfully it wasn't. This was one of the best movie going experiences of my life and I just remember being so happy that the packed theatre in my local chain-theatre Carmike Cinemas in somewhere nowhere Alabama was watching this kind of movie - one that had a fair share of heavily subtitled scenes. I don't know if it's my favorite Tarantino per say, but it very well could be. Best Film of 2009
- DirectorOren PeliStarsKatie FeatherstonMicah SloatMark FredrichsAfter moving into a suburban home, a couple becomes increasingly disturbed by a nightly demonic presence.In 2009, when Paramount gave a wide-release to Paranormal Activity (Blair Witch style), it was the event of that point in the year. Seeing how I was going through a "horror in theatres" phase, I had to see this one. I actually love The Blair Witch Project and, I'm not saying that's the main reason I wanted to see this one, but I did find that whole appeal and comparison aspect fascinating. Truth be told, it's hard for me to give an opinion about the film now because the hype has died down and been agonized on by the endless, laughable sequels. Still, at the time, I remember being somewhat impressed by the film. Sure, it got to a point where you felt like the same scene was happening over and over again, and it got annoying how every line out of Katie's mouth was "Micka (or whatever his name was) turn off the camera!" The ending finale made everyone in the theatre jump and, honestly, I was genuinely freaked by the movie when it came out. I appreciated that it went for a more grounded and realistic approach (like one of those various Travel Channel shows about ghosts you see play on a Friday night) and, while my positive review dwindled as the hype did, I'd be curious to see what my opinion would be of it now. Still, it was a product of its time and, whenever I think of the year 2009, I think of it. Anytime you'd be in class and there'd be a strange noise, somebody would immediately say "Paranormal Activity!"
- DirectorJohn Lee HancockStarsQuinton AaronSandra BullockTim McGrawThe story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who became an All-American football player and first-round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring woman and her family.Everyone where I'm from (in the South) loves this movie - go figure. It's inspiration, it has football, it has rich white people doing a good service to poor black people, it has football, it has Sandra Bullock, there's a little bit of religion in it. But seriously folks, I've seen this movie more times that I care to admit for that reason but, even still, I have to remember that it wasn't bad and that I did like it to some degree. I cried at it, I know, because I'm a loser that way. Sandra Bullock does a great job and she does portray that southern woman persona very well.
- DirectorRuben FleischerStarsJesse EisenbergEmma StoneWoody HarrelsonA shy student trying to reach his family in Ohio, a gun-toting bruiser in search of the last Twinkie and a pair of sisters striving to get to an amusement park join forces in a trek across a zombie-filled America.I don't like zombies and I don't really totally understand the total appeal of them. Walking Dead fanatics are kind of annoying for that reason, but this was one of the first incarnations of a zombie product where it mostly strictly comedic. I thought it would suck, but it wasn't bad. After a while, however, I think it kind of burns itself out and, honestly, I don't remember anything after Bill Murray comes in.
- DirectorRobert ZemeckisStarsJim CarreyGary OldmanColin FirthAn animated retelling of Charles Dickens' classic novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption, courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions.This was about a year or so after Twilight came out and, seeing how I was still acquainted with that large group of friends, "New Moon" was intended to be a repeat of that outing. Planning didn't go so hot that time though, for tickets sold out fast and last-minute people were coming along. Me and my girlfriend at the time (haven't had one since 9th grade. Utterly single. I'll probably be alone for the rest of my life, but I'm fine with that. I have many people to live vicariously through) gave up our tickets for these last-minute people and we saw this one instead. I'm not saying that I would have rather seen New Moon but I kind of did because the majority of my friends were going to see it and I didn't wanna be left out. But, then again, I was so f_cking sick at this time in my life because I had a sinus infection and they thought I had some form of blood cancer and I had to take these big ass pills. It was weird.
