I didn't expect to see Studio Ghibli's latest animated film at the theater. I had chalked it up as a movie to see on DVD.
You see, my kids want dramatic action (gotta be on the edge of your seat) and comedy (laughs are a must) when watching films on the big screen. The last couple films they've seen are Man on a Ledge, and Journey 2: The Mysterious Island." My daughter can't wait to see "The Hunger Games" (she's nearly finished the book trilogy) and one of her favorite actresses, Amanda Seyfried, in "Gone." Neither are kid films.
The Secret World of Arrietty is rated G. It doesn't have explosions, crazy fights or comical adult situations. It's a story, based on the book "The Borrowers," of two unlikely friends — one a 4-inch "borrower" and the other a kid with a heart condition — who learn to care for and trust each other. There is some action and danger, but overall, it's a sweet, beautifully drawn coming-of-age story.
Yet, both kids asked to see this is Disney-distributed film. So we went after school to get in for $5 a ticket. The simple, yet elegantly drawn film looks beautiful on the big screen.
Synopsis: After Shawn (voiced by David Henrie of Disney's Wizards of Waverly Place) moves into his aunt's cottage, he discovers "little person" Arrietty (Bridget Mendler of Good Luck Charlie) hiding in a bush. Arrietty is an ambitious young borrower anxious for her first borrowing adventure with her dad (Will Arnett). Mom (Amy Poehler)is scared that they'll be discovered, with reason. Shawn wakes to see Arrietty as she attempts to take a tissue. He extends his friendship, but her family is skeptical, as other borrowers disappeared after being discovered. As expected, Arrietty is drawn to Shawn and eventually needs his help as her family is in danger of discovery by the housekeeper (Carol Burnett), who could be comical and wicked. A quiet child left with his aunt to rest up before a surgery, Shawn ends up taking risks that he would never had tried to help his friend. Arrietty, too, learns of her inner strength. The ending is bittersweet, leaving an opportunity to discuss topics such as moving away, unconditionally caring for someone, building trust, disappointment and lost friendships.
I've not been a big follower of Japanese anime. I find it a bit plain, maybe because most of my viewing has been Pokemon or Yu-Gi-Oh! cartoons. Also, some stories come off as a little bizarre. Odd doesn't bother me, but when the kids were little, I felt I had to explain a lot. This film is different. While the Japanese-style character animation is simple, the backgrounds are amazingly detailed and scenic. At times it was like seeing a painting on screen. The story interestingly is pretty straight forward given some of the psychedelic scenes in other Studio Ghibli films (Ponyo, Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle).
My kids surprised me by both asking to see it. I thought the film would mainly appeal to families with kids 4-10 years old. Yet, they both came away enjoying a slower-paced animated film. It was a good afternoon.
Cheers!
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Family movie night: "Cowboys & Aliens"
When I first heard of the film Cowboys & Aliens, I laughed. My husband pointed out it might be good because of the cast, Harrison Ford and Daniel Craig, and Steven Spielberg’s involvement as an executive director. We saw it at the theater, and I just thought it was just OK. I can’t recall the original grade I gave it (maybe a C+). That blog has since been deleted, but I recall liking Daniel Craig in cowboy gear.
Well, we're doing a family movie night these days, and the picks are slowly moving away from the typical family films. My husband thought it would be a good action flick for our 15 year old. We invited our 11 1/2 year old to join us, since we didn’t recall anything overtly objectionable. We remembered a lot of fantasy violence – it’s a cowboy movie. I couldn’t recall much about the aliens, but as I am often reminded by my kids, I think things are way scarier than they really are. Oh, and there is semi nude scene of Olivia Wilde coming out of fire, but it’s nonsexual and appropriate for the scene. We figured if anything popped up, we’d just address it later.
I drifted off a few times while watching it a second, but I was reminded these aliens could be a little scary for little kids, but not my kids. They’re pros. ☺ These aliens were cowboy tough, a cross between the creepy aliens with the abdomens that open up from the Alien series and odd-looking robots that squirt green blood when wounded. My youngest did fine and said they really weren’t scary. But they do have a way of popping up, even when expected they can make you jump.
It’s rated PG-13 for intense sequences of western and sci-fi action and violence, some partial nudity and a brief crude reference. Olivia Wilde’s character is called a not so nice name starting with a “W” several times by a posse of outlaws. Both kids enjoyed it, but our son really liked it. “Five stars” he proclaimed at the end of the DVD. My daughter says 4 stars.
The movie didn’t interest them in learning more about aliens or cowboys, but it did make for a fun evening. Long live family movie night.
Cheers!
Well, we're doing a family movie night these days, and the picks are slowly moving away from the typical family films. My husband thought it would be a good action flick for our 15 year old. We invited our 11 1/2 year old to join us, since we didn’t recall anything overtly objectionable. We remembered a lot of fantasy violence – it’s a cowboy movie. I couldn’t recall much about the aliens, but as I am often reminded by my kids, I think things are way scarier than they really are. Oh, and there is semi nude scene of Olivia Wilde coming out of fire, but it’s nonsexual and appropriate for the scene. We figured if anything popped up, we’d just address it later.
