DVD Releases June 30th ON REVIEW

Street Fighter - D (Don't Ever Bother)
Hollywood should have stopped with the 1994 version as this one was absurdly terrible. This is hands-down the worst video game adaptation that’s been made to date. Nearly everything about this film falls flat. The dialogue is something out of a high school film, the story could have been written better by a 12 year old, and Chris Klein’s performance is epically bad. Any sort of respect he earned in the American Pie series was thrown out the window for this role. The only part even remotely worth watching this for is for the eye candy that Kristin Kreuk is. Aside from that, don’t even bother ever watching this “movie.”

12 Rounds - B (Gotta Rent)
12 Rounds is good for what it is, a non-stop action-packed popcorn flick. John Cena is obviously not a trained actor, but for being a WWE wrestler, he does a much better job than his previous role in The Marine. Even though most of the action scenes are incredibly far-fetched, it is still an entertaining movie that keeps your attention. The unknown Aidan Gillen does a good job as the bad guy, playing a cat and mouse game with John Cena. If you’re looking for a movie to take seriously then choose something else, however if you’re just wanting some action and entertainment then this will fulfill your needs.

Chaos Experiment - C- (Don't Bother)
Chaos Experiment, originally released under the name Steam Experiment is essentially a less gory version of the Saw series. It’s about a group of people that are all trapped in a sauna and must survive the night without killing each other. Overall it’s a below average thriller that tries to make the Saw aspect of the movie more interesting by saying its all about global warming. The global warming aspect of the story makes little sense and would have best been just left out of the movie altogether. Val Kilmer is showing that he’s now only in the movie business for a paycheck, as this is about his 4th or 5th straight to DVD dud in a row. The way that the movie is shot in the sauna room is quite annoying, as the colors and graininess make it difficult to fully pay attention. Definitely a forgettable movie that is best to just be skipped.

Two Lovers - B+ (Gotta Rent)
This film is a great character study of a love triangle involving Joaquin Phoenix, Gwyneth Paltrow and Vinessa Shaw. Phoenix is a recently dumped, depressed and potentially suicidal man who finds love in both the woman of his choice, Paltrow, and the woman his parents want him to be with, Shaw. All 3 of them give great performances and you can barely tell that they are acting at all. The emotions between them all seem very real and heartfelt. The many faults of both Phoenix and Paltrow’s characters keep you engaged and wondering as to where the relationships will lead. The film brilliantly shows the emotional and mental sufferings that some will go through for love and is a great romantic drama.

DVD releases June 23rd ON REVIEW

Pink Panther 2 - C+ (Wait for It)
Pink Panther 2 can best be described as just another paycheck for Steve Martin. It continues to further itself from the classic movies starring Peter Sellers. This installment includes quite a star-studded cast, all of which display accents that are so bad it’s just irritating to listen to. It’s better than the first one starring Steve Martin, although that’s not necessarily much of a compliment. Although the movie is pretty poor overall, it does still have some good laughs, few and far between as they are. If you were a fan of the first one, or just Steve Martin in general, then you’ll likely find this one just as entertaining. Otherwise you may as well skip this one altogether.

Phoebe in Wonderland - A- (Gotta Rent)
In Phoebe in Wonderland, Elle Fanning proves that she is just as, if not more talented than her older sister Dakota. This heartfelt story is about a girl whose life becomes both enriched and haunted by the tale of Alice in Wonderland. Having to deal with a very vivid imagination, an unsupportive father and a mother who deep down wishes her daughter was different are just a few of the challenges plaguing Phoebe. The supporting cast, including Patricia Clarkson and Bill Pullman, also performs well. The writing is very similar to Finding Neverland, another live action film drawing upon a children’s classic in a very unique way. I would recommend this as it was one of the best “unknown” films of the year.

