2009 Must-see List

(In no order)
1. Transformers 2
2. Watchmen
3. Star Trek
4. X-Men Origins: Wolverine

And of course more to be added later, but these are some of the biggest projected blockbusters of the upcoming year, and I can't wait to see any of them.
However, I stand by my what I told my friends, I think Watchmen is going to suck big time. Of course, I hope it is awesome...

Gran Torino

Definitely my favorite "new era" Clint Eastwood flick. Tons of great humor, and great drama delivered perfectly by Eastwood and the supporting cast. The climax is also awesome, and provides a pleasant surprise to the viewer.

The Dark Knight

I am not going to waste much time on this one. Basically anyone who reads this blog already knows everything about this movie because they have already seen it. It is still pretty awesome though, and I am already waiting for the next one and bluray release.

Hellboy II

This movie was visually stimulating of course, but not much else... I think the story lacked depth, and the fight scenes were pretty undramatic and predictable. Of course the story cumulated with a rather large battle only to end, leaving us all wondering why the solution didn't occur an hour earlier.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

I went to see the 12am premier of this one, the first time I had done that for any film, and the scene was a total circus. In the end, this was a fun flick, and enjoyable. I definitely wasn't knocked off by my feet, but would have given it higher raves if it wasn't for a detrimental ultra corny scene involving an amphibious vehicle, a cliff/tree, and three waterfalls. All in all I would say that this is the worst of the Indy franchise, but still worth the wait.

Maid of Honor

Owed my girlfriend a trip to a movie of her choice, and of course this was it. It really wasn't as bad as the reviews suggest with plenty of laughs. I was entertained throughout the flick and that is all I could ask for. The ending really sucked but other than that not much else to complain about. After this I am sure I am going to get sucked into seeing What Happens in Vegas, but that looks bearable for both sexes as well.

Ironman

Overall, this movie is highly entertaining and well worth the $9. The action sequences are epic and the drama is all in good fun. However, I do think this movie is quite overrated. At times it is just a little too corny and it made it more difficult to take the movie seriously in moments that were supposed to be just that. That is my only complaint, and that is all I have to say about what is easily this year's best film thus far.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall

This is another outrageous comedy that follows perfectly in the footsteps of Superbad and Knocked Up while managing to remain completely original. For me, it wasn't quite as rewarding as Superbad, but the perfect date movie because of a mild focus on romance. There are plenty of shocking scenes and the flick wastes no time before going male full frontal, but it even manages to make this humorous nonetheless. My only recommendation is to get out there and see it, but leave the parents behind.

88 Minutes

First of all, I saw this movie expecting it to be horrible from all of the reviews I had already read, however I was actually not that disappointed when it was over. Ok, so it becomes fairly obvious to the viewer what is actually going on pretty early in this thriller, but I was still thoroughly entertained. And hey, that's all I am really looking for these days as bad as movies have been recently. This film isn't all that bad, and has the makings of a flick you will be watching on cable TV for years to come.

Gone Baby Gone

Been MIA for a while-busy with finals, biking, and spring break. Watched this flick for the second time yesterday. Probably my favorite film of 2007. Has some great drama and action sequences as well as a twist that questions many of our morals. It leaves the viewer questioning right from wrong, and is leaves a very strong impression on you. If you haven't seen this one yet you are missing out. IF you want to save some money, and participate in movie piracy-here is a link for the stream of the movie, not sure how long it will take Google to figure out they are hosting it though.

http://quicksilverscreen.com/watch?video=43311

Be Kind Rewind

I saw this movie last night, and overall I was somewhat disappointed. It was a a somewhat entertaining flick due primarily to Jack Black. However, the preview had left me expecting more, and it seemed all the films best moments can just be seen on the trailer. I guess if you are dying to go to the theatre in these times, there probably isn't a better choice that this flick, but that's only because the movies have all been so lame lately.

What is Michael Bay doing?

I for one really enjoyed Transformers, and look forward to the second installment, but I was browsing his IMDB.com profile today and was a little shocked. It appears that he is working on remaking The Birds, Friday the 13th, and Nightmare on Elm Street. I am sure he would have picked up Psycho too, but someone beat him too it a few years ago. All of these movies are great in their original form, but I am not looking forward to him screwing these titles up for the next generation like Rob Zombie did with Halloween. Well that is my rant.

