This section contains brief comments on movies currently in theatres as well as on home video. We have also given the film a grade in order to give you an idea of our overall opinion of the film.

Note: As you'll probably notice, most of our reviews are complimentary, simply because we only go to see films that we think will be quality movies. Thus, the mostly positive marks.

u-571

our grade: b-

As far as submarine films go, [and hey, we're not particularly die hard fans in this area], this one's pretty good. There are some lulls here and there, but hey, the submarine sounds are cool, and isn't that all that matters?

keeping the faith

our grade: a-

Not just a typical romantic comedy, but a surprisingly faith-filled look at the power and strength of commitment. Edward Norton and Ben Stiller [two of our favorites] are great together, in this rich, [mostly] subtly comic film.

return to me

our grade: b

A cute, old fashioned type of film; filled with interesting, original and believable characters. [No momentary lapses of cinematic reality here, either]. Finally, a film David Duchovny can be proud of!

american psycho

our grade: b+

Christian Bale is excellent in this strangely comic role. So much hype over this controversial movie, yet, we just found it to be a well made, well executed film.

high fidelity

our grade: a

Very funny, with just the right blend of humor and drama. John Cusack is great [as always] as a guy going through a "mid-life relationship crisis", and Jack Black is at his annoying best. [Worth your time and money just for that one tiny scene between Cusack and Tim Robbins].

final destination

our grade: b-

An interesting little take on the inevitability of death and our attempts, still, to control it. A little over the top at times [and some pretty cheesy gore], but, more than that, creative and fun.

erin brockovich

our grade: b+

Pretty decent. Although Roberts' tirades against the world sometimes generate more annoyance than laughs, and the film seems to lag at certain points, the work itself does not suffer. Oh, and Albert Finney is great.

wonder boys

our grade: a-

A wonderfully witty, original film. Michael Douglas is actually likable in his role [gasp!] as an under-the-influence college professor, and Tobey Maguire, once again, is incredibly impressive.

reindeer games

our grade: d+

One of the cheesiest films to come down the pike this year. Pointless action sequences [if you really could it action], and dumb, boring dialogue. Mr. Frankenheimer, Mr. Affleck: What were you thinking?

the cider house rules

our grade: a

One of the year's best. A sweet, simple film with a loving heart. And how many times more can we say just how much we adore Tobey Maguire? Such an authentic actor....it's all in the eyes.

boiler room

our grade: b

Not your typical "wall street"/"stock broker" kind of film. A lot of fun, with energetic directing by Ben Younger.