The Claytonator

So I finally went ahead and caught "Michael Clayton" while it was still in theaters and enjoyed it just fine. I think it took a while to get moving, but when it did it was an intriguing dramatic thriller. All the performances were strong, it being especially entertaining to watch Tom Wilkinson act all looney. The story wasn't too confusing either (despite the subject matter). I may have missed a few minor details here and there but I think I got the big picture. Tony Gilroy definitely has a knack for sharp and intelligent scripts and he does a fine job in this. So where would it rank with other films I saw in 2007? Well it was pretty good but something would really have to impress me to make me edit my "Top Ten movies of 2007" again. Though it probably is better than "The Mist" or "28 Weeks Later" they're more like guilty pleasures and I just want to be completely honest.

So after viewing "Michael Clayton" I have officially seen all of the the best picture nominated films. So how do I think they all rank up in my mind?

1. No Country For Old Men - Easily the best film of the year, suspenseful, engaging well acted, beautifully filmed and the list goes on. Everyone seems to dislike the brief ending I think it was an appropriate decision being that it was more realistic.

2. There Will Be Blood - Not Really much of anything happens in "There Will Be Blood" but it's still a visually stunning film lead by an incredible performance. Daniel Day-Lewis really is a treat to watch and can make any movie hold your interest.

3. Juno - I wonder if "Little Miss Sunshine" has opened up the door for indie dramadies to be nominated for best picture? I liked "Juno" just fine but it really doesn't quite a strong enough film to take home best picture. Though seeing fun films like this always make it nice to see the Oscars are occasionally hip.

4. Michael Clayton - Michael Clayton is a film that's good at showcasing performances and certainly deserved the nomination but story-wise isn't quite compelling enough to get a best picture win.

5. Atonement - Definitely my least favorite, "Atonement" is pretty lucky it got released when it did because it's certainly not oscar standard, but then again there have been many films not deserving of a nomination in the past. Just hope this doesn't win.

Well that's all Folks!

The Reign of Louis XIV

Louis XIV - Slick Dogs And Ponies

Now though I usually give an album a couple of listens before I make an opinion, Louis XIV's new album "Slick Dogs and Ponies" has already hooked me in. With more complex arrangements (Strings on almost every song) and rich backup vocals Louis XIV have given us a solid album. A nice balance of dirty rockers and bittersweet ballads, "Slick Dogs and Ponies" was a step in the right direction for Louis XIV whom now have become almost like a modern day glam rock band. Some of my favorite tracks are the bowie esq. "Air Traffic Control" the starting track "Guilt By Association" and "Hopesick" But I basically have a strong liking for most of the other songs too. I probably still like the last album better, but this is still a pretty good start for music in 08' for me, some swell stuff.

A Bit Pants

This was an interesting weekend as myself and my friends, went to go see both "Rambo" and "Atonement" at Bella Botega. Now why would I see "Atonement"? Well basically my only reason is that it was nominated for best picture, not only that but it is well took home best picture at the Golden Globes, and did it deserve it? The answer is "No not really." Unfortunately, "Atonement" is one of the most dull films I can recall seeing in theaters in awhile. There is definitely some Interesting story elements in this (Which is why I wonder if the book is perhaps better) but their mostly drown out through character's aimlessly wandering around and acting all depressed. Now I didn't hate "Atonement" I did like the young girl played by Saoirse Ronan (Whom is up for best supporting actress by the way) and the sets were nice, which I suppose should be expected in a period piece, but after the first act I couldn't help but begin to feel bored. I didn't too much care for the leads, James McAvoy wasn't particularly compelling and Keira Knightley (Who seems to shift from period piece to period piece) was in my opinion pretty dry. Going back to my point on "the book" I'd like to think that certain books just don't translate well into film. A lot can be lost including; detail, how the character's feel or what they think, not to mention you don't have to absorb the whole story in one sitting. Perhaps all the shots of the characters wandering or acting all pouty were trying to portray this, but it certainly didn't work for me. Overall "Atonement" definitely isn't Oscar worthy, I guess if you like sappy period piece's then you might like it, but if not then I suggest you avoid this one.

