New in Town

The weather isn't the only drastic change for high-paid consultant Lucy Hill (Renée Zellweger) when she's sent from her home base in South Beach, Fla., to a small Minnesota town to improve the productivity of a local manufacturing plant. The town's residents also take some getting used to, especially the ruggedly handsome union boss (Harry Connick Jr.) who's doing his darnedest to make sure that Lucy doesn't cut any jobs.

Well, not just the greatest chick flick ever, but it was worth a wasted evening. The kind that you watch because you don’t really have much else to do. But in the end you were ok with it. Renee is one of my personal favorites, so I was willing to look past the poorly spoken accents, and typical Union verses Corporate Boss crap. It was fun to see her as a done up corporate big shot in hicktown Montana. The best part of the show was watching the simple people of America transform the high and mighty with love and innocents, something that we could use a lot more of. Kimball ***

Netflix link to New in Town

The Beautiful Truth

This documentary follows the journey of Garrett Kroschel, an animal-loving teenager raised in Alaska. After reading a book by Dr. Max Gerson, Garrett is inspired to investigate its premise that diet can cure cancer and other diseases. Garrett travels across the country, visiting with physicians, scientists and cancer survivors to discuss Gerson Therapy -- and Gerson's claim that the medical industry has suppressed natural cancer cures for years.

This documentary is a must see. It will change the way see everything. It’s amazing to me what we don’t know. There are evil and designing men in our day who are only interested in the money, and are willing to make use of people in whatever way will bring in the buck. This so impressed me that I changed the way I brush my teeth, and I started watching the ingredients on the products that we use. Kimball *****

Netflix link to The Beautiful Truth

Knowing

Play Preview Fifty years after a time capsule was buried at a local school, teacher John Koestler (Nicolas Cage) examines its contents and discovers that it holds many shockingly true predictions. Soon, John is convinced that his family will play a role in an impending apocalypse. Rose Byrne co-stars as Diane Wayland, the daughter of the woman who first buried the capsule, in this tense blockbuster thriller from ace sci-fi auteur Alex Proyas.

I like Nicolas Cage, so I liked this movie for that reason. It was interesting, and fun as a SiFi but I didn’t really like the story. It was too dark and too depressing. Besides, I can’t really connect with the whole global warming, man verses nature, end of the world crap. A bunch of aliens come to save samples of earth and to transplant them onto another planet. Great, but the aliens far dark, scary, and almost evil. It’s someone’s creative explanation for the Adam and Eve story. I didn’t buy it. Sorry, I know this show was popular, but I wasn’t impressed. Kimball ***

Netflix link to Knowing

Inkheart

Unbeknownst to his 12-year-old daughter, Meggie (Eliza Bennett), bookbinder Mo "Silvertongue" Folchart (Brendan Fraser) has a secret ability to bring characters to life by reading their stories out loud. But when the wicked Capricorn (Andy Serkis) comes after her father, Meggie must rescue him. Paul Bettany, Jim Broadbent and Helen Mirren co-star in this enchanting fantasy based on the best-selling children's novel by Cornelia Funke.

I appreciate Brendan Fraser for the clean family film he seems to appear in. He’s funny, and fun, and watchable all at the same time. This is a fun story full of mystery, suspense and family love that is stronger than any evil power could ever hope to be. Good special effects and lots of action. It might be intense for very small children. Kimball ****

Netflix link to Inkheart

Kit Kittredge: An American Girl

Play Preview With a star-studded cast that includes Julia Ormond and Stanley Tucci, this Depression-era drama inspired by the American Girl line of dolls follows aspiring young journalist Kit Kittredge (Abigail Breslin), whose ingenuity and courage help save her family's house. While Kit's father (Chris O'Donnell) is away looking for a job, the family savings are stolen during a series of robberies -- and young Kit sets about finding the thief.

I really liked this film.  I thought the story was great and the acting was good, and well, this little girl was just plain good.  It's a good family film, and it's even entertaining. –>Kimball****

Netflix link to Kit Kittredge: An American Girl

All Roads Lead Home

Play Preview Following a tragic automobile accident that claims her mother's life, rebellious 12-year-old Belle Lawlor (Vivien Cardone) is sent to live with her cantankerous grandfather (Peter Coyote) on his ranch. Inspired by a true story, this heartwarming family tale from director Dennis Fallon also stars Jason London, Vanessa Branch, Patton Oswalt and Peter Boyle (in his last film appearance).

This story was far too predictable and poorly acted.  Not really worth the time.  -->Kimball*

Netflix link to All Roads Lead Home

My Dog Skip

Lonely, 9-year-old Willie Morris (Frankie Muniz) lives in the flea-bitten town of Yazoo, Miss. He stinks at sports and has no playmates. So, over the strenuous objections of his hardnosed father (Kevin Bacon), Willie's mother (Diane Lane) buys him a dog that he promptly dubs "Skip." Before you know it, Skip transforms Willie's life: He makes friends, plays sports and develops an unbreakable bond with the spunky terrier. Based on a true story.

