Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Made of Honor

2008 * PG13 * Romantic Comedy
Patrick Dempsey * Michelle Monaghan

I know after admitting to the public that I like Ashton Kutcher, this was a risky movie for me to see by myself without any girl dragging me to it, BUT I love movies. (and I am on sabbatical this summer so I have some extra time on my hands!) This movie, as you would expect, was predictable, but sweet. There really was good acting, top to bottom, with some very likable characters. Also noteworthy are: great music, great dogs, and beautiful scenery. It was particularly fun to see my favorite place on earth (The Isle of Skye in Scotland) in a film. This place is gorgeous with stunning views galore. I visited here when I was in college, and it was fun to reminisce a bit. If you're a guy and you get dragged to this movie by the woman in your life, relax, its not that bad.

What Happens in Vegas

2008 * PG13 * Comedy
Cameron Diaz * Ashton Kutcher

This movie was fun and predictable, which is what I was looking for on this particular journey to the cinema. This was a leave your problems at the door, enjoy a coke and some candy (or popcorn), and laugh a lot. I risk losing your respect and some credibility, but I actually like Ashton Kutcher. (There was something really healing by just typing out that sentence.) I think what makes this film enjoyable was that the characters and the story has heart. Again, this flick won't win any awards, but if you're looking for some laughs and a fun couple of hours, take a chance on this one.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

2008 * PG13 * Action/Adventure
Harrison Ford * Shia LaBeouf * Cate Blanchett

I LOVE the Indiana Jones series. I think every guy wants to be Dr. Jones (this is fun to say in your best Short Round voice) or know a guy like Dr. Jones. It had been 20 plus years since the last Indiana Jones movie, so all true fans were frothing at the mouth in anticipation. All that being said, this movie was ok. I loved seeing the fedora, the jacket and the whip again. It was adventurous for sure, but a little too over the top--a little too crazy for my taste. If cats have nine lives, Indiana had 33 lives in this one. There were some definite fun moments with Harrison Ford's dry sense of humor. The acting is probably sub-par as a whole, especially from the usually brilliant Blanchett. She clearly under delivers. If you're only seeing this movie because of LeBeouf, then you're probably under the age of 25, and I strongly urge you to go watch the first three Indiana Jones movies. You'll be glad you did. NOTE: I did see this movie on opening night at midnight. I had previously sworn off this practice after SpiderMan 3. Nonetheless, I had a great time watching this film with a friend very late at night. If you've never done this, c'mon live a little.

Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

2008 * PG13 * Action/Adventure
Ben Barnes * Skandar Keynes

I have to admit, I wasn't that excited to see this movie. After walking out of the theater, I wasn't too happy to have seen this movie. I liked the first movie, and I enjoyed reading the classic CS Lewis books. The books are brilliant and spectacular. This movie, however, was dull and forgettable. It never made me care; the acting was pitiful; the characters of Narnia were ridiculous looking; and the sound editing was just terrible. A lot of the "human" dialogue was impossible to hear or discern, and the action sequences were WAY TOO LOUD. I actually chose to go to sleep during the last hour of the movie, that is how much I didn't care! If you know me, you know that says a lot. I have talked to a few people, and my opinion seems to be in the minority, but consider yourself warned!