I drifted off a few times while watching it a second, but I was reminded these aliens could be a little scary for little kids, but not my kids. They’re pros. ☺ These aliens were cowboy tough, a cross between the creepy aliens with the abdomens that open up from the Alien series and odd-looking robots that squirt green blood when wounded. My youngest did fine and said they really weren’t scary. But they do have a way of popping up, even when expected they can make you jump.
It’s rated PG-13 for intense sequences of western and sci-fi action and violence, some partial nudity and a brief crude reference. Olivia Wilde’s character is called a not so nice name starting with a “W” several times by a posse of outlaws. Both kids enjoyed it, but our son really liked it. “Five stars” he proclaimed at the end of the DVD. My daughter says 4 stars.
The movie didn’t interest them in learning more about aliens or cowboys, but it did make for a fun evening. Long live family movie night.
Cheers!
Friday, February 17, 2012
Enter for a chance to win VIP screening passes to DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX
Moms, I’m able to randomly pick one lucky winner to be a VIP at a special advanced screening of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 25, 2012, at the Harkins Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway in Tempe. Being a VIP means you and up to three guests get to bypass the general screening line. If you win, you must arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. to check in with the promoters of the movie screening. Have your ID handy and your prize voucher. Also, if you win, you are responsible for getting there on time and any travel costs.
To enter the sweepstakes, you must agree to the rules posted in the Official Rules link and follow instructions for entry. Giveaway sponsors assume no liability for late, lost, incomplete or misdirected entries. If you do not agree to rules, you are not eligible to participate in this giveaway and should not send an email entry. You agree that by emailing a response/entry in the sweepstakes constitutes your agreement to the posted rules.
Entries will be accepted between noon M.S.T. on Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, and 6 p.m. M.S.T on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012. A winner will be contacted on or about Feb. 20, 2012. Winner must claim prize and send in publicity/liability waiver by 11:59 p.m. Feb. 22, 2012.
I encourage you to like my Facebook pages (www.facebook.com/moviemamablog and www.facebook.com/YvetteArmendariz.TimeStarvedMom) and follow my Twitter page (@timestarvedmom) to keep abreast of parenting tips, news and movie screenings and reviews. I’d love to have at least 1,000 followers on each site by the end of May (that’s way less than what I had with my previous blog operated by a newspaper company), but I need your help spreading the news of my blogs to your friends.
About the movie:
From the creators of Despicable Me and the imagination of Dr. Seuss comes the much anticipated feature Dr. Seuss' The Lorax, an adaptation of the classic tale of a forest guardian who shares the enduring power of hope. The animated adventure follows the journey of a 12-year-old as he searches for a real Truffula Tree, the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To get it he must find the story of the Lorax, the acerbic yet charming character who fights to protect his world. The movie is scheduled for theatrical release on March 2, 2012.
Lending their vocal talents to the project are Danny DeVito, Ed Helms, Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Rob Riggle, Jenny Slate, and Betty White. Dr. Seuss' The Lorax is the third feature created by Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment (Despicable Me, Hop). www.theloraxmovie.com
The trailer:
To enter the sweepstakes, you must agree to the rules posted in the Official Rules link and follow instructions for entry. Giveaway sponsors assume no liability for late, lost, incomplete or misdirected entries. If you do not agree to rules, you are not eligible to participate in this giveaway and should not send an email entry. You agree that by emailing a response/entry in the sweepstakes constitutes your agreement to the posted rules.
Entries will be accepted between noon M.S.T. on Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, and 6 p.m. M.S.T on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012. A winner will be contacted on or about Feb. 20, 2012. Winner must claim prize and send in publicity/liability waiver by 11:59 p.m. Feb. 22, 2012.
I encourage you to like my Facebook pages (www.facebook.com/moviemamablog and www.facebook.com/YvetteArmendariz.TimeStarvedMom) and follow my Twitter page (@timestarvedmom) to keep abreast of parenting tips, news and movie screenings and reviews. I’d love to have at least 1,000 followers on each site by the end of May (that’s way less than what I had with my previous blog operated by a newspaper company), but I need your help spreading the news of my blogs to your friends.
About the movie:
From the creators of Despicable Me and the imagination of Dr. Seuss comes the much anticipated feature Dr. Seuss' The Lorax, an adaptation of the classic tale of a forest guardian who shares the enduring power of hope. The animated adventure follows the journey of a 12-year-old as he searches for a real Truffula Tree, the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To get it he must find the story of the Lorax, the acerbic yet charming character who fights to protect his world. The movie is scheduled for theatrical release on March 2, 2012.
Lending their vocal talents to the project are Danny DeVito, Ed Helms, Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Rob Riggle, Jenny Slate, and Betty White. Dr. Seuss' The Lorax is the third feature created by Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment (Despicable Me, Hop). www.theloraxmovie.com
The trailer:
LORAX VIP Screening Passes Giveaway Official Rules
By entering for a chance to be randomly selected from all valid entries in this giveaway, you agree to these official rules:
1. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR ODDS OF WINNING. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
2. Eligibility. The Time-Starved Mom/Movie Mama blog Lorax VIP Screening Passes Sweepstakes is open to residents of the State of Arizona who are 18 years or older at the time of entry. Employees of Time-Starved Mom/Movie Mama blog, Barclay Communications and each of their respective affiliated companies, subsidiaries, advertising or promotional agencies, and other agents, and the immediate family members of, and any persons domiciled with such employees, are not eligible. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Google, Gmail, Blogspot or Twitter.
