Grosse Pointe Blank (15th Anniversary Edition) (1997)

I first saw this during it's initial VHS release. The story is of Martin Blank, a professional Los Angeles hit man who is drawn back to his rural hometown to both attend his high school reunion and take on a contract to whack a guy.

One of the most well-written scripts of the 90's, in my opinion, doesn't work without John Cusack being cast as Martin Blank. He sold the role perfectly, and shines throughout the film, alongside a witty, phenomenal supporting cast of Minnie Driver, Jeremy Piven, Dan Akroyd and Joan Cusack.

Often mistaken as completely morbid, the film takes on not only a tone of humor, but that of vengance and morality. You must see this film.

The DVD, on the other end, [stinks]. Yet another incredible film thrown out there on DVD with a poor transfer and a trailer for an extra. The film sounds fanastic though, and scenes such as the Akroyd/Cusack gunfight and the destruction of the mini-mart can be greatly enjoyed with a good surround sound setup.

Grosse Pointe Blank is an unusual movie. A professional hitman returns to his hometown to "do a job" and, while he's there, attend his 10 year highschool reunion. John Cusack plays the role well, charming and remarkably likeable, despite his profession. This "dark comedy" is very clever, and I rate it as one my favorite 90's films.

Too bad the DVD isn't up to par. It has next to zero extras. But even that could be passable if the picture was good. First of all, the movie is non-anamorphic. That doesn't make a difference unless you have a 16x9 television, it'll look the same on a regular tv, it's just a pet peeve of mine. But, the transfer we did get is just pathetic; it looks like a (bad) laser disc transfer. The picture is grainy, and there are some definite compression artifacts to been seen.

Bottom line: this DVD is worth buying for the movie, no doubt... and since this is the only version available, it's this or nothing. Just don't expect a really terrific picture.

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I went into a local store to check out the packaging for this 2-disc re-release, hoping that Disney would finally release a DVD of Grosse Pointe Blank with a new 16x9 anamorphic transfer. This new disc appears to be the same disc that was released in 1998, and NOT a new anamorphic widescreen transfer. On the back of the package, it still lists "Dolby Digital Surround Sound" and "1.85:1 Widescreen," the same as it did on the original DVD (and the combo GBP/High Fidelity disc that came out later). The new 2-disc release for "High Fidelity" lists the same bonus features as its original release, and showed as "Enhanced for 16x9 Televisions."

It appears the only difference between this release and the original 1998 issue is a second disc with a digital copy for portable video players and updated packaging. I didn't end up buying it based on the packaging and won't until they release a proper version for 16x9 televisions (hopefully a Blu-ray).

I am extremely disappointed that Disney would even bother to re-release such an antiquated, low-quality DVD with only the most minor of improvements (packaging, digital copy). Even if they had not added any bonus features (the original release had none to speak of), an updated anamorphic transfer wouldn't be too much to ask. Will absolutely not buy a copy of Grosse Pointe Blank until a good-quality DVD or Blu-ray is made available.

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Having seen quite a few of John Cusack's movies, I think this one hits exactly the right tone. He often plays lovable loners or losers who somehow manage to get the girl. In this film, he is the ultimate loner, a professional hitman, with very little to brag about at his 10-year high school reunion. He can't even figure out what to tell people who ask him where he's been for the past 10 years, so he tells them the truth, but nobody believes him.

Cusack's character, Martin Blank, is filled with angst, and trying to work this out in therapy. Unfortunately, his therapist (brilliantly underplayed by Alan Arkin), doesn't want to talk to him ever since Blank told the good doctor what he does for a living. The interaction between Cusack and Arkin in this film is much funnier and more real than the Billy Crystal/Robert DeNiro shtick in "Analyze This."

The heart of the film is the relationship between Blank and his high school sweetheart (Minnie Driver), whom he stood up on prom night 10 years before and never contacted again. Blank is emotionally repressed and morally confused (which is why he is well-suited to be a hitman) but Driver is still crazy about him, not believing his statement about his chosen profession. She has some huge trust issues though, what with being stood up on prom night, and all. She is somewhat willing to give him another chance. The playfulness of their interaction is charming, especially when it's tinged with irony and distrust. She doesn't want to have sex with him right away, but she would like an "airplane." (he holds her up with his feet while she pretends to fly)

The climatic scene, where Blank declares his love for Driver, acknowledges his own considerable shortcomings, and promises to change, meanwhile engaging in a gripping, over-the-top shootout with the bad guys, is absolutely perfect for what Cusack's character is about: he can't express himself unless he's pumped full of adrenaline in a battle to the death, but he doesn't want to stay trapped in this way of life.

All of the actors are wonderful, especially Joan Cusack as John's office manager and the person who needles him into going to his reunion and rejoining the human race. Dan Akyroyd is also a hoot.

Everything works in this movie. It's a black comedy/screwball romance/action flick with subtle, clever dialogue, cool music and beautiful scenery. It is completely irreverent, but hopeful and life-affirming, as well.

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If I'm correct, after this movie came out, all the big Cusack fan sites started. Coincidence? I think no compadre. I know I definatly fell head over heels for John Cusack after this movie, not only because of his performance, but because he also wrote the movie, produced it, and supervised the soundtrack (which also kicks some serious boo-tay, featuring some great 80s hits such as: "Blister In the Sun"-by The Violent Femmes, and "Rudie Can't Fail" by The Clash. A little trivia for you...When John Cusack and his buddies at New Crime Productions were writing the script to this movie, they kept The Clash in mind throughout and had Joe Strummer write the score for the movie.)

I was a little dispointed in the DVD version of this movie because of the lack of extras. I was hoping for some commentary or deleted scenes, but alas, all you are left with is the trailer and some "suggested titles," which bore everyone to death. Still, it is wide-screen and the movie is amazing by itself so the rating will not be lowered.

I'm sure everyone viewing this review has seen the movie, but I'll outline the plot for the unblessed among you.

Plot: Martin Q. Blank doesn't know what to do with his life. He has the money, car, but his life feels empty. His therapist reminds him that the angst over killing a lot of people might have something to do with this (He's a lonegunman, professional killer, hitman, however you'd like to describe that profession.) He and his assistant (a brilliant Joan Cusack...what great genes that family has) tell Martin to go back to his high school reunion on the way to do a hit to reunite with his old girlfriend...the one he ditched on prom night and has not stopped dreaming about since. Chaos insues when after not joining a hitman's union fronted by Grocer (a phycotic hitman with frayed nerves), plans to kill Martin by siccing Feds on him after he performs his hit. In the process of reuniting with Debbi, (Minnie Driver, love that woman, she is funny and great in this movie) he realizes that there is so much more to life that he overlooked. It so cute when he holds that baby at the reunion...he realizes the value of human life when he looks into the baby's eyes...a very touching moment.

Does Martin deserve a second shot? (Bad pun, I know) Will he redeem himself? What will Debbi do when she finds out what he really does for a living? Will Martin ever live down his shame at being know as "poodle puncher?" Watch the movie one time to find out, and twenty more times for fun and the joy of seeing John kick some butt (he does all his own kick-boxing stunts that he learned in Say Anything...his kick-boxing instructor also plays the "thug" that is trying to kill him) and wear all black suits. Great plot, witty dialogue, wonderful cast, plus John's friend George Piven's in it. Amazing John movie, definatly in my top five list.

