Welcome to Carol's Report

Please feel free to dispute or agree with any blog entry, as you see fit. I welcome your comments!
However, I do ask that you refrain from using heavy profanity as adults are not the only ones to read these blogs.

Saturday, March 13, 2010

AMERICAN IDOL'S CHRIS DAUGHTRY

Friday, March 24, 2006



After listening to both performances again, it was clear that Chris's version was better than Live's, plus he extended the song adding much, much more. If you listen to both, you'll see it was the same but different.

There is a poll on about.com that asks if: he's great, sang great, end of discussion; were you a little disappointed; he's still one of the best performers or did you think he deceived the judges and audience.To my surprise, a whopping 80% said the latter and 15% said he's great, sang great, end of discussion.

I am evenly divided between Mandisa, Paris and Chris, giving the edge to Chris. This stupid omission might affect his chances of winning. I'm hoping this blows over because the bottom line is he is the most professional sounding of all the Idols and is a fantastic singer. At the end of the day, every song is someone elses. The judges are the ones who ranted that he made it his own. If you listen to both versions, he did make it his own. I've listened to both versions several times, in their entirety, and Chris' version is better. He extended the song making it a much different rendition than "Live".

Check it out for yourself before you judge. I'm not saying Chris was right just that this is a gray area and he's still an excellent singer. So, here's an idea, judge him on his singing ability!

posted by CALM @ 9:48 AM 0 comments

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Tookie Williams

KILLING WILLIAMS IS NOT GOING TO BRING BACK THE 4 PEOPLE HE WAS CONVICTED OF MURDERING. SO HE DIES AT MIDNIGHT AND THEN WHAT? THAT DOESN'T MAKE US ANY BETTER THAN THE "BAD GUY". IT CERTAINLY WON'T HEAL ANY WOUNDS.

I GUESS THIS MEANS "IN GOD WE TRUST" ARE JUST WORDS WITHOUT ACTION. AT LEAST WILLIAMS HAS BEEN REFORMED AND IS DOING SOME GOOD. THAT'S BETTER THAN THOSE WHO SIT IN JAIL WHEELING AND DEALING WITH OUTSIDE CONTACTS, FOR LIFE!

"IF EXECUTION DOESN'T RESULT IN BRINGING THE VICTIM BACK, THERE'S NOTHING TO BE GAINED ACCEPT REVENGE". THIS ALSO BRINGS TO MIND, THE PRISON SYSTEM AND IT'S INTENT. IS IT REVENGE OR REFORM OR A LITTLE OF BOTH. IN TURN, THIS ALSO BRINGS TO MIND, PRISONERS RIGHTS, WHY BOTHER? WHO ARE WE KIDDING? WHAT'S THE REAL ANSWER?

THIS PROBABLY WON'T CHANGE ANYONE'S MIND, HOWEVER IT DOES GIVE YOU SCHOOL FOR THOUGHT. I'M NOT A BLEEDING HEART AND I DO BELIEVE IN JUSTICE. THEY PROBABLY SHOULD HAVE DONE SOMETHING BACK IN 1979 WHEN IT ALL HAPPENED AND BEFORE WE KNEW WHAT A DESCENT PERSON WILLIAMS TURNED OUT TO BE IN THE END.

IF THIS IS GOD'S WAY OF TESTING US, WE HAVE FAILED MISERABLY!

My Movie Reviews

15 MINUTES (2001)
My rating: 10/10

I'd Like To Convince Everyone To See "15 Minutes"!
I don't think this action packed, really good movie received enough exposure. I had no idea when I saw it, I'd be so well entertained and emotionally moved. Aside from a great cast, this movie is different and goes where most movies will not. Do yourself a favor and see 15 Minutes, you won't regret it. Non-stop action with an excellent story behind it and Robert De Niro too!


ADAPTATION (2002)
My Rating: 8/10

A Little Boring, Even for an Intellectual
Adaptation has the potential to be great but was a little too slow/boring and too confusing for my taste. Nicolas Cage did a superb acting job, playing twin brothers, Charlie and Donald Kaufman, with totally different personalities.

I thought too much emphasis was put on minor details. Long drawn out scenes about orchards and all the thoughts of Meryl Streep's wish list for life, left me confused and somewhat bored. The movie moved back and forth through each character's thought process leading up to the writing of a script that couldn't get written because each character had a block of some kind. I hated the ending because lives were destroyed to get to the bottom line, a movie about flowers.

Again, the acting was superb, the movie took a long route to get to its destination. I couldn't help but notice several people nodding off throughout the movie theater. Adaptation is not for everyone.


AMERICAN HISTORY X (1998)
My Rating: 10/10

A Lesson on Hate

American History X is an excellent movie on the effects of hate and what hate feels like. Ed Norton deserves an academy award for his performance. He played a hateful, enraged murderer, a vulnerable, confused inmate and a man trying to get back on track starting with saving his younger brother. This film is emotion packed, well acted and well directed. American History X sends a powerful message. A must see!


