“Everything happens for a reason.”

- Jeff Who Lives at Home

When I first saw the trailer for this movie, I thought it may something I’d go see should there be nothing else to watch – it looked interesting. Though I knew it may be a typical indie type of film, it still looked a bit intriguing and different. And so, I went to go check it out. And, guess what? I was right.

This film is more philosophical with bits of comedy intertwined than anything else – it’s definitely not for everyone. Though it touches upon issues some can relate and begs to ask the timeless question, “What is our purpose in life?”

Jeff, the main character (played by Jason Segel), has been trying to figure out the answer to this question his entire life by living at home with his mother Sharon (played by Susan Sarandon) while waiting for a sign to determine his fate. In other words, Jeff believes he has a destiny though he does not exactly know what it is yet.

On the other hand, there’s Jeff’s brother Pat (played by Ed Helms) who seems to be the responsible one having his life all figured out. Though, as the film progresses – we learn all is not as it seems to be. And, Pat learns that not everything always goes the way you plan them to be – life takes a turn and throws Pat off course.

However, Jeff and Pat are not the only ones who see their lives in utter chaos. Their mother, Sharon, also begins to question her life and direction asking herself, “How did I get here?” Even when she thought things couldn’t get any more chaotic, life took another unexpected turn. And, that is what life is all about – the unexpected.

Throughout the film, there are pieces of serious and philosophical themes intertwined with bits of comedy which makes for an entertaining yet thought provoking experience. At times, I found myself laughing at specific scenes and situations. Though at other instances, I began to think deeply about some of the overlying themes and life questions brought about. To sum it up, this movie had both serious and funny moments.

Overall, I was entertained by the film – it challenged the intellect while at the same time had its comedic side. To be honest, it made for an OK kind of movie. Though the only thing that I wished it had was more closure – it had a “draw your own conclusion” kind of ending.

(Note: While some may prefer these types of endings as it encourages discussion, I typically like to see some kind of closure. Though, that’s just me).

If you’re in the mood for a film that makes you think with some comedy, you may want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: NEUTRAL

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

“The world will be watching.”

- The Hunger Games

When I first heard about this film based on the popular book, I had no idea what it was about. Even after I viewed the trailer, I still was a bit puzzled about the story and its overall plot. Though, it did look like a unique type of film.

So, I did a bit of research and found mixed reviews – some liked it and some did not. To be honest, it wasn’t after until I heard all the buzz and rave reviews about the movie from my film pals such as Action Flick Chick and FlixChatter that I decided to check it out myself. I’m glad I did.

Going in, I had not read the book so I was coming into the movie with a fresh set of eyes and a new perspective. In a way, I think it was for the better as I felt that I could just watch it and not be in anticipation of comparing certain characters and events in the film compared to the book. Sometimes I do take the time to read the book before the movie or have already read it, which really depends on the genre and my interest at the time. And, I do like to compare both the film and the book in these instances).

(Note: Some of the mixed reviews came from those who had read the book beforehand and were a bit disappointed with specific events and descriptions left out in the movie. Though this does happen from time to time as it’s a bit difficult to condense every little detail in a film than in a book).

From the opening scene, this movie really drew my attention – it was a very unique type of film with a different kind of storyline. And, to me – that is a plus in my book.

Though some have said there is more drama in the movie (as opposed to action) than they were expecting, I think it was necessary to set the tone and introduce the characters in the film.

For me, I think going between the drama and the action worked out quite nicely overall. Since this is a series, I’m glad they took the time to go into depth about the characters and their purpose. Getting to know the characters really made me feel for them and established a connection. Had they not done this, it may have not sparked my interest as much.

Since the film did take the time to explain the overall plot and storyline going while also going into depth with the characters, it really made it more entertaining as the movie built up towards its main focus – the game itself. And, this is where the action really takes over – it was quite a treat to see the strategies used. Though I will say, there were some extremely violent parts which would not be recommended for children to watch.

