Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

Goolphipp Award: 4.1 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Goolsby:

I know nothing of the comic books. What I do know is that this movie rocks. I loved it all. I had heard that this movie would embody and fully embrace the comic book roots, but I was blown away at the awesomeness of this film. It truly is a comic book brought to life (or so it felt that way to me). I'm so curious to know if someone who has read the comic books liked the film...

So Scott Pilgrim, played by Michael Cera, must defeat 7 deadly exes in order to be with the changing-hair-colors-Ramona. Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Ramona, and I thought she did a decent job acting mysterious and independent. I would really like to see Michael Cera in a different role, that boy needs to stretch his wings and try something out of the glamorized-geek role.

There is a character called Knives. I loved her. Ellen Wong, I commend you on your stellar performance as the obsessive crazed teenager in love. Your mad fighting skills, very impressive. Haha. Anyway... so the show stopper? Mister Kieran Culkin plays Scott's gay roommate. I fell in love with this man. I've seen Kieran in other things, and he has a presence that always swirls around and becomes this huge driving force.

The best part about this movie was the details. For instance, when the exes are defeated they burst into coins - yes, just like in a video game. Towards the end of the movie, the burst of coins actually make outlines of people on the ground like a crime scene. I am also very happy that this movie was not 3-D. I can see how it might be an obvious fit, but it would have just been too much.

Goolsby overall: 4.25

Geek to the max. Oh, make sure to watch for the Vegan Police.

Phipps:

This movie was great. I loved almost every single moment...but I hate - and I do mean hate - Michael Cera. I'm sick of him in this lameski dork sort of role. I would have liked to see someone else. And that basically concludes my rant, as well as the listing of things wrong with this movie. What I loved about this movie was the playfulness. It embraced the video game framework and graphic novel roots. In an age where nobody wants comic-booky style in a film - because it so often goes really bad - this movie pulls it off with flying colors. I liked the rest of the cast. Kieran Culkin stole every scene he was in. The seven exes are all equally well-cast and interesting. Scott's two exes are also well-cast. The character of Knives is essential to the plot, and is expertly acted by Ellen Wong. The whole crazy teenage deal is hard to nail. Everyone was on the top of their game (with the exception of Cera, of course). While I also know nothing about the original storyline, but I found the movie plotline to be interesting and fun. I have nothing to complain about. This movie was great about the details to create the entire package of fun. For example, in one scene when Scott fights off minions of an evil ex, after he kills them, they become body-shaped piles of coins (again, the cohesive gaming theme). I expected this movie to be put in the 15+ category, but it was unexpectedly clean. I think they blipped out most curse words (which was cool). This could almost be a family movie. It's a little dark for the kiddos. I'd advise that parents should watch this movie first if your kids are 13 and under. For most mainstream movie watchers - this is a fun movie, and would make a great date movie. Video game themes, true love, fights to the death, second chances, spunky characters: all the makings of a good movie.

Phipps overall: 4

One whole point off for casting Michael Cera. (And no, I won't get over it.)

Ramona and Beezus

Goolphipp Award: 4.25 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Phipps:

I loved the books growing up, but aside from remembering characters...I couldn't remember a single plotline to save my life. I was so excited to see this movie, though. Ramona is a tough one to do justice! However, this movie captured the spirit of the books. Like I said, I can't say if the plot deviated from the books, but the movie's plot was satisfying. I loved that they pulled in the illustrations from the books. I think they were faithful to the books in the little things too, i.e., making sure Picky Picky (or Icky Sticky as Mr. Quimby would say) was a member of the family. As far as casting, I'm not a particular fan of Selena Gomez, but I think she did a great job bringing Beezus to life. John Corbett was a little hurdle in the beginning, and I think it just getting used to the particular style of the screenplay, because by the end of the movie, I wasn't bothered at all. Miss Joey King, the little gal that plays Ramona, did an amazing job. I can't think of anyone better for the title role. She showed a range of emotion and depth of performance that was unusual for her age. Ginnifer Goodwin and Josh Duhamel (teaming up for the second time) had fun chemistry - I personally loved their characters' storyline. I loved the cast so much, it's hard to stop talking about them! As a whole, I had so much fun at this movie. As an adult, I wasn't bored...this movie will engage practically any age group (I'm not sure about men, though!). It's a good bet for family movie night...spunky, funny, and endearing.

Phipps overall: 4.5

The more I think about it, the more I like it.

Goolsby:

I sort of remember reading these books. When the movie paid homage to the books with the doodles of Ramona, my memory was jogged. I wasn't as excited as Phipps going into this, but I did enjoy myself. It was a good film. I loved seeing John Corbett as the father. I think he did a great job. Kudos to him for picking age appropriate roles. I also think this movie touches on a very real subject - families with parents who have been laid off. I think the family dynamics in this movie were terrific. It stands to remind the grown ups who go see it that everything they do affects the little ones in the house. Can I also say that I was completely jealous of their house. It's in Portland... the current metropolitan area that owns my heart. That yellow house and picket fence... sigh. I loved how this movie depicted the "terrifical" world of Ramona. The CG stuff was just so, it was perfect.

Goolsby overall: 4

A good film for the whole family.