Rambo's Back 4 More!

It's been roughly 26 years since John Rambo first hit the big screen in "First Blood" (based off of the novel by David Morrell) and who would of ever thunk it that he'd still be the pop culture icon that he is? You just can't deny that he's probably one of the biggest action hero characters in all of film and certainly of the 1980s.Looking back at all these flicks I find their all basically dumb fun. Not really anything more than that, sometimes we just enjoy watching movies that don't require you to think and just relax and joke with your friends. Not too say that their necessarily bad movies, just movies you don't have to take to seriously.


First Blood (1982)
: In Rambo's first outing, we learn that he's a vietnam vet suffering from some psychological trauma. Just rambling around until he gets into trouble with the authorities. Soon enough Rambo is relentlessly killing off cops with hand made traps and brute force. Kind of an interesting start for the series and it isn't even called Rambo. (Perhaps it's really trying to follow the book more, though I don't really know)First Blood is messy fun and I dig those Vietnam flashbacks. (Where Rambo has a mustache.)


Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985)
I find it interesting that the most popular image of Rambo, actually comes from the second film. Here we have Rambo back in Vietnam rescuing P.O.W's, blowing up things with a bow and arrow, lots of gunfire and explosions and etc. Which really wasn't as present in the first film. Rambo II is loads of fun through it's ridiculous scenarios and cool one-liners and still my personal favorite Rambo.


Rambo III (1988)
: Rambo III gets off to a promising start but never really goes anywhere interesting. It's certainly not as entertaining as the first two. We do get a little more screen time for Col. Trautman (Richard Crenna) but he's mostly just being beat up stereotypical Soviets through the whole movie. The whole relationship with the Afghan freedom fighters isn't that compelling either. There's a few good kills but nothing really impressive.


Rambo (2008)
:Rambo basically delivers everything you'd want to see in a Rambo film. It's a little slow at first but once rambo decides he's had enough people die.... And I mean PEOPLE DIE!!! Rambo's gore is fantastic and the action sequences are loads of fun. If only they weren't spread out so much this could of been the best Rambo. But instead another respectable enough entry into the Rambo Quadrilogy. (Really dug that British guy too.)

So basically this isn't a great series, but it has given us a memorable character when it comes to action flicks. Sure they're cheesy but they make us smile and cheer for the good guy. Cause to Rambo killing is easy as breathing.

Seeing Green

So my dad bought some sort of green cloth and sucessfully pulled off a green screen test. So hopefully I'll get to try that out soon once he he's ready to do a more elaborate set up. Think of all the possibilites; music videos? Phony news casts? War Story in Space? It's exciting.

Channel Surfing

So after tonight's season finale of "Monster Quest" on The History Channel I'm completely out of shows to watch. Because of all this I've started watching David Duchovny's Golden Globe winning show "Californication" on the intertube. (I consider David Duchovny to myself like Sean to Zach Braff) It's not really that great yet here I'm about 6 episodes in. Where Duchovny plays a hip sex addict and accomplished writer who can't write anymore. Uh oh and his ex-girlfriend (whom he has a child with) is getting remarried and dramedy ensues. Though it is strange that I'm watching so much of a series I just think is okay, it's almost like when I watched "Freaks & Geeks" and was like "This is pretty mediocre." and the next thing you know I've practically seen the entire series. I also in the meantime can lay back on the occasionally entertaining "Sarah Connor Chronicles" Though if they open one more episode with a dream sequence where Sarah Connor is attacked by Terminators then I'll be pissed. So thank god for the intertube in all of this, I can keep watching shows on the internet or at least wait until T.V. is in our mind.

P.S. You know another thing that's getting on my nerves is digital homework? Why do I have to do math problems on the internet? Can't you just give me a worksheet, so I don't have to walk over to my dad's house so I can work on a PC with the installed coursecompass program? Plus my new ferrets are seriously affecting my allergies so much that my lips are swollen and I put chapstick on it but that just makes it worse.

