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DVD Reviews => Movie Reviews => Topic started by: DSig on June 09, 2012, 10:16:28 PM

Title: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 09, 2012, 10:16:28 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I1/I14D62F8A83815B8Ef.jpg)      Aeon Flux (2005/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Karyn Kusama
Writing:Phil Hay (Writer), Matt Manfredi (1971) (Writer), Peter Chung (Original Characters By)
Length:93 min.
Video:Widescreen :1
Audio:
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Charlize Theron as Aeon Flux
Marton Csokas as Trevir Goodchild
Jonny Lee Miller as Oren Goodchild
Sophie Okonedo as Sithandra
Frances McDormand as Handler

Plot:
Æon Flux is a 2005 science fiction film directed by Karyn Kusama. The film is a loose adaptation of the animated science fiction television series of the same name, which was created by animator Peter Chung (who had a minor role in this film version of his work) and stars Charlize Theron as the title character. The film was released on December 2, 2005, by Paramount Pictures

In a post-apocalyptic future, after a virus in 2011 wiped out 99% of the Earth's population, all the survivors inhabit Bregna, a walled city-state, which is ruled by a congress of scientists. Although Bregna is idyllic, people are disappearing and everyone is having bad dreams. Æon Flux is a member of the 'Monicans', an underground rebel organization who communicate through telepathy-enabling technology and are led by The Handler. After a mission to destroy a surveillance station, Æon comes home to find her sister Una has been killed for supposedly being mistaken for a Monican. When Æon is sent on a mission to kill the government's leader, Trevor Goodchild, she discovers that both she and the Monicans are being manipulated by council members in a secret coup.

This discovery causes Æon to question the origin and destiny of everyone in Bregna; and in particular, her own personal connection to Trevor. It turns out that every person in Bregna is actually a clone, grown from recycled DNA. With the dead constantly being reborn into new individuals and still bearing partial memories of their previous lives, there has been an increase in the populace's troubling dreams. Recycling and cloning became necessary since the original virus antidote made humans infertile. Trevor's experiments, and of all his clone ancestors, have been trying to reverse the infertility. Æon learns that she is a clone of the original Trevor's wife, Katherine and is the first Katherine clone in over 400 years.

One of Trevor's experiments, Una, had been successful as she was pregnant. However, Oren Goodchild, Trevor's brother, had her killed and had Trevor's research destroyed so he could stay in power forever through his clones. In a confrontation with Trevor and Æon, Oren reveals that humanity itself has corrected the problem and that some women were becoming naturally pregnant. Oren had them all killed to maintain the Goodchild reign. Æon is now forced to go up against both her former allies, who want to kill Trevor, and Oren.

She manages to convince the other Monicans to ignore The Handler and help her instead to kill Oren and his men. Æon goes to destroy the facility where the cloning DNA is stored - The Relicle, a dirigible constantly floating in the sky. There she meets the old man who monitors everything. She also discovers he preserved her DNA for years, even though Oren ordered it to be destroyed so Katherine could not influence Trevor in any way. The dirigible crashes into the city wall breaking it down to reveal, for the first time in centuries, a lush and fertile land as opposed to the wasteland they were taught about.


Extras:


My Thoughts:
I like this movie.  It isn't rocket science, doesn't have the deep characterizations and it certainly can be 'lightweight' at times.  But it is just a fun movie to watch.  And what the heck .. watching Charlize Theron walk around in skin tight cloths isn't a bad thing either <g>

It doesn't follow the animated series but that is okay as it is complete on its own.

I do recommend this to anyone who likes good light 'post-apocalyptic' films.

Rating:

3of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 10, 2012, 10:08:48 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192937521f.jpg)     Battlestar Galactica: Season 2.0 (2005/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Studios Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:1. ScatteredMichael Rymer, 2. Valley of DarknessMichael Rymer, 3. FraggedSergio Mimica-Gezzan, 4. ResistanceAllan Kroeker, 5. The FarmRod Hardy, 6. Home, Part 1Sergio Mimica-Gezzan, 7. Home, Part 2Jeff Woolnough, 8. Final CutRobert Young, 9. Flight of the PhoenixMichael Nankin, 10. PegasusMichael Rymer
Writing:1. ScatteredBradley Thompson (Writer), David Weddle (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 2. Valley of DarknessBradley Thompson (Writer), David Weddle (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 3. FraggedDawn Prestwich (Writer), Nicole Yorkin (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 4. ResistanceToni Graphia (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 5. The FarmCarla Robinson (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 6. Home, Part 1David Eick (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 7. Home, Part 2David Eick (Writer), Ronald D. Moore (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 8. Final CutMark Verheiden (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 9. Flight of the PhoenixBradley Thompson (Writer), David Weddle (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 10. PegasusAnne Cofell Saunders (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By)
Length:442 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
1. ScatteredEdward James Olmos as William Adama
Mary McDonnell as Laura Roslin
Katee Sackhoff as Kara "Starbuck" Thrace
Jamie Bamber as Lee "Apollo" Adama

Plot:
Sci-fi's hottest TV series returns as Battlestar Galactica 2.0 blasts onto DVD in Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound. As the epic second season begins, the fight to save humanity rages on -- even as civil war looms within the fleet between the followers of President Roslin and Commander Adama. Relive all the intensity and excitement aboard the Galactica with a supernova of explosive bonus features, including deleted scenes and podcasts. It's a heart-pounding adventure you can't afford to miss!

Episodes:
1. Scattered
With Adama fighting for his life after being critically wounded and President Roslin sitting in the brig after finding herself on the losing side of a power struggle, it's up to Col. Tigh to lead the troops. With Galactica alone in space, Tigh is forced to make decisions that could put the ship and her crew in danger.

2. Valley of Darkness
When a computer virus causes a power loss onboard Galactica, Centurions seize the opportunity to take over the ship. Lee, in the brig with Roslin for being disloyal to his father, tries to persuade his captors to release them so they can defend the battlestar against the invading Cylons.

3. Fragged
The Quorum arrives to see President Roslin, but Tigh is hesitant to release her from the brig. Persuaded that her compromised mental state will result in more power for him, he relents with drastic consequences. Meanwhile, Lee heads a search-and-rescue mission on Kobol to find the lost crew.

4. Resistance
Tigh, whose decisions are now influenced by his ambitious wife and his drinking problems, institutes martial law, an act that divides the fleet. Meanwhile, Lee and Roslin break free and scheme to establish a democratic opposition.

5. The Farm
When Adama reassumes command of Galactica, his first order of business is finding Lee and Roslin, who have escaped with Tom Zarek. Meanwhile, Starbuck recovers in a hospital on Caprica and makes a shocking discovery.

6. Home (Part 1)
A third of the fleet follows Roslin back to orbit Kobol, but this rebel group suffers from infighting as Zarek and his security chief Meier go up against Lee. Roslin must trust the Cylon Sharon, who may be the link to finding the Tomb of Athena and the route to Earth.

7. Home (Part 2)
While Roslin and her group search for the Tomb of Athena, Zarek continues to plot against Lee. Meanwhile, Adama heads a mission to Kobol, where he finally tracks down Roslin's team, and Sharon has to decide between saving him - or shooting him all over again.

8. Final Cut
When Galactica's marines fire into a group of civilian protesters, damage control is required. But when Adama and Roslin invite reporter D'Anna Biers onboard and give her unlimited access to the ship, she discovers an astonishing secret that could affect them all.

9. Flight of the Phoenix
Chief Tyrol decides to build a new Viper from salvaged parts, a seemingly impossible task. Meanwhile, Galactica is hit by a crippling computer virus identified as a "Cylon logic bomb." Sharon, whose loyalties are still under suspicion, plays a key role in reversing the viral tables, allowing Galactica to avoid defeat from a Cylon assault.

10. Pegasus
Pegasus, a battlestar everyone thought had been destroyed, surprisingly reappears and its leader, Adm. Helena Cain, wastes no time in asserting her power. When Pegasus' chief interrogator uses strong-arm tactics on Sharon, Helo and Tyrol come to her aid and the interrogator is killed. Cain sentences them both to death, causing Adama to prepare his ship for battle.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Season 2.0 does not let up from where season 1 let off.
All of the episodes are very good.  The only thing i find off, that starts with season 2, is the amount of religiosity that comes into play.  It can become a bit strainned. 
The characters played by Edward James Olmos (William Adama), Mary McDonnel (Laura Roslin), Katee Sackhoff (Kara "Starbuck" Thrace, Jamie Bamber (Lee "Apollo" Adama), James Callis (Gaius Baltar) and Tricia Helfer (Number Six) are all written and played well.  It is good to find characters that you actually care about.

I would give the Season 2.0 a 4of5 stars

Rating: 4of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 10, 2012, 10:24:25 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396381575f.jpg)      Insidious (2011/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:James Wan
Writing:Leigh Whannell (Writer)
Length:103 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Patrick Wilson as Josh Lambert
Rose Byrne as Renai Lambert
Ty Simpkins as Dalton Lambert
Lin Shaye as Elise Rainier
Leigh Whannell as Specs

Plot:
From the makers of Paranormal Activity, INSIDIOUS is the terrifying story of a family who, shortly after moving, discovers that dark spirits have possessed their home and that their son has inexplicably fallen into a coma. Trying to escape the haunting and save their son, they move again only to realize that it was not their house that was haunted.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
This is a very good movie.  It is 'Poltergiest' on steroids .. with attittude.
I am very suprised that it is only PG-13 as the intensity is very good.  Although you can guess at the ending, you don't really see it coming.
This is a must watch for anyone who likes spooky movies

Rating: 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 10, 2012, 11:40:00 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192017926f.jpg)     Darkman: Widescreen (1990/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Home Video (United States)
Director:Sam Raimi
Writing:Sam Raimi (Story By), Chuck Pfarrer (Screenwriter), Sam Raimi (Screenwriter), Ivan Raimi (Screenwriter), Daniel Goldin (Screenwriter), Joshua Goldin (Screenwriter)
Length:95 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Liam Neeson as Peyton Westlake / Darkman
Frances McDormand as Julie Hastings
Colin Friels as Louis Strack Jr.
Larry Drake as Robert G. Durant
Nelson Mashita as Yakitito

Plot:
Dr. Peyton Westlake (Liam Neeson) is on the verge of realizing a major breakthrough in synthetic skin when a gang, led by the sadistic Robert G. Durant (Larry Drake), obliterates his laboratory.

Burned beyond recognition and altered by an experimental medical procedure, Westlake attempts to rebuild his laboratory and reestablish ties with his former girlfriend Julie (Frances McDormand). But his most challenging task lies within himself.

Torn between his desire to create a new life with Julie and his quest for revenge, the man known as Darkman begins to assume alternate identities in this stunning, fast-paced action thriller from director Sam Raimi.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
I really like this one.  Liam Neeson (Peyton Westlake/Darkman) is great as usual and Larry Drake (Robert G. Durant) is very good as the evil protagonist.  Frances McDormand (Julie Hastings) is good as her role as Paytons girlfriend.
Although this isn't a 4+ (lucky to be a 3) movie, the writing and directing/filming is very good and sets the mood.  It is, at heart a cheesy civilian turned hero movie.  Reminds visuals and writing reminds me of the old serials.

I would suggest this movie for anyone who likes a good time.  But I would leave it there and not look at the 2nd and 3rd movies in the series.  Liam Neeson did <G>

This is a 3.0

Rating:
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: samuelrichardscott on June 10, 2012, 11:41:27 PM
I haven't seen the Darkman movies since release. I need to check them out again.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Achim on June 11, 2012, 06:10:02 AM
The first Darkman is quite cheesy and the special effects are often not very good, but it's all in good fun. You can see the style Raimi created with Evil Dead and what would eventually evolve into Spider-Man...

I have never seen any of the sequels.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Dragonfire on June 11, 2012, 08:20:00 AM
It's been years since I saw Darkman.  I didn't even realize Raimi directed it.

I think I saw the second one at some point...maybe.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Tom on June 11, 2012, 07:45:43 PM
I had bought the trilogy in a cheap set.
I saw the first one, and didn't really like it. The second one, I also didn't really like. Didn't watch the third one yet, even though I am curious about it, because it has Roxann Dawson in a pre-Voyager role.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 12, 2012, 04:38:20 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/794043521027f.jpg)     The Cell: New Line Platinum Series (2000/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Tarsem Singh
Writing:Mark Protosevich (Writer)
Length:107 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Jennifer Lopez as Catharine Deane
Vince Vaughn as Peter Novak
Vincent D'Onofrio as Carl Stargher
Marianne Jean-Baptiste as Dr. Miriam Kent
Jake Weber as Gordon Ramsey

Plot:
In order to save a life, she'll have to risk her own.

JENNIFER LOPEZ ('Out of Sight', 'Selena') takes a terrifying journey into the mind of a killer in this chilling, critically acclaimed psychological thriller.

When a serial killer VINCENT D'ONOFRIO ('The Thirteenth Floor', 'Men in Black') falls into a coma before his last victim can be found, a child therapist (Lopez) must use an experimental treatment to enter his mind and learn his secrets before it is too late. The visually haunting world threatens her very existence when she beomes trapped by the terror inside.

Now, an FBI agent VINCE VAUGHN ('Swingers', 'Jurassic Park: The Lost World') must rescue her from the killer's nightmare mind before he too is lost to the twisted world forever.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
I haven't see this movie for quite a while, but it holds up well to what I remember. Jenifer Lopez is actually brilliant in this role. Lopez enters the dreams of children to help them recover from comas and dreams. The visuals are stunning. The writing seems tight in all situations. Vincent Vaughn play the role of an FBI agent well (and i am very happy to see him play something other than stupid roles). Vincent D'Onofrio is also great in his role as a serial killer. Very insane indeed.
I loved this movie when it first came out and I still love it. Very glad i got a copy of this.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good suspense movie with touches of fantasy. Think 'The Silence of the Lambs' meets '13 Monkeys' or '13 Ghosts'. Suspense and wierdness .. very enjoyable. 4of5

My Rating: 4/5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 12, 2012, 05:27:47 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391194569.19f.jpg)      Music and Lyrics: Widescreen Edition (2007/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (Canada (Quebec))
Director:Marc Lawrence
Writing:Marc Lawrence (Writer)
Length:104 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Hugh Grant as Alex Fletcher
Scott Porter as Colin Thompson
Nick Bacon as Pop Bass Player
Andrew Wyatt Blakemore as Pop Guitar Player
Dan McMillan as Pop Drummer

Plot:
First you're hot, then you're not...and then you're Alex Fletcher. So when the sizzlingest tween queen on the charts asks the has-been '80s pop sensation to write her a song, he grabs for another chance at stardom. Problem: Alex can say it with music, but he sure can't say it with words. Enter Sophie Fisher, his beguiling if quirky plant lady, who has an unexpected green thumb for lyrics. Together, they go after songwriting success – and discover that if you want to write the perfect love song, it helps to fall in love. With Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore at the keyboard and Marc Lawrence (Two Weeks Notice) directing, Music and Lyrics is a witty, wacky romantic comedy that faces the music...and laughs!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a very good romantic comedy.  The chemistry between Hugh Grant (Alex Fletcher) and Drew Barrymore (Sophie Fisher) is charming.  The writing remindes one of the movies of the 50's and 60's.
It is also nice to see the music bands of the '80s being punked.  Couldn't happen to a better period of music <G>

I recommend this movies for anyone who enjoys romantic comedies.  Sit on the couch, turn down the lights and cuddle with you favorite other.

Rating: 3.5of5

This is a very good romantic comedy.  The chemistry between Hugh Grant (Alex Fletcher) and Drew Barrymore (Sophie Fisher) is charming.  The writing remindes one of the movies of the 50's and 60's.
It is also nice to see the music bands of the '80s being punked.  Couldn't happen to a better period of music <G>

I recommend this movies for anyone who enjoys romantic comedies.  Sit on the couch, turn down the lights and cuddle with you favorite other.

I give this 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 12, 2012, 05:54:09 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543023920f.jpg)     Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:George Lucas
Writing:George Lucas (Writer)
Length:136 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn
Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi
Natalie Portman as Queen Amidala / Padmé
Jake Lloyd as Anakin Skywalker
Ian McDiarmid as Senator Palpatine

** Complete Plot (with spoilers)
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Okay, I know that I am going to take some hits for this one, but I do like the second trilogy for the Star Wars series (actually Star Wars 1-3).
I find the writing in line with the other Star War movies, maybe a little more thourough.
The graphics/special effects are very good and i love the characters.
I have never been sure about the romance that grows between  Queen Amidala (Natalie Portman) and Anakin Skywalker (played in this movie by Jake Lloyd but later by Hayden Christensen).  Seems a little dodgy to me <G>

Other than that IF people had never seen the first trilogy (Star Wars 4-6) then the reception of these would have been much greater.

If you just want a good action movie to watch this is a good pick

Rating: 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 12, 2012, 06:23:03 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936715781f.jpg)     Bridge to Terabithia: Widescreen (2007/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Buena Vista Home Entertainment, Walt Disney Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Gabor Csupo
Writing:Katherine Paterson (Original Material By), Jeff Stockwell (Screenwriter), David Paterson (Screenwriter)
Length:95 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Josh Hutcherson as Jess Aarons
Annasophia Robb as Leslie Burke
Zooey Deschanel as Ms. Edmunds
Robert Patrick (1958) as Jack Aarons
Bailee Madison as May Belle Aarons

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
This is a fun watch.  Jesse Aarons (Josh Hutcherson)Leslie Burke (AnnaSophia Robb) play well together in this growing of age fantasy film.  Over coming the hardships of family life and bullies at school the kids create their own world.  
This is a 'kids' movie so expecting 'What Dreams May Come' will just cause you to be disappointed.

I recommend this film for anyone just wanting to watch an enjoyable film for a hour and a half.

I rate this movie at 3.5of5.  Maybe a little high but i enjoy the movie as well as the book

Rating: 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 12, 2012, 06:33:57 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012569593374f.jpg)     Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: Widescreen Edition (2005/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Tim Burton
Writing:Roald Dahl (Original Material By), John August (Screenwriter)
Length:115 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), French: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), Spanish: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1)
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka
Freddie Highmore as Charlie Bucket
David Kelly (1929) as Grandpa Joe
Helena Bonham Carter as Mrs. Bucket
Noah Taylor as Mr. Bucket

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Johnny Depp (Willy Wonka) and Tim Burton (director) are at it again.  Another great collaboration with great writing, directing and characters. Freddie Highmore (Charlie Bucket, also of 'August Rush') plays Charlie very well.  The use of Deep Roy as ALL of the oompa oompas was a very clever trick.  Additonal cast of David Kelly (Grandpa), Helena Bonham Carter (Mrs Bucket) and Christoper Lee (Dr Wonka) as Willy's father was great casting choices.

IF you have see the original then you probably don't like this one.  It is a little edgy compared to the original movie.  But if you haven't see the original OR if you are able to come to this version with a clean slate .. you will find that it is a very good movie.

I recomment this to anyone who wants to watch a fun movie with some suttle grown up bits.

Rating: 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Dragonfire on June 12, 2012, 11:30:29 PM
I remember getting freaked out when I saw The Cell.  It was a lot better than I had expected.  I'll have to try to see it again sometime..it has been years since I saw it.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 13, 2012, 12:27:12 AM
Yes .. i think the direction, photography and artwork greatly enhances the script and great acting. 

Only other things I really like Lopez in as much is a movie called 'Enough' (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enough) and 'Angel Eyes' (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angel_Eyes_%28film%29).  She was fun in 'Wedding Planner' and 'Maid in Manhattan' but didn't think she was as strong in those.

And i think that Vincent D'Onofrio really pulled off the creepy psychotic serial killer.

I did give the film a 4of5 but on creep factor it would be a 10 <G>

DSig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: addicted2dvd on June 13, 2012, 01:33:29 AM
The Cell is another one I haven't watched in years! Another one I really don't even remember what it is about. I should pull out my copy again soon too.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 13, 2012, 04:23:25 AM
I would be interested in what you think of it.

Dsig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Achim on June 13, 2012, 06:26:25 AM
I have seen The Cell years ago as well and would really be interested in getting it on Blu-ray. If you like the visual style I would recommend getting The Fall (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5455.msg91590.html#msg91590) from the same director (also reviewed by Michael (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,6784.msg130167.html#msg130167)).

Marie also enjoyed his latest film Mirror, Mirror. I have not heard anything good about Immortals.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 13, 2012, 07:17:59 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/50/5039036005814.4f.jpg)     Stir of Echoes (1999/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (United Kingdom)
Director:David Koepp
Writing:Richard Matheson (Original Material By), David Koepp (Screenwriter)
Length:95 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Italian: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Italian
Stars:
Zachary David Cope as Jake
Kevin Bacon as Tom
Kathryn Erbe as Maggie
Illeana Douglas as Lisa
Kevin Dunn as Frank

Plot:
Tom Witzky (Kevin Bacon) is a blue-collar worker, a family man, the most ordinary guy you could meet... who is about to be plunged into a shattering encounter with another world.
After he is hypnotized at a neighbourhood party, Tom changes. He sees things he can't explain. As the horrific visions intensify, Tom realises they are echoes of a crime calling to be solved. But when his nightmares begin coming true, Tom wants out.
He desperately tries to rid himself of his eerie, unwanted powers - only to be seized by an irresistible compulsion to dig deeper and deeper into the mystery that is consuming his life. When at last he unearths the truth, it will draw him into the long-buried secret of a ghastly crime, a vengeful spirit... and the lethal price of laying the spirit to rest.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
It has been a while since I saw this movie .. and I still love it.  It is engrosing from the start and Kevin Bacon and  and Kathryn Erbe are great as parents of young Jake (Zachary David Cope) a child with 'the eye'.
The writing is sharp with little being left without connection.  Direction and filming is also very sharp.  I love the scenes and coloring.

I think this is one of Kevin Bacons better performances.  And Kathryn Erbe shows she can really act .. coming out from working behind Vincent D'Onofrio in 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent'.

This is overall a great suspense and supernatural movie.  I stongly recommend this movie to anyone who like the genre.


Rating: 4of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Dragonfire on June 13, 2012, 07:21:25 AM
Quote from: Achim on June 13, 2012, 06:26:25 AM
I have seen The Cell years ago as well and would really be interested in getting it on Blu-ray. If you like the visual style I would recommend getting The Fall (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5455.msg91590.html#msg91590) from the same director (also reviewed by Michael (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,6784.msg130167.html#msg130167)).

Marie also enjoyed his latest film Mirror, Mirror. I have not heard anything good about Immortals.

After I went and looked at the review, I remember being interested in The Fall..I'll have to try to remember to look for it.  I better add it to one of my lists.  lol

I thought the director's name was familiar, but I couldn't place it.  Completely forgot that he directed Mirror Mirror.  Very different sort of movie, though it also has some cool visuals.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 13, 2012, 05:17:58 PM
Quote from: Achim on June 13, 2012, 06:26:25 AM
I have seen The Cell years ago as well and would really be interested in getting it on Blu-ray. If you like the visual style I would recommend getting The Fall (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5455.msg91590.html#msg91590) from the same director (also reviewed by Michael (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,6784.msg130167.html#msg130167)).

Marie also enjoyed his latest film Mirror, Mirror. I have not heard anything good about Immortals.
Achim .. thanks for that.

I have not seen 'The Fall' but it is now on my list to find <G>

I really have no desire to see 'Mirror, Mirror' as I am not a Julia Roberts fan (with 'Pretty Woman' or 'Pelican Brief' being the only movies i enjoyed her in).  An I too have heard nothing good about 'Immortals'.

But thanks for the lead on 'The Fall'.

DSig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 13, 2012, 07:43:20 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616858979f.jpg)     The Lion in Winter: Vintage Classics (1968/United Kingdom)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)MGM Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Anthony Harvey
Writing:James Goldman (Screenwriter), James Goldman (Original Material By)
Length:134 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:French, Spanish
Stars:
Peter O'Toole as Henry II
Katharine Hepburn as Eleanor of Aquitaine
Anthony Hopkins as Richard
John Castle as Geoffrey
Nigel Terry as John

Plot:
Katharine Hepburn delivers an "amazing" (Variety), Oscar®-winning* performance "that must be seen to be believed" (BoxOffice) in this "dazzling" (Los Angeles Times) all-star film that is not to be missed.

Behind the great stone walls of an English castle, the world's most powerful empire is in crisis. Three sons struggle to win their father's favor – as well as his crown. King Henry II (Peter O'Toole) and his Queen, Eleanor (Hepburn), engage in a battle of royal wits that pits elder son Richard (Anthony Hopkins) against his brothers, while the cunning King Phillip of France (Timothy Dalton) takes advantage of the internal fracturing in his bid to destroy their kingdom.

*1968: Actress

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
If you are a high energy action fanatic with a need for adreneline then this might not be the movie for you. .. but ..

Starring ...
Peter O'Toole as King Henry II
Katharine Hepburn as Queen Eleanor
Anthony Hopkins (in his motion picture debut) as Richard
John Castle as Geoffrey
Nigel Terry as John
Timothy Dalton (In his motion picture debut) as King Philip II

This is a 'classic' movie in all the traditional meaning of the word.  What is isn't is historically accurate.  

With this being said .. this move is excellent.  I can not find a thing wrong with it.  The acting is brilliant with specal nod to Timothy Dalton and Anthony Hopkins who both had their debut in this movie.  The filming/photography and direction are great.

It can take a bit to get into the film, especially depending on what you have recently been watching .. but if you can take the time and shift the gears this movie is great entertainment by some of the halmark stars and performances of the last 50 years.

I highly recommend this film to anyone who loves the classics, period pieces or great actors/performances.

