2012 Summer Movie Ranking

So many movies have already made huge impacts this summer, and I admit that I’ve fallen behind in my reviews. So real quick, enjoy my quick pick reviews from the movies I’ve seen SO FAR this summer…

The Dark Knight Rises (A+)

It’s hard to critique a movie right after a tragedy like the Colorado shootings. All I could think about on opening day was about that shooting. I enjoyed it nonetheless, until I went and saw it a second time and realized just HOW incredible this movie is. 1) Christopher Nolan is a genius. From the writing, the story, the character development (not only in this film, but over all 3 films) he knows how to deliver the good. 2) Anne Hathaway is a beast! 3) Michael Caine deserves some strong recognition for that heartfelt scene towards the end (y’all who have seen it will know what I’m talking about). 4) What a way to end a fantastic trilogy! It was energetic, upbeat, heartbreaking, painful to watch, yet I just couldn’t turn my eyes away. While it in no way matches the darkness in The Dark Knight (especially with Heath Ledger’s Oscar-winning performance as The Joker on the line), but I would put it a hair above it over all, just for the pure fact that it’s the ending of all endings to a 7 year loving relationship we’ve all had with this Batman.

The Avengers (A+)

What’s NOT to like about Iron Man, Captain America, The Hulk, and Thor coming together to save the world from bad guys?!!! And what kind of person are you if you weren’t attracted to seeing Mark Ruffalo, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner, and Chris Hemsworth, side by side, fighting and looking so damn good?!!! Not to mention that the action sequences were incredible and the storyline was solid for as many big names were in this film.

The Amazing Spider-Man (A+)

An amazing reboot of a movie that lost its way so fast! There’s no denying the natural chemistry between Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone throughout, but as standalones, they sure can carry a big movie like this on their own! There were no forced performances and no fake emotion. Everything was so natural and likeable from start to finish. From the strong life lessons, the action sequences, the story-line, and no signs of an emo Peter Parker (a la the disappointing Spiderman 3), this movie has it all for an instant summer BBQ! Light-hearted in all the right places without being overly cheesy, but serious and intense when it needed to be, there was great balance all over.

Magic Mike (A)

Male strippers played by a Hip-Hop dancer in every chick flick known to woman, a gay man from White Collar, a werewolf form True Blood, a newbie cutie, the Texan abs of a shirtless superstar, and the muy caliente man from CSI: Miami…it was a favorite of mine last year when filming was announced. It still is a favorite of mine for obvious reasons! Get them dollars out ladies!!!

Ted (A)

It was stupid, immature, and easily offensive, but wasn’t that the point? Who would think that a movie about a grown man and his friendship with a teddy bear could make such an endearing and hilarious film? If you’re a fan of Seth Macfarlane and the work he’s done with Family Guy, then this didn’t disappoint. It had the elements of a classic film. My favorite was the musical score, so light hearted, upbeat, whimsical, and classic.

Prometheus (A-)

A solid sci-fi thriller that satisfied our need to be scared, amazed, and intrigued with the question of where we came from (from a scientific perspective of course). The special effects were spectacular! Michael Fassbender is an acting genius! Idris Elba is a true bad-ass! And Charlize Theron?!!! What a sight to see and a strong force to be reckoned with!

Katy Perry: Part of Me (B+)

She certainly CANNNOT dance or put on a show like the almighty Beyoncé can, but there is no denying the fact that Katy Perry is a lovely person with a bubbly personality. She’s someone that I think everyone who saw this movie would want to be friends with. She’s hilarious, she’s adorable, and so gosh-darn likeable. Even in the midst of her very public divorce, she still had the strength to perform for her fans at the end of the day. I definitely have more respect for her after seeing this.

Men in Black 3 (B+)

After such a long hiatus from the second film, and after such a long absence from hit summer blockbusters, Will Smith and company brought humor and action together once again with this endearing addition to the Men in Black series. Never one to take itself too seriously, it was a fun film to see.

