Reviews

We all know what the Spice Girls making a movie is going to make EVERYONE think; but really, even watching this for fun several years after it came out when the band is no longer popular (at least, not in my area), I can honestly say it really isn't that bad. The singers do a great job because they aren't trying to pull off a dramatic performance, and their ability to mock their own style, fans, and themselves is something to be respected. Compare this movie to the disgustingly sappy "Crossroads"; would you rather view these ridiculous popstars who completely comfortable with being ridiculous or the sickening "drama" that looks like it's trying to win itself a best actress Oscar? I'll take the superfluous fluff any day, personally. Just because they are the Spice Girls doesn't mean they don't know how to have a good laugh, one that's often at their own expense.

Angel Sanctuary is one of those shows that makes people uncomfortable intentionally by twisting around common perceptions. Some people may not like this, but if you approach this anime with an open mind and don't intend to be offended or disgusted, chances are you won't be. Graphically, the show is masterfully done and the blantant, almost disturbingly inverse plot makes it both a wonderful and frightening experience. As far as I can see, it's good to look at things from all sides and to see things from a very rare point of view- for example, from the point of view of a teenage boy in love with his biological sister rather than through the eyes of the masses- and this quality makes Angel Sanctuary both unique and thought-provoking.

This movie is wonderful- don't let anyone convince you otherwise. The characters are memorable and a delight to watch, especially Sher Khan and Baloo the Bear. The songs, especially "I Wanna Be Like You" and the classic "Bare Necesseties" are fun to listen to, even as an adult. It is clear Walt Disney was a part of this project. I recommend it for all ages, kids will find it funny, and will fall in love with characters like the friendly Balloo, the worriesome panther Ballugha's parental instincts, and the hopelessly incompetent Kaa. Adults will find plot sweet, and the characters a joy to watch. Much better than anything Disney has made recently. 10/10

And Sher Khan is THE coolest Disney villain. Ever.

Many comments insist that the plot of this movie is overdone. While the "Inspirational Teacher" outline has been used many times before, Dangerous Minds approaches it from an entirely different angle. Michelle Pfieffer's character's connection with the students is strong and a pleasure to watch. The issues covered in the film are shown in a straight and realistic way, and are not glazed over by Hollywood magic. Maybe it isn't my favorite movie, but I recommend you give it a chance. Worth seeing.

***1/2 out of *****

Probably one of the worst films I have ever seen. Unbeatably cheesy, with the a plot line leaking stupidity everywhere. I mean, really, a rapping genie who comes out of a boom box? Whut? Still, this doesn't diminish my enthusiasum, which I didn't spell right, for the movie. It's extrordinarily goofy, and fun to just laugh at. I wouldn't rent it more than once, but I would rent it at least one time. I wasn't expecting this movie to be at all good, and I was right, but pointing at Shaq in every scene and yelling out, "SHAQ!" was worth my time. *wink wink*

I really liked "Tomb Raider." It was an awesome movie, and worth my time and money. Angelina Jolie (luv that name!) was a perfect choice for Lara Croft, and while a few scenes of the movie center around her sex appeal, there is a lot more to it.

"Tomb Raider" has special effects that will remind you of great classics like Indiana Jones and other super action films. They were quite impressive. People will tell you they were mediocre, but remember that really good special effects you hardly even notice, because they are realistic. Thats what I saw in "Tomb Raider."

The acting was, in a word, wonderful. I was truly impressed. While I already knew how good Angelina Jolie was, I had not heard of many of the other people in the film (not including, of course, the extremely talented Jon Voight). Alex West's character really added to the movie, as the money loving Tomb Raider who wasn't sure what side he was on. And Ian Glenn (I'm sorry, I'm sure I spelled that wrong) stepped in as the power hungry Manfred Powell. Contrary to what a lot of people say, he is a calm, manipulative villain who is very convincing.