As for the actual movie? Whatever. I mean it was just kind of boring and disposable. Like, you've literally seen any form of A Christmas Carol and you've seen them all. Beautiful animation and all, boring film otherwise. - DirectorLee DanielsStarsGabourey SidibeMo'NiquePaula PattonIn New York City's Harlem circa 1987, an overweight, abused, illiterate teen who is pregnant with her second child is invited to enroll in an alternative school in hopes that she can re-route her life in a better direction.I saw this a little after Christmas. I remember the theatre was sparring with audience members but, those in attendance, were either groups of older black women or groups of older white women. About 10 minutes into the film these teen dudes run in, run up top where I am, and start whaling on some dude on the same row. I didn't know what was going on but, apparently, they were all friends because they sat down together to watch the movie. I was just like "Um, okay?"
The movie was pretty good. I like movies about child abuse and bad upbringings and the acting is all really great. Monique was definitely my choice for Best Supporting Actress that year and I was so glad when she won. - DirectorJames CameronStarsSam WorthingtonZoe SaldanaSigourney WeaverA paraplegic Marine dispatched to the moon Pandora on a unique mission becomes torn between following his orders and protecting the world he feels is his home.Even though I knew that, with the release of Avatar, I was witnessing movie history in the making, I still had no intention of seeing it in theatres. During the time of its release, there was a ton of other stuff that I wanted to invest my time and money into before Avatar; furthermore, I was put off by the large crowds attending to see the film. Eventually in February of 2010 the opportunity to see Avatar (very very late in the game) presented itself to me. I figured "Why the hell not?" Again, I saw it very late in its long release but, even still, the theatre had a healthy size to it. I remember laughing when their village gets burned down but, movie wise, Avatar was a great film. Yes, it was visually stunning and, for that reason alone, I was captivated from beginning to end.
- DirectorMichael SpierigPeter SpierigStarsEthan HawkeWillem DafoeSam NeillIn the year 2019, a plague has transformed almost every human into vampires. Faced with a dwindling blood supply, the fractured dominant race plots their survival; meanwhile, a researcher works with a covert band of vamps on a way to save humankind.This film came out of nowhere. One random afternoon my dad was like "Hey, wanna go to the movies?" "Sure father, what ever should we see?" "How about 'Daybreakers'- it's a vampire movie." "Okay, just whatever's cool." I had never heard of it. Never seen a preview for it. Didn't know what it was about or who was in it but I kinda like that sometimes. Going into a movie with literally zero pre-conceived notions. In the end, I was pretty impressed with Daybreakers. I don't remember too much about it to this day, but I remember liking its approach to the genre.
- DirectorThor FreudenthalStarsZachary GordonRobert CapronRachael HarrisGreg Heffley is a 12 year old who is fresh out of elementary and transitions to middle school, where he has to learn the consequences and responsibility to survive the year.In the year 2010 (and even now), I longed for a really cool kids movie. I hadn't seen a cool live action kids movie in a long time and the really cool ones from my childhood (Harriet the Spy namely) still resonated well with me. I had read nothing but good things about the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" books and, based on the title alone, I had some interest in seeing the movie. I feel so stupid and juvenile for admitting this, but I saw this opening day. Not only that, I saw it opening day, at the first showing after 3:00 (aka after school time). For that reason, I saw it in a theatre packed full of kids and their moms.
As far as the movie goes? I appreciated certain things about it but, for the most part, I found a lot of it to just be clichéd and really downright awkward in terms of being so unfunny and forced. Certain kid actors did a good job, others were too forced and Disney Channel with their comedic timing. Overall, it wasn't worth my time or money or swallowing of pride but I suppose it wasn't the worst thing ever. - DirectorNeil LaButeStarsChris RockMartin LawrenceKeith DavidA funeral ceremony turns into a debacle of exposed family secrets and misplaced bodies.I had seen the original British version and loved it. I'm not saying that I entirely liked the idea of there being a US remake but I liked the idea of it being a predominately black cast and I was curious to see what would be different or the same. Would it be a Van Sant Psycho (1998) example?
