Boxers and Ballerinas Documentary Review

Boxers and Ballerinas (2004) is a very well done modern documentary about the social and political differences between the United States and Cuba. This is not your grandmother's documentary! Through innovative camera techniques and a "sit back and watch" or photo journalistic style, Mike Cahill and Brit Marling have made a wonderful film. They where the directors, cinematographers, and editors of Boxeadores y Bailarinas; taking over two years to shoot in three different countries (Mexico being the third).

The documentary focuses on four people; a boxer and a ballerina in Havana, Cuba and the like in Miami, Florida. We follow them as they push for their dreams while having many challenges and successes. The directors did a great job of staying focused on these four people and what they see; some history and background is given but no political message or swayed views are present.

Ordenis Ugas (17) of Santiago, Cuba - 2003 World Junior Boxing champion - residing in Havana for school and boxing

Annia Recia (18) of Havana, Cuba - dancer for the Radio and Television Ballet Company- to train and work in Mexico

Sergio Garcia (21) of Miami, FL - defected from Cuba in 1993 - budding professional boxer

Paula Roque (21) of Miami, FL - defected from Cuba in 1992 - ballerina for Rosario Suarez Dance Company

8 out of 10 - Very eye opening and interesting! The DVDhas some great interviews with Mike and Brit that were very insightful. English and Spanish with English subtitles.

The Orphanage Movie Review

El Orfanato (2007) is a Spanish independent film with tastes of a drama, thriller, mystery, and horror. It was marketed more as a horror film in the US but it is so much deeper than that; there certainly are some startling moments and fear though. I would personally categorize this is an edgy drama/mystery with a generous helping of supernatural puzzles and a side order of horror.

First let me dispel some myths. This movie came out before Orphan (2009) and the two have different story lines. Although Hollywood is not so original lately, Orphan is not a remake of El Orfanato. Interesting to note is that New Line Cinema did buy the rights for an English remake of El Orfanato.

Laura, Carlos, and their young son Simón move into a large old house in Spain where Laura grew up as an orphan. Being fortunate to leave the orphanage at a young age she has had a great life and has a wonderful family. It has always been her dream to return to help others; she plans on fixing up the facilities to care for challenged children.

Like many young boys Simón has imaginary friends. He has always had two up until moving into the new place where he made friends with Tomás. They often play together and Simón even learned a new game from him that he shows his mother. The idea is to replace an item with another, you then need to figure out where that item came from, that leads you to another and another; once you make it to the end to find the treasure you get to make a wish.

One time he is playing the game with his mother that Tomás set up. She is perplexed by the items and placement and wonders how Simón knew about everything. The final item in this game is a folder that was given to Laura the night before by a strange woman claiming to be a social worker and that she found snooping around later that night. The folder was in a locked drawer that Simón could not have known about.

He starts yelling at his mom in a tirade about his past, she so startled and not sure what to do. He claims his friend (and now some other friends) told him he was adopted and very sick. Being entirely true Carlos and Laura must have a talk with him.

They have an open house to meet prospective children to care for and Simón becomes missing. His parent’s search the house, beach, and cave where he met his friend to no avail. The police are called in along with a psychiatrist. Six months later and there has been no progress so Laura calls in a medium to the dismay of her husband. Then...

The cast of amazing actors including first-timers and seasoned vets are Belén Rueda, Fernando Cayo, Roger Príncep, Geraldine Chaplin, Mabel Rivera, and Montserrat Carulla. The crew played a vital role in the making of this film; most notably director J.A. Bayona with Sergio G. Sánchez writing the script and Óscar Faura heading up cinematography.

9 out of 10 - I can not praise this movie enough; if you watch it you will know why. The DVD with English subtitles and an amazing DTS audio track can be picked up on Amazon.

