BlackSox1919

You've seen this movie. No new ground is trod here, nothing that is going to change the world. At times, it seems like a paint-by-numbers comedy that has been done to death. That said, it is a very enjoyable little excursion that keeps reality at bay for a couple of hours. Coming out of the film, my wife and I formulated the opinion that this film would appeal to married people more so than the date night teenagers towards whom most summer films are marketed. Any wife who has ever been mystified by her husband's inexplicable love of chicken wings and televised sporting events will appreciate the film, and any man who has ever been torn between his wedding vows and the almighty Guy Code will dig it as well. The bottom line is, don't go expecting this movie to change your life. Just enjoy it. Kate Hudson is adorable, Matt Dillon still carries considerable hunk appeal, and Owen Wilson does his standard schtick. But it all turns out well in the end. Well worth the $8.

Let me start by saying that I've never read the book, probably won't, I don't buy the whole conspiracy, and I'm an Anglican Catholic (sort of English Orthodox). That said. I enjoyed the movie. I didn't think it was a cinematic triumph or anything, but it was a solidly entertaining film. I liked Hanks and Tautou in their roles, I felt it was a pretty engaging whodunit, and my only real complaint is that it felt just a twitch too long.

It's a movie, folks. It isn't going to change the world, or rock the foundations of anything. It's just a movie. Get yourself some popcorn (layered butter, of course), and just enjoy it.

A tightly-plotted thriller that is self-aware enough to play upon the expectations of its audience without pandering. Deftly hints at various red herrings without letting the plot become unfocused. Everything that happens makes sense, and there is nothing that comes out of nowhere for the sake of the oh-so typical "twist" at the end. In fact, even though the ending could be considered somewhat of a surprise, it does make perfect sense and isn't forced or fashionably ironic. The young cast does a great job with the very taut storyline, and the direction is excellent. I'd like to see this one get the attention it deserves while still in the theaters, but it should definitely take off on DVD.