M Movie Reviews

Mad Money: Is a little comedy about three desperate housewives figuring a clever way to rob the Federal Bank of money set to be destroyed. It is high on silly, but at the end, the audience at the dollar matinee applauded. I doubt it was so much for the quality of the film as it was to finding a way to get a huge haul of cash. seen 3/27/08

Madagascar: Is a appealing animated story about a group of spoiled zoo animals in New York who by mischance are returned to the wilds. There are jokes about current celebrities and old movies and the use of various songs that along with the energetic animation moves the picture along. However, it doesn't achieve the real sparkle of the many excellent Disney favorites or the recent "Shrek" hits and I noticed the pre-school kids were not that interested in it. But, I did enjoy it so giving it a recommend for its basic cuteness and fun spirit. seen 5/28/05
RECOMMEND: The Lion King is one of the better Disney movies that has a certain darkness from its Hamlet storyline matched with excellent songs by Elton John and Joseph Williams. It has the cute little lion cub who grows to be the brave adult who returns to save his pride. It was adapted for the stage in a really amazing, not-to-miss show.

MAGNOLIA: Is another movie that explodes with several frantic storylines. This one has a main theme of the way that fathers treat their children and the results of that experience. Sadly, the writing stinks, the actors over-emote, and the stupid ending leaves you feeling that you just wasted another afternoon of your life to someone else's bad joke. How this movie landed on so many best of the year lists is totally beyond me. None of the reviewers would tell you the idiotic event at the end of the story about what rains from the skies, but I will give you a big hint:

movie seen 1/15/00
RECOMMEND: I Never Sang for My Father tells the story of an adult son's conflict with his father. Gene Hackman gives another of his terrific subtle performances that are a joy to watch, along with Melvyn Douglas's fine performance as the crusty father. (Tom Cruise should take a few lessons from pros like this - never let them catch you acting, Tommy Boy.)

Maid in Manhattan: This Cinderella tale has a certain charm and warmth to it, more from the relationship between the mother, played by Jennifer Lopez, and son, Tyler Posey, than from her romance with the surprisingly debonair, Ralph Fiennes. But, I did enjoy it as an entertaining, not great movie. movie seen 12/14/02
RECOMMEND: My Man Godfrey is the hilarious screwball comedy starring the effervescent Carole Lombard and the ever classy William Powell. He is the down-on-his-luck bum she finds in a shanty town and makes her butler. She is one of a very crazy family. This is truly one of the classic films of the 30's that still holds up and is a joy to watch and laugh at.

Mamma Mia!: First, I must declare that I despise ABBA's banal music. Second, I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed this movie musical . It is buoyantly joyous and a fun way to spend a couple hours in the theater. Is there anything that Meryl Streep can't do??? Now she's singing and dancing up a storm. The Greek setting is spectacular, the dancing is lively, the jokes work, and its just terrific to have some mature actresses singing and strutting their stuff (yeah, its a Cougar-Fest). So, ladies have a chick night out, laugh, and sing-a-long to this recommended flick.. Seen 7/18/08

Man of the Year: The Previews make you think this is a Robin Williams fun comedy. Instead there are dark, conspiracy elements that make for an uncomfortable pairing with the Robin Williams' routines. Combined with Laura Linney's annoying supporting role as a reluctant whistle blower and the dumbest computer glitch I ever heard of, I would just suggest you watch the previews for the laughs and forget seeing the movie. It's too bad, since the idea of a comedian winning the presidency was such a delicious premise. Heck, next thing they'll be telling us that a has been actor could win. seen 10/14/06
RECOMMEND: State of the Union is a terrific little Capra film starring the magical couple: Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. Tracy plays an industrialist being courted to run for president by the delightfully malicious Angela Lansbury and Hepburn is his wife who loves him madly, despite their marital problems, and supports his political aspirations, even though she sees him being sucked in by the unscrupulous politicians. (For anyone who remembers Reagan declaring "I paid for these microphones" in a debate with G.H.W. Bush, you'll be interested to know that he stole the line from this movie.)

The Manchurian Candidate: Is a remake of the famous John Frankenheimer/Frank Sinatra classic of an assassin brain-washed during war. The tension of the first movie is lacking for me in the remake, perhaps because we already know the storyline, but more importantly because in the last 40 years we have lived through the movie so many times in reality that its an old story now. The first one now seems clairvoyant in retrospect. As a movie, there are good performances, filmed well, but it just didn't work for me. movie seen 08/21/04
RECOMMEND: Conspiracy Theory is one of the better grandchildren on "The Manchurian Candidate". Mel Gibson plays one of his deeply disturbed (but lovable) crazies he does so well, as a cab driver who has an obsession for attorney Julia Roberts. The scenes of him scaring his taxi customers with his conspiracy theories while he drives them around New York are unforgettable. The movie as a whole is strained, but his performance saves it.

