Star Trek - First Contact - 1996 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

My main issue with this film is that it doesn’t stand on its own.It is a must if you’ve seen the “Next Generation”TV series but not so good otherwise.Its no”Wrath of Kahn”,reviewed on this blog,but still watchable. So if you like some sci-fi of the trek kind with good acting,then view it.Its 111 minutes in
length.IMDB summary below and a trailer URL follows the picture.

Captain Picard and his crew pursue the Borg back in time to stop them from preventing Earth's first contact with an alien species. They also make sure that Zefram Cochrane makes his famous maiden flight at warp speed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7W-Fwgirzqw

Thor - 2011 - 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Running 115 minutes and staring Chris Hemsworth,Natalie Portman and Anthony Hopkins,one would expect a better film.I guess the fault is believability.I didn’t.Still kids will love it as will the comic book group and it was made well enough.Worth one and only one viewing.IMDB summary below and a trailer URL follows the picture.

The powerful but arrogant god Thor is cast out of Asgard to live amongst humans in Midgard (Earth), where he soon becomes one of their finest defenders.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi26843161?ref_=ttvi_vi_imdb_4

TV Series - The Life of Muhammad - 2011 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

This BBC mini series,180 minutes, that I viewed on PBS gave a British view of Islam that was educational and answered many questions about who the profit was.My only issue was it didn’t explain the causes of the rift between the Sunni and Shiite sects of the religion.Still its worth a view because it is the worlds largest religion and perhaps the biggest danger to world peace.IMDB summary below and a trailer URL follows the picture.

A landmark documentary series examining the life of the Prophet Muhammad and the origins of Islamic faith.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHUgUL3XxZU

Red Dawn - 2012 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Many folks are down on this film for political reasons like reshooting the parts showing the enemy as North Korean instead of the originally filmed Chinese.That matters little as the original film reviewed on this blog as well had them as Russian and Cuban.Aside from the fact its not as good as the original it is still watchable and somewhat interesting if you’ve not seen the first one.The cast is fine led by Chris Hemsworth but it remains to be seen if they emerge as the stars the first film produced which was also part of its charm.At only 93 minutes it won’t hurt you to find out.IMDB summary below and a trailer link follow the picture.

The city of Spokane, Washington is awakened by a North Korean paratrooper invasion. Marine Corps veteran Jed Eckert and his civilian brother, Matt, escape with a group of friends to an isolated cabin in the woods, where they witness the execution of their father at the hands of the ruthless Captain Cho. The brothers unite with their friends to form a guerrilla resistance group--the Wolverines--to drive the invaders from their home. Written by Claudio Carvalho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3511591961?ref_=ttvi_vi_imdb_2

The Interview - 2014 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Ok,I will admit never would I have viewed this film if not for the political side show.However this 112 minute film does deliver a few good laughs besides the potty humor its star,Seth Rogen is know for. I don’t want to ruin it for anyone as I don’t care for Rogen or his brand of humor but he does make some good political jabs,some more clear than other,Dennis Rodman MUST SEE the film.IMDB summary below and a trailer link after the picture.Have a few laughs.

Dave Skylark and producer Aaron Rapoport run the celebrity tabloid show "Skylark Tonight." When they land an interview with a surprise fan, North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un, they are recruited by the CIA to turn their trip to Pyongyang into an assassination mission.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1114222361?ref_=ttvi_vi_imdb_1

Ender's Game 2013 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

This 2013 release that runs 114 minutes seemed to resemble 1984’s the last star fighter,a film revised on this blog,but the ending is far different and confusing if not downright unpalatable.
Buts thats for YOU to decide,still thats why I only gave it a 3 stars rating.Interesting cast of mixed veteran actors like Harrisson Ford and some youngsters.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

The Earth was ravaged by the Formics, an alien race seemingly determined to destroy humanity. Seventy years later, the people of Earth remain banded together to prevent their own annihilation from this technologically superior alien species. Ender Wiggin, a quiet but brilliant boy, may become the savior of the human race. He is separated from his beloved sister and his terrifying brother and brought to battle school in orbit around earth. He will be tested and honed into an empathetic killer who begins to despise what he does as he learns to fight in hopes of saving Earth and his family. Written by CrystalSinger45, Jesse Daniels, strouda56

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi722511385?ref_=ttvi_vi_imdb_1

Terror at the Mall 2014 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

HBO score another hit with this terror attack documentary that I won’t try to explain.The trailer URL is below the picture and a IMDB summary is below.Horror that is real !!!

