Summer Movie Preview: 25 Films That I am Excited About

Yes, 25!! I can't believe that there are so many movies I want to see this summer, but I guess it makes up for a crappy beginning of the year.  So far, I've only seen 3 films in the theater, which is just pathetic (Warm Bodies, Stoker and Side Effects - Jurassic Park doesn't really count. Although, I am planning to see Trance and The Place Beyond the Pines within the next week or two).  Here's hoping for a fantastic, movie-filled summer!!!

1. Iron Man 3 (5/3) - I was a little bored by Iron Man 2, and that's all I really remember about it....being bored.  Thankfully, the trailer for this looks epic!!  I'm actually a little more interested in it with Shane Black directing.  The only directing experience he has is Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, which is enough for me.  I fucking love that movie.  

2. The Great Gatsby (5/10) - I've been patiently waiting 17 years for another Baz Luhrmann/Leonardo DiCaprio movie.  As a teenager, who was obsessed with movies, Shakespeare and Leo, it's safe to say Romeo + Juliet was, like, the greatest thing ever.  I was never a huge fan of the play (compared to the rest of Shakespeare's work), but I was awe-inspired watching Shakespeare's words combined with a modern-day setting.  Plus, the soundtrack is still, to this day, one of my favorite movie soundtracks ever. On a side-note, Claire Danes is easily the weak link.  It actually makes me angry to think about how awful she was, and I think that is why I still hold a little resentment towards her. She ruined an otherwise perfect movie.  Anyway, I re-read The Great Gatsby last year, in anticipation of this movie (because it was supposed to be released in December of last year) and just like the first time, I wasn't super impressed.  However, it has some spectacularly grand moments,  that could be beautiful to see on-screen and I think Luhrmann is the perfect person to do that.  If anyone had any doubts, surely they were erased with the release of the trailer...right? It looks sublime.

3. Star Trek Into Darkness (5/17) - Ugh.  Ok, I don't really want to see this, but I probably will.  I feel like I have some sort of loyalty to watch this, as a J.J. Abrams fan.  I watched the first one and was fully satisfied with it - considering I know nothing about Star Trek, it was solid entertainment.  I'm sure this one will be more of the same, but I just find it hard to get excited about. I would prefer J.J. working on something that comes from his own genius mind, but I will settle with what I can get.  It's even worse that I will soon have to sit through a Star Wars movie....come on J.J., you're killing me!!!  

4. Frances Ha (5/17) - I'm a huge fan of The Squid and the Whale and Greenberg, both written and directed by Noah Baumbach.  He collaborates with Greta Gerwig for this movie, in which she is also the star.  I just recently watch Lola Versus, and she was really fantastic (she was also great in Greenberg).  Also, the movie is set in NYC and filmed in black and white, giving it a 70's feel (Baumbach sites Woody Allen's Manhattan as inspiration)...so yeah, I'm interested.  

5. The Hangover Part III (5/24) - I was one of the few that didn't rip apart the second one.  I thought it was funny....and it was everything I expected it to be (The Hangover...again).  It's weird because the trailer arrived online a few days ago, and the reactions seemed to be surprisingly positive.  I didn't laugh at all...probably because there was not enough Bradley Cooper.  There is never enough Bradley Cooper.  I'm still excited to see it.  Bradley Cooper.  

6. Before Midnight (5/24) - If I were to make a list of my 100 favorite movies (what a daunting task that would be), both Before Sunrise and Before Sunset would be on it.  Obviously, I am excited about this.  But, I am also, like, really, really nervous.  What if it ruins everything that came before?  Do I really want to see this couple, now married with kids?  Yes? Maybe?  I think I do.  But I kind of don't.  I just don't know.  

7. The East (5/31) - Really excited to see what Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij can do with a studio-financed project.  Their first collaboration, Sound of My Voice, is a really interesting (and unsettling) movie. Brit Marling is a fantastic actress.  Another Earth, was on my best list of 2011 (which she also co-wrote). Both of these films had big ideas, bold choices and felt fresh. Hopefully, The East is more of the same. 

8. Now You See Me (5/31) - I probably wouldn't have been interested in this movie, but then I saw the trailer and it looks sort of fun.  It's about a group of people that pull off bank robbery's by using magic.  Do you think we'll find out how they do it?? Because that's the only reason I want to see it...plus, Dave Franco!!!  He makes me laugh. "Go fuck yourself!" (look it up).  

9. After Earth (6/7) - I love a big, blockbuster, Will Smith movie and it's been so long since there's been a good one....maybe as far back as Enemy of the State? I didn't really like I, Robot or I am Legend.  I do have a soft spot for Bad Boys II, but that's just because I love the first one so much ("I wanna be, I wanna be like Mike...POW!".  LOVE IT.  Don't even hate. I can recite the whole thing).  Anyway, I was totally in for this one, but then I realized M. Night Fucking Shyamalan directed it and now I have hesitations. I can't decide which of his films is the worst...The Village? Lady in the Water? Signs? Who am I kidding...The Happening is the worst film I have ever seen. Even his better films, Unbreakable and The Sixth Sense aren't great.  Hopefully, he doesn't ruin this movie.  

10. Much Ado About Nothing (6/7) - Shakespeare junkie...remember?  But actually, more than that, I am a huge Joss Whedon fan.  He gets actors from previous projects (Nathon Fillion, Amy Acker, Fran Kranz and Alexis Denisof) and adapts a Shakespeare play (and one of my favorite ones!) - of course I am going to watch it. 

11. The Internship (6/7) - I really just want to see this because of Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson.  I don't like Owen Wilson on his own, but paired with Vaughn (like in The Wedding Crashers), he is hilarious.  They have really great comedic chemistry and maybe, just maybe....Bradley Cooper will show up?? Probably not, but one can dream.  I don't even know what this movie is about.  Should I care?  

12. This is the End (6/12) - So, getting all these comedic actors together, like Seth Rogen, Danny McBride, James Franco and Jonah Hill, and having them play "themselves" sounds like a nightmare.  They are all varying degrees of annoying.  However, the trailer makes it look really funny.  I'm hoping for hilarious. Like, Superbad hilarious.  Anything less, and I will be disappointed.  

13. Man of Steel (6/14) - 90% of the movies that I see in the theater, I see with the same person.  He's a huge movie buff, but the problem is, he really doesn't like "superhero" movies.  Every time we see a trailer for a new one coming out, he'll turn to me and say "ugh..you're going to make me see that...aren't you?".  When the Man of Steel teaser trailer came out, he turned to me and said "ooooooh...that looks good!!".  This makes sense, because after forcing him to watch Watchmen, he admits that he loved it.  And because, FUCK YES, it looks good!!!  I have total faith that Zack Snyder is going to make me fall in love with Superman.  

14. World War Z (6/21) - Absolutely love the book and I am at the edge of my seat waiting in anticipation to see how the fuck they made it into a movie.  First, they had to cut out like 90% - there is just too much story there to make one movie (I could visualize it more as a television mini-series, like The Stand).  Second,  is it really focused on the "world" or do they Americanize it? (I can already assume the answer to that one).  And last, is it really going to feel any different than any other zombie movie?  The book feels very different because it's not really about zombies, it's about war and politics.  I guess we'll finally see how it all comes together (after waiting for YEARS!).  

