Some Throwbacks for you!! Transformers and The Bourne Ultimatum

Now I know many of you have seen this movie already and probably have purchased the DVD (like myself), but I figured I would throw this out for ya just in case you can't get to the theater this weekend or you don't want to be in the mess of opening night. You can go to your local Blockbuster and pick up Transformers, plus this will prep you for the Summer 2009 hit "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen".

Here's a look back at a wonderful 2007 Fourth of July movie experience:

Transformers: The Movie (2007)

What more can one say about the Fourth of July! As an avid movie-goer, I was excited about the holiday weekend and the movies that were in store! Probably the number one movie on my list and many others was that of Transformers. Directed by Michael Bay, who has wowed us with several movies this year and in the past, one would not be disappointed after catching this flick! The first initial two minutes grabs your attention to the point to where you have no choice but to enjoy the rest of the movie!As many know the film is based on the 1986 cartoon, in which two races of robotic aliens the Autobots and the Decepticons are in constant battle of the fate of the universe. There was a time when the battle was outside of the Earth's realms, but the battle has made its way to our planet. And now the humans are faced with trying to survive in the midst of a "tug of war" battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons. Throughout the movie we are able to see various storylines that still bring us to one universal theme of being able to sacrifice to receive victory! There is even a lesson of sometimes those in significant power can stand to use a little assistance from those of little power. And one lesson that I cannot forget would be that of sometimes we don't choose our destiny, but our destiny is chosen for us; but it is up to the individual to master it.I admired the fact that the movie was able to maintain its original form still adding that touch of modernism. The special effects had me sitting at the edge of my seat with my EYES WIDE OPEN and mouth in awe! Your heart will be racing and blood pumping in full effect. Just watching the actual transformation of the cars to robots makes me wonder, "could my car do that?"....lol! The personalities of the robots also gives an entertaining effect as well.Let me not also forget the humans that took part in the movie as well...lol! With actors such as Shia Labeouf (Disturbia), Tyrese Gibson, Jon Voight, Anthony Anderson, Josh Duhamel, Meagan Fox, and John Turturro there plenty of room for a little piece of every piece of the theatrical pie. Each actor and actress played a role that provides the audience with a better grasp of the storyline.I could describe this movie in two simple words, "Pure Action"! After leaving the movie, I realized that even the cartoons of the 80's can stand the test of time today in the new millenium! I can assure that not only did the cars transform but the dollars will be too! Cha-Ching!!

"NO SACRIFICE, NO VICTORY" -Transformers

Grade: An "A" all the way!!

And one more for ya!!

The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)

The series continues as Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) gets closer to identifying his unknown past while at the same time outmatching government agents who are trying to bring him down permanently. The movie does a superb job of rewinding and bringing its audience up to speed…just in case you missed Bourne Supremacy. This movie does an excellent job of making sure the audience can grasp to what is about to come. Bourne Ultimatum, gives a microscopic view of the CIA and the ins and outs of what one goes through in order to survive. The same people who have trained Bourne to be this rogue assassin have now turned their backs on him. Since being lured out of his unintentional hiding, Bourne realizes that maybe the role he had signed up for was not all that it intended to be. Bourne begins to realize who truly has his best interest in mind and who is in it to gain for themselves. One may question who am I asset for, the CIA or for myself. This series sheds light on the simple principles of right vs. wrong and even infamous tactics of “you scratch my back and I stab you in the back…” Its many twists and turns teaches the viewer that one sometimes has to make decisions for what is in the best interest of the individual. Bourne rips the agency bit by bit and at the same time is putting his life back together. He literally has to defend his life since a new organization “Blackbriar” headed by U.S. government official Noah Vosen (David Strathairn) has other plans for his demise. There are even more highly trained agents and assassins waiting to take him on. The directors and producers even go so far as to creating an amazing fight scene with a Treadstone assassin Paz (Edgar Ramirez) that is 90% real with no stunt doubles. It makes you sit in your theater cushioned seat and say “Damn…now that was a fight, better yet a battle!!” Bourne finally faces an enemy who can finally match him strength wise, considering in the past he could demolish a man with ease. When it is all boils down Bourne just wants to start anew, he’s gathered everything that he needs from past and present, now it is just a matter of bringing it all to the surface.Even though there have been rumors that this is the end of this spy-series, there is still the possibility of a branching off in other avenues. Bourne Ultimatum, leaves the door open for a possible continuation of Jason Bourne, or the rebirth of David Webb.

Grade: A

Week 3 September Edition

Lakeview Terrace (2008)

This much anticipated film for the new fall season hit theaters September 19th, and I have been on edge waiting since viewing the preview several months ago. Weeks and weeks of anticipation finally lead up to its debut and I must sayI was not too moved by this film. As an avid movie-goer, I may have overhyped myself for this particular film.


When watching this film, several different themes are floating around this film as we are wondering what may be the central focus of the film. And within probably the first 5 mins of the film you have probably figured it out what that central focus is, and that is the issue with race. When the film starts we see Samuel Jackson's character (Abel Turner) getting his kids ready for school when he sees his son is wearing a Kobe Bryant jersey and immediately tells (not ask) him to change into the "Shaq" jersey, and that we do not endorse that Kobe character. Immediately, I am struck seeing that the problems has just begun.

So as the movie continues the audience is introduced to the moving of the new neighbors Chris and Lisa Mattson (Patrick Wilson & Kerry Washington) into their new California dream home. And we can then begin to hint at the idea that Abel is not to fond of the bi-racial couples (for reasons that I shall not disclose as not to spoil the film)! To be honest, I felt like I was on a roller coaster when watching the film, at times I was on the high and then that high quickly came down into a slump. Throughout the film we are constantly teased with new new themes such as the good cop/bad cop, internal/external family issues, and personal happiness, but no thorough follow-thru.

