Well, 'Devil' Isn't Too Bad, But It Ain't That Heavenly Either

Release Date: September 17, 2010

Starring: Chris Messina, Jenny O'Hara, Bokeem Woodbine, Bojana Novakovic, Geoffrey Arend, Jacob Vargas, Logan Marshall-Green

Director: John Erick Dowdle

Writer: M. Night Shyamalan (Story) and Brian Nelson (Screenplay)

MPAA Rating: Rated PG-13 for violence and disturbing images, thematic material and some language, including sexual references.

Trailer

Official Movie Website

I think, from my very first review in The Little Critic ('The Last Airbender') you can safely assume how disappointed I have been in M. Night recently. Either his films are just not what they used to be or they have always been like that and  it is just getting old now.

We all know his storytelling style almost always includes a twist in the end and there is nothing wrong with that, but it seems like he's been trying too hard with the twists lately. 'Devil' is not an exception to the twists-concept, but it is not exactly a bad or good thing.

I think it is worth saying that he did NOT direct 'Devil,' but wrote the story. 'Devil' is the first film of The Night Chronicles production company; this company plans to create more films based on supernatural tones in a modern society.

In 'Devil,' through seemingly random events, five strangers are brought together in an elevator and evidentally trapped as it comes to a sudden, complete stop.

This mere inconvience becomes a fight for their lives as they slowly realize that one of them is not who they appear to be; that the devil is among them...

The film is fairly short, about 80 minutes, and, as stated before, not a good or bad movie. Actors are believable as mediocre, random people, especially since most of them are random actors who I am not familar with. Exceptions for Chris Messina ('Julie and Julia') and Geoffrey Arend ('(500) Days of Summer')

I think there is a moral to be learned from this film that probably does not have to be there, but that is just how I feel about it.

If 'Devil' was a TV episode of a show similar to 'The Twilight Zone,' it would have translated well as there is not much you can do with the story (they ARE in an elevator, for Pete's sake), but it is still a good premise for a short one. I do not think 'Devil' stands out enough to be its own feature-length film.

So, to be blunt, it is a decent start for my faith to come back to M. Night Shyamalan. Despite its moral lesson of forgiveness, 'Devil' does not give me a good reason to forgive Night for the atrocity that is 'The Last Airbender' just yet. Perhaps the next few films he spews out will change my mind...or condemn him to the Devil for all eternity.

Rent worthy? Yeah, if you really must know what happened on the elevator, I'd just rent it. Don't shell out money in the theaters; shell it out in your nearest Blockbuster or have Netflix deliver it to you when 'Devil' becomes available. I already made that mistake of spending money, well actually, someone else did for me, and I'm grateful for that.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? Ha...no.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic

'The Children's Hour' Its Tale of Homophobia Still Rings Strong Today

Release Date: December 19, 1961

Starring: Audrey Hepburn, Shirley MacLaine, James Garner, Miriam Hopkins, Karen Balkin

Director: William Wyler

Writer: Lillian Hellman (Play and screen adaptation)

MPAA Rating: Not Rated

Part One of 'The Children's Hour'

'The Children's Hour' and its core topic is one that resonates into present society's issue of homosexuality and homophobia. This black and white, American film is based on a 1934 play of the same name and written by the same person, Lillian Hellman. There is also another version of 'The Children's Hour' from 1936 that is directed by the same director, William Wyler, called 'These Three.' That particular film removes all traces of a homosexual topics and instead focuses on a heterosexual love triangle, but the central theme of gossip remains largely the same as 'Hour.'

This story is based on actual events in Scotland involving two teachers. You can find the article here.
Martha Dobie (Shirley MacLaine) and Karen Wright (Audrey Hepburn) are former college classmates who now own a private school for girls, with some help from Martha's Aunt Lily (Miriam Hopkins). Karen has been engaged to Joe Cardin (James Garner) for two years and finally decided on a wedding date. Joe's relative, Mrs. Amelia Tilford (Fay Bainter), has her granddaughter, Mary (Karen Balkin) enrolled in Martha and Karen's school.

To be blunt, Mary is a bitch. Yeah, she is just a kid, but she is still a bratty bitch. She constantly behaves badly in school and is capable of manipulating her classmates and bullys them from time to time. Mary, the little bitch that she is, even goes as far as blackmailing one of her fellow classmates when she discovers that classmate stole another student's bracelet.

