Bonhoeffer: Agent of Grace (2000)

An excellent cast, none of whom are major names in America, and solid acting bring the story of one theologian’s principled resistance to the Nazi regime in Germany to life. A palpable undercurrent of fear, particularly of the German resistance getting arrested and executed, is always present in this drama. Grade: B. IMDB: Bonhoeffer: Agent […]

The Excalibur Kid (1999)

This unbelievably horrible film is a fine example of terrible acting, juvenile dialogue and unprofessional special effects. It makes Plan 9 From Outer Space look like Tombstone. I’ve walked out of only two films; this one and Star Wars Episode 1. I’ve spent more entertaining evenings vomiting from food poisoning. Color: Blood Red IMDB: The […]

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Other war movies focus on elite forces, major battles or rag-tag groups overcoming incredible odds. This well-acted and exceptionally-executed film instead relates a fictional story of a small band of soldiers simply following orders to save the last surviving brother of four that were killed during D-Day. Color: Royal Blue IMDB: Saving Private Ryan

Thank You For Smoking (2005)

A silver-tongued tobacco lobbyist battles to defend a besieged industry and to save his relationship with his son. Corporate Culture, D.C. and Hollywood are skillfully juxtaposed to force the audience to wonder which are the most bizarre. At the end, one may even feel sympathy for the antagonist / hero. Color: Green IMDB: Thank You […]

Kung Fu Hustle (2004)

Two wanna-be gangsters try to extort a run-down village. When the real gangsters arrive, the city’s secret Shaolin masters reveal themselves. The film is funny but becomes serious and even moving at moments. Well worth watching not just for the comedy, but also the well choreographed fight scenes. Color: Blue IMDB: Kung Fu Hustle [Cantonese […]

Shaolin Soccer (2001)

A crippled former soccer star and several down-on-their-luck ex-shaolin monks form a soccer team to take on Team Evil. Their training and adversaries are hilarious and entertaining. The story is light and easy to follow. Overall, this a great film good for more than a few laughs. Color: Forest Green IMDB: Shaolin Soccer – aka […]

Patton (1970)

An exploration of the accomplishments and idiosyncrasies of one of the most accomplished and daring Generals of WW2 yields an overly long film that, except for Scott, is poorly acted. The story is interesting, but the execution left me fighting to stay awake. I’ve had more fun installing Windows XP. Color: Yellow. IMDB: Patton.

X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

This is the third installment of the Saga of the X-Men.  This one was directed by Brett Ratner.  This has plenty of action and a good story.  Unfortunately, some characters aren’t utilized to their full potential, including some major characters.  Note:  Stay after the credits finish for an added surprise. Grade: B+. IMDB: X-Men: The […]

The Big Red One (1980)

Lee Marvin and Mark Hamill play two infantry soldiers in the Big Red One (US 1st Infantry Division), fighting against Germans and Italians in North Africa and Europe. We follow the squad through the entire war in this underrated war epic. An excellent cast brings the engrossing story to life. Grade: A. IMDB: The Big […]

Matewan (1987)

In a small West Virginia town, the coal miners are brutally oppressed by the mine company. A union representative comes to help the workers organize and strike. This well-acted film follows their unwinnable struggle and the battle between the company, the miners, and the replacements caught in the middle. Grade: B+. IMDB: Matewan.

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