No Reservations

I was at my parents house this past weekend and they had Redboxed (yup its a verb) No Reservations, so I thought I would give it a watch. Now like most movies of its kind the plot is about as predictable as a phone book, by that I mean you know what is coming next and will not be surprised by any of it.


But luckily for this movie it has a cast that manages to keep you intrigued even though you know what is going to happen. I have been a fan of Catherine Zeta-Jones since Entrapment and Aaron Eckhart plays a much different character here than he does in The Dark Knight but likable still the same. Then for good measure they throw in Abigail Breslin who made it big in Little Miss Sunshine and Signs and is the glue that holds all the characters together.


If you ever find yourself getting sucked into the Food Network you will most likely enjoy the cooking aspects of No Reservations. Sure the plot is shockingly predictable but in this case if it were anything else it would most likely leave a bad taste in your mouth. This is a good rental if the movie you went to the store for is all checked out and you want to see something new.

-Eric

21

You will have to forgive me on this one as I saw this movie many months ago when it came out in theaters, but since it came out on DVD this week I thought I would try to give it a proper review.

21 is about just what you think it is, the card game 21. Okay, so maybe there is a little more to it than that. The story here is about a group of college kids who are recruited to count cards and take the casinos for as much as they can. The kids start off by practicing at school then take their show on the road to Vegas for the weekends. All goes well until a firm hired by one of the casinos starts to notice the group and how much they are taking from the casino.

Without giving too much away things start to go downhill from here and the kids think they can drop their trusted tutor and keep more of the money they earn. Well that doesn't sit well with the tutor as you can very well imagine. So now not only do the kids have to worry about the security firm but there jilted tutor as well. This all leads to the climax of the movie, which I am not going to tell you about.

Overall 21 is a good, fun movie that is well worth a rental on these hot summer nights. Or to borrow a phrase from the movie "Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!" Yup that pretty much sums it up.

-Eric

Joss Stone (The Soul Sessions)

The Soul Sessions is the debut album by English singer Joss Stone. (released in September 2003) It is a collection of cover's from '60s and '70s soul songs.

I like Joss Stone for a couple of reasons. (1) She has a strong voice and (2) Her songs are funky.

I have revisited this album lately and am loving it all over again. It's a fun CD to chill out to. I find myself listening to it when I am in a reserved mood. If you are looking for a few fun songs to put on your IPOD you should check out..

"I've Fallen in Love With You" and "Some Kind of Wonderful" (they are both soulful and funky)

If you like soul music you will dig Joss.

Caitlin

The Dark Knight

I am sure that most of you have heard all the hype about this movie and I can say that it lives up to all of it. If you liked Batman Begins you are sure to like The Dark Knight.

The cast here is amazing and Heath Ledger is fantastic as the Joker. If I didn't know he was in this movie there is no way I would have guessed that this was the same actor as the one in 10 Things I Hate About You. Christian Bale continues to make up for all the past Batman's by making him a complete, complex character. Gary Oldman impresses as always as Gordon and has a bigger part here then in Batman Begins. And then there is Morgan Freeman who is great in just about anything. Aaron Eckhart and Maggie Gyllenhaal are new to the franchise and fit in perfectly with the above named cast.

I am not going to get into specifics here because I really think you need to see this movie for yourself and come to your own conclusions. I loved it. But know going in that it handles much darker material then Batman Begins. And at almost three hours long, make sure your theater has comfy seats (I recommend the District) and go for the small drink (you don't want to leave for potty breaks). One last thing. There is nothing at the end of the credits so you don't need to stay unless you want to.

Eric



I loved this movie. So much in fact that I would call it my favorite of the year. Not only that, I think that we have found the most intense movie since Bourne Ultimatum. This whole movie I was on the edge of my seat.

Heath Ledger is the best villain to hit the big screen for me. The acting in this movie is unparalleled. This movie is dark. Really dark. I wouldn't take the kids to this one.

I had nothing bad to say for this movie. Loved! If you weren't one of the million people to have seen it this weekend. Go see it! Now.

Caitlin

Batman Begins

In honor of the new Batman movie that comes out on Friday, I thought it would be appropriate to spotlight it's predecessor, Batman Begins. I love this movie. It is dark, it is intense, it contains really great acting. (Well, all except the "deer in the headlights" Katie Holmes, who I have liked in the past, but didn't feel like she pulled this one off. I am excited to see what Maggie Gyllenhaall brings to the screen)

This is (so far) my favorite super hero movie ever. I love Christian Bale as Batman. He is not only extremely sexy, but strong and a fantastic actor. I didn't remember how scary they made the Scarecrow until I watched it again last night. He is one of the scarier villains I have seen.

