The Film Crusade

“Avatar” – we’ve been hearing about it for ages, and now it’s finally here. We were skeptical, but the response is amazing. Critics are praising writer/director James Cameron’s new epic to a fault. Now it’s being compared to what many consider the greatest science fiction film ever, “Star Wars.” Is there even a comparison?

Say what you want about Peter Jackson’s “The Lovely Bones.” But it is one of the most original films of 2009. And is worthy of some praise and attention. Remarkable performances and solid direction make for an emotionally gripping experience.

As we rapidly approach the 2010 calendar year, we can look forward to a fresh comedy that amplifies the talents of Michael Cera while showcasing the potential of Cera’s love interest, newcomer Portia Doubleday.

Why do we avoid certain films and favor others? Here we make the distinction between some of the biggest Oscar contenders while also projecting the finalists for the Best Picture award.

After the National Board of Review awarded Jason Reitman’s “Up in the Air” the Best Picture award, the Oscar bells are ringing. Yet despite what many critics are considering to be the next big thing at the Oscars, “Up in the Air” is not Oscar-worthy. Not in any category. And not even close.

She’s sixteen, illiterate, and fat as all get-out. And she’s pregnant. With her second child. Her first had the Down’s Syndrome. Her mama? She’s on the welfare and real mean. I mean, Cinderella, you think your mama’s mean, you ain’t seen nothing like this bitch.

“The Road” is a dark, poignant story of a father and son journeying through a post-apocalyptic wasteland, withstanding harsh weather, malnutrition, and under the constant threat of marauders, thieves and cannibals. Their goal is simple: to carry on.

Ti West’s “The House of the Devil” could have been great. It could have even been epic. And it would have been both if only Ti considered practicing artistic restraint. Do filmmakers like Ti West deserve final cut?

There’s a reason why movies like “The Men Who Stare at Goats” don’t normally get made. But, please. Save your money. Josh Long explains why you shouldn’t bother wasting your time with this senseless, hollow clusterf*ck of a movie.

An American producer has just announced a $150 million production deal to produce a film about the life of the Prophet Muhammad. Sound like a good idea? We’re not so sure. Eric Patton discusses the delicate dangers involved in portraying Islam’s most prominent figure.