The original one was better. Namely because the comedic timing of this one just didn't work that well and, overall, it was just a mediocre imitation. - DirectorSamuel BayerStarsJackie Earle HaleyRooney MaraKyle GallnerThe spectre of a disfigured man haunts the children of the parents who murdered him, stalking and killing them in their dreams.I don't know why I saw this. I knew it was going to suck. I just knew it. I don't know why I bother to see these high profile horror remakes or high profile horror films. Really, what's the f_cking point man? I mean, people aren't that culturally oblivious to not know who Freddy Krueger is and, if its a matter of current technicalities (i.e. modern audiences finding the originals "outdated") than that's stupid too. You don't watch a movie like Psycho and turn it off because you feel it's "too 1960s" (unless you suck as a human being). Anyhow, it's all a cash ploy. Sure, the idea of a Nightmare on Elm Street Part 8 sounds dumb but, better yet, just leave them alone. Freddy lives on.
Needless to say, this remake is bad. Really bad. Possibly the worst of the remake bunch actually. I find it laughable how frequently these people fall asleep. I mean, I know they supposedly have been staying up for days but, like, at the rate this movie portrays, it's like they have narcolepsy. - DirectorLee UnkrichStarsTom HanksTim AllenJoan CusackThe toys are mistakenly delivered to a day-care center instead of the attic right before Andy leaves for college, and it's up to Woody to convince the other toys that they weren't abandoned and to return home.Even 30 minutes after I had left the theatre, I was still crying man. I'd just be sitting there thinking of it and I'd burst into tears. Great movie but I'll probably never watch it again because it's so sad. Which, then again, they are making Toy Story 4. I don't know. I think Toy Story 3 is a perfect (utterly perfect) ending to any trilogy ever made. I'm sure Toy Story 4 will be great and this IS coming from a guy who considers Scream 4 a godsend, but I don't know, we'll see.
- DirectorAlexandre AjaStarsElisabeth ShueJerry O'ConnellRichard DreyfussAfter a sudden underwater tremor sets free scores of the prehistoric man-eating fish, an unlikely group of strangers must band together to stop themselves from becoming fish food for the area's new razor-toothed residents.I was eager to see this film. An all star cast and, perhaps like Grindhouse, it would be a fun intentionally campy film. I was right, thankfully. I loved how this film was just mindless bloody fun. Actually, this is a pretty violent movie. I normally don't get sick by violence but after a certain point (namely during the final massacre) it was just, like, overkill (pun intended). I liked it but it was sad seeing that girl get her face ripped off...but also kinda awesome.
In attendance was a set of grandparents who had taken their young grandchildren (easily under 11) to see this fine Christian film. During one of the scenes where a woman swims naked underwater, the little boy says aloud "This is the best movie ever." Bet those grandparents would never take those kids to see Cats & Dogs or Scooby Doo - just saying. - DirectorEthan ManiquisRobert RodriguezStarsDanny TrejoMichelle RodriguezRobert De NiroAfter being set-up and betrayed by the man who hired him to assassinate a Texas Senator, an ex-Federale launches a brutal rampage of revenge against his former boss.When it comes to intentional campiness it either works or it doesn't. With Machete, while a lot of it doesn't work, the parts that do work - work well. Overall, it's a different kind of movie going experience for better or worse.
- DirectorJason FriedbergAaron SeltzerStarsJenn ProskeMatt LanterDiedrich BaderIn this spoof of vampire-themed movies, teenager Becca finds herself torn between two boys. She and her friends wrestle with endless dramas that crescendo at the prom.My dad loves vampire movies and, despite the fact that "from the makers of Date Movie and Epic Movie" advertisements were enough to drive anyone away, they didn't my dad. I joined him, expecting the worst. Um. It wasn't as bad as I thought it'd be but, I assure you, that's still not saying much.
