Blue-Ray dvd movie review of Babylon A.D.

It was not a good start for Babylon A.D. when the director of the movie trashed the film and its distributor. Director Mahtieu Kassovitz blasted 20th century fox and the producers for not allowing him to edit or shoot way he wanted to. He told several media outlets that the film is "pure violence and stupidity." He likened the film to a bad episode of 24. Being a fan of 24, I'd have to say 24 is far superior this clunker of movie.

The movie is about a mercenary named Toorop, played by Vin Diesel, being hired to deliver a girl to United States. The setting is few decades into the future. Toorop has to deliver Aurora and her companion to New York City from a convent located near Mongolia. There are some other people that get in the way. Ultimately, they make it to New York City. Most viewers will immediately surmise that there is something special about the girl. You find out toward the very end what she is and why she is wanted. The movie tag line says "Save the world." From what? The world looks little bleak and more violent but what's the real problem? Has the terrorist won? What's going on? None of these questions are fully explained. The film makers and script writers do very poor job of world building.

You can compare this movie to the excellent move by Alfonso Cuaron's Children of Men. There are similarities between the films. But, Children of Men is far superior movie. It has very tight plot as well as great acting. Even though we are not treated the the front end of the story, we can accept the premise of the film. I could not with Babylon A.d. The one decent aspect of Babylon A.D. was the action sequence. It was pretty good with decent CGI in some parts. The parkor action sequence was extremely cheesy. Other than that, the action was fairly good.

The movie misses the mark completely. It had very interesting premise and plot to derive from. A science fiction with moral tale. So many great science fiction films like Blade Runner succeeds where Babylon A.D. fails. I don't know what the director could have done to save this mess but he certainly could not have butchered it any worse.

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Blu-Ray disc movie review of Eagle Eye

Shia Labeouf, D.J. Caruso, and Steven Spielberg once again team up to bring a rather entertaining movie. The three collaborated on Disturbia with D.J. Caruso directing and Steven Spielberg producing. Being a big Spielberg fan, I almost always enjoy any film directed or produced by Spielberg. Disturbia was fairly decent thriller on its own. Eagle eye, while fun, is not something you'd take seriously. It's aimed at summer popcorn movie crowd and it delivers as an entertaining flick.

The film opens with Jerry, played by Shia Labeouf, finding large sum of money deposited into account. Jerry is a smart slacker who goes from job to job and lives on pay check by pay check. He withdraws some and heads home. There, he finds all kinds of weapons, bomb ingredient and generally all the things a terrorist might possess. He immediately receives a phone call warning him about impending FBI arrival. He is taken into custody. There he gets another call from this stranger instructing him on how to escape. Meanwhile, Rahcel Holloman receives a phone call from same woman instructing her to do pick up Jerry or there would be harm done to her son. This is the start of series of instruction they must follow in order to avoid death.

On the surface it seems like a simple terrorist plot. But, it's little more complicated than terrorist plot. The plot, is not that important as most of the viewers will figure out what's going on. It's the fun ride to the destination that makes this film entertaining. Just remember that it is a fiction and not something you should scrutinize.

The overall acting is what you would expect from Shia Labeouf and Michelle Monaghan. Shia makes a perfect smart aleck slacker and Rachel plays perfect protective mother. Michael Chiklis makes an excellent appearance as the Defense Secretary. One problem I had was taking Shia Labeouf as someone older than 18 year old. I think watching him in his teenage roles have imprinted a certain stereotype for me. Other than that, acting was solid all around.

In the end, it is an enjoyable film if you have your logic circuit turned off. It's a fun ride from start to finish with some humor in between.

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Blu-Ray movie review of Traitor

I don't think Don Cheadle has made a bad movie. There were mediocre movies with Don Cheadle in it but never through the fault of Don Cheadle. Don Cheadle has established himself as one of the finest actors in Hollywood. With movies like Hotel Rwanda, Crash and Traffic to his credit, he is always a threat for best actor award for Oscar. Even a secondary role in Ocean's series has provided us with great acting.
He delivers another solid effort in Traitor, an action thriller movie.

Don Cheadle plays Samir Horn, a terrorist or counter intelligence operative. I think it's safe to say that we can correctly guess at which one Cheadle turns out to be. At the start of the movie, Samir is arrested while trying to sell Semtex explosive to a group of terrorist. He eventually wins over the one of the terrorist and works his way into the inner circle of the terrorist. There, he works as bomb expert devising suicide bombs. Eventually, he blows up an American Embassy in Nice. Up to this point, the viewers are left to guess at the true identity ofSamir Horn. Is he with the terrorist or with the United States. Most intelligent and unintelligent viewers would have come to conclusion early in the movie. The movie unfold from there in cat and mouse fashion with FBI trying to track downSamir Horn.

