New Year's Eve - Movie Review

'New Year's Eve' follows several stories that overlap, cross paths, and intertwine all leading to that big moment in Times Square where we all celebrate the changing of the calendar to a new year. There are stories of hope, reflection, birth, and rebirth along with tales of redemption and reconciliation all played out by an impressive list of Hollywood stars.

Weekly Movie News 12-28-2011

Starting off with yet another big-time trailer debut, this one has the internet buzzing about how much 'Alien' we'll see in Ridley Scott's latest movie.

The Adventures of Tintin - Movie Review

Expectation level for an animated adventure film co-directed and produced by Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson should be about as high as one could imagine. Also add the fact that the movie stars such talented names as Daniel Craig, Simon Pegg, Jamie Bell, Carey Elwes, and the incomparable Andy Serkis and then finally throw in a brand new performance capture technology that blows away anything before it, and you have the makings of a true blockbuster.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows - Movie Review

Robert Downey, Jr. returns as the incomparable Sherlock Holmes in 'A Game of Shadows' and this time around goes head to head against his arch rival, Professor Moriarty. With the most important case of his career about to unfold, Holmes must use every ounce of intelligence and ingenuity he has to solve a mystery that leaves the fate of Western civilization hanging in the balance.

Weekly Movie News 12-21-2011

This week's movie news post has so much going on, let's get right to it!

The most anticipated movie of 2012 now has its first full length trailer. Here it is courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures, Legendary Pictures, and Apple Movie Trailers.

"When Gotham is ashes...you have my permission to die."

Happy Feet Two - Movie Review

The first Happy Feet movie was a huge hit and a surprise success for Fox Animation so naturally plans were set in motion to create a sequel. With an all star cast including Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, and Sofia Vergara along with the latest in animation and 3D technologies, Happy Feet Two looks to recapture the magic of the first installment.

Seahawks - The Road to the Playoffs

After beating the Chicago Bears today by a score of 38 to 14, the Seahawks now look to win their last two games of the season and, with some help from other teams, hopefully find themselves in the playoffs for a second year in a row.

How is this possible, you ask?!

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol - Movie Review

Over the years, Tom Cruise has created several iconic characters and has been one of Hollywood's most bankable stars. The 'Mission: Impossible' series might just end up to be his most notable achievement as he continues to literally take his character, Ethan Hunt, to new heights with Ghost Protocol.

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy - Movie Review

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is a very popular British spy novel from the early 70's and was adapted in to a very popular television mini series. The lead character of George Smiley was played by the one and only Sir Alec Guiness and is considered the defining portrayal of the character. Now we have a Hollywood theatrical version of the story featuring Gary Oldman in the lead role.

Yelp Seattle: Review of the Day

Yelp is a great website for reading and posting reviews of businesses and also offers a great social network with fun events hosted by Yelp and its community members. Each and every day, one user-written review receives the honor of being the 'Review of the Day' and is featured on the front page of the website.

Today, I have the good fortune of receiving my fourth Review of the Day and below is a screen shot of this glorious moment. Thank you Yelp!

Weekly Movie News 12-15-2011

This new teaser poster has Dark Knight Rises fans going crazy about what it may imply. Those that have followed Batman comics over the years know that Bane has been one of the caped crusaders most vicious enemies ever. Will the end of Christopher Nolan's amazing trilogy also be the end of Batman himself?

Shame - Movie Review

Steve McQueen is quickly becoming one of the hottest directors anywhere with a style of film making that is redefining the cinematic experience. McQueen's debut feature, 'Hunger', shocked audiences with a brutally honest portrayal of imprisoned protesters during a hunger strike and Michael Fassbender's performance in the movie was universally praised. With 'Shame', the duo look to continue their success with an intimate look in to the life of a man dealing with personal demons as he takes in his troubled sister and her own set of issues.

Weekly Movie News 12-08-2011

We begin this week's edition of Weekly Movie News with one of the coolest Star Wars related videos I have seen in quite a while. These guys are amazing!

Hugo - Movie Review

If someone had told you that Martin Scorsese had just made a 3D movie starring a couple of kids, you might look at them with a fair amount of confusion. The statement is actually true, although this film is so much more than one might expect and yet the unexpected is what you should hope to find in a film like this.

Empire of Silver - Movie Review and Director Q&A

I was able to see this movie at a recent screening which featured a Q&A with the director herself. You will find some of her thoughts on the movie and answers to audience questions at the end of my review.

First time director Christina Yao has put together a beautiful movie that is equal parts love story, coming of age tale, and historical drama. Set in China during the late 1800's, Empire of Silver is the story of the Kang family and the banking empire that has been part of their family for generations.

Marc's Birthday Party: Parts 1 and 2

I have created two separate birthday events so that I can see as many of my friends as possible over the course of the weekend.