Confessions of a Shopaholic - B-(Wait for It)
Based upon the book of the same name by Sophia Kinsella, Confessions of a Shopaholic had a lot of promise towards the beginning of the movie, but became less appealing as it progressed. Sacha Baron Cohen’s comic brilliance is obviously rubbing off on his wife Isla Fisher, as she does a great job as the main character. That being said, there are many faults with the film. The main conflict of the story doesn’t seem like much of a conflict at all. There were too many pointless subplots, undeveloped characters (John Goodman for instance has very little screen time) and some very creepy mannequins. Along with that, during these economic times it’s hard to sympathize with a “shopaholic.” It’s a light-hearted mindless comedy with some laughs and is worth a watch despite its faults.

Inkheart - B (Gotta Rent)
Inkheart is basically an action-packed, more magical version of Bedtime Stories. Based off a book series, Inkheart is about a man that has a magical power, that when he reads from a book his words become reality. The main character is played by Brendan Fraser, which could be seen as both its greatest asset as well as its greatest weakness as he tends to have a love or hate relationship with people. Along with Fraser is Paul Bettany who does a great job as a mysterious, fire-juggling man trying to get back home. The story is just intriguing enough to make you want to know more about the characters and where they come from. It has many similarities between the fantasy movies of recent years and is worth a watch unless you are one of those that dislike Brendan Fraser.

The Code - B-(Wait for It)
The Code is one of the worst kinds of films, it’s forgettable. It doesn’t stand out as being either good or bad, it’s just a mediocre movie about thieves. It was actually quite disappointing as it carries with it quite a bit of star power in Morgan Freeman and Antonio Banderas. It was originally released under the name Thick as Thieves, however, the title was changed for the DVD release. It has a few fairly predictable twists and plotlines. It’s not an overly entertaining or gripping movie; however it’ll probably keep your attention until the end. My recommendation is that you check it out later in the week when there’s not much else to watch, otherwise just watch a good heist movie such as Entrapment or Italian Job.

DVD releases June 16th ON REVIEW

Friday the 13^th - B- (Wait for It)

This 12^th installment of the classic horror franchise brings nothing new to the series except for a little better visual effect on the gruesome killings. The story is the same as all the other movies in the franchise. A group of teenagers on vacation having way too much fun in an area of the woods that everyone else avoids. The cast is mostly a bunch of up and coming actors that have had minor roles in movies such as Transformers and 21. It is kind of interesting watching this franchise, wondering which character will be the last one standing since inevitably almost everyone is killed off. If you’re a horror fan, it’s worth a watch. Otherwise, is does nothing new for the genre and can be skipped.

DVD releases June 9th ON REVIEW

Crossing Over - B (Gotta Rent)

Yet another Crash-like plot in which multiple storylines cross and the world becomes much smaller. The only difference between this and Air I Breathe or Powder Blue is that the central theme of the movie is actually something relevant in today’s world, and not completely contrived out of thin air. Crossing Over includes a great cast ensemble dealing with the issues of illegal immigration and its effects on society. Harrison Ford, Ashley Judd and Ray Liotta all give solid performances. Its biggest flaw was that nearly 20 minutes of it was cut out, making some of the scenes seem a little disconnected. It’s a decent movie that is worth a watch, although it could have been much better.

The International - B+ (Gotta Rent)

Clive Owen and Naomi Watts stars in this high energy, action packed thriller about a corrupt world bank. Owen gives a great performance, similar to his role in Children of Men. The International is a nice mix between movies such as Michael Clayton and Conspiracy Theory. The director develops a believable story about a bank that when its not loaning out money, is selling weapons on the side. Also included is one of the coolest gun fights I’ve seen in some time. The scene has some brilliant shots, is intense, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I would definitely recommend this as its entertainment value is higher than most other tent-pole titles.

Gran Torino - A (Gotta Rent)

Clint Eastwood notches another masterpiece onto his directorial belt. Following in the footsteps of Mystic River, Flags of our Fathers, Letters from Iwo Jima, and The Changeling, Eastwood presents his best film yet. Eastwood stars as a racist man living in a neighborhood quickly being inhabited by the minorities he hates. As the film progresses he starts to become friends with the Asian family next door, opening his mind to a race he hates so much. Gran Torino is such a unique film as it doesn’t have to rely on the twist that no one sees coming, amazing visual effects or adrenaline filled action sequences to appeal to the masses. Eastwood’s character is unapologetic and unrelenting in his ways, yet is so emotionally intense and intriguing that you have to continue watching. The film is filled with racial slurs, and quite possible will offend its audience. However, don’t let that sway you away from this as its one of the best movies of the year.