15. Maniac (6/21) - So, I just watched the trailer and now I will probably have nightmares about Elijah Wood trying to kill me.  Awesome.  I heard a lot about this movie last year, but I never found a release date for it.  I'm happy that it's finally getting one - it will likely be very limited, but I'm going to do my best to see it.  I grew up watching Elijah Wood (Forever Young, The Adventures of Huck Finn, The Good Son, etc), it's going to be very hard to watch him in a role like this, but it could also be amazing.  

16. Pacific Rim (7/12) - I have to be honest, I kept hearing all this talk about Pacific Rim and I assumed it was some sort of romantic drama set on the beach.  I don't know why, that's just what the title evokes in my mind.  I flipped through my Entertainment Weekly "Summer Movie Preview" issue and saw Idris Elba's picture next to the title and thought "oh...that's interesting..I like him..." and then I saw a picture of a robot and went "WAIT....what? It's about robots and monsters!!"  That makes so much more sense now.  I should really pay attention more.  Also, it's directed by Guillermo del Toro! I feel like I missed that part as well.  Anyway, now I'm interested.  

17. Girl Most Likely (7/19) - I wasn't a fan of Kristen Wiig until Bridesmaids.  I always found her personality grating on SNL, but with Bridesmaids, she toned herself down a bit and was really the heart of that movie (which is why it worked so well).  The plot of this movie is about a woman who fakes a suicide attempt to win her ex-boyfriend back, so I assume she is supposed to be an extremely unlikable character.  I'm not sure whether it's supposed to be a comedy or drama or somewhere in-between but I'm interested to see Wiig in a more serious role.  Also, Annette Bening is always worth a watch. 

18. Only God Forgives (7/19) - Probably the film I am most excited for, and it conveniently arrives on the weekend of my birthday (which also happened last year with The Dark Knight Rises. The movie Gods must love me!!).  Drive is probably my favorite movie released in the last 5 years (maybe more than that...), so I have super high (ridiculously high) expectations for this movie.  I was trying to reserve these expectations, because this usually causes disappointment - but then the trailer was released and I freaked out!  It's amazing!  I watched it like 20 times in a row.  This movie is going to deliver.  It just has to.  

19. Blue Jasmine (7/26) - It's Woody Allen, so I'll watch it.  I'm skeptical of the plot - Husband trades wife in for a younger woman.  Really, Woody?  That doesn't sound very original (or interesting).  Hopefully, it will be a bit more complicated than that.  I'm not really a fan of Alec Baldwin (aside from his stints on SNL and of course, as Jack Donaghy on 30 Rock).  I thought he was awful in the previous Allen film, To Rome with Love.  Maybe pairing him up with the fantastic Cate Blanchett, will enhance his performance??  

20. 2 Guns (8/2) - I'll usually watch anything with Mark Wahlberg, except, of course, his newest film, Pain & Gain. Seriously, what the fuck is that??  Anyway, the title of this film is just downright awful, but the plot looks good. Plus, usually when Mark is surrounded by strong actors he tends to step up his game (see: The Departed).  Pairing him with Denzel Washington could be magical.

21. Elysium (8/9) - I'm skipping the trailer for this one.  I've watched far too many trailers this year, because it's far too easy to simply click on the links.  But for the most part, I like to be surprised, so I made a conscious effort to avoid this one.  All I know is that it's directed by Neill Blomkamp, the same guy that directed the superb, District 9, and Matt Damon looks like a bad-ass.  

22. The To Do List (8/16) - Aubrey Plaza and Rachel Bilson!!!  Two of my favorite people.  They both seem to play the exact same character in every project they do, but I love them, so I guess I can't complain.  It would be nice to see them branch out a bit.  What's this movie about?  

23. Ain't Them Bodies Saints (8/17) - I've been looking forward to this movie since the Sundance buzz.  Casey Affleck, Rooney Mara and Ben Foster are all terrific young actors.  The plot is about a convict who escapes from prison to reunite with his wife and daughter.  Described as a Western, but focused on characters (instead of action), it seems like a film that I will enjoy.  

24. The World's End (8/23) - Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead) teaming up with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost is always a welcomed adventure.  I've enjoyed all of their collaborations, so it's pretty much guaranteed that I will enjoy this.  

25. Don Jon (8/?) - Starring JGL....DIRECTED by JGL.  Do I really need to say anything else????  

Thoughts on 5 Films

1. Rust and Bone - I was really looking forward to this movie, but unfortunately, I missed it in the theater.  I feel like I was waiting for forever with the DVD release,  but the wait was sooooo worth it.  Written and directed by Jacques Audiard (A Prophet - great movie), Rust and Bone, simply put, is a story about struggle.  *slight spoilers ahead* - On the surface, Ali, portrayed by Matthias Shoenaerts, struggles to care for his son, but internally he is also struggling with some pretty heavy demons.  He struggles to contain his anger and to admit his feelings for this woman, who randomly has entered his life.  He is not supposed to be a character that you like (and some might hate him because of the way he treats Stephanie, but I actually sympathize with him.  Guys do stupid things when they are in love and don't want to admit it.  It's a self-sabotage/self-preservation thing that I don't think women will ever fully understand).  Marion Cotillard earned an Oscar nomination for her role as Stephanie, a woman who is struggling with a devastating accident in which she loses both of her legs.  She is struggling with the obvious physical challenge, but also with having to depend on other people and most importantly, losing her sense of self.  The accident happens while she was doing something she loves, something she will no longer be able to do.  I love stories that are about people with actual hardships (you know, instead of people who just feel sorry for themselves for no reason).  There are so many beautiful moments in the movie - the shot of Ali running with the ambulance behind him, the scene with Stephanie at the aquarium bonding with the whale after her accident, Ali punching through the ice at the end - these are just a few that instantly come to my mind.  This is a movie that really got under my skin and left a mark on my heart.  I will never be able to listen to Katy Perry's "Firework" without thinking of Stephanie and the moment her entire world collapsed.

2. Lola Versus - I think that the filmmakers thought that they were trying to do something different with this movie, but it's really just a chick flick disguised as a quirky, independent, passion project.  It's the same old story of a girl getting dumped, which, of course, means her entire world is shaken.  She suddenly begins to doubt herself, so she spends a tireless amount of time changing her outfits and looking at herself, disapprovingly, in the mirror.  Then, you know, she "finds herself".  I love a story about self-discovery, but I hate when getting dumped by a boy is a catalyst for this quest.  I think that most people can relate to the genuine heartbreak that Lola is dealing with, but I have a hard time sympathizing with characters that are this self-involved.  The movie started to redeem itself towards the end, when it became extremely amusing - *spoiler alert* - her awkward date/sex with the weird guy was hilarious ("there is something wonderfully feline about you.....MEOW!" I would have died of laughter if someone said that to me).  And then, the funniest part of all, when trying to console her boyfriend (sort of), after she (kind of) cheats on him she says, "If it's any consolation, his dick was so big it hurt my back." HAHAHAHA!  I had to press pause because I was laughing so hard.  The movie had some wonderfully funny moments (and some annoying moments) and mostly interesting characters (and some annoying characters), it just didn't have a very original or interesting story.  Also, I think I like Greta Gerwig.  She is adorable.  And, Joel Kinnaman is, like, really sexy in this movie, but not at all sexy in The Killing, which is weird to me.