On September 21st, 2013 a group of four to five young men aged between eighteen to twenty three from a radical Somali outfit related to Al Qaeda known as Al Shabaab, stormed an upmarket mall in Kenya's capital of Nairobi and went on a killing spree that left an estimated 71 people of different nationalities dead in its wake. The first responders included an armed businessman named Abdul Haji and several other plain-clothed cops who made the ultimate call not to wait for reinforcements but instead stormed into the Westgate mall with the aim of saving lives. We follow the heart-wrenching stories of the lucky survivors of this terrorist attack as they narrate the accounts of that Saturday afternoon. Some of them include women and children who lived to tell their stories. HBO also gives us the accounts of the first responders as we observe their performance thanks to the CCTV surveillance systems which the terror gang left intact. Written by Isaac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZH5G9snHzc0

Black Sunday 1977 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Dated somewhat but this 1977 release that runs 143 minutes is still relevant in the continuing turmoil in the middle east.A great A+ cast and a pretty good pace makes the film watchable despite the dated surrounding of the the films background.I especially like the disgruntled homegrown terrorist played by Bruce Dern and the female handler played by Marthe Keller and Robert Shaw as the Israeli agent trying to stop a attack in the US at ,wait for it,THE SUPER BOWL.Worth a view,Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.


Terrorist organization Black September is planning an attack on the United States. A woman called Dahlia is the one overseeing the operation. She was in the Middle East with the other members of the organization, discussing the operation when some Israelis came in; the leader, Major Kobakov had his gun on her but didn't shoot her. Kobakov then informed the US what they found. Though they don't know what their operation is, Kobakov assures them that it will be devastating. So, with FBI man, Corley, they try to find out what it is before it's too late. But they both have different ways of doing things, and since Kobakov is the visitor, he is warned to watch it. Dahlia's "partner in crime" is Michael Lander, a Vietnam P.O.W., who is psychologically scarred by that experience, thus making him very susceptible to her machinations. Written by <rcs0411@yahoo.com>

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzk3XZQMI88

TV Series - Houdini 2014 ( miniseries)

A History channel TV miniseries.Based on the life of the great escape artist Harry Houdini,its a entertaining if a little out there, story based on his life,with the claim he was also a covert agent of the US Government prior to the start of WW1,Really??Anyhow,Adrien Brody was just snarky enough as Houdini with a fine support cast.I would have liked more on his sibling rivalry but otherwise,ok.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Follow the man behind the magic as he finds fame, engages in espionage, battles spiritualists and encounters the greatest names of the era, from U.S. presidents to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Grigori Rasputin.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi872459289?ref_=ttvi_vi_imdb_7

Stalingrad 2013 - 4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

This Russian film is mis understood because of its grand title,its much more, though not in a violent sense.Yes, it has scenes of bloody action,what film about urban warfare wouldn’t ? However at its heart,its a film of rebirth in violent times,what could be more topical today?
     Beginning in the turmoil of the Fukushima disaster, a Russian rescue team is trying to save some trapped young German girls in whats left of a buildings rubble.Therein starts a flashback retelling of a band of Russian soldiers and a girl mixed in with a German officer and his forced young Russian girl lover,both squaring off over a building in rubble.Ah symmetry and could be corny right ? WRONG !!! Perhaps  its being forced to read those subtitles,it is in Russian spoken word,that invests you in the story.It brings to mind two other films,Enemy at the gates,and Miracle at St. Anna,however a far more intense experience for me.
Not wanting to tell much more,it is a rich emotional portrait of simple lives in the middle of all encompassing war.If you just want bang for your buck,you might be disappointed as there are films with more mindless violence BUT if you a story of hope in the middle of despair THEN enjoy.Released in 2013 it runs 131 minutes.Trailer URL follows the picture.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi216705817?ref_=ttvi_vi_imdb_1

RED 2 (2013) - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

After reviewing the first film in this series back in 2010 I was pleased to see this second installment didn’t suck.Bringing back a A cast for the most part and adding Anthony Hopkins as well as Byung-hun Lee.So for Bruce Willis and Helen Mirren fans and those who want silly blow up films that don’t get too serious ,check it out.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Retired CIA agent Frank Moses is in love with Sarah Ross and enjoying their normal life. Out of the blue, Marvin Boggs meets Frank in the supermarket and tells that Wikileaks has released the information that they had participated and know the whereabouts of the Nightshade, a portable nuclear weapon that was smuggled in pieces and hidden in Russia. Now the top agents in the world are under contract to seek them out to discover where Nightshade is. The trio travels to Paris and teams-up with the Russian Katja to track down the former Russian Agent 'The Frog' to get more information about the operation. They learn that the brilliant inventor Dr. Edward Bailey might know where the weapon is. They discover that Bailey has been interned in an asylum in London by the MI-16 for thirty-two years and the British Victoria joins the team. They rescue Bailey and find that the nuclear device is hidden in the Kremlin. Soon the dangerous South Korean Han joins the group expecting to retrieve the ... Written by Claudio Carvalho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3200493849?ref_=ttvi_vi_1

