Firestarter - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Tough film to review and watch.Released in 1984 and running 114 minutes,it's very dated and the acting is uneven.B and C actors thrown together in a early movie based on a Steven King story.The plot is also kinda uneven but engrossing when you allow it to get to the basics of a father and daughter and those who exploit them.Thats why I took 1 and 1/2 star off.The standout acting is the young girl,Drew Barrymore and the really crazy Government bad guy,George C. Scott.I did enjoy it but I realize its outdated for the younger crowd.A period piece for sure.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary is below.Look for a TOO small role by the great Freedie Jones

Andrew and Vicky McGee met while earning money as guinea pigs for an experiment at college. The experiment was shrouded in suspicion and mystery, and seemed to be related to psychic abilities. The two were married and had a daughter Charile, who has the ability to start fires by merely thinking about it. Naturally, the government takes a great interest in Charlie, and operatives from the secret department known as "The Shop" want to quarrantine and study her. Written by Murray Chapman <muzzle@cs.uq.oz.au>

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi3273564953/

Dances With Wolves - 5 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 1990 and running 181 minutes,this is a almost perfect film.Sure its a mite long and it doesn't paint a nice picture of the white man vs the indian,but we now know it always wasn't a nice picture.I have yet to review Avatar because as a sci-fi fan my first impression was a outer space FX dances with wolves,and I HATE obvious copy cats.But to this film. Kevin Costner stars and directed and produced this film and to take on 3 jobs on a project is a big gamble.He pulled it off.This is a beautiful film from the acting and settings and even the sad story.More than a western,its a morality play and a picture of self discovery.I strongly recommend as a film for everyone who loves film.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.

Lt. John Dunbar is dubbed a hero after he accidentally leads Union troops to a victory during the Civil War. He requests a position on the western frontier, but finds it deserted. He soon finds out he is not alone, but meets a wolf he dubs "Two-socks" and a curious Indian tribe. Dunbar quickly makes friends with the tribe, and discovers a white woman who was raised by the Indians. He gradually earns the respect of these native people, and sheds his white-man's ways. Written by Greg Bole <bole@life.bio.sunysb.edu>

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMOQORiWn80

Spartacus ( 1960 ) - 4 stars out of 5 stars

After seeing some truly remarkable films about China,I am reminded that there was a TV series and even a new film in the works about the noblest of revolutions,abet a failed one, in western history.SPARTACUS !!!! Released in 1960 and running a bit long at 184 minutes,this film is old school hollywood.A story that develops characters than builds to a climax as only they could back when hollywood was making magic.Why then do  I take off 1 star?? Very long to built to the climax by todays standard and the film is a little dated but still quite powerful.You can see how a few more modern films "stole"from this classic.Like the famous line,"I am not a animal"from Elephant man,a film I didn't like BUT was a big hit none the less.The the over all bonding and love amongst the downtrodden warriors seen in "Gladiator"which I did review but it might never have been made unless Spartacus   led the way first.I'm sure you know its a early Kubrick film and a A+ cast led by Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier and Jean Simmons.So all I can say is if your not hooked on ONLY action,but want a story and a morality lesson as well,than this is a MUST SEE.
Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.

In 73 BCE, a Thracian slave leads a revolt at a gladiatorial school run by Lentulus Batiatus. The uprising soon spreads across Italy involving thousand of slaves. The plan is to acquire sufficient funds to hire ships from Silesian pirates who could the transport them to other lands from Brandisium in the south of Italy. The Roman Senator Gracchus schemes to have Marcus Publius Glabrus, Commander of the garrison of Rome, lead an army against the slaves who are living on Vesuvius. When Glabrus is defeated his mentor, Senator and General Marcus Licinius Crassus is greatly embarrassed and leads his own army against the slaves. Spartacus and the thousands of freed slaves successfully make their way to Brandisium only to find that the Silesians have abandoned them. They then turn north and must face the might of Rome. Written by garykmcd 

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi8716569/

The Day After Tomorrow - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2004 and running 124 minutes,this film has what you need for a good disaster flick.First the disaster than who lives and dies and the story.There is the one problem and its a big thus 1 1/2 stars off.The story lacks a real science base and most of the characters are 2 dimensional that you couldn't care less bout.The real star of the film is the disaster itself.Truly a FX extravaganza.That is not what I really want,but,being from NYC,I did enjoy watching nature mess with it.Truly spectacular.I just wish the science was more believable and the characters better drawn so it would have been a haunting scare film which it isn't.Its just a fluffy thrill for a saturday night.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.