Throughout the whole film, I kept thinking "GOD! HER FACE IS SO PUNCHABLE!"

Mary is constantly punished by Martha and Karen for her bad behavior and decides one day that they've gone too far.
After seeing Martha and Karen involved in a small quarrel one night, Mary creates a lie loosely based on their confrontations. The girl tells her grandmother that she "saw" the teachers kissing one night.

Like some grandparents/parents of most children, Mrs. Tilford thinks Mary is the sweetest angel who can do no effin' wrong. She immediately informs all the parents and, as a result, each of the students are pulled out of the school. Martha and Karen are surprised and have no idea why so many parents have decided to stop letting their daughters go there.

They later find out about the accusations and are immediately peeved. They, along with Karen's fiance', go to confront Mrs. Tilford and even sue her for libel and slander.

Standing with their heads held high and reputations already tattered and torn, the two teachers struggle on with their lives.

I really enjoyed this film and I think it is a topic, two actually, that transcends smoothly into present society.

First, there's the issue of homophobia and how different (but not by much) it was back then to be thought of as gay. Even in the film business, there was a moment in time when you could not mention homosexual terms. That is why the first film version, 'These Three,' centers around a heterosexual love triangle instead of a accused lesbian affair. Even in 'Hour,' you never hear the word "lesbian" throughout the entire film.

Second, is the issue of gossip. We all love a little bit of gossip now and then. Whether it's "OMG! Did you see what Becky was wearing?" to "Wow, did you see that audition that girl did? I wanted to rip out her vocal chords and strangle her with them," we have come across gossip. None of us are innocent of gossip. You can say you've never stated any gossip before, but you have at least heard some. Have you ever thought just a little bit differently about someone (celebrity or acquiantance) after hearing something? Then you've been sucked in some gossip before.

While seemingly harmless, there are the kinds of gossip that can destroy a person, inside and out. 'Hour' is a great story about slander and dangerous assumptions.

All the actors did a great job, except the children, but this is around the era of the 'Leave It To Beaver' crap so, you tend to just ignore it. After seeing this movie, I would really love to work with this play one day. It's well-written and it is not the best play, but the topics of it are too strong to leave in a pile of dust.

Take some time for 'The Children's Hour.'

Rent worthy? If you can stand the speed of older films, I think this is a must-see. I know it is at Blockbuster because my older sister used her membership to rent it. We wanted an Audrey Hepburn film and I'm happy we chose this because it is not as well-known as say, 'My Fair Lady' or 'Breakfast at Tiffany's.' But, you don't have to rent it because I found the film on Youtube for you. I posted Part One in this entry and the rest of the parts are on the suggestion column to the right.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? It's not available on Blu-ray, but it doesn't really need to be since it is black and white. I would watch this again, but probably will not buy it on DVD.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic

'The Motorcycle Diaries:' Ernesto Guevara Before He Was Che

Release Date: (In Argentina as 'Diarios de motocicleta') July 29, 2004;(US/Sundance) January 15, 2004

Starring: Gael Garcia Bernal, Rodrigo de la Serna

Director: Walter Salles

MPAA Rating: Rated R for language

Trailer

Official Movie Website

Note: I am neither a lover or hater of Che Guevara. Do not assume anything about my political views; this entry is about a movie.

Everyone has come across the iconic image of Marxist Che Guevara at least once in their lifetime. Even if you do not know who he is or what he did, no doubt you've seen this image before.

Now ironically plastered over millions of merchandise

'The Motorcycle Diaries' does not focus on Che when he was Che. It focuses on him when he was simply 23-year-old Ernesto Guevara's ('Letters to Juliet's Gael Garcia Bernal) and his 1952 road trip with his best friend, Alberto Granado (Rodrigo de la Serna).

'Diaries' is adapted from the journal Ernesto wrote about that very journey and is also backed up by some passages from Back on the Road: A Journey Through Latin Ameria by Alberto, his friend.

Ernesto, only a semester away from finishing his medical degree, and Alberto decide to leave Buenos Aires and travel across the South American continent to do their medical residency at a leper colony in Peru.

The journey starts out as a typical college student road trip: just having some good old fun and letting out their strong desires for adventure. Yet, as the film unfolds, Ernesto's eyes are opened in ways that change him. His life's path is rewritten and encounters the inevitable split of the two friends' destinies.

