I finally saw this move fourteen years after it's release. I'm beyond college age (very) and I laughed at this movie. This is one to just sit back, turn off your critical brain and enjoy the humor. It's stupid but funny, crude but clever. Once they started playing the song at the graduation party, I knew I would finish watching until the credits. It's simple entertainment - give it a try.
Reviews
15 Reviews
The Pacific
(2010)
This story is finally told in the right way
7 July 2018
The war in the Pacific was a hell of a lot different than the war in Europe. Of course both where terrible - full of death, sacrifice, and heroism. However, it seems the soldier's stories from the European theater have gotten a lot more press.
The US Marines in the Pacific lived like animals in the most horrible environments imaginable. On top of fighting an enemy committed to kill them at all cost and never surrender, they battled the mud, heat, malaria, near starvation, and isolation for months on end.
Basically, it was a total nightmare, and the heroism of all the US Marines in the Pacific theater is nothing short of awe inspiring. The Pacific tells this story well. It is a must see on the topic of WW2.
The US Marines in the Pacific lived like animals in the most horrible environments imaginable. On top of fighting an enemy committed to kill them at all cost and never surrender, they battled the mud, heat, malaria, near starvation, and isolation for months on end.
Basically, it was a total nightmare, and the heroism of all the US Marines in the Pacific theater is nothing short of awe inspiring. The Pacific tells this story well. It is a must see on the topic of WW2.
Star Trek: Discovery
(2017–2024)
Disappointed Trekkies? Go watch The Orville for your fix - I'm serious
25 September 2017
Warning: Spoilers
As a die hard Star Trek fan, I have to say that "The Orville" is closer to a Star Trek series than this. Seth McFarlane's show is a real surprise, and if you where to choose one, I'd recommend it over Discovery.
Here is my take on Discovery.
It's hard to pass judgment on a series after the pilot episode. Presumably, the cast isn't into their characters yet and neither is the audience. As I say in the title, go watch the pilot of TNG again and you'll see my point. TNG became very successful and popular but the opening few episodes are relatively disappointing in retrospect. That said, I wasn't too impressed with this. Here is my good and bad.
First the bad:
It is pay per view - you must subscribe to CBS all access to watch. Streaming is the way of the future, but this is yet another monthly bill just to have this show? From what I can tell, the service doesn't have much more to offer that isn't available in another subscription with CBS.
The story and characters seem very shallow and cliché. Again, it is the first episode but I went away without any real interest in episode 3. I subscribed to the free trail to watch the first two, already cancelled.
The Klingons look and sound ridiculous. They should have expanded on the look developed in the TNG/DS9/Voyager era - very cool.
There are a few overplayed social justice themes. This is a by product of Star Trek, but it seems a bit more obvious.
The good:
The CGI is outstanding! Maybe even best I've seen in any Star Trek.
Hey, it's a Star Trek series! I love the universe, but I'm satisfied to wait until this is free somewhere.
Here is my take on Discovery.
It's hard to pass judgment on a series after the pilot episode. Presumably, the cast isn't into their characters yet and neither is the audience. As I say in the title, go watch the pilot of TNG again and you'll see my point. TNG became very successful and popular but the opening few episodes are relatively disappointing in retrospect. That said, I wasn't too impressed with this. Here is my good and bad.
First the bad:
It is pay per view - you must subscribe to CBS all access to watch. Streaming is the way of the future, but this is yet another monthly bill just to have this show? From what I can tell, the service doesn't have much more to offer that isn't available in another subscription with CBS.
The story and characters seem very shallow and cliché. Again, it is the first episode but I went away without any real interest in episode 3. I subscribed to the free trail to watch the first two, already cancelled.
The Klingons look and sound ridiculous. They should have expanded on the look developed in the TNG/DS9/Voyager era - very cool.
There are a few overplayed social justice themes. This is a by product of Star Trek, but it seems a bit more obvious.
The good:
The CGI is outstanding! Maybe even best I've seen in any Star Trek.
Hey, it's a Star Trek series! I love the universe, but I'm satisfied to wait until this is free somewhere.
The Orville
(2017–2022)
I hope the audience is big enough
10 September 2017
The Orville is a show with potential. I liked how it didn't try too hard to be funny. In fact, it reminded me more of a Star Trek episode than Family Guy. I suspect there will be many comparisons to Galaxy Quest.
My concern is the audience. To appreciate this show, I think you need to be both a science fiction and crude humor fan. I'm one of these people, but I'm not sure if there are enough of us to support the production. Hopefully, we'll be seeing a lot more of The Orville.
