videofreak2002 Reviews

8 Mile (2002)

Gripping and powerful!!

[10/10 · 25 November 2002]

"8 Mile," the big-screen debut for Eminem (actually his 2nd if you count his uncredited role as Chris in "The Wash"), is the most powerful and cutting edge movie I've seen this year. Most of you are thinking "God, he's gonna be worser than Mariah Carey and Vanilla Ice. The man can't act." Well, believe me when I say this, but, after you see this movie, you're gonna be saying "DANG! THIS GUY CAN ACT." And The Slim Shady himself can act! This guy blew me away with his acting. Note to the Academy Awards: Eminem better be nominated for Best Actor or else you'll be sorry. Eminem is an actor, especially with his scenes between him and his little sister. Reminds me of that relationship between him and his real-life daughter. I have a feeling that this guy will become a great actor in the near future. If you like Eminem, then you'll definitely love "8 Mile."

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars) 13/13

Friday After Next (2002)

Not as good as the first Friday, but it's still good!

[10/10 · 25 November 2002]

2 years after the encounters of "Next Friday," Ice Cube and Mike Epps are at it again in "Friday After Next." Craig (Cube) and his cousin Day Day (Epps) are now living in the suburbs on their own, when, all of a sudden, a robber dressed up as Santa Claus (picture O.D.B. dressed up as Santa) robs their apartment, taking their presents, CD collections, and the speakers in which one of them had the money for the rent. And if they don't get the money by the end of the day, they'll get kicked out. Now, Craig and Day Day must get a -gulp- job as -gulp/gulp- security guards at a -gulp/gulp/gulp- mall. But, at least they get help from their fathers, who now own a restaurant called "Brother's B-B-Q." (Just like the slogan says, "It tastes so good, it makes you wanna slap your mama").

This movie was not funnier than "Friday," but at least it was funny, and that's what counts. If you enjoyed "Friday" and "Next Friday," then you'll enjoy "Friday After Next." YEAH, BOY!!!

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Red Dragon (2002)

The best Hannibal Lecter film ever!

[10/10 · 6 October 2002]

In 1984, novelist Thomas Harris made a novel that would change the face of the earth. That novel was called "Red Dragon," and it introduced Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter. In 1986, "Miami Vice" creator Michael Mann brought it to the screen and changed the title to "Manhunter." In 1989, Harris brought Lecter back to life in "The Silence Of The Lambs." In 1991, director Jonathan Demme brought it to the screen and changed the vision of the way we watch movies. It won 5 oscars: Director (Jonathan Demme), Actor (Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter), Actress (Jodi Foster as FBI Agent Clarice Starling), Screenwriter (Ted Tally), and Picture Of The Year. It wasn't 1999 that Harris went for a third helping in "Hannibal." In 2001, director Ridley Scott brought it to the screen and the critics and audiences reacted to it negatively.

Now, it's 2002, "Spider-Man" just broke the record for the highest-grossing opening ever at the B.O. Now, screenwriter Tally and director Brett Ratner decided to bring Lecter back to the screen, but to understand the origin of evil, you must go back to the beginning. "Red Dragon" is both a prequel to "The Silence Of The Lambs" and "Hannibal" and a remake to "Manhunter." When "Manhunter" was released, Mann did it completely different. Now, with "Red Dragon," this movie is far more superior than "Manhunter," "The Silence Of The Lambs," and "Hannibal."

When the movie opens, we see Lecter (Hopkins, Brian Cox from "Manhunter") is enjoying a nice music at a concert. After the concert, he invites people over for dinner. After dinner, FBI Agent William Graham (Edward Norton, William Petersen from "Manhunter") tracks Lecter down and arrests. After Graham retires, his boss, FBI Agent Jack Crawford (Harvery Keitel, Dennis Farina from "Manhunter") asks Graham to go on one more case. He's been givin a case that involves a serial killer attacking two families and smashes mirrors. The killer's name is Francis Dollarhyde: a.k.a. "The Tooth Fairy" (Ralph Fiennes, in a gripping and scary performance, Tom Noonan from "Manhunter"). And Graham must get help from the man who almost killed him; Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter. Now, Graham must protect his wife Molly (Mary-Louise Parker, Kim Griest from "Manhunter") and Josh (Tyler Patrick Jones, David Seaman as Kevin Graham from "Manhunter") and hide from sleazy reporter Freddy Lounds of the "Tattler" (Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Stephen Laing from "Manhunter") and Dollarhyde falls love with his next victim; a blind woman named Reba McClane (Emily Watson, Joan Allen from "Manhunter"). Now, can Graham stop the killer in 3 weeks before he attacks another family, mainly his own?

