Tiff's Best (and Worst) of 2012

Another year of a whole lot of movies.  I have to say, it seemed like this year really started off slow and just a lot of so so movies.  But there were definitely some great ones too!  Here's my best, worst and honorable mentions.  (Check out my best and worst from 2011 here.)     

The Best of 2012 

• Anna Karenina - wonderful way to end the year
• Silver Linings Playbook - such a good, funny, crazy, touching movie
• Skyfall - probably my favorite 007 movie yet
• Argo - so interesting and well done
• Pitch Perfect - this won't win awards but this one is pure, fun entertainment
• The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel - an unexpected treat 
• The Perks of Being a Wallflower - classic troubled teen movie done right

The Worst of 2012

• Playing for Keeps - really bad storyline and zero chemistry
• Seeking a Friend for the End of the World  - long and painful in every way
• Gone - a very lackluster thriller
• 21 Jump Street - just not the right age to enjoy this (if there is such an age)
• Chronicle - just bizarre...in a bad way
• The Grey - intense and boring at the same time - how is that possible?
• Joyful Noise - long, boring songs

Honorable Mentions

• The Intouchables - something different from the norm
• The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey - great scenery and exciting all the way through
• Breaking Dawn: Part 2 - what a great ending to the series
• The Campaign - classic Will Ferrell hilariousness
• Trouble with the Curve - this movie had a little bit of everything
• The Hunger Games - very well done book to movie - can't wait for the next
• This Means War - great date night movie both men and women will like

Any that I should have added to the list?

Deb's Best (and Worst) of 2012

Ok, so our second year has come to an end.  As I am getting ready to write this final chapter of our favorites and least favorites of 2012 my 9 year old daughter wanders over and says "Whatcha doing?"  I respond  "writing on our blog"  Her response..."Blog? what Blog"  Me...giving her a funny look, "UH  the movie blog"  Her response with a big, AH HA smile..."Oh, is that why you and Tiff go to a movie once a week?"  Really?  Wow, I guess some things just slip by in this household...

So I have to say, this year was not as good as last year.  As I looked though the movies I am a little disappointed.  I had a harder time coming up with my favorites, vs the ones I didn't really like.  I will warn you, I went on my "memory"  what stuck with me and what didn't, so my choices may not correspond with my rates..per se...but that's the way this girl rolls.  So here it goes.

Worst: 
1.) Chronicle:  Don't bother putting this one in the history books.
2.) The Words:  Not just the words, the whole movie...
3.) Flight:  A really downer...in more than one sense.
4.) Think Like a Man: Or maybe don't, it didn't work out so well..
5.)  21 Jumpstreet:  Jump ship on this one.
6.) Cloud Atlas:  Left me feeling like I was under a cloud of confusion
7.) A Thousand Words:  Words just didn't do it for me this year

Best:
1.) The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel:  I would see this again, and I rarely see a movie twice.
2.) This Means War: Great Girl and Guy movie!
3.) Pitch Perfect: Laughable, loveable, singable
4.) Mirror Mirror:Gotta love the fairy tales with a twist.
5.) Perks of being a WallFlower: Highschool romance always a winner to me.
6.) Anna Karenina: Artsy to the max, and worked!
7.) Titanic-ok so that's a little bit of a cheater, but it was worth it! (I saw it twice!)

Honorable Mentions:
1.) Snow White and the Huntsmen:  Another fairy tale, which I loved.
2.)  The Hunger Games:  Book meets movie...a winner
3.) Silver Linings Playbook: embrace your inner Crazy!
4.) Breaking Dawn Part 2: Final chapter to an awesome series...ok, so the book is wayyyy better, but still
5.) Step up Revolution:  A real entertainer...gotta love a good dance
6.) Hit and Run:  Fast cars,crude humor,  no thinking
7.) Argo: Well done

2012: Bonus Review: Anna Karenina

Anna Karenina

Genre: Drama

Main Players: Keira Knightley, Jude Law, Aaron Taylor-Johnson

General Gist: Set in the late19th century Russia, a high society, married woman starts having an affair with a much wanted bachelor changing her life dramatically.

Deb's Take: 
What a unique movie. The first scene immediately set up a whole different vibe for the film.  Sort of a part play/part movie.  Just a neat concept.  As far as the movie itself.  The acting was pretty amazing. Keira and Jude are so good at their roles.  Jude Law was most impressive to me, as it seems he can play so many different types of characters and make them all very believable. 

The other thing about this movie was that it was the typical love triangle.  My Romeo and Juliet side was very satisfied.  The whole web of deception, drama, and love was adequately weaved into a horrid mess.  Why do I like movies like that?.....Anyway, I think this movie was well done, had some great characters and followed a good storyline.  We almost missed seeing this one, and I am glad we didn't!

Deb's Rate: Opening Night

Tiff's Take:
What a great way to end the year!  Seriously, we couldn't have picked a better one to finish with.  In my opinion anyway.  I knew when I first saw the preview for this that it was right up my alley and I had to see it.  But with the way things worked out we were a little late in the game at actually seeing it.  Boy am I glad we made it work though.

