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The Queen of Las Olas

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Gran Torno Written Movie Review By John Delia

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GRAN TORINO

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Bee Vang, Ahney Her and Cory Hardrict

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Rated R for language throughout and some violence

By John Delia

Clint Eastwood does it again with Gran Torino, a brilliant film that deals with life and it's stumbling blocks. Giving another great performance in the lead role, Eastwood shows his mastery for portraying subjects that are interesting and imaginative. If you like dramatic films that give you a view of society that you don't readily see, than Gran Torino is for you.
Eastwood portrays Walt Kowalski, an iron-willed and inflexible Korean War veteran living in a changing world, who is forced by his immigrant neighbors to confront his own long-held prejudices. A retired autoworker Kowalski fills his days with home repair, beer and monthly trips to the barber. Though his late wife's final wish was for him to take confession, for Walt--an embittered veteran of the Korean War who keeps his M-1 rifle cleaned and ready--there's nothing to confess. And no one he trusts enough to confess to other than his dog, Daisy.
The people he once called his neighbors have all moved or passed away, replaced by Hmong immigrants, from Southeast Asia, he despises. Resentful of virtually everything he sees--the drooping eaves, overgrown lawns and the foreign faces surrounding him; the aimless gangs of Hmong, Latino and African American teenagers who all think the neighborhood belongs to them; the callow strangers his children have grown up to be--Walt is just waiting out the rest of his life. Until the night someone tries to steal his `72 Gran Torino.
Eastwood is at his best when his films involve a life struggle. As Walt, a cantankerous old codger who has pushed away his children and makes war on his new neighbors, Eastwood commands the screen. He is very convincing here with his crass and no holds barred racist attitude that touches almost every ethnic group. I enjoyed his banter between his son's who seem to want the best for him but more than likely want to move on from the years of not being loved.
As a director Eastwood brings out some very good performances in the young teens that are the antagonists and antithesis within the storyline. Vang does a great job as Tao, the Hmong boy who is the target of a gang and Her gives a touching performance as his sister who sees the good side of Walt.
The film does contain a lot of racial slurs and is Rated R for language throughout and some graphic violence, so be cautioned.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Gran Torino is a very good film that has great acting by Eastwood and visualizes a seedier side to life. (3.5 of 5 Palm Trees)

Gran Torno Video Movie Review-Revisin en Espanol

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Gran Torno Video Movie Review

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Valkyrie- Written Movie Review By John Delia

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VALKYRIE

Starring: Tom Cruise, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, Tom Wilkinson, Terrance Stamp, and Eddie Izzard

Directed by: Bryan Singer

Rated PG-13 for violence and brief strong language

By John Delia

I just couldn't get into Valkyrie and what bothered me most were the ineffective acting and the valueless plot. If you are interested in an attempt on the life of Hitler or are a historian on WWII you may get some value from the film.

There is not much to say about the film without giving most of it away. Valkyrie is a true story in which several officers of the German Military get together and carry out an attempt on the life of Adolf Hitler, the Chancelor of Germany who perpetuated the war against Europe in the late 1930's up until his demise in 1945. The most obvious reason for this attack on him (many attempts were made on his life during his dictatorship) was that Germany was loosing and some of his main military leaders were looking for a way to negotiate their surrender, rather than an ultimate no deal defeat.

The film goes something like this. Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg (Cruise) an officer of the Third Reich agrees to a plan to stop Hitler before Germany is destroyed by the impending invasion of the country. With the help of other German officers wary of Hitler's war, von Stauffenberg gains acceptance by the German inner circle of officers closest to Hitler. During a secret meetin, von Stauffenberg unleashes the plan to take down the German despot.

Not one of the actors playing the parts of the German officers is believable in the film. Cruise, although battle scared, doesn't act desperate enough to face such a huge icon as Hitler, let alone the Fuhrer's half crazed inner circle of officers. We know from all accounts that the incident did happen. But, even if it was as easy as depicted in the film to gain entrance to the site of the attack, it is hard to believe that the Gestapo was so amateurish in the escape. Having said this about the acting, I must say however, David Bamber who plays the Fuhrer does a great job doubling for the despicable man.

