"The Bourne Legacy" (Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton) in Theatres on August 8, 2012

The Bourne Legacy (2012)

Critics
Rating: 3/5
Liked the Movie: 43% (n=14)

Audience
Like to See the Movie: 85% (n=109,132)


Reviews

"Sets the stage for better and fuller adventures to come." - Kate Erbland, Boxoffice Magazine

"Writer and director Tony Gilroy, who penned all three previous episodes, has come up with an elegant solution that manages to widen out the story without feeling like a Hollywood cash-in." - James Mottram, The List

"Although there isn't nearly as much action as the original three movies, it's doubtful anyone will leave Legacy not wanting to see more of Renner and Weisz in these roles." - Edward Douglas, comingsoon.net

"Subbing character actor Jeremy Renner into a franchise that requires Matt Damon-caliber magnetism, series scribe Tony Gilroy takes over the helming duties with an overlong sequel that features too little action and an unnecessarily complicated plot." - Peter Debruge, Variety

"Stellar photography and effects cannot quite make up for the staleness of the series and the flatness of the principal character when compared to Matt Damon." - Harvey S. Karten, Compuserve

"Gilroy is an intelligent writer but he is not a technically skillful action director, and so he tries to compensate with a detailed but not very involving tale and characters that like to talk in one too many indoor scenes." - Emanuel Levy, emanuellevy.com

"The Bourne Legacy disgraces the family name" - Blake Howard, 2UE That Movie Show


Movie Info

The narrative architect behind the Bourne film series, Tony Gilroy, takes the helm in the next chapter of the hugely popular espionage franchise that has earned almost $1 billion at the global box office: The Bourne Legacy. The writer / director expands the Bourne universe created by Robert Ludlum with an original story that introduces us to a new hero (Jeremy Renner) whose life-or-death stakes have been triggered by the events of the first three films. For The Bourne Legacy, Renner joins fellow series newcomers Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Stacy Keach and Oscar Isaac, while franchise veterans Albert Finney, Joan Allen, David Strathairn and Scott Glenn reprise their roles. -- (C) Universal

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 2 hr. 5 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Action & Adventure

Directed By: Tony Gilroy

Distributed By: Universal Pictures

Cast
Jeremy Renner (Aaron Cross)
Edward Norton (Retired Col. Eric Byer)
Rachel Weisz (Dr. Marta Shearing)
Joan Allen (Pam Landy)
Albert Finney (Dr. Albert Hirsch)
Stacy Keach (Retired Adm. Mark Turso)
Scott Glenn (Ezra Kramer)
Oscar Isaac (Outcome #3)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

The Dark Knight Rises (Christian Bale, Anne Hathaway, Gary Oldman) in Theatres on July 19, 2012

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Critics
Rating: 4.4/5
Liked the Movie: 91% (n=33)

Audience
Like to See the Movie: 93% (n=336,412)


Reviews

"Bleak, black and brilliant." - David Edwards, Daily Mail [UK]

"The crowning achievement of the Batman trilogy and the biggest, best, most exciting Batman of them all." - Scott A. Mantz, Access Hollywood

"The Dark Knight Rises is a big, bold and occasionally brilliant piece of blockbuster filmmaking." - Alistair Harkness, Scotsman

"The Dark Knight Rises is a spectacular and thrilling conclusion to Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy." - Bruce Kirkland, Jam! Movies

"Whoever Warner Bros hires to reboot the 'Batman' films a few years from now, I wish you luck. The bar is as high as it could possibly be." - Drew McWeeney, HitFix

"The film suffers a bit from a glut of new characters but is helped along by Nolan's continued insistence on emotional resonance over mindless spectacle." - Tim Grierson, Screen International

"The bad news is that it lasts two hours 45 minutes, which is astonishingly bloated -- and unforgivable in a film that spends a long, ponderous hour getting started." - Christopher Tookey, Daily Mail [UK]

"A fine film in a strong summer, but it lacks the spark that made its immediate predecessor a masterpiece." - Amy Nicholson, Boxoffice Magazine

"Emotional, epic and entertaining, this is the end you've been waiting for." - James Mottram, The List

"A fitting epitaph for the hero Gotham deserves." - Nev Pierce, Empire Magazine


Movie Info

It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act. But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane.. -- (C) Warner Bros.

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 2 hr. 45 min.

Genre: Drama, Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense

Directed By: Christopher Nolan

Written By: David S. Goyer, Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan, Bob Kane

Distributed By: Warner Bros. Pictures

Cast
Christian Bale (Bruce Wayne / Batman)
Michael Caine (Alfred)
Gary Oldman (Gordon)
Anne Hathaway (Selina Kyle)
Joseph Gordon-Levitt (John Blake)
Tom Hardy (Bane)
Marion Cotillard (Miranda Tate)
Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox)
Liam Neeson (Ra's al Ghul)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Act of Valor (Active-Duty US Navy Seals) in Theatres on July 11, 2012

Act of Valor (2012)

Hazel's
Comment: There were Filipino groups who demanded an apology from Relativity Media and wanted this movie banned because it depicted Filipinos as cold-hearted terrorists. But isn't this movie a work of fiction? Why are some people just so uptight and critical about it?

Audience
Rating: 4/5
Liked the Movie: 77% (n=69,819)

Critics
Rating: 2.3/5
Liked the Movie: 25% (n=126)


Reviews

"When the bullets are flying, Act of Valor is undeniably tense and thrilling." - Chris Nashawaty, Entertainment Weekly

"Fighting is a learned skill; so is acting. And the SEAL stars are plausible only when on maneuvers - performing as their own stunt doubles." - Richard Corliss, TIME Magazine

"The special ops missions are pretty amazing, but the SEALS as dramatic characters are under-developed." - Richard Roeper, richardroeper.com

"It's undeniably reverent of the real-life heroes in its cast, but Act of Valor lets them down with a clichéd script, stilted acting, and a jingoistic attitude that ignores the complexities of war." - rottentomatoes.com

"The filmmakers are so intent on shooting the real SEAL deal that they forget this is supposed to be a movie: We need a story." - Amy Biancolli, San Francisco Chronicle

"I don't know what to make of Act of Valor. It's like reviewing a recruiting poster." - Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

"I think these real-life action heroes deserve a better movie. So does the audience." - Colin Covert, Minneapolis Star Tribune