I enjoyed 'Diaries' a lot. I think watching this film really opens up Che's perspective on life a lot more to those who watch it or read the journal.

I am, in all innocent honesty, not a big fan or opposer of the Che craze. I think it is because I've known so many people who have plastered his image on an item and use it to describe their own passive rebellion and not really understand exactly what he stood for. My point: Che was an anti-capitalist and now his image is strewn across millions of merchandise all for the profit of company owners...in other words, an anti-capitalist is paying for the capitalist's lunch right now. You see where I'm going with this?

If you see anyone with an image of Che anywhere on them, ask them about him and what he stands for. About 1 out of 7 people will answer you will a complete, correct answer. Okay, maybe 2.

But, forget about what Che stands for when you watch 'Diaries.' On a deeper level, this is about finding the path to one's life. Sometimes we take one road, occasionally with a friend, then life happens to the best of us. Things change, friends are separated, paths are split, we fall on the ground and pick ourselves up.

I liked the movie because I saw Ernesto Guevara as a human, not Che the Image. I was able to see how he got from Point A to Point B and why he became the way he did. Even my father, who is not a fan of Che's actions, likes this film. So, I think anyone with an open mind can appreciate 'Diaries.' The dialogue is good and the actors, director, and writers did a fantastic job bringing the story to life.

The music is also worth mentioning because it is absolutely beautiful. I love listening to a particular song when I feel like relaxing or when I am traveling. Gustavo Santaolalla's piece "De Usuahia a la Quiaca" is a very good song.

Rent worthy? Oh yeah, I think this is a movie to watch, especially for those who actually WANT to know who Che used to be. Sundance Film Institutes' founder, the great Robert Redford, produced this film and he is quite good at picking up potential in films.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? I do not think this is a movie I would watch over and over again constantly. I will see it again one day if I am in the mood since my father owns it. For myself though, I do not know if I want it enough.

Keep on watchin',

The Little Critic

'Repo! The Genetic Opera' Rocking Its Way Into Hearts..If It Doesn't Steal It First

Release Date (Limited): November 7, 2008

Starring: Alexa Vega, Paul Sorvino, Anthony Stewart Head, Paris Hilton, Sarah Brightman, Bill Moseley, Ogre, Terrence Zdunich

Director: Darren Lynn Bousman

MPAA Rating: Rated R for strong bloody violence and gore, language, some drug and sexual content

Trailer


Official Movie Website

I'm gonna say this right away: DO NOT SEE 2010'S 'REPO MEN' with Jude Law. The basic story is a complete rip-off of this film, 'Repo! The Genetic Opera.' While 'Opera' is a rock musical, 'Repo Men' is not, but the basic story is still very similar. Even the writer of the 'Opera' play (It's been a play for years before the film) has some complaints...Here's a video so you know just exactly how unfortunate this is for this film/play: Repo! The Genetic Opera vs. Repossession Mambo. I do not think 'Opera' will ever get credit though, but I may be wrong. Anyways!

'Repo!' is a 2008 rock musical set in a bleak future of a worldwide epidemic of organ failures. Fear not, for a biotech company, GeneCo, provides organ transplants for the public. Nothing comes for free, however, and those who cannot make their payments on time will face dire consequences.

For those in debt to GeneCo, they must face the Repo Man if they miss a deadline. If he finds them, their organs are repossessed and taken back to GeneCo. And no, there are no forms they have to fill out. The Repo Man will literally rip the said organs out.

Following the success of GeneCo, several people are now "addicted to the knife," or addicted to getting surgery, especially when the Zydrate drug allows them to feel absolutely no pain. Here's an epic song called 'Zydrate Anatomy' from 'Repo!' describing the drug. You'll hear the Graverobber (Terrence Zdunich; also the writer of the play), who sells the drug on the streets, Shilo Wallace ('Spy Kid's Alexa Vega), a 17-year-old with a rare blood disease, and Amber Sweet (Paris Hilton who is surprisingly good here), the daughter of GeneCo's president, Rotti Lardo (Paul Sorvino) and who is addicted to Zydrate and the knife.

I totally love the concept of this movie. I first heard about on Youtube and became curious at what 'Repo!' was. So I researched a bit and immediately LOVED the music. My favorites were 'Zydrate Anatomy' and 'We Started This Opera Shit.' Really catchy music.