This is a nice film, and the fact that it is based on a true story makes just a little better. I’ve actually stayed the night in Yazoo City, MI. It’s a small town on the rail road and quite pretty. The story is rather predictable, but the acting is good and the coming of age themes are well treated. It’s a decent film. –>Kimball***

Link to My Dog Skip

Star Trek

Capt. Kirk (Chris Pine) and his trusted team on the starship USS Enterprise boldly go where no man has gone before in this installment of Gene Roddenberry's sci-fi franchise that follows the early days of the intergalactic adventurers. The crew includes Spock (Zachary Quinto), Chekov (Anton Yelchin), Uhura (Zoe Saldana), Scotty (Simon Pegg) and Sulu (John Cho). Eric Bana co-stars, and Leonard Nimoy appears as an older version of Spock.

Everyone knows that I'm a Treky, but you don't have to be a Treky to love this show. JJ Abrams was brilliant in his directing of this "beginnings" story about the timeless characters of the Starship Enterprise. I can't begin to express how impressed I was with the acting, the action, the story and the development of the characters. I have to say that I really had my doubts about ressurecting James T. Kirk, but between Pine's acting and Abrams directing they really pulled it off. The only negatives in this film was the imorallity which was so unnecessary, and Leonard Nimoy's terrible acting, which was surprising. -->Kimball*****

Netflix link to Star Trek

Mission: Impossible III

Helmed by J.J. Abrams, the third entry in the explosive espionage series finds semiretired superspy Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) forced back into action to save his protégé, Lindsey Ferris (Keri Russell). To checkmate her investigation, badass arms dealer Owen Davian (Philip Seymour Hoffman) abducts Lindsey, sending Ethan and his crack field team to Berlin on a rescue mission. Meanwhile, Ethan's agency superiors may be double-dealing their operatives.

I'll tell you what, JJ Abrams is a director to follow. I had already seen this movie in the theater when it first came out, but I didn't make the connection to JJ Abrams. With MI3, Lost, and now the new Star Trek, this guy is looking great. My only real complaint about MI3 is the brief sensuality between Cruise and Monaghan. The action is non-stop, and the good guy is a good guy, and the bad guy is all the way bad. There is some language, but not to bad. Lots of dead people. My favorite scene in this movie is near the end when Lindsey is forced to (temorarily) kill her husband, Ethan (Cruise) and then revive him using her medical skills while fending off the bad guys with a weapon she knows nothing about. There love and trust for eachother is tested to the max. This show was a great ride. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to Mission: Impossible III

Just Like Heaven

Shortly after David Abbott (Mark Ruffalo) moves into his new San Francisco digs, he has an unwelcome visitor on his hands: winsome Elizabeth Martinson (Reese Witherspoon), who asserts that the apartment is hers -- and promptly vanishes. When she starts appearing and disappearing at will, David thinks she's a ghost, while Elizabeth is convinced she's alive. Their quest for the truth ultimately leads to love in this spectral romantic comedy.

Well, this is one of those movies that you enjoy and feel dissapointed about at the same time. I really liked the story line and I thought the acting was fairly good. It was funny, it was touching, it was believable. But.....and I mean a big but, there was just too much sexual inuendo and too much normalcy placed on immorality. You'll have to watch this one with fingers in your ears and the fast forward ready. Ok, it's really not that bad as far as what is shown. There's no open nudity or sex scenes, just a lot of talk about it. The story is really cute, and Witherspoon is great. Mark Rufallo is slow getting started but after awhile he's actually enjoyable too, as the almost innocent brokenhearted victim of Witherspoon's need for love. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to Just Like Heaven

Forever Strong

Rick (Sean Faris) is a star player on his dad's rugby team until a DUI lands him in a reformatory. While he's serving his sentence, tough rival coach Larry Gelwix (Gary Cole) allows him to play for his team, which helps Rick straighten up his act. Upon his release, however, Rick becomes a pariah to his former teammates and even his father when he refuses to divulge Gelwix's strategies. Sean Astin co-stars in this inspiring true story.

I enjoyed watching this film. The rugby sequences were really good and the story was uplifting. The acting was not really up to par and the lines were predictable, but all in all this is a good film. Sean Astin is the best actor in this flick co-staring as Rick's counselor at the juvenile detention facility. Rick is not your typical young man and if your teens can relate to him, well, then you have issues. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to Forever Strong

Swimming Upstream

Jesse Spencer ("House M.D.") stars in the true-life drama of Australian swimming champion Tony Fingleton. Desperate to escape his tortuous older brother and alcoholic father (Geoffrey Rush), Tony finds sanctuary and his life's calling at the local public pool. And though his new passion is marred by his father's growing animosity and illness, the talented athlete nevertheless perseveres, ultimately gaining both sports glory and self-respect.

Aside from his violent father and some profanity this is really a pretty good film. It's well acted and a great story. Tony rises to the top in spite of terrible odds motivated by his mother's love and his desire to go to the states to attend a prestigious university. He proves that anything is possible if you really want it. The terrible consequences of alcohol are portrayed with some disturbing scenes of domestic violence, and one is left feeling a certain degree of simpathy for Tony's father who is a victim of his past. I felt a desire to cheer Tony, love his mother, cry for his family, and help his father. It made me wonder what a difference it would have made in the life of this family to have found the gospel. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to Swimming Upstream

Amistad

Steven Spielberg directed this story about the 1839 revolt aboard Spanish slave ship La Amistad and the uprising's tragic aftermath. An African-born slave (Djimon Hounsou) leads a mutiny against his brutal captors. Because the ship is in American waters, a U.S. court must decide the slaves' fate. In an eloquent courtroom speech, ex-president John Quincy Adams (Anthony Hopkins) argues for the Africans' freedom.