I give this a 4.5of5.  The only thing this is missing to make my unacheivable 5 is that it didn't break new ground.


Rating: 4.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 02:27:55 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/06/065935827221.19f.jpg)     Blade: Trinity (2004/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (Canada (Quebec))
Director:David S. Goyer
Writing:David S. Goyer (Original Material By), Marv Wolfman (Original Material By), Gene Colan (Original Material By)
Length:113 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: DTS ES: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Wesley Snipes as Blade
Kris Kristofferson as Whistler
Dominic Purcell as Drake
Jessica Biel as Abigail Whistler
Ryan Reynolds as Hannibal King

Plot:
The final battle begins and the trinity comes to an end! Blade is back and his enemies have grown in number since they resurrected their king, Dracula. Together with a new group of vampire hunters, called the Nightstalkers, led by Whistler's strong but beautiful daughter Abigail and the wise-cracking Hannibal, they must finally defeat the vampires or face inevitable extinction.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
While watching this, I have been trying to think what to say about this movie.
If you are familiar with the Blade series the all I can really say is that this is just more of the same.  They say that Practice Makes Perfect but from watching Wesley Snipes (Blade) performance I can only say that too much practice makes it look very phony.
This is the least favorite of the 3 Blade movies for me.  I like the acting of Jessica Biel (Abigail Whistler) .. it is fun and playful, and Ryan Reynolds (Hannibal King) .. wise cracking at his best.  But other than that this movie really doesn't hold anything for me.  Dominic Purcell (Drake) as the 'original' vampire is okay I guess.  I just couldn't get any feeling for the part.
Lots of action, there is a great bit where Abigail (Jessica Biel) is pretending to be a mother with a baby at a railroad station .. baiting the vampires .. and this is fun.  But other than that and a few other scenes it is the same cars, bikes and vampires turning to ash.
All in all, if this was the only Blade movie it would be a big SUCK.  But as the final installment ... well it doesn't suck quite so bad.

I would recommend that only Blade lovers watch this.

Rating: 2.5of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 02:33:42 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192983320f.jpg)      Battlestar Galactica: Season 2.5 (2005/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Studios Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:10. Pegasus: Extended EpisodeMichael Rymer, 11. Resurrection Ship: Part 1Michael Rymer, 12. Resurrection Ship: Part 2Michael Rymer, 13. EpiphaniesRod Hardy, 14. Black MarketJames Head, 15. ScarMichael Nankin, 16. SacrificeReynaldo Villalobos, 17. The Captain's HandSergio Mimica-Gezzan, 18. DownloadedJeff Woolnough, 19. Lay Down Your Burdens, Part 1Michael Rymer, 20. Lay Down Your Burdens, Part 2Michael Rymer
Writing:10. Pegasus: Extended EpisodeAnne Cofell Saunders (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 11. Resurrection Ship: Part 1Anne Cofell Saunders (Story By), Michael Rymer (Screenwriter), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 12. Resurrection Ship: Part 2Michael Rymer (Writer), Ronald D. Moore (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 13. EpiphaniesJoel Anderson Thompson (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 14. Black MarketMark Verheiden (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 15. ScarDavid Weddle (Writer), Bradley Thompson (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 16. SacrificeAnne Cofell Saunders (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 17. The Captain's HandJeff Vlaming (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 18. DownloadedBradley Thompson (Writer), David Weddle (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 19. Lay Down Your Burdens, Part 1Ronald D. Moore (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By), 20. Lay Down Your Burdens, Part 2Anne Cofell Saunders (Writer), Mark Verheiden (Writer), Glen A. Larson (Original Material By)
Length:521 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
10. Pegasus: Extended EpisodeEdward James Olmos as William Adama
Mary McDonnell as Laura Roslin
Katee Sackhoff as Kara "Starbuck" Thrace
Jamie Bamber as Lee "Apollo" Adama

Plot:
Rejoin Sci-Fi's most action-packed TV series as Battlestar Galactica 2.5 flies on to DVD in Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound. Featuring an extended version of the cliffhanger episode "Pegasus," this continuation of the epic second season follows the ongoing battle of President Laura Roslin (Mary McDonnell) and Commander William Adama (Edward James Olmos) in their heart-pounding crusade to save humanity from the deadly robot Cylons. Packed with special features, including deleted scenes, podcasts and Producer David Eick's video blog, Battlestar Galactica 2.5 is an explosive thrill-ride that's not to be missed!

Episode List
0. Pegasus: Extended Episode
PEGASUS: EXTENDED EPISODE
The Galactica crew is stunned to find the missing Pegasus unscathed after a vicious Cylon assault. Commander Adama cedes control to Pegasus's superior officer, but a disagreement over a murder verdict will have the ships turning their Viper weapons upon one another in a ruthless war of wills.

1. Resurrection Ship, Part 1
RESURRECTION SHIP: PART 1
When Lt. Starbuck uncovers recon on a deadly Cylon "Resurrection" ship, Galactica's Commander Adama and the Pegasus' Admiral Helena Cain form an uneasy and risky alliance in order to destroy this vital target.

2. Resurrection Ship, Part 2
RESURRECTION SHIP: PART 2
While the Battlestars engage in full-on battle with the Cylon "Resurrection" ship, orders are challenged within the Galactica brig and the Pegasus crew members ruthlessly attack their 'Galactica' prisoners.

3. Epiphanies
EPIPHANIES
Loyalties are tested when President Roslin issues controversial orders from her deathbed and a group of violent Cylon sympathizers find an unlikely ally among the Galactica crew.

4. Black Market
BLACK MARKET
A thriving black market economy threatens the personal safety of the fleet, but President Roslin's controversial quest to stop it leads to murder, kidnapping and a gripping standoff between a renegade freighter and chief investigator Lee Adama.

5. Scar
SCAR
When a devious Cylon Raider named Scar hinders the operations of a colonial mining ship by reportedly killing the war-weary Viper squadrons, Apollo and Starbuck must put aside their personal struggles to take on the warrior in a dangerous aerial dogfight.

6. Sacrifice
SACRIFICE
The Galactica's dependence on Sharon's enemy intelligence is put to the test when an embittered civilian takes some of the crew hostage in exchange for the Cylon she believes is duping them all.

7. The Captain's Hand
THE CAPTAIN'S HAND
Election tensions run high as the candidates debate fiercely over abortion issues, while the new crew of the Pegasus battles over the best way to handle a distress signal from two missing Vipers.

8. Downloaded
DOWNLOADED
Birth and rebirth affect the balance of power within the fleet as a human-Cylon hybrid is born on Galactica and reincarnated Number Six and Sharon are hailed as Heroes of the Cylon on Caprica.

9. Lay Down Your Burdens, Part 1
LAY DOWN YOUR BURDENS, PART 1
A daring discovery of a potentially habitable planet threatens President Roslin's winning edge in the election, while Starbuck's rescue mission to Caprica runs into unexpected dangers.

10. Lay Down Your Burdens, Part 2
LAY DOWN YOUR BURDENS, PART 2
The presidential election race intensifies as President Roslin must decide between fixing the vote or letting a suspected Cylon collaborator lead Galactica in an uncharted, and potentially deadly, new direction.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Once again this series shines.  From the writing to the new characters the depth of the stories work well on an episode by episode level (well except for the 2 partners) and well in the over all ARC of the story line.
For the first several episodes there is no real movement toward trying to find Earth.  This also means that the 'religiosity' is cut back to a degree.
But the complications of Adama and others starting to think more about and try to understand the Cylons brings in new issues.  What is humanity?  How can a flesh and blood Cylon be?

This is another must have.  I don't think there is one episode here that wasn't at least good .. with most being great.

Rating: 4of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 05:33:58 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I5/I59E3B337B022B8C3f.jpg)     Major League: Back to the Minors (1998/)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:John Warren
Writing:John Warren (Writer), David S. Ward (Original Characters By)
Length:100 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Scott Bakula as Gus Cantrell
Corbin Bernsen as Roger Dorn
Dennis Haysbert as Pedro Cerrano
Takaaki Ishibashi as Taka Tanaka
Jensen Daggett as Maggie Reynolds

Plot:
What do you do if you're the new manager of the minor-league team called the Buzz? Pray for rain!

Instead, Gus Cantrell (Scott Bakula) turns his team from a laughingstock to the equivalent of blue-chip stocks in this third 'Major League' comedy reuniting five series stalwarts, including wisecracking play-by-play man Bob Uecker. Cantrell has his work cut out. The catcher is living proof why the chest protector and other protective gear are called "the tools of ignorance." The ace pitcher should earn frequent-flyer miles for the fastballs opposing batters sock into orbit. The double-play combo's motto should be "to error is human." The star slugger is a legend in his own mind. They play on diamonds. They work for peanuts. Batter up!

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
This is the third (and i hope final) installment of the 'Major League' franchise.  Corbin Bernsen (Roger Dorn) reprises his roll for the third time (though now win the Twins) and Dennis Haysbert (Pedro Cerrano)  reprises his roll for the third time.  Eric Bruskotter (Rube Baker) and Takaaki Ishibashi (Taka Tanaka) reprise their roles from 'Major League II'.

Walton Goggins (Downtown Anderson) currently of the AMC TV series 'Justified' and formerly from the TNT TV series 'The Shield' is good in his role as a rookie with a great hit on fastballs and not so good on the old outside pitch.

This is just a fun movie.  The comedy is middle of the road with nothing in the writing to really make it stand out.  The actors probably have done as well as they can with the material they had.

Although i only give it 2.5of5 i do recommend it to people who like baseball movies and comedies.

Just watch and enjoy.

Rating: 2.5of5

Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 07:01:45 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I9/I934691A2D0A8D035f.jpg)     Major League II (1994/)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:David S. Ward
Writing:R. J. Stewart (Screenwriter), R. J. Stewart (Story By), Tom S. Parker (Story By), Jim Jennewein (Story By), David S. Ward (Original Characters By)
Length:105 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Charlie Sheen as Rick Vaughn
Tom Berenger as Jake Taylor
Corbin Bernsen as Roger Dorn
Dennis Haysbert as Pedro Cerrano
James Gammon as Lou Brown

Plot:
They're back -- and better than ever! The diehard Cleveland Indians who went from worst to first now cope with fame and its perks as the team tries to hit, hustle and joke its way back to the top.

Reckless thrower Rick "Wild Thing" Vaughn (Charlie Sheen), catcher Jake Taylor (Tom Berenger), self-absorbing infielder Roger Dorn (Corbin Bernsen), slugger Pedro Cerrano (Dennis Haysbert) and more are in for a whole new ballgame in this hilarious sequel. Harry Doyle (Bob Uecker) is back in the booth with colorful play-by-ply, team owner Rachel Phelps (Margaret Whitton) schemes to the hilt and Randy Quaid joins the lineup as a marvelously motor-mouthed bleacher bum. 'Major League II' is major fun!

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
This is the second installment of the 'Major League' franchise.  Charlie Sheen (Rick 'Wild Thing' Vaughn), Tom Berenger (Jake Taylor), Corbin Bernsen (Roger Dorn), James Gammon (Lou Brown)  and Dennis Haysbert (Pedro Cerrano)  reprise their rolls for the second time.  Wesley Snipes, now being a mega star, wouldn't reprise his roll as Willie Mays Hayes so that part was played by Omar Epps.

Eric Bruskotter (Rube Baker) and Takaaki Ishibashi (Taka Tanaka) start new rolls which will carry them to 'Major League III Back to the Minors'.

This installment is inline with the first movie 'Major League'.  The humor is simple and fund.  Acting is generally good.

Although i only give it 2.5of5 i do recommend it to people who like baseball movies and comedies.

Just watch and enjoy.

Rating: 2.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 05:24:15 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396107120f.jpg)     Bad Boys: Special Edition (1995/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:Michael Bay
Writing:George Gallo (Story By), Michael Barrie (Screenwriter), Jim Mulholland (Screenwriter), Doug Richardson (Screenwriter)
Length:119 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Music Only: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Martin Lawrence as Det. Marcus Burnett
Will Smith as Det. Mike Lowrey
Téa Leoni as Julie Mott
Tchéky Karyo as Fouchet
Joe Pantoliano as Captain Conrad Howard
Emmanuel Xuereb as Eddie Dominguez
Nestor Serrano as Detective Sanchez
Julio Oscar Mechoso as Detective Ruiz

Plot:
From director Michael Bay (THE ROCK, ARMAGEDDON) and the production team of Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer (BEVERLY HILLS COP, TOP GUN) comes a thrill ride of explosive action from beginning to end.

Will Smith and Martin Lawrence team up as partners in crime, crime-fighting that is, in this action-packed flick about a couple of good guys who are real BAD BOYS!

One hundred million dollars worth of confiscated heroin has just been jacked from police custody. Once the career bust of Detectives Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence), the missing drugs now threaten to shut down the narcotics division of the Miami Police Department.

When the drug investigation turns deadly, the murderers kidnap the only witness – a beautiful police informant (Téa Leoni) and close friend of The Boys – and things get personal! Fast cars, a gorgeous woman and non-stop action make BAD BOYS a guaranteed good time!

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
This movie, 'Bad Boys' (1995) staring Will Smith (Mike Lowrey), Martin Lawrence (Marcus Burnett) and Tea Leoni (Julie Mott), is a fast pace action-comedy following in the footsteps of great buddy-cop movies like the 'Lethal Weapon' franchise and would find Smith and Lawrence in a follow up film 'Bad Boys II' in 2003.  This was the directorial debut for director Michael Bay.

The chemistry between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence seemed to be very good.  It is reported by Michael Bay, in the comentary for the movie, that alot of the 'back and forth' between Smith and Lawrence was actually adlibed as Bay was very unhappy with the script.

This is a good cop-buddy movie.  The action is good (lots of stuff blowing up and lots of car chases) though predictable.  Although there is nothing new in this movie, if you like Smith and/or Lawrence it is a fun watch.  There are worst ways to waste two hours.

If you like buddy-cop movies with lots of action (read car chases and things blowing up) then this will work for you.

I give this a 3of5 stars



Rating: 3of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 05:59:56 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396309135f.jpg)     The Maiden Heist (2009/United States)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Peter Hewitt
Writing:Michael LeSieur (Original Material By)
Length:90 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Christopher Walken as Roger Barlow
Joseph McKenna as Lead Villain
Wynn Everett as Docent
Patricia B. Till as Rude Museum Patron
Marcia Gay Harden as Rose Barlow

Plot:
It was a stroke of genius. But now the perfect crime is turning into a perfect disaster in this madcap comedy featuring Academy Award winners Morgan Freeman (Best Supporting Actor, Million Dollar Baby, 2004), Christopher Walken (Best Supporting Actor, The Deer Hunter, 1978), Marcia Gay Harden (Best Supporting Actress, Pollock, 2000) and Academy Award nominee William H. Macy (Best Supporting Actor, Fargo, 1996).

Charles, Roger and George are the very picture of honest security guards. But when they learn their favorite artworks are being sent to another museum, they concoct a plan to switch the real masterpieces with fakes. All goes well until a mistake forces these first-time thieves into a last-minute escapade in the comedy caper that proves you're never too old to have some new fun.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
'The Maiden Heist' stars Christopher Walken (Roger Barlow), Morgan Freeman (Charles), William H. Macy (George McLendon) and Marcia Gay Harden (Rose Barlow, Rogers wife).

This movie is superb.  It is one of those movie who for me is a must watch if I am just cruising the channels and I happen upon it.  Like 'Secondhand Lions', 'Cookies Fortune' or most things with Reese Witherspoon in it.

The acting, direction and artwork all work seamlessly to create a great feeling.  Walken, Freeman and Macy .. what can i say about these 3.  They have been in so many different movies and have received or nominated for so many awards .. the is really not much left that can be said.  I find them flawless in this movie.

I would simply say that this movie is for anyone who likes a great ensemble cast, good action and a touch of comedy.

Rating 4of5 stars

Rating: 4of5 stars

Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: samuelrichardscott on June 14, 2012, 07:31:58 PM
Thanks for bringing up The Maiden Heist. It's been under my radar and I'm a big fan of William H. Macy.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 10:50:08 PM
Quote from: samuelrichardscott on June 14, 2012, 07:31:58 PM
Thanks for bringing up The Maiden Heist. It's been under my radar and I'm a big fan of William H. Macy.
My pleasure ... I just say 'em as i watch 'em <G>.  William H. Macy was great in this .. just a quirky as his roll in 'Fargo'.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 14, 2012, 10:50:44 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/05/053939751024f.jpg)     Fort Apache (1948/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0040369) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Apache_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:John Ford
Writing:Frank S. Nugent (Screenwriter), James Warner Bellah (Original Material By)
Length:128 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
John Wayne as Captain Kirby York
Henry Fonda as Lieutenant Colonel Owen Thursday
Shirley Temple as Philadelphia Thursday
Pedro Armendariz as Sergeant Beaufort
Ward Bond as Sergeant-Major Michael O'Rourke

Plot:
The soldiers at Fort Apache may disagree with the tactics of their glory-seeking new commander. But to a man, they're duty-bound to obey - even when it means almost certain disaster.

John Wayne, Henry Fonda and many familiar supporting players from master director John Ford's "stock company" saddle up for the first film in the director's famed cavalry trilogy (She Wore a Yellow Ribbon and Rio Grande are the others). Roughhouse camaraderie, sentimental vignettes of frontier life, massive action sequences staged in Monument Valley - all are part of Fort Apache. So is Ford's exploration of the West's darker side. Themes of justice, heroism and honor that Ford would revisit in later Westerns are given rein in this moving, thought-provoking film that, even as it salutes a legend, gives reasons to question it.

** Complete Plot from Wikipedia**
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Fort Apache' (1948) is the first in a trilogy of films by the great John Ford.  It is followed by 'She Wore a Yellow Ribbon' (1949) and then 'Rio Grande' (1950).
Staring John Wayne (Capt. Kirby York), Henry Fonda (Lt. Col. Owen Thursday), Ward Bond (Sgt. Major Michael O'Rourke), Shirley Temple (Miss Philadelphia Thursday) and John Agar (Lt. Michael Shannon "Mickey" O'Rourke).  With a good supporting case of Dick Foran (Sgt. Quincannon), Pedro Armendáriz (Sgt. Beaufort) and Miguel Inclan (Cochise).  With this group the acting is very good.  The writing is good and wears well, even for a 'Cowboys and Indians' movie of the late '40s.

Being show in Monument Valley, Utah becomes a trait of John Ford and many who came after him.  It becomes the face of the West for much of the world.  The cinematography is very nice.

I still like this movie.  It isn't as edgy as 'The Searchers' (1956 also John Wayne and John Ford) but it is good.

A fun watch i suggest this to anyone who likes good westerns of the '40/50s.

Rating: 3.5of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 15, 2012, 05:55:16 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929157532f.jpg)     Rio Bravo (1959/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0053221) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rio_Bravo_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Howard Hawks
Writing:
Length:141 min.
Video:Widescreen :1
Audio:
Subtitles:
Stars:
John Wayne as John T. Chance
Dean Martin as Dude
Ricky Nelson as Colorado Ryan
Angie Dickinson as Features
Walter Brennan as Stumpy

Plot:
On one side is an army of gunmen dead-set on springing a murderous cohort from jail. On the other is Sheriff John T. Chance (John Wayne) and his two deputies: one a recovering drunkard (Dean Martin), the other a crippled codger (Walter Brennan). Also in their ragtag ranks are an unseasoned, trigger-happy youth (Ricky Nelson) and a woman with a past (Angie Dickinson) - and her eye on Chance. Director Howard Hawks lifted the Western to new heights with Red River. Capturing the legendary West with a stellar cast in peak form, he does it again here.

** Complete Plot from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Rio Bravo (1959), El Dorado (1966) and Rio Lobo are 3 films by Howard Hawks and staring John Wayne. This movie, 'Rio Bravo' specifically stars John Wayne (Sheriff John T. Chance), Dean Martin (Dude ('Borrachón')), Ricky Nelson (Colorado Ryan), Angie Dickinson (Feathers) , Walter Brennan (Stumpy), John Russell (Nathan Burdette), Pedro Gonzalez-Gonzalez (Carlos Robante), Estelita Rodriguez (Consuela Robante) and Claude Akins (Joe Burdette). With a short part by Ward Bond (Pat Wheeler). All good and standard actors in westerns. I think this is one of Howard Hawks better movies. John Wayne is very good in this and as always Walter Brennen is a hoot to watch. I strongly recommend this to anyone who likes the western genre. Good action and better than average writing. I give this 3.5 of 5 stars John Russell (Nathan Burdette), Pedro Gonzalez-Gonzalez (Carlos Robante), Estelita Rodriguez (Consuela Robante) and Claude Akins (Joe Burdette)

Rating: 3.5of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 16, 2012, 05:54:21 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391163015f.jpg)     Beetlejuice (1988/United States)
IMDB (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094721/) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beetlejuice/)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Tim Burton
Writing:Michael McDowell (Original Material By), Larry Wilson (Original Material By), Michael McDowell (Screenwriter), Warren Skaaren (Screenwriter)
Length:92 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Music Only: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Alec Baldwin as Adam
Geena Davis as Barbara
Annie McEnroe as Jane Butterfield
Maurice Page as Ernie
Hugo Stanger as Old Bill

Plot:
What's a yuppie ghost couple (Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis) to do when their quaint New England home is overrun by trendy New Yorkers? Hire a freelance "bio-exorcist" to spook the intruders, of course.

As directed by Tim Burton, Michael "Keaton's Beetlejuice is one of the biggest, baddest wolves a ghost movie has ever unleashed, a polter-gas" (The Village Voice). Keaton's work in this and Clean and Sober won him 1988's National Society of Film Critics Best Actor Award. Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara, Jeffrey Jones and Sylvia Sidney share starring honors along with wondrous production design, Harry Belafonte soundtrack tunes and Oscar®-winning Best Makeup. Exorcise your right to a hilarious Day-O!

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:

Beetlejuice (1988) stars Alec Baldwin (Adam Maitland), Geena Davis (Barbara Maitland), Michael Keaton (Betelgeuse), Winona Ryder (Lydia Deetz), Catherine O'Hara (Delia Deetz) and Jeffrey Jones (Charles Deetz) also with Glenn Shadix (Otho), Sylvia Sidney (Juno) and cameos by Robert Goelet (Maxie Dean), Dick Cavett (Bernard).

I love this film. Being only the second BIG film directed by Tim Burton (first being "Pee-Wee's Big Adventure") this film show the quirky nature that we would become accustomed to with Tim Burton and his vision.

For Michael Keaton, 6 years after his break through performance as Bill Blazejowski in 'Night Shift' and following several other great films ('Mr. Mom' (1983) and 'Gung Ho' (1986)) and just a year from another great performance in 'Batman' (1989) we find him here in 'Beetlejuice', a role that must have been made just for him.

For Alex Baldwin, his first movie was in the previous year 'Forever, Lulu' (1987). But in 1988 he would be in four films including 'She's Having a Baby', 'Beetlejuice', 'Married to the Mob', 'Working Girl' and 'Talk Radio'. This was his biggest role that year. 1990 would see his breakout role as Jack Ryan in 'The Hunt for Red October'.

For Geena Davis this was also her largest role following on the heels of 'The Fly' (1986). In 1988 she was to star in 3 films, 'Beetlejuice', the cult classic 'Earth Girls Are Easy' and 'The Accidental Tourist' for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

For Winona Ryder this is her third role with the previous ones being in 'Lucas' (1986), 'Square Dance' (1987). Also in 1988 she was in '1969' and 'Heathers'

This film is a great comedy which happens in the supernatural realm. The sets and direction are excellent and the acting is very good. I recommend this film to everyone. This is a great laugh. Rated 4of5 stars

Rating: 4of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 16, 2012, 06:22:18 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396523173f.jpg)     In the Line of Fire: Special Edition (1993/United States)
IMDB (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107206/) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_the_Line_of_Fire/)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:Wolfgang Petersen
Writing:Jeff Maguire (Writer)
Length:128 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Clint Eastwood as Frank Horrigan
John Malkovich as Mitch Leary
Rene Russo as Lilly Raines
Dylan McDermott as Al D'Andrea
Gary Cole as Bill Watts

Plot:
A gripping, gut-wrenching thriller that delivers suspense in almost unbearable doses, IN THE LINE OF FIRE showcases Clint Eastwood at his finest.

In a performance that won universal acclaim, Clint Eastwood stars as Frank Horrigan, a veteran Secret Service agent haunted by his failure to protect JFK from assassination. Thirty years later, he gets a chance to redeem himself when a brilliant psychopath threatens to kill the current president – and take Horrigan with him. Taunting him by phone and tantalizing him with clues, the assassin (John Malkovich) lures Horrigan into an electrifying battle of wits and will that only one man can solve.

Co-starring Rene Russo as Horrigan's risk-taking Field Chief, IN THE LINE OF FIRE is a high wire balancing act of searing suspense, explosive action and surprising romance. Quite simply, "one of the finest thrillers you'll ever see." (Roy Leonard, WGN-TV)

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:

This 1993 thriller was directed by Wolfgang Peterson, who also directed 'Das Boot' which earned him an Academy Awards nomination, 'The NeverEnding Story', 'Enemy Mine', 'Outbreak', 'Air Force One', 'The Perfect Storm', 'Troy', and 'Poseidon'. It stars Clint Eastwood (Agent Frank Horrigan), John Malkovich (Mitch Leary), Rene Russo (Lilly Raines), Dylan McDermott (Al D'Andrea), Gary Cole (Bill Watts), Fred Dalton Thompson (Harry Sargent) and John Mahoney (Secret Service Director Sam Campagna). This is a well written and directed thriller. I also find the acting very good in this one (as with most all Eastwood and Russo movies). And as always John Malkovich plays his role to the hilt. I can be hard to believe that he really isn't that psycotic. To be truthful, I could have done without Thompson .. never liked him and never will. Of course that might be the point as he is someone you love to hate in the movie. I recommend this to anyone who likes thrillers.

