2008 Catalog of Films, Series, and Books
-STICKY POST-
I decided I wasn't going to aim for "100 movies" or "100 books" in 2008, but rather will simply keep a catalog of what I watch and read for the first time this year.
Films:
001. Juno (Jan. 03) -- Such an original film (well, for an American re-make of a Korean film =P) with such a wonderful script complete with snappy dialogue. Highly recommended.
002. Atonement (Jan. 07) -- Very beautiful visually, and though the story was a bit sad it was also beautiful. I loved the storytelling style, with seeing certain scenes from two perspectives, and seeing scenes that we later learned a character had only wished had happened, that kind of storytelling is FTW in my opinion. Also loved the long single shot scene at Dunkirk, that was beautifully done. Also! Loved the recurring use of the typewriter in the film's score. I thought all three actresses playing Briony did a wonderful job at portraying the same character at different ages. This was just such a beautiful film, not necessarily happy, but very beautifully told.
003. Charade (Jan. 08) -- Yay for old movies, I really don't watch them often enough! Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant were both excellent! This was such a fun movie, with humor, suspense, and a little romance. The cinematography was very stylish and won me over right away. As did Audrey Hepburn and her wardrobe =D.
004. Cloverfield (Jan. 17) -- I absolutely loved this movie. J.J. Abrams is a genius, I absolutely love how his projects are just full of tiny clues and easter eggs, and all the viral marketing (the full extent of which I wasn't aware of until after I saw this film), it's amazing. I loved the form of storytelling used, and how we were right there with the main characters and only knew what they knew. It was certainly unconventional, especially for a "monster movie", and I thought it was great.
005. 27 Dresses (Jan. 29) -- This was such a delightful movie =D. Oh how I love both Katherine Hiegl and James Marsden. It had quite a 90s-romantic-comedy-ending and I liked it =). Also loved how James managed to get in a song, he should always be made to sing in his movies =D.
006. G.I. Jane (Feb. 9 - 10) -- Viggo!! It was a good movie, I suppose, but I was really overwhelmed by the facts that Viggo was in short shorts half the time and that Demi is now married to Ashton. And also VIGGO!
007. Fool's Gold (Feb. 11) -- This movie was actually better than I thought it would be. I have a thing against Matthew McConaughey, he just skeeves me out. I think he's a little too sweaty and grunty or something, but I was still able to enjoy this. The movie was actually interesting, though regrettably kind of hard to follow, or maybe I was too tired. But it was kind of similar to the National Treasure movies, and fun =).
008. Jumper (Feb. 14) -- This was ... enjoyable I suppose. Visually it was wonderful and moving around the world kept me interested. The plot, though, that was lacking. I guess I just failed to understand why. Why were the jumpers being hunted down? Throughout the whole movie we only got that one line from Samuel L. Jackson about how their power should only belong to God, and that was it. I was also unimpressed with the bogus 20 second history lesson. If they were going to bring in a history to their story they should have actually done so. Jamie Bell was by far my favorite thing about the film (OH HOW I LOVE THAT BOY, he is such a wonderful actor), and was pleasantly surprised that his role was larger than the trailer made me think. I will try to not say much, but SPOILER ALERT: I really really hated how they cast a bad light on his character at the end and sort of just left him. If he comes back in the second film (if there is a second film) as the bad guy I will be so upset. His character did nothing wrong! grrr.
009. Definitely, Maybe (Feb. 22) -- This was an ... odd film. I thoroughly enjoyed some parts, it was often very funny and romantic (loved when Will first arrived in New York and had all the odd jobs), but it just... didn't work, in my opinion anyway. I don't want to spoil anyone for the ending, but it was not at all what I had in mind. I often loved to be surprised that way, but not with a romantic comedy =/. I don't know. Also, the story was being told by Will to his young daughter Maya, and yet he left in ALL the details, and I thought that was rather inappropriate.
010. Vantage Point (March 2) -- This was okay. The film only took place over about 15 minutes, but was told from many view points. The climax wasn't very climactic, but throughout there were some surprises. Nothing amazing, but enjoyable, especially if you're seeing it for free ;).
011. The Spiderwick Chronicles (March 6) -- This was a great fantasy film for a younger audience! The story was wonderful, and I was actually startled/scared several times. I really enjoyed this.
012. 10,000 BC (March 7) -- I saw 10,000 BC today. It was... okay... I guess. It only has an 8% on Rotten Tomatoes, but I don't think it's THAT bad. Unintentionally funny several times. The story was... alright. The CGI was actually good, though. And Jacob Black Steven Strait starred, which made it 100x better ;). I found it odd that Camilla Belle's character was such a central part to the story, but she probably had 10 lines. She just got to stand there looking confused when her captors would speak in a language she didn't understand. But I'm a closet woolly mammoth lover, so what can I say ;)? They looked really nice and I was pleased.
013. CQ (March 10) -- I really really liked this film. I thought it was an interesting study of 'what is art?' and 'what is film?'. Jeremy Davies was wonderful in the leading role <3.
014. Penelope (March 14) -- This movie was cute. Not an amazing cinematic achievement, but cute =).
015. Be Kind Rewind (March 14) -- This wasn't the hilarious movie the trailer made it out to be, but it was very creative and enjoyable.
016. 21 (March 28) -- I enjoyed this movie a lot. It was very visually pretty, and you could tell money was put into it, which is always nice. Plus, you know, JIM STURGESS. It's not a favorite movie of mine, and I don't know how much I would like it, honestly, if it starred someone other than Jim, but still, I enjoyed it a lot. =)
017. Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day (April 1) -- This was much more adult than I was expecting, as in sex talk and nudity. Not quite the family movie I thought going in. Still, it was very good!! You can't really beat Lee Pace speaking in a fake British accent, playing an angsty piano player in love <3. I loved how the film got serious, it wasn't all jokes, you actually felt for the characters a lot. I will try not to spoil anything, but there was this scene in the last 30 minutes or so of the film, in which Delysia was standing backstage waiting for her cue to go out at the club, and Michael walked up and stood behind her, and both of their faces were so horribly sad, and then Delysia's name was called and she put this smile on and she marched out and she was suddenly a different, fake, person and IT WAS SO DEPRESSING I just had to cry. I'm not even sure if that was a scene that the director intended for you to cry during, it was over fairly quickly, but it just hit me really hard. Back to my review, I liked this movie! And it had Shirley Henderson and Christina Cole!
