girllovesmovies27 Reviews

Horrible Bosses (2011)

Charlie Day made this film funny

[7/10 · 8 November 2011]

I actually wanted to give this film a 7.5 star rating, but of course, it's either 7 or 8. I went with 7 because this film was not as funny as previews made it look. Don't get me wrong, it was funny, BUT it took a while to get funny.

The setup and introduction were awkward for me, but probably necessary for the way the film is structured. We could honestly do without the titles of what kind of boss each boss is- it's enough to have the employee say it imho.

The difficult part of the film for me was watching Jen Aniston in such a nasty role. Yes, she's attractive. Yes, I like Jen. But I much prefer her in roles not so Chelsea Handler-ish (which of course is Jen's lady crush and BFF).

Anyway, for me, Charlie Day made this movie funny. It was sort of like watching It's Always Sunny- similar characters I think. I was surprised how little Colin's boss character had to do in the film, but what are ya gonna do? Don't watch with the kids. Definitely a grown-up film.

Terra Nova (I) (2011)

Entertaining but what will come?

[7/10 · 1 October 2011]

I watched the pilot because of 2 reasons: O'Mara and dinosaurs. Well, the show delivered. But it's not entirely what most expected. Then again, we've only seen the first episode. I think before we fully judge or critique this show, we need to see at least a few more episodes. What I'm hoping to see is more story, more creative subplots, more realism, and more struggles against dinosaurs. The storyline with the Sixers should be more fully developed, so I imagine there is more to come there.

I appreciate the teenage children in this show. I think there is inherent drama there that will naturally create more drama similar to what we saw in the pilot. I find also the younger daughter to be a cute addition and was touched in the scenes between her and O'Mara. I'd like to have more back-story of O'Mara and Conn- so far I'm not seeing much chemistry between them.

All in all, I want to see more. Hopefully this won't be yet another show I get sucked into that will be canceled. All the great shows with tons of potential always get canceled.

The Tourist (I) (2010)

Simply Fantastic

[8/10 · 30 August 2011]

People reviewing this film seem to be taking it far too serious for their own good! This film is fun, intriguing, mysterious, a bit silly and outlandish, BUT it entertains from beginning to end!

Angelina is as gorgeous and glamorous as ever. I wish I could get eye makeup to look as fabulous as hers does in this film! She does a remarkable job at creating a mystique about her. I was surprised to discover her "true" character.

It's great to see Depp portray someone other than a pirate or crazy person. I think he enjoyed the role and change as well. There is a shocker when it comes to his character as well (and that's all I'll reveal).

Please I implore you to not prejudge this film based on what you've read from critics and other reviews on this site. This film is an entertaining romp! The leads DO have chemistry! The scenery is ravishing! Sit back, relax and enjoy!

Where the Wild Things Are (2009)

What was it about anyway?

[4/10 · 7 August 2011]

I recall the book and remember enjoying it when it was read aloud in class. This film is definitely a stretch AND an "adult" adaptation...that being said, as an adult I question what the film is trying to saying.

It was an emotional roller-coaster ride with Max and The Wild Things. I enjoyed seeing how the Wild Things turned out, they look similar to the ones in the book (as I recall), BUT as far as believability in the worlds represented in the film, there is none. Reality, or the beginning and ending felt absurd. How long is Max away in reality? An hour? Why does the mother stop running at some point? Why does she not continue her search outside, like any caring mother would? Inconsistency abounds in this film in the "real World" scenes.

Does Max fall asleep and imagine all this? I think so, but the film shows him journeying...kind of a cool part in the film.

As for Max's romp with the WilD Things, what was it about? It's full of conflict that is not clearly explained. It's a manic time, one minute they are having fun, running around, being wild, building a fort- the next they are arguing about something that only the Wild Things themselves seem to know about.

What was it about????? I wanted to like the film BUT there is a HUGE Disconnect.

The Time Traveler's Wife (2009)

Fantastical Love

[10/10 · 6 August 2011]

I rate this 10 stars because everything fell into place for me. As a movie, it is an absolute success. The story is fantastical and the time traveling element is absurd. I understand this is based on a book and, let me just say, I have not read the book. Perhaps that is why I am fully on-board with the film. I didn't question anything, I just went with the story, scene by scene. I didn't find myself confused about the sequence of events, it was all very nicely done- not overdone. Yes, this is less science fiction than the title implies, AND Yes, it is a love story of sorts. But my overall thought about the story is that it's a tragedy, and a very beautiful tragedy at that. I take no issue with the cast, in fact, I adore McAdams and Bana, both separate and together. Such a GREAT FILM!