Step Up Revolution (B)

The first Step Up was memorable because it felt like a modern-day Dirty Dancing for a new generation. Step Up 2: The Streets went for the jokes. Some were hilarious, but most of it failed miserably. Step Up 3D was a joke that was made purely for the gimmicks (just re-watch the scene when they blow slushie through a straw into the air). While they’re all cheesy and not perfect in any way, shape, or form, they all still did what they were designed to do: showcase some great dancers in awe-inspiring routines that make the audience want to get up and dance to! This newest addition to the franchise was no exception. In my opinion, it had the most intricate and beautiful dances of any of the films. Yes, it was still cheesy, and no we still haven’t found a great dancer who also happens to be a wonderful actor as well. But it was still entertaining and did its job!

Rock of Ages (B-)

Definitely nowhere near Adam Shankman’s Hairspray adaptation, this rock musical still was entertaining to a degree. There were more unexpected gems spaced out throughout than there was a collective masterpiece. Tom Cruise was spell-binding and so much fun to watch. Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand were hilarious. And while her acting wasn’t quite up to par with everyone else (which isn’t saying much), Mary J. Blige killed every song she was featured in! A good popcorn film though overall…

What To Expect When You’re Expecting (C+)

Big ensemble casts don’t ALWAYS make the BEST films. There were too many stereotypes trying to be played across the screen in less than two hours, and often times it felt like everyone was trying too hard to please anyone watching this movie. It had its funny moments, and Lord knows I was overly satisfied with seeing my Jennifer Lopez on screen again, but as a whole, it was a little disappointing.

Rest in Peace: Whitney Houston

While the cause of death has not been yet confirmed, it has been reported that the legendary and great Whitney Houston has passed away at age 48.

This is such a sad loss, considering how badly we all wanted to see her succeed again. She had such a remarkable career filled with plenty of highs, but was overshadowed by her many lows. Let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable Whitney moments…

Introducing, Whitney Houston

Back in her prime, Whitney came out onto the scene with such fire and power. That voice, that face, and did I mention that voice?!!!

 

The Bodyguard

There’s no denying just how important this soundtrack and film was. While the film wasn’t a critical success, it went on to be a huge financial success, scoring up Grammy’s and even Academy Award nominations. Not to mention that it catapulted Whitney’s career into diva-stardom.

Cinderella

While everyone may consider The Bodyguard their favorite Whitney Houston film, this ABC version of the Broadway musical will always hold a special place in my heart. Because after all it's possible, things are happening every day…

The Comeback, Part 1

After years of taking a break to act, Whitney bust right back onto the scene with a new album. She scored hits with Missy Elliott, Mariah Carey, Wyclef Jean, Faith Evans, Kelly Price, and Rodney Jerkins just to name a few. Sadly this is where her personal life started to take over her career.

The Comeback, Part 2

Once her split with estranged husband Bobby Brown became official, it was time to get her life back in order. Her voice would never be the same as it used to, but there’s no denying the will-power she had to keep fighting and make something of herself.

We’ll never forget that voice, that beauty, that grace, and that diva persona that truly made her an icon for years to come. RIP Whitney. We love you and miss you…

Valentine's Day Movie Top 20 Countdown: #10-1

10.) Maid in Manhattan (2002)

My favorite Jennifer Lopez: predictable, romantic, funny, and just adorable. Everything I need in one film is here!

9.) There’s Something About Mary (1998)

I have to acknowledge the raunchy movie. When I first saw it in theaters (at the tender old age of 7), half the time, I had my eyes closed or covered. But seeing it when I was older, I can appreciate the humor and romanticism throughout, dirty or not.

8.) She’s Out Of My League (2010)

One of the newest additions to my list, a lot of people may not have given this the chance it deserves. It’s just an overall GOOD movie worth watching on Valentine’s Day.

