X An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 27, 2007
Apart from being an excellent movie, “Blood Diamond” is a “must-see” because it’s a “should-see.” Sure, it’s a propaganda film with a blatant agenda, but these are the films we should at least consider.
This movie examines the atrocities associated with the high price of “conflict diamonds.” Another issue that is addressed is the sad, horrifying concept of child soldiers. But even if you’re just looking for an involving action movie, you’ll probably like “Blood Diamond.”
There is a civil war going on over the diamond fields in Africa. Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou) and his family are separated amid the violence (which is plentiful). When Solomon is forced to become a diamond miner, he finds a large, rare, pink diamond and buries it.
Danny Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio), a diamond smuggler, learns of the precious gem and compels Solomon to take him to find it. Maddy Bowen (Jennifer Connelly), a reporter for Vital Affairs magazine, is attempting to expose the tragedies of the conflict diamonds and one of its major supporters.
The acting and storyline in “Blood Diamond” is emotionally rousing. Not only is this an important film, it is a necessary one, and I highly recommend it.
Directed by Edward Zwick
Leonardo DiCaprio / Djimon Hounsou / Jennifer Connelly
143 min. Drama / Adventure
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: March 20, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0091 : 197
The Departed (2006)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 27, 2007
“The Departed,” won the Academy Award for Best Picture of 2006, a victory it earned.
“The Departed” is an American adaptation of a 2002 Hong Kong film called “Internal Affairs.” The story is set in an Irish neighborhood in Boston. Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson) is an organized crime boss who guides a young man, Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), to become a state-police detective — and more importantly — Costello’s informant. Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio), another state-police graduate, is sent undercover into Costello’s liar to be an informant for the police.
“The Departed” is a crime drama about two rats spying within two organizations that badly wish to know their identities. The tension surpasses suspense and becomes downright scary.
Even the edited version of “The Departed” is gritty: racial slurs, hand-to-hand combat and shooting violence, blood, a steamy kissing scene, etc. But I would warn edited movie viewers of a scene where an important conversation takes place inside of a pornographic movie theater. No images from the screen are shown, but in the background of the conversation, the pornographic movie’s soundtrack is audible.
“The Departed” has complex plot developments, so the deleted parts make it choppy and somewhat difficult to follow.
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Jack Nicholson / Leonardo DiCaprio / Matt Damon
151 min. Crime / Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 18 and up
DVD release date: February 13, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0090 : 198
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 27, 2007
“The Departed,” won the Academy Award for Best Picture of 2006, a victory it earned.
“The Departed” is an American adaptation of a 2002 Hong Kong film called “Internal Affairs.” The story is set in an Irish neighborhood in Boston. Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson) is an organized crime boss who guides a young man, Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), to become a state-police detective — and more importantly — Costello’s informant. Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio), another state-police graduate, is sent undercover into Costello’s liar to be an informant for the police.
“The Departed” is a crime drama about two rats spying within two organizations that badly wish to know their identities. The tension surpasses suspense and becomes downright scary.
Even the edited version of “The Departed” is gritty: racial slurs, hand-to-hand combat and shooting violence, blood, a steamy kissing scene, etc. But I would warn edited movie viewers of a scene where an important conversation takes place inside of a pornographic movie theater. No images from the screen are shown, but in the background of the conversation, the pornographic movie’s soundtrack is audible.
“The Departed” has complex plot developments, so the deleted parts make it choppy and somewhat difficult to follow.
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Jack Nicholson / Leonardo DiCaprio / Matt Damon
151 min. Crime / Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 18 and up
DVD release date: February 13, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0090 : 198
Déjà Vu (2006)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 24, 2007
The problem with time travel movies is that there’s always a problem. But if you allow yourself a suspension of disbelief, “Deja Vu” is an exhilarating movie.
It’s a significant film because it was shot in New Orleans three months after Hurricane Katrina. Devastation from the storm is shown and its occurrence is referenced. But this movie isn’t about the hurricane; it’s about terrorism and a time traveler who hopes to prevent it.
During Mardi Gras, some maniac blows up a ferryboat and kills 543 people. Carlin, who’s investigating the case, is commissioned to lead the investigation and is given access to a mind-blowing device: a time machine.
At one point, the movie’s hero, ATF agent Doug Carlin (Denzel Washington), poses a great question: “What if you had to tell someone the most important thing in the world, but you knew they’d never believe you?” “Deja Vu” is fun because we’re constantly posing the same kinds of questions to ourselves as we watch.
The edited version of “Deja Vu” is moderately violent with bombings, shootings and the like. Oh, and the ATF is the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, which is a government law enforcement agency.
Directed by Tony Scott
Denzel Washington / James Caviezel / Val Kilmer
128 min. Thriller / Action
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 24, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0086 : 197
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 24, 2007
The problem with time travel movies is that there’s always a problem. But if you allow yourself a suspension of disbelief, “Deja Vu” is an exhilarating movie.
It’s a significant film because it was shot in New Orleans three months after Hurricane Katrina. Devastation from the storm is shown and its occurrence is referenced. But this movie isn’t about the hurricane; it’s about terrorism and a time traveler who hopes to prevent it.
During Mardi Gras, some maniac blows up a ferryboat and kills 543 people. Carlin, who’s investigating the case, is commissioned to lead the investigation and is given access to a mind-blowing device: a time machine.
At one point, the movie’s hero, ATF agent Doug Carlin (Denzel Washington), poses a great question: “What if you had to tell someone the most important thing in the world, but you knew they’d never believe you?” “Deja Vu” is fun because we’re constantly posing the same kinds of questions to ourselves as we watch.
The edited version of “Deja Vu” is moderately violent with bombings, shootings and the like. Oh, and the ATF is the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, which is a government law enforcement agency.
Directed by Tony Scott
Denzel Washington / James Caviezel / Val Kilmer
128 min. Thriller / Action
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 24, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0086 : 197
Smokin' Aces (2007)
O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
X Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 17, 2007
Typically, I love Mafia movies, but “Smokin’ Aces” isn’t really a Mafia movie — though it purports to be. It also poses as a clever Tarantino bloodbath, but it doesn’t pull that off, either. “Smokin’ Aces” is a “hit-man’s Olympics.”