The Last Broadcast Movie Review

The Last Broadcast (1998) is a documentary by David Leigh about the 1995 "Fact or Fiction" killings in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. It is a look into the odd deaths of Steven Avkast and Locus Wheeler and the disappearance Rein Clackin. David uses real footage from the event when possible to give a startling look into the events leading up to that fateful moment.

Steven and Locus are the stars of the cable TV show Fact or Fiction and decide to do a live broadcast about The Jersey Devil in the Pine Barrens. Being early adopters of the web they decide to simulcast the show on cable and the internet. They bring in Rein for sound and tech support and a local psychic named Jim Suerd.

Jim is the only one to come out of the woods alive. After a exhaustive search and police investigation Jim Suerd is charged and convicted on two counts of murder.

David pieces together all the facts to see if anything was missed in the investigation and interviews all involved. We get to see the interviews and some of the footage from the trek into the woods capturing some captivating moments. As his investigation continues a piece of new evidence is discovered. Could it possibly clear Jim and implicate another? Will it finally be known what happened in the woods on that night?

This freaky movie is an exceptional example of original fictional film making. It was completed for under a $1,000 budget and done in the style of The Blair Witch Project - but a year before it. This is the first film of its kind and a fan favorite if you like this style. Most notable is that it is the first feature length film done completely in digital format.

6 out of 10 for originality and the style; execution is more like a 5. An interesting late night movie when you are home alone; only worth a watch it if you like the genre. The DVD is out of print but available used on Amazon.

Imaginary Heroes Movie Review

Imaginary Heroes (2004) is an ambitious movie touching on so many life events - good and bad. I guarantee there is at least one scene in this movie everyone can relate with.

This movie is actually pretty hard to review since it starts right up and anything I could tell you would ruin your movie experience. As you may have noticed; in my reviews I do not like to give anything away. Unlike other critics I do not wish to provide a three page synopsis of the movie...why see it then if you know what 75% of it is about? Instead I hope to build your trust so that you can read my reviews and determine what the subject matter of the movie is and along with my rating if it is something you may enjoy watching.

Back to the review...

It is a family drama that stars Emile Hirsch (Into The Wild), Sigourney Weaver, and Jeff Daniels. They and two other children make up the Travis family; a happy family with a bright future until an event crushes their house of cards. It's a story of discovery, loss, awakening, experimentation, family, friends, secrets and love. With some witty comedy and hilarious situations off-setting somber moods and tragic events the film is well balanced. The pace is perfect and keeps you interested - even pulling me in enough to close the laptop!

7.5 out of 10 - Rated R - A well rounded excellently acted story that keeps you wondering up until the end; with a perfect closing. I even liked the music during the credits.

L'apartment 406 Film Review

L'apartment 406 is a short film by Two Rats Productions and was selected as best film as part of the 48 Hour Film Project in Greensboro, NC (2009) and stars Katie Hendrix (The Hive) and Nazareth Dairian. Les Butchart of Highway 29 Motion Pictures also makes an appearance. This short movie is in French with subtitles.

It tells the story of a father and daughter that are struggling and about to be evicted. I thought the facial expressing and acting along with the cinematography where great in this excellent unpredictable gem. Check it out for yourself below!

All About Us Movie Review

All About Us (2007) is a movie about the movie you are watching; yeah, different! Seriously though, it is a story of a husband and wife film making team (based on Christine and Michael Swanson - the director/writer/producer). We follow them through their struggles of living the dream and being responsible parents. They try to sell their movie to all the movie houses and no one bites, even stupidly making some enemies in the process. He is working a temp job and she is a stay at home mother.

When nothing works they take the leap on a new script she wrote over night. As told by a movie house they need "star power" - they decide on Morgan Freeman. During work time he makes non-stop calls trying to get in contact with him. Of course that is a no go unless the film is financed and they are able to pay his 15 million fee. (Side Note: Morgan does do low budget films such as 10 Items or Less.)

When they are unable to get him they come up with the idea to drive to Mississippi to catch him at his blues bar/restaurant. Will they meet up with him and get their movie done? If you have a lazy Sunday afternoon rent this one to find out.