Rating: 4of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 16, 2012, 06:11:55 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012236046400f.jpg)     Critical Care (1997/)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118901) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_Care_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Sidney Lumet
Writing:
Length:109 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
James Spader as Dr. Werner Ernst
Kyra Sedgwick as Felicia Potter
Helen Mirren as Stella
Anne Bancroft (1931) as Nun
Albert Brooks as Dr. Butz

Plot:
Dr Werner Ernest ( James Spader) is an overworked intern who only wants what is best for his elderly, comatose patient - until he falls for the ailing man's beautiful daughter Felicia ( Kyra Sedgwick ) The Seductive Felicia has 10 million reasons to let her father "die with dignity" while her deep religous sister has her own motives for keeping him alive. Caught between passion and duty Werner descends into a moral mine field where the physician's god-like powers of life and death depend not on knowing right from wrong...but having the courage to choose.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

'Criticl Care' (1997) directed by Sidney Lumet who directed so many great films , nominated for 14 films by the Motion Picture Academy, and winning for 3 including 'Murder on the Orient Express' (1974), 'Dog Day Afternoon' (1975) and 'Network' (1976). He has recieved numerous other awards for his films internationally. This film stars James Spader (Dr. Werner Ernst), Kyra Sedgwick (Felicia Potter), Helen Mirren (Stella), Anne Bancroft (Nun), Albert Brooks (Dr. Butz), Jeffrey Wright (Bed Two), Margo Martindale (Constance 'Connie' Potter) and Wallace Shawn (Furnaceman).

Starting with James Spader, this is his 28th film and we can see he has been honing the 'James Spader' character which it seems to portray to some degree in all his films. Before 'Critical Care' he has some big movies to his credit including his possible break through performance in 'Stargate' (1994) playing the slightly disheveled Dr. Daniel Jackson and earlie in 1994 his performance as Stewart Swinton in 'Wolf' with Jack Nicholson (who i think Spader stood toe to toe with).

Kyra Sedgwick, who never really seems to 'star' in any film, has been in may great productions. 'Critical Care' was her 15th film with some greats under her belt at this time. These include 'Born on the Forth of July' (1989) with Tom Cruise, 'Heart and Souls' (1993) one of my personal favorites, 'Murder in the First' (1993) and Phenomenon (1996). Her characters always seem to have a bit of 'quirky' in them, along with the southern belle that he play so well on TVs 'The Closer'.

With this great cast you could only expect this move to be good and you would be right. Although I only give it a rating of 3 I find it very entertaining .. while dealing with subjects such as end of life options and sibling greed and a hospitals drive for revenue. These subjects might not be suited for all watchers.

I do recommend this movie highly. Rating 3.5 of 5
Rating: 3.5 of 5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 18, 2012, 01:49:23 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085393894221f.jpg)     Constantine: Widescreen Edition (2005/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0360486) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Francis Lawrence
Writing:Kevin Brodbin (Screenwriter), Frank Cappello (Screenwriter), Kevin Brodbin (Original Material By)
Length:121 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Keanu Reeves as John Constantine
Rachel Weisz as Angela Dodson / Isabel Dodson
Shia LaBeouf as Chas
Djimon Hounsou as Midnite
Max Baker as Beeman

Plot:
John Constantine sees demons walk the earth, and he aims to do something about it: send them back to hell!

As Constantine, The Matrix's Keanu Reeves fights a new otherworld foe in this eye-popping supernatural thriller based on characters from the DC Comics/Vertigo Hellblazer Graphic Novels and set in a City of the Angels where spirit-world bounds have been broken...and all hell is breaking loose.

Holy water. A dragon's-breath flamethrower. A shotgun crafted from a crucifix. Armed with these and assisted by an intrepid cop (Rachel Weisz), John Constantine is a spiritual warrior gone to apocalyptic war. Be glad he's on your side.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Constantine' (2005) directed by Francis Lawrence in his directorial debut. Since then he as brought us 'I Am Legend' (2007), 'Kings' (2009) (4 episodes), 'Water for Elephants' (2011), 'Touch' (2012) and 'Catching Fire' (2013). For Keanu Reeves (John Constantine) this film is on the heels of several great movies. 'Little Buddha' (1993), 'The Matirx Trilogy' (1999, 2003), 'The Replacements', 'The Watcher', 'The Devils Advocate' and of course the 'Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure' plus many more.

Rachel Weisz (Angela Dodson & Isabel Dodson) previously starred in 'Chain Reaction' (1996) with Keanu Reeves, 'Stealing Beauty' (1996), 'The Mummy' (1999), 'The Mummy Returns' (2001), 'Enemy at the Gates' (2001), 'About a Boy' (2002) and 'Runaway Jury' (2003) plus many more.

Although those two carry the movie (of course they are the focus) with strong associated performances by Shia LaBeouf (Chas Kramer), Tilda Swinton (Gabriel), Pruitt Taylor Vince (Father Hennessy) always love him, Djimon Hounsou (Papa Midnite) and a great (short) performance by Peter Stormare (Lucifer) no one could have played it better.

I really like this movie. If find the settings and artwork very well done. The visual concept of Hell being like here but crisply .. Conceptually very nice .. following the trail of the 'Dangerous Habits', 'Original Sins' and 'Hellblazer' comics. Also, i very much enjoy Keanue Reeves acting. Along with Rachel Weisz and Shia LaBeouf this becomes a very 'believable' movie. You enjoy and create a connection with the characters. You care what happens to them.

I highly recommend this to anyone who likes the 'horror' genre. It was rated 'R' but it probably should have been 'PG-13" as it really show intensity but very little violence or language on its own. My bet is that it was rated 'R' by people with overdone religiosity.

Rating: Rating 4of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 18, 2012, 02:30:23 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396006201f.jpg)     Bad Boys II (2003/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0172156) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bad_Boys_II)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Michael Bay
Writing:George Gallo (Original Material By), Marianne Wibberley (Original Material By), Cormac Wibberley (Original Material By), Ron Shelton (Original Material By), Ron Shelton (Screenwriter), Jerry Stahl (Screenwriter)
Length:147 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French
Stars:
Martin Lawrence as Detective Marcus Burnett
Will Smith (1968) as Detective Mike Lowrey
Jordi Mollà as Hector Juan Carlos "Johnny" Tapia
Gabrielle Union as Syd
Peter Stormare as Alexei

Plot:
Hang on for maximum mayhem, full-on fun and the wildest chase scenes ever put on film! The action and comedy never stop when superstars Martin Lawrence and Will Smith reunite as out-of-control trash-talking buddy cops. Bullets fly, cars crash, and laughs explode as they pursue a whacked-out drug lord from the streets of Miami to the barrios of Cuba. But the real fireworks result when Lawrence discovers that playboy Smith is secretly romancing his sexy sister, Gabrielle Union (Bring it On).

Director Michael Bay (Pearl Harbor, Armageddon) and producer Jerry Bruckheimer (Pirates of the Carribean, Black Hawk Down) deliver a high-speed, high-octane blockbuster that will blow you away! "...Year's most action-packed and high-flying flick." (Shawn Edwards, Fox TV).

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:

'Bad Boys II' (2003) by director Michael Bay is the second installment of the 'Bad Boys' franchise. It is rumored that 'Bad Boys III is being worked on.

Since 'Bad Boys', and before 'Bad Boys II', Michael Bay brought us 'The Rock' (1996), 'Armageddon' (1998), 'Mystery Men' (1999) a greatly underated movie, 'Coyote Ugly' (2000) and 'Pearl Harbor' (2001).

I really don't have anything good to say about this movie. I was not offended by the language and use of the word 'nigga' nor of the gratuitous violence. It is the total lack of real plot. You just don't care about any of the characters ..

Although I do not necessarily recommend this to anyone except Will Smith and Martin Lawrence fans .. i will watch it again .. not a bad way to loose a couple of hours. I give this 2.5 of 5 stars ... simply on the action scenes.

Rating: 2.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 18, 2012, 03:43:32 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025195052306f.jpg)     Howard the Duck: Special Edition (1986/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091225) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_the_Duck)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Studios Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Willard Huyck
Writing:Steve Gerber (Original Characters By), Willard Huyck (Writer), Gloria Katz (Writer)
Length:110 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Lea Thompson as Beverly Switzler
Jeffrey Jones as Dr. Jenning
Tim Robbins as Phil Blumburtt
Ed Gale as Howard T. Duck
Chip Zien as Howard T. Duck

Plot:
One of the most talked-about movies of all time, Howard the Duck, lands on DVD for the first time ever in an all-new Special Edition!

From executive producer George Lucas and the pages of Marvel Comics comes this unbelievably funny comedy about a fast-talking, cigar-chomping, beer-loving duck from a parallel universe who crashes to Earth. Featuring brand-new bonus features, a digitally remastered picture and new 5.1 surround sound, Howard the Duck Special Edition is a hidden treasure the whole family can enjoy.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Howard the Duck' (1986) produced by George Lucas (no introduction needed) and directed by Willard Huyck (mostly known for screenwriting of screenplays of films including 'American Graffiti', 'Lucky Lady', 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom' and 'Radioland Murders among others) only directed 4 films including 'Messiah of Evil' (1973), 'French Postcards' (1979), 'Best Defense' (1984), and this one 'Howard the Duck' (1986).

'Howard the Duck' stars Lea Thompson, Jeffrey Jones, Tim Robbins, the voice of Chip Zien as Howard.

Having 1983's 'Jaw 3-D' being hee first roll, Lea Thompson only had a couple of rolls under her belt when she did 'Howard the Duck' with the biggest ones being 'All the Right Moves' (1983), 'Red Dawn' (1984) and then the break through hit 'Back to the Future' (1985) with 'Back to the Future Part II' coming in 1989 and 'Back to the Future Part III' coming in 1990. Her biggest hits would come on television with the sitcom 'Caroline in the City' (1995-1999) and the 'Jane Doe' made for tv movies.

This also staring Jeffrey Jones (Dr. Walter Jenning/Dark Overlord) and a very young Tim Robbins (Phil Blumburtt). Tim Robbins having just started filming 4 years before you can see the youth in his performance. The same year (1986) he would work in 'Top Gun'. But in 1988 he would give a breakout performance in 'Bull Durham' opposite Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon.

I am probably 1 of a dozen people who actually have seen 'Howard the Duck' and like it. I have had the soundtrack on vinyl since it came out and have had the VHS table for almost as long. I lost track of it and recently ran into a used dvd copy .. i jumped on it.

For fantasy I find the concept fun and exciting. 'Howard the Duck' is loosely based on the Marvel Comic books of the same name (well there was a duck from another planet AND it's name was Howard). I heartily recommend this movie to anyone who just like a good time .. though they might not accept any of my recommendations after this I give this a 3.5of5 stars

Rating: 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Dragonfire on June 18, 2012, 04:28:09 AM
I'm one of the few people that like Howard the Duck too.  I fully admit it isn't a great movie..and it is cheesy as hell..but it's fun.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 18, 2012, 06:03:30 AM
So .. there are 2 of use.  Must account for the full box office numbers it made <G>

DSig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 18, 2012, 06:04:52 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616881373f.jpg)      Bad Influence (1990/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099091) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bad_Influence_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Curtis Hanson (1945)
Writing:David Koepp (Writer)
Length:100 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Palmer Lee Todd as Naked Woman
Rob Lowe as Alex
James Spader as Michael Boll
Rosalyn Landor as Britt
Tony Maggio as Patterson

Plot:
There's nothing more enticing than evil...especially when it's hiding behind a killer smile and draped in designer suits. Rob Lowe ("The West Wing") and James Spader (sex, lies and videotape) star in this "slyly seductive and thoroughly enjoyable thriller" (The Wall Street Journal) from director Curtis Hanson (L.A. Confidential) and writer David Koepp (Spider-Man).

Financial analyst Michael Boll (Spader) seems to have everything: brains, money, a socially connected fiancée and a blindingly bright future. Then he meets Alex (Lowe), an impeccably dressed drifter with fatal charm and an insatiable appetite for wine, women...and danger. Alex befriends Michael and takes him for a walk on the wild side – but Michael soon discovers that there's a terrible price to pay for life in the fast lane, because hanging out with Alex...can be murder!

Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Bad Influence' (1990) is in the 'film noir' style. Written by David Koepp including 'Toy Soldiers' (1991), 'Death Becomes Her' (1992), 'Jurassic Park' (1993) with Michael Crichton, 'Carlito's Way', 'Mission: Impossible' (1996), 'Stir of Echoes' (1999), 'Spider-Man' (2002) to just mention a few. Directed by Curtis Hanson whose credits include 'The Hand that Rocks the Cradle' (1992), 'The River Wild' (1994), 'L.A. Confidential' (1997), 'Wonder Boys' (2002) and '8 Mile' plus more.

Rob Lowe plays Alex a charming sociopath, James Spader plays Michael Boll a seemingly hapless marketing analyst. Also with Lisa Zane (Claire), Christian Clemenson (Pismo Boll), Marcia Cross (Ruth Fielding) and Grand Bush (Bartender).

As with many of James Spaders films this movie goes from tight thriller to out and out crazy fest. Rob Lowe is simply brilliant at sociopath Alex and James Spader who normally plays the bad guy is simply brilliant in the reversed role. Although Rob Lowe has never been a favorite of mine I have to admit that I really like him in this. Possibly as good as Spader in this one.

Rating: 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 18, 2012, 03:35:00 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396052802f.jpg)     A Few Good Men: Special Edition (1992/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104257) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Few_Good_Men)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Rob Reiner
Writing:Aaron Sorkin (Screenwriter), Aaron Sorkin (Original Material By)
Length:138 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Tom Cruise as Lt. Daniel Kaffee
Jack Nicholson as Col. Nathan R. Jessep
Demi Moore as Lt. Cdr. JoAnne Galloway
Kevin Bacon as Capt. Jack Ross
Kiefer Sutherland as Lt. Jonathan Kendrick

Plot:
Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson and Demi Moore star in Rob Reiner's unanimously acclaimed drama about the dangerous difference between following orders and following one's conscience. Cruise stars as a brash Navy lawyer who's teamed with a gung-ho litigator (Moore) in a politically explosive murder case. Charged with defending two Marines accused of killing a fellow soldier, they are confronted with complex issues of loyalty and honor - including its most sacred code and its most formidable warrior (Nicholson). Superbly directed with a trio of powerhouse performances and an outstanding supporting cast including Kevin Pollack, Kiefer Sutherland and Kevin Bacon, A FEW GOOD MEN is "entertainment to be seen and appreciated... consistently gripping" (Desson Howe, Washington Post).

** Complete Plot(with spoilers ) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
'A Few Good Men' (1992) written by Aaron Sorkin ('Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' (1969) for which he got an Academy Award, 'The Hot Rock' (1972), 'Marathon Man' (1976), 'All the President's Men' (1976) with another Academy Award plus many others including the great 'The Princess Bride (1987). Directed by Rob Reiner whose directorial credits include 'The Princess Bride' (1987), 'When Harry Met Sally...' (1989), 'Misery' (1990) and 'The American President' (1995).

This film stars Tom Cruise (LTJG Daniel Kaffee, USN), Jack Nicholson (Col. Nathan R. Jessup, USMC), Demi Moore (LCDR Joanne Galloway, USN), Kevin Bacon (Capt. Jack Ross, USMC), Kiefer Sutherland (Lt Jonathan Kendrick, USMC), Kevin Pollak (LTJG Sam Weinberg, USN) and J. T. Walsh (Lt. Col. Matthew Andrew Markinson, USMC). I don't know what to say about this movie. First I am really not a Tom Cruise fan. And Demi Moore has never done anything for me. I do like Jack Nicholson, Kevin Bacon and Kevin Pollak so i guess that is 3 to 2 in favor .

This movie was received with great success both critically and financially at the box office. But I just don't get it. I don't believe that I have seen this movie since it came out and so I popped the disc in in an attempt to give it a fair break. As usual I find Tom Cruise's performance just hard work .. hard work doing and hard work watching. Demi Moore, like Tom Cruise is wooden and stiff. There is noting here for be to care about. I am not sure if the is the acting, writing or direction .. but it is all too wooden.

Having said all that I give it a 3of5 stars. There is something here. You don't feel like you just lost 2 hours of your life. Maybe it is the direction .. maybe it is the photography or editing .. but there is something that keeps me from throwing this newly purchased dvd in the trash..  But it did cost me $1.60 + shipping (total 4.58) so just tossing it wouldn't make sense.

Rating: 3of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Piffi on June 18, 2012, 09:03:24 PM
Interesting notes on the "A Few Good Men" .. I've been very interested in the movie, but havent bought it yet. Beacuse a few different reasons. Just one quastion for you, If your not a Tom Cruise fan. Would you like the movie? And would you buy the movie? Nw, that yu have seen it?

thanks :)
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Dragonfire on June 18, 2012, 09:49:15 PM
Quote from: DSig on June 18, 2012, 06:03:30 AM
So .. there are 2 of use.  Must account for the full box office numbers it made <G>

DSig

I didn't see it in the theater.  I first saw it on tv late one night.  When I found the DVD fairly cheap - and not long after it became available - I got it.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: GSyren on June 19, 2012, 12:05:42 AM
Quote from: DSig on June 18, 2012, 06:03:30 AM
So .. there are 2 of use.  Must account for the full box office numbers it made <G>

DSig
3 actually. It has Lea Thompson and a stop motion monster. Either one would have been enough for me... ;-)
But then I never read the comic, so I didn'lt get upset by the liberties the writers took.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Mustrum_Ridcully on June 19, 2012, 12:09:44 AM
Quote from: GSyren on June 19, 2012, 12:05:42 AM
Quote from: DSig on June 18, 2012, 06:03:30 AM
So .. there are 2 of use.  Must account for the full box office numbers it made <G>

DSig
3 actually. It has Lea Thompson and a stop motion monster. Either one would have been enough for me... ;-)
But then I never read the comic, so I didn'lt get upset by the liberties the writers took.
Make that 4.
I even prefer it to the sequels of BttF.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 19, 2012, 01:05:30 AM
That is really cool .. i couldn't have imagined there would be 4 of us <G>  Thank got for the internet

Dsig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 19, 2012, 02:15:00 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396013292f.jpg)     Bell, Book and Candle: Columbia Classics (1958/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0051406) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell,_Book_and_Candle)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:Richard Quine
Writing:Daniel Taradash (Screenwriter), John Van Druten (Original Material By)
Length:103 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
James Stewart (1908) as Shepherd Henderson
Kim Novak as Gillian Holroyd
Jack Lemmon as Nicky Holroyd
Ernie Kovacs as Sidney Redlitch
Hermione Gingold as Bianca De Pass

Plot:
Meet Gillian Holroyd (Kim Novak), Greenwich Village's most seductive sorceress. Powerful, glamrous, and a wee bit bored, Gillian knows that witches can't fall in love. But they can have fun...especially if their lover belongs to another woman! So when Gillian discovers handsome new neighbor Shep Henderson (James Stewart) is the fiance of an old college nemesis (Janice Rule), she promptly puts the befuddled publisher under her spell. But while her sex may have heated up Shep's heart, it has also unthawed her own, leading to a romantic compilation that not even Pyewacket – Gillian's mind-reading cat – could have foreseen.

Presented in an eye-popping Technicolor® transfer that beautifully captures James Wong Howe's stunning cinematography, BELL, BOOK and CANDLE – co-starring Jack Lemmon, Ernie Kovacs, Hermione Gingold and Elsa Lanchester – is "a delightful spoof on witchcraft with the cast members at their very best. ***" (The Motion Picture Guide)!

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Bell, Book and Candle' (1958) is an offbeat romantic comedy  written by Daniel Taradash ('From Here to Eternity' (1953), 'Don't Bother to Knock' (1952), 'Picnic' (1955) and others) and directed by Richard Quine whose credits include 'The World of Suzie Wong' (1960), 'The Notorious Landlady' (1962) among others.

Stars include James Stewart (Shepherd 'Shep' Henderson), Kim Novak (Gillian "Gil" Holroyd), Jack Lemmon (Nicky Holroyd), Ernie Kovacs (Sidney Redlitch) and Elsa Lanchester (Aunt Queenie Holroyd). In supporting rolls are Hermione Gingold (Bianca de Passe), Janice Rule (Merle Kittridge) and Howard McNear as (Andy White).

James Stewart stared in such classics as 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington', 'The Philadelphia Story', 'Harvey', 'It's a Wonderful Life', 'Rear Window', 'Rope', 'The Man Who Knew Too Much', 'The Shop Around the Corner', 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance' and 'Vertigo' plus many many more.

Kim Novak stared in 'Picnic' (1955), 'The Man with the Golden Arm' (1955), 'Pal Joey' (1957), 'Vertigo' with James Stewart (1958), 'Strangers When We Meet' (1960), 'The Notorious Landlady' (1962), 'Boys' Night Out' (1962) and 'Of Human Bondage' (1964) among others.

Jack Lemmon was just coming off 'Cowboy' (1958) with Glenn Ford and had done 'Mister Roberts' (1955) just 3 years earlier.

This is a great romantic comedy from the era ('50s and '60s) that gave us some great ones. The writing is tight and the characters are quirky and even has 'beatnik' like jazz.

I have not seen this one for a very long time, probably when it first came out on VHS. I love the characters in this ... even Elsa Lanchester who is the archetype for crazy Aunt Claira in 'Bewitched'.

This is a very fun watch who anyone who likes good entertainment .. period pieces.

Rating: 4of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 20, 2012, 01:30:18 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192212123f.jpg)      Back to the Future: The Complete Trilogy (1985/United States)
Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Back_to_the_Future_%28franchise%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:
Writing:
Length:342 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:
Subtitles:
Stars:


Plot:
Presented by filmmaking legend Steven Spielberg, directed by Oscar® winner Robert Zemeckis, and starring Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, the phenomenally popular Back to the Future films literally changed the future of the adventure movie genre. Now, this unprecedented Back to the Future DVD Trilogy immerses you in all the breathtaking action, groundbreaking comedy and sheer movie-making magic of one of the most brilliantly inventive, wildly entertaining motion picture triumphs in Hollywood history!

From Wikipeida:

Back to the Future (1985)
Seventeen year old Marty McFly is accidentally sent back in time from 1985 to 1955 in a time machine built from a DeLorean by eccentric scientist Emmett "Doc" Brown, when attacked by Libyans from whom Brown stole the plutonium which gives the flux capacitor the 1.21 gigawatts needed for time travel. Upon arriving in 1955, Marty inadvertently causes his mother Lorraine to fall in love with him, rather than with his father George McFly, beginning a paradox that would cause Marty to disappear from existence. With no additional plutonium to power the time machine, Marty must find the 1955 version of Doc Brown to help him reunite his parents and return to 1985. The efforts of Biff Tannen, George's bully and future employer, further complicates Marty's situation, until Marty successfully causes his parents to fall in love and simultaneously convinces George to finally stand up to Biff. Returning to the future via a 1.21 gigawatt lightning strike that jumpstarts the machine, Marty discovers a vastly improved future for the McFly family, as Biff is now their auto detailer rather than George's boss. Despite Doc's insistence on not knowing details of the future, a note Marty leaves in his pocket in the past saves him from being killed by the terrorists. However, in the film's final moments, Doc Brown appears in a modified version of the Delorean, and tells Marty that he must travel to the future to undo some situation caused by Marty's children.

Back to the Future Part II (1989)
The series continues as Doc Brown travels with Marty to the year 2015 where he has discovered Marty's family is in ruins. Marty buys a sports almanac containing the outcomes of 50 years worth (1950–2000) of sporting events. However, Doc catches him and throws the almanac in the trash, where the aged Biff Tannen finds it. While Marty and Doc are at Marty's future house, Old Biff steals the DeLorean time machine and gives the book to his younger self just before he goes to the dance at the end of the first movie. When Doc and Marty return to 1985, they find that Biff has used the almanac's knowledge for financial gain, which allows him to turn Courthouse Square into a 27 story casino, take over Hill Valley, get away with the murder of Marty's father, and later marry Marty's mother. Marty learns that Biff was given the book by old Biff on November 12, 1955, so he and Doc go back to that date in order to steal the almanac from Biff before he can use it to destroy their lives. They accomplish this in a complex fashion, often crossing their own past-selves' paths. When the duo are about to travel back to 1985, a lightning bolt strikes the DeLorean and activates the time circuits, sending Doc back to 1885 and leaving Marty stranded once again in 1955.

Back to the Future Part III (1990)
After finding out that Doc Brown is trapped in 1885, Marty sets out to find the 1955 Doc to help him fix the DeLorean (which has been waiting for him in a mineshaft for 70 years) and restore it to working order. Learning that Doc gets shot in 1885 by Biff's Great-Grandfather, Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen, Marty travels back in time to save Doc (who has become a blacksmith) and bring him back to the future. Unfortunately, an arrow has ripped a hole in the fuel line, emptying the gas tank and rendering the DeLorean engine useless. Furthermore, Doc falls in love with schoolteacher Clara Clayton, and considers staying in 1885. Marty must convince Doc to come back with him and find a way to get back to his time before it's too late. After several dramatic action scenes involving a speeding locomotive, Marty returns to 1985 in the restored DeLorean. It appears on a train track as planned, and Marty jumps out just in time to see the DeLorean time machine destroyed by a modern train. He worries that Doc has been lost in the past forever, when suddenly Doc Brown appears in a new time machine, modeled after a locomotive. He introduces Marty to Clara (to whom he is now married) and his two sons, Jules and Verne. When Marty asks if Doc and his family are going to the future, Doc replies that he's "already been there." The locomotive flies across the sky and disappears, ending the trilogy.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
The 'Back to the Future' (franchise) consists of 3 action/comedy scifi films written by Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis (both of whom worked on many films together). Bob Gale was also one of the producers and Robert Zemeckis was the director. There are 3 films which are 'Back to the Future' (1985), 'Back to the Future Part II' (1989) and 'Back to the Future Part III' (1990) with the last 2 films being filmed back to back.