Very interesting history. Very well made. Great performances by all including Matthew McConaughey and Morgan Freemanand. I was suprised that I hadn't heard of this film. The twists and turns of this story are great. It is very mature in its theme and drama. There are some disturbing scenes involving torture of slaves and black slave nudity. Small children should not watch this. For history sake and awareness I say this is a must see. Some may dissagree with me, but oh well, se la vi. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to Amistad

Anatomy of a Murder

Nominated for seven Oscars, this legal thriller profiles the attempts of country lawyer Paul Biegler (James Stewart) to exonerate Frederick Manion (Ben Gazzara). Charged with a local barkeep's murder, Manion claims the victim raped his wife (Lee Remick). Employing a temporary insanity defense, Biegler tries to outmaneuver slick celebrity prosecutor Claude Dancer (George C. Scott), but discovers there's more to this case than meets the eye.

I love Jimmy Stewart. I don't know that I have ever seen him in anything that I just couldn't stand. This is one of his great performances, allthough I wasn't particularly impressed with the film. Everything is great except for the ending. A suprise ending it was, but not the suprise I expected, if that makes any sense. You're left with a sense of confusion about who was the good guy, and who was the bad guy. Surprisingly, there were a few rather adult themes and conversations throughout this film. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to Anatomy of a Murder

The Pennsylvania Miners Story

During the summer of 2002, time stopped for nine Pennsylvania coal miners who were trapped inside a mine for more than three days. Miraculously, all survived -- an uplifting ending to a story most thought would end in tragedy. This made-for-TV movie tells the miners' story from their point of view using actual locations and footage from the real-life Quecreek mine. Stars John Ratzenberger, Michael Bowen and Robert Knepper.

This was ok. Not really great as movies go, but a good story. It's worth seeing, but not as the main feature. -->Kimball**

Netflix link to The Pennsylvania Miners Story

Marley and Me

Based on the best-selling memoir, this feature adaptation centers on Jennifer and John Grogan (Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson), who, as newlyweds about to start a family, learn many of life's important lessons from Marley, their lovable yet trouble-seeking canine. This heartwarming story examines the highs and lows of marriage, maturity and confronting ones' own mortality, as seen through the lens of family life with a dog.

I really liked this one. There were some scenes that we could have done without where the love between the Grogans is portrayed with all of it's playfull bedroom humor. But over all this was a great film. I enjoyed the development of family and family relationships. I really appreciated the author and director's developement of the all to common dilemma that women find themselves in today; that of having to make a choice between being moms or career women. Jennifer chooses family with the reasoning that "if working means that I will only be with my children for a few hours in the evening, than I'll stay home with my children." Brovo. And the career changes were made in the interest of opportunity and sacrifice. John sees in the end after meeting up with an old budy, who had taken a different road, that his choice to have a family had brought him the greater happiness. Marley was a wonderful metaphor for sacrifice and love in the face of challenge. Marley did his job. He had raised a family in love for eachother through their love and sacrifice for him. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to Marley and Me

Seven Pounds

Distraught over his wife's death -- and convinced that his own actions had something to do with it -- a depressed IRS (Will Smith) agent begins plotting his suicide, vowing to improve the lives of seven strangers in the process. But a chance meeting with a woman who has a life-threatening heart defect (Rosario Dawson) threatens to derail his plans when, suddenly, their budding relationship feels a lot like love.

The show was well acted of course, and well directed. I had a problem with several things though. One, there were a few of those "bleep of the screen" scenes where the actors get to unleash their hormones and call it work. I also was not to into the whole compassionate suicide thing. By the end of the movie I was depressed and ready to send him a "Snap out of it" phone call. Then, the way he kills himself was just too bizzar for me. In all, this show left me with a dark and depressed feeling, and wishing I could turn on "Home Improvement" or something to lighten up the mood. -->Kimball**

Netflix link to Seven Pounds

The Inheritance

Years before writing Little Women, Louisa May Alcott penned this "lost novel" chronicling the life of orphan Edith Adelon (Cari Shayne), a girl who's taken in by a wealthy man (Tom Conti) and his wife (Meredith Baxter) to become their daughter's companion. Despite her low status in England's rigid class system, Edith's winsome qualities tend to shine through -- and she soon catches the eye of a handsome, wealthy suitor (Thomas Gibson).

This is a very nice film. A real chick flick, but a good one. Completely clean, and innocent and well acted. A must see for the ladies, and a should see for the guys. Everyone needs a little culture. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to The Inheritance

The Great Raid

Based on real-life events, The Great Raid brings to light a daring rescue mission launched by Lt. Colonel Henry Mucci (Benjamin Bratt) that will put him and the battalion he leads in grave danger. His goal? To liberate the Americans and Filipinos who've been captured by the Japanese and thrown into brutal POW camps located in the city of Cabanatuan in the Philippines. Co-stars Joseph Fiennes and James Franco. The Blu-Ray version of this film is unrated.

