The Popcorn Gallery

As most of you know - I'm a real huge movie fan!

I have been reviewing the latest and greatest (sometimes not so greatest) movies for our JOAD classes each week ever since we started the Elite Archers JOAD program 15 years ago. I have reviewed perhaps over a thousand movies since I started.

By your generous gift of movie passes I get to see between 80 and 100 movies a year, and give you my "colorful" impressions at class. So please continue to remember me on the holidays and my birthday-September 23rd. (which is also National Archery Day).

Recently, someone suggested I put these reviews on this site, so just in case someone missed class at least they won't miss the review - "This makes perfectly good sense to me". I will also include recently viewed DVD's that I missed when the movie was at the theather.

The rating system I use is scored 1-10, with 10 being the best. Sometimes I rate a movie with a one point or more BF - for "babe factor" (also indicated by a *); but I'll let you know when I do that. 10's are very rare, and I reserve the right to upgrade or downgrade a review upon a second viewing.

MY LATEST REVIEWS FOR 2010 ARE...

Daybreakers - 6 points
The Book of Eli - 5 points*
Legion - 6 points
Edge of Darkness - 3 points
The Wolfman - 6 points
Iron Man 2 - 7 points
Robin Hood - 5 points
The A-Team - 8.5 points
Predators - 3 points
Salt - 7 points*
The Dispendables - 7.5 points
Inception - 4 points (It put me to sleep)


MY LATEST REVIEWS FOR 2009 ARE...

Taken - 7.5 points
Surrogates - 8 points
Terminator Salvation - 7 points
Transformers - Revenge of the Fallen - 10 points
Underworld 3 - Rise of the Lycans - 9 points
X-Men Origins - Wolverine - 8.5 points
Watchman - 4 points
Public Enemy - 5 points
Pandorum - 7.5 points
Star Trek - 9 points
Hangover - 8 points
Mutant Chronicals - 6 points
Inglorious Bastards - 5 points
Street Fighter - Legend of Chun-Li - 7 points
Butterfly Effect - Revelation - 7 points
Defiance - 7.5 points
Angels & Demons - 7 points
Ghosts of Girlfriends Past - 6.5 points
Anaconda 4 - 5 points
Fireflies in the Garden - 8 points
Harry Potter - The half blood prince - 6.5 points
District 9 - 9 points
G.I Joe - 8 points
Amelia - 7 points
2012 - 7 points
AVATAR - 6 points
Sherlock Holmes - 7 points

MY REVIEWS FOR 2008 ARE...

Quantum of Solice - 8.5 points
Scorpion King 2 - 6.5 points
Mummy - Tomb of the Dragon King - 8.5 points
Transporter 3 - 8 points
Wall-E - 5 points
10,000BC - 3 points
Journey to the center of the earth - 3 points
Bangkok Dangerous - 3 points
Anaconda 3 - 5 points
Austraila - 7 points
Gran Torino - 4 points
Get Smart - 6 points
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - 5 points*
The Chronicles of Narnia / Prince Caspian - 9.5 points
Iron Man - 10 points
The Ruins - 6.5 points
Untraceable - 7.5 points
In the Name of the King - 8 points
Bank Job - 8 points
Doomsday - 6.5 points*
Jumper - 7.5 points
Rambo - 3 points
Cloverfield - 7 points
The Golden Compass - 6 points
Sweeney Todd - 8.5 points
American Gangster - 5.5 points
Unearthed - 5 points


UPDATE - Christmas Day 2007

I owe an apology to all my friends that follow my reviews. Because of business pressures I haven't been able to update this page for almost 18 months. Writing a full review will take me forever, so I have decided to simply list the movie and release date, along with it's rating for now.