The film is entirely a musical, meaning, EVERY WORD IS SUNG. The soundtrack to 'Repo!' only has the main songs, but, yes, the whole movie is sung. That may or may not irritate some people.

'Repo!' is bloody, theatrical, fun, and just damn weird, but in a good sense. It is now considered a cult classic with a VERY large fan-base. Even I want to dress up as bratty Amber Sweet for Halloween or whatever (seriously) and that is not normally my thing.

Personally, I'd like this costume.

Anyways, I've said before in my review of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' cult classics are generally different from mainstream cinema. So, if you mostly stick to mainstream films, skip this cause you probably won't like it. However, if you like the music I have provided in the links above, you may like the movie.

The soundtrack is awesome and the actors did great. Paris Hilton is surprisingly good here, so don't let her involvement in 'Repo!' persuade you to skip it.

Rent worthy? If you love movies that are different, rock musicals, cult classics, and/or gore, yeah, you may appreciate this film.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? It is out on both DVD and Blu-ray. Last time I checked, it is available on Amazon.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic

'(500) Days of Summer' Fills My Heart With the Season of Love

Release Date: Sundance: January 17, 2009
                         Wide: August 7, 2009

Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Zooey Deschanel, Chloe Moretz, Geoffrey Arend, Matthew Gray Gubler

Director: Marc Webb

MPAA Rating: Rated PG-13 for sexual material and language

Trailer

Official Movie Website

I have not met anyone who has told me they do not like '(500) Days of Summer.' I am sure the ones who do not like it are out there and if you are one of them, I would love to hear why, in all honesty. :)

The film proclaims in the beginning that "this is not a love story." I beg to differ! I think this is a story about love: Why? Because '500 Days' shows us exactly what a real relationship is, with no strings attached. The only thing that is very unrealistic is the wonderful, random dance number. Love is what we have in real life and it is already a beautiful, and yet messy thing. Why glamourize it in film? Show love for what love is.

Everyone who has had a relationship or been in love can connect to at least one point in the film.

Because of that, I can say this is a realistic, nitty-gritty love story.

'500 Days' follows the story of Tom Hansen (Joseph Gordon-Levitt of 'Inception;' my God, that man is sexy), a writer of greeting cards, and Summer Finn (Zooey Deschanel of 'Elf' and 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'), the new assistant to Tom's boss.

The film goes on a 500 day journey of Tom and Summer's relationship and its many trials and moments of happiness. Their tale is told in the nonlinear storyline, similar to Quentin Tarantino's 'Pulp Fiction' only with less syringes through the heart...well, I guess metaphorically, there are stabs at Tom's heart in '500 Days.'

I think I can connect to Tom's character the most. There are many things that he feels that I have felt in the past. There is a scene that is wonderfully done and I think is my favorite out of the entire film. We see Tom's expectations of a certain situation, but at the same time on the same screen, we see his true reality unfolding.

Everyone can relate to that scene; it does not even have to apply to a relationship. Have there ever been any moments where you keep thinking about a certain day or time and how great it will be...then you live that same day through and it is not what you wanted.

The actors all did wonderful. Absolutely wonderful. There is a chemistry not only with Deschanel and Gordon-Levitt, but also with Chloe Moretz (Tom's younger sister). Geoffrey Arend (who you can see in 'Devil' in theaters tomorrow) and Matthew Gray Gubler play McKenzie and Paul, Tom's best friends. When I watch it, I can actually believe that these men would be friends and I have heard people talk like them before.

This also puts Gordon-Levitt back on the spotlight in Hollywood. His early roles included '10 Things I Hate About You' opposite Heath Ledger, (his look-alike), 'Angels in the Outfield,' and the show '3rd Rock From the Sun.' For a while he's been pushed back from the media, but this film really put him out there. I'm glad it did, he is a wonderful actor and you can also see him in 'Inception.' Oh, and he is also very hot.

On a side note, I hope Christopher Nolan, the director of 'Inception' and 'The Dark Knight,' will use good ol' G-L for the role as The Joker...unfortunately, there are rumors that G-L is to play 'The Riddler' in the next Batman installment. Oh well, at least he might be in it. More news about that here.