Once Danny Elfman's music starts in the movie, you know you're in for a wild ride. And this movie is gripping from beginning to end. Brett Ratner, director of the "Rush Hour" series knows how to make a movie edgy with the camera. Writer Ted Tally surpases his writing skills from "The Silence Of The Lambs." If "Hannibal" wasn't you're cup of tea, then "Red Dragon" is you're 4 cups of tea. And like the previous Lecter films, if someone spoils the ending to you, eat their liver with some fava beans and a nice chianti.

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Signs (2002)

This is what a movie should be: scary, suspensful, mysterious, and wonderful!

[10/10 · 16 September 2002]

In 1999, 2 films were written by a little known director who made 2 films before: "Praying With Anger" (1992) and "Wide Awake" (1998). The director's name: M. Night Shyamalan. The 2 1999 films: Co-writing "Stuart Little" and "The Sixth Sense," which he also directed. With "The Sixth Sense" becoming an international hit (becoming the #1 thriller of all time, getting positive reviews, nominated for 6 oscars-BEST PICTURE, BEST DIRECTOR, BEST SCREENPLAY, BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR, BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS, and BEST FILM EDITING, and grossing almost $300 million), Shyamalan is at the top of his game. Now, it's 2000 and with "The Grinch" becoming the #1 B.O. hit of 2000 (grossing over $260 million), Shyamalan decided to switch from dead people to superheroes/comic books with "Unbreakable." During it's release, the film got mixed reviews and grossed almost $100 million. Now, it's 2002, and "Spider-Man" is the #1 B.O. hit (grossing over $400 million), Shyamalan again switched from dead people to superheroes/comic books to crop signs/aliens and decided to use Mel Gibson instead of Bruce Willis as the main character. The new movie is called "Signs," and it's getting alot of positive buzz. Well, after being bugged by my friends every day since the first day of school, I finally saw the movie on a Saturday. AND IT WAS THE SCARIEST MOVIE I HAVE EVER SEEN!!! Scarier than "The Sixth Sense" (which I loved) and scarier than both "The Blair Witch Project" and "The Exorcist" (which they both sucked). M. Night Shyamalan has done it again. For those of you who enjoy thrillers, then "Signs" is your movie. Plus, I'll be waiting for Shyamalan's next movie. I like to see what he does next.

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars) 13/13

xXx (2002)

X marks the action, X marks the gadgets, X marks Vin Diesel kicking butt! XXX rocks!

[10/10 · 11 August 2002]

After "The Fast And The Furious" became the sleeper hit of 2001, grossing over $140 million at the B.O., star Vin Diesel, director Rob Cohen, and producer Neil H. Moritz teamed up again for the new action film, "XXX." When "The Fast And The Furious" had fast cars and hot women, "XXX" has hot women and cool gadgets. But, the question is, is "XXX" better than "The Fast And The Furious?" Oh yeah! All the action, all the stunts, all the women, you know it's better. And another note, Vin Diesel will be the NEW action hero. If you like action, if you like "The Fast And The Furious," and if you like Vin Diesel, then you'll love "XXX."

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002)

Oh groovy, baby!!! Austin Powers is back!!!

[10/10 · 11 August 2002]

When "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery" came out in 1997, it made almost $60 million at the B.O., but, became a big hit in the video stores. In 1999, the sequel, "Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me," made more money opening weekend then the original at the B.O. and grossed over $200 million, making Austin Powers one of the funniest characters ever. Now, in 2002, "Austin Powers in Goldmember" has just been released and the movie is more groovier. Besides Mr. Powers, we have all the characters back: Dr. Evil (Mike Myers, who also played Ausitn Powers), Mini-Me (Verne Troyer), Number 2 (Robert Wagner), Frau Farbissina (Mindy Sterling), Scott Evil (Seth Green), Fat Bastard (Myers), and Basil Exposition (Michael York). And we have new characters: Foxy Cleopatra (Beyonce Knowles), Number 3/The Mole (Fred Savage), Nigel Powers (Michael Caine), and Goldmember (Myers). What's also surprising are the cameos: Tom Crusie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kevin Spacey, Danny DeVito, Steven Speilberg, Burt Bacharach, Quincy Jones, John Travolta, Britney Spears, and The Osbournes.

But, after the 1st and 2nd, is the 3rd still funny? Yes. And it's funnier. The jokes are still coming strong (moley moley moley moley) and the new jokes are much funnier (mole) and we see Dr. Evil rapping to Jay-Z's "It's A Hard Knocked Life" (mole mole). Even more surprising is the ending. It's very surprising. If you want to shag for the third time, then "Goldmember" is your ticket. Yeah, baby, yeah (moooooooooolllllllllleeeeeeeeee)!!!

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002)

Oh groovy baby! "Goldmember" is the funniest of the series!