3. Entry. Enter by sending an email between noon M.S.T. Feb. 17, 2012, and 6 p.m. M.S.T. Feb. 19, 2012, with the subject line “LORAX VIP Screening Passes Giveaway” to timestarvedmom@gmail.com. To be considered a valid entry, the email must include your full name, city listed on your driver’s license, and daytime phone number to reach you if needed in relationship to this giveaway (i.e. Jane Garcia of Tempe, 480-555-5555). Sponsor is not responsible for late, lost, incomplete or misdirected entries. Only one email entry per person. Multiple entries by one person using other email addresses will be disqualified. Winner will be chosen at random on or about Feb. 20, 2012.
4. Prizes and Odds. One (1) winner will receive one (1) VIP screening voucher via email attachement to “Dr. Seuss' The Lorax” advanced screening at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 25, 2012, at Harkins Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ. The voucher allows the winner and up to three guests to attend. Travel arrangements and cost of travel associated with attending the screening is the sole responsibility of the winner. Winner must arrive at Harkins Tempe Marketplace no later than 9:30 a.m. Feb. 25 to claim their seats and bring photo identification and the voucher to the screening. Failure to arrive on time will result in loss of your seats. Approximate value of the prize is $0. Screening passes are often available for free on a variety of websites. Holding a VIP screening voucher and/or being on the VIP list has no additional monetary value. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.
5. Winner Notification and Acceptance. Winner will be notified by email and/or phone number listed on email entry on or about Feb. 20, 2012. Please check junk mail, in case the prize announcement is inadvertently delivered there. If selected winner cannot be reached after three attempts, including original notification attempt, such person will be disqualified. Winner's failure to open prize announcement email before the prize deadline and follow acceptance rules will result in forfeiture of the prize. Winners may waive their right to receive prizes. Prizes are nonassignable and nontransferable. To accept the prize, winner must respond to prize notification email and follow instructions for accepting prize on the email by no later than 11:59 p.m. M.S.T. Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012. Winner's contact information will be forwarded to Barclay Communications, which oversees the VIP list for "The Lorax" screening. Winner also must present valid photo identification, such as a driver's license, and the VIP screening voucher at Harkins Tempe Marketplace by no later than 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012. No substitutions allowed. Winners are solely responsible for reporting and payment of any taxes on prizes. Winner will be required to complete a liability and publicity release form (except where prohibited by law), which must be returned via email by 11:59 p.m. Feb. 22, 2012. Failure to sign and return the affidavit or release by Feb. 22, or to comply with any term or condition of these Official Rules, may result in a winner's disqualification, the forfeiture of his or her interest in the prize, and the award of the prize to an alternate winner except where prohibited. Participation in the Sweepstakes constitutes entrant's consent to the publication of his or her name announcing his or her winning for any commercial or promotional purpose, without limitation or further compensation. Prizes not claimed by eligible winners in accordance with these Official Rules will not be awarded and will remain the property of Sponsors. For prize winner list after Feb. 26, 2012, email timestarvedmom@gmail.com. Please include subject line: Lorax VIP Screening Winner.
6. Participation. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, incomplete, late or misdirected entries. Sponsors reserve the right to disqualify persons found tampering with or otherwise abusing any aspect of this Sweepstakes as solely determined by Sponsors. In the event the Sweepstakes is compromised by tampering or other causes beyond the reasonable control of Sponsors, which corrupts or impairs the administration, security, fairness or proper operation of the Sweepstakes, Sponsors reserve the right in its sole discretion to suspend, modify or terminate the Sweepstakes. Should the Sweepstakes be terminated prior to the stated expiration date, Sponsors reserve the right to award prizes based on the entries received before the termination date.
7. Limitations of Liability. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrant agrees that (1) any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with the Sweepstakes, or any prizes awarded, shall be resolved individually without resort to any form of class action, and entrant waives his or her right to a jury trial for such disputes, claims, and causes of action; (2) any claims, judgments and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering the Sweepstakes, but in no event attorneys' fees; and (3) under no circumstances will any entrant be permitted to obtain any award for, and entrant hereby waives all rights to claim punitive, incidental or consequential damages and any and all rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased and any other damages, other than damages for actual out-of-pocket expenses.
8. Construction. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of any contestant and Sponsor, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Arizona, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions (whether of Arizona, or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Arizona. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of these rules shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision. If any such provision is determined to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable, these rules shall be construed in accordance with their terms as if the valid or enforceable provision was not contained therein.
9. General Release. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants release Yvette Armendariz, who blogs as Time-Starved Mom and Movie Mama, Barclay Communications, any other promotional sponsors, and each of their respective affiliated companies, directors, officers, employees, representatives, partners and agents from any liability whatsoever for any claims, costs, injuries, losses or damages of any kind arising out of or in connection with the Sweepstakes or with the acceptance, possession or use of any prize (including, without limitation, claims, costs, injuries, losses or damages related to personal injuries, death, damage to, loss or destruction of property, rights of publicity or privacy, defamation or portrayal in a false light).
