One of my goals is to see a movie each week. Today I took a break from Maude's steriod induced potty party and joined Lisa and Kelly to see Gangster Squad.
I'm really excited to see this movie. I love Josh Brolin. I think he is uber sexy. I don't like Ryan Gosling. I loved The Notebook, but not Ryan Gosling. I loved Crazy, Stupid Love, but not Ryan Gosling.
I can say after this movie, I might like Ryan Gosling. It was a lot of violence, but it was a good story. Sean Penn was interesting, I think he played his character a little bit over the top and it didn't really work well. I love Emma Stone, but she was underutilized.
Almost as much fun as the movie were the previews for new movies starring Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Stallone has some great lines!
Will Gangster Squad win an Oscar? Probably not.... But is it a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon? Absolutely!!
Mo's Review:
"Gangster Squad" (2012): 4 out of 5 stars
Showing posts with label Movies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Movies. Show all posts
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Thursday, February 24, 2011
The Runaways (2010)
I'm home sick today. I've been up since 2 AM, vomiting like a crazy lady. The bug has been going around the school, so I guess it's my turn. Since I haven't been sleeping much (about 3 hours a night for the past week), it's all come to blows today. I've spent most of the day in bed, sleeping and trying not to throw up again. I HATE throwing up!!
So to give me a break, I decided to watch one of my Netflix movies (which I've had since November, isn't that bad?). I select "The Runaways," which is the story of the 1970's punk rock band The Runaways. This girl band was founded by Joan Jett and Sandy West. They added Lita Ford and Cherie Currie. There were several bass players, but in the movie they were played by one character.
I liked the movie. I always thought I should have been born in 1960 instead of 1970 and this movie reminded me of that. I loved the music (maybe not all of the fashion). You see how young the girls were (16-18) and that maybe they weren't equipped to handle the fame and pressure. Cherie left the band and a few years later, the band broke up. Only Joan Jett and Lita Ford really continued with their music careers after The Runaways. You learn at the end that Cherie Currie is a chainsaw artist in the San Fernando Valley now.
If you like this time period or this type of music, then this is a great movie to see!! You'll catch yourself singing along!
Mo's Review:
"The Runaways" (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
So to give me a break, I decided to watch one of my Netflix movies (which I've had since November, isn't that bad?). I select "The Runaways," which is the story of the 1970's punk rock band The Runaways. This girl band was founded by Joan Jett and Sandy West. They added Lita Ford and Cherie Currie. There were several bass players, but in the movie they were played by one character.
I liked the movie. I always thought I should have been born in 1960 instead of 1970 and this movie reminded me of that. I loved the music (maybe not all of the fashion). You see how young the girls were (16-18) and that maybe they weren't equipped to handle the fame and pressure. Cherie left the band and a few years later, the band broke up. Only Joan Jett and Lita Ford really continued with their music careers after The Runaways. You learn at the end that Cherie Currie is a chainsaw artist in the San Fernando Valley now.
If you like this time period or this type of music, then this is a great movie to see!! You'll catch yourself singing along!
Mo's Review:
"The Runaways" (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Saturday, February 19, 2011
True Grit (2010)
The Oscars are just a week away and I still have a few more films that I want and need to see. This was one of them. I hesitated to see it because I have gotten mixed reviews from several of my friends.
So I headed to the Chestnut Square today to see this movie. I love that you can do a movie and snacks for like $12 - the price is right!! The theater is not the fanciest, but it's functional!
True Grit is a remake of the film with John Wayne, but it's very different. It's more based on the book (which I've purchased and plan to read soon). It was a great story about a young girl, Mattie, who hires Marshall Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges) to help her find the man who killed her dad. Texas Ranger LaBouef (Matt Damon) is also searching for the same man, so they work together and they don't. Matt Damon is great in this role.
I don't really like westerns, but I loved this movie. I thought it was great. Jeff Bridges is great (of course, I still think about the Against All Odds Jeff Bridges) but I do like his older, rougher side. And it's not a new western unless you have Josh Brolin in it.
The girl who played Mattie was incredible - she is only 14? Wow!!!
If you haven't seen True Grit, go for it!! You'll love it!!
Mo's Review:
"True Grit" (2010): 5 out of 5 stars
So I headed to the Chestnut Square today to see this movie. I love that you can do a movie and snacks for like $12 - the price is right!! The theater is not the fanciest, but it's functional!
True Grit is a remake of the film with John Wayne, but it's very different. It's more based on the book (which I've purchased and plan to read soon). It was a great story about a young girl, Mattie, who hires Marshall Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges) to help her find the man who killed her dad. Texas Ranger LaBouef (Matt Damon) is also searching for the same man, so they work together and they don't. Matt Damon is great in this role.
I don't really like westerns, but I loved this movie. I thought it was great. Jeff Bridges is great (of course, I still think about the Against All Odds Jeff Bridges) but I do like his older, rougher side. And it's not a new western unless you have Josh Brolin in it.
The girl who played Mattie was incredible - she is only 14? Wow!!!
If you haven't seen True Grit, go for it!! You'll love it!!