- DirectorDennis DuganStarsAdam SandlerSalma HayekKevin JamesAfter their high school basketball coach passes away, five good friends and former teammates reunite for a Fourth of July holiday weekend.I'm not gonna lie... I actually kind of enjoyed this movie to some degree. Don't get me wrong, a lot of it had to do with the chemistry amongst the cast. I was completely won over by how well they all interacted with each other. Clearly, they all were friends in real life and, sure, it might have been an ego trip, but they were entertaining to watch and I guess I bought into the "mindless entertainment" appeal of it all. Sure, it'll never crack any of my "best of" or "favorite films" lists, but there are worse ways to kill a couple hours and, whenever its on TV and I need something for background noise, it's a strong contended for that.
- DirectorWill GluckStarsEmma StoneAmanda BynesPenn BadgleyWhen Olive lies to her best friend about losing her virginity to one of the college boys, a girl overhears their conversation. Soon, her story spreads across the entire school like wildfire.Even though I'm still holding out for a better definitive teen movie of the 2010's, if Easy A is as good as it gets, than we can all live with that. While I think it leans too heavily on desperation for wittiness and is too blatant in disparaging certain characters, it's still a noble effort that beats anything ABC Family has to say.
- DirectorTod WilliamsStarsKatie FeatherstonMicah SloatMolly EphraimAfter experiencing what they think are a series of "break-ins", a family sets up security cameras around their home, only to realize that the events unfolding before them are more sinister than they seem.I kind of roll my eyes now at the fact that I saw the first 3 films in theatre, but what can I say? They were fads of their time (and unfortunately, they still just won't stop coming). I was curious to see part 2. I was already annoyed that the industry was, clearly, cashing in on the first one's success and that more films were planned for production. Still, I was curious to see how they'd do a sequel, and if it would be anywhere near as bad as Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2. The whole theatre nearly jumped out of their seat when the kitchen scene came about - but that's it. When the movie went off and it cut to black, there was this collective "THAT'S it?" scoff amongst the audience. More silence. And then this woman with a manly southern voice said "This movie sucked ass." The whole theatre laughed.
- DirectorRobert SchwentkeStarsBruce WillisHelen MirrenMorgan FreemanWhen his peaceful life is threatened by a high-tech assassin, former black-ops agent Frank Moses reassembles his old team in a last-ditch effort to survive and uncover his assailants.This is one of those movies that should have sucked, but was actually a complete guilty pleasure. Then again, any movie that has Helen Mirren shooting guns and being an assassin is going to earn props for that alone.
- DirectorTony ScottStarsDenzel WashingtonChris PineRosario DawsonWith an unmanned, half-mile-long freight train barreling toward a city, a veteran engineer and a young conductor race against the clock to prevent a catastrophe.I remember this movie being good. Nothing more. Nothing less.
- DirectorFlorian Henckel von DonnersmarckStarsJohnny DeppAngelina JoliePaul BettanyRevolves around Frank, an American tourist visiting Italy to mend a broken heart. Elise is an extraordinary woman who deliberately crosses his path.Very dull movie. I remember the ending being rather convoluted but that's about it. Didn't Angelina Jolie say she only did it because it was a quick shoot in Italy or something?
