Marie Antoinette

rating: Eh (rating system)

This movie is not at all what I thought it would be. I guess I'm a purist in some sense. I like a movie that based on a speicfic time period, to I don't know make me feel like I'm back in that time period. I think the modern day music throughout the movie is was ruined that effect for me. The fact that this movie was about a nortiorious historical persona and her life, is what leaves me bothered by this movie. Throughout the movie I was waiting to learn more about Marie as a person, the intricacies of the French politics leading up to the French Revolution.... *sigh* I was left to fill in the historical blanks myself. In short, if you have a deep interest in French culture or history and are looking to learn more, then this movie isn't for you. Although the movie did give you a good sense of the opulance of the french monarchy, I would recommend that you visit Versailles yourself rather than see this flick.

Oh, and did I mention, that they don't even speak french in this movie? qu'est-ce que c'est environ ? comment insultant!

Julie & Julia

Rating: BRAVO (rating scale)

Its never too late to be great! That's my summary of this movie. First of all, let it be known, I have a sincere bias here. Meryl Streep, to me, is the BEST ACTRESS ever known to industry. Don't challenge me ever on that FACT, unless you are prepared to risk our friendship. Back to the movie, its really a good movie. I enjoyed it thoroughly, but again I can see how this might not be a movie for everyone. But here's how you'll know if you will enjoy this movie: if you are a FOODIE you will dig this flick. And I mean a real FOODIE, not just someone who likes to EAT, that would make you an EATIE. Real FOODIES not only thoroughly enjoy eating, but they talk about meals they will have, they reminisce about meals they have had, and furthermore, they COOK. I'm not saying they are gourmets, but real FOODIES such as myself, cook and cook well, because, hey we love FOOD and must do it justice. But I digress, quite simply, this is a movie for the FOODIE. You end up learning so many interesting factoids about the legendary Julia Child that by the end of the movie she feels less like a gourmet super hero and more like your fun and crazy old aunt. FOODIES unite and go see this movie. You can thank me later for this recommendation with a cupcake or a BBQ'd short rib or something. :-)

In case you were wondering..

There is a reason why I took a untimely yet temporary hiatus from blogging. Its a very painful experience that caused me to take immediate leave. I haven't actually disclosed it to anyone... well except for my BFF VeeGee. I've tried to bury the memory in the depths of my subconscious. However recent events have made it nearly impossible for me to keep this memory hidden. Its all over TV, radio, magazines... the release of the Nanny Diaries on DVD. *GULP*

As many of you avid ramdon fans, over the years I have taken to sharing movie reviews with my readers. I, a big chicklit fan, was incredibly excited for the release of the Nanny Diaries earlier this year. I planned a week's worth of activities just to be there for the opening night. Never has disappointment bestowed such a debilitating blow.

You see, sometimes a great book is made into a great movie (e.g. Harry Potter and *anything JK chooses*). Sometimes a great book is made into a good movie (e.g. the Namesake). Yet other times a good book is made into a GREAT movie, (e.g. Devil Wears Prada). Very rarely, does are GREAT book get made into a total STINKER of a movie (case: the nanny diaries).

After seeing that movie, I was so incredibly crestfallen and essentially lost. It took me months to come to terms with the fact that very bad things can happen to good storylines.

But there you have it folks. The reason why I had to step away from the blog over the past few months. If you haven't seen Nanny Diaries the movie, DON'T. Read the book and keep

...your sanity

...... your belief in what's right and good

.........your sense of humanity!

Premonition

Rating: eh (rating scale)
yeah.. "eh" pretty much sums it up. Its an intriguing concept, 'I wake up one day Jim [my husband] is dead.. I wake up the next he's dead'. The movie starts off interestingly enough and you are actually drawn in. But, I will spoil this for you so stop here if you still plan to see this movie. At no point do they give you any explaination as to how or why she flipped back and forth through time. The movie had the potential to be an eerie thriller or even a science fantasy flick.. but it fizzled torward the middle then totally ran out of steam. I guess that's what really annoyed me with this flick plus the ending stunk. yeah.. you should definitely wait for the lifetime run of this movie.. this seems like a movie they would play 5x over on a Sunday. But don't waste your $$$ its totally not worth the movie ticket.