10. Sponsors. The Time-Starved Mom Lorax VIP Screening Passes giveaway is sponsored by Time-Starved Mom/Movie Mama blog and Barclay Communications (collectively, "Sponsors"), whose decisions regarding the selection of winners and all other aspects of the Sweepstakes shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsors will not be responsible for typographical, printing or other inadvertent errors in these Official Rules or in other materials relating to the Sweepstakes. If you have any questions regarding this Contest, please contact Yvette Armendariz at timestarvedmom@gmail.com.
1. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR ODDS OF WINNING. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
2. Eligibility. The Time-Starved Mom/Movie Mama blog Lorax VIP Screening Passes Sweepstakes is open to residents of the State of Arizona who are 18 years or older at the time of entry. Employees of Time-Starved Mom/Movie Mama blog, Barclay Communications and each of their respective affiliated companies, subsidiaries, advertising or promotional agencies, and other agents, and the immediate family members of, and any persons domiciled with such employees, are not eligible. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Google, Gmail, Blogspot or Twitter.
3. Entry. Enter by sending an email between noon M.S.T. Feb. 17, 2012, and 6 p.m. M.S.T. Feb. 19, 2012, with the subject line “LORAX VIP Screening Passes Giveaway” to timestarvedmom@gmail.com. To be considered a valid entry, the email must include your full name, city listed on your driver’s license, and daytime phone number to reach you if needed in relationship to this giveaway (i.e. Jane Garcia of Tempe, 480-555-5555). Sponsor is not responsible for late, lost, incomplete or misdirected entries. Only one email entry per person. Multiple entries by one person using other email addresses will be disqualified. Winner will be chosen at random on or about Feb. 20, 2012.
4. Prizes and Odds. One (1) winner will receive one (1) VIP screening voucher via email attachement to “Dr. Seuss' The Lorax” advanced screening at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 25, 2012, at Harkins Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ. The voucher allows the winner and up to three guests to attend. Travel arrangements and cost of travel associated with attending the screening is the sole responsibility of the winner. Winner must arrive at Harkins Tempe Marketplace no later than 9:30 a.m. Feb. 25 to claim their seats and bring photo identification and the voucher to the screening. Failure to arrive on time will result in loss of your seats. Approximate value of the prize is $0. Screening passes are often available for free on a variety of websites. Holding a VIP screening voucher and/or being on the VIP list has no additional monetary value. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.
5. Winner Notification and Acceptance. Winner will be notified by email and/or phone number listed on email entry on or about Feb. 20, 2012. Please check junk mail, in case the prize announcement is inadvertently delivered there. If selected winner cannot be reached after three attempts, including original notification attempt, such person will be disqualified. Winner's failure to open prize announcement email before the prize deadline and follow acceptance rules will result in forfeiture of the prize. Winners may waive their right to receive prizes. Prizes are nonassignable and nontransferable. To accept the prize, winner must respond to prize notification email and follow instructions for accepting prize on the email by no later than 11:59 p.m. M.S.T. Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012. Winner's contact information will be forwarded to Barclay Communications, which oversees the VIP list for "The Lorax" screening. Winner also must present valid photo identification, such as a driver's license, and the VIP screening voucher at Harkins Tempe Marketplace by no later than 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012. No substitutions allowed. Winners are solely responsible for reporting and payment of any taxes on prizes. Winner will be required to complete a liability and publicity release form (except where prohibited by law), which must be returned via email by 11:59 p.m. Feb. 22, 2012. Failure to sign and return the affidavit or release by Feb. 22, or to comply with any term or condition of these Official Rules, may result in a winner's disqualification, the forfeiture of his or her interest in the prize, and the award of the prize to an alternate winner except where prohibited. Participation in the Sweepstakes constitutes entrant's consent to the publication of his or her name announcing his or her winning for any commercial or promotional purpose, without limitation or further compensation. Prizes not claimed by eligible winners in accordance with these Official Rules will not be awarded and will remain the property of Sponsors. For prize winner list after Feb. 26, 2012, email timestarvedmom@gmail.com. Please include subject line: Lorax VIP Screening Winner.
6. Participation. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, incomplete, late or misdirected entries. Sponsors reserve the right to disqualify persons found tampering with or otherwise abusing any aspect of this Sweepstakes as solely determined by Sponsors. In the event the Sweepstakes is compromised by tampering or other causes beyond the reasonable control of Sponsors, which corrupts or impairs the administration, security, fairness or proper operation of the Sweepstakes, Sponsors reserve the right in its sole discretion to suspend, modify or terminate the Sweepstakes. Should the Sweepstakes be terminated prior to the stated expiration date, Sponsors reserve the right to award prizes based on the entries received before the termination date.
7. Limitations of Liability. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrant agrees that (1) any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with the Sweepstakes, or any prizes awarded, shall be resolved individually without resort to any form of class action, and entrant waives his or her right to a jury trial for such disputes, claims, and causes of action; (2) any claims, judgments and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering the Sweepstakes, but in no event attorneys' fees; and (3) under no circumstances will any entrant be permitted to obtain any award for, and entrant hereby waives all rights to claim punitive, incidental or consequential damages and any and all rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased and any other damages, other than damages for actual out-of-pocket expenses.