I was attracted to this film because of it's historical content. I had learned years ago about general Douglas MacArthur who's famous words "I shall return" have stayed in my mind ever since. General MacArthur was assigned to fight the Japanese in the Philipines until President Roosevelt ordered him off the island. Roosevelt decided to focus the US millitary on the war in Europe and left some 72,000 troops, Allied and Phillipino to be taken captive after a brutal and extended standoff on the Baatan. MacArthur protested but left under orders vowing to return. Three years later a daring mission was devised by a young Westpoint grad in which 511 POW soldiers were rescued by 120 Army Ranger and a handful of Fillipino gorillas against a force of some 1300 Japanese. Pay attention to the stats at the end of the film. This is a graphically violent film not good for children. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to The Great Raid

Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed

Hosted by Ben Stein, this controversial documentary examines how pro-intelligent design scholars and scientists are often chastised, fired or denied tenured positions by those who believe in Darwin's theory of evolution. Nathan Frankowski's film explores how scientists who believe in God are oppressed and how the acceptance of evolution may have played a role in the formation of organizations such as the Nazi regime and Planned Parenthood.

Ben Stein is a regular on Fox News and is one of Glen Beck's favorite guests. This is a great documentary exposing the unfounded and ridiculous defense of Darwinism, and the rise of Intelligent Design as the only logical explaination for everything. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed

The Spanish Prisoner

Never trust what you see. When a naïve inventor (Campbell Scott) develops "The Process," a top-secret program guaranteed to make billions for his company, the wolves come out -- to fleece him. David Mamet wrote and directed this twisty mystery with masterful sleight of hand. Powerful performances by Ben Gazarra and Steve Martin, plus plenty of surprises and stings, make The Spanish Prisoner the ultimate con flick.

This is a pretty good show as a backup. The acting by Campbell Scott and Steve Martin is good enough. Felicity Huffman's character is odd at first and it seems that she is a poor actress and too predictable, but, wait, is she, or is she acting? The mystery is good, and the clues are well laid out. Be patient, you may like this one after all. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to The Spanish Prisoner

Evan Almighty

In director Tom Shadyac's raucous follow-up to the 2003 comedy Bruce Almighty (also helmed by Shadyac), God (Morgan Freeman) summons narcissistic newscaster turned congressman Evan Baxter (Steve Carell) to build an enormous ark in preparation for a devastating flood. Unfortunately, Evan's perplexed family interprets his latest hobby as a midlife crisis gone wrong rather than as a divine assignment from the man upstairs.

What can I say. Steve Carell is funny. Add to the mix Morgan Freeman and it just has to be good. This is a funny film with a great message. You might as well give in to God and do what you're told. Funny thing is, you end up doing good for others and yourself. Evan just wanted to be a good guy and change the world. His honest yet naive desire proved to win him the notice of God and the task of saving, and changing the world. A great film for everyone. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to Evan Almighty

The Express

Rob Brown stars in the true story of Ernie Davis, the first African-American to win football's Heisman Trophy. Dubbed the "Elmira Express" for his relentless drive, Davis also lived up to the nickname off the field as he battled for racial equality. Dennis Quaid co-stars as Syracuse coach Ben Schwartzwalder, who teaches Davis the game and in return learns much from his running back's bold civil rights achievements.

This is great film because Ernie Davis was really a great guy. Rob Brown is as good as he always is as is Dennis Quaid. I like seeing good people to great things and for the right reasons. This film may have a bit of a racial twist, but the story is fantanstic nonetheless. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to The Express

Get Smart

When the identities of secret agents from Control are compromised, the Chief (Alan Arkin) promotes hapless but eager analyst Maxwell Smart (Steve Carell) and teams him with stylish, capable Agent 99 (Anne Hathaway), the only spy whose cover remains intact. Now, they must work together to thwart the evil plans of KAOS and its crafty operative Siegfried (Terence Stamp). Based on the classic television show, this comedy caper co-stars The Rock.

This is a classic. Steve Carell has won me over. He IS Mr. Funny. Supported by Anne Hathaway, The Rock and Alan Arkin he is the Maxwell Smart I remember from my childhood, only better. He has all the tools but just can't get right, and then.....he does get it right, but wait, did he get it right on purpose? or was it an accident? Who will ever know? This is a funny flick, but I've got to tell you, I almost have more fun watching my kids watch it. -->Kimball*****

Netflix link to Get Smart

The Remains of the Day

Dutiful butler Stevens (Anthony Hopkins) dedicates himself wholly to tending Lord Darlington's (James Fox) house, turning a blind eye to Darlington's Nazi sympathies. When housekeeper Miss Kenton (Emma Thompson) tries to coax Stevens out of his staid shell, his reluctance may cost him dearly. He finally seeks out Miss Kenton later in life, but is it too late? This Merchant-Ivory period drama was nominated for eight Oscars, including Best Picture.