I'm not sure what to point out first.  I really loved everything about it.  It was one of those movies that when I start watching it I can tell right away that I'm going to love it and never want it to end.  Does that happen to any of you?  It was artsy and unique.  It was made as if it was on the set of a play in parts then a movie in other scenes.  Really well done.  Jude Law was fantastically middle aged and ordinary.  (Is that really possible?)  Keira Knightley was wonderfully torn and heartbroken.  Ahhh.  Made my heart go pitter pat.

I realize this kind of movie may not be for everyone but for me it was definitely one of the best of the year.  Easily.     

Tiff's Rate: Opening Night

Preview:  Finally!  All our reviews are up for 2012!  Now Best and Worst of 2012 to come with maybe a little giveaway in between.

2012: Week 52: Les Miserables

Les Miserables

Genre:  Musical, Drama

Main Players: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter

General Gist: "Ex-prisoner Jean Valjean is hunted for decades by the ruthless policeman Javert after he breaks parole. When Valjean agrees to care for factory worker Fantine's young daughter, Cosette, their lives change forever"  (taken from movies.yahoo.com)

Deb's Take: 
I have never seen this in any way, shape or form.  I was super excited to see it.  First off, the movie is long...really, I felt it was too long.  I suppose it mimics the on stage performance, but I got tired of it.  Second, I got tired of the singing/chanting.  I know it's a musical, but I really like more of a part sing, part speak show.  Third, I was amazed at the performance and singing of the actors.  I think they did a great job, and all the characters were wonderfully cast.  Unfortunately, I think this movie should have been left on the stage.  I think some of it's character and charm was lost as a movie.  Don't get me wrong, the movie was exceptional in scenes, sets, costumes, etc...but sometimes I think leaving the arts in their true form is just as well.

Deb's Rate: Rent it (in case you need to pause for a short break)

Tiff's Take:
Yes, this movie was long.  But I'm not sure there was really a way to get around that.  A "big" movie like this with a lot of hype is bound to be long, right?  This was my first time as well to see any form of Les Mis.  Mainly because I'm not a huge musical person so I've never made a point to see it on stage.  After seeing this I don't really think I will make a point to go that extra step.  Not because I thought it was horrible though, but because seeing a dramatic, musical once is probably enough for me. 

And full on musical it was.  No talking at all.  Just singing.  The entire time.  A little much for me.  But I did enjoy the story even if it was a little depressing.  The acting was great and the singing was for the most part great.  I would be curious to hear what someone thought who had seen the musical on stage.  Did it do it a huge injustice??  Or was it a great interpretation?  I'm sure personally I'll never know but I'm glad I did see it even if it wasn't exactly my cup of tea.

Tiff's Rate: Matinee

Preview:  One more to come for 2012!

2012: Bonus Review: This is 40

This is 40

Genre:  Comedy

Main Players: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Maude Apatow, Melissa McCarthy

General Gist: Sequel (of sorts) to the movie "Knocked up".  This follows the life of the married couple, Pete and Debbie, (from "Knocked Up") as they enter their 40's.

Deb's Take: 
I am trying to remember this couple from "Knocked Up" as I remember finding that movie so hilarious.  I guess I will have to watch it again though, because this couple doesn't stick out to me as well as I would like.  I am sure if I watched a few scenes my memory would come back...but maybe not, considering I am over 40.

This movie was a movie my husband and I knew we couldn't miss.  I am fighting my 40's, my husband is embracing his (or maybe just not fighting as hard as me).  First off, I love Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann.  They crack me up, and together even more. Second, this movie hit home soooo many times I sort of felt like maybe my husband wrote to the writers and told them a little about our life, then I decided...we are not alone.  (Big Breath, if a movie is so closely related to our lives, tons of people must be going through what we go through and we are not crazy)  Movies that I can relate to on a funny level are great.  I did love that about this movie.

The movie wasn't 100% amazing though, again with the whole "disconnected" thing.  I felt like the movie didn't really flow.  For example, I thought like a month had passed, and it was only a weekend.  I felt like their marriage was sort of off the charts in craziness, seriously dysfunctional.  But, I suppose that was also suppose to be the point, off the chart crazy.

Who really did it for me though was Melissa McCarthy.  That lady is an amazing comedian.  I love her!  My favorite part of comedies are when you know the actors are just ad libing.  The "after movie clip" was almost as funny as the movie!  Don't leave without seeing it.

All in all, the movie was very relatable, and I enjoyed the laughing with my husband, and realizing we are not in this alone!

Deb's Rate: Friday Night

Tiff's Take:
I guess my take on this movie is different from Deb's.  First of all, I'm not pushing my 40's.  I'm still in denial that I'm almost mid-30's.  Because of this I think this movie wasn't quite as relatable to me.  Mainly because I'm not dealing with hormonal kids yet.  Mine are still sweet and young and innocent.  Ha.  Okay, they're still young.  But I'm not quite to that preteen/teen age yet.  A chunk of the humor related to this. 

A lot of the humor was related to couples getting older and getting in a funk in their marriage and lives.  I think a lot of us can relate to that so I wouldn't say it was completely about your age.  Because of this there were some really hilarious parts regardless if you're 42 or 33.  The main thing that made me like this movie less was how it kept dragging on.  It was so much longer than it needed to be.  There were too many scenes about "normal" life issues that seemed unnecessary to me.  I got the point after the 5th scenario.       