018. Run Fatboy Run (April 3) -- I loved this movie so much! Oh Simon Pegg <3. It was just the perfect amounts of comedy and drama mixed together and it was lovely. And what a soundtrack! Kaiser Chiefs and Patrick Wolf (among others I must be forgetting) =D. I highly recommend this film! Don't go expecting Shaun of the Dead or Hot Fuzz, though, this film was actually made by David Schwimmer (yes, that David Schwimmer), and though HI-larious, it is not that kind of comedy =).
019. Drillbit Taylor (April 7) -- This was cute I suppose. I mean, I enjoyed it, but I'm fine with never seeing it again =P. Rent it if you're in an Owen Wilson mood? I don't know, it was cute enough.
020. Nim's Island (April 15) -- GERRY BUTLER! Yes, that was my sole reason for seeing this, and I was not disappointed ;D. Gerry had TWO different roles: 1. Nim's American scientist father and 2. the Scottish adventurer Alex Rover =D. GOOD TIMES! Even if you're not a Gerry fan, this was a cute and fun movie =).
(July 30: ...huh. Somehow I missed 88 Minutes and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, which came out around April 18. Mildly enjoyed both.)
021. Leatherheads (April 19) -- This was a little long, with not quite enough comedy or drama to keep your complete interest until the end, but it was pretty good. Most people I've spoken to hated it and I wouldn't go that far, I didn't not like it, it just could have been better. John Krasinski was down right charming as a 1920s man =] *giggles*.
022. Once (April 20) -- OH!!! This was so wonderful! I loved just how incredibly indy it was, it felt like you were sitting in the room with the characters. Speaking of the characters: THE CHARACTERS! I loved the characters! And the muuuusic! And oh my, this was a very good movie =D.
023. The Seeker: The Dark Is Rising (April 21) -- Wow, this was really very dark and freaky, not at all a kid movie! The director of the film's parents are the creators of YWAM (Youth With A Mission), the group my brother is with, so they really wanted to see this, but I wouldn't say this movie was particularly Christian at all. Though all about Dark vs. Light there was no mention of God. Not that that's bad or good, just thought it was worth mentioning if you were also seeing it because of the director. I liked this, I guess, though I guess fans of the book didn't? *shrugs*. OH AND CHRISTOPHER ECCLESTON!! He was amaaaazing. His character sort of has a double life and in several scenes you see him as this dorky doctor (doctor, hee) with glasses and silly clothes and it was HILARIOUS AND AMAZING, well... from my fangirl's POV ;D. All through the movie I kept thinking, the older brother Max is a FOOOOOOX, and he looks like a mini James McAvoy =], and I came online and found it it's Gregory Smith!!! From the Disney Channel (Zenon!) and Everwood XD! He grew up =].
024. The Host (April 24) -- This was AMAZINGGG. It actually came out a month after I was in South Korea in 2006, and I remember the posters being up for it =D. This movie was just incredible. I don't know what to say about this film, it was just awesome. SEE IT. I shall leave you with this quote from a review "A horror thriller, a political satire, a dysfunctional family comedy, and a touching melodrama, Bong Joon-ho's The Host is also one helluva monster movie."
025. Horton Hears a Who (April 25) -- This was cute. Not amazing or my favorite animated film ever, but enjoyable.
026. Baby Mama (April 27) -- Though most of the HI-larious scenes were used in the trailer, this was a pretty funny and enjoyable movie. There ended up being a twist I didn't see coming, so that was nifty.
027. Iron Man (May 1) -- This movie was hardcore, I loved it =D! I loved how it was a drama about a man changing... and a superhero movie on the side =D. With the box office success I am sure there will be a second film, and I can't wait!
028. Speed Racer (May 12) -- OH, I LOVED THIS! I'm sad it's getting such mixed reviews, many bad. It was GORGEOUS, it looked absolutely amazing. And it was so much fun! It really was like a living cartoon. They left the ending kind of open, with the bad reviews and box office I doubt they will make a sequel, but I really wish they would.
029. Hamlet (2003) (May 13- __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
030. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (May 15) -- I loved this so. much. I haven't read the books yet, so any changes didn't bother me. I loved how fierce all the characters were, how Lucy's faith is unbreakable, and how much Edmund has grown in maturity. PS: BEN BARNES *SQUEEEEEE*
031. The Sasquatch Dumpling Gang (May 19) -- Ooooh man, this was adorable and hilarious! And it had Mr. Collins from the modern day P&P, playing a geeky teenager XDXDXD!!
032. Indiana Jones: Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (May 28) -- This is the only Indy movie I've seen, so bearing that in mind, I found the end completely WTF worthy. Besides that I enjoyed it. I hope Shia will become the next Indy =D!
033. Transformers (May 31) -- I was on a Shia kick ;). This was very Summer Blockbuster-y; wonderful visuals, but a lacking story. Still, it was enjoyable.
034. Kung Fu Panda (June 11) -- I liked this more than I thought I would, as I'm not a huge cartoon person. The graphics were nice, and the actors did a great job.
035. The Incredible Hulk (June 12) -- This was a disappointment. Just... nothing really happened. And all of the comedy fell flat. Best part of the movie was the Robert Downy Jr as Tony Stark cameo at the end ;). Hopefully when (if) they make a 3rd movie Bruce will have accepted his 'power' and started to work with it instead of against it. (Also, Jennifer Connelly pwn Liv Tyler =(.)