7.) The Proposal (2009)

Sandra Bullock in here superstar year, Ryan Reynolds in his superstar body, and Betty White in her superstar scene-stealers: what more can you ask for in one movie?!!!

6.) Overboard (1987)

A classic that needs no further introduction: Goldie Hawn & Kurt Russell, amnesia, and a boat…GO!

5.) Hitch (2005)

Will Smith can play it down with serious films, he can kick ass in an action movie, but for me, my favorite is when he shows off his romantic comedy chops alongside the hilarious Kevin James and the beautiful Eva Mendes! And man on man, what a soundtrack!

4.) My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

The first of the wedding trilogy on my countdown, this one just never gets old. You don’t have to be Greek to appreciate and understand the crazy family life when you bring someone new into the picture!

3.) The Wedding Singer (1998)

Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore’s first film together, and it’s all about bringing back the 80’s! Everyone can appreciate the humor and love in this hilarious film filled with great music and a lot of memorable moments. Do you really want to hurt me?

2.) My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)

Classic Julia Roberts here. While everyone may choose Pretty Woman as one of their favorite Julia Roberts romantic comedies, I’m more for this winner right here.

1.) Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)

This film is THE quintessential romantic comedy in my head, and it’s the most recent addition! It’s a love story for adults, the interlining stories, and the amazing, talented cast, everything about this film is perfect from the script to the screen. 

Valentine's Day Movie Top 20 Countdown: #20-11

Love is in the air, especially when it comes to the big screen. Here is a lovely countdown of MY favorite romantic comedies. From the predictable to the unbelievable, enjoy!

20.) Head Over Heels (2001)

The movie that people remember, but really don’t want to. I have to admit that it is my ultimate guilty pleasure. It was when Freddie Prinze Jr. was back in his prime, so you know it was a good film, right? It’s cheesy fun with all of the typical romantic comedies gems you’d expect to see.

19.) It’s Complicated (2009)

A romantic comedy for the older crowd, but it was hilarious and adorable even for the younger kiddos. Meryl Streep works well with this kind of romantic comedy (not like when she starred in the film version of Mamma Mia). And let’s not forget about the adorable Steve Martin, the hilarious Alec Baldwin, and the hilarious John Krasinski.

18.) Serendipity (2001)

Another forgotten gem that a lot of people may not remember, this film was all about fate. And while the fate talk got a little too repetitive at times, it still was a very memorable movie. It’s the kind you root for the entire time.

17.) Never Been Kissed (1999)

One of the regulars when it comes to romantic comedies, Drew Barrymore felt in her prime with this film. We’ve got a pretty interesting concept, some young up and coming actors (Michael Vartan, James Franco, and Jessica Alba), and let us not forget about just how cute and adorable the film is overall.

16.) The Wedding Planner (2001)

I have to show some love to my homegirl Jennifer Lopez. In this cute rom-com, it’s fate once again that takes center stage. Who knew that a dumpster could be so scary and dangerous? Who has the balls to compete with Ms. Lopez? And can we please talk about the adorable Alex Karev (Justin Chambers)from Grey’s Anatomy?

15.) 50 First Dates (2004)

The second Drew Barrymore selection on the countdown, and the first pairing of Barrymore and Adam Sandler, it’s an adorable concept from start to finish. From the scenic setting of Hawaii, to the classic Sandler gags and friends popping up, this is quite a memorable rom-com.

14.) Miss Congeniality (2000)

One of the queens of rom-coms, Sandra Bullock shines in this Dirty Harriet inspired film. It’s tough to consider this a romantic comedy, but there’s no denying not only how funny it is, but also with how cute the chemistry between Bullock and Benjamin Bratt is.

13.) How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days (2003)

Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey make one fine looking couple. Hudson shines in this hilarious film. From the cute, to the insane, to the just plain creepy, she did her thang!

12.) Sex and the City (2008)

Another guilty pleasure of mine, but this one I’m certainly not afraid to admit that I absolutely love this movie. You don’t even have to be an avid Sex and the City television viewer to get what’s going on, and to really love it from beginning to end. It’s adorable, it’s sexy, it’s hilarious, and it’s just wonderful.

