The Dilemma

• Release Date: Jan 14, 2011
• Rated: Mature thematic elements including sexual content
• Runtime: 1 hr. 58 min.
• Genres: Comedy
• Director:Ron Howard
• Cast:Vince Vaughn, Kevin James, Jennifer Connelly, Winona Ryder, Channing Tatum.

Her:  Ron Howard is a brilliant director who has made movies like Cinderella Man so I expected so much more from this film than I got.  Boring bickering for far too long to an unsatisfactory ending.  Howard knows better than to abandon his duties as an editor.  Why, I ask, why a 2 hour movie about nothing. As an old person, I have little time to waste on junk like this.  0 points 

Country Strong

• Release Date: Dec 22, 2010
• Rated: Thematic elements involving alcohol abuse and some sexual content
• Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min.
• Genres: Drama, Romance
• Director:Shana Feste
• Cast:Gwyneth Paltrow, Tim McGraw, Garrett Hedlund, Leighton Meester, Marshall Chapman

Her:  Burned our country star in rehab collects a shinny new guy who sings, is taken out of rehab too early by her controlling manager/husband.  Paltrow cries and cries and cries some more...boo hoo.  By the time she kills herself you feel betrayed.  That's not how I like to spend my time. Tim McGraw, who I was anxious to see, good actor, was the villain.  Leighton Meester and Garrett Hedlund are beautiful. 1 Point for musical performances.

Blue Valentine

• Release Date: Dec 29, 2010
• Rated: Strong graphic sexual content, language and a beating
• Runtime: 1 hr. 54 min.
• Genres: Drama, Romance
• Director:Derek Cianfrance
• Cast:Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams, John Doman, Mike Vogel, Maryann Plunkett

Her:  Young people embrace this film, hanging on every word. This old people thinks this slice of life is (sing it) boring.  When all you can think about is, "Why doesn't she comb her hair", it's not  good thing.  A young messy couple meet and fall in together after a different guy rapes her from behind.  Why do I say fall in together?  Gosling is convenient when she finds out she is pregnant.  Unfortunately, Gosling marries her.  The foundation of their marriage is non-existent.  Why do young people love this...it is all but a porn film.  Skip it.  0 Points

The King's Speech

• Release Date: Nov 26, 2010
• Rated: Language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 51 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Tom Hooper
• Cast:Colin Firth Geoffrey Rush Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce, Timothy Spall

Her:  When you don't want a picture to end you can bet it is a good film,  And I didn't want it to end.  Colin Firth takes us on a journey, a true story about a reluctant king and his family.  His stammer, makes a fool of him each time he speaks in public.  Once he is to become king he is expected to speak in public.  Terrified, his wife finds Geoffrey Rush an Australian speech therapist who helps him be a better king.  By the way, King George is the father of the current Queen Elizabeth.  I loved this film.  3 huge points. 

HIS: I was beginning to think this December was not going to give us one Oscar performance---But, at last, there was Colin Firth. The est stories are true stories.  The best acting does not seem like acting.Firth was the king.  The best movies have characters that really click.  Firth & Rush nail their parts and the relationship is believable. If they are not in the Oscar finals, I will be very,very unhappy.  3points

True Grit

• Release Date: Dec 22, 2010
• Rated: Some intense sequences of western violence including disturbing images
• Runtime: 2 hr. 8 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
• Cast:Jeff Bridges, Josh Brolin, Matt Damon,  Barry Pepper, Daki Matthews.

Her:  Talk, talk, talk.  And you can't understand half of it.  I am not familiar with the original movie so I have nothing to compare it to.  Good performances, nothing special.  A 14 year old girl hires Rooster to take in the varment that killed her father.  She is a negotiate that follows the 2 marshals, Matt Damon is the second, a good character but not outstanding.  I had to go to the bathroom, the words were battering my ears.  2 points.

HIS: Disclaimer--I am  a John Wayne,True Grit, lover. I saw the original in the theater.  Second truth, Matt Damon is a much better Texas Ranger than Glen Campbell ever dreamed of being. Enough praise!
The Omens went back to the original book, so they replaced the "Dime Novel, bigger than life, Rooster with a darker & more "realistic" Rooster, following the trends set in the late 70's and early 80's.  This was the time the western hero moved from the white hat hero to the flawed do good doer living in a grey world.
While I like Jeff Bridges, I don't see much change from his broken down country singer role..  This does not mean that it is not a good movie, but remember not all movie need be remade, nor is everything the Coen Brother great. 2 points

Gulliver's Travels

• Release Date: Dec 25, 2010
• Rated: Brief rude humor, mild language and action
• Runtime: 1 hr. 25 min.
• Genres: Comedy
• Director:Rob Letterman
• Cast:Jack Black, Jason Segel, Emily Blunt, Amanda Peet, Billy Connolly.

Her:  Fun little movie about little people acting like big deal people and big people acting like little people.  A charming tale about a guy that felt unworthy of someone with a bigger job love.  A good fun date movie.  Some laughs and some touching moments.  Jack Black is sweet in this film.  2 points

HIS: A good Jack Black film.  Enought said.  2points

Black Swan

• Release Date: Dec 03, 2010
• Rated: Strong sexual content, disturbing violent images, language and some drug use
• Runtime: 1 hr. 43 min.
• Genres: Suspense/Thriller
• Director:Darren Aronofsky
• Cast:Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel, Barbara Hershey, Winona Ryder.

Her:  If sighs and a furled brow get you an Oscar these days this is a winner.  Put a nail in your head instead of sitting through this train wreck.  Barbara Hershey is a scarey character, as well as, who is the dentist that gave her those BIG teeth?  Ugh.  The pathetic, controlled, watched over, pushed compulsive girl, without a life is talented enough to get the Swan part.  Such a perfectionist is she that she becomes the swan in her final performance.  1 Point

HIS: The dancing scenes are excellent.  The intensively of striving for excellence bonds with the obsession for perfection and the darkness of ambition to create a movie of damaged people who create their own tragic ends.A geat Holiday film.  2 point

The Fighter

• Release Date: Dec 17, 2010
• Rated: some violence, sexuality, language throughout and drug content
• Runtime: 1 hr. 54 min.
• Genres: Documentary, Drama
• Director:David O. Russell
• Cast:Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Melissa Leo, Jack McGee

Her:  I don't like Christian Bale, he was incredible but I care even less since his trouble on the set last year.  However, he was amazing as the ex-fighter junkie who, with his mother is managing and training his brother who never quite makes it until Amy Adams steps in and gives him the incentive to get a proper trainer.  All the performances were exceptional. 2 point

HIS: Bale & Wahlberg share the limelight in this film, but it is the performance of Christian Bale that takes the spotlight.  Oscar can not be far away. A good fight film and family drama. Again, true life makes the best story. 2 point

The Tourist Review

• Release Date: Dec 10, 2010
• Rated: Violence and brief strong language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 43 min.
• Genres: Drama, Suspense/Thriller
• Director:Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck
• Cast:Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie, Paul Bettany, Timothy Dalton, Steven Berkoff

 Her:  This is the first time I have seen Johnny Depp in civilian clothes in years and he is looking GOOD!  Angelina has never been more beautiful.  She poses, which is what irritates me the most about her.  The movie is beautiful and very cleaver with a back-drop of Venice, I reeeealy enjoyed this film.  A cast of thousands.  A beautiful woman involves Depp in a run for your life who done it, a case of mistaken identity..  The bad guys are in pursuit of her lover, a thief the man who stole billions.  There are twists and turns and bad guys, Oh My! Loved it.   3 Points

HIS: This is a pretty film.  Jolie, Venice, John Depp with a tux and good teeth, but something is missing.  I'm not sure what, but my mind started wandering after they met on the train and didn't tune in again till the last 15 minutes. This triller was not exciting.  Even the deadly pursuit across the roof tops was dull. I was not on the edge of my seat like when I watched "Taken".  In an attempt to be sophisticated, they became uninteresting.  I'll give credits for the unique ending but that's all.  1 point.