[10/10 · 11 August 2002]

"Austin Powers In Goldmember" was laugh-out-loud from beginning to end. The original characters were back: Austin Powers/Dr. Evil/Fat Bastard (Mike Myers), Number 2 (Robert Wagner), Scott Evil (Seth Green), Frau Farbissina (Mindy Sterling), Johnson (Clint Howard), Basil Exposition (Michael York), and Mini-Me (Verne Troyer). We got new characters: Foxy Cleopatra (Beyonce Knowles), Number 3/The Mole (Fred Savage), Nigel Powers (Michael Caine), and Goldmember (Myers). We even got some cameoes: Britney Spears, Steven Spielberg, John Travolta, Gwyneth Paltrow, Tom Cruise, Quincy Jones, Burt Bacharach, The Osbournes, Kevin Spacey, and Danny DeVito.

The movie is still shagadelic. There were even twin Japanese sisters named Fook Yu and Fook Mi. My 3 favorite scenes and they're not in particular: 1. The office scene with Austin Powers and Mini-Me. 2. The beginning where they're making a AP movie and Cruise plays AP, Paltrow palys Dixie Normous, Spacey plays Dr. Evil, and Danny Devito plays Mini-Me, and the scene when flips the bird at the screen was very funny. Even Spielberg was directing it. 3. Whenever The Mole shows up every time on the screen. (mole)

From what I heard, the movie was originally 3 hours long and they cut out half of it, including: one with Mustafa (Will Farell), the younger Number 2 (Rob Lowe), and the first two AP babes: Vanessa Kensington (Elizabeth Hurley) and Felicity Shagwell (Heather Graham). (mooooooolllllleeee)

Oh, well. That's why we have DVD and I hope they put the deleted footage in the DVD. But, if you enjoyed the first 2 AP movies, then you'll enjoy "Austin Powers In Goldmember." Yeah, baby, yeah!! (moley moley moley moley moley)

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Windtalkers (2002)

Another winner from director John Woo!!!

[10/10 · 4 August 2002]

With such films as "Hard Boiled" and "The Killer," famous Hong Kong director John Woo has been called as the best action director because of his style of the films he uses. In 1993, Woo came to the U.S. to direct his first film, "Hard Target," starring Jean-Claude Van Damme. In 1996, he made "Broken Arrow," starring John Travolta and Christian Slater. In 1997, he made what is consider to be the best action film of all time, "Face/Off," starring John Travolta and Nicholas Cage. In 2000, he made "Mission: Impossible 2" (a.k.a. "M:I2"), starring Tom Cruise and Thandie Newton. Now it's 2002, and what's next for Woo? How about a WWII film about Navajo Codetalkers? And he did with his new "Windtalkers," reteaming Cage and Slater and co-starring Adam Beach, Frances O'Connor, Peter Stormare, Jason Issacs, Noah Emmerich, and Mark Ruffalo.

The story is about 2 soldier: Sergeant Joe Enders (Cage) and Ryan 'Ox' Anderson (Slater). Their mission: To protect 2 Navajo Codetalkers: Private Charles Whitehorse (Roger Willie) and Private Ben Yahzee (Beach). The problem: if any of the codetalkers get captures by the Japanese, they must destroy the codetalkers and the code.

While Woo, uses alot of explosions, slow-mos, stunts, and gunfights, the story was very good. All in all, another great John Woo film and another great War film. If action is your style and you like John Woo's films, then you'll love "Windtalkers."

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)

If Kubrick did this movie, I still would've enjoyed it!!

[10/10 · 1 August 2002]

"Artificial Inteligence: A.I." was supposed to be Stanley Kubrick's next project after "Eyes Wide Shut," but, died short after the movie was completed. His friend, Steven Spielberg was devastated when he heard of his buddy's death. The next year, Kubrick's wife asked Steven if he can take over Kubrick's pet project. Steven said "OK" and started to write the script and when he got done, he directed the movie. In the summer of 2001, the movie was released and here's what I gotta say about it.

I rented this movie on DVD when it came out in March and I was AMAZED wth this movie. I didn't think Spielberg had it in him. I've enjoyed Spielberg's movies in the past and I'll enjoy his movies in the future, but, today, I really enjoyed "A.I." Like "Moulin Rouge," this became a love it or hate it movie and I loved it. The ending of the movie was sad because I was crying. If you've enjoyed Spielberg's films (including the recent hit "Minority Report"), but, haven't seen "A.I." because of all the negative reviews, then, I suggest you give "A.I." a try. You'll thank me later.

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Minority Report (2002)

An amazing collaboration between Spielberg and Cruise!!