ANGER MANAGEMENT (2003)
My Rating: 9/10

A True Comedy

Anger Management was one of the funniest movies I've seen in quite some time. I was pleasantly surprised by this movie, as I don't like stupid comedy. There were some scenes that were so ridiculous that you had to laugh. And laugh I did. I found myself crouching down into my seat and placing my hand over my mouth to keep from being embarrassed because of my gut wrenching laughter. The guy in front of me just let it all out. I truly didn't expect the movie to be much funnier than what was shown in the trailers.

The story reflected Adam Sadler's journey as he traveled to get to the bottom line, control of his situation. On the way to meeting his goals, Adam learns what's important is who you become while on the journey. Jack Nicholson was unpredictable, witty, and superbly portrayed as the anger consultant who had the task of changing Adam's approach to life

Of course this movie was pure fantasy, after all, it is a comedy! I was thoroughly entertained.


The ART OF WAR (2000)
My Rating: 7/10

The Art of Moviemaking

This movie has all the standard special effects, action and violence one can stomach. The story line is a little hard to swallow and the bottom line is pitiful. If our country were left to the kind of characters portrayed in this movie, God help us.

Hollywood would have us believe that corruption is running rampart, especially where politics are concerned. If we have these kinds of criminal minds at work for us, we need to concentrate on a whole new govenment rather than watching movies. And I love movies.

The Art of War, if you don't try to analyze it, is at best entertaining.


BEINGS (1998)
My Rating: 8/10

A Movie for Children

I read the first comments on this movie and thought they were too harsh. This is obviously a children's movie that sends a pretty powerful message. A town of frightened folks stay head-strong in their beliefs because they are afraid. It's a fairy-tale, so that means anything goes because it's all made up. The special effects were better than most for its time. Compared to the computer generated movies I've seen in 2001, this is every bit as good. The plot is about a father who is dieing, his kids, who believe in the fairy legend that could save him, and a wife who doesn't believe in anything. It's interesting to see the family come together in an effort to save dad and teach the town a lesson. I think you'll be entertained and some emotions will definitely get stirred about.


BIRTH (2004)
My Rating: 6/10

A Deceitful Movie!

Why oh why did anyone make this movie? It was slow, dull and down right deceitful. The trailers would have you believe you're in for a mysterious ride but in fact, you're in for another unresolved, waste of time, money sucking, open-ended flick. Birth's concept was done before in a 1989 release of "Chances Are", which was in good taste, with a good story and a good follow-up. The ending tied up all the loose ends, unlike "Birth" which left us hanging.

I truly want my money back -- everyone in the theater agreed that "Birth" sucked. Not even Nicole Kidman could save this one.

Wait for cable!


CAST AWAY (2000)
My Rating: 7/10

Disappointing
Tom Hanks' performance was excellent but the movie was boring. I'm not sure what the message was. Cast Away offered little action and not much entertainment and certainly no message. Helen Hunt's role was minimal at best. She did a good acting job but overall Cast Away is insignificant. Wait for the video.


CATWOMAN (2004)
My Rating: 10/10

Catwoman is a Comicbook Story

I can't believe 206 people voted Catwoman a 1. What are they looking for in a fantasy? A smart, talented woman, who is taken for granted by the company she works for, dies and comes back as a cat. Now she can add sexy and confident to her former persona. She's also skilled in marshal arts and capable of taking care of herself as well as do battle with the evil forces of this world. This is the comic book formula that has been successful since they first thought up this character.

I came away believing that this female, super heroine will develop her newly found role to be more mature and conservative in the future. I was well entertained and absolutely loved the movie. I gave it a 10 for costume, authenticity, casting and plot. Halle Berry is synonymous with sexy -- Catwoman has always been sexy -- read the comic book!


THE CELL (2000)
My Rating: 10/10

An Honest Review

This futuristic movie is for deep thinkers. Imagine being able to get into someone's mind, see what they see, hear what they hear and feel what they feel. While this could open up a world of knowledge as well as mental healing, it's very dangerous.

If you can get past Jennifer Lopez's terrific posterior, this movie has something to say and gives you something to think about. The special effects and costumes are great. A must see movie for those who are able to absorb this mind chiller.


CHASING SLEEP (2000)
My Rating: 7/10

Chasing What?
-- ***slight spoiler***
This was definitely a weird movie. It leaves too much to the imagination. A college professor played by Jeff Daniels (an excellent actor) comes home to find his cheating wife missing. Somewhere in this flick, I began to think the professor may have killed his wife because of all the finger business, which was unrealistic. I wasn't sure if his pill popping, grief, or obsessions with his wife was causing hallucinations, or if his sleep deprivation was causing him to imagine things, or are we supposed to believe that fingers walk around without a body attached.

Whatever the case, this movie left many questions unanswered. Since the film is called `Chasing Sleep', maybe we are not suppose to know who killed his wife or if she is really dead. Maybe it's about what can happen to the mind without sleep.

The movie was well casted, directed and I was not boring. I was, however waiting for answers that never came. I'd call this an unsolved mystery.