11.) 13 Going on 30 (2004)

I love seeing people out of their element. In the case with this movie, it was seeing Ms. Alias taking a break from kicking ass to swoon and moon over the gorgeous Mark Ruffalo. We’ve seen this premise before (Big, Freaky Friday, 17 Again) but this was just so darn adorable. 

At a Loss for Words... (The Artist Review)

It’s about time that movie-goers from today’s generation are introduced to the silent film era. Unless you’re like me at my age (verging on 21 in a couple months) who appreciates all of Hollywood’s history, especially when it comes to the silent film era, most people wouldn’t even think twice about seeing a silent film these days. The performances in The Artist were beautiful and meaningful, even if there were no actual words spoken out loud. Whether the actors were unknown or well-known, they all did an amazing job with their nonverbal acting, a skill in the industry that has certainly gotten overlooked. As far as the quality of the film is concerned, the black and white coloring felt nostalgic and very welcoming. It wasn’t grainy or off-putting. The music was a central part of the film itself, and the sets looked fantastic.        

The Artist takes place in the late 1920’s and early 1930’s when the silent film era started to get overshadowed by the “talkies”. Silent film star George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) was at the top of his game, winning applause and hundreds of fans with his very successful films. As his career begins to fade, young starlet Peppy Miller (Bérénice Bejo) makes a name for herself as an up and coming force to be reckoned with in the talking-film industry.

It’s very easy to follow along. It is not as if there are no words at all to understand, the audience just can’t hear them out loud. Just like in classic silent films, we see the characters talking, but often times there are captions that come up on the screen to follow. The fact that it is silent actually makes it easier to present the subject clearly. The audience seems to pay more attention seeing as how they don’t want to miss anything happening. I loved how nostalgic the film felt. It wasn’t a copy cat of silent films. It was a real silent film. It captured a moment in Hollywood’s history when everything seemed so innocent. Times were hard, but they seem so simple. Going to the movies always feels like an escape for movie-goers, and back in the 1920’s-30’s, it wasn’t any different.

I love the fact that the unknown actors from France (Dujardin & Bejo) were the stars of the film, while well-known American actors were in the supporting roles (John Goodman, Missi Pyle, James Cromwell, Penelope Ann-Miller, and Malcolm McDowell).

Another aspect of the film that I loved the most (being a fan of big dance numbers) was in fact the dancing. Again, it brings us back to a time of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, the classic dance breaks in movies with an awesome tap number or other types of choreography of some sort. And to be perfectly honest, there was nothing about the film tht I didn’t like or found dull.

It’s really hard having to choose performers I liked the best when really everyone apart of this silent film did an amazing job! But to talk about my favorite moments? Let’s start first with the moment when Peppy & Valentin first meet. After the premiere of his film, he goe soutside to greet the fans and take some pictures with the crowd. A young vibrant fan (Peppy) is trying to get an autograph when her book drops. As she bends down to pick it up, the crowd pushes her into Valentin, causing everyone to gasp. That moment right there is extraordinary. In my head, I can hear the crowd’s gasps, even though all we really hear in the audience is music playing. For a second, it looks as though Valentin is an uptight actor in Hollywood who is upset that someone would dare have the audacity to bump into him. But a few seconds later he starts laughing, giving everyone else in the crowd their cue to continue laughing at the situation. Peppy starts using this as a moment to really get in the cameras viewpoint. There is a split moment on her face when the audience can see that she really just wants to have her picture taken with this famous actor. That to me is the one pivotal moment (and especially since it takes place in the beginning) that sets the tone for the rest of the movie for me.