[10/10 · 1 August 2002]

"Minority Report," Steven Spielberg's newest film starring Tom Cruise is an amazing triumph in which the movie starts and never lets go! I have to say that this is Spielberg's most amazing film since the "Indiana Jones" movies and "Saving Private Ryan," the best war film ever made. Based on a short story by Phillip K. Dick, loaded with cool special effects, this is one of the first Oscar contenders of 2002!! For those who were disappointed with Spielberg's last film "A.I." and Cruise's last film "Vanilla Sky," you won't be disappointed with "Minority Report." I guarantee you'll have a good time with this movie!

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Men in Black II (2002)

As good as "MIB!!" Even better!!!

[10/10 · 18 July 2002]

1997- Director Barry Sonnenfeld and stars Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones teams up for the first time in the surprise hit "Men In Black" ("MIB") grossing over $250 million.

Now, it's 2002, after Will Smith's duds- like 1999's "Wild Wild West" (becoming the worst film of 1999 by the Razzie Awards), 2000's golf drama "The Legend Of Bagger Vance," directed by Robert Redford and co-starring Matt Damon and Charlize Theron, and 2001's "Ali," the true story of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, directed by Michael Mann ("Manhunter," "The Insider," "Heat," "The Last Of The Mohicans," etc.) and director Barry Sonnenfeld's "Wild Wild West" and this past spring's "Big Trouble" (pulled back from Sept. after the N.Y. attack, in which the plot involved two criminals carrying a bomb in a airplane), Sonnenfeld, Smith, and Jones team up again for "Men In Black II."

The movie is about Agent J (Smith), who, after K, keeps getting partners and neuralizes them. Now, a female alien named Serlena (Lara Flynn Boyle) and a 2-headed alien named Scrad/Charlie ("MTV Jackass's" Johnny Knoxville) are in Earth to find the light of Zorlon and destroy Earth. Agent Zed (Rip Torn) hires J to find Agent K (Jones) and de-neuralyze him. In order to fight the alien, they're gonna need some help. The worms (Mannix, Neeble, Gleeble, and Sleeble), Frank the pug, Jeebs (Tony Shaloub), and Laura (Rosario Dawson), who saw her pizza boss get murdered by Serlena.

So, what did I think about the movie? Well, it was very good. More enjoyable than the first one. Smith and Jones sure know how to have a good time. If you enjoyed the first "MIB," then check out "MIIB," or "MIB 2."

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Mr. Deeds (2002)

Adam Sandler is back and better than ever!

[10/10 · 1 July 2002]

After his disappointing "Little Nicky," the fans were still wondering if funny man Adam Sandler still had the goods. And does he? You betcha! Adam Sandler still has the goods in "Mr. Deeds," the remake of the classic "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town," starring Gary Cooper and directed by Frank Capra. Directed by Steven Brill (co-wrote and directed "Little Nicky" and wrote "The Mighty Ducks" movie and "Ready to Rumble"), the movie begins when 82-year-old billionaire Preston Blake (Harve Presnell) dies while climbing up the top of the mountain. Next, we go to New Hampsheire where Longfellow Deeds-just call him Deeds- (Adam Sandler), a pizza-delivery guy, realizes that Blake was his Uncle that he never knew and left him $40 billion. Meanwhile, 2 businessmen-Cecil Anderson (Erick Avari) and Chuck Cedar (Peter Gallagher)- want to make sure they keep the fortune and make sure that Deeds doesn't get anything. In his new home, he meets Emilio Lopez (John Turturro), Preston's butler, his new butler. Keep in mind. He's very, very sneaky. He likes to creep up and scare you. One night, Deeds meets a beautiful woman named Pam Dawson (Winona Ryder) who happens to work for "Inside Access" and is a journalist trying to get the story on Deeds taking over Blake's fortune. But, the more they meet each other, the more they're starting to fall in love with each other.

Besides Longfellow Deeds, my favorite character is Emilio. He cracks me up every time I see him, whenever he's appearing and disappearing. And Crazy Eyes (Steve Buscemi). Every time you see him on-screen, he's hilarious, especially with his crazy eyes (hence the name). There were some other great charcters too, but, Deeds, Emilio, and Crazy Eyes are my favorite charcters in the whole movie.

Is it better than "Little Nicky?" YES! Is it Adam Sandler's best film? No. Is it right next to his best films? Yes. If you're a big fan of Adam Sandler (like me), or in need of a good laugh (like me), or both (like me), then "Mr. Deeds" is your ticket.

P.S.: Remember when Chubbs Peterson (Carl Weathers) from "Happy Gilmore" and The Farmer-a.k.a. "You can do it!"-(Rob Schneider) appeared in "Little Nicky?" Well, Nazo, the Delivery Boy (Rob Schneider) from "Big Daddy" appeares in "Mr. Deeds." Also, Reverend Al Sharpton and Tennis star and the host of "The Chair" John McEnroe make cameo appearances as well.

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Clerks (2000–2001)

This show should NOT HAVE BEEN CANCELLED ABC!!!