Fast Times at Ridgemont High

I saw this recently for the first time, and it was a little different then what I expected. The story has lots of funny moments, but at the same time it is not really laugh out loud funny. Sean Penn's character is definitely what makes this film. It definitely makes fun of almost every element of the highschool experience, and is very enjoyable. Most of the humor really isn't that crude either, however there was a surprising amount of nudity. For a fun little piece of trivia, Nicholas Cage makes a brief appearance as a burger flipper as an extra. Lucky for him his career has gotten better.

Untraceable

Went to the theatre last night, and this is what I saw. It wasn't all that bad, but not that good either. Don't get me wrong, I was entertained, so it could have been worse, but the movie just seemed like it was missing something. I guess it felt like it was kind of a re-tread.. a mix of Saw and Seven, without much originality. It had its moments, but fell a little short for me. It was mainly disappointing because I had high hopes for this one. By the way, is it just me or is this going to be a crappy year for movies? Outside of Indiana and a few other of the big blockbuster films coming, not much has excited me.

There Will Be Blood

Went and saw this one last night at the theatres. Personally I have mixed feelings on this one. Firstly, it's like no movie I have ever seen before. It's a very unique story and setting for a film, and everything seems very original. The soundtrack is very well done and is really effective. I also like the cinematography, and Daniel Day Lewis does an amazing job acting. My only beef is that the story is so negative, and I am a sucker for happy endings. Watch this along with No Country for Old Men, and you will probably be pretty depressed. I still recommend that you check it out.

Matrix

On the AMC these past couple of days. Still as kick ass as ever. The plot on this film is ingenious, and I struggle to understand how the sequels went so bad. Sure, the action scenes were great, but what the heck were they thinking. Obviously this is Keanu Reeves best piece ever. No interesting trivia that I could come up with this one though.

Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

Watched this one last night. One of my favorite Star Trek movies, although they are all pretty entertaining in my opinion. You gotta love the space combat sequences, and Capt. Kirk is awesome. If you havn't seen it, I definitely recommend it. It was released in 1991, so it's not as old as you think, and the graphics/special effects are pretty good. Also, it's funny to see Kim Catrall as a half Romulan half Vulcan. In earlier films her character was played by Kirstie Allie. This movie has inspired me into wanting to revisit all the Star Trek films by the time the next one is released (December 2008). BTW, if you havn't seen it yet, here's the teaser trailer which came out this past week with Cloverfield.

V for Vendetta

Well been pretty busy until today so no movie time for me. Did go over to my friend's apartment after the game today (the Huskies beat the Beavers, we are now 2-3 in Pac10 play and tourney hopes still alive), and we watched V for Vendetta. Not the first time I have seen it, but I like this movie a lot. The beginning is a little weird, and the character V/writer(s) goes overboard trying to be poetic, but this movie has some bomb.com action scenes and I guess sends a pretty decent message. It's pretty political, and clearly very liberal-which should appeal to some, but as a more conservative man myself, I was still able to appreciate and enjoy it. As for some interesting trivia, I bet you didn't know that V is playes by Hugo Weaving. Yeah, he is Agent Smith of the Matrix, Elrond of LOTR, and Megatron of Transformers. So basically he has played three of the sweetest significant minor roles of all-time IMO.

2008 Preview addition: Fanboys

Just saw the trailer, I have no idea when this movie is actually coming out. IMDB says 1/14/08 which is ridiculous cause the film is completed. Looks hilarious but the release date pisses me off cause it's so late. Ok, well I will probably still go see this cause anything Star Wars is worth nine bucks. William Shatner is doing a cameo too. Trekkies and ??Star Warsians?? unite. Aight see ya there.

Ace Ventura: Pet Detective

It's on tonight-TBS. This movie is pretty hilarious and what really launched Jim Carrey's career into the public eye in my opinion. Tons of great jokes, and Mrs. Arquette, then Courtney Cox- lookin' pretty good. Also a pretty awesome cameo by Mr. Cool, Dan Marino. Who by the way isn't that cool doing commentary on Sundays. If you haven't seen the evidence yet, it's kinda old, but here it is-

Iron Eagle

Yea, it's on tonight on AMC. God this movie sucks. I love flying and everything that has to do with air combat other than this film. I guess the F-16 cutaway scenes are kind of cool, but everything else I deem worthless. My random trivia fact on this one is that the "Minister of Defense" character is the guy from Masterpiece Theatre's/BBC's Poirot, David Suchet, who is actually legit, and I recommend that series BTW.

My preview of the first half of 2008

I don't think I am alone in the movies that I am most excited about this year. As for the others, feel free to chime in.

