Identity Thief
Genre: Comedy
Main Players: Jason Bateman, Melissa McCarthy
General Gist: A Colorado guy's identity is stolen by a woman in Florida. When he realizes the police aren't going to do anything about it he goes to find her himself.
Tiff's Take:
I had high hopes for this movie. The previews looked hilarious and I knew it was a movie I could get Russ to go with me. We both love Jason Bateman so that was a plus. And I love almost any of Melissa McCarthy's roles. So date night it was!
I have to say we were both a little disappointed. It was a little slow at times and a little longer then I think was necessary. There were some scenes that seemed like they could have just been taken out. Both actors were good and funny but definitely not either of their best movies. That aside, there were some really funny parts. Being Modern Family fans, we did enjoy the few scenes with Eric Stonestreet (Cam) though. But overall, just not quite enough funny.
So, although I had a great date, it was another excuse for Russ to say, "I don't really like going to movies". Oh well. You win some, you lose some. And I'll keep bugging him to go with me every time I can.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Friday, March 8, 2013
Friday, February 15, 2013
2013: Side Effects
Side Effects
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Main Players: Rooney Mara, Jude Law, Channing Tatum, Catherine Zeta-Jones
General Gist: A woman's life falls to pieces when the side effects of her medication get the best of her.
Deb's Take:
Fun little facts. Rooney Mara's family is really big in the football NFL world. She earned her degree in international social policy and psychology. Her older sister is also an actress.
The reason I looked her up is because she is sort of a freaky actress. I first saw her in Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and now in this movie. I don't know what I expected to find out about her personal life, maybe that she was a troubled teen who lived on the streets, under a bridge, until she was discovered by an agent who gave her a break and she still lives in a small studio apartment in downtown Detroit. HA..look her up, that is so not her story!
Anyway, what I think that says about her, is that she is a pretty good actress, because I truly believed she was a very troubled individual in this movie (as well as Dragon Tattoo). This movie was not what I expected. In fact I had a coat ready in case I needed to hide my face. Not that kind of movie. The other thing, I sort of pride myself on being able to figure out the twists in a movie. This one had me jumping around all over the place, up to the end I wasn't really sure what was going to happen. Like I said, Rooney was good. Jude Law was pretty good too, and Catherine Zeta-Jones really impressed me. I am always a little surprised at her talents.
All that being said, the movie wasn't bad. I think it wove a good thriller weave of webs. I can't say it was anything magnificent, but it was entertaining. Not one that will rate up there with my top 10, but could have been worse!
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Tiff's Take:
I was excited about this movie because I LOVED Rooney Mara in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I thought she portrayed Lisbeth Salander perfectly. And Lisbeth Salander is probably one of my favorite fictional characters so it makes it easy to like Rooney Mara too. Following my logic? I know, sometimes I have a hard time separating fiction and reality.
Well, the previews for this leaves you very confused. Who is the bad guy or good guy or what really happens? At least that's how I felt watching them. The movie almost leaves you just as confused until the very end. And even then I think I'm still a little confused. So does the good guy (and by guy I mean guy or girl-I don't want to spoil it) end up being the bad guy when it's all said and done? I'm not an over thinker when it comes to my movie watching so I didn't sit and ponder it too long but this movie definitely keeps you on your toes. Isn't that what makes these movies good?
It was a really interesting story and the actors really played their parts well. Especially Rooney and Jude. Channing Tatum was just okay I guess. His role was more minor then I thought it would be. Honestly his part could have been played by anyone and it wouldn't have made much of a difference. I still love Rooney Mara even if she seems to be drawn to slightly disturbing characters. Maybe that's why I like her. And when it comes to suspenseful thrillers, I think this one hit it right on the head.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Main Players: Rooney Mara, Jude Law, Channing Tatum, Catherine Zeta-Jones
General Gist: A woman's life falls to pieces when the side effects of her medication get the best of her.
Deb's Take:
Fun little facts. Rooney Mara's family is really big in the football NFL world. She earned her degree in international social policy and psychology. Her older sister is also an actress.