036. The Happening (June 15) -- Meeh. This was enjoyable to watch, but the plot was kind of strange, and much more political than it should have been when dealing with a summer thriller. Also, oddly enough all of the normally great actors (Marky Mark and Zooey) were kind of terrible =/.
037. The History Boys (June 16) -- Thoughts to be added.
038. Rescue Dawn (June 17) -- Thoughts to be added.
039. Eagle Vs. Shark (June 19) -- Thoughts to be added.
040. Sense & Sensibility (1995) (June 20) -- Thoughts to be added.
041. Get Smart (June 22) -- VERY funny, and in a mostly believable way! What I mean is, it wasn't over-the-top =D. Steve Carell's character was funny without being pathetic, which honestly impressed me. I really really liked this!
040. In Bruges (June 25) -- Thoughts to be added.
041. Wanted (June 26) -- Thoughts to be added.
042. Sunshine (June 29) -- Thoughts to be added.
043. The Other Boleyn Girl (July 1) -- The second half of this film felt SO rushed to me! They covered about 6 years in the first half and about 10 in the second, though really the only hint of the time given is the age of the children the sisters have, and even then if you didn't know your history you could assume the story only took place over about 4 years and not 16! I know I am likely just more used to The Tudors, but I really prefer that version. I didn't like how small a role Henry had, and I much prefer Natalie Dormer over Natalie Portman in the role of Anne, though I DID like seeing Mary's story. All in all I didn't like how small a focus was given to the politics or to Henry, and I found it equally as pretty as The Tudors, so I prefer the TV version.
044. Wall-E (July 2) -- This was... odd. The graphics were AMAZING, really, SO SO GOOD, but the story was so strange! It was so incredibly political, which was just off-putting in a Pixar family cartoon. It was also kind of slow... I mean, the only words you hear for the first 30 or 40 minutes are "EVE" and "WALL-E". Since I love Pixar so much I enjoyed it, and I didn't not like it, I was just surprised by how not amazing it was =/.
045. Hancock (July 6) -- Thoughts to be added.
046. Death at a Funeral (July 8) -- Thoughts to be added.
047. Kit Kittredge: An American Girl (July 10) -- Thoughts to be added.
048. The Constant Gardener (July 10) -- Thoughts to be added.
049. Journey to the Center of the Earth (July 14) -- Thoughts to be added.
050. Hellboy II: The Golden Army (July 16) -- Thoughts posted here.
051. The Dark Knight (July 16) -- Thoughts posted here.
052. The Good Night (July 19-21) -- Thoughts to be added.
053. Mamma Mia! (July 21) -- Thoughts to be added.
054. The Interpreter (July 30) -- Thoughts to be added.
055. The Mummy III: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (August 2) -- Thoughts to be added.
056. Elizabeth (August 3) -- Thoughts posted here.
057. Elizabeth: The Golden Age (August 4) -- Thoughts to be added.
058. Pineapple Express (August 5) -- Thoughts to be added.
059. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 (August 6) -- Thoughts to be added.
060. Tropic Thunder (August 14) -- Thoughts to be added.
061. Death Race (August 22) -- Thoughts to be added.
TV Productions:
001. Sense & Sensibility (BBC, 2008) (Jan. 03 - 13) -- Oh, I absolutely loved this! I haven't read the book yet, and I hardly remember the Emma Thompson film, so I'm probably not a good judge in regards to how this stacks up as an adaption, but as a miniseries it was simply wonderful! All the acting was great, I especially quite enjoyed Hattie Morahan and Charity Wakefield as Elinor and Marianne, and can't wait to see what they both go on to do. The cinematography was quite pretty, as were the locations used (Barton Cottage and the surrounding hills and coast were just BEAUTIFUL). I'm also deeply in love with the original score and pray to God they release it on CD =D. So yes, loved this mini!
002. Primeval Season 2 (Jan. 12 - Feb. 24) -- I loved it, I loved it, I loved it =D! The second series brought a whole new dimension to the table, several, in fact: the timeline being disrupted, the ARC facility and it's new characters, and the espionage ;). I am very pleased with how the show is progressing and cannot wait for series 3 next year =D.
003. Fairy Tales (BBC) (Jan. 14 - Feb. 01) -- This is a series of four hour long modern day re-tellings of fairy tales: Rapunzel, Cinderella, The Emperor's New Clothes, and Billy Goat Gruff. Rapunzel strayed very far from the fairy tale, and really the only connection was that the heroine had long hair =/. Lee Ingleby dressed in drag was funny, and Charity Wakefield (from S&S) was cute, but the other actors, especially those playing "Tulovnik"ian characters, were kind of over the top. -- The only other movie of this series I watched was Billy Goat (Billy Goats Gruff) starring Mathew Horne and Bernard Hill. I liked it more than Rapunzel, but I still kind of failed to see the point. But Mathew Horne XD! So it was worth it. Also, Sarah Smart and Holly Grainger from Sparkhouse were back as mother and daughter, that was deja-vu-ey.
004. The Flight of the Conchords Season 1 (Jan. 15 - Feb. 16) -- I'm so glad my brothers turned me onto this show =D! It is SO clever and hilarious. I highly recommend this show, learn more about it's premise here =).
005. The Sally Lockhart Series: The Shadow in the North (Jan. 23) -- Though Sally's personality still bored me slightly I thought this movie was much better than the first in the series. The mystery was much more interesting and included many unique and colorful characters. Matt Smith as Jim and JJ Feild as Fred were especially delightful, once again =D.
006. Comanche Moon (Jan. 30 - Feb. 01) -- I was really into this for the first two parts, but the third part was so... frustratingly unhappy. And it jumped ahead 7 or so years, which confused me as to what exactly the plot for the mini was meant to be. The third part was just so different from the rest of it, and felt more like it was just in there for the fans of the rest of the series, which I know nothing of. I understand it was based off of a book so the writers couldn't change things, so in that case I guess I don't understand the point in making the books so depressing. Everything seemed to be going so well for the main characters and ships and then part three comes along and it's 7 years later and everything's shot to hell! BBC would never have done that me. Still, I loved the cast, and it was definitely worth it for Karl Urban as a cowboy ;D.