8. Construction. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of any contestant and Sponsor, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Arizona, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions (whether of Arizona, or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Arizona. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of these rules shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision. If any such provision is determined to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable, these rules shall be construed in accordance with their terms as if the valid or enforceable provision was not contained therein.
9. General Release. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants release Yvette Armendariz, who blogs as Time-Starved Mom and Movie Mama, Barclay Communications, any other promotional sponsors, and each of their respective affiliated companies, directors, officers, employees, representatives, partners and agents from any liability whatsoever for any claims, costs, injuries, losses or damages of any kind arising out of or in connection with the Sweepstakes or with the acceptance, possession or use of any prize (including, without limitation, claims, costs, injuries, losses or damages related to personal injuries, death, damage to, loss or destruction of property, rights of publicity or privacy, defamation or portrayal in a false light).
10. Sponsors. The Time-Starved Mom Lorax VIP Screening Passes giveaway is sponsored by Time-Starved Mom/Movie Mama blog and Barclay Communications (collectively, "Sponsors"), whose decisions regarding the selection of winners and all other aspects of the Sweepstakes shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsors will not be responsible for typographical, printing or other inadvertent errors in these Official Rules or in other materials relating to the Sweepstakes. If you have any questions regarding this Contest, please contact Yvette Armendariz at timestarvedmom@gmail.com.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
"This Means War" makes for fun date night
First, not every movie has to be great to be enjoyable. "This Means War" is a bit of a sloppy movie. The action editing is choppy and the story line is unbelievable — then again, what Hollywood movie is? But it was a fun escape for about an hour and 40 minutes. Check trailer:
The story is of two kick-butt CIA agents who are best friends, FDR and Tuck. FDR (Chris Pine) is a playboy; Tuck (Tom Hardy) is a divorced/separated dad trying to keep connected in his young son's life. Happens after a undercover operation that plays out like many spy movies before it with the baddest guy getting away, Tuck finds he's missing a love connection. So he decides to find the perfect girl, Lauren (Reese Witherspoon), on an online dating site. Buddy FDR has his reservations about this date, and ends up at the nearby video store in case he needs to save his friend. Turns out Tuck and Lauren have a great first meeting, but Lauren ends up at the video store and meets a quite (stereotypically) annoying-but-cute guy, FDR. Alas, she finds herself dating two guys, but she doesn't know they are best buds. They, however, learn they like the same girl, and throw everything into winning her affection. It's a competition with rules and craziness. Totally unrealistic and predictable, but the ride was fun. Witherspoon is totally adorable as a woman who is decisive in her job, but not in her relationships. Pine has great blue eyes and charming, and Tom Hardy...well, I found him an odd choice, but I loved him in "Warrior." And I guess he did OK here, too. Add in some funny one-liners by Chelsea Handler, who plays Laurens totally inappropriate mom friend Trish, and it ends up being a decent date night movie. Side note: Loved that Chris Pine mentioned watching a "CHiPs" marathon. His dad, Robert Pine, played the sergeant to Ponch and Jon on that popular late 70s/early 80s show.
I don't plan on buying "This Means War," but I won't mind watching again when it plays on cable.
My grade: C+.
It's rated PG-13 for some sexual content including references, some violence and action, and for language. If by chance you take your kids, there are some fights scenes with lots of guns and explosions (they are CIA agents). One man falls to his death, two women are kidnapped, some sexy kissing (no nudity) takes place, drinking, and sex talk.
Cheers to date night.
The story is of two kick-butt CIA agents who are best friends, FDR and Tuck. FDR (Chris Pine) is a playboy; Tuck (Tom Hardy) is a divorced/separated dad trying to keep connected in his young son's life. Happens after a undercover operation that plays out like many spy movies before it with the baddest guy getting away, Tuck finds he's missing a love connection. So he decides to find the perfect girl, Lauren (Reese Witherspoon), on an online dating site. Buddy FDR has his reservations about this date, and ends up at the nearby video store in case he needs to save his friend. Turns out Tuck and Lauren have a great first meeting, but Lauren ends up at the video store and meets a quite (stereotypically) annoying-but-cute guy, FDR. Alas, she finds herself dating two guys, but she doesn't know they are best buds. They, however, learn they like the same girl, and throw everything into winning her affection. It's a competition with rules and craziness. Totally unrealistic and predictable, but the ride was fun. Witherspoon is totally adorable as a woman who is decisive in her job, but not in her relationships. Pine has great blue eyes and charming, and Tom Hardy...well, I found him an odd choice, but I loved him in "Warrior." And I guess he did OK here, too. Add in some funny one-liners by Chelsea Handler, who plays Laurens totally inappropriate mom friend Trish, and it ends up being a decent date night movie. Side note: Loved that Chris Pine mentioned watching a "CHiPs" marathon. His dad, Robert Pine, played the sergeant to Ponch and Jon on that popular late 70s/early 80s show.
I don't plan on buying "This Means War," but I won't mind watching again when it plays on cable.
My grade: C+.
It's rated PG-13 for some sexual content including references, some violence and action, and for language. If by chance you take your kids, there are some fights scenes with lots of guns and explosions (they are CIA agents). One man falls to his death, two women are kidnapped, some sexy kissing (no nudity) takes place, drinking, and sex talk.