It is an “ehhh” story with “so-so” acting, slow at times, but not too bad. It’s just a movie - not great, not to horrible. The special appearance of Morgan Freeman that is marketed on the DVD is about two seconds long with no talking.

4 out of 10 – Would not watch again; not even worth the effort to put up a trailer or link to where you can buy it. If you liked it or got something else out of it I would love to hear your comments – maybe you can sway me to bump it up to a 5.

The Girl in the Cafe Movie Review

The Girl in the Cafe (2005) is a charmingly awkward story with a strong message about global poverty and disease.

Lawrence (Bill Nighy) is an older, tall and lanky, quiet, shy, and mild man working for the Chancellor of the Exchequer and preparing for the 2005 G8 Conference in Reykjavik, Iceland. (This is for the movie; it was not held there and can not be since Iceland is not part of the Group of Eight.)

He gets a cup of tea one day in a cafe and can not find an open seat other than the empty side of a booth across from a young girl named Gina (Kelly Macdonald). He politely asks if he may sit there; she says yes and slides to the right of her side as he sits on the right of his. According to her ex-boyfriend this is the "not required to talk" position. After their chit chat they agree to meet later in the week for lunch. He certainly enjoyed her company at the lunch and can not stand to be alone at home; calling her again that same evening to go to diner. She goes seemly interested in him. After diner they both head home...ring ring...he calls Gina awkwardly asking if she wants to go to the G8 with him. The next scene is filled with Rolling Stones music (watch the movie for why) and him jumping with happiness.

He is waiting for her at the airport when the plane is boarding looking at the doorway with his cute puppy dog eyes wondering if she blew him off. He sinks his head in sadness; when he raises it to get on the plane she is there standing in front of him - queue the Stones!

Perfectly placed music enhances many funny and awkward moments as well as serious ones. After his first stressful day at the G8 he is delighted to come back to the hotel to see her. After a boring day sitting around she is more than happy to be his guest for some drinks with the distinguished guests of the G8 Summit. Lawrence cringes as she speaks out of place to The Chancellor (his boss). He finds Gina reading his reports on world poverty one night - she offers some striking suggestions to get a more powerful message across. Their feelings for each other slowly grow and are pleasantly expressed by a soft kiss on the cheek.

The combination of his facts and her outspokenness may be a powerful combination for bringing the issues to the forefront of the G8. The Girl in the Café is a extremely powerful story with some surprising twists, turns, and enlightenment.

8 out of 10 - Excellently acted with strong emotions and the message that we have the ability to change how the world is. Have you helped? Fight global poverty through ONE and (Red).

(The trailer is faded looking; but the movie is crystal clear)

Run Lola Run Movie Review

Run Lola Run/Lola rennt (1998) is fast paced German action film occurring almost in real time and one of the first independent films I ever watched. The DVD has an English track but I recommend listening to the original German to get the best experience (it has English subtitles).

Lola (Franka Potente) must help her boyfriend Manni (Moritz Bleibtreu) get 100,000 Deutsche Marks that he lost on the subway and that belongs to a crime leader he is working for. Earlier that day her scooter was stolen and she must run everywhere. She only has 20 minutes to come up with the cash or Manni will surely be killed. She can be seen running all over town with her flaming red hair flapping about.

Her best hope is her father who works at the Deutsche Transfer Bank. After her father declines to give her the cash, and as she is running to Manni, he starts to rob a supermarket because Lola is late. Will she stop him in time and have the cash from another source? Maybe if she didn't wear the heavy Dr. Martins she could run faster! Don't you wish you could just start over sometimes in your life to do things right?

The film is filled with heart pumping music as she is running and has excellent creative cinematography. It has a couple little animated scenes and is intertwined with other stories giving a rich and multi-faceted story.

