Legend (1985)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
A princess extends her hand to the unicorn and suddenly the world is thrown into chaos. Is love powerful enough to win the day and defeat Darkness? Other than the theme, the soundtrack, and Tim Curry as Darkness, there is really nothing about this film that puts it in my top 10 other than personal bias. I love the stark light versus dark set-up, and being the geek that I am, really like the whole fantasy atmosphere. This is a family friendly movie for the most part aside from some disturbing imagery that may be too much for very young viewers. If you are looking for some effortless entertainment with a heavy fantasy flavor, this is a good choice. Some trivia- the whole movie was filmed on an indoor set.

Dread (2009)

This starts out like any other modern cookie cutter thriller, but then starts to gather steam until it runs full tilt into the end. An obsession with fear leads to a series of experiments that get more and more psychotic. This is one of those unusual films where your attention gets more focused the further the movie moves along until the horrifying instant you realize how its going to end. Very effective work in the class of the old masters.

Rob Roy (1995)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
Second only to Pulp Fiction in dialogue, this is an average storyline driven to greatness by the players themselves. John Hurt, Liam Neeson, Brian Cox and Eric Stoltz all deliver outstanding performances. But its Tim Roth who really pushes this one into the stratosphere as the arch fiend Archibald Cunningham. Rob Roy finds himself ensnared in a political war he wants no part in, that seeks to destroy all that he is. Wild, passionate, and action packed with a solid meat and potatoes plot thats served up hot and bloody with a flair. The language is period, and that takes some time to get used to, but its oh so worth it.

Braveheart (1995)

If you haven't already seen this one, I may have to see some ID. This is a great, awesome movie about love and freedom and exactly what happens when some people are pushed one time too many. Based on an actual, if somewhat obscure, Scottish hero William Wallace. Under English oppression, select clans of the Scots rise up to follow a leader of such ferocity and intelligence that it is only treachery that finally brings him down, and results in Robert the Bruce leading Scotland in its war with England. This is a guy flick that gals will enjoy as well. There is a lot of realistic violence and FX of medieval battles, so if you have a weak stomach be warned. Highly Recommended

Monster (2003)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
Based on the life of Aileen Wuornos, mistakenly called America's first female serial killer, this is a stunning film with a top notch delivery by Charlize Theron. This is a tragic and powerful story about the yearning to love and be loved and how the desire to be accepted drives some people into dead ends. Disturbing and captivating at the same time, I wasn't able to turn my attention from it for a moment(until like the 12th viewing). Hard to imagine anyone not being overwhelmed by this one. Warning- this is not for children or weak constitutions. If you don't have a firm grip on who you are, take a pass on this one.

Astro Boy (2009)

Another non-pixar movie that is worthy of the studio... A grieving scientist seeks to recreate his lost son as a robot who soon becomes a mighty hero. A great movie for all ages, and like I said, worthy of Pixar. Can't go wrong with this one.

I Sell the Dead (2008)

A couple of graverobbers get caught and tried for murder. This is a UK film that employ dry wit and silly situations, along with a bit of dark humour, to create a very entertaining experience. Fans of the genre could compare this to Shaun of the Dead, Dead Snow, or Vamp, but a bit more 'adult'. I rather enjoyed it.

Cargo (2009)

A Swiss made Sci-Fi film about the plight of mankind after the Earth has been rendered unlivable. The scope of this film is unbelievable in its depth and realism. There were a couple gaffs along the way, but nothing that isn't easily hurdled. I can't stress enough how absolutely cool the realism and expanse.. easily on par with 2001: A Space Odyssey. The pace is similar too. While I think it lends to the feel of the movie, some less than avid Sci-Fi buffs may find the pace too slow. Add to that the fact its subbed and I think you have a great film that a lot of people won't bother with seeing. If you do decide to give it a look, I can guarantee Sci-Fi fans it will be worth it.