- DirectorDarren AronofskyStarsNatalie PortmanMila KunisVincent CasselNina is a talented but unstable ballerina on the verge of stardom. Pushed to the breaking point by her artistic director and a seductive rival, Nina's grip on reality slips, plunging her into a waking nightmare.This was one of the most awkward movie going experiences of my life. Why? Well, I saw it in theatres with my mom. Yeah. I mean, we're cool and we're liberal and all that good stuff but, still, you look me in the eye and tell me it wouldn't be somewhat weird to be sitting next to your mom watching Mila Kunis have lesbian sex with Natalie Portman. Sorry to sound kind of chauvinistic, but I'm just saying. Also, this was my choice for the Best Film of 2010
- DirectorTom HooperStarsColin FirthGeoffrey RushHelena Bonham CarterThe story of King George VI, his unexpected ascension to the throne of the British Empire in 1936, and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch overcome his stammer.In my opinion 2010 wasn't that spectacular of a year for movies anyway. Black Swan was great but, the more you debate it, the less you seem to kind of like it, I think. The Social Network was fine, but nowhere near the masterpiece people claim it to be (any new film by Nolan or Fincher gets overpraised IMO anyway). The King's Speech was certainly a "safe" choice for the Oscar for Best Picture of 2010, but I did really enjoy it. I like period pieces that are entertaining and aren't totally serious in not having a sense of fun to them. The King's Speech was a fun movie and I was pleased having seen it and seeing it win Best Picture.
- DirectorMichel GondryStarsSeth RogenJay ChouChristoph WaltzFollowing the death of his father, Britt Reid, heir to his father's large company, teams up with his late dad's assistant Kato to become a masked crime fighting team.My dad likes action movies that also could double as comedies and I think that's a lot of the reason why we saw this one. I don't remember too much about this. I remember it being so-so. Like, it wasn't terrible but it wasn't good or memorable. Very disposable.
- DirectorDennis DuganStarsAdam SandlerJennifer AnistonBrooklyn DeckerOn a weekend trip to Hawaii, a plastic surgeon convinces his loyal assistant to pose as his soon-to-be-divorced wife in order to cover up a careless lie he told to his much-younger girlfriend.Kinda like with Grown Ups, I must admit that I didn't totally hate this one either. It's not a great movie. It may not even be a good movie, but I can't say that I didn't enjoy it because I kinda did. Sure, it's totally stupid and downright shoddy at times (namely with Nick Swardson character), but the kid actors were funny and amusing to watch and, also, Aniston and Sandler were actually kinda funny together. Plus, who didn't love that Nicole Kidman was in this movie? Unexpected and hilarious. I remember when she first showed up on screen, the entire theatre looked to the person they were sitting by and all asked "Is that Nicole Kidman!?"
- DirectorJaume Collet-SerraStarsLiam NeesonDiane KrugerJanuary JonesWhen a man awakens from a coma only to discover that someone has taken on his identity, he teams up with a young woman to prove who he is.I remember finding some amusement from this film but, right now in this moment in time, I don't remember too much about it. Granted, even after I saw it, I knew that it was rather disposable and that I'd probably forget about it in the years to come. Guess I was right. I remember laughing at this one part where (SPOILER!) January Jones puts her ear up to a wall and then gets blown up because I laughed at it and I was the only one in the theatre laughing. Also, I remember the part where Dianne Kruger escapes her car that's sinking to be cool.
- DirectorDuncan JonesStarsJake GyllenhaalMichelle MonaghanVera FarmigaA soldier wakes up in someone else's body and discovers he's part of an experimental government program to find the bomber of a commuter train within 8 minutes.Like a lot of people I imagine, I went into Source Code thinking that it'd be mediocre and disposable; however, this film is anything but that. I was just so impressed with the writing and it was so much fun to watch and it constantly kept me guessing. I need to see it again, actually.
- DirectorJoe WrightStarsSaoirse RonanCate BlanchettEric BanaA sixteen-year-old girl who was raised by her father to be the perfect assassin is dispatched on a mission across Europe, tracked by a ruthless intelligence agent and her operatives.Saw this with my demon friends one random afternoon during spring break. I don't think they actually watched the movie, but I did. I actually saw it twice in theaters - the other time being with my mother at a dollar theatre. Between Hanna and Drive, 2011 was a great year for artsy/indie action films - and what great ones they were. When I was watching with my demon friends I remember we all just went silent when Hanna kisses that girl and we're like "Did that really just happen? Cool. Kinda funny. Kinda awkward. But cool."
