The Bounty Hunter

I am not one to criticize a film for its lack of probability, so I won't even address that when it comes to this movie. However, I felt as though something was missing in this film. It really is a good story and has such great potential, but there was a line that it never crossed over of "making me want to buy this movie on DVD." It is about Milo (Gerard Butler) who is a bounty hunter, who used to be a cop, and he is hired to take his ex-wife, Nicole (Jennifer Aniston), to jail for skipping bail. Yeah, yeah, I know you think that this is going to be predictable--but it actually wasn't as predictable as you would think, and that is definitely not the reason why it didn't live up to its potential. Maybe it was the poor dialogue that couldn't keep the audience laughing all that hard (it would have probably done better in the 90s). I mean, you do feel for the characters throughout the film, but some of the lines just feel forced.

There are many different sub-stories and twists and turns to keep you interested, so you don't have to worry about that. And Jason Sudeikis plays Stewart, who has a minor role as Nicole's extremely nerdy coworker who thinks that she is his girlfriend, but is probably the highlight of the film.

I didn't hate the film, and I would probably watch it again. In fact, I even thought that I might think it was even better the second time around. If you need to see a film that won't depress you, see this one. And despite all of the negative things I said, there is also something about this film that would make me feel like I was not being accurate if I gave it any less than a B-. Besides, it will make you smile a bit too.

Overall Grade: B-

P.S. Actually, I think it's because Gerard Butler is not a very good comedy actor at all. He doesn't posses that "it" factor to be good in comedy films. Nonetheless, he is still a good actor in other types of movies.


-Ethan Brehm

Green Zone

This is a very interesting take on what has happened overseas in Iraq and the United States' involvement in it. I am not sure about the details of HOW they came up with the accusations in this movie or anything like that, I just know that the storyline made for a good film!

Matt Damon, playing Roy Miller, a warrant officer in the US Army special forces who is in charge of finding weapons of mass destruction in Iraq around 2003. However, every site that he and his team get a lead on turns out to be empty. He gets suspicious and looks into the events that are happening. A CIA officer by the name of Martin Brown (Brendan Gleeson) sees Miller's concern and goes out of his way to let him know that he, too, believes that the WMD search is all part of a cover-up that Greg Kinnear's character, Clark Poundstone, lied about because he knew that it would cause the US to go into Iraq and eventually push democracy there. (Don't worry, this doesn't really give anything away). Throughout the film, Miller tries to prove his hunches and blow the whistle on the whole thing. Only, there are several things standing in his way.

This is a very good film that keeps you emotionally involved and, at times, self-conflicted. There are some things that really make you think on either side of the case--especially something that this one Iraqi citizen, Freddie, says towards the end of the film.

If you enjoyed Matt Damon's Bourne series, supposedly this film will appeal to you (same director). I enjoyed this film a lot, although my ADD kicked in a couple parts and I had to be reminded of what was going on. Controversy has struck this film as well because many felt that it was anti-war or anti-American--but you be the ultimate judge.

(SPOILER ALERT!)I, personally, felt that it could have leaned in the opposite direction of its conclusion with Miller realizing the opposite of what he did based on what Freddie told him a couple nights before. But that's just my opinion--it was a good film either way!

Overall Grade: B


-Ethan Brehm

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid

This is an awesome movie adapted from the book of the same name. It's about the tough times of a boy, Greg, on his first day of middle school and the troubles that face him and his best friend, Rowley, and their attempt to make a name for themselves before everyone else does it for them. It is definitely a film that I will be buying on DVD when it comes out because I could watch it over and over again. The acting of all the kids in this movie seemed natural and displays a promising future for pretty much all of them. It wasn't corny or forced at all. The movie is not just one for kids, but adults will greatly enjoy it as well.

Though this is a great movie, there were issues that were not completely solved by the end of the movie and the end of the film may leave you very curious about the aftermath of specific events. In addition, there are certain characters that were not followed up on. However, there is supposed to be a sequel, so maybe that was the intent of the creators. Also, it is the first book in the series, so these things are probably addressed more in the later books.

