Transformer

Having never read the book by Louis Sachar (young adult Newberry award winner), I was quite itchy to know what exactly holes were being dug for. Can seem slow and a bit frustrating at times, but the ending is quite rewarding and a joyous tearjerker, a total culmination. There is history to be explored along with present-day scenes. Not a fan of Arquette in general, however, she is excellent in Holes; she becomes the role. Though she is not seen often, she consumes the screen in her scenes. Voigt and Weaver are fresh, and great casting overall, including Winkler, who almost seems like a cameo. Thrilled to see that the screenplay was penned by the books' author: how refreshing! Sweet story. Family movie for sure. Would also make a good date movie.

Ahhhh, the 80's teen movie, when killer soundtracks were known for their ability to introduce you to new music. A young, hot post-Mask Stoltz, a perky butch pre-Fried Green Tomatoes Mary Stuart Masterson and a VERY 80's Leah Thompson... The best scene is the kiss in the garage, of course. I won't spoil the ending, it's joyous yet it is sad to see it end, as I wish we could all witness more of the young relationship blossom. A SKoW 2 would be fabulous, even now. It's 15 years later, have the pair married? Did they experience first love and then part amicably? Have they lost touch? This is a couple you can actually care about. They're so damn likable!

Good movie, for sure, great character development, especially. But it's the combination of right-on direction and score which make this movie as moving as it is. A well-directed scene can move one to great joy, or tears, but the accompaniment of perfect composition, at the perfect time, is its own brilliant collaboration.