oprlvr33 Reviews

The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries (1977–1979)

Campy Family Friendly fun for the 1970s

[7/10 · 1 September 2016]

We watched this on the new cable as kids, and loved every moment. What prepubescent kid didn't. Parker Stevenson and teen-idol Shaun Cassidy in the boy-detective lead roles of Frank and younger brother Joe. Then soon introducing the Poseidon Adventures, Pamela Sue Martin as Nancy Drew. It all worked and flowed brilliantly. Parker was already a seasoned young actor, and Shaun played his own role well. Not to mention the Powers included his vocal talents later into the series. The guys played well off each other. And when coupled with Nancy on certain episodes, the three truly meshed.

Watching it today as an adult, most of the episodes flow decently enough, though some scenes or dialogue appear to drag in certain places. But that may well have been the original editing. Overall, this classic '70s series has retained its original charm, and is well worth watching and re-watching.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (2016)

Delightfully hilarious and charming

[10/10 · 13 August 2016]

We got over excited seeing previews of this box office sequel. It's about time. And it did not disappoint.

Everyone is back from the original and as terrific as ever. We laughed our tails off. In fact, it's almost funnier than the original.

Toula and Ian are long married now, with a half-grown daughter heading off to college after graduation. However, insert dealings with the aging folks; played ever deliciously by Kaizan and Constantine, and hilarious interventions from the extended family in- between, including over-the-top hair salon moments before the wedding, and you get a delightfully parodic piece that is nonstop laughter.

There are also plenty of tender moments in-between the humor, which beautifully balances. We absolutely loved it. Kudos to Nia Vardalos and company for finally releasing this long-awaited sequel to her successful box office original.

The Ridiculous 6 (2015)

Wonderfully parodic Sandler film

[9/10 · 1 January 2016]

In spite what the Haters have scratched about this one, we enjoyed it immensely. For a change, Sandler delivers the goods, as compared to his last 2 or 3 bombs. Some critics have pined that he committed holy racism and sacrilege with this one.

Not likely.

What Sandler did, was take a few classic Western comedies like Blazing Saddles, A Million Ways to Die in the West and City Slickers, and switched things up a bit, adding even more satire to this mix than normal. Similar to Three Amigos, Sandler set up some good travel- action shots and face-off sequences which almost upstage that, of the classic Lorne Michaels film. And like Eastwood, Sandler once again cast his leading comic-actor friends in some very interesting and decent roles, including Steve Buscemi as a hilarious town barber/doctor. But you expect this from Sandler. And it usually works.

And I personally never thought Rob Schneider could act, until Deuce Bigelow. And here, he is believable and funny, as a low- key sardonic Spaniard.

Now Sandler hasn't experienced the greatest filmmaking choices over the last few years. But this one has truly redeemed his talent. The sets are cinematically good, the action decent, and the sight gags and jokes nicely delivered. And what an interesting twist, seeing Twilight hunk Taylor Lautner in a comedic role as a half wit.

Windwalker (1980)

All I can say is, "Wow"

[8/10 · 27 August 2015]

What initially peaked my curiosity was both Nick Ramus and James Remar in the heading. Ramus was awesome and memorable as Chief Black Kettle in the series 'Dr. Quinn; Medicine Woman'. And I've always loved James Remar; fantastic actor, and incredible 'Warrior'. He's equally incredible here, as Windwalker Young Man.

At first I wasn't sure what to think of this gem; it had been literally ages since I've sat down to watch anything with Native American, and forever since I've seen The Call of the Wild or Jack London. Both were lost screen gems. But for any fan who grew up on the likes of Grizzly Adams, Jack London, or Dances With Wolves, this film is a beauty.

I duly recall the days of my youth when Disney or like, were credible for producing films like this. Kids and parents used to fill the cinemas on the weekends, just to see Native Americans on the big screen. Those days have been long gone, with exception of Dances With Wolves.

I love the fact that it's all natural; only Native-American actors, and the English subtitles. And the photography and cinematography are fantastic.