Zooey Deschanel, God bless her. She seems like a very down-to-earth girl and a good actress. It seems like she never finds the spotlight, but the spotlight finds her. She is known for playing the blonde love interest in 'Elf' and for playing Dorothy in Syfy's own version of 'Wizard of Oz' titled 'Tin Man' (all 3 episodes are on instant play on Netflix).

All in all, I have nothing bad to say about '500 Days.' I cannot think of anything that I did not like about it. I think one thing it does is shove into people's face that this is what it is, but then it also shows, it will be okay.

I believe there are some relationships that can defy the kind that Tom and Summer shared. I do think they are out there, but it does not happen to all of us right away. It's just the way life is. But love is part of life, so many of us just keep on trying.

Rent worthy? YES! If you are a sucker for romantic films, I think you can appreciate this movie. Even if you are not, if you have ever had a messy and/or wonderful relationship or are in one now, please watch this if you have not yet.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? My sister bought it on DVD from Blockbuster (I'm sorry, Netflix!!!) a few months ago for me. I love it so much. I am keeping that DVD forever on my shelf. I think this is a film that will stand against time because the basic story is something people from every generation can connect to. So, if you ever have children and they become teens and they suffer from their first heartbreak or find their first love, I hope you show them this.

Random Trivia:
Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen are mentioned in '500 Days.' Don't know who they are? Sid Vicious was the bassist of the punk rock group, the Sex Pistols. He had a 23-month relationship with an American girl named Nancy and they did numerous drugs together on several occasions. One drugged-up night around October of 1978, Nancy had died from a single stab wound with a knife. Vicious claims to have found her on the floor after awakening. However, the knife that killed Nancy is owned by him and he even stated once that, "I stabbed her, but I didn't mean to kill her. I loved her, but she treated me like shit." He also changed his story to saying that he does not remember exactly what happened and that Nancy fell onto the knife. There is also a theory that Nancy was killed by drug dealers while Vicious was out cold. Here's something a little special that G-L and Deschanel did together with Marc Webb.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic
(22 down, 78 more to go until the end of the year)

'Daybreakers' Doesn't Suck Me In Like It Should

Release Date: January 8, 2010

Starring: Ethan Hawke, Sam Neill, Willem Dafoe, Claudia Karvan, Isabel Lucas, Michael Dorman

Director: Michael Spierig and Peter Spierig

MPAA Rating: Rated R for strong bloody violence, language, and brief nudity

Trailer

Official Movie Website

First, I just want to bring up that I have 21 reviews (including this one) up on my blog now. I am now on the personal goal of reaching 100 entries by the end of this year. I have 105 days, but with classes and exams going on at the same time...let's just say this will be interesting. So, I've set a goal; let's see if, I mean WHEN, I make it.

So, 'Daybreakers.'

It is 2019 and the world suffers a terrible food epidemic...of blood (insert dramatic music here). Vampires make up most of the population of the world. The remaining humans are either in hiding or held in storage facilities where their blood is collected.

The human supply is lowering and blood is now rationed out to the general public of the undead. Those who cannot afford the growing prices for blood or who are not getting enough are degenerating into wild, bat-like creatures known as subsiders. These subsiders start terrorizing neighborhoods and become another problem to deal with. Bat people sound lame, I know, but at least they don't sparkle.

Oh, God! KILL IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dr. Edward Dalton (Ethan Hawke of 'Gattaca' and 'Dead Poets Society) works for a corporation that specializes in capturing and storing the remaining "wild" humans. Kind of like Pokemon in the worst possible scenario. The company's head honcho, Charles Bromley (Sam Neill of 'Jurassic Park'), also has a research team looking for a way to create artificial blood.

Edward (yeah, I know; why couldn't they choose another name that does not make you think of 'Twilight') is not like most vampires though. He feels sympathetic towards the humans and has not had a drop of human blood for a long time; he is mostly living on animal blood (just like the other Edward!). He feels the artificial blood will help stop their suffering and continues with the research.

Edward later meets two humans, Audrey (Claudia Karvan), and 'Elvis' (Willem Dafoe of 'Spider-Man,' 'Finding Nemo,' 'The Boondock Saints'). Elvis is convinced that there is a better solution for the world: To cure vampirism. How does a random human know how to do that? Because Elvis was once a vampire himself, but not anymore.