How Do You Know

• Release Date: Dec 17, 2010
• Rated:
• Genres: Ensemble Film, Comedy
• Director:James L. Brooks
• Cast:Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, Owen Wilson, Jack Nicholson, Kathryn Hahn

Her:  The worst love story I ever saw.  When you are looking at your watch, it is not a good sign.  Sold as a comedy with a strong woman and a guy going through problems.  Nope, both of these people are basket cases.  No background music and she actually never speaks.  He is lame.  No chemistry.  0 points

Burlesque

• Release Date: Nov 24, 2010
• Rated: Sexual content including several suggestive dance routines, partial nudity, language and some thematic material
• Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Cast:Cher, Christina Aguilera , Eric Dane, Julianne Hough, Alan Cumming

Her:  Brilliant.  As good as Chicago and Dreamgirls.  Fabulous production numbers and an equally good story about a very talented young gal from a small town who gets out but not without a song.  Top that with a number from Cher is a great start.  From there it gets better and finally great.  Where does the girl go, Hollywood of course.  She sees the club and knows just what she wants.  Cher on the other hand has her dream, the club, and is in jeopardy of loosing it.  The rest is exciting.  3 Points

HIS: This film can stand with Chicago & Dreamgirls.  The energy of this film keeps your heart beating the whole time.The story is old,the tunes from a different age, but that forever Cher voice coupled with the strength of Christina's voice proves Hollywood can still make a great musical. 2+ points

Tangled

• Release Date: Nov 24, 2010
• Rated: Brief mild violence
• Runtime: 1 hr. 32 min.
• Genres: Action/Adventure, Animated, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
• Director:Byron Howard, Nathan Greno
• Cast:Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Donna Murphy, Ron Perlman, Jeffrey Tambor.

Her:  This is the kind of fairytale I like to see.  The bad guy isn't so frightening. There is a great looking, fun guy perusing a beautiful girl who has been locked up in a tower her whole life.  She wants to see the luminaries that are released on her birthday every year but her mother won't let her go.  When she realizes that she is a prisoner she wants to know why and the guy helps her.  Good story.  2 points 

HIS: I seem to hold Disney to a higher standard, which is why I love the animation but thought it lack a "great song".  I believe they have left creativity to Pixar and have adopted same O,same O as their motto.The Princess & the frog left me the same way. 1point.

Love and Other Drugs

• Release Date: Nov 24, 2010
• Rated: Strong sexual content, nudity, pervasive language and some drug material
• Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Edward Zwick
• Cast:Anne Hathaway, Jake Gyllenhaal, Oliver Platt, Hank Azaria, Josh Gad

HER:  This was a depressing, big advertisement for Pfizer, porn film.  A more horrible  vehicle for Anne Hathaway I couldn't imagine.  Nudity on screen like I have not seen in years, in fact, that I haven't seen this side of a porn film.  It had a strong ending but way too little too late.  I found this offensive.  Jake looks great and I loved Hank Azaria and Oliver Platt but that is not enough to hand my hat on.    1 Point.

HIS: If Anne Hathaway wants us to know she is no longer a young & naive girl---okay.  Tell me in your blog, don't make me watch for 90 minutes as this film wastes everyone's time and the talents of many good actors.  We already know, from TV, that everyone in the hospital sleeps with each other, so why now the pill peddlers.  Even viagra can't  make this film stand up on awards night. 0 points

The Next Three Days

• Release Date: Nov 19, 2010
• Rated: For violence, drug material, language, some sexuality and thematic elements
• Runtime: 2 hr. 2 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Paul Haggis
• Cast:Russell Crowe, Elizabeth Banks, Liam Neeson, Brian Dennehy, Olivia Wilde

Her:  A happy family is torn apart when the wife is accused and convicted of murder.  Russel Crowe can't bear his life without his wife and devises a plan to break her out of jail.  This starts slow, I admit I was antsy, but once it starts to race, all those little things were important.  This humble teacher, Russell Crowe (my guy) is a genius. Elizabeth Banks, I always thought of as a lightweight but she has some chops. There is so little you can say about a who-done-it with a twist except this is a must see holiday film.  It has the pace of "Shawshank Redemption", well, it reminds me of that movie.  This is a wow movie.  2 Huge Points 

HIS: I was impressed when I left the theater and I thought the ending was well written.  But as I write this review a week later, I can hardy remember the film. It is a flash in the pan or a well written film that grows on you.  I think it is good enough for me to see it again.  2 points

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1

• Release Date: Nov 19, 2010
• Rated: For some sequences of intense action violence and frightening images
• Runtime: 2 hr. 27 min.
• Genres: Action/Adventure, Family, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
• Director:David Yates
• Cast:Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Helena Bonham Carter, Ralph Fiennes

Her:   What a mess of spells and wizardry that work when it isn't necessary but seems useless when there is a great need.  A hodge podge of long stares and bad acting...you would have thought that these actors hadn't been in 33 other Harry Potter films before.  I am not the one to ask about Harry Potter.  I don't know the made up language, or the characters...sometimes they are on his side sometimes not, Who do you trust???  I don't know and I don't care.  I hate the Ralph Fiennes character and Helen Bonham Carter never plays anything BUT period people.  This looks like a movie that was cut in half to make two movies out of the information of one....oh, excuse me, it was.  0 Points

HIS: It is wearing thin on me.  I didn't read the books and everyone that is excited about this film did read them. Maybe that is my problem.  But the special effects have not grown (they are still shooting lightening from their wands.) the kids have grown and should know better.  I don't get the logic? If they are strong when they stay together, why do they run in 3 different directions when the Snatchers arrive? Only one more film.  Maybe then there will be some rest for the "unread". 1 point

Unstoppable

• Release Date: Nov 12, 2010
• Rated: Sequences of action and peril, and some language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 38 min.
• Genres: Action/Adventure
• Director:Tony Scott
• Cast:Denzel Washington, Chris Pine, Rosario Dawson, Ethan Suplee, Kevin Dunn

Her:  Exciting repeated 3 times.  Speed on steroid.  Never lets up, the action goes on and on,  This is a summer blockbuster one you could see over and over. A war between the young and old, cheaper personnel vs. more expensive workers with experience.  Denzel and Chris Pine are both incredible.  A true story of a run-a-way train in PA that has to be stopped before it gets to a bend on a tressel.   You have to see it, to see if the train is stopped.   Tony Scott Rocks!  3 Points

HIS: No time to go to the bathroom, you might miss something. Is it a great movie? No! Is it great fun? Yes!   Good(the dedicated worker) wins over evil (low paid know nothing & overpaid executive,busy covering his ass).  So just sit back and enjoy the ride. The sad thing is once you know the ending, the movie loses some of it's punch.  2 points

Morning Glory

• Release Date: Nov 10, 2010
• Rated: Some sexual content including dialogue, language and brief drug references
• Runtime: 1 hr. 35 min.
• Genres: Comedy
• Director:Roger Michell
• Cast:Harrison Ford, Rachel McAdams, Diane Keaton Patrick Wilson, Jeff Goldblum.

HER:  Roger Mitchell is responsible for this movie having 3 endings before Harrison Ford getting it.  Bad form.  It was so bad it weakened a mediocre film so badly it became pitiful.  The only one worth her weight in gold was Diane Keaton.  A bitch off screen but a trooper.  She was paid for a job and a job is what she delivered.  I never pulled for anyone.  Young girl gets a job at a 4th place network, does the job but can't push her prima donna into getting in gear until it is almost too late.  If you ask me, too little too late.  1 point

HIS: Harrison has been funnier (6 days,7nights) and more sincere. He seemed detached.  Rachel McAdams was over involved.  The laughs came with what they did to the poor weather man. It's a slapstick comedy that tried too hard to impose a few serious moments.  1 point

Waiting for "Superman"

• Release Date: Sep 24, 2010
• Rated: incidental smoking, some thematic material and mild language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 42 min.
• Genres: Art House/Foreign, Documentary
• Director:Davis Guggenheim
• Cast:Mike Feinberg.