Soapdish (1991)

Brilliant of brilliance

[10/10 · 21 August 2015]

There isn't an area of this gem that isn't exciting or brilliant.

Terrific cast, and wonderful 'sub plot' (as Elisabeth Shue puts it).

Everyone is at their comical best, and Field and Kline beautifully play off each other as the former star-crossed screen/off-screen lovers, turned passion-rivals. Cathy Moriarty is deliciously *beep* as Montana/Myron, and this is by far probably Robert Downey Jr's greatest comic performance in a role. For any Daytime (and former) fan, this movie is a must; it tastefully highlights and mocks every bit of gossip, raw, and glamor behind the scenes.

**Of course I'm an 'ego-maniac'... I've got "America's Sweetheart" climbing up my drainpipe!!!**

Xanadu (1980)

Dated and cutesy, but wonderfully artsy

[7/10 · 18 August 2015]

For any fan of the roller-boogie disco era-into the early 80s, this film is delightfully artsy and clever. Perfectly rounded in flair and colorful choreography. Even as a kid, I loved heavily costumed musicals and dashing choreography. And this piece truly delivers.

Though some say Michael Beck was horribly cast here as 'wooden' compared to that of Olivia and Gene, I don't entirely agree. His character didn't have to sing here; he was a visual artist. And that is here or there. Perhaps Warrior fans were still fogged by his bad- ass street-fighter Swan gang leader persona. And that's a shame. I did find him completely believable here, as artist/painter Sunny Malone.

This wonderful film is an adult version of a classic Disney film, where one dares to dream their dream--and secretly hopes that it comes true.

The dance numbers are right up there with the mastery of A Chorus Line, The Wiz, Hair, and other classic rock musicals. Only true artsy fans would fully appreciate the fine fantasy, costumes, and magic this film delivers. And iconic Gene Kelly, sharing some dancing and singing screen time with the lovely ONJ is treasure.

Young & Hungry (2014–2018)

Cutesy okay.... But not for the seriously mature audience

[5/10 · 15 August 2015]

Because the pilot caption stated "Hungry blogger needing gourmet food work..." I decided to give it a shot, as I am a seasoned writer/blogger and journalist.

The first 4-5 episodes were great: some quiet, cool laughs. And you can't beat Yolanda's and Elliott's deadpan charismatic gay or sarcastic comic-timing overload. Both are hysterical... at the start.

However after episode 6, I honestly grew bored. It appeared that writing and production were aiming to romantically (and sexually) collide Gabi with Josh. But then Gabi suddenly down-turned from a seemingly intelligent and hungry gourmet-chef-writer, into a girlish, nonsense, silly, bimbo. Suddenly Josh went from becoming the romance prospect, into proposed 'older brother' mode. And the overall writing had somehow turned flat. I don't think I laughed (or giggled) once during latter episodes.

This newcomer is definitely not for the older, refined, intelligent or intellectually mature crowd who are more accustomed to 'Friends' 'Frasier' 'The Golden Girls' etc.

I gave it the benefit, but it's definitely suited for a much younger audience.

Roller Boogie (1979)

Total cheese-fest, but okay

[5/10 · 12 August 2015]

I'd first seen this on HBO in 1981; and I was a kid, so it didn't truly ring with me then. I'd only remembered the fancy rollerskating and disco moves, and how fun it all looked. Well fast-fwd to present. For the most part the script is okay, but many areas fell somewhat flat; either bad casting or simply mediocre actors, though it was low- medium budget.

Totally ridiculous and unrealistic, the vintage car (Terri) drove, even for a wealthy teenager heading off to college at summers-end; a fancy jeep or sports car would have been more realistic and appropriate. Jim Bray isn't bad, for his first (and only) film role as Bobby; the skater king. Some of the sight gags that were intended to be funny, weren't. And again, I blame that on a mediocre script and the director - though I've seen a few of Mark lester's other films, like 'Class of 1984', 'Firestarter', 'The Funhouse', etc. each of which were good or decent.