Hot Tub Time Machine

Goolphipp Award: 3.25 (See the Cheap Matinee)

Goolsby:
I think I was a little too excited for this movie. John Cusack and Clarke Duke (who plays Dale on "Greek"), and I was hands down ready to see this movie. For some reason, I have no idea why, I thought they were going to go back in time to more than one decade. I guess I was channeling Bill and Ted memories. They only go back to one point in time, 1986. Bright colors, Alf, cell phones as big as shoes, and some of the best music on earth! Who doesn't have a crush on John Cusack?

Anyway, back to the movie. I thought it was overall a good movie. They included more 80's references than I could even count of keep track of. They owned the cheesiness and I appreciate that. I thought the cast was a good dynamic. Duke definitely helped round out the cast, well done Duke, well done. Cusack still has it, and I was glad to see him in this role, it seemed very fitting.

So a bad thing? Some parts just seemed unnecessary. Projectile vomit? More than once? Really? I think there were at least 3 puke scenes in this movie. Not needed in my opinion. The nudity is understandable I guess, given the target crowd for this movie. Talk about drug use though! Wow, that was a lot.

I liked the movie as a whole. My 80's thirst was quenched with a quick throw back to the Karate Kid - "Get him a body bag! Yea!" I doubt I'll own this movie, but it was a gooder.

Goolsby overall: 3.75
How could I forget! There is a long awaited moment in this movie. You literally are waiting for a guy to lose his arm the whole time. Classic.

Phipps:
I laughed with this movie. I do like the premise. It was like a mash-up of a bunch of different movies from the 80s. Heck, even Red Dawn was paid homage.

I think they went to a lot of trouble to make sure everything was authentic, and it showed. I appreciated that. The movie was super colorful. (Haha.) I also really enjoyed that these older guys were inhabiting their younger bodies, which eliminated the need to sneak around avoiding themselves.

My main complaint, as always with mainstream comedies, is the unnecessary raunchy moments (and/or projectile vomit). I think this movie could have been a classic if they would have cleaned it up a bit. Less sex (and certainly no nudity), less language, and less drug-use. What's left? You still get to make fun of the 80s. You still get four losers going back in time and learning some stuff. I also felt like making an energy drink based on Chernobyl was a little sick. It goes over the target audiences' heads, because we were all a little too young to remember. Goolsby didn't have a clue about it, and I only knew about it because I have friends how work in environmental science. Overall, I felt that the plot had potential, but dropped the ball with all the crap. If you don't have a problem with these things, you will probably really like this movie. Like I said, there's a good framework.

One more thing, this movie has the perfect cast for the plot.

Question: do these guys have both sets of memories from the two time lines? (Movies about time travel seriously mess with my head.)

Phipps overall: 2.75
Bummer. Good idea tarnished by lame sex and language.

Remember Me

Goolphipp Award: 3.6 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Goolsby:
Well, it's no wonder why we went to see this movie. Pattz and the promise of a teaser trailer for Eclipse - we're suckers.

This movie sort of grows on you, but only after you forgive it for it's extremely slow place. This movie takes its sweet time on getting to the point. I would say that this movie doesn't follow a typical plot line. It is more of a snapshot of someone's life. Sure, you get the background like any plot, but it's only in the interaction between characters that it all comes out. Once you accept the slow meandering pace, it starts to get good.

Who stole the show? A little girl. Ruby Jerins plays the younger sister Caroline to the lost older brother Tyler, played by Robert Pattinson. Every scene she was in, she steals the stage. I was reminded of Jae Head from The Blind Side. These up and coming actors are grade-A all the way.

The ending packed a punch for me. I had done no research on this film and was a little surprised at how it ended. The title of course hints at someone dying... Remember Me... "Someone's got to die," is what we kept saying during the previews. I won't spoil anything, but it was handled very well.

Some odd things, Pattz's kissing style is exactly the same as in the Twilight series. It was strange to see him opposite someone other than Kristen Stewart. Emilie de Ravin played the role of Ally Craig, Tyler's love interest. I'm familiar with her from Roswell, but hadn't seen her in a while. All the performances were okay. Pierce Brosnan plays a strong father role, and I was impressed with his ability to cover up his accent. Kudos. I wish there were more similarities between the son and father.

Goolsby overall: 3.75
I was expecting horrible and was surprised.

Phipps:
Well, as Goolsby said, you go into this movie knowing that someone is going to die. So, I wasn't all that surprised, but I felt that it was done well...and respectfully, I might add. I think that covers the biggest point of controversy for Remember Me.

As Goolsby said, the pace was incredibly slow. So slow that we pretended to slit our wrists a couple of times, which is actually quite disrespectful since one of the themes in Remember Me is suicide. I felt like I lost two years of my life in this movie. That being said, I've sat through worse...such as The Assassination of Jesse James (which made watching paint dry sound like attending the Superbowl). The cause of the slow pace was lack of plot, this movie is completely character driven.

The actors portraying those characters did a great job. I swear, Pierce Brosnan never gives a bad performance, and it was a good transition role for him too - playing the older guy/dad roles. Pattz is learning, and my one complaint is that he needs to learn to quit looking away on important lines/scenes. In life, when people deliver those lines, we generally look people in the face. That's about my only complaint. Ruby Jerins reminded me of Dakota Fanning in terms of acting ability. I agree with Goolsby, she stole every scene.

At the end of the day, I cared about the characters. And while the ending was tough to watch, all the conflict had been wrapped up in a tidy bow, which made the ending tragic, but not senseless. In fact, I'd say the last 5 minutes of the movie were the best moments.