Mo's Review:
"True Grit" (2010): 5 out of 5 stars
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Just Go With It (2011)
I love Adam Sandler. I've seen practically every movie he has ever done. I know that he isn't an incredible film maker, but he makes movies that are funny and make me laugh. I still love to watch "Billy Madison" every time it comes on the TV.
Just Go With It is the story of plastic surgeon Danny Maccabee (Sandler) who wears a wedding ring to get him girls. When he meets a girl that he really likes, the ring works against him. He enlists the aid of his office manager, played by Jennifer Aniston, to help him get divorced so that he can move on with this girl.
Jennifer Aniston is in so many movies, but she never plays anything but the same character. I could think of other actresses that would have been funnier in this role. The actors that played the kids are cute and funny.
Do you want to see a funny, mindless movie that makes you laugh? Here it is! Enjoy with some popcorn and a beer - it's a good use of a lazy day.
Mo's Review:
"Just Go With It" (2011): 5 out of 5 stars
Just Go With It is the story of plastic surgeon Danny Maccabee (Sandler) who wears a wedding ring to get him girls. When he meets a girl that he really likes, the ring works against him. He enlists the aid of his office manager, played by Jennifer Aniston, to help him get divorced so that he can move on with this girl.
Jennifer Aniston is in so many movies, but she never plays anything but the same character. I could think of other actresses that would have been funnier in this role. The actors that played the kids are cute and funny.
Do you want to see a funny, mindless movie that makes you laugh? Here it is! Enjoy with some popcorn and a beer - it's a good use of a lazy day.
Mo's Review:
"Just Go With It" (2011): 5 out of 5 stars
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Rabbit Hole (2010)
I'm still on my quest to see all of the Oscar nominated movies. Since this is one is an artsy film, it's a 80 mile round trip from my house to the only theatre in NW Austin that shows this fillm. Do you see my dedication to the Oscars?
I should have known that this wasn't going to be a feel good kind of movie. It's the story of Becca and Howie Corbett (Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart), a couple who is still grieving the loss of their child, Danny, who was hit by a car. Becca and Howie choose very different ways of dealing with their grief, but the question is, can they come out of it together and rebuild their lives?
Kidman (who is not my favorite actress) did a good job as the repressed and angry Becca. I loved Aaron Eckhart in this role as well - why wasn't he nominated for an Oscar? Dianne Wiest is fabulous as Becca's mother, who has also lost a child of her own.
This move is heart wrenching, but beautiful. It's accurate as it shows other uncomfortable with how to talk and deal with the Corbetts, not knowing what to say, some even pulling away from them because it's too hard to engage them in conversation.
This movie, while a sad story, is really driven by characters. These are characters you want to know and understand. And you want to know what will happen to them.... will they make it?
(Ed.'s Note: I was able to stop by Texadelphia for some dinner and some quasi for my Super Bowl watching party -yummo!!)
Mo's Review:
"Rabbit Hole" (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
I should have known that this wasn't going to be a feel good kind of movie. It's the story of Becca and Howie Corbett (Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart), a couple who is still grieving the loss of their child, Danny, who was hit by a car. Becca and Howie choose very different ways of dealing with their grief, but the question is, can they come out of it together and rebuild their lives?
Kidman (who is not my favorite actress) did a good job as the repressed and angry Becca. I loved Aaron Eckhart in this role as well - why wasn't he nominated for an Oscar? Dianne Wiest is fabulous as Becca's mother, who has also lost a child of her own.
This move is heart wrenching, but beautiful. It's accurate as it shows other uncomfortable with how to talk and deal with the Corbetts, not knowing what to say, some even pulling away from them because it's too hard to engage them in conversation.
This movie, while a sad story, is really driven by characters. These are characters you want to know and understand. And you want to know what will happen to them.... will they make it?
(Ed.'s Note: I was able to stop by Texadelphia for some dinner and some quasi for my Super Bowl watching party -yummo!!)
Mo's Review:
"Rabbit Hole" (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Blue Valentine (2010)
I'm on a mission to see as many of the Oscar-nominated movies as I can. I do this every year, but this may be the first year that I'm actually ahead of the curve!
Being new to the Austin area, I am still learning my way around town, so I was glad to find the Regal Arbor 8 Cinema - this is where the more artsy films are shown in Austin (kind of like the Angelika in Dallas). (Ed.s Note: If there are other theatres like this in Austin, I would like to know - I love artsy movies!)
Blue Valentine stars Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling as a married couple. It's like a side by side story - one side is their coming together and falling in love, the other side is the unraveling of their marriage. These two sides go back and forth throughout the movie until at the end, you have a full understanding of their relationship.
It's not a feel good movie and it's hard to watch at times. Having never been married... if that is what being married is like, then I'm perfectly content to stay single. However, Williams and Gosling are excellent in their roles. What I liked most about this movie is that I kept coming back and thinking about for several days, which is why it took me a few days to blog about it.
If you like character studies and don't mind dark - this is a great movie. Not my favorite movie I've seen, but a good one nonetheless.