3. ATM - Sometimes, I get in this mood where all I really want to watch is something really over-the-top ridiculous (usually horror, but sometimes a comedy will do).  The plot of this movie seemed just the right amount of stupid, but unfortunately is was too stupid and not entertaining enough.  I like 2 of the 3 actors (Brian Geraghty and Alice Eve. Josh Peck is on my "dull actor" list), and in fairness they really tried their best to sell this lame set-up.  That being, that the 3 of them are trapped in a ATM with a crazed killer outside on a freezing cold night.  There are dozens of moments where you want to scream "don't do that!" "why are you doing that??" "you should do this!!", but none of it is very satisfying.  Really, the entire movie works because none of them have their cell phones, which is ultimately the hardest part to believe (and how would the killer know that all 3 of them wouldn't have them??? I take my cell phone with me to take out the trash).  Plus, there is a scene which completely gives away how the movie would end (I won't give it away, but it is definitely an unnecessary scene).

4. Lincoln - I couldn't get anyone to see this with me because everyone I know said it looked "boring".  At first I was a little annoyed, but then, every opportunity I had to see it on my own, I chose not to because....um...it looked really boring.  I'm a huge fan of Tony Kushner and obviously, you can't go wrong with the cast, but no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't get excited about it.  My gut instinct was right.  While watching it, all I wanted to do was curl up in a ball, close my eyes and just go to sleep.  I really didn't think I was going to make it all the way through.  The story was about Lincoln's struggle to abolish slavery, while also trying to end a war.  Most of the movie takes place in a courtroom with people arguing back and forth, and back and forth (and back and forth). Lincoln would then spout his famous words of wisdom and then people would argue again.  The climax of the movie lands 2 hours in, with the House of Representatives role-call.  A never-ending scene with people voting "yes" or "no," followed by clapping and/or yelling.  Sure, Daniel Day-Lewis is fantastic but now I can officially say that Joaquin Phoenix deserved the Oscar last year.  Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones are also great, but hardly memorable.  There are also a ton of other actors (Lee Pace, John Hawkes, James Spader, David Strathairn and a bunch of "he looks familiar" faces).  Oh yeah...Joseph Gordon-Levitt is in it as well, which peaked my interest, but then he disappears and my interest went back to sleep.

5. Smashed - I'm not sure how I feel about this movie. I guess I'm not really sure what it was trying to say about addiction, or about recovery.  The story is about a young, married couple who spend their nights (and days) excessively drinking.  Kate, played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead, decides that she has gone too far and decides to seek a support group to quit drinking.  Her husband, played by Aaron Paul, doesn't really see their drinking as a problem.  How he is married to someone who gets so drunk that she pisses the bed, and doesn't see this as a problem is beyond my comprehension.  I must admit that I also have a hard time understanding addiction.  I try, because I have a lot of people in my life who suffer from different addictions, but as someone who lives her life on an "everything in moderation" mentality, I just don't get it.  If something you are doing is hurting you and/others then stop!  (I know, I know, life doesn't work like that.  How nice would it be if it did, though?).  It would really suck to not be able to just enjoy a beer without it "turning into 20 and peeing the bed".  The part that I don't really understand is that the support group that she goes to does end up changing her, as her husband describes it, into a "brain-washed bitch".  *Spoiler* The story ends a year later, with Kate, a year sober, after losing her job, ending her marriage and for some reason she is "thankful for this boring new life".  How would that inspire anyone to want to give up their addictions?  Winstead wasn't really very consistent - mostly a strong performance, but her "drunk" scenes were horrendously acted.  It was like watching those girls who drink one glass of Chardonnay and start "pretending" they are drunk.  Aaron Paul didn't really have much to do, but he does say "bitch" at least once, so it's all worth it.

5 Shows Everyone Should Be Watching

1. Happy Endings - If you have a Friends-shaped hole in your heart, like I do - then you must watch this show.  It is the best of the many Friends copycat sitcoms (although one could make a solid argument for Cougar Town - though having Courteney Cox on the show is an unfair advantage).  Happy Endings shares many similarities to Friends - six friends, two of them are siblings, two of them are an on-again/off-again couple, two of them are roommates and some of the characters parallel Friends characters (Jane = Monica, Alex = Phoebe and Brad = Ross).  The reason that this show works, while others failed is simple: It's hilarious, the characters have chemistry, it's smart and it's HILARIOUS.  If you have doubts, just watch one episode: "The Marry Prankster".  Easily the best episode of the series - references The Usual Suspects, showcases the talent of each cast member and presents my favorite line "I'm not as dumb as I am".  I can tell a show is succeeding if they can make an actress I'm usually not a fan of and slowly make her my favorite character (Elisha Cuthbert/Alex).  Despite the fact that the show grew in ratings by over a million viewers from season 1 to season 2, ABC failed to market it correctly.  They also changed the time-slot so many times that I lost count and are now asking the fans to "save the show" by watching it on it's current "death slot" of Friday night. Shame on them. I've already succumbed to the inevitable cancellation (but maybe the rumors are true and someone else will pick it up??). To be clear, I still have a Friends-shaped whole in my heart, but it gets a little bit smaller with each Happy Endings episode.

2. Scandal - I just got all caught up with the second season and HOLY HELL it is fantastic.  The last 2 episodes ("Snake in the Garden" and "Molly, You in Danger, Girl") had me glued to my television like no other show has done in a long time.  It's twist after twist, even when you know the twist, they make it even twistier.  The cast is spectacular, especially Kerry Washington as Olivia Pope and Tony Goldwyn as Fitz.  With the second season, there has been more emphasis on the supporting characters and there hasn't been a single weak link among them.  I love the direction they are taking Quinn (Katie Lowes) in, and man, Guillermo Diaz just has a way of ripping my soul apart as Puck.  The addition of Scott Foley has been incredible.  I don't really want to say anything else about the series, because I wouldn't want to spoil anything.  Political drama, psychological drama and romantic drama at its finest.

3. SouthLAnd - This is not your typical police drama procedural.  It's really an in-depth character study of LA cops.  By that, I mean that the characters change and develop with every episode, while the crime and action are the backdrop of the series.  Officer John Cooper is my favorite character on the show (and will probably make it to my all-time favorite characters by series end).  Flawlessly portrayed by Michael Cudlitz, John Cooper continues to surprise me with his complicated story arc.  The show teases his personal life, as a gay man, while balancing his alpha-male cop persona while on duty.  I miss his interactions with rookie cop, Ben Sherman, but I appreciate that the show consistently moves forward.  Ben Sherman is no longer a rookie and is now partnered with Sammy.  Both Ben and Sammy have changed drastically (for the worse) since season 1, yet we understand this change and still sympathize with the characters.  I fully admit that I started watching this show because I am in love with Ben McKenzie (The O.C for life!! Ryan Atwood is my soul-mate), but I no longer imagine Ben Sherman as an older Ryan Atwood (I refuse to believe Ryan Atwood as an asshole). Really everyone on the show can be classified as an asshole, but I love every single one of them.

