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Jun 26, 2008

The Movies Of 2007

So I felt a little guilty about posting this so late until I recently saw that the BET Music Awards show was on a week or so again and since we all know how much I love to resemble the famed television station, I actually felt encouraged by this. Well anyways, before we get underway there are a few things you should know going into this list:
1. All of my ratings and reviews are completely subjective (i.e. they are based on what I thought/personal opinion)
2. This list is completely right and all who question it are wrong
3. This list in order of personal favorites in descending order
4. There is an awards ceremony at the bottom
5. An average movie rating is 3/5 stars
6. This list was in no way affected by any outside sources; all ratings/reviews are completely me unless stated otherwise.

Well that about sums up all the previous knowledge needed in order to understand and fully enjoy this list. Hope you do:





Title: Ratatouille
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: The only reason that it's 4.5 and not 5 is because unlike every other Disney great, there was no memorable song. But this movie was FANtastic. It's funny, clean and well written. A must see for any Disney fan, the animated greats have returned!




Title: Le Scaphandre et le Papillon (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly)
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: One of the best foreign films of the year, I knew nothing of this movie going into it and I suggest you do the same. Some of the best cinematography I've ever seen in my entire life with a powerful, powerful story to back it up. This movie will make you appreciate life with its supremely skilled acting and story. No other movie approached an autobiography so vividly or appreciatively. I literally can't wait to suggest this movie.


Title: La Vie en Rose (La Mome)
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: While I was left speechless for a while after this movie that does not cover up the fact that there was a war going on inside of me the entire time. 
Throughout the entire film I was longing for more and more until I reached the final encore and realized that it was over and I was sitting in silence as the credits rolled. This was the shortest movie of my life and I loved every minute of it. The soundtrack was magnificent and Marion Cotillard did a wonderful job singing, acting and overall nailing Edith Piaf to the mark. The acting was wonderful and the story well scripted and ordered. The only flaw in this movie is of course a personal one. While the editing was superb and kept the viewers on their toes, it was, at times, hard to tell the age and chronology of the scene. While there were several year markers and key settings to show, it was inconsistent in only showing the year and location every once in a while. Regardless it hardly takes away from the film and is in no need of further criticism. This movie is majestic and triumphant and I can not wait to watch it again with someone who will appreciate it for what it is worth; highly recommended.


Title: Atonement
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: It is clearly obvious why this movie was nominated for "Best Picture." With a variety of complex and static characters and settings, this movie is definitely one of the best I've seen in a long time. This movie also has one of the best tracking shots I've ever seen in my life. Highly recommended to anyone looking
for a phenomenal movie or cinematic experience.




Title: Once
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: One of the best movies I've seen all year, this movie is wonderfully made with its AMAZING soundtrack and interesting cinematography. Probably the best musical I've ever seen, if not the most original.







Title: Swenney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: Burton and Depp deliver again in this bloody musical that accepts itself for what it is and overflows with imagination. Sure it's a little predictable but not in a bad way at all. A must see for any musical lover, this is what they should be.







Title: The Bourne Ultimatum
Rating: 4/5
Review: The best action trilogy of all time; this powerful conclusion left us all wanting more. One of the best movies of 2007 and I can't wait to watch it again and more.







Title: Eastern Promises
Rating: 4/5
Review: Great story, good dialouge, no cinematic elements to mention, the characters are developed well enough to get the story acr
oss powerfully. Highly recommended especially if you liked their previous work "A History Of Violence."





Title: There Will Be Blood
Rating: 4/5
Review: PTA delivers again with this truly magnificent film. This flick lived up to every bit of it's potential with the best acting all year. I'm still tormented by Daniel Day Lewis' stunning performance, Dillon Freasier's skills as the best child actor on the market and Paul Dano's breath taking attitude through out the entire film. Easily the most quotable film of 20
07 and a must see for any movie fan.




Title: Superbad
Rating: 4/5
Review: This hilariously true comedy is a must see for anyone of my generation and for any fan of comedy. This is probably the movie that I've laughed the most at after it was over too. Well worth seeing.








Title: Reign Over Me
Rating: 4/5
Review: Wonderful story with powerful acting and sub-plots. Also I thought that the kitchen was not only a nice aspect, yet a much deeper analogy accurately portrayed through loss of communication and constant change. This movie is great and one of my favorites.