Tier I (movies I can't wait to see):

Be Kind Rewind (2/22)- I have been waiting forever for this one. Looks hilarious.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (5/23)- How could it be bad? However, interesting that they are going more sci-fi for this one. I read somewhere that aliens could be in the plot. Count me in, but sounds like you should probably leave your girlfriend at home.

The Dark Knight (7/18)- It's still a long way out, but if this one is even near as good as Batman Begins I will be happy.

Tier II (the other movies I want to see):

Cloverfield (1/18)- Well I don't know about this one, could be really good or really suck.

Untraceable (1/25)- Diane Lane used to be hot, and this looks like a pretty decent thriller from the trailer.

Jumper (2/14)- Hopefully it will be a good action/sci-fi flick.

Semi Pro (2/22)- Two words: Will Ferrell.

Drillbit Taylor (3/21)- Can Owen Wilson make the comeback?

21 (3/28)- Just teach me how to count cards like those MIT kids.

Leatherheads (4/4)- Football and romance, perfect date movie.

88 Minutes (4/18)- Al Pacino fights for his life, I think the last time we saw this was in Heat.

Iron Man (5/2)- Could be pretty lame, but I am sure it will be fun.

Son of Rambow (5/2)- A kid re-enacting Rambo: First Blood in his backyard? Sweet.

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (5/16)- I enjoyed the first one a lot, so this one will hopefully be just as good.

Incredible Hulk (6/13)- Just be better than the last one, probably the worst comic book movie of all time.

The Happening (6/13)- Will Shyamalan continue to suck?

Tier III (movies I don't want to see):

Rambo (1/25)- You have got to be kidding me.

Meet the Spartans (1/25)- WTF??

The Hottie and the Nottie (2/8)- I can't believe Paris got another movie deal.

Vantage Point (2/22)- A movie on assassinating the president. I think I will pass.

10,000 B.C. (3/7)- Could have some qualities being on the big screen, but this movie looks lame.

Funny Games (3/14)- After seeing the trailer, I just don't see how this movie can do well. Looks a little too creepy to have mass appeal.

Speed Racer (5/9)- Never really watched the cartoon, but the preview looks too weird for me. I hope it is awesome though.

Movies I watched from 1/6 - 1/12

In theatres:

Juno-
Ok, so if you can get through the first 10 minutes of this film you shall be rewarded. I can go on forever on why I hated the beginning of this movie, but there is a lot of good stuff after it so I will let it go. This movie kind of seemed like what Knocked Up would be if it were written by a woman. More of a girl's perspective on being pregnant with plenty of comedy to make it a little less serious. It seems like this movie has a perfect mix of comedy and drama and the characters all bring something significant to the table. Overall this movie is very enjoyable, and I definitely recommend checking it out as soon as you get the chance.

On TV:

The Hunt for Red October-
Well, I own this movie, but I still got sucked in when it was on AMC this weekend. I forgot how great the submarine scenes are. I still think Patriot Games is way better as far as the Tom Clancy/Jack Ryan movies go, but this was a perfect story to start it with. If you haven't already seen this movie, I don't know where you have been the past 20 or so years, but you definitely need to rent it or whatever, asap.

Movies I own

Ok, so here is a list of movies that I currently own-with a small review for each one. They are in no particular order.