Here you have very good actors doing a superb job in a slow film. This picture also has Hugh Grant, and Christopher Reeves. With so much star power you would expect more. Don't get me wrong, it is a good film, just a bit slow. Anthony Hopkins plays Stevens, the butler, who is so committed to his duties that he fails to see the things that are truly important. He loses his chance at love and misses the importance of the events unfolding around him. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to The Remains of the Day

Man on Fire

Creasy (Denzel Washington) is a former federal agent whose outlook on life is anything but sunny. While in Mexico City, he halfheartedly takes a job protecting the child (Dakota Fanning) of a couple whose lives have been threatened. The little girl begins to grow on Creasy, and the two form a bond that revives his trampled soul. But when she's kidnapped, Creasy's fury is unstoppable as he desperately tries to save her. Tony Scott directs.

What can I say...You've got Denzel Washington, Christopher Walken, and Dakota Fanning. I love this show for several reasons. One, just because. Two, It's a great hero story involving the ultimate sacrifice for love, and it's a love developed unwillingly. But, who coldn't love Dakota? And, I think Christopher Walken is a great supporting actor every time. This film is graphically violent for which it get's its R rating. -->Kimball****

Netflix link to Man on Fire

Believe in Me

After accepting a job to coach high school basketball, Clay Driscoll (Jeffrey Donovan) is disappointed to discover he's been assigned to the girls' team. But the harder he works his female players, the more he sees that they're just as capable of greatness as boys are. Samantha Mathis and Bruce Dern co-star in this small-town sports drama based on the true story of an Oklahoma coach who led his team to the state championships in the 1960s.

This film is based a true story. Jeffrey Donovan is not a great actor in my opinion, but he does a fare job with this one. Bruce Dern in the same old bad guy you've come to love from his past films. The story is a good one and if you like sports shows you'll like this one. -->Kimball ****

Netflix link to Believe in Me

Slumdog Millionaire

After coming within one question of winning 20 million rupees on the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" 18-year-old Mumbai "slumdog" Jamal Malik (Dev Patel) is arrested on suspicion of cheating. While in custody, Jamal regales a jaded police inspector (Irfan Khan) with remarkable tales of his life on the streets, as well as the story of Latika (Freida Pinto), the woman he loved and lost. Danny Boyle's film won a Golden Globe and Oscar for Best Picture.

This movie was hard to watch. It was a great story, and well directed, but I didn't really like the photography. Some of the sequences in the slums were difficult to watch as the poverty and violence of India's slums were portrayed without apology. Jamal's determination to rise above it all is inspiring but few will be able to relate to him. There is love story in the film, but the abuse of Jamal's girl is again, hard to relate to. The R rating is for the violence and the difficult slum scenes. I would not let younger children see this one. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to Slumdog Millionaire

The Man Who Knew Too Little

Iowa video-store clerk Wallace Ritchie (Bill Murray) opts to celebrate his birthday with younger brother James (Peter Gallagher). But James, an aggressive businessman, has an important dinner meeting planned. He gets rid of Wallace by giving him a ticket to the Theatre of Life, an audience-participation show where an unfortunate case of mistaken identity leads Wallace into -- among other things -- a web of espionage.

This is classic Bill Murray. If you like him, you'll like this one. This guy is as dumb as he can be and yet he foils a plot to start the Cold War up again. He's the perfect unintending hero. Lots of laughs. -->Kimball***

Netflix link to The Man Who Knew Too Little

Miracle at Midnight

A valiant Danish doctor (Sam Waterston) and his family struggle against Nazi oppression and try to help their Jewish countrymen survive the Holocaust by escaping across the Baltic Sea to neutral Sweden. Co-starring Mia Farrow, this taut and suspenseful movie originally aired on television's "The Wonderful World of Disney."

A great film. Intense and moving. I really liked the goodness of the characters. Very well acted, and wonderfully filmed. I wonder if there are people like this anymore. The doctor and his family risk all to save their Jewish friends and become in the end some of WWII's greatest heros. -->Kimball*****

Netflix link to Miracle at Midnight

Bedtime Stories

Skeeter Bronson (Adam Sandler) is a down-on-his-luck guy who's always telling bedtime stories to his niece and nephew, and whose life is turned upside down when these fantastical stories suddenly turn into reality. Now, all the outrageous characters and situations that Skeeter has ever imagined have morphed into actual people and events in his life. But can he manage his own unruly fantasies now that they've come true?

This was a fun movie. Lots of laughs and pretty innocent. It's a good family film for most ages. -->Kimball***

Netflix link toBedtime Stories

The Children of Huang Shi

In this sweeping historical drama, British correspondent George Hogg (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) attempts to save 60 war orphans during Japan's occupation of China in the 1930s. With help from a guerilla fighter (Yun-Fat Chow) and a nurse (Radha Mitchell), Hogg leads the children across hundreds of miles of treacherous terrain -- struggling to overcome one obstacle after another -- while falling in love and learning what courage truly means.

This was a loooooong movie. Interesting history, and a really good story but it just took too long to tell it. Our hero George, turns out to be an impressive figure and a great example of courage, and sacrifice. The R rating is for some disturbing war seens where the brutality of the Japanese is shown in graphic images. Again, what I liked about this film most was that it was a fact based story. -->Kimball ***

Netflix link toThe Children of Huang Shi

The Greatest Game Ever Played

With a pint-sized caddie (Joshua Flitter) at his side, amateur golfer Francis Ouimet (Shia LaBeouf) shocked the world at the 1913 U.S. Open when he outplayed defending British champ Harry Vardon (Stephen Dillane). But Ouimet's rise to the top wasn't easy, with a hard-nosed father (Elias Koteas) and a hard-knock life to overcome. Actor Bill Paxton (in his third time out as a director) helms this inspiring true-life story based on actual events.