Title: 28 Weeks Later
Rating: 4/5
Review: A wonderful sequel on par with the first. I like how you seem to follow an infected more-so than the civilians. The amazing cinematography and acting set this zombie thriller apart from the pack.







Title: Juno
Rating: 4/5
Review: This coming of age movie addresses the idea of accepting all walks of life in such a way allows you to connect on a more personal level than any other teen movie I've seen this year. It's quotable, clean, personal, funny, and romantic.






Title: Before The Devil Knows You're Dead
Rating: 4/5
Review: Wow! This movie starts out strong and is an emotional roller coaster throughout the whole ride. The story is awesome, the characterization is well done and the acting is wonderful. I absolutely love the transitions and aspect of time and would love to see another movie like this one. Highly recommended.





Title: American Gangster
Rating: 4/5
Review: Amazing lines, actors, and story. Really well done and worthy of admiration.









Title: The Darjeeling Limited
Rating: 4/5
Review: Definitely more dramatic than any of his other films, Anderson drops up into the lives of three characters well developed and easy to connect with. This movie is by far great with its wonderful directing, classic Anderson cinematography, amusing soundtrack, and magnificent cast and acting. For any fan of Anderson's this is a must see. For any fan of movies... well, we'll see.




Title: Hot Fuzz
Rating: 4/5
Review: HILARIOUS movie! This British comedy takes the cake man! I can't wait to watch this one again with someone else who will appreciate it for what this one is worth, a gold star.







Title: No Country For Old Men
Rating: 4/5
Review: This movie was sweet. It's months later and I'm still disturbed by the characters. It truly is one of the best films ever made and by far the Coens' best. The attribute that stuck out to me most was the fact that there isn't a soundtrack in the movie which is a testament to how powerful the dialogue and acting is. Overall a must see.





Title: Knocked Up
Rating: 4/5
Review: Funny and rich, this movie delivers humor on a level that any Apatow fan will love. I'd easily watch this one again and again to the point where I can act out the entire movie.... alone....







Title: Death At A Funeral
Rating: 4/5
Review: If you love nonstop British hilarity, then this is the perfect movie for you. This movie starts out strong and doesn't stop until the credits roll with creative mishaps and great comedic timing. British humor, English accents and British people, what more could you want in an all-star comedy? Nothing because this one takes the cake and then slaps you in the face with it... British style.




Title: Grindhouse Presents: Death Proof
Rating: 4/5
Review: **NOTE: This review is based on the unrated extended DVD version of the film.** I loved this spectacle of fun and furry. Wonderful character development, great story, well written plot and crazy Tarantino action sequences make this one a smash hit and a must see for any fan of his work.





Title: The Mist
Rating: 4/5
Review: The best shock horror movie of the year and a must see for any fan of the genre, this movie takes your heart and runs with your emotions. Granted the CGI isn't stunning but it isn't bad either, the acting is pretty good, the cinematography is interesting (in a good way) and the editing is great. A wonderful movie that should be viewed by anyone, regardless of whether or not you already know the ending. I must say, the ending is one of the best I've seen in a long time, but the acting in the final scene is a little cheesy so overall, it's a much better idea than scene. Regardless, it's great and the only reason it doesn't get a 4.5/5 is the replay value is very low so see it without distractions, ready to give it your full attention.



Title: Zodiac
Rating: 4/5
Review: Chilling and disturbing, this was one of my favorite movies of 2007. David Fincher did an amazing job directing this all-star cast into another masterpiece for his portfolio.







Title: Wristcutters: A Love Story
Rating: 4/5
Review: Even though I found the soundtrack distracting at times, it never actually took away from the movie. I was surprised by how much I liked this movie and actually wouldn't mind watching it again. I literally knew nothing of the movie (nothing besides the title and runtime) going into it and I encourage you to enter it the same way. The ending is great too.





Title: The King Of Kong: A Fistful Of Quarters
Rating: 4/5
Review: A great view of the struggle of one man's dream and the deception of another to keep his own. I must admit that I am partial to this movie because it dealt with video games; but from a cinematic stand point, it really is good.






Title: No Reservations
Rating: 4/5
Review: One of the most surprising films I saw all year, this romantic-comedy had me laughing and longing for a lover who can cook. Worth seeing for any fan of the genre.







Title: The Brave One
Rating: 4/5
Review: I must say that my rating is a little skewed by the fact that I'm a huge Jodie Foster fan but seriously, this movie is entertaining from start to finish and the acting is really great. If you love Foster then you can't miss this one.