Acting throughout the movie is simply superb. Don Cheadle delivers a very convincing role as the supposed traitor. Guy Pearce and Neal McDonough are convincing FBI agents trying to catch Samir. And, Jeff Daniels as the Samir's handler delivers another strong performance. Jeff Daniels is one of the most under appreciated actors in Hollywood in my opinion. He can easily make you believe in any role he chooses to play.

The movie does deliver solid entertainment. One complain I have is that this movie tries to be everything at once just like The Kingdom by Peter Berg, which was fairly good movie on its own. Is it a moral drama or straight up thriller? I give credit to the movie makers for trying to tackle the complex Middle East issues in their movies. However, it's never black and white and the movie does what it can with the tough subject. As a thriller, the movie is very enjoyable. They could have taken the setting and shifted it to the mafia setting and it would have worked as well. Ultimately, it's very enjoyable film because of the great actors.

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Blu-Ray disc movie review of Hancock

Will Smith once again delivers a summer blockbuster movie. Will Smith has consistently delivered box office success with his independence day releases. Hancock is no exception. It has grossed over $600 million world wide. He has really established himself as a box office draw in almost any role. Comedy, drama, action, and even horror films. The film itself had a great concept that suffered some mishaps in myopinion. Will Smith made the movie likable enough I believe.

Hancock is a superhero movie at the core. However, it veers off the regular Marvel type of movie by portraying John Hancock as a drunk and irresponsible superhero. I think this is a great take on a superhero genre. There is distinct line between a hero and villain. Hancock is a border line hero who has the sense of right and wrong. He just don't care about how he gets the job done. Often, hecauses more trouble while fighting crime. And, to top it off, he is an asshole. In one incident, he saves a public relations guru named Ray Embrey played by Jason Bateman. Ray proposes to transform Hancock into someone everyone can love. He begins to transform Hancock into a lovable superhero.

Up to this point, the movie is fresh and original. We have not seen a superhero like Hancock in any other movies. We have seen superhero portrayed in borderline situations but never quite like Hancock. I really liked the idea and the concept. Unfortunately, the movie can't quite finish in strong fashion. The explanation of Hancock's existence and hisinherent weakness feels like rushed and not given a careful consideration. I think Hancock could have provided a rich background and lore to launch a unique universe or franchise. Instead, the back end of the movie seems rushed and inadequate. Even the "shocking" revelation midway through the movie isn't enough to justify the soft ending.

Having said that, it is still a solid entertainment. The casts are A list Hollywood actors including Will Smith, Jason Bateman, and Charlize Theron. Peter Berg does fairly good job with the movie. I liked his last movie The Kingdom and this is right up there with that movie in terms of entertainment. With betterback end and background this could have been a great movie. Instead, it's just a fun summer movie.

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Blu-Ray dvd movie review of Death Race

The combination of Jason Statham and Paul W.S. Anderson should be a warning enough if you don't like mindless movies. Anderson is famous for the movies based on video games such as Mortal Kombat and Resident Evil franchise. While Resident Evil is tolerable, Mortal Kombat and few other movies directed by Anderson is utterly forgettable. Jason Statham on the other hand, have been in few decent movies. Mostly, he stars as action hero type in movies like Transporter and Crank. So, it's no surprise that Death Race is an action film resembling other Anderson films. Mindless and sometimes fun.

The film takes place in 2012 where United State's economy has collapsed. To trim the costs, the federal government has turned over the prison to private corporations. Not surprisingly, these corparation air death matches on ppv to make some extra profits. When the public wants more action, one corpration runs death races where heavily armed cars race where there are no rules. It's quite comical how Anderson incorprates "power ups" where a car running over panel can get you offensive weapons or defensive weapons. Mario Kart anyone? Now, Jason Statham's character Jensen Ames gets framed for his wife's murder so the warden can bring him in to run in the race in the place of legendary Frankenstein. Frankenstein, having won 4 previous race, is eligible for freedom if he wins the 5th race. Only problem is he died after the 4th win. To bring in a good rating, the warden turns to Jensen to race as Frankenstein.