As Paleoclimatologist named Jack Hall is in Antartica, he discovers that a huge ice sheet has sheared off. But what he does not know is that this event will trigger a massive climate shift that will affect the world population. Meanwhile, his son Sam is with friends in New York to attend an event. There they discover that it has been raining non-stop for the past 3 weeks, and after a series of weather-related disasters begin to occur over the world, everybody realizes the world is entering a new Ice Age and the world population begins trying to evacuate to the warmer climates of the south. Jack makes a daring attempt to rescue his son and his friends who are stuck in New York and who have managed to survive not only a massive wave but also freezing cold temperatures that could possibly kill them. Written by John Wiggins

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi2826045209/

Hero ( 2002 ) - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Although I loved a couple of historical Chinese martial films that I reviewed in the last week,this one is not in that class.Although it has historical relevance and filmed magnificently with a tragic love story,it relies much too heavily on martial arts,and the flying through the air type that defies gravity  to boot.Thats why I took 1 star off.However I realize that martial arts does entail that sort of thing in films so who am I to say what is too much.It was released in 2002 and runs 99  minutes.The story SEEMED obvious but is indeed more layered as the film goes on and thats why I stuck with it.I am a incurable romantic.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.Enjoy it for what it is,I did.

In ancient China, before the reign of the first emperor, warring factions throughout the Six Kingdoms plot to assassinate the most powerful ruler, Qin. When a minor official defeats Qin's three principal enemies, he is summoned to the palace to tell Qin the story of his surprising victory. Written by Yocke

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bFK2Iuo5eE

Battle of the Warriors aka Battle of Wits - 5 stars out of 5 stars

This is another really fine recounting of Chinese History with a fine philosophical plot line to boot.Released in 2006 and running 133 minutes it is know by 2 different names but ether name spells outstanding.Again we see bravery,cowardliness,deceit,honor,sacrifice and hope and despair.I saw a version with english subtitles and it was a little harder to follow because of the strong plot lines,but well worth the effort.Not on quite the scale of Red Cliffs but very close indeed.As my friend told me,Chinese Dynasties usually start out well but end very badly.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below

In 370 B.C, China was separated as seven nations and several other small tribes, one of these being the city state of Liang. The nation of Zhao is led by the terrifying prime commander Xiang Yangzhong who orders his troops to launch an attack on Liang in a bid to conquer the small city. Leaping to the defense of the cowed people of Liang is a warrior who goes by the name of 'Ge Li' from the Mo-Tsu school of thought, renowned for its defensive skills, respect for simplicity and peace, and belief in universal love. He is their last hope as the terrors of Yangzhong's troops are unleashed. The future of Liang now hangs in the balance, with all their hopes pinned on the mysterious Mo-Tsu warrior Ge Li... Written by Ben 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_kwMr_NEcY

The Rocketeer - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Cliff Secord: Jenny, prepare yourself for a shock: I'm the Rocketeer.
Jenny: The Rocke-who?
Cliff Secord: [frustrated] Oh, for crying out loud, haven't you read the papers?
Jenny: No, I've been working all day.

That kinda dialogue always gets me and saved this movie.Thats why you see it.Released in 1991 and running 108 minutes,it is a funny if rather silly and unimportant film.Hey,that is sometimes all we really ask of a film and thats why I took 1 and 1/2 stars off.Ask not,for much and you'll be pleasantly surprised.Ask for a classic and you'll be deeply disappointed.Its a sort of wishful idea of Howard Hughes inventing a rocket pack to strap on your back and allow you fly.Add Nazi spies in 1938 and a strained love affair and you have a fine Saturday night flick.So enjoy some fluff for a change.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.The acting is adverse at best but a nice cheese cake era stocking shot by Jenny adds to the fluffiness.