War Horse - Movie Review and Director Q&A

This review contains some of Steven Spielberg's thoughts and ideas regarding the making of War Horse as expressed by the director himself during a Q&A session that took place after an advanced screening of the film. I was able to jot down a few key points while sitting in the theater and incorporated them in to my review. A video clip that I filmed at the conclusion of the Q&A is also included.

J. Edgar - Movie Review

Clint Eastwood has become known as a director that can present a gritty historical drama that pulls no punches and sheds new light on events that are as important and relevant now as when they first took place. Teaming with lead actor Leonardo DiCaprio, this film has all the makings of yet another award winner even with subject matter that may be a little controversial.

The Descendants - Movie Review

There are hundreds of great stories out there that will never get made in to movies and there are hundreds of movies without a story that never should have been made. The Descendants is a film that is difficult to categorize in that it tells a story so intimate, you almost feel like you have a part in it and yet this is also a vehicle for George Clooney's continued showcase as one of this generation's great actors and movie stars.

Weekly Movie News 11-22-2011

The Avengers movie is coming to the screen on May 4, 2012 and many people are wondering how different the Incredible Hulk might be now that Mark Ruffalo is taking over the Bruce Banner/Hulk character. Matt McDaniel of Movie Talk has an exclusive interview with director Josh Whedon which covers this and many other topics related to next year's most highly anticipated feature.

The Muppets - Movie Review

After purchasing the rights to the Muppets a few years ago, Disney has been slowly incorporating these lovable characters in to their overall strategy. The Muppets is the first major motion picture to feature Kermit, Piggy, Fozzy, and the rest of the gang in what looks to be a new era of Muppet mania.

Red State - Movie Review

Kevin Smith has created an interesting commentary on society, religion, and the youth of America all wrapped in to an independent thriller starring John Goodman, Melissa Leo, and Kevin Pollak. It's nice to see small films like this being created by big name Hollywood types and marketed unconventionally with an internet campaign and VOD availability, but the ultimate question is whether or not this film is worth watching under any format.

Weekly Movie News 11-15-2011

Last week I showed you how you could have a part in the making of The Dark Knight Rises and now, I am here to give you another bit of news regarding what will most likely be the biggest movie of 2012.

Immortals - Movie Review

Immortals looks to attract the same audience that flocked to theaters for 300 which was a highly stylized take on the Trojan soldiers of Sparta and their famous stand at Thermopylae against the Persian army. This time around, the same treatment is given to ancient Greece and the mythological Greek Gods by director Tarsem Sing who is best known for the visually stunning movie, The Cell.

The Ides of March - Movie Review

A film that is written, directed, and starring George Clooney is sure to be heavy on drama and intrigue with a political message either embedded deep within the story or right up front for everyone to see. Since this picture involves the ins and outs of a Democratic Primary race, you can be assured that the audience will be getting a heavy dose of political commentary thrown up in the screen.

Weekly Movie News 11-08-2011

This week's edition opens with an invitation from composer Hans Zimmer for you (Yes, you!) to be a part of the soundtrack the The Dark Knight Rises.

Featured Two Oh Six Movie Review:

A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas - Movie Review

I will admit, I have not watched either of the previous Harold and Kumar movies so this was a brand new experience for me. These characters seem to have a penchant for finding trouble under any circumstance and the holidays are no exception. Featuring a screwball cast and a never ending supply of gags, will this movie fill your stocking with three dimensional holiday cheer or will it leave you feeling like Santa Claus had just been hit in the face with a shotgun blast?

Puss In Boots - Movie Review

Puss in Boots is the story of a cat. You know him from the Shrek movies and he is now starring in his very own feature film. Voiced by Antonio Banderas, Puss in Boots is ready to take on the adventures that created the legend we know today.

Weekly Movie News 11-02-2011

Opening this inaugural edition of Weekly Movie News is an article about the possibility of two more Independence Day movies courtesy of nymag.com.

Featured Two Oh Six Movie Review

Warrior was the first movie ever to be reviewed on my blog so I am also making it the first to be featured on my weekly news page.

The Rum Diary - Movie Review

A movie starring Johnny Depp, Amber Heard, Giovanni Ribisi, and Aaron Eckhart, written for the screen and directed by Bruce Robinson, and with a story originally written by Hunter S. Thompson should be a recipe for the type of film that would have critics falling all over themselves trying to come up with appropriate levels of praise and worship. As I sat down to watch this film I began to wonder if I would become intoxicated by the potent combination of ingredients, or would I look to add this to the multitude of mediocrity that floods the proverbial bottom shelf.

In Time - Movie review

Looking for a slick, stylish, and futuristic movie along the lines of The Matrix or The Adjustment Bureau? In Time races against the clock to place itself next to these and other similar movies. Starring Justin Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried and directed by Andrew Niccol, this film tries to make every second count, but is the end result worth your time, or does the clock run out on this thriller?