[19 June 2002]

In 2000, during the Super Bowl, I saw a sneak peek of a new animated show called "Clerks." I thought to myself "This looks pretty interesting." But, the problem was that it was based on a 1994 movie of the same name. So, I had to quickly watch the movie and I loved it. Now, the show is on, and I was laughing miserably and this was my #3all-time favorite cartoon show (behind "The Simpsons" and "South Park"). But, on May 31, 2000, the first episode was #4 and the second episode was #2. So, I was asking myself "Where were episodes 1 and 3? So I checked online and there were supposed to be 6 episodes and they only showed 2 and that was that. I was heartbroken.

The next year, I went DVD shopping to buy a friend a birthday present when, out of nowhere, I saw "Clerks: Uncensored" on DVD. So, I just bought it, watched all 6 episodes, and here's what I got to say.

I LOVED ALL THE EPISODES!!! WHY DID ABC HAVE TO CANCEL THIS WONDERFUL MASTERPIECE OF AN ANIMATED SHOW?!! Then, I found out why. The audience hated the show. Oh, boy. Well, here are the episodes:

Episode 1- "The Pilot" (a.k.a. "Leonardo Leonardo Returns And Dante Has An Important Decision To Make") Voices- Dante Hicks (voied by Brian O'Halloran), Randal Graves (voiced by Jeff Anderson), Jay (voiced by Jason Mewes), Silent Bob (voiced by Kevin Smith), Leonardo Leonardo (voiced by Alec Baldwin), and Charles Barkley (voiced by Charles Barkley). What I Say- This was a great first episode. This should've aired first, then 2, 3, 4, 5, and then 6 should've been last.

Episode 2- "The Clipshow Wherein Dante And Randal Are Locked In The Freezer And Remember Some Of The Great Moments In Their Lives." (Aired June 7, 2000 on ABC) Voices- Dante Hicks (voiced by Brian O'Halloran), Randal Graves (voiced by Jeff Anderson), Jay (voiced by Jason Mewes), Silent Bob (voiced by Kevin Smith), Leonardo Leonardo (voiced by Alec Baldwin), Charles Barkley (voiced by Charles Barkley), Gwenyth Paltrow (voiced by Gwenyth Paltrow), and Jerry Seinfeld (voiced by Gilbert Gottfried). What I Say- Great episode. Loved the flashbacks of part 1. Loved it when they talk about the celebrities they met (Jerry Seinfeld, Gwenyth Paltrow, Audrey Hepburn, Samuel L. Jackson, Martin Scorcese, Matt Damon, and Ted Danson, although we don't see Ted). The rest of the stuff was good. The ending reminded me of "Stand By Me."

Episode 3- "Leonardo Is Caught In The Grip Of An Outbreak Of Randal's Imagination And Patrick Swayze Either Does Or Doesn't Work In The New Pet Store." Voices- Dante Hicks (voiced by Brian O'Halloran), Randal Graves (voiced by Jeff Anderson), Jay (voiced by Jason Mewes), Silent Bob (voiced by Kevin Smith), Leonaro Leonardo (voiced by Alec Baldwin), Charles Barkley (voiced by Charles Barkley), Patrick Swayze (voiced by Gilbert Gottried), and Major Baklavad, Center for Disease Control, United States Armed Forces (voiced by James Woods). What I Say- Another great episode. I loved it when they made fun of the movie "Outbreak."

Episode 4- "A Dissertation Of The American Justice System By People Who Have Never Been Inside A Courtroom, Let Alone Know Anything About The Law, But Have Seen Way Too Many Legal Thrillers." Voices- Dante Hicks (voiced by Brian O'Halloran), Randal Graves (voiced by Jeff Anderson), Jay (voiced by Jason Mewes), Silent Bob (voiced by Kevin Smith), Judge Reinhold (voiced by Judge Reinhold), the announcer (voiced by Michael Buffer), and the 12 jurors (voiced by Charles Barkley, Kenny Mayne, Dan Patrick, Grant Hill, Reggie Miller, and 7 more). What I Say- "The People's Court" + Judge Reinhold + Different Dreams + New Japanese Ending = Best Episode Ever.

Episode 5- "Dante And Randal And Jay And Silent Bob And A Bunch Of New Characters And Lando Take Part In A Bunch Of Movie Parodies Including, But Not Excluding To, "The Bad News Bears," "The Last Starfighter," "Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom," Plus A High School Reunion." Voices- Dante Hicks (voiced by Brian O'Halloran), Randal Graves (voiced by Jeff Anderson), Jay (voiced by Jason Mewes), Silent Bob (voiced by Kevin Smith), Leonardo Leonardo (voiced by Alec Baldwin), Professor Ram (voiced by Michael McKean), and Charles Barkley (voiced by Charles Barkley). What I Say- 3 Movies Made Fun Of + A Reunion = Another Funny Episode.

