drama/romance |

Age of Adaline BR — So first and foremost; Blake Lively is one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood; seriously, she is stunning. The premise of this is simple; Adaline is a near fatal accident, and something mysterious happens, that prevents her from aging or dying. She hides throughout history, and remains relatively disconnected, from everyone but her aging daughter. Then, she lets herself fall in love, and it really changes her circumstances. A pretty unique premise, and one that I really enjoyed. It is a beautifully shot movie as well, and the story is haunting and will stay with you after the credits roll.
Argo BR — Definitely deserving of the Oscar it won for best picture for 2012, Argo is a true story of how an extraction agent helps to get some ambassadors trapped in Iran out after the take over of the US embassy there. The movie is gripping, thrilling, and knowing that it really happened ups the stakes and makes the drama that much more real; literally. Also, it must be said, Ben Affleck only gets hotter with age; and he’s a damn fine director as well.
Begin Again BR — The same people that made Once, the excellent musical/romance film from a few years ago, bring this romantic endeavor about a girl in love with a rock star trying to find her way through her own music, with the help of a washed up music producer who is a few drinks away from ruining his own life. The music is wonderful, and the story is fresh and really sweet. I enjoyed this a lot more than I was expecting to, and I am glad that it turned out to be so good.
Billy Elliot BR — If this movie doesn’t at least tug on your heart strings, you might want to get an EKG to make sure you actually have a heart beating in your chest. This is such a sweet movie about a boy with dancing talent that risks ridicule to do what he loves. Such a fantastic, uplifting, and wonderful movie.
Blood Diamond — Wow. What an amazing and scary movie. I would have never known that a little clear stone could cause so much devastation and corruption. I feel sorry for anyone that has had to suffer so a woman could have a beautiful wedding ring. This movie is gripping, powerful, and amazing. A must see.
Boogie Nights BR — A movie about porn that is not really a porn? Cool! But seriously, I really liked this movie because of the story behind the porn actors. Seeing what these people go through and what brings them to where they are was interesting. While they aren’t representing real people, it was definitely an interesting look into the industry. Also, the guy that directed Magnolia directed this, and it has a similar feel and style, which I loved.
Breach HD — Based on a true story, this movie follows a man who seems to be a true patriot on the surface, but in reality has been a spy and a traitor, working inside the CIA for many, many years. They task a rookie to come in and expose him, and once he is suspected of doing that, the guy goes apeshit. It was pretty intense, and full of drama.
Burlesque BR — This is the formula for understanding/appreciating Burlesque: Showgirls + Coyote Ugly + Cher = Burlesque. Enjoy this new guilty pleasure; I know I do! Welcome to Burlesque!
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe — The first offering from CS Lewis’s Narnia series, as interpreted to screen by Disney; and I have to say, that it is definitely a good job. The visuals are great, and the story is pretty true to the book. I really liked it!
Cloud Atlas BR — While it is a little hard to follow, a second viewing really reveals an excellent movie that jumps back and forth through time, and through several different stories, many using the same actors, that focuses on how things are connected, and how small acts of kindness can ripple through the cosmos. I really enjoyed the lush visuals, and the stories really pull you in. I was worried I wouldn’t like it before I saw it, but I am glad I gave it a chance, because it is a really great movie.
The Constant Gardener BR — This is one of those movies that you are watching wondering how in the hell they ever made it; not because of the special effects or anything like that, but because of the subject matter. This highly political and ethical thriller is exciting and intense; but still calm and a little slow. Ralph Fiennes loses his wife, and he searches to find out how she was killed. Very well acted, and very interesting story. I won’t give anything away, but if you believe that there is conspiracy, ethical manipulation, and down right genocide going on in Africa, this movie poses a different perspective on one possible reason; whether it is real or not.
Contagion BR — While it is a big sensational with the dramatization of the spreading of disease, it does a pretty good job of telling a story of fear and desperation in the face of a global epidemic. It is honestly a kind of beefed up and updated better telling of Outbreak. Overall, the story is gripping and it is chock full of really famous actors. I loved the ending as well. Great film.
Crossroads — I love you Britney…
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon BR — I know many people would ask, why not in action?? I say this: the love stories are more of a focus than walking in the treetops; although the martial arts are top notch.