4. Archer - Probably the smartest (and most politically incorrect) comedy on television. It's filled with so many pop culture references, and not in the way Family Guy is, instead they are mostly obscure references. So obscure that I am convinced I only catch about 50% of them.  The show is practically intimidating to watch, but if your willing to do your homework it's incredibly fulfilling.  Characters are voiced by several Arrested Development actors (Jessica Walter, Judy Greer) and popular comedians (Chris Parnell, Aisha Tyler) to such perfection that I actually forget that I'm watching an animated show (plus Lana Kane has to be the sexiest female animated character ever).  It's intelligently written, fast-paced, action-packed and laugh-out-loud funny.

5. Parks and Recreation - The best comedy currently on network television - no competition. This is what goes on in my head when I ask myself the question "who is my favorite character?" :  "Definitely, no question, Ron Swanson! No wait...April Ludgate! Oh...but it has to be Ben Wyatt or maybe it's Andy Dwyer!! I can't decide! Aaaaaaahhhhh!!" The good this is, I don't actually have to decide. Seriously, they are all fantastic.  It's the only show on television that consistently brightens my day, makes me laugh until my stomach hurts and warms my heart.  It successfully did a "wedding" episode that I actually LOVED (hasn't happened since Friends).  The vows exchanged between Leslie and Ben ended with the words "I love you and I like you"  - just absolute perfection (actually got me choked up a bit, but don't tell anyone!!).  For a show that started off as an Office rip-off, five seasons later it has grown into something so much more.  Here are just some of my favorite quotes from season 5:

-There's only one thing I hate more than lying: skim milk, which is water that's lying about 
being milk - Ron
-It's a heartwarming story, but it's just not believable! Which is why I give ET one and half 
stars. - Perd
-You're too beautiful to be funny.  It's not your fault but you've never had to compensate 
for anything. - Leslie (direct satire on the "beautiful women aren't funny" theory)
-Any dog under 50 pounds is a cat and cats are pointless. - Ron
-I can never tell if people are lying to me.  I hope that doesn't come up in my police work. - Andy

3 Thoughts on Stoker

1. The writer - If I didn't already know that the film was written by Wentworth Miller (yes, the guy from Prison Break) before watching the movie, and someone tried to tell me this after watching it, there is no way in hell I would believe it.  I hope everyone in his life is encouraging him to write more and quit acting altogether (seriously, like right now.). The plot is a simple "nature vs. nurture" story, revolving around a teenage girl, India Stoker - played to creepy perfection by Mia Wasikowska (more on her later).  She states in the beginning "Just as a flower doesn't choose it's color, we don't choose what we are going to be". This foreshadowing is as obvious as it is bold.  It makes a statement and the narrative doesn't stray from this boldness for one second.  The idea of "evil" is explored - is it genetics? Are some just born "evil"? Can this "evil" be extinguished?  The idea has been done before, but religion is usually involved (The Omen), but this film doesn't even bring God (or the Devil) into the equation.  Instead, Miller focuses the story on the family element.  Without divulging too much personal information, I strangely can relate to this family.  There is someone who I am genetically close to, who is pure evil.  It's horrifying to think about, considering that his entire family is relatively normal.  He grew up the same way his 3 brothers did, so how did he end up this way?  Miller's answer is that it is in fact genetically "in our nature".  We will become what we are meant to be.  It's probably a good thing that I have no intentions of procreating.

2. The director - Park Chan-wook took this rather simple story and made a film so aesthetically appealing (and appalling) that the story seems complicated.  I was at the edge of my seat the whole time, even though I knew exactly what would happen next.  You know you are watching a well-directed movie when camera angles become metaphors (relating to the shift of power between the characters). If a scene was light on dialogue, it was filled with spine-tingling sounds or an unsettling visual atmosphere.  Even India's wardrobe was important to the story.  To say that the film felt "Hitchcockian", is an understatement.  This is as close to a "modern-day" Hitchcock film that I've ever seen.  I agree with some critics that the film played it a little safe, compared to Park's previous films, but that doesn't make it any less brilliant.  I can't imagine this film not being at the top of my list of favorite movies this year.

3. The actors - Sublime casting.  Mia Wasikowska is stunning.  Most actresses would turn this into a typical "dark, moody teenager" role, instead Mia plays this role with a sympathetic innocence.  I can, once again, forgive Matthew Goode (he goes from terrible, Watchmen, to amazing, A Single Man,  to terrible, Leap Year, to amazing again).  He is brilliant in this super creepy role.  I think the narrative is clear, from the beginning, that he doesn't have the best intentions, but it's still fascinating to watch his character reveal itself.  Nicole Kidman had an easier role (she is naturally "cold".  Is that mean? I feel bad, but it's true).  Even when she tries to connect with her daughter, you can still feel her distance.  It all just works so well together.  Perfection.

Thoughts on 5 Films

1. Bachelorette - I think if I wasn't expecting something funnier, I would have enjoyed this movie more than I did.  I was under the impression that it was laugh-out-loud hilarious, but it had more of a dark, subversive humor that I wasn't expecting.  There were really only a few really funny moments and most of them came from Lizzy Caplan (and probably just because I LOVE HER).  Her and Adam Scott in the same movie together just makes me smile (big Party Down fan, if you couldn't tell already).  The movie suffered from one-dimensional cliche characters (the "type-A personality", the "ditz" and the "sarcastic rebel"), but at least the actors did the best they could with these characters to make them interesting (and extremely unlikable).  I can relate to their age group (they graduated high school 1999, as did I...best year ever!) and that feeling of wanting to grasp on to those crazy nights that make one feel young again, but I can't relate to anything else in the movie.  I don't want to get married, I don't hold onto feelings for someone from 10 years ago, I don't make fun of my friends behind their back and I don't have low self-esteem (at least as low as some girls).  It all seemed a little bit immature and mean-spirited, which, again would have been all fine and dandy if it were funnier.  It went back and forth between being a raunchy comedy and a depressing character study, but then ended with a boring sentimental (and tidy) ending.

2. For Ellen - Such a bland movie.  It reminded me of the Sofia Coppola movie, Somewhere, which was about an actor trying to reconnect with his young daughter.  Except that movie actually did it better (and no, I didn't like that movie either).  I don't buy Paul Dano as a "rock star", maybe because he usually plays the loner, writer-type character.  The movie had very little plot or substance.  It was really challenging to pay attention to.  Usually movies like this only work for me if the performances are stellar, or there is some intricate camera-work, but there is literally nothing to comment on.