Fired Up - B (Gotta Rent)

I’m actually kind of ashamed to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this film. I found myself laughing throughout most of it, which was completely unexpected. It plays out similar to Stick It or Bring it On, although I’d say it’s better than both of those. This is definitely geared towards teenagers, and that targeted audience will likely love this. I rated this as a B compared to other movies of its genre and targeted audience, not compared to all movies in general. If you’re looking for a movie that you don’t need to take serious and can just have a little bit of fun with, then check this out. It’s a lot better than it looks and shouldn’t be judged strictly based off its cover.

DVD releases June 2nd ON REVIEW

Revolutionary Road - A (Gotta Rent)

In the film that reunites Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio after 11 years, they show that they still have some of the best on-screen chemistry between an actor and actress. In Kate Winslet’s best performance of the year (even better than her Oscar-winning role in The Reader) she plays a suburban wife dealing with all the problems of married life. DiCaprio was definitely robbed of at least an Oscar nomination, as he showed once again that he is one of the best actors today. With all the praise of how great the acting and directing was, it’s one downfall is that it is one of the most depressing films I’ve ever seen. It ranks up there with Requiem for a Dream as leaving you feel sad, depressed and empty after it’s over. Well worth the watch, just don’t expect to be inspired afterwards.

Defiance - A- (Gotta Rent)

Both Daniel Craig and Liev Schreiber give the performance of their careers in this powerful, action-packed movie about a band of Jews trying to survive the Holocaust by living in secrecy in the wilderness. Both actors make you want to care about what happens to them and to their group of refugees. Throughout most of the film the director does a nice job not “hollywoodizing” a true story. It does however seem less like a film about resisting the Nazis and more about surviving in the woods against an unknown enemy. In that regard it’s less effective than movies like Valkyrie or Schindler’s List. Only those who are familiar with the real story will notice the large amount of historical inaccuracies, everyone else will enjoy it as a very well made WWII movie.

He’s Just Not That Into You - B- (Wait for It)

Let me start off by stating that I was definitely not the target audience for this movie, so my initial opinion is a little biased. It’s derived from a self-help book, He’s Just Not That Into You is a stereotype packed web of conflicts. It makes women look desperate, needy and a little crazy. The male leads are mostly portrayed as being afraid of commitment and adulterers. It seemed like the director wanted to add as many storylines as possible in order to win the award for best cast ensemble. All of that aside, I can see why women would like it. The character development pretty good, the love triangles are entertaining and Ginnifer Goodwin does a great job. If you’re looking for a slightly over-dramatized romantic comedy then this is a good choice, otherwise I would pass it up.

DVD releases May 26th ON REVIEW

New in Town - C- (Don't Bother)

New in Town is a dull, boring and forgettable movie from the start. It takes 45 minutes into the movie to get anywhere, and when it does finally get going you realize that you no longer care. The last half an hour is rushed and provides little to no explanation as to what is going on. You can tell that the editing floor removed a large portion of this movie as many scenes were disconnected from what was happening in the movie. The scenes that provided any laughs were few and far between, and mostly could be seen in the previews. The only saving grace is the performances by Renee Zellweger, Harry Connick Jr. and J.K. Simmons. If you’re interested in seeing this, just rent Hope Floats or Sweet Home Alabama instead as they are far superior versions of the same movie.

Night Train - C+ (Wait for It)

This unknown film is almost a throwback to the classic Hitchcock film with a current twist, at least at first. It begins as a captivating mystery movie combined with Pandora’s Box. However, as the movie progresses the inexperience of the director boldly stands out. He tries to throw too many twists, add too many elements, and make the whole movie far more interesting than it actually is. The idea that Pandora’s Box shows the truth of your soul is poorly executed. The characters are quite interesting, especially Leelee Sobieski who plays a crafty medical student. As the movie progresses though, the director fails with the character development and tries to show too many sides of each person. I’d say the movie is worth a rent, if only for the first half of the movie, as the last half is unfortunately disappointing and poorly executed.