Dallas Buyers Club BR — This is the incredible true story of a man diagnosed with AIDS who doesn’t take his impending death lying down. An Oscar winning performance by Matthew McConaughey, where he lost so much weight, that it was scary to watch, honestly. This movie focuses on the buyers clubs that popped up when AZT was the only treatment for HIV, and provided people with an alternative to treatment. It is a very touching, sad, and well, really sad movie that highlights the gumption and will of a man that is not willing to give up on life. Very inspirational, and very well done.
Defiance BR — A gripping story of a group of Jews who did anything to survive, which consisted of living for years in the woods. It pains me to imagine what Jewish people went through in the Holocaust, and it turns my stomach to think that it even happened; but knowing that some made it through like these people did, is definitely a light at the end of the tunnel.
Donnie Darko (Director’s Cut: 10th Anniversary Edition) BR — Not only do you get to watch Jake Gyllenhaal be the cutest crazy kid you have ever imagined, you sit and ponder the meaning of a series of events, and wonder how they effect everyone around you. AND there is a creepy-as-hell bunny that makes me get the shivers every time he is on screen. This movie was one of the weirdest I have seen, but it was great. About the Director’s Cut specifically: I didn’t think that this movie could get any better, and then I saw the Director’s Cut. Hands down, completely awesome, and well worth getting. Seriously, tons of people complain about not knowing what is going on, but if you see this version, I doubt you will say that again. A must have.
The Family Stone — I honestly thought this was a comedy, and while it does have its moments, it certainly qualifies much more as a drama. It is actually quite sad, but it is honestly fantastic. I want Diane Keaton as my mom… NOW. I love this family; too bad they aren’t mine! Great movie, very touching.
Foxcatcher BR — This is a really fucked up movie. James wanted it so we got it. Channing Tatum is in it, which is nice, but his character is manipulated in fucked up ways, which apparently all happened in real life. It ends sadly, and the whole movie felt much longer than it actually was. There is some great acting by all involved, but shit this movie was long.
Gattaca BR — Very dystopian, and sort of bleak, but a neat story nonetheless. I love the genetic component of societal involvement, albeit it’s clearly sinister side. I also got this with the Fifth Element as a two blu ray pack, so what’s not to love?
Georgia Rule — I went into this movie thinking it was going to be a family fun type comedy, but it turned out to have some serious, and even dark, family issues. The result was, a great movie that looked at family bonds, and how time can test and even break them. The acting in this movie is very good, and it is definitely a great movie. I really enjoyed seeing a family that was able to come together and confront demons; especially considering the demons that prevent my family from doing the very same thing.
Goal!: The Dream Begins — A truly inspirational story of a guy that is spotted by a make-shift soccer scout, and follows his dreams all the way to England. If you like soccer and stories of people following and working for their dreams, then this is the movie for you. Great film.
Gone Girl BR — The movie starts simply enough, you meet Amy and Nick, a seemingly happy couple in the suburbs… until Amy goes missing, and Nick quickly becomes the prime suspect. I will not reveal the twist of this movie, which comes about half way through, and really throws you for a loop, but I will say that you really must see this. It’s very well acted, and the story just keeps on getting more and more fucked up throughout. Also, a bonus: for a brief, split second, you can see Ben Affleck’s dick. That’s worth all of it, as far as I’m concerned; the fact that it’s a great movie is just the gravy on top.
Gravity 3D BR — HOLY. FUCKING. SHIT. Nightmare realized? Absolutely! Incredibly done? Absolutely! Needs to be seen to believed? Absolutely! I absolutely loved this movie. This was the best movie of 2013 hands down for me. The story of an astronaut trapped in space, just trying to survive in an un-survivable environment is terrifying, and yet completely gripping. You cannot look away, and you won’t want to; the visuals are STUNNING. The 3D is such an integral element of the movie, that it is a must see in 3D. In case my hyperbole hasn’t hinted at how much I love this movie, let me say it again, this movie is incredible. This is one of those movies that grips you from the very beginning, and takes you on a white-knuckle thrill ride right up until the end, all while tickling your heart strings, and keeping you enthralled with insanely beautiful visuals. Not to be missed.