CITIZEN JAMES (2000)
My Rating 8/10

Pretty Good for an Amateur

If uniqueness is the goal of this movie, Doug E. Doug has hit "pay dirt". Citizen James is about a bored, young black `wanna be' movie maker. The character, played by Doug E. Doug, who also stared in the last Cosby sitcom in real life, has decided to make a movie about Angela Davis but has no money or clue how to get started. Miraculously, he finds a thugs money and uses it to finance his endeavor. Before finding this money, he wrote to Bill Cosby asking that he sponsor his project since Bill had donated to other worthy causes. Of course the thug discovers who found his money and takes the appropriate action. There is low level humor and suspense in this movie as well as intrigue. It all comes together in the end.


THE CORE (2003)
My Rating: 8/10

High Marks for Imagination
- *** This comment may contain spoilers ***
Is science really that good? First we have to recognize there is a problem. Next, we have to figure out what the problem is. Then we have to determine if the problem can be resolved and if it can, how? Who is so good as to determine the earth's core has stopped spinning because of an unexplained electrical storm in California and an attack of birds gone wild in Rome. Who would just happen to have a vessel, named Vergil, that can actually surf through the earth's core of over 9000 degrees without disintegrating. What team of the worlds far most scientific, master minds would volunteer to journey to the center of the earth to jump start the core and what computer geek could stop a top military project dead in it's tracks within minutes of a request? Someone has an overactive imagination and was able to put it in writing and tastefully present it on the big screen.

I must say, Jon Amiel did an excellent job of directing this movie into a suspenseful, action packed, science fiction thriller. I was entertained every step of this fantasy of a movie. A lot of research went into this story - it's almost believable as numbers are calculated, meetings are held by top brass, and billions are spent to turn a 10 year project into a 3 month project. Their plan to restart the earth's core even has a contingency plan called Destiny, which could turn out to be the death of the planet or our hero.

The success of The core depends more on God than on science as we don't have the know how, equipment or power to deliver the resolution outlined in this movie. The special effects were excellent and the acting superb. The Core turned out to be a better movie than I thought it would be. 2 thumbs up for imagination and direction. 2 thumbs down if they think we bought it!


CRADLE 2 THE GRAVE (2003)
My Rating 8/10

Action, Action, Action

This movie was definitely action packed. There was some pretty fancy filming going on as several fights were paralleled at once. I enjoyed this movie because of the action. The plot was the typical family member held as a hostage until my demands are met and of course they never have any intention of returning your loved one. DMX is turning out to be a pretty good actor and I think his marshal art skills are as good as any I've seen -- of course he's no Jet Li but he holds his own.

Jet Li is his usual non-talkative self with an iron stone expression throughout the entire movie. His face is as stiff as his body but this works because it shows discipline. There were so many sub plots in this movie that it actually kept me interested. As in all these type flicks, I cannot believe people are being killed all over the place and no one reacts. One shoot-out like that would send our town in a tizzy and I live in NY.

Tom Arnold was funnier than he had been in the previous flick and Anthony Anderson was great in a role he seems to have perfected as his own. He's in an awful lot of movies right now. I'd like to see Anthony break out of this stereo type and get into a more serious role.

The strangest thing in this movie has Eminem rapping the opening scenes -- he dominated over DMX and Obie. It's all good -- I liked the movie and the music.


CROSSROADS (2002)
My Rating: 10/10

What a Surprise!

In my opinion, Britney Spears is all body and cannot sing. I was so surprised that not only did she show the best of her singing and acting talents in Crossroads but she did it quite well.

Crossroads is a cutesy movie about 3 young friends who make a pact to review their lives at midnight on the day of their graduation from HS. By the time graduation rolls around, they have out grown one another. Each is at a crossroad in their life. They get a gorgeous hunk only one of them knows to drive them cross country in pursuit of answers.

I loved the fact, despite 2 girls are white and 1 black, that there was no mention of race or any prejudices in the movie. It was a story that treated everyone pretty equal, except they played Britney up as the lead singer. I don't know why viewers rated this movie poorly. It was a nice semi-quasi, escape from the fast pace, violence, and sex we see all the time. Basically, it is a feel good movie and Britney was pretty good.


DREAMCATCHER (2003)
My Rating: 8/10

A Hard Tale to Tell
****Warning! A few spoilers in this review****
If you've never read the book, you'll have to rely totally on the movie, which seems to do a pretty good job of sticking to the original story.

Director Lawrence Kasdan keeps us in suspense until we can't wait a minute longer for Dreamcatchers to straighten us out and supply some answers. Questions like, who is this Duddits 4 childhood friends Henry, Beaver, Pete, and Jonesy keep referring to and what are these 4 friends who seem to have alien powers? Where did these powers come from and who is the real alien anyway?

To make things even more mysterious, the military gets involved and brings in a veteran alien fighter named Colonel Abraham Kurtz, played by Morgan Freeman. The answers come while the 4 are on their annual hunting trip. This story, confusing as it is, comes together by the end and holds your attention while doing so. There's one big twist, regarding Duddits, that's left unsettled or maybe it was settled. You'll have to see it to determine that for yourself.