(Note: For any parents out there, this is not a kids film. There are some very controversial issues introduced into the movie which involve children and may not be suitable for kids to watch).

While watching the game itself, there were a lot of twists and turns that really took me by surprise. And, I have to say – there were many unexpected moments which made the film even more entertaining to watch.

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, you’ll know what I’m talking about. I especially did not see the end of the games coming – I thought it would end a different way but it did not – it was not as predictable).

Overall, I enjoy the movie. It had it all – an interesting storyline, drama, action and really went into depth with the characters to make for a complete and entertaining time.

If you’re in the mood for a film with a little bit of everything, you may want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the movie and/or read the book, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

When this film first came out, there was a lot of buzz and a lot of hype. Though, I really didn’t consider seeing it on the big screen – I just wasn’t sure if it was my kind of movie.

Sure, it was released by Disney but it seemed kind of weird as I had heard people describing it as a sci-fi and adventure type of picture – a cross between Star Wars, Indiana Jones and Sherlock Holmes. Really? Very strange.

However, as time had passed from the release – I soon found myself searching for a good movie to see. So, I decided to check out the reviews. And, to my surprise – they were really mixed.

Some people liked the film while others did not. The main criticism of the movie was that it seemed like it was thrown together and there was just no time for character development. Despite the negative reviews, I decided to check out the film myself and draw my own conclusion. I’m glad I did.

Before going into the review, I will say – this is probably a film that is very hard to make as there are so many elements involved. Though, what drew my attention was that the movie is based on a very old novel created in the early 1900s. Being the history buff that I am, this is what really sparked my interest – I wanted to see how this piece of history came alive on the big screen.

Regarding the film itself, let me just say – it did not disappoint. Being that it was a Disney movie, I knew there had to be an ounce of positivity about it. And, there definitely was plenty.

From the opening scene, the movie proved to be just what it claimed – full of adventure and action. It began more along the lines of Sherlock Homes, then progressed to an Indiana Jones type of film and eventually the sci-fi part (Star Wars) came. Though having these elements seemed like it could be a bit weird and confusing, I will say – it was all nicely put together to make for a great storyline.

About the criticism the film received, I think enough was revealed about each character to keep the attention of the audience. For me personally, adding more information and/or dialogue into each of the main characters’ persona could have made the movie a bit slow. I think there was just enough information revealed to keep the story interesting. And, I did enjoy the action scenes very much – it made for a very fun film to watch.

Regarding the story itself, I liked it. It had a bit of uniqueness to it as it attempted to weave different elements and genres together. And, for me – it came out very successful. To be honest, there were actually a few moments in the film that threw me for a loop – it wasn’t as predictable as I thought it would be which really made it so much more fun to watch.

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, you’ll know what I’m talking about. There were a few twists and turns that really surprised me!)

Overall, I would say this is a very entertaining and fun movie to see – it has all the elements of a good film. Though it received criticism of its lack of character development, I think it gave just enough to not make the film too slow and drag on – the action scenes alone interwoven with it’s unique storyline more than made up for it.

If you’re looking for an adventure type of film with a bit of sci-fi, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For those who saw the movie and/or read the novel, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

Recently, I stumbled upon this film as I was in a business and political type mood. Usually, I’m not much into political type movies but when it comes to mixing business and politics – I can get interested at times. So, I decided to check this one out.

Before I go into the movie itself, let me just say – Kevin Spacey rarely disappoints. I think he’s a very good actor and overall I’ve usually enjoyed his performances. This film was no different – he was great!

Basically, the film is about the inner workings involved in Washington, D.C. bridging the gap between business and politics. And, this is where lobbyists come in – they help to keep things moving. Sometimes in a good way, sometimes in a bad way. Either way, as the movie says, “Without lobbyists, Washington, D.C. would slow down.”

For me personally, I found this to be a very interesting movie – it seems to be one to show the different sides of the coin. In essence, a matter of perspective. Though, sometimes that perspective can be twisted and seen it ways that others do not (as in Kevin Spacey’s character, Jack Abramhoff, which is based on a true story).