Star Trek discovery was also released, and I have to say, this show comes closer to what I expect in a Star Trek series.
My concern is the audience. To appreciate this show, I think you need to be both a science fiction and crude humor fan. I'm one of these people, but I'm not sure if there are enough of us to support the production. Hopefully, we'll be seeing a lot more of The Orville.
Star Trek discovery was also released, and I have to say, this show comes closer to what I expect in a Star Trek series.
Unfinished Business
(I) (2015)
I laughed because I've been there!
18 June 2016
In my work and travels, I've experienced some variation of all of the goofball characters and difficult situations portrayed in Unfinished Business - it speaks to the business life well. For this reason, I'm giving it a higher score than I might have otherwise. Still, it has a 5.5 right now, and that is not accurate. This is actually a very entertaining movie with a good mix of comedy and mild drama.
Vince Vaughn character reminded me of myself. Trying balance work, family, and getting emotionally connected with individuals from both sides. The interesting part is the flaws that are so obvious in the people he supports, yet he believes in them and refuses to give up. I like that kind of message.
I found it funny, touching, and maybe just a little inspirational. Give it a chance - you can do a lot worse out there.
Vince Vaughn character reminded me of myself. Trying balance work, family, and getting emotionally connected with individuals from both sides. The interesting part is the flaws that are so obvious in the people he supports, yet he believes in them and refuses to give up. I like that kind of message.
I found it funny, touching, and maybe just a little inspirational. Give it a chance - you can do a lot worse out there.
The Magic of 1977 Star Wars Returns
31 December 2015
If you are a fan of Star Wars, and particularly if you grew up with it, this movie is just what you're looking for. It lives up to the hype. It is the movie we hoped for with the devastatingly disappointing "prequels".
Prior to seeing it, I read some negative reviews focused on the lack of originality, and how it's just a rehash of the old story - nonsense. My guess is these people are either not fans of the series or simply trying to be "opposite guy" to get attention. There is a nostalgic appeal in the film, but your not hit over the head with it.
It is very entertaining, visually stunning, funny, and even touching at times. Most of all, it is very "Star Wars". Yes, J.J. Abrams has successfully recaptured the magic of 1977. Not a small accomplishment in today's world. Don't miss out!
Prior to seeing it, I read some negative reviews focused on the lack of originality, and how it's just a rehash of the old story - nonsense. My guess is these people are either not fans of the series or simply trying to be "opposite guy" to get attention. There is a nostalgic appeal in the film, but your not hit over the head with it.
It is very entertaining, visually stunning, funny, and even touching at times. Most of all, it is very "Star Wars". Yes, J.J. Abrams has successfully recaptured the magic of 1977. Not a small accomplishment in today's world. Don't miss out!
Killing Jesus
(2015 TV Movie)
Excellent if you want to see the different perspectives
30 March 2015
After seeing this had a 4.5 rating after a few reviews, I felt compelled to even things up a bit. The negative reviews focus on the religious aspects of the story, and I don't think that's the point of this presentation. A 4.5 is not accurate - it is better than that by any measure.
I for one enjoyed the different perspectives; Jesus, the Romans, the Jewish leaders, and the Jewish Rabbis. National Geographic has an interactive tie in on their website that gives details.
If you're interested in the motivations of the different players outside of the religious, then I recommend. I found it somewhat inspiring, but I don't think this the focus of the film.
I for one enjoyed the different perspectives; Jesus, the Romans, the Jewish leaders, and the Jewish Rabbis. National Geographic has an interactive tie in on their website that gives details.
If you're interested in the motivations of the different players outside of the religious, then I recommend. I found it somewhat inspiring, but I don't think this the focus of the film.
The Interview
(II) (2014)
Dopey comedy - not the best, not the worst, but definitely the most hyped
24 February 2015
I give this move a charitable six. If you like mindless, crude comedy, you should check it out. You'll find some parts of it very funny. If you're looking for a really good movie that lives up to the hype, look elsewhere - this isn't it.
James Franco is awful for the most part, especially when he doesn't have Seth to play off of in a scene. This just isn't in his wheelhouse. Seth does what he does and will make you laugh. Without him, this would have been unwatchable.
Overall it is really stupid, but I recommend it if you don't mind shutting off your brain for ninety minutes to enjoy some pure silliness.
James Franco is awful for the most part, especially when he doesn't have Seth to play off of in a scene. This just isn't in his wheelhouse. Seth does what he does and will make you laugh. Without him, this would have been unwatchable.