March of the Penguins: The surprise hit of the summer is a delightful look at the Emperor Penguin and how they breed in the most brutal of climates - South Antarctica. The camera follows them as they walk over 70 miles to their breeding ground, find a mate, and and shows how the egg is initially protected by the males, who balance it on their feet. Then we watch the hatched chicks as they grow up to repeat the cycle. There are very cute scenes along with sad ones. Although rated "G", there are tough scenes of birds (adults, eggs, and baby birds) who don't make it, so smaller children may be troubled by it (as evidenced by some crying children in the theater). But, along with the educational aspect is the pure wonder at the miracle of life. It is a gem. seen 8/19/05
RECOMMEND: The Hellstrom Chronical was a fascinating 1971 "documentary" that showed the inside life of insects. In the end, it creeped me out, but I have never forgotten seeing it. Unfortunately its not out on DVD or video right now.

THE MASK OF ZORRO: What a pleasant surprise - a redo of an old picture that stays true to the genre. Antonio Bandares brings charm and sensuality to the role, while Anthony Hopkins shows classic elegance. The action is wonderfully old-fashioned with lots of great sword play and daring-do. I found the movie an exiting delight. (A&E had an excellant biography program that tells the history of Zorro - he had no basis in history, but the tales became the basis of all the superheros, beginning with Batman, that we enjoyed in comic books. It was Douglas Fairbanks performance in the original silent movie that truly firmed up our image of the character.)
RECOMMEND: I vaguely remember the Tyrone Power "Mark of Zorro" movie which is considered a classic, but being a true baby boomer, I loved the Disney Zorro series starring Guy Williams (who was also the father on TV's "Lost in Space".) But, my recommend is not Zorro, but another Tyrone Power movie, I have always enjoyed, THE BLACK ROSE. It deals with a Saxon son who goes on an adventure, avoiding the Norman invaders, and ends in China, after meeting Orson Welles as Ghengas Khan. It is perfectly illogical, but has a solid performance by Power and by Jack Hawkins in a supporting role that gives the movie strength.

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World: You can almost feel the salty ocean spray in your face in this authentic feeling movie about a British sailing ship in a duel of wills with a French Privateer in 1805. Russell Crowe is the stalwart captain and he is ably supported by performances by the cast playing the crew, particularly outstanding is Paul Bettany playing the ship surgeon. Peter Weir gives his fine directorial touches in filming the thrills, struggles, and fellowship aboard the ship and raise the level of the movie. But, I did find the close-up scenes of battle to be confusing as to who was on what side difficult to follow. though I know that it is meant to add to the action. On the whole, though I did enjoy the movie, and the ending certainly made it seem like a sequel should be expected. movie seen 1/14/03
RECOMMEND: Mutiny on the Bounty is a many timed filmed story, but the most respected version (and Oscar winning) featured Charles Laughton as Bligh and Clark Gable as Christian. It follows the commonly known storyline of the horrific captain, played for all he's worth by Laughton, and the noble Lieutenant who takes over the ship and sets the captain adrift into a life boat. It is a classic movie that is terrific to watch. (Note: the best parts of the true story of the Bounty are seldom told, in that Bligh managed to sail 1000 miles in the small boat to safety, later received another ship which also had a mutiny on it. The Bounty mutineers settled on Pitcairn Island and ended up killing one another until only one man survived to tell the tale. Their decedents still live on the Island.)

The Matador: is anchored by a sharp performance by Pierce Brosnan as an assassin having a nervous breakdown who runs into a down on his luck salesman played by Greg Kinnear. They strike up a most unlikely friendship and there are lots of twists and turns to the plot that goes from hilarious humor to touching warmth. I enjoyed it, though there are some slow parts, mainly because it was so much fun to see what Brosnan's character was going to do next. Not a movie for everyone's tastes, but definitely a winner for me (can't help chuckling over speedos with cowboy boots). seen 1/31/06
RECOMMEND: Evelyn is a warm, true story of an Irish father struggling to regain custody of his children. Pierce Brosnan is dynamic as the father and is touching supported by Sophie Vavasseur as his little daughter who fights to be with him. It is a warm honest film. It's great to see Brosnan do so well in these character roles, as a break from the suave James Bond.

Matchstick Men: Nicholas Cage gets to play another "quirky" character: a con man with obsessive compulsive symptoms. On the recommendation of his psychiatrist, he meets his teenage daughter and decides to do one last big con and get out of the business. The movie is a little slow in parts, and frankly Cage's character is pretty obnoxious, but there are enough twists and turns to the story and a good payoff ending, so I am giving this a positive review. (But, be warned, the story's a little darker than the ads for a comedy would lead you to think.) movie seen 9/12/03
RECOMMEND: The Flim-Flam Man has one of George C. Scott's best performances, as a con man extraordinaire who takes a young trainee under his wing. Their adventures make for one terrific little film.