The Lovely Bones (2009)

I think this is one of those love it or hate it films. At the time I saw this I had no idea it was a book or what it was about, I thought Jackson had gone retro and done a horror film.
It seems much of the hoity-toity crowd can't be bothered with such pedestrian fare that is this film. A lot of the sniffing reviews I have read praise Sarandon and say that there wasn't enough detail in certain parts. What I say to that is the people who need detail in those scenes can relate to the Sarandon character too well. Remember Mozart was rebuffed by the 'experts' in his day as well. Thankfully they dont select my movie list.
Personally I think the less you know about this film going in, the harder it will hit you as you watch it. My first viewing left me thunderstruck like 'Monster' did. The film was hypnotic and mesmerizing, much like being in a car wreck and watching the pieces fly around in slow motion. I loved this film top to bottom, and it sits on the very brink of making my top 10 shelf. Warning- be prepared for a hard gutcheck.

The Crow Trilogy (1994-2000)

The Crow(1994), The Crow: City of Angels(1996), The Crow: Salvation(2000). Loosely based on the comic of the same name, The Crow was the last movie of Brandon Lee, son of Bruce Lee(if you don't know, google). I'm going to go in reverse here, the 2 sequels are basically carbon copies of the first with different players. Certain details are changed or moved around, but the premise stays the same.. violently killed young people in love. So while the 2 spawns of the original don't suck, they are like having a hamburger when steak is on the grill.
The Crow is a dark, sad, gothic story about revenge and love. Brought back from the dead, Brandon Lee's character hunts down those who did him and his girlfriend in and exacts horrible and bloody revenge. An enjoyable watch if viewed for what it brings to the table, as opposed to what it leaves behind.
As of this post, there is talk of a remake of The Crow, said to follow a more realistic and mysterious style. I'll be watching for it.

King Kong (2005)

An ambitious make or break movie production has Naomi Watts sending a giant gorilla's libido into overdrive. Not one to miss an opportunity, Jack Black decides to capture Kong and take him to New York City so he can run amok and kill people with really shitty attitudes.
Peter Jackson's vision of King Kong didn't quite meet with the level of enthusiasm I thought it deserved. FX are really good if not excellent, action is good, drama is in place, players all do a good job. Granted, there are moments of thick cheese, but in a movie about a giant ape, is a chip shot with a tommy gun really that hard to swallow?
The part of the movie in NYC is what really seals the deal for me on this being a great movie. Maybe not the original version of beauty and the beast, but certainly one worthy of its place on my movie shelf.

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
The Fellowship of the Ring(2001), The Two Towers(2002) and The Return of the King(2003). The trilogy is based on the The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. Its not often I get to use the word EPIC to describe anything, but these 3 films most definitely fill the bill. First off my review is of the extended versions. I saw the first one in the theater, then saw the extended version after. I waited to see the other two until they were out in the extended version. It makes that much difference. This is 1 movie in 3 parts, so don't watch one if you aren't willing to watch all three.
For those who have been living in a cave and have no idea what this story is about I will summarize. This is a fantasy tale of a powerful but evil relic that finds its way into the hands of a mild and peace loving individual who is tasked with its destruction.
Everything about this film is breathtaking, so be prepared to be blown away. Purists will squeal it isn't exactly like the books. To these people I say- then don't watch the movies... its not like there is anyone on the planet who hasn't heard you people snivel 'the book is better'. Myself I thought it was as faithful to the storyline as any movie could be.
This is kinda the grandfather story line to the modern fantasy world and Peter Jackson really delivers on it. There is a story that precedes this one called 'The Hobbit' and was written as a stand alone story. There has been rumblings that it will be made into a live action film as well, IMDb The Hobbit: Part 1 (2011) Director: Guillermo del Toro and is listed as 'pre-production' as of this posting.
There is also an animated version of The Lord of the Rings, as well as The Hobbit.