Episode 6- "The Last Episode Ever." Voices- Dante Hicks (voiced by Brian O'Halloran), Randal Graves (voiced by Jeff Anderson), Jay (voiced by Jason Mewes), Silent Bob (voiced by Kevin Smith), Leonardo Leonardo (voiced by Alec Baldwin), The Pinheads (voiced by Mark McKinney and Kevin McDonald), Regis Philbin (voiced by Regis Philbin), and Caitlin Bree (voiced by Lisa Spoonauer). What I Say- Final Episode + "The Matrix" + Different Ways Of Ending The Show = Final Episode Ever. But, I get to watch it again & again & again.

If you've never seen "Clerks" before, do yourself a favor: rent the movie first, then, watch the show, and if you liked them both, get them both on DVD. If you loved the movie "Clerks," you'll love "Clerks: The Animated Series ("Clerks: Uncensored," the DVD version), but, only if you're a Kevin Smith fan, like me.

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Dogma (1999)

I don't understand what all the fuss is all about! This movie is simply funny!!

[10/10 · 19 June 2002]

After his 1997 romantic-comedy movie "Chasing Amy" did well at the box office and the critics, Kevin Smith has been wanting to get a movie he's been wanting to make for awhile and finally get it made. And that film is called "Dogma." He was supposed to make this movie after his his debut "Clerks," but, made "Mallrats" instead and failed miserably. So, he hold "Dogma" for awhile and made "Chasing Amy," which got excellent reviews. So, it's 1999. What's next for Kevin Smith? Time to get "Dogma" made. When it opened in theatres everywhere, it was protested by Catholics everywhere because of its use of language and its strong crude sexually humor and it made of the Catholocism personally. But, who cares? This movie was very funny and I couldn't stop laughing. And this is a different Kevin Smith because this is his longest movie (128 min.; his other films never went past two hours) and this is his bloodiest movie ever. But, it's a Kevin Smith movie. What do you expect? Also, if there's a Catholic person reading this review, I apologize about the caring thing. But, if you liked or loved this movie, then it doesn't really matter. If you liked Kevin's other films, then check out "Dogma."

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

Chasing Amy (1997)

Funny, romantic, and real!

[10/10 · 19 June 2002]

After the disappointing 1995 movie "Mallrats," writer/director Kevin Smith took different turn on a different comedy and added romance to it. Add those two together and we get another hit from Kevin Smith.

This movie is about Banky Edwards (Jason Lee) and Holden McNeil (Ben Affleck), the creators of the popular "Bluntman & Chronic," based on the lives of Jay & Silent Bob, minus the superstuff. During a comic book convention meeting, Holden meets a lovely girl named Alyssa Jones (Joey Lauren Adams) and immediately falls in love with her. The next night, Alyssa invites Holden and Banky to a club called "The Meow Mix." What Holden soon finds out is that Alyssa is a LESBIAN!!! And that surprises Holden and when Banky sees Alyssa kissing a girl, he calls that "A shared moment." But, Holden can't hide the truth and must tell Alyssa that he's in love with her. So, as soon as they're together, Banky thinks that Holden's spending too much time with Alyssa and not concentrating on their friendship and that there's gonna be a T.V. show based on the comic book.

There's alot of surprises and it gets really good. Now, there's just one thing about this movie that I didn't like. Now, taking that Kevin Smith adds Jay & Silent Bob in all of his films, these guys were only in one scene, and that's near the end of the movie in the restaurant when they're talking to Holden about the comic book, Alyssa, and Silent Bob telling his "Amy" story. Now, I like Jay & Silent Bob, but they should've been in the movie longer. That's the only thing I was mad about. But, other than that, I loved this movie. If you hated "Mallrats" (I didn't), then "Chasing Amy" will bring your faith back to Kevin Smith.

A 12/13 *****1/2 (out of ****** stars)

The Bourne Identity (2002)

The movie is actually pretty good.

[9/10 · 18 June 2002]

I just got a chance to see "The Bourne Identity" today. At first, I didn't think the movie would be any good, consider I'm not a big fan of Matt Damon, but there were some movies I liked or loved ("Saving Private Ryan," "Ocean's Eleven," "Good Will Hunting," any movies by Kevin Smith, just to name a few) and there may have been 1 or 2 movies that I didn't liked ("The Talented Mr. Ripley), but, after seeing this movie, well, here's what I got to say.

I just thought the movie was pretty good. There were some great scenes. I like the setting of the movie. Matt did a good job playing the main character Jason Bourne. I don't know what else to say. It's not one the best movies out there, but, it's still good. If you're a big fan of Matt Damon, then check out "The Bourne Identity." I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

A- 11/13 *****1/2 (out of ****** stars)

Bad Company (2002)

It's a Jerry Bruckheimer film! What do you expect?!