MATRIX: Has special effects that are fun to watch, though I found the plot very pretentious with its retelling of the legend of the mysterious savior of the world finally being found. There was a lack of logic in the story-telling, however, that I found particularly annoying. For, example, how come those that go into the dream world and who can leap tall buildings in a single bound, can get beat up and shot and die while in the same state? But, the picture is wonderfully stylish and that makes up for the numerous leaks in the plot and Keanu Reeve's dopey acting. movie seen 6/12/99
RECOMMEND: In Colossus: The Forbin Project a master computer designed to save the world, takes over the world. Made in 1970, it's chilling, ahead-of-its-time message still rings true when you think about the end-of-the world predictions of Y2K. I recommended this movie for years, but had almost forgotten it, until I was thinking of a complementary movie for "Matrix". I will have to re-see it now.

The Matrix Reloaded: is like modern art, you don't have to understand the message to appreciate it. Honestly, I didn't have a clue what any character was doing or their motivation, but I had a heck of a good time watching them do it. The special effects are amazing (in particular the freeway car chase), but the pontificating by the various characters sounded to me like a college professor giving the same lecture for the hundredth time. So, if you are a Matrix-Head, I am sure this will be the Holy Grail, Part Two, but for me it was an entertaining, but not very meaningful couple of hours. movie seen 5/17/03
RECOMMEND: Terminator 2: Judgement Day is a sequel that I am crazy about. The action is a logical continuation of the first film and the special effects had us totally amazed when it came out. Linda Hamilton beefed up, Arnold's cyborg became more human, Edward Furlong hit the right note as the young John Conner, and Robert Patrick's cyborg is totally menacing to watch. It'll be interesting to see if Part Three can top it.

Mean Girls: is a smart, funny movie about a teenager thinking she's tricking the popular girls to spy on them, who ends up loving the attention of being part of their group. There are nice little plot twists in the script by Tina Fey (who also give a good performance as a teacher) and Lindsay Lohan is perfect as the confused teen. A high recommend. movie seen 5/28/04
RECOMMEND: Election is a brilliant movie about a teacher who goes over the edge in dealing with an obnoxious overachieving student. It is sharp satire at its best.
(Note: unfortunately I have lost what I originally wrote about "Mean Girls" so this is a rewrite)

MEET JOE BLACK: This is a remake of an elegant, but stagy 1934 film, DEATH TAKES A HOLIDAY staring Frederick March. Brad Pitt now plays the spirit of Death who takes the body of a young man in order to learn more about life from the character fully realized in a wonderful performance by Anthony Hopkins. Brad Pitt has fun with the spirit's learning of human delights from peanut butter to sex. But, this is really Anthony Hopkins' movie and he plays a good man, who has lived life fully and well and about his loving family. Newcomer, Claire Forlani , plays Hopkins daughter who falls in love with the Brad Pitt character in a strong supporting performance. My real complaint is that the movie is too slow and tedious in making it's point - a little editing would have helped the pace without destroying the message. movie seen 11/14/98
RECOMMEND: Jeff Bridges plays an alien who takes on the body of an earthling in STARMAN. He plays it like a child delightedly discovering how to walk and tasting the pleasures of the world. I suspect that Brad Pitt (and the screenwriter) copied some of Jeff's Oscar-nominated performance.

Meet The Fockers: I find myself laughing despite the crudeness of much of the humor. AND being bemused that such big stars would appear in this movie. Dustin Hoffman and Barbra Streisand are amusing playing the parents of the Ben Stiller character in this sequel to "Meet the Parents". Once again, DeNiro proves he's not afraid to take his character to undignified places. I have to give this picture a reluctant recommend, because it does have laughs, if not much class. seen 12/24/04
RECOMMEND: Father's Little Dividend is a the Spencer Tracy/Elizabeth Taylor sequel to "Father of the Bride" that explores the addition of a grandchild to the family and the reluctant grandfather's reactions. It has a simple sweetness that reflects the time it was made in the early 50's. Just a pleasant nice little film.

MEET THE PARENTS: Is a very funny comedy with Ben Stiller meeting the parents of the woman he wants to marry. Predictable conflict ensues with Robert deNiro in another unexpected comedic turn as the father-in-law from hell (he turns out to be a CIA retiree). The whole audience was laughing out loud through all the jokes and sight gags. Not a classic, but a fun way to spend a couple hours. movie seen 10/7/00
RECOMMEND: The In-Laws is a zany, unpredictable comedy about a dentist who becomes involved with the covert intrigues of his daughter's father-in-law to be. Alan Arkin and Peter Falk are a hoot.

Meet The Robinsons: Saw this one in glorious Disney 3D. I actually found my head bopping back when things come at you from the screen. The story involves a young orphaned boy, who longs for a family while he is unsuccessfully trying to be an inventor. A boy comes from the future to protect him from a villain and whisks him back to the future. Of course, there are lots of plot twists and turns and action, along with a life lesson and a warm heart, that makes this a good family movie. I can't say it would be as good without the 3D effects, but I do give it a recommend. seen 4/2/07

Some other movies with similar subjects:
Back to the Future series (1985/89/90)
Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)

MEMENTO: Is a mindbending film that starts at the end and works backwards to a terrific payoff ending. Guy Pearce stars as a man looking to revenge the rape and murder of his wife. The problem is that he suffered an injury during the attack that took away his short term memory. So to cope, he has himself tattooed, takes Polaroid photos, and leaves himself notes, so that he can "remember" what has happened. As the story works backwards you learn more about each character (notably played by Carrier-Anne Moss and Joe Pantoliano) and re-evaluate what you thought you knew and understood. Definitely a must-see winner that will make you think! movie seen 4/7/01
RECOMMEND: The Limey is a Steven Soderbergh film that has the same raw edge of his recent "Traffic". Tells the tale of an ex-con Brit, stunningly played by Terence Stamp who comes to the U.S. to investigate and avenge the death of his daughter. One of those disturbing films you can't take your eyes off of.