Overall it is really stupid, but I recommend it if you don't mind shutting off your brain for ninety minutes to enjoy some pure silliness.
Lincoln
(2012)
Want to learn about the 13th amendment instead of Lincoln? Then this is for you
17 April 2013
Obviously this is a huge movie event, but I was disappointed. Here are my thoughts.
The good:
1. Daniel Day Lewis really looks like Lincoln, and from what I've read, acts somewhat like Lincoln. His performance is outstanding.
2. The production value is impressive - sets, costumes, etc.
3. I believe it gives an accurate portrayal of the legislative process. All of the negotiations and back room dealings are fascinating.
The not so good.
1. It is not really about Lincoln, but about the push for the 13th amendment. In this movie, Lincoln is more of a character in the story of this legislation. This is fine I guess, but not what I expected. I would have felt the same way if "Jaws" turned out to be an expose on shark cage construction.
2. It is difficult to follow. There are so many characters (mostly congressman) that appear nameless. The dialog seems accurate for the period, but there is a lot of it. At times, it seems to erode into random conversations. I sensed some ad libbing.
3. It is boring. Sure, Lewis looks a lot like Lincoln, and the set is nice, but there are long periods between any significant or powerful scenes.
As with most Spielberg efforts, this is an impressive production. Just don't plan to go away knowing any more about "Lincoln"
The good:
1. Daniel Day Lewis really looks like Lincoln, and from what I've read, acts somewhat like Lincoln. His performance is outstanding.
2. The production value is impressive - sets, costumes, etc.
3. I believe it gives an accurate portrayal of the legislative process. All of the negotiations and back room dealings are fascinating.
The not so good.
1. It is not really about Lincoln, but about the push for the 13th amendment. In this movie, Lincoln is more of a character in the story of this legislation. This is fine I guess, but not what I expected. I would have felt the same way if "Jaws" turned out to be an expose on shark cage construction.
2. It is difficult to follow. There are so many characters (mostly congressman) that appear nameless. The dialog seems accurate for the period, but there is a lot of it. At times, it seems to erode into random conversations. I sensed some ad libbing.
3. It is boring. Sure, Lewis looks a lot like Lincoln, and the set is nice, but there are long periods between any significant or powerful scenes.
As with most Spielberg efforts, this is an impressive production. Just don't plan to go away knowing any more about "Lincoln"
Wreck-It Ralph
(2012)
Very creative kids movie - but probably a bit "out there" for some
28 November 2012
Warning: Spoilers
Wreck-It Ralph is definitely appropriate for children and lovers of video games. It is exciting, colorful, and easy to follow. They even left out some of the usual adult oriented innuendo.
Parents may enjoy the nostalgia of the video arcades. It reminded me of when video games were simple, and my imagination ran wild with possible story lines and personalities of the characters.
The story is built around a parallel universe where video game characters exist and interact with one another - sorta Tron like. It is very creative, and overall I was very impressed. If you are looking for an entertaining movie for the family, you can't go wrong with this one.
Parents may enjoy the nostalgia of the video arcades. It reminded me of when video games were simple, and my imagination ran wild with possible story lines and personalities of the characters.
The story is built around a parallel universe where video game characters exist and interact with one another - sorta Tron like. It is very creative, and overall I was very impressed. If you are looking for an entertaining movie for the family, you can't go wrong with this one.
Red Dawn
(2012)
Not as memorable as the original, but fun (possible spoilers)
26 November 2012
Warning: Spoilers
I suspect the new version will not be remembered by this generation in the way the original is today.
The 1984 version was a better reflection of the times. The US and USSR were deep into the cold war, and both were focused on the eventual showdown. A lot of Americans were pretty sure a shooting war was coming, but didn't know what it would look like. Red Dawn (1984) gave us a scenario to ponder, and it was very intriguing. If you are too young to remember this it is difficult to explain, but it was a genuine concern.
The new version is the same story without the relevance. They tried, but the idea of North Korea invading the US seems absurd compared to the 1984 scenario. I heard the original plot had China as the aggressor. If they would have stuck with that, it may have come closer.
Bottom line:
The new is an entertaining action movie, but it fails to reflect any true fears of our time. The original did both.
The 1984 version was a better reflection of the times. The US and USSR were deep into the cold war, and both were focused on the eventual showdown. A lot of Americans were pretty sure a shooting war was coming, but didn't know what it would look like. Red Dawn (1984) gave us a scenario to ponder, and it was very intriguing. If you are too young to remember this it is difficult to explain, but it was a genuine concern.
