Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues

Release Date: Dec 18, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 59 min. 
Director: Adam McKay 
Cast: Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, David Koechner, Christina Applegate, Meagan Good, James Marsden, Kristen Wiig.

Nine years ago, one man changed the face of broadcasting. He read the news, he did it well – and he looked good doing it, too. His name was Ron Burgundy, the pride of San Di-a-go. Lover of scotchy scotch-scotch and a friend to Baxter, he had it all: the woman, the hair, the fame. But all legends must gradually come to an end, and regrettably, the time has come for this well-coiffed anchor. Be it, having fan expectations after a lengthy hiatus, it's hard to look past any indicative flaws. The comedy, for one, is surprisingly unsteady, choppy and incoherent even for its outrageous nature. Sure, it has its moments of nostalgic restitution – remnants of the first film that are lovingly unforgettable. But these in no way outweigh the inescapable bad – forced dialogues of humor as awkward as Brick's ability to think. The extension of characters (Marsden, Good, or Wiig) offer no further consolation, albeit cameos run a dozen in the latter half of the film. One cameo in particular, for which I'll purposely leave unnamed, should stick to their day job if only for the betterment of this world. The story, moreover, is not that different from the first, although it does call upon other stereotypes, ie. race, in the workplace. The great thing about the first "Anchorman" was its incessant staying power, getting better with each viewing and, therefore, more memorable. Maybe in time the sequel can simulate to that effect, but for now it's best to just forgive and forget.

Rating: 2 stars

Oldboy

Release Date: Nov 27, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 58 min. 
Director: Spike Lee 
Cast: Josh Brolin, Elizabeth Olsen, Sharlto Copley, James Ransone, Samuel L. Jackson.

It's one thing to remake a movie and another to remake a cult classic, especially one as revered as "Oldboy," the ground-breaking Korean film based on the Japanese manga. Highly provocative and morally vexing, the original bore no limits when it came to glorifying the violence through the twisted mind of Park Chan Wook. Nevertheless, Spike Lee attempts to brave the impossible and inevitably suffers the common case of déjà vu. In both versions, "Oldboy" tells of a man imprisoned for many odd years only to be released inexplicably to track down his captor. A story doused in mystery and suspense, it's a gripping tale of revenge with an unexpected ending. And here lies the problem that hinders the remake, any element of surprise gone which belittles its sole purpose. Though some details are spared to adapt to a new audience, not much has changed or, more importantly, been improved upon. What made Park's adaptation so arrestingly poignant was its graphic nature and inclusion of metaphors. Lee, on the other hand, has little else to offer, other than a multi-floor hammer scene that still feels inferior. The casting, fortunately, is its only saving grace, as Brolin has epitomized tormented souls for what feels like half of his career (ie. "No Country for Old Men" and "True Grit.") Sharlto Copley continues his turn as villain, mirroring the soft-spoken tormentor played so brilliantly by Yoo Ji Tae. Together they strive towards a resolute ending, each with their own goal and provocation. But in the end it all feels anticlimactic, even with the alteration that perceivably gives some closure. Maybe to unbiased viewers the film will have its merits but to loyalists who were doubtful, there's really not much to see.

Rating: 2 stars

G.I. Joe: Retaliation

Release Date: Mar 28, 2013  
Runtime: 1 hr. 39 min. 
Director: Jon M. Chu 
Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Channing Tatum, Adrianne Palicki, D.J. Cotrona, Lee Byung Hun, Jonathan Pryce, Ray Park, Bruce Willis.

Sequels are typically excuses for profitable second chances. Even for those as trivial as action figure heroes bred back in the 60's. But is it still a sequel if the main cast is essentially obliterated? That's for us to deduce and, honestly, not care about. "G.I. Joe" gets the evasive makeover with a new director and cast, sustaining few characters while dispatching the rest. Adding to the group is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who apparently has joined every franchise out there within arm's reach. Continuing from the conclusion of "Rise of Cobra," "Retaliation" is, for all intents and purposes, a sequel. Sticking to the same foolproof formula of explosions and gunfights, it's a no brainer when it comes to full-fledged action over any given substance. The icing on the cake is the array of ninjas, high-flying and deadly as any kid's fantasy. Yet through it all, the plot seems more lackadaisical than the first, feeling disjointed and cheesier than already could be imagined. Sure, "Cobra" was no award-winner in its quest for world domination, but it was entertaining to say the least and fun in a blameless sort of way. "Retaliation," alternatively, seems vexing at times, trying too hard to be contemporary in its wit and humor. And despite the commemorative introduction of the infamous Cobra Commander, his actual presence is minimal during the hostile takeover. Most will argue that this is a movie designed virtually for the kid at heart, not to be taken seriously because, hey, it's cool. But given the track record of recent Hasbro productions, I'd rather take my chances with the next "Transformers" sequel.