The Ledgster

1979-2008

Though I've never been a fan of Heath Ledger, it's really a tragedy to see someone so young die. Perhaps he'll win me over with his portrayal of the Joker? Well I look forward to "The Dark Knight" and it would appear to be promising. I also heard that Heath was working on a film with Terry Gilliam. I don't know how far they were into filming but doesn't it seem like Terry Gilliam is forever screwed with getting his movies of the ground? His troubles with "Brazil" or failed film about Don Quixote? I wonder what the fate of that project will be. Well anyways my condolences to Heath Ledger and may his legacy live on.

Oscar Fever (It's an Epidemic!)

Well if you didn't already know, today (January the 22nd) the nominations for the 80th Annual Academy Awards were announced. I personally get pretty excited at this time of year, being that I find the Oscars to be the only award show worth a damn, but also because I like to pursue seeing all the films nominated for best picture. Of which I still need to see "Atonement" (which I am not really looking forward to) and "Michael Clayton" (which though I missed an opportunity to see have decided to rent it instead of watching it all online.) Perhaps it's my tradition to see at least one of the nominees on dvd as I did last year with Babel.

So what's the scoop on the oscars? Looks like "No Country For Old Men" and "There Will Be Blood" did pretty well with nominations, both films I quite enjoyed. I'm kind of pissed that "Sweeney Todd" got the royal screw job but will be more pissed if "Atonement" is lame. But it's too bad, I figured Tim Burton was gonna finally get a best director nomination and he could finally have a contender for best picture, but all it really got was just a best actor nom and some costume stuff. Though I doubt Johnny Depp will win (I guess it's an honor just to be nominated). It would appear that everyone is saying Daniel-Day Lewis or as I like to call him "D-Day" is a shoe in for best actor and he certainly deserves it as one of the best actors around.

Cate Blanchett got about her bazillionth nomination for both "I'm Not There" and that "Elizabeth the Golden Age" thing. Somehow I always seem to manage seeing practically none of the films nominated for best actress. Though I did see "Juno" and I suppose Ellen Page deserved a nomination, though I'm not sure about a win. Then again I don't really know what she's up against. It seems pretty strange that the mom from "American Gangster" was nominated. I suppose she was fine but that was certainly one of those strange last minute noms. Also what I feel to be the biggest surprise would be the best supporting actor nomination of Hal Holbrook for "Into the Wild" Now making him the oldest man to ever be nominated for an oscar (He's 82 and will be 83 by the time of the oscars.) while also being his first nomination. Of course I always root for old people if they've never won. I didn't see "Into the Wild" but c'mon 82? He could be dead any day now give him some of that oscar gold.

As for the rest I'm never quite sure it seems as though best director could go any way. I'm going to assume "Juno"will pull a "A Little Miss Sunshine" and win best original screenplay while best adapted screenplay looks like a tough choice, though "No Country" is probably the front runner for that. (As it for lots of things) and good luck to all the other films awarded for things like sound editing and what not. I just hope the ceremony this year on February 24th doesn't get fudged up.

Going over the Clover

Well here we are, the mysterious J.J. Abram's "Cloverfield" has been released and after my viewing I must say that all the build up and anticipation in my opinion paid off fairly well. What we got was an exciting and original fast paced monster movie with laughs, thrills, chills and more. Unfortunately it would seem that the general feeling with the audience I saw it with, was one of disappointment. Their loss I suppose, here's some points I found worth mentioning.

Camera Work - It was pretty surprising to me that the theaters actually had motion sickness warnings outside and even so that a lot of people say it made them sick. I can't really understand that, what's everyone whining about? I could've eaten a deep dish pizza while watching this, it's just like watching stuff on Youtube but with better image quality. Yeah I'll admit that it was overly shaky at times, but cut the characters some slack. They're gonna have to bend reality little bit to make you believe that someone would hold on to a camera that long in this situation anyways. It's just a movie not a tobagan ride.