Overall, this is an interesting film, especially for the 70's nostalgic boogie fever fans. And some great caption action shots during the roller-rink and the skating contest.

The First Nudie Musical (1976)

Okay ... For low-budget 'sex' comedy

[5/10 · 7 August 2015]

I first remember seeing this in 1981, on an HBO special release. Perhaps because it's the only "movie-musical" of its kind, that features corny numbers with partial or frontal nudity.

What stood out to me were the "dancing dildo's", the "worst orgasm I've ever seen" and Mary LaRue getting attitude with secretary Rosie. The opening with Harry and his financiers is certainly decent, but the song action is weakly delivered. And a few of the other musical numbers were okay; but nothing actual showbiz or feature film worthy. The audition moments are hilarious. But the directorial mishaps with John Smithee fall flat. Overall this film is just okay. The funniest moments appear near the opening, with a few toward the middle.

Class of 1999 (1990)

Surprisingly very good... and some decent actors

[7/10 · 20 July 2015]

Out of a video collection of somewhat lesser B-quality Indie films, comes this horror/suspense gem. Admittedly, I researched it beforehand, just to get a glimpse, as I'd never heard of it. Then I saw the legendary Malcom McDowell's name in the lead cast and was immediately rest-assured, it had to be good. And I was correct.

This Indie gem thankfully delivers no cheesy, snowball special effects that typically ruin a good thriller. It's strictly high-octane, intensive-violence, and obvious raw language surrounding a film about street gangs and ex-Juveniles forced to attend a 'renovated' high school focused on discipline and corporal punishment; governed by a suspicious principal (McDowell) and his android cronies. Plenty of fast-action, believable fight scenes, and face-off violence, alongside decent actors who can truly act. Absolutely nothing is over the top. And the iconic Stacy Keach naturally plays the cronies's broker.

Waxwork (1988)

Just okay ... But not a classic 80s cult teen film

[4/10 · 19 July 2015]

Admittedly I barely got through the latter half of this, before temptation dared me to sit it out to the end. Darned it. Definitely not Galligan's, Johnson's, Foreman's or even Warner's better work. But I blame that on the bad scripting, the horrible directing, the rather lazy production technique. And Lord knows, I have long respected and admired David Warner's work. Gifted villain is he, especially opposite his classic Jack the Ripper icon, opposite Malcolm McDowell in 'Time after time'. And certainly, one of the finer, solid English talents of our century. Thankfully his talent wasn't entirely wasted in this. He was allotted some grandeur evil moments; similar to the setup of Vincent Price's classic 'House of Wax'. Most inevitably, a few of the latter scenes curiously depicted those classic scenes,like the vat room and the staircase.

This film certainly started out decently, but some of the pacing was a tad slow. By the time the kids actually step inside the 'wax museum', and then walk around the exhibits, much just turns goofy or mindless from thereon. Eventually action becomes rather boorish. The special effects are mediocre if that, most of the period actors can barely act a wink, and the editing is just awful. Several of the slasher-gore action shots get goofy or make zero sense (or out of sequence), and the ending 'battle' scene between the 'monsters' and the good guys is laughable.

Perhaps this was intended to be a teen suspense comedy-drama. And it almost held the same quality humor as the Evil-dead series. However, with the awkward pacing, much of the intended visual effects fell either flat or victim to bad editing.

Grace and Frankie (2015–2022)

Deliciously Delightful

[8/10 · 11 July 2015]

Though I have many years, before officially hitting "middle age", this comedy is an absolute GEM. Tomlin and Fonda knock this masterpiece, out of the park.

While I loved their performances in "9-5" (too bad these iconic ladies didn't do other films together) Tomlin and Fonda are deliciously delightful together, in this new Netflix comedy. Tomlin tosses in enough deliciously crude and sarcastic humor, to blend nicely with Fonda's sardonic, yet straight humor.

I knew it was a hit at the pilot episode, when they both are deadened, then comically reactive, to the unexpected news, of their husbands "coming out".