The Great Gatsby 3D BR — “But you see, old sport, I am Gatsby.” This movie not only has a amazing story (it is, after all, a national literary classic!), it is told with such skill and reverence, that it is transformed into a truly immersive experience. Baz Luhrmann pulls the viewer in, yet again, by juxtaposing the old with the new, the classic with the current, and the visually stunning with the incredible story he weaves. The 3D visuals really added to the film for me, and I was surprised by how much I loved the movie. As per usual, Luhrmann’s soundtrack is extremely poignant and fitting, and will have you downloading it once the movie ends. This is one of those movies that I loved the lush visuals, the music accompaniment for each scene, and the amazing story; I also found myself fixated on each character, and loving them and their style as well. Great Gatsby, indeed.
Hollywoodland HD — This is the story of George Reeves, the man that played TV’s Superman, who was found in his home after committing suicide. The only problem, is that things didn’t add up, and people still don’t know what really happened for 100% fact. In this movie, a detective investigates, shining more and more suspicion behind his death, and the true cause. It was really well done, and it will definitely have you questioning what really happened.
House of Flying Daggers BR — YES YES YES YES. YES!!!!! This was, hands down, one of the best movies I saw in all of 2004. It was simply breathtakingly wonderful. It was like combining Hero and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and then making them better. Like Crouching Tiger, it belongs here, because of the focus on the love story. This movie was fantastic, and will captivate anyone who enjoys stunning visuals.
Hugo 3D BR — I kept seeing reviews of this online as being one of the best 3D live action films to date, and I couldn’t wait to see it. Well, it got more and more hype, won a ton of Oscars, and I got more and more nervous that I wouldn’t like it. After seeing it, I do have to say that the 3D is stunning, and the special effects are excellent. The movie is beautiful to watch, and it is definitely something to behold. My only critique is in regards to the story and the flow of the film. Usually when you watch a movie, you get started on the plot at the beginning of the movie; but not with Hugo. It takes a good half hour to get going with the subplot, which leads to the main plot. It makes for a “this is pretty, but what the hell am I watching” experience for the first part of the movie. When it does come to fruition, it is nice, and enjoyable, however; I just wish I would have gotten started a little better. Overall, a great example of live 3D action for sure.
Interview with the Vampire — Homoerotic vampire discovery starring Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, AND Antonio Banderas?? Count me in…
Jackie Brown BR — It rocks, totally. Pam Grier is awesome, awesome, awesome! The plot twist in this is the best, and it keeps you guessing from beginning to end. I love the part where Samuel tells him to go out to his car, push the button, it will go EET-ERRT-EET, and then he can open the door. And it does. There is something really funny about that, that even I don’t understand. Oh and let us not forget… “Lewis, where is the car, Lewis… Lewis!!!”.
Jarhead BR HD — I wrote a really long and in-depth review for my blog, which can be accessed by looking through the blog (yes, I am that lazy!). If you just want the quick and dirty version, the movie is a depiction of one soldier’s experience during Desert Shield/Storm, and speaks to the build up a soldier gets in training, and the let down he receives in the field. Not really an action movie, more of a war movie about what happens to soldiers in a war that they are not truly involved with. And Jake Gyllenhaal is in it. Definitely worth watching; multiple times.
Lady In The Water BR — While not a fan of his other movies, I thought this was a very sweet fairy tale about the people that live in the water who are trying to help us; only they sometimes need our help. Definitely fun to watch, and Paul Giamatti is absolutely wonderful in this; so genuine and cute.
The Lake House — While it is completely implausible (talking to a man in the past via a mail box at a lake house?!), it seriously speaks to the hopeless romantic in me. I enjoyed it thoroughly, and generally liked the premise, even though, again, it isn’t plausible. But doesn’t love transcend time? Hopefully.
Life of Pi 3D BR — I had very high hopes for this movie, seeing as it was billed as the future of 3D, and that it was quite possibly the next Avatar. While I did really enjoy the movie, and I really loved the visuals, I think that this is an invalid comparison. The movie is about a guy trying to survive being shipwrecked at sea with a tiger, and how he deals with his terrible situation. The visuals are stunning, and the 3D, while marvelous, wasn’t the next Avatar. That being said, I really liked the movie, and the story, while a bit sad was touching and inspiring. Overall, really great.
Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring — This movie was really good, but I am not the biggest fan. I did like it though, shut up.
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers — Okay, this one was good too, but not as good as the first in my mind. The first has more story, and this one focuses on that kick ass fight scene. Still cool, and isn’t Gollum cute and cuddly? We certainly think so, yes.
Lord of the Rings: Return of the King — So I know that there are tons of people out there that totally disagree with my ratings of this trilogy, but look people, this is my rating. I really liked these movies, but a big part of my ratings was the length. That said, I think that the third was by far the best, and totally represented the best portion of the story. All said and done, these should probably be rated higher, but I doubt that I will be reaching for them to watch them every time I want to watch a movie, hence the lower rating. Stop crying, they are good. Crybaby.
Magic Mike BR — What can you say about a movie about the life of a stripper named Magic Mike, played by Channing Tatum? Well, it’s fucking HOT for one. Seriously, I have a major crush on Channing Tatum, he is a hottie. Te movie is loosely based on his pre-acting life, and the man shows us that he can REALLY dance in this movie. The story is a little hokey, but overall, very enjoyable. Oh, and they strip. A LOT. I knew this would be in my collection when I read that it was coming out to begin with. Okay, I will stop drooling… for now.
Magic Mike: XXL BR — More Mike, more dancing, more men, more abs, more music, more, well, everything that was in the first movie. They really focused a lot more on the choreography and dancing in this one, which made it a bit more fun and fancy-free than the first one. Overall, just a fun, and hot movie to watch.
Magnolia BR — The guy who brought us Boogie Nights now WOWs us with this wonderful movie. There are many reasons to see this movie: the opening scene (it rocks), Julianne Moore’s performance (enough said), the awesome story, the great ending, I could go on and on. Just see it. One of my favorite parts is where they are all singing along to Aimee Mann; brilliant film, brilliant film making.
Mansfield Park — This is also a Jane Austen adaptation, but it happens to be one of my favorite movies of all time. It is very well done, and tells the story of a poor girl moving the country, and her life at Mansfield Park… I love the ending. LOVE the ending.
Marie Antoinette — Kirsten Dunst is flawless as teen queen of France. The use of modern rock music and flagrant costumes are sinful. I loved it. It gets better every time I see it!
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil — Show the Doll some respect, she might show you her candy… Here’s hoping! This movie is a great who done it murder mystery mixed with deception, old southern charm, and attitude to spare! Great movie!
Milk — The story of Harvey Milk, one of, if not the first out person in political office, and his struggle, and ultimately untimely death dealing with homophobia in politics. Sean Penn is incredible in this role, and the movie is sad, but an incredible story about an amazing man. Thank you Harvey Milk for all of your hard work, dedication, and for blazing the way for us. You are an inspiration.
Mommie Dearest — I really could go on and on about this movie, but I won’t. This movie is awesome, just because it is so messed up. “Helga, when you polish the floor, you have to move the tree. See Carol Ann, you have to stay on things every single minute… If you can’t do something right, don’t do it at all.” There you go… now watch it.
Moneyball BR — Everyone gushed about how amazing this movie was, and while I did like it, I didn’t get into it as much as anyone else; especially James. I snagged this for him for xmas, and he loved it.
Moonlight Mile — Sometimes you watch a movie, and not only do you come away feeling sorry for the people in it, but you realize that in an instant, they could be you, and that scares the hell out of you. This movie is about people dealing with the death of a loved one, each learning how to grow and cope; using their current situations in life to help them along. The main character, Joe, has just lost his fiance, and is just trying to figure out where he fits in all of this, and most importantly, is trying to figure out where to go next. Should he try and get on with his life, or does he need to stay, and do what he thinks his fiance’s parents need? The drama is real, and the acting powerful. This is a movie that will definitely make you feel something.
The Notebook BR — I thought that this was going to be some sappy love story, and what it actually is, is a romantic tale of two people who love each other so much, that nothing stands in between it. I can’t say much more, because I don’t want to tell you every single thing that will happen in the movie, but Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling are perfect in this movie. Very enjoyable to watch, and make you believe that they actually love each other. Also, make sure to have your hankies ready, because this one is not a tear jerker; it is a waterfall of emotion inducer!!
