Movie Minute

I've been taking advantage of all the crazy weather that has either hit or threatened to hit the Northeast by watching movies. Generally I watch my fair share either way but I've kicked it into second gear and have a few quick blurbs regarding some films in theaters and/or for your home viewing.

Couples Retreat -  a movie that undoubtedly made too much money because too many people will blindly see films starring Vince Vaughn. When did I know I was in for a bumpy ride? When I saw Jon Favreau's name in the credits as writer. He's not funny and neither is this cliché filled "comedy" about couples trying to find happiness in their relationships while taking some tropical retreat to "Eden."

Edge of Darkness - hit theaters at the right time, nothing much else going on means a movie with the Kryptonic Mel Gibson might fare well. The conspiratorial film stars Gibson as a cop that is trying to piece together his daughter's murder that happened right before his eyes. The pace is methodical and drags at times making this "thriller" a bit of a lull for long lapses.

500 Days of Summer - it's hard to find some redeeming quality here. This film stars some dude that sits there and pines over "Summer" the new chick in his office played by Zooey whatever her name is. The story jumps back and forth, showing the trials and tribulations of young love. The constant back/forth, she loves me she loves me not was enough to make me want to break the dvd player, so I did.

Zombieland - the phenomenon that is modern day zombie movies takes a turn as a zombedy. Film stars Woody Harrelson, whom everyone seems to enjoy in his quirky film roles and he did not disappoint here. His character is an adrenaline charged human that is hell-bent on killing as many zombies as possible with a myriad of weaponry. Film also features Emma Stone, whom I liken to this generation's Molly Ringwald - cute enough to be endearing and get movie parts but there's something lacking for the long haul. You'll also notice that annoying, paranoid, whiny dude from Adventureland (apparently he likes starring in movies that feature land in the title and take place at amusement parks.)

In summary - avoid Couples Retreat and 500 Days like they have leprosy. Wait for DVD/Blu-ray for Edge of Darkness, and give Zombieland a look if you want some laughs and zombie killing.