Rating: 2 stars

 

Gangster Squad

Release Date: Jan 11, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min. 
Director: Ruben Fleischer 
Cast: Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Sean Penn, Emma Stone, Anthony Mackie, Robert Patrick, Giovanni Ribisi, Nick Nolte, Michael Peña.

Take "Public Enemies" with a dose of "Ocean's Eleven" and you have yourself "Gangster Squad," a crime thriller with a tendency for humor. And that's basically what it is, a hodgepodge of sorts, not too serious but not meant to be all that funny. So what makes it your run-of-the-mill, shoot-to-kill gangster movie? Tommy guns, of course. Set in Los Angeles during the early 50's, ex-boxer Mickey Cohen is hell bent on taking over the city by any means necessary. Left with no other choice but to fight violence with violence, Sgt. John O'Mara puts together a squad of tough individuals to take down the notorious crime boss, and save their domain from further corruption. Josh Brolin leads the cast of well-known individuals, including the likes of Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Robert Patrick and Giovanni Ribisi. But such talents are no match for a slack screenplay that boasts cheesy dialogue; rather, gunning for the glitz and glam of old Hollywood interspersed by a barrage of gunfire. And there's not a whole lot of intensity, save for Sean Penn's curmudgeonly stares, that keeps the film active or attention-grabbing. Its glossy appearance is only appreciated when its attractive stars strut around, namely Gosling and Stone who reunite for another tête-à-tête. But even they can't keep the chemistry alive when there's not much of a story to build upon. While the blame can be partially placed on the able-minded screenwriter, one can't neglect the credibility of the director. As Fleischer's previous and only two films were both comedies, one of which was the ingenious "Zombieland," it's obvious where there lies the discrepancy. Admitted, it's not that easy to switch over in genres, it still feels like a loss when it comes to the cast and what could have been. Nevertheless, "Gangster Squad" does have some slick scenes, or two. You'll just have to bare with the rest to get through it.

Rating: 2 stars

Snow White and the Huntsman

Release Date: Jun 01, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 7 min.

Director: Rupert Sanders 

Cast: Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Ian McShane.

We all know that fairy tales are make-believe — awakening our imagination as far as the mind can take us. But when a tale is this bland and farfetched that believing is close to impossible, it's easy to imagine something greater. In a dark retelling of the Brothers Grimm classic, Rupert Sanders presents a visual showpiece. Emblazoned with ravens, and oozing with liquid gold, the film is as infernally enchanting as that of Guillermo del Toro. But the similarities end there, as the story and cast do little to quash the weaknesses. Kristen Stewart as the titled heroine is as belittling as you'd expect her. Stoic and emotionless, her "Twilight" days are indistinguishable from the 'fierce' warrior she seemingly portrays in the film. The same can be said for the Huntsman, played by reigning demigod, Chris Hemsworth. Unlike "Thor," his personality here is as rigid as the ax he wields in battle, and it's hard to believe that his affection for Snow White is anything but that of self-pity. In contrast, Charlize Theron gives a worthy performance as the wicked queen, Ravenna. Whilst her bloodcurdling screams are recurrently over-the-top, her sinister demeanor sets the tone of the film, and it's this exaggerated performance that can be construed as its saving grace — or postponement of its imminent failure. Granted, this isn't an ideal adaptation, "Snow White and the Huntsman" still fairs better than "Mirror Mirror," as if that comes of any surprise.

Rating: 2 stars

American Reunion

Release Date: Apr 06, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min. 

Director: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg 

Cast: Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Seann William Scott, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Eugene Levy, Tara Reid, Mena Suvari, John Cho, Jennifer Coolidge.

