MichaelOates Reviews

Zoolander (2001)

Stay away

[4 June 2004]

"Zoolander" is the type of movie where everyone shakes their head in disbelief wondering why the movie was made. Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson and Christine Taylor star as the leads along with many talented actor making cameos in a film that makes no sense.

The director of "Zoolander" failed to make a connection between the audience to watch and the reason he made the movie. Furthermore, the writers did a dismal job at convincing everyone that their was a reason to watch as they utilized stupid jokes, bad physical comedy and awful writing in the script. It is unfortunate that "Zoolander" turned out to the way it did because Stiller and Wilson are both excellent talents. The chemistry between both actors are excellent but it was not enough to sway my opinion of the movie.

The Mighty (1998)

A mighty good film

[4 June 2004]

Talent must run in the Culkin family because Kieran shines in "The Mighty."

As I sat through "The Mighty," I kept thought to myself how it resembled another inspirational film; "Simon Birch." This was a clear indication that I would enjoy "The Mighty."

Elden Henson who played Max Kane was a good choice to play the friend of Culkin's character, Kevin Dillon. I say this because it is based upon how much each have in common including the fact that they seemed to click well together.

I can't forget to mention the superb supporting cast that included Sharon Stone, Gena Rowlands and Harry Dean Stanton. Stone pulled off a performance that could have been done in her sleep. Rowlands and Stanton provided support at just the right times to make this film worthwhile.

"The Mighty" immediately brought a smile to my face because it told the story of two people who were isolated until one day they were brought together, which made a perfect fit.

Phone Booth (2002)

very underrated and very enjoyable

[3 June 2004]

I would not have thought that anything good would come from a film that is shorter than 90 minutes, but I was wrong. "Phone Booth" turned out to be energetic, suspense-filled and intense.

Colin Farrell surrounded himself with a very talented group of actors including Forest Whitaker, Kiefer Sutherland, Radha Mitchell, Katie Holmes and Richard T. Jones. It was a pure delight and a was a breath of fresh air to watch these actors work together in this great movie.

Most of the credit must be given to the writers of "Phone Booth" because they took what could have easily been turned into an fast-paced and formulaic action picture and slowed the pace. Instead, the writers chose to create a dramatic film with the focus on character development and storyline. With strong performances and smart writing; the writers successfully turned "Phone Booth" into a clever and stylish film.

Charisma and intensity are elements brought to the screen by everyone in the film, especially Farrell. I have never been a Colin Farrell fan, but I respect the talent he brings to the role. "Phone Booth" only furthers Farrell credibility as an actor as he seized the opportunity to step out of the shadows and into the limelight to take the road to super stardom.

Based upon his previous film, "American Outlaws," it didn't take long to realize the discovery of the next big movie star would be found in "Phone Booth." I was smiling when I saw Farrell on screen because it meant the writers had created a character filled with imagination and ideas that made the movie a joy to watch.

Aside from Farrell, another bright spot in "Phone Booth" shined with the emergence and second breakthrough performance turned in by his co-star, Radha Mitchell. With enormous screen presence and impact turned in by Mitchell, she is an actress whose name will be called as a winner of the academy award.

The bottom line is "Phone Booth" is an underrated film that will bring everyone pure satisfaction and serve as great entertainment.

Bride of Chucky (1998)

4th time is the charm

[3 June 2004]

Chucky's back and better than ever in the fourth film as the innovator and creator or murder, mayhem, thrills, chills, and laughs. "Bride Of Chucky" is the best of all the Chucky films because it does not focus on scares and violence, rather it focuses on the more important elements. Instead of having scene after scene filled with violence, the director combined all the elements of action, drama, suspense, horror, and even comedy into Bride Of Chucky.

The only actor to act in all four films returns; Brad Dourif reprises his role as the voice of Chucky. Jennifer Tilly lends her voice to the "Bride Of Chucky" as Chucky's bride, Tiffany. Chucky and Tiffany fit together very well for a pair bent on creating malice, chaos, havoc and mayhem.

