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.