8 out of 10 - Rated R - It is a short film at about an hour and 15 minutes long. I suggest everyone see this movie; once you do let me know what you thought in the comments section below. This is one of those movies you can watch again and again. It is a unique film with no other film coming close to what Run Lola Run captured.

Pick up the DVDor Blu-rayfrom Amazon.com.

Lars and the Real Girl Movie Review

Lars And The Real Girl (2007) is a quirky odd almost want to laugh but shouldn't movie. It stars Ryan Gosling as Lars Lindstrom; a socially challenged and mentally delusional man that lives in his brother's garage. Lars hates to be touched in anyway and barely speaks because of his shyness.

He announces to his brother Gus (Paul Schneider) and his wife Karin (Emily Mortimer) that he has met someone over the internet. Bianca is from Brazil and is wheelchair bound. When she arrives they will all have diner to meet and get to know each other. Gus and Karin are astonished when they meet her - she is a full-size life-like doll that Lars ordered off the internet.

They have always known he was weird but this recent act makes them very concerned for him. They devise a way for him to get help while seemingly supporting him and Bianca. Soon the entire town is on it and is spending time with her, she even gets a job. Lars is deeply in love with her but can not live with her since she is very religious and will not move in with a man unless she is married. She stays in the main house with the brother and wife caring for her.

At work he finally meets a real girl (Margo) and they go out bowling while Bianca attends a school board meeting. They have a wonderful time together but Lars just wants to be friends as he will not cheat on Bianca.

7 out of 10 - PG-13 - I found the movie interesting and was thoroughly impressed with Ryan Gosling's role; he is proving to be one of the great actors of our time. I wish there was a little more to the film, once I began to connect with the characters (even the doll) the movie soon ended. Still worth a watch and there is no freaky stuff that goes on with the doll. It is a slower pace peculiar movie and may not be for everyone.

Once Movie Review

Once (2006) is about a guy and a girl; literally, those are the character names. Guy is played by Glen Hansard (The Frames) and Girl is acted by Markéta Irglová (The Swell Season). It could be categorized as a musical because much of the story is told through their music; although it is not like a traditional musical. I would call it a movie with a lot of amazing and emotional music. Glen and Markéta are accomplished musicians in real life and complete once in a lifetime explosive performances on the screen. They have indicated they will not act again.

Guy works in his father's vacuum shop and plays music with his acoustic guitar and bellowing voice on the streets of Dublin at night and during breaks from the shop. His songs tell his story and spark the attention of Girl. She comes up to him to find out if he wrote the song and who it was about - he wrote it and it is about his girlfriend that left town. She does random jobs during the day to take care of her mom and upon finding out he works in the shop she asks to have her vacuum fixed.

The next day she is walking through the streets with her vacuum and comes to him. He is unable to work on it at this time but they grab a bite to eat where he learns she plays piano. They straight away go to a piano so he can hear here play and within no time they are playing a song together that he wrote. Their playing is astonishing together as their voices compliment each other in a profound way.

On the bus ride back he tells who he is through music in a random little off the cuff song. Finally making it back to the shop where he and his dad fix the vacuum. He gives her some CDs of his songs and uncompleted guitar music without lyrics she thinks she can write.

Over the next few days they write many songs together and learn their stories. They share their feelings for each other through music. He dreams of being a professional musician - perhaps with her help his dream will come true. This type connection happens just once if you are lucky; will it last forever?

I absolutely loved this movie and am glad to have had the opportunity to watch it.

9 out of 10 - An unforgeable film for everyone

17 and Under Movie Review

17 and Under (1998) tells the story of Juan Sanchez (Cesar Herrera); an underage gang banger who killed someone and as part of the sentence he must live with a family. Under Proposition 432 convicted offenders 17 years of age and under must finish out their sentence by living with a bereavement family (lost a loved one to a violent crime) for six months. If they acquire their GED and have the sign-off of the host family they are free.

