THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL
**1/2 out of 5 stars
Okay, here’s the deal. While I always appreciated the original “The Day the Earth Stood Still” as a groundbreaking sci-fi film in the 50s, I was never a huge fan of it. I thought the story was contrived, the kid in it was annoying and the movie was extremely preachy.
The remake is in theaters, and I have to say that most of my criticisms remain the same. But at least it’s being true to the flavor of the original film.
Like “War of the Worlds” a few years back, this movie opens with an epic feel of alien invasion. However, Klaatu eventually preaches about the environment, the child with a rediculous haircut fights with his mom and Gort the robot – while cool – doesn’t get enough screen time.
Still, Keanu Reeves was the perfect actor to play Klaatu. He’s an alien who doesn’t say much and shows no emotion.
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NOTHING LIKE THE HOLIDAYS
**1/2 out of 5 stars
Okay, here’s the deal. Every year, it seems that we get a family Christmas movie that reminds us how difficult families can be. This year, we have two. “Nothing Like the Holidays” is cut from the same cloth as films like “The Family Stone,” although not as well executed.
This film follows a Peurto Rican family in Chicago that gathers for the holidays, fights and makes up in the days before Christmas. We’ve seen a lot of the situations before, only this time it has a Latino ring to it.
The acting is decent, though the plot gets a bit stilted at times. The movie falls into stereotypes very quickly, but ultimately can charm anyone who enjoys a bit of holiday dysfunctional cheer.
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SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE
**** out of 5 stars
Okay, here’s the deal. I’ve always enjoyed Danny Boyle’s movies – even the ones that don’t make much noise. So, like the others, I really enjoyed his latest, “Slumdog Millionaire.”
This film tells the story of a poor Indian man who is on the brink of winning millions in a game show. The officials think he’s cheating, but every answer has an intriguing story behind it from his rocky life.
Predictable at times, but brilliantly constructed, “Slumdog Millionaire” is a story of love and family. It tugs at your heart and makes you cheer for the underdog. Already touted as one of the best films of the year, this movie is an inspiration.