Buddy “Aces” Israel (Jeremy Piven) is the FBI’s one and only key witness who can finally bring down Mafioso godfather Primo Sparazza (Joseph Ruskin). The FBI have him hole up in a Las Vegas penthouse, heavily guarded, under a witness protection program.
When Sparazza requests Israel’s death (and his heart as a souvenir), contract killers come out of the woodwork in a race for the prize — similar to the way Boba Fett and all the galaxy’s bounty hunters flocked to collect on Jabba the Hut’s contract for Han Solo. As this circus of ruthless and disgusting degenerates ascend the tower, they assassinate anyone who gets in their way.
The problem with “Smokin’ Aces” is that it unsuccessfully tries to orchestrate myriad characters. An effective example of this would be “Ocean’s Eleven” (2001); an ineffective example is “Smokin’ Aces.”
This edited version’s cuts make an already confusing movie even harder to follow. And it’s still a violent and bloody mess.
Directed by Joe Carnahan
Jeremy Piven / Ryan Reynolds / Andy Garcia
108 min. Action / Crime
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 18 and up
DVD release date: April 17, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0088 : 198
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
X Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 17, 2007
Typically, I love Mafia movies, but “Smokin’ Aces” isn’t really a Mafia movie — though it purports to be. It also poses as a clever Tarantino bloodbath, but it doesn’t pull that off, either. “Smokin’ Aces” is a “hit-man’s Olympics.”
Buddy “Aces” Israel (Jeremy Piven) is the FBI’s one and only key witness who can finally bring down Mafioso godfather Primo Sparazza (Joseph Ruskin). The FBI have him hole up in a Las Vegas penthouse, heavily guarded, under a witness protection program.
When Sparazza requests Israel’s death (and his heart as a souvenir), contract killers come out of the woodwork in a race for the prize — similar to the way Boba Fett and all the galaxy’s bounty hunters flocked to collect on Jabba the Hut’s contract for Han Solo. As this circus of ruthless and disgusting degenerates ascend the tower, they assassinate anyone who gets in their way.
The problem with “Smokin’ Aces” is that it unsuccessfully tries to orchestrate myriad characters. An effective example of this would be “Ocean’s Eleven” (2001); an ineffective example is “Smokin’ Aces.”
This edited version’s cuts make an already confusing movie even harder to follow. And it’s still a violent and bloody mess.
Directed by Joe Carnahan
Jeremy Piven / Ryan Reynolds / Andy Garcia
108 min. Action / Crime
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 18 and up
DVD release date: April 17, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0088 : 198
Candy (2006)
O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
X Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 24, 2007
“Candy” is the explicit depiction of two heroin junkies who are in love. Though edited for content, this movie unflinchingly shows us the affiliated horrors of drug addiction.
“Candy” isn’t a terrible film; it’s just unpleasant and horrifically sad — but not for the reasons that you might expect. The acting is phenomenally convincing. We continually feel compelled to call someone to help the two protagonists.
Dan (Heath Ledger) and Candy (Abbie Cornish) are truly in love. We have no doubt about that. Neither do we doubt that they love heroin just a little more. He is an aspiring poet; she is a painter. And with their “recreational pharmaceutical” habits, the two young lovers are not a financially sound pairing: Poverty envelops them.
“Candy” reveals their love story and its sorrows. We watch the couple pass through three stages: heaven, earth and hell. The second act, the earth phase, has the saddest moments I’ve ever seen on film.
If you’ve ever watched “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004), then you’ll be familiar with the shroud of discontentment and pensiveness that this movie drapes upon you, except “Candy” anchors its melancholy with stark and unapologetic realism.
Directed by Neil Armfield
Heath Ledger / Abbie Cornish / Geoffrey Rush
108 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 18 and up
DVD release date: March 27, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0085 : 195
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
X Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 24, 2007
“Candy” is the explicit depiction of two heroin junkies who are in love. Though edited for content, this movie unflinchingly shows us the affiliated horrors of drug addiction.
“Candy” isn’t a terrible film; it’s just unpleasant and horrifically sad — but not for the reasons that you might expect. The acting is phenomenally convincing. We continually feel compelled to call someone to help the two protagonists.
Dan (Heath Ledger) and Candy (Abbie Cornish) are truly in love. We have no doubt about that. Neither do we doubt that they love heroin just a little more. He is an aspiring poet; she is a painter. And with their “recreational pharmaceutical” habits, the two young lovers are not a financially sound pairing: Poverty envelops them.
“Candy” reveals their love story and its sorrows. We watch the couple pass through three stages: heaven, earth and hell. The second act, the earth phase, has the saddest moments I’ve ever seen on film.
If you’ve ever watched “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004), then you’ll be familiar with the shroud of discontentment and pensiveness that this movie drapes upon you, except “Candy” anchors its melancholy with stark and unapologetic realism.
Directed by Neil Armfield
Heath Ledger / Abbie Cornish / Geoffrey Rush
108 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 18 and up
DVD release date: March 27, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0085 : 195
Freedom Writers (2007)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 17, 2007
“Freedom Writers” is a good movie: It’s surprisingly poignant, emotionally charged, involving and is an overall feel-good film.
Inspired by a 1999 publication titled “The Freedom Writers Diary,” this movie takes place about two years after the Rodney King incident and the resultant riots in Los Angeles.
Erin Gruwell (Hilary Swank) is a first-year teacher for Woodrow Wilson High School’s freshman English class. Her daunting task is to teach a racially warring class of 14- and 15-year-olds comprised of Latinos, Cambodians, African Americans and one Caucasian. Most of these kids are involved in gangs and have criminal records.
But Gruwell is determined to “make a difference” by believing in her students, teaching them the horrors of the Holocaust and having them tell their own stories by daily journal writing. In addition to battling the racism among those in her classroom, Gruwell also has to deal with a mostly apathetic administration, a skeptical father and an unsupportive husband.