Title: Paprika
Rating: 4/5
Review: This is one of the best anime movies I've ever seen and certainly one of the best movies of 2007. It's a great story with well portrayed characters who have plenty of time to fully develop into adaptations of every kind of person in our modern world. The animation in this is astounding; colorful, captivating and smooth. Personally, I would suggest this to anyone but since I know anime has a limited appeal, I strongly suggest it to any anime fan.




Title: The LIves Of Others (Das Leben der Anderen)
Rating: 4/5
Review: This simplicity of this movie does deter the viewer in the beginning, but watching it until the end, that same simplicty grasps you; emotionally connecting you with all the chatacters.






Title: Lars And The Real Girl
Rating: 4/5
Review: This film was great. It was sympathetic and enticing and invited all to embark on this original and captivating story. ALL the characters are lovable and the is audience captured just as easily as the doubters in the movie and I absolutely love that. I watched this with a split audience which is just a further testament that this movie raises debate and internal self-evaluating questions. This is by far the most original screenplay I've seen in a while and definitely of 2007. Highly recommended for all ages.



Title: The Simpsons Movie
Rating: 4/5
Review: I must say that as an avid fan of The Simpsons on TV, this movie does the characters, the town and the overall attitude of the show justice. A must see for any The Simpsons fan and isn't worth missing for any comedy fan.







Title: Talk To Me
Rating: 4/5
Review: Great film with applicable aspects to modern day life.








Title: Eagle Vs. Shark
Rating: 4/5
Review: I desired to see this movie because of my addiction to Flight Of The Conchords and without doubt, this movie continues the spontaneous lovability of those eccentric New Zealanders. The outfits and appearance of almost every character in the movie is worth seeing itself but if that isn't enough, never fear. With waggish dialogue and shocking characters, this movie is great. For anyone with a dry sense of humour, this movie is for you. **NOTE: This is one of those movies that while watching, isn't incredibly funny, however looking back, this movie is great.**



Title: Waitress
Rating: 4/5
Review: I love dark comedy and was pleasantly surprised by the fun filled acting from start to finish. Typical story line with remarkably enjoyable quirks.







Title: My Kid Could Paint That
Rating: 4/5
Review: This was a wonderful documentary that accurately portrayed the facts with sufficient research. A good story with a compelling kid that really makes you wonder about the conflict presented. Worth seeing, especially if you are a fan of Marla's work.






Title: Ocean's Thirteen
Rating: 4/5
Review: Good... not as good as the first but definately better than the second. There are some funny zingers but there are definate cinematic elements that are odd and need to be addressed.







Title: The Bucket List
Rating: 4/5
Review: Definitely one of the more surprising films I've seen all year, Rob Reiner has delivered another hit. Nicholson of course plays the same character in each film yet in this one it seemed as if he actually seemed to care. Freeman is of course awesome and if you are a fan of either, this one is great. Great story, solid acting, average cinematography yet it in no way takes away from the film. Worth watching and I would watch another one by these two.



Title: Into The Wild
Rating: 4/5
Review: With a wonderful story and powerful acting, this movie will be set aside as one of the best films of the year. While the cinematography and directing style was weak, the captivating editing keeps any viewer attached to the story. I strongly recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys a movie of characterization.





Title: The Number 23
Rating: 4/5
Review: I don't know why this movie got so much bad press. Sure the acting is left to be desired but the duel story lines are sweet and it's creepy, what more do you want out of your suspense films?







Title: Surf's Up
Rating: 4/5
Review: Surprisingly funny and warm hearted, this movie was truly great. I know that maybe this only deserves 3.5 but the beginning documentary part was just too darn funny.








Title: God Grew Tired Of Us: The Story Of The Lost Boys Of Sudan
Rating: 4/5
Review: A great documentary that was educational, heart wrenching and entertaining fully.







Title: 3:10 To Yuma
Rating: 4/5
Review: It could have been a higher rating but the kid who played William was SUCH A LOSER! But besides that, it was a really good movie and the best Western since Tombstone.







Title: Freedom Writers
Rating: 4/5
Review: One of the first movies I saw of the year, this one was overlooked for no apparent reason. The story is good, the acting is good and the ending is good. I'd encourage all of you to see this feel-goody.