Cheers to date night.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Movies for romance
It's rare for any two people to really agree on what is a great romantic movie, though some favorites come to mind: The Notebook, Casa Blanca, Titanic and Gone With the Wind.
If I'm honest, I don't remember feeling the romance of Casa Blanca or Gone With the Wind. Maybe I was too young when I saw those films. I may need to see them again. But honestly I just don't think they resonated with me.
However, I have a soft place in my heart for The Notebook. Love that one. Titanic isn't bad, either. And I can't forget the Franco Zeffirelli version of Romeo & Juliet. Swoon worthy! My husband says I should add West Side Story, but it's just OK to me.
I also love snuggling up to Fools Rush In, Ghost, The Princess Bride or When Harry Met Sally. Guess I like some laughs with my romance. I also found myself really liking Nights in Rodanthe, with Richard Gere and Diane Lane, and Moulin Rouge, with Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor. Even Can't Buy Me Love, with Patrick Dempsey, would do on Valentine's Day. This isn't the most romantic, but does remind me of young love. Pretty in Pink does that, too.
Guess I've had romance on the brain. I'm been on a kick picking up movies with romantic themes. Recent movies include Pride & Prejudice, with Keira Knightley, and The Lake House, with Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. Neither made me swoon.
I hoped The Vow, in theaters now, would fill my heart with love. It didn't. It was OK, just not so great when you hear the real story that inspired the movie. As for recent movies, I did like Crazy, Stupid, Love. Can't think of another.
I just picked up Love Actually. I've never seen it, but many have it on their top romantic movies list. I'm hoping it will be good enough to watch again with my hubby, a glass of champagne and some strawberries, when we decide to celebrate Valentine's Day on Saturday. Yep, not Tuesday.
Cheers.
If I'm honest, I don't remember feeling the romance of Casa Blanca or Gone With the Wind. Maybe I was too young when I saw those films. I may need to see them again. But honestly I just don't think they resonated with me.
However, I have a soft place in my heart for The Notebook. Love that one. Titanic isn't bad, either. And I can't forget the Franco Zeffirelli version of Romeo & Juliet. Swoon worthy! My husband says I should add West Side Story, but it's just OK to me.
I also love snuggling up to Fools Rush In, Ghost, The Princess Bride or When Harry Met Sally. Guess I like some laughs with my romance. I also found myself really liking Nights in Rodanthe, with Richard Gere and Diane Lane, and Moulin Rouge, with Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor. Even Can't Buy Me Love, with Patrick Dempsey, would do on Valentine's Day. This isn't the most romantic, but does remind me of young love. Pretty in Pink does that, too.
Guess I've had romance on the brain. I'm been on a kick picking up movies with romantic themes. Recent movies include Pride & Prejudice, with Keira Knightley, and The Lake House, with Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. Neither made me swoon.
I hoped The Vow, in theaters now, would fill my heart with love. It didn't. It was OK, just not so great when you hear the real story that inspired the movie. As for recent movies, I did like Crazy, Stupid, Love. Can't think of another.
I just picked up Love Actually. I've never seen it, but many have it on their top romantic movies list. I'm hoping it will be good enough to watch again with my hubby, a glass of champagne and some strawberries, when we decide to celebrate Valentine's Day on Saturday. Yep, not Tuesday.
Cheers.
Friday, February 10, 2012
"The Vow" disappoints; true story more inspiring
I wanted to love "The Vow." Part of me thinks it's because Valentine's Day is around the corner, and I love stories that make my heart flutter. And part of it is because it's based on a true story.
I read a few articles about the couple, Kim and Krickitt Carpenter, who were the inspiration for the movie "The Vow." These articles, including one in the Los Angeles Times, had me thinking the movie could be another "The Notebook"-style tearjerker filled with romance and deep love for another. It's not. Far from it. It's a mediocre Hollywood-altered love story. I did like Rachel McAdams, but it was just OK. I'm sure some will love it. However, I'm thinking they'll love it more for checking out Channing Tatum's fit body — butt shot included — and the idea that there's still romance somewhere.
In the movie, Paige and Leo (the Hollywood names) are newly married and happy. Then their car is struck and she can't remember the past five years of her life. She reconnects with her estranged family and becomes increasingly distant from the man she married. But Leo won't give up on their love despite complications.
Sounds good. But watching it, I never felt chemistry between the characters. Maybe it's Tatum that never convinced me of his character's undying love. Also, the Hollywood story seemed way too sensationalized. It all kept me from enjoying the movie. The true story of a man who essentially lost his new wife in a car wreck and then made her fall in love with him again exudes romance. His story of faith even when she couldn't remember their lives together made my heart open up to their story. I wanted that story, but I didn't get it.
My grade: C-.
"The Vow" is rated PG-13, for an accident scene, sexual content, partial nudity and some language. If you take kids, you should know that the car wreck and hospital scene may be a little graphic even if there isn't much blood. It's a love story, so there is sexual innuendo and sexy scenes, including a man's posterior and a woman in her underwear. There's discussion of an affair that happened in the past and a married character attempts to ignite a love connection from the past.