I guess for me and my husband in our early (ok mid) thirties, it was a disappointment.  The flow of the story didn't work and there was more crazy than funny for our liking.

Tiff's Rate: Rent It

Preview: Enjoyed the last two movies of the year with our mom!!  Always a treat! 

2012: Week 51: Playing for Keeps

Playing for Keeps

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Main Players: Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel,  Noah Lomax, Dennis Quaid, Uma Thurman, Catherine Zeta-Jones

General Gist: A father who is also a retired professional soccer player, works to become a more prominent figure in his son's life.

Deb's Take: 
I liked looking at Gerard Butler.  He is pretty nice looking and has a nice accent.  He looked good without his shirt on.  I think that is the best thing I can say about this movie.

The movie was sort of discombobulated.  There were a lot of known actors, almost like the movie knew it was lacking in some way, so they wanted some big names to make up for it.  I really just didn't like the way the relationships jumped all over the place.  Oh, there were funny parts, and nice romantic parts, but honestly, it was pretty unbelievable.  That is coming from the sister who falls for any romantic twist out there...the sister who falls for the whole "drama" of relationships, who loves the star crossed lovers story, who roots for the underdog...so I guess what I am saying is...it wasn't that great.  Sort of just blahza to me.  I have definitely seen worse but it could have been so much better.

Deb's Rate: Don't Bother

Tiff's Take:   
I couldn't agree more with Deb's review.  This movie really fell short in every way.  I actually can't believe the actors in this agreed to do it.  They acted well enough but the story line was just awful.  I didn't believe any of the relationships or the situations.  There were holes and flaws all over the place.  And the chemistry wasn't great between anyone.  The funny parts were just so so and the "touching" parts weren't really touching at all.  

So, maybe just don't go to this one at all.  And if you have already then I'm sorry that you wasted your time.            

Tiff's Rate: Don't Bother
Preview: Closing down the year, but a few more to come.

2012: Week 50: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Main Players: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage, Cate Blanchett

General Gist: A Hobbit and a gang of dwarfs (along with a wizard and warrior) go on a journey to reclaim their home from a Dragon.

Deb's Take:
I am not a Lord of the Rings fan.  I can't say I dislike it, just am not a fan.  I know I saw some of movies when they were out, but quite honestly don't remember them.  This movie, being a prequel, may have just helped me a little with the whole enjoyment of Lord of the Rings.  I like things in order. I like to know the background stories, the ins and outs, the before and afters, EVERYTHING.  I am a big picture kind of girl.  This story sort of just set the stage for me to now go and watch the Lord of the Rings movies.  I am not much of a  fantasy movie type, but this movie was good.  I really felt like the characters were picked and played well.  Martin Freeman (Bilbo) and Ian Mckellen (Gandalf)  were my favorites, but really, there wasn't a bad apple in the bunch.   Ok, so I almost forgot about the character Gollum.  WOW, after that scene I felt like nothing could be as crazy as Gollum.  Kudos to Andy Serkis for playing crazy like no other crazy I have seen.

More impressive was the scenery and landscape, as well as the visual production.  The movie was a prescreening ( meaning to us?  FREE) and it was in 3D (added bonus).  The special effects, the color, the picture itself was amazing.  I think I liked some of the screen shots better than the movie.  I also loved the costumes and make-up.  Actually, what can be done with film now a days is pretty amazing.  (I just watched an old movie..."The Holiday" with Bing Crosby and Fred Estaire, something to be said for the good old black and white, but really amazing to think what movies have become in such a short time)

Anyway, if you are a Fantasy, Hobbit fan, I think you will love it!

Deb's Rate: Good enough for Opening Night if you are a fan, I could take it as a Matinee.

Tiff's Take: 
Although I wouldn't call myself a die hard Lord of the Rings fan I really do enjoy them.  To be honest though I wasn't thinking I would like this as well as I did.  Not that I thought it would be bad but I wasn't overly excited to see it.  I remember the other movies being good but long.  And it's been a loooong time since I've read the book.  So long ago that I couldn't really tell you how the movie was bad, good, different or the same compared to the book.  

That being said, I really enjoyed this movie.  It was long but it didn't feel like it dragged on.  I enjoyed the characters, the action, all of it.  Since it had been such a long time since I'd read the book it was like I was seeing the story for the first time.  But did the movie end where the book did??  I feel like maybe they'll be another movie but honestly I have no clue.  Regardless, it was definitely one to see.             

Tiff's Rate: Friday Night 

Preview: Week 51 coming up!

2012: Week 49: Rise of the Guardians

Rise of the Guardians

Genre: Animation, Adventure

Main Players: Voices of Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Jude Law, Isla Fisher, Hugh Jackman

General Gist: The immortal guardians (Jack Frost, Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy, Sandman, and Santa) try to protect all the children against the evil spirit Pitch.

Tiff's Take:         
We decided to treat the kids to a movie for week 49.  My kids wanted to see this and it looked interesting to me so why not.  And I did enjoy it but I wouldn't say it was anything spectacular.  I've seen a lot better animated movies but I've also seen a lot worse. 