Her:  A brilliant and very scary view of America educational system.  Pointing the finger at the teachers union for bringing America to it's knees for the almighty buck.  Michelle Rhea is one of the focuses of the movie.  When simply is not political and it shows.  She does what it takes and was rewarded with being fired.  I loved the guy from Harlem that graduated from Collage and thought he would have the entire system fixed in 2 years.  Many years later he is still trying to fix ut.  So sad and eye opening to see the lotteries going on to get a good education.  3 Points

HIS: Every parent should see this film.  After seeing it, if you are not concerned that we are creating a generation or two of half educated people with inflated views of themselves, then you need to go back to school. They hit all the important points but ended on a high point.  I was scared and mad as hell by the middle of the movie, but they soften the ending and people forgot how bad it really is. We need a "Tea Party" for the educational system. If we are trying to make the world better for our children, we better make sure they are educated enough to do the same for their children  A great film  3 points

For Colored Girls

• Release Date: Nov 05, 2010
• Rated:
• Runtime: 2 hr. 0 min.
• Genres: Ensemble Film
• Director:Tyler Perry
• Cast:Janet Jackson, Loretta Devine, Thandie Newton, Anika Noni Rose, Kerry Washington.

Her:  If it weren't for the long poetic speeches this would have been a great film.  Each story is very compelling, the acting is wonderful.  I love Anika Nonie Rose and her change was dramatic.I got to the movie 30 minutes before the beginning of the movie and the theater was full.  I listened in the ladies room and many said they were going to see it again.  1 Star

Due Date

• Release Date: Nov 05, 2010
• Rated: Language, drug use and sexual content
• Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.
• Genres: Buddy Film, Road Movie
• Director:Todd Phillips
• Cast:Robert Downey, Jr., Zach Galifianakis, Jamie Foxx, Michelle Monaghan, Juliette Lewis

HER:  Robert Downey Jr. is incredible. He illustrates every emotion.  Watching him act was exciting, brilliant.  Zack, on the other hand, was infuriating annoying.  Yes, he inspired an emotion...hate.  We have all known people like this, you can't scrape them off of yourself.  So, to say the least, I had a love-hate relationship with this film.  1 Point

HIS: For the buddy movie to work, the people have to click and be believable.  Didn't happen here.  Nor did we develop any real concern for Zach Galifianakis character. He was not a likeable guy who was lost, but rather and irrational man that was unchanging.  The fact that Hollywood accepts in "as is" is no endorsement.  1 point

RED

• Release Date: Oct 15, 2010
• Rated: Intense sequences of action violence and brief strong language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 51 min.
• Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy
• Director:Robert Schwentke
• Cast: Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, Helen Mirren, Mary-Louise Parker

Her:  I don't know, is it me who LOVES these aging heroes because I am old or does this appeal to all ages?  Cleaver, sexy, smart dramedy.  A retired undercover assasin for the CIA trying to create a life for himself has a long distance relationship when he meets her, it is quite a surprise.  From that day forward it is a wild ride.  Bruce and Mary Louise pick up quite a group of retires along the way.  Thoughtful, exciting and enchanting.  A real feel good movie.  2 Huge Points

.

HIS: Beat  "The Exspendables" by 2 miles. Seasoned actors doing what they do best---being themselves.Well Helen Miren was playing what she always wanted to, an assassin.  Mary-Louise Parker has always been wide-eyed and in this film she never blinked.  Bruce, Morgan & John acted their age with all its wisdom and courage.  This I could watch over and over again. 2+ points

Hereafter

• Release Date: Oct 15, 2010
• Rated: Mature thematic elements including disturbing disaster and accident images, and for brief strong language
• Runtime: 2 hr. 6 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Clint Eastwood
• Cast:Matt Damon, Cécile De France, Jay Mohr, Bryce Dallas, Howard, Richard Kind

HER :  A man with a psychic gift works in a factory to hide his talent because he thinks it is a curse.  Touching people impacts him.  Jay Mohr his brother wants to use him like a circus monkey.  He runs away.  That with a small curve is the entire story. 
Clint Eastwood failed. He had such a good movie track record prior to this movie.  Boring, too little too late.  It moves so slow that you tap your foot wondering, "what's the point"?  When it comes it's too late, not a big enough impact and 2who cares.  1 Point

HIS: I was looking forward to this film.  The trailer was great, but now only one week after it, I can't remember how it ended.  So much for an insightful soul searching experience.  1 point

Secretariat

• Release Date: Oct 08, 2010
• Rated: brief mild language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 56 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Randall Wallace
• Cast:Diane Lane, John Malkovich, Dylan Walsh  Dylan Baker Margo Martindale

Her:  My reaction to this movie surprised me.  The years depicted in this film are my youth when I grew into an adult.  These were my styles, and what beautiful styles.  This was a time when things mattered, where personal rights supersede politically correct.  This is how women were treated.  She triumphed because she kept her eye on the ball, did her homework, had a good teacher, got the best people to do  and let them do the job.  Please watch the scene where the horse wins...the real woman is in the audience and you will know her the minute you see her. John Malkovich hits it out of the park. A huge 3 points.

The Social Network

• Release Date: Oct 01, 2010
• Rated: Language, drug and alcohol use and sexual content
• Runtime: 2 hr. 1 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:David Fincher
• Cast:Jesse Eisenberg Justin Timberlake Andrew Garfield Armie Hammer Jr. Max Minghella

Her:  Strap on your thinking cap and take the ride.  You love him you hate him it really doesn't matter because it is true.  A wonderful peak into genius and what it takes to start an empire.  How fast it grows and the people that helped make it happen.  No one lost.  I loved the fact that I could hang on.  I give me high marks as well as the movie.  3 points.

Life As We Know It

• Release Date: Oct 08, 2010
• Rated: sexual material, language and some drug content
• Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min.
• Genres: Comedy
• Director:Greg Berlanti
• Cast:Katherine Heigl, Josh Duhamel, Josh Lucas, Hayes MacArthur, Rob Huebel.

HER: Katherine Heigl is luminous in this dramedy about 2 misfit people who through an accident are bequeathed a baby TOGETHER.  She an organized, sophisticated gal, he a messy, guy with a baseball cap are forced to feign a family life for the sake of the kid but where in the world does this leave the two of them?  This is how the movie unwinds.  The trailers show comedy but this is far more sensitive than I had anticipated.  This is the perfect date night movie.  I gave it high marks, a big 2 points

HIS: I know romantic comedies are formula.  But I am very tired of the pooh-pooh jokes and clueless singles becoming the perfect parents thru love.  Give me a break.  Parenthood is tough, kids are not perfect & cute for more than 2 minutes at a time.  If we could change out babies every 10 minutes as they do when they make a movie, then maybe these clueless people have chance.  I did not laugh once!  1 point

Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps

• Release Date: Sep 24, 2010
• Rated: thematic elements and brief strong language
• Runtime: 2 hr. 7 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Oliver Stone
• Cast:Michael Douglas, Shia LaBeouf, Frank Langella, Carey Mulligan, Josh Brolin