Overall, Dreamcatchers was entertaining, suspenseful, and action packed. What more can you ask for in a movie? Since it's futuristic, just about anything goes, right? Give Lawrence Kasdan a hand for even attempting to direct such a difficult story in the first place.


DUETS (2000)
My Rating: 10/10

It's all in How You Market a Movie!

When I saw the coming attractions for "Duets", I thought it was a backwards, hick town, country singing, stuffy, boring movie. Boy was I surprised when I finally got to see it. The singing was excellent, the story was excellent and the acting was superb. What a brilliant idea to mix very good singers with some not-so-great singers to create authenticity of non-professional karaoke singers trying to win the pot. I was most impressed with Andre Braugher and Paul Giamatti. This is definitely a feel good movie. It's safe to say, the wrong scenes were chosen to represent this movie.


EXIT WOUNDS (2001)
My Rating: 7/10

I Had Hoped for More!

Stephen Seagal is getting better but he's not there yet. His clothing was tolerable and the lost of his pony tail helped too. Parts of the movie served as a humbling experience for Seagal, toning down his bad boy/God like image a bit. Teaming up with DMX only helped popularity -- nothing else! If you can get past the ridiculous story line, you might be somewhat entertained.


THE EXORCIST (1973)
My Rating: 10/10

Still the Scariest

I saw this movie when it was first released in 1973. As I stood on line at the Ziefield in NY, several people in full gorilla suits ran circles around those of us waiting to get into the movie theater. A few folks coming out of the theater screamed and I thought, Pleaseeeee, give me a break! After seeing The Exorcist, I concur, it was then and still is the scariest movie I've ever seen, and I've seen a lot.

I was so spooked by The Exorcist that I refuse to ever see it again. In my opinion, no one has topped it!


FEARDOTCOM (2002)
My Rating: 3/10

If You Have Nothing Better to do, See Some Other Movie!

Feardotcom has got to make "the bottom of the barrel list". I want my money back. It's sick subject matter was only enhanced by its sick and unrealistic plot. I'm not sure any 2 people will agree on the plot of this disaster of a movie. Another one of those "I was wrongfully killed so I won't rest until justice is done" movies. It's hard to even compose a meaningful, non-ambiguous summation of this horrible, I mean horror flick because it's that awful and confusing!

Don't see this in the movies or rent it from blockbuster or see in on cable TV – it is not just a waste of money, it is also a waste of your time. See a cartoon or something.


GHOST SHIP (2002)
My Rating: 7/10

Potential Out to Sea
*** This comment may contain spoilers ***
Oh well! Another good idea gone astray. Ghost Ship started out pretty good. It was suspenseful, well acted, funny, and down right interesting. As the story unfolded, I began to suspect it wasn't going to end well. How right I was. I figured out the villan much too early but I still held out hope for a descent resolution to the movie.

The acting was good, the plot was good, the tension mounted at a normal to fast pace. The only thing that screwed this movie was the punch line. I don't want to give the movie away so I won't include any spoilers but I will say, wait for cable. Julianna Margulies should have stayed with ER.


HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE (2001)
My Rating: 9/10

Not Just a Children's Movie

"Harry Potter" was simply delightful and full of adventure. I recommend it for everyone. "Potter" is not all hype but a robust, mystery tale of witches and sorcerers who use magic for good. Harry himself was a victim of evil and grew up in a loveless family environment. It's interesting to see how well adjusted he becomes as he takes on his rightful position in life. A must see!


HART'S WAR (2002)
My Rating: 9/10

More Than A War Story

This movie is slightly over 2 hours and a little drawn out in spots. None-the-less, it's message was loud and clear. Hollywood is beginning to expose, in depth, the plight of the black man -- perhaps offering additional perspective into the problems between blacks and whites today. Bruce Willis gives an outstanding performance as does Terrence Dashon Howard as the black lieutenant who was framed and Colin Farrel as the Lieutenant who defended him. I classify this movie as HEAVY and worth seeing. There is much to be learned from Hart's War.


HEARTBREAKERS (2001)
My Rating: 8/10

I was a Little Disappointed

While The Heartbreakers was a fun movie, the con was predictable and not that good. This movie has potential to be so much better. A few embellishments here and there would have made all the difference. The performances of Weaver and Hackman were excellent. Too bad the script wasn't better!


IN AMERICA (2002)
My Rating: 10/10

Oh My God!

I could hardly believe my emotions. This emotional roller coaster of a movie is fantastic. What a pleasant surprise. I must admit when I saw the trailers for this movie, I thought it was going to be another Avalon. Not that Avalon wasn't really good, but let's face it, been there, done that. Far from it -- it not only engaged my emotions, it taught me a thing or two or three about being stoic.

The performances were letter perfect. I found myself trying to find the secret to having such well behaved and darling children. If only they all could be like these two. They got along so well while maintaining their status as children. They displayed a wealth of knowledge with hearts as big as gold. They gave me all warm fuzzes.