It was an interesting concept and I liked all the characters.  All the great voices helped too.  But I'll admit it hasn't left a lasting impression since I've seen it a few weeks ago.  My kids?  My 7 year old seemed to enjoy it and my 4 year old was only mildly distracted at times.  Pretty good for a kids movie I'd say.

Tiff's Rate: Matinee

Deb's Take: I like animated movies when they have a lot of humor for the adults, at least they are my favorite.  This movie didn't have a lot of "hidden" adult moments.  However, the story was a good concept, and I liked that they combined a group of guardians together that weren't just your traditional characters, (ie: Jack Frost and Tooth Fairy)  The movie kept the kids' interest (mine are 9 and 12) and I think the story was laid out well.  My kids both said they liked it "a lot" (vs a little).  It was good, clean, kid fun!

Deb's Rate: Matinee

Preview: A few reviews in the que.  Only a couple weeks behind.   Whew!

2012: Bonus Review: Wreck-It Ralph

Wreck-It Ralph

Genre: Animation

Main Players: Voices of John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch

General Gist: Wreck-It Ralph is sick of being a bad guy in the video game world.  He leaves his game in search of a way to become a hero.

Tiff's Take: 
This was sort of a throw back to video games of my childhood.  I think that made this movie sort of a draw for the parents who had to watch it with their kids.  It really wasn't much of a draw for me but I was never really into video/arcade games much growing up I guess.          

As far as a kids movie from the perspective of the parents who have to watch them I'd say this one was really slow.  Both Russ and I thought so.  I felt like it dragged on forever.  I heard some good things about it so I was a little surprised I didn't like it better but I really didn't.  I sort of thought it would never end. 

From my kids perspective it rated slightly higher.  My 7 year old said he liked it but my 4 year old got pretty restless.  She's not much of a movie goer yet but this one was a little more difficult for her to sit through then most. This one's probably best as a renter in my opinion.

Tiff's Rate: Rent It

Preview: Another animated movie.  Rise of the Guardians.

2012: Week 48: Silver Linings Playbook

Silver Linings Playbook

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Main Players: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro

General Gist: After a stay in a mental institute, a teacher moves in with his parents and begins to work on trying to reconcile with his wife.  Along the way he meets a young woman with issues as well.

Tiff's Take: 
This movie was sort of crazy.  Crazy in the fact that the characters were a little off (or a lot) and there was so much arguing and yelling and things going on.  This might have been a little too much for some people but it surprisingly was not for me.  I really loved this movie.  

Crazy really worked well for these characters and boy did the actors play the part.  The chemistry between Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence was great and I loved the humor.  There was one scene that got me and Deb so tickled we could hardly stop laughing.  I think people were looking at us funny.  Over all it was a pretty predictable story line but it was so enjoyable that it didn't matter at all.         

Tiff's Rate: Opening Night 

Deb's Take: This movie played up Crazy to a different sort of level.  I think the craziest part, the fact that more than likely there are households like this one in the world for real!  I think I liked this movie because it made me feel a little less crazy. 

I agree with Tiff,  the movie was pretty predictable, and very out there, but there was good character development, good relationship development (even in all it's craziness) and great chemistry.  The movie was funny, (yes Tiff and I were laugh crying at one point, although the full theatre did not seem to find as much humor in the scene as we did) as well as touching.  There was a little disconnect from time to time, however, I think that only enhanced this movie.  All the main actors were great, and I really enjoyed the show.  I don't think it's Academy Award worthy, but worth a good night out.

Deb's Rate: Opening Night

Preview: Movie Mania...we have 7-8 movies we want to see in the next 3 weeks. We'll see what happens.  Our Last Hurray!

2012: Bonus Review: Skyfall

Skyfall

Genre: Action, Adventure, Crime

Main Players: Daniel Craig, Judy Dench, Javier Bardem, Naomie Harris

General Gist: Bond….James Bond

Deb's Take:  
I am not the James Bond fanatic in my home, my husband is, and even more then he, is my brother-in-law.  So, of course this movie was about our men.  We did the whole AMC Cinema Suites, couples night out, babysitter (thanks Kayla) generally, all out for this one.  Gotta love the whole movie experience now a days!

So, really, how could this movie go wrong?  Well, after some discussion with my trusty Bond expert (husband) I have found that it COULD have gone wrong.  I mean, not anyone can play Bond correctly, but Daniel Craig CAN and DID!  Even I could see (with my inexperienced Bond eyes), that he is good!  Now, I have seen some Bond movies, and I agree, I think Daniel Craig was a good pick when they were looking for their next Bond some time back.  Of course, there was the whole “who was your favorite Bond” conversation, and all were in agreement that Craig does exceptional.  This movie will not disappoint, and will most likely be spot on for all those Bond fans.   I did really enjoy this movie.  I liked the action, the stunts, the interactions between the characters, and the progression of the relationships.  I am sure some of the true “Bond” references were lost on me, but my husband enlightened me on some of the little idiosyncrasies.   Great action, Great suspense, Great Night all around.   