3. The Sessions - Great writing, strong premise, interesting characters and a memorable performance from John Hawkes.  Surprisingly, I found the weak link to be Helen Hunt.  I like her a lot (Mad About You!!!!), but I think that Oscar nomination was very generous.  Her "outside Boston" accent was  incredibly distracting (sometimes she pronounced his name "Mark", sometimes with the thicker accent "Maaak").  It felt forced and awkward.  On another note, she is stunning at 50 (and not plastic!!!).  The story is a bit of a touchy subject, and if it wasn't written as well as it was, could have been a complete disaster.  Instead, it was very honest, touching and light with a few moments of genuine awkwardness and humor.  It was nice to see a mature "adult" story about sex and relationships that wasn't boring.

4. Bernie - I was a little skeptical of the supposed great performance by Jack Black in this movie.  I'm not really a fan.  He's mildly funny, but mostly annoying.  I can see the buzz about his performance, mostly because it was different, but that doesn't mean it was amazing (I even read "Oscar talk", which is just absurd). I am, however, a huge fan of Richard Linklater (and I think his first collaboration with Jack Black, School of Rock, is easily the worst in his filmography.  No wait, Me and Orson Welles was pretty bad.  Interesting that he didn't write either of these movies.).  Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Waking Life and A Scanner Darkly are on my extremely long list of favorite movies.  Bernie had some wonderful elements, but overall was disappointing.  The repetitive "Bernie is amazing!!" chatter was mind-numbingly repetitive.  It didn't really get good until the "twist", which if you've seen the trailer (or read the Netflix description), then you already know what it is.  I didn't know anything about the movie (aside from Jack Black's performance), so it took me by surprise.  It's definitely dark....and...different. Also, it is very clear that Matthew McConaughey is trying to shed his romantic comedy roles.  I had written him off as a terrible actor with one lucky role (A Time to Kill), but this is now the 5th movie in a row where he is excellent (I'm including Lincoln Lawyer, even though I didn't like the movie).  I'm really looking forward to Mud.  

5. Anna Karenina - I don't think a director has ever frustrated me as much as Joe Wright.  Sometimes he is absolutely brilliant (the first half of Atonement) and sometimes he is disastrous (the last half of Atonement).  I had similar feelings with Anna Karenina, except that it was more sprinkled through-out the film instead of divided in two.  Wright knows how to make a beautiful film; I don't see how anyone could argue with that statement (but I'm sure some do anyway).  Some of the tracking shots in this film are sublime (although none can touch the tracking shot in Atonement. That's one for the history books.). All of the elements are there for a perfect period piece -  the intricate set design, the dazzling costumes and the poetic dialogue.  I actually liked the "staged" setting and the way the story transitioned between scenes, as I can always appreciate a "thinking outside the box" spin on a classic tale. It was weird, but it kept me interested.  Yet, for one of the greatest love stories of all time, it is severely lacking in emotion and passion. I don't think I read the Tolstoy novel, but everything about the story felt very familiar...so maybe I did? I was never a big novel reader; always preferred plays (I have read every Chekhov play that exists, so that could explain the "familiar" feeling).  I really liked the movie about Tolstoy, the one with James McAvoy (I'm too lazy to look it up. Also...mmmmm....James McAvoy...where has he been? He's been missing from my life.); the whole cult-like followers are completely fascinating.  I've been meaning to read more about him and his work.  After watching this movie, I wasn't too impressed, but then I read the Wikipedia summary of the novel and that made me want to read it.  I guess it says a lot about the film, when it leaves less of an impression than a Wikipedia entry.  I think I would blame the lack of chemistry between the leads, which is partly a director issue, but mostly an acting issue.  Keira Knightley is perfect for roles like this (I almost always hate her in modern roles), but she didn't amaze me here.  Also, Jude Law > Aaron Johnson, therefore the love story automatically doesn't work.  Aaron Johnson is just soooo blaaaaaaah.

Thoughts on 5 Films

1. The Bourne Legacy - Not as terrible as I was expecting.  I love the Bourne movies but I feel like a 4th installment is completely unnecessary.  I was excited by the casting of Jeremy Renner and, in all honesty, he is really the main reason to watch this movie.  It was just 2 hours and 15 minutes of him running around screaming "Where are the Chems?? I need the Chems!!" and I am ok with that.  There were some stand-out action sequences, especially towards the end, plus one really intense scene featuring Rachel Weisz and a workplace mass-murderer.  Other than that, the whole movie felt a bit pointless.  As an action movie, I would rate it above average, but compared to the other Bourne movies, I wouldn't rate it at all.

2. End of Watch - I enjoyed this movie very much.  It is very similar to one of my favorite current television drama's, SouthLAnd.  Gritty, intense, action-packed filled with unapologetic dialogue that puts the audience members directly in a "day in the life" of an LA police officer.  It almost makes one understand why cops are such assholes (seriously, I would not want to deal with what they have to deal with on a daily basis - it would probably make me an asshole too. Then again, one almost has to be an asshole to be a cop, so the question is which comes first? I'm generalizing, of course.).  Phenomenal performances from the two main actors, Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Pena.  I have been a HUGE fan of Michael Pena for a while; I'm hoping he gets more roles like this to showcase his talent. The only critique that I have about the movie is that it became a bit repetitive: dangerous scenario, followed by racist banter, followed by a cute moment with Anna Kendrick. Repeat. Also, the ending was a bit contrived and unrealistic (compared to the rest of the movie, which felt very real).

3. Holy Motors - Describing this film with words would never do it justice.  It's an experience.  An incredibly odd, what-the-fuck-am-i-watching kind of experience.  The concept of one man experiencing life through role-playing/acting out others wishes/fears etc. is a complex one to put on film, and the narrative is hard to adjust to, but it's absolutely mesmerizing.  The "appointments" become increasingly bizarre and reality is blurred but it all felt really personal.  Denis Lavant accomplished something on-screen that I don't think can be compared to any other acting performance, ever.  It's something I would classify as performance art, as opposed to acting.  My favorite scene is probably the accordion scene, but the choreographed motion-capture scene was also pretty mind-blowing.  You can watch the accordion scene here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5bChspXYt0 .  If that scene doesn't intrigue you, then you probably won't enjoy the film.  It's not a movie for the average movie-goer, but it is definitely a movie for people who love film as an art form - I can see this movie being dissected by cinema studies programs (as well as acting programs). Figuring out what it all means is a task that would involve multiple viewings.

4. For a Good Time, Call... - For a movie about phone sex operators, it is surprisingly sweet and cute.  It's also crude and raunchy, but it's a movie about phone sex operators!! The vulgarity should be expected.  The sweet and cute part comes from the chemistry between the two main characters.  The friendship between them is refreshing and reminiscent of my relationship with my best friend.  As the two girls in the movie, my best friend and I became "BFF's" because we had mutual friends and we were forced into living together (in college).  We are completely opposite in nature, but for some reason it was an instant connection.  It works because we use our opposite-ness (not a word, I know) as a complimentary connection instead of an opposing one.  The two girls in this movie realize that they can only benefit from each-others strengths and the bond becomes unstoppable.  Female friendships are often portrayed as catty and judgemental; it's about time for a change. If your best friend doesn't want you to be the best version of yourself, then she's not your best friend.  Ari Graynor is hilarious (and always under-used), so it is nice for her to get a starring role.  I didn't really care for the other girl, Lauren Anne Miller, who also co-wrote the movie.  She was pretty bland, but admittedly she grew on me by the end of the movie.  I also can't stand Justin Long; I don't understand how anyone finds him funny. There were some unexpected delights, like the cameos (it's somehow really funny to use famous people for cameos, just to have them masturbate), the "undercover agent for the lord", and the scene featuring Martha MacIsaac. Laugh out loud stuff.