The reason I looked her up is because she is sort of a freaky actress. I first saw her in Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and now in this movie. I don't know what I expected to find out about her personal life, maybe that she was a troubled teen who lived on the streets, under a bridge, until she was discovered by an agent who gave her a break and she still lives in a small studio apartment in downtown Detroit. HA..look her up, that is so not her story!
Anyway, what I think that says about her, is that she is a pretty good actress, because I truly believed she was a very troubled individual in this movie (as well as Dragon Tattoo). This movie was not what I expected. In fact I had a coat ready in case I needed to hide my face. Not that kind of movie. The other thing, I sort of pride myself on being able to figure out the twists in a movie. This one had me jumping around all over the place, up to the end I wasn't really sure what was going to happen. Like I said, Rooney was good. Jude Law was pretty good too, and Catherine Zeta-Jones really impressed me. I am always a little surprised at her talents.
All that being said, the movie wasn't bad. I think it wove a good thriller weave of webs. I can't say it was anything magnificent, but it was entertaining. Not one that will rate up there with my top 10, but could have been worse!
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Tiff's Take:
I was excited about this movie because I LOVED Rooney Mara in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I thought she portrayed Lisbeth Salander perfectly. And Lisbeth Salander is probably one of my favorite fictional characters so it makes it easy to like Rooney Mara too. Following my logic? I know, sometimes I have a hard time separating fiction and reality.
Well, the previews for this leaves you very confused. Who is the bad guy or good guy or what really happens? At least that's how I felt watching them. The movie almost leaves you just as confused until the very end. And even then I think I'm still a little confused. So does the good guy (and by guy I mean guy or girl-I don't want to spoil it) end up being the bad guy when it's all said and done? I'm not an over thinker when it comes to my movie watching so I didn't sit and ponder it too long but this movie definitely keeps you on your toes. Isn't that what makes these movies good?
It was a really interesting story and the actors really played their parts well. Especially Rooney and Jude. Channing Tatum was just okay I guess. His role was more minor then I thought it would be. Honestly his part could have been played by anyone and it wouldn't have made much of a difference. I still love Rooney Mara even if she seems to be drawn to slightly disturbing characters. Maybe that's why I like her. And when it comes to suspenseful thrillers, I think this one hit it right on the head.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Thursday, February 14, 2013
2013: Bonus: Hansel & Gretel:Witch Hunters
Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Horror
Main Players: Jeremy Renner, Gemma Arterton, Famke Janssen
General Gist: Spin on the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel
Deb's Take:
This was definitely a spin off of the story of Hansel and Gretel. Nothing like a fairy tale. I went to this with the hubby, we were a little skeptical, and my husband was even more shocked that I suggested this movie. Last year I really enjoyed the fairy tale spin off movies. (see my best and worst for 2012), figured this may fall into those same categories.
This one was a little different. Lots of gore, (which in 3D is very interesting) a Sci-fi sort of twist (which isn't my favorite) but I was sort of pleasantly surprised. The acting was pretty good. I wasn't really familiar with the 3 main players, but they all were great in their parts, (and for all you men...who doesn't love a girl in leather?) I was most impressed with Famke Janssen, she did evil well! I liked how the story was actually a story and not just a gory witch hunt. There were some funny parts and some suspenseful parts, and lots of gore, but all in all I was unexpectedly surprised that I liked it. I can't give it a top notch rating, because by no means did the movie move me in anyway, but I enjoyed my date!
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Horror
Main Players: Jeremy Renner, Gemma Arterton, Famke Janssen
General Gist: Spin on the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel
Deb's Take:
This was definitely a spin off of the story of Hansel and Gretel. Nothing like a fairy tale. I went to this with the hubby, we were a little skeptical, and my husband was even more shocked that I suggested this movie. Last year I really enjoyed the fairy tale spin off movies. (see my best and worst for 2012), figured this may fall into those same categories.
This one was a little different. Lots of gore, (which in 3D is very interesting) a Sci-fi sort of twist (which isn't my favorite) but I was sort of pleasantly surprised. The acting was pretty good. I wasn't really familiar with the 3 main players, but they all were great in their parts, (and for all you men...who doesn't love a girl in leather?) I was most impressed with Famke Janssen, she did evil well! I liked how the story was actually a story and not just a gory witch hunt. There were some funny parts and some suspenseful parts, and lots of gore, but all in all I was unexpectedly surprised that I liked it. I can't give it a top notch rating, because by no means did the movie move me in anyway, but I enjoyed my date!