Once again, I have never read these books, so I cannot give my opinion of the comparison.

I highly recommend this film, as you should enjoy it no matter what age you are.

Overall Grade: A

P.S. I should add that I work with kids, so, to me, this is a funny interpretation of how they are--which is a big reason why I enjoyed it and laughed so much. As for others, it may not be their type of humor.


-Ethan Brehm

Alice In Wonderland

I finally got to see this movie! I had to wait until I came home from school because I wanted to see it with my girlfriend. If you are expecting the original cartoon Alice In Wonderland, then you have another this coming. Sure, most of the characters are in this one, and the MAIN story ideas are similar, but the plot itself is completely different. Why she is there, what happened before she was there, what happened while she was there, the order in which things happen, and even Wonderland, itself, are all different. My girlfriend told me that in the stage play, Wonderland, certain aspects were combined with the original cartoon movie and included in this film. However, much of it was invented exclusively by Tim Burton for this new adaptation. Although I am familiar with the original film, I thoroughly enjoyed the very new interpretation of the classic--unlike Tim Burton's remake of Willy Wonka.

This new movie was full of surprise after surprise, and you did not once feel as if this were just simply a live-action remake--which I liked. The acting was excellent throughout, especially for the Mad Hatter, played by Johnny Depp (although he was kinda creepy and scary at some parts).

Not only is this movie visually pleasing, but Burton's attempt to create an emotional connection between Alice and the creatures she meets that was not as much present in the original Disney film was successful and noted. There are enough twists and revelations throughout this movie to satisfy any audience.

Though I was slightly disappointed by how depressing Wonderland looked, I eventually understood the point of the director to make it like that. However, in the end, I would have liked to see it be turned back to normal again (you'll get it if you see it).

Overall Grade: A-

P.S. Sorry for the late reviews lately. I'm trying to catch up this week!


-Ethan Brehm

Our Family Wedding

The cast of this movie is pretty good--especially if you follow stand-up comedy--with the likes of Carlos Mencia, Anjelah Johnson, and Charlie Murphy. However, there is a price to pay for choosing stand-up comedians as actors with dramatic scenes. I'm not saying that with enough experience they couldn't be good, but this was an obvious start. The film is about Marcus (Lance Gross), a black guy, and Lucia (America Ferrera), a Hispanic girl, who are dating and planning to get married. They tell their families and their families flip. Throughout the film, the couple is trying to get their respective families to get along with each other. Though the acting may not be good, except for Ferrera and Gross, this film means well and has a great message of understanding other races and seeing through color of skin. Not to mention, this film had me laughing hysterically at several scenes. And surprisingly, Forest Whitaker, who plays Marcus' dad, was lacking his usual good-acting gene (maybe it was his lines though).

A possible downside to this movie if you don't live in a diverse area is that you may not get many of the jokes being told (i.e. a white person who has only been around white people his whole life). Being where I grew up and where I live, these jokes where humorous to me, but I can understand many people in the country not understanding these jokes at all, and in turn, being alienated away from this film.

I could definitely see this film again, as it was very funny and enjoyable from beginning to end (especially the Charlie Murphy scenes).

Overall Grade: B


-Ethan Brehm

Remember Me

Now, before you jump the gun and decide whether or not you are going to see this movie based on the fact that you cannot stand Robert Pattinson and his vampire movies, please don't. And honestly, I was thinking the same thing, because I really do despise the Twilight saga for what it is doing to the world of film (or at least we like to think that it is). Also, this is not a chick flick at all! I really can't say anything about this movie without giving it away though--it's probably better if you know nothing going into this movie because that's what I did, and I was happy that I did. But really, make this the only "review" you read about this movie before seeing it. It was a terrific movie, and Pattinson really did do a good job--showing that his career will not be hindered by the success (or lack of) of his vampire movies. Yeah, sure, I was the only male in the movie theater, and I am sad to say so, because I think this is a movie that everyone should see because it deals with death and how we cope with it (not a spoiler--first scene).