Movie Info

An unprecedented blend of real-life heroism and original filmmaking, Act of Valor stars a group of active-duty U.S. Navy SEALs in a film like no other in Hollywood's history. A fictionalized account of real life Navy SEAL operations, Act of Valor features a gripping story that takes audiences on an adrenaline-fueled, edge-of-their-seat journey. When a mission to recover a kidnapped CIA operative unexpectedly results in the discovery of an imminent, terrifying global threat, an elite team of highly trained Navy SEALs must immediately embark on a heart-stopping secret operation, the outcome of which will determine the fate of us all. Act of Valor combines stunning combat sequences, up-to-the-minute battlefield technology, and heart-pumping emotion for the ultimate action adventure film-showcasing the skills, training and tenacity of the greatest action heroes of them all: real Navy SEALs. -- (C) Relativity

Rated: R

Running Time: 1 hr. 41 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Action & Adventure

Directed By: Mike McCoy, Scott Waugh

Written By: Kurt Johnstad

Distributed By: Relativity Media

Cast
Roselyn Sanchez (Agent Morales)
Alex Veadov (Christo)
Nestor Serrano (Walter Ross)
Emilio Rivera (Sanchez)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (Benjamin Walker) in Theatres on July 4, 2012

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012)

Audience
Rating: 3.5/5
Liked the Movie: 61% (n=144,391)

Critics
Rating: 2.5/5
Liked the Movie: 34% (n=150)


Reviews

"Both terribly silly and a lot of fun." - Michael O'Sullivan, Washington Post

"Of course it's ridiculous and tasteless and grotesque. It's ABRAHAM LINCOLN, VAMPIRE HUNTER." - Richard Roeper, richardroeper.com

"Bekmambetov ... stages hilarious, imaginative, almost free-form action sequences like nobody in the business." - Andrew O'Hehir, salon.com

"Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter has visual style to spare, but its overly serious tone doesn't jibe with its decidedly silly central premise, leaving filmgoers with an unfulfilling blend of clashing ingredients." - rottentomatoes.com

"Bekmambetov doesn't expect us to take the premise seriously, exactly. But he doesn't seem to want us to laugh at it, either." - Eric D. Snider, film.com

"The movie plays safe by cutting every theme down the middle - a swing that's effective when splitting wood or vampire skulls, but dull when applied to filmmaking." - Lisa Schwarzbaum, Entertainment Weekly

"A B movie treated like an A movie that mostly ends up being a zzzzzzzzzz movie." - Stephen Whitty, Newark Star-Ledger

"Not just a letdown but an absolute disaster." - Rafer Guzman, Newsday

"Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" is such a smashing title it's too bad someone had to spoil things by making a movie to go with it." - Manohla Dargis, New York Times

"What next, "George Washington Werewolf"? Laugh not, history profs." - Tom Long, Detroit News


Movie Info

Visionary filmmakers Tim Burton and Timur Bekmambetov reinvent the time-honored genre and present the terrifying creatures of the night as they were meant to be experienced -- as fierce, visceral, intense and bloodthristy. Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter brings to the screen the secret life of our nation's favorite president... as history's greatest hunter of the undead. -- (C) Official Site

Rated: R

Running Time: 1 hr. 45 min.

Genre: Action & Adventure, Horror, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Directed By: Timur Bekmambetov

Written By: Seth Grahame-Smith

Distributed By: 20th Century Fox

Cast
Benjamin Walker (Abraham Lincoln)
Dominic Cooper (Henry Sturges)
Anthony Mackie (Will Johnson)
Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Mary Lincoln)
Rufus Sewell (Adam)
Marton Csokas (Jack Barts)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

The Amazing Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Sally Field) in Theatres on June 29, 2012

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)

Hazel's
Comment: A movie I'm definitely going to watch on the big screen! It's awesome that there are scenes wherein you could feel like you're Spider-Man since it's shot on his perspective. Can't wait when it swings to theatres real soon...

Audience
Like to See the Movie: 91% (n=232,426)


Movie Info

The Amazing Spider-Man is the story of Peter Parker (Garfield), an outcast high schooler who was abandoned by his parents as a boy, leaving him to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field). Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parents' disappearance - leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors (Ifans), his father's former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors' alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero. -- (C) Sony

Rated: PG-13

Genre: Drama, Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Directed By: Marc Webb

Written By: Steve Ditko, Stan Lee, James Vanderbilt

Distributed By: Sony Pictures

Cast
Andrew Garfield (Peter Parker / Spider-Man)
Emma Stone (Gwen Stacy)
Rhys Ifans (Dr. Curt Connors)
Sally Field (Aunt May / May Parker)
Denis Leary (Captain Stacy)
Martin Sheen (Ben Parker / Uncle Ben)
Campbell Scott (Richard Parker)
Irfan Khan (Dr. Ratha / Van Adder)
Annie Parisse (Mrs. Van Adder)
Julianne Nicholson (Mary Parker)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Daniel Radcliffe in a Horror Movie Plus His First Adult Movie Role "The Woman In Black (2012)"

The Woman in Black (2012)

Audience
Like to See the Movie: 91% (n=4,986)


Movie Info

The story follows a young lawyer, Arthur Kipps (Radcliffe), who is ordered to travel to a remote village and sort out a recently deceased client’s papers. As he works alone in the client’s isolated house, Kipps begins to uncover tragic secrets, his unease growing when he glimpses a mysterious woman dressed only in black. Receiving only silence from the locals, Kipps is forced to uncover the true identity of the Woman in Black on his own, leading to a desperate race against time when he discovers her true intent. -- (C) Hammer

Rated: PG-13

Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery & Suspense

Directed By: James Watkins

Written By: Susan R. Hill, Jane Goldman

Distributor: CBS Films

Cast
Daniel Radcliffe
Ciarán Hinds
Janet McTeer
Shaun Dooley
David Burke
Liz White
Lucy May Barker

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 (Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner) in Theatres on November 18, 2011

You are cordially invited to Isabella Swan and Edward Cullen's Wedding on November 18, 2011 at a theatre nearest you... =)

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 (2011)

Critics
Rating: 2.1/5
Like the Movie: 12% (n=16)

Audience
Rating:
Like to See the Movie: 89% (n=52,019)