In 1999, one movie changed the fate of baked goods forever. Raunchy, uncensored, and crudely entertaining, "American Pie" helped pave the way for teen comedies alike; including two moderate sequels, and the rather unmentionable direct-to-dvd's. But like most things you own in high school, you tend to outgrow them, and that's exactly what happens here in "Reunion." Despite thirteens years in between the first film and now, the characters and scenarios really haven't changed much. Jim is still getting caught in compromising positions, and Stifler is still...well, Stifler. It's the nostalgia that draws you in, but ultimately lets you down, like a long-running gag that's tirelessly been depleted. With familiar antics and lewdness as before, the sequel loses any form of novelty the fourth time around. This is keeping in mind the return of the entire cast, many of whom were absent in the last two rounds. Fortunately, as it's worth mentioning, Eugene Levy as Jim's dad continues to be the comic scapegoat. His unconventional fathering methods have always been the highlight of the "Pie" series, and the same can be said for this entry. If we've learned anything from his words of wisdom, it's that everything happens naturally. And likewise, this franchise has essentially run its course.

Rating: 2 stars

This Means War

Release Date: Feb 17, 2012

Runtime: 2 hr.

Director: McG 

Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, Tom Hardy, Til Schweiger, Chelsea Handler.

Take a ladies' man, a suave Brit, and one single female and you get a love triangle fit for disaster. Or rather, the spy comedy aptly titled "This Means War." From director McG, the mind behind the garish "Charlie's Angels" reboot, comes a rom-com that seeks the thrills but falters on premise. Starring the easy-on-the-eyes Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine and Tom Hardy, the film does no wrong in flaunting the looks and pairings of a likable cast. This includes the uninhibited humor of Chelsea Handler who, by default, steals the show when she's not inebriated. But underneath the layers of espionage and romance is a jumbled plot line that forgoes any logic, and haphazardly works to create a means of indifference. Pine and Hardy play the two spies respectively, neither more developed than the other. And it comes as a surprise to see Hardy take on such a banal role when he's capable of so much more, ie. "Warrior." It goes without saying that Witherspoon's character ends up with one of them, whether you care or not. The reason of why is another thing left untold, like who is FDR? Either way, while "This Means War" is by no standards a 'great' romantic comedy, it's good enough...if by 'good' you mean okay.

Rating: 2 stars

Haywire

Release Date: Jan 20, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 32 min. 

Director: Steven Soderbergh 

Cast: Gina Carano, Michael Douglas, Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender, Channing Tatum, Michael Angarano, Bill Paxton, Antonio Banderas.

Jason Bourne gets the feminine touch in Steven Soderbergh's "Haywire." Starring Gina Carano as Mallory Kane, she plays a lethal contractor who gets duped by the very firm that hired her. Filled with a talented cast, including the newly popular Michael Fassbender, the film has all the workings of a bonafide thriller. But while the trailer over-promises action and amped-up revenge, the reality is admittedly far less exciting, and here's where the problem begins. Soderbergh obviously meant this to be a starring vehicle for Carano, whose name and looks are distinguished in the MMA world. That being said, she can dish out a punch like any pro and make it believable, unlike most actresses who have trained all of their lives. But pair that with her novice acting abilities and you get a far less convincing performance that deadens an already serpentine plot line. Her robotic voice and expression do little to justify her role as an assassin, let alone give her much personality onscreen. Likewise, the fight scenes, while substantial and realistic, seem out of place in the ghostly silence that surrounds them. Mix that with an odd "Ocean's Eleven" vibe and conventional story line, and it's not difficult to see where it all went wrong. But Soderbergh is sought after in the film industry for a reason, and he'll have plenty of opportunities at redemption. Hopefully his next project, "Magic Mike," will have more up its sleeve than just dollar bills.

Rating: 2 stars

Green Lantern

Release Date: Jun 17, 2011  

Runtime: 1 hr. 45 min.  

Director: Martin Campbell  

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Tim Robbins, Jay O. Sanders. 