Orphan

Orphan

Rating: eh+ (rating scale)

Yeah that's an eh plus, although I thoroughly enjoyed this flick, I recognize that its not everyone's cup of tea. First things first, this movie is NOT a scary movie. Yes its darn and distrubing, but some how comical or at least to me and the quirky audience members of the theater in which I saw this movie. Yes that's right folks, either I have a sick sense of humour or this movie has some seriously funny momements. Yeah its the latter, I'm sure of it. I've position this movie as, if you are the type to watch and enjoy Law and Order type tv programs, you'll enjoy this film. Seriously, I can't emphasize enough that this movie it NOT scary at all. Creepy yes, scary not so much.

Shutter Island

Rating: Bravo (rating scale)

First of all, I will admit it. I am a super duper fraidy cat! I cannot stand horror movies. I went to see this movie out of love and support for Leo and was ready to walk out the moment the movie got too intense. The trailers led me to believe this movie might be more than I could handle. That wasn't at all the case. Despite what the trailers show, this movie is categorically a thriller. I'd throw in the tag of mystery in there too, for good measure. Bottom line, Leonardo doesn't disappoint. Once again he draws you in, as the masterful hero playing actor he is. Leo is essentially on shutter island to investigate an escapee from the the asylum,... you know what? I don't want to be a spoiler. There is no really good way to tell you about this movie without giving away key elements of the "what the hell?" parts to the storyline. My advice, if you are up to having your mind messed with a bit I suggest you go see this movie. Nice job Leo! *applause*

The Namesake

Rating: eh (rating scale)

This movie is from the indie flick side of life. Now before I go on, I will let you know that I am VERY biased because I read the book and absolutely LOVED it. I loved it so much that I gave the book as a christmas gift to a few folks this past year! It is ruly a favorite of mine. What's more interesting is that the reason I went out and bought and read the Namesake is because I first saw an early preview for the movie sometime last year. With all that said, it is really a twist in irony that I was so utterly disappointed with the way the editing team decided to butcher this storyline. I thought the movie kinda sucked. :-( But again I'm biased and I'm comparing what the movie was to what I know it could've been based on my knowledged gained from reading the book.

Now here's the twist for you, if you haven't read the book, go see this movie, you will enjoy it. Honestly, the character nuances that endear you to the storyline are absent but the basic storyline is there and it will be interesting for you because you simply don't know what you are missing. However, if you have read the book WAIT until this flick shows up on cable otherwise prepare to be annoyed.

Amreeka

Rating: Bravo (rating scale)

This movie was absolutely beautifully done! Now it is a fact that I am partial to independent flicks, my bias plays no role here. I can't express in simple words much I enjoyed this movie. Without giving you too much of the storyline, the movie begins with the newly divorced single mom Muna who lives in Palestine with her teenage son. Through an unexpected stroke of luck, they get the opportunity to come to the US to pursue the 'American Dream'. This movie gives a brilliant perspective on the pursuit of the American Dream that the average person perhaps never considers. Muna is truly a heroic woman... you will fall in love with this flick. Trust me. My only complaint is that I wish it was longer. I was so captivated by this family, their struggles and triumphs that I honestly didn't want it end. Listen to me now and thank me later, go see this movie. :-)

Pirates of the Caribbean 3: At World's End

rating: eh plus (rating scale)
First of all.. Let me forewarn you. Be sure to get extra ice in your soda and make sure the a/c is on FULL BLAST when you see this in the theater, because that Orlando Bloom is smoking hot! I'm talking muy caliente jalepeno popper. Whew! Yeah, Orlando has definitely been drinking milk. He has come a long way since his elfin magic looks in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I was tempted to give this movie a BRAVO based on the Orlando Bloom hottie factor alone. Double whew!!

Okay.. back the movie. Honestly, I'm going to lay it out for you... this storyline will never end! Disney is making a killing on the PoC movie series! If you were one of the people, like me, who was disappointed by that question mark feeling you had at the end of of PoC 2.. I will tell you this movie is slightly better than that. A few questions are answered however, even more questions are posed. Seriously, they (Disney) will be making PoC movies until Johnny and/or Orlando cries uncle. Don't get me wrong, the movie is extremely entertaining. John Depp, aka Cap'n Jack Sparrow, will make you laugh out loud! That woozy drunken sissy girl run he does is still good for a laugh. His comedic timing is still second to none. Also, Keira Knightley's character is a bit more tolerable in this sequel, no more faux fainting spells to detract/attract attention. No no no, she certainly has found her girl power in this flick.