5. Flight - Solid adult drama with a fine performance from Denzel Washington.  I didn't really have any interest in this movie; seemed a bit heavy-handed and by all accounts it is.  However, Washington really did give an outstanding performance and his nomination was well-deserved (I had doubts).  I think his performance is the sole reason that the movie held my interest. The movie is less about a plane crash and more about the destructive forces of addiction, but it's all a little too obvious (someone does drugs with the song "Sweet Jane" in the background - that's how (un)subtle this movie is).  The initial crash scene is done really well and is rightfully intense.  The aftermath, however, was a little slow-moving and repetitive.  Even with the complexity of the situation, it could really only end one way.  If it ended another way (less "clean"), it probably would have made a stronger statement on addiction, but it was clear from the beginning that this is not the type of movie it is.

Thoughts on 5 Films

1. Robot & Frank - Absolutely adore this movie.  I am even contemplating putting it in my top 10 from 2012 when I re-evaluate my list (after I've seen everything that I want to see.  There is still so much - Les Miserable, Rust and Bone, Amour, Lincoln...).  Set in the "near future", the story is about an elderly man suffering from dementia.  The beginning we see him confused, disoriented and stubborn, but instead of focusing on the depressing facts of getting old - the story takes a twist when his son buys him a "health care aid" not in human form, but in the form of a very amusing robot.  This robot is meant to give Frank stability, ensuring his health and safety, but instead Frank uses the robot to his own advantage and they form an undeniably sweet friendship.  I was surprised by how warm and fuzzy the film is, without being overly saccharine.  I was even more surprised by the humor in it ("Warning: Do not molest me".).  Then, I was in complete shock at the surprise little revelation at the end; was not expecting that at all.  Such a refreshing story about love, family, friendship and the importance of our memories. Also, a fantastic performance by Frank Langella.

2. Nobody Walks - Completely forgettable film.  I watched it a few weeks ago and I am struggling to remember anything about it.  OH YEAH - Olivia Thirlby has a terrible haircut in it - that pretty much distracted me for the whole movie.  I like her, but she (and the rest of the cast) are much better than this movie.  I love John Krasinski but I am concerned that I still loved his character even though he was a complete asshole.  I hope it is just because I love the actor so much and not because I have a sudden affinity for assholes???  That's a scary thought.  The only other thing I remember about the movie is that there is a scorpion sighting. Absolutely terrifying.  Also, I was bored to death.



3. Safe House - Was not expecting much, but was definitely expecting more than what I got.  Denzel Washington can usually hold my interest - even in mediocre movies.  In this film, however, he really had nothing to do.  His character was described as one of the best CIA agents, with excellent interrogation and manipulation skills, however we never see any of this.  Ryan Reynolds is on my list of "terrible actors who are famous for no reason" (I don't actually have a list, but he would likely be number one if I were to make one).  I agree with several critics that this is his "best role", but that is really not saying much.  It's my way of saying "he wasn't horrific".  The film could have easily been a decent story about psychological manipulation, but instead it was just one boring action sequence after another.  We don't really know anything about either of these characters, other than Reynolds character is in love (with a very annoying girl), which I think was meant to give him some sort of emotional depth, but "love" hardly equals "depth" - at least not in my book.  I predicted the "bad guy" within the first 15 minutes of the movie, which I would like to think is impressive (I must be a GENIUS!!), but sadly, I think the film was just that predictable.  The narrative was just too cut and dry.

4. Men in Black 3 - I don't remember the second Men in Black movie.  Like at all.  Not one thing about it comes to mind.  However, the first one?? I can recite the entire thing.  Plus, anytime I hear the name Edgar, I say "Edgar, you're skin is hangin' off your bones".  It's instinctual.  I can't really say that I liked this third film, but there are two reasons that make it awesome.  First, Josh Brolin as a young Tommy Lee Jones is absolutely mesmerizing.  I actually forgot that it was Josh Brolin and not a younger Jones.  So perfect. Second, the ending actually took me by surprise. The question remains as to whether it was actually done that well, or if I was just not paying close enough attention (??). Either way, I really enjoyed the way it wraps the entire "Men in Black" story together.  If you are a fan of the first one, I think this one is worth watching.

5. The Perks of Being a Wallflower - I sort of knew that I would hate this movie, but I didn't really know how much I would hate it.  After all of the glorious reviews, I was willing to give it a chance, but it turned out to be exactly the kind of movie that I thought it would be.  If the trailer made you want to vomit, then you will likely not enjoy the movie.  It felt really inauthentic and sappy (like the trailer did).  The film deals with a million "issues" like domestic abuse, homophobia, bullying, suicide, mental illness and other things that I won't reveal.  It was like a really depressing and boring episode of Glee (I'm comparing the way it handles the "issues" not the production value).  The biggest problem with the film is that this kid is supposed to be an outcast, but he seems to make friends rather quickly - at no time did I feel bad for him.  Maybe that makes me a bit cold-hearted but honestly, I think this kid lives a rather good life.  He's got a family that cares about him (a family that seems to get along and be financially secure), he's smart, good-looking and he has friends. It could make for a great statement on mental illness and how depression can effect anyone (whether that is because of genetics, chemical imbalance, etc.), but that isn't the case here.  Instead, the character suffered from some tragedy which causes this depression - but for me, it just doesn't work.  Suffering from tragedy (or two) doesn't make ones whole life tragic.  Then we have the "profound" message from the one teacher that cares (I'm sure you are all familiar with this character) who states: "we accept the love that we think we deserve.", which is pretty fucking depressing for people who don't think they deserve love.  Then the film ends with this positive message of "it gets better".  That's a nice thought, but really?  Come on.  Do people really think it gets better?  I hate to be so negative, but I think the message should be: It will only get worse, so you have to learn how to enjoy the little moments of happiness. We need to prepare the youth for what the world is really like, instead of encouraging them to live inside this little bubble of hope.  As someone on twitter pointed out, television shows such as Freaks and Geeks and My So-called Life have done the whole coming-of-age/teenage outcast thing much better.  I do agree with the critics about the acting in the film, all 3 of the main actors were really good (although Ezra Miller is just sooooo creepy, no matter what he does).