Phipps overall: 3.5
For the last 5 minutes.

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It's Complicated

Phipp award: 3.5 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Phipps:
I saw this movie with a bunch of women I go to church with. And we all laughed a lot. It's Complicated was a solid good time. This was a good transition movie for Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin. Caters to the older crowd, but the humor was basically universal. It was a good look at divorce, and how it affects people in general...and how it affects your kids. I think my favorite character was Harley, played by John Krasinski, the future son-in-law and the only one privy to all the secretive happenings. He made me laugh. Overall, it's a fun movie. It's not as raunchy as you might think...for those who are worried about it. And it was nice to see a bit of Santa Barbara...which reminded me of Ojai. Anyway, if you have a chance, see this movie...it's actually a romantic comedy that lives up to the genre.

Oh, and one more thing, I'd kill to have Jane's (Streep) kitchen before the remodel. It was amazing.

Phipps overall: 3.5
A good time.

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Tooth Fairy

Phipp Award: 2 (See the Cheap Matinee)

Phipps:
I saw this movie because The Rock usually makes decent movies. They aren’t wonderful, but they are fun and light on crude. I also saw this movie because of Julie Andrews – she’s a legend. That being said, this was on the low end of good movies. It was a formula movie, but I was okay with the recycled storyline because it was a cute idea. The Rock in tights…strange and hilarious…and I have to say…he kind of rocked them. The wings were kind of lame looking – too papery. I get that fairy wings are different from bird wings, but come on, people! There was nothing cool about them – they didn’t move at all...a glorified Halloween costume. Everything in this movie seemed a little hollow. Performances weren’t solid. Overall, it could have been better.

Phipps overall: 2
Something was missing.

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When in Rome

Goolphipp Award: 2.25 (See the Cheap Matinee)


Phipps:
Well, I did see the cheap matinee of this movie, and I wasn’t disappointed. It was a typical romantic comedy, but I had fun. I laughed, mostly at Josh Duhamel, who used this movie to show off his comedic timing. He was arguably the best part of the movie. His performance was solid. Props to Danny Devito, he’s a real pro. The rest of the cast was sufficient. I’ll probably end up buying this movie, if that makes a difference to you. It’s a prefect movie for a Girls Night. Guys will probably hate this movie (in all honesty). I will say that this movie made me want to go to Rome, and toss a coin into a famous fountain…and hope for the best.

Phipps overall: 2.5
Charmed by Duhamel.

Goolsby:
I saw this separately with my mother. I was disappointed. I didn't find the physical humor that great. The previews showed most of the funny moments, and the rest was hit or miss. My biggest complaint for this movie is that it was so slow. It took forever to start. With funny movies you have to hop right in and keep the punches rolling. This film did not do that. Phipps is right that Devito Stole the show. All in all it was a little slow paced and run-of-the-mill. Honestly, I think I saw my mom nod out a couple times.

Goolsby overall: 2
Passable.

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Dear John

Goolphipp award: 3.8 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Goolsby:

We're suckers for a good love story. I really enjoyed this movie. I understand why they marketed this movie the way they did - with it following in the footsteps of the now classic Notebook, but I felt the real gem of this movie was not the main romance. The on screen bond between Channing Tatum and Richard Jenkins was really special to watch. Jenkins plays John's developmentally challenged father. It was never clarified if the father was autistic or suffered from Asperger's Syndrome, but either way, Jenkins did a stellar job. Whenever the two were on screen together they stole the whole shebang. Kudos for one of the best father-son performances I've ever seen. I would also say that their relationship was more profound and intense than the chemistry between Tatum and Amanda Seyfried. I must say, the father-son duo brought the most water works from me.

I have never read a Nicholas Sparks book, but I enjoyed the current plot setting of this story. John meets Savannah while on leave, and ends up enlisting for a further stay. We get to follow his journey through the 9/11 attack and onward. Unlike a period piece, I think this story hit home a bit harder for some people.

The soundtrack was also well placed and matched. It never felt too over powering or interfered with the movie.

Goolsby overall: 4.25

Bring the tissues.

Phipps:

I liked this movie. I definitely cried...and probably would have bawled like a baby if the group of ladies in front of us hadn't been talking up a storm. I think what I liked most about this movie is it didn't feel fake. I mean, the characters didn't do anything extraordinary...they weren't super special. Instead, they felt like ordinary folk living an ordinary life, which is in no way a dig. I like romances that are realistic (as well as sweet). I don't think this movie matches The Notebook, and I don't think it will be as widely embraced by men. So, it might be best to keep this a Girls Night Out movie...then you can let yourself get all splotchy from crying. As Goolsby said, the father-son aspect of this movie was amazing. It was difficult to watch, but you understood why things were the way they were. One more thing, Channing Tatum is a pretty decent crier, and that's important when you are trying to build your career. I would like to see him in a role that incorporated less action, even though he excels in projecting emotion through action. As a whole, Dear John didn't disappoint.

Phipps overall: 3.5

A snapshot of real life.

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The Book of Eli

Goolphipp award: 3.5 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Goolsby:

When I watched this movie I was not focusing on the religious aspects.

The plot was fine. The acting was great. The shooting style fit well. All in all though, I expected more. I did appreciate the little details. I liked how the water source was provided by cave lakes. The post apocalyptic world that was created was in sync and complete. I appreciate the survival aspect of this movie. I also liked an old couple that we meet towards the end of the movie. I love resourceful characters.