Sharknado 2 The Second One (2014) - 1/2 star out of 5

After reviewing the first film in this series,I hoped the second would be decent.I was soooo wrong.Really bad from the acting to the story,even really snarkey bits from the “Today show”cast cameo’s by Matt Lower and Al Rocker and even the Mets City field. Just say no and stick with the first film.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

A freak weather system turns its deadly fury on New York City, unleashing a Sharknado on the population and its most cherished, iconic sites - and only Fin and April can save the Big Apple.

http://www.imdb.com/video/hulu/vi1295821849?ref_=ttvi_vi_3

Planet of the Apes (1968) - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 1968 and running 112 minutes,its worth a review in light of the new series of films of which I have only seen the first and reviewed,”Rise of the planet of the apes”.The original in a bit dated but highly watchable and has a great cast headed by Charlton Heston and state of the art makeup for its  day.It can be seen as both  good sci-fi tale or a parable of mans folly during the cold war.Highly recommend as reference point against the newer versions.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Taylor and two other astronauts come out of deep hibernation to find that their ship has crashed. Escaping with little more than clothes they find that they have landed on a planet where men are pre-lingual and uncivilized while apes have learned speech and technology. Taylor is captured and taken to the city of the apes after damaging his throat so that he is silent and cannot communicate with the apes. Written by John Vogel <jlvogel@comcast.net>

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi3430940953/

Pacific Rim 2013 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2013 and running long at 132 minutes,I have 2 problems with this film.First it is FX CGI driven and second,its too comic bookish while trying to be serious.I love the plot and the idea of deep underwater knowledge or lack thereof,implied if not actuality stated.I also like the transformer-like yet human controlled machines of early Japanese cartoons updated to this film,to bad the lack of real characterizations and a viable plot were missing.All in all,little more that a teasing idea of what could have been a much better film.
Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary below.Maybe a bit too intense for the little ones and more than a bit silly for me.

When monstrous creatures, known as Kaiju, started rising from the sea, a war began that would take millions of lives and consume humanity's resources for years on end. To combat the giant Kaiju, a special type of weapon was devised: massive robots, called Jaegers, which are controlled simultaneously by two pilots whose minds are locked in a neural bridge. But even the Jaegers are proving nearly defenseless in the face of the relentless Kaiju. On the verge of defeat, the forces defending mankind have no choice but to turn to two unlikely heroes - a washed up former pilot (Charlie Hunnam) and an untested trainee (Rinko Kikuchi) - who are teamed to drive a legendary but seemingly obsolete Jaeger from the past. Together, they stand as mankind's last hope against the mounting apocalypse. Written by Del Torro

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi513124633/

TV Series - Blakes 7 BBC 1978 -1981 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Many things from Star Trek are gleamed into this very dark and somewhat dated via a lack of good production values,a BBC  weak spot of those  days,EXCEPT the hopeful future that is the Trek world.Rather this is far bleaker than say Star Wars or even the new Battlestar Galattica. I found it quite interesting with many different ideas that make it  both funny and scary in a 1984 way.Of added interest is the creator of this series is Terry Nation of Doctor Who fame.I viewed it years ago and have revisited because of unconfirmed reports that the Sci-Fi channel was going to update the series.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.Not for the very young or FX driven and is violent tho not graphically so.

In the third century of the second calendar, a corrupt galactic federation, with Earth at its center, drugs its billions of citizens into placid submission. A rebel named Roj Blake, who once tried to organize a resistance group to overthrow this regime, was caught and divested of his memories. But Blake's revolutionary spirit is revived when he witnesses a mass slaughter by police that is covered up by the federation officials. He escapes exile on board a prison spaceship and, together with a lovable band of outlaws, takes over a vacant alien space cruiser of awesome drive capability. Naming their new ship as "The Liberator", Blake and his group travel the Milky Way to seek any opportunity to undermine the evil federation. Written by Kevin McCorry <mmccorry@nb.sympatico.ca>

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRuqTQYSJMI

TV Series - The World Wars - 2014 - 3 part mini-series - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

