Radio_Lady

I'm on vacation in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico and I just happened to see about 3/4ths of this German movie "Manitou's Shoe" on the TV cable channel Platino Plus.

I've been a movie reviewer since 1971 for various radio and TV stations in the U.S. This is one of the funniest, craziest comedies EVER! If the film had been shown on the German channel in the original language, I would not have watched it. I know only about 300 words in German.

As it was shown in dubbed English, with Spanish subtitles, I was able to understand almost everything. The dubbing was accurate, animated and much better than others I've seen. I didn't even care what the original language was until I saw the credits. Regrettably, the credit crawl with some funny bloopers was in German, but by then it was time for dinner.

If you have a chance to see this film "Der Schuh des Manitu" from 2001, just forget about what the Germans know or do. This is truly "lowbrow" comedy. You'll be reminded of Mel Brooks' best comedies.

I agree that some dubbed films lose something in translation, but this one did not. Some of the Bavarian dialect was lost and ironically, this American Western parody film was actually shot in Spain.

I give this an A on Ellen's Entertainment Report card. (10/10) Ellen Kimball KGW.com, Portland, Oregon

There's an old expression that states, "It's not the money, it's the principle of the thing." Robert Kearns fought for that ideal for more than three decades of his life.

"Flash of Genius" – presumably an expression inventors use to explain the moment of genesis of an idea – is the true story of Detroit engineer and inventor Bob Kearns. On his wedding night, he had an unfortunate accident. He was removing the cork from a bottle of celebratory champagne. The cork flew up and hit him in his left eye. The resultant scene was bloody but somehow prophetic – Bob Kearns came out of that incident legally blind in one eye.

His marriage survived and the man went on to father six children. Meanwhile, Kearns was keenly sensitive to the workings of the human eye. Kearns observed the pattern of the blink and he had a fascinating revelation. Kearns postulated that our brains introduce a discontinuous pattern whenever the eyes blink – quickening and slowing as necessary.

While driving in the Michigan rain, he observed that the windshield wipers on vehicles of that era only had two positions: ON and OFF. Quite often, the wipers ran too swiftly for light rainfalls, and too slowly for downpours.

Their marriage was affected deeply by his tinkering and the aftermath of the invention process. It was a single-minded effort that eventually took over Kearns' entire life. At one point, it brought him to the edge of madness. Kearns swept aside his involvement with his loving wife, Phyllis, and his six young children as he became more and more obsessed with designing and marketing a windshield wiper that paused during its sweeping motion, as the eye pauses during blinking. By rearranging the already-existing mechanical and electrical circuitry, Kearns invented and patented the "Blinking Eye" windshield wiper. His goal was to manufacture these wipers and sell them to the automotive companies.

At the time, the behemoth Ford Motor Company engineers had already begun their own investigations into concocting an intermittent wiper system. Kearns was invited to show off his invention and given a Ford car on which to install it. Initially, the game plan appeared to be that a Kearns family business would indeed be born and Kearns would realize his dream.

That, however, was not to be. This movie documents what followed when the Ford Motor Company suddenly quashed its deal with Kearns, and surreptitiously began installing its own version of the intermittent wiper. What follows is the courageous but truly demented tale of how Kearns' was left with a single life purpose -- to get the Ford Motor Company to acknowledge they stole his idea – his greatest work. It may only have been a windshield wiper system to others, but to him, it was a work of art on par with the "Mona Lisa."

First-time director and former producer Marc Abraham read the original story by John Seabrook in the New Yorker magazine and decided to make it into a movie. A script by Phillip Railsback followed. Eventually, actor Greg Kinnear received a copy with the unlikely working title of "Window Washer Man." Kinnear quipped on TV last week that the property sat on his desk for months while he avoided reading it, thinking it would involve some kind of a caped superhero with a squeegee!

I thought the movie was profound but some moviegoers might also find it quite grim. Anyone who has had dealings with large corporations knows the scope of their unyielding grasp – you just have to look at modern companies and trace their history. Some have met their demise because of poor decisions. However, I don't believe it is "bad karma" that finds the large automakers in difficult straits these days.

My impression is that Greg Kinnear has never had a better part and I honestly hope he will be noticed for it. He has already won the Best Actor Award at Boston's Film Festival. Actress Lauren Graham plays Kearns' long-suffering wife Phyllis, and Dermot Mulroney (with a mane of dark hair over his forehead) is fine as a duplicitous and self-serving partner named Gil Privick. Alan Alda has a small but significant role as Kearns' lawyer Gregory Lawson. The various young actors who play Kearns' children at different ages were quite natural and believable.

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada stands in for Detroit, Michigan in this film. Visiting family members from the Detroit area told me there is a lot of recent film activity in Michigan. Unfortunately, this movie was apparently not part of a trend that is said to be bringing films back to US locations. As a reviewer, I support that completely.

I give this movie a "B+" on Ellen's Entertainment Report Card.

Universal Pictures Official Website: http://www.flashofgenius.net/

MPAA: Rated PG-13 for brief strong language. Runtime: USA:119 min Country: USA Language: English

Man on Wire -- Reviewed by Ellen Kimball

"Man on Wire" is a fascinating and in some ways disturbing documentary. It chronicles how a talented high-wire walker, Frenchman Philippe Petit, assembled a team of accomplices and how they helped him to carry out an astonishing feat.