Phipps and I had to agree to disagree when discussing the ending of this movie. I won't give it away since it is the main point of the movie... but I would be interested in what other people had to say about Eli's revelation.

From a non-religious view, I think the ultimate message or messages, that this movie gave were well portrayed and placed. What I took from it was - What do you have left when everything is gone? What do you really need when everything is gone?

Goolsby overall: 3

Solid movie.

Phipps:

I thought this movie was out together well. Everything made sense from the post-apocalyptic point of view. I've heard people complain about the color palette, but it makes sense if this certain "flash" bleached and burned the world. The cinematography was highly stylized, and that bugged me through most of the movie, until the plot explained it. Although, the fighting in this movie was smartly choreographed and planned. It was quick and dirty. Let's talk plot. Yes, this movie is about the last Bible on earth, but this is not a religious movie. The Book is merely a plot device, and it works well. It doesn't beat you over the head, yet the Book of Eli won't offend Christians. It walks the middle of the road quite well. Of course, the cast was top notch with Denzel Washington and Gary Oldman leading the pack. Okay, now that I've talked about all the main points, I'm going to get a little more personal. I'm going to own this movie someday. I was a little afraid of the use of the Bible in any way, because historically, films have done an amazing job at misrepresentation. This movie did not misrepresent the Bible, which I appreciated, being a Christian kid myself. I was simply amazed at this movie. It reminded me of the power of God, and I prayed and cried all the way home. This movie just made me love God more. I want to say more, but it would spoil it. All I can say is this movie is worth seeing.

Phipps overall: 4

Taught me something, it was smartly done, and I'm going to buy it.

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Me and Orson Welles

Goolphipp Award: 3 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Phipps:

If you were looking for a non-singing Zac Efron, this is not your movie. He does sing for a bit. If you are looking for High School Musical 4, this isn't it. This isn't a happy-go-lucky movie, and it isn't a slit-your-wrists-after-viewing movie either. I was disappointed with the end, merely because it was so realistic. I hated seeing a hopeful boy become slightly jaded about how the world works. It was done well. I felt that the man who unbashedly brought Orson Welles to the screen, Christian McKay - a relative unknown, did a wonderful job. As the movie itself points out, Orson Welles was brilliant in life. He was a character. I feel like there are very few who bring Orson Welles to life, so my hat is off to Mr. McKay.

All that being said, Me and Orson Welles wasn't a waste of time. I'm glad I saw it. It probably won't be in my collection, but it was a fun period piece.

Phipps overall: 3
Didn't rock my socks, but it was a good time.

Goolsby:
So, we went because we wanted to see if Zac Efron can stretch his wings and fly. Efron can fly, but he’s still a little shaky when handling a full drama movie. I think it was a good role for him. This movie seemed like it would be just the right amount of quirky. I’m still sort of on the fence about this movie. It had some good moments, but all in all, it’s a downer – a realistic downer, but a downer none the less. Here’s the basic plot: boy wants to make it as an actor, talks his way in, succeeds, and then realizes it might not be for him. It is your classic coming of age movie. I thought Claire Danes did a great job, but she seemed a bit out of place in the movie. I love period movies, this one takes place in the late 1930’s. I did really like the performance of Zoe Kazan who played Gretta. Zoe was also in Revolutionary Road. I think she’s a real solid actress.

Goolsby overall: 3
Good.

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Avatar

Goolphipp Award: 5 (Opening Night Excellence)

Audience: Teens and up

Goolsby: I think this movie is pretty much a family movie if you’ve got teen kids. The violence is pretty hardcore and I bet some animals of the Pandora world would be too intense for small children.

Phipps: If your kids are accustomed to action and violence, I think this movie might be okay for them. Keep in mind, there is some swearing and "mating" discussion. Honestly, I think the rating was due to violence. And as Goolsby said, there are some scary creatures. Tentative audience 12+.

Plot: Dances with Na'vi

Goolsby: I’ve heard quite a few people compare or describe the movie in terms of Dances with Wolves, even Pocahontas. The point is, it doesn’t matter. The plot is a classic tale, that’s why it works so well. I think the fact that the plot is a bit played out works in favor of the film. Since we all know how it will end, we can focus on more interesting parts of the movie – like the graphics, crazy technologies, and the deliveries of the actors. Classic is classic for a reason.

Phipps: This movie was Dances with Wolves in space. The only difference is Jake Sully and his woman don't have to leave the tribe at the end. But since the Dances with Wolves plot works in the "original," it also works here. I think critics and movie elitists get all wrapped around the axle about classic storylines, but newsflash...as Goolsby said, it works. And as of yesterday, it was reported that Avatar is second only to Titanic for top box office of all time. People can't help themselves, they settle in for the ride, and are not disappointed.

Special effects: 3D spectacular

Goolsby: Well once you forget about the funny glasses on your face it’s pretty neat. I’m glad that the 3D effects weren’t so in-your-face, pop out at you, sort of deal. The 3D aspects were subtle and seamless. It added another layer to your whole movie experience. And come on, all the fluorescent stuff, awesome. I did however make a comment after the movie that I wanted there to be one line in the movie that explained all the fluorescent things.