Kill Shot - B- (Wait for It)

Although Kill Shot is very predictable, and it’s quite obvious that a majority of the film was edited out at one point or another, the great performances of the cast make this worth watching. Joseph Gordon-Levitt proves that he can take hold of nearly any role. Ignoring the part that Mickey Rourke is supposed to be a Native American (as he clearly isn’t) he plays a very cold and intimidating hitman. Alongside them Diane Lane, Thomas Jane and Rosario Dawson all give very solid performances. It provides good suspense at times, and is overall entertaining. It’s just a shame that with all the re-shoots, delays and editing this film went through; an opportunity for a great film was lost.

Powder Blue - B (Wait for It)

The artistic film in which many storylines seem to collide together seems to be the flavor-of-the-month movie genre, as this is another example of movies like Crash and The Air I Breathe. Forrest Whitaker seemingly reprises his same role from The Air I Breathe, although he does another good job. Jessica Biel is very poorly cast, as she’s not believable as a drug addicted stripper. Her performance itself isn’t bad, but it’s hard to see someone that attractive playing that role. Her relationship with Ray Liotta is a little unnerving as he’s almost 30 years older than her. Overall it’s an interesting movie that keeps your attention and makes you wonder as to what will happen next. Its main downfall is that it followed 2 other great films that are in the same style and very similar storylines. Unfortunately I think it will mainly be remembered for a very specific, seductive scene with Jessica Biel.

DVD releases May 19th ON REVIEW

Valkyrie - A- (Gotta Rent)

I’ll be the first one to criticize Tom Cruise, as he is definitely one of my least favorite actors. However, he shines in Valkyrie, a true story based on one of the greatest heroes of all-time. Cruise plays the Colonel that tried, and nearly succeeded in assassinating Adolf Hitler during WWII. Valkyrie is a rare film that keeps you on the edge of your seat even though you know exactly how it will end; since from the opening credits it’s a forgone conclusion that Hitler lives and that the attempt on his life fails. Alongside Cruise is a great ensemble of supporting cast members. None of them tries to outshine the other and all play their particular roles with ease. This film will definitely make you want to find out more about Germany’s own attempt to end its Holocaust.

My Bloody Valentine - D (Don't Bother)

This remake of the 1981 slasher of the same name almost is required to be watched in 3-d. Nothing else about this film makes it unique at all, and doesn’t separate it from any other horror movie that’s been made. However, with the 3-d glasses this film is actually quite cool. The 3-d aspect really grabs your attention and puts you in the movie. Without the glasses however, this falls flat on its own pickaxe. The picture is incredibly blurry and really makes you want to just look away the entire movie and just listen to the gore. If certain filming techniques such as the “shaky” camera make you queasy, then this will push you over the edge. Definitely worth a watch with the glasses, don’t even bother if you can’t get a hold of a pair.

Paul Blart: Mall Cop - B- (Gotta Rent)

If you enjoy Kevin James in Hitch or his T.V. show King of Queens then you’ll likely find this movie funny and entertaining. There is nothing special about this movie and is entirely carried by the humor and comic genius of Kevin James. It’s a good comedy for the whole family to watch, although if you’re expecting to laugh out loud the whole time you’ll be disappointed. I’m actually quite confused as to how this movie grossed nearly 150 million dollars during its run in theaters. That being said it’s a fun, mindless comedy that is worth a watch if you do not want to think about anything and just stare thoughtlessly at the television for an hour and a half or so.

Fanboys - B+ (Wait for It)

The best way to describe this film is directly in the title itself. “Fanboys” of nerdy movies like Star Wars and Star Trek, or those who have an inner geek will find this as a must-see. The story plays out as a group of friends going on a road trip to steal the first cut of The Phantom Menace months before it’s released to the world. Hands-down the best part of this movie is all of the cameos by everyone from the Star Wars cast to Kevin Smith to multiple characters played by Seth Rogen. This film was supposed to be released 2 years ago, however it was delayed multiple times to work on re-shoots and editing of the story. The minor amount of drama in the film is a good addition and brings the whole thing together (not to mention makes the idea of the plot actually make sense). After seeing the first trailer more than two years ago, I can say that it was worth the editing as I found it very funny.

