Scene It

The movies I have "scene" most recently:

On DVD:

Duplicity
starring Julia Roberts and Clive Owen



Obviously, this movie was superbly acted. It was also delightfully complicated and kept me guessing until the end.

Tagline:
Outwit. Outspy. Outsmart. Outplay. Then get out.

Plot:
A pair of corporate spies who share a steamy past hook up to pull off the ultimate con job on their respective bosses.

In THEATERS:

The Stepfather
starring Penn Badgley and Dylan Walsh



This mediocre thriller is fun for a slight scare. This movie has the same feel as Disturbia, just not quite as good. There is no wondering "whodunit," just when will they do it again and how much snooping can you do without getting caught? I appreciate a good suspense movie even if it's not the best movie I've ever seen. Horror without the slashing is hard to find, but Stepfather accomplishes that.

Tagline:
This fall Daddy's home.

Plot:
Michael returns home from military school to find his mother happily in love and living with her new boyfriend. As the two men get to know each other, he becomes more and more suspicious of the man who is always there with a helpful hand.

Couples Retreat
starring Vince Vaughn, Kristen Bell, and more



This movie had a great cast and because of that it was enjoyable and even funny at times. Although with such a hilarious cast, it fell short of being as "laugh-out-loud" funny as it could have been. I was willing to forgive this however, because it had a great message on marriage.

Tagline:
It may be paradise... but it's no vacation.

Plot:
A comedy centered around four couples who settle into a tropical-island resort for a vacation. While one of the couples is there to work on the marriage, the others fail to realize that participation in the resort's therapy sessions is not optional.

The Invention of Lying
starring Jennifer Garner and Ricky Gervais



I usually like anything starring Jennifer Garner... however, my main comment for this movie is DON'T SEE IT! To start, this "comedy" wasn't funny (at all). Also, it was offensive. . . both in crude "humor" and to the Christian faith. It takes a lot for me to say I didn't enjoy much of anything about a movie- but, I'm saying that about The Invention of Lying.

Tagline:

In a world where everyone can only tell the truth... this guy can lie.

Plot:

A comedy set in a world where no one has ever lied, until a writer seizes the opportunity for personal gain.

The Box
starring Cameron Diaz and James Marsden



The previews for this movie always intrigued me; the movie itself intrigued me as well. Set in the 70's, The Box makes you feel like you're watching an old mystery movie. . . it's not just the clothes and the cars that set the time period for the viewer; the music, the look of the film, and the all around feel makes it seem as though you've been transported to the 70's to see a movie. That was probably my favorite thing about this movie. It's more Sci-fi than I thought it would be, but not over the top. A clean, psychological thriller that confronts the true nature of humanity. The movie is wonderfully acted, but a little slow at times. It's possible that you will leave the film with as many questions as you went into it with, but it will really make you think. I enjoyed this film, but would probably say it is ultimately a movie that will be enjoyed dependant upon taste.

Tagline:

You Are The Experiment

Plot:

A small wooden box arrives on the doorstep of a married couple, who know that opening it will grant them a million dollars and kill someone they don't know.

don't take my word for it. . . scary movie night edition

if you're in the mood for a scary movie, now is the time to hit up the theater. . .
here are some of the current scary movies i have subjected myself to :)

The Final Destination: 3D



It seems you really CAN'T escape death! In this FINAL Destination, the story has not changed. A group of teens escape "death" and are therefore hunted by it for the rest of the movie. While the story itself has not veered much from the original, the characters are dying in new and gruesome ways. . . and you can see all the gore in high definition 3D. lol... are you excited? A cheap thrill that puts you a little too much into the action. . . i would have rather had car parts flying at my head than the human parts that i got (The 3D element was pretty much only used when a character was killed off). However, if you're up for the gore, a scary movie in 3D is "fun" (but don't take my word for it!) I just miss Devon Sawa as the main character :)