1. Knocked Up - One of the best comedies of 2007 along with Superbad.
2. Lonesome Dove - Sweet western miniseries from before my time, everyone should see this.
3. Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark - One of my all-time favorites.
4. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom - Some hate it, I still love it.
5. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade - Great movie, not quite as good as Raiders.
6. Star Wars IV - Another one of my all-time favorites.
7. Star Wars V - Taking it to the snow is probably the sweetest thing ever.
8. Star Wars VI - My least favorite of the originals, but still pretty sweet other than most of the Ewok scenes.
9. Halloween - Probably my favorite horror movie. It's pretty old but still gets me every time.
10. Nightmare on Elm Street - Another great horror flick, who doesn't like to see Johnny Depp get slashed up?
11. Friday the 13th - Pretty boring for me up until the last minute, but probably has the best ending ever.
12. Collateral - Entertaining movie, great to see Cruise as the antagonist.
13. Rounders - Fun movie for anyone who likes to play poker, more interesting than WSOP re-runs on ESPN.
14. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves - Pretty lame, liked it as a kid, bought it now, and I don't like it much anymore.
15. Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country - My favorite of the originals.
16. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl - Way better than the others.
17. Stand By Me - A good movie about a group of friends growing up in a different time.
18. The Thin Red Line - Mixed feelings on this one. Pretty long and slow, but a movie everyone should see.
19. Fast and the Furious - Great teen movie, has its moments, and purely entertainment.
20. The Sandlot - Great kid movie, a fun baseball story about kids growing up.
21. Meet the Parents - So many hilarious moments, everyone should love this movie.
22. Bad Santa - One of the funniest adult comedies of all time in my opinion.
23. Wayne's World - Party on.
24. He Got Game - Good basketball flick, but the story doesn't seem plausible, so that bothers me a bit.
25. South Park: Bigger, Longer, & Uncut - South Park fans unite, great movie adaptation.
26. Jackie Chan's First Strike - Kinda cool.
27. Planes, Trains & Automobiles - Funny movie about travelling struggles.
28. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels - Steve Martin is great in this movie.
29. Beverly Hills Cop - My favorite Eddie Murphy flick.
30. The Bourne Identity - Gotta love Bourne, he's like the American James Bond fugitive.
31. Forrest Gump - Really great movie, and the music rocks too.
32. Zoolander - One of Ben Stiller's best movies in my opinion.
33. Ferris Bueller's Day Off - Great teen high-school movie. Inspiring to all I think.
34. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - I think this movie is pretty cool, Turtle Power!
35. TMNT II - Sucks pretty bad compared with the first.
36. The Client - Great courtroom drama type story.
37. Black Hawk Down - Awesome war movie.
38. Heat - Great action/drama, just a little long, but the bank robbery scene is the best.
39. Training Day - I love this movie. Awesome, dark, crime/cop story.
40. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring - This movie is so awesome.
41. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - This one is just as good as the first, if not better.
42. Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King - As good as the second, if not better.
43. Apollo 13 - Awesome true story, and awesome movie.
44. Bullitt - Cool movie, and one of the best car chases of all time.
45. The Cincinnati Kid - Another movie that would be best enjoyed by those who like to play poker.
46. The Italian Job(2003) - Very entertaining, and a good movie for everyone.
47. Papillon - Another good "true story" movie, about one man's jail break attempts.
48. Tom Horn - True story, a western flick with plenty of fun.
49. Risky Business - I recommend this one highly, you'd have to be pretty ballsy to pull this one off.
50. Reign of Fire - I know, but I still like this movie a lot, and laugh every time I see McConaughey show his bald head and wild man beard.
51. Star Wars III - The best of the new ones.
52. L.A. Confidential - One of my personal favorites.
53. The Silence of the Lambs - Really scary, really good.
54. X2 - I think this is the best of the trilogy.
55. The Amityville Horror - I don't know why I have this one, but I guess it has its moments
56. The Grudge - This movie is scary, but I am not really a fan.
57. Spiderman - This movie is the one that started the whole comic book phase I think, pretty fun.
58. Spiderman 2 - WAY better than the first and third. Just a complete movie all around.
59. Scream - Fun movie to watch with your friends.
60. Office Space - Pretty funny, lots of memorable lines.
61. X-Files - Pretty disappointing considering how great the show was at one point.
62. I Know What You Did Last Summer - Another fun movie to watch with friends.
63. The Usual Suspects - The first time I saw it, I thought it was brilliant, some holes in the story for me though.
64. Mission: Impossible - This movie is pretty cool now, and was one of my favorites as a kid.
65. Seven - Great movie, messed up story, who comes up with this stuff?
66. 8MM - Pretty sickening, I guess everyone gets what's coming by the end though, so that's good.
67. Alien - Sweet sci-fi. Really scary too.
68. Aliens - Even better than the first, I think.
69. Empire of the Sun - Another one of my favorites, I don't know why this movie doesn't get more attention.
70. Casino Royale - The new Bond is rad.
71. Touching the Void - One of the best survival stories of all time. Kind of a documentary, but a must see.
72. The Departed - My favorite movie of the past year.
73. Sum of All Fears - Pretty cool movie of what-ifs. Harrison is way better as Jack Ryan though.
74. Clear and Present Danger - I love seeing South American drug lords go down.
75. Patriot Games - The best Jack Ryan movie.
76. The Hunt for Red October - Woulda been better with Harrison Ford.
77. Zodiac - One of the best movies of 2007, and really creepy.
78. The Firm - Another great lawyer movie.
79. Superman Returns - I don't know why but I really like this movie.