DVD releases May 12th ON REVIEW

Underworld - Rise of the Lycans - B+ (Gotta Own)

This is set up as a prequel to the blockbuster hits starring Kate Beckinsale. It stars Michael Sheen, the same man who played David Frost in the Oscar nominated film Frost/Nixon, who turns in another great performance, reprising his role as the werewolf Lucian, the most intriguing character of the franchise. Alongside Sheen is Bill Nighy, perfectly cast as a power-tripped elder vampire. This installment is definitely better than the 2^nd film in the series, and almost as good as the 1^st one. Those who haven’t seen the other two films may not enjoy this very much, as it brings virtually nothing new into the genre. However, if you’ve seen the others, then this almost becomes a must-see. The CGI of the transformations into werewolves is pretty impressive, although the some of the action scenes seem a little more like something out of Sweeney Todd. Overall it’s a solid movie and worth a watch if you love vampires, werewolves or action in general.

Grudge 3 - D+ (Don't Bother)

Since the mid-80s, taking movie series and beating them into the ground has been the thing to do in the movie business. This is no different. The 3^rd installment of the Grudge series is hands-down the worst of the three. With no star power to carry the film, the terrible writing, unimaginative characters, and bad acting becomes glaringly obvious. There is nothing about this film that makes you jump or scared. The only cringing part is looking at the DVD player and seeing you still have over an hour left in the film. This makes all the same mistakes that the horror movies of the last 10 years have made over and over again. Only watch this if you have a guilty pleasure for bad horror movies, otherwise don’t even bother.

Taken - A (Gotta Own)

Taken, starring Liam Neeson is one of the best action-thriller movies of 2009. Neeson plays a father willing to do whatever is necessary to get his daughter back from the human trafficking trade. Taken reminded me a lot of the Bourne trilogy, starring Matt Damon, except without the annoying “shaky camera” that they insisted on using for every action scene. Neeson plays his part very convincingly, and shows that he is one of the more underrated action stars in the business. The story is gripping, never slows down and keeps you wanting more. Where Neeson’s character is like Jason Bourne minus the amnesia, the way the movie unfolds is like that to Denzel Washington’s Man on Fire. One of the few movies of the year that I would not only say is a must-see, but also one that belongs in your collection.

DVD releases May 5th ON REVIEW

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button - A+ (Gotta Own)

Benjamin Button was my choice as Best Picture of this year. I thought it should have beat Slumdog Millionaire for the Oscar. Everything about this movie was superb, the acting, the cinematography, and the costume design. Best of all, it was one of the most unique stories ever told. As Benjamin Button grows up backwards, you start to realize just how paralleled are old age and childhood. Cate Blanchett and Brad Pitt have a perfect chemistry. I can see how some people may not like the length of the movie (about 2 hours and 40 mins.), but that would be the only downfall in my opinion. If you don’t get bored with movies at around the 2 hour mark, then this is a must-see for anyone who can appreciate a great film.

Wendy & Lucy - A (Gotta Own)

In the first of two Michelle Williams movies released this week, Wendy and Lucy is a touching tale of Williams and her dog Lucy. Definitely an Indie film, this one will go under the radar to most viewers. Michelle Williams gives the best acting performance of her career. This film is a very “real” film, since while you are watching it you don’t necessarily notice that it is a movie at all. Its story is something that could happen to anyone, and the mood of it comes across as just watching someone’s life play out, and not a contrived story to sell tickets. This is one of the best unknown films of the year and if you’re interested in seeing a movie based on its writing and acting and not centered on a multi-million dollar budget, then try this.

Last Chance Harvey - B+ (Gotta Rent)

Dustin Hoffman in his first non-children’s movie in a few years does a fantastic job as an older man seemingly losing everything important in his life. That is until he meets Emma Thompson, who begins to change the way he looks at life. Both do a great job and are perfectly cast in their roles. Last Chance Harvey would best be described as a Romantic Drama with some classy comedic elements. I would say its biggest and possibly only downfall is the fact that the trailer gives away pretty much the entire storyline from start to finish. The few “surprises” in the movie are pretty obvious and it never really keeps you guessing as to what will happen next. Overall it’s a better than average movie and is a great rental.