Straight from the pages of a pulp comic from a past era, the Rocketeer recreates 1930's Hollywood, complete with gangsters, Nazi spies, and the growth of the Age of Aviation. Young pilot Cliff Secord stumbles on a top secret rocket-pack and with the help of his mechanic/mentor, Peevee, he attempts to save his girl and stop the Nazis as The Rocketeer. Written by Greg Bole <bole@life.bio.sunysb.edu>

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gi0Et31E7s4

Journey 2: The Mysterious Island - 2 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Being a fan of Dwayne"The Rock" Johnson i had to check it out.This film is a sequel to a film I hadn't seen,nor was Rock in.Well,it's toss up 2 1/2 stars.Released in 2012 and running 94 minutes its a FX feast with little meat of a story. Loosely based on a few of Jules Verne's  novels,VERY loosely,the rock is really the only reason to see this flick and the FX,if your so inclined.Trailer follows the pix and a IMDB summary is below

The 17-year-old Sean Anderson receives a coded signal and his stepfather Hank helps him to decipher the message. They find that Sean's grandfather Alexander Anderson has found the mysterious island in the Pacific described by Jules Verne and two other writers in their novels. The stubborn Sean wants to travel to the coordinates and Hank decides to buy the tickets and travel with the teenager to a small island nearby the location. They rent an old helicopter owned by the locals Gabato and his teenage daughter Kailani and the group heads to the unknown spot. Along their journey, they cross a hurricane and crash in the island. They find a beautiful and dangerous place, surrounded by forests, volcanoes with lava of gold and menacing life forms. The meet also the old Alexander and Hank discovers that the island is sinking. Now their only chance to survive is to find the legendary Nautilus. Written by Claudio Carvalho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3253510425/

Red Cliff - Parts 1&2 - 2008&2009 - 5 stars out of 5 stars

Before we begin,I must say I was so impressed with these 2 films that I broke from the norm again which I rarely do,to review 2 films at the same time and a film with subtitles.As a epic its now my favorite film of all time in that category and as far as the subtitles go,thats why I can recommend it and watch it.Action is action.Now for two films,its really just a 150 minute part 1 released in 2008 and a direct carry on part 2 of 142 minutes released in 2009.It could have been just one long sage and I understand that such a edited version WAS released in the US.I however saw both films subtitled and had little problem with the length or following it.In fact,it should have been even longer judging from the ending.
A trusted friend firm Asia advised I see these films as they know my tastes and boy were they right !!!!! Now this friend has been teaching me a little about Chinese History and rightly pointed out how this sage dramatized a period referred  to as the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 A.D.)Not to get too historic on you,suffice as too say,this spectacle is Roman Legion,Helen of Troy,and any other old classic "European"historic film you ever saw wrapped up into one.The film was made director John Woo.Mr Woo has made some films  in the US but none on this scale.Sure there is FX but a large cast for battle scenes as well.Ah,battle scenes,as good as any I have ever seen on film.Of course the accent in on martial arts but fire,arrows,catapults  and even a cross bow that fires like a machine gun shooting arrows.Oh a navy battle scene that shames the season final on"Game of Thrones"Have no fear its more than just those battles scenes.There's a love story,2 in fact,a tale of honor and respect and deceit as well as historic dramatization.You see there was a real battle and people still visit the battleground today although there is debate as to which site  this battle was really fought on the Yangtze river.
Back to the film.A stirring musical score fine acting, 3 factions coming together in combat to shape the future of the nation.Throw in combat tactics not even known yet in the West based on one of the 7 books of military classics of China,"The Art of War" required reading at West Point by the way.Now I realize no "Historic"film is really historic because history is always re-spun,but this is as fine as it gets on the big screen.Get the pop corn and be entertained !!!!Oh,yes,the 2 love stories are well told as any in these kinda films and make one wonder why women were so mistreated all those years in that country.Ether woman could be my heroine forever.Trailer URL follows the pix.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3632267801/