Characters/Acting - Going into this I was afraid the acting would be more likely poor or melodramatic but it was fine. The people for the most part seemed to act realistically, as people would if this were to really happen. Rob's whole attempt at risking his life to save the girl he likes, I think was justified enough seeing some of problems he faced earlier on. Our main cameraman "Hud" was easily the best character, slow witted but likable and a nice touch of comic relief. I felt bad for some of the deaths, but I guess it would be surprising for anyone to survive in that kind of dangerous environment.

The Effects - Now some of Cloverfield's CGI was pretty impressive. The enormous monster rampaging the city was a sight to be seen, and let us not forget the eye popping destruction of New York CIty. Everyone kept saying things like "Oh it's too soon seeing New York destroyed like that, the images just remind people of 911." But c'mon what were they supposed to do? If you're gonna do a giant monster movie, then you're gonna need to put iy into a huge urban environment, and naturally New York is just best suited for that.

The Story - Something fun about "Cloverfield" is that were just as clueless as the characters as to what's really going on. I find it to often that we get movies with scientists giving a big explanation of how it came to be or whatever, but I kind of liked it being kept a mystery. it almost makes it more scary and unsettling. The starting of the film with Rob was surprisingly entertaining as well, I kind of liked these characters and was genuinely interested in who they were. That's what drove the movie.

Other - Hey, how about that sweet Godzilla esq. theme at the end? Pretty epic, I looked it up and was pretty surprised that the composer "Michael Giacchino" was as well the same composer for "Ratatouille" and "The Incredibles" not too shabby.

In conclusion, I think Cloverfield basically accomplished everything that a giant monster movie should. Sure it was a little short and kind of left us with a lot of questions, but it was different and I really enjoyed the whole concept.
Good for you Cloverfield....

P.O.V.

Soon to come are a few movies that are all filmed with handheld cameras, ( I assume to give the illusion that were watching the events from the perspective of one of the characters) These 3 films being the top secret J.J. Abrams project, "Cloverfield" the new Romero zombie flick "Diary of the Dead" and the upcoming thriller "The Poughkeepsie Tapes." Now I'm sure they all have their various reasons to film their movies like this, but isn't it strange that all these films are coming out in 2008, let alone within a couple of months of each other? Now I thought this was pretty weird, so let's take a look at what this popular technique has to offer.

1. Cloverfield - Now we've all seen movies with giant monsters (Godzilla, King Kong, Stay-Puff Marshmallo Man) tearing up urban environments, but how about from the smallest and most personal point of view available? Of course I'm talking about the perpsective of some guys digital camera. The concept here makes the threat scarier with the viewers knowing even less of what's going on, and as we've all heard, "sometimes the scariest parts are what you don't see." Personally I think it's pretty neat. I mean this is no low budget movie, so using a trick like this is quite a gamble, but frankly I think it'll manage to payoff.

2. Diary of the Dead - Now though Romero hasn't really stated this, I can't help but ponder if this was partly done for reasons regarding budget. Now I'm aware that he's probably trying to accomplish the same kind of suspense that "Cloverfield" is trying to create and the whole plot is about young film makers, but this almost didn't get a theatrical release and I can't help but ponder if this kind of gimmick can help sell a film.

3. The Poughkeepsie Tapes - Now I've only heard of this from one trailer I saw before "The Mist" but what I've gathered is here we have a murderer who's filming his killing spree and I guess were watching it. This film's terror I assume is supposed to come from the fact that were watching a movie through the eyes of a sick killer giving the film a kind of disturbing edge. Now I pretty much have no interest in this film (particularly due to it's terrible film quality) but am still intrigued that this is using a similar technique as the other two films.

Most likely this is all just a coincidence. I mean it's not like we got a million theatrical "Blair Witch" Knockoffs when that came out, so I doubt any of these films are trying to copy each other's ideas. I just find it strange how often stuff like this happens. For example, in the 90s we got 2 films about Wyatt Earp at about the same time "Tombstone" with Kurt Russel and Kevin Costner's "Wyatt Earp" more recently there were those two films about Truman Capote the successful "Capote" and lesser "Infamous" If I really tried, I bet I could find even more films similar in style or story that had close release dates. I've even heard there might be two films about Edgar Allen Poe out this year. So whether these are all people ripping each other off or just coincidences, I can't help but wonder what's the dealy O?

