Mar 19 2009

Movies for this week

Duplicity
When two spies, Ray (Clive Owen) and Claire (Julia Roberts) fall in love, the desire to settle down comes home. So, in order to retire, the two plot a con to make millions by stealing a beauty aid being developed and fought over by two rival companies. But, will their love survive the task and will the two be able to pull off the con? Gimmicky in it’s construction, creative editing keeps things interesting; otherwise, this mild love story might be a little drab. Decent acting helps as well; although, neither lead really seems challenged by their roles. Perhaps worthy of a matinee. Duplicity is rated PG-13.

I Love You Man
When real-estate agent/developer Peter Klaven (Paul Rudd) proposes to his girlfriend (Rashida Jones), he soon realizes that he doesn’t have any close male friends to fill out the wedding party. That is until he meets Sydney Fife (Jason Segel), a loveable, wacky, Peter Pan-esque influence. But, how will Sydney’s friendship impact Peter’s relationship with his fiancee? This well written, light hearted comedy actually succeeds where many recent comedies have failed. Albeit, occasionally a little juvenile, the film still feels genuine and somewhat thoughtful. A fun date movie. I Love You Man is rated R.

Sunshine Cleaning
When Rose Lorkowski (Amy Adams) is faced with having to put her son in private school, money becomes a big concern. To pay the bills Rose goes into business with her sister Norah (Emily Blunt) as biohazard removal/crime scene cleaners. The work is good, but, life happens and learning to sacrifice wants and needs makes for troubled times. A simple but quirky story makes for an enjoyable ride. And, while the film doesn’t break ground in any really shocking form, it still provides a satisfying arc that feels honest and believable. Also, a fun date movie. Sunshine Cleaning is rated R.

The Great Buck Howard
Buck Howard (John Malkovich) is a mentalist with a wicked and driving personality in need of a personal assistant. Troy Gabel (Colin Hanks) is a law school dropout looking for something greater in life. When Troy becomes Buck’s assistant, lessons only the road, and a narcissistic boss can teach you become the name of the game as Buck’s career appears to be waning. Great acting as one would expect from Malkovich makes for interesting viewing. Meanwhile, the off beat nature of the film lends to a fun independent feel. Worthy of a matinee. The Great Buck Howard is rated PG.