I, Robot (2004)

Much better than I anticipated - but the leads are a problem. Will Smith, rather than growing as an actor, seems to be going backward into Martin Lawrence territory. He's not quite bad yet, but he's a bit too old to swagger around like the playa he ain't. Bridget Moynahan is overly stiff (yes, I know she's a scientist, but are scientists remote AND bad actresses?).

Anyway - much more satisfying story than the trailers suggested. I got more than I hoped for.

B-

The Marriage of Maria Braun (1979)

Interesting story…but it was a bit too cool for me and the ending nearly ruined the whole she-bang (hoo-hoo! Pun! I kill me!). I admired Maria and the fact that the goal was the thing; but the fact that she grew ever less feeling -- almost less human -- made my interest in what the outcome of her life was going to be wane.

B-

Starting Over (1979)

What an annoying movie. What on earth Clayburgh sees in Reynolds is invisible to my eye. He's kind of a jerk…and they're both intensely boring. It's labeled as a comedy, but I the only time I smiled during the entire thing was very near the end when Bergen starts writing a lyric in her head.

D-

Batman Begins (2005)

Pretty decent for a comic book movie, but it felt more like an introduction to a franchise than a rich story of its own. Caine and Bale are perfect in their roles, though Holmes lacks the steeliness I think her character should have -- her most defining quality seems to be that of adorability.

B

The Body Snatcher (1945)

Does nothing with its great premise: short on "specimens," a doctor and his young protégé must accept the shady offerings (and kinda creepy company) of a grave robber. There's a backstory that isn't given the time nor explanation it deserves, but oh well. Feels like it treads water after the first 40 minutes or so.

C+

The Brother From Another Planet (1984)

Rambling story about a mute alien who flees his home planet and is being chased by bounty hunters through Harlem. Sounds a lot more exciting than it is…the alien spends most of his time fixing stuff with a glowing touch and looking about beatifically. Too long and, really, kind of stupid.

D+

Sid and Nancy (1986)

Disjointed and loud mess of a movie. Made me ask,"if this is true, why was he famous…?" and "If this isn't true, who would make up such a boring story about self-centered losers?"

The end scene was confusing as hell for me as I knew nothing about these two before watching the film. I thought - OK....that's why he's not in prison for murder or assault...she survived and explained that she asked him to kill her. Gotcha. But NO. I read up on it after seeing the film and she died alright. Did the filmmakers assume that anyone who would watch this would know the story inside and out and recognize the end scene as fantasy?? Made me mad.

D

Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)

It's got good-looking animation (though it's inconsistent in regard to some characters' bodies). Short and interesting -- nice that it explores some of the backstory of Batman. Fine way to pass an hour…but not strong or beautiful enough to watch repeatedly.

C

Identity (2003)

Seemed pretty run-of-the mill for the first two-thirds, then suddenly the rug gets pulled out from under you. Works extremely well. The acting is first-rate and it's simply a fun ride.

B

Alligator (1980)

Forster & Riker are good. Either no one else was trying or they spent all the money on the gator and had nothing left over to pay other actors.

C

Be Cool (2005)

Horrible, unfunny mess. All of the actors involved here should be embarrassed…the screenwriter should never get another job again…and the "dead Russian" needed acting lessons to play a freakin' DEAD GUY.

What a horrible, laugh-free two hours. The only passable bits were The Rock's -- and, though he was charming, the schtick got old quick.

F

Scaramouche (1923)

I hate that I'm so shallow as to have an extremely difficult time enjoying most silent films -- but I can't hide from the truth forever. This one's not bad, but I just couldn't really get into it.

C

Imaginary Heroes (2004)

I'm kind of torn about this movie. I love the feel of it -- but it seems as though there's just too much going on and that almost ruins the narrative. Do we need the sister? Does Mrs. Travis need to get sick? Does Vern need to "small world" show up in three separate family members' lives? Too much weirdness for such a "real" feeling film. Regardless, I liked it much and know I'll think about it for a long time.

Even if I'd hated the movie, though, I'd have to reserve affection for the fact that it introduced me to Kiki. The song during the Christmas party affected me in a way that a performance hasn't for several months. Rarely do you see someone throw themselves into lyrics the way she does...it was mesmerizing. I watched that scene more than 10 times and plan to buy all their albums & see them live as soon as I can.

B

Beau Geste (1939)

I can't believe this didn't get more nominations! It had the bad fortune to be released the same year as Gone with the Wind so it wouldn't have won any of them anyway…but not to even be one of the TEN nominees for best picture is downright crazy!

This one's flat-out terrific. Wonderful story of courage and loyalty with a lot of fun thrown in, too.

A-

After Life (1999)

I waited for years to see this…and it's pretty good, but certainly not worth pining over the way I did. In this metaphysical way-station before eternity, I'd think the technology would be a bit more magical…something better than props and sound stages! A great concept beautifully acted -- but I really wanted more.

B-

Anna and the King of Siam (1946)

I don't understand the casting of Rex Harrison, who doesn't bother to conceal his very obvious Englishness, but this movie is strong despite that weirdness. A little overlong, but interesting throughout.

B+

Cinderella Man (2005)

Yeah, it's about as square as it gets -- but what a story. Feel-good movie that *just* dodges sappiness. There are a few unfortunate camera angles and tricks (working at the docks the first time comes to mind), but that's certainly forgivable. Oscar noms all around -- you just watch.

A-

Zelig (1983)

Really not that clever an idea…and it just goes on and on. It might have been fun if this was the story of a con man rather than mental illness. Pretty boring.

D