Incendiary - B (Gotta Rent)

In Michelle Williams’s 2^nd movie of the week, she shows yet again that she is a premier actress in Hollywood. Co-starring Ewan McGregor (an actor whom I actually dislike quite a bit) Incendiary starts off insinuating that will be a thriller about a torrid affair and the lives it affects. However, it quickly turns into a drama in which Williams shines as she deals with the death of her family. There are a few subplots that I felt should have been focused more upon, and a few that should have been cut altogether. It was a good movie overall, however I don’t think it lived up to its potential. At one point the writer should have been told to consolidate the storylines and just make one exceptional story and not multiple decent ones.

DVD releases April 28th ON REVIEW

Bride Wars - C (Wait for It)

Bride Wars is by no means a good movie. However it will have its niche with certain audiences. If you’re looking for a mildly funny wedding movie with a few witty moments then you may enjoy this film. Its an over-the-top portrayal of brides planning their weddings, willing to trample over any friendship in order to have the perfect wedding. Think of the television show Bridezilla on the big screen with a few big name actresses and you have this film. This type of film is expected of Kate Hudson, but is quite a surprise coming from Anne Hathaway coming off her Academy Award nominated performance in Rachel Getting Married.

Nothing But the Truth - B+ (Gotta Rent)

In her second film in a row that has received virtually no attention, Kate Beckinsale shines in this drama about standing up for your principles, no matter what the cost. Her latest film Snow Angels, Beckinsale did a fantastic job, received critical praise, yet hardly anyone saw the film. An all-star cast that includes Matt Dillon, Alan Alda, David Schwimmer and Noah Wyle all deliver great supporting roles. Similar in style to The Hurricane or Felon, this film doesn’t ever really keep you guessing, nor has a slew of twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. It is more about being intrigued as to how much Beckinsale will endure in order to keep her informant a secret. Great unknown film that I suggest everyone to see.

What Doesn’t Kill You - A- (Gotta Rent)

What Doesn’t Kill You would be best described as a modern, South Boston mobster movie. Whereas most of its predecessors are set in the Bronx, mainly focus on the crimes, the interactions with other gangs, and always that undercover cop that makes the bust of his career, What Doesn’t Kill You shows you all aspects of the lives of two childhood friends who are trying to support their families through questionable means. Starring Ethan Hawke, Amanda Peet and Mark Ruffalo who gives the performance of his career, What Doesn’t Kill You is a must-see for anyone who enjoyed the mobster movies of the past like The Untouchables or The Departed.

The Uninvited - B- (Wait for It)

Although I’m giving this a B- rating, this was surprisingly good albeit a little falsely advertised. It’s supposed to be a horror movie, although I’d probably classify it as a mystery or even a drama. The flow of it is very similar to that of Hide and Seek or The Sixth Sense. There are a few continuity errors and one of the dumbest psychiatrists I’ve seen, however it rebounds very nicely with a very surprising ending. As far as “horror” movies go, it is infinitely better than the trash that has been released in recent years (Prom Night, One Missed Call, The Eye, I could go on forever). It’s definitely a surprise of a movie and worthy of a rent, especially if you’re looking for a fairly suspenseful movie that will keep you guessing.

DVD releases April 21st ON REVIEW

Frost/Nixon - A- (Gotta Rent)

Frost/Nixon is less of a dramatic thriller and more of a great character study of Michael Sheen as David Frost and Frank Langella as Richard Nixon. Based on the famous interview of Nixon by Frost, it gives some great insight into the mind of Richard Nixon. It makes you want to watch the actual interview that was conducted some 30 years ago. Although it is a little slow, it keeps your attention the entire way through up until the very end. This is a great film for all types of audiences. It will mainly appeal towards those who lived during the event, those interested in history, or those that appreciate great acting performances.