Mo's Review:
Blue Valentine (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Being new to the Austin area, I am still learning my way around town, so I was glad to find the Regal Arbor 8 Cinema - this is where the more artsy films are shown in Austin (kind of like the Angelika in Dallas). (Ed.s Note: If there are other theatres like this in Austin, I would like to know - I love artsy movies!)
Blue Valentine stars Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling as a married couple. It's like a side by side story - one side is their coming together and falling in love, the other side is the unraveling of their marriage. These two sides go back and forth throughout the movie until at the end, you have a full understanding of their relationship.
It's not a feel good movie and it's hard to watch at times. Having never been married... if that is what being married is like, then I'm perfectly content to stay single. However, Williams and Gosling are excellent in their roles. What I liked most about this movie is that I kept coming back and thinking about for several days, which is why it took me a few days to blog about it.
If you like character studies and don't mind dark - this is a great movie. Not my favorite movie I've seen, but a good one nonetheless.
Mo's Review:
Blue Valentine (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Sunday, January 9, 2011
The King's Speech (2010)
As you can tell, I love movies!! I consider myself to be a movie buff and I've been lucky to have a variety of friends who like to see different genres of movies.
As the Oscars approach, this movie kept coming up as a potential nominee for Best Picture as well as Best Actor for Colin Firth. (Ed.'s Note: I have a thing for Colin Firth. Some weird, bizarre, nerdy British thing.....)
So after a Sunday of shopping at my beloved Southpark Meadows, I headed to the theatre to see this film.
I loved this movie!! It was funny, witty, and touching. I learned more about the modern British monarchy than I had known. Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter were all fabulous - I can see why this movie has generated such an Oscar buzz.
Colin Firth is Bertie.... son of King George. King George dies and his brother David is supposed to become king - however, he's in love with Wallis Simpson, the American divorcee. He abdicates, thus leaving Bertie, now known as King George VI, to take the throne.
No big deal, right? Bertie has a horrible stammering problem. He can't speak and they've tried everything. His wife finds Lionel Logue, an Australian who works with speech disorders. Bertie reluctantly tries working with Lionel. That is the basis of the film.
Bertie is the father of the current Queen Elizabeth of England and the great-grandfather of Prince William. This story is so well told, it was hard to believe it was a two-hour film.
Mo's Review:
The King's Speech (2010): 5 out of 5 stars
As the Oscars approach, this movie kept coming up as a potential nominee for Best Picture as well as Best Actor for Colin Firth. (Ed.'s Note: I have a thing for Colin Firth. Some weird, bizarre, nerdy British thing.....)
So after a Sunday of shopping at my beloved Southpark Meadows, I headed to the theatre to see this film.
I loved this movie!! It was funny, witty, and touching. I learned more about the modern British monarchy than I had known. Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter were all fabulous - I can see why this movie has generated such an Oscar buzz.
Colin Firth is Bertie.... son of King George. King George dies and his brother David is supposed to become king - however, he's in love with Wallis Simpson, the American divorcee. He abdicates, thus leaving Bertie, now known as King George VI, to take the throne.
No big deal, right? Bertie has a horrible stammering problem. He can't speak and they've tried everything. His wife finds Lionel Logue, an Australian who works with speech disorders. Bertie reluctantly tries working with Lionel. That is the basis of the film.
Bertie is the father of the current Queen Elizabeth of England and the great-grandfather of Prince William. This story is so well told, it was hard to believe it was a two-hour film.
Mo's Review:
The King's Speech (2010): 5 out of 5 stars
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Easy A (2010)
I needed some laughter after a crazy busy week, so I decided to head over to the neighborhood Chestnut Square to see Easy A.
Okay, it's been 20+ years since I was in high school, but I enjoy high school movies even now. This is the story of Olive (Emma Stone, who I think is adorable), who because of a spread rumor, is thought to be the head hoochie mama at her high school.
The plot is good, and the characters are funny. Her parents (Patricia Clarkson and Stanley Tucci) are hysterical. I also liked Thomas Haden Church (UNT alum, woot woot) as the English teacher.
My favorite part of the movie was probably the music. They had "Don't You Forget About Me" from the Simple Minds as well as a remake. They also had the song that was at the end of 16 Candles, when Samantha walks out of the church and Jake is waiting for her - it's a remake too, but if you listen, you will recognize it. They also did a brief homage to the John Hughes genre of 80's movies, which as you know, makes me a very happen person.
If you want a funny movie that you will enjoy, then "Easy A" is an easy choice.
Mo's Review:
Easy A (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Okay, it's been 20+ years since I was in high school, but I enjoy high school movies even now. This is the story of Olive (Emma Stone, who I think is adorable), who because of a spread rumor, is thought to be the head hoochie mama at her high school.
The plot is good, and the characters are funny. Her parents (Patricia Clarkson and Stanley Tucci) are hysterical. I also liked Thomas Haden Church (UNT alum, woot woot) as the English teacher.
My favorite part of the movie was probably the music. They had "Don't You Forget About Me" from the Simple Minds as well as a remake. They also had the song that was at the end of 16 Candles, when Samantha walks out of the church and Jake is waiting for her - it's a remake too, but if you listen, you will recognize it. They also did a brief homage to the John Hughes genre of 80's movies, which as you know, makes me a very happen person.