The acting is not really required except for facial expressions when most characters die. And, plot development is very minimal. Why bother with plot when you kill, maim, and blow up stuff. This movie is everything a critic might hate. It's brainless, violent, and ridiculous premise. This is why you might enjoy it for few hours. It's easy to turn off your brain and enjoy the mayhem. Ultimately, it's decent action movie you might enjoy. The Blu-ray version comes with unrated edition and your regular assortment of extras.

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Blue-Ray movie review of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor

Although it's not as good as the original Indian Jones trilogy, The Mummy franchise is fairly good action/adventure movies on their own. With exception of the Scorpion King, I really enjoyed the two previous movies. These movies have right amount of action, adventure, and humor for everyone to enjoy.

This installment takes place in China in the aftermath of World War 2. Alex O'connell discovers the lost tomb of the first emperor of Qin. The evil emperor and his army was transformed into mummies by Zi Juan while seeking to be immortal. The factions of China looking to restore glory of the past awakens the Emperor. Rick O'Coonnell and his wife are on government mission to China when the mummy emperor threatens the entire humanity. Gun fights, martial art sequence, yeti, and massive mummy vs mummy insue.

Brandan Fraser returns as the action hero Rick O'Connell and John Hannah returns as the comic relief brother-in-law. Rest of the casts are new to the series. Jet Lee, Michelle Yeo, Luke Ford, and Maria Bello are all new the Mummy franchise. The new villain and supporting casts are expected in new movie. However, Maria Bello replaces Rachael Weisz as Evelyn O'Connell. While Maria Bello is an Oscar caliber actress, Rachel Weisz's presence and chemistry with Brandan Fraser was missing in my opinion. And, Luke Ford as son of Rick and Evelyn O'Connell seemed to be too old for the role. Other than that, I had no problem with the casts.

A lot of the fans felt bit underwhelmed by this movie. While it might seem to have lost some steam from previous two movies, it is still an enjoyable film. The absence of Rachel Weisz was my biggest gripe. The special effects and the fighting sequences were well done. I especially liked the eastern flavor in the fight scenes. Even though it did not smash any box office records, I hope there will be fourth installment in the future.

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Blue-Ray hd movie review of Prince Caspian

The sequel to the popular first movie. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, Prince Caspian definitely moves into darker territory. I'm not sure if that's the reason why it did not do as well as the first one in the box office. I felt that the main characters being children limited its ability to move into darker story line. While first film was fine for children and pre teens, it was not a much of draw for adults that have made the Lord or the Rings series so popular.

The story takes place many years after the first one. Prince Caspian, the nephew of Miraz, escapes murder plot after Miraz finally gets a son to take over the throne. On the run, Caspian runs into Dwarfs that help him realize his destiny. Meanwhile, the four siblings are transported back to Narnia. Narnia has changed significantly since they were there last time. The humans known as Telmarines only think of themselves and refuse to believe other Narnians exist. Miraz, with backing of Telmarines, hunts Prince Caspian who gathers other Narnians to creat peacful place for everyone. The Pevensie siblings help Caspian achieve this dream.

Director Andrew Adamson moves this franchise into more mature story line. Even, the action sequence and the resulting deaths seem to be amped up for this installment. I could not really buy into four kids truly battling a medieval army. This just didn't seem right. I know that's how the book is written. But, I just couldn't shake the feeling that it was all a bit forced. Other than that, everyonedelivers competent performance. I was never enamored with the four leads but they do adequate job. The expanded human casts adds bit more realism to what is a fantasy tale.

It's a competent sequel to a successful franchise. But, this movie lost some steam in box offices. It was not as successful as the first installment. Will this harm the chances for the third installment? I think it deserves third installment as the novels are classic fantasy that has many following.

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Blu-Ray disc movie review of The Dark Knight

Even before the release of this movie, there have been tremendous amount of hype for both the movie and the late actor Heath Ledger. It's pretty rare for a movie to surpass the hype and meet the expectation. This movie does it without a sweat. Mike Nolan, director of Batman
Begins, delivers a movie to remember. I think a lot of us have been eagerly waiting for the sequel to the Batman Begins. Nolan has redeemed the Batman franchise from the silliness that preceded it. Nolan's take on Batman is on par with if not better than Tim Burton's Batman movies.