Serenity - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Some of the actors in this movie are favorites of mine like Jewel Staite,Summer Glau,Morena Baccarin and Chiwetel Ejiofor.I've enjoyed them all in TV series and when I saw they were in this film and IT was based on a TV show I hadn't seen,well,I had to view it and it didn't disappoint.It was obvious some things were "assumed"if you saw the series,and thats par for movies like this.Thus I had to take 1 star off because I and many of you may not have seen that short lived series.Well released on 2005 and running 119 minutes,I now must see that TV series.The movie is enjoyable with lots of action,good vs evil,or just misguided?Well that's why I have to see that series.Stillthe movie was fun enough because its good sci-fi and FX and the cast is great as usual.Trailer follows the pix and a IMDb summary below.Sci fi fan MUST see flick.

In the future, a spaceship called Serenity is harboring a passenger with a deadly secret. Six rebels on the run. An assassin in pursuit. When the renegade crew of Serenity agrees to hide a fugitive on their ship, they find themselves in an awesome action-packed battle between the relentless military might of a totalitarian regime who will destroy anything - or anyone - to get the girl back and the bloodthirsty creatures who roam the uncharted areas of space. But, the greatest danger of all may be on their ship. Written by Anthony Pereyra {hypersonic91@yahoo.com} 

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3489464857/

The Rock - 5 stars out of 5 stars

Preposterous !! Can't happen and silly !! Maybe. I loved this film.Released in 1996 and running 136 minutes,I was draw to it by  Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage and to a lesser extent,Ed Harris.The story is simple enough,see the IMDB summary below,but Cage and Connery elevate it to another level while Harris is sympathetic "bad guy"if you can believe that.The rest of the cast fit as well,but those 3 are the film,make no mistake.We forget before 9/11 there were internal threats and this film while funny at times because of great dialogue is also a stern reminder that enemies exist internally as well as externally.The last line is the movie was do you want to known who assented JFK ??Trailer URL follows the pix.Must see for all action film fans.

A renegade general and his group of U.S. Marines take over Alcatraz and threaten San Francisco Bay with biological weapons. A chemical weapons specialist and the only man to have ever escaped from the Rock attempt to prevent chaos.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi1743388953/

The Preacher's Wife - 2 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

A star studded cast with Denzel Washington,Whitney Houston,Courtney B. Vance with Gregory Hines and Lionel Richie round out a fine cast in what is a rather pedestrian and ordinary "reclaim the faith"film.Released in 1996 and running 124 minutes,I gave it a 50/50  2 and 1/2 stars because at the end of the day the story lacked much considering the cast. Still if you like 'feel good christmas"films,thats more or less what you got. Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.

Good natured Reverend Henry Biggs finds that his marriage to choir mistress Julia is flagging, due to his constant absence caring for the deprived neighborhood they live in. On top of all this, his church is coming under threat from property developer Joe Hamilton. In desperation, Rev. Biggs prays to God for help - and help arrives in the form of an angel named Dudley. However, Dudley's arrival seems to cause even more trouble... Written by Jonathan Broxton <j.w.broxton@sheffield.ac.uk>

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYIFhk4lutY

Flypaper ( 2011 ) - 2 1//2 stars out of 5 stars

Before we begin I have learned there was a earlier film by the same name BUT it has a very different plot line.I took 2 1/2 stars off because the plot is muddled and it didn't show what kind of film it really was in the trailers and sadly,that is a shame and makes it a 50/50 film.Released in 2011 and running 87 minutes it seems to be a very different sort of bank robbery film and with Ashley Judd in it,I gave it a view.Well it was but wasn't.There was a Agatha Christie story called "10 little Indians"and there were a few film versions of it made.Perhaps the film makers didn't want to market it as # 10+ or more,so they gave it this double bank robbery hook.It works in that the film is half way through before you understand what it really is and sadly many may NOT wait that long. So,if you give it time,its fun.Problem is,you shouldn't have to give it that much time.So black dark comedy and mystery fans maybe,everyone else,doubtful.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary is below.