From there on in, I look at every gesture and movement, seeing as how the audience can’t really pay attention to hearing the actors speak. From Dujardin’s hilarious and very expressive facial expressions, to the remarkable and starlit eyes in Bejo, to the seriousness and big teddy bear quality in Goodman’s stature, even to the hurt and betrayal in Miller’s eyes, everyone in this film was cast for a reason. They each have their own special ability to cpature emotion and portray it on screen through their eyes and their movement. And it’s not just when they are seen by themselves. It is in the moments when they interact with each other. It is true that at times, people can dislike a chracter but admire the performance. For me there wasn’t any one character I didn’t dislike. Missi Pyle’s character as one of Valentin’s co-stars comes close, but her annoying demeanor on screen works for me as an audience member. I love to loathe her for hating her costars for stealing away her moment to shine. You can tell that there had to be strong personal connections between the performers on and off screen in order to establish real chemisty in the film.

The director Michael Hazanavicius had an important job in directing his actors and performers. There is a lot more than just reading lines from a script. All of the directing came from natural body movements, but on a grander scale. The director certainly helped all fo the actors perform convincingly. The actors and actresses do in fact play together as an ensemble. They all have their subtle moments by themselves of course, but it is when they work together as an ensemble that really makes it something special and something so magical to watch on screen. The pace and rhythm seems right. It’s not stretched out and too long. At just about an hour and 40 minutes, it kept my attention the entire time. The editing is clean and precise. The continuity is fluid from start to finish. 

The film was definitley worth attending. In a culture today when we’re all about words and sounds, it was refreshing to sit back and really pay attention to body language and facial expressions for a change. And with the Academy Awards coming up so soon, it was definitely worth seeing around this time of year. I would recommend this film to any movie lover who appreciates the history of film, especially when it comes to the silent film era. I can’t see myself referring this to friends of mine who are fans of big action movies and loud noises. You really have to have an appreciation for classic cinema to thoroughly enjoy this film.

The film did affect me emotionally, seeing as how I am so enthralled with anything dealing with Hollywood. The sadness of a fading star and the excitement of a rising one wa something I recognized and could connect easily with. Yes the film was entertaining all in all, but it was more than just entertaining. It was magical, memorable, and beautiful. I don’t think I’ve heard anyone say how terrible this movie is. It seems to be on every major critic’s top 10 lists of 2011. It’s collecting almost every major award so far this season. The only criticism I’ve heard was a couple weeks ago when an audience at the movies asked for their money back because they didn’t realize the film was silent or that it was in black in white. Those audience member obviously don’t appreciate a beautiful thing when they see it. 

OSCAR PREDICTIONS! 

Considering all of the nominations it has received for this upcoming Academy Awards ceremony in a few weeks, I'm expecting it to win Best Director and Best Original Score. I'm still on the fence about a Best Picture win. The Help has always been my favorite, and with their win at The SAG Awards earlier this week, it might just be the top choice over The Artist. We'll just have to wait and see!

2011 Countdown: Top 10 Movies

I saw as many movies as I could see, but these were the 10 that stuck out the most for me! Here is my own take on the Top 10 movies of 2011!

DISCLAIMER: There are still plenty of movies (especially within the last month) that I have not had time to see yet (i.e. Hugo, War Horse, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, etc.). So don’t be hatin’ again if you don’t see any of those on my list!

10.) 50/50 (A)

First up on my list is a film that did almost the impossible: making cancer work in a comedic atmosphere. From an outstanding performance from Joseph Gordon-Levitt, to the great support from Seth Rogen, this film had a great balance of heart, humor, and drama.

Oscar Nominations? (Best Actor: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Best Supporting Actor: Seth Rogen, Best Original Screenplay)

9.) Horrible Bosses (A)

It truly felt like the bosses took over this film (never mind great performances from Charlie Day, Jason Bateman, and Jason Sudeikis). Jennifer Anniston, Colin Farrell, and Kevin Spacey and their off-the-wall, hilarious performances made the film what it was truly! Hilarious, and so enjoyable to watch, it was one of my favorites of the summer!