Notes On A Scandal — What a deliciously scandalous movie!! Oh how I love Judy Dench!!! This movie was way more than I was expecting, and I ended up loving it. I highly recommend that you see it if you love stories of manipulation, betrayal, and a trashy, trashy twist that shakes up these otherwise “high class” Brits.
Now You See Me BR — I didn’t even hear about this until it was on blu ray, and when I saw the commercials for it, it looked like an interesting movie. I really liked the premise of these magicians working together to pull off these heists, but the twist I didn’t see coming, and it made me enjoy the movie even more. Great visuals, awesome magic tricks, and great actors make this a fun watch.
October Sky — I am not kidding at all when I say that this is one of the best movies I have ever seen. It is all about Homer, a kid who is inspired by the launch of Sputnik to do something other than work in the coal mine, like everyone else in his town. The movie, based on true events, follows Homer and his friends, as they struggle to find their niche and achieve their goals through science and rocket building. The boys do everything they can to escape a future in the mine, by working hard and focusing on their education and a science fair. This is definitely a movie that will encourage you to believe that you can accomplish anything, as long as you put your mind to it. It also highlights the struggle that many people face that attempt to break out of a shell, and do something they truly love, even if it goes against what their parents think. I absolutely loved this movie, and you will definitely be inspired. AND, Jake Gyllenhaal is super cute in it.
Once BR — The first time I saw this, I was haunted by the music, which is insanely beautiful, and the soundtrack is a must own. Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are the perfect song writing and singing duo, and their story of passion and spontaneity comes through very strongly through the beautifully written and performed music throughout the film. If you are a fan of romance, and especially of acoustic pop/singer-songwriter type music, you gotta see this one.
Pan’s Labyrinth BR — I am normally not a fan of subtitles, but you don’t even really notice them, because the story is so amazing. It is all about a little girl, who finds herself in fascist Spain, because her mother has wed a vicious military leader. What happens, is she escapes to a magical place, and finds a faun that requests three tasks of her. If she completes these tasks, she can take her rightful place as the princess of the underworld. This is an excellent fairytale for adults, and is both creepy and beautiful at the same time. If you enjoy movies that require imagination, creativity, and a sense of adventure, then this is the film for you. What a wonderful masterpiece!
Possession — This is a great Gwenyth Paltrow movie where she plays a British professor who joins a fellow academic on the pursuit of a possible affair that happened between two famous poets almost a century ago. It is very romantic.
The Prestige — This is the story of two rival magicians, both of which carry a grudge, and an insatiable desire to one up the other. The story has a lot of drama, and the twist is, in my opinion, revealed far too early. Other than that, it was neat that they put so much in about Tesla, because he was actually pretty amazing. Overall, I liked this a lot, and I have to say Christian Bale is HOT. That is all.
Proof — First of all, let me get this out of the way; I love Jake, I love Gwenyth. Alright, this movie is about the daughter of a famous mathematician, who goes crazy early in his life, and as the film begins dies. The audience experiences their relationship through flashbacks and memories of Gwenyth’s character. Through the flashbacks, we learn about her character, and how important her father was to her, and even more, her fear that she will end up crazy like he was. The result is a great drama about how people cope with what they are given in life, and how they deal with what they don’t and can’t understand. The acting is superb; Gwenyth makes you really believe she is a slightly crazy 27 year old prodigy, and Jake Gyllenhaal is fantastic as her friend and possible love interest. Hope Davis is simply wonderful as the overbearing sister, who obviously doesn’t have everything perfect, even though she tries so hard to make sure she does. This movie is just great; enough with my ramblings.
Romeo + Juliet BR — This is one of the most classic love stories to have ever been told. I love it, especially with Claire Danes on board. I cried, and still cry every time I see it. GREAT!