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Friday, February 1, 2013
2013: The Impossible
The Impossible
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland
General Gist: One family's story about being caught in the 2004 tsunami that hit Thailand.
Tiff's Take:
A personal tidbit of information about me...Since high school I've had dreams/nightmares about natural disasters on a consistent basis. It started out with tornadoes. I'm guessing because I was getting ready to go to college in the Midwest. Tornadoes were foreign to this Montana girl. Once I got used to being in the Midwest, tornado nightmares became fewer (and less nightmarish) and I started to have tsunami-ish type nightmares. Why? I have no clue. I've never lived by the ocean (at least not close enough where it would affect me in any way) and most likely never will so maybe it's just the unknown factor. Who knows. I'm weird.
So we decide to go to this movie. Smart move? Maybe not. Sometimes I'm not sure why I do the things I do. Nevertheless we went and boy was it a doosie. It was so intense that I hardly had a chance to eat my popcorn! The underwater scenes made me feel super claustrophobic. But luckily there were a lot of after the fact scenes that didn't include water. Lucky being a relative term.
This movie showed you what it might be like to live out your worst nightmare. Especially as a parent. It really gave you a take on this kind of tragedy that I don't think we often see when we're just watching the news. It was so fascinating in a train wreck kind of way. You didn't want to watch but you couldn't help yourself. All the actors did a really great job especially Tom Holland who played the oldest son. I won't tell you if it ended bad or good or who lived or died but I really think it's worth seeing. Just keep in mind that it's fairly graphic and not for the light of heart.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Deb's Take: So maybe it runs in the family. I have dreams about natural disasters as well. Mine started as fires, next tornadoes, and I won't lie, when I was in Hawaii I looked at the ocean with a sense of fear most of the time...waiting for the Tsunami to hit unexpectedly. Geesh....So, again why did we pick this movie? Maybe because it was a true story...Oh great! Not only a "nightmare" but also factual, making it more scary.
Man, all I can say is, the news doesn't do disaster justice. What a mess. I sat in complete and utter shock. Love your family everyday my friends....every single day!
The movie was very well acted. I agree with Tiff that Tom Holland was outstanding, as well as Naomi Watts. The story was pretty suspenseful and kept you on the edge of your seat. I really did feel like I was watching some one's personal video at times. An extraordinarily done movie, but be prepared for intense.
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland
General Gist: One family's story about being caught in the 2004 tsunami that hit Thailand.
Tiff's Take:
A personal tidbit of information about me...Since high school I've had dreams/nightmares about natural disasters on a consistent basis. It started out with tornadoes. I'm guessing because I was getting ready to go to college in the Midwest. Tornadoes were foreign to this Montana girl. Once I got used to being in the Midwest, tornado nightmares became fewer (and less nightmarish) and I started to have tsunami-ish type nightmares. Why? I have no clue. I've never lived by the ocean (at least not close enough where it would affect me in any way) and most likely never will so maybe it's just the unknown factor. Who knows. I'm weird.
So we decide to go to this movie. Smart move? Maybe not. Sometimes I'm not sure why I do the things I do. Nevertheless we went and boy was it a doosie. It was so intense that I hardly had a chance to eat my popcorn! The underwater scenes made me feel super claustrophobic. But luckily there were a lot of after the fact scenes that didn't include water. Lucky being a relative term.
This movie showed you what it might be like to live out your worst nightmare. Especially as a parent. It really gave you a take on this kind of tragedy that I don't think we often see when we're just watching the news. It was so fascinating in a train wreck kind of way. You didn't want to watch but you couldn't help yourself. All the actors did a really great job especially Tom Holland who played the oldest son. I won't tell you if it ended bad or good or who lived or died but I really think it's worth seeing. Just keep in mind that it's fairly graphic and not for the light of heart.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Deb's Take: So maybe it runs in the family. I have dreams about natural disasters as well. Mine started as fires, next tornadoes, and I won't lie, when I was in Hawaii I looked at the ocean with a sense of fear most of the time...waiting for the Tsunami to hit unexpectedly. Geesh....So, again why did we pick this movie? Maybe because it was a true story...Oh great! Not only a "nightmare" but also factual, making it more scary.