I am a huge fan of the director Chris Nolan (think Memento), and am excited to see what he comes up with in The Dark Knight. I had forgotten how many seriously seasoned actors were in this movie. (Caine, Freeman, Wilkinson, Neeson, Oldman, Hauer) With a cast like this, you can definitely expect greatness. If you get a chance, I would re-watch this movie before you go see the new one. If you haven't seen this movie, I would completely recommend it. I just wouldn't take small children. These new movies are not like the old Michael Keaton ones with a portly penguin and a cheesy Mr. Freeze. This is dark, just how Batman should be.

Caitlin

I too loved this movie. It is one of my favorite comic book movies...ever. The reason I liked this so much was because it took away all the campy elements of the first Batman movies (nipples on the batsuit?!?!) and replaced them with a great story and characters that you could really relate to, well at least relate to better than a penguin man. I didn't even mind Katie Holmes in it, but am totally fine with her being replaced by Maggie, who I think will and an extra umph (ie: better acting) to the character. I can't wait to see The Dark Knight and it is all because of this movie.

Eric

So You Think You Can Dance

Can't wait to find out more about the Jessica scandal tonight. Read here for the info. (Thanks to Alana who dug up this gossip.)

Ironman

Okay, I know this movie came out awhile ago, but looking at movie listings this past weekend I found that it was still playing in some theaters. So if you haven't seen Ironman yet, you really need to see it on the big screen.

Ironman is one of my favorite movies this summer, or year even, right up there with Wall-E. I think the reason that I liked this movie as much as I did is because I went into it not really thinking I would like it and was very pleasantly surprised that I liked it as much as I did.



The cast here, led by Robert Downey, Jr., is the perfect cast for this movie. After seeing the movie, Robert Downey is the only actor I could imagine playing millionaire turned superhero Tony Stark. Gwyneth Paltrow plays Tony's assistant Pepper Potts and I must say that I enjoyed her character here quite a bit and she added a little comedy to the otherwise action packed movie. That is not to say that hers were the only comic moments in the movie, but I just enjoyed them.

The whole movie just comes together so well that I have to give credit to director Jon Favreau, who as a fan of the comic book series makes sure that the movie did not spiral into a giant mess, which it easily could have given its comic book past. In my opinion Ironman solidifies Favreau as a great director (see Elf, Zathura), and was pleased to read this weekend that Favreau and Downey have signed onto Ironman 2.

I strongly recommend that you see this movie on the big screen while you still can. It really is one of the best movies this year. Overall Grade: A-

The only thing different I would say, was it was very much a "boy movie". I liked it a lot and I have a lot of friends who are females who loved it. I just felt like sometimes it was sort of intense. That being said. I really liked it. Definitely one worth seeing on the big screen.

Caitlin

So You Think You Can Dance

Finally these two got kicked off the show last night. I was starting to appreciate Thayne's dancing, but Comfort (while an AWESOME break dancer) is just not up to the skill level as the rest.

This is the turning point in the show, where the dancers get split up from their usual partners and every week get a new one. It's great because you start to see how good each individual is. This is where the great dancers break out from the pack, and the weak ones are.. well cut.

To see what I thought was the best solo of the night, click here.

Caitlin

Across the Universe (sountrack not movie)

If you are a Beatles fan (which I am) then you will love this soundtrack. The movie? Maybe not so much. But the music is seriously fabulous. The artists voices are stellar and each song is pretty different than the one before it.

My favorite songs from the soundtrack include..

I Wanna Hold Your Hand by: T.V. Carpio

Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite by: Eddie Izzard

Hey Jude by: Joe Anderson and Angela Mounsey

When we went to see this movie, I just kept looking at the people I was with and saying "Wow! This music is awesome! They are all so talented." This is the best Beatles tribute since the I Am Sam soundtrack. Give it a listen.

Caitlin

I am with Caity on this 100%. I love the Beatles, as most do, and this is one of the better cover albums that I have heard. When I first heard the soundtrack I couldn't believe how powerful Evan Rachel Wood's voice was, I mean the girl is tiny, but her voice is big!

Some of my favorites are: Happiness Is A Warm Gun, All My Loving, It Won't Be Long and...ah who am I kidding, I loved the whole thing. Don't believe me? Check out my iPod's most played list here and see how many songs from the soundtrack make an appearance. If you are a Beatles fan, or a fan of Music, do yourself a favor and check this one out.