From Dusk Till Dawn Trilogy (1996-1999)

From Dusk Till Dawn(1996)- A couple wanted criminals need to get across the border into Mexico and meet a contact at a all night bar called 'The Titty Twister'. After they make a big entrance they find, in an unforgetable 'OH SHIT!!' moment, that they aren't the toughest ones there.. in fact, they are on the menu!! Big names gave this one box office credit, and an appearance by Cheech Marin spices up a already peppery dish. If you like mindless violence, sight gags, cheesy one liners, sex, drugs, rock and roll... then you may enjoy this one, I know I did. From Dusk Till Dawn 2:Texas Blood Money(1999)- Aside from a brief nod to The Titty Twister, the only thing tying this flick to the first one is vampires and a couple players. Not bad, but not good either. Cool dialogue and humorous gimmicks help this one along. From Dusk Till Dawn 3:The Hangman's Daughter(1999)- The prequel to the series, and story wise the best of the three. Set in the late 1800's, a gang of bandits find themselves ensnared in a family issue from the dark side. Well done on all sides.

The Alien Quadrilogy (1979-1997)

The Alien Quadrilogy is a pretty fair watch across the board. Alien (1979) was never intended to have sequels, and stands out as the only horror movie in the group. Alien is a solid sci-fi horror movie that rivals anything out there in scope and detail, and home to one of the most memorable scenes in movie history. If you are a fan of horror/sci-fi you cannot go wrong with this one. Aliens (1986) is more sci-fi/action, and this will be the format for the remainder of the series. Aliens is both action packed and funny with Bill Paxton turning in a very memorable performance. Trading depth and realism in favor of color and adrenaline works well, and results in a very cool film that can stand alone. Alien³ (1992) picks up where Aliens leaves off, and I think it was intended to end the story line. A couple new FX, suspense, and a some colorful characters drive this one. Alien: Resurrection (1997) would be best viewed as a stand alone movie. Strictly formulaic, this one adds nothing to the other 3 but isn't a waste of time as far as viewing goes. Alien and Aliens sit on my favorite movies shelf.

Iron Man (2008)

2008 was a banner year for Marvel film, its first 2 releases being very well received. Iron Man wasn't just a great comic book movie, it was a great movie. Robert Downey Jr nails the Tony Stark character. The tech geeks in FX really spread their feathers on this one, the story line is a winning mix of action and humor, and the lead is reborn with a noble obsession. Gallahad for the 21st century. Some liberties are taken with the origin, but it makes a good fit for the times we live in. This is a great fun film that anyone can enjoy.

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

This is the Ed Norton version. Movie wise, this is much better than the first stab in both the depth and character development. I think not revisiting the first movie, and sort of picking up where it left off was a smart move. This Hulk is a lot more refined than the first one, employing tools and speaking, and being much more violent than the first guy. This version comes off more 'realistic'. The addition of the Marvel hand in the mix does not go un-noticed, and as I write this there is talk of 2 more films utilizing this version of the Hulk, though its unclear if Norton will be back for them.

Hulk (2003)

This is the Ang Lee version. I will admit my bias right up front, I am a Hulk fan. And like being a Cheesehead, being a fan is not enough to make them Superbowl material. Sadly, that is the case here. While I don't have the problems with this movie almost everyone else does, I have to admit there are problems. One problem is I think they couldn't make up their minds on whether to make it more realistic or more like a comic book, it keeps bouncing back and forth. On the plus side, the reinvention of the origin is brilliant, and the physical effects of 'the madder Hulk gets' I thought was excellent. Its funny to hear myself say that a movie about a radioactive green titan is too over the top for most peoples taste buds.

The Incredibles (2004)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
Let me start by saying, as Pixar is getting ready to push Toy Story 3 out of the studio, that I think all the Pixar films to date have been at least good, with most being very good. That being said, The Incredibles knocked my socks off. The set up is that in the good old days, there were superheroes on every street corner ready to knock the crap out of any evil doers... until they meet their match facing a horde of evil, despicable, baby eating.... trial lawyers. No longer allowed to be superheroes, they make their way in 'normal' everyday life until a super villain reveals himself and its time to call out the old guard. The themes are suprisingly mature without being complex, and border on being a tad dark in places. Don't let that throw you though, its a great family movie you can easily find yourself watching, and laughing with, again and again.