Don't get me wrong. You will be entertained. However, be prepared to know that it ain't over there will be another. Plus for your own sanity, I strongly suggest that you catch PoC 1 & 2 on cable preferably the morning or night before you go to see PoC 3. The storyline is very involved there are subtle nuances and hints that can be easily missed if the scenes from the prior two movies are not fresh in your mind. But above all, be ready for that Orlando Bloom. Once again in a word, HOT! triple whew!!!

Dreamgirls

rating: BRAVO (rating system)

Now you may have heard the hype on this flick. But I am here as your faithful yet random movie critic to certify this movie as a MUST SEE. Don't wait for the DVD or cable release for this one. This all star cast does an amazing job. You get the broadway musical feel along with acting that dare I say is shockingly impressive. Of course I expected good acting and even singing from Jaime Fox and Eddie Murphy (who can forget that 80s hit 'my girl likes to party all the time'?). Beyonce's acting was surprisingly convincing, quite an improvement from the Pink Pather. But that Jennifer Hudson is THE SHOW STOPPER. She was no less than totally amazing. There is this one scene where she belts out a song that will make you tear up if not weep outright. I love a good Cinderella story. This movie is a Cinderella story within itself. You can't help but watch the movie and cheer for Jennifer the whole time thinking silently to yourself, "that's right Jennifer... show Simon Cowell he was wrong wrong wrong about you... you are a STAR! sing it girl". Seriously random fans, listen to me now and thank me later... go see this movie!!!

Notes on a scandal

Rating: BRAVO (rating scale)

Now I will forewarn you, this is a good movie but it aint for everyone. Trust me on that. The movie features a twisted plot of deciet, betrayal, obsession, deviance ala a Lifetime movie with a Mary Kay Laturneau-esque meets Single White Female storyline combined with the overlay of good ole British cheer. Sidebar: what is it about a british accent that just draws us yankees in? Anyway, I digress. This movie will have you openly gasp with a distinct combination of disgust and shock during some scenes. However, I recommend it for an afternoon movie because there is alot of dialogue to follow. If you have a penchant for high drama and scandal then this flick is certainly for you.

at the movies... butterrfly style..

that's right ramdon fans you got it. We will now be featuring movie reviews on your favorite blog site. So.. get familiar with the rating system.. and if you have any reviews of your own feel free to send them to me.

4 tier: rating system (from low to high)
PEE-YOU - Yeah .. as in it STANK...Never watch this movie.. not even if someone else is paying... not even when it shows up on cable.. did you hear me? NEVER!

eh -Matinee material at best, but you can definitely wait for the cable release on this... not pay per view.. premium station release.

BRAVO - Definitely worth the premium movie ticket plus popcorn and/or nachos. Quality entertainment! Good date movie.

CLASSIC - Not only should you pay for premium tickets and snacks, but you might feel compelled to pay to see it again in the theater not to mention buy the DVD when it comes out.

(CLICK HERE FOR RAMDON MOVIE REVIEWS)

Star Trek

Star Trek

Rating: CLASSIC (rating scale)

Seriously, I contend that this is the best movie I have seen all YEAR! The great thing is that you do not have to be a Trekkie to love it. I for one am a Trekkie not total geek show up to convention Trekkie, but well versed enough to get the inside jokes and references across the generations of star trek TV shows. The movie just gripes you within the first 45 seconds and you are hooked from there. I kid you not. Its exciting, its hilarious (like seriously laugh out loud tears in the corners of your eyes hilarious), its sentimental (a little romance and *gasp* bromance action).. its simply a classic; an absolutely, fantastic, well done movie that's well worth your precious dollar bills and time! I cannot endorse this movie enough!