Edward becomes intrigued, but there are a few roadblocks that he must face first, including his military brother, Frankie (Michael Dorman).

So, I am in love with the whole "blood shortage, vampires rule the world, oh-my-God-there's-not-enough-humans" idea. It's a good idea and must have been amazing to write. However, the movie seems to become lamer and lamer as it nears the end.

When I say lamer, I do not mean the visuals. The visuals are pretty cool, albeit overly gory. It's just the writing. I can't explain it, but the story just became "meh."

The actors are all good. Certainly not Oscar worthy, but they are decent enough for the kind of acting 'Daybreakers' needs.

I think the movie is just okay and the original ideas are, once again, great, but 'Daybreakers' began lacking in something near the end.

Rent worthy? Oh, yeah. I think it is worth watching once, especially if these kinds of movies are your thing. Good film to watch with friends, not with really young siblings/children. It is available through mail-order on Netflix. Not sure about instant play.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? I won't buy it. It's not a movie I can watch over and over again and enjoy it each time. First time is enough, thank you.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic

'Letters To Juliet' and Another Moment When I Don't Have a Witty Title

Theater Release Date: May 14, 2010

DVD Release Date: September 14, 2010

Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Vanessa Redgrave, Christopher Egan, Franco Nero, Gael García Bernal

Director: Gary Winick

MPAA Rating: PG for brief rude behavior, some language and incidental smoking

Trailer


Official Movie Website

I saw 'Letters to Juliet' a few weeks or so after it came out. My blog was not up and running at that time so I have never really talked about it until now. Now that it is coming out on DVD/Blu-Ray tomorrow, I shall review it.

I'd like to put it out there that I do not care for majority of the genre many people know as "Chick Flicks." I can watch all the classic Disney films AND sing-along with their catchy songs, and even then, most chick flicks are too much for me. It's weird because I am a romantic, but...

I can never connect to most main characters in other romantic films because it's almost always the same: Woman sees attractive man. Man stares back at her and gives her an accepting glance. Romantic feelings are immediately between them despite only seeing each other for a total of 5 seconds. They say hi and, in some cases, get a cup of coffee. They get together. They fight because of a misunderstanding. They make-up, make passionate love. Everyone is happy and gets what they want. There may be a marriage and a few kids in the end.

Umm, yeah. I've never had that "staring in awe" moment with a random, cute guy in my life...ever.

I dare any of the people reading this to just stop and stare when you see a random cute guy/girl. And I mean STARE. If they move left, follow them with your eyes. If they move out of sight, move where they are to get a better glimpse. Call me if that action did NOT inspire a weirded-out look from the person receiving your creeper gaze.

"I see we've made brief eye contact. That meaningful moment means I am yours FOREVER...Love you..darling."

But 'Juliet' is different, to me. It certainly is not the greatest film in the world, but it's not too bad either as far as romantic genres go. I think, despite my young age, I could connect with Claire (Vanessa Redgrave) and part of her story.

Now, don't get me wrong, the film has some wishful, corny moments too, but mostly with Sophie's (Amanda Seyfried) story.

Sophie, an American journalist, travels with her fiance', Victor (Gael Garcia Bernal), to Verona, Italy; the "home" of Shakespeare's literary character, Juliet Capulet. After wanting to explore alone, Sophie discovers a group of volunteers who call themselves "Juliet's secretaries."

These women respond to all letters left at a non-Facebook wall from people seeking romantic advice from Juliet.

Fascinated, Sophie offers to help out. She begins to collect the letters at the end of the day and discovers one from 1957 from a woman named Claire. Despite the old age, she responds back, not knowing what she just did.

A few days later, a young, rich Englishman, Charlie (Chris Egan), arrives and tell Sophie that his grandmother is Claire from the old letter and she is now in Verona and that it is entirely Sophie's fault.

Because of her response, Claire is now on a quest to find her old Italian lover that she has clearly not forgotton after many years. Problem is, there are hundreds of Lorenzo Bartolinis's in the area. Yet, that does not stop determined Claire.

Sophie decides to accompany Claire, much to bratty Charlie's disappointment. She does not only help Claire with her love story, but Sophie begins to reflect on her own with Victor as well.

So, in short, I liked it. I think it was because I could connect with things that Claire said. I do believe there can be love that never dies and that one will always wonder if a second chance is possible. Personally, I think that can happen only to the best of relationships and second chances do not work with just anyone you happened to go out with. I guess, in a way, I hoped it would happen to me.