Oscar Nominations? (Best Supporting Actor: Colin Farrell)

8.) Drive (A)

From the style, to the music, to the amazing silent performances, this film was breathtaking to watch from beginning to end! Ryan Gosling’s subtle sexiness was overwhelming at times, especially since he barely said a word! The action and the style in which everything was filmed and edited was impeccable!

Oscar Nominations? (Best Picture, Best Actor: Ryan Gosling, Best Supporting Actor: Albert Brooks, Best Director, and Best Editing, Best Sound Mixing)

7.) The Help (A)

While I’m usually not a fan of books being turned into films (especially when I’ve read the book) I was pleasantly surprised with this film! And how could I not be, especially with knockout performances from Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, Jessica Chastain, Emma Stone, Alison Janney, and Bryce Dallas-Howard?!!! From the light humor, to the chemistry and drama between them all, this film was top-notch!

Oscar Nominations? (Best Picture, Best Actress: Viola Davis, Best Supporting Actress: Octavia Spencer & Jessica Chastain, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Song: “The Living Proof”)

6.) The Descendants (A+)

A recent entry towards the end of the year, this film made George Clooney sparkle yet again! No surprise here when you have one of the greatest actors of this generation, bringing an unexpected humor and tons of heart to spare. You want to feel bad throughout the film, but you can’t help but love every second of it, pulling for everyone’s struggle that they all come out on top (yes, even those in the film that you should hate).  

Oscar Nominations? (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor: George Clooney, Best Supporting Actress: Shailene Woodley, Best Adapted Screenplay)

5.) Crazy, Stupid, Love (A+)

Finally! A romantic comedy for adults! This film had such a great ensemble cast, but the standout was Ryan Gosling (in his amazing year on film!) It was laugh-out-loud funny, it had a little soap-opera drama, but above all else, it was romantic at its best!

Oscar Nominations? (Best Actor: Ryan Gosling, Best Original Screenplay)

4.) Shame (A+)

Another recent entry, and my love for this film is almost like the love I have for Drive (fancy that, they both are one-word titles!) Michael Fassbender had a quiet storm brewing throughout the film. It wasn’t just about the sex and nudity (although there was a lot of it, and it was all graphic). It was about the emotion, it was about the decisions made after and before. There was so much dedication and commitment to what the characters felt! Outstanding job to the style and directing, but above all else, a standing ovation for the amazing Michael Fassbender and the stunning Carey Mulligan.

Oscar Nominations? (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor: Michael Fassbender, Best Supporting Actress: Carey Mulligan)

3.) Super 8 (A+)

A mix between The Goonies and E.T., this film brought back the best of Steven Spielberg (and without a doubt the best of the 80’s, or should I say the 70’s). It was a true homage to Spielberg and his directing style, but he simply produced it! J.J. Abrams did a wonderful job directing a talented group of kids as the driving force of the film. The action is where it’s at for most people, but for me it was the friendship between the kids themselves that made the film what it is!

Oscar Nominations? (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Visual Effects, Best Editing, Best Sound Mixing)

2.) Bridesmaids (A+)

Hilarious from start to finish, a powerhouse for women everywhere, and man oh man, did I mention how f***ing hilarious it was!??? The story could be turned into something predictable, but it wasn’t in the least bit. The performances could have been over the top, but they were just the right amount of insane. The humor could be taken as a copycat, but it was original all on its own. GENIUS is all I have to say about that!

Oscar Nominations? (Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress: Melissa McCarthy)

1.) Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Pt. 2 (A+)

The end of another part of my childhood…Last summer it was Toy Story 3, but this year it was all about the end of Harry Potter. Sure, the book series ended long before, but it wasn’t until this movie came out in July that it felt like there was finally some closure. It was very bittersweet to watch, but definitely well worth the wait! It was heart-racing from beginning to end. We all knew how it would end, but there was still so much anticipation for what was to come!

Oscar Nominations? (Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor: Alan Rickman, Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Mixing)