This edited version still portrays some gang violence and has a scene of mild sexual innuendo, but the moving scenes relating to the Holocaust are particularly valuable. The movie’s predominantly ‘90s soundtrack and voice-over narration are exceptional touches.
I recommend this rental.
Directed by Richard LaGravenese
Hilary Swank / Patrick Dempsey / Scott Glenn
123 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 13 and up
DVD release date: April 17, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0083 : 199
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 17, 2007
“Freedom Writers” is a good movie: It’s surprisingly poignant, emotionally charged, involving and is an overall feel-good film.
Inspired by a 1999 publication titled “The Freedom Writers Diary,” this movie takes place about two years after the Rodney King incident and the resultant riots in Los Angeles.
Erin Gruwell (Hilary Swank) is a first-year teacher for Woodrow Wilson High School’s freshman English class. Her daunting task is to teach a racially warring class of 14- and 15-year-olds comprised of Latinos, Cambodians, African Americans and one Caucasian. Most of these kids are involved in gangs and have criminal records.
But Gruwell is determined to “make a difference” by believing in her students, teaching them the horrors of the Holocaust and having them tell their own stories by daily journal writing. In addition to battling the racism among those in her classroom, Gruwell also has to deal with a mostly apathetic administration, a skeptical father and an unsupportive husband.
This edited version still portrays some gang violence and has a scene of mild sexual innuendo, but the moving scenes relating to the Holocaust are particularly valuable. The movie’s predominantly ‘90s soundtrack and voice-over narration are exceptional touches.
I recommend this rental.
Directed by Richard LaGravenese
Hilary Swank / Patrick Dempsey / Scott Glenn
123 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 13 and up
DVD release date: April 17, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0083 : 199
The Last King of Scotland (2006)
O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 17, 2007
Forest Whitaker won the Academy Award for Best Actor for this performance as General Dada, an actual person who was a monster.
"The Last King of Scotland" begins by informing us that the film is inspired by real people and real events. It opens in Scotland, 1970, when a young doctor graduates from medical school. Dr. Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy) wishes to escape his father, so he spins a globe and randomly picks Uganda.
Garrigan goes to render medical aid to an African mission of less fortunate Ugandans. But the new doctor catches Dada's attention. The towering leader has an affinity for Garrigan, so he uses his wealth and charisma to persuade Garrigan to be his personal physician.
While in the service of the madman's regime, Garrigan learns disturbing things about his boss. By association, Garrigan becomes trapped and knows he must find a way to escape — or else.
Essentially, "The Last King of Scotland" is a political thriller based on historical atrocities that happened in Uganda during the '70s. And though edited, this movie depicts execution-style shootings and mild torture.
The film is well made with excellent acting, but its intrigue loses momentum as it progresses.
Directed by Kevin Macdonald
Forest Whitaker / James McAvoy / Gillian Anderson
123 min. Drama / Thriller
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 17 and up
DVD release date: April 17, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0082 : 197
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 17, 2007
Forest Whitaker won the Academy Award for Best Actor for this performance as General Dada, an actual person who was a monster.
"The Last King of Scotland" begins by informing us that the film is inspired by real people and real events. It opens in Scotland, 1970, when a young doctor graduates from medical school. Dr. Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy) wishes to escape his father, so he spins a globe and randomly picks Uganda.
Garrigan goes to render medical aid to an African mission of less fortunate Ugandans. But the new doctor catches Dada's attention. The towering leader has an affinity for Garrigan, so he uses his wealth and charisma to persuade Garrigan to be his personal physician.
While in the service of the madman's regime, Garrigan learns disturbing things about his boss. By association, Garrigan becomes trapped and knows he must find a way to escape — or else.
Essentially, "The Last King of Scotland" is a political thriller based on historical atrocities that happened in Uganda during the '70s. And though edited, this movie depicts execution-style shootings and mild torture.
The film is well made with excellent acting, but its intrigue loses momentum as it progresses.
Directed by Kevin Macdonald
Forest Whitaker / James McAvoy / Gillian Anderson
123 min. Drama / Thriller
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 17 and up
DVD release date: April 17, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0082 : 197
Come Early Morning (2006)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
“Come Early Morning” has an uncommon authenticity. Its characters make us feel like we’re watching real people’s real lives, a credit to Joey Lauren Adams’ writing and these fine actors.
Very little actually happens in this movie — especially in the way of revelations and resolutions. It seems to be devoid of plot or storyline. But “Come Early Morning” depicts how life happens.
Lucy Fowler (Ashley Judd) is self-destructive in her unhappiness. She spends her weekends at the local bars, drinking beer, shooting pool and then waking up the following morning lying next to a stranger.
(I would note that, although edited for content, this character’s promiscuous behavior and consistent alcohol consumption are prominent themes of the movie.)
Lucy, her friends and her family are simple folk who live in a small town. “Come Early Morning” merely chronicles her days, her routines and the painful interactions of her troubled relationships.
This is a movie for people who love people. The director is careful to preserve her characters’ credibility and realism with each scene and in each line of dialogue.
“Come Early Morning” is a good film — even though it doesn’t go anywhere, much like those in Lucy’s town.
Directed by Joey Lauren Adams
Ashley Judd / Jeffrey Donovan / Tim Blake Nelson
97 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: March 20, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0079 : 197
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
“Come Early Morning” has an uncommon authenticity. Its characters make us feel like we’re watching real people’s real lives, a credit to Joey Lauren Adams’ writing and these fine actors.
Very little actually happens in this movie — especially in the way of revelations and resolutions. It seems to be devoid of plot or storyline. But “Come Early Morning” depicts how life happens.
Lucy Fowler (Ashley Judd) is self-destructive in her unhappiness. She spends her weekends at the local bars, drinking beer, shooting pool and then waking up the following morning lying next to a stranger.
(I would note that, although edited for content, this character’s promiscuous behavior and consistent alcohol consumption are prominent themes of the movie.)
Lucy, her friends and her family are simple folk who live in a small town. “Come Early Morning” merely chronicles her days, her routines and the painful interactions of her troubled relationships.
This is a movie for people who love people. The director is careful to preserve her characters’ credibility and realism with each scene and in each line of dialogue.
