If I told you this movie was predictable, cheesy and anti-climactic would you think that I hated it?

If so, you’d be wrong.

This movie was what it was; nothing deep and just a bit of fun. It also helps a LOT if you like the HOT, HOT, HOT Matthew McConaughey and the hot in her own right, Sarah Jessica Parker. They made the movie fun as did their co-stars. Yes, you knew exactly how the movie would turn out and the lizards, the dolphins and the chipmunks were unbelievable…but that was totally okay.

If you expect depth from every movie, this probably isn’t for you. But if you like a fun movie and just want to relax, try Failure to Launch

Director: Tom Dey
Producer: Scott Rudin
Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Sarah Jessica Parker, Zooey Deschanel, Justin Bartha, Bradley Cooper

Buy Failure to Launch on DVD

I was a bit worried at the beginning of this movie because it seemed like it would be a snoozer and just not engaging enough to bring me into belief in this story based on the graphical novel of the same name (by the way, author of that novel – Alan Moore – says the screenplay for this movie is “rubbish”). But things did pick up and I got into the story of the totalitarian government ruling Great Britain who controlled all communication and media. By this time, in 2020, the U.S. is referred to as the “former United States” and most people have died from famine or disease. No mention of what happened to Canada, but I’m guessing we don’t exist in this time either.

I found the story to be very timely and even though it takes place in Great Britain, it really seems to be a commentary of the state of fear in the United States today. The movie’s government keeps its citizens inline with constant reminders of seemingly imagined terrorist threats, suspension of personal rights and control of the media. I can’t help but think this movie isn’t just about this imaginary government, but a commentary on what’s happening under our noses.

Buy V for Vendetta on DVD

Finally! Spike Lee makes a movie I actually like (Oh wait…I did like Summer of Sam too). Personally, I find Spike Lee’s movies overbearing and his messages are too in your face. The Inside Man was all about the story and the racism, corruption, etc…were secondary, making the message all the more powerful.

It also helps that Lee chose one of the most under-rated actors, Clive Owen, to play the criminal that has orchestrated the “perfect bank robbery”. Only problem is that that the movie seems to drag on in parts and holds back what’s really happening just for the sake of taking longer.

Buy The Inside Man on DVD