If this event in history does intrigue you, there were several films and TV productions made on the subject matter that I enjoyed a lot better including The Plot to Kill Hitler starring Brad Davis and the 2004 film Operation Valkyrie: The Stauffenberg Plot to Kill Hitler which is more of a docudrama where they show a lot of actual footage of the dictator and photos of the scene.

Valkyrie is Rated PG-13 for violence and brief strong language. The film runs about 2 hours.

FINAL ANALYSIS: If you like war films that are more drama than action, this film may fit the bill. (2 of 5 stars)

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button-Written Review By John Delia

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THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON

Starring: Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchette, Jason Flemyng, Tilda Swinton, Taraji P. Henson, Elle Fanning and Julia Ormond

Directed by: David Fincher

PG-13 for brief war violence, sexual content, language and smoking

By John Delia

The film may be the best of the year with stellar acting, amazing make-up and CGI, superb directing and remarkable cinematography. I loved the odd yet touching romantic drama that held my interest throughout the nearly three-hour length. If you like films with wonderment at every turn, then The Curious Case of Benjamin Button should fill your fantasy.

The film, based on a story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, centers on the birth of a child who is so hideous that his mother is forced by her husband to abandon it at a retirement home. A worker at the home takes the child in as her own and raises him. Aging backward, from his eighties the boy starts to grow in mind much like normal children, but still in the shell of an old man. As his life progresses we get to rummage though his loves, a stint in the war, his travels and the wonders of change all seen from the odd perspective of reverse ageing.

I found the film very fascinating as it played out showing the reverse aging process while the other characters aged normally. The film is brilliant in capturing the life of Benjamin as he catches up to his childhood with stopovers along the way.

Pitt does a terrific job of keeping in character throughout the film even under the most difficult circumstances of portraying Benjamin at challenging age levels. His ability project to me the believability of the character's age progression, especially the younger (when he is old looking) years where he is learning life skills, shows genuine talent.

In support Blanchette as older Daisy who tells the story and Swinton as a forlorn Elizabeth Abbott who falls in love with Benjamin are excellent. The two pull the story together and make it romantic and interesting. I also enjoyed the acting of Fanning as the younger Daisy who befriends Benjamin while others shun the boy.

Topping the cast however, is Henson as Queenie the housekeeper who takes Benjamin in and raises him. With an endearing performance, her devotion to raising the odd looking boy is moving and admirable.

The film is rated PG-13 for brief war violence, sexual content, language and smoking so be sure to take this into consideration when deciding to take immature children to see the film.

FINAL ANALYSIS: The amazing and enjoyable film has Oscar awards written all over it. (5 of 5 stars)

Valkyrie- Video Movie Review in French

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Valkyrie- Video Movie Review in Italian

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The Spirit-Written Review By John Delia

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THE SPIRIT

Starring: Gabriel Macht, Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Mendes, Jamie King, Scarlet Johansson and Sarah Paulson

Written and Directed by: Frank Miller

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of stylized violence and action, some sexual content and brief nudity