Sorority Row



The bonds of sisterhood are tested in this Scream/I Know What You Did Last Summer-type slasher flick. When a practical joke goes horribly wrong a group of girls find themselves faced with the dilemma of exposing their mistake or covering it up (they of course cover it up). Yet, 8 months later someone is back to remind them of the awful night. Is it their "dead" sorority sister back to get her revenge? I'm not telling. However, where twists are concerned, this movie barely had one. Basically it had all the elements of a slasher film: slashing, cheap boob shots, mediocre acting, a "whodunit?" storyline, a lot of screaming, and watching most of the movie with my hands over my eyes. However, I am into the classics. . . just be prepared for blood and boobs. oh, and don't take my word for it :)

Scene It

The movies I have "scene" most recently:

The Time Traveler's Wife



I have greatly anticipated this movie! Which made many people assume I'd read the book- but I didn't want to spoil the movie! My brother warned me that too high of expectations can ruin a movie... however, while this movie was not was I expected, it did live up to my expectations. The acting in this movie was phenomenal and it was beautifully sad and creative. My only complaint would be that there was too much time traveling and not enough of follow through on the main characters situations. However, it may be this way to be true to the book (which I wouldn't know because I haven't read it yet!) Either way, it's definitely worth seeing!

Post Grad



I loved this movie (and not just because I want to see almost any movie that throws in a Friday Night Lights' cast member)! A cute story about the important things in life and the struggles of life after college. But you don't have to be right out of college to enjoy this movie: it's a story about love, family, the decisions we make, and the people that really matter. Also, her family is hilarious (and not just because I LOVE Michael Keaton)! The only way you won't like this movie is if you're a little leery of "too happy" endings.

Bandslam



I went to this movie for one reason: to see the new New Moon trailer! Then I promised I wouldn't admit that I went to see it... however, it wasn't that bad. A really cute story with fun music for young teens . Besides the fact that someone needs to tell Vanessa Hudgins that singing isn't her forte, it was a decent movie.

District 9



I went into this movie knowing absolutely nothing (except that there were aliens in it)... in fact, I hadn't even seen a preview. However, I am easily entertained and figured an alien action flick would be fun at least. However, even without knowing much about this film- it was NOTHING like I expected. In fact, it was pretty much like a documentary on a third world country- but with aliens. I'm not saying the movie sucked- in fact, it was quite innovative and had an interesting story line. Not something I would run to see again, but I've never seen anything like it before- so "props" for creativity. Worth seeing once for something new and different.

don't take my word for it...

i LOVE movies! i see more than i should and am easily entertained. so, i call this latest segment on my "reel review" blog don't take my word for it...

I'll do my best to help you spend your hard earned $10 wisely next time you visit the movie theater, but if you don't like what i suggest- don't blame me! :)

Top Releases in theaters NOW:

1. The Proposal

I would say if you're looking for a movie to see in theaters right now, The Proposal should not be missed. It's hilarious, heartwarming, and realistic in its relationship progression. And for a change, the best/funniest parts of this movie weren't in the previews. So, if you thought it looked good from the previews, you're in for even more hilarity. And since I'm a girl writing this review, I have to say that Ryan Reynolds is charming and hilarious, but also gloriously naked [don't worry, nothing pornographic]. See this movie, you'll love it. But don't take my word for it...

2. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

I'm always nervous about sequels. They tend to overcompensate a lacking story line with too much mindless action. Transformers did not make this mistake. My only complaint would be that the humor bordered on childish at times, while the language bordered on making this film not suitable for children. However, if you're in your 20's like me [or older], I wouldn't let any of that deter you from seeing this film. You may have seen Shia LaBeouf on my Top 10 Young Male Actors list (below); he definitely earns his keep in this film. Even Megan Fox didn't bother me in this movie; I loved it! So, if you're looking for an action packed movie with a strong plot line and top-of-the-line special effects that is entertaining for girls and guys... see Transformers 2. But don't take my word for it...