Deb's Rate: Friday Night—only because I am not a “true” fan.

Tiff's Take:
I was really looking forward to this movie.  To say I'm a huge Daniel Craig fan would be an understatement.  Ever since I saw him in his first Bond movie I was hooked.  Best Bond yet in my mind.  Let's not worry about the fact that I've only seen Craig and Brosnan Bond movies in full.  I tried to watch Live and Let Die with Russ and it was a little painful.  I'm definitely not a Bond die hard.  However, I do enjoy the newer ones a lot. 

From a purely female perspective (and DC lover) this movie was great.  I enjoyed ever bit of it.  Russ, the major Bond aficionado, thought it was great as well but...it was different.  He tried to explain to me why it was different from all the other ones.  Here's what I got from it. 

• There wasn't as much action/car chases or enough cool new cars.  I noticed that too but it didn't bother me.  I don't live for car chases like Russ does.  
• There weren't as many cool gadgets either.  Again, didn't really bother me.
• He wasn't in a tux as much.  He was a little grittier in this one.  Not quite so smooth.
• This one told more about his personal life.  I guess Bond is usually more of a mystery?  This was one reason why I liked it so well.  But I'm a girl and we like to know what makes men tick.

So even though Russ thought it wasn't your typical Bond movie he really enjoyed it as well.  Definite hit for us.

Tiff's Rate: Opening Night

Preview:  Some more pre-screenings coming soon.

2012: Week 47: Lincoln

Lincoln

Genre: Drama, Biography, History

Main Players: Daniel Day Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn, Tommy Lee Jones

General Gist: The story of Lincoln’s struggle to emancipate the slaves, during the civil war. 

Deb's Take: 
I am one of the least political person’s out there.  I think I have mentioned this before.  That being said, the first half of the movie was a little slow for me, I didn’t enjoy all the political bantering, games and negotiations.  I know it was all a recounting of our history, and I think that is what kept me interested.  I really was impressed with Daniel Day Lewis and his portrayal of Lincoln.  I will guess that a lot of research was done about Lincoln’s personality, and I feel like the personality came through loud and clear.  The movie was most impressive in that it covers a very short period of time, yet captures an amazing pivotal historical event, and the days around that event.  What a burden that man took on, and what a strategic way of bringing the events into play.  I did feel the acting in this movie was exceptional.  I always like Sally Field, and Tommy Lee Jones was different in this role, not as convincing as some, but good. 

I think this movie would be most suited for those people who love history, love politics and love biographies.  I am not necessarily this type of person, but the greatness of this movie was not lost on me, I know it was exceptional and give it credit, even though it wasn’t my favorite..many of you will love it!

Deb's Rate: Matinee for me, but Friday night for most

Tiff's Take:
This movie was very different from what I expected.  I thought it was more of a war movie but it was so not.  It was really about passing (is that the right term?) the 13th amendment.  It just so happens it was around war time.  So needless to say, this was not an action packed movie.  Yes, it was long and a little slow.  Yes, my dad may or may not have fallen asleep during it.  BUT, it was very interesting.  At least to me.  I'm always surprised to find that political stuff really does interest me more than I think.   

I felt like this movie really captured the behind the scenes of what may have been going on way back then.  It was fascinating to see Lincoln's personality portrayed.  What an amazing individual?!  Daniel Day Lewis totally nailed it.  As Deb said, if you're a history buff you'll probably really enjoy this.  If you're looking for action this isn't your movie. 

Tiff's Rate: Hmm...Matinee or Friday Night.  Why not, Friday Night.

Preview:  More to come as we catch up!

2012: Bonus Review: Red Dawn

Red Dawn

Genre: Action

Main Players: Chris Hemsworth, Isabel Lucas, Josh Hutcherson, Josh Peck, Adrianne Palicki, Connor Cruise

General Gist: A group of teenagers work to save their town from an invasion of North Koreans

Deb's Take:  This one was one of our Thanksgiving extravaganza of movie seeing.  As many of you know, this movie was a remake, I remember seeing Red Dawn as a teen/tween and always think it’s cool when 30 years later I am taking my kids to see a movie that I grew up on.  This movie followed the same line, with up to date technology and advancements.  There was a lot of action, suspense, and unexpected events.  The acting was adequate, not a movie that I was expecting a whole lot from.  The actors were good at their roles, but really just a whole bunch of kids. It wasn’t bad or anything, just nothing exceptional.  What I enjoyed more was hearing my kids’ reactions.  My daughter doesn’t usually go to movies like this, and she said she really liked it, she seemed to enjoy the suspense.  My son was slightly troubled by the unnecessary death of some of the characters, and several times explained how those deaths could have been easily avoided.  (He is like that!)  All in all it was a fun family event, a little on the violent side, but not too bad for my 16 and 12 year old.

Deb's Rate: Rent it

Preview:  Almost there!

 

2012: Bonus Review: Flight

Flight

Genre: Drama,

Main Players: Denzel Washington, Kelly Reilly, Bruce Greenwood, John Goodman

General Gist: A pilot is able to prevent his airliner from crashing, however, an investigation reveals his troubled lifestyle.