By John Delia

I am a big fan of filmmaker Frank Miller movies like Sin City and 300 both with a highly stylized presentation of their plot. With The Spirit he's added another creative gem that should be easily enjoyed by comic book lovers and those who enjoy unusual up in your face movies.
The movie plot centers on Denny Colt (Macht), a murdered cop who is mysteriously reborn as the masked crime fighter called the Spirit. Determined to keep his beloved Central City safe, the Spirit pursues Central City's villains from the shadows and seeks to remove the worst of them all: the psychotic megalomaniac known as the Octopus (Jackson) who seeks to rule the world with powers obtained from the blood of Hercules. Yet as busy as his ongoing mission keeps him, the dashing crusader always manages to make time for beautiful women, including; San Serif (Mendes), Ellen (Paulson) and Lorelei (King), though he never quite knows if they want to seduce, love or kill him. When San Serif uncovers two chests that contain life-changing booty, the Octopus sets out to gain control of the treasures, making him the prime target for The Spirit.
Even though the plot of The Spirt is just a simple fight against foes, it is not unlike the sequels of Spider-Man, Batman or Superman for that fact. The Spirit does delve into the life of Danny Colt, but not to the extent that other superhero like Clark Kent, Peter Parker or Bruce Wayne. In The Spirit you learn about the man as the film progresses. If you are already a fan of The Spirit, this is a good thing, if not, Millers seamless style of incorporating it makes no difference to the film's enjoyment.
I found the movie fun and exciting to watch, as most avid comic book readers should as well. Miller makes the film look totally comic bookish. Using cartoonish visuals much like those in Sin City, Miller puts his characters on a computer graphic set that simulates the pages of the comic book itself. His main characters are either evil or heroic, and those in between are there only to help the plot. The wicked characters are dastardly, corrupt and power hungry while his heroic ones are cunning, tactful and ambitious both at war with each other for one purpose, good vs. evil.
While all the actors in the film do a fine job, I especially liked the performances by Jackson and Mendes. Jackson's Octopus is brutal and despicable as evil can be. He stops at nothing to achieve power, even if it kills every henchman he has. Jackson is so good in this role that he made me cringe at times. Mendes gives a delicious performance as San Serif. Her lithe beauty and natural acting ability make it easy for her to depict Serf's sultry charm, cunning mind and strong will.
The film is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of stylized violence and action, some sexual content and brief nudity so be wary of this when allowing immature children to see the film.

FINAL ANALYSIS: If you are a comic book lover or you like highly stylized films, then The Spirit is best for you. (3.5 of 5 stars)

Valkyrie- Video Movie Review

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Bedtime Stories

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CHRISTMAS 2008 MOVIE REVIEWS
By Denise Castillón

EENY, MEANY, MINEY, CHRISTMAS MOVIE

‘Tis the night before Christmas, but, indecision on which movie to go to on Christmas Day runs through your house.

If you’re looking for happy escapism (-and, who isn’t!), then you have a tough choice to make among the merry comedies opening Christmas Day, – Adam Sandler’s BEDTIME STORIES, Jim Carrey’s YES MAN or Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston’s MARLEY & ME.

But, if you wish to treat yourself with a well-deserved cinematic gift instead, in that case, you still have a difficult decision between three very unique films, - Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman’s DOUBT, Will Smith’s SEVEN POUNDS or Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett’s THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON.

DEFINITELY CONTEMPLATE “DOUBT”
(Running Time: 104 min; Rated: PG-13)

“DOUBT” is certainly flawless as a film more thought-provoking than emotionally stimulating.
Even more perfection is crafted from supreme performances by Oscar winners, Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Amy Adams and Voila Davis are also highly accomplished stand-outs in their roles in John Patrick Shanley’s film adaptation of his Tony-winning Broadway play, titled “Doubt: A Parable”.
Set in the midst of the social and political changes of the 60’s, a catholic school, in a working-class Bronx neighborhood, becomes the center of a storm between two formidable adversaries. Beyond the verdict of guilty or innocent, you must carefully interpret motivations, and heed "Every easy choice today will have its consequence tomorrow. Mark my words."
Directed and written by John Patrick Shanley.


“SEVEN POUNDS” WORTH ITS WEIGHT
(Running Time: 118 min; Rated: PG-13)

Will Smith plays grief-stricken IRS agent Ben Smith in “Seven Pounds”, who pays mysterious personal visits to unsuspecting citizens. While we strive to understand his puzzling behavior and uncover his true intentions, we observe him court Rosario Dawson as the sickly and equally lonely Emily Posa. After revealing flashback unravels this films’ mystery, we are emotionally transported into a heartrending drama by fine acting performances from Will Smith and Rosario Dawson.

Directed by Gabriele Muccino (The Pursit of Happyness). Written by Grant Nieporte.