Djimon Hounsou was fantastic as a dieing man who wanted to be angry but managed to channel his frustrations through this extraordinary family in a very good way. They all brought something to the table. Gifts were plentiful, shown in a most tender, loving way. Jim Sheridan really went the distance in his direction of "In America" and I really enjoyed it.

I don't know why this movie was not widely released because it should have gotten a best movie nod. If you compare some past winners of best movies, "In America" shines. See this fine piece of art any way you can -- it's worth your time.

I'm happy Djimon picked up the Best Supporting Actor nomination and Samantha Morton, the Best Actress nomination for this movie.


THE ITALIAN JOB (2003)
My Rating: 10/10

Everyone Wants to be a Critic
*** This comment may contain spoilers ***
Being a critic doesn't mean you have to bash every movie you see. The Italian Job was very entertaining and I think that's what counts! Ed Norton played an excellent villain who said in the movie, right or wrong, I don't care, it's about what I want. His character had no morals which explained why he was able to turn on his follow thieves. The director left no stone unturned. Every word and action was accounted for and in my opinion, that's a huge contributor to what makes a good flick. While nothing new was introduced, the movie had some of the best car chases I've seen in a while. The plot was good and the actors were excellent. I thought The Italian job was well cast and the story was well acted and well told.

The action was endless and I had such satisfaction because the ending was soooo... sweet. It's okay to just sit back and be entertained by a movie. You don't have to pick it apart for every little thing. The Italian Job is casted well, has good intellect and good special effects. I guarantee anyone who sees this movie will walk away satisfied.


IT'S A PLEASURE (1945)
My Rating: 8/10

When Hollywood Made Life Beautiful

Watching this 1945 made movie in 2002 gave me "warm fuzzys" all over. This was when Hollywood was careful not to offend folks with abusive words and over the top plots. `It's a Pleasure' was a pleasure to watch. It is funny, entertaining, a little suspenseful and has some drama. The scenery and costumes were beautiful. This "Miss Susie Sunshine" of a movie creates a wonderful fantasy world that I think we need more of these days. The coloring and quality of the movie made it hard to believe it was made in 1945. `It's a Pleasure' is a nice, romantic, pleasurable escape.


JOHN Q (2002)
My Rating: 10/10

Denzil is Doing Everything Right

John Q is predictable but on purpose. The plot comes together quite well because of it's predictiveness. Denzil gives a stunning performance as a father who is both an obedient husband, down on his luck and as a loving, caring father. While I'm not sure if this movie was based on a true story or not, I found "John Q" guilty of the usual Hollywood antics like a news anchorman who happens to have the ultimate communications geek in his employ, enabling the national viewing of a police blunder, LIVE on TV. I have yet to see antics like this in real life. Kimberly Elise gives a believable performance as the desperate mom who demands that her husband "do something" to save their son after all hope has been yanked away by hospital bureaucrats. After seeing this movie, Denzil is a shoe-in to win the Oscar for "Training Day". If that sounds like an oxymoron, blame it on the academy. James Wood, Anne Heche , Ray Liotta and Robert Duvall are worthy as die-hard, by-the-book, servants of the people who can't take YES for an answer. I stayed on the edge of my seat and applauded twice before the movie was over. A good thriller.



The LADYKILLERS (2004)
My Rating: 8/10

The Awful Truth!

There has been a lot of hype about this movie. I've seen Tom Hanks on a few talk shows promoting the heck out of `The Ladykillers'. While the movie was funny, Tom Hanks' character was quite annoying. He talked way too much and the words, while somewhat funny, were not funny enough to overlook or overcome the constant chatter. I actually found most of the dialog down right boring.

This unlikely crew of bandits had a most brilliant plan, which was well executed. However, when it came to the simplest task (the one that really counted), no one could accomplish it. A comedy of errors led to more and more errors which led to the biggest error, The Ladykillers!

As usual, Tom Hanks' performance raised the bar but it wasn't enough to raise this movie above it's borderline tale. Ladykillers was barely entertaining. I thought George Wallace would have been better casted as part of the gang, rather than the sheriff -- he's a very funny comedian. I particularly enjoyed the performance of J. K. Simmons as Garth Pancake. His voice alone was almost worth the watch.

I recommend you wait for this movie to come out on DVD.


LOVE STINKS (1999)
My Rating: 8/10

Here's a Comment That Makes Sense
***very light spoilers***
Love Stinks is a funny movie that explores control between a man and a women. Controlling a man comes natural to many women. Mostly because we've been in control of our lives all of our adult lives. Then, along comes a candidate ripe for marriage. According to the Bible, a women's role is to be supportive and submissive allowing the man to take the lead -- if you are not into what the Bible says, you'll keep control or at least try.