3 Thoughts on Warm Bodies

1. I didn't hate Nicholas Hoult - I usually do.  I thought he was the most annoying little kid ever to grace the screen in About a Boy and oh, how I loathed him on Skins.  Then, he played a few small roles in a few big movies (X-Men: First Class, Clash of the Titans) and he still annoyed the fuck out of me.  Someone is intent on making him "a thing" with his starring role in this film and the upcoming Jack the Giant Slayer (which looks horrendous).  I really wanted to see this movie, despite his starring role and I am glad that I did.  He wasn't as annoying as usual, because this role was better suited to him (you know, as a lifeless zombie).  I laughed quite a bit at his awkward zombie-in-love bit ("Don't be creepy".).  The rest of the cast is equally enjoyable, especially Dave Franco!!  How great would this movie be if HE was the starring role???

2. It's smart, but also sooo stupid - Always a smart idea to capitalize on a trend, but also put a spin on it.  Zombies are a trend right now (again), and will likely remain a trend with the upcoming film World War Z (I am looking forward to it, even though it could be terrible).  It's also smart to make it a rom-com with a twist (and to release it around Valentine's Day - someone had their thinking cap on).  However, the film isn't very intelligent or cohesive.  One minute the zombies are slow, the next minute they can run.  One minute they can't do more than groan, the next they can talk coherently.  I understood the concept that "love" is changing them, but why is one zombie being in love, changing all of the zombies??  It really makes no sense.  It's hard to critique things that don't actually exist as not making "sense", but I think the writer, Jonathon Levine, should make decisions about his version of what a "zombie" is and stick with it.  I suggest as an audience member, in order to fully enjoy the movie, you must turn your brain off and just go with it.

3. It should be funnier - There was some really funny dialogue, but it could have been better, more consistent and less repetitive. Even though I would recommend it, I am a little bit disappointed that the film didn't take full advantage of its amazing concept.  

6 Thoughts on The Oscars

1. The Host - I am a fan of Family Guy and of Seth MacFarlane, but as an Oscar host, I was a little worried.  It was a surprising choice, for sure (especially after the Anne Hathaway/James Franco disaster - I thought that the Academy would stick to "boring" for at least a few years).  The problem is that most of MacFarlane's jokes are crude and inappropriate, which is much better fit for, say... the MTV Awards.  As the show started, I realized that it was actually a great choice - he is charming, he can sing, he has that old-school Hollywood presence to him; He pretty much embodied a younger, hipper Billy Crystal and guess what??? It wasn't very funny.  There were some enjoyable moments, but for most of it, I couldn't even bear to crack a smile.  He wasn't a bad host and I think he will likely be asked back.  I just didn't see anything special about it.

2. The Show - Such an awkward show, if it weren't live I would blame the editor.  It was just so all over the place.  Nothing really worked 100%.  The opening was far too long and way too much of William Shatner (no thank you.).  There were cute moments like Charlize Theron and Channing Tatum dancing and of course, JGL being adorable, but those moments also confused me greatly.  WHY?  What does this have to do with the Oscars?  The sock puppet version of Flight was probably the most relevant skit.  The theme of the show was "musicals", which meant that we got treated to performances from great musicals of the past decade (all 3 of them).  Just because one musical comes out (and might be good. I still haven't seen it.), doesn't mean it should be more celebrated than the other films.  And I know I have a bad memory, but Dreamgirls and Chicago were not that long ago, why pay tribute to them now??  The only song that sounded good was the Les Mis song (Catherine Zeta-Jones lip-syncing was unacceptable and Jennifer Hudson can belt out those notes better than most, but I've seen her do it a hundred times. Can we move on now?).  Then there was the "Bond tribute" which was lame. Why not do "Skyfall" after this tribute? Because that would make sense?  I'm not a huge fan of that song, but Adele deserved better (whoever did the sound mixing during the performance should be fired).  The show felt like it was on for 5 hours (was it?) and there was a huge chunk of time, where I forgot I was watching the Oscars.

3. The Presenters - It's hard to watch presenters bomb, which is why I think most people just stuck to the script.  But man, Paul Rudd and Melissa McCarthy were so terrible. I could feel the audience cringing in pain. We all knew that Ted would make an appearance with Mark Wahlberg, but I was really impressed with the effects for that. I also enjoyed Wahlberg's "No B.S., it's a tie" (good job censoring yourself, Mark). No one else really sticks out in my mind, except Jennifer Garner and Jessica Chastain - now that is an inspired pairing (Sydney Bristow and Maya!  Terrorists beware!!).

4. The Winners - Even though some of the people I was rooting for didn't win, I still can't really complain.  I guess my biggest upset is Jennifer Lawrence (over Jessica Chastain).  Lawrence was great in Silver Linings Playbook, but I don't feel like it was an Oscar-winning performance, while Chastain was sublime in Zero Dark Thirty.  Speaking of sublime, Joaquin Phoenix in The Master is honestly, some of the best acting I've ever seen, ever.  I would love to be angry about his loss, but when Daniel Day Lewis is the winner, I can't really complain (and how cool was Meryl Streep announcing it??  She didn't even pause for a second, causing speculation over whether she even opened the envelope.).  I still haven't seen Lincoln, but if people say DDL deserved the Oscar, I have no reason to question that.  I would have loved to see Benh Zeitlin win for directing the stunning Beasts of the Southern Wild, but Life of Pi was also a beautifully made film (not my cup of tea, but I appreciate the technicality of the film).  We all know that the Director statue really went to Ben Affleck and I am happy that the producers of the film recognized that and let him speak (as the Director) when Argo won.  I am incredibly happy that Argo won.  While my favorite film of the year is Seven Psychopaths, I can't deny that Argo is definitely a better made film (I can think of a total of zero flaws).  It's been a long time since I agreed with the Academy on Best Picture (since 2006, with The Departed).  We also agreed on Supporting Actor (Waltz), Original Screenplay (Tarantino) and Animated Feature (Brave).  The fact that I'm not even that upset over some of my favorites losing, just proves how great 2012 was for film.

5. The Speeches - Not only did Jennifer Lawrence fall, but she acknowledged that she fell and that is the only reason anyone stood up for her - causing anyone who wasn't already swooning for her, to now swoon for her.  The only other speech really worth noting was Ben Affleck - he was speed talking (I would be too, considering Jaws was apparently attacking people for talking too long.  Fucking hilarious.  Inappropriate, mean-spirited and FUCKING HILARIOUS). Affleck's speech was reminiscent of his speech when he won for Good Will Hunting, which was one of my favorite Oscar moments ever.  He seems like someone who is genuinely happy just to be making movies.  I think we are going to see him up on that stage quite a bit, over the next few decades.

6. The Fashion - You know how little girls imagine what their wedding dresses will look like?  Well, I never did that.  I did, however, picture what I would wear to the Oscars.  It is statistically more possible that I will attend the Oscars than get married (although, I've succumbed to the fact that I might be there as someones date.  Wow.  Did I really just write that?  That's a pretty depressing statement and not like me at all.  I seriously need to get out of this funk that I am in.).  If I were to attend the Oscars, I would be fighting my conflicting instincts.  My first instinct is that it is the Oscars and since I am someone who is interested in fashion, the dress needs to make a statement.  My second instinct is that I hate being the center of attention, so I need to blend in.  Quite a predicament, isn't it??  There weren't really too many exciting dresses on the red carpet.  I think Jessica Chastain looked divine - I would probably crown her "best dressed".  I always hate the wedding dress trend at these events (doesn't everyone realize how ugly wedding dresses are?), and Jennifer Lawrence takes the cake on that one (because she looks like she belongs on the top of a cake).  I think the only dress on the red carpet that I would actually wear is the one that Stacy Keibler was wearing.  It's modern, glamorous and sexy (and no cleavage!).