My 2007 Movie Season

12/25 AVPR - 6.5 points
12/21 National Treasure - 7 points
12/14 I am Legend - 4 points
11/21 Hitman - 7 points
11/21 The Mist - 7 points
11/16 Beowulf - 6 points
11/16 Enchanted - 6 points
10/19 30 Days of Night - 8.5 points
10/12 Elizabeth-The Golden Age - 9 points
09/21 Resident Evil-Extinction - 8.5 points
09/28 The Kingdom - 8 points
09/28 Stardust - 8 points*
08/24 War - 3 points
08/03 Underdog - 7 points
08/08 Daddy Day Camp - 7 points
08/10 Rush Hour 3 - 3 points
08/17 The last Legion - 7.5 points
08/24 Mr. Bean's Holiday - 2 points
07/24 The Contract - 5 points
07/27 The Simpson's Movie - 3 points
07/11 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phonenix - 7.5 points
07/03 The Transformers - 9 points
06/08 Ocean's Thirteen - 5 points
06/15 Fantastic Four/ Rise of the Silver Surfer - 8.5 points
06/22 The Grindhouse / Planet Terror - 5 points
06/27 Live Free or Die Hard - 8.5 points
06/29 Ratatouille - 9 points
05/25 Pirates of the Caribbean At Worlds End - 6 points
05/18 Shrek the Third - 7 points
05/11 28 Weeks Later - 9 points
05/04 SpiderMan -3 - 7 points
04/20 Hot Fuzz - 8 points
04/13 Pathfinder - 7 points
03/30 Blades of Glory - 2 points
03/23 The last Minzy - 9 points
03/23 Shooter - 8 points
03/09 300 - 7 points
03/02 Wild Hogs - 7.5 points
03/02 Zodiac - 2 points
02/23 The Astronut Farmer - 4 points
02/16 Ghost Rider - 3 points
02/16 Breach - 3 points
02/09 Hannibal Rising - 7 points

My 2006 Movie Season

12/25 Children of Men - 7.5 points
12/22 Night at the Museum - 9 points
12/20 Rocky Balboa - 5 oints
12/20 Letters from Iwo Jima - 8 points
12/15 Eragon - 8 points
12/08 Apocalypto - 6 points
12/08 Blood Diamond - 6 points
12/01 The Nativity Story - 8 points
11/22 The Fountain - 3 points
11/17 Casino Royale - 8 points
11/03 Santa Clause 3 - 8 points
10/20 Flags of our Fathers - 6.5 points
10/17 Behind Enemy Lines II - 7 points
10/13 The Marine - 4 points
10/13 One Night with the King - 7 points
10/13 Man of the Year - 4 points
10/10 The Butterfly Effect 2 - 7.5 points
09/30 The Queen - 9 points
09/29 The Guardian - 7 points
09/27 The Last King of Scotland - 6 points
09/22 The FlyBoys - 8 points
09/08 The Covenant - 8 points
08/18 Snakes on a Plane - 8 points
08/09 World Trade Center - 5 points
07/28 Miami Vice - 4 poimts
07/21 Lady in the Water - 6.5 points
07/21 My Super X-Girlfriend - 7.5 points
07/07 Pirates of the caribbean / Dead Man's Chest - 4.5 points
06/16 Beowulf & Grendel - 7.5 points

Superman Returns- (06/28) 5 points- Boring... At least they could have made his cape flutter. It ripped off every Superman film made (including Lois & Clark). It might have been better if they didn't try to make him look like Christopher Reeve. In this case it's not an honor, it's an insult. I lost count of how many sceens in this movie just didn't make sense. Kevin Spacey was the only glimmer of sunshine, and is the only reason I gave it the rating I did. I hope this movie isn't an "omen" of things to come out of tinselland.

X-Men / Last Stand- 9.5 points- Finally a movie that didn't disappoint. Very well done, great action! Be sure to stay until the credits end completely, so you can catch the final 20 seconds of the film.

The Omen-3 points-Boy, they must have saved a ton of money on script work with this one. I've heard of remakes; but this takes the cake. What a rip-off.

The DiVinci Code-6.5 points- I shouldn't have read the book, but I did. The movie for me went nowhere. IT was very disjointed. Too long at some places and not long enough at others. Perhaps "Angels & Demons" will be better, especially if they were to do the right thing by casting a different lead actor.

United 93-8 points-The movie follows the 911 report very closly. I know, I read the report cover to cover three times. You don't really get the impact of what occured that morning until you see it played out on the big screen in almost real time. You walk away with thinking that there really was nothing anyone could have done that day that would have made any difference (no individual - no government). Thank heaven for pre-emptive action.

Poseiden-6 points- Ok, we all know the ships sinks. No matter how many disaster movies hollywood throws at us, we continue to like puzzles, because if you think about it, that's what movies like this really are. Everytime I fly, I look around the cabin and think..."if the plane were to crash, and I were stuck living on a "lost" island with these people..."

Mission Impossible 3 -2 points- Tom's lost it, and the title says it all - mission failed.