The History channel makes highly questionable documentary type mini-series.This 6 hour 3 parter that ran over the memorial days holiday week is no exception.First the good news.The series endeavors to connect the 2 World Wars as no series have ever done before.Most series center on one war or the other.The actors portray most of the characters rather well according to whats known of these deceased leaders.The bad news is that you can spend years studying these wars as to cause and effect,6 hours is far to brief and the inevitable debates over certain things relevance to the total picture of the war,will be many.Mine was a statement of"3 remaining US Carriers"in the same sentence after the Pearl Harbor attack,giving the impression that carriers were lost in said attack,which they were NOT and thus a key point in the war in the pacific.Also it was painfully obvious the history of Japan between the wars was ignored as were its leaders,in favor of Stalin,Hitler,Churchill,Roosevelt and Mussolini.I don't even want to get into the Generals.That said,its still a useful tool to study the ideas about one thing leading to another or as they say"connect the dots"Watch it ONLY after seeing the BBC's"The Great War"and Tymes TV's "World at War".They are the definitive 26 episodes series about both wars.The Great War being WW1 and World at War being WW11.So the trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.Enjoy it a little :)

The World Wars tells the story of three decades of war told through the eyes of various men who were its key players: Roosevelt, Hitler, Patton, Mussolini, Churchill, Tojo, DeGaulle and MacArthur. The series examines the two wars as one contiguous timeline starting in 1914 and concluding in 1945 with these unique individuals coming of age in World War I before ultimately calling the shots in World War II.
- Written by Jiilo_Kim

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Z1bVXdYwyM

Lost in Space 1998 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Unlike "The Lone Ranger"a film reviewed on this blog also based on a classic TV show,this 1998 release that runs 130 minutes,is harder to feel as the TV show was almost all a comedy and turning to  Gary Oldman     to play Dr. Zachary Smith / Spider Smith didn't work for me.Still in many respects its not too bad IF you haven't seen the TV show.2 cameos by the original actors from the series is thus wasted in that respect.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

In the year 2058, the Earth will soon be uninhabitable after the irreversible effects of pollution and global warming! Professor John Robinson, lead scientist of the Jupiter 2 Mission, will lead his family to the habitable planet Alpha Prime to prep it for colonization. The Jupiter 2 is equipped with a hyperdrive that allows faster-than-light travel, which will eventually be employed to evacuate the citizens of Earth. However hypergates must be constructed on Earth and Alpha Prime to provide stable points of departure and arrival. Dr. Zachary Smith is bribed by a terrorist organization to sabotage the mission, and ends up an unwilling stowaway as the ship blasts off. Written by Anthony Pereyra <hypersonic91@yahoo.com>

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi1336607001/

World War Z 2013 - 4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Brad Pitt ROCKS in this new take off on the zombie apocalypse theme.Not a big fan of these sort of films but Pitt + zombies that move like or as well as us is a  grim future indeed.Like the homage to Ramero by starting the film in Philly.Released in 2013 and 116 minutes,its a must for Zombie fans.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Life for former United Nations investigator Gerry Lane and his family seems content. Suddenly, the world is plagued by a mysterious infection turning whole human populations into rampaging mindless zombies. After barely escaping the chaos, Lane is persuaded to go on a mission to investigate this disease. What follows is a perilous trek around the world where Lane must brave horrific dangers and long odds to find answers before human civilization falls. Written by Kenneth Chisholm (kchishol@rogers.com)

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3616319001/

The Lone Ranger 2013 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2013 and running 149 minutes,its hard to get a handle on this updated movie version of the old 50's TV series.Johnny Depp is OK as Tonto but the film is supposed to be about the Ranger,played by Armie Hammer,whose NOT in Depps league.Also the film can't make ups its mind about being serious or a FX comic send up.Still its worth one view at least as a homage to those days of yesteryear………..
Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

In the 1930s, an elderly Tonto tells a young boy the tale of John Reid, the Lone Ranger. An idealistic lawyer, he rides with his brother and fellow Texas Rangers in pursuit of the notorious Butch Cavendish. Ambushed by the outlaw and left for dead, John Reid is rescued by the renegade Comanche, Tonto, at the insistence of a mysterious white horse and offers to help him to bring Cavendish to justice. Becoming a reluctant masked rider with a seemingly incomprehensible partner, Reid pursues the criminal against all obstacles. However, John and Tonto learn that Cavendish is only part of a far greater injustice and the pair must fight it in an adventure that would make them a legend. Written by Kenneth Chisholm (kchishol@rogers.com)

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi460432921/

Godzilla 2014 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2014 and running 123 minutes,I was disappointed.It took to long to get going and the idea of Godzilla sort of kinda helping by fighting other monsters rather than straight out attacking us is what hurt the series after the CLASSIC first film,reviewed on this blog.That said,some good FX buy too little to late.For die hard franchise fans only.