3. The Hangover

I have to say, I haven't been the biggest fan of the "R-Rated Comedy" phase that we're in. They tend to be over the top on language, sexual indiscretions, and crude humor. However, The Hangover did not make that mistake. It earned it's R-rating, but didn't push it. Not only was this movie hilarious, but it had an almost "thriller" like plot-line. Seriously, where did their friend Doug go?! Bradley Cooper [who I have been in love with for YEARS] finally is getting the recognition he deserves due to this film. Go see it and fall in love with him if you haven't already. These four guys were a phenomenal comedy quartet that you do not want to miss. My best advice for you: Don't watch the credits! If you wonder where all that nudity missing from this R-rated comedy is, you'll find it in the credits. The Hangover is one you can't miss; I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. But don't take my word for it...

4. The Ugly Truth

In the category of R-rated comedies, coming up right behind The Hangover is The Ugly Truth. Again, I'm not saying it's not inappropriate and littered with blush-worthy conversations. However, it pulls off being a romantic comedy and a bromantic comedy without being as over-the-top as Knocked Up. My advice to you girls: see it with a girlfriend you're completely comfortable with. While it's advertised as the "ugly truth" about men, women, and relationships, there is a classic click-flick hidden in there. The witty banter between the polar opposites played by Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler is wildly entertaining. But don't take my word for it...

5. Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs

If you have kids, this is a fun movie to see. Ice Age movies never disappoint. They are perfectly child appropriate, but entertaining for adults as well [in fact, the way kids movies are these days- you'll probably appreciate the jokes more than your kids do!]. But don't take my word for it...

6. G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra

I wasn't expecting to like this movie. It's more of a kids movie than Star Trek or Transformers, but still entertaining. Channing Tatum, as Duke, makes up in looks for what he lacks in acting skills and Sienna Miller was surprisingly convincing as The Baroness [and should think about dying her hair dark in real life!]. The action wasn't overdone, the flashbacks were a fascinating way to add depth and intrigue to the story line, and more than one "twist" caught me by surprise [i didn't see it coming!]... twists are always a good thing. But don't take my word for it...

CHEAP SEATS: Catch it before it's gone!!

1. Star Trek

Star Trek is currently at the cheap theaters and the best movie I've seen all year! You don't have to be a Star Trek fan to love this movie! J.J. Abrams [Felicity, LOST, Fringe, Cloverfield, MI3, etc] really outdid himself with this movie! Within the first 10 minutes, I was so emotionally invested and hooked on this movie that I didn't blink for the next 2 hours. If you haven't seen this yet, catch it before it leaves theaters! And then buy it when it comes out because you're gonna want to watch it again!

COMING SOON: I hope to take a look @ The Time Travelers Wife!

Twilight Book vs. Movie

Mix a little imagination with the unparalleled story-telling skills of one Stephenie Meyer and you can never do the world of Twilight any sort of justice on film. Twilight, the film, is an adequate companion to the book; however, it in no way stands on its own.

In case you are new to the scene of Twilight, here is a little information you might need. The story follows Bella (an independent 17 year-old girl who seems wise beyond her years) and Edward (a vegetarian vampire who not only abstains from drinking human blood, but breaks all the rules of vampire cliches).

Edward has a special gift, he can read minds. This gift is what first draws him to notice our young heroin; Bella being the first creature he has come across who's thoughts are a mystery to him. However, his fascination quickly turns to something akin to hatred when Edward realizes that Bella's blood "sings" for him. Which in so many words means that this one, small, seemingly insignificant girl could ruin all his years of discipline.

His need to drink her blood combined with his desire to keep himself from becoming the monster he knows is lurking inside of him draws them together with an animalistic force that neither one can resist. The closer Edward and Bella become the more she becomes to him. His love for her soon outweighs his instinctual desire for her blood and they quickly form an intensely emotional bond that is constantly passionate in the way that near-death experiences make you.

Now, onto the differences between the book at the movie that I thought were key.