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Year One (Theatrical & Unrated Edition) (2009)

I seem to find myself in the minority here, but I actually liked "Year One". Having seen it in the theater, I thought it was a fairly fun and light-hearted experience all around. The humor is perhaps not as broad as some prefer-but myself, I sort of enjoyed the subtleties. These type of films usually benefit from a second or even third viewing if you give them a chance.

In "Year One", Jack Black plays his part adequately but seems to yield the majority of the spotlight to his on-screen cohort Michael Cera. Michael Cera is the real star of "Year One" and Black seems to know it-taking a step back for the younger comedic actor to really shine. Cera's comedic delivery is dry and spot-on for his character "Oh" and he plays the part with real charismatic charm. In short, it is Cera's film, not Black's-and I wouldn't have had it any other way.

When it comes down to it, Year One is just a harmless little diversionary film which doesn't take itself too seriously and nor should you. I personally thought it had a lot of wit and charm. Perhaps it just didn't strike the majority of audiences in the same way. That's too bad too because personally, I found this film far more entertaining than some of the summer's bloated special effects films.

Surprisingly, this film looks amazing on Blu-Ray too-especially the city scenes.

I've read a couple of critical reviews of this movie and can't help but laugh at the disdain for this movie. I don't see how people expected greatness and depth out of a movie with Jack Black set in prehistoric and biblical times. I mean could they not see that by looking at the cover with a clean shaven, doe eyed Cera cast as a caveman? You want comedic depth, go watch "Best in Show" or "Arrested Development". You want silly and mindless toilet humor, then watch this.

I didn't go into this movie expecting an Oscar worthy movie or ground breaking performance, in fact nobody should. This movie is obviously intended for you to shut your brain down and let go for a couple of hours. I really enjoyed this movie and love Black in these type of roles. Cera plays the same role as he did in "Superbad" which isn't a bad thing since he's perfect as the shy awkward guy. You get that this movie is going in a whole different direction from the on-set of the movie when the cavemen speak with current day dialogue. It's right at that point where you're either sticking with it or bailing because even the most novice move watcher knows that this isn't "History of the World". If you like stuff from the Apatow troupe then this movie might be up your alley. If you don't get the Apatow reference then you obviously won't get this movie.

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Jack black is funny and stupid which is why i like this movie.Michael cera is dorky and funny it's fun movie to watch with friends.If you are into comedies you will like this one.

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This movie definitly has slow parts and jokes that don't always work as well as intended, so don't expect this to be a summer blockbuster. Don't have any high expectations for any Jack Black movie or Michael Cera movie really... If you like history or the humanitites you will definitly enjoy this movies multiple settings as they go through the early centuries. I would recommend at least a rental, if you're bored and are looking for something to mindlessly enjoy.

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I did not have too high expectations for this movie, the plot looked silly and the actors are not the best in Hollywood. Suprisingly, the plot threw in many references to the Old Testament. They followed books of the bible in a similar way that Forrest Gump followed events in 60's culture. It was cleverly done. I was pleased to see Paul Rudd, although for only a brief appearance. Yes, it contained silly, teenage boy humor, but what else would you expect from a movie with Jack Black and Michael Cera? If you like these guys, you'll probably like this movie.

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Billy Madison (1995)

I've read every review of this movie quite thoroughly and I've noticed a common thread in each and every "bad" review given. All of Billy Madison's detractors say that the movie is stupid and childish. I suggest that these people stick to their "The English Patient", and leave this wonderful film alone. The movie's 'stupidity' as critics call it, is actually the essence of it's true genius. Billy Madison is ridiculous, illogical, and downright bizarre, but it is these elements that make this movie the most entertaining film I have ever seen. Sure, there are great, epic, emotional dramas that have the power to move you to tears, and these are exceptional films. Films can also be fun however, and Billy Madison is the most fun you will ever have from simply watching a movie. Doesn't this also make a film great? Why do critics always dismiss films such as these as "immature"? Billy Madison won't make you cry, but Gone With the Wind sure isn't gonna make you laugh either. Both emotions are important, and a film that makes you laugh uncontrollably (which I guarantee this film will) is just as effective as one that makes you weep, or feel warm and fuzzy inside. As far as Sandler's acting chops are concerned, he certainly wouldn't be considered a 'thespian', but his natural appeal is so exceptionally strong that it can carry a movie he is just that likeable. The man speaks pure gibberish and I laugh my fool head off, this is a talent that no other actor can match. I don't recommend that you see Billy Madison, I insist that you buy it, right now, from Amazon.com. The American Film Institute declared Orson Welles' "Citizen Kane" as the greatest film of all time? Just one question: where is the imaginary penguin, Mr. Welles? Where is the imaginary penguin? Peace, I'm outta here!

This is still my favorite of all of Adam Sandler's filmefforts. WHY, you ask? Because of it's LACK of a script. This moviedoesn't even try to create substance, character or plot! All it is, is Adam Sandler acting so lovably loopy that you can't help but crack a smile or let out a large guffaw. Sandler's other films (that I DIDN'T like) like "The Waterboy" and "Big Daddy" tried to be sort of serious in some parts and tried to be witty when in fact it wasn't.

"Billy Madison" is all about STUPIDITY. Heck, it's about a 28 year old guy going through grade school! Whatta ya expect, ya know! There are classically hysterical moments:

"O'Doyle rules! " "Shampoo is better! I help clean the hair! Conditioner is better! I make the hair silky and smooth! Oh, really fool! Really! . . .Stop looking at me swan." "No, I will not make out with you! "

And of course, who could forget Steve Buscemi putting on lipstick? Or the late great Chris Farley making out with a penguin. Or those stupid graduation parties! It's so stupid but sooooo funny for some reason. Watch this comedy today. END

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This movie is like -soo riotously funny. No bearing on relity, but you'll laugh your splitting sides off! See Adam Sandler before he became so well known. His comic genius was already showing big time. As an heir with whacky friends, he has to repeat all grades of school in just a few weeks to convince his dad that he's worthy of his inheritance. And he has a riotous good time in the process. He meets a teacher, Veronica Vaughan, played by Bridgette Wilson. This is her only lead role I know of -she's such an underrated actress who should have gone big places. See this underrated gem of a comedy!

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Is there a point to this story? No. Do you care? No. This is, in my humble opinion, Adam Sandler's best movie.

Adam(Billy Madison) plays a drunk, lazy, party going imbecile. His father is the proud owner of a big hotel chain. Billy wants nothing more than to take over this chain of hotels from his father. In order to do so he must graduate grades 1-12 in two weeks. He falls for his third grade teacher Veronica Vaughn. He actually has one of his third grade classmates call up his teacher to see if she likes anyone. That in itself is funny as I'm sure all of us guys and gals have had one of our friends call up someone we had a crush on to see if they liked us when we were younger. Billy, however is 28 years old.

Anyway, Billy Madison isn't for everybody. If you want a rich plot or great acting this is definitely not for you. This movie is for any Adam Sandler fan. It's that stupid, stupid humor that can make anyone crack a smile. If you want a movie to make you laugh see Billy Madison.