If you want a funny movie that you will enjoy, then "Easy A" is an easy choice.
Mo's Review:
Easy A (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Eat Pray Love (2010)
As I continue with the no-FB pledge, I've had a busy day. Slept in, then went to our new HS dedication to show my support for the principal and my friend, Russell. It's a beautiful campus and it took me back to almost 2 years ago when there was a dedication for the new campus that I opened. It's hard to believe it's only been 2 years.... wow!
I ran a few errands, drove by work and tied up a few loose ends, then decided to go see "Eat Pray Love." I loved the book and I've had the chance to hear Elizabeth Gilbert speak about two years ago in Richardson. What a phenomenal woman!
I loved the movie and I thought Julia Roberts really did a good job as Elizabeth. I laughed and I cried, I could relate to a lot of the movie. I was ready to go find Felipe if she hadn't gone back to him. Of course, when your love interests are played by Billy Crudup, James Franco, and Javier Bardem, life isn't too bad!
While I don't know that I'm finding myself, I'm finding myself trying to live more in the moment and enjoy now. Let the past stay where it is, quit worrying so much about the future and just enjoy the now. Since I've done that this week, in just ONE week, it's been amazing. I've had plans for three nights, I've read, talked to friends, played with my dog and just enjoyed.
It's been great..... and I look forward to my life to continue to evolve and develop over time. If you've read the book, the movie is a must see. If you haven't read the book, the movie is still enjoyable.
Mo's Review:
Eat Pray Love (2010): 5 out of 5 stars
I ran a few errands, drove by work and tied up a few loose ends, then decided to go see "Eat Pray Love." I loved the book and I've had the chance to hear Elizabeth Gilbert speak about two years ago in Richardson. What a phenomenal woman!
I loved the movie and I thought Julia Roberts really did a good job as Elizabeth. I laughed and I cried, I could relate to a lot of the movie. I was ready to go find Felipe if she hadn't gone back to him. Of course, when your love interests are played by Billy Crudup, James Franco, and Javier Bardem, life isn't too bad!
While I don't know that I'm finding myself, I'm finding myself trying to live more in the moment and enjoy now. Let the past stay where it is, quit worrying so much about the future and just enjoy the now. Since I've done that this week, in just ONE week, it's been amazing. I've had plans for three nights, I've read, talked to friends, played with my dog and just enjoyed.
It's been great..... and I look forward to my life to continue to evolve and develop over time. If you've read the book, the movie is a must see. If you haven't read the book, the movie is still enjoyable.
Mo's Review:
Eat Pray Love (2010): 5 out of 5 stars
Friday, July 16, 2010
Small Wonders (1995)
When you move into a new place and you have no cable... and all of your DVDs are packed, then you decide it's time to finally watch the Netflix movies you've had for the past 3 months.
Tonight, I watched "Small Wonders." This is a documentary (you know I love documentaries) about Roberta Guaspari, a woman who teaches students in East Harlem the violin. She works at three different schools, lugging instruments and supplies up and down stairs. She teaches these children the violin, but also self-discipline and how to build self-confidence.
It was amazing to see what these kids were able to play. The kids got to play the National Anthem at a Knicks game and it was awesome to see how excited they were and how the crowd reacted to them. The players were nice, but Pat Riley ignored them. They also did a concert at Carnegie Hall and had several renown violin players join them.
This documentary was the seed for the 1999 movie "Music of the Heart," which had Meryl Streep play Roberta. I haven't seen that movie, but it's in my Netflix queue, so I'm sure I will see it - it would interesting to see how the movie is spun from the documentary.
It was an interesting film if you are into music and/or education.
Mo's Review:
Small Wonders (1995): 3 out of 5 stars
Tonight, I watched "Small Wonders." This is a documentary (you know I love documentaries) about Roberta Guaspari, a woman who teaches students in East Harlem the violin. She works at three different schools, lugging instruments and supplies up and down stairs. She teaches these children the violin, but also self-discipline and how to build self-confidence.
It was amazing to see what these kids were able to play. The kids got to play the National Anthem at a Knicks game and it was awesome to see how excited they were and how the crowd reacted to them. The players were nice, but Pat Riley ignored them. They also did a concert at Carnegie Hall and had several renown violin players join them.
This documentary was the seed for the 1999 movie "Music of the Heart," which had Meryl Streep play Roberta. I haven't seen that movie, but it's in my Netflix queue, so I'm sure I will see it - it would interesting to see how the movie is spun from the documentary.
It was an interesting film if you are into music and/or education.
Mo's Review:
Small Wonders (1995): 3 out of 5 stars
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Crazy Heart (2009)
I was so excited to see this movie - I cannot tell you how many times I tried to see it at the movies. Things just kept getting in the way. So tonight, I decided to be domestic and I had Heidi and Caren come over. I cooked dirty rice and cornbread, then we sat down to watch this movie.