SPOILER ALERT! The film’s title alludes to the plot’s premise; think “seven pounds of flesh”.


SURRENDER TO THE MAGIC OF “THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON”
(Running Time: 159 min; Rated: PG-13)

Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett star in this magical, heart-warming story that follows the backward ageing process of an orphaned baby raised in a loving “old folks” home in Louisiana. Based on an F. Scott Fitzgerald short story, the script for “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” was written by Eric Roth, (FORREST GUMP). There are obvious similarities as both are well-crafted, fantastical dramas revolving on the titled characters’ life adventures. However, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” is based in emotional honesty, and overflowing with genuine life experiences that remind us “It’s never too late”.

Directed by David Fincher, (ZODIAC, FIGHT CLUB, SE7EN).

Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bring much success and good health!

SEVEN POUNDS-Written Film Review

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SEVEN POUNDS (Running Time: 118 min; Rated: PG-13)

Reviewed by Denise Castillón
Enigmatic and Heart-wrenching, SEVEN POUNDS Worth Its Weight

Will Smith plays grief-stricken IRS agent Ben Smith in “Seven Pounds”, who pays mysterious personal visits to unsuspecting citizens. While we strive to understand his puzzling behavior and uncover his true intentions, we observe him court Rosario Dawson as the sickly and equally lonely Emily Posa. After revealing flashback unravels this films’ mystery, we are emotionally transported into a heartrending drama by fine acting performances from Will Smith and Rosario Dawson.

SPOILER ALERT! The film’s title alludes to the plot’s premise; think “seven pounds of flesh”.
Starring Will Smith and Rosario Dawson, along with Woody Harrelson, Barry Pepper and Michael Ealy.

Directed by Gabriele Muccino (The Pursit of Happyness). Written by Grant Nieporte. Edited by Hughes Winborne. Cinematography by Philippe Le Sourd. Produced by Will Smith, James Lassiter, Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal and Steve Tisch. Executive producers are David J. Bloomfield, David Crockett and Domenico Procacci. An Overbrook Entertainment Production. Distributed by Columbia Pictures for Sony Pictures.

YES MAN-MOVIE REVIEW

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SEVEN POUNDS-MOVIE REVIEW

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Slumdog Millionaire-Film review

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SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

Starring: Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Mahesh Manjrekar, Madhur Mittal, Ayush Mahesh Khedekar, Anil Kapoor and Irrfan Kahn

Directed by: Danny Boyle

Rated R for some violence, disturbing images and language

By John Delia

Probably the most unnoticed film of 2008, in my opinion Slumdog Millionaire happens to be one of the years best. Although there is no storyline resemblance to Juno or Little Miss Sunshine, the film fits in their category of an independent film that’s different and full of heart. I liked this drama because it was entertaining throughout and kept me on the edge of my seat up to the time the credits rolled.
Slumdog Millionaire is the story of Jamal Malik (Patel), an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who is about to experience the biggest day of his life. With the whole nation watching, he is just one question away from winning a staggering 20 million rupees (about $400,000 US) on India’s “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?”
But when the show breaks for the night, police arrest him on suspicion of cheating; how could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika (Pinto), the girl he loved and lost. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show’s questions. But one question remains a mystery: what is this young man with no apparent desire for riches really doing on the game show?
Under the keen direction of Boyle (Millions, 28 Days Later) the entire cast gives brilliant performances. I was completely captivated by the three main leads at all ages depicted on the screen. The game show Jamal at 18 takes on most of the dialogue in the film, but performances by Pinto as the older Latika and, Manjrekar as his brother Javed make the storyline work for the screen. Patel and Pinto are acting for the first time in this movie, but you would not believe it. Their strong screen presence and ability to deliver their character consistently within the storyline is a treat.
But the winner in acting here is Khedekar as the youngest Jamal. His innocent smile and lovable personality captivate the screen. Facing the danger of a wild escape from his would be captors the wild-eyed Khedekar gives an unforgettable emotional performance that had me glued to the screen.
The film brought some excellent films about children to mind including; City of God, City of Men, Millions and Kite Runner. If you are into films that inspire, are thought provoking and ultimately uplifting, then you will love, as I did, Slumdog Millinaire, my choice for best foreign film.
The film is rated R for violence, disturbing images and language so be cautioned when deciding to bring youngsters to see the film. The movie was filmed in English in Mumbai, India.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Slumdog Millionaire is an inspiring and courageous film that should not be missed. (5 of 5 Palm Trees)