“Come Early Morning” is a good film — even though it doesn’t go anywhere, much like those in Lucy’s town.
Directed by Joey Lauren Adams
Ashley Judd / Jeffrey Donovan / Tim Blake Nelson
97 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: March 20, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0079 : 197
Lovewrecked (2005)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
Understand, that when I rate "Lovewrecked" as a "Good rental choice," I'm rating it according to its genre: teen romantic comedy for 13-year-old girls. Make no mistake, “Lovewrecked” is slumber-party fare — light, fun and colorful.
Jenny Taylor (Amanda Bynes) has the perfect 18th birthday: Accompanied by her best pal, Ryan (Jonathan Bennett), she gets to attend the Jason Masters’ concert. Jason Masters (Chris Carmack) is Jenny’s favorite rock-star icon with whom she is obsessed.
The story is familiar, much like the formula of “Win a Date With Tad Hamilton!” (2004): The gal is infatuated with the wrong guy, while the right guy has been in front of her face, adoring her all along. Always lurking nearby, is Jenny’s nemesis, Alexis (Jamie-Lynn DiScala), who viscously competes for the pop star’s attention.
When these characters end up at a Caribbean resort during the summer, Jenny finds a way to keep her musical hunk as her captive audience — but not if Alexis has anything to do with it. And so forth.
“Lovewrecked” is cute but not innocent. It has subtle (and not-so-subtle) innuendo and is filled with babes in bikinis. I recommend this for ages 13 and up but with discretion.
Directed by Randal Kleiser
Amanda Bynes / Chris Carmack / Jonathan Bennett
83 min. Comedy / Romance
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 13 and up
DVD release date: March 13, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0078 : 198
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
Understand, that when I rate "Lovewrecked" as a "Good rental choice," I'm rating it according to its genre: teen romantic comedy for 13-year-old girls. Make no mistake, “Lovewrecked” is slumber-party fare — light, fun and colorful.
Jenny Taylor (Amanda Bynes) has the perfect 18th birthday: Accompanied by her best pal, Ryan (Jonathan Bennett), she gets to attend the Jason Masters’ concert. Jason Masters (Chris Carmack) is Jenny’s favorite rock-star icon with whom she is obsessed.
The story is familiar, much like the formula of “Win a Date With Tad Hamilton!” (2004): The gal is infatuated with the wrong guy, while the right guy has been in front of her face, adoring her all along. Always lurking nearby, is Jenny’s nemesis, Alexis (Jamie-Lynn DiScala), who viscously competes for the pop star’s attention.
When these characters end up at a Caribbean resort during the summer, Jenny finds a way to keep her musical hunk as her captive audience — but not if Alexis has anything to do with it. And so forth.
“Lovewrecked” is cute but not innocent. It has subtle (and not-so-subtle) innuendo and is filled with babes in bikinis. I recommend this for ages 13 and up but with discretion.
Directed by Randal Kleiser
Amanda Bynes / Chris Carmack / Jonathan Bennett
83 min. Comedy / Romance
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 13 and up
DVD release date: March 13, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0078 : 198
Top Gun (1986)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
I’d like to apologize to Tom Cruise for loathing him when I was in fifth grade: Jeana Nicely was head-over-heels in love with him, and I with her.
But a lot of other, non-jealous people loved “Top Gun” when it flew into theaters in 1986 … and they still do. I suppose the movie holds up as well as any other ‘80s flick. Yes, “Top Gun” is still a “Good rental choice,” if for no other reason than nostalgia.
In truth, the dialogue and acting are quite mechanical in places. And I’ve always thought the filming of the aerial dogfights was problematic and disorienting (which was, no doubt, intended). To date, the best filming of airplane warfare I’ve seen is in “Flyboys” (2006).
You know the story: Tom Cruise is “Maverick,” a hot-shot pilot who’s reckless, rebellious and extremely gifted. When the Navy commissions him to train at an elite flight school, Maverick is intensely challenged in flying, in love and in life.
Reviewing “Top Gun” made me long to revisit “Iron Eagle” (also 1986) and “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982).
I can't help but wonder how Jeana feels about Tom Cruise’s propensity to jump on furniture.
Directed by Tony Scott
Tom Cruise / Val Kilmer / Kelly McGillis
110 min. Drama / Action
(Original MPAA rating: PG / re-rated: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 12 and up
Collector’s Edition DVD release date: December 14, 2004
Copyright 2007.
JP0077 : 198
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
I’d like to apologize to Tom Cruise for loathing him when I was in fifth grade: Jeana Nicely was head-over-heels in love with him, and I with her.
But a lot of other, non-jealous people loved “Top Gun” when it flew into theaters in 1986 … and they still do. I suppose the movie holds up as well as any other ‘80s flick. Yes, “Top Gun” is still a “Good rental choice,” if for no other reason than nostalgia.
In truth, the dialogue and acting are quite mechanical in places. And I’ve always thought the filming of the aerial dogfights was problematic and disorienting (which was, no doubt, intended). To date, the best filming of airplane warfare I’ve seen is in “Flyboys” (2006).
You know the story: Tom Cruise is “Maverick,” a hot-shot pilot who’s reckless, rebellious and extremely gifted. When the Navy commissions him to train at an elite flight school, Maverick is intensely challenged in flying, in love and in life.
Reviewing “Top Gun” made me long to revisit “Iron Eagle” (also 1986) and “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982).
I can't help but wonder how Jeana feels about Tom Cruise’s propensity to jump on furniture.
Directed by Tony Scott
Tom Cruise / Val Kilmer / Kelly McGillis
110 min. Drama / Action
(Original MPAA rating: PG / re-rated: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 12 and up
Collector’s Edition DVD release date: December 14, 2004
Copyright 2007.
JP0077 : 198
Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple (2006)
X An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
The two most disturbing films I’ve ever seen are “Breakdown” (1997) and “Open Water” (2003). But I must rank this 2006 documentary called “Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple” among them, because it is equally troubling and upsetting.