Anyways, this is not exactly the best film and it's predictable, but I could connect with it for personal reasons. I hope, if you're interested, that you can connect with some of parts of it too. I think if you get that initial connection to 'Juliet,' you will like it. If not, then it'll just be a maybe.

Rent worthy? If you're a fan of romantic films, yes, it's worth watching. If you are a man, I recommend 'In Bruges,' which I have a review of below this one. If you're a man with a girlfriend/wife who wants to watch this, put up with it.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? Hmm, now that I think about it, I'm not sure if I want it. I like it, but I think it's one of those films I'll watch if it's on TV. I'm sure in another year or two, it will premiere on Lifetime or something. It is coming out in stores tomorrow.

Random Trivia: Vanessa Redgrave and Franco Nero are a couple in real life. They met on the set of the 1967 musical film 'Camelot.' Redgrave played Lady Guinevere while Nero played Lancelot. They had a child together in 1969 and separated for many years. They reunited and on December 31, 2006, they married. Second chances can happen.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic

'In Bruges' It's in Belgium, If You Didn't Know

Release Date (Limited): February 8, 2008

Starring: Colin Farrell, Ralph Fiennes, Brendan Gleeson, Clemence Posey

Director: Martin McDonagh

MPAA Rating: Rated R for strong bloody violence, persuasive language and some drug use.

Trailer (WARNING: Strong Language)

'In Bruges' is a dark comedy. Just bluntly stating, it's a dark-toned movie with comedy that is expressed through the quick-witted dialogue (depending on your taste or if you can understand their thick accents [SUBTITLES HELP! I SWEAR!]).

To put it out now, I like this movie. It didn't exactly click with me the first time I watched it...I actually did not watch the whole thing the first time. After some time, it grew on me. Something about the way their smart-assed talk made sense to me, like, this IS how the characters would really talk if they existed in real life. I'll talk more about it later.

Two hit-men, Ray (Colin Farrell) and Ken (Brendan Gleeson) are sent off to Bruges (it's in Belgium, by the way) by London mobster, Harry (Ralph Fiennes) for a cool-off after a hit gone wrong in a church.

Ken is delighted to go and eager to take on the sites of the most intact medieval city in Europe. Ray, however, rashly states: "Ken, I love Dublin. I grew up in Dublin. If I grew up on a farm, and was retarded, Bruges might impress me. But I didn't, so it doesn't."

Ken is (somewhat) patient with his younger partner and continues to take on an almost fatherly figure for Ray, despite his hatred for Bruges. Mobster Harry, with his strict role of principles, calls in on Ken and sends him certain special orders. Meanwhile, Ray meets a young woman, Chloe (Clemence Posey), and runs into a few instances with a midget, Canadians, Americans, and a certain man connected with Chloe.

Pretty much the basic story, without giving out too many details. Did I mention Bruges is in Belgium?

I love the lines and I love the way the actors said them. It is a dialogue-driven movie. If you do not listen to what they're saying, you won't get it. (Oh, and if you're viewing this on DVD, I beg you to use subtitles.) If you don't remember that these are hitmen who could care less for manners, you will feel appalled at the way they act. They kill people for money; I'm sure they don't give a crap for language.

Then again, even if you try to do both of these things, if it's not your taste in humor, it's not your taste in humor. Not your fault at all.

I have shown this film to a few people in the past. One person did not get it and did not give 'In Bruges' another thought. Another loved it and has stated it is one of his most favorite movies now.

Another thing: This is known as a dark/black comedy. These kinds of comedies rarely have a "everyone's happy, let's go get ice cream and sit under a rainbow" ending. Just putting that out there.

There are so many quotes I love from this film and too many to share. It's not exactly a family movie, so if you are going to watch it, be aware of the strong language.

Rent worthy? If you are into dark comedies and/or hitmen, I would recommend it. It's not one of those typical comedy movies that Hollywood spews out every month, so do not expect that from this.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? I own it. If you end up liking it enough, I'm sure you will, too. Not much difference with the special features on the DVD and Blu-ray discs, so I recommend just getting it on DVD.