Charlie St. Cloud (2010)

Lovely Little Gem

[8/10 · 3 August 2011]

I adored this film! I'm not familiar with Efron, but am very impressed by the maturity and introspection portrayed/he showed for his character of Charlie. This is a touching film that is family-friendly. Sam is played by an adorable young actor. I found the two to interact quite believably as brothers and was touched during their scenes together.

There are a few things that threw me off. One being Charlie's buddies from high school. I think a couple went into the military, but am not sure. One of them reappeared later, but the film led me to believe that he was a vision to Charlie, that he was deceased. There are a few lines in the bar that seem "off" for the character of Charlie, but overall I think the writing was decent.

Efron is easy on the eye and provided stability in a film that plays with time and space. A really climactic moment was when Tess left her house with her dog to walk him, and then we are in the coffee shop where Charlie learns of her disappearance. You realize that the filmmaker/writers played tricks on you with the development of Charlie and Tess' relationship. Other than that, I enjoyed the film and progress Charlie made, a real catharsis.

The Lovely Bones (2009)

Read the book BEFORE you watch film...

[8/10 · 3 August 2011]

That way, you'll actually understand the significance of the film and why it is the way it is! Susie is telling the story while she is in the in-between, after she has already gone. The scenes in the in-between are there because in the book they are there (from what I recall). The effect going back and forth in time between the real world and in-between is meant to be somewhat mystical and mysterious, almost dreary, yet striking emotionally. There are several emotionally striking scenes where there are juxtapositions between the two states (reality and in-between) that drive this movie. For one, when Mr. Salmon throws down his ship models and they break into pieces, that is also portrayed in the in-between world in quite a real and dreamlike way. When Susie sees Ray in the gazebo and tries running to him through the cornfield in the in-between and then starts sinking into the water and this is juxtaposed between the reality scene of her killer driving to the water spot/lake to throw her charm bracelet into the water is yet another instance. There are so many beautiful and tragic moments like these.

The strength of this film is the acting. I was impressed by Wahlberg, Ronan, and McIver. Wahlberg's Jack really drives the story. The father-daughter relationship is extremely significant in The Lovely Bones. Ronan's Susie, is absolute perfection. I think she played her role very well. I also enjoyed watching McIver as Susie's sister. All in all, this film has a great cast. I would have liked to see the film develop more of the story you read in the book, but I understand you cannot show everything. I really liked reading The Lovely Bones, and I think this movie serves as a great companion piece to the book.

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009)

Like a Dream

[9/10 · 3 August 2011]

This animation is enjoyable from beginning to end. The protagonist, Flint, is an adorable mad scientist! While in his lab, he reminded me so much of Doctor Who and I think this character shares a lot with Doctor Who. The experience of watching this film is really something out of this world. I felt a part of that little town and found so many of the townspeople and children to be such a significant part of the film. The relationship between father and son, Earl and Cal, is endearing. The relationship that develops between Flint and weather gal, Sam Sparks, is adorable and portrayed quite tastefully. Even as an adult, I find Cloudy to be entertaining and quite magical. It awakens the child within I think. This is great to watch as a family. I was also surprised at how I was able to not recognize any "big voices" in this film- there was not a moment I went "oh, that's so-and-so's voice!" Famous actors didn't get in the way of the film, in other words. I would watch Cloudy again in a heartbeat.

The Fighter (I) (2010)

Fantastic

[8/10 · 25 July 2011]

I enjoyed this film immensely. Bale proved himself to be committed to his role. It was amazing and crazy to follow him everywhere. Amy Adams really surprised me as a tough bartender chick! I loved it and would definitely like to see her in future films as a strong character. Mark's acting/character provided great balance to the rest of the outlandish cast/characters in the film. This film is really an excellent portrayal of 2 fighters and their family that fights for them to achieve their dreams. This film has excellent pacing, writing and filmography. It was a great ride. Kudos to everyone involved in this project!