For years, Marvel has dominated the multiplex, capitalizing on the success of a genre that has grown beyond the tradition of standard films and comic books alike. Having said that, it seems befitting that DC Comics returns to the big screen with one of its most popular heroes to date. Enter Hal Jordan: a cocky test pilot who is bestowed with a ring that grants the possessor limitless control of green energy, also known as ‘willpower.’ As part of an intergalactic group called the “Green Lantern Corps,” he is tasked to overcome fear, and subsequently, save his world from destruction against an enemy encompassed by fear itself. Like many adaptations before it, “Green Lantern” begins at its origins, giving a detailed account of this elite force. Among the selected is Ryan Reynolds as our green-clad hero, who turns on his characteristic charm and wisecrack attitude for a role that seems tailormade for him. Similar to “Thor,” the film relies heavily on CGI, creating striking visuals that are saturated with color and enhanced by special effects. To any fan of the comic, this is a movie that plays by the book, offering up major characters and villains that appear over the course of the series. But unfortunately, as the story moves quicker than it should, it suffers the fate of the “Fantastic Four,” and plot holes are just one of many that make it disappointingly lackluster. While unexplained details contribute to choppy editing, the underdevelopment of characters is the real crux of the matter, making them appear merely as cutouts against a computerized backdrop. Additionally, such limitless power seems wasted when up against a villain that resembles little more than a volcanic cloud. In any case, “Green Lantern” manages to visually entertain enough, and sets up what could be an improved sequel. Until then, prepare to avenge with Marvel's next entry, “Captain America.”

Rating: 2 stars

Your Highness

Release Date: Apr 08, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 42 min. 

Director: David Gordon Green 

Cast: Danny R. McBride, James Franco, Natalie Portman, Rasmus Hardiker, Zooey Deschanel, Justin Theroux.

From the director of “Pineapple Express” comes the latest raunchfest that takes us back to medieval times. When men in tights and damsels in distress are a dime a dozen, and phony accents are an easy source for laughter. "Your Highness" tells the tale of two brothers who embark on a quest to save the virginal bride-to-be from the evil sorcerer, Leezar. Danny McBride and James Franco reteam on screen as the royally dysfunctional pair, bringing their comedic chops to a seemingly effortless comedy. But as their journey gets hindered by obstacles and misfortune, so do the jokes, regrettably. Much like a high school play, the lines come off as rehearsed, while the humor tapers into the absurd. Overuse of profanity and nudity do little to mask out the thin storyline that oftentimes feels tedious, juvenile and contrived. While the trailer shows ample promise, the hilarity that ensues the first half quickly fizzles in the second act. But laugh you will, if not by much. If Courtney's hair doesn't do it for you, 'get your quest on' with "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" instead.

Rating: 2 stars

Sanctum

Release Date: Feb 04, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 43 min. 

Director: Alister Grierson 

Cast: Richard Roxburgh, Rhys Wakefield, Ioan Gruffudd, Alice Parkinson, Daniel Wyllie.

Boasting the title card of 'Executive Produced by James Cameron,' “Sanctum” forays into the unexplored depths of cave diving, where fate lies within an oxygen tank and nerves of steel. But credentials may not be everything, as the film fizzles and drowns under the weight of pressure. Starring a relatively unknown cast, aside from Richard Roxburgh and Iaon Gruffudd, the story, by default, relies on its striking surroundings and nifty camera work. The 3-D, while no “Avatar,” does help immerse you in the environment and tension, despite being nauseating at times. The main problems rest in the acting that is laughable, and the unappealing personalities of all the characters. Apart from being annoying and unwise, their lack of back-story does little to garner sympathy from the audience. By the end, you feel indifference towards who survives or doesn’t. While comparable to “The Descent,” the isolation and claustrophobia are the extent of similarities. For once, hidden monsters and terror would have been welcomed instead of a tepid thriller that does little to spike the heart rate. But again, this is only 'Executive Produced by James Cameron.'

Rating: 2 stars

MacGruber

Release Date: May 21, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 39 min. 

Director: Jorma Taccone 

Cast: Will Forte, Kristen Wiig, Ryan Phillippe, Val Kilmer, Powers Boothe. 

After a hiatus of SNL skit-turned-movies, there is a new hero in town by the name of “MacGruber.” He’s highly trained, highly awarded…and a total case for disaster. Like many SNL members before him, Will Forte steps into his first lead role as a spoof of the tv character MacGyver. Known for his stylish mullet and tendency to get sidetracked, MacGruber never [always] fails to disarm a bomb. Unfortunately, we don’t get a glimpse of the skit format until the very end. Unlike “Austin Powers,” which relied heavily on absurdity and puns, this film primarily focuses on crude jokes and exterior exposure to get the audience laughing. It does provide humor at times, but the main character does little to appear appealing or likable. In lieu of this, Kristen Wiig does a great job in offering some consolation as the trusty sidekick, Vicki St. Elmo. Nevertheless, this is one film that’s acquired through multiple viewings rather than enjoyed the first time around. 