Phipps: Holy cricket! I was afraid that the CGI aspects would not be blended seamlessly. After Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings, everything is compared to that standard. And, although I knew it was fake, the effects were fully integrated. It was wonderful, like falling down a rabbit hole into wonderland. I have no complaints. James Cameron did a wonderful job making the whole movie a cohesive experience. I might even be persuaded to see it again.

Where’s the wow: Paint me blue and make me an extra

Goolsby: The magic of this movie is the world it creates. For 2 hours and 40 minutes you get to be part of James Cameron’s Pandora. You get swept up in the action and want to be part of the Na’vi tribe. I want to ride some crazy pterodactyl-like bird. I think sometimes emotional delivery can be lost with special effects, but Cameron made sure that wasn’t the case for this movie. On spot, all the way. A bit cliché in some places, but all movies have their moments.

Phipps: Shoot. I want to ride that flying dinosaur-ish bird. I noticed a few little details that I loved. I liked that the human avatars had five fingers, and the Na'vi had four, which makes sense if they combined DNA for the avatars. The technology featured wasn't totally other either, it was a good extrapolation on what we have now. Pandora - the computer plant...full of glow-in-the-dark plants - what a smart idea! And however they rigged Sam Worthington's atrophied legs, they did an amazing job! Of course if you don't use your legs for an extended period of time they are going to be tiny! Bravo on that. That was accurate. Although I felt some moments were really messagey, it wasn't tiresome. Performances were solid. It was just a complete package of fun, which doesn't come around often. See it in theaters, people.

Phipps overall: 5
Well, shucks, can't find a single thing wrong with it.

Goolsby overall: 5
I went in expecting to be disappointed and was blown away.

Goolphipp award: 5 (Opening Night Excellence)

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Goolphipp 2009 In Review

Hello everyone,

We started this blog in March of 2009, and here we are in January of 2010. Goolphipp has reviewed 37 movies total for 2009. We just want to say thank you to all of you who read our blog.

This blog is meant to be an interactive place, I'm sure some of you that have read our reviews and might object to some of the things we have said. Or maybe you have gone to see a movie, and felt differently about it than we did. Let us know. Leave us comments and let us know what you think. If you would like to see something different let us know too. Any input you got, we'll take it. Comment on the blog or email us at goolphipp@gmail.com.

Below we have tallied up some highlights of 2009.

Yours sincerely,
Goolphipp

Best movies of the year
Goolphipp winner: Star Trek (Goolphipp award 5 - Opening Night Excellence)
Congrats to Star Trek! It was a stellar movie that delivered everything we wanted and more.

How the Goolphipp Top 10 compared to RottenTomatoes
So we were curious to see how our ratings compared to other movie review sites. We chose RottenTomatoes and here is what we found:

1. Star Trek
   Goolphipp: 5/5
   Rotten: 95% with an 8.1/10


2. The Twilight Saga: New Moon
   Goolphipp: 4.8/5
   Rotten: 29% with 4.7/10


3. Whip It
   Goolphipp: 4.75/5
   Rotten: 82% with 7.1/10


4. Up
   Goolphipp: 4.75/5
   Rotten: 98% with 8.6/10


5. Adam
   Goolphipp: 4.75/5
   Rotten: 65% with 6/10


6. (500) Days of Summer
   Goolphipp: 4.6/5
   Rotten: 87% with 7.5/10


7. Pirate Radio
   Goolphipp: 4.6/5
   Rotten: 60% with 5.6/10


8. Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant
   Goolphipp: 4.5/5
   Rotten: 37% with 4.9/10
   
9. The Hangover
   Goolphipp: 4.3/5
   Rotten: 78% with 6.7/10


10. The Great Buck Howard
    Goolphipp: 4.25/5
    Rotten: 72% with 6.4/10

The Goolphipp full lineup

1. 5 Star Trek


2. 4.8 The Twilight Saga: New Moon


3. 4.75 Whip It


4. 4.75 Up


5. 4.75 Adam


6. 4.6 (500) Days of Summer


7. 4.6 Pirate Radio


8. 4.5 Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant
   
9. 4.5 The Princess and the Frog


10. 4.3 The Hangover


11. 4.25 The Great Buck Howard


12. 4.25 Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince


13. 4 Gamer


14. 3.9 The Proposal


15. 3.75 earth


16. 3.75 The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day


17. 3.75 I Love You, Man


18. 3.75 Fighting


19. 3.75 Fantastic Mr. Fox


20. 3.6 My Life in Ruins


21. 3.5 The Ugly Truth


22. 3.5 17 Again


23. 3.25 Where the Wild Things Are


24. 3.1 Post Grad


25. 3 Public Enemies


26. 3 An Education


27. 3 Monsters vs. Aliens


28. 2.75 Away We Go


29. 2.5 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen


30. 2.5 Fame
    
31. 2.5 Armored


32. 2.25 White Out


33. 2.25 G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra


34. 2.1 Love Happens


35. 2 All About Steve


36. 1.8 The Other Man


37. 1.25 Saw VI
    

Top 10 grossing films of the year and their Goolphipp Awards (Domestic - US)

1. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - 2.5
   
2. Avatar - 5
   
3. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - 4.25
   
4. Up - 4.75
   
5. Twilight Saga: New Moon - 4.8
   
6. The Hangover - 4.3
   
7. Star Trek - 5
   
8. The Blind Side - 4.4
   
9. Monsters vs. Aliens - 3
   
10. Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs - We didn't see it.
    