I read a few articles about the couple, Kim and Krickitt Carpenter, who were the inspiration for the movie "The Vow." These articles, including one in the Los Angeles Times, had me thinking the movie could be another "The Notebook"-style tearjerker filled with romance and deep love for another. It's not. Far from it. It's a mediocre Hollywood-altered love story. I did like Rachel McAdams, but it was just OK. I'm sure some will love it. However, I'm thinking they'll love it more for checking out Channing Tatum's fit body — butt shot included — and the idea that there's still romance somewhere.
In the movie, Paige and Leo (the Hollywood names) are newly married and happy. Then their car is struck and she can't remember the past five years of her life. She reconnects with her estranged family and becomes increasingly distant from the man she married. But Leo won't give up on their love despite complications.
Sounds good. But watching it, I never felt chemistry between the characters. Maybe it's Tatum that never convinced me of his character's undying love. Also, the Hollywood story seemed way too sensationalized. It all kept me from enjoying the movie. The true story of a man who essentially lost his new wife in a car wreck and then made her fall in love with him again exudes romance. His story of faith even when she couldn't remember their lives together made my heart open up to their story. I wanted that story, but I didn't get it.
My grade: C-.
"The Vow" is rated PG-13, for an accident scene, sexual content, partial nudity and some language. If you take kids, you should know that the car wreck and hospital scene may be a little graphic even if there isn't much blood. It's a love story, so there is sexual innuendo and sexy scenes, including a man's posterior and a woman in her underwear. There's discussion of an affair that happened in the past and a married character attempts to ignite a love connection from the past.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
"Journey 2: The Mysterious Island" offers silly family adventure
I'm not crazy about sequels. They generally aren't that great. This one is just OK, but I don't think most kids will be as discerning. In fact, I'll be surprised if they care what reviewers think. They'll just want to go and see the 3D-optional kid friendly action adventure.
"Journey 2: The Mysterious Island" picks up a few years after "Journey to the Center of the Earth" without mention of previous star, Brendan Fraser. This adventure focuses on Sean, played again by Josh Hutcherson (soon to be Peeta in "The Hunger Games") and his stepfather Hank (Dwayne Johnson). It starts with Sean in trouble for breaking into a lab, but it's only so he can locate his "lost" grandfather Alexander (Michael Caine). His grandfather, like Sean's dad and uncle, is an adventurer who happens to stumble upon the mysterious island referenced in Jules Vernes books. Hank happens to help Sean crack the code for finding Alexander. This leads to Sean insisting on heading to Palau. Why not? Hank obviously figures the adventure could help the two bond, and maybe that will lead Sean to better decisions. Of course nothing goes as planned. Much of the plot can be seen in the trailers.
I really think this film ends up being somewhat likeable because of Johnson, well know in his wrestling days as The Rock. With anyone else, I think you'd be rolling your eyes the entire film. The "pec pop of love" still made me laugh even though I'd seen it in commercials plenty. Guess Mr. Johnson has a way of making you smile in these family friendly adventure flick he's starred in (Race to Witch Mountain and Tooth Fairy). Otherwise, it's too easy dissecting the movie into one big unbelievable mess.
I think the movie is fine for most elementary school-aged kids. It's rated PG for adventure action and mild language. You should know the main characters are put in perilous situations a few times: helicopter crashes in crazy storm; attacked by birds, an electric eel and a giant lizard; nearly drowning as island floods. A main character gets into a chase with law enforcement where he crashes into a pool and nearly is hit by train. There's also some mild flirting between the teen characters.
My grade: C; my kids' grade: B+.
"Journey 2: The Mysterious Island" picks up a few years after "Journey to the Center of the Earth" without mention of previous star, Brendan Fraser. This adventure focuses on Sean, played again by Josh Hutcherson (soon to be Peeta in "The Hunger Games") and his stepfather Hank (Dwayne Johnson). It starts with Sean in trouble for breaking into a lab, but it's only so he can locate his "lost" grandfather Alexander (Michael Caine). His grandfather, like Sean's dad and uncle, is an adventurer who happens to stumble upon the mysterious island referenced in Jules Vernes books. Hank happens to help Sean crack the code for finding Alexander. This leads to Sean insisting on heading to Palau. Why not? Hank obviously figures the adventure could help the two bond, and maybe that will lead Sean to better decisions. Of course nothing goes as planned. Much of the plot can be seen in the trailers.
I really think this film ends up being somewhat likeable because of Johnson, well know in his wrestling days as The Rock. With anyone else, I think you'd be rolling your eyes the entire film. The "pec pop of love" still made me laugh even though I'd seen it in commercials plenty. Guess Mr. Johnson has a way of making you smile in these family friendly adventure flick he's starred in (Race to Witch Mountain and Tooth Fairy). Otherwise, it's too easy dissecting the movie into one big unbelievable mess.
I think the movie is fine for most elementary school-aged kids. It's rated PG for adventure action and mild language. You should know the main characters are put in perilous situations a few times: helicopter crashes in crazy storm; attacked by birds, an electric eel and a giant lizard; nearly drowning as island floods. A main character gets into a chase with law enforcement where he crashes into a pool and nearly is hit by train. There's also some mild flirting between the teen characters.