A good family drama for teens and adults. Well acted, and good story. I like films based on real events. This is a low key film, not any action to speak of, but it gave me reason to cheer for the underdog. -->Kimball ***

Netflix link to The Greatest Game Ever Played

The Devil's Brigade

War is hell … especially when a group of crack Canadian commandos (led by Cliff Robertson) must learn to work as a team with a group of misfit American soldiers (led by William Holden). Their objective: an Italian mountaintop redoubt held by an elite German garrison. The supporting cast includes Claude Akins, Richard Jaeckel, Vince Edwards, Andrew Prine and Richard Dawson.

This is a classic war picture. Well acted and suspensful. These guys are regular Joe's that make up the typical WWII outfit. They are given a pretty tough assignment and what makes it worse is they have to team up with some Canadians. In the end we find out that we're all just people trying to do our job, and anyone can be a hero. -->Cami ****

Netflix link to The Devil's Brigade

The Final Inquiry

In 35 A.D., following the crucifixion of Christ, earthquakes tear apart the Roman Empire and the sky turns black midday. Emperor Tiberius (Max von Sydow) calls upon investigator Tauro (Daniele Liotti) to determine the cause of this sudden upheaval. Tauro interviews treacherous governor Pontius Pilate, an insane man named Judas and poor fisherman Simon Peter and soon discovers that the strange phenomena may be linked to Christ's execution

The film quality was poor. The sound was patched over and it was obvious at times. The acting was mediocre. The story was very good. The idea that a Roman Centurion sent to investigate Jesus and His followers and being converted in the process, I thought made for a good story. Plenty of graphic violence is used to add interest to the lack of production. The portrayal of the followers of Jesus was pretty good in my oppinion, and the healings were simple and consistent with our view. -->Kimball **

Netflix link to The Final Inquiry

Shattered City: The Halifax Explosion

Based on a true story, this compelling drama recounts the events of Dec. 6, 1917, when a French freighter packed with tons of TNT collided with a Belgian ship in Halifax Harbour and exploded, killing more than 2,000 people. Graham Greene and Pete Postlethwaite lead an outstanding cast in chronicling the remarkable effort to rebuild the Nova Scotia city, a community devastated by tragedy that found the strength and courage to rise from the ashes.

This film was made for TV and it shows. The history is interesting. Tha acting is ok, but the interwoven stories are all to predictable and in the traditional Hollywood style of, "Towering Infurno", "Eathquake", Attack of the whatever, and any number of disaster films that are filled with the "human tragedy" sequences of divorce, teen pregnancy, abortion, emancipation, socialism, teenage problems, human rights issues, and ani-war stuff, all of which are made acceptable by the coming together of a ravished community. The special effects are a bit obvious as scene after scene of expoded dishes, shattered windows and scattered papers are used to give the effect of the largest non-nuclear explosion in human history. The realities of such a devistating event are well portrayed, and the following hearings and court cases are interesting. I think that wether you like this film or are board with it will depend upon your level of critique. I would not watch it again. -->Kimball **

Netflix link to Shattered City: The Halifax Exposion

Galaxy Quest

Decades after the success of the sci-fi series "Galaxy Quest," the show's washed-up stars -- Jason Nesmith (Tim Allen), Gwen DeMarco (Sigourney Weaver) and Alexander Dane (Alan Rickman) -- are recruited by actual aliens to pull off an intergalactic rescue mission. At first, the actors assume the so-called Thermians are just another group of die-hard fans. But as the plot thickens, they realize they're working with real-life extraterrestrials.

Ok, so what, I like this movie. I don't care what you guys say I think this is a classic that deserves to be on this prestigious blog page. This is a great "change of heart" movie complete with acts of faith, hope and sacrifice. No, really. Who couldn't watch this film and feel committed to live a more worthy life? Who wouldn't fall in love with our hero, Jason Taggert? I think this show should be manditory material. -->Kimball *****

Netflix link to Galaxy Quest

Support Your Local Sheriff

James Garner stars in this Wild West parody as a sharpshooting drifter who stumbles upon the lawless gold rush town of Calendar and winds up appointed as the new sheriff. With memorable performances from Bruce Dern as the villainous Joe Danby and Joan Hackett as Prudy Perkins, the requisite damsel in distress, this hilarious spoof is directed by Burt Kennedy.