All 3 films star 'Michael J. Fox' (Marty McFly, Marty Mcfly, Jr and Marlene McFly in 'Back to the Future Part II' and Seamus McFly in 'Back to the Future Part III'), Christopher Lloyd (Dr. Emmett Brown), Lea Thompson (Lorraine Baines and Maggie McFly in 'Back to the Future Part III'), Thomas F. Wilson (Biff Tannen in all 3, Griff Tannen in 'Back to the Future Part II' and Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen in 'Back to the Future Part III').

Also in multiple roles are Elisabeth Shue (Jennifer Parker) who took the role over for 'Back to the Future Part II' and 'Back to the Future Part II', James Tolkan (Mr. Strickland in 'Back to the Future Part' and 'Back to the Future Part II') and (Chief Marshal James Strickland in 'Back to the Future Part III').

I just got the trilogy in a box set and sat down and watched all 3 of them in a row. I don't think they have lost a thing since they came out. Michael J. Fox and Christoper Lloyd are great together. The three movies have great acting, writing and directing and a lot of action in the last one. Luckily there is no real need for special effects to what there is isn't overly done. I have to give this a 4of5 stars for the ingenuity of the series and just plain fun.

Rating: 4of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 20, 2012, 04:01:04 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391189930f.jpg)     Where the Wild Things Are (2009/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0386117) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Where_the_Wild_Things_Are_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Spike Jonze
Writing:Spike Jonze (Screenwriter), Dave Eggers (Screenwriter)
Length:101 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Max Records as Max
Pepita Emmerichs as Claire
Max Pfeifer as Claire's Friend
Madeline Greaves as Claire's Friend
Joshua Jay as Claire's Friend

Plot:
Nine-year-old Max runs away from home and sails across the sea to become king of a wondrous realm of gigantic fuzzy monsters – but being king may not be as carefree as it looks! Filmmaker Spike Jonze directs a magical, visually astonishing film version of Maurice Sendak's celebrated classic exploring the joyous and wild rumpus of the time and place we call childhood.

** Complete Plot **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Where the Wild Things Are' (2009) is an adaptation of Maurice Sendak's 1963 children's book 'Where the Wild Things Are'. With the screenplay by Spike Jonze and Dave Eggers and Directed by Spike Jonze who directed the quirky comedy 'Adaptation' (2002) and the great film 'Being John Malkovich' (1999).

Staring Max Records (Max) and the voices of James Gandolfini (Carol), Lauren Ambrose (K.W.), Chris Cooper (Douglas), Forest Whitaker (Ira), Catherine O'Hara (Judith), Paul Dano (Alexander) and Michael Berry, Jr. The Bull). Also with Catherine Keener (Connie), Pepita Emmerichs (Claire), Mark Ruffalo (Connie's boyfriend) and Steve Mouzakis (Mr. Elliott).

I remember reading this to my daughter when she was young and loving the characters. The movie, tho not completely like the book, does carry the flavor of the book in characters and style although it may seem a little more 'depressed' or dark. It was given a PG rating for mild violence. Although I don't think it should be particularily scary for children .. it does have monsters and they roar etc so parents be aware. I really like this movie. The story and imagery are fascinating.

 I heartily recommend this to everyone.

Rating: 4of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Achim on June 20, 2012, 06:20:35 AM
Quote from: DSig on June 20, 2012, 04:01:04 AM
The movie, tho not completely like the book, does carry the flavor of the book in characters and style although it may seem a little more 'depressed' or dark.
I never read the book, but seeing how it was clearly based on a story for children I was quite surprised how dark or at least sad some of the parts were. In a certain way it also got quite scary around the climax... Since the moral is still aimed at children it made me wonder if the film missed its target audience a bit by making it too dark :hmmmm:
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 20, 2012, 05:24:50 PM
<G> from an interview in 2009 ..

"The main goal," says Jonze, "wasn't to make a children's movie. I wanted to make a movie about childhood."
Bob Thompson, Canwest News Service
Published: Saturday, October 17, 2009

The wikipedia article is pretty good on this.  A lot of review information and Jonze's thinking on the subject.  'Where the Wild Things Are' (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Where_the_Wild_Things_Are_%28film%29)

DSig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 20, 2012, 06:21:50 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616855541f.jpg)     Breakheart Pass (1975/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072735) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breakheart_Pass_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)MGM Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Tom Gries
Writing:Alistair MacLean (Writer)
Length:95 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:French, Spanish
Stars:
Charles Bronson as Deakin
Ben Johnson (1918) as Pearce
Richard Crenna as Governor Fairchild
Jill Ireland as Marcia
Charles Durning as O'Brien

Plot:
Charles Bronson ('The Magnificent Seven', 'Death Wish') is at his dynamic, heroic best in this suspenseful, action-packed mystery/western based on the best-selling novel by Alistair MacLean ('Where Eagles Dare'). With a powerful cast that includes Ben Johnson ('The Last Picture Show'), Richard Crenna ('First Blood'), Jill Ireland ('Death Wish II') and Charles Durning ('Tootsie'), 'Breakheart Pass' throws open the throttle for run-away excitement!

At the height of the frontier era, a locomotive races through the Rocky Mountains on a classified mission to a remote Army post. But one by one, the passengers are being murdered! Their only hope is John Deakin (Bronson), a mysterious prisoner-in-transit who must fight for his life — and the lives of everyone on the train — as he uncovers a deadly secret that explodes in a torrent of shocking revelations, explosive brawls and blazing gun battles.

** Complete Plot **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:

'Breakheart Pass' (1975) is directed by Tom Gries ('Will Penny' (1968), 'Breakout' (1975) also staring Charles Bronson and Jill Ireland) and 'Helter Skelter' (1976). It was written by Alistair MacLean ('The Guns of Navarone' (1957), 'Night without End' (1959), 'The Satan Bug' (1962) and many others.

'Breakheart Pass' stars Charles Bronson (Deakin), Ben Johnson (Pearce), Jill Ireland (Marica), Richard Crenna (Governor Fairchild) and Charles Durning (O'Brien).

Charles Bronson is probably best known for his roles in 'Once Upon a Time in the West' (1968), 'The Magnificent Seven' (1960), 'The Dirty Dozen' (1967), 'The Great Escape' (1963), 'The Mechanic' (1972), 'Mr. Majestyk' (1974) and the popular Death Wish series. I really like this movie. It is a Charles Bronson movie so there is a lot of hitting, shooting and killing. Not always a lot of plot and the acting is usually not the greatest. But I do enjoy him.

And the other actors aren't bad. I liked Richard Crenna in 'And the Sea will Tell' (1991) a great made for tv movie, among other things. Ben Johnson and Charles Durning are great character actors and do a good job here. Jill Ireland married Charles Bronson and appeared in several of his movies. She always appears 'stiff' to me but usually does a find job.

Once again simple entertainment .. not designed to cause one to think a lot.

Rating: 3of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 21, 2012, 05:02:29 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012569594104f.jpg)     Firewall: Widescreen Edition (2005/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0408345) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firewall_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Richard Loncraine
Writing:Joe Forte (Writer)
Length:105 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Harrison Ford (1942) as Jack Stanfield
Virginia Madsen as Beth Stanfield
Carly Schroeder as Sarah Stanfield
Jimmy Bennett as Andy Stanfield
Gail Ann Lewis as Bank Employee #1

Plot:
It's an ordinary day at Landrock Pacific Bank – ordinary for everyone but I.T. expert Jack Stanfield. His wife and children are held hostage at home. Their kidnappers have one demand: Jack must heist $100 million from the ultra-secure system he designed. And they'll be watching every move he makes.

Showing the Everyman vulnerability, strength and resourcefulness that make him one of film's most appealing heroes, Harrison Ford portrays Stanfield in this cyber-edged race against time. Paul Bettany (The Da Vinci Code) co-stars as an ice-blooded crime mastermind. And Virginia Madsen (Sideways) plays Stanfield's wife, who disregards her own terror to protect her children. The criminals' plan is airtight. They figure they can't lose. But they overlook one thing: the desperation of a man with everything to lose.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Firewall' (2006) is a thriller written by Joe Forte (this is his only writing film credit to this point) and directed by Richard Loncraine (the very funny 'The Missionary' (1982) among others).

It stars Harrison Ford ('American Graffiti' (1973), 'Star Wars Episode Trilogy (first 3) (1977, 1980 and 1983), 'The Frisco Kid' (1979) one of my favorites with Gene Wilder, and the Indiana Jones trilogy ('Raiders of the Lost Arc' (1981), 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) and 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade' (1989) and 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull' (2008) plus many many more) and Paul Bettany ('A Knight's Tale' (2001) with Heath Ledger, 'A Beautiful Mind' (2001), 'Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World' (2003), 'The Reckoning' (2003), 'Dogville' 2003 and 'Legion' (2010) among others.

This is an action thriller and overall I like this movie. I am a Harrison Ford fan but sometimes he seems to just play himself. Paul Bettany is a very very good bad guy in this. He has the menacing thing down pat. Although the formula of the movie is 'standard' it does watch well with a few twists.

I recommend this to Harrison Ford fans and anyone who likes thrillers.

Rating: 3of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 21, 2012, 05:48:44 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929075720f.jpg)     Nine ½ Weeks: Original Uncut, Uncensored Version! (1986/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091635) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/9%C2%BD_Weeks)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Adrian Lyne
Writing:Elizabeth McNeill (Original Material By), Patricia Knop (Screenwriter), Zalman King (Screenwriter), Sarah Kernochan (Screenwriter)
Length:117 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Mickey Rourke as John
Kim Basinger as Elizabeth
Margaret Whitton as Molly
David Margulies as Harvey
Christine Baranski as Thea

Plot:
Elizabeth (Academy Award® winner* Kim Basinger) is a Soho gallery worker, romantically uninvolved since a painful divorce. John (Mickey Rourke) is a wealthy commodities broker, emotionally alone no matter who he's with. A chance meeting draws them into each other's worlds. Obsession takes them further into a mutual world of eroticism and emotional awakenings.

With visual flair, director Adrian Lyne (Fatal Attraction, 1998's Lolita) explores extremes of passion and surrender in 9½ Weeks, presented in an expanded version with footage not seen in U.S. theatrical release. Passion fades. But something John and Elizabeth will always carry inside is the impact of their 9½ Weeks.

*1997: Best Supporting Actress for L.A. Confidential.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)
Extras:


My Thoughts:
'91/2 Weeks' is directed by Adrian Lyne ('Foxes' (1980), 'Flashdance' (1983), 'Fatal Attraction' (1987), 'Jacob's Ladder' (1990), 'Indecent Proposal' (1993), 'Lolita' (1997) and 'Unfaithful' (2002) very good and very erotic movies).

It stars Mickey Rourke (John Grey) ('Diner' (1983), 'Desperate Hours' (1991), 'Wild Orchid' (1989), 'Sin City' (2006) and 'The Wrestler' (2008)) and Kim Basinger (Elizabeth McGraw) ('Mother Lode' (1982), 'Never Say Never Again' (1983), 'The Natural' (1984), 'Nadine' (1987), 'Bless the Child' (2000), 'The Door in the Floor' (2004) among many more. Also staring are Margaret Whitton (Molly), David Margulies (Harvey), Christine Baranski (Thea) and Karen Young (Sue).

This is an erotic drama about chance meetings and abusive relationships. Although it wont be for everyone it is very well done in acting, direction and script. If you like this type of movie (how will you know until you see it) then I recommend that you watch it.

Once again, this is not for everyone.

Rating: 3.5of5
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 22, 2012, 01:06:34 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398203742f.jpg)     American Psycho: Uncut Version: Killer Collector's Edition (2000/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0144084) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Psycho)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Mary Harron
Writing:Bret Easton Ellis (Original Material By), Mary Harron (Screenwriter), Guinevere Turner (Screenwriter)
Length:102 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman
Justin Theroux as Timothy Bryce
Josh Lucas as Craig McDermott
Bill Sage as David Van Patten
Chloë Sevigny as Jean

Plot:
Patrick Bateman ('Christian Bale') is a Wall Street yuppie, obsessed with success, status and style, with a stunning fiancée ('Reese Witherspoon'). He is also a psychotic killer who rapes, murders and dismembers both strangers and acquaintances without provocation or purpose. Based on the controversial novel by Bret Easton Ellis, the film offers a sharp satire to the dark side of yuppie culture in the '80s, while setting forth a vision that is both terrifying and chilling.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
'American Psycho' (2000) is a psycho thriller from Director Mary Harron ('I Shot Andy Warhol' (1996), 'The Notorious Bettie Page' (2006) and 'The Moth Diaries' (2011) and written by Mary Harron and Guinevere Turner based on the book of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis. It stars Christian Bale ('Empire of the Sun' (1987), 'Shaft' (2000), 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin' (2001), 'Reign of Fire' (2002) and 'Batman Begins' (2005), 'Dark Knight Rises' (2012) among many others). Among the co-stars are Willem Dafoe (Donald Kimball), Reese Witherspoon (Evelyn Williams) who had a very small role here, Chloë Sevigny (Jean), Jared Leto (Paul Allen), Justin Theroux (Timothy Bryce), Josh Lucas (Craig McDermott), Cara Seymour (Christie), Samantha Mathis (Courtney Rawlinson), Guinevere Turner (Elizabeth), Bill Sage (David Van Patten) and Matt Ross (Luis Carruthers).

This movie is a psycho sexual thriller which is primarily from the perspective of Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale). I believe it is supposed to be satirical in nature, about the excesses of the '80s, but i don't think it worked very well on that level.  It is an interesting portrait of a man over the edge of madness.

I really like these types of movies .. the path of a man going man (possibly the best one i have seen is 'Falling Down' (1993) staring Michael Douglas). The collapse of an otherwise intelligent person stepping into the depths of insanity i have always found interesting. But the story here doesn't really give us anything on the character. What caused the journey .. what was the precipitating event??

I think it was well acted, especially by Christian Bale. The direction and filming is good. I just wish there was more to the character. I would love to understand him. I would recommend this to anyone who likes the genre.

Rating: 3of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Achim on June 22, 2012, 06:38:03 AM
Quote from: DSig on June 22, 2012, 01:06:34 AM
This movie is a psycho sexual thriller which is primarily from the perspective of Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale). I believe it is supposed to be satirical in nature, about the excesses of the '80s, but i don't think it worked very well on that level.
Yes, I believe it was meant as satire. Problem for me was that as a European I didn't know many of those references, yet some stuff is still rather funny to watch (like the name card sequence).

Quote
But the story here doesn't really give us anything on the character. What caused the journey .. what was the precipitating event??
I think that was the point though, it is also the same in the book if I remember correctly. Bateman's behavior is shown, but not explained. He is somewhat unhinged to begin with and then simply goes completely off the rails as the story unfolds. As always, the scarier psycho killers in movies are the ones without a particular motivation.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Jimmy on June 22, 2012, 06:51:15 AM
Quote from: Achim on June 22, 2012, 06:38:03 AM
As always, the scarier psycho killers in movies are the ones without a particular motivation.
Just like in real life, nothing scarier than someone who kills just for the hell of it :fingerchew:
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 22, 2012, 04:49:58 PM
Quote from: Achim on June 22, 2012, 06:38:03 AM
Quote
But the story here doesn't really give us anything on the character. What caused the journey .. what was the precipitating event??
I think that was the point though, it is also the same in the book if I remember correctly. Bateman's behavior is shown, but not explained. He is somewhat unhinged to begin with and then simply goes completely off the rails as the story unfolds. As always, the scarier psycho killers in movies are the ones without a particular motivation.
But the flip side of that is that it is hard to vest anything in a character like that.  You can only watch

DSig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 22, 2012, 09:14:29 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360611441f.jpg)     The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance: Widescreen Collection (1962/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056217) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Man_Who_Shot_Liberty_Valance)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Paramount Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:John Ford
Writing:James Warner Bellah (Screenwriter), Willis Goldbeck (Screenwriter), Dorothy M. Johnson (Original Material By)
Length:123 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.66:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English
Stars:
John Wayne as Tom Doniphon
James Stewart as Ransom Stoddard
Vera Miles as Hallie Stoddard
Lee Marvin as Liberty Valance
Edmond O'Brien as Dutton Peabody

Plot:
Ranking with Stagecoach as one of the greatest of its genre, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is the modern-day western to beat all westerns. John Ford, whose very name is synonymous with "westerns," directed the ideal cast. Jimmy Stewart plays the bungling but charming big-city lawyer determined to rid the fair village of Shinbone of its number one nuisance and bad man: Liberty Valance (Lee Marvin). And as if all that weren't enough, the biggest star that ever aimed a six-shooter plays the Man of the title: John Wayne. Super sincere Stewart and rugged rancher Wayne also share the same love interest (Vera Miles). One gets the gunman, but the other gets the gal.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)
Extras:


My Thoughts:
'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance' (1962) is directed by John Ford ('The Grapes of Wrath' (1940), 'The Quiet Man' (1952), 'Stagecoach' (1939), 'The Searchers' (1956) and also 'Wee Willie Winkie' (1937) with Shirley Temple) among many others. It was written by James Warner Bellah (who worked on many John Ford films) and Willis Goldbeck ('Young Dr. Kildare' (1938) and 'Ten Tall Men' (1951) among others) from a story by Dorthy M. Johnson (she wrote 2 additional great stories that would become movies 'A Man Called Horse' (1950) and The Hanging Tree (1957)).

It stars John Wayne, James Stewart and Vera Miles. It features Lee Marvin, Edmond O'Brien, Woody Strode, Andy Devine, John Carradine and Lee Van Cleef. This is a great western and a good drama. James Stewart plays a lawyer who doesn't understand that the gun had a place in 'law and order' in the west even during the 1870's. John Wayne plays .. well John Wayne (actually Doniphon (Donovan) in them movie). Vera Miles plays the love interest for John Wayne but she is interested in James Stewart.

This is a good sound movie, filmed in black and white. The film had to be filmed on the sound stages of Paramount studios. Since Ford couldn't use the scenery in building ambiance for his film he use black and white and shadows to do the work. The script is good, the acting is good and overall I think it is a 4 star movie.

Rating: 4of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 22, 2012, 11:36:49 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/086162090707f.jpg)     Young Frankenstein: Special Edition (1974/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Young_Frankenstein)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Mel Brooks
Writing:Gene Wilder (Story By), Mel Brooks (Story By), Gene Wilder (Screenwriter), Mel Brooks (Screenwriter), Mary Shelley [Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley] (1797) (Original Characters By)
Length:106 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Gene Wilder as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein
Marty Feldman as Igor
Peter Boyle as the Monster
Teri Garr as Inga
Cloris Leachman as Frau Blücher
Madeline Kahn as Elizabeth

Plot:
Mel Brooks' monstrously crazy tribute to Mary Shelley's classic pokes hilarious fun at just about every Frankenstein movie ever made. Summoned by a will to his late grandfather's castle in Transylvania, young Dr. Frankenstein (GENE WILDER) soon discovers the scientist's step-by-step manual explaining how to bring a corpse to life. Assisted by the hunchbacked Igor (MARTY FELDMAN) and the curvaceous Inga (TERI GARR), he creates a monster (PETER BOYLE) who only wants to be loved. CLORIS LEACHMAN, MADELINE KAHN, KENNETH MARS and GENE HACKMAN co-star in this inspired vision of lunacy.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)
Extras:


My Thoughts:
'Young Frankenstein' (1974) is directed by Mel Brooks (he was writer/director and often actor and producer for 'The Producers' (1968), 'The Twelve Chairs' (1970) a great underrated film, 'Blazing Saddles' (1974), 'Silent Movie' (1976), 'High Anxiety' (1977), 'History of the World, Part I' (1981), 'Spaceballs' (1987), 'Life Stinks' (1991), 'Robin Hood: Men in Tights' (1993) and 'Dracula: Dead and Loving It' (1995). It was co-written by Gene Wilder.

It stars Gene Wilder (Dr. Frederick Frankenstein), Marty Feldman (Igor), Peter Boyle (the Monster) and Teri Garr (Inga). With co-stars Cloris Leachman (Frau Blücher), Madeline Kahn (Elizabeth), Kenneth Mars (Inspector Kemp). Also featuring Richard Haydn (Herr Falkstein), Liam Dunn (Mr. Hilltop) and Danny Goldman (Medical student). There are bit 'cameos' from Gene Hackman (Harold, The Blind Man) and Mel Brooks (Helga's Father / Werewolf / Cat Hit by Dart / Victor Frankenstein (voice) (uncredited).

As have had said before, 'Young Frankenstein', 'Blazing Saddles' and possibly 'Robin Hood: Men in Tights' and 'Spaceballs' are the funniest of Mel Brooks movies. (okay .. maybe 'The Twelve Chairs' (1970) more of a preview of what was to come with 'Blazing Saddles' ).  Having just come off 'Blazing Saddles' the team of Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder are hitting the peak of their team work with 'Young Frankenstein'.

The jokes and gags (some that are easily missed Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: "[pause, then] Abby someone. Abby who?" .. Igor: "Abby... Normal". ) and continue throughout the entire movie. The film in black and white really gives the right ambiance. It is said that the equipment used in the laboratory is really the original equipment from the 1931 film 'Frankenstein'. I love this movie. Although there are 5-6 other Mel Brooks movies that i love I think this is his best. Just fickle that way.

Rating: I give this 4.5 of 5 stars.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 23, 2012, 06:30:34 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396061576f.jpg)     The Wedding Planner (2001/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0209475) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wedding_Planner)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Adam Shankman
Writing:Pamela Falk (Writer), Michael Ellis (Writer)
Length:104 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Jennifer Lopez as Mary Fiore
Matthew McConaughey as Steve Edison
Bridgette Wilson-Sampras as Fran Donolly
Justin Chambers as Massimo
Judy Greer as Penny

Plot:
Mary Fiore (Jennifer Lopez) is the wedding planner. She's ambitious, hard-working, extremely organized, and she knows exactly what to do and say to make any wedding a spectacular event. But when Mary falls (literally) for a handsome doctor (Matthew McConaughey), her busy yet uncomplicated life is turned upside down - he's the groom in the biggest wedding of her career! Will she help him walk down the aisle with his internet tycoon girlfriend (Bridgette Wilson-Sampras), or will Mary finally get to be the bride herself? As this sweet romantic comedy proves, when it comes to love, you can never plan what's going to happen.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)
Extras:


My Thoughts:
'The Wedding Planner' (2001) is a romantic comedy directed by Adam Shankman (directed 'Bringing Down The House' (2003), 'The Pacifier' (2005), 'Bedtime Stories' (2008) along with credits for producing, acting and choreographer. Written by Michael J. Ellis.

It stars Jennifer Lopez (Maria 'Mary' Fiore) (my favorites include 'The Cell' (2000), 'Angel Eyes' (2001) and 'Enough' (2002)), Matthew McConaughey (Dr. Steven James 'Steve/Eddie' Edison) (my favorites being 'A Time to Kill' (1996), 'Larger than Life' (1996), 'Contact' (1997), 'EDtv' (1999), 'Reign of Fire' (2002), 'Sahara' (2005) and 'Fool's Gold' (2008)), Bridgette Wilson (Francine 'Fran' Donolly) and Justin Chambers (Massimo).

It also features Judy Greer (Penny) (my favorite 'Cursed' (2005)), Alex Rocco (Salvatore Fiore), Charles Kimbrough (Mr. Donolly), Joanna Gleason (Mrs. Donolly), Fred Willard (Basil St. Mosely), Lou Myers (Burt Weinberg), Frances Bay (Dottie), Kathy Najimy (Geri), and Dan Finnerty (Best Man).

This is a romantic comedy so there isn't a lot to really say. The plot line seems to be somewhat standard but it is well written with some fun dialog. The acting is good (or as good as modern romantic comedies get .. I am watching 'People Will Talk' (1951) while i am writing this and the comparisons in acting is stark ).  The movie did very well at the box office and started at number 1 the weekend it opened.  

I would be very happy to recommend this to anyone who likes romantic comedies .. 'chick flicks' it is fun and there are a lot worse ways to waste a couple of hours.

Rating: 3of5 stars
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 23, 2012, 09:38:56 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396012653f.jpg)     Darkness Falls: Special Edition (2003/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0282209) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darkness_Falls_%282003_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Jonathan Liebesman
Writing:John Fasano (Screenwriter), James Vanderbilt (Screenwriter), Joe Harris (Screenwriter), Joe Harris (Story By)
Length:86 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French
Stars:
Chaney Kley as Kyle
Emma Caulfield as Caitlin
Lee Cormie as Michael
Grant Piro as Larry
Sullivan Stapleton as Matt

Plot:
An Eye for an Eye. Your Life for a Tooth.

As a young boy, Kyle (Chaney Kley) claimed to have seen the tooth fairy. He also claimed she tried to kill him.