I believe, in this hilarious movie, French Stewart's character, Seth knew on some level, that this was not the right women for him. She looked magnificent, she was a heavy hitter in the sack and she was smart and loyal. So what more could a man ask for? I think in this case, he just wanted to be a man and he wanted the respect that comes along with being a man. If Bridgette Wilson's character, Chelsea was a submissive type of women, we wouldn't have this very funny, dark comedy to watch because Seth would have been willing to marry a soft, kind, non-controlling women in a minute. Bridgette showed her true colors long before she slapped a law suit on him by changing one of his rooms into a nursery -- that should have been his first clue. Sometimes you have to ask, why is this beautiful person available when picking a mate. There's always a reason they are unattached.

I thought French Stewart did a fantastic job portraying the character Seth -- demonstrating that he is an excellent actor. The ending was unpredictable and I felt quite pleased with the results.

In conclusion, I think no one can really speak for how someone else will perceive a movie -- I can only say, I loved "Love Stinks" and highly recommend it, especially to the ladies who have too much balls and the men who don't have enough!



MADEA'S FAMILY REUNION (2006)
My Rating: 10/10

I Loved This Movie

It's crazy, funny, a little ghetto in parts, but it has a great message and it's thoroughly entertaining. I laughed, cried, shouted, cheered, commented out loud and even clapped. Madea is an outrageous character brilliantly played by Tyler Perry as is Madea's brother, Joe and the handsome lawyer. It feels so good to be entertained at a movie. Family Reunion gives you a chance to unwind and relax plus have a good, hardy laugh. Anyone who takes it for more is in for a surprise because there is more -- a great message of forgiveness and love. It's worth seeing. I'm not sure how IMDb, who I give a lot of respect for such an informative website, calculates the voting averages but I challenge the accuracy of 2.5. To know the Madea character is to love it and I do love it. This movie is funny!



THE MUSKETEER (2001)
My Rating 9/10

Swashbuckling at it's Technical Best!

Very nicely done. The special effects were somewhere in the vicinity of a Jackie Chan movie with a little Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon added. There were a couple of scenes that seemed a little too modern, i.e., the way the characters carried themselves and quite frankly, I can't imagine folks in the 17th century being able to accept a sword fighting, never lose his confidence, go getter like Justin Chambers. His appearance was a little ahead of his time. The movie was great anyway!


MYSTIC RIVER (2003)
My Rating: 9/10

The Point Of This Movie Is....
*** This comment may contain spoilers ***
Don't let your emotions guide your decision making, you'll come up wrong every time! Mystic River is an emotional roller coaster of personalities and heart wrenching realities. Starting with the sexual abuse of an innocent child, which strengthens the old cliché, "only the strong shall survive". Next there's the death of a 19 year old teenager that tears a father to pieces, not to mention the audience. It was a brutal and senseless killing that impacted every family in this story. Finally, there's another innocent killing that could have taken down more families but only showed us what an untrusting, non-supporting, wife could accomplish with her emotions leading the way.

The only problem I had with this movie was how long it took to get to the truth. Sean Penn delivered another flawless performance -- I really believe he should get an Oscar soon -- he's too good not to join the ranks of those who have been awarded the priceless statuesque. Also, Tim Robbins delivered one of his best performances as a man whose spirit had been mentally weakened as a result of being sexually abused over a 4 day period when he was abducted as a child. Fine performances were delivered by all and if you read reviews about the music being over whelming, don't believe it, lot's of minor chords is the way Hollywood has always portrayed drama. The music is nothing new. Finally, if you believe in the Almighty, the ending says it all!

Clint Eastwood has finally arrived as a director -- this is the best movie I've seen under his direction. I left the theater feeling a little happy, a little sad and a little more knowledgeable about the role emotions can play if you let them. I give Mystic River a 9 because it kept me in suspense -- I actually could not figure out "who done it", I was thoroughly entertained and I actually learned a little somethin', somethin'.



ONCE UPON A TIME... WHEN WE WERE COLORED (1995)
My Rating: 7/10

Too Nice!

This was a very nice, scaled down version of how it really was in the Deep South. The movie did not even begin to depict the real horror Blacks faced each day. There was just a hint of the KKK, Jim Crow and the plantation mentality Blacks had to endure. I kept waiting for those historical, explosive events, we all knew to be the law of the land, to explode onto the screen, but it never happened.

Life was unbearable; Blacks were looked upon as animals and treated as such. I walked away from this movie feeling like life was almost a bowl of cherries.

I find it so odd that people are tired of hearing about the Black experience but never get tired of all the holocaust movies. 6 million Jews were slaughtered over a 6 year period (approx) -- hundreds of thousand Blacks were hung, beaten, raped, shot, humiliated and abused to death over a period of 150+ years, not to mention the suicides that took place on the slave ships in route to America. Admittedly, the holocaust was an atrocity, hopefully never to be repeated, while discrimination of Blacks is still a reality. Too bad there are no great movies that tell the Black Plight the way it should be told.


OUT OF ROSENHEIM (1987) aka Bagdad Cafe
My Rating: 10/10

Mesmerizing Cafe, Mesmerizing Movie

When this film first started, my first thoughts were to turn to something else because Bagdad Cafe was not what I thought it would be. The movie guide said it was about a large women who brings change to another women's business.