Though Chucky and Tiffany are definitely the main focal point of this movie, but they can't make it a successful film by themselves. Strong performances by relative newcomers Nick Stabile, Katherine Heigl and seasoned veteran John Ritter made this a tremendous hit. Katherine Heigl may be known for her portrayal of Steven Seagal's niece in Under Siege 2: Dark Territory plays Jade. Nick Stabile is Jesse, Jade's boyfriend. John Ritter plays a police chief and who hates Jade's boyfriend, Jesse.

I commend the creator and the puppeteers of the Chucky and Tiffany dolls for their original and unique movements. Also, I loved the maniacal laugh that Brad Dourif created after each crime Chucky and Tiffany committed. "Bride Of Chucky" is filled with laughs, scares, and chills from beginning to end.

American Outlaws (2001)

my applause to the cast & crew

[2 June 2004]

Smart, energetic, funny, exciting and underrated; these are just a few adjectives that describe "American Outlaws;" a western that will take everyone by surprise. Colin Farrell is a breath of fresh air and Gabriel Macht is a pure delight as they take the reigns in one of the funniest westerns I have seen.

Farrell and Macht are joined by Scott Caan, Timothy Dalton, Kathy Bates and Ali Larter whose comedic, intelligence and intense talent to create a film that is rich in character driven performances.

Most of the credit must be given to the writers of "American Outlaws" because they took the western genre and created one of the most unique westerns in recent years through the addition of humor. With action-packed sequences, strong performances and smart writing; the writers made the audience look at westerns in a whole new way; clever and stylish.

Though I feel originality is important in any film I see, it is not always necessary for a film to succeed. "American Outlaws" contains many cliché ridden scenes, but the true genius of this film is the presentation of the film.

Inspired by actual events, "American Outlaws" takes the audience on a comedic journey through the lives of the James-Younger gang and their battle with Allan Pinkerton and the railroad.

The success of "American Outlaws" partially stems from the great ensemble performance provided by Farrell, Macht, Larter, Caan, Bates and Dalton. It was apparent from the start that the "American Outlaws" cast gave maximum effort was going to take me on a satisfying comedy thrill ride through the Old West. It was clear that the cast of "American Outlaws" had fun together making the film, so when this occurs everyone is guaranteed the film will bring satisfaction.

Charisma, intensity and courage; these are the elements brought to the screen by the latest breakout star. I must admit it took me awhile to get over the shock of watching a charismatic, youthful looking actor steal the spotlight from his talented co-stars, but that is exactly what occurred with Farrell in "American Outlaws." "American Outlaws" allows Farrell the opportunity to step out of the shadows into the limelight to take his place among the best young actors in Hollywood.

It didn't take long to realize the discovery of the next big movie star would be found in "American Outlaws" with proof coming from Farrell's energetic and fun performance as Jesse James. I was smiling when I saw Farrell on screen because it meant the writers had created a character filled with imagination and ideas that made the movie a joy to watch.

Aside from Farrell, another bright spot in "American Outlaws" shined with the emergence and second breakthrough performance turned in by his co-star, Gabriel Macht. With enormous screen presence and impact turned in by Macht, this is an actor who will soon hear his name called as a winner of the coveted academy award.

Rounding out "American Outlaws" is the addition of Timothy Dalton and Kathy Bates. Commendations must given to Dalton for making the character of Allan Pinkerton a delight to watch. It didn't take me long to recognize that he was the right man for the job. With his look, demeanor and presence, Dalton confirmed my suspicions.

A short appearance can sometimes be the most memorable as with the case of the actress who portrayed Ma James. Bates has always been a favorite of mine because she brings credibility to each film she stars in. With "American Outlaws," Bates role is short, sweet and to the point.

The bottom line is "American Outlaws" is an underrated film that will bring everyone pure satisfaction and serve as great entertainment.

Halloween H20: 20 Years Later (1998)

Well done horror flick

[28 May 2004]

"Halloween H20: 20 Years Later" is a film that made me jump out of my seat. Jamie Lee Curtis reprises her role from Halloweeen to bring this movie to the forefront of scary movies. Jamie Lee Curtis' mother, Janet Leigh, adds her name to an already stellar cast.