Now over twelve years later, Kyle has left the town that never believed him. He has also left behind the two people who thought he was telling the truth, his childhood girlfriend Caitlin (Emma Caulfield) and her younger brother. And when evil again emerges in Darkness Falls, Kyle must return to do battle with the winged creature of doom he saw that night so many years ago. Because evil is back with a vengeance. And it's not leaving without Caitlin's brother.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)
Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Horror / Thriller
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Rating: 3.of5

'Darkness Falls' (2003) is directed by Jonathan Liebesman (the ones I have seen are 'Battle: Los Angeles' (2011) and 'Wrath of the Titans' (2012) ). Written by Joe Harris (this is the only one I have seen, and 'The Tripper' (2007) co written with David Arquette who directed).

It stars Chaney Kley (Kyle Walsh) ('Legally Blonde' (2001) the only other one I saw him in, 'Mr. Blue Sky' (2007), 'Jimmy and Judy' (2006), 'Gotham Cafe' (2005) and 'Skin Horse' (2003) and several TV shows), Emma Caulfield (Caitlin Greene) (I have seen none of these .. 'Bandwagon' (2004), 'Hallow' (2007), 'Why am I Doing This' (2009), 'TiMER' (2009), 'Confined' (2010) and 'Removal' (2010) and several TV shows) and Lee Cormie (Michael Greene) (I haven't see any of these .. 'Australia On Trial' (2012), 'The Colour Blue' (2011), 'Underbelly' (2010) and 'December Boys' (2007) and a couple of TV shows)

Also with Grant Piro (Larry Fleishman), John Stanton (Captain Thomas Henry), Sullivan Stapleton (Officer Matt Henry), Steve Mouzakis (Dr. Peter Murphy), Peter Curtin (Dr. Travis), Emily Browning (Young Caitlin Greene).

'Darkness Falls' is to my way of thinking, Jonathan Liebesman's best film. I did like his 'Battle: Los Angeles' .. i thought the filming was good but 'Wrath of the Titans' was just so so. But 'Darkness Falls' is really good/great. I think the direction and filming did increase the anxiety factor in the film. I also think that the actors did a good job. They played their parts well without seeming to just walk through it. It has to be hard to play off of/pretend to be afraid of something that isn't there. So acting they did well.

I also like this much better than the critics did. Over at Rotten Tomatoes (http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/darkness_falls/) only had the movie at 9% out of 126 reviews. Look .. this isn't rocket science .. it is a scarey movie. Seldom are there totally new/unseen bits.

I recommend this to anyone who likes the genre and who is just looking to be entertained.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 23, 2012, 10:28:09 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543102700f.jpg)     People Will Talk (1951/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0043915) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/People_Will_Talk)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Writing:Joseph L. Mankiewicz (Screenwriter), Curt Goetz (Original Material By)
Length:110 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Cary Grant as Doctor Noah Praetorius
Jeanne Crain as Deborah Higgins
Finlay Currie as Shunderson
Hume Cronyn as Professor Rodney Elwell
Walter Slezak as Professor Barker

Plot:
"People Will Talk" is a "brilliant comedy" (ASHVILLE MOUNTAIN XPRESS) that also possesses a rare and engaging poignancy.

Screen legend Cary Grant stars as Dr. Noah Praetorius, a lovable professor and head of a medical clinic who becomes the subject of a McCarthy-style investigation initiated by a jealous colleague (Hume Cronyn). Along the way, Praetorius befriends and ultimately marries a young woman who attempts suicide when she discovers she is pregnant.

But, as the witch-hunt into the good doctor's personal life progresses, so do the laughs in this well-crafted, all-star treasure that should be part of every film lover's collection of classics.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Romantic Drama (with bits of humor)
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Rating: 4of5

'People Will Talk' (1951) is directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz (the ones I have seen are 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir' (1947), 'No Way Out' (1950), 'All About Eve' (1950), 'Julius Caesar' (1953), 'The Barefoot Contessa' (1954), 'Guys and Dolls' (1955), 'Cleopatra' (1963), 'There Was a Crooked Man' (1970) and 'Sleuth' (1972)). The original play was written by Curt Goetz with updating by Joseph L. Mankiewicz for the screen.

It stars Cary Grant (Dr. Noah Praetorius) (although there are to many to list here are a few of my favorites .. 'Topper' (1937),'Bringing Up Baby' (1938), 'The Philadelphia Story' (1940), 'His Girl Friday' (1940), 'Arsenic and Old Lace' (1944), 'The Bishops Wife' (1947), 'Mr Blandings Builds His Dream House' (1948),'To Catch A Thief' (1955), 'An Affair to Remember' (1957), 'North by Northwest' (1959), 'Charade' (1963) and 'Father Goose' (1964)) and Jeanne Crain (Deborah Higgins) (ones i have seen 'Cheaper by the Dozen' (1950), 'Man Without a Star' (1955), 'The Fastest Gun Alive' (1956) and many others i have not seen including many TV shows).

Also features Finlay Currie (Shunderson) gives a very understated performance, Hume Cronyn (Prof. Rodney Elwell) great actor and i loved him in '*batteries are not include', Walter Slezak (Prof. Barker) another wonderful character actor in many many things, Sidney Blackmer (Arthur Higgins) was the father in 'High Society' and was in 'Outer Limits' episode 'The Hundred Days of the Dragon', Basil Ruysdael (Dean Lyman Brockwell) and Katherine Locke (Miss James).

I think that 'People Will Talk', though probably one of his least known works, is one of my favorite Cary Grant movies .. at least those of the romantic, comedic persuasion. I think his timing and character is great in this film. He is very likeable .. you care about what happens to him. Jeanne Crain is also very good in this. I liked her character and wanted to see what would happen. The direction is good. The filming is good but there are a few places that the picture seems to change, as if they went from film to video .. which they couldn't because there was no video then. But that doesn't really distract from the viewing. I stongly recommend this to anyone. It is great entertainment.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 24, 2012, 03:45:47 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097363407645f.jpg)     Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events: Widescreen Collection (2005/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0339291) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemony_Snicket%27s_A_Series_of_Unfortunate_Events)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Paramount Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Brad Silberling
Writing:Robert Gordon (Screenwriter), Daniel Handler [Lemony Snicket] (Original Material By)
Length:108 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Jim Carrey as Count Olaf
Liam Aiken as Klaus
Emily Browning as Violet
Kara Hoffman as Sunny
Shelby Hoffman as Sunny

Plot:
Dear Viewer,

If you enjoy movies filled with singing rabbits, exploding spaceships, or cheerleaders, you are holding the wrong DVD entirely.

This movie is extremely alarming, an expression which here means "a thrilling misadventure involving three ingenious orphans and a villainous actor named Count Olaf (Carrey) who wants their enormous fortune." It includes a suspicious fire, delicious pasta, Jim Carrey, poorly behaved leeches, an incredibly deadly viper, Meryl Streep, and the voice of an impostor named Jude Law. The only things that could make such a spectacle more upsetting are special features, such as commentary by me or outtakes involving nervous laughter.

I am bound to continue my research into the lives of the Baudelaire orphans, but you are free to seek lighter fare, like bleu cheese fondue.

With all due respect,
Lemony Snicket

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama with Comedy bits
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Rating: 4of5

'Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events' (2004) is a brilliant movie directed by Brad Silberling (the ones I have seen are 'Casper' (1995) and 'City of Angels' (1998)) from the books 'The Bad Beginning', 'The Reptile Room' and 'The Wide Window' which are the first 3 of 13 stories (only 10 at the time of release of the movie) by Daniel Handel using the pen name of Lemony Snicket and with the screenplay by Robert Gordon ('Addicted to Love' (1997) a brilliant movie staring Meg Ryan and Matthew Broderick, 'Galaxy Quest' (1999), 'Men in Black II' (2002) and 'Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow' (2004) as producer).

It stars Jim Carrey (Count Olaf) (with movies i like the most being 'Earth Girls are Easy' (1989), 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective' (1994), 'The Mask' (1994), 'Dumb and Dumber' (1994), 'Batman Forever' (1995), 'The Truman Show' (1998), 'Man on the Moon' (1999) and 'Me, Myself & Irene' (2000)), Emily Browning (Violet Baudelaire) (with small parts i've seen her in 'Ghost Ship' (2002), 'Darkness Falls' (2003)), Liam Aiken (Klaus Baudelaire)(with small parts I have seen in 'Stepmom' (1998) and 'Road to Perdition' (2002)), Kara and Shelby Hoffman (Sunny Baudelaire) and the Voice of Jude Law (Lemony Snicket).

Also features Timothy Spall (Mr. Poe), Billy Connolly (Uncle Monty), Meryl Streep (Aunt Josephine), Catherine O'Hara (Justice Strauss) and Cedric the Entertainer (Constable). With Luis Guzmán (Bald Man), Jamie Harris (Fernald the Hook-handed man), Craig Ferguson (Person of Indeterminate Gender), Jane Adams and Jennifer Coolidge (White-Faced Women), Wayne Fleming (Captain Sam), Dustin Hoffman (Critic), Daniel Handler (Lemony Snicket) (Photographer, Deborah Theaker (Mrs. Poe).

When I first heard about this moving coming out i became very interested in the books and started reading them .. i couldn't stop and read the 10 that were out at the time. I did read the final 3 and found them just as good. Although I had read the books I went into the movie with little expectation. I do tend to let movies speak in their own voice and that is exactly what this movie does. It does have the flavor of the books but it does vary in several ways.

That being said, I found this to just as good as the books. The flavor and characters are consistent with the books. The characters of Count Olaf, Violet Baudelaire and Klaus Baudelair are true to the books though I think that Count Olaf is a bit more zany in the movie than in the books.

By the way there is a great wikipedia article on the book series A Series of Unfortunate Events (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Series_of_Unfortunate_Events) and here is the link to the official site for the books series (http://www.lemonysnicket.com/). It is a create fun site.

I would strongly recommend this movie to anyone (unless they don't like Jim Carrey). It is simply great entertainment.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 24, 2012, 05:22:09 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396015012f.jpg)     Basic (2003/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0264395) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basic_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:John McTiernan
Writing:James Vanderbilt (Original Material By)
Length:99 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French
Stars:
John Travolta as Hardy
Connie Nielsen as Osborne
Samuel L. Jackson as West
Tim Daly as Styles
Giovanni Ribisi as Kendall

Plot:
Academy Award© nominees John Travolta (Best Actor in a Leading Role, Pulp Fiction, 1994) and Samuel L. Jackson (Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Pulp Fiction, 1994) team up with action director John McTiernan (Die Hard, The Hunt for Red October, Predator) in a white-knuckle "thrill ride with a twist you won't believe!" (MairiAnna Bachynsky, ATV/CTV ENTERTAINMENT). Also starring Connie Nielsen (The Hunted, Gladiator), Giovanni Ribisi (Gone In Sixty Seconds), Brian Van Holt (Black Hawk Down), Taye Diggs (Chicago) and Roselyn Sanchez (Rush Hour 2).

A DEA officer (Travolta) is recruited to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a famed U.S. Army drill instructor (Jackson) and a group of cadets on a routine military exercise in the jungles of Panama. But the journey to uncover the truth leads to some dangerous and unexpected places when two rescued survivors tell dramatically different versions of what transpired. "Totally Mesmerizing." (Lisa Petrillo, WFOR/CBS (Miami)/EXTRA)

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)
Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama / thriller
Have I seen it before: No
Do I Like it as much:
Rating: 3.5of5

'Basic' (2003) is a very good thriller directed by John McTiernam (the ones I have seen are 'Nomads' (1986) a very under rated film staring Pierce Bronsan, 'Predator' (1987), 'Die Hard' (1988), 'Medicine Man' (1992), 'Last Action Hero' (1993), 'Die Hard with a Vengeance' (1995), 'The 13th Warrior' (1999), 'The Thomas Crown Affair' (1999) and 'RollerBall' (2002), with screenplay (and produced) by James Vanderbill ('Darkness Falls' (2003), 'Zodiac' 2007), 'The Amazing Spider-Man' (relaunch) (2012) and the upcoming 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2' (2014).

It stars John Travolta (DEA Agent Tom Hardy)(with my favorites being 'Blow Out' (1981), 'Get Shorty' (1995), 'Michael' (1995), 'Phenomenon' (1996), 'Broken Arrow' (1996), 'Civil Action' (1998), 'The General's Daughter' (1999), 'Domestic Disturbance' (2001) and 'Wild Hogs' (2007)), Connie Nielsen (Captain Julia Osborne)(with the ones I have seen being 'The Devil's Advocate' (1997), 'Rushmore' (1998), 'Soldier' (1998), 'Mission to Mars' (2000), 'One Hour Photo' (2002), 'The Hunted' (2003), 'The Ice Harvest' (2005)) and Samuel L. Jackson (Master Sergeant Nathan West) (with my favorites being 'Coming to America' (1988) funny bit, 'Sea of Love' (1989) just a bit part, 'Strictly Business' (1991) another bit part, 'Patriot Games' (1992), 'Amos & Andrew' (1993) a brilliant role, 'Die Hard with a Vengeance' (1995), 'The Great White Hype' (1996), 'The Long Kiss Goodnight' (1996) another great role for him, 'Sphere' (1998), 'The Negotiator' (1998), 'Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace' (2003) and 'Shaft' (2000) and many more).

Also features Tim Daly (Colonel Bill Styles), Giovanni Ribisi (Second Lieutenant Levi Kendall), Brian Van Holt (Ray Dunbar), Taye Diggs (Jay Pike), Dash Mihok (Mueller), Cristián de la Fuente (Castro), Roselyn Sánchez (Nuñez) and Harry Connick, Jr. (Dr. Peter Vilmer).

Although this film did not get very good reviews, I think this is a great 'who done it' with some very nice twists and turns. The filming and direction are very tight. The characters believable. A possible downside to this movie is that you have to pay attention or you might miss some clues as to what is going on. I would recomment this to anyone who likes thrillers and good entertainment.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 24, 2012, 06:51:21 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936287585f.jpg)      Darkness: Unrated Version (2002/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0273517) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darkness_%282002_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Dimension Home Video (United States)
Director:Jaume Balagueró
Writing:Jaume Balagueró (Writer), Fernando de Felipe (Writer)
Length:102 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Anna Paquin as Regina
Lena Olin as Maria
Iain Glen as Mark
Giancarlo Giannini as Albert Rua
Fele Martínez as Carlos

Plot:
This extended unrated version of the hit thriller Darkness teams award winner Anna Paquin (X-Men ) with Lena Olin (Hollywood Homicide, Chocolat) and Iain Glen (Resident Evil: Apocalypse, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider) as a family whose life forever changes when they move into a new home with an ancient secret! Not long after Regina (Paquin) begins living in her family's remote country estate, she learns that there's something horribly disturbing about the old place. Even as her parents dismiss her concerns, strange things begin to happen whenever the lights go out. Soon Regina realizes that a series of escalating supernatural events will unleash the full evil that resides in their house...and once it's released you'll experience it like never before in this scarier, more shocking unrated version!

** Complete Plot (with Spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama / thriller
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 3.5of5

'Darkness' (2002) is a very good horror film directed by Jaume Balaguero (I believe that 'Fragile' (2005) is the only one I have seen) and written by Jaume Balaguero and Fernando de Felipe.

It stars Anna Paquin (for me her best films have been 'X-Men' (2000), 'Almost Famous' (2000), 'X2' (2003), 'X-Men: The Last Stand' (2006) and her great protryal of Sookie Stackhouse in the HBO series 'True Blood'), Lena Olin ('Havana' (1990), 'Mystery Men' (1999), 'The Ninth Gate' (1999), 'Chocolat' (2000), 'Queen of the Damned' (2002) and 'Hollywood Homicide' (2003) ) and Iain Glen ('Gorrilas in the Mist' (1988), 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider' (2001), 'Resident Evil: Apocalypse' (2004), 'Kingdom of Heaven' (2005) and 'Resident Evil: Extinction' (2007) along with staring in the Showtime show 'Game of Thrones').

It also features Giancarlo Giannini (Albert Rua), Fele Martínez (Carlos), Stephan Enquist (Paul) and Fermin Reixach (Villalobos).

First, I really like this type of movie. I like the intensity without the blood spatter. I have always found that what you don't see is much more scary than what you might see. I also like Anna Paquin in this. But I like her in most everything I have seen (that is a double entendre). Lena Olin is great as the mother who is on the precipice of sanity/insanity. And Iain Glen is excellent depicting the complete lost of sanity.

I really do like this movie. It does raise my hackles and gets me looking into the shadows. Just what a movie like this should do. I recommend this to anyone who likes the genre. It can be intense so it isn't for everyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 24, 2012, 07:37:43 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543780502f.jpg)     The Whistleblower (2010/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0896872) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Whistleblower)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:
Writing:
Length:0 min.
Video:Widescreen :1
Audio:
Subtitles:
Stars:


** Complete Plot (including spoilers) **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama / thriller
Have I seen it before: No
Do I Like it as much:

Rating: 3.5of5

'The Whistleblower' (2010) is a thriller film directed by Larysa Kondracki and written by Larysa Kondracki and Eilis Kirwan.

It stars Rachel Weisz (Kathryn Bolkovac) (ones that i have see are 'Chain Reaction' (1996), 'Stealing Beauty' (1996), 'The Mummy' (1999), 'Enemy at the Gates' (2001), 'The Mummy Returns' (2001), 'About a Boy' (2001), 'Runaway Jury' (2003), 'Constantine' (2005), 'The Fountain' (2006), 'Eragon' (2006), 'Fred Claus' (2007), 'Definitely, Maybe' (2008) and 'Lovely Bones' (2009)), Vanessa Redgrave (Madeleine Rees) ('Murder on the Orient Express' (1974), 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution' (1976), 'A Man for All Seasons' (1988), 'Mission: Impossible' (1996) and 'Deep Impact' (1998)), Benedict Cumberbatch (Nick Kaufman) ('The Other Boleyn Girl' (2008)) and David Strathairn (Peter Ward) ('A League of Their Own' (1992), 'Passion Fish' (1992), 'The Firm' (1993), 'The River Wild' (1994), 'Dolores Claiborne' (1995), 'Home for the Holidays' (1995), 'Lathe of Heaven' (2002), 'Twisted' (2004), 'Good Night, and Good Luck' (2005), 'Fracture' (2007), 'The Bourne Ultimatum' (2007) and 'The Spiderwick Chronicles' (2008)).

It also features Roxana Condurache (Raya Kochan), Monica Bellucci (Laura Leviani), Nikolaj Lie Kaas (Jan), Anna Anissimova (Zoe), David Hewlett (Fred Murray), William Hope (John Blakely).

This is a very good thriller based on the life experiences of Kathryn Bolkovac. It is the story of the corruption and sex trade trafficking that went on in post-war Bosnia and the ties with a company called Democra Security which was a U.N. contractor. This movie is tense and the story tracks very well. Rachel Weisz is very good in this and her character is someone you take an interest in. This movie will back any suspicions you might have about the corruption in all forms of governmental interventions in countrys politics.

I like this one very much and am happy to recommend it to anyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 24, 2012, 07:43:29 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012569798380f.jpg)      2001: A Space Odyssey (1968/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0062622) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2001:_A_Space_Odyssey_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Warner Home Video, Turner Entertainment Company (United States)
Director:Stanley Kubrick
Writing:Stanley Kubrick (Screenwriter), Arthur C. Clarke (Screenwriter)
Length:149 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.20:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: PCM: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, German: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Italian: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:Chinese, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Korean, Norwegian, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish
Stars:
Keir Dullea as Dr. Dave Bowman
Gary Lockwood as Dr. Frank Poole
William Sylvester as Dr. Heywood R. Floyd
Daniel Richter (1939) as Moonwatcher
Leonard Rossiter as Dr. Andre Smyslov

Plot:
Stanley Kubrick's dazzling, Academy Award®-winning** achievement, a compelling drama of man vs. machine, a stunning meld of music and motion. Kubrick (who co-wrote the screenplay with Arthur C. Clarke) first visits our prehistoric ape-ancestry past, then leaps millennia (via one of the most mind-blowing jump cuts ever) into colonized space, and ultimately whisks astronaut Bowman (Keir Dullea) into uncharted realms of space, perhaps even into immortality. "Open the pod bay doors, HAL." Let an awesome journey unlike any other begin.

**1968: Best Visual Effects (Kubrick).

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Science Fiction
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 4.5of5

'2001: A Space Odyssey' (1968 with filming starting in 1965) is a masterpiece of science fiction, direction and cinematography. Directed by Stanley Kubrick (my favorites being 'Spartacus' (1960), 'Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb' (1964), 'A Clockwork Orange' (1971), 'The Shining' (1980), 'Eyes Wide Shut' (1999) plus work on 'A.I. Artificial Intelligence'), and co-written by Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke (favorite works include 'Childhood's End' (1953), '2001: A Space Odyssey' (1968), 'Rendezvous with Rama' (1972) and 'Fountains of Paradise' (1982)).

It stars (what i have seen)

The film also features Leonard Rossiter (Dr. Andrei Smyslov), Margaret Tyzack (Elena), Robert Beatty (Dr. Ralph Halvorsen), Frank Miller (mission controller), Edward Bishop (lunar shuttle captain), Edwina Carroll (Aries stewardess), Penny Brahms (stewardess), Heather Downham (stewardess), Alan Gifford (Poole's father), Ann Gillis (Poole's mother).

First, this film has been written about before here by Achim here (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,7612.msg151961.html#msg151961) but I have just picked up the Blu-Ray version of the movie and since I haven't seen it for a very long time I thought I would add my 2 cents worth.

There really isn't anything new with this discussion. I don't buy a lot of Blu-Ray discs but normally only for 'special' movies. To me this includes movies that the visuals are so outstanding that I want the best possible showing I can get. '2001: A Space Odyssey' definitely falls into this category.

The artwork, cinematography and direction of this film is simply brilliant. If for nothing else this would be enough to to purchase the Blu-Ray version. But this film has much more. Now I don't pretend to understand all the nuances of the film. I don't pretend to understand the total 'message' (if there is one) of the film. But then this is quite often the case when I read Arthur C. Clarke stories. But I find the story engaging. From the 'Dawn of Man' and the monolith's involvement (alien involvement? "God's" involvement) with the evolution in thought/behavior of the apes, to the possible evolution in man to the 'Star Child'.

I believe that this movie is a milestone. Not only in the process of filming but also in the process of story telling. To me the thought and process that went into this film, in all facets of the film, is simply staggering. I do not understand those that do not enjoy this film, but my feelings are that 'they' just over think the movie. If you try to find explanations in this film I don't believe you will. This is a film that has to be experienced. I would recommend this to anyone who likes thrillers and good entertainment.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 24, 2012, 09:51:04 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192017827f.jpg)      Sneakers: Widescreen (1992/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0105435) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sneakers_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Home Video (United States)
Director:Phil Alden Robinson
Writing:Phil Alden Robinson (Writer), Lawrence Lasker (Writer), Walter F. Parkes (Writer)
Length:125 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Robert Redford as Martin Bishop/Martin Brice
Ben Kingsley as Cosmo
Sidney Poitier as Donald Crease
David Strathairn as Erwin "Whistler" Emory
Dan Aykroyd as Darryl "Mother" Roskow
River Phoenix as Carl Arbogast
Mary McDonnell as Liz

Plot:
Robert Redford leads an all-star cast in one of the most satisfying suspense films! Computer expert Martin Bishop (Redford) heads a team of renegade hackers — including a former CIA employee (Sidney Poitier), a gadgets wizard (Dan Aykroyd), a young genius (River Phoenix) and a blind soundman (David Strathairn) — who are routinely hired to test security systems. But Bishop's past comes back to haunt him when government agents blackmail the "sneakers" into carrying out a covert operation: tracking down an elusive black box. Along with his former girlfriend (Mary McDonnell), Bishop's team retrieves the box and makes a stunning discovery — the device can break into any computer system in the world. With factions from all sides willing to kill for the powerful box, Bishop and his team embark on their most dangerous assignment ever in this exhilarating high-tech caper from Phil Alden Robinson (Field of Dreams).

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama (also described as 'Caper' film)
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 4of5

'Sneakers' (1992) is a a fine 'Caper' film directed by Phil Alden Robinson (my favorites being 'All of Me' (1984), 'Fletch' (1985), 'In the Mood' (1987) a very fun movie, 'Field of Dreams' (1989) a must see/have and 'The Sum of All Fears' (2002)) and written by Phil Alden Robinson, Walter F. Parkes (that i have seen involved as writer/producer etc with such movies as 'WarGames' (1983), 'Awakenings' (1990), 'Little Giants' (1994), 'To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar' (1995) a brilliant movie, 'The Peacemaker' (1997), 'Men in Black' (1997), 'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street' (2007) and many more) and Lawrence Lasker ( that i have seen with credits for 'WarGames' (1983), 'Project X' (1987), 'Awakenings' (1990)).

It stars (what i have seen) a great ensemble case of

The film also features Stephen Tobolowsky (Werner Brandes), Timothy Busfield (Dick Gordon), Eddie Jones (Buddy Wallace), George Hearn (Gregor), Donal Logue (Dr. Gunter Janek), Lee Garlington (Dr. Elena Rhyzkov) and James Earl Jones (NSA Agent Bernard Abbott).