Lily Tomlin is a comic legend. And She and Fonda bounce off and blend WELL with each other.

Their abstract and comical performances almost upstage that of their character gay-husbands, Sol and Robert (Waterson and Sheen). This "middle aged" comedy hits it dead on the mark. Tomlin is her grandeur comical self, with Fonda balancing the sardonic humor.

Flowers in the Attic (1987)

Not a decent adaption from the book series

[5/10 · 4 May 2015]

I too was a huge V.C. Andrew's series fan, during its day. It was fascinating to read such intensive, dark, and emasculating drama about an incestuous family's dysfunctional journey through future generations.

However this film adaption is far from the book series' justice. Only Louise Fletcher as the cruel grandmother, delivers any real or decent performance. Now I've always liked Kristy Swanson during her teen years, in the many TV movies and smaller roles she's played, and Jeb Stuart pulled off some decent supporting roles himself, in some classic 80's teen movies. However, direction did not pull much justice of intensity for either one of their characters in this. At times their Chris and Cathy's are plain flat or just whiny. And their 'interaction' with the mother, also falls flat.

And Victoria Tennant. Get me started on her. The former Mrs. Steve Martin (Yes, the famous comic actor who seasoned during SNL) is as bad or flat an actress is bad-acting can nose-dive. She always was noted as mediocre. And here, she is less than such. Barely believable as Corrine, in spite any proper direction she was allotted during shoot. Mostly she was down right boring, especially the attic scenes.

Jeffrey Bloom's overall direction is just okay. Only Oscar-winner Louise Fletcher delivers any such notable performance.

Pete's Dragon (1977)

Another delightfully enjoyable Disney split-animation

[8/10 · 12 April 2015]

During its original cinematic release, I recall kids in the audience dancing along with the colorful songs, and hooting over Elliot the dragon. The adults just loved Doc Terminus and bumbling Hoagie, not to mention the near scene-stealing Gogan clan. The entire film is just plain enjoyable and quite entertaining.

Now some have mocked this film as dull, silly animation, with a laughable "dragon". However they forget that, like Mary Poppins, Bedknobs, Gullivers Travels, etc - this is partial animation - not the sophisticated modern CGI, the younger audiences are more familiar with. For its time, partial animation was a brilliant film-making invention incorporation. It spawned the Who Framed Roger Rabbitt? franchise into movie credits history.

The entire cast here is perfectly delightful in their roles, and very entertaining. And how better fitting for Helen Reddy to portray a liberated lighthouse keeper, following the 1970's Women's Liberation movement, and her respective contemporary music hits, "I am woman", and "No way to treat a lady".

Of course, fans will argue that Elliot the dragon is the ultimate scene stealer. Decent job, production delivered, with interacting Pete, realistically, with the animated Elliot. And Sean Marshall was gold as young Pete.

The Oklahoma Kid (1939)

Brilliant double casting of fine villain talent

[10/10 · 22 March 2015]

At start, Hollywood told Cagney that gangster films did not need two novel hippie tough-guys * * that Bogart was more than enough to satisfy the hungry moviegoers. Well Cagney smartly insisted that he indeed was no mere Bogey 'copy-cat'. He had brought his own characterization, his own flair of cynicism and dark eyes to the silver screen... including torque. And rightly so. Cagney indeed became his own tough guy. Where Bogey shaves tough, athletic, hard-boiled deadpan cynicism, Cagney duly presents cleverness, wit, and boyish charm. Together they curiously pair for this classic Western drama, and Cagney's first major screen role. And indeed Cagney shines here as Jim Kincaid (The Oklahoma Kid).

To some degree Cagney nearly upstages Bogey here, with his clever, cocksure, fast-talking wit, to Bogart's serious, deadpan bantam. But Bogey does hold his own, nicely. However it is very clear that they are very different tough guy personalities. Some critics knitted that Bogey is almost a bore here, almost upstaged by Cagney. However, he indeed brought his own malice as Whip McCord.