The only crappy thing about this movie isn't its fault at all. It's been criticized to death! People have said it was a rip off of Indiana Jones, except a different plot and with a woman. Um... that would make it kinda different, wouldn't it?! Duh! Others say the villain is flat and dull, but just because he isn't loud and gun trigger-happy, doesn't mean he's not evil. He's just quiet. But the most common complaint is that it is dull and confusing. Not to be rude, but if YOU are scratching your head at the end of this flick, pay more attention to it next time, and don't blame the creators. They don't deserve flack because somebody didn't understand the intricate plot. It's fun and exciting and well done. Don't screw it up.

8/10 (A)

Going into "Legally Blonde", I thought I knew exactly what to expect. Like, major stupidity!! Of course, the object of the evening was to have a great time with my best friend, and it hardly mattered what we saw, as long as it wasn't nasty. As it turned out, "Legally Blonde" was no waste of my time and money, and I was soon wrapped up in the plot and characters.

Elle (played by Reese Witherspoon, it's pronounced EL, not EL-LY) seems to be about as ditzy as she could be, but it's obvious she is no "dumb blonde", as an unfortunate shopkeeper finds out the hard way. After her boyfriend Warner breaks up with her because he "needs someone serious", and goes off to Harvard, Elle follows him there (with the help of her sex appeal), but learns that attending law school is no walk in Harvard yard. After being embarrassed, stereotyped, and deceived, she pushes herself to really become a valuable law student. Attending Harvard, Elle realizes how smart she really is, and with that she gains something much better than her old boyfriend, she gains a new kind of life, and sweetheart Emmett (Luke Wilson), who can see a powerful mind through that beautiful blonde hair.

Unless it's after 12 AM, I cannot stand asinine, pointless humor. I really, truly enjoyed "Legally Blonde". It was sweet, funny (anyone who's seen it must remember "Chuck"), and a whole lot of fun. If you know anything about a courtroom, as I do, you'll know that some of the court law aspect of the movie is complete bull. But have an open mind, will you? Relax and enjoy the movie. After all, that's what it's for.

A

I remember very clearly how I saw this movie. I didn't wan't to see it, not at all, but my older brother was obsessed with Mario video games, so as soon as he found the movie in the video store, he took it downstairs and watched it for, like, his 10th birthday party. For some reason, I ended up watching it as well. Now, I was probably around 7, so the slime bgugged me a bit, but I had so much fun watching this outrageous movie (and cute John Leguizamo as Luigi didn't hurt either, though I pay more attention to that when I watch it now.) The characters are great representations of those in the video game, and while maybe they could have done without the slime, this is Mario! Come on, the background of the game it is based on mirrors that of the movie. Denis h=Hopper is ssooo evil in this movie (but then, what movie is he not?), and Samantha Mathis delivers a performance of Princess Daisy that stays with the character, but also stands up for herself a little more. And how could you not love little Yoshi? Sure you can slam the movie's acting, effects, and maybe plotline, but its a fun, vivid movie you won't forget!

So if you are looking for the perfect, Oscar winning, beautiful movie, don't look here. But if you want fun for the whole family and a movie that will make you cheer, look here!!!

"Unfortunately, no one can be told what the Matrix is. You have to see it for yourself." -Morpheus (In the Matrix)

He was right all along. To those of you who have seen The Matrix, I'm sure you understand what I mean. To those of you who have not, let me urge you to go see this unique, brilliant, amazing movie as soon as you can. It is not all action, it is not the kind of movie that can be in the background. It is a thief, it steals your attention away from anything else to the last moment. It is not the kind of movie you can stop, and continue later. When, at last, you watch the final captivating moments of the thriller, you will want to run it back and watch it all over again. The characters feel real, and before the movie's even over, you feel like you could walk outside and see one of them. The Matrix is in no way like any other movie that I have ever seen. The plot was original and intelligent. It is extremely unpredictable, and will have your heart racing. I urge everyone to see it. But, remember, it is not a movie you watch, it is a movie you experience. Enjoy!