Reviews

"The most melodramatic installment in the series, but if you're willing to suspend your disbelief (and laughter), it's a compelling and entertaining ride." - Cara Nash, FILMINK Australia

"It is in many respects the best installment of the franchise as its stars go from sullen kids to sullen young adults, where their expressions look more natural." - Scott Bowles, USA Today

"The Twilight films manage to cleverly blend melodrama with supernatural thrills, and while the film is not without its silly moments and cringeworthy dialogue it does deliver the drama and emotional highs we have come to expect." - Mark Adams, Daily Mirror [UK]

"Really a half-film, and the boring half at that. Such is the nature of things dubbed "Part 1." It's a film about things that will inevitably happen, but don't until the next, more important part." - Phil Villareal, OK! Magazine

"Fails to inject its few key scenes with any life thanks to a woeful script, poor direction and lacklustre performances, though fans of the franchise should be used to that by now." - Matthew Turner, ViewLondon

"This weekend, millions of people around the globe will be conned into handing over their hard earned cash to see a film with no plot, no action and no climax." - Matthew Toomey, Brisbane

"The vampire drama of Twilight is all about the romantic agony of eternity, and this franchise feels like it's going on for ever." - Peter Bradshaw, Guardian [UK]

"An eventful but bloodless first half of the smash series' finale." - Todd McCarthy, Hollywood Reporter


Movie Info

In The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1, Bella (Kristen Stewart) and Edward (Robert Pattinson), plus those they love, must deal with the chain of consequences brought on by a marriage, honeymoon, and the tumultuous birth of a child...which brings an unforeseen and shocking development for Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner). -- (C) Summit Entertainment

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 1 hr. 57 min.

Genre: Romance, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Directed By: Bill Condon

Written By: Melissa Rosenberg, Stephenie Meyer

Distributor: Summit Entertainment

Cast
Kristen Stewart (Bella Swan)
Robert Pattinson (Edward Cullen)
Taylor Lautner (Jacob Black)
Billy Burke (Charlie Swan)
Peter Facinelli (Dr. Carlisle Cullen)
Elizabeth Reaser (Esme Cullen)
Kellan Lutz (Emmett Cullen)
Nikki Reed (Rosalie Hale)
Jackson Rathbone (Jasper Hale)
Ashley Greene (Alice Cullen)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

In Time (Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried) in Theatres on October 28, 2011

In Time

For more info by 20th Century Fox, please CLICK HERE.

Audience
Rating: 3.6/5
Like the Movie: 75% (n=16,355)

Critics
Rating: 2.8/5
Like the Movie: 43% (n=14)


Reviews

"The premise is damnably intriguing." - Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

"If you can get past the plot holes and the copious time puns, In Time is actually rather brisk, enjoyable entertainment." - Christy Lemire, Associated Press

"The concept of the movie dovetails nicely with society's never-ending obsession with youth and our pursuit of ways to find more hours in the day, but somebody forgot to stop at the plot store on the way to the studio." - Linda Barnard, Toronto Star

"If only the ticking clock were more tightly wound; if only more time were used to develop the romance and relationships; if only dying didn't seem so easy." - Betsy Sharkey, Los Angeles Times

"Pretty cast. Potent premise. Piss-poor execution." - Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

"It's a great idea that Niccol can't translate into a great movie." - Richard Corliss, Time Magazine

"Ace cinematographer Roger Deakins makes it all look exciting, but the rob-and-run action sequences are subpar." - Colin Covert, Minneapolis Star Tribune

"Timberlake, who had a scene-stealing turn as Napster mogul Sean Parker in "The Social Network," is a snooze in this role, not quite as wooden as Keanu Reeves but hardly making a case for himself as an actor." - Kerry Lengel, Arizona Republic

"Unfortunately, as the film moves along, its brisk pace notwithstanding, too many issues come to weigh against it. As cleverly conceived as it is, the time-for-money substitution leaves a lot of questions unanswered." - Todd McCarthy, Hollywood Reporter


Movie Info

When Will Salas is falsely accused of murder, he must figure out a way to bring down a system where time is money - literally - enabling the wealthy to live forever while the poor, like Will, have to beg, borrow, and steal enough minutes to make it through another day. -- (C) 20th Century Fox

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 1 hr. 49 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Directed By: Andrew Niccol

Written By: Andrew Niccol

Distributor: 20th Century Fox

Cast
Justin Timberlake (Will Salas)
Amanda Seyfried (Sylvia Weis)
Cillian Murphy (Raymond Leon)
Vincent Kartheiser (Philippe Weis)
Olivia Wilde (Rachel Salas)
Matthew Bomer (Henry Hamilton)
Johnny Galecki (Borel)
Collins Pennie (Timekeeper Jaeger)
Toby Hemingway (Timekeeper Kors)
Yaya DaCosta (Greta)
Alex Pettyfer (Fortis)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Abduction (Taylor Lautner, Alfred Molina, Sigourney Weaver) in Theatres on September 22, 2011

Abduction (2011)

Audience
Rating:
Like to See the Movie: 83% (n=13,107)

Critics
Rating: 1.6/5
Like the Movie: 0% (n=9)


Reviews

"[I]t's like Taylor Lautner made a movie just for Team Jacob!... Mostly it's a lot of Taylor standing around not moving his face or anything so that we can just look at him..." - MaryAnn Johanson, Flick Filosopher

"Last I checked, tweenage girls weren't too keen on this genre, and the boys who normally would be a fan will likely be disappointed by [Abduction's] bloodless, stagnant lameness." - Simon Miraudo, Quickflix

"Singleton is poorly equipped to handle teenage angst, a fact made far worse by cringe-worthy dialogue and a wooden leading man who proves that he has not yet developed the skills required to carry a film." - Catherine Brown, FILMINK (Australia)

"Lautner isn't much of an actor and behind his face is a brain ticking away at one kilometre per hour with the repetitive long-held close-ups of his face yielding no more emotional insights than the equally long close-ups of his stomach." - Glenn Dunks, Trespass

"Two reasons not to go see Abduction: first, every screening is guaranteed to be jam-packed with rabid girls squealing every time its star, Twilight's Taylor Lautner is on screen. Second: it's just not a good movie." - Samuel Downing, MovieFIX