The remaining supportive cast are duly delightful. The ever- gorgeous Rosemary Lane (of the famous singing Lane sisters) as Jane Hardwick, the kindly, non-judgmental pioneer-girl who incidentally falls in love with Jim's rebellious, yet kind-bigheartedness... "the wrong man, for all the right reasons", and Donald Crisp (Judge Hardwick) who realizes that his kindly daughter rightfully loves the kind-hearted outlaw.

Strangeland (1998)

Just Okay ... But way better than Rob Zombie

[5/10 · 21 December 2014]

Admittedly this film is far better than the sinister Rob Zombie junk. (sorry Rob fans)

At least Snyder put some substance, plot, and decent action into this. Have to hand it to him: he's not a bad actor. Especially in a psychotic role; which some may accuse of him as being cliché'. However, it is Dee Snyder. He wouldn't unrealistically portray a warm, loving father. Keep it real. And while I was never a huge fan, nor follower of metal music, I loved Twisted Sister. And Dee Snyder is my all-time favorite. Here he almost brilliantly resurrects his Capt. Howdy personae.

And featuring Robert Englund; a very noted actor, whom of course revolutionized horror movie history with his iconic Freddy Krueger. Here we are subject to an opposite, non-sinister role as Jack, much like Englund's nice-guy character Willie, from the classic V - TV series. Snyder obviously is an Englund fan (like the rest of us :) and deliberately cast him in this film, as honorary appearance. No doubt Englund is brilliant, and could easily pull off a crime-drama psychotic serial killer as well.

Overall, a few sinister scenes do drag a bit, and lack some intensity. However, Snyder does pull this thing off, for the most part.

The Bouquet (2013)

Fantastically enjoyable Hallmark-quality film

[9/10 · 23 November 2014]

I recently watched this on the religious-based Trinity channel and was amazed at its overall quality: equal to that of a standard Hallmark movie. I have not seen Kristy Swanson on screen in ages, so I did not realize it was her until the closing credits, though her face looked awfully familiar. My first memory of her was in 'Flowers in the Attic' (1985), and later, Early Edition.

This movie begins on a solid laid-back note; the aged parents (Nicole Cavendish, Steven Miller) own a greenhouse/floral business, and prepare for the upcoming holiday season; eagerly anticipating arrival of their two adult daughters (Kristy Swanson, Alberta Mayne). Then a tragedy hits, and mom learns some rather unfortunate news. It is now up to the daughters to step up their game and help out with the ailing greenhouse business, and get mom current with the Internet in order to run the place successfully. Soon, both daughters also discover true love with a local delivery man (Jeremy Guilbaut), and a handyman (Michael Shanks).

What truly I found unique about this movie was its rather subtle romance tones; unlike many other romance-based movies. This film does not force the theme. The building romances are unobtrusive, which works very well for this type of movie. And the entire cast is superb, and the story, well delivered.

Hunk (1987)

Turned out very well ... in spite my doubts

[8/10 · 6 September 2014]

Part of an 80's Teen Comedy - Back to School DVD set I just bought, it didn't look all promising, to be honest. However, I did give it the benefit. And was I ever surprised. This low-budget film has substance, and an actual plot - with actors who can actually act.

I found it charming, entertaining, and funny. In fact, many areas are downright hilarious. The dialog, acting, direction, and cinematography are decent. And I loved its overall moral theme: Beauty is over-rated. The film centers on tech-geek Brad Brinkman who grows bored with his overall life, and desires severe change, especially with women. He's visited by a sexy apparition who transforms him into a total stud. And then Brad/Hunk must decide thereon if he's indefinite happy with his 'transformation'.

The only downers to this were the club snobs who's performances were weak and way overdone. Otherwise this movie is 2 thumbs up.

Night of the Demons 2 (1994)

Doesn't justify the 1986 original

[4/10 · 29 August 2014]

At least the original was creepy and decent acting, with great direction. I honestly couldn't tell if this thing was a horror sequel, or an Evil Dead comedy spin off. It isn't scary, nor creepy. In fact, it was downright lame. We almost turned it off, we were growing so bored.