The Wrestler - A+ (Gotta Rent)

In what should have been an Oscar-Winning performance by Mickey Rourke, The Wrestler shines as one of the greatest comeback stories in the history of film. The story itself is almost a mirror image of Rourke’s own career as a once icon trying to reestablish his career as one of the premier entertainers. Alongside Rourke is fantastic supporting performance by Marisa Tomei. This is definitely one of the top 5 movies of the year, and gives one of the best acting performances in recent years, especially one that got robbed of an academy award. A must see for everyone.

DVD releases April 14th ON REVIEW

The Spirit - D (Don't Bother)

The Spirit is a disaster of a movie from start to finish. Even though it stars great actors such as Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Mendes and Scarlet Johansson, the acting is absolutely terrible. The writing and direction were both quite terrible. Where director Frank Miller succeeded with Sin City in being a very stylish adaptation of a graphic novel, The Spirit lost much of its promise when it was edited to be only a PG-13 rating. The freedom of having an R rating would have done wonders for this movie as nothing went right. Even the comic relief characters were so irritating (Jar-Jar Binks anyone?) that you were just hoping they’d be killed off in every scene. I say definitely skip this and rent either Sin City or the other fantastic graphic novel adaptation 300.

The Reader - A- (Gotta Rent)

The Reader is another example of Kate Winslet proving that she is the best actress of this generation. Although I thought her performance in Revolutionary Road was better, she still won the Academy Award for Best Actress in this great role about a teenager having an affair with her in post-Nazi Germany. Based off the novel by Bernhard Schlink, the relationship between Winslet and newcomer David Kross is very believable (despite there being a 15 year age difference in real-life) and real. Although there have been many holocaust movies before this, it provides some new insight into the historic atrocity.

DVD releases April 7th ON REVIEW

Doubt - A- (Gotta Rent)

Doubt, which was nominated for 5 academy awards mainly for acting, deserved every one of them. The acting by Streep, Hoffman and Amy Adams is fantastic. This film, although a little slow, has some of the best character development I’ve seen. Its strongest asset is also one of its key weaknesses however, as the entire plot and conflict revolves around it and no outside plotline ever comes into play. It has a lot of relevance in today’s society and is a must-see for everyone.

The Day the Earth Stood Still - D (Don't Bother)

One of the worst remakes I’ve ever seen. It takes all of the great elements out of the original and replaces it with Michael Bay like action scenes. The relationship between the alien and the mother/son in the original is all but gone and instead is a bunch of pointless CGI and special effects. Only see it if you love effects and action and have little care for any sort of storyline.

The Tale of Despereaux - B (Gotta Rent)

In a year filled with animated movies such as Wall-E and Kung Fu Panda, this one certainly got lost among them. It has above average animation and a heart-warming story. It’s big downfall (and perhaps the cause of it becoming lost in the shuffle) is the fact that it’s yet another movie about rodents. With Ratatouille and Flushed Away having been released just over a year ago I’m a little tired of mice and rats being the characters. Even still, it’s a well made movie and a good one to get for the kids.

Bedtime Stories - B+ (Gotta Rent)

In Adam Sandler’s best movie since Click, this fun light-hearted movie is actually quite a joy to watch. It’s a cute and witty movie about an uncle watching his niece and nephew and telling them stories. The stories start seemingly coming true and provide some good laughs. With a nice ensemble of good actors this proves to be another good comedy the whole family will enjoy.

Yes Man - A- (Gotta Own)

Personally this was one of my favorite comedies of the year. The trailer doesn’t do the movie the justice it deserves. It makes it seem like it’s just another Liar Liar but it is far from it. I thought it was a laugh out loud movie with Jim Carrey at his best. Despite the mildly awkward 18 year age difference between Carrey and Zooey Deschanel they had great chemistry. Only someone who just cannot stand Jim Carrey should skip this as it is hilarious.

Donkey Punch - C (Wait for it)

This movie is something else. It takes a really long time to reveal just what kind of film it’s trying to be. It almost tries to be 3 different genres all at once; a little bit of teen party movie, suspenseful thriller, and even a typical run-of-the-mill slasher film all in one. It doesn’t do any of them great, but all of them are mediocre. With some unknown actors and an independent film label it does the best with what it has to work with.