The Sentinel-7.5 points-The theme of the secret service agent (bodyguard) falling for the first lady has been done about a half different times. This movie at least stays on-par wilh the others. Michael Douglas is, well, ok ... still, and Kim Basinger is always a hottie

Basic Instinct 2 -4 points-I remember Sharon in BI#1...so hot! When she crossed her legs in that interview room, every male in the theather leaned forward. In this movie, you just smile and remember the good "old" days. If your over 60, I certain you will still be turned on. Maybe thats it!... I'm not 60!

Inside Man-5 points- Ah!, Danzel, Danzel... it's all about Danzel. Nothing new here.

V for Vandetta-9 points-I like movies that make well placed political and social statements. The ending has a certain twist I think you will like if you can look... beyond the mask.

Silent Hill-8 points - This movie will grip you and never let you go. It's very scary and not for young children. Like the movie, once you enter it's world, you can never leave.

Tristin and Isolde-8.5 points- In the tradition of Romeo and Juliet, this movie is beautifully done. Secret love, honor, loyality and a huge part of history are played out in a well performed role. The ending fills your heart and the soundtrac is worth a separate purchase.

Firewall-4.0 - I guess I was looking for a new twist on an old theme. I didn't find one. Even the end scene showdown in a secluded cabin has been done before. Very disappointing. Harrison needs to get a job, or at least better scripts. The only reason I gave the movie 4 points is because he is, after all, Harrison Ford, and worth at least a four. Additional points have to earned.

Underworld Evolution-8.5 - Now tell me, who can resist a good Vampire v. Werewolf movie? I know I can't! This is definately an upgrade from the old Bela Lagose' and Abbot and Costello meet the Werewolf movies. If you liked the first Underworld movie you'll enjoy this one equally as well. Great action, good story line, and then there's Kate. I'm bitten!

KING KONG- 7.5 points - This movie goes to show that Kong can still pack them in. The movie stuck to the original story line but did take some liberties in certain areas which seemed to work well. The movie lacks in better casting of most of the main characters and I thought it was a bit too campi at times. Three hours is a long time to put up with a weak cast. However - Kong himself, was, of course, prefectly cast!

The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - 10 points - A beautiful enchanting movie. Absolutely Surperb!! I can't say any more than that.

Aeon Flux- 7 points w/BF - Cloning has nothing on this movie. Many of the concepts were cloned from other great sci-fi movies of the past. I did enjoy the cool special affects and the almost anime filming. Other than that - if you've seen one clone movie .....

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire-9 points - The best film since the first. I enjoyed all two and a half hours. It was creative, moved along well, had lots of special effects, and even held my attention. Great film... go see it!

Derailed- 6 points - The movie has been done lots of times before. You know it's a con from the very start, and although I found meyself emotionally drawn in on some scenes, I quickly came to my senses after I left the theater.

Jarhead-Minus 10 points - The liberal Hollywood elite just don"t get it - WE ARE AT WAR! I have never before seen a film that dipicted our troops in such a degrading manner. I have several friends that served in the Gulf War and I can assure you they did not disobey orders, talk back to superior officers, run around the desert naked, dance with phallic symbols on Christmas eve, act stupid all day, want to have sex with dead women, or had all their wives or girlfriends leave them, or send them home made porno films of themselves with the guy next door, or ... sorry, I'm too pissed to continue. The Gulf War vets should be up in arms over this one. The writers and producers forgot the honor that comes with being an American and what it means to defend the very freedom they abuse.

North Country- 8.5 points - Sometimes you just have to get away from all the action and sci-fi stuff that dominates the movie landscape these days and enjoy a good drama such as this movie. Even though watching this movie reminded me of a cross between "coal miners daughter" and every let's get the big corporation screwing the little folks movie out there, it does have a very, very, important message to tell. Based on a true story really helps. I highly suggest watching this one - without a doubt.

The Legend of Zorro- 8.5 points w/BF - It must be the swashbuckler in me that makes me attrcted to films like this. After all, if you read my bio, it was the Adventures of Robin Hood got me into this sport. The movie is no great shakes, but is fun to watch. The plot can use help at times but does have good action scenes. Like the first, it once again has a great score. Needless to mention, - I can look at Catherine all night.

Doom - 4 points - If you want to watch a really well done movie of this type, it's called Resident Evil 1 & 2. As far as this one is concerned - stay at home and play the game - you'll get more out of it.

Domino - 5 points w/BF - This movie is rated "R" for a very good reason. Talk about "blood and guts"!! Well anyway, if you don't like movies that are heavily narrated you won't like this one. I found the movie very "artsi" in a dumb and stupid sort of way. Lots of stars, but none to wish upon.