Saw VI

Goolphipp Award: 1.25 (Wait for DVD)

Phipps:
I didn’t have to check my house for Jigsaw when I came home. Standard Saw tradition. That says it all really. It was disappointing. After the train wreck called Saw V, I hoped VI would redeem the franchise. No such luck. No twists. It was predictable…the boo moments were lame. The Saw masterminds had an amazing opportunity to make Jigsaw’s old lady cool, but they didn’t take it. I hate to break it to you, Detective Hoffman ain’t Jigsaw.

Phipps overall: 1.5
Puh-leez. I didn’t even check my house.

Goolsby:
Well, we have been a bit lazy to post, but now that we have, to be honest, I can only remember a few things about this movie. Which is sad. Saw movies have consistently disappointed me. I think viewers have been chasing that twist that blew our minds in the first movie. You would think they could figure out how to give us some type of "woah" moment, but they cant. I remember a pretty gruesome death scene involving acid being pumped into someone's body. Other than that, I think I have already tried to block everything out.

Goolsby overall: 1
Lame.

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Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant

Goolphipp Award: 4.5 (No Peanuts Chucked)

Phipps:

I saw Cirque du Freak solo the first time, then I dragged Goolsby the second time. I’ve already invested twenty bucks into this movie. I’m plotting to beg, steal, or borrow all the books. I thought this movie was wonderful. Great characters, great action, vampires, a bearded lady, small hand-biting little monsters, and a great big spider – what more do you need? This movie isn’t a little kid movie…and it isn’t quite a grown-up movie…and it isn’t quite High School Musical. It’s quirky and resists labels. But definitely know your kid, because it’s not Cinderella. I thought the performances were solid. The plot was great. I want people to go see it, and I’m hoping against hope that they make the second movie. This one is going to added to my collection, make no mistake.

Phipps overall: 4.5
I wave the freak flag.

Goolsby:

I loved this movie. It was my special brand of quirky. I think this movie got swept under the rug because it has “vampire” in the title. Everyone knows that vampires are getting pimped out left a right since the craze of Twilight. Cirque du Freak is not Twilight, and it is not a romance – it’s pure awesomeness!

As Phipps said, the target audience is a bit varied, but I think most adults will appreciate some aspect of this movie. I particularly like the Snake Boy, played by Patrick Fugit who starred in Almost Famous. The makeup artist did an awesome job. Stellar.

On a more high-level topic, I think this movie is reflective of a modern family. Family isn’t always your own flesh and blood, it can be a group of like-minded freaks. I felt like I became part of the freak family, and I liked it. This movie surprises you left and right. John C. Reilly who plays the vampire was on spot! It was so refreshing to see him in a more mature and subtle role.

And if Phipps gets those books, I’ll be borrowing them too!

Goolsby overall: 4.5

I loved the small goblin hand-biting guys.

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Where the Wild Things Are

Goolphipp Award: 3.25 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Phipps:
I was never a big fan of Where the Wild Things Are growing up. But I am a fan of children's fantasy movies, and that's what this film promised in the preview. Crazy amazing Wild Things.

I had a hard time with this movie. I liked some of the pieces, which bears mentioning - performances, costume, cinematography. The whole cast did a wonderful job. The Wild Things did look awesome...CGI faces looked great. Cinematography was solid.

I didn't like that the pace was slow. I know director Spike Jonze was focusing on emotion, but it just took too long to get it. I would be amazed by something, then bored. It felt a little forced at times.

The comedic moments were stellar. I wish there would have been more. This movie was like a stone in your stomach - I needed more laughs and less raw emotions. I have a firm belief that the major camps of people fall into one of the Wild Things. I would be Judith, voiced by Catherine O'Hara. (And I swear, they modeled the ram-like Wild Thing after Seth Green.)

Even so, the biggest problem I have with this movie, is Max never says he's sorry - to the Wild Things or to his mother. I was simply flabbergasted. That's not the message I want to go out to kids. Because this is what I heard, "You don't have to say sorry no matter what you do or who you hurt. People will just know. Especially if you give them a hug." But as a grown-up, I know that isn't true. People need to hear the "I'm sorry," combined with the hug. I will not be showing this film to my children until they are old enough to disregard the "non-sorry policy" that Wild Things promotes.

AND this film showcased a big sister, Claire, who didn't take care of her kid brother when he was crying. It was really sad, and an insult to big sisters everywhere.

I wanted to get lost and run wild in this movie, but that just didn't happen.

Phipps overall: 2.5
Put together well, which saves it.

Goolsby:
I grew up with this book, and the short cartoon feature that circulated when I was a kid too. I have always loved anything animal based. I approached this movie differently. The biggest gimme in the movie was the characters. It's hard conveying consistent personality in heavy hot costumes. The faces were CG enhanced of course, but that doesn't mean that takes care of everything. The people who have to do the live action do a fantastic job. A true character has to be believable in physical actions as well. From the quiet, never heard Seth Green lookalike goat named Alexander, to the loud confident Carol, these wild things came to life.

I was very excited to see this movie, and I think it gave me what I wanted the most. Awesome live action costumes and seamless CG integration.

On the other hand, it was much more intense than I anticipated. I think the raw anger emotions could have been relayed in a less destructive manner. A dirt clod fight with giant beasts is unsafe! And come on, someone's arm gets ripped off! Who cares that there wasn't any blood, it is still an appendage! Comedy was selective but well placed as Phipps said. The stick arm replacement Douglas receives takes the cake.