Her:  Oh what a tangled web we weave.  Carey Mulligan is magical. If you ask me, she is the next Audrey Hepburn.  So innocent and devine.  She plays Gordon Gecko's daughter who hates the ground he walks on.  Shia LaBeouf, who I still thought of as a kid, was realllllly good in this, and girls he looked good.  Gordon Gecko gets out of jail and no one is there for him.  At a lecture at Fordham University Shia meets Gordon and informs him that he is going to marry his daughter.  Meanwhile, Shia's mentor/father/boss played my Frank Langella is struggling through a nasty rumor that allows Josh Brolin to steal his business and life from him.  This is an intriguing story about the downfall of "Wall Street" that we all went through in the past 2 years.  Well worth seeing.  3 Points

The Town

• Release Date: Sep 17, 2010
• Rated: Strong violence, pervasive language, some sexuality and drug use
• Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Ben Affleck
• Cast:Ben Affleck, Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm,  Jeremy Renner, Blake Lively

Her:  True stories are always the best and this movie is no exception.  We learn about this town in MA where robbing banks is the family business.  Ben Affleck is the heist mastermind and "the boys" execute the jobs.  As always, if it doesn't feel right DON'T DO IT, which is what you feel like screaming at the screen.  They plan and execute 3 jobs, the side story is where Ben falls in love with a victim of a heist.  His best friend/brother played by Jeremy Renner wants to kill her as a loose end, Ben can't let that happen.  Everything happens as you hope it will.  Affleck is a driven man that warrants praise.  He is doing an excellent job.  3 points

Easy A

• Release Date: Sep 17, 2010
• Rated: Mature thematic elements involving teen sexuality, language and some drug material
• Runtime: 1 hr. 33 min.
• Genres: Comedy
• Director:Will Gluck
• Cast:Emma Stone Penn Badgley Amanda Bynes Dan Byrd Thomas Haden Church

Her:  I never imagined that this would be a good movie.  It was pitched to me as a teen age angst film.  This was a funny, by that I mean snappy dialogue, tragic, meaning things that go on in real life, and situations well handled by the protagonist narrator.  I enjoyed this film more than I thought I would.  The cast was wonderful.  Stanley Tucci, Patricia Clarkson and Lisa Kudrow are not even mentioned in my credits above but they were in the film and added some real spice.  I highly recommend it.  2 big points

Nanny McPhee Returns

• Release Date: Aug 20, 2010
• Rated: Rude humor, some language and mild thematic elements
• Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min.
• Genres: Comedy, Family
• Director:Susanna White
• Cast:Emma Thompson, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Rhys Ifans, Maggie Smith, Asa Butterfield

Her:  Emma Thompson has done it again.  She has written a story that takes place in another era  and updates the story beautifully.  Nanny brings with her 5 rules of a happy and orderly family.  Maggie Gyllenhaal is luminious as the mother in a fatherless household, dad is in the army, and she is left to raise 3 children and tend to the farm.  The rich ncice and nephew come to visit and create havoc.  Nanny straightens them all out.  I found water on my cheeks as I left the theater. By the time I got to the bathroom, I couldn't stop the flow of water.  3 Points.

Get Low

• Release Date: Jul 30, 2010
• Rated: some thematic material and brief violent content
• Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.
• Genres: Art House/Foreign, Romance, Suspense/Thriller
• Cast:Robert Duvall, Sissy Spacek, Bill Murray, Lucas Black, Gerald McRaney

HER:  A surprise little gem.  Bill Murray is surprisingly serene, funny and thoughtful.  Lucas Black is so handsome.  Robert Duvall is as always brilliant.  The story unfolds slowly and some might seen slow but I say well paced.  Sissy Spacek never look lovelier.  Duvall plays an onry hermit that in the 40 years he isolated himself he heard the stories people told about him...when they threw rocks through his windows.  He goes to the undertaker, Murray, to plan his funeral.  The story follows and is great.  2 Big Points

HIS: This is one of those slightly off-center movies that work. the characters came across as real. I related to them and wanted to know how things worked out for them. We all wish be could be as simple, honest and right to the point as Duvall's character.  Maybe in the modern world, you can only do that if you are a hermit.  2 points

The Switch

• Release Date: Aug 20, 2010
• Rated: mature thematic content, sexual material including dialogue, some nudity, drug use and language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 41 min.
• Genres: Romance
• Director:Will Speck, Josh Gordon
• Cast:Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Patrick Wilson, Jeff Goldblum, Juliette Lewis.

Her:  Far more sensitive than they portray in the trailer.  This is more Jason Bateman's film than Aniston.  She wants a child, her biological clock is ticking and she takes thinks in her own hands.  She has an idea of how she wants it done and that is how it is done.  She finds a donor she can look into his eyes.  What she doesn't know is that in a drunken moment, Bateman drops it in the sink and replaces it.  She goes home to mid america and raises her son to age 6, that's when Bateman meets his son and that is where the movie starts.  It's a gotta see for females.  3 Points

His: With the action, buddy movies, the Summer also brings us the "Romantic Comedy".  They always have the boy-girl fractured relationship that we hope will be fixed by the end of the money and,of course, it always is. Some are just plain funny, some are funny with a serious twist.  The Switch has a serious thread.  Does that weight down the light comedy? No, but it does make you think more than you planned to, on a summer night. Nothing like fatherhood to force the "man-child" to mature.  As Sam said, Bateman is the story.  It's his journey and I wish it was sold that way.  1 point

The Expendables

• Release Date: Aug 13, 2010
• Rated: strong action and bloody violence throughout, and for some language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 43 min.
• Genres: Action/Adventure
• Director:Sylvester Stallone
• Cast:Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Mickey Rourke, Terry Crews, Jet Li

His:  The audience for this movie consisted of older men who grew up with these screen heroes and younger men who wanted to enjoy real stunts.   No computer generated fire, no computer generated blow-ups or monsters.  No, here we have real fire that is hot & burns people, plus actors who fight with more than a" green screen".  Yes here people actually can hurt each other.  It is a summer action, buddy movie that shows when you fight with someone, you don't leap 14 feet in the air and punch him in the head. Rather, you stand toe to toe, you punch him, he punches you and guess what, it hurts, even when you are acting. It also brings back the clarity of good vs evil.  The bad guys are bad and it's not our fault.  They did the deed and they pay the price. 2 points

Her:  A movie with a bunch of old men blowing things up.  Yes, they do not use CG so you are move involved, the problem is you can't tell and it just looks same old, same old.  I am so tired of people with guns and fire and bombs, Patrick says I am just old.  He's right.  Now to get back to the old men, when the old men are Sly Stallone, and Bruce Willis, it's magic.  It's just OK.  1 Point

Eat Pray Love

• Release Date: Aug 13, 2010
• Rated: brief strong language, some sexual references and male rear nudity
• Runtime: 2 hr. 13 min.
• Genres: Drama
• Director:Ryan Murphy
• Cast:Julia Roberts, James Franco, Javier Bardem, Richard Jenkins, Billy Crudup

Her:  Granted, this is a woman's film BUT regardless of what Patrick tells you, he couldn't stop talking about the film.  This movie makes you think. Julia realizes she is not finished becoming a person after a divorce.  She had little or nothing to give herself or anyone else (been there, done that).  We go on her journey. I wondered why Bali yet Bali was the place I liked best in this story...in life, Italy.  But you have to live through the 2 and a half hour charming, talky and sometimes boring film.  Julia Roberts has never been more relaxed, never acted better.  It was a great evening for me but I wouln't go back to see it again.  2 points. 

His: Women have been in search of themselves since 1972.  For over two hours Julia Roberts plays a woman in search of herself, after a divorce.  The search went through Italy, India & Bali.  A man betrayed her, she doesn't need a man to feel good about herself, yet in Bali, it is a man who completes her by accepting the real "her" inside.  Which, by the way, was always there.  Julia, save us time and yourself money.  Have dinner in Little Italy, NYC, take a cab ride with an Indian cab driver & enjoy a day at Jones Beach, NY. Spare us the long looks, silent bike rides & the giggles of the naive female. We all know how it will end.  Next time just text us!  1 point

Charlie St. Cloud

• Release Date: July 30, 2010
• Rated: language including some sexual references, an intense accident scene and some sensuality
• Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min.
• Genres: Drama, Drama, Romance, Romance
• Director:Burr Steers
• Cast:Zac Efron, Charlie Tahan, Amanda Crew, Donal Logue, Kim Basinger.