MEN OF HONOR: Is a straight forward telling of the true story of Carl Brashear, played by Cuba Gooding, Jr., who overcame poverty, racism, and the loss of half a leg to become the U.S. Navy's first black master diver. Robert DeNiro plays his Navy trainer, who tries to bully Brashear out of the pursuit of his goal, but ends up supporting him because of his courage and tenacity. Charlize Theron is a surprise playing DeNiro's wife. The movie could have been corny with less talented actors, but it had people cheering and clapping at all the right moments. movie seen 11/11/00
RECOMMEND: G.I. Jane goes down much of the same road, but instead is an over-the-top story of a woman who is given a chance to be a Navy Seal. Demi Moore is memorable for her beefed up physique and the movie is very entertaining, if not very believable.

THE MEXICAN: Is a bit too long, but the charm of Julia Roberts and Brad Pitt pull it off. It is the tale of a unhappy young couple who get coerced into the search for a legendary pistol called the Mexican. The background story shown about the pistol is a hoot and is the ultimate payoff for the movie. Some quirky supporting characters, one most notably played by James Gandolfini as a hit man, and plot twists and turns make for a pretty good time, if not a great pic. movie seen 3/3/01
RECOMMEND: Quick Change is a very funny Bill Murray movie about a clever bank robbery and the thieves who are thwarted in their efforts to get out of New York to make their get away. Geena Davis, the hysterical Randy Quaid, and Jason Roberts give solid, amusing support in this often over-looked comedy.

M:I 2 (Mission Impossible II): John Woo's usual amazing stunts and action are the hi-lights of this otherwise dopey movie. I actually experienced wet palms watching Tom Cruise's opening stuntwork climbing free hand on the mountain, but the flick went down from there with a tired plotline (though it was better than the really crappy first MI movie). BUT, having said that, the action is fun to watch, if you just put your brain on hold. movie seen 5/27/00
RECOMMEND: I believe that Woo must have been watching North by Northwest while he worked on this movie. There are many similarities in the bad guy who has the hots for the woman, who is really an plant in his organization. Even his home looks similar to the James Mason's estate. But, the big difference is Hitchcock had a classic in "North by Northwest". John Woo and Tom Cruise have a one-season money maker.

Michael Clayton: I am so glad they re-released this one due to its Oscar nom's, since I missed it with the end-of-the year glut of movies. It is a terrifically taunt film about a "fixer" attorney (George Clooney) who has a clash of conscience when he has to clean up the mess of his co-worker (Tom Wilkinson) flipping out during a hearing. The multi-dimensional characters drive the tension of the storyline of a company counsel (Tilda Swinton) willing do literally anything to stop the release of the information that their company has poisoned farmers. Yes, we've seen this oft-told tale, but the performances and the tense plotting make it a picture worth seeing. High recommend for an adult film. Seen 1/19/08

MICKEY BLUE EYES: Has some very funny parts in it as it tells the story of an English gentleman who asks a Mafia guy's daughter to marry him. She is reluctant because of her father's underworld family connections and with good reason. James Caan is very amusing as the father of Jeanne Tripplehorn, who drags her fianc�e, Hugh Grant, into the family. I didn't like some of the story twists, but there are enough laughs in it to give a recommend. (The Chinese restaurant scene is a hoot.) movie seen 8/22/99
RECOMMEND: Arsenic and Old Lace is one of the truly belly laugh dark comedies. Cary Grant mugs it up wonderfully for the camera, Josephine Hull and Jean Adair are adorable as the murderous little aunts, and Peter Lorre and Raymond Massey play amusingly against one another as the bad guys. The play was such a hit on Broadway, that the movie couldn't be released for two years after it was filmed.

MIGHTY JOE YOUNG: The special effects of Joe, the giant gorilla, are excellent, the cast who includes Bill Paxton is appealing, but the story is thread-worn. But, for what it is, a basic action, popcorn movie, it is an OK use of a couple hours. (Note, when the previews first came out, I heard several small children announce to their parents that they didn't want to see THAT movie! Joe was does spend a lot of time roaring and some of the scenes are a bit much for smaller children.) movie seen 1/30/99
RECOMMEND: The original MIGHTY JOE YOUNG was Merian C. Cooper's attempt to re-create KING KONG. Although it works for its time and the special effects available, frankly, none of the remakes can ever match the classic qualities of the original Kong, King of the Apes! But, the original MIGHTY JOE YOUNG has a certain campy quality that is fun to watch. (The remake has Terry Moore in a cute little scene.)