For some reason, I stuck with the movie and was pleasantly surprised. I found myself laughing, crying, cheering, standing, sitting, jumping and even talking to myself. All of this equates to happiness. I felt happy by the time the movie ended and of course, I didn't want Bagdad Cafe to end.

An unlikely German woman named Jasmin (played by Marianne Sägebrecht) appears at this cafe/motel out of no where. She has a suitcase of men's clothes and no car. Her appearance raises the eyebrows of the owner, whose husband had just left her along with some of the permanent residents of the Cafe. Jack Palance, for one, is a painter/artist who finds Jasmin mesmerizing and wants desperately to paint a portrait of her. The owner (Brenda) has a son who plays classic piano that no one cares to hear until this woman, who later performs magic, comes along.

By the end of the movie, things are jumping, attitudes have disappeared, and the camaraderie among the cafe staff is unbelievable. This is truly a feel good movie that picks up long after it's slow beginning. It took me to a place, in my heart, that was filled with emotion, song and dance. Bob Telson won an Oscar in 1989 for the best song (Calling You). The song was also mesmerizing and would win again in 2003 if it were up for an award. The owner, played by CCH Pounder, played the role of a lifetime. She should have gotten an award for her performance as well. There's a lot to be learned at the Bagdad Cafe.



THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST (2004)
My Rating: 10/10

What Were We Thinking?

WOW! What a movie, what a story. The Passion of the Christ made me ashamed to be human. It's amazing to see how vicious man could be. It doesn't matter if it was a Jewish man or a Roman man who was responsible for the death of Christ. It was a human(s) that killed Christ. The angry people had the passion and vindictiveness of those who burned so called witches at the stake. What were we thinking?

I am a devout Christian who believes the Bible. Jesus Christ was born to die for our sins so that we might live. This horrifying depiction of what happened was both accurate and passionately told, according to the New Testament. Mel Gibson has finally given us imagery to go along with the story, as told in the Bible. I felt as if I were there. I cried as I was saddened by the pain Jesus had to endure for us. Seeing the Passion of the Christ makes me feel like never complaining about pain again in life.

As to the comments about Jesus not being nailed to the cross via his hands, I say, watch the film carefully. Jesus was tied to the cross and then nailed.

Finally, I think God worked through Mel Gibson to show us what we take for granted. This movie is more than a movie, it's history!


PLANET OF THE APES (2001)
My Rating: 8/10

Nice Try

The new Planet of the Apes is a nice try at a remake. The Apes are more ape like but the story is a little hard to swallow. The action was ongoing and you never get bored. The surprise ending left me feeling hopeless, as all resources and options were completely eliminated.

Despite Planet of the Ape's violence, destruction and hopeless ending, it's still worth seeing.


THE PLEDGE (2001)
My Rating: 10/10

I hope My Comments will Encourage People to See this Movie that is as Real as it Gets!

Sometimes a movie comes along with such a powerful message and with such a powerful actor to portray that message, little else is needed! The Pledge deals with a concept I haven't seen explored in Hollywood. This great film shows how we sometimes get lost in the realities of life, especially when our preconceived ideas don't work out. Jack was excellent, as always -- this is academy award stuff. The Pledge is definately worth seeing!



RIDING IN CARS WITH BOYS (2001)
My Rating: 10/10

This Movie is Way Better than it's Title

This is not just another cute movie. Drew Barrymore has done the acting job of a lifetime in this not-so-funny story. It starts out like any other teenage flick but turns serious when life becomes more serious. Drew is faced with being a teenage mother with a dream.

Since she has no clue about how to raise a child, she is left to do the best she can. I particularly like the way the movie takes you to the end result of all of her efforts, a place many of us should explore long before we get there. Actor James Woods was excellent as the father who tries to keep it all together but is part of the problem. Depite what critics say, this movie is worth seeing -- there is a lesson to be learned and it's conveyed very well. 3 cheers for Drew Barrymore as Beverly and Penny Marshall who directed this "based on a true story."



SECRET WINDOW (2004)
My Rating: 9/10

Been There, Done That, NOT!!

At last, an unpredictable movie. Every week I go to the movies and every week I guess the ending 20 minutes into the movie. Johnny Depp, as usual, was awesome. His unique movements are prevalent in this movie as was in "The Pirates of the Caribbean". In no time, I got past who was acting and became lost in the mystery and intenseness of the story. I admit I am a hopeless Johnny Depp fan and while I'm not a fan of Stephen King, good is good and Johnny is good. He gave his character all the depth, wit and charisma it deserved. Turturro was also excellent as the cheated author of a book he claimed Johnny took credit for.

Like it or not, Johnny Depp is a major actor with a unique style and is showing us how he portrays characters from all walks of life. I haven't yet figured out why this movie is called "Secret Window" as I would have called it "Shooter".

I enjoyed the movie, the acting and the plot -- I highly recommend it as a nice change from the same old story lines we've become so comfortable with.


STAR TREK: NEMESIS (2002)
My Rating: 8/10

Could this be the End?