"Sooner or later Taylor Lautner is going to have to stop excelling despite the limitations his films put upon him. For now, he'll have to make do with surviving one of the year's worst films." - Giles Hardie, smh.com.au


Movie Info

For as long as he can remember, Nathan Harper (Taylor Lautner) has had the uneasy feeling that he's living someone else's life. When he stumbles upon an image of himself as a little boy on a missing persons website, all of Nathan's darkest fears come true: he realizes his parents are not his own and his life is a lie, carefully fabricated to hide something more mysterious and dangerous than he could have ever imagined. Just as he begins to piece together his true identity, Nathan is targeted by a team of trained killers, forcing him on the run with the only person he can trust, his neighbor, Karen (Lily Collins). Every second counts as Nathan and Karen race to evade an army of assassins and federal operatives. But as his opponents close in, Nathan realizes that the only way he'll survive and solve the mystery of his elusive biological father is to stop running and take matters into his own hands. -- (C) Lionsgate

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 1 hr. 46 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Action & Adventure

Directed By: John Singleton

Written By: Shawn Christensen, Jeffrey Nachmanoff

Distributor: Lionsgate Films

Cast
Taylor Lautner (Nathan)
Alfred Molina (Agent Frank Burton)
Antonique Smith (Agent Sandra Burns)
Maria Bello (Mara)
Jason Isaacs (Kevin)
Lily Collins (Karen)
Sigourney Weaver (Dr. Bennett)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Johnny English Reborn (Rowan Atkinson, Gillian Anderson, Pierce Brosnan) in Theatres on September 15, 2011

Johnny English Reborn (2011)

Audience
Rating:
Like to See the Movie: 72% (n=6,916)

Critics
Rating:
Like the Movie: 100% (n=2)


Reviews

"Action and humour are rolled into a grand, fizzling ball as the thrills of a spy story collide with Atkinson's inspired buffoonery" - Andrew L. Urban, Urban Cinefile

"Is funnier and more complete than the original, with Atkinson in fine fettle, displaying the unique style of comedy he has honed into an artform" - Louise Keller, Urban Cinefile

"Got a chance to preview the late coming sequel. Obviously the jokes are quite a lot similar to Mr. Bean and the original Johnny English, but Rowan did it in a cleverer way. At least it's not a Bean in suite with pistol. You may like it, if you are a true fan of Blackadder and Mr. Bean." - Ray Wong


Movie Info

In the years since MI7's top spy vanished off the grid, Johnny English (Rowan Atkinson) has been honing his unique skills in a remote region of Asia. But when his agency superiors learn of an attempt against the Chinese premier's life, they must hunt down the highly unorthodox agent. Now that the world needs him once again, Johnny English is back in action. With one shot at redemption, he must employ the latest in hi-tech gadgets to unravel a web of conspiracy that runs throughout the KGB, CIA and even MI-7. With mere days until a heads of state conference, one man must use every trick in his playbook to protect us all. For Johnny English, disaster may be an option, but failure never is. -- (C) Official Site

Rated: PG

Running Time: 1 hr. 41 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Comedy

Directed By: Oliver Parker

Written By: Hamish McColl, Neal Purvis

Distributor: Universal Pictures

Cast
Rowan Atkinson (Johnny English)
Gillian Anderson
Dominic West
Rosamund Pike
Daniel Kaluuya
Burn Gorman
Ben Miller
Pierce Brosnan
Richard Schiff
Mark Ivanir
Togo Igawa

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World (Jessica Alba) in Theatres on September 14, 2011

Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World (2011)

Audience
Rating: 2.9/5
Like the Movie: 42% (n=19,276)

Critics
Rating: 2/5
Like the Movie: 22% (n=49)


Reviews

"Like its predecessors, a tediously cartoonish candy-colored rollercoaster." Nick Schager, Village Voice

"It's much inferior to the earlier films, though kids will probably like it." - Philip French, Observer [UK]

"It simply entertains at a basic level without leaving a lasting impression." Lisa Wilton, Jam! Movies

"Kids might enjoy the cheesy jokes, the shiny gadgets and the pooping dog but for adults it is snooze time all the way." Jackie K. Cooper, jackiekcooper.com

"Rodriguez directs the movie with his trademark kineticism, but a flimsy and uninventive script means there's little investment in the characters or their actions." - Simon Reynolds, Digital Spy

"The presence of Antonio Banderas and Carla Gugino is sorely missed. Then again, more power to them for staying away from a movie that would smell in any dimension." - Matt Brunson, Creative Loafing

"Feels more like a cheap kids' TV series than an actual movie." - Rich Cline, Shadows on the Wall

"Life is too short for Spy Kids: All the Time in the World" - Todd McCarthy, Hollywood Reporter


Movie Info

On the surface, Marissa Cortez Wilson (Jessica Alba) has it all...married to a famous spy hunting television reporter, a new baby and intelligent twin step kids. But in reality, trying to mother Rebecca (Rowan Blanchard) and Cecil (Mason Cook), who clearly don't want her around, is her toughest challenge yet. Also, her husband, Wilbur (Joel McHale), wouldn't know a spy if he lived with one which is exactly the case - Marissa's a retired secret agent. Marissa's world is turned upside down when the maniacal Timekeeper (Jeremy Piven) threatens to take over the planet and she's called back into action by the head of OSS, home of the greatest spies and where the now-defunct Spy Kids division was created. With a little help from a couple of very familiar Spy Kids, Carmen (Alexa Vega) and Juni Cortez (Daryl Sabara), they just may be able to save the world and possibly bring their family together while they're at it. -- (C) Weinstein

Rated: PG

Running Time: 1 hr. 29 min.