This is a great action/drama 'caper' film. The characters are excellent and the story line is tight. All the actors seem to work well together and their experience tends to make their work seamless. Ben Kingsley makes an excellent bad guy and plays well against Robert Redford. No rocket science here but good story. I would recommend this to anyone who likes good entertainment.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 24, 2012, 11:25:11 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360621846f.jpg)      Gunfight at the O.K. Corral: Widescreen Collection (1957/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0050468) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunfight_at_the_O.K._Corral_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Paramount Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:John Sturges
Writing:Leon Uris (Screenwriter), George Scullin (Original Material By)
Length:122 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Burt Lancaster as Wyatt Earp, Marshal
Kirk Douglas as Dr. John 'Doc' Holliday
Rhonda Fleming as Laura Denbow
Jo Van Fleet as Kate Fisher, Doc's Woman
John Ireland as Johnny Ringo, Clanton's Hired Gun

Plot:
A gang of ruthless outlaws...a pair of larger-than-life heroes...a timeless tale of good versus evil. Blended together, the result is a sprawling, epic adventure bigger than the wild frontier – Gunfight at the O.K. Corral'! Acclaimed actors Burt Lancaster and Kirk Douglas team up to rid Tombstone, Arizona of the murderous Clanton gang in this all-star, action-packed classic. When lawman Wyatt Earp (Lancaser) and gunfighter John "Doc" Holliday (Douglas) ride into town, they find themselves pitted against one of the biggest foes ever encountered, in the form of Ike Clanton (Lyle Bettger) and his ruthless gang. It isn't long before the confrontation explodes into a survival-at-all-costs battle, with Rhonda Fleming, Jo Van Fleet, John Ireland, Dennis Hopper, DeForest Kelly, Martin Milner and Lee Van Cleef among those swept into the drama and the excitement of one of the Wild West's most legendary events!

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Western
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 4of5

'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral' (1957) is a a fine western film

It stars (what i have seen)

The film also features Frank Faylen (Cotton Wilson), Earl Holliman (Deputy Sheriff Charlie Bassett), Ted de Corsia (Shanghai Pierce), Dennis Hopper (Billy Clanton), Whit Bissell (John P. Clum), George Mathews (John Shanssey), John Hudson (Virgil Earp), DeForest Kelley (Morgan Earp), Martin Milner (James 'Jimmy' Earp), Lee Van Cleef (Ed Bailey) and Jack Elam (Tom McLowery)

First note that for Dennis Hopper this was his 4th role, with more time in this than in the other films. With some great supporting work by Jack Elam, DeForest Kelly (Dr Leonard McCoy on 'Star Trek' (1966-1969). This is a great western from the '50/'60.

There is little historical accuracy in this movie (there is a great article with additional links to historical information about all participants at Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunfight_at_the_O.K._Corral)) .. true there was someone named Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday, and there was a town named Tombstone .. but that is about as close as this movie gets.

That being said, this is great entertainment from a period in American films that brought us many great movies of this type. The characters are well written and portrayed. The filming direction and cinematography is stunning. I like this version as well as the 'Tombstone' (1993) and 'Wyatt Earp' (1994). I think they all bring unique features and viewpoints. Although i like some slants on characters better here or there (for example the playoff between Val Kilmer (Doc Holliday) and Michael Biehn (Johhny Ringo) in 'Tombstone' is very good) I think that the 1957 version holds up as well as the newer version.

For anyone who likes the western genre I heartily suggest this film.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 25, 2012, 03:59:24 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543266020f.jpg)      The Sentinel: Widescreen (2006/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443632) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Sentinel_%282006_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Clark Johnson
Writing:Gerald Petievich (Original Material By), George Nolfi (Screenwriter)
Length:108 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Michael Douglas (1944) as Pete Garrison
Kiefer Sutherland as David Breckinridge
Eva Longoria as Jill Marin
Martin Donovan as William Montrose
Ritchie Coster as The Handler

Plot:
Michael Douglas, Kiefer Sutherland, Eva Longoria and Kim Basinger head up "the perfect cast" (CBS-TV, Sacramento) in this gripping suspense thriller that delivers "nonstop action around every turn!" (NBC-TV, Houston).

There's never been a traitor in the United States Secret Service...until now. And the evidence points to Pete Garrison (Douglas), one of the most trusted agents on the force. Now on the run, with two relentless federal investigators (Sutherland and Longoria) hot on his heels, Garrison must fight to clear his name and thwart an attempt on the President's life before it's too late!

** Complete Plot (including spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 3.5of5

'The Sentinel' (2006) is a thriller

It stars (what i have seen)

This film also features Kristin Lehman (Cindy Breckinridge), Raynor Scheine (Walter Xavier), Chuck Shamata (Director Overbrook), Paul Calderón (Deputy Director Cortes), Clark Johnson (Charlie Merriweather), Raoul Bhaneja (Aziz Hassad), Yanna McIntosh (Teddy Vargas), Joshua Peace (Agent Davies), Simon Reynolds (Tom DiPaola), Geza Kovacs (Agent Turzanski), Jasmin Geljo (Assassin), Danny A. Gonzales (Hugo Ortega), Jude Coffey (Field Agent Welke), Clark Johnson (Agent Charles ("Charlie") Merriweather )

As a disclaimer, I should say that I am not a big Kiefer Sutherland fan. But luckily, like the other movies I like that he has been in .. he is not 'the star'. It is Michael Douglas who I like in most things I have seen him in. So with that out of the way .. I really like this movie. I find it very intriging. The story line is good and the execution is very good. The filming and acting are great in this one. I like the intensity of the situations in the movie and the way the characters worked them out.

Michael Douglas, like Harrison Ford, is very good in these types of movies. Don't give them comedies to play in (oh my 'The In-Laws' was not very good) as they really don't have the timing for that. But give them a good thriller .. good source material and associated characters to play against and they are gang busters.

I suggest this movie for anyone who likes the thriller genre.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 25, 2012, 05:40:19 AM
Last movie of the day ..

(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012236140832f.jpg)      Jack Reed: One of Our Own (1995/)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0188706)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Brian Dennehy
Writing:Brian Dennehy (Writer)
Length:94 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Brian Dennehy as Jack Reed
CCH Pounder as Mrs. Harris
Charles S Dutton as unknown
Susan Ruttan as unknown

Plot:
When his partner is killed, Jack Reed (Brian Dennehy) is framed for the murder. In order to hide corruption that extends to the highest levels of City Hall, murders are being committed and Jack is a suspect. To avenge his partner's death and protect his innocence, he must capture the drugged-out killer and unveil the corrupt politicians who hired him.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Crime Drama
Have I seen it before: No
Do I Like it as much:

Rating: 3of5

'Jack Reed: One of Our Own' (1995) is a Crime Drama (first in a series)

It stars (what i have seen)

This film also features Michael Talbott (Eddie Dirkson), Bernie Coulson (Mike Quinn), Amber Benson (Nicole Reed), Cusse Mankuma (Bobby Dixon), Justin Burnette (John Reed Jr.), Megan Leitch (Rebecca), Louis Ferreira (Mick Williams), CCH Pounder (Mrs. Harris), Terence Kelly (Pete Myers), Lorena Gale (Anne Kelfer), Betty Phillips (Mary Quinn), Lance Gibson (Manny Campton), Henry Beckman (James Quinn)

Let me say that this being a TV movies there are breaks in it that breakup the flow of the movie. With pet peeve out of the way I have to say that I like this. It is a good addition to my collection and I will watch it again. It isn't quite as powerful as the 'Jessie Stone' series of movies but different writers and cinematographers .. different outcomes. As always I like Brian Dennehy and in this he does his usual good job. He has a very commanding presence in movies and I like that.

I suggest this movie for anyone who likes a good crime drama.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 25, 2012, 08:23:21 PM
Just watched ..

(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/796019786492f.jpg)      Derailed: Unrated Version: Widescreen Edition (2005/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0398017) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Sentinel_%282006_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Genius Products, The Weinstein Company Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Mikael Håfström
Writing:James Siegel (Original Material By), Stuart Beattie (Screenwriter)
Length:112 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Vincent Cassel as LaRoche
Clive Owen as Charles Schine
Addison Timlin as Amy Schine
Melissa George as Deanna Schine
Jennifer Aniston as Lucinda Harris

Plot:
Married man Charles Schine (Clive Owen) meets Lucinda Harris (Jennifer Aniston), a high powered businesswoman, on a commuter train one morning. An innocent conversation leads to an evening drink. Before either one can stop it, their aroused passions lead to a sizzling one-night stand. Suddenly a stranger explodes into their world, threatening to expose their secret, and lures them into a terrifying game with more surprises than they saw coming.

** Complete Plot (with Spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 4of5

'Derailed' (2005) is an excellent thriller

It stars

This film also features Addison Timlin (Amy Schine), RZA (Winston Boyko), William Armstrong (Accountant), Tom Conti (Eliot Firth), Rachael Blake (Susan Davis), Richard Leaf (Night Clerk Ray), Xzibit (Dexter), Catherine McCord (Avery Price Receptionist), Denis O'Hare (Jerry the Lawyer), Ortis Deley (Cop), Georgina Chapman (Candy), Giancarlo Esposito (Detective Franklin Church), David Morrissey (Sam Griffin)

This film has been previously reviewed by samuelrichardscott HERE (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,6328.msg151605.html#msg151605).

I find this to be an excellent thriller. The first time I saw it I really had no idea what was going on. And even now, putting aside knowing what will happen, the film is still very very good.

This is probably my favorite Jennifer Aniston film. She doesn't play an airhead (her primary role in most things) and plays her part very well. Darkness that I didn't really know she could do.

Clive Owen is also great in this. He plays the role of the business man, trapped in circumstances that become completely out of his control, very convincingly.

And Vincent Cassel is also great in this. His role is crucial to the film and he does it well. I really like this film.

I just picked it up to bolster the Thrillers in my collection. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes thrillers.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 26, 2012, 05:09:22 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192500022f.jpg)      The Door in the Floor: Spotlight Series (2004/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0348593) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Door_in_the_Floor)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Studios Home Video (United States)
Director:Tod Williams
Writing:John Irving (Original Material By), Tod Williams (Screenwriter)
Length:111 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Elle Fanning as Ruth Cole
Jeff Bridges as Ted Cole
Kim Basinger as Marion Cole
Jon Foster as Eddie O'Hare
Larry Pine as Interviewer

Plot:
Four-time Academy Award® nominee* Jeff Bridges and Academy Award® winner** Kim Basinger give stellar performances in this critically acclaimed film, adapted from the #1 best-selling novel, A Widow for One Year, by Academy Award® winner† John Irving.

The Door in the Floor chronicles one pivotal summer in the lives of famous children's book author Ted Cole (Jeff Bridges) and his beautiful wife, Marion (Kim Basinger). It is a provocative story about one couple's emotional journey into a world of daring sensuality and stunning honesty.

*Best Supporting Actor – The Contender (2000); Best Actor – Starman (1984); Best Supporting Actor – Thunderbolt and Lightfoot (1974); Best Supporting Actor – The Last Picture Show (1971)

**Best Supporting Actress – L.A. Confidential (1997)

†Best Adapted Screenplay – The Cider House Rules (1999)

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 4of5

'The Door in the Floor' (2005) is an excellent drama

It stars
Kim Basinger as Marion Cole ('Mother Lode' (1982), 'Never Say Never Again' (1983), 'The Natural' (1984), 'Nadine' (1987), 'Bless the Child' (2000), 'Cellular' (2004), 'The Sentinel' (2006)

This film also features Bijou Phillips (Alice), Elle Fanning (Ruth Cole), Mimi Rogers (Evelyn Vaughn), Donna Murphy (Frame Shop Owner), John Rothman (Minty O'Hare), Harvey Loomis (Dr. Loimis)

I have just watched this after not seeing it since it came out.  I got it because I remembered that I liked it .. i just didn't remember how much I liked it.

The role of Ted Cole is another great role for Jeff Bridges. Although this film is a little more "down" than some of his other great roles and quirky characters (Jeffery "The Dude" Lebowski ("The Big Lebowski")
Max Kline ("Fearless") to name just a few).  This film is a complex narrative of a couple coming apart (were they ever together?) after a tragic accident. And Jeff Bridges does an excellent job of weaving the story.

Kim Basinger is also excellent in this film. Marion Cole is a complex character suffering loss of more than that caused by the accident.  The ?love? of a young man and walking away from her young daughter, these are the some of the things entering into Marion Cole's life.

I highly recommend this to anyone who likes dramas.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 26, 2012, 11:45:37 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012569647510f.jpg)      Poltergeist: 25th Anniversary Edition (1982/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084516) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poltergeist_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Tobe Hooper
Writing:Steven Spielberg (Screenwriter), Michael Grais (Screenwriter), Mark Victor (Screenwriter), Steven Spielberg (Story By)
Length:114 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.20:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:Chinese, English, French, Portuguese, Spanish
Stars:
Craig T. Nelson as Steve Freeling
JoBeth Williams as Diane Freeling
Beatrice Straight as Dr. Lesh
Dominique Dunne as Dana Freeling
Oliver Robins as Robbie Freeling

Plot:
"THEY'RE HERE," playful at first...but not for long. A storm erupts, a tree attacks and little Carol Anne Freeling is whisked into a spectral void. As her family confronts horrors galore, something else is here too: a new benchmark in Hollywood ghost stories. Producers Steven Speilberg and Frank Marshall and director Tobe Hooper head the elite scream team of this classic. Welcome to Home Sweet Haunted Home.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Horror / Thriller
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 4of5

'Poltergeist' (2005) is an excellent Horror / Thriller

It stars

The film also features Dominique Dunne (Dana Freeling), Oliver Robins (Robbie Freeling), Beatrice Straight (Dr. Lesh), Martin Casella (Marty), Richard Lawson (Ryan) and James Karen (Mr. Teague)

I remember seeing Poltergeist when it first came out. Man were we blown away. Everything from the storyline to the special effects (remember this was 1982). WOW. I recently ran into this dvd used and picked it up. I don't know why I didn't already have it in the collection but I didn't. So having just watched it for the first time in many many years I can only continue to say WOW.

Craig T. Nelson and JoBeth Williams are excellent as upper middle class parents of 3 children in a suburban housing development. Everything should be fine but for Carol Anne Freeling (Heather O'Rourke 4 years old at the time) seeming to be a channel between the spirit world and our world. All heck breaks loose as 'the beast' tries to break into our world through Carol Anne.

Zelda Rubinstein is great as Tangina Barrons the medium that is called in to rescue Carol Anne and 'clear' the house of spirits. She and her character have often been caricatured on many show/movies.

There are 2 sad notes of this movie (and the Poltergeist Trilogy). Shortly after the release of "Poltergeist" was released Dominique Dunne who played daughter Dana Freeling, was murdered by her abusive boyfriend. And then shortly before "Poltergeist III" was released, Heather O'Rourke died of a heart attack brought on by "bowel obstruction" and complicated by septic shock. She was had just turned 12 years old.

I wish I had run into a Blu-Ray version of this film and I will be looking for one. It must be very nice.

I highly recommend this to everyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 27, 2012, 02:02:08 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396094697f.jpg)      Only Angels Have Wings: Columbia Classics (1939/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0031762) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Only_Angels_Have_Wings)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:Howard Hawks
Writing:Jules Furthman (Screenwriter)
Length:121 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:Chinese, English, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Cary Grant as Geoff Carter
Jean Arthur as Bonnie Lee
Richard Barthelmess as Bat MacPherson
Rita Hayworth as Judy
Thomas Mitchell as Kid Dabb

Plot:
A two-fisted adventure tale set in South America, ONLY ANGELS HAVE WINGS stars Cary Grant as the tough-talking head of an air-freight service operating in the dangerous Andes Mountains. Jean Arthur co-stars as a vacationing showgirl competing with Rita Hayworth for Grant's affections. A potent combination of humor, romance and action, the film was directed by Howard Hawks, the legendary director responsible for Red River, His Girl Friday, Bringing Up Baby, and the original Scarface. A triumph of casting, ONLY ANGELS HAVE WINGS is one of the best examples of Columbia chief Harry Cohn's skill in developing talent. Cary Grant had just been released from his contract with Paramount when Cohn, sensing that the handsome leading man was poised for stardom, turned him into Columbia's most durable star. Jean Arthur was an unexceptional veteran of over 50 films before Cohn "discovered" something in her that previous studios had overlooked. Teaming her with director Frank Capra, he created one of the finest comediennes in Hollywood history. And Rita Hayworth, Cohn's personal protégée, was a pure product of the studio system. Groomed for stardom from the first, ONLY ANGELS HAVE WINGS offered her a chance to learn from the best in the business. And the rest, as they say, is history.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama / Adventure
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes

Rating: 4of5

'Only Angels Have Wings' (2005) is an excellent action film

It stars

The film also features Allyn Joslyn (Les Peters), Sig Ruman (John "Dutchy" Van Reiter), Victor Kilian ("Sparks" Reynolds), John Carroll ("Gent" Shelton), Don Barry ("Tex" Gordon) and Noah Beery, Jr. (Joe Souther)

I *know* that I have seen this before but I couldn't remember much about the film. I was filling in my Cary Grant films and this one popped up.

Having just watched it again I really like this film. The cinematography (black and white) is very good. It is a 'dark' movie but that is part of the story I think. For a 1939 film there really aren't any "special effects". Planes on wires etc but if you can get past that the filming is excellent.

The actors (Cary Grant, Jean Arthur and Thomas Mitchell) are great in this. Characters rich and worth caring about. This comes from a good script, great direction and acting.

I highly recommend film this to everyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 27, 2012, 07:26:12 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396265608f.jpg)     The Fall (2006/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460791) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fall_%282006_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Tarsem Singh [Tarsem]
Writing:Valeri Petrov (Original Material By), Dan Gilroy (Screenwriter), Nico Soultanakis (Screenwriter), Tarsem Singh [Tarsem] (Screenwriter)
Length:117 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, French, Commentary
Stars:
Catinca Untaru as Alexandria
Justine Waddell as Nurse Evelyn / Sister Evelyn
Lee Pace as Roy Walker
Kim Uylenbroek as Doctor / Alexander the Great
Aiden Lithgow as Alexander's Messenger

Plot:
Filmed over a period of 4 years in 18 different countries, Tarsem's The Fall is an unforgettable movie experience. In 1920s Los Angeles, Alexandria (Catinca Untaru), a 5-year-old girl hospitalized from a fall, strikes up an unlikely friendship with Roy (Lee Pace, TV's "Pushing Daisies"), a Hollywood stuntman shattered by a near-fatal movie set accident and his lover's betrayal. To pass the time, he tells Alexandria the epic story of Governor Odious and the 5 remarkable heroes determined to defeat him – a dazzling world of magic and myth. Only when the line between reality and fantasy begins to dissolve does Alexandria realize how much is truly at stake. Presented by David Fincher (Fight Club) and Spike Jonze (Adaptation), The Fall is an awe-inspiring, cinematic tour de force.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) frm Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Fantasy / Adventure
Have I seen it before: No
Do I Like it as much:

Rating: 3.5of5

'The Fall' (2005) is a Fantasy / Adventure film brought to you by the same people who did "The Cell" in 2000

It stars

The film also features Daniel Caltagirone (Sinclair / Governor Odious), Marcus Wesley (Ice delivery man / Otta Benga), Robin Smith (One-legged actor / Luigi), Jeetu Verma (Orange picker / Indian), Kim Uylenbroek (Doctor / Alexander the Great), Leo Bill (Orderly / Charles Darwin), Emil Hostina (Alexandria's father / Blue Bandit), Julian Bleach (Elderly patient / Mystic)

As noted above, I had not seen this film before, but on recommendation of Achim on dvdCollector forum, in response to a review I did on "The Cell" (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,7809.msg155422.html#msg155422), and a review of "The Fall" (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,6784.msg130167.html#msg130167)  previously done by Silence_Of_Lambs, I went ahead an picked up a copy.

I have to say that I like it very much. "The Fall" is a sweeping imaginary tale, a story told to/about/sometimes by a child patient by another patient who ultimately wants to get the child to help him.

I like it much better than "Immortals" which for me was too dark. Usually the darkness and shadows are a form of creating ambiance The story of the patient/child relationship is interesting as is the story being told. Nice on both levels.

The direction is another great job by Tarsem Singh. The working of script, cinematography and artwork/sets was very nice. The acting on all levels is very nice. I am very happy with this addition to my collection and it is on my watch list for a blu-ray version.

But having said all that, I don't think it is as good as "The Cell". "The Cell" really has a much deeper feel for me. Possibly it is stronger cast (Jennifer Lopez, Vince Vaughn and Vincent D'Onofrio) as I think they are much more 'involved' in the film and their characters. But don't get me wrong .. I think that Lee Pace did a marvelous job. Possibly the "The Cell" was a stronger script.

All in all, I do recommend film this to everyone who likes Fantasy films. It is stunning in its sweep and camera work.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 27, 2012, 11:21:25 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097363434146f.jpg)      Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow: Special Collector's Edition (2004/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0346156) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sky_Captain_and_the_World_of_Tomorrow) | HomeSite (http://www.skycaptain.com/)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Paramount Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Kerry Conran
Writing:Kerry Conran (Writer)
Length:107 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Gwyneth Paltrow as Polly Perkins
Jude Law as Sky Captain
Giovanni Ribisi as Dex
Michael Gambon as Editor Paley
Bai Ling as Mysterious Woman

Plot:
If the world is in trouble and there's no one else to turn to, it's Sky Captain to the rescue!

When mysterious giant robots begin attacking the streets of New York City, intrepid reporter Polly Perkins (Academy Award®-winner Gwyneth Paltrow*) is on the story and enlists the aid of ace aviator and old flame Joseph "Sky Captain" Sullivan (Academy Award® nominee Jude Law**). Their mission is to find out who's behind these killing machines and stop a plot to destroy the world before it's too late.

Co-starring Academy Award®-winner Angelina Jolie*** as the ravishing Captain Franky Cook and Giovanni Ribisi as the technical genius Dex, Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow features innovative state-of-the-art special effects that will thrill and amaze you right through to the action-packed finale.

* Actress in a Leading Role, Shakespeare In Love, 1998.
** Actor in a Leading Role, Cold Mountain, 2003.
*** Actress in a Supporting Role, Girl, Interrupted, 1999.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Fantasy / Adventure
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Rating: 4of5

'Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow' (2004) is a Fantasy / Adventure film


It stars


The film also features Michael Gambon (Morris Paley), Omid Djalili (Kaji), Bai Ling (The Mysterious Woman), Julian Curry (Dr. Jorge Vargas), Trevor Baxter (Dr. Walter Jennings), Peter Law (Dr. Aler Kessler), Laurence Olivier (Dr. Totenkopf) (Olivier had been deceased for nearly 13 years at the time of filming, and was depicted in the film via computer manipulation of video and audio from when he was a young actor) and Khan Bonfils (Creepy).

Planes with flapping wings, miniature elephants, robots with tentacle like arms, P-40s that can go underwater and large flying platforms help to make this a fascinating movie. With the blending/combination of futuristic visions/technologies with period technologies movie is priceless. The filming, to me, is visionary. Keeping comic imagery and period feel of the '30s (after all they are fighting nazi like enemies) but still with a strong futuristic feel, "Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow" is breathtaking.

I strongly recommend this film to anyone who likes fantasy films and/or new/creative story telling.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 28, 2012, 12:23:57 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/026359139024f.jpg)      Gia (1998/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0123865) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gia)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)HBO Home Video (United States)
Director:Michael Cristofer
Writing:Jay McInerney (Writer), Michael Cristofer (Writer)
Length:119 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Angelina Jolie as Gia
Elizabeth Mitchell as Linda
Eric Michael Cole as T.J.
Kylie Travis as Stephanie
Louis Giambalvo as Joe Carangi

Plot:
It's late '70s New York. Studio 54, designer jeans, drugs and disco. One girl is living life in the fast lane. She can have any man - or any woman - she wants. Sex, money, glamour, fame, it's all within her reach. She walks toward you across the dance floor, struts toward you down the runway, stares at you from the cover of a magazine. She's a goddess. She's a star. Her name is GIA.

Extras:


My Thoughts:
Genre: Drama / Biopic
Have I seen it before: No
Do I Like it as much:

Rating: 3of5

'Gia' (1998) is a is a Drama / Biopic Fantasy developed for HBO Films


It stars


The film also features Daniel Caltagirone (Sinclair / Governor Odious), Marcus Wesley (Ice delivery man / Otta Benga), Robin Smith (One-legged actor / Luigi), Jeetu Verma (Orange picker / Indian), Kim Uylenbroek (Doctor / Alexander the Great), Leo Bill (Orderly / Charles Darwin), Emil Hostina (Alexandria's father / Blue Bandit), Julian Bleach (Elderly patient / Mystic)

This is the sad story of super model (considered one of the first) Gia Carangi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gia_Carangi) who at the age of 26 died from complications of AIDS. Born in 1960, by 1978 at the age of 18 she was already well established in the fashion world. Regardless of her success, or maybe because of it, her demons won out and she became hooked on heroin reportedly getting AIDS from an infected needle. Although I am not a big fan of Angelina Jolie in this type of movie I did enjoy it (if that is the word) very much. Because of the subject matter it can be *depressing* and for that reason it is not for everyone. It is also very sexually explicit in Gia's lesbian tendencies.

All in all, I do recommend film this to everyone who likes Biopics, but just be aware of the subject matter. Much drugs and sexual content.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 28, 2012, 04:02:50 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192033636f.jpg)     Harvey: Award Winners (1950/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0042546) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvey_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Home Video (United States)
Director:Henry Koster
Writing:Mary Chase (Original Material By), Mary Chase (Screenwriter), Oscar Brodney (Screenwriter)
Length:104 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, French
Stars:
Nana Bryant as Mrs. Ethel Chumley
Grace Mills as Mrs. Ethel Chauvenet
Clem Bevans as Herman Schimmelplusser
Wallace Ford as The Taxi Driver
William Lynn as Judge Gaffney

Plot:
James Stewart gives one of his finest performances in this lighthearted film, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play.

Stewart stars as the good-natured Elwood P. Dowd, whose constant companion is Harvey, a six-foot tall rabbit that only he can see.