Some may have heard that there was controversy surrounding some aspects of this movie, but I do want you to know that film is an art form, and I'm sure there have been hundreds of more "offensive" things in the past that people didn't think twice about--just saying.

I will admit that there is a lot of unnecessary sex scenes in this movie that don't really contribute much to the film. But, overall, the messages were strong throughout this film and it will really make you think. I recommend it to my guy friends as well. However, if it was Taylor Lautner instead, I would probably not be as generous.

Overall Grade: A-


-Ethan Brehm

She's Out Of My League

Hilarious! I honestly wasn't sure if I was going to like this movie before I saw it, which probably made the film all the more better. Sure, I wasn't always my type of humor, but there was enough of my actual type of humor in this movie to compensate. It had a similar feel to a late 90's or early 00's comedy. It's about Kirk, played by Jay Baruchel, who is a geeky TSA officer trying to get over his ex (who lives with Kirk's parents). Then, he meets the supermodel-type Molly, played by Alice Eve, who asks him out. This boggles everyone's mind (including Kirk) and seems to defy the laws of love according to everybody.

Everyone does a good job in this film, and it refrains from being too much of a corny love story. It brings a great message to the screen and really makes you smile.

The movie can be a bit vulgar at times, and it doesn't touch on the imperfections of Molly as much as I would have hoped (but maybe that was the point), but certain things that some may see as an unattractive quality, the movie and everyone in it sees as awesome. But like I said, I can see how this would be put in the movie like this.

It was a good movie, and one that I could buy and watch over again.

Overall Grade: A


-Ethan Brehm

Brooklyn's Finest

This really was one of the best films that I've seen so far this year, but I doubt many people will see it. This film, which reminded me of Crash in a weird way, stars Ethan Hawke, Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, and Wesley Snipes. It is about crime in Brooklyn and how cops handle certain situations. There are about 3 or 4 substories that all intertwine with each other. The first scene of the movie really makes you think when a character talks about how he got tried as not guilty for DUI because the judge said that, in this case, it is not about what is right and wrong--but about what is righter and wronger. This is because the character was at a bar, but because someone was trying to beat him up, he fled away in his car, and then got pulled over. He was protecting himself, and the judge saw this. The film is, in essence, about this--it is guys trying to protect themselves by any means possible. The film also discusses corruptness within some parts of the police department.

At first it was a little confusing what was going on, but it comes together in the end. It is also really violent at some parts that might be a little unnecessary. I did, however, like the subtle symbolism placed cleverly throughout the movie--even in the background at some parts that most people might not recognize.

The acting in this film is superb--especially Ethan Hawke (I personally think that he is one of the best actors alive, and not just because we share the same first name). It keeps you emotionally attached throughout and makes you self-conflicted on who to root for at some points (which really makes you think). It is a great movie, and it has a good message attached to it.

Overall Grade: B

P.S. I'm waiting to see Alice In Wonderland with my girlfriend when I go back home, so there won't be a review up for a few days.


-Ethan Brehm

Cop Out

Ok, now that I've caught up I'm gonna be trying to post a blog about the film the day I see it. So anyway, I will have to warn you that I am a huge fan of both Tracy Morgan (Paul) and Seann William Scott (Dave)--not to mention, I have seen every single one of Kevin Smith's (director) movies, except for Jersey Girl and he is one of my favorite directors (though this is the first movie that he has directed but not written) so I will try not to be biased (even though I am neutral about Bruce Willis, who played Paul's partner, Jimmy). However, I loved this movie! It really was funny, despite other poor reviews that didn't like the fact that it was "another" interracial buddy cop flick. It seemed as though critics wanted some sort of initial antipathy that turned into understanding of each other. But what they do not seem to understand is that the actual friendship of the two cops (Morgan and Willis) was not at all the conflict. The partnership, and the movie, had nothing to do with race and misunderstanding--it had to do with trust and loyalty. I mean, they had been partners for 9 years already--what's not to understand?