007. LOST Season 4 (Jan. 31 - May 29) -- Thoughts to be added.
008. Miss Austen Regrets (Feb. 05) -- I rather liked this movie! It's very odd that BBC let PBS premiere it. PBS must have payed them a lot of money, because I can't imagine that BBC isn't proud of it. Olivia Williams was wonderful as Jane, just wonderful, and I really enjoyed seeing 28 Week's Later's Imogen Poots in a period piece (playing Jane's niece Fanny). I was honestly all teary eyed for about the last third of the film. Many large subjects to ponder were brought up about life and regrets. I thought the actual death of Jane was sort of skipped over, though, and I was kind of confused in the first scene without her near the end, but that's my only big criticism. I recommend this film to any Jane Austen fan =).
009. Our Mutual Friend (Feb. 19 - 21) -- Thoughts posted here.
010. The Tudors Season 2 (Feb. 22 - __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
011. Life on Mars Complete Series (Feb. 26 - March 1) -- This series was incredible. I really don't know what to say about it... it was amazing and I recommend everyone watch it =D.
012. Ashes to Ashes Season 1 (March 2 - July 9) -- Thoughts to be added.
013. State of Play (March 3 - 5) -- I definitely understand why Hollywood is remaking this, it has great appeal and the story is very detailed and interesting; over the 6 hours I was never bored. The cast was INCREDIBLE, just... oh so wonderful. Added bonus: I didn't guess the ending, so it was fun being surprised.
014. Being Human Pilot (March 9) -- I really hope the BBC picks this up for a full series. Though vampire and werewolf stories are starting to get overdone now after the latest surge (Underworld, Blood and Chocolate, Moonlight, "Twilight"...) this brings enough new material to the table to be interesting. Vampires and werewolves are their stereotypical selves in this, but it's fun seeing them be friends and living together (with a ghost!). For me the show is more a drama/comedy about 3 friends that live together... who happen to be a vampire, werewolf, and ghost =D.
015. Love's Unending Legacy (March 12) -- Ooooooh the Love Comes Softly series... you are so cheesy, but I just can't quit you. My urge to punch Erin Cottrell in the face was less this time around, so her acting must be improving! Though there was no Willie in this movie, to my GREAT dissatisfaction letmetellyou, I thought the figuring-out-how-to-mourn-yet-move-on storyline was done very well. The next movie centers on the next generation and I'm rather excited actually. YAY a new cute romance ^_^!
016. Gavin and Stacey Season 2 (March 16 - April 20) -- Thoughts to be added.
017. The Fixer Season 1 (April 1 - May 28) -- Thoughts to be added.
018. Doctor Who Season 4 (April 5 - July 5) -- Thoughts to be added.
019. Shakespeare Retold (April 22 and 28) -- Thoughts to be added.
020. Victoria & Albert (April 29 - 30) -- Thoughts to be added.
021. Casualty 1906 (April 30) -- Thoughts to be added.
022. Casualty 1907 (May 1 - 2) -- Thoughts to be added.
023. Love's Unfolding Dream (May 11) -- Thoughts to be added.
024. The Office US Season 4 (2007- May 15) -- Thoughts to be added.
025. Gossip Girl Season 1 (2007- June 9) -- Thoughts to be added.
026. The Buccaneers (June 12) -- Thoughts to be added.
027. Hidden Places (June 16) -- Thoughts to be added.
028. Life On Mars US Remake Pilot (June 18) -- Thoughts posted here.
029. Moonlight Season 1 (2007 - June 23) -- Thoughts to be added.
030. The Middleman 1x01 & 1x02 (June 23) -- Thoughts posted here.
031. The Canterbury Tales (July 1) -- Thoughts to be added.
032. Shameless Season 1 (July 5 - 12) -- Thoughts to be added.
033. Torchwood Season 1 (July 12 - July 29) -- Thoughts posted here.
034. The Crown Prince (circa August 8-15) -- Thoughts to be added.
Books:
001. "A Proper Pursuit" by Lynn Austin (circa Jan. 08 - 16) -- Ms. Austin's writing seemed to be not quite up to par with her previous work =/. She has included mysteries into the storylines before, but this was the first time (of her books I've read) that there were quite so many mysteries, and especially the first time that said mysteries were a main plot point for the whole course of the book. I enjoyed the mysteries, but I felt like we were given too many clues for some of them (for instance, I solved one for myself in chapter 14, but the main character had to be told this answer in chapter 38). I also felt that the main character, Violet, who was age 20, acted rather silly and naive at times. Such as never solving above mystery for herself. Still, I did greatly enjoy this book =D. Like Austin's previous work it was set in an interesting period setting (the World Fair in Chicago in 1893), was funny, thought provoking, and of course romantic. I must say, that though the heroine sometimes bothered me (this was probably heightened as I just finished re-reading Austin's "Fire By Night" and the heroine in that, Julia, effing PWNS) it could never be said that Austin's narration strayed from the character, and Violet's reactions to falling in love and being kissed were quite funny. Also, and this must be said, I love me some Silas McClure =D =D.
002. "Sense & Sensibility" by Jane Austen (Jan. 23 - __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
003. "The Time Traveler's Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger (March 6 - April 2) -- Thoughts to be added.
004. "Rebel Angels" by Libba Bray (May 11 - 20) -- Thoughts to be added.
005. "The Sweet Far Thing" by Libba Bray (May 20 - June 09) -- Thoughts to be added.
006. "North and South" by Elizabeth Gaskell (June 9 - __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
007. "THE ORPHANED ANYTHING'S: memoir of a lesser known" by Stephen Christian () -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
I decided I wasn't going to aim for "100 movies" or "100 books" in 2008, but rather will simply keep a catalog of what I watch and read for the first time this year.