To his sister, Veta Louise, Elwood's obsession with Harvey has been a thorn in the side of her plans to marry off her daughter. But when Veta Louise decides to put Elwood in a mental hospital, a hilarious mix-up occurs and she finds herself committed instead.

It's up to Elwood to straighten out the mess with his kindly philosophy, and his "imaginary" friend, in this popular classic that features a Best Supporting Actress Academy Award® winning performance by Josephine Hull.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Comedy
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: YES
Last Watched: 6/25/2012

Rating: 4.5/5

'Harvey' (1950) is a comedy


It stars


The film also features William H. Lynn (Judge Gaffney), Victoria Horne (Myrtle Mae Simmons), Jesse White (Marvin Wilson), Wallace Ford (Cab Driver), Nana Bryant (Mrs. Chumley), Grayce Mills (Mrs. Chauvenet)

What can I say about this film? This is probably one of my favorite James Stewart films and one of probably the 100 best comedy films ever made. It almost has a "Capraesque" feeling about it which by itself makes it a great film.

James Stewart just about caries the entire film himself, as it is mostly just him and Harvey. But there is a superb cast there to support him, and support they do quite well. With actors like Cecil Kellaway, Jessie White and Josephine Hull how could this film be anything but great movie.

I recommend this film to everyone of all ages.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 28, 2012, 06:57:47 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543075455f.jpg)      The Flight of the Phoenix: Widescreen Edition (1965/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0059183) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Flight_of_the_Phoenix_%281965_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Robert Aldrich
Writing:Lukas Heller (Screenwriter), Elleston Trevor (Original Material By)
Length:142 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
James Stewart (1908) as Frank Towns
Richard Attenborough as Lew Moran
Peter Finch as Captain Harris
Hardy Krüger as Heinrich Dorfmann
Ernest Borgnine as Trucker Cobb

Plot:
James Stewart heads an impressive cast that includes Richard Attenborough, Peter Finch and Ernest Borgnine in this gripping tale of courage and suspense. When their cargo plane crashes in the Sahara Desert, the only hope for a crew of oilmen and military personnel is to try to rebuild the craft before they all perish from heat and deprivation. Based on Elleston Trevor's popular novel of the same name, and artfully directed by Robert Aldrich, THE FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX is a riveting combination of finely honed character studies and an exciting story line.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre:
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/27/2012

Rating: 4/5

'Flight of the Phoenix' (1950) is a is a Drama/Adventure film


It stars


The film also features Ernest Borgnine (Trucker Cobb), Ian Bannen ("Ratbags" Crow), Ronald Fraser (Sgt. Watson), Christian Marquand (Dr. Renaud), Dan Duryea (Standish), George Kennedy (Mike Bellamy), Gabriele Tinti (Gabriel), Alex Montoya (Carlos), Peter Bravos (Tasso), William Aldrich (Bill), Barrie Chase (Farida).

This is the 1965 version of "Flight of the Phoenix" with the remake staring Dennis Quaid being found here  (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flight_of_the_Phoenix_%282004_film%29).

This film is a perfect example of how you can have a drama with no blood and guts and with no special effects. This movie relies on a great director, a very well done script and an ensemble cast that can pull off the scenes.

The cinematography is very good. But the hallmark here is the acting performed by the cast. James Stewart, in what is actually the latter part of his career is right on point with his portrayal of Capt. Fran Towns. And Richard Attenborough is brilliant as his drunken co-pilot. But I think that Hardy Kruger actually stole the show as the person everyone wants to hate but who they must rely on.

I strongly recommend this film to everyone who likes good drama.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 28, 2012, 06:06:37 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396718890f.jpg)     Air Force One (1997/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118571) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Force_One_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:Wolfgang Petersen
Writing:Andrew W. Marlowe (Writer)
Length:124 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Harrison Ford (1942) as President James Marshall
Gary Oldman as Ivan Korshunov
Glenn Close as Vice President Kathryn Bennett
Wendy Crewson as Grace Marshall
Liesel Matthews as Alice Marshall

Plot:
Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman and Glenn Close star in two-time Oscar®-nominee* Wolfgang Petersen's gripping thriller about a steadfast U.S. President who has just told the world he will not negotiate with terrorists. Now, Russian neo-nationalists have hijacked Air Force One, and the President is faced with a nearly impossible decision – give in to terrorist demands or sacrifice not only the country's dignity, but the lives of his wife and daughter.

*1981, Das Boot, Director, Screenplay Adaptation

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Action / Thriller
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/24/2012

Rating: 3/5

'Air Force One' (1997) is a Action / Thriller film


It stars


The film also features Wendy Crewson (Grace Marshall), Liesel Matthews (Alice Marshall), Dean Stockwell (Secretary of Defense Walter Dean), Elya Baskin (Andrei Kolchak), Levan Uchaneishvili (Sergei Lenski), David Vadim (Igor Nevsky), Andrew Divoff (Boris Bazylev), Ilia Volok (Vladimir Krasin), Paul Guilfoyle (White House Chief of Staff Lloyd Shepherd), Xander Berkeley (United States Secret Service Agent Gibbs), William H. Macy (Major Caldwell), Alan Woolf (Russian President Petrov), Tom Everett (National Security Advisor Jack Doherty), Jürgen Prochnow (General Ivan Radek), Donna Bullock (Deputy Press Secretary Melanie Mitchell), Michael Ray Miller (Colonel Axelrod), Carl Weintraub (Lieutenant Colonel Ingraham), Spencer Garrett as White House Aide Thomas Lee), Bill Smitrovich (General Northwood), Glenn Morshower (Agent Walters), David Gianopoulos (Agent Johnson), Dan Shor (Notre Dame Aide), Philip Baker Hall (U.S. Atty. General Andrew Ward), Richard Doyle (Colonel Bob Jackson, A.F.O. Backup Pilot), Willard Pugh (White House Communications Officer), Don R. McManus (Colonel Jack Carlton, F-15 "Halo Flight" Leader).

This is a great Action / Thriller and finds Harrison Ford in his prime. I think this is the type of movie that Harrison Ford was born to play. Sure, he has done light weight 'Romantic Comedies' like "Sabrina" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabrina_%281954_film%29)  a remake of the 1954 film "Sabrina" which starred Humphrey Bogart. He did a good job but it looked like he was stiff throughout the film. He didn't look comfortable. Although I did enjoy him in "Working Girl".

But in action films like this one, "Blade Runner (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blade_Runner)", The Star Wars Trilogy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars#Original_trilogy)  and the Indiana Jones Quadrilogy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indiana_Jones_%28franchise%29)  he shines. He also does a very good job in drama films like "Regarding Henry", "Frantic" and "The Devil's Own".  He is always a good watch.

And Gary Oldman, what to say about him. From his short but brilliant role as Mason Verger in "Hannibal" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hannibal_%28film%29) to his over the top portrayals of the cop Norman Stansfield in "Léon: The Professional" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%C3%A9on_%28film%29) and Jean-Baptiste Emmanuel Zorg in "The Fifth Element" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fifth_Element) he shines. He brings with his performances a brilliance. His characters, no matter how insane, loathsome or cruel simply shine on the screen.

And Wolfgang Petersen did another good job in his direction. From family entertainment like "The NeverEnding Story" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_NeverEnding_Story_%28film%29) to drama films like "Das Boot" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Das_Boot) and "In the Line of Fire" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_the_Line_of_Fire) his direction is crisp and clean.  The action comes hard and fast with little time in between to breath.

Is this the best action movie ever made .. nope .. and it isn't rocket science either, but it is a fun watch.

I recommend this film to everyone who just wants to be entertained.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 28, 2012, 08:37:27 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929102495f.jpg)      Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102798) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_Hood:_Prince_of_Thieves)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Kevin Reynolds
Writing:Pen Densham (Story By), Pen Densham (Screenwriter), John Watson (Screenwriter)
Length:143 min.
Video:Widescreen :1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital:
Subtitles:English
Stars:
Kevin Costner as Robin Hood
Morgan Freeman (1937)
Christian Slater
Alan Rickman as Sheriff of Nottingham
Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio

Plot:
Two-time Academy Award winner®• Kevin Costner plays the legendary Sherwood Forest outlaw leader in a richly textured epic bringing a 12th-century medieval world to spectacular screen life. Filmed at historic locales in England and France, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves brims with the romance, passion, pageantry and humor that have made this remarkable nobleman a hero through the ages and his story the focus of many movies over the past century. Morgan Freeman as Moorish aristocrat Azeem, Christian Slater as rebellious Will Scarlett, Alan Rickman as the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as the spirited Lady Marian also star.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 29, 2012, 04:53:59 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085393337124f.jpg)      The Man with the Golden Arm: Frank Sinatra Collection (1955/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0048347) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Man_with_the_Golden_Arm)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Otto Preminger
Writing:Walter Newman (Screenwriter), Lewis Meltzer (Screenwriter), Nelson Algren (Original Material By)
Length:119 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English, French
Stars:
Frank Sinatra
Eleanor Parker
Kim Novak
Arnold Stang
Darren McGavin

Plot:
Drummer Frankie Machine is out of detox and eager to get on with a big band career. He’s sure that he has kicked his habit. But the habit kicks back.

In 'The Man with the Golden Arm', Frank Sinatra gives a piercing, Academy Award®-nominated* portrayal many call his best. (The film's art direction and Elmer Bernstein’s smoky jazz score also earned Oscar® nominations.) Pioneering moviemaker Otto Preminger directs this landmark that first defied Production Code taboos against on-screen depictions of drug abuse. 'A Hatful of Rain', 'The Panic in Needle Park', 'Clean and Sober', 'Drugstore Cowboy', 'Rush' and 'Blow' would offer later portraits of narcotic terror. But it all started with this harrowing, grown-up film.

*1955: Best Actor.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Drama
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/28/2012

Rating: 4/5

"The Man with the Golden Arm" (1955) is Drama film


It stars


The film also features Darren McGavin (Louie Fomorowski), Robert Strauss (Zero Schwiefka), John Conte (Drunky John), Doro Merande (Vi), George E. Stone (Sam Markette), George Mathews (Williams), Leonid Kinskey (Dominowski) and Emile Meyer (Detective Bednar)

Otto Preminger was a great director and this is one of my favorites of his.

Frank Sinatra gives a very powerful performance as Frankie Machine, a heroin addict always trying to stay straight and make his way. But always failing to stay straight and always blowing his chances. Arnold Stang gives a powerful performance as Sparrow, Frankie's best friend. Well actually he follows Frankie around like a pup. Eleanor Parker gives a great performance as Zosh, Frankies crippled wife. She is manic about Frankie to the point of perfection.  And Kim Novak is great as Molly. An old flame of Frankie's and she still loves him. She plays the truely supporting friend/lover.

With this ensemble cast it would be hard to come up short and Otto Preminger does a masterful job of blending the performers with a very good script and great filming.

I strongly recommend this film to anyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 29, 2012, 05:09:15 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398201168f.jpg)      Hard Candy: Widescreen (2005/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0424136) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_Candy_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Lions Gate Entertainment (United States)
Director:David Slade
Writing:Brian Nelson (Writer)
Length:104 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Ellen Page as Hayley Stark
Patrick Wilson as Jeff Kohlver
Sandra Oh as Judy Tokuda
Odessa Rae [Jennifer Holmes] as Janelle Rogers
Gilbert John as Nighthawks Clerk

Plot:
A smart, charming teenage girl, Hayley probably shouldn't be going to a local coffee shop to meet Jeff, a 30-something fashion photographer she met on the Internet. But before she knows it, she's mixing drinks at Jeff's place and stripping for an impromptu photo shoot. It's Jeff's lucky night. But Hayley isn't as innocent as she looks, and the night takes a turn when she begins to impose a hard-hitting investigation on Jeff in an attempt to reveal his possibly scandalous past.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Drama / Crime Thriller
Rating: R
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/27/2012

Review: 4/5

"Hard Candy" (1955) is a Drama / Crime Thriller film


It stars


The film also features Sandra Oh (Judy Tokuda), Odessa Rae (Janelle Rogers) and Gilbert John (Nighthawks Clerk)

This is a brilliant, hard and edgy film. It deals with the subject of a pedophile and revenge, and for that reason it might not be for some people. This isn't for the young.

This is an Ellen Page film. Patrick Wilson is very good in his role. You feel sorry for him, you believe him and you even hope that he gets out of trouble .. could she be wrong?

But this is an Ellen Page film. She carries it. Her character is so intense that you can't stop watching her. No matter what she does you "feel" for her. It is hard to believe that it is another 2 years before she does "Juno". She is so strong in this movie I can only believe that the entire film project was just developed for her.

There is no sex or real violence (except at the end), but it is 'R' rated.  But I strongly recommend this film to anyone capable of watching this type of intensity.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Achim on June 29, 2012, 05:33:55 PM
Quote from: DSig on June 29, 2012, 05:09:15 PM
This is a brilliant, hard and edgy film. It deals with the subject of a pedophile and revenge, and for that reason it might not be for some people. This isn't for the young.

This is an Ellen Page film. Patrick Wilson is very good in his role. You feel sorry for him, you believe him and you even hope that he gets out of trouble .. could she be wrong?
Mild spoilers ahead.
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 29, 2012, 09:14:40 PM
Quote from: Achim on June 29, 2012, 05:33:55 PM
Quote from: DSig on June 29, 2012, 05:09:15 PM
This is a brilliant, hard and edgy film. It deals with the subject of a pedophile and revenge, and for that reason it might not be for some people. This isn't for the young.

This is an Ellen Page film. Patrick Wilson is very good in his role. You feel sorry for him, you believe him and you even hope that he gets out of trouble .. could she be wrong?
Mild spoilers ahead.
(click to show/hide)

Yep .. he definitely didn't just "phone it in".  On first watch I really loved the film.  An now on second watch I think it still holds up.

Glad you liked it too
Dsig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 29, 2012, 10:30:41 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396711792f.jpg)      First Knight (1995/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113071) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Knight)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:Jerry Zucker
Writing:Lorne Cameron (Original Material By), David Hoselton (Original Material By), William Nicholson (Original Material By), William Nicholson (Screenwriter)
Length:134 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:Korean, Spanish
Stars:
Sean Connery as Arthur
Richard Gere as Lancelot
Julia Ormond as Guinevere
Ben Cross as Malagant
Liam Cunningham as Sir Agravaine

Plot:
Together, Sean Connery, Richard Gere, Julia Ormond (Legends of the Fall, Sabrina) and Jerry Zucker, the director of Ghost, bring you a new vision of King Arthur's Camelot. A vision of breathtaking battles, of heart-pounding courage, of the undeniable love that brought an entire kingdom to its knees...and of the undying passion that made it live forever.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Adventure / Romantic Drama
Rating: PG-13
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: No
Last Watched: 6/24/2012

Review: 3/5

"First Knight" (1995) is a Adventure / Drama film


[/list]

It stars


The film also features John Gielgud (Oswald), Liam Cunningham (Sir Agravaine), Christopher Villiers (Sir Kay), Valentine Pelka (Sir Patrise), Colin McCormack (Sir Mador), Alexis Denisof (Sir Gaheris), Ralph Ineson (Ralf), Stuart Bunce (Peter) and Angus Wright (The Marauder).

You would think that with Jerry Zucker directing and Connery, Gere and Ormond staring this should be a great film. But it really isn't. It has some nice bits and is entertaining. But that is the best I can say about it.

Connery does not appear to have his heart in the part. Maybe playing Robin Hood in so many films and he doesn't feel right in the part of Arthur. I also don't find Richard Gere credible in the part of Lancelot. For me he is primarily a Thriller/Drama kind of actor.

I did really like Julia Ormonds role. And Ben Cross as Prince Malagant was wonderful.

Maybe it was the storyline. It seemed to veer a lot from the "Arthur" films/stories I had seen in the past. Maybe that was it.

Don't get me wrong, this is an entertaining film but simply isn't great as it could have been. I do recommend this film if you haven't seen it and if you are into the "Arthurian" legends.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 30, 2012, 06:19:04 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192031885f.jpg)      Knowing (2009/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0448011) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knowing_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Summit Entertainment (United States)
Director:Alex Proyas
Writing:Ryne Douglas Pearson (Story By), Ryne Douglas Pearson (Screenwriter), Juliet Snowden (Screenwriter), Stiles White (Screenwriter)
Length:121 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Nicolas Cage as John Koestler
Chandler Canterbury as Caleb Koestler
Rose Byrne as Diana
Lara Robinson as Abby / Lucinda
D. G. Maloney [D.G. Maloney] as The Stranger

Plot:
Nicolas Cage (National Treasure) stars in this edge of your seat sci-fi thriller as John Koestler, a professor who deciphers a coded message with terrifyingly accurate predictions about every major world disaster. Looking to protect his family and prevent future calamities he enlists the reluctant help of Diana Wayland {Rose Byrne}, daughter of the now-deceased author of the prophecies. His quest to understand the messages and his own family's involvement in them becomes a heart-pounding race against time as he faces the ultimate disaster.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre:
Rating: PG-13
Have I seen it before:
Do I Like it as much:
Last Watched:

Review: 4/5

"Knowing" (2009) is Drama / Thriller film


It stars


The film also features Lara Robinson (Young Lucinda Embry / Abby Wayland / Young Diana Wayland), Nadia Townsend (Grace Koestler), Ben Mendelsohn (Professor Phil Beckman), Alan Hopgood (Reverend Koestler), Adrienne Pickering (Allison Koestler), Liam Hemsworth (Spencer), D.G. Maloney, Joel Bow, Maximillian Paul, and Karen Hadfield (The whisper people), Alethea McGrath (Miss Taylor in 2009), Danielle Carter (Miss Taylor in 1959), David Lennie (school principal in 1959), Carolyn Shakespeare-Allen (school principal in 2009), Tamara Donnellan (Lucinda's mother), Travis Waite (Lucinda's father), Gareth Yuen (Donald), Lesley Anne Mitchell (Stacy), Raymond Thomas (teacher), Alyssa McClelland (flight attendant), Menik Gooneratne (woman with baby).

The first 3 movies by Alexander Proyas (director) were brilliant and you can tell from this film that he learned a lot along the road. "Knowing" is a great thriller. Plenty of good twists and turns in this film to keep you engaged.

And this is the type of film that Nicolas Cage shines in. He was good in "It Could Happen to You" and better in "City of Angels", but I think that the Action/Thriller is really his forte. He was very good in "Snake Eyes", "Windtalkers" and "Gone in Sixty Seconds" (among others). The stories where he is rushing to get something done like "Next" and "Knowing" are really good.

The rest of the cast does a very good job. Chandler Canterbury had been in just a few things by the time of this film but he performs very well. He will be fun to watch in the future.

As you can tell I really like this film. I strongly recommend this film to anyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 30, 2012, 11:30:11 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396036635f.jpg)     Secret Window (2004/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0448011) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secret_window)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:David Koepp
Writing:Stephen King (1947) (Original Material By), David Koepp (Screenwriter)
Length:96 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, French
Stars:
Johnny Depp as Mort Rainey
John Turturro as Shooter
Maria Bello as Amy Rainey
Timothy Hutton as Ted Milner
Charles S. Dutton as Ken Karsch

Plot:
Academy Award® nominee Johnny Depp (2003 Best Actor, Pirates of the Caribbean) gives his most riveting performance in this action/suspense thriller featuring a top-notch cast including John Turturro, Maria Bello, Academy Award® winner Timothy Hutton (1981 Best Supporting Actor, Ordinary People) and Charles S. Dutton.

Following a bitter separation from his wife (Bello), famed mystery writer Mort Rainey (Depp) is unexpectedly confronted at his remote lake house by a dangerous stranger named John Shooter (Turturro). Claiming Rainey has plagiarized his short story, the psychotic Shooter demands justice. When Shooter's demands turn to threats - and then murder - Rainey turns to a private detective (Dutton) for help. But when nothing stops the horror from spiraling out of control, Rainey soon discovers he can't trust anyone or anything. A shocking psychological thriller from the writer of Panic Room, David Koepp.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Suspense Drama / Thriller
Rating: PG-13
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 06/30/2012

Review: 4/5
"Secret Window" (2004) is Horror / Psychological Thriller film


It stars


The film also features Maria Bello (Amy Rainey), Timothy Hutton (Ted Milner), Len Cariou (Sheriff Dave Newsome), Charles S. Dutton (Private Investigator Ken Karsch), John Dunn Hill (Tom Greenleaf).

"Secret Window" to me is more of a psychological Thriller than a horror movie. That being said, this is a great example of Johnny Depp's depth as a character actor. He is one of a handful of actors who can play serious thriller roles, drama roles and comedic roles. Rolls such as Sam in "Benny & Joon" and Captain Jack Sparrow in "Pirates of the Caribbean" quadrilogy simply take a different type of timing than those roles like Mort Rainey in "Secret Window" and Dean Corso in "The Ninth Gate". But Johnny Depp has great timing.

Now that I have gushed over the brilliance of Johnny Depp I have to admit there are a few roles that I haven't like him in. Films like "Public Enemies", "The Rum Diary" and "Cry-Baby" are not my favorite. I believe it is because they don't give him the depth that his characters should have.

John Turturro is also very good in this film. Again, like Johnny Depp, I really like most everything John Turturro does. He plays quirky characters. And his delivery makes him a stand out in every film he does. His portrayal of Herb Stempel in "Quiz Show" I think was brilliant. He did a much better job than Ralph Fiennes did .. and that is saying something.

For "Secret Windows" I think that direction, filming and all of the acting were very well done. The film didn't telegraph a lot of what was to happen. Some twists and turns from the script kept me involved.

I really like this film. I strongly recommend this film to anyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Piffi on June 30, 2012, 11:40:10 PM
Quote from: DSig on June 30, 2012, 11:30:11 PM

I really like this film. I strongly recommend this film to anyone.

Cool! I've been curious about that movie. Havent bought it yet. But i think i will give it a try. :)
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on June 30, 2012, 11:57:56 PM
I will be very interested in what you think.  I see a lot of 'slasher' type horror films here and that is why i try to specify it as a psychological thriller.  Very little gore but lots of suspense.

let me know what you think of it

Dsig
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 01, 2012, 01:56:18 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396005396f.jpg)     Identity: Special Edition (2003/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0309698) |  Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Identity_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:James Mangold
Writing:Michael Cooney (Writer)
Length:91 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French
Stars:
John Cusack as Ed
Ray Liotta as Rhodes
Amanda Peet as Paris
John Hawkes (1959) as Larry
Alfred Molina as Doctor

Plot:
What if every choice we ever make was already made for us? What if there really were no coincidences in life and our destinies were already predetermined?

Ten strangers with secrets are brought together in a savage rainstorm: A limo driver (John Cusack), an '80s TV star (Rebecca DeMornay), a cop (Ray Liotta) who is transporting a killer (Jake Busey), a call girl (Amanda Peet), a pair of newlyweds (Clea DuVall and William Lee Scott) and a family in crisis (John C. McGinley, Leila Kenzie, Bret Loehr), all take shelter at a desolate motel run by a nervous night manager (John Hawkes). Relief in finding shelter is quickly replaced with fear as the ten travelers begin to die, one by one. They soon realize that, if they are to survive, they'll have to uncover the secret that has brought them all together.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Rating: R
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/30/2012

Review: 4/5
"Identity" (2003) is Psycological Thriller / Mystery film



It stars


The film also features Clea DuVall (Ginny Isiana), Leila Kenzle (Alice York), Alfred Molina (Dr. Mallick), Carmen Argenziano (Marty), Marshall Bell (the district attorney), Matt Letscher (the assistant district attorney), Holmes Osborne (Judge Taylor), Frederick Coffin (Detective Varole), Joe Hart (Bailiff Jenkins), Michael Hirsch (the naked businessman), Terence Bernie Hines (a bailiff), Stuart M. Besser (Larry), Jake Busey (Robert Maine), William Lee Scott (Lou Isiana), Rebecca De Mornay (Caroline Suzanne).

The film starts with ...
"As I was going up the stair
I meant a man who wasn't there.
He wasn't there again today
I wish, I wish he'd go away"

"Identity" is an excellent mind bending psycho thriller. I doubt if you can figure out what is really going on before things start getting worked out.

The script/story is strong and the direction is very good. The film has the ambiance of terror which is what you want from a good thriller. Good cinematography and script.

Then there is the acting. John Cusack is very good in this. He is another actor who I think can do most everything. Like Johnny Depp, John Cusak can do comedic roles such as "Grosse Point Blank" and then turn and do a horror like "1408" and finally turn and do a romantic film like "Serendipity". This takes real timing for an actor and John Cusack seems to have it. He has a vast library of roles in many genres.

This film also has a great set of supporting actors. They all do a very good job. I don't think there is a weak performance in the group.

This is another Strong Recommendation for anyone who likes Psycho Thrillers

And the film ends ...
"As I was going up the stair
I meant a man who wasn't there.
He wasn't there again today
I wish, I wish he'd go away"
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 01, 2012, 05:39:41 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391416821f.jpg)     Copycat (1995/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112722) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copycat_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Jon Amiel
Writing:Ann Biderman (Writer), David Madsen (Writer)
Length:123 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Sigourney Weaver as Helen Hudson
Holly Hunter as MJ Monahan
Dermot Mulroney as Ruben Goetz
William McNamara as Peter Foley
Harry Connick, Jr. as Daryll Lee Cullum

Plot:
One of the best-reviewed thrillers of recent years is 'COPYCAT', an adrenaline pumper about the desperate hunt for a mass murderer who copies serial killers of the recent past. An ambitious San Francisco homicide detecive (Holly Hunter) and a noted criminal psychologist (Sigourney Weaver) piece together a jigsaw puzzle of crime as they close in on a fiend with a knack for staying a step ahead... and leaving a body behind.