Title: Rendition
Rating: 4/5
Review: With an initial reaction of surprise to the ending, looking back on the movie makes me wonder about the film itself and the questions which arise from it. Even with an average cast and somewhat choppy editing, this movie is great. One aspect that particularly kept my interest was the tortures scenes and how it is portrayed in other countries. Obviously Streep was awesome and Gyllenhaal delivers a very convincing role. I would easily suggest this to anyone of age.



Title: Becoming Jane
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: Great story with a superb cast that delivers their characters powerfully and above par. A great love story about a funny family that I wouldn't mind seeing again. One of the better romances of the year.







Title: Dan In Real Life
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: This movie is incredibly enjoyable, funny, and heartwarming. Highly recommended for this well deserved laugh.










Title: Mr. Brooks
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: This was one of the creepiest films all year and a must see for any thriller fan.







Title: Fido
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: I love me some zombies and I love the 1950's so I was really looking forward to this flick. It's funny, very original and has some good acting from the surprising cast (Carrie-Anne Moss, Bill Connolly, and Tim Blake Nelson). If you like zomidies then you can't miss this one.






Title: Tekon Kinkurîto (Tekkonkinkreet)
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: This movie is as visually stimulating as it is entertaining and has a surprisingly captivating plot. The only reason it doesn't receive a 4 star rating is because of the weird "other world" scene with Black, but that's just a personal preference.






Title: Michael Clayton
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: The foreshadowing in this film is pretty cool I guess but I don't understand why it was up for "Best Picture." Sure the cast is amazing and the acting is phenomenal, but the story is marginal and portrayed in a marginal fashion. Yes it's worth seeing, no i wasn't mind blowing.





Title: Enchanted
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: As I watched the beginning animated sequence, Disney succeeded in throwing me back to the classics I love so much. With the initial installment of literal glee, I was ready for more yet as I watched the hype wore off a little as I was only captivated a few times more. Granted the original songs are great and there where several funny and memorable scenes which I loved and am still laughing about so overall it was a good ride. I also like the fact that Disney made several classic jokes on themselves yet not in a parody sort of way. Overall, great for kids and adults and, really and truly, great.


Title: Music Within
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: A really heartwarming tale that makes oneself exam their own personal character and what they would do in the situation. I really connected with the characters and was laughing the whole time, keeping me interested until the sentimental ending. I would easily recommend this movie.





Title: In The Land Of Women
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: While my peers disregarded this movie as slow and boring, I personally enjoyed Adam Brody in another role besides the uncomfortable "teenager" as seen in The O.C. A great story with potential "coming of age" ideologies.






Title: This Is England
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: Definitly a wonderful work of art and probably the best movie to come out of Britian in 2007. I love how I felt emotionally connected to each character at least once in the mvoe, allowing me to fully grasp the skinhead struggle and coming of age pressure. This was a great movie and would not mind seeing it again.




Title: Futurama: Bender's Big Score
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: Granted I'm a pretty big Futurama fan but even still, any fan of animated comedy is going to like this one. Whether it be for the multiple pop culture references, Al Gore's cameo during which he bashes his delivery methods or the fact that time traveling is made possible because of a tattoo on Fry's butt, any comedy fan is going to like this one. I'd watch it again anyways.




Title: Confessions Of A Superhero
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: I was really taken with the idea of this documentary and was glad to see it meet my expectations. It's funny, heart warming, and a little confusing sometimes but it's all in order to deliver the inspiring story of these ex-mafia, divorced and engaged, dropouts complain and rejoice about the very same job. I wouldn't watching this one again or see more of Joe McQueen's work.






Title: The Italian
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: A great story with a wonderful kid actor, this is a movie that is sure to be loved by mothers everywhere.






Title: Grindhouse
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: This experience as a whole (The trailers, the movies, and the fake trailers) in one sitting should be celebrated and experience more. I can't wait to see another double feature especially if it was as much fun as this one was.






Title: Elizabeth: The Golden Age
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: I must start this review by stating that Cate Blanchett did an absolutely stunning job in this film. Overall, this historical drama is accurate and pleasant to watch as long as you can follow it. My only complaint is that there were several scenes in which I felt left out or as if I'd missed something but thankfully I watched this movie with a history lover who filled me in on facts I needed to know. Another problem was how quickly it went from being a story about the Queen to being a story about this abrupt war, that was only previously mentioned once, in the last 15 minutes. Overall a good film and well worth the time if you love Queen Elizabeth.