But sometimes, it’s the reality that can hurt us and cause us to fail to see the truth. And, this is exactly what the film is about – the search for truth and what it stands for. Sometimes the truth can be more harmful than we may think. So, is it better to live a life of ignorance or see the truth for what it really is?

In a sense, this movie is about the realities of how our system of government really works and how knowing the inner workings of such a system could come crashing down. To be candid, it begs the question of whether or not having the knowledge, the real truth, is a good thing or a bad thing.

Like a lot of political type dramas (such as this one), this film touches upon the subject of believing in the ideal versus knowing the truth of the situation. And, that is what makes this such an interesting movie.

Overall, I enjoyed the film – it was both mind opening and entertaining at the same time. Since I have an interest in both business and political type films when meshed together, the subjects touched upon intrigued me.

If you’re in the mood for a business and political type film, you may want to check this one out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

Recently, I stumbled upon this film based on the Battle of Nanjing and its aftermath (most commonly referred to as “The Rape of Nanking” or the Nanking Massacre during the Second Sino-Japanese War. And, being that I enjoy period pieces from time to time – this film was like no other. To be honest, it’s a very realistic depiction of the sign of the times during that period – it goes to say it’s not one for the faint of heart.

There are many scenes throughout the film that are extremely violent and inhumane in nature. Though, I believe this is exactly what the director wanted to get across – the very realism of what had happened at the time. And, let me just say – there were some scenes that I just couldn’t watch myself.

Despite these scenes, the movie seemed to be very interesting especially since I enjoy historical type films (such as this one). Though, this movie is definitely not for everyone – especially for those who cannot watch violent, war crime, type of films.

Regarding the storyline, I found it very intriguing with my fascination and interest in historical works. As the audience, we were able to see both sides of the coin – meeting different characters with different perspectives and point of views. And, this is what made the movie more humanlike in nature – it was not a one-sided story.

As with many historical type films, there were a few parts that dragged a bit which made the movie a bit longer. Though, I think this is very common in many historical types of movies – sometimes there are just so many events and instances the director may want to include as part of the historical work.

Overall, I did enjoy the movie as a whole more as an educational work than an entertainment one. Though, I did have some mixed feelings about the ending – it was a bit more artistic in nature which didn’t leave much room for closure. I did enjoy learning more about the characters involved and their life stories, though I felt the ending just didn’t have the punch I was looking for.

To be honest, this is more of a film for those who like to watch historical type of movies. Though I did enjoy learning the historical perspective and following the development of the characters, it’s more of an educational type of film than an entertaining one. Had it ended with that extra punch that make movies great, it may have been more memorable.

If you enjoy period and historical type of films, you may want to check this one out for the educational value rather than the entertainment value. Though if you don’t and are very sensitive to violent, war, type of movies – you may just want to pass on it.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: NEUTRAL

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

Being in the mood for a documentary type of film, I decided to check this one out. I’m glad I did.

For me personally, this was a very interesting and intriguing film for all writers alike whether you’re a journalist, blogger, etc. The reason being that this movie tackles the issue of change in our world – in this case the migration from our age of paper to the digital age. And, it begs the question – what will happen to the newspaper business?

Being a writer and blogger myself, this film was something that I felt I could connect with. As the audience, we are shown two sides of the story – the way things once were and the way things are today. And, the question is – “How can we adapt to our changing world yet be able to keep some aspects of what we had before?”

Seeing both sides of the coin gives us a lot to think about. Not only do we see the old ways of doing things but we also see the new. And, the trick is how we combine each to work within the world we have today. Is it possible?

There are many arguments for and against the changing world of digital technology that we have today. Sure, there are negative aspects. But, there are also positive ones as well. And, sometimes – it’s the positives that can outweigh the negatives which make society a better place for us all.

Apart from the intriguing topic and confrontation of the issues of technology and it’s role in our digital world, I found this movie to contain a lot of different viewpoints – not just one. It was very interesting to see the different sides of the coin ranging from those with backgrounds working in the old world of journalism to those who are working in the new world. Though some critics have found the back and forth a bit sporadic and choppy, I find this to be the case in many documentaries.