The film is about two NYPD cops who get fired for being sloppy and unorthodox in their approach to crime fighting. In addition to that, they both have their own separate issues--Jimmy has to pay for his daughters 50 grand wedding without being shown-up by the girl's stepfather, and Paul is worried that his wife is cheating on him. Meanwhile, although they are not employed anymore, they attempt to pursue a Mexican drug gang bust to win back the valuable baseball card that Jimmy is going to use to pay for the wedding. Confusing? Not really--it all makes perfect sense when you watch it.

Seann William Scott plays a brilliant character, Dave, who Jimmy and Paul "arrest" and bargain with to help them on their mission. Dave is a sociopath, whose deadliest weapon is his power to annoy his victims to death.

Overall, the film ties together great! And once again, the friendship between Paul and Jimmy is priceless, and the fact that there is no conflict between them is what makes this film unique--unlike the critics say it is.

This is a terribly misunderstood film that critics decided to quickly judge without actually trying to see it for what it really is--much like how they wanted the main characters to be towards each other.

Overall Grade: A


-Ethan Brehm

The Crazies

If you've been following my blog, you'll know that I absolutely hate scary movies--this one is no exception. It was gory, creepy, and nightmarish. This remake of the 1973 film of the same name will keep many people's eyes behind their hands for most of the film. I hate to give a grade based on the bias that I am a wimp when it comes to scary movies, so I do have to give it credit for having a really good story line and making sure that you're emotionally attached to the characters. However, it does step into the horror movie world of every room being dark and a bunch of "you wait right here while I go check this out" (it happened at least 7 times). It was enough to drive you nuts and make you just say, "Really?!?!"

It's a story about a small, peaceful town in Iowa that suddenly gets struck with some sort of toxin that is turning everybody into zombie-like heathens. The town sheriff, David, and his pregnant wife, Judy, must try to figure out the problem while trying to slip by the US military--who is trying to detox the whole town--and escape to the city.

There aren't any real big names in this (which seems to be a trend lately)--which I actually think is kind of cool and helps make it more realistic (whatever that means). The acting was actually pretty good and there wasn't a whole lot of sloppiness in script or storyline. It kinda reminded me of Zombieland without the comedy. However, I can't see myself ever wanting to watch it again--even if it wasn't scary.

Overall Grade: C+


-Ethan Brehm

Shutter Island

Ok, now I know you are going to think that I'm just getting less picky because I keep giving movies A's all of a sudden--but that's because they really are good! This film is no exception. Probably the best film I've seen this year since Book of Eli. It is about as intellectual and mentally stimulating as they come. With surprises behind every corner, this film is simply amazing. With the kind of desire that makes you want to watch it over again, kind of like Sixth Sense. It's got great symbolism and the acting is phenomenal too. Leonardo Dicaprio plays Teddy, a US Marshal hired to search for a missing patient of the psychiatric ward on Shutter Island. There is no way on or off the island unless under the discretion of the chief psychiatrist, Dr. Cawley, played by Ben Kingsley (who also does an excellent job).

This is an adaptation of the book of the same name. Like usual, I have not read this book, but Martin Scorsese (director) has done a great job, and I can't imagine how this would be a poor adaptation of the story.

If you want creepy, you got it in this movie. Though, it's not really scary so much as it is eerie. The film has a dark, and at times, smirkish (made up word) feel to it. It will definitely leave you discussing it with everyone (or with yourself) for awhile after. I spent much time reading discussion boards online to see what people thought of it and to see how other's interpretations differed from my own. Now, the movie is not confusing by any means, it just is a fun puzzle that you can put together. I would almost have to see it a second time just so I can catch every detail.

Overall Grade: A+


-Ethan Brehm