Title: The Kingdom
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: I like how action was not the main focus in this movie and that the characters were mostly developed by the time of their plan initiation.








Title: In The Valley Of Elah
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: The positive of this movie is that if you didn't before, you can now officially respect Tommy Lee Jones as an actor. I really liked this story and the acting is pretty good too yet the scene transitions needed major reworking to allow for a smoother flow. It's a lot of information for 1 hour and 50 minutes and I think that combining dialogue from other scenes into one could have allowed for a more fluid flow of this movie. Overall good and pertinate to modern society.



Title: The Nanny Diaries
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: A interesting and cute narrative of social standings.









Title: Disturbia
Rating: 3/5
Review: This movie expected too much of itself. I'm usually a fan of remakes but this one is just a little too unbelievable. There are several holes in this story and the acting isn't very good either.







Title: Charlie Wilson's War
Rating: 3/5
Review: Eh... this movie was less than I expected. Don't get me wrong, Tom Hanks is awesome in this flick, in fact the whole cast is; with such a killer story I expected it to be much more intriguing. With basic cinematography and average directing, there is nothing more to this movie than a good story. Granted it did have that going for it but even the best of stories and be marred. Worth seeing if you're interested in the Cold War or just love Tom Hanks, otherwise, it's okay to miss this one.



Title: Charlie Wilson's War
Rating: 3/5
Review: Definitely the best one yet still nothing setting it apart. Craziest one so far and for sure the bloodiest, there weren't any dull moments in this one. Sweet cinematography and curious beginning/ending. If you are losing faith in the series (as I am sure anyone who saw Saw II or Saw III is), push through them to get to this one; it's well worth it.





Title: Gone Baby Gone
Rating: 3/5
Review: I must begin with this: I think this movie was overrated. Sure the acting, cast and story are sweet but it's nothing that we haven't seen before. Yet overall, this is the best attempt at the plot and is worth seeing; then again you aren't missing much either.






Title: The Host (Gwoemul)
Rating: 3/5
Review: Great CGI and cinematography but the hype that preceeded this movie was ill-advised. While it is a good story I don't think it is "On par with 'Jaws'."







Title: Bridge To Terabithia
Rating: 3/5
Review: Cute story with a powerful ending but nothing else. The child actors did do a surprising job however; for children at least.








Title: Live Free Or Die Hard
Rating: 3/5
Review: Entertaining but overrated. Action movies just aren't that good man and this one is no exception. Another movie for the masses.









Title: The Invasion
Rating: 3/5
Review: The idea is really cool and months later I am still thinking about some of the scenes but as a movie, the editing is just too poor. The acting is good and the story is awesome but the editing was just bad






Title: Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix
Rating: 3/5
Review: I'm a fan of the Harry Potter movies even though they aren't anything superb or mind blowing. This installment however flowed the worst of any of the others to date. There were scenes that were long that could have been shorter and there were scenes that were short that needed to be longer to make sense. There are multiple accounts of dialogue in which I felt lost having only been referenced once before in the movie in passing conversation. Inconsistent and inconclusive are the only negative things about this movie though due to the stimulating final battles, even if they don't flow, appear suddenly and end abruptly. Worth seeing if you like the series but if you haven't started, don't start here.



Title: Music And Lyrics
Rating: 3/5
Review: The catchy song makes up for some minor flaws but overall it is still just your average romantic-comedy.








Title: I Am Legend
Rating: 3/5
Review: It was well paced and captivating until towarrds the end when he meets the girl. Up until then it was 4 stars, then it just went downhill.








Title: I'm Not There
Rating: 3/5
Review: Well done and often funny if you know about Bob Dylan. If you aren't a huge fan then you won't like this film due to the several historical references and multiple personas that while each is based on historical-fiction events, a background knowledge is needed beforehand to experience this movie fully. Every actor/actress does a wonderful job of portraying their role and am surprised not one of them one anything. If you love him, you will love it.



Title: King Of California
Rating: 3/5
Review: I actually enjoyed the first 45 - 60 minutes of this movie, waiting for a resolving ending to bring the somewhat-of-a-plot to an end only to be let down by an non-clincher below average ending. It wasn't even that the ending itself was bad, just poorly portrayed. Overall, worth seeing but don't expect anything great.





Title: The Savages
Rating: 3/5
Review: I liked how the viewers fill disconnected with the father just as the children did with him, but overall, I've seen better. Even though Hoffman was great for his role.