How could one man persuade 909 people to commit mass suicide by drinking cyanide? “Jonestown” reviews chilling archival video footage and audio recordings that explain this dark process.
In the ‘60s, Jim Jones, a charismatic, religious zealot, began his own church called Peoples Temple. His initial teachings were considered “normal”: Christian, Bible-based with Pentecostal overtones. He taught racial integration and the law of consecration (all resources shared and community-owned).
Jones gained great momentum, picking up converts with cross-country bus tours. They moved from place to place, and eventually settled in the country of Guyana, in South America, where the unthinkable happened.
This documentary chronicles Jones’ history and his church, featuring fascinating interviews with a few former followers who survived — including one of his adopted sons.
Some footage shows numerous corpses; this documentary is not for children.
The scariest horror movies are those that could actually happen ... scarier still are those that did happen, like this one.
Directed by Stanley Nelson
Jim Jones / Jim Jones Jr. / Willie Brown
86 min. Documentary / History
(Original MPAA rating: not rated)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 10, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0076 : 197
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
The two most disturbing films I’ve ever seen are “Breakdown” (1997) and “Open Water” (2003). But I must rank this 2006 documentary called “Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple” among them, because it is equally troubling and upsetting.
How could one man persuade 909 people to commit mass suicide by drinking cyanide? “Jonestown” reviews chilling archival video footage and audio recordings that explain this dark process.
In the ‘60s, Jim Jones, a charismatic, religious zealot, began his own church called Peoples Temple. His initial teachings were considered “normal”: Christian, Bible-based with Pentecostal overtones. He taught racial integration and the law of consecration (all resources shared and community-owned).
Jones gained great momentum, picking up converts with cross-country bus tours. They moved from place to place, and eventually settled in the country of Guyana, in South America, where the unthinkable happened.
This documentary chronicles Jones’ history and his church, featuring fascinating interviews with a few former followers who survived — including one of his adopted sons.
Some footage shows numerous corpses; this documentary is not for children.
The scariest horror movies are those that could actually happen ... scarier still are those that did happen, like this one.
Directed by Stanley Nelson
Jim Jones / Jim Jones Jr. / Willie Brown
86 min. Documentary / History
(Original MPAA rating: not rated)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 10, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0076 : 197
Marie Antoinette (2006)
O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
"Marie Antoinette" is not overly entertaining, though it’s sometimes endearing.
In the 18th century (circa 1768), Marie Antoinette (Kirsten Dunst) of Austria is betrothed to Louis XVI, the future king of France — a marriage designed to maintain the friendly alliance between the two countries.
The plot of "Marie Antoinette" is simply a depiction of the legendary life of an unfortunate queen. For instance, we see the immense pressure to produce an heir to the throne. We also see a young lady’s playful disposition squeezed into the rigid formality of royalty. And we hear the frightening mobs of discontented France storming the monarchs’ palace in Versailles. And really, that’s about it.
The costumes in this movie are incredible — as are the sets — making "Marie Antoinette" a glamorized period piece. But the spell is broken by the pop music of the soundtrack, much like we heard in "A Knight's Tale" (2001).
Writer and director Sofia Coppola (yes, the daughter of Francis) allows her movie fall prey to flawed storytelling: Initially, it’s repetitive, next the narrative becomes sparse, and then it cheats us with its unsatisfactory ending.
“Marie Antoinette” isn’t a bad movie, but I wouldn’t say it’s fit for a queen.
Directed by Sophia Coppola
Kirsten Dunst / Jason Schwartzman / Steve Coogan
123 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 12 and up
DVD release date: February 13, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0075 : 199
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
"Marie Antoinette" is not overly entertaining, though it’s sometimes endearing.
In the 18th century (circa 1768), Marie Antoinette (Kirsten Dunst) of Austria is betrothed to Louis XVI, the future king of France — a marriage designed to maintain the friendly alliance between the two countries.
The plot of "Marie Antoinette" is simply a depiction of the legendary life of an unfortunate queen. For instance, we see the immense pressure to produce an heir to the throne. We also see a young lady’s playful disposition squeezed into the rigid formality of royalty. And we hear the frightening mobs of discontented France storming the monarchs’ palace in Versailles. And really, that’s about it.
The costumes in this movie are incredible — as are the sets — making "Marie Antoinette" a glamorized period piece. But the spell is broken by the pop music of the soundtrack, much like we heard in "A Knight's Tale" (2001).
Writer and director Sofia Coppola (yes, the daughter of Francis) allows her movie fall prey to flawed storytelling: Initially, it’s repetitive, next the narrative becomes sparse, and then it cheats us with its unsatisfactory ending.
“Marie Antoinette” isn’t a bad movie, but I wouldn’t say it’s fit for a queen.
Directed by Sophia Coppola
Kirsten Dunst / Jason Schwartzman / Steve Coogan
123 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 12 and up
DVD release date: February 13, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0075 : 199
The Aura (2005)
O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
“The Aura” takes the expression “getting away with murder” to a whole new level and is reminiscent of “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999).
I would have rated “The Aura” as a “Good rental choice” if it weren’t so slow. It’s a decent movie — don’t get me wrong — but this Argentine film takes its time, careful not to rush. Slow pacing isn’t always a bad thing, but it can be taxing for those accustomed to American cinema’s frequent attention-getting assaults.
This is the story of an odd man, a taxidermist who fantasizes about executing the perfect robbery. Esteban Espinosa (Ricardo Darin) is also an epileptic whose seizures come upon him at the most inopportune times.
Even though he has an aversion to killing animals, the taxidermist’s friend persuades him to tag along for a hunting trip. When Esteban is involved in a hunting accident, he stumbles into happy but dangerous circumstances that enable him to indulge in his criminal cravings, much like Matt Damon’s Tom Ripley character.
“The Aura” has Spanish dialogue with English subtitles. The editing for this version is well done, but there are a couple of shootings depicted that would not be appropriate for younger viewers.
Directed by Fabian Bielinsky
Ricardo Darin / Dolores Fonzi / Nahuel Perez Biscayart
134 min. Crime / Drama
(Original MPAA rating: not rated)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 10, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0074 : 198
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007
“The Aura” takes the expression “getting away with murder” to a whole new level and is reminiscent of “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999).