A man caught in the middle of two simultaneous robberies at the same bank desperately tries to protect the teller with whom he's secretly in love.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi4287863833/

Conundrum - 3 stars out of 5 stars

I was attracted to this film by its name.Thats the code word in my favorite TV series"Seven days"and the cast included Terminator star Michael Biehn and a really good Marg Helgenberger as 2 teamed up cops.Released in 1996 it runs 97 minutes and I took 2 stars off because its been done before so its nothing special.What is good is the acting and Asian community theme and I did love Marg and this may be Michael's best role since Terminator.So while its little more than a curiosity,you could do far worse.No trailer was found but a scene URL follows the Pix and a IMDB summary is below.I understand this was a Showtime movie,if so,they are in HBO's class production wise.

A cop and her partner are trying to break a gambling racket in the Vietnamese community. But when her partner's wife is murdered in a gruesome manner, the case takes on a personal cast, and they are up against the cops on their own precinct, as well as the villains on the street...and even each other. Written by Kathy Li 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yoIfv8Ggjw

Masked and Anonymous - 5 stars out of 5 stars

This movie is for Dylan fans only.Even with this restriction I give it a full 5 stars.Released in 2003 and running 112 minutes its like  a Dylan song.At the end your left wondering,what the hell just happened??However like a Dylan song,you know somethings happening BUT you don't know what it is,do you,mister Jones.
Its a surreal story of a down and out singer sprung from jail to sing at a benefit concert for some south american country undergoing a revolution.However soon enough we see different parts and pieces throw together in the loosest of ways to tell a story only someone on LSD could understand.If you remember your own youth and listening to Dylans songs then,well,you might get the picture,maybe,like you maybe got his songs.Since Dylan is old and haggard these day,he rings sadly true as a washed up singer.Other cast members of note are John Goodman as a washed up producer and Jeff Bridges as the dude like writer but more establishment,really.And Luke Wilson as a sort of living conscience,maybe.
There are  a ton of other famous and well known actors in crazy roles thats fun to see and catch.My favorite of those is Val Kilmer as a whacked out Animal Wrangler.
Its deeper than Rocky Horror and as unexplainable as El Topo.In short,it a magical mystery tour.Trailer URL follows the pix.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi3197436185/

Telefon - 4 1/2 Stars out of 5 stars

Miles to go before I sleep.Haunting.So is this film this catch phrase is from.Although it was from a poem by Robert Frost,in this film its s 'trigger"to await deep cover soviet agents to deliver suicide attacks in the US.Released in 1977 and running 102 minutes, the only reason I took 1/2 star off is because its a lit dated.However Charles Bronson and Lee Remick  head up this cast in fine fashion as they try to stop a world war before it starts.Its a little reminder of 3 days of the condor in so far as its a "rouge"operation but from the other side and far more dangerous.If you like deception and twists and turns you'll love it.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary is below

A Russian officer is sent to USA to try and stop sleeper agents who will mindlessly attack government entities when they hear certain coded words.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Qg0w8qbBQo

The Detective - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 1968 and running 114 minutes,this is a old Sinatra film from a genre,film-nor,that really isn't made anymore.Thus we take 1 and 1/2 stars off for being very dated and that style which was never a favorite of mine.So why watch?? Well,Sinatra was a fine actor and this role of a NYC hard nose detective fits him like a fine song.Lee Remick may be the most under rated and beautiful actress of the day and the rest of the cast is a mix of TV and future film stars.The story is stark and VERY NYC before the younger generation takes over.Its good for film buffs and those who are interested in this genre but the kids,no,they will be bored.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary is below.

Police detective Joe Leland investigates the murder of a homosexual man. While investigating, he discovers links to official corruption in New York City in this drama that delves into a world of sex and drugs. Written by Regis M. Donovan <regis@apocalypse.org>

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi765265433/

Jurassic Park - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Full discloser,I don't believe in dinosaur's.That said,I only took 1 star off for that and questionable science.Released in 1993 and running 127 minutes,Steven  Spielberg has made a truly amazing sci-fi film about these mythical beings,and I "almost"believe in them.The cast is great including Laura Dern in what may be her best role.By its the FX dinos that are the true stars.So if you want to"believe"see it.You could do FAR worse.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.Great product placement by Barberzol shave cream by the way.