I was impressed by the young talent this film had. Jodi Lyn O'Keefe, Josh Hartnett, Michele Williams, and LL Cool J are just a few of the young actors I found to be better than the cast of "Scream," and "I Know What You Did Last Summer."

While those films had its share of scares, this film had scares that were scarier and might actually pass as real. At every turn, Michael Myers is there to kill everybody in sight. Some of the stuff he does to his potential victims even made me jump because I didn't expect it to happen at that time or in that way.

This is a film that ranks right up there with "Psycho" starring Janet Leigh and Anthony Perkins. My score is 10 out of 10.

A Night at the Roxbury (1998)

Don't waste a night watching this film

[27 May 2004]

Chris Kattan and Will Ferrel may be two of the most talented comedic actors, but nobody would know it by watching their performances in "A Night At The Roxbury." Twenty minutes into "A Night At The Roxbury," I asked myself what the point of making this was. Among the many problems with "A Night At The Roxbury," include poor performances from every actor, and storylines that made no sense.

It is beyond belief that Kattan and Ferrel star in a movie that contains a plot that makes no sense. I can't believe actors such as Loni Anderson, and Richard Grieco added their names to such an awful film. DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY on this film.

Dracula 2000 (2000)

Wow

[26 May 2004]

I chose to see "Dracula 2000" because I knew if I didn't watch it I could possibly be missing out on one of the best Dracula films ever made. My decision paid off because it turned out to be one of the most worthwhile Dracula films I've seen.

Originality and believability are two factors "Dracula 2000" was a success in my eyes. These are very important to have to make a film successful. The most enjoyable thing about this film was Dracula because he was portrayed as having emotions rather than rage as previously portrayed; furthermore, with this added quality, I almost felt sorry for Dracula because of the story he told.

I need to give the cast credit because they made it much more enjoyable because they brought attitude and humor. Rising stars were discovered in Justine Waddell, Gerard Butler, Jennifer Esposito and Sean Patrick Thomas; furthermore, veteran Christopher Plummer added credibility to an already stable film that could have survived on its own.

It was a pleasure to sit through this film because I didn't know what to expect next; furthermore, it kept me on the edge of my seat. Who would have thought that "Dracula 2000" would have such an appeal on so many levels. I hope there would be more Dracula films made like this because people will take to it more than the same old thing over and over again. My advice to everyone is to see this film.

Pitch Black (2000)

Toss this film

[24 May 2004]

"Pitch Black" is the type of movie that makes me sick because nearly the whole movie was completely unwatchable and nothing worth telling others about. The script to the film was out of sequence, the storyline was filled with confusion and was a reminder of another awful movie called "Soldier."

The only thing to come out of this film was the performance of Riddick turned in by Vin Diesel who was in "Saving Private Ryan." I guess good performances in good movies follow certain actors around. Luck was on the side of Diesel in "Pitch Black". "Pitch Black" is a dismal film that does not see me clapping for greatness.

The Cider House Rules (1999)

awful

[24 May 2004]

"The Cider House Rules" disappointed me greatly because after 30 minutes in the movie theater, I wanted to leave because it was told in such a one dimensional fashion.

I must have dozed off during the film and woke up at the end when the film was at the best point. There was more than plot going on in this film that really cost it from being a spectacular film. On one hand, we have Homer Wells the orphan who has not seen the world helping his fellow orphans as a doctor's assistant; on the other hand, we have Homer Wells who is viewing the world while having an affair with an engaged lady.

Tobey Maguire, Chalize Theron, Michael Caine ad Delroy Lindo couldn't have saved this film no matter how hard they tried. I blame the writer and the director for this failure to communicate to me what the point was and make it clear enough for me to understand the plot.

All the Pretty Horses (2000)

Nothing pretty about this film

[23 May 2004]

There is nothing pretty about a film that contains so many positives, which turn out to be complete wastes of time. Matt Damon, Henry Thomas, Penelope Cruz and Lucas Black are the ingredients for a great film; however, there is a problem with this recipe; it was made.