Slumdog Millionaire-Revision en Espanol

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Slumdog Millionaire-Film review

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The Day The Earth Stood Still-Movie Review

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THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL

Starring: Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly, Kathy Bates, John Cleese, John Hamm and Jaden Christopher Smith

Directed by: Scott Derrickson

Rated PG-13 for some sci-fi disaster images and violence

By John Delia

I wanted The Day the Earth Stood Still to be good so much that I could taste it, but unfortunately it didn’t make the grade. I guess if you’re between the ages of 7 and 16 and a sci-fi nut however, then check it out. Even science fiction lovers should have a hard time liking the film that not only stumbles on the remake a classic, but also makes it an environmental issue. The only thing missing in the film is Al Gore. If you liked the remake of War of the Worlds, then this one should suck you in too.
The only redeemer here is that the film is packed with some great special visual effects that makes the simple storyline pop off the screen. This is a plus, especially if you can find the movie showing in the IMAX format.
In THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL, a contemporary reinvention of the 1951 science fiction classic, renowned scientist Dr. Helen Benson (Connelly) finds herself face to face with an alien called Klaatu (Reeves), who travels across the universe to warn of an impending global crisis. When forces beyond Helen’s control, lead by the US Secretary of Defense (Bates) treat the extraterrestrial as a hostile and deny his request to address the world’s leaders, Benson and her estranged stepson Jacob (Smith) quickly discover the deadly ramifications of Klaatu’s claim that he is a friend to the Earth. Now Helen must find a way to convince the alien who was sent to destroy us that mankind is worth saving – but it may be too late as the process has begun.
 The only winners in this film are the special effects and CGI people who designed the huge globe that transports Klaatu to Earth, the robot Gort and hordes of nanobots. Mesmerizing, the sphere looks like it would shatter if touched, but not in the world of science fiction. The design of Gort, the giant robot, is very much like the one in the 50’s production, but instead of a man in a rubber suit, this computer generated entity looks more menacing and real. At one point in the film millions of nanobots (Think Michael Crichton’s novel Prey) are sent via Gort to destroy the earthlings. The bots resemble locusts and swarm over anything in its path raising them to the ground. Football stadiums are turned into dust, 16 wheelers are pulverized and buildings are shredded.
Most of the acting in the film suffers from lack of good dialogue, faulty direction, and type casting, even though it doesn’t take a super performance to bring a character to life in a science fiction movie. Connelly plays her scientist role very nonchalant and robotic. Looking more amazed than clever, her role as the connecting tool between the alien and the Earthlings seems to be no more than a tour guide. There are moments however where she shines especially during her interaction with Smith who plays her son Bobby. The two are at odds with helping Klaatu and Smith does a very admiral job with portraying a young man with an attitude opposite Connelly.
Performances that were not a good fit included Bates as Secretary of Defense. Kathy is doing Kathy here adding nothing but a familiar face rather than a forceful character that has to deal with a very disturbing situation. Her staunch roles as Delores Claiborne (in Delores Claiborne) and Annie Wilkes in Misery always seem to come to mind when I see her in a film and in The Day the Earth Stood Still, she remains no different.
The film is rated PG-13 and contains some sci-fi disaster images and violence so take this into consideration before allowing the very young to see the movie.

FINAL ANALYSIS: The Day the Earth Stood Still has a lot of problems and unless you need a dose of sci-fi CGI, you may want to avoid the film. (2 of 5 stars)

The Reader-Film Review

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AL MCGHEE IS HERE!