Juan thinks it will be easy; but when he sees the hardship the family continues to go through he begins to feel remorse for his actions. His friends attempt to call him and rival gangs try to find and kill him. The family had laid down the rules; especially the father. They have a daughter and the father has made it clear that if Juan even holds her hand he will not give the needed sign-off. She certainly enjoys watching him! Juan must change his ways to make it through this and to get out of the gang life. Can he do it?

17 & Under could have been a extremely good film. The premise was interesting but poorly put together. Filming was gritty (maybe on purpose but I didn't like it) and the acting sounded forced. At times my eyelids where real heavy as I found my self day dreaming - the pace was way to slow in the middle of the film.

4 out of 10 - Could be interesting if you are into the correction system or extremely raw odd films. Amazonhas it used for a couple dollars if you wish to give it a try.

Caribe Movie Review

Caribe (2004) takes place in Limon Costa Rica during an intense battle about drilling for oil and follows a husband and wife. Vicente (Jorge Perugorría) and Abigail (Cuca Escribano) own a successful banana plantation and are well respected in the community as they live a happy life.

One day Abigail's half-sister Irene (Maya Zapata) shows up; she was unaware she even had a half sister. Enjoyed by her company she invites her to stay and live with them. As she settles in the three enjoy some happy times and all seems well.

As all this is going on the fight over oil drilling is continuing. Vincente supports the side against it and with his influence in the neighborhood his opinion is trustworthy. He soon finds out his banana contract is being taken away because of tumbling fruit prices. Fully in debt with no prospects in sight and unsure how to support his family and the families that depend on him he considers the worst; "working" for the oil company.

During this time of despair and uncertainty he looks for comfort; finding it with his half-sister-in-law. This sets the happy home of three into disarray and the wife knows nothing of the plantation troubles or the closeness of her husband and sister.

How will he handle this triple threat? Can he keep his honor and pride and fix everything?

The filming at times is choppy and the acting is just decent. Even still, it was a good story and nice to watch.

6 out of 10 - Spanish with English subtitles.

Half Nelson Movie Review

Ryan Gosling (The Notebook) stars in Half Nelson (2006) along with Shareeka Epps. Dan Dunne (Gosling) is a exceptional teacher; one of those you would remember all your life because of how they taught and inspired you. In his 20's and teaching 14 year olds in junior high school certainly has its challenges as he moves forward with his lessons on change and free thinking; even while getting the stink eye from other teachers.

Outside school he lives a drab and lonely life full of remorse wishing he could just escape. He achieves his escape by using cocaine and other drugs. The weekends and evenings are a blur as he sits in his apartment with his only companion; a cat. The cat seems to be all he has to live for.

It may be to much for him to handle, but he coaches girls basketball. Drey (Epps) is on the team and also in his class. One evening after a game and everyone is gone Dan slips into one of the locker room's stalls for a taste. Drey innocently comes into the locker room to find him drugged up.

Drey comes from a broken home with issues of her own. They form an unlikely friendship and they both try to better their lives sometime becoming to involved in the others. During this time we find out why they are the way they are. We follow them through many troubles and situations culminating to a scene that made my jaw drop.

Though this film is about drug use the director does a wonderful job on implying and letting us fill in the gaps; there are only a few scenes where we actually see him using. Ryan Gosling's acting is pure brilliance with heart stopping power and emotion rarely seen.

9 out of 10 - Rated R - This poignant film is so realistic and life like that it sends a loud and clear message about drug use.

Watch online nowor buy the DVD.

The Education of Charlie Banks Movie Review

The Education of Charlie Banks (2007) is a beautifully written, directed, and acted independent film about life, college, friendship, growing up, discovery, and the decisions we make. The cinematography and music make the movie flow wonderfully in this low key story.

The plot revolves around two best friends; Charlie Banks (Jesse Eisenberg) and Danny (Chris Marquette). As the film starts out we see them both young, looking out the window of the school bus mesmerized by the neighborhood tough guy, Mick (Jason Ritter). Fast forward years later and Danny and Mick have come to hang out together on the streets of NY. Charlie is first introduced to Mick at a house party where a fight breaks out and we see how Mick has grown up. Culminating in a scene I will not soon forget. As the cops begin to ask questions Charlie must make a difficult decision.