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Billy Madison is the most hilariously inane character that Adam Sandler has portrayed, and while I don't consider this one of Sandler's best movies, it is easily one of his funniest. A lot of the comedy seems to have come directly from the set of Saturday Night Live; it was funny there, and it is funny here. Even a few SNL buddies, namely Norm MacDonald and the late Chris Farley, turn up to revel in the infectiously entertaining silliness. Sandler plays Billy Madison (of course), the son of a filthy rich hotel magnate. He spends all of his time lazing around the pool, drinking copious amounts of alcohol, and pawing over nudie mags; his only hobby seems to be lighting bags of poo on fire on the front porch of people he doesn't particularly like. Even after his infantile behavior at a big business meeting, he is shocked to hear his father say he is giving the company to a particularly annoying executive rather than turning it over to him. He swears he will do anything, even go back to school and actually earn the diploma his father bought for him, to make his father change his mind. Monday morning finds him camped out in a first grade classroom, where he actually fits in pretty well. Every two weeks, he is tested and bumped up another grade. Billy really enjoys his time in third grade because he makes some good friends among the children and laps the elixir of knowledge from the fountain of the gorgeous Veronica Vaughn (Bridgette Wilson). As time goes by, Eric starts sweating and sets Billy up for a fall. Only the disciplinarian love of Veronica and the support of his new childhood friends can pick Billy up and get him back in the game.

I think Sandler is a comic genius, and few comedians could make such a silly, silly movie a real success. I mean, Billy does things like chase imaginary giant penguins around the house; that kind of thing just doesn't fly with any other actors. I should point out that there is actually a strong human element to this story as it progresses, though. Once all the alcohol is out of his bloodstream, Billy is a nice, good-hearted fellow, and the reliving of his old school days makes a profound impact on his character. I'm still not exactly sure what Veronica sees in him, but true success pretty much requires a good-looking woman to be there to kiss you at the end. Perhaps I should just say a final word to the parents of teenaged boys: while this movie does provide a strategy guaranteed to make any young man study his heart out, it is probably not something you will want to sanction in your own family life.

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Can't Hardly Wait (10 Year Reunion Edition) (1998)

Ethan Embry and Jennifer Love Hewitt star in this teen comedy originally released in 1998 and now finally 10 years later we are getting a special edition DVD. So what can you expect from the 10 Year Reunion Edition DVD of Can't Hardly Wait? Well Extras will include:

* an original commentary with filmmakers and cast (no big deal as this was on the original DVD release)

* a commentary with filmmakers and cast 10 Years Later

* Featurette "Huntington High Class of `98" Reunion

* Featurette "Can't Hardly Wait: The Making of a Teen Classic"

* Featurette "The Life of the Party"

* exclusive deleted scenes (at last)

* A You Know You're `90's If..." trivia game

* and the "Can't Get Enough Of You Baby" Smashmouth music video (which was also on the original release)

All in all it has the makings to be great. I am just happy this amazing movie is finally getting the attention it deserves!

In my opinion, this is one of the best teen movies ever made. While the main characters seem somewhat stereotypical at first, all of the characters (well, almost all of them) break down the barriers of high school cliquedom and discover something about themselves and their high school classmates. The whole movie centers around a party on graduation night. Preston (Ethan Embry) has carried a torch for Amanda (the gorgeous Jennifer Love Hewitt) ever since meeting her as a freshman. After four years, Amanda has just been dumped by her jock boyfriend, and Preston is convinced that fate will finally bring him and Amanda together. A series of "signs" convinces him to tell Amanda how he feels about her--this task becomes pretty complicated as the night progresses. Meanwhile, there are other wonderful subplots. Seth Green is hilarious as a jive-talking, would-be playboy determined to find a girl at the party; he ends up stuck in a bathroom with a girl he was good friends with before he tried to join the cool crowd in high school. The obligatory nerd goes to the party with a plan to humiliate Amanda's ex-boyfriend for having picked on him for years, and he ends up becoming the life of the party. His drunken performance of GNR's "Paradise City" is not to be missed. A lot of things happen throughout the movie, but the only person who really comes out a loser is Amanda's ex-boyfriend.

As a former nerd, I enjoyed seeing the self-absorbed jock get humiliated, the nerd become temporarily popular, and the shy guy stand a chance of getting the girl. I'm sure some people think the idea of carrying around a letter to a girl for four years is weird or obsessive, but I can attest to the fact that carrying around a secret longing for a person runs deep within the soul and cannot be expected to disappear in such a short time as four years. One feature of this movie I really liked was seeing a yearbook-like biography of each character at the beginning--complete with high school activities, future plans, and a favorite quote.

The entire cast is terrific, and I really enjoy this movie every time I watch it. Seth Green, as I have mentioned, is downright hilarious. Hewitt does a wonderful job portraying a prom queen who wants to find someone who will see her for what kind of person she is rather than judge her solely on her looks. Although the movie may sound like typical teenaged silliness to some, the characters do succeed in disproving the often perceived shallowness of the young. If you believe or want to believe in fate, this movie can also be an uplifting experience. As an added bonus, Smash Mouth's video for "Can't Get Enough of You Baby" featuring a dangerously stunning Jennifer Love Hewitt is also included with the movie.

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Bashed by critics, audience viewers have given this movie cult status, and deservedly so. Good fun performances by everyone but of course the standout is Jennifer Love Hewitt who plays the most popular girl at school Amanda Becket. The story goes something like this. Since it's their last day of school Preston Meyers (Ethan Embry) sees this as his last chance to tell the girl of his dreams (Becket) just how much he loves her. While his best friend Denise Fleming (Lauren Ambrose) has doubts about it. Telling him, what if she doesn't like you? Ever since Amanda's (Hewitt) break up with popular jock Mike Dexter (Peter Facinelli) Becket is the most sought at girl at the party. Now each person has their own agenda at this party. For instance Embry (Preston) wants to tell Hewitt he loves her, and William Lichter (Charlie Korsmo) has his own agenda. William has been humiliated his entire life by Dexter (Facinelli). And feels tonight at the party is his perfect way of getting back at him for all the years of misery Dexter put him through. But that's not the only thing going on at this party. Everyone wants to get "lucky". And no one does more than Kenny Fisher (Seth Green), who in my opinion is the funniest character in the movie! With so much going on you can tell this will turn out to be a funny fast paced teen comedy that I'm sure all teens and even adults will enjoy. Teens might think Seth Green gives the best performance, he certainly is the funniest, and might just want to watch the movie for him. But I think Hewitt is the highlight of the movie. Some might like to take notice to the brief cameos seen in the movie by Melissa Joan Hart, Jerry O' Connell, and a voice over by Liv Tyler. Here's a good clean, and funny teen comedy all will enjoy.

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I bought this video on a whim, mainly because I like Seth Green, but not expecting too much of it. I was totally blown away. This is the best movie I've seen for ages! It's like a "Sixteen Candles" for the 90's (which was a great movie till they changed the soundtrack). Ethan Embry (the saving grace of "Empire Records") was sweet and convincing; Charlie Korsmo was wonderful as the supergeek (making a nice comeback after disappearing for like 8 years). Lauren Ambrose is a junior Janeane Garofalo and although she's a new one on me, I think she's got talent. Seth Green, as always, stole the show as the white wannabe-black kid, and is excellent in everything he does (even if I'll always think of him as Chuckie Miller). The one weak link for me was Jennifer Love Hewitt. If the role called for a dull, wishy-washy, easy on the eye but not on the stomach kind of girl, then she did very well. I wasn't a fan of hers before and this did nothing to convert me. Still, the film had me laughing hysterically from start to finish, and I'd recommend it to anyone, brat pack fan or not.