The world's most famous monster is pitted against malevolent creatures who, bolstered by humanity's scientific arrogance, threaten our very existence.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2242293017/

Man of Steel 2013 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Disclosure,Superman is by far my favorite super hero so that must be taken into account as I review this 2013 release that runs 143 minutes.Its a very dark reboot but that seems to be the case in most instances these days,a sing of this post 911 world I guess.I have only 2 issues. Henry Cavill  as Clark Kent / Kal-El doesn't have the charisma to carry the part but he tries hard enough,and I/m, not a big fan of creatures vs high tech weapons.You'll see that in the opening Krypton storyline.That said a A+ cast overall and good enough FX and acceptable small tweaking of the storyline.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.Enjoy and wait for a sequel I hope.

A young boy learns that he has extraordinary powers and is not of this Earth. As a young man, he journeys to discover where he came from and what he was sent here to do. But the hero in him must emerge if he is to save the world from annihilation and become the symbol of hope for all mankind. Written by Warner Bros. Pictures

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi705668633/

Frozen 2013 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Disney animations rule and this 2013 entry that runs 102 minutes is no exception.My only problem is the story was kinda familiar and not that interesting to merit fine animations and music.But thats just me.I think you'll enjoy it and its nice to see more and more "girl"films.IMDB summary is below and a trailer URL follows the picture.My grand daughter loved it.

Anna, a fearless optimist, sets off on an epic journey - teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven - to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom. From the outside Anna's sister, Elsa looks poised, regal and reserved, but in reality, she lives in fear as she wrestles with a mighty secret-she was born with the power to create ice and snow. It's a beautiful ability, but also extremely dangerous. Haunted by the moment her magic nearly killed her younger sister Anna, Elsa has isolated herself, spending every waking minute trying to suppress her growing powers. Her mounting emotions trigger the magic, accidentally setting off an eternal winter that she can't stop. She fears she's becoming a monster and that no one, not even her sister, can help her. Written by DeAlan Wilson for ComedyE.com

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2482677785/

TV Series - Sherlock ( BBC ) 2010 + 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Having never read the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle novels,of which all this is based. I have seen the old english series of movies as a youth and some more recent updated movie versions.So I have now viewed the first 3 seasons of this BBC series and will await the the next 2 scheduled to film in 2015.Season 1 and 2 were good,less so season 3 and some of the plots were stretched and somewhat uneven.That all said,I did like the updating to  modern day and yes, Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes,is outstanding as is  Martin Freeman     as Dr. John Watson.In fact all the acting is good.So if you want sharp wit and clever conversations then its for you. Trailer URL follows the picture as well as a IMDB summary below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj7ZSUkTTVI

Anchorman 2 The Legend Continues 2013 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2013 and running 119 minutes,I believe what I saw was the "first"release,not the second,limited run with"new"jokes.No matter,still have to see the real first film that spawned this 2 version sequel.Good cast and  few good lines,but by and large maybe it does need that so called new jokes re-release.Anyway,judge for yourself.Trailer url follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Having left San Diego for New York City, Ron Burgundy is living the high life with his wife Veronica Corningstone and son Walter Burgundy. However, when the boss decides to promote Veronica to full time lead anchor and fire Ron, everything changes. Now heading back to San Diego, Ron is washed up and working part time at Sea World. His shot at redemption though comes in the form of a man named Freddie Schapp, who's an executive producer at the Global News Network, the world's first 24 hour round the clock news channel. He hires Ron, who proceeds to reunite the news team of Champ, Brick, and Brian, and head back to New York City. While there Ron and his news team are given the graveyard shift and a challenge. Ron comes up with a radical new idea to transform the news and that puts him at the top of the game once again. But how long will Ron's newfound fame last? And will Brick finally find true love? Written by halo1k

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2063575065/

Megiddo - The Omega Code 2 (2001) 3 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2001 and running 104 minutes,I had not seen this film or anything like it,so it was somewhat interesting till the end which,well,who could do Armageddon anyway??Still I will endeavor to view its earlier predecessor,"The Omega Code".In short it was "The Omen"not yet reviewed,meets its biblical sibbling ending. Its not great cinema buts its a story who filming is long overdue.Good cast helps shoddy production FX.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Megiddo is a supernatural ride into a world teetering on the edge of the Apocalypse. It follows the rise of a Machiavellian leader bent on amassing the armies of the world for the battle of Armageddon while calamities of Biblical proportions pummel the Earth. Though both prequel and sequel to The Omega Code, Megiddo works also as a stand alone story for anyone who missed its predecessor. For at its emotional core, Megiddo is the Caine and Abel story of the two men enamoured with the same woman, raised as brothers, who grew up to find themselves pitted against each other over the fate and souls of the entire world.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5IdgOeeMuo