District 9

Rating: eh (rating scale)

*sigh* where do I start? I really really wanted to LIKE this movie. I love sci-fi and I love history. The story line for this movie is presented as a documentary which makes it particularly more argumentably up my alley. But alas, I didn't love it. Truth be known, I didn't really like it all that much. District 9 was just ok to me. I know what you are thinking, the ratings are off the charts, everyone loves this film. Eh.. it just didn't do it for me. Maybe its because I was too quickly reminded up front how bad management decisions can have catasphrophic ramifications. This is no spoiler, but in the movie, the head dude selected to run the relocation program for the aliens, is only choosen for this very important role (and promotion) because his father in-law is a big wig that personally selected him. From there on in, gaffe after gaffe, stupid move after stupid move, I could only be brought back to the thought, 'see this is what happens when you put an incompetent clown in charge'. I guess in short, I felt completely annoyed throughout the flick... To make matters worse, the movie ended in a way that left this darn story WIDE open for a sequel. I'll wait for that one to hit cable.

Deja Vu

Rating: BRAVO (rating system)

Now I don't know much. But I know a good movie when I see one. This movie was awesome!!! Its a bit slow to start but pay attention the plot twists will leave you guessing. I personally liken the plot to Law & Order meets Back 2 the Future (specifically the 2nd in the the triology for plot complexity.) All in all very good date movie. Gives you plenty of stuff to talk about post movie. Go out and see it... I highly recommend this flick!

Bobby

Rating: BRAVO (rating sytem)

Okay.. first things first. I 'saw' this movie the other night, however I fell asleep after the first 40 minutes and woke up in time to see the last 20 minutes. Now, please understand, my blissful slumber is no reflection on how good or bad this movie is. If anything, its more of a reflection of the fact that I truly cannot be awake for more than 16 hours at a time on any given day. Okay, so all this aside, from what I saw of the movie I can confidently say that this was a quality film. Excellent story line, excellent acting, excellent cinematography. I wouldn't steer you wrong. Trust me on this.

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

Rating: CLASSIC (rating scale)

This was certainly the best harry potter movie yet. I do believe,however, you must be an ardent HP fan to really 'get' and appreciate the brilliance of this movie. Since I am one, this movie is a true CLASSIC to me. Absolutely fantastically done. *applause here*

The Proposal

Rating: BRAVO (rating scale)

Here's the thing, while I love chick lit, I'm not a big fan of chick flicks. But this movie was actually a cut above the typical chick flick and therefore is a great date movie. Sandra Bullock is hiliarious as ever and that Ryan Reynolds is total eye candy. Betty White is also a fun character in the cast. The premise of the movie, albeit quite absurd, really draws you in. In case you are unfamiliar, (no spoiler here) Sandra Bullock's character is a powerful publishing executive who is also a canadian citizen with pending US citizenship. Through an unfortunate, well kinda, mishap on her part, her citizenship application is denied and she is informed that she will deported. Which of course, is when she pulls in her assistant (Ryan Reynolds), who absolutely despises her, to marry her... I really enjoyed this film. I don't want to give it all away, so be sure to check it out when you get the chance. You won't be sorry.

Disturbia

rating BRAVO minus (rating scale)

Well the thing about this movie, you sort of know exactly what is up the whole time but the thrills, suspense and humour trump the predicable storyline. "The suspicious next door neighbor.. could he be *gulp* a serial killer???" The movie has a sort of a scooby doo mystery meets a high tech hardy boys/nancy drew kinda charm. Towards the end of the flick, I was waiting for the classic scooby doo line, "...and I would have gotten away with it ...if it weren't for those meddling kids!!!". But alas that didn't happen.

Seriously folks, this movie is surprisingly entertaining. Its not going to get an oscar ... well maybe a nomination or two for lighting and special effects. However, believe me when I tell you that Shia LeBeauf is going places, his acting is convincing and real. I enjoyed this flick. I think you will too. It doesn't rate quite on par with my true BRAVO picks.. hence the minus... but you will be entertained. Trust me. I wouldn't steer you wrong on this.

Oceans 13

rating: BRAVO (rating scale)

If you are looking to laugh outloud you certainly need to hit the theater immediately to see this movie. In terms of dialog and witty banter this movie beats 12 and dare I say 11 (the classic remake **gasp**). The thing about it is that there are no surprises, you kinda know what's going on the whole time. The plot has the same superthief 'we are 4 steps ahead of you' elements that makes those criminals so gosh darn loveable. But despite the fact that you completely know how the story will play out, since they tell it all to you up front, its a great movie. They replaced thrills and suspense with pure com-moe-dee! Trust the butterrfly, you will enjoy this flick.