My grade: C; my kids' grade: B+.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Is my child ready for scary movie "The Woman in Black"?
I so wish at this moment that I could find the blog I wrote three or four years ago with tips from a local family counselor on determining when your child is ready for scary movies.
I remember part of it went something like, you know what they can handle. Yes, but I want don't want to accidentally push too much and find my child having nightmares, feeling anxiety or crawling into my bed. Don't want to scar them. I also like having room in my bed to toss and turn, and maybe elbow my husband a time or two.
So now I search for web articles, seeking help with my decision. Nothing I've come across has been much help. At least I found the original list of 10 kid friendly Halloween movies that a former colleague and I did for azcentral.com. Sadly, mine have graduated from these flicks.
Now my daughter, 11 going on 16, really WANTS to see "The Woman in Black." I know it's totally because Harry Potter himself - that is, Daniel Radcliffe - is in it. And this is one of the movies that I didn't get to pre-screen for this blog. Ugh!
The rating is PG-13 for thematic material and violence/disturbing images. But just how violent and disturbing? I thought she'd be disturbed by images in "Super 8" - another PG-13 movie. And she laughed when I thought she'd think it was too intense. Yet, she's really not seen anything that would be considered horror or a ghost story. About the most intense movie I recall her seeing is "Beetlejuice," and seriously, that's funnier than scary. Maybe it's a little creepy for the under 10 crowd. She didn't think anything of it when we first saw this a few years ago. She laughed.
Maybe I'm being too much of a Mama Bear. Maybe I should just let her watch and then talk about what we just saw. What makes a movie scary? Why do we sometimes like feeling scared? Do camera angles and music influence how you feel? My daughter is game, claiming she won't climb into my bed or have nightmares. Like anyone can really promise that. I still get a little scared when watching creepy movies.
Maybe I should first try out another scary movie at home, like "Poltergeist." I remember seeing that one around her age. And I was scared. If she does well, we go.
Or maybe I should just see it first to make myself feel better.
I remember part of it went something like, you know what they can handle. Yes, but I want don't want to accidentally push too much and find my child having nightmares, feeling anxiety or crawling into my bed. Don't want to scar them. I also like having room in my bed to toss and turn, and maybe elbow my husband a time or two.
So now I search for web articles, seeking help with my decision. Nothing I've come across has been much help. At least I found the original list of 10 kid friendly Halloween movies that a former colleague and I did for azcentral.com. Sadly, mine have graduated from these flicks.
Now my daughter, 11 going on 16, really WANTS to see "The Woman in Black." I know it's totally because Harry Potter himself - that is, Daniel Radcliffe - is in it. And this is one of the movies that I didn't get to pre-screen for this blog. Ugh!
The rating is PG-13 for thematic material and violence/disturbing images. But just how violent and disturbing? I thought she'd be disturbed by images in "Super 8" - another PG-13 movie. And she laughed when I thought she'd think it was too intense. Yet, she's really not seen anything that would be considered horror or a ghost story. About the most intense movie I recall her seeing is "Beetlejuice," and seriously, that's funnier than scary. Maybe it's a little creepy for the under 10 crowd. She didn't think anything of it when we first saw this a few years ago. She laughed.
Maybe I'm being too much of a Mama Bear. Maybe I should just let her watch and then talk about what we just saw. What makes a movie scary? Why do we sometimes like feeling scared? Do camera angles and music influence how you feel? My daughter is game, claiming she won't climb into my bed or have nightmares. Like anyone can really promise that. I still get a little scared when watching creepy movies.
Maybe I should first try out another scary movie at home, like "Poltergeist." I remember seeing that one around her age. And I was scared. If she does well, we go.
Or maybe I should just see it first to make myself feel better.
Pre-Valentine's Day date night movie screening: THIS MEANS WAR
Mom friends, I will be hosting a screening of THIS MEANS WAR, starring Reese Witherspoon, Tom Hardy and Chris Pine at 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 13 at Tempe Marketplace. In the film, Pine and Hardy portray CIA operatives and best friends. That is, until they fall for the same woman (Witherspoon). Once a team that helped bring down enemy nations, they are now employing their skills and high-tech gadgetry against each other - all for love?
Yes, screening is the day before Valentine's Day. Think of this as a bonus date, and it's free. Best of all, for him, there's gonna be plenty of action.
Pull down passes by clicking here.
Make sure to follow the rules on the passes. These things tend to overbook, so do arrive early for best available seats.
The trailer looks pretty cool (yes, I like action flicks):
I'll post my review later on this blog. Chat with me about it on Twitter @timestarvedmom. The official Twitter for the movie is @thismeanswarmov. Please use the hashtag #thismeanswar if you post about it.
Yes, screening is the day before Valentine's Day. Think of this as a bonus date, and it's free. Best of all, for him, there's gonna be plenty of action.
Pull down passes by clicking here.
Make sure to follow the rules on the passes. These things tend to overbook, so do arrive early for best available seats.
The trailer looks pretty cool (yes, I like action flicks):
I'll post my review later on this blog. Chat with me about it on Twitter @timestarvedmom. The official Twitter for the movie is @thismeanswarmov. Please use the hashtag #thismeanswar if you post about it.
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