Genre: Action & Adventure, Kids & Family, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Comedy

Directed By: Robert Rodriguez

Distributor: Weinstein Company

Cast
Jessica Alba (Marissa Cortez Wilson)
Joel McHale (Wilbur Wilson)
Jeremy Piven (Danger D'Amo / Tick Tock)
Alexa Vega (Carmen Cortez)
Daryl Sabara (Juni Cortez)
Rowan Blanchard (Rebecca Wilson)
Mason Cook (Cecil Wilson)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Contagion (Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate WInslet) in Theatres on September 9, 2011

Contagion (2011)

Audience
Rating:
Like to See the Movie: 85% (n=10,261)

Critics
Rating: 3.4/5
Like the Movie: 80% (n=11)


Reviews

"I was shuffling nervously in my seat, edging away from the sniffling man next to me. Nobody shook hands or embraced after this screening." - Jason Solomons, Guardian [UK]

"An all-too-terrifying bio-thriller that realistically taps into our most primal fears and survival instincts." - Susan Granger, SSG Syndicate

"A masterpiece bound by the genre it lives in, but a masterpiece all the same." - David Poland, Movie City News

"... there's nothing here to make you feel like you've experienced a meaningful cinematic experience. What a waste." - Cole Smithey, colesmithey.com

"A powerful 'what if?' that leaves you reeling from the implications that something like this could very well happen exactly as depicted." - Edward Douglas, comingsoon.net


Movie Info

Contagion follows the rapid progress of a lethal airborne virus that kills within days. As the fast-moving epidemic grows, the worldwide medical community races to find a cure and control the panic that spreads faster than the virus itself. At the same time, ordinary people struggle to survive in a society coming apart. -- (C) Warner Bros.

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 1 hr. 45 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Action & Adventure

Directed By: Steven Soderbergh

Written By: Scott Z. Burns

Distributor: Warner Bros.

Cast
Marion Cotillard (Dr. Leonora Orantes)
Matt Damon (Mitch Emhoff)
Laurence Fishburne (Dr. Ellis Cheever)
Jude Law (Alan Krumwiede)
Gwyneth Paltrow (Beth Emhoff)
Kate Winslet (Dr. Erin Mears)
Bryan Cranston (Haggerty)
Jennifer Ehle (Ally Hextall)
Sanaa Lathan (Aubrey Cheever)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Captain America (Chris Evans, Tommy Lee Jones) in Theatres on July 27, 2011

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

Audience
Rating: 4.1/5
Like the Movie: 86% (n=75,003)

Critics
Rating: 3.4/5
Like the Movie: 73% (n=135)


Reviews:

"Need a top-notch comic-book movie to stop this summer's march of mediocre superheroes? "Captain America: The First Avenger," reporting for duty." - Joe Neumaier, New York Daily News

"By finding an ingenious way to streamline a now-familiar genre, Captain America: The First Avenger does his country proud. " - Glen Weldon, NPR

"Captain America" is exactly what the third week of July needed: a curiously fun, surprisingly imaginative and unashamedly old-fashioned yarn of skulduggery and adventure." - Andrew O'Hehir, salon.com

"Captain America is not high art, but it is so unabashedly fun -- and such well-made fun -- that it is hard to not like and admire it for so steadfastly being what it is." - James Rocchi, MSN Movies

"With plenty of pulpy action, a pleasantly retro vibe, and a handful of fine performances, Captain America is solidly old-fashioned blockbuster entertainment." - rottentomatoes.com

"Evans, who played the Human Torch in two less-than-fantastic Fantastic Four films, brings such humor, heart and vigor to virtuous Steve that our rooting interest holds even when the action gets to be standard-issue." - Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

"Scrawny Steve is such a guileless and likeable little dude that his sweetness endures long past the super-sizing." - Amy Biancolli, Houston Chronicle

"Captain America's metabolism, Peggy tells him, burns energy four times faster than the average person's. The movie's metabolism burns out." - Joe Morgenstern, Wal Street Journal

"Here's what's missing: tension, drama, and most of all, a sense of wonder. This is a superhero movie, isn't it?" - Tom Horgen, Minneapolis Star Tribune

"A forced love angle and vapid dialogue dooms Captain America." - Laremy Legel, film.com

"Red, white and bland." - Peter Debruge, Variety


Movie Info

Captain America: The First Avenger will focus on the early days of the Marvel Universe when Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) volunteers to participate in an experimental program that turns him into the Super Soldier known as Captain America. As Captain America, Rogers joins forces with Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell) to wage war on the evil HYDRA organization, led by the villainous Red Skull (Hugo Weaving). -- (C) Paramount

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 2 hr. 1 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Action & Adventure

Directed By: Joe Johnston

Written By: Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely

Distributor: Paramount Pictures

Cast
Chris Evans (Captain America / Steve Rogers)
Tommy Lee Jones (Colonel Chester Phillips)
Sebastian Stan (James "Bucky" Barnes)
Hayley Atwell (Peggy Carter)
Hugo Weaving (Johann Schmidt / Red Skull)
Dominic Cooper (Howard Stark)
Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Blitz (Jason Statham, Paddy Considine, Aidan Gillen) in Theatres on July 20, 2011

Blitz (2011)

Audience
Like to See the Movie: 70% (n=1,734)

Critics
Rating: 2.5/5
Like the Movie: 50% (n=22)


Reviews

"It's gritty, down and dirty, and Statham has never been better." - David Edwards, Daily Mirror [UK]

"A rough-cut crime thriller that sees Jason Statham back on familiar turf and doing what he does best." - David Hughes, Empire Magazine

"Ultimately Blitz knows exactly where its strength lies." - Alistair Harkness, Scotsman

"Enjoyable, well acted and smartly directed British thriller that's a huge amount of fun while you're watching it but falls apart the moment you think about it afterwards." - Matthew Turner, ViewLondon

"America, where Statham does the majority of his work these days, seems to appreciate his particular talents. On this evidence, he might want to stick to Hollywood." - Sam Bathe, Fan the Fire

"Statham gives a good account of himself as the no-nonsense Detective Brant, handy with his fists and ready with a wry one-liner, but an unoriginal plot and a general lack of excitement don't do justice to either him or the high-calibre supporting cast." - Trevor Johnston, Radio Times

"It is an unedifying film, slickly directed and photographed, but lacking conviction and much inferior to the police procedurals you can see any night on television." - Philip French, Guardian [UK]

"It's all been seen before and will be seen again, and again." - Dominic Radcliffe, Little White Lies


Movie Info

A fast-paced thriller set in contemporary London, "Blitz" reflects the challenges faced by a group of police officers working in a modern, multi-cultural society. A raw, gritty tale of moral ambiguity, outsiders and the sacrifices the police make to keep crime off British streets.

Rated: R

Running Time: 1 hr. 37 min.