Jeff Bridges plays Bad Blake, a country star on his way out. He needs a break, but his hard boozin' and hard livin' life has him kind of down on his luck. He's travelling around, playing dives (like bowling alleys) for a little bit of money. Bad actually opens up for a country singer he brought up, Tommy Sweet (Colin Farrell). He meets Jean (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a reporter who wants to interview him. They fall in love and have a fling until something happens.
The event changes his life forever, but in a good or bad way? You'll have to see the movie to find out.
I loved this movie, it was worth the wait. But it was hard to watch Jeff Bridges look like this - I prefer to remember him and how he looked in "Against All Odds." Now that is a good looking man!!
Mo's Review:
Crazy Heart (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
Jeff Bridges plays Bad Blake, a country star on his way out. He needs a break, but his hard boozin' and hard livin' life has him kind of down on his luck. He's travelling around, playing dives (like bowling alleys) for a little bit of money. Bad actually opens up for a country singer he brought up, Tommy Sweet (Colin Farrell). He meets Jean (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a reporter who wants to interview him. They fall in love and have a fling until something happens.
The event changes his life forever, but in a good or bad way? You'll have to see the movie to find out.
I loved this movie, it was worth the wait. But it was hard to watch Jeff Bridges look like this - I prefer to remember him and how he looked in "Against All Odds." Now that is a good looking man!!
Mo's Review:
Crazy Heart (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Sex and the City (2010)
I have been waiting for this movie for MONTHS. We leave for NYC in a few weeks and are excited about going on the SATC Tour. But boy was I disappointed.....
I bought tickets about 6 weeks ago at Studio Movie Grill for a group of 12 to go see it. We were all pumped. We can go, have a few drinks, and just love being with the girls.
So that day of the movie, Kim and I decide to go early to get seats. I snuck out of school early, got my hair cut, then headed home to freshen up. It had been field day so I was kinda gross. Kim picks me up and we get there at 5 (movie starts at 7). I was expecting a long line of waiting, but there is NO ONE. We are able to go in and get seats, we sit in the center row, great seats. Then we ordered some drinks and queso and waited. Slowly the girls trickled in as well as two of my Facebook "virtual" friends who I was meeting for the first time. It was hysterical how few guys were there and how much fun you could tell all of the girls were having.
When the opening credits start, the theatre goes crazy. The first 30 minutes were truly the best part of the movie. Stanford and Anthony get married, which was hysterical. They were in NYC, which is like the fifth character to the show.
Then they get some far fetched idea to go to Abu Dabai. That's when the movie went south. Who cares about the dessert? And seriously, wearing Chanel to ride a camel? That's a bit far fetched. And 8000 miles from home you run into Aidan (who looked exceptionally hot)?
It was 2.5 hours long and I kept looking at my watch the last 45 minutes. The only reason that I'm giving it 4 stars is because it is Sex and the City and it was good to see the girls again. Even if it was ridiculous.
IF there is a third movie, STAY IN NEW YORK CITY!! Otherwise, I won't be watching it!!
Mo's Review:
Sex and the City 2 (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
I bought tickets about 6 weeks ago at Studio Movie Grill for a group of 12 to go see it. We were all pumped. We can go, have a few drinks, and just love being with the girls.
So that day of the movie, Kim and I decide to go early to get seats. I snuck out of school early, got my hair cut, then headed home to freshen up. It had been field day so I was kinda gross. Kim picks me up and we get there at 5 (movie starts at 7). I was expecting a long line of waiting, but there is NO ONE. We are able to go in and get seats, we sit in the center row, great seats. Then we ordered some drinks and queso and waited. Slowly the girls trickled in as well as two of my Facebook "virtual" friends who I was meeting for the first time. It was hysterical how few guys were there and how much fun you could tell all of the girls were having.
When the opening credits start, the theatre goes crazy. The first 30 minutes were truly the best part of the movie. Stanford and Anthony get married, which was hysterical. They were in NYC, which is like the fifth character to the show.
Then they get some far fetched idea to go to Abu Dabai. That's when the movie went south. Who cares about the dessert? And seriously, wearing Chanel to ride a camel? That's a bit far fetched. And 8000 miles from home you run into Aidan (who looked exceptionally hot)?
It was 2.5 hours long and I kept looking at my watch the last 45 minutes. The only reason that I'm giving it 4 stars is because it is Sex and the City and it was good to see the girls again. Even if it was ridiculous.
IF there is a third movie, STAY IN NEW YORK CITY!! Otherwise, I won't be watching it!!
Mo's Review:
Sex and the City 2 (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Sunday, May 23, 2010
My Sister's Keeper (2009)
I should first say that I love this book by Jodi Picoult. Shortly after I read it, Sarah and I had the chance to hear her speak at "Richardson Reads One Book," an event that we go to each September. (I still plan on going when I live in Bastrop.)
When they made a movie of this, I wasn't sure I wanted to see it since I had enjoyed the book so much. One of my dear friends, Heidi, saw it and hated it because it did not stay true to the book. So I avoided seeing it. But it just came on HBO, so I tivoed it and spent this morning in bed, being lazy and watching it.
Abigail Breslin plays Anna Fitzgerald, a child that was basically born for the purpose of saving her terminally ill sister. Her parents are played by Jason Patric (HOT, HOT, HOT!!) and Cameron Diaz (who was absolutely unbelievable playing a mother). The family's life has revolved around the sister, the brother is off doing his own thing and the parents' relationship is strained as well.