TV Series - The story of the Jews 2013 - 4 1/2 out of 5 stars

PBS hit another homer with this 2013 5 part TV miniseries.I'm not Jewish but I feel I've become one via inspiration after viewing this series.The only reason I didn't give it a 5 is because the fact checking is questionable for me,not have a historic Jewish viewpoint of reference. Still Simon Schama the host,is the best thing since Carl Segan.The narrative is fascinating and informative and stunning is its historic references.So if you want a colorful trip thru biblical history to the present state of Israel,its MUST see TV.Trailer URL follows the picture.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjoH6oP3D2Y

Mannequin 1987 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Although this 1987 film that runs 90 minutes is very dated,it still has a cute story line and fun cast with a few good chuckles.Tame by todays standards thats why its not for everyone.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below. 

A young artist, searching for his vocation, makes a mannequin so perfect he falls in love with it. Finding the mannequin in a store window, he gets a job there and his creation comes to life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6gpndlepiM

Noah 2014 - 2 1/2 out of 5 stars

Released in 2014 and running 138 minutes,I was very disappointed in a film that turns a short biblical part of Genises into a transformer re-write adventure flick.I like the cast but really???? See if you must but its not the story I remember as a child.IMDB summary is below and a trailer URL followed the picture.

A man is chosen by his world's creator to undertake a momentous mission to rescue the innocent before an apocalyptic flood cleanses the wicked from the world.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi225552921/

300 Rise of an Empire 2014 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

This 2014 release that runs 102 minutes is a worthy successor to"300"reviewed earlier on this blog.Forget history and hang on for a bloodiest of FX violence and scenes like a horse galloping from ship to ship in a film about sea battles that was unexpected after 300 which was a land battle.The actors are fine including two favorites of mine, Sullivan Stapleton as Themistocles and  Lena Headey      as Queen Gorgo  amongst many others and a few surprises from the first film.All in all a guilty  bloody pleasure.Trailer follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.Maybe a sequel ???

Greek general Themistokles leads the charge against invading Persian forces led by mortal-turned-god Xerxes and Artemisia, vengeful commander of the Persian navy.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2982128409/

Wanderlust 2012 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston head a good comic cast in this 2012 release that runs 98 minutes.While its kinda 60's its still new by todays standards and worth a view.Nudity and foul language so NO kids,but ok by todays standards or lack thereof.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Rattled by sudden unemployment, a Manhattan couple surveys alternative living options, ultimately deciding to experiment with living on a rural commune where free love rules.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2251464217/

This is 40 - 2012 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

This 2012 release that runs long at 134 minutes,has nudity and much profanity but not much more.Some funny bits but by and large for one watch when bored and need a comedy fix at least without all the drug crap most comedies today have.Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann make it bearable.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Pete and Debbie are both about to turn 40, their kids hate each other, both of their businesses are failing, they're on the verge of losing their house, and their relationship is threatening to fall apart.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi3960579865/

White House Down 2013 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5

Released in 2013 and running long at 131 minutes,my main complaint is poor acting by Channing Tatum and the films confusion about being a comedy vs a drama.However the rest of the cast works quite well including special kudos to Joey King and Jason Clarke.If you want SERIOUS and scary see "Olympus Has Fallen"also reviewed on this blog,otherwise take this film as a comedy ,violence,black president and all.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary below.

Capitol Policeman John Cale has just been denied his dream job with the Secret Service of protecting President James Sawyer. Not wanting to let down his little girl with the news, he takes her on a tour of the White House, when the complex is overtaken by a heavily armed paramilitary group. Now, with the nation's government falling into chaos and time running out, it's up to Cale to save the president, his daughter, and the country. Written by Columbia Pictures

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1969202713/

Jack Reacher 2012 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Tom Cruise plays a strange ex military investigator in this off beat and highly stretched tale about a random shooing spree,or is it?? At the end of the day,this 2012 release that runs  a long 130 minutes,is nothing more than a who done it with a  slightly off beat twist.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.Don't expect too much and you might just be entertained.

In an innocent heartland city, five are shot dead by an expert sniper. The police quickly identify and arrest the culprit, and build a slam-dunk case. But instead of confessing, the accused man writes the words, "Get Jack Reacher." Reacher himself sees the news report and turns up in the city. The defense is immensely relieved, but Reacher has come to bury the guy. Shocked at the accused's request, Reacher sets out to confirm for himself the absolute certainty of the man's guilt, but comes up with more than he bargained for. Written by Anonymous

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1158194201/

Cool Runnings (1993) - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 1993 and running a short 98 minutes,we have here a classic family comedy starring the late John Candy and multi talented Leon.If you were into the winter games and feel good stories,this is YOUR film.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary below.