The new version is the same story without the relevance. They tried, but the idea of North Korea invading the US seems absurd compared to the 1984 scenario. I heard the original plot had China as the aggressor. If they would have stuck with that, it may have come closer.
Bottom line:
The new is an entertaining action movie, but it fails to reflect any true fears of our time. The original did both.
Machete
(2010)
Very entertaining if you have a weird sense of humor
11 July 2011
Warning: Spoilers
This movie could have been billed as a comedy. Part of the appeal for me is it wasn't!
I remember it being sold as a serious, but ultra-violent movie aimed at making a statement. I think they even advertised it with the exotic sounding pronunciation of "Machete" to attract the "sophisticated movies" crowd. Well, the jokes on them! I have no doubt this was the intent.
What you'll experience is one hilarious, over the top scene after another. It gets more ridiculous as the movie progresses, and the final scene is priceless.
It is violent, but only in silly ways to show creative uses for stage blood.
Right before the end credits, there is a crazy advertisement for the sequels. I believe this was thrown in as a final joke, and to put an exclamation point on the spoof. It's perfect, and leaves you smiling.
People who liked "Airplane" or "Maniac Cop" will enjoy, people who didn't will probably hate it.
I remember it being sold as a serious, but ultra-violent movie aimed at making a statement. I think they even advertised it with the exotic sounding pronunciation of "Machete" to attract the "sophisticated movies" crowd. Well, the jokes on them! I have no doubt this was the intent.
What you'll experience is one hilarious, over the top scene after another. It gets more ridiculous as the movie progresses, and the final scene is priceless.
It is violent, but only in silly ways to show creative uses for stage blood.
Right before the end credits, there is a crazy advertisement for the sequels. I believe this was thrown in as a final joke, and to put an exclamation point on the spoof. It's perfect, and leaves you smiling.
People who liked "Airplane" or "Maniac Cop" will enjoy, people who didn't will probably hate it.
Resident Evil: Apocalypse
(2004)
Great sequel
10 June 2008
After I rented Extinction and watched it, I realized I had never seen Apocalypse OR Resident Evil. I bought them rather than renting them, and I was very pleased. The actors have truly outdone themselves, and the extras are really good. If you have played the games, this movie can help you to enjoy it more. I was just as equally shocked as my friends when we saw the THREE lickers rather than the one. And that Milla did all of her own stunts.......wow. BUT I thought Nemesis, and I thought it was a little cheesy, a little over done. His make up was very fake, and the lighting on him just wasn't sinister enough. other than that, he was fine. When the zombie guys came out from the ground, I was shocked. Yet again that is how the virus works. But still, imagine being in the only "safe" place, and having (classic) zombies coming up from the ground. Amazing
9/10
9/10
Patton
(1970)
Dated, but a true classic
2 November 2006
The first time I saw this film was about 1985, and back then, I would have given it a 10. Today, war films have advanced to the point that Patton seems dated to me. Nonetheless, this is a must see for anyone with an interest in WWII. Patton was the right man at the right time, but cool thing about this picture is how it honors Patton's accomplishments without completely glorifying him. He isn't portrayed as perfect by any means. Although he was a brilliant commander, his flaws are displayed throughout the picture in interactions with Omar Bradley. These two men had totally different views on war and there position as commanders. I believe the screenplay is based on a book by Omar Bradley, which makes it even more intriguing. If for nothing else, watch the opening sequence in which Patton addresses the graduates of West Point - it is one of the most memorable speeches in movie history.
Maybe the Best
7 June 2005
I was eleven when Star Wars hit the theaters in 1977. Growing up with Luke, Han, C3PO, R2, and Princess Leah made it hard to get into the new episodes.
I watched episodes I and II again to get up to speed for the Revenge of the Sith. Now, I've come enjoy all the new additions to the series, but this film is outstanding, and maybe the best of all! In Star Wars films I have always expected great effects coupled with cheesy dialog and forced acting. No longer. Sith is action packed, dark, and extremely well done! If you're a fan of the series, you'll love it. If you're not a fan, it won't matter and you'll probably not enjoy the film.
Go see it on the big screen!
I watched episodes I and II again to get up to speed for the Revenge of the Sith. Now, I've come enjoy all the new additions to the series, but this film is outstanding, and maybe the best of all! In Star Wars films I have always expected great effects coupled with cheesy dialog and forced acting. No longer. Sith is action packed, dark, and extremely well done! If you're a fan of the series, you'll love it. If you're not a fan, it won't matter and you'll probably not enjoy the film.
Go see it on the big screen!
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