The Shape of Things
I love going to my local theater that shows indie films; usually they're so much more interesting than mainstream movies. This one was such a disappointment. It was poorly written, poorly directed, extremely poorly edited and two of the four characters were poorly acted. The characters were poorly developed, merely slaves to the movie's central idea, and the imagery that the director must have thought was edgy and meaningful was, in fact, clumsy, obvious and pretentious. I left the film thinking, "The director clearly had no respect for me, so why should I have any respect for him?" Perhaps I'm too hopelessly bourgeois to appreciate a film like this, but I didn't miss the point, I dismiss it.
Viewed: 5/24/2003 | Released: 1/17/2003 | Score: F
Bruce Almighty
This movie was what you'd expect from a Jim Carrey movie: hilarious. Morgan Freeman was especially good, although that was no surprise. Two things hurt this film: Carrey was not completely successful at reining in his tendencies toward ham, which ruined some of the more serious scenes, and the main character was totally unlovable for the majority of the movie. If I hadn't seen this formula a million times already, I would have had no reason to think he would have any reason to be saved.
Viewed: 5/23/2003 | Released: 5/22/2003 | Score: C
The Matrix Reloaded
One of the most hyped films of the year, it definitely lived up to my expectations. Others may have varying mileage, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The action sequences were visually stunning and, unlike some, I found the plot and main philosophical conundrum engaging. I can't wait for number three.
Viewed: 5/22/2003 | Released: 5/6/2003 | Score: B
Down With Love
I went to this one expecting a half-homage, half-parody of a 1960's sex comedy. I was right. I also expected it to be rather stupid. I was wrong. I found this movie to be smart and funny, enough that I expect it to have very good replay value. Great for dates.
Viewed: 5/21/2003 | Released: 5/8/2003 | Score: A
Lawrence of Arabia
It is so easy to see why this film is a classic. From breathtaking visuals to captivating performances, this movie has it all. Peter O'Toole was absolutely amazing in his role as T.E. Lawrence. If you haven't seen this one yet, you owe it to yourself to do so.
Viewed: 5/17/2003 | Released: 1/1/1970 | Score: A
Identity
I had very high hopes for this movie, and when it had me riveted from the beginning. The ending, however, ruined it for me. I would say more here, but I can't without ruining it. I will say more here, though. Anyway, despite the fact that I felt cheated by the ending, the beginning was good enough, and the idea was good enough that I will still give it two stars.
Viewed: 5/8/2003 | Released: 5/24/2003 | Score: C