Deb's Take:  My husband and I went to this movie on a pre screening night.  The trailers and promos really played up this movie as an exciting, edge of your seat, type of movie and my husband was really looking forward to going.  Denzel is such a good actor, and I can say he did a good job in this movie, as usual.   I really like Kelly Reilly, she was so convincing as a recovering drug addict and down on her luck sort of gal.  John Goodman was the humor of this show, he brought the humor to this all to serious subject, and Bruce Greenwood did exceptional.  That all being said, the movie was NOT an edge of your seat type of show, rather, after  the first 15-20 minutes the movie was really more about alcoholism and how it rears it’s ugly head in the life of a pilot.  I am not saying the movie was bad, just that the trailers were misleading and really not the story I expected.  Sometimes the unexpected makes for a pleasant surprise, in this case I didn’t feel that way.  If you go, just be ready for something different than what you may have expected.

Deb's Rate: Rent it

Preview:  We are getting caught up, I swear!

2012: Week 46: Breaking Dawn: Part 2

Breaking Dawn: Part 2

Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Adventure

Main Players: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattison, Taylor Lautner:  Plus lots of other really cool actors.

General Gist:  The Final Chapter of the Twilight Series...Nuff said!

Deb's Take:
Ok, so we made it to the 10:00pm showing (8 theatres were sold out for this one in Independence)  The hype of the movie is always so much fun!   SO...if you haven't joined the Twilight world this movie is probably just O.K. for you.  In all honesty, the acting is sometimes cheesy, and the visual effects aren't all that great at times.  BUT...this movie is about the experience, it's the 5th movie and who doesn't want to see how it all ends in real life (vs the book?). 

I have never been a big fan of Kristen Stewart or Robert Pattison, they are depressing to me, when they smile it looks out of character because they never smile and always look sort of bored and irritated.  I know some of it is the movie and their characters, but really I just never really fell for them in these roles.  On the other hand, I love so many of the supporting characters, but have to say Michael Sheen took the cake in this movie.  He does evil so well. Really all the "evil" characters/actors in this film did good, they are believable.  I also like Taylor Lautner, he just fit his role well, and is so darn cute and Ashley Greene, she was spot on.

I don't feel like there is too much to say, but I will put out one little teaser...I read the books, I knew the ending, I have gone to LOTS of movies in my life (well, maybe more then Lots) and this one got me!  Was so not expecting it!....all I can say, you will be surprised.

Great ending for this Team Jacob fan.

Deb's Rate: Opening Night

Tiff's Take: I don't know how many times I can say it.  I love love love the excitement of a hyped up opening night!  All the anticipation, the crazies (the making fun of the crazies) and feeling like you're a part of something fun.  This is probably the only time I can handle going to a movie where you have a very active and loud audience. 

First, let me get this out of the way.  As I was watching the first couple scenes I was cringing just a tad.  It started out a little too cheesy and low budget.  (Is that even possible??)  I thought of my sister-in-law knowing that she would immediately hate the movie.  (Back story:  She's an incredibly hard critic and loved if not obsessed over these books.  Movies never live up to her book standards.  Ever.)  But after it got into the heart of the story I didn't worry about cheesy or low budget any more. 

The characters came back just as good as ever and I loved seeing the introduction of all the "other" vampires.  Most of it was what I would have expected but the ending?!  Wow.  What a great way to change things up without really changing things up.  Bravo movie makers.  Great final installment.  First Harry Potter is over now Twilight.  It's going to be a sad day when all the Hunger Game movies are done.  I'm not sure what I'll do.

Go Team Edward! Ha. 

Tiff's Rate: Opening Night of course.

Preview:  James....James Bond 

2012: Week 45: Argo

Argo

Genre: Drama, Thriller, History 

Main Players: Ben Affleck, John Goodman, Alan Arkin, Victor Garber

General Gist: Six Americans are trapped in hiding in the Canadian embassy in Iran.  In an effort to get them back home, the CIA creates a fake movie as an excuse to get in the country and get them out by saying they are a film crew.  Based on a true story in the late 70's early 80's.

Tiff's Take: 
This movie was based on a true story which I love.  And it has Ben Affleck who I'm always rooting for.  He doesn't have the best track record in my mind as being the best actor in the world but I've always really liked him.  This character really fit him well.  Maybe it helped that he was the director.  Who knows.  What I do know is this story was so interesting.  It makes you wonder what movie will be made 30 years from now about something happening right now that we have no idea about.  That's a little unsettling so maybe we shouldn't think about that.

This was a pretty serious movie with a big emphasis on suspense.  The whole time I was on the edge of my seat wondering if they were going to get out.  Now, if I knew the story from way back in the day I would know the answer to that but I didn't.  I was only like 2 and to be honest I probably wouldn't know too much about it if I was 18 at the time.  Since I didn't really know exactly what was going to happen it was even more nail biting.  And just to give my heart a little break there was comedic relief by John Goodman and Alan Arkin's characters.  Just the right amount.

I really enjoyed this and so did Russ.  Russ thought this would be interesting but I don't think he thought he would like it quite so much.  (I mean it's no James Bond movie but...) Great date night movie.  Both parties will enjoy this one.       