I was surprised how much the Next Generation cast matured over the years. Such a large gap between Star Trek movies is not a good idea. I couldn't help but feel I was watching the TV version. The presentation was not spectacular enough and the special effects were the same old thing. The movie was dark, drawn out and somewhat slow with minimal action. This was not one of their best, something seems to be missing. The plot was interesting but put too much emphasis on one character. Despite the few surprises and cameos, Nemesis was not their best. The ending left me feeling like this would be the last Star Trek Next Generation movie.

The acting was superb, as usual. Despite the slowness, it's still worth seeing. Draw you own conclusions as to the future of Next Generation. I hope they stay around for at least another 6 years or so.


VANILLA SKY (2001)
My Rating: 7/10

Eyes Wide Shut?

I felt very much like I was watching "Eyes Wide Shut". A never ending, meaningless and confusing mystery with no moral to the story. Vanilla Sky showed its best sequence in the trailers, which I enjoyed enough to go see the movie with great expectations. Some parts were somewhat entertaining but like "Eyes Wide Shut", it left you feeling like you should have skipped this one, it really is not worth the $9 bucks or 2+ hours of your time.



VERTICAL LIMIT (2000)
My Rating: 10/10

Are we all on the Same Page?

I find it hard to believe there is someone out there that didn't like Vertical Limit. It is fast paced, action packed, thrilling and has the best special effects I've seen. This movie mostly takes place on a mountain, in a storm, with freezing cold weather. Even if the scenes were not real, they looked real and had me on the edge of my seat. Since I don't know a thing about mountain climbing, which was probably the case for most viewers, I could not imagine what good mountain climbers would do in this horrible situation. The movie is so intense and the acting so powerful, you don't have time to think about what's not there.

I think Vertical Limit should have been considered for Oscar but that's just my opinion. The filming of this movie was quite an accomplishment for Martin Campbell and my hat is off to him.


WAITING FOR GUFFMAN (1996)
My Rating: 4/10

And the Point is?

I found this movie to be quite annoying. I can't believe the 7.6 rating this movie received from voters. There was no point to it. 90 minutes + of annoying dialog, going nowhere. The few laughs, actually I can only think of a couple, were not worth an entire movie of mediocre characters trying to put on a 150 year anniversary show about the history of a little town called Blaine, Missouri. Somewhere in this movie, I heard folks of Blaine refer to a UFO abduction several years ago. The incident went unnoticed by the outside world, thereby making it an unproven tale. The UFO story was the most interesting thing about Blaine -- the director and all the characters were extremely eccentric, which was the premise for the movie.

I just don't see 7.6 or even 5.6 -- after the movie, I kept wondering, what was the point? I was neither entertained nor mentally stimulated.

An Awesome Product

March 23rd, 2006
An Awesome Product

Posted by calm at 04:53 am on March 23rd, 2006.

I thought it strange there isn't a product on the market that protects us against smoke and other such properties in a crisis situation. When 9/11 happened I had to walk through the smoked filled streets with a rag tied around my face. My company gave out wet towels but didn't have enough, so those who left last had to fend for themselves.

I've recently come across a new product, a simple mask that is small enough to fit into your pocket and protects against the fall out of terrorist attacks, smoke inhalation from a fire and so on. I'm not sure why this is not wide spread news so I thought a blog would be a good way to let people know that it's out there. Check it out, I found it at Readymask.com. A convenient link to Readymask.com is provided.


Currently feeling: impressed

Chris Daughtry

AMERICAN IDOL'S CHRIS DAUGHTRY


After listening to both performances again, it was clear that Chris's version was better than Live's, plus he extended the song adding much, much more. If you listen to both, you'll see it was the same but different.

There is a poll on about.com that asks if: he's great, sang great, end of discussion; were you a little disappointed; he's still one of the best performers or did you think he deceived the judges and audience.To my surprise, a whopping 80% said the latter and 15% said he's great, sang great, end of discussion.

I am evenly divided between Mandisa, Paris and Chris, giving the edge to Chris. This stupid omission might affect his chances of winning. I'm hoping this blows over because the bottom line is he is the most professional sounding of all the Idols and is a fantastic singer. At the end of the day, every song is someone elses. The judges are the ones who ranted that he made it his own. If you listen to both versions, he did make it his own. I've listened to both versions several times, in their entirety, and Chris' version is better. He extended the song making it a much different rendition than "Live".

Check it out for yourself before you judge. I'm not saying Chris was right just that this is a gray area and he's still an excellent singer. So, here's an idea, judge him on his singing ability!

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Obama's Non-Pound Dog

Because President Obama knows he's under scrutiny regarding campaign promises, he should have gotten the white House Dog from a pound. It's really not that deep but the dog "do gooders" will make it deeper than it should be. The media will jump in with big banners and lots of air time to drive home the point.

A dog is a dog is a dog. A loving, non-violent cute dog was adopted by a dignitary. Does it really matter where the dog came from? This dog was rescued from a misfitted family who obviously was willing to let the dog go.
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