I should have listened to my inner voice when it told me not to rent "All The Pretty Horses" because it was boring and pointless. There is no reason for any movie fan to be subjected to an awful film such as "All The Pretty Horses," but I give them a lot of credit to sit through this pointless film and suffer so painfully.

"All The Pretty Horses" was a stagnant, one dimensional that went nowhere fast. I should have been aware to stay away from this film because it barely got a chance to promote itself. "All The Pretty Horses" took the cake as being the worst film of 2000. I had to ask myself how Matt Damon could go from success in films such as "Saving Private Ryan," "Good Will Hunting" and "The Rainmaker" to failures such as "The Talented Mr. Ripley." He is one of the most talented actors in Hollywood, but nobody would know from his performance in "All The Pretty Horses."

Everybody deserves to have a bad movie once in a while, "All The Pretty Horses" was this movie for Matt Damon. I am huge fan of Matt Damon, but I didn't understand why he chose to make a movie with a stilted script. With the talent of Damon, Billy Bob Thornton, Penelope Cruz and Henry Thomas; I expected "All The Pretty Horses" to be competent in the presentation of the film. I spent most of the movie wandering why it was made and the purpose of the journey Damon and Thomas were taking.

"All The Pretty Horses" has no charm and nearly put me to sleep with the uninteresting story it had and characters it introduced. I have never been a Billy Bob Thornton fan as an actor or director. His directorial effort of "All The Pretty Horses" has not changed my opinion.

I had to force myself to stay awake throughout the movie and keep watching to see if it would get better, but it didn't. I kept asking myself what the true point of this movie was since it was unclear. There is more chemistry between Damon and Thomas than there is between Damon and Cruz. It was a mistake to classify this film as a romance because there is none.

It was a bad decision to cut the running length of the film by two hours because it took away from the explanation of the whole movie. "All The Pretty Horses" takes too long to get the point across. When it finally gets to the point it is too late and 10 minutes later the film is over.

Neither the beautiful scenery nor all the pretty horses can save this film from disaster. "All The Pretty Horses" is just one entry I would put in my book of movies to stay away from under all circumstances. I nominate this film to go in the category of failures alongside "Battlefield Earth" and "The Cell."

"All The Pretty Horses" was a complete waste of my time, their talent and creativity. I know this was only going to be an isolated incident because the cast is too talented to be associated with failures.

Where the Money Is (2000)

Newman at his best

[23 May 2004]

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw "Where The Money Is" because I didn't hear much about it. "Where The Money Is" happened to be one of the most enjoyable films I've seen all year. I knew I could count on Paul Newman to deliver a top notch performance as he has done in the past.

Newman led a talented cast, which included Dermot Mulroney and Linda Fiorentino. These three are on a mission to pull off a bank job. It is not as simple as we think; Newman, a master bank thief, has been remanded to a hospital after suffering a stroke (or is it). This is where he meets a nurse who is sees through his charade and wants in on the action. The stakes have risen when the nurse's husband gets wrangled into the bank job.

"Where The Money Is" played to everybody's funny bone because Newman gives one of his most engaging performances. The one aspect of the film I enjoyed the most was Newman's captivating presence on screen with each scene he was in. He pulled the audience in with his charm and made them a part of a film.

Though the plot has been done before in other movies, the way it was performed left me breathless because it is so unique. I have to give credit to Fiorentino and Mulroney because they play off Newman very well.

"Where The Money Is" is captivating as it is funny. When you add Paul Newman's humor and comedy with great support from Linda Fiorentino and Dermot Mulroney you have a rousing success in "Where The Money Is."

Taps (I) (1981)

well-made

[23 May 2004]

It is very hard to find films that have strong performances and a rich plot, but I have found one. The name of this excellent film is "Taps." This film launched very successful movie careers to three of its stars. There is nothing more one can ask for when all of the elements are there.

"Taps" spawned the careers of Tom Cruise, Timothy Hutton and Sean Penn. I saw the potential these three actors had five years before they became fame famous because I forgot they were rookie actors. If only more films can have the top notch performances, I would be one happy guy.

Another part of the film I enjoyed was the plot because it is relevant in present times. I was very impressed with the writer's ability to come up with a unique storyline.