Huge advancements in scientific technology have been able to create an island full of living dinosaurs. John Hammond has invited four individuals, plus his two grandchildren to join him at Jurassic Park. But will everything go to plan? Especially when one of the parks own workers attempt to steal the dinosaurs embryos, and have to shut down all the electricity in the process. It's now a race for survival with everyone located all over the island. Written by Film_Fan 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bim7RtKXv90

Life Stinks - 4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Mel Brooks is NOT for everyone,but if you like"the producers"and "Blazing saddles"you should love this irreverent look at wealth and poverty in a funny morality and slap of reality point of view that only Brooks could pull off. Perhaps its viewing it now, in the age of class warfare that we seem to be living in,that makes its far more relevant and biting than 1991 when it was released and runs 92 minutes. I only took 1/2 star off because some of it is really over the top.That said,a great 3 stooges tribute of slapping,a funny yet moving pole dance by a bag lady,Brooks being over medication at a crowded hospital are but a few of the right on zingers but the big mechanical shovel, like a big dinosaur fight, is classic Brooks and my favorite scene in the film. The cast is classic comedy stalwarts anchored by Brooks himself and a surprisingly good turn by Lesley Ann Warren as a bag lady/love interest.A must see for its class warfare theme and Mel lovers.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summery below.Oh,and some nice pointed zingers at lawyers in general,ha,ha.

A filthy rich businessman bets a corporate rival that he can live on the streets of L.A. without the comforts of home or money, which proves to be tougher than he thought.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi1527579417/

Almost Famous - 4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

If the film started a little faster it would be perfect.Once it hits the road it's riveting.Released in 2000 the film runs 122 minutes.I grew up in the era but wasn't into drugs but the music was a true way of life for almost all us.The story is set at the turn of the 60's into the seventies and the cast is outstanding. However it's really a story of 2 youngsters caught up on being on the fringe of rock and that a life IN rock can be very deceiving as far as true happiness is concerned.There are many right on quips and tell tale truths.My favorite is when a new manager is trying to explain why this band needs him and states that Mick Jagger won't be shaking it on stage when he's in his 50's nether should you.
Well Jagger is in his late 60's and STILL going stronger.Kate Hudson  and Patrick Fugit are the youngsters and Billy Crudup is a rock guitar player and head of this band in a Jimmy Page sort of way,and  Jason Lee does a good take off as a Robert Plant type lead singer of the band.  Yeah I think of Led Zapplin as this fictions group is called  "Stillwater"The ending?? Well,some grow up and some rock on.Trailer URL followed the pix and a IMDB summary is below.

A high-school boy is given the chance to write a story for Rolling Stone Magazine about an up-and-coming rock band as he accompanies it on their concert tour.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi2943458841/

National Lampoon's Vacation - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Not as good as "Animal house"but right there with "Stripes"and Ghostbusters,and Twins and Kindergarten cops and Caddyshack as classic comedies I've reviewed in the past.Harold Ramis,ether wrote or directed all those films except Animal house and directed this one.The sight jokes and story are outrageous and the cast fits perfectly right down to the cameos especially Eddie Bracken as Roy Walley,a veiled imitation of Walt Disney. But its Chevy Chases film and his portrayal of Art Griswold is a comedic classic.Anyone married with children or even thinking about it,should get some laughs as well as tips on what NOT to do.Great music and the road trip scenes especially at the Grand Canyon,which is my favorite,abound in the film.The film was released in 1983 and runs only 98 minutes.I took 1 star off for politically incorrect humor,but hey,thats comedy.It's always funny till its about you.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary is below.

The Griswold family's cross-country drive to the Walley World theme park proves to be much more arduous than they ever anticipated.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kn6uqwSjDjY

Dante's Peak - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

This may not be a great "disaster"film but it's one of a very view and perhaps the best,of the volcanic type.Released in 1997 and running 108 minutes,its weakness is it takes awhile to get started and its science is questionable,ah but the acting is fine and the setting is rural rather than the run of the mill urban settings of this genre.So I had to take off 1 and 1/2 stars but still highly recommend for a good storying line that has you care for the characters and that is always key in these films.Plus I do love me some Linda Hamilton.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.Gets some pop corn and enjoy a fine take on what may be in our future and closer than we think.