 Irving Blitzer disgraced himself when putting extra weights into his team's bob in the Olympics, resulting in his gold medal being taken away from him. Years later, Derice Bannock, son to a former friend of Irv, fails to qualify for the 100-yard sprint for the Olympics due to a stupid accident. But when he hears of Irving Blitzer living also on Jamaica, Derice decides to go to the Games anyway, if not as a sprinter, then as a bobsledder. After some starting problems, the first Jamaican bobsledding team is formed and heads for Calgary. In the freezing weather Derice, Sanka, Junior and Yul are only laughed at, since nobody can take a Jamaican bobsledding team led by a disgraced trainer seriously. But team spirit and a healthy self confidence may lead to a few surprises in the upcoming Winter Games. Written by Julian Reischl <julianreischl@mac.com>

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi681942297/

The Hangover Part 111 - 2013 - 2 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

While this third installment and hopefully last of the "Hangover"films adds some new big names to the cast as well as the regulars,this 2013 release that runs 100 minutes is the weakest of the bunch including the weak return to Vegas.See it only if a die hard hangover fan.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

In the aftermath of the death of Alan's father, the wolfpack decide to take Alan to get treated for his mental issues. But things start to go wrong on the way to the hospital as the wolfpack is assaulted and Doug is kidnapped. Now they must find Mr. Chow again in order to surrender him to the gangster who kidnapped Doug in order to save him. Written by HeWhoShallNotBeNamed

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1258726937/

The Lego Movie - 2014 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Maybe because I didn't play with Lego's as a kid nor am I impressed by stars whose voice is all you"see"of them in a animation film such as this 2014 release that runs 100 minutes,that causes me to only give a tepid recommendation to this film.You'll have to judge for yourself.Worth one view.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

The LEGO Movie is a 3D animated film which follows lead character, Emmet a completely ordinary LEGO mini-figure who is identified as the most "extraordinary person" and the key to saving the Lego universe. Emmet and his friends go on an epic journey to stop the evil tyrant, Lord Business. Written by DeAlan Wilson www.ComedyE.com

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2178131993/

The Hangover Part 11 2011 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

This 2011 release that runs 102 minutes,suffers from all the movies sequel problems,which is,making the newer film have new touches in the sequel series.Its funny enough but not as much as the first one and well,I'll take Vegas over Bangkok any day.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.For fans of the first film ONLY.

Stu is getting married. Along with Doug, Phil, and his soon-to-be brother-in-law Teddy, he regretfully invites Alan to Thailand for the wedding. After a quiet night on the beach with a beer and toasting marshmallows by the camp fire, Stu, Alan and Phil wake up in a seedy apartment in Bangkok. Doug is back at the resort, but Teddy is missing, there's a monkey with a severed finger, Alan's head is shaved, Stu has a tattoo on his face, and they can't remember any of it. The wolf-pack retrace their steps through strip clubs, tattoo parlors and cocaine-dealing monkeys on the streets of Bangkok as they try and find Teddy before the wedding. Written by napierslogs.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2196348185/

TV Series - House of Cards 2013 - 4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Netfliks hit a grand slam with this original programming TV series.The only reason to take 1/2 star off is because its a political drama and well,many might find it boring or unintelligible.However if you follow politics then this is your catnip.Its based on a old BBC Tv series i have yet to see and has a odd stage gimmick from good old Shakespears "King Richard the third"you'll pick up on it almost immediately or if you aren't familiar with that play,you'll see it as a rather unique scene enhancement like the clock in the old and yet soon to return series"24".While Kevin Spacey created a wonderfully evil new villain,the rest of the cast is fine as well.So do watch and get a insight to how the government works WHEN they work as they don't much these days.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary below.

A Congressman works with his equally conniving wife to exact revenge on the people who betrayed him.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3093276697/

The Hangover 2008 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

This 2009 release that runs 100 minutes,might offend you and to some degree it did me,but its like a car wreck,you can't turn away.I will review the 2 sequels in the coming days as i'm a sucker for bad taste somedays and this film fits quite nicely.The cast works well with the main 3 being Bradley Cooper,Ed Helms and real weirdo Zach Galifianakis. So see at your own risk if you like REALLY over the top comedy. Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Three buddies wake up from a bachelor party in Las Vegas, with no memory of the previous night and the bachelor missing. They make their way around the city in order to find their friend before his wedding.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2105934361/

Peggy Sue Got Married 1986 - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

This 1986 release that runs 103 minutes,still stands up after all these years and shows a look back at the earlier careers of some hollywoods icons.Sure there is no science but the storyline of refections of your past and some good oldies music and its catnip for us old fogies.So for my generation,check it out and for you youngsters,well maybe wait till you get older,ha,ha.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Peggy Sue faints at a high school reunion. When she wakes up, she finds herself in her own past, just before she finished school.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi4187685145/

