Oct 2 2009

Zombieland

An epidemic zombie apocalypse has taken over the world, leveling the population and leaving only a small handful of survivors each known only by the name of the city they came from. While attempting to get back to his parents home in Ohio, Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) runs into Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson); the unlikely pair team up and before long run into Wichita (Emma Stone) and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin). Now on a quest to find a zombie free zone and the last remaining twinkie on earth, the group make their way to a rumored safe spot in California, which also happens to be an amusement park. But will they make it out before they become zombie snacks? zombieland Pop culture snarky humor lines this entertaining horror flick from start to finish; although, to say this script is new and refreshing might be a stretch. Acting wise, generally the film feels okay but attempts at being emotional fall flat. Gore and special effects come across in great detail. And, a cameo appearance from Bill Murray just adds to the screwball fun nature of the film. Hands down it’s fun, for fans of the genre this is a must see, also remember to stick through the credits for an extra treat. Zombieland is rated R.


Oct 2 2009

Capitalism: A Love Story

Noted documentarian Michael Moore takes on Wall Street in his continuing quest to expose unsavory truths about American culture and politics. Detailing American financial history from the time of F.D.R. to present day Moore investigates how, where, and why capitalism has eroded the very principals that America was founded on. Specifically, the film deals with the current housing crisis, recession, and how Wall Street will continue to hold it’s power over the government unless the people rise up and revolt. capitalism_love_story Thankfully, even with what could be potentially dry and boring subject matter Moore cleverly makes his point and educates the audience with his humorous take on the material giving a handful of ironic examples and semi outrageous stunts to gain attention. Of note, it should also be mentioned while Moore is known for editorializing his topics and giving a liberal political slant, this film feels quite balanced taking shots at both Democrats and Republicans. All this aside, the documentary succeeds in providing ample fodder for further discussion and debate as our nation attempts to right itself. Worth your dime this weekend. Capitalism: A Love Story is rated R.


Oct 2 2009

The Invention of Lying

In a world where everyone says what’s on their mind and tells the truth no matter how embarrassing, one man, Mark Bellison (Ricky Gervais) learns he can lie. At first the discovery seems novel, but when an innocent white lie is overheard by the wrong crowd, all attention is on Mark. With this new attention and fame Mark is now faced with new moral dilemmas, will he continue to exploit his new found ability, and, when is it right to lie?the-invention-of-lying  A star studded cast lines this entire film with appearances from Tina Fey, Rob Lowe, Jason Bateman, Jonah Hill and the list keeps going. Unfortunately, even with all of its star power the script just seems to fall short when it comes to the brand and caliber of comedy one would expect from Gervais– despite what could be very rich material. In the end, the film comes across as another forgettable romantic comedy. Maybe a matinee but more likely a rental, The Invention of Lying is rated PG-13.