A vulcanologist arrives at a countryside named Dante's Peak after a long dormant volcano, which has recently been named the second most desirable place to live in America, and discovers that Dante's Peak, may wake up at any moment.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi2745172249/

The Last Starfighter - 4 stars out of 5 stars

It's a little corny and a little dated and so I had to take 1 star off,but you can do FAR worse for sci-fi and small town fantasy life than this old chestnut.Released back in 1984 and running 101 minutes its FX still stands even by todays standards and the story is still family friendly and I enjoyed it now as much as then. Trekies will get a kick out of finding both Marc Alaimo and Wil Wheaton in tiny roles.Also co staring is a personnel actress I always had a crush on,Catherine Mary Stewart.The rest of the cast is fine for their rolls.The story is simple enough and kind to trailer park folks and small town life but the video game to sci-fi tie in is the real story.Well worth a view for those who want some good clean action and morals in their movie viewing.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.Enjoy!!!

Alex Rogan lives in a trailer court where his mother is manager and everyone is like a big extended family. He beats the Starfighter video game to the applause of everyone in the court and later that day finds he has been turned down for a student loan for college. Depressed, he meets Centauri, who introduces himself as a person from the company that made the game, before Alex really knows what is going on he is on the ride of his life in a "car" flying through space. Chosen to take the skills he showed on the video game into real combat to protect the galaxy from an invasion. Alex gets as far as the Starfighter base before he really realized that he was conscripted and requests to be taken back home. When he gets back home, he finds a Zando-Zan (alien bounty hunter) is stalking him. Unable to go home and live, Alex returns to the Starfighter base to find all the pilots have been killed and he is the galaxy's only chance to be saved from invasion... Written by John Vogel <jvogel@dgs.dgsys.com> & Spokavriel updated

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7NaxBxFWSo

Rush - 4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Nasty and violent with the ring of truth.Not a good time cop"buddy"film at all.I hated this story but it rings so true and should be seen for those who seek that in a film.I don't however and thats the reason I took 1/2 star off and will never watch it again.To begin to understand what I mean by that lets start with why I viewed it to begin with.It seemed to be about the coastal region below Houston Tx that I now have a interest in.However the movie said its Tyler TX but the scenes seem to be around Texas City,no matter.What I got was a hard tough to watch story about 2 undercover narcs unlike what I had ever seen before.The music in the film keep me watching and then I stayed for the intense acting by B level talent bringing their A game.Its not right to state the music or the stars.The story is the key.Tough,rough and lowlife realism in a rural Texas setting rather than the run of the mill urban northern city settings of the vast majority of crime movies.That alone for you realism freaks is a reason to view this film.Be warned,its not a happy ending film at all.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below. Released in 1991 in runs 120 minutes.

Raynor is an undercover narcotics cop. For his next assignment he chooses the more inexperienced but tough and good-looking Kristen. Their ultimate target is Gaines, a renowned but very elusive drug dealer. While doing their work they unexpectedly fall into a morase of drug-addiction and fall in love with each other. Despite subjecting themselves to the life of low class, one track junkies they do not get the evidence they want to convict Gaines, and instead are forced into using false evidence in court. Written by k wedgwood 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3poimzNM5SY

Outbreak - 5 stars out of 5 stars

Soon after reviewing "Contagion"I had to re-watch Outbreak to remember why I said it was a better film.Having not seen it since its release in 1995 running 127 minutes,I now remember why I thought it was so good.It scares the hell out of me.I shall try not to view it again.However EVERYONE should see it for the grave issues of liberty vs the "greater good"that it raise in the horror of a bio outbreak that even though real,raises the issues of Government secrecy to protect bio weapons and the hard choices to protect the population at large.It would be totally unwatchable if not for a small cover story of a failed romance and acting of A+ + + + level as well as a very cute but deadly monkey.I don't wish to name anyone because then I would have to name ALL.Its hard to even describe what you will see.So the trailer URL is following the picture as usual and a IMDB summary below.You were warned.