A Mighty Wind: is a mockumentary of a reunion of folk singing groups. The screwy thing is that the songs were actually pretty good and the singing done so well, that it made it seem more real than funny. But, not that there aren't funny things in it; there were definitely a bunch of laughs. And Eugene Levy is a standout as the emotionally unbalanced Mitch, that will remind you of poor Brian Wilson. movie seen 5/16/03
RECOMMEND: The Late Shift is an HBO movie (based on the book of the same name) that tells the story of how Jay Leno, and not David Letterman, got the Tonight Show. It's done with an irreverent manner and has a standout performance by Kathy Bates as Leno's ferocious manager.

Million Dollar Baby: Has a corny "Rocky" storyline, elevated by Clint Eastwood's moody direction, some humor, and heartfelt performances by the cast. Clint plays an over-the-hill boxing manager who reluctantly takes on coaching a young woman, ably played by Hilary Swank. Morgan Freeman plays his confidant in a role similar to his in "The Shawshank Redemption". The story didn't end quite like I thought it would from the previews, so be prepared to get out your hankies. Frankly, I thought this would make a better movie-of-the-week, but for the performances alone, I am giving it a thumbs up. seen 1/15/05
RECOMMEND: The Spitfire Grill is a little picture of a young woman released from prison trying to make a new start in life in a run down grill in a small town whose citizens hold many secrets. There are some nice performances from many in the cast headed by Ellen Burstyn, Alison Elliott, and Marcia Gay Harden. Not a great movie, but one that is a good watch.

Minority Report: I finally caught up with this one at the discount show. Unfortunately, I found this Spielberg movie much like AI: amazing visual candy, but the story was just a rehash of tired formulas. Its a look into the future where psychics predict murders and the police arrest people before they commit the murder. Of course there is a plot to frame an innocent man and of course it is done by the person you are least supposed to expect. Been there, done that. (Warning, one very freaky scene with eye surgery that had me squirming in my chair.) movie seen 9/1/02
RECOMMEND: I kept remembering a "B" movie with Tom Selleck, Runaway. where he plays a cop in the future fighting killer robots. Best part is Gene Simmons chewing up the screen up as a villein.

Miracle: tells the story of the 1980's Olympic Hockey team in the context of the times and why it became more than just hockey and for the U.S. the "Miracle on Ice". At the heart of the movie is Herb Brooks, superbly played by Kurt Russell, who narrowly missed his chance to play on the successful 1960's winning team and ferociously works the college players to bring them up to the Soviet style of play. There is nice interplay between the coaches and players, but the recreation of the game with Russia is utterly excitingly re-created. I remember how much the country needed the win at that time and what it meant, so the picture did touch me, but I could hear the cheering of young people in the audience who were also affected by the story. I can recommend this well done film. movie seen 02/06/04
RECOMMEND: Mystery, Alaska : is one of the rare hockey pictures and tells the story of a rugged amateur Alaskan hockey team who take on the New York Rangers in a tough outdoor game. Russell Crowe is the surprisingly choice of the captain of the team and sheriff of the town, but he turns in a solid performance and looked pretty good on skates. The humor is a little raunchy, but the movie has a good heart and is enjoyable to watch.

MISS CONGENIALITY: is an amusing waste of a couple of hours. The audience laughed and Sandra Bullock has enough charm to pull this unbelievable story off. movie seen 12/22/00
RECOMMEND: Never Been Kissed has a sweet performance by Drew Barrymore as the geeky kid who goes back to high school on a newspaper assignment and finds acceptance and love.

Miss Congeniality: Armed And Fabulous: Is a silly continuation of the tale of the unfeminine FBI agent who has to become glamorous. Now she is too famous to work undercover, so becomes an FBI spokesperson. Sandra Bullock has a lot of fun again with the role and Regina King is an amusing foil for her, but not enough laughs to make it really work, so really can't recommend. seen 3/25/05
RECOMMEND: Speed 2: Cruise Control is a really good example of a bad sequel that featured all the elements of the first movie of a creepy bad guy, chases, and a huge crash, but doesn't work. The problem is that the first movie had an original premise which just couldn't be duplicated.

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day: Is a charming piece of fluff about a down and out governess (Frances McDormand) who becomes a social secretary for a flighty, but ambitious actress (Amy Adams). Their performances gives some radiance and substance to the meager, rather silly story and make the movie entertaining (plus we get to hear Amy sing). Not memorable, but just a pleasant little time away from the real world, so I give it a recommend. Seen 3/07/08

MISSION TO MARS: How could a movie directed by Brian DePalma about a rescue mission to Mars, with some fine actors like Gary Sinise and Don Cheadle, be boring? I don't know, but if that was the aim of the filming, they succeeded. I would recommend this movie only if you require a two hour nap. movie seen 3/11/00
RECOMMEND: Total Recall is a non-stop action movie with Arnold Schwarzenegger discovering a plot to keep the workers on Mars in submission. It combines an always evolving, intriguing plot with great action and features Sharon Stone in a breakout role.