Surrogates (2009)

This is one of those movies that prove the 90 minute rule. This is an amazing sci-fi notion that could have really been a great movie if it had been allowed to breathe and develop. What we have instead is a 89 minute cram fest that leaves the cheese off the burger. This is not to say that its entirely un-enjoyable, not what I am saying at all, but there was so much untapped potential. Nuts and bolts is that in the future almost everyone is a couch potato and we all lay in a sensory bed and have our android bodies bump uglies in our stead. I read one review about this movie saying something that it was too hard to believe because only rich people would have these bodies. Well, two things, after I chide the other reviewer for having the economic sense of a 3 year old or a liberal. First 'ITS A MOVIE', I mean hell we never talk about whether finger glowing neck boner aliens or talking dogs is "hard to believe"(the premise can be whatever, the realism is in making it come to life). Second, and those of us born before the computer age can attest, there was a time when computers were too expensive for anyone but the rich. Guess what happened? Yeah.... we caught up now? I lied. Three things.... the 90 minute rule.. if you were paying attention, there was about 20 seconds that demonstrated that there were a lot of different grades of bodies, not everyone had the super cool rock-em-sock-em one Willis did.. but you had to be paying attention.

The Prestige (2006)

A very excellent story about 2 driven men at opposite ends of the 'how to get it done'. A pair of illusionists are torn apart by a tragic mistake, and results in a rivalry that will both consume and claim both their lives.... sort of. This has all the earmarks of a fine drama but with a measure of the extra-natural thrown in to make it interesting. The movie ends, but you will keep guessing. Recommended.

The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009)

A kooky movie about members of a spec ops team who call themselves 'Jedi's' This is sort of a crash between Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and Stripes. Set in Iraq, a reporter winds up in the company of a 'Jedi' on a secret mission. Humor is fairly subtle mostly, with a couple jabs thrown at actual events of the day. This worked more like the pickle than the sandwich for me.

Twelve Monkeys (1995)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
Im a huge fan of time travel movies/books/et al., and this is a good one. Bruce Willis is being sent back in time to gather samples and compile information to help the time he lives in to recover from a world wide plague that ravaged the planet. Very well done with not a lot of explaination about details, I found this added to the overall feel of the movie. Brad Pitt does as exceptional job as the delusional Jeff character. Great Sci-fi, great movie.

The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (2009)

Travolta bad guy and Denzel Washington reviving his stained hero persona. This is an enjoyable if bland watch. Think of it as the adult version of Speed. Subway is hyjacked with hostages, bring us $10M in an hour or people die. Fans of the primary players can expect more of the same good work despite obvious holes in the storyline. If you are a fan of cottage cheese and yogurt, think of this as the film version.

From Paris with Love (2010)

John Travolta has really seemed to hit his stride as a player. Since his rebirth in Pulp Fiction he has been a top shelf 'bad guy' in at least a dozen viable films. This time he steps in on our side as a rough and tumble ass kicking cowboy of a shadow ops special agent. This movie is like a roller coaster, in that it starts out gently tugging along being pulled up a steep incline. You may not be able to see all the turns, but the overall ride is fairly visible. Then its hang on and keep your mouth shut so you don't swallow anything unsavory. A very fast and violent ride, with a fairly high body count. No cheats. Good watch for fans of the genre. Points for obscure nod to Pulp Fiction.

The Princess Bride (1987)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
After the book of the same name, this is absolutely wonderful epic fairytale story telling. As Peter Faulk, aka Grandfather, says when asked if its 'any good', "Are you kidding? Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles... " Great stuff.

The Blind Side (2009)

Movies like this are real gems. Based on a true story of exceptional human decency, faith, and compassion. Great watch for the entire family. This is a genuine feel good film. Warm Fuzzy guaranteed. Highly recommended. Pictured is Micheal Oher and Mr. and Mrs. Tuohy.
PS~ For the record, state agencies are 'run' by the Governor, not the President.