BELLA's LULLABY

In the book, Edward (when sleeping over at Bella's house) often hums a lullaby to her as she falls asleep. When he finally takes Bella home to meet the family he plays her the song on the piano telling her that she inspired it- therefore, Bella's Lullaby. However, in the movie when Edward plays the piano for Bella there is no mention or implication that the song is inspired by and intended for her.

EDWARD's EYE COLOR: THE MEANING

Perceptively, Bella notices in the book that Edward's eyes change color; the darker his eyes get, the darker his mood is. We find out that his mood is darker because he is more thirsty and therefore has a more difficult time being near her; she relates this to how men are grumpier when they're hungry. Bella comes to expect certain things from him depending on the color of his eyes. While Bella mentions to Edward that she notices his change of eye color in the movie, it is never explained WHY they change.

TIME LINE

The passage of time in the movie is very different from the passage of time in the book. In particular, the passage of time in-between Edward saving Bella from the car crash and them finally becoming friends. The movie makes it look as though it is simply one day; Edward saves her life and the next day tells her they shouldn't be friends but he would like to be.

In the book a whole six months pass after Edward saves her life before they form a friendship. This passage of time is significant because Edward is trying to stay away from Bella in order to protect both of them.

DO YOU REALLY BELIEVE YOU CARE FOR ME MORE THAN I CARE FOR YOU?

After Edward saves Bella's life in Port Angeles and subsequently takes her out to dinner with the knowledge of her friends, Jessica quizzes Bella on her and Edward's relationship while Edward listens in (since his vampire skill is mind reading). In this conversation, Bella tells Jessica that she cares for Edward more than he cares for her. After hearing her admit this belief, he confronts her and claims that she is wrong. Edward insists that he cares more because if he would have to make the choice to leave and therefore hurt himself to keep from hurting her- he would do it. This conversation and Edward's feelings on the matter are a direct lead-in (and foreshadowing) for the events that take place in the beginning of New Moon.

CONVERSATIONS

Many conversations that Edward and Bella have help you understand the process by which his feelings for her begin to completely overshadow his natural, instinctual need to drink her blood. The movie very much downplays the struggle he goes through in order to be near her.

There are many differences between the book and the movie, but these are the few that I find key to the development of the story. Those who had already read Twilight before seeing it in theaters had the advantage of letting their minds fill in the blanks. However, those who went into the movie without the knowledge that comes from reading the book missed out on important details of the story. Again, Twilight as a film was a good companion to the book, but hopefully New Moon stands on its own much better than this first installment.

Young Hollywood: Top 10 Male Actors

I've heard it said that "teenage girls rule the world." In regards to the popularity of Hollywood's young male actors, they're right. Due to teenage girls' obsession with Twilight, Robert Pattinson went from a D-Lister to a Hollywood heartthrob. These young Hollywood male actors are taking over the big-screen and I'm not complaining! The following 10 have made a name for themselves that won't soon be forgotten.

1. Taylor Kitsch. Taylor stole our hearts as the troubled but lovable Tim Riggins on NBC's Friday Night Lights. However, no matter how much we love him as "Riggins," he's not stopping there. Taylor is also taking his turn in the world of "Blockbuster hits" and people are loving it! This summer we saw Taylor in the much anticipated X-Men Origins: Wolverine as Gambit. That's not the last we'll be seeing of him either, he is currently working on another season of FNL and joining Ryan Phillippe in the movie The Bang Bang Club (due out in 2010).

2. Robert Pattinson. No surprise here! If you haven't heard the name "Robert Pattinson" then you've been living under a rock. Rob made his big break in the cult phenomenon Twilight and is reprising his role as vampire Edward Cullen in one of the most anticipated films of the year, New Moon. Rob need not worry about being type-cast as a dazzling vampire forever though. His adorable personality, good looks, and abundance of work outside of the Twilight Saga movies lead us to believe we'll be seeing a lot more of Robert Pattinson. The MTV Movie Awards have already acknowledged this; Rob won Breakthrough Male.