Who is Al McGhee? Al McGhee is our premiere reporter and entertainment specialist! He has spent time and interviewed hundreds of celebrities in his career. Your Entertainment Ticket is proud to have him aboard! Check out some of his early interviews here.

The Reader-Film Review

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THE READER

Starring: Kate Winslet, Ralph Fiennes, David Kross, and Lena Olin

Directed by: Stephen Daldry

Rated R for some scenes of sexuality and nudity

By John Delia

An amazing little film that tugged at my heartstrings, tested my mercy and then challenged my mind has hit the big screen. The movie is called The Reader and with outstanding performances by Kate Winslet and David Kross, an intriguing script, and impeccable direction by Stephen Daldry, it’s a huge winner. If you like dramas that draw you into the lives of others, touch on the evils of war and the consequences thereof, then The Reader measures up.
The film opens in post WWII Germany as teenager Michael Berg (Koss) falls ill on a trolley and is helped by Hanna (Winslet), a stranger twice his age. After resting in her apartment and collecting his composure, Hanna guides the boy home. After several months recovering from scarlet fever, Michael visits Hanna with flowers for her random act of kindness. The two are hastily drawn into a passionate love affair that lasts for months. During that time, Michael reads several romantic novels to Hanna adding to their bond of lust and love. Despite their growing physical relationship, Hanna mysteriously disappears and leaves Michael broken hearted. After 8 years of separation Michael encounters Hanna under the most abhorrent circumstances, which lead him to make a heart-rending decision.
The direction in this film by Daldry bests his previous intriguing film The Hours where he dealt with similar issues like freedom, responsibility and identity. Here he takes us on an odyssey with a young boy as the central figure trying to cope with his first affair with the coming of age. His life becomes a quest for the truth and when he comes face to face with it, he doesn’t seem to know how to handle it. Daldry keeps the storyline moving as he develops his characters and leads you though their ill-fated lives.
Winslet gives the performance of the life as Hanna the shameless woman that feeds the mind and body of Michael with love and lust. Her depiction of the absorbing yet callous lover who has a secret that haunts her is engrossing and realistic. She opens her soul to the role much like Charlize Theron did in the film Monster, never flinching during the awkward moments and rising to the occasion in scenes calling for a sexual or depressing vision.
In his first major lead role Kross stands out as the young man who becomes in lust then in love with a much older women for his first sexual encounter. His performance showing a naive boy who changes into a man is convincing. I especially liked his reactions when Hanna makes her first move on him and later on in the film when a waitress comments that he has a beautiful mother. The astonishing look on his face when he finds out that Hanna has left him and later when he discovers her secret is priceless.
The film is rated R because it contains a lot of graphic nudity and scenes of sexuality so be cautioned if you are deciding to take youngsters to see the film.
FINAL ANALYSIS: The Reader is an excellent compelling film for drama lovers and film buffs. (4.5 of 5 stars)

Doubt-Movie Review

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DOUBT

Starring: Meryl Streep, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams, Viola Davis and Alice Drummond