Rating: 2 stars

Shrek Forever After

Release Date: May 21, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 33 min. 

Director: Mike Mitchell 

Cast: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Julie Andrews. 

When “Shrek” first emerged in 2001, it was clever, humorous and contemporary. Its sequel was equally entertaining, while the third, not so much. Needless to say, the fourth and final chapter proves to be no different. The repetitive nature of the script and overly outdated jokes keep this film from reaching new ground. While the premise of “what if” seemed promising at first, the story quickly becomes formulaic, even going as far as borrowing ideas from the second film. Perhaps the only redeeming quality is the nature of the characters and their ability to evolve. This time around, we find Shrek as a ‘family man’ who feels nostalgic of his days as a liberated ogre. He’s certainly grown into the role, even if he’s just a green and animated version of Mike Meyers. The opening sequence is jumbled and accelerated, though it at least gives some sense of time lapse. Then, the story unfolds in a typical manner until at last, like any fairytale, there’s nothing else to do but say, “the end.” Let’s just hope DreamWorks learns from this and stops at two for future outings. 

Rating: 2 stars

Clash of the Titans

Release Date: Apr 02, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min. 

Director: Louis Leterrier 

Cast: Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Jason Flemyng, Gemma Arterton. 

Remakes are the current trend, which makes it no surprise that “Clash of the Titans” follows suit. With advancements in computer graphics, this should have bested the original by a mile but sadly, doesn’t gain much momentum. When the title character barely has dialogue in the beginning of the film, you know the story’s already in trouble. Consequently, this should signal some epic battle scenes, but even then is it only mediocre. The story moves so quickly that no details are spared and scenes are lazily mashed together. The special effects are no better, with Medusa looking faker than, well, the Kraken. Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes, as Zeus and Hades respectively, add no star power other than wearing glittery outfits and running through their lines. Much has changed from the original so don't expect a true remake. It's a film on its own but hardly a good one at that. 

Rating: 2 stars

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

Release Date: Jun 24, 2009 

Runtime: 2 hr. 30 min. 

Director: Michael Bay 

Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, Kevin Dunn.

Michael Bay wasn't joking when he said he was going to add double the explosions, action scenes and robots. I really wish he was though. The first hour is instant pandemonium, robots fighting here and there and Megan Fox in all her glory. You couldn't concentrate on a single aspect of the film which may have helped people from realizing that the story was absolute gibberish. Only then did it get slightly better when things slowed down a bit, if that's even possible. In comparison to the first film, the Autobots are more agressive and badass this time around, even if they're still outnumbered 10 to 1 by Decepticons. Some new robots are questionable, ie. The Twins, but the addition of Devastator is quite awesome. I just wish there was more of a cohesive plot to follow rather than overdosing on special effects, some of which was absolutely unnecessary. Even the acting was a bit over the top. Megan Fox, you are not a dramatic actress. At least John Turturro returned to lighten the mood. Until next time: Autobots, roll out! 

Rating: 2 stars

The Twilight Saga: New Moon

Release Date: Nov 20, 2009 

Runtime: 2 hr. 1 min. 

Director: Chris Weitz 

Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Billy Burke, Peter Facinelli, Kellan Lutz, Nikki Reed, Ashley Greene, Rachelle Lefevre.

Already gathering acclaim at the box office, the second installment of the "Twilight" series shows little but some improvement. Yes, the dialogue is cheesy and the acting questionable. But every once in awhile it comes off as humorous which helps balance out the teenage angst. Kristen Stewart spends a great deal of time moping around and being awkward so any form of relief is nice. Director Chris Weitz stuck pretty close to the book this time around but deviated away from the world Catherine Hardwicke created on an even lower budget. Because of this, the film appeared flat in some scenes and the music sounded too conventional. The action sequences were better choreographed from what little was actually in the book. Still, unless you're a die-hard fan, these films will do nothing but make you feel queasy. All this mushy romance and longing are suitable for teenage girls...and Twi-moms. 