Exit the Dragon

Now I figured after I posted my "At the Movies" post, that I had basically seen all the best and worst movies 2007 had to offer, but I guess I spoke too soon, because I forgot a little film called "Dragon Wars" AKA "D-War." Now of course I was aware that this was going to be terrible before I saw it, but you can just never quite pinpoint exactly how bad films like this will be. First off my dad had just rented this out of boredom. He felt it would be some dumb but fun entertainment and therefore I decided it might be worth a laugh and joined him as well, but man what a painful 90 minutes. Now I'm not going to go into too much detail but wow "D-War" is bad, I mean really bad, even bad enough for me to edit my 07' list (It isn't number one but it's up there.) Here's an explanation as to why I hated it as much as I did.

Starting off, one of the most annoying elements to "D-War" was it's script. With dialogue reminiscent of a 50's B-Movie and incredibly weak melodrama you'd wonder if the director is mentally disabled. Characters constantly change motivation, say obvious things out loud, are incredibly hollow and unrealistic and of course always take action before thinking. Let's as well not forget the incredibly long, boring and completely unimaginative back-story about ancient Korea, magical spirits and other ridiculous fantasy mumbo jumbo. (And how could you forget the plot holes as well) The acting was pretty weak and bland. (With the best performance coming from that guy who plays Daryl on "The Office") Robert Forster seems to be out of place as a reincarnated martial arts guru and wow it's really painful. Fortunately out of all of this, "D-War" is definitely a film that is so bad it's almost entertaining. Sometimes I found myself laughing out loud but other times I was bored out of my mind, It's not for the faint of heart.

So thanks a lot "D-War" thanks for showing us what can be considered as entertainment in our culture. Now hopefully they'll have learned their lesson... It's just so very, very sad. At least I can always rely on watching "Beyond Loch Ness" to ease the pain.

Line from Beyond Loch Ness
Tough Scientist Dude: It looks like an unknown species.
Young Guy: What kind of unknown species?

Fav albums of 07'

I went back and updated this list, as I continually discover more and more albums I missed from 2007 and have now made this into a top ten. So here you have it, my favorite albums of 2007!


10. Tio Bitar - Dungen
Another psychedelic rock entry from Sweden's very own Dungen and it's pretty entertaining. Gustav Ejstes proves be a virtuoso of many instruments as he takes on everything from guitar, to bass, to drums, piano, flute and who knows what else. Not only this but Gustav has quite a knack for 60s inspired pop song-writing and complements this nicely with a pleasant voice. There are a handful of more whimsical slower pieces, but my favorite songs here tend to be the ones that rock. If there is one thing Dungen knows how to do, it's lay down a fatty jam to blow your mind. It's not quite the same quality as it's predecessor Ta Det Lugnt but it's an interesting continuation to what was accomplished on that album.


9. The Good, the Bad and the Queen - The Good, the Bad and the Queen
Rock musics latest supergroup has released an album that isn't your typical alternative fair. Blur front man Damon Albarn takes lead vocals and piano, with notable bassist of The Clash Paul Simonon takes what else but bass and backing vocals. Verve member Simon Tong takes the guitar role and notable Nigerian drummer Tony Allen takes care of percussion duties. I think it's interesting that four men of such different age groups can come together and make such a cohesive yet compelling product. The songs here basic but effective and make for a perfect representation of the hip British indie scene. Though all of this couldn't be possible without the strength of it's producer Danger Mouse. An interesting listen for even the casual Blur fan.


8. Because of the Times - Kings of Leon
Kings of Leon seem to further develop their talents as a band with every advancing album. Though I'm not sure I like the songs as much as on Aha Shake Heartbreak, KOL has expanded upon their original Southern Rock sound to create something entirely fresh.. And I can respect that. Caleb Followill's voice is one the most unique in rock today and with all the inventive riffs and progression, not to mention the sweet reverb washed back up vocals, this is a very enjoyable album. KOL takes from reggae, alternative and southern rock sounds to create a compelling arena rock collection. As long as this band always tries to keep things fresh I'll be keeping an eye out.