This is an all time classic film. James Garner, one of my personal favorites, plays a roll suited to him in this comedy set in the old West. Basically on his way to Australia, he doesn't have time to get settled in, but before you know it, he's the town hero, or is he? Bruce Dern is about as funny as you've ever seen him, as Joe Danby. Then there's Harry Morgan. He's everything that you would expect Harry Morgan to be; funnier than snot, but dry as dirt. Walter Brennan as Pa Danby is just great, frustrated at his less than intelligent sons. Then there's Jack Elam. Who could not fall in love with his character, Jake. Elam is funny no matter what his roll is, but set him with James Garner and this all star cast and you have a great show. This one will keep you laughing, and wishing it wouldn't end. -->Kimball *****

Netflix link to Support Your Local Sheriff

Night Crossing

Night Crossing tells the incredible true-life story of two intrepid East German families who hatch a plan (during the Cold War, of course) to escape and head west by using hot-air balloons. Starring John Hurt, Jane Alexander, Beau Bridges and Glynnis O'Connor, this family drama is an inspiring tale of the extraordinary lengths oppressed people will go to find freedom.

This is one of my all-time favorite films. If you haven't seen it, or haven't seen it for a long time, you need to get this one. It's full of suspense, mystery and family. It's a great main feature. Every American should have to watch this film before a presidential election. These families live in the prototype country that our ellustrious progressive leaders would like us to live in where the fairness doctrine is "all for them, none for you." The story is about two families escaping what we are becoming, East "Obamany". -->Kimball *****

Netflix link to Night Crossing

Joshua

In this gentle fable about the Second Coming, a carpenter named Joshua (Tony Goldwyn) brings joy and light to every person he meets when he arrives in a small town. From troubled teens to a smitten TV anchorwoman to a frustrated wife in a stale marriage, Joshua helps them all. F. Murray Abraham, Colleen Camp and Giancarlo Giannini (as the Pope) co-star in this life-affirming movie.

A nice film. I enjoyed the story, and don't want to say too much about it so as not to take the mystery out of it. It is obviously a pro-Catholic film. I did appreciate the message of community, and service. Not a fast moving film, a good Sunday afternoon film. -->Kimball ***

Netflix link to Joshua

Luther

This epic movie follows the life of Martin Luther (Joseph Fiennes), author of the then-controversial 95 Theses and founding father of the Protestant church who, with the courage of his convictions, faced the wrath of the church in the 16th century, all in the name of religious freedom. Co-stars Alfred Molina as John Tetzel, Jonathan Firth as Girolamo Aleander, Claire Cox as Katharina von Bora and Sir Peter Ustinov as Fredrick the Wise.

This film was spectacularly made. Great sets and impressing filming. Excellent story, and compelling drama. I feel like I need to see it again, there was so much to take in. Luther was a great man and this film does him justice. I have read some about this great reformer and I found the film to be mostly consistent with what I have read. The "Church in Rome" is portrayed as the oppressive political power that it actually was at that time. The PG-13 rating comes from a single scene lasting about 60 sec. in which corpses are strewn all over after the peasents revolt and are squashed by the King. Little kids don't need to see this. But the rest of the film has no offensive material. -->Kimball *****

Netflix link to Luther

Saving Sarah Cain

When Sarah (Lisa Pepper) becomes legal guardian of her sister's Amish-raised children, she takes them back to the big city and uses their story to advance her waning writing career. But when her new brood learns of the exploitation, they demand to return home. Will Sarah turn from her selfish ways and ultimately do what's best for the children? Directed by Michael Landon Jr., this inspiring story also stars Elliott Gould and Tess Harper.

I don't remember who recommended this film to us, but it was great! It was refreshing to watch a clean, inspirational film with a happy ending. Five orphan Amish children are taken in by their Aunt who seems to care about nothing but herself, and her career. The kids did well in showing what it is like to live in a world that challenges their beliefs. This is a "change of heart" movie that I know family would enjoy without squirming in their seats. -Sarah * * * *

Netflix link to Saving Sarah Cain

Beverly Hills Chihuahua

Chloe (voiced by Drew Barrymore) is a privileged Chihuahua from Beverly Hills who rides in style in her owner's purse -- until she gets lost on a Mexican vacation, and must find her way home with the help of her newfound Latin canine friends. Salma Hayek, George Lopez, Edward James Olmos, Cheech Marin and Andy Garcia also lend their voices to the cast of this comedic live-action adventure.

This was, in my opinion, incredibly dumb! However, Andrew has watched it at least three times and thinks it's hilarious. It's clean, somewhat entertaining, and creative, but there are plenty of "innuendos". It might be fun to watch with the kids/family. If you like dogs, this is the movie for you! As a side note, the thing that gets me is...this is reality these days. -Sarah * * *

Netflix link to Beverly Hills Chihuahua

I Spy

There's no love lost between undefeated middleweight fighter Kelly Robinson (Eddie Murphy) and CIA superstar Alex Scott (Owen Wilson) -- a mismatched pair who are teamed up by the government to track down a missing stealth bomber in this action-comedy. If they're to accomplish their dangerous mission, they'd better find a way to get along, first!

Ok, I watched this one....again, because my boys wanted it. I had forgotten how bad the language and the sexual in-your-endos were. I had my innocent daughter asking questions I didn't want to answer. It is very funny. Alex (Owen Wilson) is constantly self conscious about his rivals tools and gadgets and time with the beautiful fell'a agent, Rachel who fittingly turns out to be the bad gal. I love the scene where the two of them are in the sewer spilling their hearts out to each other. Alex (Owen Wilson) says basically, even though we are completely different in every way, "You're really just like me, and I'm you." I only give it three stars because of the language and....the other stuff. -->Kimball * * *

Netflix link to I Spy

The Patriot

Widower Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson) wants nothing more than to live in peace and farm his land. But when a cruel British officer (Jason Isaacs) brings the American Revolution to Benjamin's door and threatens what he cherishes most, the former war hero is forced to take action. With the help of his son (Heath Ledger), Benjamin becomes a feared militia leader. But before he can defeat the British, he must win a battle within himself.