Films:
001. Juno (Jan. 03) -- Such an original film (well, for an American re-make of a Korean film =P) with such a wonderful script complete with snappy dialogue. Highly recommended.
002. Atonement (Jan. 07) -- Very beautiful visually, and though the story was a bit sad it was also beautiful. I loved the storytelling style, with seeing certain scenes from two perspectives, and seeing scenes that we later learned a character had only wished had happened, that kind of storytelling is FTW in my opinion. Also loved the long single shot scene at Dunkirk, that was beautifully done. Also! Loved the recurring use of the typewriter in the film's score. I thought all three actresses playing Briony did a wonderful job at portraying the same character at different ages. This was just such a beautiful film, not necessarily happy, but very beautifully told.
003. Charade (Jan. 08) -- Yay for old movies, I really don't watch them often enough! Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant were both excellent! This was such a fun movie, with humor, suspense, and a little romance. The cinematography was very stylish and won me over right away. As did Audrey Hepburn and her wardrobe =D.
004. Cloverfield (Jan. 17) -- I absolutely loved this movie. J.J. Abrams is a genius, I absolutely love how his projects are just full of tiny clues and easter eggs, and all the viral marketing (the full extent of which I wasn't aware of until after I saw this film), it's amazing. I loved the form of storytelling used, and how we were right there with the main characters and only knew what they knew. It was certainly unconventional, especially for a "monster movie", and I thought it was great.
005. 27 Dresses (Jan. 29) -- This was such a delightful movie =D. Oh how I love both Katherine Hiegl and James Marsden. It had quite a 90s-romantic-comedy-ending and I liked it =). Also loved how James managed to get in a song, he should always be made to sing in his movies =D.
006. G.I. Jane (Feb. 9 - 10) -- Viggo!! It was a good movie, I suppose, but I was really overwhelmed by the facts that Viggo was in short shorts half the time and that Demi is now married to Ashton. And also VIGGO!
007. Fool's Gold (Feb. 11) -- This movie was actually better than I thought it would be. I have a thing against Matthew McConaughey, he just skeeves me out. I think he's a little too sweaty and grunty or something, but I was still able to enjoy this. The movie was actually interesting, though regrettably kind of hard to follow, or maybe I was too tired. But it was kind of similar to the National Treasure movies, and fun =).
008. Jumper (Feb. 14) -- This was ... enjoyable I suppose. Visually it was wonderful and moving around the world kept me interested. The plot, though, that was lacking. I guess I just failed to understand why. Why were the jumpers being hunted down? Throughout the whole movie we only got that one line from Samuel L. Jackson about how their power should only belong to God, and that was it. I was also unimpressed with the bogus 20 second history lesson. If they were going to bring in a history to their story they should have actually done so. Jamie Bell was by far my favorite thing about the film (OH HOW I LOVE THAT BOY, he is such a wonderful actor), and was pleasantly surprised that his role was larger than the trailer made me think. I will try to not say much, but SPOILER ALERT: I really really hated how they cast a bad light on his character at the end and sort of just left him. If he comes back in the second film (if there is a second film) as the bad guy I will be so upset. His character did nothing wrong! grrr.
009. Definitely, Maybe (Feb. 22) -- This was an ... odd film. I thoroughly enjoyed some parts, it was often very funny and romantic (loved when Will first arrived in New York and had all the odd jobs), but it just... didn't work, in my opinion anyway. I don't want to spoil anyone for the ending, but it was not at all what I had in mind. I often loved to be surprised that way, but not with a romantic comedy =/. I don't know. Also, the story was being told by Will to his young daughter Maya, and yet he left in ALL the details, and I thought that was rather inappropriate.
010. Vantage Point (March 2) -- This was okay. The film only took place over about 15 minutes, but was told from many view points. The climax wasn't very climactic, but throughout there were some surprises. Nothing amazing, but enjoyable, especially if you're seeing it for free ;).
011. The Spiderwick Chronicles (March 6) -- This was a great fantasy film for a younger audience! The story was wonderful, and I was actually startled/scared several times. I really enjoyed this.
012. 10,000 BC (March 7) -- I saw 10,000 BC today. It was... okay... I guess. It only has an 8% on Rotten Tomatoes, but I don't think it's THAT bad. Unintentionally funny several times. The story was... alright. The CGI was actually good, though. And Jacob Black Steven Strait starred, which made it 100x better ;). I found it odd that Camilla Belle's character was such a central part to the story, but she probably had 10 lines. She just got to stand there looking confused when her captors would speak in a language she didn't understand. But I'm a closet woolly mammoth lover, so what can I say ;)? They looked really nice and I was pleased.
013. CQ (March 10) -- I really really liked this film. I thought it was an interesting study of 'what is art?' and 'what is film?'. Jeremy Davies was wonderful in the leading role <3.
014. Penelope (March 14) -- This movie was cute. Not an amazing cinematic achievement, but cute =).
015. Be Kind Rewind (March 14) -- This wasn't the hilarious movie the trailer made it out to be, but it was very creative and enjoyable.
016. 21 (March 28) -- I enjoyed this movie a lot. It was very visually pretty, and you could tell money was put into it, which is always nice. Plus, you know, JIM STURGESS. It's not a favorite movie of mine, and I don't know how much I would like it, honestly, if it starred someone other than Jim, but still, I enjoyed it a lot. =)
017. Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day (April 1) -- This was much more adult than I was expecting, as in sex talk and nudity. Not quite the family movie I thought going in. Still, it was very good!! You can't really beat Lee Pace speaking in a fake British accent, playing an angsty piano player in love <3. I loved how the film got serious, it wasn't all jokes, you actually felt for the characters a lot. I will try not to spoil anything, but there was this scene in the last 30 minutes or so of the film, in which Delysia was standing backstage waiting for her cue to go out at the club, and Michael walked up and stood behind her, and both of their faces were so horribly sad, and then Delysia's name was called and she put this smile on and she marched out and she was suddenly a different, fake, person and IT WAS SO DEPRESSING I just had to cry. I'm not even sure if that was a scene that the director intended for you to cry during, it was over fairly quickly, but it just hit me really hard. Back to my review, I liked this movie! And it had Shirley Henderson and Christina Cole!