After viewing the film one may wonder is Abel's issue with Chris and Lisa personally or is it with the fact that Chris is white and Lisa is Black....Inquiring minds would like to know?

Overall, the film did an excellent job in building up hype for viewers to come and see, but unfortunately it failed to launch otherwise. However, in the midst of a poor plot there was one good trait of the movie and that was, it did keep you guessing to the end as to why Abel is the way he is. In the end,there was a good cast of seasoned and upcoming actors/actresses, but unfortunately that was not enough to perform to its greatest potential.

Grade: C

Week 2: September Edition

Righteous Kill (2008)

Academy Award winners Robert De Niro and Al pacino reunite together after 34 years of being in a film together (13 years, single scene in 1995's Heat). These two veteran NYPD detectives are working a a huge case of a serial killer, who they must catch before this string of murders gets out of hand and the killer strikes again. And in a weird way this serial killer seems to almost be an aid more than an hinderance, since some of the most ruthless killers are going to jail/prison.

With over 30 years of experience between between these two detectives pretty much anything that is put out there is "gospel". "Most people respect the badge, everyone respects the gun." Spoken by Turk (De Niro) in the film this gives you a simple glance on what is in store. But be careful just when you think you know the plot, that's when it gets you!! Good to the very end.

Grade: A/B+

September Edition

The Family That Preys (2008)

Tyler Perry has done it again with another classic tale of right vs. wrong, greed and wealth, and the struggle between love and true happiness. In the midst of a full list of summer blockbuster hits, Perry brings us back to reality in a simplistic yet elegant form. This drama/comedy sheds light on two different families the Pratt’s (Alfre Woodard, Academy Award nominee) and the Cartwright’s (Kathy Bates, Academy Award winner), working class and upper class and how both of their stories seem to be the same one.

Perry, as director/actor, presents us movie viewers with an excellent cast of actors (Rockmond Dunbar, Cole Hauser, Sebastian Siegel) and actresses (Sanaa Lathan, KaDee Strickland, Taraji P. Henson, Robin Givens) to shed some light on how greed, secrets, and scandal can tear a family completely apart, yet bring it back together too. He manages to give a stellar, big screen performance and at the same time showcase a compelling adult story.

Be prepared to be glued to your seat and take a ride on TP’s train of continued Hollywood success. You will not want to miss the temptation of this turbulent affair between families. This film definitely will be true to Perry form and may even surprise you with a tear falling from your eyes.

Grade: A

The Return.....

I know it has been a minute, but I had to get back to what I enjoy doing and that is giving the peoples the news about the movies!! First up is an Indie flick "Vicky Cristina Barcelona"Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)Woody Allen brings us another love story with its many twists and turns. Two friends Vicky (Rebecca Hall) and Cristina (Scarlett Johansson) take a summer visit to Spain to take some time away from the hustle and bustle of the U.S. Vicky a more traditional and practical woman uses this vacation to expand upon her graduate studies of Catalan identity and the works of Spanish artist Gaudi. Cristina on the other hand a more spontaneous, flirtatious woman uses this vacation as a carefree getaway. But somehow these two “different” friends manage to take on an underlining mission of searching for that passion of “LOVE”. This search is set off by the meeting of a bold, Spanish artist Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem), who takes an interest in both young women for his own sexual fantasy (game). And in this game the threesome is truly taken on a fantasy ride entangled with disaster. At the end of the day all the art, wine, and sight-seeing has somewhat clouded the judgment of this threesome. Throughout the movie, we realize that the “LOVE” that Vicky and Cristina are searching for has not really left their hearts it has just merely taken a leave of absence. All in all, one may question is a summer away really the medicine needed to cure the heart and soul? With an eclectic cast of actors/actresses the movie is give a true look at romance in an artistic format.

Grade: Solid A-

August/September Edition

Traitor (2008)Executive produced by Steve Martin (comedian), this action film takes you into the world of terrorism at its finest. Its like Bourne Identity meets Syriana with an extra twist. This international conspiracy is cinematic to its finest. From the beginning of the film you want to make sure to pay close attention to the film. This is a film, you don’t want to blink your eyes with or you might miss something explosive (no pun intended). Former U.S. soldier Samir Horn (Don Cheadle) is involved in a highly rated terrorist case that puts him in the middle as a possible chief suspect. FBI special Roy Clayton (Guy Pearce) tracks Cheadle’s character all across the globe hoping to solve the mystery of all mysteries…an end to terrorism. This end of the summer thriller is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat panting for what the next scene will present to its audience. Follow along with Cheadle and Pearce as they both seek to uncover their own truths which may be the same for both.

Grade: B+

Death Race (2008)If you remember Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome with Mel Gibson and Tina Turner this movie is it fast-forwarded to 2012. An ex-con and former NASCAR champion Jensen Ames (Jason Statham) is trying to enjoy his improved life as a working free man with his wife and child. Yet, in one day his life changes when his job is cut from the steel mill closing down, and the troubles seem to begin within an instant. In one night his world is literally turned upside down when his home is broken into and he framed for the murder of his wife. While in prison he is given an opportunity to potentially become a free man as he must go back to his old ex-con/NASCAR life and match wits other inmates in the “Death Race”. This opportunity is also a creation of the prison’s warden Hennessey (Joan Allen) to cash in on pay-per-view sport and destroy lives at the same time. Not realizing that the murder was a set-up and an intentional ploy to resurrect a super star monster, Ames must figure out how to win one race and regain his freedom and his daughter.

Grade: B+