Tiff's Rate: Opening Night

Deb's Take: 
I am not much of a history buff either.  I married a history buff so that he could give me all the details of the things I have missed in life.  Brian said he remembered this, and I don't know if he told me, or I just assumed, but I knew from the beginning they were getting out, so I wasn't in as much of a suspenseful stupor as some, but I agree this movie was suspenseful.

I think Ben Affleck did a great job as both director and actor of this film.  After watching a true story based movie I always go and do a little hunting around to see how the film was different from the real situation.  This movie was good about trying to get the story accurate, while making it "Hollywood".  I, like my sister, am amazed at the things that happen in this world without the general public knowledge.  Well,,maybe not that surprised. 

I really think you will like this movie if you like history, or even if you just like movies that include real life events.  There was plenty of suspense, light humor and action, with enough drama to round it all out.

Deb's Rate: Opening Night

Preview: Skyfall and Breaking Dawn 2 both in the same week.  Oh, and maybe we'll throw a bonus review in the mix as well. 

2012: Week 44: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Genre: Drama, Romance 


Main Players: Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, Ezra Miller

General Gist:  A story that follows the school year of a shy freshman boy who becomes friends with two seniors.

Deb's Take: 
I loved this movie!  It felt like the "Breakfast Club" meets "Pretty in Pink".  I have always liked movies about high school.  Everything is so innocent and new.  The thrill (or maybe agony) of becoming an adult, and experiencing so much for the first time.  It's also scary, and lonely and sad for some, but when it's not, its amazing.

I loved the chemistry of these actors. The characters were bizarre, quirky, and perfect!  All three of the actors were great.  I really liked Logan Lerman, what a wonderful job. There were funny parts, sad parts, and happy parts.  All those things that make life...Life, and all those things that shape who we are.  Yes, we all experience life differently, but all in all, everything is a lesson, and if we make it through we learn something about who we are and who we will be become. 

Deb's Rate: Opening Night

Tiff's Take:
Ditto on what Deb said.  Yeah, really great movie.  Although I'm not surprised.  I thought I would like this one from the first time I saw the preview.  It's been out a little while and I wasn't sure if we would get to see it so I'm glad we finally did. 

The basic story line was pretty straight forward.  A boy trying to fit in while finding unlikely friends in two older kids.  But there was a lot more to the back history of the three main characters that made it interesting.  In fact, it makes you want to know more about them.  Parts of it are vague which I think was done on purpose to let you fill in the holes.  That can be annoying at times but worked for this.  I'm guessing the book gets into a lot more detail but the movie worked.

I loved all three of the main actors/characters.  They each had a special charm to them.  I loved seeing Emma Watson do so well in a post Harry Potter movie.  Definitely one of the better movies we've seen this year.

Tiff's Rate: Opening Night 

Preview:  Review for Argo and Wreck-It Ralph coming up. 

2012: Week 43: The Sessions

The Sessions

Genre: Drama, Romance 

Main Players: Helen Hunt, John Hawkes, William H Macy

General Gist: A young man who has been disabled since a young boy, seeks the help of a sexual surrogate to experience sex for the first time.

Deb's Take: 
I was a little surprised at how many older adults there were in this movie.  It was a pre-screening, and I am wondering if it targeted the “senior” population for some reason, because Tiff, my cousin Leslie and I were some of the youngest people in there..(except of course the looney who brought her 4 and 10 year old children, seriously people!  It’s a movie about a sexual surrogate, you think the R rating means nothing? Let them see it in their own home where they can ask questions or something!) 

Anyway, the movie was ok.  I say OK because the whole scenario was set up, characters were just “sort of” developed, and I hated how the ending hit you smack in the face and was anti-climatic in nature.  The movie felt like it wanted to go so much deeper, there was emotions and relationships, but they were all so "unfinished" and choppy.  That being said, I liked the story.  I had no clue what to expect as I have never really thought about a sexual surrogate.  I am actually sort of surprised I haven’t though, considering I am an Occupational Therapist and have worked with many clients who are paralyzed. I have often answered  personal questions about sexual activity and educated patients in options when disabilities are involved. If nothing else, the movie gave me a new perspective of sex and my belief of what is appropriate and what isn’t.

The acting?  Helen Hunt was great, wish I looked like her in my birthday suit, John Hawkes was amazing..what a hard role and character to play! And William H Macy was a funny little addition to the mix.  I think this movie is a good one to ponder and think about, especially if you are in the therapy world, can’t say it was amazing though.

Deb's Rate: Rent It


Tiff's Take:
I guess I thought this was a little better than what Deb thought.  I didn't get too hung up on the character development but it did just sort of throw you into the lives of the people rather than building up background.  The whole idea was interesting though.  And based on a true story so that made it even more interesting.  Who knew there was such a thing as a sex surrogate?!  Sort of a weird concept if you ask me. 

The acting was really good.  I hadn't seen Helen Hunt in anything for a long time.  I really like her.  And I seem to always like William H Macy in anything.  John Hawkes looked like a completely different person.  It was really amazing. 