I would have rated “The Aura” as a “Good rental choice” if it weren’t so slow. It’s a decent movie — don’t get me wrong — but this Argentine film takes its time, careful not to rush. Slow pacing isn’t always a bad thing, but it can be taxing for those accustomed to American cinema’s frequent attention-getting assaults.
This is the story of an odd man, a taxidermist who fantasizes about executing the perfect robbery. Esteban Espinosa (Ricardo Darin) is also an epileptic whose seizures come upon him at the most inopportune times.
Even though he has an aversion to killing animals, the taxidermist’s friend persuades him to tag along for a hunting trip. When Esteban is involved in a hunting accident, he stumbles into happy but dangerous circumstances that enable him to indulge in his criminal cravings, much like Matt Damon’s Tom Ripley character.
“The Aura” has Spanish dialogue with English subtitles. The editing for this version is well done, but there are a couple of shootings depicted that would not be appropriate for younger viewers.
Directed by Fabian Bielinsky
Ricardo Darin / Dolores Fonzi / Nahuel Perez Biscayart
134 min. Crime / Drama
(Original MPAA rating: not rated)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 10, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0074 : 198
Babel (2006)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 9, 2007
Have you ever thought about how delicately our lives are intertwined? One person’s actions can set in motion an unstoppable chain of events.
Depicted with stark reality, “Babel” is a troubling study of interrelated misfortunes. As we watch the inexorable events unravel, we search for their meaning. But each person who watches “Babel” is likely to glean something different.
“Babel” tells four stories in an engaging, soap-opera style. Each story’s chronology is askew. Unfolding the narrative with these techniques heightens the intrigue and suspense of a film whose subject matter is already proficient at both.
Richard (Brad Pitt) and Susan (Cate Blanchett) retreat to Morocco, seeking resolution for a painful event in the recent past of their marriage. While traveling through the desert, an unthinkable tragedy occurs (and I mean unthinkable). Theirs is only one saga. Two of the three other storylines are just as horrifying, but the deaf-mute girl’s plot doesn’t belong.
“Babel” is upsetting and worrisome. The editing is fine; its themes are just too heavy and inappropriate for children. After watching the film, you feel like you’ve been dragged a few miles. But somehow, it’s a cathartic experience because “Babel” is a great film.
Directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu
Brad Pitt / Cate Blanchett / Adriana Barraza
142 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: February 20, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0071 : 197
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 9, 2007
Have you ever thought about how delicately our lives are intertwined? One person’s actions can set in motion an unstoppable chain of events.
Depicted with stark reality, “Babel” is a troubling study of interrelated misfortunes. As we watch the inexorable events unravel, we search for their meaning. But each person who watches “Babel” is likely to glean something different.
“Babel” tells four stories in an engaging, soap-opera style. Each story’s chronology is askew. Unfolding the narrative with these techniques heightens the intrigue and suspense of a film whose subject matter is already proficient at both.
Richard (Brad Pitt) and Susan (Cate Blanchett) retreat to Morocco, seeking resolution for a painful event in the recent past of their marriage. While traveling through the desert, an unthinkable tragedy occurs (and I mean unthinkable). Theirs is only one saga. Two of the three other storylines are just as horrifying, but the deaf-mute girl’s plot doesn’t belong.
“Babel” is upsetting and worrisome. The editing is fine; its themes are just too heavy and inappropriate for children. After watching the film, you feel like you’ve been dragged a few miles. But somehow, it’s a cathartic experience because “Babel” is a great film.
Directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu
Brad Pitt / Cate Blanchett / Adriana Barraza
142 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: February 20, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0071 : 197
Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
X An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 9, 2007
There is a supremely climactic sequence in “Little Miss Sunshine” that cannot be described as anything less than “cinematic euphoria.” We feel happiness, sadness, surprise, fear, wonder, delight and pity — all at the same time.
Of all the movies I’ve seen, few scenes have ever affected me quite that way. Indeed, “Little Miss Sunshine” is poignant, comedic gold, and it’s a masterpiece.
Just as we do, Olive (Abigail Breslin) belongs to a bizarre assortment of people whom she calls family. Her mother is mostly normal. Her dad (Greg Kinnear) is a motivational speaker who’s obsessed with winning. Her brother and grandfather are eccentric, to say the least. Her uncle Frank (Steve Carell) is recovering from a suicide attempt, and is somehow, one of the most stable characters.
Imagine a premise that crams all of these people into an old, Volkswagen bus for a long road trip so Olive can compete in the Little Miss Sunshine beauty pageant in Redondo Beach, Calif.
The film is an unforgiving commentary on the pursuit of one’s dreams and the twisted nature of beauty pageants, among other things. This edited version is quite clean and delightful.
I recommend “Little Miss Sunshine,” simply a must-see.
Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris
Abigail Breslin / Steve Carell / Greg Kinnear
101 min. Comedy / Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 10 and up
DVD release date: December 19, 2006
Copyright 2007.
JP0070 : 199
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 9, 2007
There is a supremely climactic sequence in “Little Miss Sunshine” that cannot be described as anything less than “cinematic euphoria.” We feel happiness, sadness, surprise, fear, wonder, delight and pity — all at the same time.
Of all the movies I’ve seen, few scenes have ever affected me quite that way. Indeed, “Little Miss Sunshine” is poignant, comedic gold, and it’s a masterpiece.
Just as we do, Olive (Abigail Breslin) belongs to a bizarre assortment of people whom she calls family. Her mother is mostly normal. Her dad (Greg Kinnear) is a motivational speaker who’s obsessed with winning. Her brother and grandfather are eccentric, to say the least. Her uncle Frank (Steve Carell) is recovering from a suicide attempt, and is somehow, one of the most stable characters.
Imagine a premise that crams all of these people into an old, Volkswagen bus for a long road trip so Olive can compete in the Little Miss Sunshine beauty pageant in Redondo Beach, Calif.