Man, all I can say is, the news doesn't do disaster justice. What a mess. I sat in complete and utter shock. Love your family everyday my friends....every single day!
The movie was very well acted. I agree with Tiff that Tom Holland was outstanding, as well as Naomi Watts. The story was pretty suspenseful and kept you on the edge of your seat. I really did feel like I was watching some one's personal video at times. An extraordinarily done movie, but be prepared for intense.
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Friday, January 18, 2013
Giveaway Winner
Thanks everyone for playing in our little giveaways. We like to hear your comments.
The winner of the two AMC movie tickets, popcorn voucher and two pop vouchers is...
Amy Sipes
Congrats Amy! Enjoy a movie night out on us. I'll get these goodies out to you this weekend.
We're planning on going to a movie this weekend so stay tuned for a review. Not sure which one we're going to yet. Any suggestions?
The winner of the two AMC movie tickets, popcorn voucher and two pop vouchers is...
Amy Sipes
Congrats Amy! Enjoy a movie night out on us. I'll get these goodies out to you this weekend.
We're planning on going to a movie this weekend so stay tuned for a review. Not sure which one we're going to yet. Any suggestions?
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
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
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
- 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
- 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
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
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
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Our Plan for 2013 and a Giveaway
Wow! I can't believe we actually went two whole years of seeing a movie a week. (And some!) How lucky are we to be able to pull that off!? I have to say, we have pretty great husbands who were willing to put up with our schedule juggling to make it work.
So what's in store for us in 2013? Well, I'm not sure we're going to be quite so adamant about getting to a movie every week. We love it. Don't get us wrong but it can be a little "inconvenient" at times to try to squeeze it in with kids, schedules and life. If only it could be a full time paying job.
For now, we're going to go to movies when we like (and can) but probably not every week. My guess is that we'll still go to more movies than the average person. If not, we might go through withdrawals. Seriously. We're ten days into the new year and I haven't gone to a movie yet. I'm getting a little fidgety. And we're still planning on reporting back here for reviews so stay tuned!
So to start the new year off right we thought we might as well have a little giveaway. Free movie tickets anyone? If we're not going to a movie someone else better be!
Here's what's up for grabs. Two AMC Gold Passes (basically each ticket is good for up to a $12 movie), an AMC small popcorn voucher and two AMC small pop vouchers. A nice little bundle.
To enter, just comment on this post with your favorite review we did so far or your favorite movie you saw in 2012. Or really just say anything you want. We like to know that people are actually reading this. :)
We'll announce the winner after our Best/Worse Movies in 2012 post.
So what's in store for us in 2013? Well, I'm not sure we're going to be quite so adamant about getting to a movie every week. We love it. Don't get us wrong but it can be a little "inconvenient" at times to try to squeeze it in with kids, schedules and life. If only it could be a full time paying job.
For now, we're going to go to movies when we like (and can) but probably not every week. My guess is that we'll still go to more movies than the average person. If not, we might go through withdrawals. Seriously. We're ten days into the new year and I haven't gone to a movie yet. I'm getting a little fidgety. And we're still planning on reporting back here for reviews so stay tuned!
So to start the new year off right we thought we might as well have a little giveaway. Free movie tickets anyone? If we're not going to a movie someone else better be!
Here's what's up for grabs. Two AMC Gold Passes (basically each ticket is good for up to a $12 movie), an AMC small popcorn voucher and two AMC small pop vouchers. A nice little bundle.
To enter, just comment on this post with your favorite review we did so far or your favorite movie you saw in 2012. Or really just say anything you want. We like to know that people are actually reading this. :)
We'll announce the winner after our Best/Worse Movies in 2012 post.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
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.
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!
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!
Thursday, January 3, 2013
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!
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!
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
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.
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!
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!
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