All in all, I got what I was looking for- beautiful cinematography and awesome costumes. Parents should really think about taking their children, but as an adult, I can overlook the message and appreciate what I love.

Goolsby overall: 4
Still worth it I think.

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All About Steve

Goolphipp Award: 2 (See the Cheap Matinee)

Phipps:
All About Steve from the get-go reminded me of some other movie. Her red boots reminded me of Happy Go Lucky too much – crayon purple might have been a better choice. It was one of those movies where you had to grow to love the main character, and just when you wanted it all to work out – it simply doesn’t. At the end, you are left with your mouth hanging open in disbelief. It’s too bad, because you want this neurotically inclined, crossword-loving, smart girl to get the dude in the end. That being said, there were a lot of laughs along the way. I enjoyed the journey across the country with Mary. I did like the supporting cast. They were fun, and well cast. The details in this movie were stellar. Like I said, I would have loved this movie if Steve would have said, “When’s our second date?” at the end, but he didn’t. What’s a romance without a happy ever after? We need the kiss at the end. So, like Mary, we have to continue to search for a movie as normal as us.

Phipps overall: 2
Laughs kept it from being a total tanker.

Goolsby:
I agree with everything Phipps said. This movie marketed itself as a romantic comedy, not some coming of age movie. Therefore, I had expectations that were not met. Plain and simple. As you can tell from Phipps, the girl doesn't get the boy. The end was just sort of flat, not worthy of the character they build throughout the movie.

Want to hear the good things? We've got apple people carvings, a baby born with three legs, the classic scene of Mary falling down a mine hole, tornadoes, random outfits that don't match, and a crossword - all about Steve. All in all, that's not much. If I can't recall details that keep me laughing after the movie is said and done, it missed. I would say it had so much potential, but I would be lying. It had potential to be slightly more than average, but fell short because of the unsatisfying ending.

Goolsby overall: 2
Try again.

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Whiteout

Goolphipp Award: 2.25 (See the Cheap Matinee)

Phipps:

This is the lame duck of the summer, which is possibly why studio execs waited until after all the blockbusters had left town. It was just a big waste of time. It was this movie that attempted to appeal to guys without alienating the chicks – which accounted for the “unnecessary shots.” You can’t very well strip down naked in -55 degrees.

There was too much running around without much explanation. Even toward the end, what explanation was offered as the root of the plot was simply glossed over and wasn’t satisfying. I didn’t buy it.

I didn’t buy Kate Beckinsale as a US Marshall in Antarctica. And it was obvious that most of the people involved in this movie were about as aware of the realities of the frozen continent as a third grade class. You really shouldn’t walk around with your face exposed in the extreme cold – everyone in Russia knows this. It just wasn’t a smart movie.

Phipps overall: 2

I wouldn’t even rent it, unless you are desperate for action.

Goolsby:

What a let down. When you’ve got both of us sighing a big “Lame,” at the end of the movie, you know it failed. This looked like a promising action thriller. Lies. It was far too obvious. No suspense, save for the cheap shots, at all. It lacked everything.

From unnecessary shots involving Kate Beckinsale in a shower, to cliché and played-out plot, this movie just disappoints. There is really not that much to say about it. The acting was average. The CG was average. The plot was average. The whole lot, just average. The only place this movie succeeded in was the gore, not really gore, but close enough. Since the movie is set in Antarctica, we’ve got freezing temperatures. Throw in some murders, and you’ve got cold blood. The way they handled the blood was done really well. Yay for makeup artists, or who ever created those dead bodies, very convincing.

Goolsby overall: 2.5

There’s not much to say. Average.

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Gamer

Goolphipp Award: 4 (No Peanuts Chucked)

Goolsby:

As a fan of Gerard Butler, I went into this movie blind. I thought I knew the basics, but boy was I wrong. This movie sort of threw me off balance. It paints a world where something popular like Sims evolves into a real life version – where human players control human avatars. The human avatars are not forced into their roles, but actually paid, basically creating a new caste system. Gerard Butler’s character Kable, is a prisoner who participates in a game as an avatar. If he survives, he wins his freedom.

I think the neatest part of this movie is the future society and technology it creates. The world was created down to the details with vivid, vivid detail. Yes, it was a shocking alternate universe, but a very interesting one. I enjoyed the plot line. This movie was very confrontational, in the sense that most of the movie puts the viewer in this awkward place. We saw the bad and very bad of this new society. I appreciated the originality of the movie, but felt out of my element during specific scenes involving sex and drugs.

I think the actors’ delivery was great. Everyone did a good job, nothing corny or over played. Dexter’s Michael C. Hall gave a spooky but amazing performance as Ken Castle, the creator of the new gaming universe.

I guess I’m on the fence at where this movie stands. I was fascinated and disturbed by the future society. There haven’t really been that many main stream satirical movies lately, but this one sure leaves me scratching my head.

Goolsby overall: 4

Gamer is in a category of its own. It pushes the boundaries, and as much as I want to give it a lower score, it really did a good job at delivering what it set out to do. Add it to your Netflix queue when it comes out, but be prepared.

Phipps:
While I agree with Goolsby, I thought they could have toned the sex and drugs aspect down a little. I got their point early, and didn’t really need reinforcement every five minutes. For this reason, this movie’s audience must be 18+. If you are on the conservative side, I’m not sure this is the movie for you.