Anna decides to hire Campbell Alexander (played by Alec Baldwin) to get her medical emancipation. This tears the family further apart.
The movie continues to twist and turn until the conclusion. Which sucked. The book was much better. My advice? Read the book.
Mo's Review:
My Sister's Keeper (2009): 3 out of 5 stars
When they made a movie of this, I wasn't sure I wanted to see it since I had enjoyed the book so much. One of my dear friends, Heidi, saw it and hated it because it did not stay true to the book. So I avoided seeing it. But it just came on HBO, so I tivoed it and spent this morning in bed, being lazy and watching it.
Abigail Breslin plays Anna Fitzgerald, a child that was basically born for the purpose of saving her terminally ill sister. Her parents are played by Jason Patric (HOT, HOT, HOT!!) and Cameron Diaz (who was absolutely unbelievable playing a mother). The family's life has revolved around the sister, the brother is off doing his own thing and the parents' relationship is strained as well.
Anna decides to hire Campbell Alexander (played by Alec Baldwin) to get her medical emancipation. This tears the family further apart.
The movie continues to twist and turn until the conclusion. Which sucked. The book was much better. My advice? Read the book.
Mo's Review:
My Sister's Keeper (2009): 3 out of 5 stars
Friday, May 21, 2010
City Island (2009)
Tonight, Melisa and I did our weekly ritual of Sushi Envy, but we decided to hit a movie because it had been a while. We went to the Plano Angelika to see "City Island."
City Island is a part of the Bronx, so you know I love the NYC/accent/Bronx vibe. Andy Garcia is Vince Rizzo, a corrections officer with aspirations of being an actor. His wife, Joyce, is played by Julianna Margulies. She thinks he is having an affair because he's always going to poker games (but really he is going to acting classes, his teacher is played by Alan Arkin). They have two kids, Vivian (played by Garcia's real daughter) who lost her college scholarship and is now a stripper, and son Vince, who is obsessed with BBW.
While working, he realizes his son that he left before he was born is in the jail and offers to take him home for supervised parole. The movie is about all of these characters and their secrets coming together. It's funny, it's witty, and it's emotional. It's a great film, I recommend it!!
Also, Andy Garcia and the guy who plays his jailbird son are HOT - nice eye candy too!! ;)
Mo's Review:
City Island (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
City Island is a part of the Bronx, so you know I love the NYC/accent/Bronx vibe. Andy Garcia is Vince Rizzo, a corrections officer with aspirations of being an actor. His wife, Joyce, is played by Julianna Margulies. She thinks he is having an affair because he's always going to poker games (but really he is going to acting classes, his teacher is played by Alan Arkin). They have two kids, Vivian (played by Garcia's real daughter) who lost her college scholarship and is now a stripper, and son Vince, who is obsessed with BBW.
While working, he realizes his son that he left before he was born is in the jail and offers to take him home for supervised parole. The movie is about all of these characters and their secrets coming together. It's funny, it's witty, and it's emotional. It's a great film, I recommend it!!
Also, Andy Garcia and the guy who plays his jailbird son are HOT - nice eye candy too!! ;)
Mo's Review:
City Island (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Date Night (2010)
Today, I went to the movies for the first time in a while. I saw Date Night with Big G, D, and Kim. I was excited to see it because I love Tina Fey and Steve Carrell.
The Fosters are a boring married couple. They have a Groundhog Day like existence, but they do have a date night, where they go to the local steak house for salmon and potato skins. When their friends (Kristen Wiig and Mark Ruffalo) decide to get a divorce, they decide to spice things up and go into the city for their date night.
Claire (Tina Fey) wants to go to a new restaurant named Claw. When they realize they are going to get a table, they take someone else's reservation. As they enjoy dinner, some thugs come and ask them to step outside. When they go outside, they realize this is a bad case of mistaken identity. The rest of the movie is about trying to fix everything so they can get back to their hum-drum suburban life.
Claire enlists Holbrooke (aka Marky Mark Wahlberg) to help them out. Marky Mark does not wear a shirt, which adds to the movie aesthetic in a huge way. He did a good job with the comedy as well. James Franco and Mila Kunis also made cameos as Taste and Whippit - they were hysterical!! (Ed.'s Note: Common is in the movie as one of the bad guys and he is HOT!!! Love me some Common - will have to see "Just Wright" for that reason alone!!)
So Claire and Phil Foster solve their problems and go home? Watch else happens?? It's definitely a cute movie worth seeing.
Mo's Review:
Date Night (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
The Fosters are a boring married couple. They have a Groundhog Day like existence, but they do have a date night, where they go to the local steak house for salmon and potato skins. When their friends (Kristen Wiig and Mark Ruffalo) decide to get a divorce, they decide to spice things up and go into the city for their date night.
Claire (Tina Fey) wants to go to a new restaurant named Claw. When they realize they are going to get a table, they take someone else's reservation. As they enjoy dinner, some thugs come and ask them to step outside. When they go outside, they realize this is a bad case of mistaken identity. The rest of the movie is about trying to fix everything so they can get back to their hum-drum suburban life.