Rating: 2 stars

2012

Release Date: Nov 13, 2009 

Runtime: 2 hr. 38 min. 

Director: Roland Emmerich 

Cast: John Cusack, Amanda Peet, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandie Newton, Oliver Platt.

Seems like Emmerich was saving all the best, and worst, for last when he decided to end the world. According to the Mayan calendar, the world as we know it ceases to exist in 2012 and that may be for the best if movies become this formulaic. Despite impending doom, the people were backdrops rather than the focus of the storyline. The main characters somehow inexplicably avoided attacks thrown by mother nature, always escaping in the most impossible manner. At one point, I literally cried out, "seriously?," before remembering that this is, in fact, a movie. The special effects, however, were pretty mind-blowing. They were like all of Emmerich's movies combined and then packed with steroids. If it weren't for the amazing catastrophes, it would have just been a bunch of people running around with bad dialogue. But don't worry, he plans on spinning a tv series off of this so you can relive the adventure every week. Who said the end of the world had to be dreary. 

Rating: 2 stars

Surrogates

Release Date: Sep 25, 2009 

Runtime: 1 hr. 29 min. 

Director: Jonathan Mostow 

Cast: Bruce Willis, Radha Mitchell, Rosamund Pike, Boris Kodjoe, James Ginty.

Think “iRobot” meets “Minority Report” and you get a futuristic, sci-fi thriller called “Surrogates.” As the name implies, people use androids to vicariously live their lives until one day, they start getting picked-off one by one. Enter Bruce Willis (with hair) to save the day. While the concept is highly entertaining, the film itself never really takes off in terms of action. The plot moves steadily and easily thanks to its predictable nature. With most of the actors portraying robots, the acting can get stale after awhile. The film could have greatly benefited from more character and story development since it only clocked in at 89 minutes. But glad that Willis is back to doing what he does best. Getting beat up and stopping bad guys. 

Rating: 2 stars

Funny People

Release Date: Jul 31, 2009 

Runtime: 2 hr. 16 min.

Director: Judd Apatow 

Cast: Adam Sandler, Seth Rogen, Leslie Mann, Eric Bana, Jonah Hill.

Apatow's third attempt at directing comes with high anticipation, following his sleeper hits "The 40-Year Old Virgin" and "Knocked Up." Unfortunately, third time isn't quite the charm, even with such star power as Adam Sandler. Despite the story being of a comedian struggling to overcome a life-threatening illness, it’s difficult to empathize with him or any of the other characters. There seems to be a lack of real growth; life lessons being neither learned nor resolved. While stand-up was an integral part of the film, it wasn’t up to the level I’m used to seeing of these actors. Most of the time the humor was dry and forced; sometimes even being uncomfortable and tedious to watch. Some of the best moments came with the variety of cameos that played well into the context of the film. Furthermore, Eric Bana shows his comedic (and very Aussie) side as the hot-tempered husband of Leslie Mann. All in all, I’d say the film is disappointing, though I do give credit to Apatow for pursuing a different type of movie. I just prefer his other style which he seems better acquainted with. 

Rating: 2 stars

Terminator Salvation

Release Date: May 21, 2009 

Runtime: 2 hr. 10 min. 

Director: McG 

Cast: Christian Bale, Sam Worthington, Anton Yelchin, Moon Bloodgood, Bryce Howard.

Despite the inevitable occurrence of Judgement Day, the film conceived causes uneasiness rather than contentment. We open on a desolate landscape that has been rampaged by machines and thus, setting up the backdrop for the rest of the film. While there are two character stories moving in parallel, there seems to be lack of much development or emotion. Aside from this depression is an abundant amount of explosions and deaths to keep the viewer distracted from noticing any of this. Sam Worthington, as the hybrid cyborg, pretty much owns this film, casting John Conner in a dim light. Though a bit confusing, the predestination paradox that was brought up in "The Terminator" keeps the story on a continuity, as well as the fate of John Conner himself. The last 30 minutes is where I felt the most connection to the first two films, bringing in recognizable elements and suspense. Interestingly enough, in the end, the only empathy you feel is towards a machine rather than the resistance. I say the next sequel, we just keep it at ahnold vs. the machines. 

Rating: 2 stars