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This Is one of the best feelgood films i have seen in a long time. It was one of those films with the tense feeling all the way through. with the will they, wont they, moments all through out. if you liked ten things i hate about you, fast times at ridgemont high and films of a similar ilk then this is for you It is about a boy who has loved the same girl for 4 years. when she is finally single he makes a pact with himself to show his true feelings. Along with many other plot lines and a spectacular cast (especially Seth Green In his Best role to date) this is a must see movie. see it before it is too late.

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Being Flynn (2012)

Few films concerning father/son relationships have been able to produce the emotional impact of this masterfully written and directed and acted BEING FLYNN. Paul Weitz directs and adapted the 2004 memoir by Nick Flynn "Another Bulls__t Night in Suck City: A Memoir" and brought together a superlative cast that just may be Robert De Niro's finest hour. Nick Flynn deserves the credit for this articulate tale of his own life: he was born and grew up in Scituate, Massachusetts, south of Boston. His parents divorced when he was young and his mother committed suicide when he was 22. He drifted through several jobs before starting work at a homeless shelter in Boston, where at age twenty-seven, he met his estranged, homeless father for the first time. That is the core of the film.

The nature of the film works very well: we simultaneously meet Jonathan Flynn (Robert DeNiro), a man who believes he is `America's greatest writer along side Mark Twain and JD Salinger, who lives life day to day in a drunken stupor, driving taxis, acting out con games etc until he becomes homeless, and after seeking shelter from old friends he has neglected, he ends up in a homeless shelter. We also meet his estranged son Nick Flynn (Paul Dano, in a breakout performance) who is striving to discover who he is, perceiving himself as a writer but unsuccessful with relationships: Nick's mother Jody (Julianne Moore) we see only in flashbacks because she committed suicide, and his only communication with his absent father has been through letters. Also homeless, Nick moves with with two characters (Eddie Rouse and Steve Cirbus) who manage to help Nick find a job in a homeless shelter. As Nick adjusts to working at the shelter he comes into connect with a potential girlfriend Denise (Olivia Thirlby) and begins to feel as though his life has some degree of meaning. The jolt comes when Jonathan seeks shelter in the homeless shelter where Nick works and it is this coming together of two bruised and pained people who happen to be father and son that sets in motion the resolution of the story. Both men are pitiful but both have redeeming characteristics and it is this struggling coming together that makes the film breathe. In addition to the brilliant acting of the main characters, there are also exceptionally memorable roles by Lili Taylor, Victor Rasuk, Thomas Middleditch, Wes Studi, Chris Chalk and others.

Not only is the film pitch perfect in nearly every detail, but it also gives the viewer the opportunity to consider the plight of the homeless around us. How many tragic stories like this are untold or never will be known? When a film can produce that degree of involvement with the audience it goes beyond simply being a film and becomes art art makes us consider, think, and change. Grady Harp, July 12

Based on a true story, this remarkable involving journey of relationships between fathers and sons captures your attention immediately. One father, Robert DeNiro, trys to reach out and bond with his son that he hasn't seen for a long time. His son is still feeling the loss of his mother, and trying to enter into a romantic relationship with his girlfriend. The last thing the boy wants to see is his father. This is an emotional drama as well as a comedy. Serious moments and funny moments. One young man is hurting emotionally as his father continues to struggle. The film portrays a second chance in life, inspiration, and a step forward in faith. Great acting performance, especially with De Niro, bittersweet story,and an emotional roller-coaster ride. I'd watch this again. Highly Entertaining And Highly Recommended!

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I haven't read Nick Flynn's memoir yet, but it's at the top of my list now. While I'm sure this movie abbreviates Flynn's struggles, it amazes me how much one person can endure and still come out the other side with such a wonderful work of art. Anyone who has dealt with the trauma of a lost parent, a mentally ill parent and the suffocating voids they leave must see this movie.

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This movie is supremely thought-provoking within the arenas of father-son relationships, mental illness, homelessness, self-aggrandizement and the pathetic reality of unfulfilled lives and failure. Anyone who understands dark humor and films such as "Bad Lieutenant Port of New Orleans" will love this one and the acting that facilitates understanding its powerful messages. Those who are turned off by dark humor will see only the heartache, loneliness, depression and despair exquisitely and painfully depicted in "Being Flynn."

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This is a film that dwells in the real street level of people barely holding on. Never blaming or criticizing, it holds its' characters accountable for their own actions, even by the supporting cast of characters within the film. Within the film we see the bottom of human depths and dependancy and the frail social, public and governmental resources available to allay and defray those depths of suffering. And in almost every case they fail. What the fervent, religious and grotesquely optimistic can never fathom is the loss of all hope. The absolute and irreversible knowledge that we have done all that we can, and that even more poignant, we know it is not enough. Nick Flynn's mother falls into this category. His father falls into the category of a force of nature that while irresistible is still horribly broken and unforgiving. And yet he is the one who survives and as the last scene of the film provides has made some small acquiescence to, maybe not the nature of his own flesh and blood, but to the very nature of humanity to expound, nurture and forgive. And finally to the mercurial Olivia Thirlby, who has once again put herself into another beautiful film of somewhat flawed but hopeful and redemptive human decency.

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Chandni Chowk to China (2009)

This movie gives Boliwood (Bollywood?--that's not the right spelling) the best of good names. Bread-baking Brahmin-caste Sidhu (an amazing and hilarious Akshay Kumar), a denizen of the Chandni Chowk district of Delhi, can't catch a break. He needs money, wants a better destiny, and falls on his face every time. He accidentally burns his winning lottery ticket in the little fire of his home altar as he shouts at the goddess' statue, "OK!! Take it!!"

One day he and his goofy Chinese friend "Chopstick" (a very Chinese-looking Ranvir Shorey) are approached by two Chinese villagers. They are sure Sidhu is a reincarnation of a great martial arts hero. They beg him to return with them to China to fight the evil gang boss "Hojo" (the immortal Chia Hui "Gordon" Liu). However, it is incumbent upon the klutzy Sidhu to learn kung fu. Still he goes, with the blessing of the adopted older brother, the elderly Dada, who took him in as a child (Mithun Chakraborthy).

I have to stop there, as this film is just too darned funny, touching and wonderful to spoil. You will die laughing at the clever songs, how fitting and apropos they are and how...well, just plain funny. This film's humor reminded me of Jackie Chan at his best--yet it is truly and purely Indian in all ways. Even the Chinese seem to be straight out of an old Indian village in the Punjab.

Akshay Kumar is a multi-talented prodigy. I cannot believe I haven't noticed him before, but I will be from now forwards. I also deeply admire the powerful presence of Mithun Chakraborthy.

You will never regret having this fantastic Indian jewel in your collection, and you will always go back to watch it for the pure delightful fun. And there is whoopass martial action, as well as a profound lesson for all of us.

Now if you will excuse me, I am going to go sing a few bars of "Hello, I'm a Chinese Guy".

