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Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (2022)
Weird Al Gets A Film
"Weird Al" Yankovic is a celebrity I never expected to receive the biography film treatment, so I was surprised when I saw this was coming out earlier this year. That said, I was also expecting a typical biographical film, with the standard story and a general plotline moving throughout. But what we got instead was fun too. However, the movie veers a little too far into the absurd, having Al become an alcoholic even though he's been sober most of if not all of his life, the whole relationship with Madonna... and then also the killing of Pablo Escobar towards the end. Obviously I started to figure out what was real and what wasn't before long, but I wasn't expecting the film to take such wide liberties either... and it kind of disappointed me in that regard. That said, if you're a "Weird Al" fan, you should watch this movie. You'll love it!
Zootopia (2016)
Runs Slightly Off Track
Zootopia starts out as one of Disney's typical propaganda films, with the talent show trying to shove the message of all-inclusiveness down our throats. It also goes right for the message of you can be anything that you want to be, which is great, but again, propaganda filled and set towards Disney's liberal-leaning message.
There are also tons of stereotypes made about the animals. A great example of this would be how the lions are just automatically predators or how bunnies are just cute and dumb.
J.K. Simmons and Jason Bateman, as well as Idris Elba, do some fantastic acting that definitely makes their scenes worth a rewatch or three.
There are times when the film gets lost in it's plot line too, like how the assistant mayor suddenly decides to be a villain or how there's a random chase with a panther during the movie.
There are some funny parts though. The sloths at the DMV and the mafia boss mouse killed me.
If you're trying to teach your kids something by showing them this movie, be ready to answer lots of questions at the end.
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
More Of A Cult Classic Then Anything Else
When it comes to this film I envision it becoming a cult classic in later years, similar to some of Tim Burton's other films. Speaking of Burton, I find this film a very odd choice for him to direct. Like the Alice In Wonderland films, I never thought I'd see him directing something like this.
The film has it's highs. The acting of Ella Purnell, Eva Green, and Samuel L. Jackson is really good and deserves awards. The film's setting of Wales is a great place to have a movie set. Seeing Allison Janney in this type of a film was also a treat as I love her acting and voice.
Other than that though, the film has some lows. One of them is the acting of Asa Butterfield, which is cringe-worthy at times. It appears as if he was never even invested in the film at all. The final act is very rushed as well, with the film jumping through the climax rather quickly.
Fans of Tim Burton will watch this one for years to come, but I won't be watching it too often after this initial viewing.
Tammy (2014)
I've Always Been In Love With These
Tammy is a road trip movie, and oh how I love this type of movie. There's just a lot more thrill and excitement when the film moves from location to location rather than staying in one spot the entire time.
Tammy also has a lot of good acting throughout, including the great Dan Akyroyd, who only appears for about 2 minutes total and gets star billing (something I never got). Susan Sarandon and Kathy Bates charm the audience in most of their appearances.
Give this film a chance. You'll enjoy it from top to bottom. Melissa McCarthy puts out another decent film to add to her list of well-done movies.
Gone Girl (2014)
How To Create A Crazy Good Film
Gone Girl takes a brand new concept and turns it into a movie that could easily bring home an Oscar. Imagine if your wife just randomly disappeared and was supposedly dead, yet she left enough evidence to pin the murder on you when she wasn't actually dead? That's what this film does, and also brings Tyler Perry into a more serious role as attorney Tanner Bolt, who brings suave and gravitas to his character. Neil Patrick Harris appears in something other than a comedy production and does a magnificent job. A lot of new technology can also be seen, especially in Collin's house, and it's magnificent.
Gone Girl is a good movie, and it's a good watch for everybody.
Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2011)
A Painful Watch
I waited two years to see this movie, and it turned out to be a huge disappointment. To me it was just two hours of a kid who can't stop yelling and is very rude towards others, especially his mother and the renter. There is way too much crying from the boy too. Thomas Horn makes this movie a hard watch with what I see as an over-the-top portrayal of Oskar.
As for the positives, John Goodman plays Stan the Doorman pretty good, and Tom Hanks does a good job despite really only appearing in a total of 20 minutes of the film, and I do enjoy the journey.
The movie would've been a lot better if Thomas Horn had toned down Oskar just a little bit.
The Other Woman (2014)
When Men Cheat
When men cheat, what happens in this movie usually doesn't happen, but it did for these three ladies, and it makes for an enjoyable watch. The plot isn't filled with holes, and there are a lot of laughs, especially out of what Kate Upton says because she's really only known for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Editions and therefore starts off playing a bit of a ditz, sort of like Leslie Mann's character, who is the insecure one of the group that's tricked into signing papers for her husband's company that she's the CEO of.