The Way of the Gun (2000)

Possibly the best 3 minutes in film is the beginning of this movie. A story of two small time criminals who get a chance for a big score. This movie is fast paced and violent with a fair amount of realism. There's humor to be found for those who prefer the darker variety. The storyline gets a little soap opera-ish, but it doesn't interfere with the entertainment. A good alternative to high budget FX driven action movies.

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
This is one of those movies that just works for me. Its funny, the storyline keeps you interested and the plot keeps you guessing. There is a good chemistry among the players. As for the details, a small timer goes out to Hollyweird and is sucked into a murder mystery. I hadn't thought of it, but I wonder if that was the initial pitch to get this funded? Great entertaining movie that doesn't wear you out.

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

This was quite a bit more fun than I had expected. Robert Downey Jr.'s ability(habit?)of the rapid speaking deadpan really pays off here. Jude Law is one of my top shelf actors and he doesn't disappoint as Dr. Watson. Following the formula of the Indiana Jones movies, the action is clever and humorous with a solid storyline and a meat and potatoes plot. They include the premise of the sequel, so expect another. If you want a movie that is fast paced and buffet style, but well maintained, this is a good one. A very enjoyable watch.

Twilight (2008) / New Moon (2009)

This is part 1 and 2 of the Twilight saga, I don't know how many they plan to make. It has a third movie built in, so expect at least one more. This is based on a series of books of the same name. Aimed primarily at teen girls, it takes a 'sorta' fresh look at vampires and werewolves, continuing on the trend of Ann Rice and the Underworld series. This is more a romance than anything else, with a setting a bit off the beaten path. Not bad for what it is.

Shutter (2008)

If you like The Ring and The Grudge, you will probably enjoy this one as well. The story here is a little more directed, ala Gothika, but keeps the creepiness of the first two. A memorable ending that will send chills up your spine.

Identity (2003)

This is a pretty cool movie that sort of got the brush off when it came out. It sets up like a slasher flick with a twist, then they throw in a supernatural element. As people get picked off one by one, the answer seems to become clear. Then you get broadsided by the ending.... twice!! An enjoyable watch all round. You'll never look at a thumping dryer the same again.

The Cell (2000)

If you are like a lot of people who wonder how the hell 'JLo' got a film career, this movie could be one of the reasons. Using an experimental technique, psychiatrists are able to project themselves directly into the minds of their patients. One day the FBI show up with a catatonic serial killer who holds the fate of the last missing victim in his mind. The imagery and vision in this film are very cool, going from sparse and mundane to nightmarish and extravagant. A Sci-Fi/Thriller that will stick with you long after you've watched it.

The Number 23 (2007)

Jim Carey tries his hand at a thriller  The watch isn't bad for what it is, but there were a lot of huge snafus as far as I am concerned (why did she give him THAT book). If you don't pay too much attention to the details, its a pretty scary look at psychosis. This would be fun to watch with one of those people who like to tell you how the movie is going to end while you are watching it.

Shutter Island (2010)

A lot of hype around this one, and if you are expecting a scary movie this isn't it. The set up is this, our lead player is a federal marshal sent to a jail/hospital for the mentally insane set on what could be Alcatraz to investigate an escape. He starts having hallucinations/visions/memories shortly after his arrival. Things quickly start to go strange and by the time the story wraps up, you are ready to hear just about anything. The ending is a hard twist, with a couple of frayed ends. Sort of along the lines of The Number 23, Identity, or The Cell(but not as cool).

The Mist (2007)

A sci-fi style thriller from Stephen King. A remote little town is engulfed in a strange mist which conceals something deadly, trapping a group of people in a market. Like most of Kings stories, its the people who end up being the real danger, and its not long before they start killing each other. Nifty but dark twist at end. Some cool effects and grisly themes keep this watch in the fun end of the spectrum.

The Crying Game (1992)

Probably the most talked about and least viewed movie of the 90's. Its a movie designed to make the viewer question preconceived notions about right and wrong, love and hate, and well... ones sexual preferences. Expect a physical reaction when you get to 'the scene'(you will know when you see it, BELIEVE ME). The perfect date killer if you find yourself stuck with octo-boy and dont feel like sushi.

Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
This is one of those films that don't get made... or at least seen... very often. The first 10 minutes both sets up the tone for the story and will fill you with revulsion and disgust. Once you make it past that, the story meanders along right up to the first murder. Then things tighten up and the movie really takes off. Its a tale of terminal obsession and hopeless dedication by a man who has only one pleasure in a world of pain. This is definitely not for everyone, so take care before you decide to see this one.

Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008)

This is one of the most original movies I have seen since the Rocky Horror Picture Show. That isn't to say that they have anything in common except maybe being shocking for the time. This is a musical, a modern opera. This is not a film for the squeamish as it is violent and bloody, while the story itself is as dark and tragic as any opera of old. All that aside I found it to be quite the ride. The music is well crafted as is the choreography. The story line is quite appropriate for our times. Very entertaining. I would say if you are tired of the same old Hollyweird formula, trying on the genuine weird may be a nice change. Fast approaching my top 10 shelf.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
While the crew-cuts were worried about shark attacks, all the kids who got 'swirlies' and 'wedgies' were sneaking off to see Rocky Horror in the middle of the night. For its time, this flick was really pushing the edges... now, depending on where you see it, the players may seem like the sane ones. This is a musical and audience participation film. As such, renting it on DVD doesn't count. Its like eating a chocolate and claiming you went to Switzerland. This picture MUST be seen in a theater WITH a supporting cast (those will be the people in fishnets and trenchcoats). If you do a little online legwork, you will know what to bring to the show to get the most out of the experience(hotdogs, red and blue playing cards, a newspaper section, water pistol, and so on). Don't expect to leave the same person you went in as. Give yourself over to absolute pleasure.

Frankenhooker (1990)

If the title and cover didn't tell you what kind of movie you are in for, then the first 10 minutes will. After a bizarre lawnmower accident, our hero's life long love is reduced to fun sized chunks. Convinced he can bring her back from the Tupperware, he sets out to find the parts to fix her. This is top shelf B movie camp. The only thing missing is a cameo by Bruce Campbell. Twisted and silly with random nudity and violence the story line chugs through super crack, the Barney Fife of pimps, a barrel of boobs, and the magic vat of goo. If you aren't a twisted geek naturally, it may help to get that way chemically before viewing.

El espinazo del diablo [The Devil's Backbone](2001)

As you may have already guessed, this is a Spanish film, and is in Spanish with other languages subtitled. There are a few writer/directors I follow- Guillermo del Toro is one of them. One of the best ghost stories I have ever seen, this movie works at all levels. Not terrifying, and with no gore, it still manages to be creepy as can be. Not only does the story make sense, its easy to follow without a lot of twists and sub plots and all that. Plus it has the best ghost manifestation I've seen on film to date. Being subbed, you do have to pay attention, but every detail isn't necessary to follow the story. While not designed to be scary, its a wonderfully spooky experience.

Gutterballs (2008)

This flick is like a porn movie that went terribly wrong. I don't want to know what kinds of drugs they were on when they hatched this one...well.... no I don't.. hush. Anyway B caliber, lots of gore, weak dialogue, with a 'run to the convenience store for a pack of lucky strikes' storyline mentality. Other than that, the only reason to see this is because people will tell you not to. Very graphic with twisted and creative ways to kill off the players ... if I had known this about Bowling Alleys earlier I would have taken up golf.

The Return of the Living Dead (1985)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
This is the B movie that changed a genre... this is where the notion that zombies eat brains come from(something even Homer Simpson knows). Pay close attention to character names and dialogue as that's where much of the humor lies. Remember this is a B movie.. low budget with friends of friends out in front of the lens. Spawned 4 or 5 sequels that get cheesier as they go. Punk sound track and characters with classic 80's flavor. A lot of fun if you just want to enjoy some dark humor in a proverbial dive.

The Messengers (2007)

Don't let the cookie cutter set-up fool you, this is one damn creepy movie with imagery that will stick with you. There are a couple gimmicks, and the ending is a bit of a 'huh'?, but you could do a damn sight worse as far as calling in the goose pimples. One of the better scary movies out there.