Schindler’s List — This movie is visually and emotionally stunning. I am fascinated with the events of the Holocaust. I am fascinated simply because of my disbelief that human beings could be so cruel and hateful. This movie tells the story of one man who used his pull with the Nazi powers that be to save many, many lives. He is a hero, and this movie is a wonderful and shocking portrayal of the events of his life. This movie is a must see for everyone, because we must never forget that such an even occurred. Forgetting history allows it to come again, and we can never, ever let that happen again. This story will touch you and make you cry, and make you wonder why more people do not risk their lives to help save others.
Sense and Sensibility — Based on the book by Jane Austen. This movie is great, it also qualifies as a romantic comedy, but don’t all of Austen’s novels?
Shortbus — I really didn’t know where to put this, because it definitely has a huge gay storyline, but that isn’t all there is to it, so I wanted to drop it in drama, hoping it would have a better fit. This is the ultimate look into what happens when people are dealing with sex, relationships, orgasms, and feelings, all of which collide and make life either better, or harder, depending on the person. Sometimes, you may have issues that are different than others. Sometimes you may express yourself in different ways. The point is, we are all human, and we all “get it in the end”. I thought this was a wonderful film. Lots of fun, drama, sex, and life. There is full on sex in this movie, though, so if that isn’t your thing, steer clear. If you are still on board, check it out, I thought it was wonderful.
Sideways — I truly believe that if I watch this movie a couple of more times, the rating will go up, but we will start here, for now (update: I did, and it did). This story focuses on a guy that has very low self-esteem (thanks to his divorce) and tries to do something nice for his friend, who wants nothing more than to have sex with anyone (in my opinion) before he gets married. The result is a week-long trip up to wine country, and calamity ensues. While this movie is funny, it does focus more on the lives of its players, which makes me want to classify it more as a drama. It does a really good job of making you care about the characters, and you end up feeling. Much like other Alexander Payne movies, it is just damn good. But like I said, I am going to watch it again before I up the rating. So there. And it does indeed make you want to drink lots of wine, and even teaches you something about it in the process.
Step Up BR — I’ll start by saying two words: Channing Tatum. Again, Channing Tatum. The story is a bit trite, and extremely predictable, but very enjoyable, and the dancing is great. Again, Channing Tatum. It’s just a feel good “bad boy meets good girl, and everything works out for the best” story that has a lot of great music, choreography, and well, eye candy. Definitely recommended.
Step Up 3D 3D BR — Say what you want, but I did see this in the theater, and it wasn’t as bad as I would have thought, even though I didn’t get to see it in 3D (ghetto movie theater). The dances are incredible, and while the story is trite, it is enjoyable. This is one of those movies that you enjoy because it is supposed to be kind of bad, and instead, it actually sort of works. This is mindless enjoyment for anyone that would enjoy dancing as much as I do (or shows like So You Think You Can Dance), and the music is fantastic; it really gets you moving. This is one that was a must purchase once we got the 3D TV. For real.
Step Up Revolution 3D BR — Using the same formula as its predecessors, this latest installment of the Step Up franchise choses not to deviate very far from the same story as the previous films. That being said, again, the dances are incredible, and while the story is trite, it is enjoyable. This is another one of those movies that you enjoy because it is supposed to be kind of bad, and instead, it actually sort of works. The dance sequences are fun and fresh, and the actors are hot. The added 3D component made this a no brainer for me to add to my library.
Stranger Than Fiction — OOO! Will Farrell in a serious role? Well, sort of. I bet you are wondering why this isn’t in comedy, as it is definitely funny, right? Well, as I watched this movie, I started to realize that it was much more of a drama than a comedy. It also has a large romance element to it, which honestly surprised me. This film is an honest look at what life would be like, if we knew that our death was going to occur at a certain instant, and what we would choose to do, knowing that we could prevent it. It shows you how connected we all are, and how every action has a consequence. Kind of darker than I was expecting, but definitely a great movie.
The Time Traveler’s WifeBR — A very romantic, and somewhat sad movie. I love the concept, and Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams are both gorgeous together, and their on screen chemistry is palpable. Very interesting movie, to say the least; glad to have it in my collection.