The film is an unforgiving commentary on the pursuit of one’s dreams and the twisted nature of beauty pageants, among other things. This edited version is quite clean and delightful.
I recommend “Little Miss Sunshine,” simply a must-see.
Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris
Abigail Breslin / Steve Carell / Greg Kinnear
101 min. Comedy / Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 10 and up
DVD release date: December 19, 2006
Copyright 2007.
JP0070 : 199
Children of Men (2006)
X An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 9, 2007
“Children of Men” is a must-see and a masterpiece. Yet, I must forewarn that even the edited version is relatively violent and has material that is still inappropriate for younger viewers.
The year is 2027, and the world is without hope. The human race hasn’t been able to procreate for 18 years. Earth’s population is dwindling toward extinction. Theo (Clive Owen) is among the unhappy inhabitants of Britain. He used to be a passionate idealist but has now sunken into despair.
Not everyone is apathetic, however. A mysterious group called “The Human Project” supposedly exists, and its mission is to rectify the world’s infertility problem. Theo is commissioned to help transport a young woman named Kee who has a powerful secret: She is pregnant.
“Children of Men” is about how Theo must safely escort Kee on a perilous journey to the Human Project. The movie is one long chase scene, and it’s intense and suspenseful. “Children of Men” is unflinchingly realistic, bleak, and dismal — and without question, one of the best films of 2006.
Directed by Alfonso Cuaron
Clive Owen / Michael Caine / Claire-Hope Ashitey
109 min. Thriller / Action
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 17 and up
DVD release date: March 27, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0069 : 174
O Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 9, 2007
“Children of Men” is a must-see and a masterpiece. Yet, I must forewarn that even the edited version is relatively violent and has material that is still inappropriate for younger viewers.
The year is 2027, and the world is without hope. The human race hasn’t been able to procreate for 18 years. Earth’s population is dwindling toward extinction. Theo (Clive Owen) is among the unhappy inhabitants of Britain. He used to be a passionate idealist but has now sunken into despair.
Not everyone is apathetic, however. A mysterious group called “The Human Project” supposedly exists, and its mission is to rectify the world’s infertility problem. Theo is commissioned to help transport a young woman named Kee who has a powerful secret: She is pregnant.
“Children of Men” is about how Theo must safely escort Kee on a perilous journey to the Human Project. The movie is one long chase scene, and it’s intense and suspenseful. “Children of Men” is unflinchingly realistic, bleak, and dismal — and without question, one of the best films of 2006.
Directed by Alfonso Cuaron
Clive Owen / Michael Caine / Claire-Hope Ashitey
109 min. Thriller / Action
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 17 and up
DVD release date: March 27, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0069 : 174
Copying Beethoven (2006)
O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
It’s hard to go wrong with Ed Harris. We liked him in “A History of Violence,” “Radio,” “A Beautiful Mind,” “The Truman Show,” and pretty much every other role — except as Beethoven. Perhaps it’s the wig.
“Copying Beethoven” unsuccessfully tries to imitate the spellbinding “Amadeus” (1984), the story about Mozart’s life as told from Antonio Salieri’s perspective. One problem this movie has is that Beethoven’s understudy is much less interesting than the obsessed Salieri.
Diane Kruger plays Anna Holtz, the conservatory’s brightest composition student who is commissioned to be Beethoven’s copyist. The great maestro, who is all but deaf, needs an assistant to help write out the score for the upcoming premiere of his Ninth Symphony.
Both Beethoven and Holtz have much to learn from each other, but their lessons aren’t much fun to watch: It’s the abusive, maniacal genius versus the perceptive, compassionate heroine.
The soundtrack is replete with Beethoven’s wonderful works. Kruger’s strong, female character walking tall amid a chauvinistic landscape is another positive aspect of the film.
Overall, I was fine with the way “Copying Beethoven” fictionalized its portrayal of the last year of his life; I only wish it hadn’t been trivialized, too.
Directed by Agnieszka Holland
Ed Harris / Diane Kruger / Matthew Goode
104 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 10 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0068 : 197
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
It’s hard to go wrong with Ed Harris. We liked him in “A History of Violence,” “Radio,” “A Beautiful Mind,” “The Truman Show,” and pretty much every other role — except as Beethoven. Perhaps it’s the wig.
“Copying Beethoven” unsuccessfully tries to imitate the spellbinding “Amadeus” (1984), the story about Mozart’s life as told from Antonio Salieri’s perspective. One problem this movie has is that Beethoven’s understudy is much less interesting than the obsessed Salieri.
Diane Kruger plays Anna Holtz, the conservatory’s brightest composition student who is commissioned to be Beethoven’s copyist. The great maestro, who is all but deaf, needs an assistant to help write out the score for the upcoming premiere of his Ninth Symphony.
Both Beethoven and Holtz have much to learn from each other, but their lessons aren’t much fun to watch: It’s the abusive, maniacal genius versus the perceptive, compassionate heroine.
The soundtrack is replete with Beethoven’s wonderful works. Kruger’s strong, female character walking tall amid a chauvinistic landscape is another positive aspect of the film.
Overall, I was fine with the way “Copying Beethoven” fictionalized its portrayal of the last year of his life; I only wish it hadn’t been trivialized, too.
Directed by Agnieszka Holland
Ed Harris / Diane Kruger / Matthew Goode
104 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 10 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0068 : 197
Rank (2006)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
“Rank” is a well-made documentary that follows three cowboys during the 2004 Professional Bull Riders World Finals in Las Vegas. And though I’m not particularly interested in bull riding, I found the film fascinating.
The seven-day competition assembles the best riders in the world, all risking life and limb for a million dollars and a big, golden belt buckle.
Adriano Moraes, Justin McBride and Mike Lee are three of the most determined people I have seen in film. “Rank” is an effective documentary because we grow increasingly concerned about the success and well being of these riders.
The bull-riding footage may become monotonous for some viewers; I found it horrifying and thus intriguing. There aren’t any bloody or gory attacks depicted, but past injuries are graphically described and a few horrendous boo-boos are shown. Indeed, a PBR physician means it when he says, “In bull riding, it’s not a matter of if you’ll get hurt — it’s a matter of when.”