Overall, I really enjoyed the movie – it really gave me a lot to think about living in our world of digital technology. And, it’s always a plus to watch films that challenge and make us think about the issues we face today.

If you’re in the mood for a documentary type of film, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, it would be great to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

“Goodbye, Elizabeth. Goodbye, my love, my friend, my pain, my joy. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye.”

The Descendants

There are many films that tell stories about death and how we deal with them. Some are funny, some are sad, some are dramatic and some are true. But, it takes real talent to come up with a movie that can weave all these elements together – this film has done just that.

To be honest, when this movie first came out – I really didn’t think much of it. It did look a bit entertaining but I will admit – it was not at the top of my radar. However, after it was out for awhile – I soon heard more and more about this film from others praising it’s story of how we deal with the loss of a loved one. So, I decided to check it out. I’m glad I did.

Going into the film, I found myself pleasantly entertained. The main focus of the story was how Matt King (played by George Clooney), an overworked lawyer, deals with his wife’s coma due to a tragic boating accident. As a husband and father, King realizes he has not always been there for his family – his wife and two younger daughters, resulting from his dedication to his work.

Through the whole movie, King is faced with two dilemmas – one concerning the life of his wife and the other concerning the future of the land of his ancestors, which he is the sole trustee of the family trust. With each day, it gets harder and harder for King to face the realities of his life and who he is today. To his dismay, he sees the truth which is not always easy to face.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, you’ll know what I’m talking about. There were a couple moments that took a turn and kind of threw me for a loop. Though, they did surprise me and were entertaining to watch).

Without going into too much about the movie and its details, I will say this film has it all: comedy, drama, sadness and most importantly – heart. It attempts to present a very complicated and serious matter in a very entertaining yet dramatic way. And, to me – this is very difficult to do.

Overall, I really enjoyed the movie. I would say it’s one of those films you can definitely miss (as I did) as it tends to be a bit underrated (kind of like this one). But, when you do watch it – you’ll be surprisingly entertained.

If you’re in the mood for a comedy and dramatic movie with a lot of heart, you may just want to check this out.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

(Note: For those who have seen the movie and/or even read the book, it would be great to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

“Everyone gets old. Not everyone grows up.”

- Young Adult

When I first saw the trailer to this film, it looked like a fun type of movie to see. So, I decided to check it out. I’m glad I did.

(Note: Before I go into the review, I will say that I really enjoy watching Charlize Theron on screen – she’s a very talented actress. In fact, I just recently saw another film she played in which she had a very strong performance and powerful role).

In any case, this film starts out very unconventional – it’s not your typical Hollywood type of movie. In actuality, it’s set more like an indie of film. The opening of the movie is not very fancy though it’s very honest. And, to be frank – that’s what I liked about it.

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, I was a bit surprised to see the opening credits and music play a bit after the film had started. Though, I did appreciate the honesty and realism depicted).

At the heart of it, this film is about growing up. It seems to be a “midlife crisis” type of movie where the main character, Mavis Gary (played by Charlize Theron), begins to reflect on her current life in search of her purpose. And, in doing so – she soon realizes the emptiness she’s feeling is due to the lack of purpose and meaning in her life.

So, she sets a course to find the answers by re-visiting her childhood town. In doing so, she begins to see all that she has missed out being away all these years. She starts comparing herself to others including her childhood friends which makes her feel more miserable.

As the days go by, she begins to see all that is missing in her life. And, she only sees that which she does not have which everyone else around her does. This results in causing her to go spiraling down as the film progresses causing her to finally hit rock bottom.

Though, after a series of mishaps and conversations with others who see the good in her and what she has accomplished – she slowly begins to realize all is not lost in the world. In a sense, the film really has a very positive spin on things even though her journey led her through many hardships she didn’t want to see.