Jon Amiel ('SOMMERSBY') directs and Dermot Mulroney, William McNamara, Harry Connick, Jr. and Will Patton co-star in "the smartest and most gripping thriller since 'THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS" (Jack Mathews, 'NEWSDAY').

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Crime, Drama
Rating: R
Have I seen it before: Yes .. Many Times
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/30/2012

Review: 4/5
"Copycat" (1995) is Psycological Thriller / Mystery film


It stars


The film also features Harry Connick, Jr. (Daryll Lee Cullum), William McNamara (Peter Foley), J. E. Freeman (Lt. Thomas Quinn), Will Patton (Det. Nicoletti), John Rothman (Andy), Shannon O'Hurley (Susan Schiffer)

I guess that i am on a psychological thriller bent as this is the third one today. And "Copycat" is one of my all time favorites. I have watched in many times and it still seems fresh to me. The direction, script and filming/editing are all really good. No goofs to speak of and although it is filmed in the story of 'knowing what is going on' it still builds suspense.

Now for the acting. It stars Holly Hunter and Sigourney Weaver. Two GREAT actresses. In today's group of movies I have been very lucky to watch actors that can deliver across many genres. Holly Hunter is one of those actors. From comedy like "Home for the Holidays" (a seasonal favorite every year) to drama like "Thirteen" and "Crash" to thrillers like "Copycat" and romantic movies like "Always". That is a very broad range of character types and Holly Hunter performs them all very well.

Then there is Sigourney Weaver. Another actor capable of wide scope. From humor of "Dave" and "Ghostbusters" 1&2 to drama of "Death and the Maiden" to of course the "Alien " quadrilogy. Another great breadth of work.

Finally the rest of the cast. Dermot Mulroney does a very good job as Reuben Goetz. His play against Holly Hunter and Sigourney Weaver is fascinating. And Harry Connick, Jr. is excellent as the serial killer Peter Foley. Harry Connick, Jr does surprisingly well in various characters. For example in Hope Floats" a romantic drama he plays well against Sandra Bullock. And in "Copycat" and "Basic" he plays very heavy roles.

This is another Strong Recommendation for anyone who likes Psycho Thrillers
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: Piffi on July 01, 2012, 10:39:23 AM
Quote from: DSig on June 30, 2012, 11:57:56 PM
I will be very interested in what you think.  I see a lot of 'slasher' type horror films here and that is why i try to specify it as a psychological thriller.  Very little gore but lots of suspense.

let me know what you think of it

Dsig


I'll let you know what i think when i get around to buy it :)
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 03, 2012, 05:01:02 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929012954f.jpg)     Birds of Prey: The Complete Series (2002/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0312098) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birds_of_Prey_%28TV_series%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:1. PilotBrian Robbins, 2. SlickMichael Katleman, 3. Prey for the HunterChris Long, 4. Three Birds and a BabyCraig Zisk, 5. Sins of the MotherJeff Woolnough, 6. Primal ScreamJim Charleston, 7. SplitJames Marshall, 8. Lady ShivaJohn Kretchmer, 9. Nature of the BeastShawn Levy, 10. GladiatrixDavid Carson, 11. ReunionChris Long, Part 1Joe Napolitano, Part 2Robert J. Wilson
Writing:1. PilotLaeta Kalogridis (Writer), 2. SlickLaeta Kalogridis (Story By), Melissa Rosenberg (Story By), Laeta Kalogridis (Screenwriter), 3. Prey for the HunterEdward Kitsis (Screenwriter), Adam Horowitz (Screenwriter), Adam Armud (Story By), Kay Foster (Story By), 4. Three Birds and a BabyDavid H. Goodman (Writer), Julie Hess (Writer), 5. Sins of the MotherMelissa Rosenberg (Screenwriter), Melissa Rosenberg (Story By), Hans Tobeason (Story By), 6. Primal ScreamEdward Kitsis (Screenwriter), Adam Horowitz (Screenwriter), Adam Armus (Story By), Kay Foster (Story By), 7. SplitAdam Armus (Screenwriter), Kay Foster (Screenwriter), Edward Kitsis (Story By), Adam Horowitz (Story By), 8. Lady ShivaAdam Armus (Screenwriter), Kay Foster (Screenwriter), Edward Kitsis (Story By), Adam Horowitz (Story By), 9. Nature of the BeastMelissa Rosenberg (Writer), 10. GladiatrixDavid H. Goodman (Writer), 11. ReunionEdward Kitsis (Writer), Adam Horowitz (Writer), Part 1Adm Armus (Writer), Kay Foster (Writer), Part 2Hans Tobeason (Screenwriter), Adam Armus (Story By), Melissa Rosenberg (Story By)
Length:542 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English
Stars:
1. PilotAshley Scott (1977) as Helena Kyle/Huntress
Dina Meyer as Barbara Gordon/Oracle
Rachel Skarsten as Dinah Lance
Shemar Moore as Det. Jesse Reese

Plot:
Who will stand up to villains now that a heartbroken Dark Knight has mysteriously vanished? Never fear, New Gothamites, a trio of champions is ready to take wing - and Helena, the daughter of Batman and Catwoman, is among them. She calls herself Huntress and crime is her prey. Teenaged Dinah is the youngest of the group, learning as she goes and gifted in clairvoyance. And overseeing the awesome threesome's high-tech nerve center is Batgirl. Left wheelchair-bound by The Joker, she has reinvented herself as Oracle, the team’s cyber expert. Huntress, Dinah, Oracle: They are the Birds of Prey. Fighting together. Living together. And soaring into adventure together in 13 breathtaking live-action episodes.

** Complete Plot (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Cast
Helena Kyle/Huntress – (Ashley Scott)
Barbara Gordon/Oracle – (Dina Meyer)
Dinah Redmond (née Dinah Lance)/Black Canary – (Rachel Skarsten)
Detective Jesse Reese – (Shemar Moore)
Dr. Harleen Quinzel/Harley Quinn – (Mia Sara)[2]
Alfred Pennyworth – (Ian Abercrombie)

Recurring cast members
Wade Brixton – (Shawn Christian)
Gibson Kafka – (Robert Patrick Benedict)
Detective McNally – (Brent Sexton)
Bruce Wayne/Batman - (Bruce Thomas)

EPISODES:
1. Pilot
The Batman legend takes an unexpected turn when the Caped Crusader vanishes from the crime-ridden Gotham City and his legacy is taken over by a trio of beautiful and relentless heroines – the Birds of Prey. Barbara Gordon started out as Batman's protégé, Batgirl, but an attack by The Joker left her a parapalegic after being shot in the back, and she uses a wheelchair. Reinventing herself as Oracle, she takes under her wing Helena Kyle, the secret daughter of Batman and Catwoman, who quickly grows into the fierce and beautiful "Huntress". Into this group comes Dinah, a teenage runaway who is drawn to the city by meta-human visions. With the help of the only honest cop in the city now-called New Gotham, Detective Jesse Reese, the Birds of Prey fight their first battle against a mysterious madman who is bent on destruction.

2. Slick
Slick (Silas Weir Mitchell), an evil meta-human who can turn from solid to liquid, is hired by Dr. Quinzel to kill the honest cops who stand in her way. When Reese is the next intended victim, Helena comes to his aid and their mutual attraction continues to grow. Meanwhile, Barbara believes Dinah’s story that she’s just a runaway, but Helena remains suspicious.

3. Prey for the Hunter
Helena and Detective Reese clash again when they both try to track down a serial killer who destroys metahumans by taking on their powers. Meanwhile, Dinah ditches school when she learns from Helena there is a metahuman-only bar, and Barbara meets Wade’s parents who think she is not normal enough for their son.

4. Three Bird and a Baby
When Helena rescues an abandoned baby boy and brings him back to the Clocktower, Barbara and Dinah try to help, but to everyone’s surprise, the baby, "Guy", is only happy when Helena is holding him. Even more surprising is the fact that Guy wakes up from his nap as a walking, talking 5-year-old and is soon a teenager. Now in a race against time, the Birds of Prey discover that Guy is programmed to live his entire life in three days, and to kill the first person he attaches to, putting Helena in grave danger while Dr. Quinzel also races the clock to find Guy for her own nefarious plans.

5. Sins of the Mother
Dinah's mother, Carolyn (Lori Loughlin), comes to town to find her daughter, but the past comes back to haunt both women when the head of a crime family that Carolyn took down in her years as the Black Canary comes after them. Dinah must fight to save the mother she's never really known before she loses the chance completely. Helena wonders about her own mother's past, and about the secrets that the Canary could reveal to her, while Barbara tries to bring all the women together to cooperate before the past destroys them all.

6. Primal Scream
At the request of Reese, Helena goes undercover to help bring down a gang of thieves terrorizing New Gotham and quickly discovers that the gang is part of a larger infrastructure. Helena goes after the big boss until her cover is blown, putting her in grave danger. Meanwhile, Barbara has to deal with her fear of intimacy when her relationship with Wade takes a serious turn.

7. Split
Already frustrated with men thanks to her relationship with Det. Reese, Helena is none too pleased when a metahuman calling himself Darkstrike (Kristoffer Polaha) visits New Gotham to team up with her and Barbara. However, Helena warms to the enigmatic stranger when he explains his history with the Crawler (Brian Thompson) – a nefarious criminal with the nasty habit of murdering his abductees. When the fiend kidnaps an innocent teen, the crime fighters must race against the clock to ensure that the latest victim doesn't meet the fate of her predecessors.

8. Lady Shiva
Helena is thrilled when her best friend from high school, Sandra (Sung-Hi Lee), returns to New Gotham, but the Birds are troubled by a series of murders with the unmistakable mark of Batgirl’s nemesis, Lady Shiva. Determined to fight Lady Shiva as an equal, Barbara dusts off her Batgirl costume and experiments with technology that allows her to leave the wheelchair. Meanwhile, Dinah tries to use her mind-reading powers to get a boy at her school to notice her to ask her out for the school's spring dance.

9. Nature of the Beast
When a hit is put on the life of legendary mob boss, Al Hawk (Mitch Pileggi), the only person he trusts to protect him is his son, Det. Reese. Reese turns to Helena for help, but when she learns that Reese's father is the same man who killed Dinah's mother, Black Canary, her loyalties are tested.

10. Gladiatrix
When young metahuman women are abducted in New Gotham, Helena’s investigation leads her to uncover a secret club where the captive women are drugged and forced to fight each other in an arena. When Helena is also abducted, it is up to Dinah to rescue her with Reese's help.

11. Reunion
After a robber, Chris Cassius (Ian Reed Kesler), breaks into a chemical factory and drinks a mixture that gives him the power to turn people to stone, Barbara cancels her vacation with her boyfriend, Wade. Unwilling to allow Barbara to continue neglecting her personal life, Alfred the Butler brings Wade to the clock tower and exposes her secret. Meanwhile, Helena goes to Arkham Asylum and interrogates a villain named Clayface, who possesses the same abilities as Chris, and learns a shocking fact about her past. She must race to prevent Chris from killing New Gotham's most powerful people at a charity fashion show.

12. Feat of Clay
After a robber, Chris Cassius (Ian Reed Kesler), breaks into a chemical factory and drinks a mixture that gives him the power to turn people to stone, Barbara cancels her vacation with her boyfriend, Wade. Unwilling to allow Barbara to continue neglecting her personal life, Alfred the Butler brings Wade to the clock tower and exposes her secret. Meanwhile, Helena goes to Arkham Asylum and interrogates a villain named Clayface, who possesses the same abilities as Chris, and learns a shocking fact about her past. She must race to prevent Chris from killing New Gotham's most powerful people at a charity fashion show.

13. Devil's Eyes
Having discovered that Helena is Huntress, Harley Quinn uses a machine that gives her metahuman hypnotic powers. She then hypnotizes Helena and persuades her to knock Barbara unconscious and steal an access disk. Barbara recovers and uses her subneural device to enable her to stand and fight Helena, eventually neutralizing the trance. But Harley uses the disk to gain complete control of the clock tower and, after killing Wade, she broadcasts the hypnotic signal to every television set in New Gotham. Working together with Alfred, Dinah, and Reese, Helena must infiltrate the clock tower and battle Harley and her cohorts before they gain control of the entire city.


Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Action, Science-Fiction, Television
Rating: NR
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 07/02/2012

Review: 3/5

"The Birds of Prey" (2002) is Superhero / Action TV series



It stars


The film also features Mia Sara (Dr. Harleen Quinzel/Harley Quinn), Ian Abercrombie (Alfred Pennyworth), Shawn Christian (Wade Brixton), Robert Patrick Benedict (Gibson Kafka), Brent Sexton (Detective McNally), Bruce Thomas (Bruce Wayne/Batman)

I really like this and am very happy that I picked this up. I remember only a couple of the shows from when it was live probably mostly because I was traveling a lot out of the country in 2002-2003.

Since this only got 13 episodes they didn't have time to really build the characters and give reasons to care about them. But in the short time I believe they displayed growth through each episode.

If you get a chance to watch this do. I think you will enjoy it.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 03, 2012, 06:10:08 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/68/687797119698f.jpg)     The Contract (2007/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0445946) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Contract_%282006_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)First Look Home Entertainment, Nu Image (United States)
Director:Bruce Beresford
Writing:Stephen Katz (Writer), John Darrouzet (Writer)
Length:96 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Morgan Freeman (1937) as Carden
John Cusack as Ray
Jamie Anderson as Chris
Alice Krige as Miles
Megan Dodds as Sandra

Plot:
While on a hiking trip to reconnect with his son, Ray Keene (John Cusack) stumbles into a nightmare scenario of paid assassins and ex-military guns-for-hire. Frank Cardin (Morgan Freeman) is attempting to fulfill a contract to assassinate a high profile businessman when things go awry and he ends up in the custody of the U.S. Marshalls. After an ill-fated attempt by his compatriots to free him Frank, finds himself in the custody of ex-lawman Ray and his son (Jamie Anderson). As they try to make their way back to civilization they are relentlessly pursued by Frank's friends who are intent on freeing their leader in order to collect on the contract. But one may be more foe than friend.

** Complete Plot (including spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Action
Rating: R
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/30/2012

Review: 3.5/5

"The Contract" (2006) is Mystery / Thriller


It stars


The film also features Megan Dodds (Sandra), Jonathan Hyde (Turner), Corey Johnson (Davis), Alice Krige (Miles), Ian Shaw (Michaels), Jonas Talkington (paramedic), Spike Dauner (helicopter pilot #1).

I really like this movie. Good suspense and chase. Great acting with Cusack and Freeman.

I strongly recommend this film to everyone
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 03, 2012, 10:36:01 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360173673f.jpg)      Witness: Widescreen Collection (1985/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090329) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witness_%281985_film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Paramount Home Video (United States)
Director:Peter Weir
Writing:William Kelley (Story By), Pamela Wallace (Story By), Earl W. Wallace (Story By), Earl W. Wallace (Screenwriter), William Kelley (Screenwriter)
Length:112 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:
Stars:
Harrison Ford (1942) as John Book
Kelly McGillis as Rachel
Josef Sommer as Schaeffer
Lukas Haas as Samuel
Jan Rubes as Eli Lapp

Plot:
When a young Amish woman and her son get caught up in the murder of an undercover narcotics agent, their savior turns out to be hardened Philadelphia detective John Book.

Harrison Ford is sensational as Book, the cop who runs head-on into the non-violent world of a Pennsylvania Amish community. The end result is an action-packed struggle of life and death, interwoven with a sensitive undercurrent of caring and forbidden love.

** Complet Plot Summary (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Romance, Drama
Rating: R
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 7/2/2012

Review: 3.5/5

"Witness" (1985) is Mystery / Crime drama


It stars


The film also features Josef Sommer (Schaeffer), Lukas Haas (Samuel Lapp), Jan Rubes (Eli Lapp), Alexander Godunov (Daniel Hochleitner), Danny Glover (McFee), Brent Jennings (Carter), Patti LuPone (Elaine), Angus MacInnes (Fergie), Frederick Rolf (Stoltzfus), Viggo Mortensen (Moses Hochleitner).

I really like this movie. It is a good romantic drama. And in this one Harrison Ford even puts forward some emotions as he did in "Regarding Henry". The chemistry between Harrison Ford and Kelly McGillis is palatable. They create a real energy.

And it was fun to see Danny Glover in an early film for him .. just a bad guy with virtually no lines.

This is a fun movie and I strongly recommend this file to anyone
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 04, 2012, 12:35:40 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/67/678149197327f.jpg)      Just Like Heaven: Widescreen (2005/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0425123) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Just_Like_Heaven_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)DreamWorks Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Mark Waters
Writing:Marc Levy (Original Material By), Peter Tolan (Screenwriter), Leslie Dixon (Screenwriter)
Length:95 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Reese Witherspoon as Elizabeth
Mark Ruffalo as David
Donal Logue as Jack
Dina Waters as Abby
Ben Shenkman as Brett

Plot:
Reese Witherspoon stars in the spirited romantic comedy Just Like Heaven. When David (Mark Ruffalo) rents his new apartment, the last thing he wants is company. Then Elizabeth (Reese Witherspoon) shows up, insisting the apartment is hers...until she disappears right before his eyes. He's convinced she's a spirit. She's convinced she's still alive. As they search for the truth of Elizabeth's past, their relationship changes from resentment to romance. Also starring Jon Heder, Just Like Heaven is a delightful film that critics declare is "one of the best romantic comedies to come along in years" (JP Sarni, Sirius Satellite Radio).

** Complete Plot Summary (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Fantasy
Rating: PG-13
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/27/2012

Review: 3.5/5

"Just Like Heaven" (2005) is Romantic Comedy


It stars


The film also features Jon Heder (Darryl), Donal Logue (Jack), Dina Waters (Abby Brody), Ivana Milicevic (Katrina), Rosalind Chao (Dr. Fran Lo), Ben Shenkman (Dr. Brett Rushton), Joel McKinnon Miller (Lead Ghostbuster)

I really like this movie. Being a romantic comedy it isn't exactly rocket science but it has a nice twist to the concept.

And like most all of her movies, I like Reese Witherspoon in this very much. She is a little quirky and always carries that 'southern belle' thing. She is good in this as she was in "Legally Blonde" films, "Pleasentville", "Election" and of course "Sweet Home Alabama". I just about always like the films she is in. With the possible exception of "This is War" .. just didn't like the other 2 characters.

And Mark Ruffalo is also very good in this one. Most of the things I have seen him in are a little more dark or .. Like "Zodiac" and "The Kids are All Right", but i think he pulls of the comedy and romantic thing pretty well here. Maybe it is with the help of Reese WItherspoon.

All in all I strongly recommend this film to anyone who wants a good romantic comedy.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 04, 2012, 03:39:08 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/71/717951000040f.jpg)      The Rock: Widescreen (1996/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117500) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Rock_%28film%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Hollywood Pictures Home Entertainment, Buena Vista Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Michael Bay
Writing:David Weisberg (Story By), Douglas S. Cook (Story By), David Weisberg (Screenwriter), Douglas S. Cook (Screenwriter), Mark Rosner (Screenwriter)
Length:136 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Sean Connery as John Patrick Mason
Nicolas Cage as Stanley Goodspeed
Ed Harris as General Francis X. Hummel
John Spencer as F.B.I. Director Womack
David Morse as Major Tom Baxter

Plot:
Hollywood Superstar Sean Connery (The Hunt For Red October) joins Academy Award™ winner Nicolas Cage (1995 Best Actor – Leaving Las Vegas) in the action-packed thriller of the year, The Rock! All of San Francisco is taken hostage when a vengeful General (Ed Harris – Apollo 13) seizes control of Alcatraz Island, threatening to launch missiles loaded with deadly poison gas! With time running out, only a young FBI chemical weapons expert (Cage) and a notorious Federal prisoner (Connery) have the skills to penetrate the island fortress and defuse the lethal situation! Edge-of-your-seat suspense and unstoppable action explode off the screen in this must-see motion picture event!

** Complete Plot Summary (with spoilers) from Wikipedia **
(click to show/hide)


Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Action, Adventure
Rating: R
Have I seen it before: Yes
Do I Like it as much: Yes
Last Watched: 6/28/2012

Review: 3.5/5

"The Rock" (1996) is Action film


It stars


The film also features John Spencer (FBI Director James Womack), William Forsythe (FBI Special Agent Ernest Paxton), David Morse (Major Tom Baxter, USMC Force Recon), John C. McGinley (Marine Captain Hendrix), Tony Todd (Captain Darrow), Gregory Sporleder (Captain Frye), Bokeem Woodbine (Sergeant Crisp), Jim Maniaci (Private Scarpetti), Greg Collins (Private Gamble), Steve Harris (Private McCoy), Brendan Kelly (Private Cox), Michael Biehn (Commander Anderson), Danny Nucci (Lieutenant Shephard), Vanessa Marcil (Carla Pestalozzi), Claire Forlani (Jade Angelou), Anthony Clark (Paul), Todd Louiso (Marvin Isherwood), Sam Whipple (Larry Henderson), David Bowe (Dr. Ling), John Laughlin (General Peterson), Jim Caviezel (F/A-18 Pilot).

This is another great action movie. It does have some cliches and some easy to figure out bits but over all it is a very good movie. The script if fun with some puns here and there.

The acting is very good. Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage shine in this type of action film. Men doing manly things to save the world. And Ed Harris, who i always like, is also good as the General gone astray.

The supporting cast is also good. John Spencer and William Forsythe are good as FBI agents that you love to hate.

If you are capable of "suspending disbelief", as all good film buffs must, then you will like this movie.

I highly recommend this film to everyone.
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on July 04, 2012, 05:29:19 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/013132424996f.jpg)      Catch .44 (2011/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1886493) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catch_.44)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Anchor Bay Entertainment (United States)
Director:Aaron Harvey
Writing:Aaron Harvey (Writer)
Length:94 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish
Stars:
Malin Akerman as Tes
Nikki Reed as Kara
Deborah Ann Woll as Dawn
Forest Whitaker as Ronny
Bruce Willis as Mel

Plot:
Academy Award® winner Forest Whitaker (The Last King of Scotland), Bruce Willis, Malin Akerman (Watchmen), Nikki Reed (The Twilight Saga), and Deborah Ann Woll ("True Blood") star in the tough, sexy story of three hit women sent to rural Louisiana to intercept a big money dope deal. But when they get to the near-empty roadside cafe, bullets blast apart what was supposed to be a simple transaction. It could be a huge, bloody misunderstanding but it might also be a deadly double-cross. Shea Whigham ("Boardwalk Empire") and Academy Award® nominee Brad Dourif (One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest) co-star in this intense crime thriller with a killer twist.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Action, Crime, Suspense/Thriller
Rating: R
Have I seen it before: No
Do I Like it as much:
Last Watched: 7/2/2012

Review: 3/5 .. but it is growing on me

"Catch .44" (1996) is Action drama that becomes a shoot fest


It stars


The film also features Deborah Ann Woll (Dawn), Brad Dourif (Sheriff Connors), Michael Rosenbaum (Brandon), Shea Whigham (Billy), Edrick Browne (Devon), Jill Stokesberry (Francine), P.J. Marshall (Deputy Elmore), Ivory Dortch (Waitress).

I don't know why .. but i *like* this movie. Maybe like is not the right word. But it is one that I will watch again AND i am happy to have it in my collection.

The story line is a little hard to follow as it is one of those .. start that the end and keep going back to what got you there. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. I am not sure here if it is working but on first watch it is kind of hard to follow.

But Bruce Willis, who i almost always like, is very good playing Mel a sleaze ball drug lord. And Forest Whitaker is very good as the crazy Ronny, another druggie and associate of Mel.

Malin Akerman, Deborah Ann Woll and Nikki Reed are sufficient to good in their parts. Maybe it is the script or direction or maybe it is just Willis and Whitaker but I do like this.

I am only giving it a 3of5 but i think this one will grow on me and that rating will improve.

I recommend this film to anyone who likes a good
(click to show/hide)
movie
Title: Re: DSigs What I'm Watching
Post by: DSig on August 16, 2012, 06:02:23 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/796019808552f.jpg)     Tin Man: 2 Disc Collector's Edition (2007/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0910812) | Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tin_Man_%28TV_miniseries%29)
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Genius Products, RHI Entertainment (United States)
Director:Nick Willing
Writing:Craig Van Sickle (Screenwriter), Steven Long Mitchell (Screenwriter), Jill Blotevogel (Screenwriter), Craig Van Sickle (Story By), Steven Long Mitchell (Story By), L. Frank Baum (Original Material By)
Length:265 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:
Stars:
Zooey Deschanel as DG
Alan Cumming as Glitch
Neal McDonough as Cain
Kathleen Robertson as Azkadellia
Raoul Trujillo as Raw

Plot:
Follow a new yellow brick road with Tin Man, the unforgettable science fiction update of L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. When small-town waitress D.G. (Zooey Deschanel) unexpectedly lands in the dangerous wasteland known as The O.Z., she'll need the help of three unlikely friends and the great Mystic Man (Academy Award© Winner Richard Dreyfuss*) to escape cruel sorceress Azkadellia (Kathleen Robertson). Featuring "all the goodness of the classic" (TV Guide), TIN MAN doesn't just go over the rainbow... it goes way beyond.

*1977 Best Actor, The Goodbye Girl.

** Complete Plot (from Wikipedia) with spoilers **
(click to show/hide)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Genre: Television, Science-Fiction, Adventure
Rating: NR
Have I seen it before: Y
Do I Like it as much:
Last Watched: 8/16/2012

Review: 3.5/5
"Tin Man" (2007) is Sci-Fi, Fantasy re-telling of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wonderful_Wizard_of_Oz) by L. Frank Baum