Through college Charlie and Danny are roommates enjoying their greater freedom. Girls, drinking, and some moments of studying all become part of what is to be a great memory. Charlie hits it off with a great girl named Mary (Eva Amurri). Then one day Mick shows up putting Charlie into turmoil as he seems to mirror his every move. Why is he there and do the actions of the past still linger?

I really enjoyed this movie. It is a memorable simple film (in a very good way) with many moments of enlightenment and regret. This is perfect to watch after work or on a rainy summer day. All in all; just a great watch!

7 out of 10 - Rated R - Reserve it at Netflix or put it on your wish list at Amazon.

(Interesting Fact: It was directed by Limp Bizkit's Fred Durst.)

The Man from Earth Movie Review

Jerome Bixby worked on this film for almost forty years; finishing just before he passed away in 1998. The Man from Earth (2007) is his final work of a long successful career including writing for Twilight Zone and Star Trek.

I consider it a sleeper as it is not widely known and when you start it you are somewhat skeptical the film will even be worth finishing. How wrong and pleasantly surprised was I, now considering it by far as my favorite sci-fi films of all time. The acting is exceptional and fits the setting and storyline perfectly. The movie takes place in one room and consists of a very interesting conversation. There are no flash backs, special effects, or anything – just an engrossing conversation.

Professor John Oldman has decided to all of a sudden retire and move out of town. Without notice his colleges come to bid him farewell. There is a historian, anthropologist, archeologist, and a person of faith; certainly a well educated group covering many specialties. Even a biologist is among his friends. Everyone is baffled why he is leaving and tries to get him to divulge his reasons.

John asks "What if a man, from the Upper Paleolithic survived until the present day?” Everyone jumps into the conversation and the possibilities of how it could happen. Could a caveman be living today? Wouldn’t he age? What would the person have seen and lived through? Where the customs and religions like we thought they were? Who did they meet? Considering the question and the group the conversation becomes emotional and heated at times with many surprising revelations.

It is an amazing and intelligent movie written with perfection. I was drawn into the story as my mind was going a 100 miles an hour thinking about the question; feeling as if I was part of the group wishing to offer my theory.

10 out of 10 – If you are a fan of sci-fi this is a need to see film that will blow you away.

Buy it from Amazon.comor rent the DVD from Blockbuster.

Reign Over Me Movie Review

Adam Sandler turns in his best performance to date in Reign Over Me (2007) as Charlie Fineman. Charlie leads a secluded life after the sudden death of his wife and children on 9/11. He rides his motor scooter around the city drowning out the world around him with his headphones always on listening to classic music. Spending time playing video games and finding new records for his collection keep his mind from remembering. Charlie lives a free life doing what he wants when he wants.

Alan Johnson is played very well by Don Cheadle. He is a successful dentist with a great family but is without friends and alone time. One day, after sidestepping a patient in the office with a crush on him that causes him headaches, he sees Charlie on his drive home while stuck in traffic.

Charlie and Alan where roommates in dental school that rekindle their friendship. Alan soon finds out Charlie is troubled and vehemently denies any type of help to "fix" him and will not discuss his family or life before the tragedy. They begin to hang out more becoming closer and closer while Charlie’s in-laws consider having him committed because he avoids them because the pain of the memory is too much.

The movie is filled with emotion and certainly made me tear up. Rage, loss, laughter, friendship, marriage, lust, and heartache are all explored with this film. Perhaps to be a true friend you sometimes just need to leave someone alone or maybe you do everything you can do to save them; this question is tackled. We glimpse into the life of someone that was indefinitely changed because of the events on that horrendous day.