Moonlight Mile: Is a film about a couple dealing with murder of their only child. Dustin Hoffman and Susan Sarandon give their normal fine performances, but I found the film a little too talky and more like a filmed stage play than movie. Although I found it interesting to watch, I just didn't find it absorbing emotionally. A stand out, however, is newcomer, Ellen Pompeo, as the love interest of the fianc�e of the murdered daughter. She gives a touching, interesting performance. movie seen 10/05/02
RECOMMEND: The Big Chill is an ensemble film about a group of friends from college who meet for the funeral of their friend who committed suicide. It is now more famous for its soundtrack of 60's Motown songs than for the actual movie.

Mona Lisa Smile: tells the tale of an art history teacher who comes to Wellesley College in 1953 and discovers a wedding, not a degree is the student's goal in life. Julia Roberts is the frustrated teacher in this well done, but not very fresh or new picture. What elevates it, are some fine performances by the young cast including Kirsten Dunst, Julia Styles, Ginnifer Goodwin, and, most notably, Maggie Gyllenhaal. So, though I enjoyed it while I watched it, it only the achieves the level of good, not great. movie seen 12/19/03
RECOMMEND: Far From Heaven is a devastating film of a fractured 1950's marriage, when the wife learns her husband is gay and she turns to a black man for friendship. Julianne Moore is amazing as the wife who tries to maintain the perfect image, while inside she is falling apart, Dennis Quaid was wrongly ignored at Oscar time for his role of the husband, and Dennis Haybert gives dignified support as the man she is attracted to. The photography and script makes this an exceptional movie.

Monster House: I finally saw this one in the new 3D process and was surprised to find myself actually a bit scared watching it. Having a house trying to eat you is pretty creepy. Every neighborhood has an old neighbor who yells at kids who get on his grass, but this old codger takes it a step further, as the kids in the neighborhood learn to chilling effect. I found it pretty creepy and fun all at the same time and the 3D effects really work in this movie. I do give it a recommend, though I would not advise for small kids - this isn't cute Mickey Mouse- and if you can see in 3D, all the better. This isn't the lousy old red and blue 3D of old - this stuff is really well done and you will find yourself wanting to reach out and touch stuff, though you know its actually on the screen. More films will be coming out in this effect, including a reissue of "The Nightmare Before Christmas", which looked terrific in the previews. seen 8/16/06
RECOMMEND: The House on Haunted Hill, is one of those very silly scary Vincent Price movies, that can terrorize little kids and leave adults giggling at the dumbness. I think the title is a classic, even if the movie is pretty unmemorable.

Monster-In-Law: Is an amusing duel between a man's finance and his overbearing mother. Jane Fonda has lots of fun with her comeback roll as the crazy mother who is has just come out of treatment for a breakdown when she loses her "Barbara Walters" job. Jennifer Lopez holds her own against her and Michael Vartan is the guy in the middle. Wanda Sykes adds sharp humor as Fonda's assistant. It a fun picture with enough laughs to give it an OK. seen 5/13/05
RECOMMEND: The Ref is an hilarious story of a cat burglar (that has another hysterical joke with cats) played by Denis Leary who gets immersed in the lives of a dysfunctional couple battling in-laws and each other at Christmas time. It is truly a wickedly funny film.

Monster's Ball: Is the tale of two of the walking wounded who come together through tragic circumstances. The quiet tone of the movie belies its powerful impact, which is the result of amazing performances from Billy Bob Thornton and Halle Berry. It tells the story of loss and redemption, tempered by racial attitudes, but is at heart a love story. Highly recommend, BUT this is a very adult story with frank language and scenes. movie seen 3/5/02
RECOMMEND: Restoration is a beautifully photographed film that tells the story of a physician brilliantly played by Robert Downey who becomes involved in the court of King Charles II. He falls into a life of luxury and debauchery, but after a fall from grace, finally uses his medical talents for the good of others.

Monsters, Inc.: Is one big teddy bear of a animated movie from the same folks who brought you "Toy Story". Remember the scary monsters that lived in the closet and under the bed when you were a kid? Well, take heart, they are just as afraid of you, since they believe kids to be toxic. When a little girl enters the monsters' world, action and adventure ensues, along with the mutual understanding and, of course, a happy ending. Don't worry, if you are over grade school age, there are enough jokes included for the adults to make this an enjoyable movie for all ages. movie seen 11/10/01
RECOMMEND: Harry and the Hendersons has an average family (John Lithgow and Melinda Dillon play the bewildered parents) accidentally injuring a Bigfoot. They go from being terrified to loving and rescuing him. Kevin Peter Hall does a terrific job under all the Oscar winning makeup as Harry - he is able to express so much with his eyes that make you really love the big guy.