Alice in Wonderland (I) (2010)

Watch other adaptations instead

[2/10 · 24 July 2011]

I did not like this film whatsoever. Johnny Depp's Hatter and whatever that was The Queen of Hearts were far too freaky, even for adults. This movie was far too trippy ! Did they want viewers to feel like they were on an acid trip or something like that? I couldn't stand any of the characters/actors in this film. It was one of the strangest movies I've ever seen. Normally I like the character that is Depp, but I think it has run its course. If I had children, they wouldn't be watching this film. I personally prefer the adaption that was a TV miniseries on SYFY. If you have kids, show them the original animated film instead because it's not creepy looking.

The Runaways (2010)

Weird

[6/10 · 24 July 2011]

It was a trip to see Dakota as Cherie! I couldn't get over it or passed it actually. I kept recalling her as a little girl in so many prior films and thinking "Wow, she's grown up!" Kristen as Joan Jett was totally credible and believable, however. I think she had some fun in this role, at least it looks like she did. It was kind of a cool film. The filmography/shot looked good, lighting just right I think. If you're not singing Cherrybomb by the end, you slept through this movie! At 106 minutes, I feel it is too long. I've always started watching at the beginning, but I have yet to actually make it passed the Cherie photo shoot scene. I think by that point I had lost interest in seeing the rest. Someday I hope to be able to see what else happens.

The Back-up Plan (2010)

Worth it

[5/10 · 24 July 2011]

While this is not my favorite JLo movie, it is still worth the watch. Alex is absolutely adorable in this, it's truly nice to see him in a rom-com. He's been on my watchlist since his short-lived Moonlight. The Back-up Plan storyline is silly, but it's easy to go with it. Surely there are women that can relate to JLo's character's predicament! It is a bit far-fetched (ok, more than just a bit) that a man you just met and dated a bit would stick by you if he had just found out you hit the sperm bank and are pregnant, but like I said- the story is silly. The movie, at times, felt a bit long, but then again, you are following along with her pregnancy. I found her best friend to be extremely obnoxious, but I get it, she had to have a sidekick of sorts. I was surprised to see Eric Christian Olsen in this film, but not surprised that he was funny. More rom-coms for Alex and Eric both please!

Whiteout (2009)

Entertaining film

[8/10 · 24 July 2011]

I enjoyed watching this film. It held my attention until the very end. There was enough intrigue and mystery to keep me wondering who the enemy was. I didn't think it was too easy to figure out. It was great to see Kate in something different, and same goes for Alex! The characters were enjoyable and diverse, thanks to the writers and actors both. Her flashbacks to an old case did not get in the way, in fact I believe they helped to reveal her character, her fears, and her drive. The whole time watching I wanted to trust Gabriel's character, but just like Kate's Carrie I was wary. Credit must go to the writers for creating such a protagonist and reality that allowed me to put myself in Carrie's place. I wish the film didn't end at the spot it ended at, but that's nothing to complain about.

The Private Lives of Pippa Lee (2009)

Stunning Film

[9/10 · 24 July 2011]

I'm so glad I watched this film because the writing and acting is perfect! Wright is an incredible actor to watch on the silverscreen. Playing a younger Pippa, Lively, really did fantastic. Reminded me of her role in Sisterhood. Maria Bello as Suky really knocked my socks off. The women carried this film. The only things that were creepy to me were the relationships (age differences!) and the strange lesbian that Moore seemed to portray. Pacing, flashbacks, and plot development all well-timed in story/film. I was sad to see the film end on the point it ended at because I could have followed Pippa to her grave. That being said, the men did well too, especially Keanu. If there is significance to his tattoo, I did not fully comprehend it. This film is one that you could watch more than once and get something different out of it every time.

The Proposal (I) (2009)

Funny every time!

[8/10 · 24 July 2011]

This is a movie that holds up to repeat viewings! There is always something to laugh at-this movie is full of humor that can easily be missed during an initial viewing. Reynolds is a comedy guy, so this role was made for him. Bullock can do anything I'm convinced. Thank you so much for Betty White! Gamma really is a character! I loved the scene in the forest between her and Sandra- dancing and chanting- in Sandra's case, rapping! What a riot! I love how there is depth to these characters- it's not some surface comedy flick-all for laughs. The two grow and come to realize very significant things. For "Satan's Mistress," family is important and special to have in ones' life. For Andrew, he realizes that he actually likes the woman and he'll do anything to get her back, include marry her so she can stay in the country. All in all, I highly recommend this solid film.

Up in the Air (I) (2009)

Must-see!

