Written Reviews
TAKE ME HOME TONIGHT review by John Delia
Cast: Topher Grace, Anna Faris, Dan Fogler, Teresa Palmer and Seth Gabel Directed by: Michael Dowse MPAA Rating: R
March 4, 2011
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Cast: Topher Grace, Anna Faris, Dan Fogler, Teresa Palmer and Seth Gabel Directed by: Michael Dowse MPAA Rating: R
Unfulfilling, weak and a bit amateurish, Beastly comes up sub-par. I was truly disappointed in the romantic ‘Beauty and the Beast’ drama with both the acting and directing. Unless you are tweens to teens and totally smitten by Vanessa Hudgens and Alex Pettyfer, shy away from this wimpy attempt at moviemaking.
Out of the depths of hell and brimstone comes Drive Angry 3D a wicked ‘grindhouse’ film that takes evil to a higher level. It’s a lot of campiness in a large bundle of violence and mayhem. Director Patrick Lussier gets his cast to whittle down their talent and fit their trailer trash persona. If you are a fan of films like Machete and Planet Terror, then this cut is right up your alley.
The comedy keeps coming in 2011 and the newest entry Hall Pass is a blast. Featuring a good ensemble cast, inventive writing and direction by the Farrelly brothers the film comes up a winner. Although the plot gets quite predictable, it’s the getting there that makes it fun.
The movie I Am Number Four falls somewhere between an episode of the X-Men and X Files with all the excitement, special creatures and cunning storyline. The action starts early and continues, following an introduction of subsequent characters, providing an adrenaline kick for action junkies. I like I Am Number Four even though it could have easily been a cable film on FX. I wouldn’t doubt that it’s where we will find the next sequel.
A very good action mystery Unknown lives up to its compelling trailer. From the exciting opening the film springs to a suspenseful thriller with twists and turns to the final reveal. If you are big fan of Liam Neeson (Taken), and I am, then run to see Unknown.
Although Barney’s Version’s a work of art, undisputedly so, it’s not for everyone. The long-winded script hurts the movie for the center of the road filmgoers who like their stories wrapped up in small packages. Having said that, if you miss out on Paul Giamatti’s amazing performance, it would be a crime.
For better or worse, I’m an Adam Sandler fan. I just enjoy his laid back shtick and the way he attacks his material. He knows what’s good for him as an actor and stays within two distinct ranges in his films. You’ll find him acting either edgy and brave (Funny People, Punch Drunk Love) or playing the complacent loner living in his own world (Billy Madison, The Waterboy).
A very funny script and a cast with great chemistry in hilarious situations the film Just Go With It gets 2011 off to a good start. What drives the ordinary plot to a successful piece of comedic entertainment are the trio of leads and three wonderful support characters. Just Go With It provides great entertainment for a date or girls/guys night out.
Just nominated for an Academy Award The Illusionist rounds out the candidates for Best-Animated feature. I like the film for it’s old style flat animation and the storyline. If you saw The Triplets of Belleville, another Oscar nominated feature several years ago, then you will get the same feel with this film. Is it the Best-Animated film for 2010? Not if you like the modern CGI animation laden leaders that feature 3D with all the eye popping special effects.