The Fog - 7 points - This movie proves the old addage that nothing beats the original. That being said, I must admit the movie was enjoyable to watch, and if you missed the first one (your under 25 years old) you would find this version quite entertaining - that is of course, once you realize you're not in Smallville anymore.

History of Violence- 4.5 points - The best part of this movie was the last three minutes. Now, tell me - doesn't that sum-up my feelings. Don't even rent it.

Serenity-8.5 points - Sometimes you have to wonder what TV moviegoers were thinking on "sweeps night". The series ran one season, and in my opinion is one of the most original series to come along in a long time. Ever since a friend introduced me to Firefly, I've been hooked. Serenity is the name of the spaceship. The full screen version picks up right where the series ended. The movie is very well done and I for one are very happy that it kept to the original cast. I can't wait to own it.

Flightplan-5.5 points - Sorry, no babe factor for our leading lady-she's starting to show her age. I quickly tired of hearing her yell - "where's my daughter" - "have you seen my daughter?". I understand that is what the movie is all about; but pleeeese... give us a break! Not even a rental.

Into the Blue-7.5 points w/BF - I'm glad they filmed this in crystal clear water so you can actually see something (unlike the "Cave").
I thought the movie moved along at a good pace. The only drawback is that all the action is rear loaded, so you have to go through over half the movie to get to the good parts. Johnny Depp, where are you when we need a good pirate?

Tim Burton's Corpse Bride- 6 points - Fun to watch, but that's about it. Johnny Depp should stick to being a pirate.

Exorcism of Emily Rose-5 points - I can appreciate the fact that it's based upon a true story; but still -I'm sorry, it just didn't turn my head.

Transporter 2- 8.5 points - car chases, fight scenes, more car chases in a car that can't be destroyed... who can ask for more? I can. Anyone who can do his own stunts, and do them so well, deserves to be the next James Bond. If you enjoyed the first Transporter, you'll like this one as well... and perhaps better.

Red Eye- 6 points - The premise of the movie has been done many times before; but the movie did move along nicely and was enjoyable to watch.

The Brothers Grimm- 3 points - This is a grimm movie alright. The only redeeming thing about this movie is the set design for the villages. Otherwise, it's even worse than War of the Worlds - if you can believe that! This movie is overhyped and just downright stupid. I and a friend almost walked out. Don't waste your time or money.

The Cave- 5.5 points - The fact that there are indeed people that do underwarter cave diving has always made parts of my body "squince". I'm not a tight places/ high danger type person. The movie was well done visually, the premise weak, acting fair, and the monsters - not plausable. A good rental.

The Great Raid- 8 points - Who can resist a good WW-2 movie, especially one that's a true story. Some acting sucked; but the movie pulls through. It's a time and a place in our history that is almost forgotten. I'm humbled when reminded of the sacrifices made by our POW's for our freedom.

Stealth- 7.5 points - Movie seemed disjointed. It couldn't make up it's mind if it were an action or a romance movie. Some of the plot was done before and done better.

The Island- 9 points - Excellent and creative plot. Good character development and a great car chase scene. A very enjoyable movie.

The Notebook- 10 points - Every now and then a movie comes along that reminds me of easier times and enduring love. This is such a great movie.

Fantastic 4- 8 points w/BF - although a bit slow with good character development, the movie was easy to watch and very entertaining. I think Fan4-2 would be better, now that we are introduced to the players.

War of the Worlds- 5 pts. - FX was great - The machines were real cool but the plot was not plausable, the ending stupid, and a zombie would have been a better choice than Tom. The little girl's acting performance gets 4 of the 5 points.

Land of the Dead- 7.5 pts. - A different twist for a zombie movie - they think and feel - so does that make them all bad?.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith- 8.5 pts. w/1-BF - Creative, witty and very enjoyable.
The strange thing is that I know of married couples that act in real life just like Brad an Angela in the movie. I wonder if they too have a secret life.

Batman Returns- 8.5 pts. - Good action and I loved the car! Although I must admit that out of uniform Bruce Wayne's "acting" was a bit wimpy.

Star Wars Revenge of the Sith.-9.5 pts. - May the force be with you - always!
Remember, I'm the one who saw the very first StarWars 57 times in the theather. Need I say more?

Anthony's Movie Reviews & More 6/20/2010:

The Popcorn Gallery
The Popp-ED Korn Gallery
All 10's
Cartoons Galore