[9/10 · 23 July 2011]

*may contain spoilers* I've been wanting to see this movie since it came out and I finally saw it-it's amazing! By amazing, I mean to say, the story is solid, the acting is solid, everything is solid. It's realistic, comical, a little sad, but overall definitely worth watching. Anna Kendrick is an impressive little firecracker in this film. She is fantastic alongside Clooney. Vera and Clooney have tons of chemistry and it was a pleasure to watch them shine together. A few little surprises happen along the way that may upset some viewers BUT it is what drives Ryan and Natalie to change. Yes, there is character progression! There is a touching scene with George and his sister's fiancé that really strikes me. As for Anna, I think as long as she picks movies as good as this one to act in, she'll do well.

Chloe (2009)

Shockingly Addictive

[9/10 · 23 July 2011]

*may contain spoilers* I watched this on a whim and do not regret it! I normally do not like Moore, but this was definitely the right role for her. She played the obsessed worrywart so well and convincingly. I adore Liam in everything, so it was amazing to see him-albeit a bit difficult to think he'd cheat on his wife. I didn't really fully accept that he was cheating to begin with either (and that in the end is a good thing). There are lots of surprises in this film that may shock you, or at the very least strike you and make you re-think the whole movie watching experience. Movies sometimes set you up for things that are NOT there, (and I'll leave it at that). Amanda has become my favorite actress by far, and this role solidified that for me.

Letters to Juliet (2010)

Cute, unrealistic, but good.

[8/10 · 23 July 2011]

*may contain spoilers* I was expecting a cheesy rom-com...and this is not that. The initial relationship with Amanda and Gael was not believable to me. There was no romance there, and perhaps that was all done on purpose-so the audience could see what Amanda's Sophie could not clearly see until AFTER her life-changing experience with Claire and Charlie. I did not like Egan's Charlie-even in the end. But rather than focus on the acting, I'd rather point out the writing. It was difficult to buy into it all from the beginning. How does she have such a good job and then she writes one story and suddenly she's in as a writer? This "love" story, while sweet and incredible, doesn't happen in real life. So the audience must drop all preconceived notions of love, life, and romance. Enjoy the journey and scenery, and try not to cry. I adore Amanda, so I did feel an emotional connection- but still something about this that didn't quite sit right with me. Perhaps I also needed to be drinking wine.

Grown Ups (I) (2010)

Funnier than Expected

[6/10 · 23 July 2011]

*May contain spoilers* A family-style film meant for adult-viewing. It's difficult to buy into the couples (Adam Sandler with Salma? Maria Bello with Kevin James? Really?!?!) but once you let it go at the coachs' funeral, then it's easy to just go with it. Rob really is the one that deserves all the props. He'll do anything- wear a wig, talk funny, shack up with an older woman, etc. for a laugh. All the comedic moments in the film involved him, even if he wasn't there he was being made fun of. I'm not a fan of Maya, but Chris Rock surprised me playing a stay-at-home dad and his blow-up in the kitchen at the beginning cracked me up. David Spade...what is America to do with you? I suppose let you be to play David. It was great to see Adam in a funny film again. Made me miss Big Daddy, The Wedding Singer, Billy Madison, and other earlier Sandler comedies. Make more comedies please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Very ODD

[1/10 · 23 July 2011]

*may contain spoilers* I probably was expecting better from Tarantino because I have to say this is his worst. I prefer Jackie Brown and Pulp Fiction to this rubbish. Brad Pitt stuck out like a sore thumb, only bigger-his character is a real jerk and as far as I'm concerned is absolutely useless to the story. This is trying too hard to be funny. I liked certain characters (Fassbender's Lt. and Kruger's actress) far more than I enjoyed the story. In fact, what WAS the story? The film editing was so choppy. Quite frankly after the scene in the bar with Fassbender and Kruger, the whole film just goes downhill from there. I'm a fan of war films and films that portray the German side, but this certainly cannot be taked seriously with others. This movie got so much undeserved hype.