Seahawks Lose to the Bengals - My Thoughts

Frustrating loss for the Seahawks today. Not sure why Jackson didn't get the start, he seemed fine after coming in for the ineffective Whitehurst. Defense still played well, but the offense couldn't run, receivers dropped way too many passes, and the special teams gave up the game clinching score.

Anonymous - Movie Review

Normally when the name Roland Emmerich is attached to a film, you can expect to see a blockbuster sized spectacle that pushes the boundaries of what can be done visually on a movie screen. Pictures like 2012, Universal Soldier, and Independence day are prime examples of Emmerich's style so he would be the last person you would expect to take on a political thriller/period piece that tries to bring light to the theory that William Shakespeare was not really the author of the works he is known for.

Two Oh Six Movie Crew Event: Ghostbusters

The Yelp Movie Crew is back and this time around we are revisiting one of the all time classics...Ghostbusters! Details are on the Yelp event page which can be found clicking HERE.

Paranormal Activity 3 - Movie Review

This series has been very polarizing as people either love the intensity and scares, or they just can't stand the "found footage" type of film making. Either way, the first two movies have gone on to become huge hits at the box office. Each being made on a shoestring budget and raking in millions of dollars has guaranteed that we will keep seeing Paranormal Activity during the month of October for years to come. How long can the story be milked? This third installment leaves some the history untold and may eventually branch out from Katie and Kristie's family.

The Artist - Movie Review

'The Artist' begins in 1927 during the heyday of silent films and follows the lives of two people as Hollywood begins to transition in to an era of sound. One is in danger of being left behind while the other becomes an overnight sensation and, although their stories are intertwined, they are constantly being pulled apart by both time and technology.

This movie is primarily a love story but is also so many other things that, by the time the credits role, you realize you are appropriately at a loss for words when trying to describe such a beautifully crafted silent movie.

Margin Call - Movie Review

One look at the cast of this movie and you feel like you are guaranteed to see a great film...I mean, look at all those heavy hitters from Kevin Spacey to Jeremy Freakin' Irons! Would the story be able to hold up its end of the bargain and deliver material worthy of all this talent or would their skills be wasted on a bland, boring, and soon to be forgotten tale? First, I will tell you a bit about the story before you decide if it is worthy of your attention.

Hunger (2008) - Movie Review

Hunger is based on the true story of Bobby Sands as he leads a group of Irish Republicans on a hunger strike while being held in a Northern Irish prison. The main reason to watch this film would be to see the performance given by rising star Michael Fassbender. This is a very intense and powerful exhibition that shows just what he can be capable of in addition to playing larger scale blockbuster roles.

The Thing (1982 and 2011) - Movie Review Double Feature

 

This is a review of both the original 1982 film and the 2011 prequel since they are pretty much one story split in to two movies. The 1982 film features Kurt Russell in what, at the time, was one of the scariest and coolest sci-fi movies this side of Alien. The new release takes us back to the same snowy location and tells the story of what happened just prior to the events of the first movie. If I had ever watched the original, I don't remember it, so I took the opportunity to see it on Netflix's streaming service the night before I attended a screening of the new one.

Like Crazy - Movie Review

A movie that is riding a wave of hype from the film festival circuit should certainly be something to get excited about and especially when the lead actors are all relative youngsters that appear to be on the fast track to stardom. Brought to the screen by up and coming director Drake Doremus, this picture focuses on the relationship of two students as they fall in love and try to overcome obstacles that are thrown their way and also ones they bring upon themselves. The question that we try to answer here ends up not being if they will succeed, but what that success ultimately means to each of their lives.

Blackthorn - Movie Review

The classic Western film, when done well, can be a thing of beauty, like a prized horse within the midst of all the tumbleweeds and empty shotgun shells. There have been several movies that have told the tale of the legendary Butch Cassidy along with his partner, the Sundance Kid, and I'm sure there will be more of these stories along with the occasional re-imagining of ones we have already seen. Blackthorn is the telling of what may have happened if the rumors are to be believed that Butch and Sundance were not killed by Bolivian soldiers in 1908.

The Avengers Official Trailer Debuts!

Rather than just posting a link to the Avengers movie trailer on its own, I have decided to put together the trailers of all of the movies leading up to what is sure to be one of the biggest blockbusters of all time.

Footloose (2011) - Movie Review

Some of you will remember the version of this movie from the 1980's which starred Kevin Bacon in a breakout role and gave us timeless songs and images that still stand strong today. The remake follows the story very closely although bringing it up to current times to make room for ipods and songs featuring current artists. The cast is full of newcomers like Kenny Wormald and Miles Teller as well as seasoned veterans like Dennis Quaid and Andie McDowell. The main question here is if this remake will step on the toes of its predecessor or will it two-step past expectations and share space on the dance floor with a timeless classic.