Her:  Girls line up outside the theater.  Zac Effron does an admirable job in his debut dramatic role.  His eyes are so incredible, I never took my eyes off of them.  I didn't like Sam but that is because he is a selfish little boy who loves baseball that dies.  Zac consumed with guilt puts his life on hold to play catch every night at dusk to keep Sam alive.  He meets a gal who needs his help.  You have to go to see it to see if he, Charlie, abandons Sam to save her.  2 Huge points.

His: George Clooney, move over the young ladies have found a new love. The eyes do! But enough about him, how is the movie.  The key conflict is guilt versus love.  If you blame yourself for an accident then you must destroy your future. So the old saying goes.  Well we all know that only true love can break the shell of guilt and release withering soul.  To no ones surprise, that is what happens in this movie.  Date movie yes---men show your softer side.  Will you remember it in a year--no! Weak 2 points

Dinner for Schmucks

• Release Date: July 30, 2010
• Rated: sequences of crude and sexual content, some partial nudity and language and sexual content
• Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min.
• Genres: Comedy, Comedy
• Director:Jay Roach
• Cast:Steve Carell, Paul Rudd  Zach Galifianakis, Jemaine Clement, Stephanie Szostak

Her:  OMG, what was that?  Horrible, horrible, horrible.  What a waste of talent. Insulting.  Who hasn't had someone like this in your life and would rather forget...this movie dredges up all those old unwanted feelings.  0 Points

HIS: If you paid for this movie, you are a Schmuck.  The only thing worse than a bad movie is a bad movie that wastes good talent. The French film ( the Dinner Grame) was a true farce.  Farce is a combination of  ridiculous, far-fetched situations, quick and witty repartee, and broad physical humor.  Hollywood tends to leave out the "quick & witty repartee" and over does the ridiculous. Perhaps the filmaker felt we are the schumcks and could fathom the subtleties of good writing.  The only thing that saved this movie from a 0 is Steve Carrell's character. We all have known him.  Even with insults, we can't get this person to lease us alone.  Like gum on our shoe, he ruins our whole day.  1 point 

Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore

• Release Date: Jul 30, 2010
• Rated: animal action and humor
• Runtime: 1 hr. 22 min.
• Genres: Comedy, Comedy
• Director:Brad Peyton
• Cast:James Marsden, Nick Nolte, Christina Applegate  Katt Williams, Bette Midler

Her:  A perfect movie for the little ones.  Bette Midler is the ugly cat in the dog and bunny suit trying to destroy the world.  Dogs and cats have to work together to save us all.  1 Point

His:  What can I say?  The kids & grandkids will like it.  But, it's not as good as the first film.  Since, we want everyone to get along, it's nice that the cats & dogs unite for the good of mankind to fight evil. In the real world, however, we can't agree on which is the evil. The colorful world of animation lives in a black & white world and our living color world lacks such clarty. That's why we go to cartoons.  1 point

Salt

• Release Date: Jul 23, 2010
• Rated: intense sequences of violence and intense sequences of action
• Runtime: 1 hr. 31 min.
• Genres: Action/Adventure, Suspense/Thriller
• Director: Phillip Noyce
• Cast: Angelina Jolie , Liev Schreiber , Chiwetel Ejiofor , Andre Braugher

Her:  Everything I am going to say I say with regret.  I, as a rule, don't like Angelina Jolie.  This role was to be given to Tom Cruise, which would have been a horrible mistake.  That said, this film was incredible.  Forget about the fact that Jolie did all of her own stunts, this isn't a "Laura Croft" film, this is a real film written by a really talented writer.  For the first time I saw something early on that Patrick did not see which delights me.  It is impossible to talk about a really good thriller because too much is given away in the telling.  I gave it a  BIG 2 Points.

HIS: Sam and I agree totally on this film  Taking on a well written thriller has made Jolie, the number one action hero in my book.  I did not see the ending coming and of course, it cries"Sequel".  Do I see a female Indiana Jones emerging.  If they can add a little humor and make Jolie's smile friendlier, we got a trilogy.  See this!  Big 2 points

Inception

• Release Date: Jul 16, 2010
• Rated: sequences of violence and sequences of action
• Runtime: 2 hr. 22 min.
• Genres: Suspense/Thriller
• Director: Christopher Nolan
• Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio , Joseph Gordon-Levitt , Ellen Page , Tom Hardy , Ken Watanabe .

Her:  Slick exciting movie with plenty of action.  Christopher Nolan who directed one of my most hated film "The Dark Knight" penned this chaotic look at entering dreams as a form of industrial espionage. When the movie begins we see DiCaprio fail at his task.  Immediately following that he decides to take a job that forces him to go 3 tiers down into dreams in order to gain entry back into the United States and a reunion with his children.  When I left the theater I did not know what went on in this movie.  After Patrick explained it, I really hadn't missed too much.  He fed me the pieces that made the pieces fit.  Now, I too think it was brilliant.  Memento, done by the same director was better, one of my favorites.  Good but it could have been better.  2 Points

HIS:  Complex, compelling & conceptually brilliant.  Some critics are saying it is too difficult to understand what is going on---have we gone too use to checking our brain at the ticket booth?  I love a movie that makes me think, forces me not to go to the bathroom and never makes me look at my watch.  Summer, Winter or Fall, bring me more.  3 points

The Kids Are All Right

• Release Date: Jul 09, 2010
• Rated: strong sexual content, nudity, language and some teen drug and alcohol use
• Runtime: 1 hr. 44 min.
• Genres: Comedy, Comedy
• Director: Lisa Cholodenko
• Cast: Julianne Moore , Annette Bening , Mark Ruffalo , Mia Wasikowska , Josh Hutcherson

Her:  What I liked about this movie is how normal the married, gay couple were.  Struggling with the same issues other married people do.  In this case Annette Bening, a controlling Doctor, is the head of the household.  Julianne Moore, the little housewife and the kids are 18 and 15.  The boy, the younger of the 2 is looking for a male roll model and seeks to find his sperm doner father played by Mark Ruffalo.  When the family embrases him, Benning is threatened.  A few moves later (can't tell) all the pieces fit in their right places and everybody has learned something.  Baby steps perhaps but it is a start.  2 Points

The Sorcerer's Apprentice

• Release Date: Jul 14, 2010
• Rated: some mild rude humor, fantasy action violence and brief language
• Runtime: 2 hr. 1 min.
• Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy, Comedy
• Director: Jon Turteltaub
• Cast: Nicolas Cage , Jay Baruchel , Alfred Molina , Teresa Palmer , Toby Kebbell

Her:  Walt Disney blew it in the casting.  An update of a 50 year old story. Jay Baruchel's voice drove me nuts, but I have liked him in previous films and don't remember that grating voice.  Loved Nicolas Cage.  Weak story.  Same old, same old.  The story of Merlin's 3 apprentices, Merlin dies, the evil woman that killed him is locked in a nesting doll with Cage's girlfriend. Alfred Molina lets everyone out to terrorize the World.  This geek is the key to saving the world.  I hope not.  1 Point

HIS: Close but no ciagr, Mickey still wins.  I don't want this kid to have superpowers.  He'll never be ready for it. Yes the story has to be updated but did it have to look like another video game adventure.  Special effects do not equal magic!!! Alfred Molina is a great villian, I was pulling for him. 1 point

Cyrus

• Release Date: Jun 18, 2010
• Rated: some sexual material and language
• Runtime: 1 hr. 32 min.
• Genres: Art House/Foreign, Comedy, Comedy
• Director: Jay Duplass , Mark Duplass
• Cast: John Reilly , Jonah Hill , Marisa Tomei , Catherine Keener , Diane Mizota