Trainspotting — Choose life. Choose a job. Choose a fucking family. This movie is like one long drug trip, following Renton and his mates as they try to work through their issues with addiction, and toying between whether they can or cannot live without heroin. The movie is fast paced, and moves sometimes chaotically like the amazing soundtrack. It’s a little all over the place, and remains extremely riveting and poignant the entire time. Excellent, excellent movie. This movie does an amazing job of showing how great people feel on drugs, and highlights why they use them, while showing how terribly dangerous and horrible they are at the same time.
Tristan + Isolde — Passion, love, feeling, and of course, damn duty had to go and get in the way. The classic love story of Tristan, and Englishman, and Isolde, an Irish woman, torn between love, battle, duty, and tragedy. This is a fantastic love story that is not to be missed. Beautifully shot, lots of action and also lots of tender, wonderful love right there on the screen. A life without love, truly is no life at all.
Vanity Fair — This movie is right up my alley, in that it focuses on how bitchy the upper class can be to those that are not “a part” of their society. This movie is all about Reese’s character Becky, trying to make it into high society; at pretty much all cost. But, it is really witty, has great interchange between the characters, shows an excellent acting ability in Ms. Witherspoon, and is just down right beautiful to watch. I am going to have to watch this movie again and again, in order to catch all of the delectable bitchy comments that are passed like the wine at every dinner party Becky shows up at.
The Vow — The movie is apparently based on a true story, which is kind of heart breaking, albeit very interesting. It focuses on a couple that suffer a tragic accident, which leaves the wife with no memory of her husband, and reverts her to before they met. Because she isn’t close with her family, and can’t remember why, they step in and try to pick up where things left off; even though the husband is clearly in the picture. It is a great interplay between Channing Tatum and Rachel McAdams, who are both stunningly beautiful, and have a great on screen chemistry. It is kind of hard watching it at times though, because Channing’s character is so patient, and Rachel’s can be sort of a bitch. Overall, it’s really romantic, and shit, it has a great ass shot of Channing, and that is worth owning it on its own.
What Dreams May Come HD — While it is a VERY sad movie all about life after death, it is stunningly beautiful. The visuals in this movie are insane, and the whole story is like a magical fairytale, with an incredible landscape.
Winters Bone BR — I picked this up because I absolutely ADORE Jennifer Lawrence, and I wanted to see her Oscar nominated performance in this movie. The movie is pretty dark, moody, and very slow to develop, but her performance is great, despite the bleak story. It’s ultimately sad, and somewhat twisted, but still a good watch.
The Wizard of OZ 3D BR — This elevates 3D to the next level for me. Sure, the 3D effects can’t touch Avatar, but they freaking converted a movie that is over 70 years old, and made it look as if it had been originally filmed in 3D! I hadn’t seen this movie in ages, and I had forgotten how captivating the tale of Dorothy Gale truly was. The remaster and process to convert this true classic into 3D shows just why the medium is a welcome addition to the movie experience for movie lovers like me; it takes something amazing into the stratosphere of entertainment, and captures your delight by pulling you into the movie even more. The only way I could have been happier with this film, is if they could have figured out a way to made it wide screen; but I will give it a break, again, it was filmed over 70 years ago! AMAZING movie, AMAZING conversion; this is a MUST own for every movie lover, and for ANY 3D TV owner as well.
The Wolf Of Wall Street BR — Let’s start by saying this movie is ridiculously long. Like three hours long. That being said, it is a really good movie, with probably more uses of the F word than any movie I’ve ever seen. It chronicles the real-life story of a Wall Street broker, who, frankly, I cannot believe survived based on the amount of drugs he was on. The take home, is an interesting story, that is strangely based on truth. Leo is AMAZING in this movie, and it is a great watch.
Zero Dark Thirty BR — A very loud movie, and one that is supposed to be a retelling of what happened in the hunt for Bin Laden right up until his murder. The acting by Jessica Chastain is amazing, and the movie is definitely good; this, however, is one for James, as he loved it, and I was just meh about it.
Zodiac BR HD — Want to see a really creepy, really well done, almost horror story, about a serial killer and the events that were spawned by his sick games; all of which really happened? Well, then this is for you. Jake Gyllenhaal does a fantastic job in this one, as a paper illustrator who investigates, and actually nails, the killer. The only thing is, he might have gotten a little too close. Definitely sends chills up your spine, knowing that all of this stuff really happened.