Reviews!

Ah, the beauty of NetFlix, with the ability to rent a wide array of diverse movies, the likes of which your local Blockbuster doesn't carry. (Primarily based on supply and demand.. the moronic masses demand their next cinematic experience to be along the lines of Big Momma's House or White Chicks)... but NetFlix allows me to pull out an old gem like Pickup on South Street. Directed by filmmaker Samuel Fuller and starring the always great Richard Widmark, this oddly heartening film steals some of the trappings of noir put twists them, so that the female lead (Jean Peters) plays a goodhearted girl who's "been around" but still believes in the goodness in pickpocket Widmark. The movie is spare, at only 80 minutes running time, but that is one of the reason's I enjoy these older films; far less padding than in many of todays flicks. Highly recommended, but not a must see, by any means. If you're looking for pure noir, look elsewhere.






Capote was great. I read the accolades, hear from anyone who saw it, and can only confirm their opinion. Great story, superb acting (even by the smaller character roles, such as Bob Balaban as Capote's editor). Philip Seymour Hoffman and Catherine Keener are a joy to watch, even in bleak roles. Watch it if you haven't already.



I already own the first 2 X-Men movies (hello, comic geek here!) I really wanted to like this movie, and I had low expectations going in. The level of expectation I carried in was very low, and sadly the film couldn't even hit that mark. Some nice moments with Beast, and an early scene with Mystique were entertaining, but I wouldn't even know where to begin in regards to the faults. Overstuffed with face but not developed characters, the removal of one of the best actors (Patrick Stewart) fairly early on) and some piss poof costume design (seriously, it looks like both Magneto and Juggernauts helmets were made out of paper mache'! It was watchable, and the Amazon price was good, but unless you are a geek who owns the first 2, give it a watch but don't bother buying. (I did stick with the basic DVD, not the one loaded with "Extras" and a comic... I have some restraint!

Back later with an update on the Rugers Football team's efforts to continue their undefeated run to start the season... and let's hope the Mets can rebound from last night's debacle. I've stuck up for Gritty/gutty Steve Traschel, so let's hope he proves me right tonight.