Movies in Review: "Friends With Benefits"

Ok so Im sure that no one was really excited about this film. I mean come on, the storyline has been recycled sooooooo many times...case in point "No Strings Attached". But given all of this, this film was still super cute and fun. I guess when you have the right people, nothing else matters. Absolutely loved Timberlake and Kunis together. Justin definitely put himself back in good standing with me after his dismal performance in "Bad Teacher" had me close to swearing him off as an actor. He was again great to watch on screen. Kunis was spunky, fun, and both Justin and Mila seemed so natural with each other that it was hard to believe that there wasn't a real relationship going on. I thought I liked "No Strings Attached", but it was nothing compared to this one.

The sex scenes were the best, and they were doing things that have probably happened in your own bedroom, which added to the humor. Honestly after watching this film I wanted to go home and jump my BF bones (TMI???)...sorry, but yes it was like that...lol. What I liked most is that if you pay attention it gives you advice about relationships. How we all have our issues that make us who we are, be it family issues, personal, baggage from past relationships. But when you meet that person who can take you for who you are, thats the real connection. Ok Ok...it may be more of a chick flick than my fellas would want, but its not total chick flick, so don't put this film to the side. Fellas you will like it to...trust me. Nothing you need to rush out and see, but something you would find entertaining if your looking for a feel good movie at the theatre...B

Movies in Review: "Captain America: The First Avenger"

Well I can at least say that this film was alot better than I thought it would be. Critics have been giving it exceptionally high marks. I mean it was good, but I wouldn't rate it a four star film. I think Captain America has to be the dullest Avenger out of them all in my opinion...don't get mad at me, just my opinion. However the movie wasn't as dull as I think Captain America is though...thank goodness. I did find Chris Evans voice to be super annoying as the emaciated Steve Rogers. Evans voice was way too deep, and it just made his character sound unbalanced. The story was just ok. If it were not for the great acting skills of Tommy Lee Jones, Stanley Tucci, and Hayley Atwell, it could have been alot worse.

The action scenes were decent, nothing that will have you jumping out of your seat. It was nice to see Derek Luke in this film, although I believe his character weakened his strong acting abilities. I loved the humor and I also enjoyed the villain. I liked the ending. It seems that all the Marvel films are setting up for the Avenger Movie, which I am really anticipating. All in all for this film, there were great characters such as Stark, good humor, and everything in between. If you are a Captain America fan, I don't believe that you will find yourself disappointed...B-

Movies in Review: "Beats, Rhymes & Life: Travels of A Tribe Called Quest"

If your a fan and grew up in the 80's this film is a must see. It will take you back to that time when music use to be fun, and not so angry. Wow... it has De la Soul, Jungle Brothers, Leaders of the New School, many more and of course The Tribe. Who knew what was going on behind the scenes with this group. Well this documentary really lets you in on what was going on. I think that with groups there is always an expiration date. There is always going to be one member of the group who is going to shine brighter than the others...that's just a given. If you can walk away with the friendship still in hand, then that is a great thing.

I had no clue Phife and Q-tip were going at it like that. Phife is a real funny dude and keeps it straight 100 in this documentary. I heard Q-Tip stopped promoting this film. I can't see why, it doesn't look like they tried to make him out to be the villian at all... I am glad to see that all the group members are doing what they love to do now, and are still successful. The film is great. I wanted to run out and repurchase all their music! There is no doubt in my mind that you will love it...A!

Movies in Review: "Snowflower and the Secret Fan"

This film is based off the novel of the same name by Lisa See. I have heard great things about the book, and when I viewed the trailer I was looking forward to the release of this film. I have yet to read the book. But I sometimes think its better this way because expectations then become higher. I wanted to be able to take the film itself for what it was knowing the book would offer more to the story. Needless to say I enjoyed this film very much, and I am purchasing the book soon.

I don't believe it played out in the same manner as the book, but it was a delightful film to watch on its own. I shed a tear, which hasn't happened since "The Notebook". It made me sad, and smile. Females will probably get more from it than my male counterparts. But I do believe that it's a great date movie...Not a first date movie...might be a bit too emotional for a 1st date...lol. I believe that women should get together with their sisterfriends and make it a night. It will definitely bring you closer and make you appreciate your girlfriends more. Just one warning, there are alot of subtitles (not the whole film) so just be prepared for those who are not fans of subtitles. The movie has a limited release, so if its in your area please check it out. It is also a great view if you have to wait for it on DVD...B+

Movies in Review: "Horrible Bosses"

Wow this movie was surprisingly alot better than what I had anticipated. It was actually funny as hell. It gave me the laughter that I was expecting to get from "Hangover 2", but only received from "Bridesmaids"...loved it. All the characters were great, but my favorite was Charlie Day's. He is all types of hyper active, with his high pitched screechy voice. Wait til you hear the things that he says, some of it is subtle, but absolutely hilarious. The story didn't play out like you think it would from watching the trailer, so that made it more interesting to watch. Loved Jennifer in this film. She really worked her character. It was nice to see her get a little edgy. This movie was fun and most importantly...funny. I would advise you check it, especially since great comedies have been hard to come by...A-

Movies in Review: "Zookkeeper"

Womp womp...this movie was just ok for me. It wasn't LOL funny, but it was humorous. The characters providing the most laughter for me were the monkey (voiced by Adam Sandler), and the large bear (voiced by Faison Love). We all know how Sandler is, and his comedic voice as the monkey just made for even more comedy. He and Faison I enjoyed. Other than that, the story was a little lame and predictable, so it just made the rest of the movie ho-hum. Might be a good rental to watch with the kids, but nothing to run to the box office and see...C+

Movies in Review: "Larry Crowne"

This film was written and directed by Tom Hanks...Nice! I love me some Tom Hanks! This film was actually as cute and endearing as it looked in the trailer. I thought Hanks and Roberts made an adorable pair. Hanks being my favorite character. It was a well written story, and all other cast members were fun to watch as well. Although I thought Taraji P. Henson was laying it on a bit thick, and the actress who played Talia could have used a volume, but other than that, very cute. Its not a blockbuster, but it is a very nice film. If you can catch it matinee perhaps on a day off or a rainy weekend, this is the movie to see. If you decide to wait, I would give it a go when it comes out on video. Its nothing extraordinary, just a nice, simple, cute romantic comedy that works...B

Movies in Review: "Monte Carlo"

Awwwweee...I liked. This was a super cute movie that female teens and pre-teens will enjoy. It is a total chick flick as it gushes with love, and hopeless romance. You know all the stuff that fairy tales are made of...lol. It was a little like "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" but different. I enjoyed watching these adolescents exploring Europe as they went through their adventure and in the end finding out more about themselves, love, life, and what really matters to them. Isn't that what life is about when you are young...I remember those days...

Loved seeing Leighten without any makeup, because she still looked absolutely beautiful. I enjoyed how her story ended, almost made me cry with joy. Selena Gomez was super cute as always, and Im sure her fan base will adore her in this film. I was in the theatre with a bunch of young girls and they all clapped with excitement when the credits rolled. So for mothers who have young girls, this is the movie to see. I'd advise the men to stay at home. Women if you are going alone, don't go see this if you are down in the dumps about love because this will only cause you to be more depressed. But if your love life is indifferent, this film may be what you need to put a smile on your face. It put one on mine...B+