Title: Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World's End
Rating: 3/5
Review: Embarrassing compared to the first one. If you haven't seen this one, don't worry about it. Just watch "The Curse Of The Black Pearl" and be content; it's not worth sitting through two marginal movies with inconclusive endings.






Title: Rescue Dawn
Rating: 3/5
Review: The more I thought about this movie, the less I liked it. It's cool watching the same ideas for 30 minutes...








Title: Stardust
Rating: 3/5
Review: It wasn't so much that it was a good movie, I was just a fan. It's a fun ride, nothing more.








Title: Amazing Grace
Rating: 3/5
Review: A really good story that will make anyone feel good inside.










Title: Blades Of Glory
Rating: 3/5
Review: Less than I expected from Will Ferrell but at least Jon Heder was... good???








Title: Transformers
Rating: 3/5
Review: One of the most over hyped films of the year, this film lost all it's potential. The CGI in this film was great and I'm sure the final action sequence was cool too if the camera had just shown it for more than 25 seconds. Overrated and not worth seeing unless you just love Transformers, Shia LeBouf or kiddy-action movies.





Title: El Orfanato (The Orphanage)
Rating: 3/5
Review: Sure the scary parts really make you jump but the plot isn't very believable and the father character just comes and goes from the movie whenever which had me thinking, "Why is he letting his wife do this?" instead of being engrossed in the movie. If you love spanish horror movies, I suppose this one is great but overall there isn't anything special here, especially with the super predictable ending that wasn't portrayed well. I will say that this straight-horror was better than any American cookie cutter attempt I've seen in over a year.


Title: The Devil Came On Horseback
Rating: 3/5
Review: If you didn't care before you certainly will now. Of course I like the idea and motif behind this documentary but it's just a bunch of information thrown at you with emotionally stunning pictures. Yes it is informative and yes it does arouse emotions but as a documentary it's nothing special despite the fact that the subject matter is. I could easily have seen this on National Geographic but that by no means means that you shouldn't see this documentary.




Title: Grindhouse Presents: Planet Terror
Rating: 2.5/5
Review:**NOTE: This review is based on the unrated extended DVD version of the film.** So much worse than it's counterpart, Planet Terror drops you into a world of an unprecedented story and an unbelievable world. Sure there are some funny parts and tons of gore but that in no way makes up for the marginal acting, the unbelievable characters or the overall sub-parness of this movie. Worth seeing if you like Rodriguez but for that reason only.



Title: Evan Almighty
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: I expected more from this sequel but was surprisingly let down; Steve Carrell is funny though.








Title: 30 Days Of Nigt
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: Sure, blood thirsty super vampires are always sweet but that doesn't make this a good movie. The editing is bad because supposedly they all went 7 days without food in an attic, then lived 11 more in a food store then 9 more in a police station, all the while staying alive and not once attracting the vampires despite there keen sense of hearing that is shown later in the movie. Yet despite several technical flaws, this movie's action sequences are bloody and cool (even if the movie doesn't explain how they got there) so that aspect I liked; hence where the extra half star came from. I did also like the Lugosi and Romero references too. Overall, if you like gory horror movies and don't care about plot or consistency, this one's for you.



Title: I Now Pronounce You Chuck And Larry
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: I am a little ashamed that I even saw this movie and even more so that I am admitting that the funniest part was done by Rob Schneider. It really isn't worth seeing unless you love stupid comedies in which you take nothing away from.





Title: Hitman
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: Marginal and easily skippable.











Title: Year Of The Dog
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: If you like dark comedy then this movie is for you but if you don't I wouldn't suggest it.







Title: Margot At The Wedding
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: Now don't get me wrong, the acting in the movie is great. With the positive said: This dark drama connects the viewer with the characters but not in a way that you want to be. Overall it only partially holds interest and tends to stray from the somewhat of a plot regularly. Overall, it's just okay... too dark to be anything great. The ending is real and nice though.





Title: The Great Debaters
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: I thought this movie poorly edited and lacked the inspiration it was trying to feed me. You aren't missing anything here.








Title: Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: The extra half star comes from the fact the the Silver Surfer is finally in a movie. This one is a disgrace to the legend that is The Fantastic Four. Dumb lines, average acting and an extremely predictable final battle.







Title: The Last Mimzy
Rating: 2.5/5
Review: A subpar family film that I don't want to see it again.