Thoughts on 5 Films

1. The Odd Life of Timothy Green - I don't really have anything bad to say about this movie, but I don't have anything good to say either.  It's a cute story with a bit of a "magical" fairy-tale feeling and I appreciate a genuine live-action family film, but this just wasn't good enough to fit into the classical family film genre. I love, love, love (LOVE!!!) Jennifer Garner - (aka Sydney Bristow, my favorite female character ever, from one of my favorite shows ever), but I haven't seen her shine in a movie since 13 Going on 30 (one of the very few "chick-flick" movies that I adore, also can be considered a family film, as it has a wonderful message for young girls).  I want her to move away from these sweet roles and take on a bit more challenging roles (she can do it. Sydney Bristow is a tough role to play and she nailed it).  Joel Edgerton is an actor who has been around for a while, but people are finally taking notice of (thanks to an amazing performance in Warrior), but I found him awkward in this role.  The movie is probably more effective if you are parent.  I can't really relate to a film where the importance of a child scoring a winning soccer goal is stretched out for like an hour (ok...it was probably 15 minutes, but it felt like an hour. Is it really that important?).  I also think the film would have benefited from cutting out the whole "let me tell you a story" bit - just tell the story.

2. Premium Rush - I wasn't expecting too much with this movie, but I was fully satisfied with it.  It's a fun, little action movie that zips through the plot quickly and concisely.  I hate to admit it, but bikers in the city drive me crazy.  Not the sane ones, the ones that put other people's lives at risk because they think they don't have to follow the rules because they are on a bike.  As the main character says in the film "most people wish we would just get off the street".  Um...fuck yes, if you can't follow traffic laws, then yes, you should get off the street.  Sorry, for the rant, but while I am at it, here's another one: Why would anyone open their door for someone who claims to be a cop (like the stupid girl does in this movie)?  Are people really that stupid? Yes, I realize that people are, in fact, that stupid.  So, just in case this applies to you: call your local police station before you answer the door. They can verify the officer's identity and tell you why the officer is there. Any legitimate police officer would cooperate with you doing that.  Anyway, back to the movie, I loved the constant action and appreciated how much of a nightmare it must have been to coordinate the production.  I loved the narrative and how it went back and forth in the timeline to explain the plot from different view points.  And I loved, loved, loved the way it showed JGL's character imagining different scenarios consequential to which direction he rides his bike in.  Really cool.  The film suffered a bit from some convenient storytelling (like how he just happened to walk into the exact precinct that the cop works at - there are at least 50 precincts in NYC), but overall it was smart and coherent.

3. 10 Years - I sort of liked this movie.  I liked that it felt honest, the friendships seem real, there are some solid awkward moments, and even though there are some surprises and twists, it still is a quiet film. There are a shitload of likeable actors: Channing Tatum, Lynn Collins, Kate Mara, Chris Pratt, Ari Graynor, Aubrey Plaza...the list goes on.  I guess my issue with the movie, is that a film like this is made for an audience that can relate and I just can't.  I didn't go to my 10 year reunion and I honestly don't even know if my school had one.  I don't talk to anyone from high school, not on purpose, but I just moved around a lot and I am really bad at keeping in touch with people.  There is really no way anyone from my high school would even be able to contact me - I'm not on Facebook (!!), I have a twitter but it's not my real full name, and if you google me, there is another girl who has my name (even the same middle initial), suspiciously lived in several of the places that I have and is my age.  She's a lawyer, so that's the only way I know she isn't me!! I actually like being under the radar, almost non-existent. (Another rant, I know, it can't be helped).  My point is that I just can't relate to people that like to reminisce about the past.  It's weird to me that someone would harbor feelings for someone they haven't seen in 10 years.  It's past my point of comprehension.  I did appreciate that it showed that many people exaggerate how great their lives are, when in reality "we all have messes".   

4. Hope Springs - What a depressing fucking movie.  It certainly solidifies my decision to never get married.   It's about an older couple, Tommy Lee Jones as the cranky, emotionally unavailable husband and Meryl Streep as the loyal, but emotionally unfulfilled wife. He is also a bit of a bully (and slightly emotionally abusive), but she has been complacent about it for 30 years, so how can she suddenly ask him to change?  I can solve all of their problems with one word: DIVORCE.  Instead, they seek help via marriage counselor, played by Steve Carrell, who was oddly dull in this role. I really didn't root for them to stay together, so the whole movie is irrelevant. I don't know about you, but I really have no interest in watching Meryl Streep learning how to give a blow job (and this film officially ruined cookie dough for me.  Banana's were expected....but COOKIE DOUGH??  Why?), and it is really difficult to watch her talk about sex (and..um... masturbate).  I realize that is ageism at work, but I can't help it.  I don't want to see it.  Also, Elizabeth Shue is in it for a second (which is pretty depressing - I want her to score a solid role in something).  One more "Also", Meryl's name in the movie is "Kay", which constantly reminded me of Tommy Lee Jones as "K" in Men in Black.  Unnecessary distraction, but a distraction nonetheless.

5. Celeste and Jesse Forever - Another relationship movie, but this one is a little different, in that it's about a couple (played by Rashida Jones and Andy Samberg) after they divorce and still remain "best friends".  I adored the beginning scene - the song, Lily Allen's "Littlest Things", is perfect for the setting and the relationship between the two main characters is established really quickly.  I think the whole "friends with your ex" thing is totally possible, but I am constantly proven to be wrong.  It's clear in this movie that these "friends" are not completely over each other.  The problem begins when he starts to move on, and she goes bat-shit crazy.  I tend to think that films that portray women as "crazy" in (and out) of relationships is part of the problem in reality.  Not that films are responsible for human behavior, but films tend to "normalize" this "craziness" in a way; making women feel like it is completely acceptable to be jealous, insecure and weak- instead of promoting a healthy attitude towards relationships (like trusting your partner, accepting when things don't work out, and having the strength to move on).  But then again, maybe it is normal and I am just the odd one out.  If you love someone, you should want the best for them - even if that means it's not you.  Seems pretty logical to me.  I am on a ranting role today!!  The film redeems itself in the end, with their very honest blowout argument.  Other thoughts I had during the movie:  1. Rashida, please take off the hipster glasses - you are playing a "trend forecaster" not a "trend follower".  2. Why is there always a running joke about putting together Ikea furniture?  I've never had a problem putting anything together (and I literally have had every piece of Ikea furniture that exists).  3. Who is the woman that plays his new girlfriend?  She is stunning.  4.  Why can't anyone use Ari Graynor correctly?   She was hilarious in Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, but has consistently been underused since.  Shameful.