- DirectorWes CravenStarsNeve CampbellCourteney CoxDavid ArquetteTen years have passed, and Sidney Prescott, who has put herself back together thanks in part to her writing, is visited by the Ghostface Killer.Alright, so I'm a die-hard Scream fan, man. Like, I seriously would die for all of these movies. Therefore, 2011 was a great year for me and, for that reason, the release of Scream 4 was pivotal and wonderful moment in my petty/mundane life.
Initially, like most fans, I was opposed to the idea of a Scream 4. I loved the original trilogy, I loved the idea of it being a trilogy, I loved Scream 3, and I feared that Scream 4 would be the apocalypse in terms of desecrating the first 3. I feared that, with another sequel, the beloved characters I had come to love so well would either kill or be killed. Keep in mind, during the early stages of its announcement there was uncertainty if Neve Campbell was coming back, or Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson. Once they were back on board, however, I began to get excited, for I certainly wasn't going to say "no" to another Scream movie.
The days leading up to the release of Scream 4 were some great days and I don't think I had ever been so excited about something in my life. Towards February of 2011, I officially stopped reading anything Scream 4 related on the internet and prepared myself for the fourth coming of Jesus. I remember driving to the theatre for a midnight showing of Scream 4 and knowing that my life was about to get better. Of course, I was also nervous as hell.
In my opinion, Scream 4 was perfect. Sure, in retrospect, Dimension (aka Weinstein Nazis) should have left Craven and Williamson and crew alone on certain things but, nevertheless, Scream 4 was perfect and was everything I had hoped for and more. Scream 4 is the perfect satire about, not only the current state of horror with endless sequels and remakes, but also its a perfect satire about my generation/ this current generation and these meaningless fabricated desires for fame and notoriety.
Scream 3 is a perfect ending to the Maureen Prescott influenced killings and Scream 4 is perfect about not opening up a new complex mystery story arc but also not totally ignoring the original trilogy's intentions and story arcs. For that reason, Scream 4 acts as a perfect reunion movie and a perfect/fitting ending for the series.
Best Film of 2011 - DirectorPaul FeigStarsKristen WiigMaya RudolphRose ByrneCompetition between the maid of honor and a bridesmaid, over who is the bride's best friend, threatens to upend the life of an out-of-work pastry chef.I saw this round about the time that word-of-mouth was catching on and it was starting to blow-up. I think I saw it the week after it came out and it was still playing in the main theatre to a sold-out crowd. I just remember how impressed I was with, not only the acting, but the writing and how it paid attention to how people and friends really talk to each other. It was funny. It was a funny movie. It didn't try too hard to be funny, because it was in its own little world and, clearly, there was a passion to the craft and characters, rather than solely the comedic situations at hand. I think everybody, male or female, could relate to some aspect of the film - for me it was blaring "Violet" by Hole in my car after a bad day.
- DirectorTodd PhillipsStarsBradley CooperZach GalifianakisEd HelmsTwo years after the bachelor party in Las Vegas, Phil, Stu, Alan, and Doug jet to Thailand for Stu's wedding. Stu's plan for a subdued pre-wedding brunch, however, goes seriously awry.I think I went to a midnight screening of this and the theatre was packed out. I remember it stormed so bad the night I saw this and, coming home at 3 in the morning, it was a minefield of loose limbs. The pre-movie rituals were all so annoying. I mean, it was a commuting ground for annoying frat dudes to yell randomly crude things in between the quiet moments of the previews.
The movie was okay. I don't think it was that bad and I don't regret seeing it but, in retrospect, you have to admit how unnecessary a sequel to the first one really was. - DirectorJennifer Yuh NelsonStarsJack BlackAngelina JolieJackie ChanPo and his friends fight to stop a peacock villain from conquering China with a deadly new weapon, but first the Dragon Warrior must come to terms with his past.I saw this (yes) with my demon friends. I actually was kinda looking forward to seeing this because I didn't expect me to like the first one as much as I did. My demon best friend gave it to me to watch and I'm like "UGH! Jack Black! Fat panda! Kung Fu!? None of those things appeal to me!" But it actually was pretty good! My favorite character was Po's father.