The Monuments Men 2014 - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Humm a A+ cast and a B- story might be one way to describe this WW11 previously unknown for the most part,story.It was worth a view for historical WW11 buffs but still not enough in the end.Released in 2014 and running 118 minutes its worth one view for everyone else who like star power.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

An unlikely World War II platoon are tasked to rescue art masterpieces from Nazi thieves and return them to their owners.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1176348697/

Dallas Buyers Club 2013 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Matthew McConaughey  finally showed me something acting wise in this film.Might be his best performance to date.Its a tough film to watch and the subject matter can be distasteful at times and decidedly NOT for kids.However if you stick with  it you will be moved.Released in 2013 and and running 117 minutes,the rest of the cast fits well also.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary below. For VERY mature audiences only.

In 1985 Dallas, electrician and hustler Ron Woodroof works around the system to help AIDS patients get the medication they need after he is himself diagnosed with the disease.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi3322325273/

Zathura A Space Adventure 2005 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Not big fan of kids films per say BUT this 2005 release than runs 113 minutes held my attention.Maybe its because I had no brothers as the sci-fi in this picture is very week.However its family fare and the acting is first rate by a B level cast.I recommend over silly animation fare.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

Two young brothers are drawn into an intragalactic adventure when their house is magically hurtled through space because of the board game they are playing.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi1608712473/

After Earth 2013 - 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

The only reason I am reviewing this film is because it stars Will Smith but it still stinks.Released in 2013 and running 100 minutes,it is nether satisfying for sci-fi OR Smith fans.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.You have been warned.

A crash landing leaves Kitai Raige and his father Cypher stranded on Earth, a millennium after events forced humanity's escape. With Cypher injured, Kitai must embark on a perilous journey to signal for help.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi86550041/

Broken City 2013 - 2 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

This 2013 release that runs 109 minutes,is broken of sorts in its own way.The story is hard to follow and the acting is uneven at times although the story was interesting enough to stay with it to the end.However I thing the only ones who will really enjoy it are fans of Mark Wahlberg and Russell Crowe.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

In a city rife with injustice, ex-cop Billy Taggart seeks redemption and revenge after being double-crossed and then framed by its most powerful figure: Mayor Nicholas Hostetler.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi4181960473/

Last Vegas 2013 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2013 and running 105 minutes this is a old fogies fin with a A+ cast.I won't try to explain the film for it is sort of silly,but its never nasty per say.Lets just say its a geriatric nicer and gentler version of this those stupid"Hangover"films.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.I loved it.

Three sixty-something friends take a break from their day-to-day lives to throw a bachelor party in Las Vegas for their last remaining single pal.

www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi234858777/

Nebraska 2013 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

This 2013 release that runs 115 minutes,might not win best picture or actor for star Bruce Dern,but the film although slow moving,is a slice of real mid american life,with all the pain and small triumphs. I recommend for real film fans as it is also shot in B&W for a really depressing background effect. Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

An aging, booze-addled father makes the trip from Montana to Nebraska with his estranged son in order to claim a million-dollar Mega Sweepstakes Marketing prize.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2790959385/

Philomena 2013 - 4 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2013 and  running 98 minutes,its hard to review this film because there are many levels to the story,not the least of which is the catholic church and teen pregnancy and homosexuality.So,i'll just say I was moved.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below. It's also very british with fine acting from Judi Dench and others.

A world-weary political journalist picks up the story of a woman's search for her son, who was taken away from her decades ago after she became pregnant and was forced to live in a convent.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2290198553/

Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa (2013) - 2 1/2 out of 5 stars

OK,this 2013 release that runs 92 will offend everyone.If your a fan of MTV's Jackass,i'm not,you'll love it.I like the punching aspect however so a very tepid recommendation for a view,maybe…..Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

86-year-old Irving Zisman takes a trip from Nebraska to North Carolina to take his 8 year-old grandson, Billy, back to his real father.

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1086630169/

Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004) - 3 stars out of 5 stars

Released in 2004 and running 88 minutes,this is the first of a series of films about a modern day "Cheech and Chong"stoner buddies.While I don't condone drug use,i'm not quite sure on this films stand ether,but it has a few bright spots.The cast works with a few cameos that are interesting,and who among us didn't have "the crave".So watch it once for a throw back to the humor of the 60's set in todays world.Trailer URL follows the picture and a IMDB summary is below.

An Asian-American office worker and his Indian-American stoner friend embark on a quest to satisfy their desire for White Castle burgers.

http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi1873543449/