n July of 1967, In Motaba River Valley, Zaire, a virus with a 100% mortality rate starts infecting people. The virus becomes known as the Motaba virus, and it's so deadly that it causes severe bleeding and liquefies internal organs, killing within 3 days. The virus wipes out Motaba River Valley, and a devastatingly huge fire bomb is dropped onto Motaba River Valley in order to reduce the chances of further infection. The bomb was dropped on the orders of corrupt General Donald McClintock, even though an army surgeon, General Bill Ford, was against the idea. 27 years later, in 1994, there is another outbreak in Motaba River Valley. At the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), located at Fort Detrick in Maryland, Colonel Sam Daniels is doing research on the Motaba virus, and so is his ex-wife Roberta Keough, who works at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta... Written by Todd Baldridge 

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi547029273/

Tank Girl - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

We've gone through this comedy thing before.This is not a "great film"BUT it is funny for me.A post apocalypse spoof,if one could laugh at such things.Because it has little science fact nor is it a reality check,I took the 1 and 1/2 stars off.However its clever and well,sexy in a odd ball way,and fun if your kinda off center as I am.It's also the first film from a female point of view,sort of,in a graphic comic brought to the screen that I can remember.Lori Petty has never been better and Naomi Watts gives a glimpse of whats to come from her,and well Ice-T in a small role still has presence.Malcolm McDowell is again a fine villain and theres even a small cameo by Iggy Pop.Released in 1996 and running 104 minutes its somewhat of a cult film these days.I recommend for a weird diversion.Trailer URL follows the pix and a IMDB summary below.

Tank Girl (Rebecca) and her friends are the only remaining citizens living in the wasteland that is Earth, where all the remaining water is controlled by Water and Power, the mega corporation/government that runs the territory. While incarcerated at W + P, Tank Girl and her new friend Jet Girl break out and steal... a tank and a jet. After meeting some mutant kangaroo/humans, and rescuing her little girl (adopted by her friends), the kangaroos and the girls kick Water and Powers' butt. Written by David Flaherty <flaherty@infohouse.com> 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb8OqoMraMI

American Graffiti - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Maybe the best soundtrack for a period piece ever made with a generous dose of"the wolfman".Sadly I was a east coast urban boy without the reference points on cars and cruising main streets and drag racing needed to really tell how authentic this movie really is.Thus only the 3 1/2 stars.Released in 1973 and running 110 minutes it centers on one night in in the early 60's and a bunch of teens coping.Nothing special there and we've seen it many times but this may be the trend setter film with a truly young cast that made great films and TV shows in later years.Oh and the film makers??Lucas and Coppola.Still I really didn't care about the characters and well I was sort of feeling empty afterwards.You will have to decide if its a"classic"or just a watershed trend setting film.Trailer URL follows after the pix and a IMDB summary below.

Two boys are scheduled to leave for college in the morning. Each has his own doubts. They spend a final evening cruising the strip and have every adventure possible before dawn when they will each have to decide what they will do. Written by John Vogel <jlvogel@comcast.net>

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZ9Gp6Qc8LQ

Big - 4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

This might be the best movie,in the so called by me,genre of body change movies.My only issue and its"small"is no real science or attempt at it even.That said,Penny Marshall directed a fine cast led by Tom Hanks in a movie about a 13 year old who awakes one morning as a 30 something.Released in 1988 and running 104 minutes it touches a lot of bases and,well, the scene in the toy store with Robert Loggia is still a film classic.The idea of a 13 year old boy could rise in the toy industry while still being a "boy"is clever and keeping a close boyhood friend and even a brief communication with a distraught mother who knows not where he is or what happened to him is sadly moving.I have found other fine movies in this genre but few if any with all the mentioned components as well as fine laughs and clever situations.See the boardroom and right after the"I don't get it" dialogue.
Highly recommended for pure fun.Trailer URL follows the pix.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J62jciQ1PbY