Armored (2009)

A group of guards working for an armored truck carrier decides to heist themselves out of a $43 million load. Its not long before things turn to shit. Some recognizable players turn in some good work on this one. Not a bad group viewing selection as things stay fairly tight but never get complex.

The Dark Knight (2008)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
The best Batman movie to date, and one of the best movies ever made. Heath Ledger knocks the Joker persona out of the park, and becomes the benchmark for the Joker character. He is so convincing, that his 'agent of chaos' speech actually starts making sense. This is the second Batman movie under the new direction, the first being 'Batman Begins', and as such has a bigger budget. The result is they blow up more things in this one, as well as increase the FX. One FX in particular brought a certain amount of grief to some, and that is the electronic enhancements The Batman gets to his voice. This is actually a part of the Batman character(unlike Superman, he doesn't get to rely on glasses to hide his identity), but for purposes of the movie this critique is as ham handed as the Kevin Costner one in Robin Hood(they said he didn't sound 'English' enough). But with a movie this well done, I would expect the nit-pick crowd to show up trying to justify their existence. Wall to wall ass kicking is what this movie does, so hang on and enjoy the ride!

The Thaw (2009)

When an actor I like goes under the radar, I'm usually willing to watch anything I find they are in just to see what they've been up to. Such is the case with Val Kilmer and this movie. The premise is that global warming is destroying the planet and one enlightened scientist (Kilmer) is going to save everyone whether they like it or not. Turns out as a not too bad viewing experience. Gross out factor is high, especially for people who cant stand bugs and larvae. This could have been an episode of 'The X Files'... You know, I think it actually was....

Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001)

This is one of my guilty pleasures movies. Like masturbation I can enjoy this flick over and over and laugh myself sick each time.. at the movie I mean.. but it always makes me feel a little guilty afterwards like I was doing something naughty. If you are unfamiliar with Kevin Smith, this may not be where you want to start. If you aren't afraid of the F bomb and fart and gay and gay fart jokes, then head on down to the jail and cornhole some drunks. Its very juvenile and I have heard it can drop a woman's IQ 30 points just holding the box. Enjoy.

Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003) / Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004)

This is really one movie in 2 parts. A group of female assassins have a falling out, the result is the super saturday kung fu bloodbath that are these 2 movies. This is definately a 'don't think about it too much' viewing experience. With that in mind, this is a pretty cool B movie with a big budget and players you've heard of... and blood.... lots of it... at least in volume 1. Volume 2 slows the pace a bit, but packs in more story. A couple cheats along the way.. the chest full of rocksalt scene in particular, but like I said... no thinking!! The characters are colorful and delightfully one dimensional and the action brutal and in your face.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

*TOP 10 ALERT*
Possibly the greatest movie ever. Cool soundtrack, ass kicking dialogue, and a very personal look at how a group of people's lives intersect. Listen to the title on this one... pulp fiction... its violent, offensive, repugnant, lewd, crass, vulgar and coarse. It is also the home of some of the most creative non-fantasy/sci-fi story telling ever, with the only raspberry going to Tarantino himself who insists on playing a role (thankfully a short one). Sorry Quentin my man, I luv ya, but behind the camera... unless you are getting a stake shoved through your chest because you are so damned annoying as a player!! Definitely not for children or those easily offended. An unforgettable experience.

Ninja Assassin (2009)

I was surprised at how good this one was. The story was coherent, action was fierce and brisk with over 716 gallons of stage blood thrown at the camera. This was filmed as a 3D experience, but a few scenes aside its not overly apparent. Sort of the Terminator of ninja films, and the best 'ninja' themed movie I have ever seen.

Blood Creek (2009)

A man's lost brother shows up after 2 years and asks for his help. They take up arms and head to a remote farm, where the brother was held and tortured, to get some payback. Then it gets weird with Nazi occultism and a super powered demonic wizard. Sort of The Warlock meets The Village. Pretty fair watch overall with an interesting moral lesson.