Moulin Rouge: Toulouse Lautrec meets Busby Berkey meets MTV. There is a vibrancy to this movie I haven't experienced in a long time. It begins with sly humor and ends with pathos while following the path of true love. Some musical numbers have dizzying quick cuts, but that adds to the total energy of the film directed by Baz Luhrmann. Nicole Kidman is a credible singer in the role of the charming Satine and Ewan McGregor surprises with a wonderful voice in his role as her true love. The supporting characters, such as John Leguizamo as Toulouse Lautrec and Richard Roxburgh as the evil Duke, are painted with a broad brush. Jim Broadbent as Zidler gives strong support as the impresario of the Moulin Rouge. The sets, costumes, and Technicolor photography all add to the experience.
As a lover of musicals, I totally embraced this film, though I am sure some will be overwhelmed and perhaps turned off. But it is lush and fun and memorable. movie seen 6/3/01
RECOMMEND: Les Parapluies de Cherbourg (The Umbrellas of Cherbourg) is a romantic delight. Jacques Demy set his romance of the lovely Catherine Deneuve and handsome Nino Castelnaovo entirely to the music of Michel Legrand, in the fashion of an opera. Music ranges from jazz to haunting, with the most famous song done with English lyrics as "I Will Wait for You." Luckily it was recently re-released on video and the soundtrack is available on CD.

Mr. 3000: Is retread of an old storyline - the arrogant athlete who learns humility. Bernie Mac plays a baseball player who quits his team as soon as he achieves 3000 hits, but discovers he's actually 3 hits shy due to a bookkeeping error and goes back to play. Bernie does a nice job in the role, but not enough laughs or freshness to make it more than OK. movie seen 09/18/04
RECOMMEND: Alibi Ike is an old 30's Joe E. Brown comedy about a baseball player who always has "alibi's" for everything he does. Just shows how old the plot is.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith: Is an over-the-top tale of a married couple who turn out to be "hit men" who are assigned to wipe the other one out. The special effects are a bit much, but it can't kill the chemistry and wit that Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie share. I did find myself amused, though in the end, the movie was just a piece of froth: OK flavor, but no substance. So, a weak recommend for a enjoyable waste of a couple hours of life. seen 6/26/05
RECOMMEND: Prizza's Honor is the obvious movie the current one was based on. A couple discover they have been hired to kill each other. It is funny and sweet with many terrific performances, not only by Jack Nicholson and Kathleen Turner in the leads, but by Angelica Huston (in her Oscar-winning role as his old girlfriend) and William Hickey as the old Don (Oscar-nominated). One of John Huston's last better movies.

Mrs. Henderson Presents: is Judi Dench at her finest, as a brazen British widow who decides to buy and operate a theater. After an initial success with variety shows, she decides to do nude shows when the theater runs into the red. Dench and Bob Hoskins as her theater manager are delightful together with their sparing attraction and true affection for one another. The nudity is tastefully done, the humor gets a touch bawdy, and the WWII scenes are heartfelt. This picture is a winner, mainly for the performances and the laughs. seen 1/26/06
RECOMMEND: Last of the Blond Bombshells is a sweetly funny movie with Judi Dench as a woman who tries to reorganize the female band she played with during WWII. There are many classy ladies in the movie like Cleo Laine and Leslie Caron, who give it flavor and spice. Very enjoyable movie.

MULAN: She is the daughter who is too honest to have simple feminine wiles. She pretends to be a man to save her father, who is already injured in war, from having to serve China again. Her courage in battle is equaled by her intelligence.
Like all Disney films there is wonderful artwork - the battle scene is amazing. The songs are ok - they work well in the movie, but I doubt if they will be hits on their own. Eddie Murphy does a surprising turn as a little dragon sent by her ancestors to protect Mulan - he's funny and touching. This should be another hit for Disney - the story is bright and entertaining, but has real heart to it.
RECOMMEND: I would like to suggest NATIONAL VELVET. It is the story of a young girl who believes enough in her horse to enter him in the Grand National of England. She jockies the horse dressed as a young man. It is Elizabeth Taylor's first "biggie" and Anne Revere who plays her understanding mother is wonderful.

THE MUMMY: Is done in a tongue-in-cheek manner with lots of special effects and some laughs. But, while the mummy should be a really scary guy, they show him as being a pretty weak enemy - nothing to be that frightened of. It is an OK movie, entertaining, but certainly not reaching the level of Raiders of the Lost Ark, which it seeks to emulate. But, Brendan Frasier makes an entertaining hero and the heroine is amusing and bright, which makes up for the other weaknesses of the film. movie seen 5/8/99
RECOMMEND: I have always found Boris Karloff's 1930's, The Mummy a very sensual movie. There is something about a passion that last through centuries, even beyond death, that is so sexy. And it had a wonderful scariness in the lack of control the heroine feels as the Mummy calls her to him, to join them together again in eternity. Combined with my love of things Egyptian and the great 30's costuming and effects makes for a classic movie.

The Mummy Returns: This looks like the summer of reruns. This one has lots of special effects, lame storyline, and a cute kid. All the main characters return to round out the story of the first movie. Entertaining couple hours, IF you leave your head at the popcorn stand and just go for the ride. movie seen 5/5/01
RECOMMEND: The Seventh Voyage of Sinbad has the famous special affects by Ray Harryhausen and a great score by Bernard Herrmann. Lots of action and a damsel in distress. Loved it as a kid and it holds up.