Normally film sequels pick up 2-3 years after the original. This one didn't. And they tried to give it that late 80's fix, but it didn't work. And the opening scene was pathetic. At least the Angela/Demon in the original was creepy. Here, I sat gape-mouthed, hoping the rest of would improve instead of wasting our time.

Only Christina Taylor, Zoe Trilling, and Jennifer Rhoades could truly act. The rest of the cast was lame to boot, or way over-acted. And evidently this was low-budget, based on the cheap spookhouse effects and the plastic cobwebbing commonly sold in Halloween stores. And don't forget the super cheesy lipstick tube ending "effect".

I truly expected far more than what this thing delivered. Director Trenchor-Smith should not be making Horror films.

New in Town (2009)

Cute 'boy meets girl' movie

[8/10 · 17 August 2014]

While I was never a big Renee Zelweger fan, I absolutely adore this "boy meets girl" movie. And no, it is not a Chick-flick.

Zelweger is utterly charming as female corporate executive Lucy Hill, in this delightful film.

Enjoying the serenity of her high- powered upscale executive Miami lifestyle, Lucy's bosses suddenly send her to a northern Minnesota nowhere-land mining town to oversee and revamp a local production plant. An obvious fish-out-of-water, Lucy slowly warms up to her new surroundings, and her new friendships with the locals, until corporate threatens to shut operations down; forcing Lucy to step up, and risk her own future.

While some critics or fans may have criticized Zelweger's appearance or performance, I beg to differ. She is adorable in this role, and pulls it off nicely. And little doubt the good acting, interaction, and chemistry between her and Connick Jr.

While much of the supportive cast is equally delightful, the true scene- stealer is Sioban Fallon as Blanche Gunderson; the kindly neighbor and plant Production Specialist who takes Lucy under her wing, leads a scrapbooking circle, and makes Tapioca pudding as a hobby.

Why...She sure is pleased as plum punch ta meet cha' all :)

Every Which Way But Loose (1978)

Horribly Under-rated Eastwood comedy classic <3

[10/10 · 11 August 2014]

Eaztwood's fist-fighting, bare-knuckled Philo Beddoe does not disappoint, in this 1978 comedy classic.

Most of the supportive cast also does not disappoint. Once again, Eastwood casts former costars from his classic Westerns, in the supportive roles; most notably, the late-John Quade, as the biker-gang leader.

Sondra Locke, who quickly became "Clint's leading lady", out of respect to their former off-screen Relationship, is mediocre at best, here, as man-hustling, con-artist, country-singer wannabe, Lynne Halsey-Taylor. Most of her delivery falls flat; perhaps due her nervousness in working so closely and intimately with Clint; this being their second film together. The early critics slammed her as flaky and flat, when LHT is supposed to be a vixenish vamp. Perhaps it was because Clint allowed Sondra too much creative leeway. But alas.. one cannot turn back the clock and fix things. Thank goodness Locke's delivery in the sequel Any Which Way You Can redeemed her.

At this film's original premiere, some critics grazed Clint for steering away from his classic Westerns personae to do a little comedy for a change. Well that direction paid off; thought admittedly I am dearly surprised this under-rated film's overall average is 6.5. Eastwood is as epic as Coca-Cola and Taco Bell. And he is one of those genuinely versatile stars who built a career on Perfection. To-date, he has seldom disappointed.

The biker-gang; mostly composed of repeat co-stars, is deadpan hilarious. Headed by scruffy character-actor John Quade, traditionally, bikers are younger serious muscle-head guys with chicks riding piggyback. However, here, we get a bunch of middle-aged bungling doofus' who routinely get their butts kicked, in spite bearing Black Widow tattoos on their arms.

Geoffrey Lewis; lifetime friend and co-star of Eastwood, is deliciously delightful, and goofball, as Philo's brother and fight-manager, Orville; comically turning his hat backwards before Philo enters a fist-fight. What fan and Fem cannot resist his signature blue eyes and sexy shoulders?