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Drama

Directed By: Elliott Lester

Written By: Ken Bruen, Nathan Parker

Distributor: Lionsgate

Cast
Jason Statham
Luke Evans
David Morrissey
Paddy Considine
Aidan Gillen
Lucas Evans

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II (Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint) in Theatres on July 14, 2011

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II (2011)

Audience
Rating:
Like to See the Movie: 96% (n=120,962)

Critics
Rating: 4.1/5
Like the Movie: 100% (n=20)


Reviews

"This is such an entertaining, beguiling, charming and exciting picture. It reminded me of the thrill I felt on seeing the very first one, 10 years ago." - Peter Bradshaw, Guardian [UK]

"I am a fan of both the books and films and it is sad to say goodbye to the boy wizard so many have grown up with. But at least he gets the send-off he deserves -- with a 3D blast of visual wizardry." - Grant Rollings, Sun Online

"You need a deep grounding in Potter-lore to make the slightest bit of sense out of it, but that won't be a problem for most people who see this film." - Richard Godwin, This is London

"Bear with the slow start and what you get in this bookending instalment's latter two acts is more pathos, exhilaration, and sheer entertainment value than anything else in the entire eight-film, ten-year saga. Potter has certainly saved the best for last." - Shaun Munro, What Culture

"Love, loss, courage, hope and humour -- Deathly Hallows offers them all in what proves a worthy finale to the Potter saga." - Catherine Jones, Liverpool Echo

"An outstanding capper to the most lucrative film franchise of all time." - Todd McCarthy, Hollywood Reporter

"Fusing spectacle and emotion into a thrilling final chapter, director David Yates ensures that the series goes out with a bang. Finales don't come much grander than this." - Richard Jordan, Total Film

"Defined by darker mood and greater gravity than previous chapters, this film concludes the series on a high note that should please viewers and get serious attention as Oscar contender." - Emanuel Levy, emanuellevy.com

"All too soon, in the words of the tagline, 'It All Ends'. Spectacularly. Emotionally. And Wanderfully." - Birmingham Mail

"If you've been a devoted follower of the Potter saga in print and at the movies, you'll come away from this final chapter with a feeling of catharsis and, perhaps, a slightly damp handkerchief." - Alfonso Duralde, The Wrap


Movie Info

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2, is the final adventure in the Harry Potter film series. The much-anticipated motion picture event is the second of two full-length parts. In the epic finale, the battle between the good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalates into an all-out war. The stakes have never been higher and no one is safe. But it is Harry Potter who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice as he draws closer to the climactic showdown with Lord Voldemort. It all ends here. -- (C) Warner Bros.

Rated: PG-13

Running Time: 2 hr. 10 min.

Genre: Drama, Action & Adventure, Kids & Family, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Directed By: David Yates

Written By: Steve Kloves, J.K. Rowling

Distributor: Warner Bros.

Cast
Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter)
Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley)
Emma Watson (Hermione Granger)
Helena Bonham Carter (Bellatrix Lestrange)
Ralph Fiennes (Lord Voldemort)
Michael Gambon (Professor Albus Dumbledore)
Alan Rickman (Professor Severus Snape)
John Hurt (Mr. Ollivander)
Miranda Richardson (Rita Skeeter)
Emma Thompson (Professor Sybil Trelawney)
Fiona Shaw (Petunia Dursley)
Gary Oldman (Sirius Black)
Maggie Smith (Professor Minerva McGonagall)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

"Limitless" (Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro) in Theatres on March 18, 2011

Limitless (2011)

Hazel's
Rating: 3.5/5
Review: When I watched the movie, I was reminded of the time I took the board exams for medical technology... there were people in our review center offering and selling food supplements like Spirulina that could (according to them) improve memory. Of course, I didn't buy (due to my lack of belief of their effectiveness & also fearing the side effects, which the movie also tackled). I like the movie's concept since I also pondered on the thought before... "What could happen if we were able to access and utilize most, if not all, of our brains?" I commend the movie for trying to answer this and exemplified both possible and impossible scenarios, which piqued my interest. By the way, I never recognized Lindy was Sweet Pea of Sucker Punch (which I just watched recently) but if I were taking NZT, I'm sure I would have known it was her hehe =)

Audience
Rating: 3.7/5
Like the Movie: 75% (n=39,925)

Critics
Rating: 3.2/5
Like the Movie: 69% (n=164)


Reviews:

"Limitless hits you like an adrenaline rush that will have you saying, 'I'll have what he's having.'" - Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

"Limitless may not be as brainy as it would like to think it is, but it's a relatively sharp and surprisingly playful head-trip, a satisfyingly novel twist on mindless entertainment." - Tom Charity, CNN.com

"You could pick the script apart for impossibilities. But why bother? It's much more enjoyable to shut your brain off and have a good time." - Christy Lemire, Associated Press

"Although its script is uneven, Neil Burger directs Limitless with plenty of visual panache, and Bradley Cooper makes for a charismatic star." - rottentomatoes.com

"The filmmakers doesn't sweat the fact that Eddie is a chemically enhanced fraud. What scares them is any possibility of alienating the movie's target audience with a downer ending." - Mark Jenkins, NPR

"'Limitless' only uses 15, maybe 20 percent of its brain. Still, that's more than a lot of movies do." - Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

"For a plot about super-intelligent people, the screenplay is surprisingly dumb." - James Berardinelli, ReelViews

"Limitless should be so much smarter than it is." - Kirk Honeycutt, Hollywood Reporter

"Very limited, actually." - David, Denby, New Yorker


Movie Info

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Synopsis: Aspiring author Eddie Morra (Cooper) is suffering from chronic writer's block, but his life changes instantly when an old friend introduces him to NZT, a revolutionary new pharmaceutical that allows him to tap his full potential. With every synapse crackling, Eddie can recall everything he has ever read, seen or heard, learn any language in a day, comprehend complex equations and beguile anyone he meets as long as he keeps taking the untested drug. Soon Eddie takes Wall Street by storm, parlaying a small stake into millions. His accomplishments catch the eye of mega-mogul Carl Van Loon (De Niro),who invites him to help broker the largest merger in corporate history. But they also bring Eddie to the attention of people willing to do anything to get their hands on his stash of NZT. With his life in jeopardy and the drug's brutal side effects grinding him down, Eddie dodges mysterious stalkers, a vicious gangster and an intense police investigation as he attempts to hang on to his dwindling supply long enough to outwit his enemies. -- (C) Relativity

Rated: PG-13 for thematic material involving a drug, violence including disturbing images, sexuality and language

Running Time: 1 hr. 45 min.