Enjoy this film with friends. It's the perfect buddy comedy even though the cast is largely female and men aren't really a big part of it at all. It'll be part of Cameron Diaz's best of collection in the coming years.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Yes I Did Actually Watch This Movie...
I believe quite firmly that this movie was made for chicks to sit down and ooh, ahhh, and cry over, but I enjoyed it immensely. I was a freshman just like Charlie when I saw it, and it chronicles this suicidal kid's life quite nicely, showing that sometimes a group of kids is willing to take in a stray despite any age differences, and that sometimes a girl with a different guy that she's in love with is willing to help out a guy that has feelings for her.
The movie also deals with gay romances and drugs as well as bullying. The director has handled these things very well, almost with a finesse.
It's a chronicle of teen romance. I'd recommend it more for girls than guys, but see if you think you should.
Due Date (2010)
When You Feel Down....
When you feel down, and need some good humor that may be a little oddball and contains a lot of swearing, watch Due Date. The movie begins with a very simple premise somewhat reminiscent of old sitcoms from the 1950's, and evolves from there into a roadtrip movie, which is one of my favorite genres of movies! From the first encounter at the loans office, up until the accidental Mexican border crossover, this movie shows what happens when polar opposites go for a long ride together. The end also ends up being happy despite the movie's content, with Ethan getting his acting job with a cameo on Two And A Half Men, and RDJ's character showing up just in time for the birth of his new kid.
It's an awesome movie! Don't pass it up if you can!
Transcendence (2014)
When Technology Gains Control
This movie is awesome! It pertains to a subject that could be happening in the very near future, and that is technology taking over. The movie begins quite emotionally, and when Will died I thought we weren't going to see him again in the movie, making me question why Depp got star billing on the posters.
Now, I see why. Almost right after the death, we get Will, bald with electrodes still attached to his head, on a computer screen asking to be connected online. And after that happens, Will starts to look more like a human again, controlling the building of Brightwood Data Center, and going to work healing the injured and sick to make them his slaves. This all leads to the climax of the film, which is carried out quite epically before we flash ahead five years to a world where all technology, and power for that matter, has blacked out.
See this movie. You'll love it! It's a very real sci-fi thriller, and it's where we could be in the next twenty or so years.
Divergent (2014)
Fast-Paced From Start To Finish
I expected this movie to be a boring teenage love story because I had never actually seen the previews. Boy was I wrong! The movie starts out kind of slow, but then picks up after the choosing ceremony, and keeps on going without stopping until what seems like a 45 minute long climax scene that makes you wonder how many levels it'll step up.
I enjoy Jai Courtney's portrayal of Eric the Dauntless leader, and the Dauntless faction as a whole. If I was a bit more physically fit I could possibly be one of them. I also enjoy seeing Maggie Q getting a post Nikita role as big as that of Tori.
I do have a few nitpicks though. I don't like how slitting your hand open is shown as being mandatory as it sends a bad message. Also, the relationship between Tris and Four seems to send the vibes that a student having a relationship with her teacher is perfectly OK.
I also think another actor could've pulled off Jeanine better, like Jane Lynch or Kristen Wiig, maybe even Cameron Diaz. It just didn't seem like Kate Winslet was the right choice.
If you're OK with having your kids witness a lot of physical and gun violence, go see this movie. You won't regret it one little bit.
Hot Tub Time Machine (2010)
A Must See!
This movie finds the best way to balance comedy in its fast-paced storyline. There's never a dull moment, and all the characters are believable because of the actors portraying them.
There's also some facts for the 1980's, such as Clark Duke's character beginning to fade in and out because he wasn't born yet, and Craig Robinson's character performing a Black-Eyed Peas song for the first time!
The ending is awesome too with Lou staying back in the 1980's and creating "Lougle", while sitting out on a yacht with a hot girl.
Chevy Chase as the repairman is awesome as well. He adds some spice to the movie.
See this movie with some friends. Trust me, you'll enjoy it!
Death of a Salesman (1985)
Snoozefest
This movie is just plain awful! Sure it moves from scene to scene seamlessly, but there's a crap load of what seems like unnecessary information stuffing it to the gills. Most of the last hour or so of the movie is the characters screaming at each other until Willy starts hallucinating, sending his life downhill and further out of control until he takes his car and kills himself.