I think I've seen this one four times. I enjoyed it just as much this time. The boys wanted to watch it again, and grandma wanted to see it. I think she's just in love with Mel Gibson. Anyway, I think this is an inspiring film filled with great patriotic lines. The classic struggle between caring for his family by staying at home, and saving his family by going to war is very convincingly portrayed. Freedom comes at a cost, and least we forget it, directer Rolland Emmerich and actor Mel Gibson remind us of the sacrifice made, not so many years ago. -->Kimball * * * * *

Netflix link to The Patriot

Dreamer

Down-and-out horse trainer Ben Crane (Kurt Russell) is given an equally broken-down (but once great) racehorse, Sonya, as severance pay. It will take the unwavering faith and determination of Ben's daughter, Cale (Dakota Fanning), to bring these two damaged souls together in a quest to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. Elisabeth Shue, Oded Fehr and Kris Kristofferson co-star in this heartwarming tale directed by John Gatins.

I really enjoyed this film, though I've seen it before. I've always liked Kurt Russell, and Dakota Fanning has become a favorite also. But this is just a feel good film. Besides, I love horses, so it hit a soft spot for me. The lessons taught, and just plain "feel good" nature of this film makes it a winner for me. Hardship and trial just make us better when we buckle under to correct principles, and don't give up no matter how impossible it looks, there is always a way. --> Kimball * * * *

Netflix link to Dreamer

No Reservations

In this remake of the award-winning European romantic comedy Mostly Martha, Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Kate, an emotionally fragile chef whose life is turned upside down when she becomes guardian of her niece (Abigail Breslin). Used to absolute control -- both in her kitchen (which she rules with an iron hand) and at home -- Kate now faces chaos on all fronts, as both the child and her new sous chef (Aaron Eckhart) work their way into her heart.

A very nice film. Well developed story and decent acting. Love and apreciation can penetrate even the coldest of hearts. Sometimes it takes tragedy to help us see that there are more important things in life than personal ambition and recognition. Kate is all work and no play and takes herself so seriously that she has no room for anyone else, and no room for criticism. With the happy-go-lucky sous chef that enters her life she is faced with hating a guy that you can't help but love, and a niece left to her care who needs more attention than Kate wants to give, all of a sudden she finds herself forced into change. But the change is just what the doctor ordered. -->Kimball ****

Netflix link to No Reservations

Gettysburg

The fiercest battle fought on American soil comes to the screen in a stunning production that painstakingly re-creates the events of three fateful days in July 1863. Tom Berenger, Jeff Daniels, Martin Sheen and Richard Jordan play key roles in this magnificent epic (based on Michael Shaara's Pulitzer Prize-winning The Killer Angels), which was filmed at actual battle locations and rigorously authenticated -- right down to the boots.

I really enjoyed this film. This is the second time I have seen it and I could watch it again. Mostly because I really enjoy history. But add to my love of history a very well acted and directed film and wa-la there you have it. The stories within the story are incredible. The battle scenes are well acted. The irony of this war is the fact than there really weren’t good guys and bad guys, just a difference of opinion. It’s long. It takes two nights to watch it, but it’s worth it. —>Kimball * * * * *

Netflix link to Gettysburg

The Last Flight Out

Medical missionary Ann Williams (Bobbie Phillips) doesn't have much time; a gang of drug runners is closing in on the remote Colombian village of Alto Risco and threatening to take over. After seeing terrifying news reports, Ann's father enlists washed-up pilot Dan Hogan (Richard Tyson), who happens to be Ann's ex-boyfriend, to fly in and get her out. Dan picks up a fast-talking guide along the way and ventures deep into the jungle.

This could have been a good flick. It's a change of heart film that moves much to quickly from a worldly pilot with an all for me attitude to an instant unsuported conversion. However, the acting was not good. The story was worthy of better directing, and better drama. I would not recomend this one just because of the poor quality. The only thing done well in this film was the photography. It had great arial shots of the jungles and mountains because the lead character is a pilot. --->Kimball * *

Netflix link to The Last Flight Out

The Importance of Being Ernest

In this adaptation of Oscar Wilde's witty play about mistaken identities, Algernon Moncrieff (Rupert Everett) and Jack Worthing (Colin Firth) cause trouble as two proper gentlemen in 1890s London who use the same pseudonym. At a country estate, they fall in love with two ladies -- Cecily (Reese Witherspoon) and Gwendolyn (Frances O'Conner) -- but the hilarious confusion that ensues from their deceptions may just sink their chance at romance.

This was OK. It had it's funny moments and at times it was entertaining. The last 15min. made the whole show worth watching. I rented it because of Reese Witherspoon, and was not dissapointed in her performance. It's worth a watch, but not as a main feature. --->Kimball * * *

Netflix link to The Importance of Being Ernest