Movie: The Good Shepherd

Very well done, but meandering

This movie runs nearly three hours and it’s difficult to track the plot and characters through all the twists and turns (and the spy speak). It beautifully shot and well acted. The story isn’t one with a clear message (trust no one?) and it’s a bit dark. That seems to be a theme in our movie selections lately. Oh well. I guess I should move a comedy to the top of our Netflix list. ;)

Movie: Spider-Man 3

Enjoyable continuation of the Spider-Man story

I was happy with Spidey 3. It was corny and the very last scene felt like it was added in response to audience pre-tests, but it was good. Don’t go in expecting the world, but if you liked the first two I think you’ll like #3 as well.

Movie: Chicken Little

Cute, but not great

I thought this was a cute, fun take on an old story. It’s not the best kids’ movie ever, but it’s fun.

Movie: Babel

Well executed, but perhaps pointless

This is an extremely well acted and well executed film full of great actors. The plot demonstrates both the interconnectedness of the world and the randomness of unfortunate events. However, it’s extremely dark and the previously described plot points may not be enough of a payoff for me after all that misery.

(POSSIBLE SPOILER.) Benjamin pointed out that the white people all end up okay in the end while the brown folks don’t. It’s true, but I think it might be true-to-life rather than true-to-Hollywood.

If you’re the kind of person who likes well done films no matter how depressing, then this is for you. If you can only stand depressing films with a big payoff, then skip this one.

Movie: Stranger Than Fiction

Very, very good

This movie far surpassed my expectations. It was fabulous and unexpectedly included a unique use of a graphic design “GUI” as its CGI. If you don’t like Will Ferrell, don’t let that keep you away. He does a shockingly good job and I don’t normally like him. Check out Jayme’s review on All Consuming for more info.

Movie: The Pursuit of Happyness

Sweet, enjoyable movie Benjamin bought a copy of this DVD at Starbucks on Sunday because he knew I wanted to see it and that I needed an uplifting movie on Sunday to prepare me for a big week. We watched it Sunday night and enjoyed it. I can’t say it’s one of the greats, but still it was worthwhile.

Movie: The Holiday

Yesterday I saw Claire for the first time in forever. We met for lunch downtown and then saw a matinee of The Holiday. It was really good to see her and hang out, though it's never enough time. Here's my review of the flick: Completely entertaining, completely predictable This was a fun, enjoyable movie that entertained me the whole time (despite the fact that it was longer than average). It’s a fluffy, sentimental, unrealistic, chick flick. But if that is what you’re looking for, like me, then you’ll enjoy it.