Claire enlists Holbrooke (aka Marky Mark Wahlberg) to help them out. Marky Mark does not wear a shirt, which adds to the movie aesthetic in a huge way. He did a good job with the comedy as well. James Franco and Mila Kunis also made cameos as Taste and Whippit - they were hysterical!! (Ed.'s Note: Common is in the movie as one of the bad guys and he is HOT!!! Love me some Common - will have to see "Just Wright" for that reason alone!!)
So Claire and Phil Foster solve their problems and go home? Watch else happens?? It's definitely a cute movie worth seeing.
Mo's Review:
Date Night (2010): 4 out of 5 stars
Saturday, May 1, 2010
You Don't Mess with the Zohan (2008)
I love Adam Sandler. I know his humor can be childish and silly, but it makes me laugh. I can watch "Billy Madison" at any time and still laugh.
I usually see Adam's movies as soon as they come out in the theatres, but unfortunately I was too busy when this one came out.
Sandler is Zohan, an Israeli soldier who wants to come to the US to be a hairdresser. Armed with an old Paul Mitchell book, he comes here and finds a job. He has some special skills that get him many customers, including Mrs. Garrett from Facts of Life (aka Charlotte Rae).
He is fighting against the Palestinian (Rob Schneider) whose goat he took back in the homeland. He also finds love with the salon owner, played by Emmanuelle Chriqui (who plays Sloan on Entourage).
Want to laugh and enjoy some mindless entertainment? Then this is your movie!!
Mo's Review:
You Don't Mess with the Zohan (2008): 3 out of 5 stars
I usually see Adam's movies as soon as they come out in the theatres, but unfortunately I was too busy when this one came out.
Sandler is Zohan, an Israeli soldier who wants to come to the US to be a hairdresser. Armed with an old Paul Mitchell book, he comes here and finds a job. He has some special skills that get him many customers, including Mrs. Garrett from Facts of Life (aka Charlotte Rae).
He is fighting against the Palestinian (Rob Schneider) whose goat he took back in the homeland. He also finds love with the salon owner, played by Emmanuelle Chriqui (who plays Sloan on Entourage).
Want to laugh and enjoy some mindless entertainment? Then this is your movie!!
Mo's Review:
You Don't Mess with the Zohan (2008): 3 out of 5 stars
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Good Hair (2009)
Who knew Chris Rock was a documentary filmmaker?
Good Hair is Chris Rock's adventure in trying to understand black women's hair. As the father of two young daughters, he was upset when his daughter told him that she didn't have good hair. So he went on a quest to find what was good hair.
He learned about the history of black hair care products and visited a hair show where they have a contest to see who does the best cuts. Not just sitting and cutting hair, there is underwater stunts, cutting hair upside down, scenes involving women on a bed, and a marching band. To determine who does the best cut - I'm serious.
Chris learned all about relaxers (which straighten out the curly hair). The chemical is so dangerous it can disintegrate a coke can. And you put it on your hair. And it burns. And if you aren't careful, it'll burn your hair off and leave you with a scab. Some girls as young as 3 participate in this endeavor.
So what are you other options? Weave!! This part hysterical as you learned about the different weaves. The women interviewed (included Nia Long, Eve, and other celebrities) talked about how no one can touch their weave and how they can't swim in their weave. Chris then interviews a bunch of men who talk about not touching a black woman's hair. Chris couldn't keep himself from laughing.
I learned that a lot of weave comes from India. Women (and children) grow their hair, then get their head shaved. It's a huge industry. And a good weave can cost several thousand dollars - women actually lay-away their hair? Wow - and I complain about $120 for a cut and color!!
This film was funny, but I did learn a lot about "Good Hair." All I can say is that I'll take my thin, fine, straight dirty blonde over all the grief these women have to deal with.......
Mo's Review:
Good Hair (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
Good Hair is Chris Rock's adventure in trying to understand black women's hair. As the father of two young daughters, he was upset when his daughter told him that she didn't have good hair. So he went on a quest to find what was good hair.
He learned about the history of black hair care products and visited a hair show where they have a contest to see who does the best cuts. Not just sitting and cutting hair, there is underwater stunts, cutting hair upside down, scenes involving women on a bed, and a marching band. To determine who does the best cut - I'm serious.
Chris learned all about relaxers (which straighten out the curly hair). The chemical is so dangerous it can disintegrate a coke can. And you put it on your hair. And it burns. And if you aren't careful, it'll burn your hair off and leave you with a scab. Some girls as young as 3 participate in this endeavor.
So what are you other options? Weave!! This part hysterical as you learned about the different weaves. The women interviewed (included Nia Long, Eve, and other celebrities) talked about how no one can touch their weave and how they can't swim in their weave. Chris then interviews a bunch of men who talk about not touching a black woman's hair. Chris couldn't keep himself from laughing.
I learned that a lot of weave comes from India. Women (and children) grow their hair, then get their head shaved. It's a huge industry. And a good weave can cost several thousand dollars - women actually lay-away their hair? Wow - and I complain about $120 for a cut and color!!