This is just not another superhero movie. It is a crime/thriller movie that stand on its own without being in Gotham setting. As a crime story, it can stand on its own. The plot of crazy and chaotic criminal who has no regards for mobsters or cops trying to bring chaos to the
city is fairly good. I think where it falters as crime/thriller is that Joker has no desire for anything but chaos. Thankfully, this is Batman movie and we can truely accept Joker burning the mountain of money as normal. I don't think there are many people left that has missed this movie in the theater. So, the plot summarization is not really necessary. Instead, I'll just say this is not a simple "blow em
up" type of movie.

There are no faults with the star studded cast. Maggie Gyllenhaal is a definite upgrade as the Rachael Dawes. This is not a knock on Mrs. Tom Cruise. Instead, Gyllenhaal brings more mature presence to the screen. There's really not much to say about Michael Caine and Morgan Freeman except that they are few of the legends in Hollywood. Their inclusion in the film is worth the ticket price. Aaron Eckhart is perfect for the Harvey Dent/Two Face role. We can feel his descent into madness toward the end. Christian Bale's Batman is head and shoulders above previous Batman except for Michael Keaton's version. He portrays the reluctant hero perfectly. Lastly, Heath Ledger delivers Oscar worthy performance. This version of Joker is truly insane. I don't know if anybody can fill in as Joker. I'm not sure if anyone should fill in as future Joker.

With tight plot and assured direction, Mike Nolan has created another wonderful film. Everything about this film is perfect right down to music. Hans Zimmer creates perfect scores for this movie. The Batman Begin has majestic feel to it. This on the other hand has this frantic, chaotic, and foreboding music. It fits perfectly with this movie. Believe the hype and watch this movie. The Blu-ray version comes with digital copy as well as the movie.

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Blue-Ray movie review of Wanted

I had some reservation about watching this movie. There have been a lot of negative review of this movie on the internet. People seem to bash it as Matrix copycat that fails to emulate Matrix's success. It has similar elements to Matrix such as reluctant hero and over the top action sequence and premise. After watching the movie, the complaints seem to be ridiculous. This movie never pretends to be anything other than summer blockbuster type of movie. Great action and fun. Less about drama and story.

The plot borrows a lot from various movies. Wesley Gibson, played by McAvoy, goes through the motion of life. One day Angelina Jolie's character drops in and tells him that his father, a famous assassin, is killed and that only he can catch the killer. His father belonged to a secret organization who assassinates people that do harm. Morgan Freeman plays the head of this organization. Of course, there are plot twists and a lot people getting shot and blown up.

The action scenes are reminiscent of Matrix. There are physics defying sequences which have generated a lot of complaints as being "unrealistic". Of course we forgive Matrix's action because it is executed within computer. I think that's nitpicking as both Wanted and Matrix are supposed to be movie. I think this movie relies more on live stunts rather than CGI when it comes to fight sequences and car chase scenes.

Is this movie unrealistic? Yes. But I think that's what makes it fun popcorn movie. The people bashing it for being too unrealistic and at the same time adore Matrix are just too picky. This is rather enjoyable film that happens to be silly and unrealistic. Never the less, if you enjoy action movies, this should be right up your alley.

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Blu-Ray dvd movie review of Live Free or Die Hard

This movie could have been a disaster. With the PG-13 rating along with goofy plot and older Bruce Willis as the iconic Mclain. And, Justin Long replacing Samuel L Jackson as the side kick. I was very skeptical before watching the movie. The Die Hard series and the iconic and flawed hero John Mclain should not have been subjected to PG-13 rating and Justin Long. But, after watching the movie, I think it is a worthy continuation of the franchise.

Undoubtedly, the amount of violence and language is toned downed to achieve the PG-13 rating. I don't mind them cutting out the violence but I think Mclain should be allowed to curse when killing off the bad guys. That's part of his charm right? We love the one liners after Mclain kills off one of the henchmen. Even so, this movie does have good action and humor in line with the earlier Die Hard movies. There are plenty of dead guys. We just don't get to see the end result.

The plot is about a former NSA computer expert trying to wreck havoc with United State through manipulation and hacking of computer systems. It's very 21st century plot i suppose. Caught in the middle is the computer hacker Matt Farrel, played by Justin Long. Bruce Willis ends up protecting him and guiding through the mess to stop Thomas Gabriel, played by Timothy Olyphant. Of course, there's always that family element in Die Hard movies. This time it is the daughter played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead. She gets caught up in the mess as well.

This could have been a total bomb at PG-13 rating. Die Hard franchise did not need family friendly treatment. We all know what to expect from this franchise and it should have stayed rated R movie. However, it still works as a PG-13 movie. It's pretty good movie and decent update to the classic franchise.

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