Eric

Cash Cab

As anyone who knows me will tell you, I am addicted to the Discovery Channel. And with shows like Cash Cab, how could I not be.

Cash Cab is exactly what it sounds like. Your ride in a cab turns into a sort of Jeopardy on wheels, only with easier questions. You enter the cab and the first thing that tells you this is no ordinary cab are the lights built into the roof. Then host Ben Bailey lets you in on the secret, you have entered the Cash Cab. For every question you get right money is added to the meter. At the end of the ride you can take the money you have earned or go double or nothing on a video bonus question. But getting to the end is a little tricky as you have three strikes and then you're out and have to find another way to your destination. As the ride progresses the questions get harder and harder. The key to winning this show is making sure you use your two lifelines; the mobile shout out, where you can call anyone you want for help or the street shout out, where you have to rely on people passing on the street. I have seen too many folks get the old heave ho without using either of their lifelines.

If you are looking for a show that has an ever changing cast of characters and will broaden your trivial knowledge, then Cash Cab is for you. Look for it on Discovery.

Eric

I totally agree, Cash Cab cracks me up. I love how the host is driving and asking questions at the same time. The best is when the people first get into the cab and the lights go off and people freak out. I enjoy the show, but can only watch it for a short time with out getting slightly bored. I feel sorry for people who don't have the Discovery Channel!

Caitlin

Guitar Hero (three)

We had a request to review games. So what better to start with than Guitar Hero? This game spread like wild fire! I don't know anyone who hasn't tried this game. Heck, my mom and dad have tried it!

The games support individual play as well as cooperative and competitive modes for two players. Plan on buying another guitar, as it usually only comes with one. The guitar acts as your controller. I would go the wireless route with your guitar. I am not sure if they even sell them with the cord anymore. Just make sure you ask the sales person which guitar holds up the best. That's what we did and we have been very satisfied.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock was released in late 2007 for the PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, PC, and Mac platforms. I have only played it on the Wii and Play Station. (though I am sure to try it on the XBox soon since my husband is getting one. Thus continuing his video game addiction)

I am a big fan of the third installment. It seems the most advanced. The funnest to play. And it has the most recognizable songs. I haven't tried the Aerosmith yet, but I am sure it will be fun, if you are a fan of the group.

This is a good choice for children and adults. My husband and I are addicted to it. The great thing is, if you practice anyone can get it. Plus kids are really quick to learn it. We usually pull it out for parties. This is a good choice for the whole family.

Caitlin

Wipeout

If you need a good laugh to get you through the week, then Wipeout is the show for you. There really is no way to describe the show other than an extreme obstacle course, and I really want to try it. Sure it looks like it hurts but you would be so busy laughing at the craziness that you wouldn't care that your jaw just separated!

The show consists of three rounds: The Qualifier, The Sweeper, and The Wipeout Zone. Whichever contestant makes it through the first two rounds and finishes The Wipeout Zone with the best time wins $50 grand. Sign me up. Each week they change up the first two rounds but the Big Balls and the Punching Wall seem to be mainstays, along with mud and water. Would could ask for more?

The best part is watching people try to cross the Big Balls (pictured above). Gravity never looked so funny. The show is on Tuesdays at 7 on ABC and you can also watch episodes online at abc.com. If you are looking for some good hardy laughs at other peoples expense, look no further.

Eric

I am with Eric on this one. This show is hysterical. I thought at first it was a little exploitative, but then realized, heck these people are volunteering. And I would do it in a heartbeat. I would be laughing the entire time!

Caitlin

Bachelorette

It's finally over. Last night Deanna chose Jesse. The snowboarder from Colorado. He proposed, and they have set a date to get married in May of 09. This post I am not going to say anything. I am just going to provide links for you. So here we go...

Mormon in Manhattan said

Little Wonders said

Pink and Birchy said

Simplicity said

A Little Something said

'nough said.

ABC.. listen to all of us and make Jason the next Bachelor!

Caitlin

Wanted

I saw Wanted this weekend and I have to say that I really liked it. I should also say that this movie earns it's R rating, so if that is a deterrent to you, consider yourself warned.

The thing I liked most about Wanted was it's dark sense of humor. For those of you who don't know, Wanted is about a fraternity of assassins led my Sloan, played by Morgan Freeman. When one of their top assassins is taken out by a rouge agent, they recruit the assassins son to track down the rouge agent. Wesley the son, played by James McAvoy, is at first hesitant to join the fraternity. But after some training and mentoring by Fox, played by Angelina Jolie, he reconsiders.