Yeah, the ending was sort of abrupt and the relationship between Hawkes and Hunt's characters sort of left you wanting more but all in all it was a good movie.  Not great but worth seeing. (And as Deb pointed out, don't bring your small children to this.  Really not appropriate in any way.  Thanks.)

Tiff's Rate: Matinee

Preview:  We're way backed up on our reviews but we have some good ones coming up. 

2012: Week 42: Cloud Atlas

Cloud Atlas

Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi

Main Players: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant, Jim Sturgess, Jim Broadbent

General Gist: A story about how individual lives affect one another in the past, present and future.

Deb's Take:  
This movie was another one of those “thinker” type of movies.  There is a lot going on with so many characters and so many time lines, the movie can get confusing.  I was a little lost most of the time.  I felt like I needed to watch the movie a couple times in order to really figure out who was who and what was what.  The movie followed the lives of so many different people/past, present and future.  I tried to find the connection in each but know I missed some of it. 

The most amazing part of this movie was how many characters each actor played.  Tom Hanks played 7 different characters, Halle Berry did 6, and most of the others had 5-6 as well.  Not until the credits were running did I see who was who as some of them were so unrecognizable.  There definitely is outstanding acting.  I sort of felt like I was watching a play vs a movie because the actors “acted” so well.

The movie was a little to long and drawn out for me.  I found myself wondering if there was really a point, luckily, things did  have closure..which I like of course.  Wonderful acting, but a little too much bouncing back and forth for my taste. 

Deb's Rate: Matinee

Tiff's Take:
Yeah, this definitely was a thinker.  I too, like Deb, was confused for a lot of it.  I wasn't sure how it was all going to tie together.  I don't think it was until the last 20 minutes of the movie that I had a little ah ha moment.  But I'll be quite honest.  That ah ha moment wasn't a real clear one.  There's still a lot I missed. 

It sounds like I enjoyed the whole journey of it a little more than Deb. I liked the bouncing back and forth between stories and times.  And I liked how some of the stories were more serious then others.  The present day story was especially entertaining and gave a little comic relief. 

The acting was great but more importantly, the makeup was wonderful.  I imagine it was fun for the actors to play all those different parts and be a completely different person for each story.

And yes it was long but it didn't feel too long for me.  The only beef I have is, again, what's up with these bleak futures?   

Tiff's Rate: Friday Night 

Preview: A few more pre-screenings in the works.

 

2012: Week 41: Looper

Looper

Genre: Action, Sci-Fi 

Main Players: Bruce Willis, Joseph Gorden-Levitt, Emily Blunt, Pierce Gagnon

General Gist: Futuristic movie about a hired assassin from the 2040's (called a Looper) who kills for the mob from the 2070's via time travel.  Things get complicated after he finds out he needs to kill his future self who doesn't want to be killed.  Confused yet??

Deb's Take: 

What an intriguing concept for a movie.  ( I am sure it’s been done before, and there is probably a book out there with this story too, but was new to me.) I am reading an awesome book series right now, “The Outlander” series by Diana Gabeldon.  The book is about time traveling (and a lot more!) and I am always fascinated with the concept.  Due to that fact, I was excited to see how they played out this movie with time travel.   Sometimes in movies time traveling gets too confusing certain scenes are “wrong” in that some little aspect is missed, making the time travel too questionable.  This movie seemed to avoid those two problems, generally speaking.  I enjoyed the way the plot played out.  I liked the chemistry of the characters, Bruce Willis and Joseph Gorden-Levitt seemed to have worked hard to become the same person, and Emily Blunt was likable and convincing.  I think I was most impressed with the son in this movie, played by Pierce Gagnon.  I tried to find his real age but only came up with 5-8.  He seemed on the younger side, yet I am always amazed at the talent of some children.  He also plays/played in a T.V. show and has been in a couple other movies, he was pretty darn good!  All in all the movie had good action, and the story line carried a cool “supernatural” air.   

We got to enjoy company again this week with my husband and my sister-in-law.  Movies just draw a family together!

Deb's Rate: Friday Night

Tiff's Take:    
So, trying to describe this movie does make it sound really confusing.  It really wasn't though.  There weren't a lot of hangups on the whole time travel concept.  It all made sense and seemed like it could really happen.  (But in only 60 years from now??  I'm not sure about that.)

Like Deb said, very interesting concept if not a little unnerving.  Why is it that movies (or books for that matter) portray the future as being so bleak?  Are we really that bad of a species?  I've been reading Lois Lowry's The Giver books so I have bleak future on my mind.

This really was a great sci-fi thriller if you're into that kind of thing.  It was a great concept, sort of intense and great acting by all.  Joseph Gorden-Levitt was fantastic and only annoyed me slightly by his Bruce Willis facial expressions.  One thing to keep in mind though was that it had a lot of blood and guts.  Be prepared and for the love of God don't take your kids to it.  (A facebook friend said they saw kids in the theater when they went.  Seriously people.) 

One thing I really liked about this movie was the unpredictability of it.  I wasn't sure how things were going to get resolved.  The storyline didn't fit this nice little mold.  I liked it.

Tiff's Rate: Friday Night 

Preview: We were thinking about seeing Argo but just got prescreening tickets for Cloud Atlas.  So I guess the free movie wins!