Valkyrie (2008)

Better than expected

[7/10 · 23 July 2011]

*may contain spoilers* I enjoy war films and ones that portray the German experience, and I'm not all that sure this one is aiming to do that. It may be, but it didn't feel authentic. It was very entertaining, however, and that is due to the supporting cast. Thank you so much for casting Thomas Kretschmann! I would have much preferred more screen time with him rather than Cruise. They should have switched roles. Sometimes a less well-known (or a less crazy) actor should play a lead. That said, I thought Cruise did okay. It was odd to see Eddie Izzard and Bill Nighy in this film-usually they are goof balls or offbeat characters. Seeing them trying to be more straight characters is a weird experience. The ending was quite unsatisfactory-maybe I missed something? What happened to the Colonel's wife and kids? It didn't quite fulfill my need for a war film, but it didn't totally flop on me either.

Salt (2010)

Jason Bourne- For Women

[8/10 · 23 July 2011]

*May contain spoilers* This just happened to be on one day, so I watched it AND am pleasantly surprised at how riveting a film it is. The pacing is perfect, the plot develops naturally, nothing about this film feels contrived. The only part that is a bit "out there" is Salt jumping down the elevator shaft and not getting injured. There are surprises that I honestly didn't see coming. I truly felt like I was watching a Bourne movie- so much action and intensity in acting. Jolie did an excellent job providing depth for Salt. Liev is great, solid acting as usual. If you like action flicks, this one is for you. If you like mysteries, this one is also for you. If you like Angelina, this ones for you- and you get the idea! I'd be up for a sequel and believe you me, sequels usually aren't that great, BUT every once in a while a sequel ends up being better than the original. I'd definitely like to see more of Salt!

Couples Retreat (2009)

Adult Comedy Light on the Laughs

[6/10 · 23 July 2011]

*May Contain Spoilers* One can see the comedic appeal in a couple's retreat, but it's a bit silly. The cast is good- Vince provided a bit of stability to the occasional wackiness. Malin's performance is solid as a loving wife and mother. Jason played Jason (he's sometimes funny), but overall, the characters did not suit the actors. There is a "feel good" ending, but it took a bit to get there. It all felt contrived and the climax of the film was something you saw coming eventually, with or without the retreat. I was surprised to see the females casted to be matched up with the males casted. I kept thinking in the back of my mind there'd be some sort of swapping, but of course, that does not occur. The child crapping in the toilet in the end was not a necessary scene to keep as it did not enhance the film. I think I laughed about 3 times in the whole film. The spirit animal scene is nice and Vince and Malin's spirit animal part is where the last laugh was for me. I'd recommend for a light Sunday afternoon viewing with a slice of watermelon and iced tea.

The Bounty Hunter (I) (2010)

Better than I thought!

[7/10 · 23 July 2011]

*May contain spoilers* Butler and Aniston appeared to have chemistry to me! I like how you see how their relationship doesn't work for the majority of the film and them slowly beginning to realize that maybe they were wrong to end it. Comedically, this film could have been funnier, BUT Aniston's character did provide a great balance to Butler's. My favorite scene is actually when Butler kisses the receptionist outside after getting his ex-wife's warrant/bond and the receptionist asks for her gum back! So hilarious! Butler is a comedy man for sure- I'd like to see him in more comedies like this one. I adore Aniston, but I think Butler outshone her. As for the actress that plays Aniston's mother, WOW! She is hilarious! I do not buy such a mother-daughter relationship exists, but it made for excellent comedy. Lastly, I appreciate the action, even if it's not a real action film. It felt like a detective-type of film, although I know it's not really that. It was nice to see different settings.

The Social Network (2010)

Lets End Everybody's Facebook Obsession Now Folks

[1/10 · 23 July 2011]

*May contain spoilers* This film is far too long and too boring to hold my attention. I was trying to give this film a chance because it's supposed to be so good, but it truly just bored and disgusted me to be honest. Who wants to follow around a miserable human being like this guy playing Zuckerburg? I don't. I wanted to suffocate myself with my pillow. The first hour seemed to last an eternity. The only saving grace was seeing Rashida Jones, although I must give credit to the actors playing the twins. Those guys were great and I'd like to see them in other films. Timberlake was pretty awful in this film-trying to be some playboy-founder of Napster-type of...what? His character was not what I expected to say the least. I hated the film so much that I did not watch it all the way to the end. It was that horrible. Nothing redeeming or riveting about it. It's actually quite disgusting to see that it all started (allegedly) with him wanting to rate the girls he went to college with as hot or not (or whatever the scale/rating system was). I truly hope Zuckerburg is nothing like the way he is portrayed in this film (well, you know what I mean, at least like not how he is portrayed in the first half of the film). If anything, this film should tell viewers to LOG OFF.