The cast really makes this movie, even if you are not a Jolie fan you can't not like her here. She just looks like she is having fun and fits the part of Fox to the letter. McAvoy is believable as an account manager turned assassin and holds his own, not only against Jolie but against Freeman as well, and is the true star of this movie. This may be because his character is so easy to relate too that you just can't help root for him.

Like I stated previously this movies earns its R rating mainly through violence and language, but if that doesn't bother you then you will be sure to enjoy Wanted. Overall Grade: B+

Eric

Hancock

I should start out by saying that I am a fan of the big, dumb summer movie. Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow, I Robot, if it is a big summer movie I usually love it. Hancock is the exception to this. Right from the start Hancock can't figure out what it wants to be; comedy, action movie, drama, super-hero movie. The plot jumps back and forth between all these genres so much that after a while I just felt bored and could really care less about what is going on. I kid you not half way through the movie I started thinking that I would have been more entertained at home watching Speed for the umpteenth time.

The stars; Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Jason Bateman, are all likable enough but the material they are given here just makes them all come off as smug and uncaring most of the movie. Hancock is the story of a superhero who could care less about what people think about him or what he does in the process of saving the day. This leads the people of L.A. to not respect him and just wish he would go away, they suggest NY. (By the end of the movie I was wishing that I was in NY rather than the theater watching this, or perhaps on the Speed bus!) After Hancock saves a PR exec, played by Bateman, he takes it upon himself to remake Hancock's image against the advice of his wife, played by Theron.

Now in case you do go see this movie I won't say anymore. I will say that there were others in my group that were okay with this movie but I just expect more from my dumb summer movies, especially those that star Will Smith. I wanted to like Hancock, I really did, but sadly I just felt indifferent the whole time watching it, not a good feeling for a big, dumb summer movie to make you feel. Maybe you will have better luck. Overall Grade: C+

I have to disagree with my colleague just a bit. The first half of this movie I thoroughly enjoyed. It was super funny and I liked that Will Smith wasn't his usual self and I am ALWAYS a fan of Jason Bateman. I could have done without Charlize Theron, but she didn't bug me. I loved the chemistry between Will Smith and Jason Bateman. The part where Hancock is helping him into bed had me laughing out loud.

There were a couple bizarre parts, that they definitely could have done with out. The second half of the movie went severely down hill. It didn't have much of a plot and they glossed over so much that I was just left not getting all of it.

With all that being said. I really liked the special effects. It was entertaining and I was never bored. I agree with Eric that they should have had a little more direction. I think it was a good movie to see on the big screen and it was fun to see it once. I didn't feel like I wished I had seen something else.

Caitlin

My Best Friend's Wedding

An oldie, but a goody. I can watch this movie again and again. So I did, last night while folding laundry. I don't think it's a secret (if you know me) that I am not a Cameron Diaz fan. But I love her in this movie. I used to love her when she first started getting big. (ie: The Mask and The Sweetest Thing) Every character in this movie is lovable, though dysfunctional.

If you want a good laugh I recommend this. For the scheming, the antics, the humor that Rupert Everett brings. You fall in love with Dermot Mulroney every time he gazes into Julia Roberts eyes. And the part where he takes the ring off of her hand when it gets stuck? I swoon every time.

This movie has parts that are completely unbelievable, but they pull it off. One of my favorite scenes from that movie is when everyone is singing at lunch. (Click here to refresh your memory) The whole table starts up and there is even a man with lobster claws in the back swaying. It's big, but it's funny. My all time favorite scene is when those kids are sucking the helium out of the balloons at the most serious part and they start serenading them. I still laugh whenever I think about it.

I cry in the last scene EVERY time I watch it. This movie has heart. I love it. One of my top chick flicks for sure. Perfect choice if you want to curl up, eat some ice cream, and laugh. I'm sure you've seen it, but if not rent it!

Caitlin

Well I have to agree with Caity on this one. I too can watch this movie over and over. All the scenes just bring a smile to my face. I especially love the scene in the ladies room of the ballpark where Julia and Cameron have it out and the women in the background that keeps calling out Kimmy. Ah, good times. And if this movie doesn't make you want to sing karaoke then none ever will. Watch it once and you will want to own it, I do. Yes that's right I own a chick flick, now you know my secret shame!

Eric