"Taps" is a film to be treasured because the messages it sends are so rich. From the dialogue between George C. Scott and Timothy Hutton to the courageous stand the cadets front to prevent their academy to close, it is clear to me "Taps" will remain lodged in minds for years to come.

I knew "Taps" would be a special film from the very beginning; however, it turned out to be much more than that. It gave three young actors a springboard to three top-notch careers.

Analyze This (1999)

De Niro and Crystal are perfect together

[20 May 2004]

"Analyze This" is a comedy that brings two actors that come from different genres to produce a very good film. We usually find Robert De Niro in an action film as a gangster and Billy Crystal known to be a comedic actor. While De Niro plays a gangster and Billy Crystal does have some comedic scenes, they seem to switch in this film. I don't remember ever seeing Robert De Niro's comedic side before and it's quite good.

"Analyze This" is not a typical gangster shoot 'em up and kill 'em film. De Niro's emotional side takes center stage beautifully as he shows it in almost every scene. De Niro plays Paul Viti the head of a crime family who is suffering from panic anxiety. After Viti suffers an anxiety attack, he goes to the offices of Dr. Ben Sobel played by Crystal.

I love the dialogue between De Niro and Crystal because they exchange it with such ease. Lisa Kudrow and Chazz Palmenteri play Laura Macnamara and Primo Sundone, respectively and they add so much to this already stellar cast.

The star power is great in this movie, which made it has become one of my favorites of 1999. I give this movie a very high recommendation for any De Niro fans or movie lovers alike around the world.

The Prince of Egypt (1998)

a beautifully made history lesson

[20 May 2004]

This true story about Moses really taught me a history lesson that I won't soon forget. The fact that it tells the story through animations so much easier to grasp. I've always enjoyed how directors of animated features use songs to tell portions of the story.

The most impressive quality this film has other than the fact that it was based upon a true story was its soundtrack. There are two songs that came from the soundtrack that I fell in love with after listening to it for the first time. 'When You Believe' and 'I'll Be There For You' came from musicians in two different music genres. The former was performed by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey who are in the Pop/Rock genre.

Jessica Andrews is a country artist who performed the latter of the two. These songs are very touching ballads about the human spirit. Jessica Andrews is only a teen herself and a newcomer to the world of country music; she will be one huge star.

After I saw this film, I gained a new appreciation for history as it was brought to life through the magic of movie making. I got interested in seeing such movies as "Schindler's List," "Patton," "JFK," and "Nixon" because of seeing "The Prince Of Egypt." I highly recommend this film to everybody since there is something in this film for everyone.

My Favorite Martian (1999)

very disappointing remake

[20 May 2004]

I'm not saying this movie stunk, but by the same token I'm not saying that it is good. As I was watching, I drew comparisons to another Christopher Lloyd film called "Back To The Future." In both films he played a character that is into fixing things as well as using vehicles as means of transportation between worlds. Also, it seemed that Jeff Daniels' character Tim O'Hara was an older version of Michael J. Fox's Marty McFly as they both played second fiddle to Christopher Lloyd.

I found this film to be lacking in some areas such as laughter. Since this film is based on a television show, I'm sure that the director wanted to make the film as if it were an original. I thought that everything in this film was predictable; from its landing and the doctor who is after Uncle Martin to the traditional "happy" ending.

With this being said, it was entertaining and enjoyable for younger audiences, but not for people around my age. I guess since this is meant for children it is not supposed to be such a thinking movie, but come on I would have appreciated it more if it gave the older audience something more to chew on as we sat through the film. This is one remake that could have been better if it were not made.

A Bug's Life (1998)

an animated delight

[20 May 2004]

This animated feature about ants, grasshoppers, and various other bugs is an inspirational testament of never giving up despite the odds stacked against you.

The story begins as Flick, voiced by Dave Foley, the ant who always invents things one right after the other. After the grasshoppers come to invade the food supply, Flick comes up with the idea of getting warrior bugs to fight the grasshoppers. Not only will this idea give Flick respect it will allow him to get redemption as he has messed his prior invention up. This epic journey starts as Flick goes in search of the warrior bugs; he finds them in Circus bugs. Consumed for Princess Atta, voiced by Julia Louis Dreyfuss, and her approval, Flick hides the fact that these "warriors" are in fact circus bugs.