Title: Spider-Man 3
Rating: 2/5
Review: Don't even get me started on how much of a let down this conclusion was. I don't mind if I never see this movie again.








Title: 300
Rating: 2/5
Review: Sure the CGI is awesome and the villains are scary but come on people. This movie was WAY overrated making this a movie for the masses.








Title: Across The Universe
Rating: 2/5
Review: If you are an mega-fan of both The Beatles and musicals then yes, see this movie, but if you are just a fan of musicals, this movie leaves much to be desired. A lacking plot makes this feel like a 2 hour long Romanek musik video (no plot or meaning behind the setting during the songs). Even still, the covers don't set the movie or the songs apart because they're just like if someone else sang the exact song (same tempo and effects), leaving the soundtrack lacking greatly.



Title: Black Snake Moan
Rating: 2/5
Review: I do like the idea of a solid message behind skewed portrayl... but how many stars can I give something with Justin Timberlake in it.... I mean really? He was the best choice for that role>







Title: Because I Said So
Rating: 2/5
Review: Overall, not really worth it.










Title: Perfect Stranger
Rating: 2/5
Review: Don't watch this movie, it's just alright but it's not worth watching. The twist isn't surprising but the bad cinematography is. Sure Willis does an alright job acting but this movie seriously shouldn't have been made.






Title: August Rush
Rating: 2/5
Review: A feel good movie that is in no way on any level with any of the other musicals this year but for anyone looking for a marginal feel goody, this one is for you.







Title: Stomp The Yard
Rating: 1.5/5
Review: There is no doubt that the dancing was incredible, but I'm rating the movie here. This is your typical dancing movie: bad acting, lame plot and average directing. Unless you just loved any of the others, this movie is okay to miss.






Title: Nancy Drew
Rating: 1.5/5
Review: Even if you're a fan of the series, you can easily miss this one. It really isn't very good at all.








Title: Shrek The Third
Rating: 1.5/5
Review: I don't even know why I watched this movie. It's not funny but neither are the other two. I don't even feel like writing about how much I don't like this movie.







Title: The Ultimate Gift
Rating: 1.5/5
Review: Average acting with a lame, choppy and poorly edited story.









Title: 2 Days in Paris (Deux jours à Paris)
Rating: 1.5/5
Review: So I'm the type of person that likes to review movies right after I see them. I saw this a couple of days ago and completely forgot all about it until I was looking at my "Recently Watched" on Netflix. Needless to say, this movie is easily forgettable and you aren't missing the slightest thing by missing out on this one. I actually don't ever want to see it again. Granted there are some pretty cool cinematic shots but there only a few memorable ones. There is some character development but overall, the story is average, the plot is average, the characters are average and to tell you the truth, I couldn't wait for this one to be over.


Title: Balls Of Fury
Rating: 1.5/5
Review: It was one of those movies that all the funny stuff was in the previews... but I don't really remember laughing during the previews. Original that is for sure though. **NOTE** The extra half star comes from Christopher Walken being ridiculous and him not knowing what he is saying.





Title: Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story
Rating: 1.5/5
Review:As much as I wanted to like this movie and even upon watching I knew when I was supposed to be laughing, it was really just terrible. Of course of the few (less than half a dozen times) times I did laugh it was from Jenna FIscher and Jason Schwartzman so at least they were well earned. Overall, John C. Riely disgraces himself with weak humor and poor acting. I don't suggest it at all.




Title: Premontition
Rating: 1/5
Review: One of the worst movies I've ever seen, this movie is incoherent with terrible acting and literally mocks the audience. Do not see this movie... ever.







Title: Dragon Wars (D-Wars)
Rating: 0.5/5
Review: One of the worst movies I've ever seen I believe that it made me a little dumber. The acting is terrible, the story unbelievable and exaggerated and the CGI worthy of mockery. Do NOT see this movie, this coming from a fan of dragons too.






Title: I Know Who Killed Me
Rating: 0.5/5
Review: By far one of the worst movie I've ever seen, the Razzies were right. This movie is dull from beginning to end and I'm afraid to say that the director knows it other wise he wouldn't have included the two, three minute strip scenes or the overdramatic sex scenes. The acting is atrocious, the cinematography terrible, the editing ridiculous and the overall movie worthless. The scary parts aren't, the funny parts aren't and the ending could not have come sooner. Only see this movie.... no... no don't. There is literally no reason why anyone on Earth should ever have to see this movie. Shame Silvertson, you have forever ruined your reputation with this film. Do I hear an Alan Smithee coming along?