An amazing soundtrack accompanies us on their quests for happiness; fyi: the released soundtrack does not have the great songs that are in the movie. Do you know one national US monument that is movable? Charlie does! Each has something to offer the other in life. This powerful drama certainly changed mine.

10 out of 10 – Rated R – You need to see this movie! Also stars Liv Tyler and Jada Pinkett Smith with Mike Binder (director/writer) playing Charlie's accountant. Click here to order the DVD today.

What where your feelings after watching this film? Share a comment below.

Taking Chance Movie Review

Taking Chance (2009) is based on Lt. Col. Michael Strobl's essay "A Marine's Journey Home" which accounts the true events of bringing PFC Chance Phelps home after being killed in Iraq.

Kevin Bacon plays Strobl and of all the roles he has played this is the one I will always remember him for. The honor and respect given to our falling is staggering. The Defense Department offered guidance to ensure the accurate portrayal of the procedures of bringing our soldiers home. Since 1991 all media coverage was restricted so this film offers a rare view of the ceremonies to often performed; this ban was recently lifted in April 2009.

Chance posthumously opened the eyes of many along his return home. Whatever your view of the Iraq War this is a must see and is void of any opinions about the war.

8 out of 10 - I was deeply moved by this gripping account. Have you had the opportunity to watch this film?

Rent it tonight on RedBox or buy from Amazon.

Into The Wild Movie Review

Into The Wild (2007) is a personal journey of self discovery. It is based on the true events of Christopher McCandless' life. Emile Hirsch plays Christopher (a.k.a. Alexander Supertramp); a well-off college graduate with a strong will that leaves his life behind to set off on a trip to Alaska where he wishes to live free from society and his overpowering parents. He donates the majority of his savings to a charity, destroys his personal documents and identification then packs a backpack and jumps in his car.

On his travels across the country he meets many remarkable people that touch his soul. His zest for life is invigorating and infects the people he meets. Early in the trip is car is destroyed in a flood and he must hitch-hike the rest of the way. A taste of his trip includes kayaking down the Colorado River and meeting an interesting couple, a job as a farmer, selling items for some other free spirits, a girl, and spending time with a lonely old man.

He concludes his circuit and arrives for the Alaskan adventure of a lifetime living off the land in a magic place. Has he found peace in his life? His incredible journey will be engrained in my mind forever. One day I hope to visit Alaska, although not quite in the same manner.

10 out of 10 - Rated R - At almost two and a half hours long keep the snacks and refreshments near by; but don't drink to much as you will not want to miss a single moment of this film.

Did you enjoy this movie? Leave a comment below with your thoughts.

Martian Child Movie Review

Martian Child (2007) is a heartwarming tale starring John Cusack (David) and Bobby Coleman (Dennis/Martian Child). David Gordon is lost and alone after his wife passes. He meets an intriguing abandoned child, Dennis, through the process he started with his wife two years ago. Dennis claims he is from Mars and stays inside a large cardboard box all day since the sun will harm him; in addition he wears a special belt to keep him from floating away.

David decides to adopt him on a trial basis against the wishes of his sister (Joan Cusack) saying that he is not prepared. Over time their bond grows strong as he tries to teach Dennis how to fit in as an Earthling while letting him be a creative free spirit as Dennis is showing him the customs from Mars. As a science fiction writer David is thoroughly intrigued by the possibility that his foster son is from another planet.

The next book of David’s is falling behind because of dealing with The Martian Child's eccentricities. One evening they are playing in the kitchen which escalates into a full out war of soap and ketchup when the case worker stops by for s surprise visit! David's goal is to adopt him after the trial period but may have difficulty because of the insistent Martian claim and some recent events.

This funny and thought provoking family film shows how children are expected to fit into society’s norms. The parent’s role of supporting or trying to change their child can have lasting effects on their future. The movie was a continuous journey; I didn't move or even press the pause button while watching it.

8 out of 10 - Rated PG - A wonderful family film to watch with your children.