Distributor: Relativity Media

Directed By: Neil Burger

Cast
Bradley Cooper (Eddie Morra)
Robert De Niro (Carl Van Loon)
Abbie Cornish (Lindy)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

I Am Number Four in Theatres on February 23, 2011

I Am Number Four (2011)

Hazel's
Rating: 2/5
Review: I just found the script too weird and unrealistic (e.g. Will you just leave your dog to fight off the biggest alien alone, not bothering to help or find out if your beloved pet is still alive? If you really loved a girl, would you bring her with you even if you were chased by dangerous aliens? If powerful aliens were after you, would you just take refuge in a nearby school and just spend your time developing pictures?) Though the effects are nice, the story was just not making any sense. I don't think I'll waste my time and money watching the sequel.

Audience
Rating: 3.6/5
Liked the Movie: 66% (n=50,968)

Critics
Rating: 2.35/5
Liked the Movie: 30% (n=141)


Reviews:

"It deserves an audience Numbering many." - Alex Zane, Sun Online

"I Am Number Four" is like a good episode of "Smallville:" You may feel a bit silly watching it if you're past high-school age, but you just might have a good time." - Randy Cordova, Arizona Republic

"It's positioned as the start of a franchise, but I Am Number Four's familiar plot and unconvincing performances add up to one noisy, derivative, and ultimately forgettable sci-fi thriller." - rottentomatoes.com

"There's a lot going on in 'I Am Number Four,' and very little of it makes sense." - Linda Cook, KWQC-TV (Iowa)

"The script has zero curiosity about any of these characters and their motivations. Why are they here? What are their powers, exactly? If kids just past puberty are such lethal fighters, how did the whole race of them get wiped out?" - Kenneth Morefield, Christianity Today

"The pic's stumbling block is its inability to convince us we're watching someone extraordinary." - Justin Chang, Variety

"The logic is dodgy, and the most frightening aspect is the sequel promised at the end." - Philip French, Guardian (UK)


Movie Info

Genre: Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Synopsis:
Three are dead. He is Number Four. D.J. Caruso ("Eagle Eye," "Disturbia") helms an action-packed thriller about an extraordinary young man, John Smith (Alex Pettyfer), who is a fugitive on the run from ruthless enemies sent to destroy him. Changing his identity, moving from town to town with his guardian Henri (Timothy Olyphant), John is always the new kid with no ties to his past. In the small Ohio town he now calls home, John encounters unexpected, life-changing events-his first love (Dianna Agron), powerful new abilities and a connection to the others who share his incredible destiny. John (Alex Pettyfer) is an extraordinary young man, masking his true identity and passing as a typical student to elude a deadly enemy seeking to destroy him. Three like him have already been killed...he is Number Four. Based on the book by Pittacus Lore.-- (C)Dreamworks

Rated: PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and for brief language

Running Time: 1 hr. 49 min.

Distributor: DreamWorks Studios

Directed By: D.J. Caruso

Written By: Alfred Gough, Miles Millar, Marti Noxon

Cast
Alex Pettyfer (John Smith/Number 4)
Timothy Olyphant (Henri)
Teresa Palmer (Number 6)
Dianna Agron (Sarah)
Callan McAuliffe (Sam)
Kevin Durand (Mogadorian Commander)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

Sucker Punch (Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens) in Theatres on March 25, 2011

Sucker Punch

Hazel's
Rating: 4/5
Review: Whatever the critics say, I love the movie... the concept, the actors, the scenery... awesome! I heard Babydoll is one of the orphans in Jim Carrey's movie "A Series of Unfortunate Events"... better watch that movie too =)

Audience
Rating: 3.4/5
Like the Movie: 62% (n=34,185)

Critics
Rating: 1.95/5
Like the Movie: 20% (n=108)


Reviews

"A wonderfully wild provocation - an imperfect, overlong, intemperate and utterly absorbing romp through the id that I wouldn't have missed for the world." - Betsy Sharkey, Los Angeles Times

"I can't be sure whether it's brilliant or idiotic, although I'm pretty confident it's both, and not always in different places or at different moments." - Andrew O'Hehir, salon.com

"Director Zack Snyder and his production crew clearly had great fun envisioning this swords-and-corsets fantasy. Few others are likely to approach their level of enjoyment." - Mark Jenkins, Washington Post

"It's technically impressive and loaded with eye-catching images, but without characters or a plot to support them, all of Sucker Punch's visual thrills are for naught." - rottentomatoes.com

"Zombie soldiers, dragons, cyborgs, doesn't matter: Snyder is just a big boy with lots of toys. These, unfortunately, include his actresses." - Elizabeth Weitzman, New York Daily News

"If the goal was sensory overload and audience stupefaction, he has succeeded indeed. Snyder apparently is offering lobotomies to all. Step right up." - Tom Long, Detroit News

"Sucker Punch reviews itself with its title -- in fact, it does leave the viewer feeling sucker-punched." - Tom Maurstad, Dallas Morning News


Movie Info

Genre: Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Synopsis: "Sucker Punch" is an epic action fantasy that takes us into the vivid imagination of a young girl whose dream world provides the ultimate escape from her darker reality. Unrestrained by the boundaries of time and place, she is free to go where her mind takes her, and her incredible adventures blur the lines between what's real and what is imaginary. She has been locked away against her will, but Babydoll (Emily Browning) has not lost her will to survive. Determined to fight for her freedom, she urges four other young girls - the reluctant Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish), the outspoken Rocket (Jena Malone), the street-smart Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens) and the fiercely loyal Amber (Jamie Chung) - to band together and try to escape a terrible fate at the hands of their captors, Blue (Oscar Isaac) and Madam Gorski (Carla Gugino), before the mysterious High Roller (Jon Hamm) comes for Babydoll. Led by Babydoll, the girls engage in fantastical warfare against everything from samurais to serpents, with a virtual arsenal at their disposal. Together, they must decide what they are willing to sacrifice in order to stay alive. But with the help of a Wise Man (Scott Glenn), their unbelievable journey - if they succeed - will set them free.. -- (C) Warner Bros

Rated: PG-13 for thematic material involving sexuality, violence and combat sequences, and for language

Running Time: 2 hr.