This movie has been named the worst movie in india. I just do not think people actually understand the effort that was made into this movie. Akshay Kumar has done a fabulous job in this movie. His acting skills are exactly what an actor needs to have. His stunt, his dialogue, his comedy everything he did in the movie was absolutely fantastic. The movie story revolved around a lot of stories but yet the effort that was put into making this movie was great. The Actor who played the Guru of Akshay's Character Sidhu was fanstastic. His hindi speaking was absolutely marvlous. The guy should be recognized for doing what he did in the movie. Deepka made this movie a completely astonishing. Her marshal art was completely awesome. I hope there is a sequel to this movie and I hope that india should recognize that the movie was not a disaster but it was a GREAT Effort!!! Love Ya akshay, Love ya Deepka, and Love you Chinese Guy

Buy Chandni Chowk to China (2009) Now

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, in his roles, tends to regularly shift from playing it silly to playing it serious, and most times he does this in the same movie. CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA is a fusion of fatuous farce, mawkish sentiment and high adventure, of Bollywood conventions and soaring Chinese martial arts. There's much to like about this movie, but also much to groan and roll your eyes at.

In China the village Zhange struggles under the oppression of the murderous smuggler lord Hojo. In desperation the villagers consult a wise man and learn that salvation lies in the shape of the legendary, centuries-dead warrior Liu Sheng, who has been reincarnated in today's world. Except that Liu Sheng has been reborn to another nationality, another country: in India.

Akshay Kumar plays Sidhu, a dimwitted vegetable chopper plying his trade at a roadside food stand in Chandni Chowk, one of the busiest market districts in Delhi, India. Discontented with his lowly lot, Sidhu (who, remember, is dimwitted) is lured away to faraway China by two Chinese elders. It's actually more Sidhu's friend Chopstick's fault. Chopstick, of possibly Indian-Chinese descent, is one of those manipulative, self-absorbed sorts, and he seizes an opportunity. The two old Chinese men are, of course, Zhange villagers, and they believe Sidhu to be their reincarnated protector Liu Sheng; they ask that Sidhu return with them to kill Hojo. Instead Chopstick (the vaguely Asian-looking Ranvir Shorey), purposely mistranslating, tells Sidhu that he will be feted as a king should he journey to China. So off goes the gullible Sidhu with Chopstick riding his coattails, from Chandni Chowk to China.

I like much of the film's tongue-in-cheek internal mythology. During its best outrageous moments CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA is reminiscent of Stephen Chow's very awesome Kung Fu Hustle (Axe-Kickin' Edition). In both films, kung fu practitioners disregard the laws of gravity as they make impossible leaps and perform other outlandish stunts. Vicious contact propels bodies to improbable distances and with lethal impact (but then folks just get up and dust themselves off). Speaking of internal mythology, the film never does confirm whether Sidhu was indeed the modern day Liu Sheng. And, oh yes, I have to mention the fairly outrageous Cosmos Thumb.

Considering the source (Bollywood), the wushu is actually pretty decent, even though I don't quite buy Akshay Kumar as a kung fu fighter (although he's certainly done plenty of action movies). But the inclusion of Chinese actors like Gordon Liu and Roger Yuan both very good as, respectively, the fiendish Hojo and the kind of insane amnesiac beggar/police inspector make it a respectable martial arts venture. Liu (best known probably for The 36th Chamber of Shaolin and the KILL BILL flicks) and Yuan are convincing in their acting and in their kung fu, even if Hojo's hat trick had already been done by a James Bond villain. And, for the sake of cinematic resonance, it doesn't hurt that Roger Yuan bears a striking resemblance with Takashi Shimura, the leader of the SEVEN SAMURAI. But if you've already seen films featuring Jackie Chan or Jet Li or if you've seen KUNG FU HUSTLE, then there's really no surprise in the fight scenes.

The stunning Deepika Padukone takes on dual parts. She plays the conventional love interest Sakhi, a spokesmodel of Indian-Chinese descent working for Tele-Shopping Media (Sakhi is known as Ms. TSM). But the meatier of the two roles is that of Suzy (or Meow Meow). Suzy is Sakhi's villainous twin sister and, as one of Hojo's henchmen, her kung fu is strong. It says something about Padukone's grace and physicality that I find her more believable as a martial artist than I do Akshay.

As Bollywood films are wont to do, the first half starts out in a silly vein as Sidhu's vacuous nature is again and again demonstrated, giving rise to moronic situations (one fellow airline passenger persistently asks Sidhu: "Are you stupid?"). Akshay Kumar seems to get a kick out of starring in madcap comedies, but I find that the quality of these films tends to come and go. Having said that, there was that airplane bit where Sidhu had trouble closing the overhead luggage compartment. For minutes afterwards I was giggling (but in a manly way). But, yes, Sidhu is one of those aggravating dopes, the type who ends up believing that a potato is a god.

And, as usual with Bollywood, the second half takes on a more serious tone, and this is where Akshay Kumar's goofball character transforms himself into an action hero. Akshay, when he turns it on, has tremendous acting chops. (*SPOILER* in the rest of this paragraph.) Akshay is very good and sympathetic during the death of his character's father, the tragedy which fuels Sidhu to master kung fu and to get even with Hojo. Afterwards, though, I did think that he went to the well too much with the blubbering for his dead dada.

Yes, the humor is predominantly cheesy, but there are several genuinely funny moments scattered throughout. I've already mentioned the airplane scene but I also laughed hard and plenty when Akshay gets strapped with the Dance Master G9 device, and at that short musical interlude with the odd little Chinese inventor and during Roger Yuan and Akshay's brawl with White Bull in that little diner and then during the training sessions, with Akshay and Yuan showing very good tongue-in-cheek apprentice/master chemistry. I'm sure I missed other moments.

The DVD, by way of bonus features, also offers 8 and a half minutes of eight additional scenes, the scene most worth watching being the one with Sidhu frantically trying to evade Hojo in a restaurant kitchen. And that's it for bonus features.

Three and a half stars for CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA, an entertaining film somewhat undermined by the banal stuff and by all the overwrought shedding of tears. This being a Bollywood vehicle, much emphasis is placed on the importance of family; Sakhi, for example, travels to China mainly to commemorate her long dead father's passing; the amnesiac beggar's memory is fully restored when he glimpses a photo of his family. Another Bollywood trademark is the song & dance, and the musical numbers here are nicely picturized. I enjoyed the lavish "Chandni Chowk to China" and even "Tere Naina," a brief song which lends to a surreal magical vision of Sudhi and Sakhi gently floating in the air, buoyed by an engineered umbrella. Also note that Akshay handles his own rapping during the song "Chandni Chowk to China (CC2C)" during the end credits. It's a bit disconcerting, though, watching these Bollywood stars in their dance numbers being backed up by Chinese dancers. "Disconcerting" being another good word to describe this movie overall, and I think in a good way. I mean, it's got singing and dancing, a bit of Chinese mysticism and some romancing, and everybody's kung-fu fighting. That is very neat.

Read Best Reviews of Chandni Chowk to China (2009) Here

This movie is AN ENJOYABLE FUN FAMILY FILM ......The basic theme is a silly man child (Sidhu) who does everything from playing the lottery to making a shrine out of a potato to try to be something special. He's a simple chef who works for his adoptive father who has to constantly kicks his butt to the moon for being so silly and easily led into trouble( very funny sight gags). He is forever being told by his father to seek his destiny not in his life line ON his hand but in hard work WITH his hands. His best friend (Chopstick ) who is half Chinese and half Indian is a conniver of opportunity and a slacker palm reader and charm seller . He constantly tries to sell him worthless Karma charms for profit . Chopstick is approached by the village delegation from China to inform his friend Sidhu that he is the reincarnation of a Chinese war lord of great destiny who needs to come save their village from an evil bowler wearing Mafia style bully HOJO. (think James Bond TOP HAT). When they tell Chopstick what they want he edits what he tells our silly Sidhu, the guy is not that evil , it's not a big deal let's go to China and seek out this guy HOJO and kick butt. Maybe find your great destiny wink wink.