3. Zac Efron. High School Musical's Zac Efron has gone from Disney Channel Original Movies to big-screen Hollywood hits with ease and he's been welcomed with open arms! While it would be great to see more of him dancing and singing like he did in HSM and Hairspray, he proved in this summer's 17 Again that he is an amazing actor and can easily survive within or outside of the musical genre. Even though he could probably make it on looks alone, he won't have to; Zac Efron just oozes natural talent that puts him near the top of the young Hollywood male actor food chain.

4. Tom Welling. With Smallville going into it's 9th season, Superman never looked so good. Tom's portrayal of Superman is suddenly making girl's all over the world wish they were a hard-hitting reporter with an attitude. While Smallville would be enough to bring this young actor into the top 10, it doesn't hurt that he's worked with comedy superstars Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt in the two installments of Cheaper by the Dozen. He's already paid his dues with headlining a popular television show and making the classic scary movie, so when Smallville breaths it's last, it'd be great to see him in his fair share of big-screen roles.

5. Taylor Lautner. We got a peek at how much we could love the adorable Taylor Lautner in Twilight, but I believe he'll become an unstoppable Hollywood heartthrob after the much larger reprisal of his role as Jacob Black inNew Moon. Though Robert Pattinson beat him out at the MTV Movie Awards, Taylor was nominated for Breakthrough Male. He is quickly and surely easing his way into super stardom.

6. Shia LaBeouf. It's amazing to think that I used to watch little Shia LaBeouf on Disney's Even Stevens. While being the star of your own Disney show is nothing to scoff at, Shia has come a long way since then. He has taken on main and leading roles in Disturbia, Eagle Eye, and even joined the Indiana Jones franchise inThe Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. However, his resume gets even better; Shia is the lead role in the Blockbuster hit Transformers and the much anticipatedTransformers: Revenge of the Fallen. Shia LaBeouf is up against the likes of Rob and Zac for Hollywood's Next Golden Boy.

7. Lucas Till. If you haven't swooned over his adorable smile yet- you will! Lucas just had his big breakthrough role in Hannah Montana: The Movie as Miley/Hannah's love interest. Since then, his popularity and heartthrob status is definitely growing. He portrays "the boy next door" in Taylor Swift's latest music video for You Belong With Me and will be in the upcoming film The Spy Next Door (due out in 2010). Keep your eye on this one.

8. Kellan Lutz. Whether you enjoyed the Twilight movie or not, you have to admit that it has introduced some beautiful, fresh, new faces to the young Hollywood acting scene. Kellan will be reprising his Twilight role of Emmett Cullen in the next installment of the saga, New Moon. However, that's not the only place you'll see him. He has more than one movie coming up; one of which is A Nightmare on Elm Street where his fate will lie in the hands of Freddy Kreuger.

9. Chris Pine. If you didn't see him alongside Lindsay Lohan in Just My Luck or in the shoot-em-up film Smokin' Aces, then you can catch him as the famous Captain James Tiberius Kirk in the best movie I've seen this summer,Star Trek. It's tricky to take on a well-known character like Captain Kirk, but Chris lived up to and surpassed our expectations. He's not new to the big-screen, but Star Trek is shooting him to superstar status with warp speed.

10. Jared Padalecki. The CW has been good to Jared. He played a main/recurring role on Gilmore Girls as Rory's love interest and now stars alongside Jensen Ackles in Supernatural. You can also see him on the big-screen in some major scary movies including House of Wax, Cry Wolf, and a remake of the classic Friday the 13th. He's the one I would want holding my hand, running through the woods... I would just prefer it be under better circumstances.

Hollywood's young actors have the potential to be the next Brad Pitt or Johnny Depp. Having a solid group of young guys to one day fill their shoes is important for the future of Hollywood. These 10 guys make me feel confident that we have nothing to worry about!