018. Run Fatboy Run (April 3) -- I loved this movie so much! Oh Simon Pegg <3. It was just the perfect amounts of comedy and drama mixed together and it was lovely. And what a soundtrack! Kaiser Chiefs and Patrick Wolf (among others I must be forgetting) =D. I highly recommend this film! Don't go expecting Shaun of the Dead or Hot Fuzz, though, this film was actually made by David Schwimmer (yes, that David Schwimmer), and though HI-larious, it is not that kind of comedy =).
019. Drillbit Taylor (April 7) -- This was cute I suppose. I mean, I enjoyed it, but I'm fine with never seeing it again =P. Rent it if you're in an Owen Wilson mood? I don't know, it was cute enough.
020. Nim's Island (April 15) -- GERRY BUTLER! Yes, that was my sole reason for seeing this, and I was not disappointed ;D. Gerry had TWO different roles: 1. Nim's American scientist father and 2. the Scottish adventurer Alex Rover =D. GOOD TIMES! Even if you're not a Gerry fan, this was a cute and fun movie =).
(July 30: ...huh. Somehow I missed 88 Minutes and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, which came out around April 18. Mildly enjoyed both.)
021. Leatherheads (April 19) -- This was a little long, with not quite enough comedy or drama to keep your complete interest until the end, but it was pretty good. Most people I've spoken to hated it and I wouldn't go that far, I didn't not like it, it just could have been better. John Krasinski was down right charming as a 1920s man =] *giggles*.
022. Once (April 20) -- OH!!! This was so wonderful! I loved just how incredibly indy it was, it felt like you were sitting in the room with the characters. Speaking of the characters: THE CHARACTERS! I loved the characters! And the muuuusic! And oh my, this was a very good movie =D.
023. The Seeker: The Dark Is Rising (April 21) -- Wow, this was really very dark and freaky, not at all a kid movie! The director of the film's parents are the creators of YWAM (Youth With A Mission), the group my brother is with, so they really wanted to see this, but I wouldn't say this movie was particularly Christian at all. Though all about Dark vs. Light there was no mention of God. Not that that's bad or good, just thought it was worth mentioning if you were also seeing it because of the director. I liked this, I guess, though I guess fans of the book didn't? *shrugs*. OH AND CHRISTOPHER ECCLESTON!! He was amaaaazing. His character sort of has a double life and in several scenes you see him as this dorky doctor (doctor, hee) with glasses and silly clothes and it was HILARIOUS AND AMAZING, well... from my fangirl's POV ;D. All through the movie I kept thinking, the older brother Max is a FOOOOOOX, and he looks like a mini James McAvoy =], and I came online and found it it's Gregory Smith!!! From the Disney Channel (Zenon!) and Everwood XD! He grew up =].
024. The Host (April 24) -- This was AMAZINGGG. It actually came out a month after I was in South Korea in 2006, and I remember the posters being up for it =D. This movie was just incredible. I don't know what to say about this film, it was just awesome. SEE IT. I shall leave you with this quote from a review "A horror thriller, a political satire, a dysfunctional family comedy, and a touching melodrama, Bong Joon-ho's The Host is also one helluva monster movie."
025. Horton Hears a Who (April 25) -- This was cute. Not amazing or my favorite animated film ever, but enjoyable.
026. Baby Mama (April 27) -- Though most of the HI-larious scenes were used in the trailer, this was a pretty funny and enjoyable movie. There ended up being a twist I didn't see coming, so that was nifty.
027. Iron Man (May 1) -- This movie was hardcore, I loved it =D! I loved how it was a drama about a man changing... and a superhero movie on the side =D. With the box office success I am sure there will be a second film, and I can't wait!
028. Speed Racer (May 12) -- OH, I LOVED THIS! I'm sad it's getting such mixed reviews, many bad. It was GORGEOUS, it looked absolutely amazing. And it was so much fun! It really was like a living cartoon. They left the ending kind of open, with the bad reviews and box office I doubt they will make a sequel, but I really wish they would.
029. Hamlet (2003) (May 13- __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
030. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (May 15) -- I loved this so. much. I haven't read the books yet, so any changes didn't bother me. I loved how fierce all the characters were, how Lucy's faith is unbreakable, and how much Edmund has grown in maturity. PS: BEN BARNES *SQUEEEEEE*
031. The Sasquatch Dumpling Gang (May 19) -- Ooooh man, this was adorable and hilarious! And it had Mr. Collins from the modern day P&P, playing a geeky teenager XDXDXD!!
032. Indiana Jones: Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (May 28) -- This is the only Indy movie I've seen, so bearing that in mind, I found the end completely WTF worthy. Besides that I enjoyed it. I hope Shia will become the next Indy =D!
033. Transformers (May 31) -- I was on a Shia kick ;). This was very Summer Blockbuster-y; wonderful visuals, but a lacking story. Still, it was enjoyable.
034. Kung Fu Panda (June 11) -- I liked this more than I thought I would, as I'm not a huge cartoon person. The graphics were nice, and the actors did a great job.
035. The Incredible Hulk (June 12) -- This was a disappointment. Just... nothing really happened. And all of the comedy fell flat. Best part of the movie was the Robert Downy Jr as Tony Stark cameo at the end ;). Hopefully when (if) they make a 3rd movie Bruce will have accepted his 'power' and started to work with it instead of against it. (Also, Jennifer Connelly pwn Liv Tyler =(.)