[10/10 · 12 June 2002]

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has worked with 1st time directors in the past. Let's recap: 1975-Dick Miller for "Farewell, My Lovely;" 1980-Paul Schrader for "American Gigolo;" 1980-John Flynn for "Defiance;" 1981-Michael Mann for "Thief;" 1982-Garry Marshall for "Young Doctors In Love;" 1983-Adrian Lyne for "Flashdance;" 1984-Martin Brest for "Beverly Hills Cop;" 1984-Douglas Day Stewart for "Thief of Hearts;" 1986-Tony Scott for "Top Gun;" 1995-Michael Bay for "Bad Boys" and John N. Smith for "Dangerous Minds;" 1997-Simon West for "Con Air;" 2000-Dominic Sena for "Gone In 60 Seconds," David McNally for "Coyote Ugly," and Boaz Yaskin for "Remember The Titans;" 2001-Ridley Scott for "Black Hawk Down;" and now 2002-Joel Schumacher for "Bad Company."

I've been a big fan of Jerry Bruckheimer ever since his movie "Top Gun" became a popular movie. Then, when I saw the preview for "Bad Company," starring Chris Rock and Sir Anthony Hopkins, I thought to myself, "This is gonna be a big hit! I'm definitely gonna see it." But, Joel Schumacher's directing it. Yes movie buffs, he's the same man who directed the 1997 dud "Batman & Robin." But, cut him some slack. I loved "Batman & Robin" and I loved "Bad Company." It was a fast-paced entertainment film.

The story begins in the Czech Republic with 2 CIA agents Kevin Pope and Gaylord Oakes (played by Rock and Hopkins) about to make a deal with a terrorist named Adrik Vas (Peter Stormare). The deal is good, but Vas's terrorist are chasing Kevin and he gets killed. Cut to New York where Gaylord (the first name reminds me of Ben Stiller's character in "Meet The Parents") has to search for Jake Hayes (again by Rock) and have 9 days to train him to be agent. The only problem is Jake never knew he had a twin brother. So, Jake must pretend to be Kevin in 9 days.



I loved this movie from beginning to end. It was funny and action-packed. If you've already seen the big summer movies ("Star Wars 2," "Spider-Man," "Insomnia," "The Sum Of All Fears," etc.) and wanna see something else, go see "Bad Company." I guarantee you'll love it.

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

The Matrix (1999)

One of the greatest movies to come out in a long time!

[10/10 · 16 May 2002]

Back in 1999, "The Matrix" was released, and it was unlike anything I've ever seen before. Here's why:

Great story, great characters/actors, great editing, great dialouges, great direction (by the Wachowski Brothers), great action scenes (gunfights, kung-fu kicks, chases, etc.), and most of all, spectacular special effects. I don't know what else to say about "The Matrix" because I'm speechless. The wierdest about the movie was that this is the Wachowski's second film they directed (after "Bound"). But, they did an excellent job. This is one of the best films of 1999, one of the best films ever, and one of my all-time favorite films. Will there more sequels? Yes. In 2003, two "Matrix" sequels- "The Matrix Reloaded" and "The Matrix Revolutions" will be out in the same year, but, in different months. If you wanna see the trailers, you can either go see "Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones" or you can log onto www.TheMatrix.com and check out the trailers.

One final note: If you haven't seen "The Matrix" yet, go see it. You're gonna love it. You won't be disappointed.

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars) 13/13

Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)

Note to the Star Wars fans: George Lucas has brought the force back!!!

[10/10 · 16 May 2002]

Here it is: "Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones." I just went to see the first screening at midnight and here are my thoughts:

IT'S ALOT BETTER THAN "EPISODE I: THE PHANTOM MENACE!!!!" But, the only question is: Is it alot better than the originals? You damn right!!! Why? Well, here's why:

Great story, great characters/actors, great dialouges, great music (compose by long-time composer John Williams), and most of all, the biggest special effects I've ever seen! Even the sound was loud, and that's good! The love story between Padme (Natalie Portman) and Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) was better than "Titanic" and "Pearl Harbor" combined. And most of all, for all you Jar Jar Binks haters out there, he's in the movie, but, not only for a little bit.

The plot: The movie takes place 10 years after the accounts of "The Phantom Menace:" Padme Amidala is now Senator instead of Queen, Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor)has a beard, Anakin Skywalker is older and now a Jedi, and alot more happens.

We get to see the debut of Jango Fett and his younger son, Bobba (who would later debut with the armor and the jetpack in "Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back." Plus, the debut of Lord Dooku (Christopher Lee). I won't give away the whole plot and the ending, but, you've never seen a "Star Wars" movie like this. Even the whole Jedi Council fight. Oh Yeah Baby! The ending reminds me of "The Empire Strikes Back." So, what I'm saying is: GO SEE THIS MOVIE!!! YOU "STAR WARS" FANS WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!! I GUARANTEE IT!!!