Missing In America Movie Review

Missing in America (2005) is a moving masterpiece. Jake Neeley (Danny Glover) is a Vietnam War veteran living a solitary life in the forest of the Pacific Northwest. He quietly lives there taking care of his plants and animals only going into the small town nearby to pick up rations from a store owned by Kate (Linda Hamilton). He attempts to find peace from his years in the service.

One day a member of his old platoon shows up with his daughter Lenny (Zoe Weizenbaum). Henry tells Jake he is dying of lung cancer and asks for him to take his daughter (who is part Vietnamese). He adamantly says he can not and when he awakens one night he finds his old friend is gone and she is still in his home.

Jake is thrown into disarray trying to figure out how to handle the situation. Lenny is a zesty sweet girl and before long finds her way into his heart. They learn more about each other and she meets various other vets he helps; some of which are hostile towards her. Kate is a close friend for him as issues arise. Is Jake finally destined for happiness as he starts to heal his wounds?

This powerful emotional film comes alive with amazing scenery and talented acting. Make sure the tissues are close at hand! The movie is nicely paced with many funny parts and was a true honor to watch.

8 out of 10 - PG-13

Come back to share your thoughts after you have watched this great movie. Pick it up for under $10 at Amazon.

The Corndog Man Movie Review

The Corndog Man (1999) is a surprisingly amazing movie. It is about Ace (Noble Willingham) a loud bigoted boat salesman from South Carolina. One day a mysterious man comes to town and starts continually harassing him by repeatedly calling. He is tormented by the calls that begin to affect his work and life. He does not know who this man is or what he wants and Ace pleads with him to stop. The caller claims to have family ties to him and the calls become more personal as he begins to receive gifts as there may be some hope of it ending. The calls come back with a vengeance and Ace is at his wits end as his entire life is being overrun.

The acting and direction is extraordinary. We can really feel Ace's frustration but the director keeps us interested by moving to a new situation just in time before we get aggravated ourselves. At first I was skeptical but I became pulled into the story and the characters. As it finished up I found I wanted to watch it and share it with friends and family. The film contains a powerful life lesson that everyone needs to be aware of.

8 out of 10 - Not Rated - This movie may not be for everyone with its barrage of harsh language and racial slurs. This is a must see!

You can watch the trailer on YouTube if you like; although, I do not recommend it. It gives away a little too much and will take away from the experience of the movie.

Kabluey Movie Review

Kabluey (2007) is a funny story about Leslie (Lisa Kudrow) and her brother-in-law Salman (Scott Prendergast). Leslie's husband is serving in Iraq and she is faced with raising two rambunctious kids and the fact that she needs to go back to work for the benefits leads her to have Salman come live with her. The kids hate him and he is zoned out half the time. She no longer wants him there; but, he can't leave - no money and no place to live.

Arrive Kabluey! Salman is forced to take a job as a company mascot for a dwindling internet company. It is hot, degrading, and restrictive.

He begins to suspect Leslie is having an affair but has no idea how to handle the possibility. And, the kids keep trying to kill. The husband returns home...

I loved Kabluey - it is a fun interesting simple movie and has many situations you may find yourself in during life.

7 out of 10 - PG 13. Order it on Amazon or rent from Hollywood Video.

Home (2009) Movie Review

Home is a documentary of Earth that was released simultaneously worldwide on June 5^th, 2009 in cinemas, on television and the internet, and on DVD.

The film has breathtaking aerial footage from 54 countries showing the pure beauty of our planet and is filled with amazing facts. Glenn Close narrates the journey accompanied by some very moving original music. We are shown the history of Earth and how everything is interconnected. The impact we have had on the planet over our short existence is profound and disturbing.

Is there hope for humanity and our planet?

To get the message out the film maker has made this documentary available online for free; watch it here. The DVD version has over 20 minutes of additional footage. I highly recommend buying this DVD to support the cause and to see the additional footage.

10 out of 10 - Recommended for everyone