036. The Happening (June 15) -- Meeh. This was enjoyable to watch, but the plot was kind of strange, and much more political than it should have been when dealing with a summer thriller. Also, oddly enough all of the normally great actors (Marky Mark and Zooey) were kind of terrible =/.
037. The History Boys (June 16) -- Thoughts to be added.
038. Rescue Dawn (June 17) -- Thoughts to be added.
039. Eagle Vs. Shark (June 19) -- Thoughts to be added.
040. Sense & Sensibility (1995) (June 20) -- Thoughts to be added.
041. Get Smart (June 22) -- VERY funny, and in a mostly believable way! What I mean is, it wasn't over-the-top =D. Steve Carell's character was funny without being pathetic, which honestly impressed me. I really really liked this!
040. In Bruges (June 25) -- Thoughts to be added.
041. Wanted (June 26) -- Thoughts to be added.
042. Sunshine (June 29) -- Thoughts to be added.
043. The Other Boleyn Girl (July 1) -- The second half of this film felt SO rushed to me! They covered about 6 years in the first half and about 10 in the second, though really the only hint of the time given is the age of the children the sisters have, and even then if you didn't know your history you could assume the story only took place over about 4 years and not 16! I know I am likely just more used to The Tudors, but I really prefer that version. I didn't like how small a role Henry had, and I much prefer Natalie Dormer over Natalie Portman in the role of Anne, though I DID like seeing Mary's story. All in all I didn't like how small a focus was given to the politics or to Henry, and I found it equally as pretty as The Tudors, so I prefer the TV version.
044. Wall-E (July 2) -- This was... odd. The graphics were AMAZING, really, SO SO GOOD, but the story was so strange! It was so incredibly political, which was just off-putting in a Pixar family cartoon. It was also kind of slow... I mean, the only words you hear for the first 30 or 40 minutes are "EVE" and "WALL-E". Since I love Pixar so much I enjoyed it, and I didn't not like it, I was just surprised by how not amazing it was =/.
045. Hancock (July 6) -- Thoughts to be added.
046. Death at a Funeral (July 8) -- Thoughts to be added.
047. Kit Kittredge: An American Girl (July 10) -- Thoughts to be added.
048. The Constant Gardener (July 10) -- Thoughts to be added.
049. Journey to the Center of the Earth (July 14) -- Thoughts to be added.
050. Hellboy II: The Golden Army (July 16) -- Thoughts posted here.
051. The Dark Knight (July 16) -- Thoughts posted here.
052. The Good Night (July 19-21) -- Thoughts to be added.
053. Mamma Mia! (July 21) -- Thoughts to be added.
054. The Interpreter (July 30) -- Thoughts to be added.
055. The Mummy III: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (August 2) -- Thoughts to be added.
056. Elizabeth (August 3) -- Thoughts posted here.
057. Elizabeth: The Golden Age (August 4) -- Thoughts to be added.
058. Pineapple Express (August 5) -- Thoughts to be added.
059. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 (August 6) -- Thoughts to be added.
060. Tropic Thunder (August 14) -- Thoughts to be added.
061. Death Race (August 22) -- Thoughts to be added.
TV Productions:
001. Sense & Sensibility (BBC, 2008) (Jan. 03 - 13) -- Oh, I absolutely loved this! I haven't read the book yet, and I hardly remember the Emma Thompson film, so I'm probably not a good judge in regards to how this stacks up as an adaption, but as a miniseries it was simply wonderful! All the acting was great, I especially quite enjoyed Hattie Morahan and Charity Wakefield as Elinor and Marianne, and can't wait to see what they both go on to do. The cinematography was quite pretty, as were the locations used (Barton Cottage and the surrounding hills and coast were just BEAUTIFUL). I'm also deeply in love with the original score and pray to God they release it on CD =D. So yes, loved this mini!
002. Primeval Season 2 (Jan. 12 - Feb. 24) -- I loved it, I loved it, I loved it =D! The second series brought a whole new dimension to the table, several, in fact: the timeline being disrupted, the ARC facility and it's new characters, and the espionage ;). I am very pleased with how the show is progressing and cannot wait for series 3 next year =D.
003. Fairy Tales (BBC) (Jan. 14 - Feb. 01) -- This is a series of four hour long modern day re-tellings of fairy tales: Rapunzel, Cinderella, The Emperor's New Clothes, and Billy Goat Gruff. Rapunzel strayed very far from the fairy tale, and really the only connection was that the heroine had long hair =/. Lee Ingleby dressed in drag was funny, and Charity Wakefield (from S&S) was cute, but the other actors, especially those playing "Tulovnik"ian characters, were kind of over the top. -- The only other movie of this series I watched was Billy Goat (Billy Goats Gruff) starring Mathew Horne and Bernard Hill. I liked it more than Rapunzel, but I still kind of failed to see the point. But Mathew Horne XD! So it was worth it. Also, Sarah Smart and Holly Grainger from Sparkhouse were back as mother and daughter, that was deja-vu-ey.
004. The Flight of the Conchords Season 1 (Jan. 15 - Feb. 16) -- I'm so glad my brothers turned me onto this show =D! It is SO clever and hilarious. I highly recommend this show, learn more about it's premise here =).
005. The Sally Lockhart Series: The Shadow in the North (Jan. 23) -- Though Sally's personality still bored me slightly I thought this movie was much better than the first in the series. The mystery was much more interesting and included many unique and colorful characters. Matt Smith as Jim and JJ Feild as Fred were especially delightful, once again =D.
006. Comanche Moon (Jan. 30 - Feb. 01) -- I was really into this for the first two parts, but the third part was so... frustratingly unhappy. And it jumped ahead 7 or so years, which confused me as to what exactly the plot for the mini was meant to be. The third part was just so different from the rest of it, and felt more like it was just in there for the fans of the rest of the series, which I know nothing of. I understand it was based off of a book so the writers couldn't change things, so in that case I guess I don't understand the point in making the books so depressing. Everything seemed to be going so well for the main characters and ships and then part three comes along and it's 7 years later and everything's shot to hell! BBC would never have done that me. Still, I loved the cast, and it was definitely worth it for Karl Urban as a cowboy ;D.
