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Monday:
Because I Said So (2007)

…the pinnacle of safe…

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Movies that play on the safe side bug me. They don't take risks, they don't do anything original, and they certainly don't entertain. Because I Said So is the pinnacle of safe. Unfortunately, Keaton starred in this sloppy film. Then again, she may have been the only reason I didn't take a nap.

Daphne (Keaton) begins taking an active role in her daughter's love life once she begins seeing history repeating itself. In an attempt to help, Daphne creates an ad luring in men to start a serious relationship with Milly (Moore). Much to her mother's dislike, Milly finds a new love interest and becomes bored with her former choice. Her sisters must keep their mom's wild behavior under control while keeping everything under wraps. There is also a side story about her musician boyfriend's family, but they are as lame as every other element of the movie.

While watching this, I kept waiting and waiting for the really good part that defines the movie. It never came (and I'm not including "The End"). It was as if they were stalling so that you wouldn't get irritated. Every time you'd start to drift off something mildly interesting would happen and then it would fall right back over the cliff of boredom. Moore's acting was acceptable but no one blew me away. If you want a very safe, cliché, romantic comedy I would recommend nothing else. Fans of Keaton/Moore will be disappointed though, and that is a shame.

My Rating =

Rent

Wednesday:
Letters from Iwo Jima (2006)

…moved me in ways no other war movie has before…

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The companion to Flags of our Fathers received little to no attention from the public. Sure it was nominated for various awards, but those are meaningless if no one watches the film! On a side note, if you have to choose one, pick Letters. The former put me to sleep (literally!).

Told from the Japanese point of view, this film illustrates the struggle of soldiers fighting for forty days on the island of Iwo Jima. Although greatly outnumbered, the troops must keep their sanity while staying alive with the little resources they have. General Kuribayashi (Watanabe) plays a key role in keeping them encouraged, even though he carries the knowledge of their demise. With no support from the Homeland (the main sector of Japan, specifically Tokyo) they must battle ruthlessly and sometimes illogically to die with honor.

Clint Eastwood directed this masterpiece. It moved me in ways no other war movie has before. I cared for those lives, and I began to get nervous about the United States' inevitable arrival. Thankfully, unlike most World War II films, Eastwood shows the struggles of both sides and doesn't just agree with the Americans regardless of their behavior. The only problem that some of you will have with this movie is the subtitles. There is no English whatsoever. I believe that this strengthened the film, but many will be turned off by them.

My Rating =

Rent

Friday:
The Simpsons Movie (2007)

I never thought this movie would be that great.

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A tale of action, adventure, and self-discovery has hit the big screen. No, I'm not referring to Harry Potter. I'm talking about The Simpsons Movie, duh! Fans need not worry though as this only enhances the hugely popular franchise.

Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie set out on an adventure to stop the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) from destroying Springfield once and for all. Whoa! Why would they do that? Well, to make a long story short, Homer ignored the new law making the local lake a "no dumping" zone. His ignorance turns the lake into a toxic wasteland and the government encases Springfield in a giant dome. The Simpsons family must find a way out and save the rest of the people while keeping their family together.

I never thought this movie would be that great. Don't get me wrong, I love the show but this was amazing. Definitely the best animated film since…well… since animation began. You would be a fool for not viewing this. Unlike most movies based on books, etc. you don't have to be familiar with the history to enjoy it. There are a few "inside" references but for the most part it is fine. I laughed from beginning (literally) to end and I know you will too. What are you waiting for? Go! Now!