Directed by: John Parker Shanley

Rated PG-13 for thematic material

By John Delia

Excellent acting, good direction and a provocative plot make Doubt a deserving film for those that like their drama dark and disturbing. Special acting kudos to Amy Adams and Viola Davis for their superb performances that should garner them Golden Globe or Oscar attention.
The film takes place in the early 60’s at a parochial school in New York. Recently appointed to the school, Father Flynn (Hoffman) has been getting a lot of admiration from his students because of his gentle hand toward discipline. In the meantime, principal Sister Beauvier (Streep), a staunch disciplinarian has become peeved by the priest’s actions. In the meantime Donald Miller (, the first and only black student in the school has become charmed by Father Flynn’s flamboyant ways. Sister Beauvier makes note that she feels Father Flynn is getting to close to Miller and a suspicion develops. When Sister James (Adams) tells Principal Beauvier’s that she has seen something strange going on involving Miller, Beauvier starts searching for the truth. Thus starts a battle of wits between the Father and Principal that could have devastating results.
The smart direction by Shanley of keeping the actors confined in the school makes the film very suspenseful. Every encounter with students in the hallway by Father Flynn gets the camera’s close attention allowing his actions to exude suspicion. The close-ups in the scene where Sister Beauvier and Flynn go toe to toe are gripping. At one point you do not know who to side with, as both sides of the story seem pertinent to innocence and guilty to the accusations.
Outstanding performances by Adams and Davis help the film work. In a tearful moment Davis as Mrs. Miller the black student’s mother brings out a clear prospective of the situation from her point of view. Her performance is masterful and convincing enough to earn her a supporting nomination for a Golden Globe or Oscar. I have never seen such a wonderful performance for Adams. Usually she is this goofy yet charming person in films like Enchanted and Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day, but not here. With a stunningly serious performance, Adams’ portrayal of the frail nun makes the movie a success. Not wanting to disappoint Beauvier in her quest to take Flynn down, Sister James timidly becomes her spy.
The film does contain some adult content involving a sexual inference and has been rated PG-13.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Doubt is a very good drama for those that like strong confrontational films. (4 of 5 stars)

Doubt

The Day The Earth Stood Still

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MILK

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MILK (Running Time: 128 min; Rated: R)
Reviewed by Denise Castillón

YES, MILK!

Director Gus Van Sants’ dynamic film MILK opens with Sean Penn as Harvey Milk narrating a final message of hope into a tape recorder in prediction of his assassination before he reaches fifty years of age. Weaving historical black and white footage, the biographical drama goes on to recount of the last eight years in the life of Harvey Milk, prior to his appointment as the US's first openly gay elected official and until the San Francisco supervisor is shoot to death along with Mayor George Moscone by San Francisco Supervisor Dan White.

The most powerful scenes occur late in the film with the stunning performance of Sean Penn in the climatic shooting of Milk, and the painfully touching conclusion sequences. The provocative kissing exchanges between Penn and James Franco, as Milk’s long-time lover, arrive early in film. This will ease a mainstream audience to draw back into the story of Milk’s social activism and political campaigning to preserve Human Rights that included racial minorities and senior citizens, and not exclusively gay issues.

Many contemporary films have depicted prejudices in the 60’s and 70’s, and show how they ignited citizens at that time into vociferous activism. However, none of these films seem to have remotely inspired today’s generally complacent American society into demonstrating like passionate fervor for present-day injustices. Time will tell if the departing words of the film’s hero “You gotta give ‘em hope” are in effect encouraging.

Oscar and Golden Globe Award winner, Sean Penn stars along with a sizeable and talented ensemble of actors, -James Franco, Josh Brolin, Emile Hirsch, Victor Garber, Diego Luna, Alison Pill as well as non-actors, who were among Milk’s real-life supporters, -Allan Bard, Frank Robinson, Tom Ammiano and Cleve Jones (who is played in the film by Emile Hirsch).

While Sean Penn has deservedly received much Oscar-talk for his riveting acting performance, equal attention is warranted for Josh Brolin as Dan White. Brolin’s superb characterization eloquently exposes Dan White the true “outsider” amongst the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Whereas, Diego Luna’s interpretation of Milk’s later lover was just plain silly.

Directed by Gus Van Sant (Elephant, Good Will Hunting, My Private Idaho). Written by Dustin Lance Black, (Big Love). Director of Photography, Harris Savides, A.S.C. Edited by Elliot Graham. Music by Danny Elfman. Costume Designer, Danny Glicker. Production Designer, Bill Groom.

Produced by Dan Jinks and Bruce Cohen. Executive Producers, Michael London, Dustin Lance Black, Bruna Papandrea, Barbara A. Hall, William Horberg. A Focus Features Release.

Conversation with Antonio Baiocco-Movie Director

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Nobel Son Revision en Espanol

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Cadillac Records Review-Revision en Espanol

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Punisher-War Zone

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Nobel Son

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