I was smiling throughout this film because it was the one of the best animated features I've seen. Furthermore "A Bug's Life" far eclipses "ANTZ" because this film has a point, storyline, and direction.

The ending is no surprise as far as the typical ending goes, but this is definitely a delight worth seeing on the big screen. I recommend this movie because it allows the mind to sit down and relax and without tension watch the movie in peace.

Soldier (I) (1998)

Awful

[20 May 2004]

Kurt Russell must have had a lapse in judgment when deciding to make this film because there is nothing worthwhile about "Soldier." I can't believe there was a studio who believed in making this movie. I can only sit back and laugh at the cast for making the decision to star in a film that should have stayed as a script.

Coming off a successful suspense filled thrill ride in "Breakdown;" Russell made a wrong decision to star in "Soldier." There was nothing about this film worth salvaging. This decision would not only hurt Russell's career but fans as well for watching it. It is unfortunate that Kurt Russell stars in a film that I would never recommend.

Touched by an Angel (1994–2003)

great series that should still be on television

[20 May 2004]

Roma Downey, John Dye, and Della Reese star in the best show on television today. I especially like Roma Downey and John Dye. This was a message oriented series that deals with a different subject with each different episode they make. Seeing who will be guest starring is always a thrill like seeing Randy Travis, Bill Cosby, and others who have been gone from TV for awhile and those who are different TV shows.

I have so many favorite episodes that I have like 'Til We Meet Again' but my favorite episode is the 100th episode with guest stars Wynona and Celine Dion. I wish I could see more of Celine Dion and Wynona in future episodes because they were fantastic. "Touched By An Angel" is a show that should never have gone off the air because it was a show that not only touches everyone watching it but the guest stars who have acted on it. It is as if this show has a special gift for touching and uplifting people that are surrounded by the show.

My favorite character was the 'Angel Of Death' Andrew, played by John Dye, because he just doesn't take the dying away; he makes sure the dying understand why they are going to heaven. Everybody I know that watch this show doesn't have one negative word to say about it.

"Touched By An Angel" was so touching that it made me want to do one of two things: become an angel like Monica, Tess, or Andrew, and be on the receiving end of their help.

Small Time Crooks (2000)

entertaining

[19 May 2004]

Initially, I did not want to see this film because it was directed by Woody Allen. Personally, I hate Woody Allen before and after seeing this film. I went to see "Small Time Crooks" because of the plot. I like a good plot-oriented film. This fit the requirements I was looking for.

Even with the disdain I have for Woody Allen, I remained objective and I'm glad I did. This was not a bad film after all. The plot surrounded a robber and his gang figuring out the best way to earn a cheap buck. After some time, they devise a plan that backfires, which leads into an incredible turn of luck for everyone involved.

I must give credit to the writer's because I thought that the script was a refreshing look at a subject that has become quite cliche over time.

The only criticism I have for "Small Time Crooks" is for Woody Allen. I hope he stops portraying himself as someone who needs to stop in the middle of a line and act as though he doesn't know what the heck is going on. I hope if and when I see his next film, he won't be doing that.

"Small Time Crooks" is a good film and should be seen if fans like a nice easy going comedy.

Shanghai Noon (2000)

Jackie and Owen have great chemistry

[19 May 2004]

Jackie Chan does it again; this time with "Shanghai Noon." Unlike his previous films, Jackie has finally found a sidekick that works well alongside him and is able to play off of his physical stunts.

"Shanghai Noon" is unlike any other Jackie Chan movie I have seen. It is his best since "Rush Hour" and is among one of the best all-action movies that I've seen with an actual plot behind it.

After watching previous Jackie Chan movies such as "Rush Hour" and "Rumble In The Bronx, I was expecting to be dazzled with his comedic talent as well as action filled sequences. I was pleasantly surprised to learn it had every one of the components and requirements that I require for a good movie.