Distributor: IMAX

Directed By: Zack Snyder

Written By: Zack Snyder

Cast
Emily Browning (Babydoll)
Abbie Cornish (Sweet Pea)
Jena Malone (Rocket)
Vanessa Hudgens (Blondie)
Jamie Chung (Amber)
Oscar Isaac (Blue)
Carla Gugino (Madam Gorski)
Scott Glenn (Wise Man)
Jon Hamm (Doctor, High Roller)


Source: rottentomatoes.com

The Mechanic (Jason Statham, Ben Foster) in Theatres on February 9, 2011

The Mechanic

Audience
Average Rating: 3.5/5
Like the Movie: 61% (n=27,154)

Critics
Average Rating: 2.8/5
Like the Movie: 52% (n=133)


Reviews

"The Mechanic is my kind of action movie: nasty, brutish, brisk and ass-kicking." - Glenn Kenny, MSN Movies

"The interplay between dry Arthur and crazy, caustic Steve is what makes the movie fun." - Mary F. Pols, Time Magazine

"Jason Statham and Ben Foster turn in enjoyable performances, but this superficial remake betrays them with mind-numbing violence and action thriller cliches." - rottentomatoes.com

"Jason Statham needs to get a tune-up, switch gears and hit the gas." - Tom Long, Detroit News

"A sputtering remake in need of a more powerful recharge." - Manohla Dargis, New York Times

"Standard Statham stuff." - Greg Quill, Toronto Star


Movie Info

Genre: Drama, Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense

Synopsis: Arthur Bishop (Jason Statham) is a 'mechanic' - an elite assassin with a strict code and unique talent for cleanly eliminating targets. It's a job that requires professional perfection and total detachment, and Bishop is the best in the business. But when his mentor and close friend Harry (Donald Sutherland) is murdered, Bishop is anything but detached. His next assignment is self-imposed - he wants those responsible dead.

His mission grows complicated when Harry's son Steve (Ben Foster) approaches him with the same vengeful goal and a determination to learn Bishop's trade. Bishop has always acted alone but he can't turn his back on Harry's son. A methodical hit man takes an impulsive student deep into his world and a deadly partnership is born. But while in pursuit of their ultimate mark, deceptions threaten to surface and those hired to fix problems become problems themselves. -- (C) CBS films

Rated: R for strong brutal violence throughout, language, some sexual content and nudity

Running Time: 1 hr. 40 min.

Distributor: CBS Films

Directed By: Simon West

Written By: Karl Gajdusek

Cast
Jason Statham (Arthur Bishop)
Ben Foster (Steve McKenna)
Donald Sutherland (Harry McKenna)
Tony Goldwyn (Dean Sanderson)
Jeff Chase (Burke)
Mini Anden (Sarah)

Source: rottentomatoes.com

The Rite (Anthony Hopkins, Colin O'Donoghue) in Theatres on February 2, 2011

The Rite


Audience
Rating: 3.4/5
Like the Movie: 57% (n=24,052)

Critics
Rating: 2.05/5
Like the Movie: 17% (n=99)


Reviews

"The fact this Anthony Hopkins led movie is based on a true story makes the implications more intense and the possibilities scarier." - Jackie K. Cooper, jackiekcooper.com

"Hafstrom creates a nice, creepy vibe, especially for the first part of the movie, which has a menacing atmosphere." - Bill Goodykoontz, Arizona Republic

"Anthony Hopkins is as excellent as ever, but he's no match for The Rite's dawdling pace and lack of chills -- or Colin O'Donoghue's tentative performance in the leading role." - rottentomatoes.com

"A horror film that goes nowhere very, very slowly." - Tom Horgen, Minneapolis Star Tribune

"A so-called horror movie dull enough to have been produced for the Catholic cable channel." - John Beifuss, Commercial Appeal

"The Rite commits the supreme sin of making the devil dull." - Owen Gleiberman, Entertainment Weekly


Movie Info

Genre: Mystery & Suspense, Drama

Synopsis: "The battle against the Devil, which is the principal task of Saint Michael the Archangel, is still being fought today, because the Devil is still alive and active in the world." -Pope John Paul II "The Rite" is a supernatural thriller that uncovers the Devil's reach to even one of the holiest places on Earth. Inspired by true events, the film follows seminary student Michael Kovak (Colin O'Donoghue), who is sent to study exorcism at the Vatican in spite of his own doubts about the controversial practice and even his own faith. Wearing his deep skepticism like armor, Michael challenges his superiors to look to psychiatry, rather than demons, in treating the possessed. Only when he's sent to apprentice with the unorthodox Father Lucas (Anthony Hopkins)--a legendary priest who has performed thousands of exorcisms--does Michael's armor begin to fall. As he is drawn into a troubling case that seems to transcend even Father Lucas's skill, he begins to glimpse a phenomenon science can't explain or control...and an evil so violent and terrifying that it forces him to question everything he believes. Directed by Mikael Håfström ("1408"), "The Rite" stars Oscar (R) winner Anthony Hopkins ("Silence of the Lambs"), Colin O'Donoghue in his feature film debut, Alice Braga ("Predators"), Toby Jones ("Frost/Nixon"), with Ciarán Hinds ("Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2"), and Rutger Hauer ("Batman Begins," "Blade Runner"). Beau Flynn and Tripp Vinson ("The Exorcism of Emily Rose") produced the film under their Contrafilm banner. The screenplay is by Michael Petroni ("The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader"), suggested by the book by Matt Baglio. Richard Brener, Merideth Finn and Robert Bernacchi serve as executive producers, with Mark Tuohy co-producing. New Line Cinema presents, a Contrafilm production, a Mikael Håfström film, "The Rite." The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. -- (C) Warner Bros.

Rated: PG-13 for disturbing thematic material, violence, frightening images, and language including sexual references

Running Time: 1 hr. 52 min.

Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures/New Line Cinema

Directed By: Mikael Håfstrom

Written By: Matt Baglio, Michael Petroni

Cast
Anthony Hopkins (Father Lucas Trevant)
Colin O'Donoghue (Michael Kovak)
Alice Braga (Angeline)
Toby Jones (Father Matthew)
Ciarán Hinds (Father Xavier)
Rutger Hauer (Istvan Kovak)

Source: www.rottentomatoes.com