(Note: Going into the film, I did read a few reviews citing it was a very dark movie. Though, after seeing it – I beg to disagree. It was actually a very enlightening picture which really makes you want to think about your own life and the meaning it has had for you so far).

At it’s core, this movie is really about growing up and realizing what life is all about. Though, before you can do this – you have to be a grown up yourself. And, that is the ironic part as some of her actions and behavior were a bit childish. In a sense, Mavis Gary was still a “young adult” until she grew up and realized her faults.

Overall, I really enjoyed the film. What I like about Charlize Theron is that she can play very different roles. At times, she can be very dramatic starring in more serious types of movies. On the other hand, she can also play more comedic roles being very funny and entertaining to watch, such as the case in this film.

If you’re looking for a very honest and entertaining film that explores the issues of the meaning of life and finding purpose, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, it would be great to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

“What is hidden in snow. Comes forth in the thaw.”

- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Over the holidays, I was able to check this film out based on the book. And, let me just say – it was definitely worth it.

Going into the movie, I already knew the storyline as I had seen the original Swedish film. Here is a shot of the film poster which looks pretty cool:

(Note: The translation on the poster reads “Men Who Hate Women” – a main theme in the film).

With that being said, I’m very glad to have seen the original Swedish adaptation before seeing this American version. Why?

There are things that were more subtle in the original film that gave me an appreciation for the director’s style and tone. And, comparing that here to David Fincher’s work really gave me a new perspective. All in all, I would say the storyline and its characters remained the same in both films – it was just the subtle differences in interpretation and presentation that gave each film its unique identity.

To be honest, there were a couple small details that I didn’t quite understand in the Swedish film (maybe subject to interpretation) that came out in the American version. Though, having seen both films really gave me a higher appreciation for the different styles among the two directors.

As for the book itself, I have not had a chance to read it. And, I wonder how it compares to both films.

(Note: For those who have read the book, it would be great to hear your thoughts on how it compares to the films).

Getting back to the movie, this is really one for those who have an appreciation for thriller and mystery type of films. And, I’ll be totally frank – this movie is not for everyone. There are some shocking and “in your face” type moments which may not be well received for the faint of heart – this is definitely not one for the kids.

(Note: For those who have not seen the films or read the book, I’m not going to go much into detail with the storyline as I don’t want to ruin it for you. Though, I will say – it’s best suited for those who enjoy the mystery and thriller type of genre).

Though, if you do enjoy a good mystery thriller – I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link

From time to time, I get into a political thriller type of mood. And, let me just say – this was one of those times. So, I decided to check this film out.

Now, I’ll be honest – this is not my typical type of film. Though, since the mood struck me – I went into the film wanting to watch it. For those who may not be political thriller type of film buffs, this may not be the film for you.

With that being said, I will say – I did enjoy the movie. Though, some reviewers thought the film to be too slow – I did not feel that way. Sure, it’s definitely not a very action oriented type of movie. But, I did not find myself bored with the script or the storyline – it kept my attention throughout.

As for the story, I don’t think it was very original but it did compel some good performances. Ryan Gosling plays the typical young idealist, Junior Campaign Manager Stephen Meyers, who was intent on walking behind the footsteps of Governor Mike Morris, played by George Clooney.

Meyers believes in Morris and his cause. To him, he’s a hero and one to be trusted. However, as in many cases – we soon find out that Morris is not who he appears to be. And, that is devastating to Meyers.

Basically, this is a movie about the game of politics and how it can affect an idealist who comes to realize what is real and what is not. And, in so many cases – the truth can hurt.

But, at the end of the day the question remains – how do you handle the truth? Do you abandon your beliefs and walk away? Or, do you face up to the truth and take matters into your own hands? That is the dilemma Meyers is left with. And, the outcome was quite surprising.

(Note: I won’t ruin it for those who have not seen the film but I will say there were a few actions Meyers did that surprised me).

Overall, I enjoyed the film. Though, I will say – it’s one of those movies to enjoy when the mood strikes you. If you’re in the mood for a political thriller type of film, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl’s 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Video Link