Her:  Not as creepy as it appears to be.  In fact, it is more fact than fiction.  A not so good looking but good guy meets a beautiful woman at a party and they hit it off.  While visiting her at her home, he met her son.  Her adult son who was too close to his only parent, as she allows her son to do abnormal things out of guilt...how many parents are guilty of this?  He clings but is not dangerous (like the scene with the knife) but he is destructive.  He tries everything to break the couple up and in doing so he wins.  Reilly leaves and she suffers... go see what happens next.  2 Points

HIS: Are all modern single parents families dysfunctional?  Reilly & Tomei are always good & who knew Jonah Hill could do drama.  Here the mother & the adult child are hanging on to each other, forever.  We are know families where the son moves back home after college and stays for as long as he wants.  I can understand the single parent not wanting to be left alone, but today many dual parents just will not let go.  What is more disturbing is the kid has no desire to get out on his own.  See this film and then discuss with your friends about the growing number of young people who are avoiding reality and enjoying the comforts of home and their ipods all of which they can control with out confrontation.  2 points 

·  Release Date: Jun 25, 2010

·  Rated: crude material including suggestive references, language and some male rear nudity

·  Runtime: 1 hr. 42 min.

·  Genres: Comedy, Comedy

·  Director: Dennis Dugan

·  Cast: Adam Sandler , Kevin James , Chris Rock , David Spade , Rob Schneider

Her:  I waited with such anticipation for this Adam Sandler film because I find his movies to be funny and sensitive.  This one is neither.  Yes, he recognizes that the children of the rich are spoiled.  That they don't have any people skills.  That they have forgotten how to play.  But this seemed more like a bunch of buddies getting together and playing themselves.  Yes, there are funny lines...but not enough.  I was so disappointed in this film.  This is the second failure in a row, it is time for a winner.   1 Point

HIS: They wasted great talent in this film. If they want to get together with their friends & have fun, do it, leave the cameras home & don't ask me to pay for it.     0 Points

Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work

Release Date: Jun 11, 2010
Cast: Joan Rivers, Jocelyn Pickett, Billy Sammeth, Kathy Griffin, Dr. Joy Browne

Her:  Please do not confuse this review of the movie with my love of Joan Rivers.  I have  been a fan since the Johnny Carson days and the death of Edgar came at a time of stress in my life and I feel that we got through it together. I love Joan.  I love her work ethic.  I wish I could keep up with her at my age and she is 75.  However, I got fatigued hearing the work "I".  Other than that, it was the story of her life told in a 1 year interview.  Her life is beautiful and she deserves all the good things in life.  2 Points
His: As Sam said, there is a lot to admire about Joan Rivers, but this is not a good documentary.  Maybe it is done too soon.  How can people be so self centered and insecure at the same time?  I did learn about Joan's life & the comedy business, I only hear how hard she works to sell herself.  No insight there. 1 point.

Knight and Day

Release Date: Jun 23, 2010
Cast: Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, Peter Sarsgaard, Viola Davis, Paul Dano

Her: We saw a sneak preview of this film and we were most anxious to see it.  I am sorry to say that it fell short of our expectations.  Cruise and Diaz did not seem to have chemistry.  The FBI or CIA are in pursuit of a rogue agent who is trying to protect a young inventor, Diaz gets in the way and the race begins.  There was no convincing reason why she went with him so fast.  It was enjoyable but no cigar.  a good way to spend a Saturday night.  2 weak Points.
His: Summer, romantic comedy/action movie/buddy pictures, all need for the chemistry to be there.  None here!  I love Cameron Diaz (loved her in "The Holiday"), love Tom Cruise in several action movies, but the relationship part never seems to work. this is one of those movies where you have seen the best if you saw the trailer.  but, it is the summer, go see it, enjoy the action & few comic scenes and forget about later. 1point

Toy Story 3

Release Date: Jun 18, 2010
Genres: Animated, Animated, Family, Family
Director: Lee Unkrich
Cast: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Ned Beatty, Don Rickles

Her:  Ready for a romp?  You will have to be.  This is a GREAT Toy Story.  Andy is going to College and has to decide what to do with the toys.  Will he be loyal and put them in the attic, take them with him or sell them on EBAY?  Go on the journey when the toys are donated to a child care center and they are happy they are being played with again.   Until they get a gist of which kids play with them...the disrespectful ones, the ones that beat and maim them.  They have to escape and when they do, then where do they go.   We go on their journey, you go too.  2 huge points
His: The best of the three!!!  My expectations were high for this one and they did not disappoint me.  I love these animated movies that have color and characters for the children and strong stories and inuendo for the adults.  Turning on "Spanish Buzz" was a hoot and the final scene when the toys were given to a new loving child was heartwarming.  I hope Disney & Pixar come up with a new trilogy in the near future. 3 big points.

The Karate Kid

Release Date: un 11, 2010
Rated: ullying, martial arts action violence and some mild language
Runtime: 2 hr. 20 min.
Genres: Action/Adventure, Drama, Drama
Director: Harald Zwart
Cast: Jaden Smith, Jackie Chan, Taraji P. Henson, Wang Ji, Harry Van Gorkum

Her:  When his mother moves to China to take a job, Jaden finds himself in a very strange land with no hope of escaping.  Add to that a bully at school that is relentless in beating him, he turns to a maintenance man who shows his talent for karate to train him.  He exhibits American habits which don't make for the discipline it takes to be a karate champ.  I never followed the first movie so my opinion may be different than that of people who are comparing the two movies.  I thought is was an enchanting glimpse of China and the philosophy of karate.  I love Jackie Chan and enjoyed the story where the meak WIN!  I thought Jaden Smith did a great job.  A little boy like that carrying a huge movie.  I highly recommend it.  2 Points.
His: The one big fault in this film was setting it in China.  Yes, the locations are beautiful but the original set in USA, better portrayed the misuse of the Karate principles by am American teacher.  Believing a teacher born & raised in the philosophy, would be so far off, is hard to do.  Jaden Smith was terrific, but we saw too much of his actions and too little of the teachings of Jackie Chan.  His character was underutilized.  the first one did a better job of focusing on the teacher-student relationship.  Still, I see a Karate Kid II, but I hope it has more heart then kick.  2 points.

The A-Team
Release Date: Jun 11, 2010
Rated: intense sequences of action, smoking, language and intense sequences of violence
Runtime: 1 hr. 57 min.
Genres: Action/Adventure
Director: Joe Carnahan
Cast: Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Jessica Biel, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, Sharlto Copley.

Her:  I would not have missed this for the world and I won't miss the next, there is a sure sequel.  Ladies, there is eye candy for everyone, old, young, black, white and crazy...these are really hot guys in really compelling situations.  I really love the way that Director Joe Carnahan orchestrated this tale.  We listen to the plan while we see snippets of it going down.  Brilliant!  Of course, Liam Neeson is my favorite being closer to my age BUT Bradley Cooper is amazing, I can't open my eyes wide enough to see as much of him as I can.  For those who, like I, do not know the story:  Rouge military unit who accomplish every assignment they get are given an impossible task.  They are set up and  arrested.  Stripped of all their credentials they are jailed...You can guess what follows and it is GREAT.  3 Points  
His:  My kind of action.  They improved on the TV series.  "Rampage" Jackson gives us a toned downed MrT and it works better.  If fact, all the guys are more likeable.  This is a team you want to see again. The stunts are way out there but, who cares?  Steering the tank as it falls from the sky is billent, but no one asked" where did those cannon shots land?'.  While the vampire movies are multiplying, I say we need more action movies. 
3 points

Killers 
Release Date: Jun 04, 2010
Rated: violent action, language and sexual material
Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.
Genres: Comedy
Director: Robert Luketic
Cast: Ashton Kutcher, Katherine Heigl, Tom Selleck, Catherine O'Hara, Katheryn Winnick.