But I honestly couldn’t help but be fascinated with the plot. I’ve heard complaints that there was no plot, but I thought it was complicated and real albeit reactionary. Our man Kable (AKA Gerard Butler) is reacting the entire movie – as are most of the secondary characters – to the actions of Ken Castle and the virtual (or not so virtual) society of gaming. I love all the ethical questions Gamer brought out. It totally unglued me, because the fact is, this kind of technology doesn’t require a ton of stretch – we could see it one day.

The action was solid. Cinematography and filters were definitely different and contributed to how the audience was stuck in, as Goolsby called it, an “awkward place.” It felt like we were participants by simply observing the story. I was disgusted when confronted with the worst aspects of human nature, which Gamer does not hide or apologize for.

Gamer simply shocks you out of your skin. It makes you think. It takes the world we are building via Facebook, Second Life, and Wii and shows us where it could go if we aren’t careful. As much as I hated watching this movie, I can’t deny that it was sort of brilliant.

Phipps overall: 4
Simply shocking…in that strange makes-you-think way.

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Post Grad

Goolphipp Award: 3.1 (Worth 11 Bucks)

Goolsby:
Post Grad is not Gilmore continued. Although, it has the same tendencies – the quirky family, young adult, cute love interest, and underlying messages. This movie delivered what it had, but it just wasn’t really anything more. It didn’t surprise me or disappoint me. We follow Ryden, a fresh out of the gown college graduate, on her search for life after college. She wants a career, but learns there is more to life than a job.

I didn’t expect much, so it didn’t let me down. It was a cute movie. Is what it is. Good performances from the crazy Malby family. Loved Carol Burnett as the grandma, and I loved all the randomness. I just wish Alexis Bledel would stretch her wings a bit more. Try something different.

Goolsby overall: 3.25
Good pick-me-up, but only slightly memorable.

Phipps:
This movie was ok. You can watch it with your high school kids. It was light and fun.

I’m always drawn to these sort of movies, where people are trying to sort out their lives. But it all boils down to one essential question: what really matters in your life? Most of these movies tap into the theme of dissatisfaction with the American dream. The idea that if you have a high-powered job that everything else will fall into place, and you’ll be happy. And, as most of the working class has found out, it don’t buy happiness. Post Grad does address this question…and Ryden finally figures it out after a series of idiotic moves.

Carol Burnett was seriously fun. I wish we saw more of her in films. One phrase: coffin race cars.

I agree with Goolsby, fun but not too memorable. Average.

Phipps overall: 3
Belt buckles and blow-up furniture don’t buy happiness.

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(500) Days of Summer

Goolphipp Award: 4.6 (No Peanuts Chucked)

Phipps:
Despite 500 being completely upfront about the lack of love story, I was still kind of depressed afterward. But that's me, and my movie preference showing. I want sunshine and roses at the end...not a possible high of 75.

That being said, I do have to admit that 500 was charming. It was real, too, even with all the dancing and Han Solo sightings. I do have to appreciate a film that can present a relationship with both sides - the good and the ugly - equally and honestly. I liked that Tom and Summer weren't extraordinary in any way from the average human. Heck, their relationship developed much like any other - over days and weeks. None of this fall-into-the-sack stuff. It felt natural, and it was easy to identify with them. It was kinda nice seeing a boy freak out about a girl without being emasculated in the process.

I was charmed by Gordon-Levitt and found myself wanting to be on the receiving end of some of those looks. And of course, everybody wants to be a Zooey Deschanel clone. The supporting cast was also perfect, which allowed for Summer and Tom to shine.

I thought the use of days was ingenious. In fact, I thought the set-up of the entire film was ingenious. The end may not have been my cup of joe, but I can't deny the ingenuity and charm.

Phipps overall: 4.5
Like I said...can't deny the ingenuity and charm.

Goolsby:
(500) Days of Summer was refreshing. I loved the concept of the love story – or lack of love story. From the get go, a narrator says “This is not a love story.” Pay attention and don’t expect something else. The plot moves back and forth between the early days of their relationship to the end days. You would think this could be confusing, but it was done seamlessly. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who plays the loveable greeting card writer Tom, lets his subtle facial expressions sway the audience. There was also a neat role reversal that I appreciated. Soft emotional boy meets the independent woman. I still can’t decide who I relate to more, Tom or Summer. I liked the feeling of being split between the two characters – usually I relate to one character more than the other.

This movie also included various movie spoofs. I love it when movies incorporate and play off of other movies. From the Enchanted based choreographed post-sex dance (with the cartoon blue bird to boot) to the Han Solo reflection. Classic all the way. And very, very appreciated and well received.

And who doesn’t want to be Zooey Deschanel? Jealous. I love her quirky nature. The whole movie was quirky, but done in this amazing way. There is this scene where a split screen is used to show reality and expectations – it was heart wrenching and awesome at the same time.

We saw this movie last night and I’m still smiling about it. What I really liked about the movie is that it is not a love story. The real basis is about coincidence. Life is just a string of random moments and people. I relate to Tom. He’s found himself at a job and point in his life that favors indifference more than anything. There’s a turning point in the movie when Tom erases this chalkboard wall, and draws his future. That is the biggest pull in this movie.

Goolsby overall: 4.75
Draw your own future and make your own coincidences - that’s why I loved it so much.

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