Awards Ceremony



Award: Most Original Screenplay
Winner: Lars And The Real Girl
Honorable Mentions: Wristcutters: A Love Story, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street, Paprika, Fido



Award: Best Action/Adventure
Winner: The Bourne Ultimatum
Honorable Mentions: Ocean's Thirteen, 3:10 To Yuma, The Kingdom, Live Free Or Die Hard





Award: Best Drama
Winner: Atonement
Honorable Mentions: Reign Over Me, Before The Devil Knows You're Dead, Talk To Me, The Darjeeling Limited, American Gangster







Award: Best Horror/Thiller
Winner: 28 Weeks Later
Honorable Mentions: Zodiac, The Mist, 30 Days Of Night, Mr Brooks




Award: Best Animated Movie
Winner: Ratatouille
Honorable Mentions: The Simpson’s Movie, Tekkonkinkreet, Paprika, Surf’s Up




Award: Best Independent Film
Winner: Once
Honorable Mentions: Eagle Vs Shark, Into The Wild, The Savages, Wristcutters: A Love Story



Award: Best Family/Children’s Film
Winner: Enchanted
Honorable Mentions: Ratatioulle, Bridge To Terabithia, Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix, Evan Almighty



Award: Best Documentary
Winner: The King Of Kong: A Fistful Of Quarters
Honorable Mentions: The Devil Came On Horseback, My Kid Could Paint That, God Grew Tired Of Us: The Story Of The Lost Boys Of Sudan



Award: Best Foreign Movie
Winner: The Diving Bell And The Butterfly
Honorable Mentions: La Vie En Rose, Once, The Lives Of Others, Death At A Funeral, The Italian





Award: Best American Movie
Winner: Atonement
Honorable Mentions: Juno, Superbad, There Will Be Blood, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street, Eastern Promises






Award: Best Comedy
Winner: Superbad
Honorable Mentions: Juno, Hot Fuzz, Dan In Real Life, Knocked Up







Award: Most Overrated
Winner: I Am Legend
Honorable Mentions: 300, Across The Universe, Michael Clayton, Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World’s End, Transformers




Award: Most Underrated
Winner: Reign Over Me
Honorable Mentions: No Reservations, Talk To Me, Waitress, Wristcutters: A Love Story, Lars And The Real Girl



Award: Best Performence In A Major Motion Picture
Winner: Javier Bardem (No Country For Old Men),
Honorable Mentions: Viggo Mortensen (Eastern Promises), Cate Blanchett (Elizabeth: The Golden Age), Tommy Lee Jones (In The Valley Of Elah), Daniel Day Lewis (There Will Be Blood), Marion Cotillard (La Vie En Rose)





Award: Worst Movie Of The Year
Winner: I Know Who Killed Me
Honorable Mentions: Dragon Wars, Premonition, Walk Hard





Award: The Best Movie Overall
Winner: Ratatouille
Honorable Mentions: Atonement, The Diving Bell And The Butterfly, La Vie En Rose, Once, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street









Thank you all for attending the ceremony. Please drive home carefully and feel free to comment on how you think I was wrong. We'll see you all next year!

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5 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

me no see how There Will Be Blood no get 4.5 star

July 1, 2008 at 2:01 AM  
Blogger Will Crosswell said...

I gotta tell you Josh... this is an awesome post. All the movies I missed and want to watch from this year (or don't care to see due to your review), I now have a better idea going into them. I know its a ways away, but I'm already stoked to read "The Movies of 2008." Awesome dude.

July 1, 2008 at 10:03 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

wow, just... just wow. don't know how i'm going to top this. kudos to you, good sir.

July 1, 2008 at 10:31 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

i had a feeling Costner would make some kind of a comeback; plus it's interesting how Dane Cook went from stand up comedian to starring in a ton of major movies

July 8, 2008 at 1:32 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

That is a serious list of movies. XD While I adored Paprika, however, I wouldn't recommend it to just anyone. There is very surreal/somewhat disturbing aspect that I know wouldn't sit well with lots of people, especially not people who aren't used to anime. A phenomenal work of Satoshi Kon's, though, and definitely one of the best anime movies ever made.

July 20, 2008 at 11:00 PM  

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