If you rent “Rank,” have some Tylenol available for your empathy pains.
Directed by John Hyams
Adriano Moraes / Justin McBride / Mike Lee
90 min. Documentary
(No original MPAA rating)
Edited version age recommendation: 10 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0067 : 173
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
“Rank” is a well-made documentary that follows three cowboys during the 2004 Professional Bull Riders World Finals in Las Vegas. And though I’m not particularly interested in bull riding, I found the film fascinating.
The seven-day competition assembles the best riders in the world, all risking life and limb for a million dollars and a big, golden belt buckle.
Adriano Moraes, Justin McBride and Mike Lee are three of the most determined people I have seen in film. “Rank” is an effective documentary because we grow increasingly concerned about the success and well being of these riders.
The bull-riding footage may become monotonous for some viewers; I found it horrifying and thus intriguing. There aren’t any bloody or gory attacks depicted, but past injuries are graphically described and a few horrendous boo-boos are shown. Indeed, a PBR physician means it when he says, “In bull riding, it’s not a matter of if you’ll get hurt — it’s a matter of when.”
If you rent “Rank,” have some Tylenol available for your empathy pains.
Directed by John Hyams
Adriano Moraes / Justin McBride / Mike Lee
90 min. Documentary
(No original MPAA rating)
Edited version age recommendation: 10 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0067 : 173
The Good Shepherd (2006)
O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
Imagine a movie made about that gnome statue that travels around, taking photographs of itself in exotic locales. Now imagine that this stone-faced gnome is a CIA forefather who hardly ever speaks, and you’ve got Matt Damon in “The Good Shepherd.”
“The Good Shepherd” tells two main stories (both fictionalized) in a flashback-and-forth style. The frequent jumps in time are easy to follow because they are labeled well. The “present” storyline takes place in April 1961, amid the Bay of Pigs fiasco. The top-secret mission associated with the events was leaked, and it’s the job of Edward Wilson (Matt Damon) to find out who the rat is.
“The Good Shepherd” also chronicles the rocky beginnings of the CIA, flashing back as far as 1939. We see the growing pains of the agency as it passes through World War II into the Cold War.
This edited version still depicts a scene of mild torture and includes a racial slur. More than anything, “The Good Shepherd” is slow and dull, dragging us through the doldrums with a runtime that approaches three hours. Yes, I understood the movie; no, I wasn’t impressed.
Directed by Robert De Niro
Matt Damon / Angelina Jolie / John Turturro
167 min. Drama / Mystery
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0065 : 189
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
Imagine a movie made about that gnome statue that travels around, taking photographs of itself in exotic locales. Now imagine that this stone-faced gnome is a CIA forefather who hardly ever speaks, and you’ve got Matt Damon in “The Good Shepherd.”
“The Good Shepherd” tells two main stories (both fictionalized) in a flashback-and-forth style. The frequent jumps in time are easy to follow because they are labeled well. The “present” storyline takes place in April 1961, amid the Bay of Pigs fiasco. The top-secret mission associated with the events was leaked, and it’s the job of Edward Wilson (Matt Damon) to find out who the rat is.
“The Good Shepherd” also chronicles the rocky beginnings of the CIA, flashing back as far as 1939. We see the growing pains of the agency as it passes through World War II into the Cold War.
This edited version still depicts a scene of mild torture and includes a racial slur. More than anything, “The Good Shepherd” is slow and dull, dragging us through the doldrums with a runtime that approaches three hours. Yes, I understood the movie; no, I wasn’t impressed.
Directed by Robert De Niro
Matt Damon / Angelina Jolie / John Turturro
167 min. Drama / Mystery
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0065 : 189
Charlotte's Web (2006)
O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
Based on the popular children’s book by E.B. White, “Charlotte’s Web” spins its enchanting web on a farm in Somerset County, Maine, where a little girl named Fern (Dakota Fanning) saves a runty pig that she calls Wilbur. But Wilbur has a serious problem: Spring pigs like him don’t live past winter.
Wilbur becomes friends with the other animals in his barn: a horse, cows, sheep, geese, a rat and his unlikely best friend, Charlotte, the spider. Charlotte (Julia Roberts) makes a promise to Wilbur that she will figure out a way to prevent him from becoming Christmas dinner.
“Charlotte’s Web” is a live-action movie with lots of computer-animated, talking animals that look real. It doesn’t have the underlying sexual innuendo that many recent, so-called “family movies” have had. “Charlotte’s Web” does confront the issue of death of a major character and has its share of animals’ intestinal gas jokes. All in all, “Charlotte’s Web” is a quality choice for a family rental.
Directed by Gary Winick
Dakota Fanning / Julia Roberts / Dominic Scott Kay
97 min. Family / Fantasy
(Original MPAA rating: G)
Edited version age recommendation: 7 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0064 : 163
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else
Review by Jason Pyles / April 3, 2007
Based on the popular children’s book by E.B. White, “Charlotte’s Web” spins its enchanting web on a farm in Somerset County, Maine, where a little girl named Fern (Dakota Fanning) saves a runty pig that she calls Wilbur. But Wilbur has a serious problem: Spring pigs like him don’t live past winter.
Wilbur becomes friends with the other animals in his barn: a horse, cows, sheep, geese, a rat and his unlikely best friend, Charlotte, the spider. Charlotte (Julia Roberts) makes a promise to Wilbur that she will figure out a way to prevent him from becoming Christmas dinner.
“Charlotte’s Web” is a live-action movie with lots of computer-animated, talking animals that look real. It doesn’t have the underlying sexual innuendo that many recent, so-called “family movies” have had. “Charlotte’s Web” does confront the issue of death of a major character and has its share of animals’ intestinal gas jokes. All in all, “Charlotte’s Web” is a quality choice for a family rental.
Directed by Gary Winick
Dakota Fanning / Julia Roberts / Dominic Scott Kay
97 min. Family / Fantasy
(Original MPAA rating: G)
Edited version age recommendation: 7 and up
DVD release date: April 3, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0064 : 163
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