Next up a line where people wait for Chinese Visa and our hero is sitting on a bench with a potato (LOL yes he sees the face of Ganesh in a Potato and keeps clutching it for bravery throughout the movie ). The opportunistic infomercial model from hell miss TSM (Deepika) is in line and decides she well steal his VISA CHIP from him ( how she does this is hilarious . All things gadgetry style from China are represented by miss tsm on infomercials that our hero has been watching in India and he has a crush on miss tsm. Deepika plays her long lost twin , Suzie aka Meow Meow warrior princess also. She was stolen as a baby from their Chinese fathers arms during a fight for their lives. The Dad falls over the great wall during a battle trying to save his baby Suzie (meow meow) and is presumed dead. The mom holding Sakhi (miss tsm) believes her husband fell over the wall with her other daughter Suzie and that both died. She goes home to India to raise Sakhi. The evil Hojo has her daughter Suzie. He raises her as Meow meow . Her husband is now an amnesiac old beggar who lives around the Great wall but can't remember that he was once a famous Master of Karate and an important Policeman who was trying to prosecute HOJO. He will play a major role in training Sidhu.

The pivotal transformation point for Sidhu is the only possible disturbing moment for very small children. More or less I would say under age 8 sensitive children maybe 10. Actors are forced to redo extremely emotional scenes that leave them in constant brain chemistry overload and they can not keep an over view of it. Sidhu is made to beg for his fathers life sniveling on the ground like a coward and to finally see how sad and irresponsible he is as a man. To drag this scene out as long as they did was not helpful to Akshay , the storyline or the audience and in my opinion is the only bad spot in the film for family viewing. Again this is the director and the editors fault for dropping the ball and not doing thier jobs effectively . I do not deduct from the movie for this. I do fast forward through it after the initial play out for the young ones.

There are special effects present and are of the Karate variety and mostly of training. Some of the funnier fight scenes are of Sidhu's training with Sakhis father and aren't really violent per se ,more for story line progression ,very little blood if at all and cool effects that young ones will find fun , funny and entertaining . Lovers of slapstick, romance, and sobbing for ones parents will also have their moments, but the wildly fun fight scenes ( even the potato gets in on it) let our hero's have their shining moments of steely looks and buff bodies flying through the air, all done with respect for each Nation and hero. Songs are sung and danced to, family's are reunited , vengeance is had, love is found and A RAP VIDEO ( i hate most rap but this is cute and friendly ) AT THE END OF THE MOVIE THAT'S REALLY GOOD . Pure modern flash and fun.

Never forget that critics are writing for their individual magazines, web pages or newspaper and usually are told to pan one way or another based on their social status, and titillation provided by manipulating peoples emotions that are needed to sell more of their product or advertising. They are often jaded and over exposed to the movie making industry with little real 'eye' left for just plain fun. They can do to a film what a tick does to a dog. Eat off of it with no return. Read reviews from REAL people, and no it doesn't have to be me. Judge it for yourself always .

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What an interesting premise. From the Lord Ganesh appearing in a potato to the evil twin sister, Meow Meow....were unexpected and funny.

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Deck the Halls (2006)

There are two reasons to see "Deck the Halls," and those two reasons would not be the stars Danny DeVito and Matthew Broderick. This 2006 Christmas comedy was apparently inspired by "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," or the episodes of "Home Improvement" where Tim tries to outdo the neighbor's Christmas display, or any other movie or television show that is based on the oxymoronic notion of cut-throat decorating at Christmas time, none of which is enough to warrant seeing this film either, especially if you can get your hands on one of those others instead. But still, there are a couple of reasons to check this movie out nonetheless.

Steve Finch (Broderick) is not only the town's eye doctor, he is also Mr. Christmas. However, Buddy Hall (DeVito) has moved in across the street and when he learns that his house cannot be seen from space by an online site that is mapping the Earth, he decides the solution is to deck his house with every Christmas tree light he can get his hands on. Broderick and DeVito can do these roles in their sleep, or at least in low gear, and the script never gives them any reason to rev up their performances. As their respective wives, Kirstin Davis and Kristen Chenoweth, also have little to do until Chenoweth finally gets to sing near the end and serve as a reminder that you just cannot make a living being a singing star on Broadway these days. However, I keep thinking they cast her because she is approximately DeVito's size, setting up the visual humor of their tall blond twin daughters, and not because she is a talented Broadway musicale actress. For that matter, Davis is just spinning her wheels waiting for the "Sex in the City" movie to give her something decent to do.

This is not a particularly funny movie, also hindered by the fact that neither of the main characters are the types you want to identify with, especially in from of family members. However, there are two things this movie--whose winter night scenes were primarily shot during the day in summer (see the special features for the explanation)--got right. The first is that the light display is absolutely awesome. I have seen some impressive things on YouTube and the nightly news showing us what some people have come up with for Christmas in years past, but I do not remember anything coming close to the spectacular light show they came up with for this movie. The least you can do is put this on while you are cooking Christmas dinner and actually watch the part when Buddy puts on the light show for the neighbors. The second thing they get right is when Steve and Buddy have pretty much ruined the holiday for their families and they have to do something to get back in good with their wives. At this point I believe that what is required is a grand gesture, and despite their problems previous to that point in the movie, the boys do come up with something that fits the bill. These two things are not quite enough to justify rounding up, since I cannot really name anything else to recommend seeing this film let along actually buying it to own for Christmases yet to come, but that house alone is enough to rent it or catch it on television sometime.

This film not only missed the mark, it missed the tournament. DECK THE HALLS is a Christmas movie hopelessly in search of a genre. The plot, which should have been simple, leans one way and then the other. At times DECK THE HALLS seemed to be a "Wanna Be" with blatant similarities to other comedies such as RV, CHRISTMAS VACATION, and PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES. Unfortunately the story trips over the holiday holly.

In the story Buddy Hall (Danny DeVito) moves in across the street from Steve Finch (Matthew Broderick). Finch is an upper middle class Massachusetts optometrist who holds the unofficial title as Mr. Christmas in his community. Finch is de-throned by his neighbor when Hall coincidentally decides to adorn his own home with so many lights that it will be visible from outer space. The gaudy Christmas display across the street only serves to push Finch over the edge. Though visitors and reporters gleefully flock to Hall's ever brighter work-in-progress, Finch is not amused by the noise, bright lights, and traffic blocking his driveway.

Finch loses his patience and attempts to sabotage Hall's efforts. Finch's attempts not only backfire, but draw retaliation from Hall. The obsessions of both men, Hall with his lights and Finch with toppling Hall, finally drive the two men's wives and children from their respective homes. The neighbors realize that in their various selfish pursuits they ignored their families. Finding something in common the two make peace, work together to lure their families back, and discover the Yule tide gift of friendship.

Sorry folks. The plot summary is better than the actual film. There were so many missed opportunities in this movie. From the original theatrical trailer I mistakenly thought that this would be a movie about two neighbors competing against each other with holiday decorations. That would have been a good premise. The film could also have gone deeper into Buddy Hall's story. Hall is a man who, as his wife explains in one scene, never finishes anything in his life. The holiday decorating obsession is just one example of Hall's misguided focus on something other than showing up for work every day. With additional concentration on this theme there could have been an entire movie. Instead it falls by the wayside.