Her:  Katherine Heigl and Ashton Kutcher what more do I need to say, for the older people Tom Selleck and Catherine O'hara...a good looking cast.  A trained killer finds the normal life he longs for in Heigl and she is just in love, they have a normal life for 3 years and then it changes.  Those changes contain car chases, bad guys, cars and guns and is a wild ride I recommend you take.  Great fun.  2 Points
His:  Here the chemistry worked.  Kutcher & Heigl are likeable and we want them to get together. Kutcher's reluctant killer is always better than the right but arrogant killer (Tom Cruise type).  Twist at the end is different but the whole story line is unbelievable.  But it's the summer.  2points

Just Wright

Release Date: May 14, 2010
Rated: some suggestive material and brief language
Runtime: 1 hr. 51 min.
Genres: Romance
Director: Sanaa Hamri
Cast: Common,  Queen Latifah,  Paula Patton, Phylicia Rashad, Pam Grier

Her:  Elegant.  An elegant movie where the cast could be black or white and you would get the same enjoyment.  Queen Latifa, A Professional Physical Therapist and basketball fan went to a game with her dear friend.  Paula Patton, the friend, studied professional ball players like it was her job.  She intended to marry one.  The Michael Jordon like figure pulled into a gas station, couldn't find his gas tank and Queen saved the day.  He invited  her to a party.  She brought her dear friend and that is all she said.  It was love at first sight.  An injury threatened his career and Queen Latifa, as a professional, stepped in and Paula stepped out.  Through the next weeks two people learned to appreciate each others strong points.  A true love story.  I loved it and highly recommend it.  2 huge points

Sex and the City 2

Release Date: May 27, 2010

Rated: some strong sexual content and language

Runtime: 2 hr. 27 min.

Genres: Romance

Director: Michael Patrick King

Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis, Chris Noth.

Her:  A Party with good friends.  Let the fun and familiarity wash over you while your eyes feast on fashion, while laughing and crying with women that are all so well known to us.  Don't let the men critics sway you, they were laughing from the start.  These 4 women who are so near and dear to our hearts have day to day life happening to them set off on a journey in a new land, "Dubai is so done", Abu Dhabi.  Wow! Your eyes can not take it in in one sitting.  This is better than the first, more enjoyment, less drama. Several surprise cameos. Girls, this is one I will see over and over and over.  I am grading this for sheer selfish feelings that have nothing to do with the Oscars, 3 Huge Points.

HIS: Let me be the first male to say, "There will be a Sex and the City 3".  The opening 20+ minutes of the ultimate gay wedding will be a classic example "of over the top".  Everyone enjoyed it.  Then came the retro look of the girls as we discovered they didn't fall far from the 60s.  Next we were treated to the joys of an Irish Nanny.  If this sequence was just to make the men happy?--- It worked. But the decision on her sexual preference at the end didn't.  Did they make her gay because they assume men are too weak to be faithful when confronted with real temptation?  Things then slowed down with heavy worries and too many long scenes just for the fashion.  I was concerned it would die, but the girls & the pace perked up and the movie made it to the finish line.  Is 2 1/2hrs too long?  Maybe, for some, but the audience did not notice.  As it will make money and therefore we will see the first female star trilogy.  2+ points for the movie & 1 for the nanny

Shrek Forever After

Release Date: May 21, 2010

Rated: some rude humor, mild action and brief language

Runtime: 1 hr. 33 min.

Genres: Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Director: Mike Mitchell

Cast: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Julie Andrews.

Her:  It should be named "Shrek...It's a Wonderful Life".  Wow, they made 1 to many.  I know there are no new stories but who hasn't seen "It's a wonderful life" a thousand times?  The story is too recognizable.   A horrible little redhead finds Shrek in a weak moment and takes advantage of him turning him back into the disgusting Ogre he wants to be, but only for a day, oh no, this guy turns him back permanently and takes over the kingdom.  No one recognizes Shrek so he is alone.  Blah, Blah, Blah... Everyone loves donkey and puss and it is nice to see them again but it is not one that I will look forward to seeing again.  1 Point

Princess Kaiulani

Release Date: May 14, 2010
Rated: some violence and thematic material, and for brief language, sensuality and smoking
Runtime: 1 hr. 37 min.
Genres: Drama
Director: Marc Forby
Cast: Q'orianka Kilcher, Barry Pepper, Shaun Evans, Jimmy Yuill, Julian Glover

Her - Like watchting paint dry.  Only a handfull of history buffs will see this but if I saw her fondeling shells another minute I would have died.  Everyone kept saying how beautiful the girl was and she was as ugly as a post.  I was sorry I lost 1 hour and 37 minutes seeing this.  0 Points

Robin Hood

Release Date: May 14, 2010

Rated: violence, intense sequences of warfare and some sexual content

Runtime: 2 hr. 20 min.

Genres: Drama

Cast: Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, Max von Sydow, William Hurt,

HER:  This is not a remake of Gladiator...I so dreaded that it would be but no.  Call it a love story, call it an action movie but what this movie is, is Ridley Scott's interpretation of the events that led Robin to become Robin Hood.  Russell Crowe is magic on the screen, he is everyman, a camelion on steriods.  He starts out as a bow man in the service of the King during his crusades but a turn of events coupled with his loyalty to his word change him before our very eyes.   Handsome, fierce with conviction he single handily saves the day, saves Nottingham and sweeps the girl off her feet.  I must say I was not looking forward to seeing Cate Blanchett in yet another film but I have to say she was more vulnerable and appealing in this movie than I remembered, I liked her.  The setup for a sequel is there...if you would go see it, and it has legs, I am sure we will see the Scott/Crowe team again.  3 Points

HIS: Well this was a great prequel to the Robin Hood Legend, but I wanted more.  More interaction of Robin & Marian, more about the merry men, less about the Crusades, less realism.  Hollywood took the American Western, removed the black & white hats of good & evil and replaced them with dirty shirts and self serving opportunist.  So too has Robin Hood fallen.  No longer the righteous nobleman willing to sacrifice his privileges to fight for the rights of the underdog.  Now he is a returning mercenary, angry about his civil rights and those of the other Earls.  this Robin believes in reform starting a the top. 

Don't get me wrong, it was a well filmed action movie and I'll watch it again when it comes on HBO.  But they messed with my childhood heroes and I can not forgive them.  2 points

Release Date: May 14, 2010

Rated:  brief rude behavior, some language and incidental smoking

Runtime: 1 hr. 44 min.

Genres: Romance

Cast: Amanda Seyfried, Vanessa Redgrave, Chris Egan, Gael García Bernal, Franco Nero

HER:  If you are not a romantic...stay home.  We don't want to hear your whining about this and that.  Romantics, fans of Amanda Seyfried and old women...run, don't walk to see this lovely film.  Why Old Ladies?  They are the only ones who will see this twist. Finally, something we are in on and the youngsters don't have a clue.  I almost dropped off my chair when I saw it.  Keep in mind, Camelot with Vanessa Redgrave and Lancelot (Franco Nero)...guess who rides up on his steed in this film...you got it, Franco Nero and Vanessa Redgrave as Gwenevere and Lancelot would have been 50 years later.

Amanda Seyfried left behind by her fiance in Verona goes to see the Romeo and Juliet balcony and finds a 50 year old letter.  She responds and the journey to find Lorenzo begins.  Italy is beautiful, the grandson is adorable and Amanda is perfect.  The women are passionate and men just don't understand.  A beautiful journey.  2 out of 3 Points

HIS: Yes it is a predictable chick flick and the beginning of the summer light fare.  But I liked the two young people and was happy that they got together.  BUT,  was I the only one distracted by Redgrave's hard nipples?  Was it winter in Italy, was the shirt too thin?  There must be an age when bras must be put back in use.  Hard nipples are not exciting when they are leaning into your armpits. Get her a bra or a heater.  1 point

Iron Man 2
Rated: violence, some language and intense sci-fi action

Runtime: 2 hr. 4 min.