It was a chore to watch this movie, and it was very disappointing. The only things that lighten it up are John Malkovich's acting and the occasional funny scene. Other than that, it's just a bunch of yelling, fighting, and general dementia. Don't waste your time watching this movie
The Mighty (1998)
The Book Is Better
I read the book Freak The Mighty, then watched this movie. I was not impressed at all. The movie jumps around the book,with events happening out of order, and most viewers wondering what they missed. The only part that really remains true to the book is the last ten minutes or so after Freak dies.
The chapter names stay true to the book except for one, and the actors are mostly believable in their respective roles. Whoever plays the big kid does a great job as well. The film can remain emotional when needed, but it's just not enough justice for the book's fans, as it won a literature award when it was published. If you want to see the movie, go ahead, but read the book for comparison first.
Late Night with Seth Meyers (2014)
Late Night Becomes Traditional Again
Jimmy Fallon took Late Night in the 5 years that he hosted it, and turned it into his own show, with a style so much more distinctive than hosts such as Conan and Letterman. He was extremely hyperactive though, never calming down, and bringing energy to all that he did, and that's why I always tuned over to CBS to see what Craig Ferguson had in store for that night.
The 2014 Tonight Show Transition differed greatly from the 2010 Tonight Show Conflict in that it went rather smoothly. Of course, SNL lost one of its best Weekend Update Anchors, but it's really worked out for the best otherwise.
Seth Meyers, although getting off to a bit of a rough start, has proved his worth in the month he's sat in the chair. He's also made the show his own, and has brought original material while toning it down a lot from when Fallon hosted. If there was one thing I had to fix though, it'd be the monologue. It could be handled a lot more smoothly.
All in all, an interesting era of Late Night lies ahead, and Seth Meyers is the man to emcee it all!
Frozen (2013)
Maybe A Little Too Much Hype
Disney movies have kind of crashed and burned with old adult fans in recent years, bringing us films like Planes and Tangled. They have however, broken new ground, such as featuring an African-American Princess, and setting a Pixar film in Scotland. Some of the most recent Disney films don't focus on love, rather friendship, such as Brave.
Frozen is a love story, but it has a few more elements added in, such as you can't trust everyone you meet, and that running away and hiding doesn't solve all of our problems. It also shows that truly nice people don't always finish last, as Kristoff goes from a lowly ice deliverer to the friend of Anna, and there's not really much more to it. They don't get married at the end of the story, which is a nice change of pace.
I've heard from many that this film is groundbreaking, and it isn't. It just features a lot of charming characters and a different storyline from the Disney movies of 2005-2013. It could definitely be considered for the Classic Disney library in the future though.
I'd say watch, but don't expect to agree with the critics claiming it's groundbreaking when it's over
Man of Steel (2013)
Worst Superman Reboot EVER
When I heard that a reboot of Superman was coming out in 2012 that dropped the cast of the 2006 reboot, I thought that it was quite pointless to have only had those people for one film, so I wasn't looking forward to this.
I watched this around Christmas 2013, and I wasn't impressed. The story runs over many years, and gives Clark Kent a new start, even showing his life on his planet before it gets destroyed. Then the story focuses in on issues Clark has because of his strength, and Clark is made to look stupid and unwanted because of these traits. These incidents make for sad scenes that pepper the middle of the movie.
A boring climax puts the icing on the cake for this snooze feet of a Superman movie, with most of us racing for the exits at the end. Don't waste your time on this movie!
Kindergarten Cop (1990)
One Of The First Movies I Got Through Netflix
I loved this movie! It mixes action and comedy perfectly, and the actors are believable as their respective characters. AS is great as the cop who ends up as a substitute, playing through the movie with his 6-year old co-stars as if it's just a regular school day. Very we'll played guys!
The end sequence is fantastic, and the little boy doesn't get killed, which is always good, because who wants to watch the youngest cast members die? If you have the time to sit through this comedic action flick, you should so do it. With lots do laughs and a amazing storyline, you'll love this movie for years to come! Get it while you still can! Don't miss out! I'm serious!
The Campaign (2012)
The One Time I Root For A Republican
I found myself rooting for Marty watching this movie because of all the things Cam does to try and save face, although many of them go horrendously wrong, such as the cop car stealing. Many of the things Cam does are just downright outrageous, especially when he makes the porno with Marty's wife!