Owen Wilson was comedic treat to this film as he added spark to an already great movie. Other than the cliche plot, "Shanghai Noon" brings a lot of excellent comedy, dialogue, action, thrills and even a little romance. I was expecting Owen Wilson to be similar to Chris Tucker, but in "Shanghai Noon" Wilson proved himself to be much better than other Jackie Chan sidekicks I've seen him teamed with.

I was glad I rented this movie so I would be able to recommend it to everyone.

Reindeer Games (2000)

play this game

[19 May 2004]

Ben Affleck, Charlize Theron and Gary Sinise sizzle as they star in "Reindeer Games."

"Reindeer Games" is one thrill ride that is sure to entertain viewers. Not only does it star a well established and talented cast, but it is suspenseful as well as twist filled. There are so many good things about "Reindeer Games," I don't know where to begin.

The script was well done because it kept me guessing as to what will happen next and who might be the real villain. The plot is enticing and the direction is so good that I had to remember it was a movie. It seemed very real and they were shooting it as it was occurring. The best part about "Reindeer Games" is that it is not all action or all drama or even romance, but that it is an equal balance of all three, which is very nice to see in a movie like this.

I was extremely impressed with Charlize Theron's performance because she proved she had the stuff to make it on her own. With every scene she was in, Theron brought a presence that most actresses don't have. She is an actress that will cause everyone to sit up and take notice and hang on her every word.

Gary Sinise plays a man intent on robbing a casino; however, he needs Affleck's expertise. Sinise was one reason I wanted to watch "Reindeer Games."

"Reindeer Games" is filled with action, twists, turns and strong performances that is sure to stay in my mind forever. This is one heck of a ride I'm willing to take again.

What Planet Are You From? (2000)

Don't waste your time

[19 May 2004]

"What Planet Are You From" is one of the worst films I have seen in a long time. All the movies I have seen have either been good or bad. This is simply a disaster.

"What Planet Are You From?" has absolutely no story worth mentioning and was so stupid I nearly turned the VCR off.

There is one thing that came out of this film that I like and that was the performances of Garry Shandling, John Goodman, Annette Bening and Greg Kinnear. However, it was not enough to save it from disaster. Based upon this I made the determination that this was an awful film as well as a waste of time.

I'm glad I saw this it home because it was that kind of movie. DON"T WASTE YOUR TIME.

Scary Movie (2000)

Entertaining despite the lack of story

[19 May 2004]

"Scary Movie" was certainly a funny movie and I was thrilled to see it. This is one of the best spoof films to come to the screen because it pokes fun at all the teen horror films that has been made in recent years.

However, I do see after watching the movie why critics were up in arms over the 'R' rating that it was given. There were a few scenes in the movie that could have been left on the cutting room floor because it had nothing to do with the plot of the movie.

The best part of the whole movie was the acting performances of every cast member because they made everything so funny. I really enjoyed how they spoofed the other movies such as the Scream series, I Know..... and "The Sixth Sense" with so much ease. Keenan Ivory Wayans did a great job directing this movie.

My only criticism of "Scary Movie" is the lackluster storyline throughout it. The story seemed to be one-dimensional with comedy as its only draw.

Runaway Bride (1999)

Stay and watch this film

[19 May 2004]

Following up on their huge romantic hit "Pretty Woman," Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Hector Elizondo and director Garry Marshall reteam to make yet another romantic comedy called "Runaway Bride."

Neither the director nor the original actors have lost a step since "Pretty Woman." Gere, Roberts and Elizondo teamed up with newcomers Joan Cusack and Rita Wilson as they never skipped a beat in their performances. The cast performed with such perfection it seemed like they were performing as it happened for the first time. I commend the casting director and producer for putting together an excellent cast that really gelled and had chemistry that was like magic.

I must say that "Runaway Bride" was much more charming than "Pretty Woman." I still enjoyed "Pretty Woman" but the updated version had a certain charm and a twist that was lacking in the first film.

I can't say what the twist is without giving away too much, you'll just have to see it to find out.

This was a cute film with a unique way of telling a plot that seems to have been done before on the silver screen.