This sequel wasn't good in my opinion. I guess animated sequels usually aren't god-awful and this one was no exception but it just didn't impress me. Even know I don't remember much about it. I think there was an evil crane, or something? - DirectorJake KasdanStarsCameron DiazJason SegelJustin TimberlakeA lazy, incompetent middle school teacher who hates her job, her students, and her co-workers is forced to return to teaching to make enough money for breast implants after her wealthy fiancé dumps her.Don't hate me, but this was actually a really funny movie. There are better comedies, and it's certainly not the best of its kind, but it's not that bad. Let's be honest, Lucy Punch steals the show and her performance and character is one of the funniest I've seen in a long time. I remember seeing this with a crowd that was rather off-put by some of the film's darker moments, and I remember how they laughed in discomfort and shock. Like the scene where a kid shares how his father only left behind a ratty sweatshirt to his son when he left, and Diaz responds "There's a reason he didn't pack it." The entire theatre gasped in shock, and I burst into laughter. I really dig how this film goes into somewhat darker territories, or at least, it pulls off its weird and uncomfortably funny humor well (i.e. the dry humping scene).
- DirectorSeth GordonStarsJason BatemanCharlie DayJason SudeikisThree friends conspire to murder their awful bosses when they realize they are standing in the way of their happiness.Usually every couple of years or so, there's that one comedy that most everybody else enjoyed but I didn't. This film was one of those films. I didn't hate it, I just didn't like it. It seemed too desperate for laughs, and too desperate to be raunchy and ranked amongst it's fellow raunchy brethren.
- DirectorLuke GreenfieldStarsGinnifer GoodwinKate HudsonColin EgglesfieldFriendships are tested and secrets come to the surface when terminally single Rachel falls for Dex, her best friend Darcy's fiancé.Going to see this at a dollar theatre was a random, spur-of-the-moment decision for quality time on behalf of my mother and brother. What a trainwreck of a film. The thing with romantic comedies is usually they're either really good or they're really bad. This one was really bad. Really really bad. There's also that stigma surrounding romantic comedies that suggests that females will love them and that their male companions shouldn't love them as well. It's a misogynistic stigma but, if ever there was a movie that it applied to, this would definitely be one of them. Though maybe it's a mutual decision?
- DirectorWill GluckStarsMila KunisJustin TimberlakePatricia ClarksonA young man and woman decide to take their friendship to the next level without becoming a couple, but soon discover that adding sex only leads to complications.Even though I liked both Timberlake and Kunis, I wasn't sure if I'd like this one. Nothing to do with the romantic comedy aspect, or the bad aftertaste of "No Strings Attached", I just wasn't dying to see this one. It was pretty good though. I like films that have a self-awareness to them and their respective genres. Granted, like Easy A, sometimes it was a little too blatant to the point of being unbelievable or too desperate to be cool, but it works here primarily because the two leads play their parts so well.
- DirectorTate TaylorStarsViola DavisEmma StoneOctavia SpencerAn aspiring author during the civil rights movement of the 1960s decides to write a book detailing the African American maids' point of view on the white families for which they work, and the hardships they go through on a daily basis.I saw this on a Sunday afternoon and I thought "Oh, hey, Sunday afternoon theatre shouldn't be too packed." The screening I planned to initially go to was sold out. I know this movie was pretty damn popular when it came out for many reasons, but I think people in the south (where I'm from) really do respond to pieces like this. People in the south love movies about dogs, football, God, and racism. In that order, pretty much.
Even still, this was a pretty good movie. Really great performances and, truthfully, Viola Davis should have won the Oscar for Best Actress in my opinion. No disrespect to Meryl Streep for The Iron Lady.