Random Connection: What's 'In Bruges' have to do with the 'Harry Potter' films?
There are three actors in this film who also had prominent roles in the 'HP' series. Ralph Fiennes is well-known for portraying the villainous Voldemort; Brendan Gleeson played Mad-Eye Moody; Clemence Posey starred as Fleur Delacour in the 4th installment of 'HP.'

Where's Bruges?
It's in f*cking Belgium.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic

I Wanted To Hate It, But 'Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World'' Knocked Me Out With Awesomeness

Release Date: August 13, 2010 (USA)

Starring: Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Anna Kendrick, Ellen Wong, Mae Whitman, Brandon Routh, Chris Evans, Kieran Culkin

Director: Edgar Wright

MPAA Rating: PG-13 for stylized violence, sexual content, language, and drug references.

I'm gonna say this more than once, but: That was a pretty damn good movie.

'Scott Pilgrim' is a 2010 film based on the indie comic book 6-part series by Bryan Lee O'Malley.


Film 'Scott' has compiled/adapted/restraint all the 6 comic books into one major motion picture.

23-year-old, Canadian Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera, epitome of awkwardness) is the bassist in the band 'The Sex Bob-ombs,' lives with his gay roommate (Kieran Culkin, that 'Home Alone' kid's younger brother), and is dating a 17-year-old, Asian, Catholic school-girl, Knives Chau (Ellen Wong, who I apparently look like according to the friend I watched this with).

Before you scream "CREEPER!!!!" at the dating part, the relationship Scott shares with Knives is purely innocent, if not selfish on Scott's part. He has not recovered from the break-up with his last girlfriend, who dumped him after becoming successful with her own band.

A fateful encounter with Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead, from 'Sky High') suddenly turns his world around and Scott becomes convinced that she is perfect. He dumps Knives and pursues Ramona feverishly.

Like most women, Ramona comes with a little hefty baggage/work that the guy has to deal with...but unlike most of us, her baggage is a league of Seven Evil Ex's that Scott must fight if they must be together.

When I saw the trailer to this film, it looked really STUPID. On another note, I can't stand Michael Cera since he is always the same character for EVERY movie he does. Maybe that's not his fault, sometimes Hollywood typecasts actors.

With the case of 'Scott Pilgrim,' after viewing it, I've come to make an exception with this film. Cera is still an awkward man-child, but in the most bad-ass way possible.

My reaction after seeing 'Scott Pilgrim'

What I love about this whole premise is how everything is like a classic video game. For example, you have played at least ONE game where an enemy leaves behind coins. Well, that's pretty much what happens in Scott Pilgrim's world.

Accept it, it's wonderfully different and it amazes me that no one in movies has pulled it off (successfully) sooner.

There are many wonderful quirky moments that I can remember, such as an Indian man breaking into a Bollywood musical number.

This is a visual movie and it is fast paced enough to get to the point of the story. I've never read the comics, but I have to say, the film does a good job getting new people and fans into the world of Scott Pilgrim. I had a blast at the theater, despite two 30-something year olds making out in front of me throughout the film.

I don't know if any older generations will buy into it, but I do know some who have. It's probably not the couple that was in front of me since their lips were glued to each other's face.

All the actors did a good job and I have no complaints really. Kieran Culkin was pretty awesome here and I hope to see him in more movies.

So I hope you will go see it and give it a chance soon. It did not do so well at the box office, especially being up against 'The Expendables' and 'Eat, Pray, Love.' The trailers do not do the film justice and if you're a big fan of video games, young love stories, quirky and/or artsy films, or Michael Cera, this film may be for you. Go see it in theaters while it's still out because it won't be for very much longer.

Rent worthy? If you don't get a chance to see it in theaters, rent it when it is available. Like I said before, anyone who loves video games will LOVE all the references they have to the old school games.

DVD/Blu-ray worthy? I'm happy to say I would definitely watch this movie again. I cannot wait until it comes out.

Random Trivia: Mae Whitman, who appears in this movie, is famous for provided the voice of Katara on the animated series 'Avatar: The Last Airbender.' I'll let you guess who she plays..or you can Google it. Brandon Routh is most known for being "America's greatest hero" in 2006's 'Superman Returns.' Anna Kendrick is most known for 'Twilight' as one of Bella's normal friends (I don't know the name so...) And of course, Chris Evans, the Human Torch from those crappy 'Fantastic Four' movies.

Keep on watchin'

The Little Critic