007. LOST Season 4 (Jan. 31 - May 29) -- Thoughts to be added.
008. Miss Austen Regrets (Feb. 05) -- I rather liked this movie! It's very odd that BBC let PBS premiere it. PBS must have payed them a lot of money, because I can't imagine that BBC isn't proud of it. Olivia Williams was wonderful as Jane, just wonderful, and I really enjoyed seeing 28 Week's Later's Imogen Poots in a period piece (playing Jane's niece Fanny). I was honestly all teary eyed for about the last third of the film. Many large subjects to ponder were brought up about life and regrets. I thought the actual death of Jane was sort of skipped over, though, and I was kind of confused in the first scene without her near the end, but that's my only big criticism. I recommend this film to any Jane Austen fan =).
009. Our Mutual Friend (Feb. 19 - 21) -- Thoughts posted here.
010. The Tudors Season 2 (Feb. 22 - __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
011. Life on Mars Complete Series (Feb. 26 - March 1) -- This series was incredible. I really don't know what to say about it... it was amazing and I recommend everyone watch it =D.
012. Ashes to Ashes Season 1 (March 2 - July 9) -- Thoughts to be added.
013. State of Play (March 3 - 5) -- I definitely understand why Hollywood is remaking this, it has great appeal and the story is very detailed and interesting; over the 6 hours I was never bored. The cast was INCREDIBLE, just... oh so wonderful. Added bonus: I didn't guess the ending, so it was fun being surprised.
014. Being Human Pilot (March 9) -- I really hope the BBC picks this up for a full series. Though vampire and werewolf stories are starting to get overdone now after the latest surge (Underworld, Blood and Chocolate, Moonlight, "Twilight"...) this brings enough new material to the table to be interesting. Vampires and werewolves are their stereotypical selves in this, but it's fun seeing them be friends and living together (with a ghost!). For me the show is more a drama/comedy about 3 friends that live together... who happen to be a vampire, werewolf, and ghost =D.
015. Love's Unending Legacy (March 12) -- Ooooooh the Love Comes Softly series... you are so cheesy, but I just can't quit you. My urge to punch Erin Cottrell in the face was less this time around, so her acting must be improving! Though there was no Willie in this movie, to my GREAT dissatisfaction letmetellyou, I thought the figuring-out-how-to-mourn-yet-move-on storyline was done very well. The next movie centers on the next generation and I'm rather excited actually. YAY a new cute romance ^_^!
016. Gavin and Stacey Season 2 (March 16 - April 20) -- Thoughts to be added.
017. The Fixer Season 1 (April 1 - May 28) -- Thoughts to be added.
018. Doctor Who Season 4 (April 5 - July 5) -- Thoughts to be added.
019. Shakespeare Retold (April 22 and 28) -- Thoughts to be added.
020. Victoria & Albert (April 29 - 30) -- Thoughts to be added.
021. Casualty 1906 (April 30) -- Thoughts to be added.
022. Casualty 1907 (May 1 - 2) -- Thoughts to be added.
023. Love's Unfolding Dream (May 11) -- Thoughts to be added.
024. The Office US Season 4 (2007- May 15) -- Thoughts to be added.
025. Gossip Girl Season 1 (2007- June 9) -- Thoughts to be added.
026. The Buccaneers (June 12) -- Thoughts to be added.
027. Hidden Places (June 16) -- Thoughts to be added.
028. Life On Mars US Remake Pilot (June 18) -- Thoughts posted here.
029. Moonlight Season 1 (2007 - June 23) -- Thoughts to be added.
030. The Middleman 1x01 & 1x02 (June 23) -- Thoughts posted here.
031. The Canterbury Tales (July 1) -- Thoughts to be added.
032. Shameless Season 1 (July 5 - 12) -- Thoughts to be added.
033. Torchwood Season 1 (July 12 - July 29) -- Thoughts posted here.
034. The Crown Prince (circa August 8-15) -- Thoughts to be added.
Books:
001. "A Proper Pursuit" by Lynn Austin (circa Jan. 08 - 16) -- Ms. Austin's writing seemed to be not quite up to par with her previous work =/. She has included mysteries into the storylines before, but this was the first time (of her books I've read) that there were quite so many mysteries, and especially the first time that said mysteries were a main plot point for the whole course of the book. I enjoyed the mysteries, but I felt like we were given too many clues for some of them (for instance, I solved one for myself in chapter 14, but the main character had to be told this answer in chapter 38). I also felt that the main character, Violet, who was age 20, acted rather silly and naive at times. Such as never solving above mystery for herself. Still, I did greatly enjoy this book =D. Like Austin's previous work it was set in an interesting period setting (the World Fair in Chicago in 1893), was funny, thought provoking, and of course romantic. I must say, that though the heroine sometimes bothered me (this was probably heightened as I just finished re-reading Austin's "Fire By Night" and the heroine in that, Julia, effing PWNS) it could never be said that Austin's narration strayed from the character, and Violet's reactions to falling in love and being kissed were quite funny. Also, and this must be said, I love me some Silas McClure =D =D.
002. "Sense & Sensibility" by Jane Austen (Jan. 23 - __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
003. "The Time Traveler's Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger (March 6 - April 2) -- Thoughts to be added.
004. "Rebel Angels" by Libba Bray (May 11 - 20) -- Thoughts to be added.
005. "The Sweet Far Thing" by Libba Bray (May 20 - June 09) -- Thoughts to be added.
006. "North and South" by Elizabeth Gaskell (June 9 - __) -- Thoughts to be added once completed.
007. "THE ORPHANED ANYTHING'S: memoir of a lesser known" by Stephen Christian () -- Thoughts to be added once completed.