Munich: tells the story of Israel's reported response to the Munich Olympic Terrorist Attack. Golda Meier sent out bands of assassins to kill the leaders of the plot, so that a message would be sent the Black September and other related groups. Eric Bana plays the young Israeli leader of a group, who discover that one killing leads to another and another as revenge is extracted. And in the end the true motives of all become muddled. Unfortunately, the movie is way too long and there is no tension in the editing, so the movie doesn't totally work. It's too bad, as it is one I was looking forward to, but Spielberg does make you think about what our governments do in our names, and that is important. seen 12/30/05
RECOMMEND: Kill Bill is Quentin Tarantino's tongue-in-cheek martial arts story of revenge told in two parts. It is big, bold, flashy, and funny with a great performance by Uma Thurman. It is gory, but ultimately it is so well done, that I found myself hooked into seeing it through.

THE MUSE: Has some amusing comments to make about Hollywood and movie making, but overall, the movie is a dud. Despite a lot of charm given by Andie MacDowell and Sharon Stone, they can't rise above a dull script with a conventional ending. It's a bad sign, when I am the only one laughing at the jokes in the audience. movie seen 8/28/99
RECOMMEND: One Touch of Venus features the lovely Ava Gardner as Venus who comes to life for the hapless store clerk, played by the sweet Robert Walker. It is a pleasant little comedy.

Music and Lyrics: Is a cute Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant comedy about a washed up 80's pop star, who needs to write a song for the current young star, played with amusing sincerity by Haley Bennett. Once again Drew plays a sweetly goofy young woman, whom Hugh with his self-deprecating humor can't ultimately resist. But, with the little bit of satire of "one hit wonders" and the charm of the performers, the movie is pleasantly entertaining, so I give it a recommend. seen 4/2/07

Some other movies with similar subjects:
Words and Music (1948)
Three Little Words (1950)
Till the Clouds Roll By (1947)

MUSIC OF THE HEART: We have enjoyed this type of movie since Spencer Tracy as Father Flanagan knocked the cigarette out of Mickey Rooney's mouth in "Boys Town". But, the old chestnut always seems to work since we want people to lift themselves up and do better than their circumstances in life should allow them be. Meryl Streep does her normal fine job as the real violin teacher who taught in Harlem schools and who fought to save the program for the children. In some ways, it echoes "Mr. Holland's Opus", but because it is based on a real life story, it stands on its own. The biggest surprise is that Wes Craven is the director. movie seen 11/13/99
RECOMMEND: The Substitute is absolutely one of the worst of the teacher-saving-students movies, but I have an affection for it, maybe because it is so dumb. Tom Berenger plays a soldier of fortune who ends up subbing for his girlfriend at a crime-ridden high school and ends up getting rid of the drug-running gang in charge of the school. It is oh so lame, but oddly entertaining at the same time.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding: This is one of those delightful movies that comes out of no where and succeeds by word of mouth. Nia Vardalos wrote the movie and stars as the shy younger daughter of a proud, very Greek family. She breaks out of the crazy, but warm cocoon of her family, goes to college, and falls in love with a sweet handsome guy who is passionate for her too. How the two families react to the marriage and each other is a hoot, very human and very funny. The theater was packed for the film and the aisles rolled with laughter. Kudos to Michael Constantine and Lainie Kazan as her parents. (After you see it, you will never think of Windex again without smiling.)
movie seen 9/11/02
RECOMMEND: Betsy's Wedding is an amusing film by Alan Alda about the wedding of his daughter, played by Molly Ringwald. There is a standout subplot of a sweet romance with his other daughter, a policewoman, played by Ally Sheedy, who is surprisingly courted by a "tough guy" played with cute charm by Anthony LaPaglia. Joe Pesci and Catherine O'Hara give funny support as his battling in-laws.

My Super Ex-Girldfriend's: is a little comedy about a guy who breaks up with a very needy super woman, who does not take it well. There are some laughs (the bed scenes are truly funny) and Uma Thurman delightfully takes on another strange character, but over-all it is pretty weak. Wait until you can see it free on TV. seen 7/22/06
RECOMMEND: Fatal Attraction, is the best known of the "wrath of woman scorned" movies with Glenn Close as the sadly crazy rejected one night stand who comes after Michael Douglas and his family. Guys, guard the family rabbit!!

Mystic River: is an involving story that revolves around the mystery of who murdered a young woman The core of the tale begins with three young boys who lives have become forever entwined by a horrible incident. As the layers of the characters are unpeeled, we learn that no-one is truly what we believe them to be and everyone has ultimately been affected by the boys' incident. Special kudos to Sean Penn who gives another fascinating performance and to Tim Robbins in a solid supporting role. But, for me the end was unsatisfying and frustrating, so although a good film, I can't quite rate it as highly as the national critics have. movie seen 1/1/03
RECOMMEND: Tightrope is an earlier, very dark, Clint Eastwood directed/starring film about a New Orleans detective investing a serial murder case, who finds it coming too close to home. An eerily very sensual film.