Likewise there is no depth to Matthew Broderick's character. Nice family, beautiful home, promising career, spiteful neighbor. The fact that he is irritated by his neighbor's lightshow is one thing, but it is difficult to believe that this otherwise stuffy traditionalist would dress up in commando garb and assault his new neighbor's electrical utility box.

Unlike PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILE's main characters Del Griffith and Neal Page, Buddy Hall and Steve Finch are not nice people. Any sympathy we have for dreamer Buddy Hall is dashed when we see that he swipes Finch's newspaper, illegally patches into Finch's own electrical box to steal power for his light show, and breaks into the Finch house to set up a stolen Christmas tree. It then appears that Hall is trying to make amends by making a gift of a brand new SUV to Finch -only to belatedly turn out that Finch is expected to pay for the expensive fully loaded vehicle. Buddy Hall is no Del Griffith.

Finch is no angel either. When he is not planning commando-style raids on his neighbor's holiday lights he is bombarding the Hall home with an arsenal of fireworks. His negative comments to Hall about Hall's outer space dream are just plain mean. In terms of civility Steve Finch is no Neal Page.

There are some isolated funny moments in this film. I did enjoy the scenes involving Hall's over-decorated home. Otherwise this movie goes nowhere. An added disappointment was that the wide screen version of my movie has a repeated chapter. The runaway Santa Claus sled and its aftermath appear twice. If my DVD bears that defect there are probably hundreds others with the same malady.

Buy Deck the Halls (2006) Now

Great i laughed all the way though. and couldnt stop at all, give it 5 stars and would tell others to watch

Read Best Reviews of Deck the Halls (2006) Here

Christmas movies are either very good, or very bad. Deck the Halls falls into the latter. When Danny DeVito is on the television show 'The View' and expresses how much he hates this movie, you know you are in for a stinker.

I never considered Matthew Broderick to be much of an actor. Nothing against the guy, I was just never a fan. His character is a conservative, nerdy optometrist who deems himself 'The Christmas Guy'. He is very much into traditions, much to his family's pain.

So in comes 'Buddy' played by Danny DeVito. He gets it into his head that he wants a house that can be viewed from space. That's it. That is the only reason the plot moves forward and it is absurd. His hot twin daughters showed him an internet site which shows people's houses from space and his house cannot be seen. If you had a wife that looked like that would you really care?? But this is supposed to be a sappy Christmas story, so here we go.

Matthew and Danny's characters begin to hate each other. Buddy does his house lights that would have made Clark W. Griswald green with envy. He also has a living manger complete with live cows, sheep, and a camel. Matthew is jealous and can't get any sleep at night, so he attempts to sabotage Buddy's electrical system, of course not only does Buddy have a large, noisy portable generator, he's stealing power from his own house to run his insane light show. The final straw comes when Dr. Finch tries to assault Buddy's house with illegal fireworks. The idiot can't even do that right.

Of course the wives get tired of all the foolishness and go to a hotel for the holidays. Buddy and the good Doctor Finch decide to make up, bury the hatchet, and set things right with the wives. This is where it gets even more ridiculous than even I could have imagined.

First off, they decorate the hotel with lights, and have huge Christmas light displays decorating a path back to the house. The town has become a ghost town at this point, the lights do not interfere with traffic, and there is NOBODY else to be seen anywhere. Then they get back to the house

and see that the two husbands have set up a lavish Christmas dinner. This is all very well and good, but come to find out they never eat it and I suppose everything goes bad. They do not eat it because no MTV is at Buddy's house wanting to do a story on the loser who wants his house seen from space.

But of course now he has no lights on his house because he used them all to decorate a five mile path from the house to the hotel (I imagine that must have been wrecked when MTV News crews and the entire town show up all at once outside Buddy's door by the way). So ala 'It's a Wonderful Life', everyone donates lights to Buddy so he can redecorate his house. Boo hoo hoo.

This is a terrible terrible terrible movie.

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The movie has a fast paced beginning and feels like a decent promise.

However, absolutely nothing humourous happens, and there are tons of non-sequiters. The script gets very lazy and just hops from one scene to the next without rhyme or reason. Broderick sleep walks and Devito is rusty.

A big disapointment!

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Woochi: The Demon Slayer (2009)

Long ago there were demons locked in the heavens guarded by a person playing a magic flute. The demons escaped and came to earth in human form, the flute likewise came to earth. The demons are in human form looking for the flute. Meanwhile there are two rival Tao groups after the flute wanting to contain the demons.

The story becomes complex. One "self taught" Tao Master in Jeon Woo-chi (Dong-won Kang) who likes to play tricks and seeks fame against the basic Tao code. There is also a woman who doesn't like needle work, and a man who acts as Woo-Chi's horse, but is really a dog. There are three Shinsuns who work for the opposing Tao master. Oh yeah, there is a bronze sword too.

The film contains magic and illusion. It freely mixes the two. It takes place 500 years in the past and the present. It has magician battles, gravity defying moves, CG monster effects, and some humor. The modern Woo-Chi assumes the clothes of the "King of Pop."

The English translation sounded like a bad spaghetti western. The deleted scenes are in Korean with subtitles available. Like many eastern films, it is easy to lose yourself in the characters and story so you must pay attention. This film isn't for everyone.

Parental Guide: No f-bombs, sex, or nudity. soft 4 stars

There are Asian films that do not surprise me at all as to why and how they became so successful in their native country. However, there are those that do make me wonder why they became successful in the first place. I do understand just how sometimes the transition of a film from one country to another is not that successful, since several factors can become lost in translation. Well, I guess this may be the case for "Woochi the Demon Slayer" (aka. Jeon Woo Chi: The Taoist Wizard), I can see how it can be one of those crowd-pleasing affair that usually makes a good box-office return in Korea. Despite the fact that it is the kind of movie I would usually like (magic, special effects and ancient legend), I found Woochi to be a little too uneven, and would've used a lot of smoothing over its screenplay.

Mixing up Korean folklore and Mozart's "The Magic Flute", "Woochi" is a film that injects martial arts, a different turn for its devices, and adds a lot of special effects to drive its story. The film begins in the past where magic and evil spirits are set in a place of power, there lies a magical flute that could control the beasts. Lost in time, the flute has fallen into the hands of one of the evil ones and in the guise of humans, the beasts have been released to wreak havoc upon the world. Now, 500 years in the past, the flute is sought after by many as it can change the balance of power. Among those who seek the flute is Jun Woochi (Kang Dong-Won), who has been tasked by his master (Baek Yoon-Sik) to recover the flute. Woochi is such a trickster that he got the attention of another mystic, Hwadan (Kim Yoon-Seok) and his three Taoist wizards. This sets forth a series of events that ends with Woochi being blamed for his master's murder and the lost of the flute.

Now in the present, Woochi has been awakened along with his companion, the dog-horse-human Chorang-Yi (Yoo Hae-jin) to try to combat the chaos being brought forth by the beast-spirits in exchange for their freedom from the Taoist scrolls. What begins as a hunt for goblins and spirits in the guise of humans, has become more of Woochi trying to get used to this strange new world. He also meets a woman (Im Soo-Jung) with a familiar face from his past, as his new adventure begins...