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars) 13/13

Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)

The beginning of the "Star Wars" saga!!

[10/10 · 16 May 2002]

"Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace" is actually alot better than what I anticipated! Forget what the critics say, except about Jar Jar Binks, and see this movie. After "Episodes IV, V, and VI," it's time to bring start at the beginning. George Lucas did an excellent job. I'm not a man of words, but, even though the fans hated it, I loved this movie every minute of it. If you still haven't seen the movie, go check it out.

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars) 13/13

Spider-Man (2002)

The best film to start the summer!

[10/10 · 4 May 2002]

"Spider-Man," directed by the great Sam Raimi, is so good that I have a loss of words. Here's what I'm gonna say. It's alot better than "X-Men." But, it's in the same area with "The Crow" series, the "Blade" series, the "Superman" series, and the "Batman" series. This is Sam Raimi's best film to date (his best was the "Evil Dead" series). Tobey Macguire was the perfect choice to play Peter Parker. David Koepp, who recently wrote the hit "Panic Room," did such a good job staying very faithful to the comic books and Sam also did a good job not dissappointing the "Spider-Man" fans. Also, my favorite composer, Danny Elfman, did an excellent job orchestrating the music to this movie. William Dafoe was wonderful as Norman Osborn (a.k.a. "The Green Goblin). But, the best thing about the movie was Kirsten Dunst. My all-time favorite actress who I admired watching from being a girl ("Interview With The Vampire," "Little Women," "Jumanji," etc.), to being all grown up ("Crazy/Beautiful," "Drop Dead Gorgeous," "The Crow: Salvation," "Bring It On," "The Virgin Suicides," etc.) did such a marvelous, marvelous job playing Peter's love interest, Mary Jane Watson, I wanna see what she's gonna do next. If you wanna start the summer off with a big bang before "Star Wars" opens, then I'd reccommend you guys to see "Spider-Man." Also, I've been hearing about a sequel that's gonna be released next year, so, pay attention.

A+ 13/13 ****** (out of ****** stars)

The Scorpion King (2002)

The Rock is the next Arnold!

[10/10 · 29 April 2002]

"The Scorpion King," The Rock's film debut, after "The Mummy Returns," is an excellent movie. It was exciting from beginning to end. Great story, great characters, great action, and great special effects make it all into one wild ride of a movie. It's so good to see Chuck Russell (director of "A Nightmare On Elm Street 3," "The Mask," and "Eraser") back in the director's chair after his disappointing 2000 film "Bless The Child." The Rock (The People's Champion) is going to be the next action hero in the future, but, right now, he's concentrating on his wrestling. After all that, I'll be glad to see him back on the big screen. If you're a big fan of The Rock, then check out "The Scorpion King." He rocks! Rocky, Rocky, Rocky, Rocky!!!!

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars) 13/13

Jason X (2001)

Is it what I expected? NO! It's better!

[10/10 · 29 April 2002]

"Jason X," or "Friday the 13th Part 10," is the best outta the last 9 "Friday" movies. It's kinda weird, but, this movie simply rocks. I've been a big fan of Jason Voorhees for a while and I enjoyed all of the films (including "Jason Goes To Hell: The Final Friday"), and this one is no exception. The movie is so violent. Kane Hodder (who played Jason since "Part VII) is very good as Jason. He should've been Jason starting from "Part 2." If you're a big fan of the "Friday The 13th" movies, then check out "Jason X." I guarantee it you'll love it. Also, check out Jason in his new body suit a.k.a. Uber-Jason.

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars) 13/13

Mallrats (1995)

Why were all the critics badmouthing this film?!!!

[10/10 · 21 April 2002]

"Mallrats," Kevin Smith's follow-up to his hit "Clerks," was so good, you gotta ask yourself one question? What is it with critics these days? They hated this film, including Roger Ebert. I thought it was one of Smith's better films (before his last 3 J&SB films). I you enjoy Smith's work, then listen to my advice. AVOID THE CRITICS' REVIEWS!!! SEE THIS MOVIE!!!

A+ ****** (out of ****** stars)

Clerks (1994)

The debut film from Kevin Smith!

[10/10 · 21 April 2002]

"Clerks" was written and directed by first-timer Kevin Smith. To tell you the truth, I found this movie very funny! I couldn't stop laughing. There were many good things with this movie, including the debut of potheads Jay & Silent Bob. It was filmed in Black & White. And it was very cool. Plus, this movie had alot of sick jokes, but, they were so cool. Kevin Smith is a god! If you've seen all of Kevin's films instead of "Clerks," then check this out!

A *****1/2 (out of ****** stars)