Angels and Demons – The sequel (or if you go by the books a prequel) to The Da Vinci Code once again stars Tom Hanks who goes to the Vatican to solve a mystery that involves all of Rome being destroyed, and priests who are in line to be the pope being kidnapped and tortured. I thought the film had a quicker pace then The Da Vinci Code, but I cannot say that it was better than that film. If you liked The Da Vinci Code, you’ll like this, and if you didn’t like The Da Vinci Code, you probably will not like this film.
Funny People – Starring Adam Sandler and Seth Rogen, the third film from Apatow’s was a big disappointment for me this summer. The film is a lot colder than the trailer would have you believe, as it deals with Adam Sandler’s character being diagnosed with cancer and having to deal with it. Sandler’s character is an asshole in real life (but beloved by his fans), and he uses and abuses people to his advantage. My big problem was that you cannot create any sympathy for that kind of character, so you don’t really care about his story. That’s my take, but I’m open to hearing other peoples thoughts on the film!
Four Christmases – Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon flexed their star power in theatres last Christmas with the story of a couple who does everything to avoid going to all of their in-laws for Christmas. When their flight down south is cancelled, and they are seen on TV by all of their in-laws at the airport, they are invited to go to four different Christmas dinners (as all the parents are divorced). Smart strategy to release this film around Christmas time (as is not always the case when it comes to films being released on DVD).
Shorts – Robert Rodriguez returned to the kid genre with his latest effort, which was a disappointment at the box office. The film is about a magic rainbow coloured rock which grants wishes to everyone. A kid has it, loses it, and with his new found friends, does everything he can to get it back.
Santa Buddies – This film has dogs and a Christmas theme. That is all I know. You should know what you are getting when it comes to the “Buddies” films, but as I have never seen one, I cannot truthfully comment about what you are getting.
Taking Chances – This film stars Justin Long and Emmanuelle Chriqui and is about a casino that is going to be built on historical land. The characters stand up to stop the casino from being built, but the town is angry at them because the casino could bring a new revenue stream into their dated town.
Imagine That – This film was released on Blu-Ray a few weeks ago, and finally comes out on regular DVD. From my original thoughts when the Blu-Ray came out on DVD on October 6th – The film stars Eddie Murphy, and is about his relationship with his daughter and the magical world she creates. It just so happens that this magical world also helps Murphy become a financial wizard, after struggling at his job as of late. Again, I’m not doing the premise justice, but it did not get good reviews. Interesting note – the screenwriters of this film also wrote Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure and Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey.
TV on DVD
Beverly Hills 90210: The Eighth Season – The original 90210 has its eighth season released on DVD, and it starts out with Kelly and Brandon having trouble with their relationship, and Donna and David deciding to move back in together, while Steve meets a new girl that he likes (the girl was played by future Oscar winner Hilary Swank).
Melrose Place: Season 5 Volume 2 – Season Five of the original Melrose Place had 34 episodes, so it makes sense that they split up the season into two parts on DVD. More backstabbing, drama, and sex happen on Melrose Place this season. I didn’t watch the show when it was originally on-air.
Life On Mars: Series 2 – The UK version releases the final eight episodes on DVD and it begins with Sam experiencing visions that lead him to believe that his life is in danger in the year 2006 (the show takes place in 1973).
Until Next Tuesday!