The real stars and scene-stealers in this film, however - are frothy 'Ma' (Ruth Gordon) who can't seem to pass her senior's driver's test, then goes Annie Oakley on the biker gang. And Clyde; Philo's pet orangutan "12 ribs", with an Oreo cookie fetish, and a taste for action, and human beer.

Blonde Ambition (2007)

Horrible Legally Blonde copycat

[1/10 · 9 August 2014]

Talk about your LEGALLY BLONDE rip-offs; without the university. Simpson is not Elle Wood, and the "dumb gorgeous blonde" scenario has gotten old-school; you could literally vomit. As said on American IDOL: Do not toy with an original; there are no copycats.

Jessica Simpson cannot act to save her self. And her obvious looks do not fool anyone. She should stick to modeling and commercials. And pity Luke Wilson. His obvious talent has come twofold. And while he "redeemed" Elle Woods in LEGALLY BLONDE, they attempted to copycat that here, and it failed. Unlike Reese Witherspoon, he has no chemistry with Simpson.

• weak script - weak plot - weak portrayal - weak outlay

Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009)

Comedy is not the appropriate label

[3/10 · 9 August 2014]

How in the world this thing got labeled a Comedy is beside me. We didn't laugh even once. In fact, we barely got through 20 minutes of this before becoming bored stiff, then turning it off. And we've seen our share of bad or flat Comedies. They last maybe a week or so at the box office before going video. And I vaguely recalled the premier for this thing: it didn't look too funny then, but that was several years back. At least we gave it a shot.

Now granted, I was never a King of Queens fan; never quite got its humor. But that's okay; it wasn't for every audience, and it was a TV show. However, James' comic-film performance here is weaker than yesterday's coffee. He tries way too hard: timing stunk, and his "jokes" got lost. And I'm not singling out James here. Most of the film's action was flat or lost all together.

And Carr is not one of my favorite directors. I've seen the trailers and excerpts from a few of his comedy films, like DADDY DAY CARE and DR. DOOLITTLE 2. Was unimpressed. And obviously, he gave James little or no direction to work on this film.

We've all heard of Bad Casting and Bad Scripts. Well, this film was one of those.

And agreed with a few other reviews: John Candy would have aced this role. Kevin James does not.

TURN: Washington's Spies (2014–2017)

Promising new change for cable

[8/10 · 3 August 2014]

From it's initial premiere, I knew this new mid-season "mini-series" had potential. About time cable TV brought us something History-based. Though some aspects may not be historically-accurate such as a few language gaps, per say, it IS a good show overall. And history buffs will indeed engage its overall embodiment.

And what praise and joy to see both Angus McFadden and Kevin McNulty back on on screen again. Both are superb actors in their fine supportive roles here. Most of the other supportive cast also are well-do in their given roles. It's almost as though AMC created this show almost over night: assembled its chosen cast, distributed the scripts, then left the cast to deliver last-minute performances in order to knock this thing out of the park. For the most part, they've done remarkably well, since the pilot and first few episodes were confusing to follow the main plot. However, the producers did step up their game, and have finally delivered a period show worth watching.

Two thumbs up

Honkytonk Man (1982)

Brilliant casting of father and son

[8/10 · 8 June 2014]

How wonderful to have a decent, hometown movie, pairing a Western film legend with his own son. Eastwood delivers fine presence in this forgotten classic (originally aired on HBO, in my area) .. While Kyle showed definite promise as a young actor. And brilliant of Eastwood to cast so many fine, talented familiar faces in the supportive and featured roles. Loved seeing Verna Bloom again, after High Plains Drifter. And Tracey Walter left me in stitches with his tasty quips.

Perhaps it did poorly at the box-office because Eastwood fans got so accustomed to his signature gun-slinging, cuss-fighting, or bare-fisted films - none of which this one included. It was plain hometown family-style goodness, with some good country singing.