This film was funny, but I did learn a lot about "Good Hair." All I can say is that I'll take my thin, fine, straight dirty blonde over all the grief these women have to deal with.......
Mo's Review:
Good Hair (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Pineapple Express (2008)
I learned that the Pineapple Express has nothing to do with Hawaii. ;)
It's a Judd Apatow film, starring Seth Rogen (surprise!) and James Franco (cutie!) as stoners. Denny (Rogen) witnesses a murder, leaves a roach (of a type of marijuana called Pineapple Express) at the scene that leads them to his dealer, Saul (Franco). Denny and Saul go on the run, trying not to get found by Ted Jones (Gary Cole, who will always be the Office Space manager or Mr. Brady to me) and his female cop partner (Rosie Perez, whose annoying accent hasn't decreased in all these years).
Maybe because I wasn't stoned, this movies was funny in a few parts, but mostly stupid. However, there was enough funny to string me along until the end.
If you enjoy Seth Rogen, Judd Apatow films, or pot.. then this is a must see!! If not, take it or leave it, depending on your mood.
Mo's Review:
Pineapple Express (2008): 3 out of 5 stars
It's a Judd Apatow film, starring Seth Rogen (surprise!) and James Franco (cutie!) as stoners. Denny (Rogen) witnesses a murder, leaves a roach (of a type of marijuana called Pineapple Express) at the scene that leads them to his dealer, Saul (Franco). Denny and Saul go on the run, trying not to get found by Ted Jones (Gary Cole, who will always be the Office Space manager or Mr. Brady to me) and his female cop partner (Rosie Perez, whose annoying accent hasn't decreased in all these years).
Maybe because I wasn't stoned, this movies was funny in a few parts, but mostly stupid. However, there was enough funny to string me along until the end.
If you enjoy Seth Rogen, Judd Apatow films, or pot.. then this is a must see!! If not, take it or leave it, depending on your mood.
Mo's Review:
Pineapple Express (2008): 3 out of 5 stars
Monday, April 5, 2010
The September Issue (2009)
I loved the movie "The Devil Wears Prada." It was so good. They say that movie is based on Vogue Editor Anna Wintour. This movie is a documentary following the Vogue staff as they prepare to put together the September 2007 issue of the magazine.
Anna Wintour is scary. She rarely smiles, people are scared of her, and they are desperate for her approval. She clutches her Starbucks as she pulls pictures off of the wall (where they layout the magazine) while the editors try not to show their disappointment. She attends fashion shows in NYC and Paris wearing dark sunglasses.
My favorite person in this movie was one of the editors, Grace. Grace has this mane of red hair and she is fairly simple in her dress and demeanor. She's know Anna a long time and they work well together, but boy is she unhappy when Anna starts cutting her photos. Grace was a model and has worked at Vogue for 20+ years.
They actually started working months ahead to creat this issue which was the largest (at that time) that they had published. It was like 800 pages. While I guess I'm not a fashionista and I didn't appreciate all of the styling of the shoots, you can see how much work goes into it and how disappointed the editors must be when Anna cuts their work.
This is a great movie if you are curious as to how the magazine business works. Or you love fashion. Or you want to see the documentary version of "The Devil Wears Prada."
Mo's Review:
The September Issue (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
Anna Wintour is scary. She rarely smiles, people are scared of her, and they are desperate for her approval. She clutches her Starbucks as she pulls pictures off of the wall (where they layout the magazine) while the editors try not to show their disappointment. She attends fashion shows in NYC and Paris wearing dark sunglasses.
My favorite person in this movie was one of the editors, Grace. Grace has this mane of red hair and she is fairly simple in her dress and demeanor. She's know Anna a long time and they work well together, but boy is she unhappy when Anna starts cutting her photos. Grace was a model and has worked at Vogue for 20+ years.
They actually started working months ahead to creat this issue which was the largest (at that time) that they had published. It was like 800 pages. While I guess I'm not a fashionista and I didn't appreciate all of the styling of the shoots, you can see how much work goes into it and how disappointed the editors must be when Anna cuts their work.
This is a great movie if you are curious as to how the magazine business works. Or you love fashion. Or you want to see the documentary version of "The Devil Wears Prada."
Mo's Review:
The September Issue (2009): 4 out of 5 stars
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Sex and The City 2 is coming!!!!
I'm so excited... I cannot wait until May 28th when it comes out - I will be there that night to see it.... it's just two weeks before we go to NYC and do the Sex and the City tour... and exactly one month before my birthday.....
I'm gonna get Carried away..... by the movie, then to New York.... woo hoo!!! As Carrie says, "Sometimes, you just have to get away with the girls!"
(Ed.'s Note: I know the video isn't great quality and my blog layout cuts part of it off, but who cares??? It's Sex and the City!!)
I'm gonna get Carried away..... by the movie, then to New York.... woo hoo!!! As Carrie says, "Sometimes, you just have to get away with the girls!"
(Ed.'s Note: I know the video isn't great quality and my blog layout cuts part of it off, but who cares??? It's Sex and the City!!)
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