This movie was the first time I saw Jason Sudekis outside of Saturday Night Live, and he did a fantastic job as Cam's campaign manager, walking out when the time was right and all. Speaking of SNL, several alums appear in this film such as Will Ferrel and Dan Akroyd, so it's a nice little reunion.
As for the movie as a whole, it was hilarious! If you can find it, rent it! You will not be disappointed with this comedic film based on a congressional race.
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)
Ian McKellen Brings Flair To This Dull Storyline
I am watching the three Hobbit movies before I see the three Lord Of The Rings movies, so this was my first time entering the world of Middle Earth that people love so much.
Now of course, they're dividing the Hobbit book up into three movies, which can sometimes make for dull waiting periods to kill time, and there is a CRAPLOAD of time killing in this movie. Whether it's walking or riding to where the action takes place, or letting the viewer watch nothing as we wait for something to happen gets old and boring after a while.
That being said, all the characters are believable, especially Ian McKellen's portrayal of Gandalf The Great, who basically acts as a leader/babysitter of the dwarfs throughout the movie, always knowing where to go and many times saving everyone from danger. Gandalf is what makes the movie so interesting, as there are a lot of boring parts that pepper the rest of this 2.5 hour movie.
See this movie and the two sequels before you see the three LOTR movies.
Mr. Peabody & Sherman (2014)
A Little Bit Of History For Us
I saw this movie on Sunday with my mother for her birthday because she wanted to, and really, my sister and I were curious to see this old cartoon she kept raving about.
Needless to say, I loved it. The voice acting was done well, the comedy and puns were great, and the adoption story woven in works without a hitch. We also learn lots about history, sometimes accompanied by awesome cartoon diagrams. You can accomplish almost anything with the marvelous techniques of CGI animation!
One problem I did have though was the character of Miss Grunion, the CPS agent who tries to take Sherman away from Mr. Peabody. Shown once towards the beginning, she proceeds not to appear in any way shape or form until about 10-15 minutes before the climax. They could've put her in there somewhere in the middle for sake of consistency!
Also, why would Sherman bite Penny? This seems like an odd occurrence unless Mr. Peabody was biting Sherman as a alternative to spanking while raising him. At first I thought Peabody might have sneaked in, but I don't think that's it.
Also, the arrangement of former Presidents Washington, Lincoln, and Clinton near the end is fantastic.
See this movie if you go see an animated kids film in the next few weeks. You won't regret it, especially in 3D!
3 Days to Kill (2014)
A Theater Full Of School Buddies
I spent most of this movie listening to my classmates laugh at almost everything that went on, and that was OK, but that didn't make this movie any better than it actually was.
First off, at the end of the film, Zoey is kissing her French boyfriend in a private room. The plot moves on to the climax, and the boy is never seen again for the rest of the film! I mean, come on, really?! Did the editor really need to cut out whatever scene he appeared in after that, or did the screenplay writers forget about him?
Second, the fact that the film starts with a cold open. I'm usually a fan of scenes that come before the opening credits, but this one didn't need it, with the sequence bouncing back and forth from character to character, before merging into the Albino character being shot in the leg. This could've been handled after the intro.
Despite many negative things, there are positives. Most of the scenes involving the African family were touching, even if rushed. They did fade into the background for a little while though, and that was upsetting, as it added a bit of culture. The birthing scene made me want to cry for unknown reasons, as it was played out beautifully, and reminded me of my late father.
Basically, there is an underlying plot, but don't expect to understand everything if you come into this movie after the first twenty minutes have gone by.....
Star Wars (1977)
I Saw This For The First Time in 2009
Believe it or not, I saw this movie at the age of 12, maybe a little older than most kids were when they saw it for the first time. I understood very little of what was going on because I hadn't seen the three prequels, which I made a mental note to watch after seeing this one.
I like the movie because it's a great opening for the second three movies. It starts out with some great comedy from our two robot friends C-3PO (voiced wonderfully by Anthony Daniels), and R2-D2. After a little bit of this, we get to know Luke Skywalker, and the story truly takes off from there.
I like how the plot clicks along at what I'd call a steady pace. We meet all of the characters in scenes that were set up quite amazingly, and it all leads up to the duel at the end, where Obi-Wan Kenobi meets his unfortunate end, which was the saddest part of the movie for me.
One thing I love about this movie is Darth Vader's voice, provided quite magnificently by James Earl Jones. You can feel the tension when his voice is coming out through that mask.
If you haven't even heard of Star Wars, I recommend you start here if you want to go in production order. However, if you want the entire story, start with Episode I.