Genres: Action
Director: Jon Favreau

Cast: Robert Downey, Jr, Mickey Rourke,  Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson Sam Rockwell

Her:  I loved "Iron Man", I never thought the sequel would be good.  I thought Scarlet Johansson was going to be a spy...I thought Mickey Rourke was going to be a harsh villain, on both counts, I was wrong.  I didn't like Gwenneth Paltrow this time, the 40's style banter was replaced by yelling, she didn't seem to care about him at all. 

Stark, a true hero spends more time in front of an audience than inside the suit.  Tony, who desperately wanted his father's approval and never got it, needed it more than ever now.  Getting his dad's approval would be hard because his dad is dead.  The Senate wanted his dad's engineering secrets and nothing has changed.  Tony Stark will not release his Iron Man suit to the Military saying it is not a weapon but a part of him. 

With failing health, Tony starts making mistakes that Mickey Rourke took advantage of.  Several good fights.  Don Cheadle adds assistance and a great asset to the mix.  This is a movie worth seeing once or twice.  Bring a date.  2  Huge Points out of 3.

HIS: I hope realize how important it is that "Sam" liked an action movie. Robert Downey, Jr. is on top of the world.  This did 133+ million this weekend and more to come.  It had the week to itself, so next week will show whether or not it has legs.

We needed a bad villain and Mickey Rourke was bad  and, as usual, unwashed.  I prefer a villan with  brains & a clean shirt.  Like Sam, I missed the previous banter of Iron Man.  In introducing the action heroine, Scarlet Johnsson, they had to reduce the scope of Gwenneth's part.  I hope they correct that in Iron Man 3. 
It was a very good sequel and worth seeing again.  Big 2 points out of 3.

Backup Plan
Runtime:1 hr. 38 min.
Genres:Comedy, Romance
Cast:Jennifer Lopez, Alex O'Loughlin, Eric Christian Olsen, Anthony Anderson, Linda Lavin.

Her: So good to see Jennifer Lopez again, however, I didn't remember her nose being so cute. Who better to play the mother...or mother to be, of twins, not a real stretch. The story is: many women today can not find a mate but want a child so they make that happen for themselves. This story is about a woman who does just that, makes it happen for herself just when she meets the man of her dreams, Alex O'Loughlin. Good, you say...no good. They never get to experience their relationship alone before they have to go through one of the most stressful parts of life. She, of course, has abandonment issues due to her parental units and expects him, the new boyfriend, to leave at any minute.

She is as cute as a button, he is not the man of MY dreams but overall, this was a very entertaining movie. Perfect for a date night. Could cause some great conversation over coffee or it could cause your man to run. It is nice to see Linda Lavin if only to make the audience feel better about themselves. I do hope they had to do a lot of makeup on her, otherwise, she is Old. Eric Christian Olsen plays the fool...idiotic. Anthony Anderson offers some the the real comedy for this otherwise heavy movie. Stay for the credits, it is a stitch. 2 out of 3 points

HIS  It is a "date night" movie.  But why does that mean it can't have anything important or new to say.  Let's have a drink & talk about this.  Notice, ever since Murphy Brown had a baby on TV, every movie dealing with having a baby has the birthing scene that is funny and scary.  Men don't want or need to see this, but it has been repeated a dozen+ times over the last 20 years.  Then there is the"I can't find a good man willing to have a baby with me so I am going it alone.  Where are you looking for this "good man"?  Even better, how easy will it be to find one when you got 2 kids?  I knew she would be pregnant again at the end of the movie---Why?  Because the man that wants to settle down and have kids, wants,at least, one of them to be his! So much for my social commentary.  As for the value of the movie--- nothing special.  I simply waited to see how funny the same old scenes would be and how she would met mr. right.  1 out of 3 points

Death at a Funeral

Release Date: Apr 16, 2010

Rated: drug content, some sexual humor and language

Runtime: 1 hr. 30 min.

Genres: Comedy

Cast: Chris Rock, Martin Lawrence, Keith David, Loretta Devine, Peter Dinklage, Ron Glass, Danny Glover.

HER: A black remake of a british comedy staring Peter Dinklagte (who is in this movie  too) about a family suffering the loss of the father and every possible thing that could go wrong, does go wrong.  Imagine an old man defecating on a young man's hands while the young man helps him to the toilet.  Or the white fiance takes a pill that was improperly labeled and finds himself on the roof...naked.  Not to mention the little person...I won't even go there. 
Chris Rock stars and produced this laugh out loud film.  Not appropriate for young people because the language is ruff.  

Loretta Devine seems to be in everything since I first saw her in "The Preachers Wife" and heard her sing in Dreamgirls.  She makes every thing she is in better.  She is not in that much of this film and does little more than shove her daughter-in-law and adore her successful writer son but I loved it.  So many stars, I thoroghly enjoyed it.  2 out of 3 Points

HIS: It is hard to be fair since I saw the British version last year.  Knowing what is going to happen eliminates surprises and reduces the intensity of the comedy.  The American cast did a good job in translating it into a modern black community.  I enjoyed  little things, like when Danny Glover incorporated his famous line"I'm too old for this shit" into the script.  It brought back fond memories of the Lethal Weapon  movies with Mel Gibson.  If you didn't see the British version, you will laugh good & hard at this film.  that's why I don't read the book first.  2 out of 3 points

 The Joneses 

Rated: teen drinking, drug use, some sexual content and language
Runtime: 1 hr. 33 min.
Genres: Comedy
Director:Derrick Borte
Cast:David Duchovny, Demi Moore, Amber Heard, Gary Cole, Lauren Hutton.

Her: An upscale family moves into a very sophisticated neighborhood bringing with them all their goodies that just happen to be the envy of each and every neighbor. The cars they drove (audi), the decor of their home was brilliant, their clothing and jewelery were all what dreams are made of. The cliche "Keeping up with the Joneses", that is what everyone within eyeshot wanted to do.

Oh, did I neglect to mention that this was a family of actors in no way related. This was a job. A job in order to increase consumption in the neighborhood. Demi Moore is the team leader and David Duchovney is the new recruit. He does not have the drive it takes to be at the top of his game.

They soon find out that it is not all buy, buy, buy but there is a price to be paid. Not everyone can buy everything they want and still be able to pay the mortgage. Once Steve (David Duchovney) realized that he could profoundly affece peoples lives in a negative way, he had to quit. He also fell in love with his boss. This film reminded me of "American Beauty in spots.

Great date film 3 out of 4 Points

How To Train Your Dragon

Release Date: Mar 26, 2010

Rated: some scary images, brief mild language and sequences of intense action

Runtime: 1 hr. 38 min.

Genres: Comedy, Family

Director: Dean DeBlois

Cast: Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse.

Her - I don't know if I liked this 3-D cartoon about a boy and his extremely dangerous Dragon because it reminds me of my kitty "Gracie", the eyes were magical or beacause if the boy didn't take advantage of the situation and kill the dragon, the favor must be returned with friendship.  I find it hard to believe that this creature is the scariest beast, one that the ancestors have been battling for hundreds of years. 

The Father, Gerard Butler, who goes off to war with these beasts thinks his child is a weakling.  Why?  Because he would rather go off alone and enjoy nature that slay and kill things.  When the boy finds out why the dragons are so ferotious he then uses their power for good.   

This is a good film for the kids to see once or twice.  The voices were wonderful...I think that this is the first time I said that, WOW, maybe that is because I got a few right off the bat. 

2 out of 3 Big Points