The screenplay of "Woochi" makes a good move in creating a story that happens in between two different timelines, that even part of it happens within a painting. I do appreciate the efforts written in by Choi Dong-hoon (who also directs), as it deals with Woochi's origins up till the 47 minute mark. To try and reach out to its viewers, it tries to explain a lot and sets its groundwork, but the efforts feel a little impenetrable as two timelines collide in its screenplay. Choi Dong-hoon did an exceptional job with "Tazza The High Rollers" and "The Big Swindle", here he tries to depart the crime drama genre, and instead does a film that relies on fantasy elements and special effects to dictate the flow of the screenplay. The result is a little incoherent for my tastes (sure, it worked in his other movies), and while it does have that quirky, goofy allure that can appeal to its viewers, much of the film made little sense. It is intentionally cartoonish as it transitions from one scene to another. It jumps around with very little development of the devices in its plot, and the viewer is left to take in its quirky charm and forget coherency in its script. Think of it as an anime feature on steroids.

It is also filled with outrageous character performances and decent stunt work. When the film does get going with the action sequences, it does get going. The choreography has that hyper-stylish editing that have become the staple for Korean fantasy films. People fly around (with the impressive wire work) as the camera work goes in and out of the fights. The editing is pretty good and the set designs are impressive. The battles utilize the effects to its maximum impact. Martial arts and magic are always good things to watch, and "Woochi" is no different. Though a little too stylish for my tastes, and the fights did have the right intensity for its tempo. I do have to say that while most of the CGI were good, there were times that they looked rather soft and you could tell that they were fake. There is one ugly giant Rat-like creature that fights like a human, another who seems like a grotesque looking Easter bunny, but they were all for show, and the "how" and "why" of how these ghouls appear as such were never developed in the script.

Now, despite its flaws, the film does manage to entertain. The quirky and goofy humor did make me snicker quite a few times. Yoo Hae-jin and Kang Dong-Won connected in their roles and their antics can be funny. The three Taoist wizards also gave some good bits of humor, and Yeom Jeong Ah and Im Soo-jung served their purpose. Actress Kim Hyo-jin also makes a welcome cameo. Baek Yoon-Sik also managed to become a good baddie, despite the fact that he was a little too underwritten. The performances were a little crazy to balance out with its tone and cartoonish flow.

The best way to describe "Woochi The Demon Slayer" is a breezy, comical and frenzied entertainment that one needs to surrender to its outrageous execution and forget absorbing the details of the plot. It is a little hard to follow, but it is rather unique. Outlandish action, comedy and oddball characters are helped along by its manic editing and good special effects. If you pay too much attention to the script then you will see a lot of holes, so the best way to approach it would be to just accept it for what it is. Think of it as a trip to a "Fun House" where logic barely makes sense, and allow your senses to take you for a ride. Timid Recommendation to fans of Korean cinema and a RENTAL to everyone else. [3 ½ Out of 5 Stars]

Picture Quality and Audio: Fantastic picture transfer and DTS-HD sound. It also comes with an English dubbed version as well the original Korean language with excellent subtitles.

Buy Woochi: The Demon Slayer (2009) Now

A friend had introduced me to the movie and I absolutely loved it but couldn't find it again for some time. At that point I was ready to give up until I found out that Shout factory was releasing an official US Version. It was worth the wait and I pre-ordered to get it right as it came out. If you don't want to pay over $20 for the movie plus S&H then I suggest going to an exchange where I've seen it as low as $10 or less. I personally enjoyed the movie and watch it over and over and it helps that the main actor reminds me of Micky Yoochun too but I'd still watch it if he didn't.

Read Best Reviews of Woochi: The Demon Slayer (2009) Here

The American version is CUT shorter than the original. The Korean release is 135 minutes, this cut from Shout Factory is only 115 minutes. The info on Amazon is not correct. I almost made the mistake of purchasing it.

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Blu-Cube 10-Pack

When the primary attraction to a product is that you are getting a $150 "value" for $42.50, you likely aren't. Ask yourself how they can afford to stay in business, if this truly is a $150 "value". In my opinion, this 10 disc set isn't even worth $10.

The included titles, hardly are ones to take advantage of the benefits of Blu-ray in the first place, let alone ones that are considered highly desirable. At $3.53 per disc, you would be better off looking for inexpensive DVDs, and making sure that your Blu-ray player will also play DVDs. Then, buy the titles you actually want, as opposed to the titles that are being "dumped" at a "fire sale".

The whole purpose of Blu-ray is to offer the capability of having more special features, and higher quality for today's 1080p TVs and projectors. This set defeats that core purpose pretty handily. Never mind the fact that all of these titles are movies that didn't sell well to begin with.

The included titles are:

1. The Big White

2. Category 7: The End of the World

3. Mortuary

4. Mysterious Island

5. Beer League

6. Blackbeard

7. The Poseidon Adventure

8. Final Days of Planet Earth

9. 10.5: Apocalypse

10. The Curse of King Tut's Tomb

I wanted to get a library started for my Blu-Ray player and thought this would be a good way to kickstart the library. I did not realize the made for tv movies had choppy parts where the commercials should go and in movies that spread out over 2 nights (like 10.5) the movie ending showed, and a bit later the second night part of the movie was shown. It is okay but if I had paid full price for the cube, I would have been sorely disappointed.

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A 10 pack of B-flicks. For forty-bucks, you can't really complain too much. You get 10 BluRay films... for forty-bucks.

First, none are worth paying more than five-bucks for. But since they're four-bucks each... not too bad. These are straight to BluRay movies. Skipped the theaters all together.

Only buy if you're a collector of movies. The average viewer shouldn't buy these.

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This set is actually quite good if you know what to expect. These are not movies that flopped in the theater, and they are technically not made for video, unless you count made for cable as made for video. Here is the low-down on what seven out of the ten films in this set are: they are Hallmark movies, made for the Hallmark channel. Generally, Hallmark does a good job with movies, especially with movies based on classic stories. If you're expecting 50 movie pack type drive-in schlockfest films, that's not really what this is. The "theatrical" films are not huge hits, but they are not terrible if you know what to expect. Grant it none of the three theatrical films is an Oscar contender, but they do have appeal. Howard Stern fans will probably like Beer League, as it was made by one of Stern's "gang" Artie Lange, and Mortuary was made by Tobe Hooper whose original Texas Chainsaw Massacre was far better than the schlocky remake (which SHOULD be shovelware)so it does have a connection to a Horror legend, and the Robin Williams film is not his best, but it has its silly charm. The reason I gave this four stars is this: If they took out the theatrical films and replaced them with Gulliver's Travels, Moby Dick, and The Odyssey, this would be a five star set, considering the price. All three of those films were fairly close to their source material, (although not exact, but what movie is?)and I would love to find ANY of these movies back in print in ANY form. The DVDs are long out of print and quite costly. Of course if they had included the awful Monkey King or Noah this would have been a three star set.

So these are Hallmark movies; nothing more, nothing less. If you enjoy the Hallmark Channel and Hallmark's made-for-TV fare, you would probably enjoy this. I find it to be good for the price, but I still wish Moby Dick, The Odyssey, and Gulliver's Travels were all here as well. Of course the picture quality is not up there with most of the theatrical blockbusters you will find today, but remember, these movies were made for cable, not the big screen.

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