7. Icky Thump - The White Stripes
: A nice return to Jack White's riff heavy rock playing after the experimental Get Behind Me Satan. Icky Thump is probably the most cohesive White Stripes album I've heard yet. Jack White is probably one the most inventive and talented musicians of today and with his partner in crime Meg, is unstoppable when it comes to delivering the heavy doses of pure unadulterated rock. I get the feeling that Jack's time with the Raconteurs has led him to giving his music a fuller sound as Icky Thump seems to have more than just your typical guitar and drums on most tracks. Some of my favorite tunes here are the organ powered "I'm Slowly Turning Into You" and the bittersweet "A Martyr For My Love For You."


6. Under the Blacklight - Rilo Kiley
I was initially kind of embarrassed about embracing this album as I initially found it kind of cheesy, but you can't ignore the quality of Jenny Lewis' song writing. Some very catchy little melodies wrapped up in a package of bright pianos, Blake Sennett's intriguing guitar work and much much more. "Silver Lining" is pleasant pop number to open up the album and it's followed by ten other fun works. Some other highlights for me are the slow rocker "The Moneymaker" and especially the album's title track. This really isn't that hard to get into and is definitely one of the more talented acts on the indie circuit today.


5. Oracular Spectacular - MGMT
Released to the internet in October 2007, this New York Indie duo has already made their mark with their electronic stadium rock taking the radio by storm.. At least on "107.7 The End". Combining retro keyboards with driving rhythms MGMT have a sound that's out of this world and a lot of fun when you need to bob your head. "Time to Pretend" is an acid rock ballad that won't soon be forgotten while "Electric Feel" is as good as a tribute you could ever do to 70s funk music. "Kids" has become a favorite of the airwaves and definitely one of my favorite tracks with it's buzzy electronica feel. there psychedelic disposition doesn't always make for the most thrilling product but they aren't afraid to be experimental and it works for me.


4. The Black and White Album - The Hives
: The Hives deliver another fast paced, toe tappingly fun album with plenty of guitar driven rock/punk angst and a handful of other pleasant surprises. The Hives have been surprisingly consistent since their hit song "Hate to Say I Told You So" put them on the map. This band simply knows what their audience wants and hasn't sacrificed any creativity
or become repetitive to entertain. They make act like pompous rock pioneers on stage but on their albums they simply make great rock music. Their amount of energy is unrivaled on the alternative scene today and this album shows you why. Plus It's nice to seem them mixing it up with pianos and keyboards here and there and Pharrell produced two tracks. There really going out on a limb to be the best that they can be.


3. Yours Truly, Angry Mob - Kaiser Chiefs
: Though this came out last February, I actually didn't get around to hearing this until late November, but when I did immediately found a great liking for it. Yours Truly has surprisingly memorable songs with a nifty edge. This is kind of album that gets stuck in your head leaving you constantly humming this pure Brit Pop goodness. As a matter of fact Kaiser Chiefs are probably one the most notable modern acts to keep the Brit Pop genre alive. Some call them a Blur knockoff but this band has definitely found a trademark sound, that's only furthered with excellent song-writing and catchy hooks.


2. In Rainbows - Radiohead
: My first impressions were mixed but over time this atmospheric and melancholy album has won me over. I suppose one always has to prepare themselves for something new and different every time Radiohead releases an album. In Rainbows is at times bleak but no where near as bleak as it's predecessor Hail to the Thief and is ultimately a hauntingly beautiful work. There's a heavy amount of beat infused, percussion based jams and plenty of Johnny Greenwood's virtuoso guitar playing. Swirling melodies and excellent musicianship make this a must have for any Radiohead or Alternative music fan.


1. Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga - Spoon
: A very catchy and memorable work by Spoon. Britt Daniel proves to be quite an accomplished songwriter and front man. With his rough vocal delivery and at times minimal guitar work, he certainly proves to be a strong leader for this talented
four piece, busting through track after track of poppy brass infused indie rock. Just about every song has single potential and even the ones that don't are entirely unique pieces of rock music. I really respect how Spoon can accomplish so much with such a bare bones approach to a lot of the tracks. Sure there is brass but aside from that the drums, guitars, bass and pianos never over complicate themselves and always find a tight groove to work around. I could listen to this album over and over again and have. Really my only problem is that ghost song early on the album, but even that's not that bad, it's just not quite as good as the other stellar tracks.

At the Movies

Well here it is, out of the 40 something movies I saw in 07' here are a list of my favorites and least favorites. From McLovin to Nobit they're all covered!


10. Grindhouse
: A highly unique theater going experience. With a notable cast of many, killer action, sharp dialogue and humor,
Grindhouse is the ultimate off-the-wall splatterfest. I feel sorry for anyone that didn't see this baby in theaters.


9. There Will Be Blood
: Daniel Day-Lewis shows us why he's one of the current greatest living actors in this bizarre period piece epic. It has it's flaws but P.T. Anderson's inventive directing and beautiful cinematography make for some highly unique film making. There WIll Be Blood really sticks with you.


8. Into the Wild
: A beautiful and touching epic journey with plenty of rich and colorful characters. The story of Christopher McCandless is a fascinating story of survival only perfected by the young talent of Emile Hirsch.


7. Knocked Up
: There's great sense of camaraderie within the cast in this smart, funny and sometimes raunchy Apatow production. It may not be the ideal romantic comedy, but you can't deny it still has heart and some great laughs. Perhaps a little long for a comedy but still one hell of a good time.


6. Ratatouille
: It's fun for the whole family with it's sincerity and cartoon humor. Pixar has set the bar for animated features surprisingly high and seldom disappoint. Carefully crafted with beautiful animation and imagination, yes Ratatouille is indeed a triumph!


5. Hot Fuzz
: Now I love Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright so when I heard about this I was thrilled. Luckily, it was everything I hoped for with plenty of zany situations and hardcore action! Sometimes you just got to let the British do what they do best.


4. Superbad
: Definitely the funniest flick of 07. Dirty, dirty stuff but it definitely has it's sweet side. Memorable with relatable characters and tons of great lines, semen database line anyone?


3. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
: I'll admit I was a little hesitant going into this one. I really wasn't sure whether I'd like the songs or not but hey, once it started, it was all good. Stephen Sondheim's music is fantastic. The songs have a strange dark charm and the gothic setting is breathtaking... Plus it's got blood and guts! Sweeney Todd won me over immediately.


2. Zodiac
: Probably a film some may have forgotten by now, but it's still stuck with me. A fascinating true crime story with some amazing digital scenery, a vintage rock soundtrack and it's fair share of eerie moments. I can't wait to pick up that director's cut dvd, considering it's reasonably priced.


1. No Country For Old Men
: Now this really blew my mind, definitely one of the best thrillers I've seen in years. An incredibly compelling atmosphere is created from this simple setting well complimented by thrilling violence and a great story. Javier Bardem is quite unsettling as the very memorable Anton Chigurh and Josh Brolin wins our hearts as a just an average joe tied up in some mess of drug deal. Thrills, chills and spills, if No Country For Old Men doesn't win best picture then the academy just has brain damage.

The Worst
1. Halloween - Insufferably annoying and painfully boring, Halloween is a disgrace to cinema.
2. Norbit - He just wasn't done making fun of fat people.
3. Dead SIlence - People being chased around by the ghost of a ventriloquist... Probably should of been a comedy.
4. D-War: The makers should be disgraced, a terrible script, incredibly stupid with incredibly flawed effects.
5. Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters - Hardly even a movie, just a collection of weak jokes.
6. Epic Movie - So ridiculously bad that it's almost entertaining... NOT
7. Ghost Rider - Cheesy, laughable, and easily forgettable.
8. The Hitcher - Another one of those pointless remakes a bunch of flash but no substance.
9. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End - Endlessly convuluted and confusing, didn't help that it was pretty long.
10. I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry - Ha, ha their supposed to be gay that's the joke, so that's what we get.