On August 7, 1974, Phillipe stepped out on a wire (really a thick cable) suspended 1350 feet above the ground between the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. He performed with no safety net for almost an hour. He crossed between the towers eight times before he was arrested for what later became known as "the artistic crime of the century." Prior to that event, Petit had successfully managed other astonishing wire walks, but this one was the true bravura performance.

What Petit and his crew accomplished was not legal. They had to gain access to restricted areas of the World Trade Center where they were not supposed to be. They also had to carefully plan the technical aspects of how it would all work. Critical to their success and Philippe's safety was determining how to rig the wire. The movie shows in extreme detail how they prepared and it also explores the successes and failures they experienced.

The film includes extensive current day interviews of the team's participants regarding their roles in this daring adventure. There is also original film footage shot in 1974 and even earlier. There is some dramatized material interwoven with a seamless result. This reviewer acknowledges director James Marsh and editor Jinx Godfrey for their remarkable achievements.

I believe that the attack of September 11, 2001 is still so painful to most of us that we are not eager to watch a film about the World Trade Center. As a former New Yorker, I know that am still filled with grief over the losses experienced there. However this is a story of a daring feat and, in this venue, I can tolerate it, albeit with a sense of great sadness. As I watched "Man on Wire" I felt the lingering undercurrent that these two magnificent twin towers are no longer there. That is what disturbs me. The events of 9/11 reside in a place of infamy still as haunting the 1941 bombing of Pearl Harbor, if we are old enough to remember it.

The bottom line is that "Man on Wire" celebrates an outstanding achievement and does it well. Credit this film for immense success in accomplishing this in the face of our continuing grief over 9/11. Incidentally, the film never mentions the 2001 event.

The film won two awards at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival last February. It is in limited release. Please check your local listings for theaters and showtimes.

I'm giving this a solid 'A' on Ellen's Entertainment Report Card.

Magnolia Pictures Directed by: James Marsh Written By: James Marsh Based on the book "To Reach The Clouds" by Philippe Petit Rated: PG-13 Grade: A Opens: August 8, 2008 (limited run) View trailer at official site: http://manonwire.com/

(Opens Friday, 8/8/08 for a limited run in Portland, OR. Kindly check your local listings for movie theater and showtimes)

First, let me advise you that I will never camp out in an R.V. I just thought it fair to tell you of this issue prior to reading my review.

In the past, I've toured the inside of recreational vehicles and thought, "Goodness! This is nice, but I'd rather stay in a hotel or just stay home!" It's just a bias, folks, but I felt the need to confess. Even my mother used to say, "A vacation for a woman is just a change of sink." Add to that, a change of toilet, shower (if available) a tiny bedroom, and tiny kitchen and -- well -- you get the idea.

Mom never camped and rarely got a chance to go to hotels. However, I'm spoiled. My idea of vacationing is staying at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City -- or other Hilton hotels. Even better, we're always willing to luxuriate at scrumptious timeshare villas around the world.

So, unlike other reviewers, I found 'R.V.' a delightfully funny fantasy! Don't get me wrong; 'R.V.' is pretty typical summer fare and another road trip, but that's a good thing. The difference is that the movie 'R.V.' has a bouncy -- although somewhat unbelievable -- script.

The thing that really saves it? It's well cast with Robin Williams (he's best known as voice of "The Genie" in 'Alladin' in case you've been living on another planet), and Cheryl Hines (she plays Larry David's wife on HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm".) Also included in the fun is Jeff Daniels (who is looking much more dapper these days after a shave and a haircut unavailable to him in "The Squid and the Whale"), and Kristen Chenoweth (a gal with an amazing singing voice and enough pizazz to pull off this Southern female talker-and-charmer role) plus several other supporting characters both young and old.

Although the story is certainly hokey, I thought that the comedy held its own throughout its 98 minutes. There were quite a few laughs and the whole thing moves along at a great rate. Yes, there is a sequence about 'R.V.' waste removal that goes awry. Director Barry Sonnenfeld will probably be bashed for his participation in this venture, but I don't agree. He gets a lot out of the simple plot -- and there IS a plot, with a beginning, a middle, and an ending. (How many films are totally lacking in those script areas these days?) As for the stunts and whatever computer work they required, that's pretty amazing.

Maybe I'm just a sucker for family bonding trips that turn out OK. The trips our family took -- usually just over the border from Massachusetts to New Hampshire's mountains -- or down to Cape Cod in bumper-to-bumper traffic -- were frequently a disaster. At one point, I vowed never to do them again. However, we had five kids of various ages from two different "blended" families. Maybe it's a bit better in a "nuclear" family, but that could be a figment of my imagination, too!

There is one movie reservation I keep wishing would go away. This is another American film supposed to be about Los Angeles and Colorado. Just like so many others, the exteriors of the film were shot primarily in the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. Oh, well, if 'Brokeback Mountain' could substitute Canada for Wyoming, I guess this one can, too. More power to the Canadian groups that support film-making in their country. They certainly seem to make the allure so potent that few film companies can resist it. The scenery is certainly beautiful, I must admit, but the photos of unknown country and cityscapes usually throw me for a loop.

I'm giving 'R.V.' this film a "C+" on my Entertainment Report Card. As usual, your mileage may vary. Just keep in mind that taking a REAL trip like this may be VERY expensive this year unless you are buying your gasoline directly from some rich sheik in the Middle East. Sheesh -- !

"Dark Water" is just what you've been waiting for…! If this is your kind of flick…or even if it's not…"Dark Water" is a great movie escape from the sweltering summer heat, the drumbeat of war, plus terrorism and whatever else ails you. It will transport you to a dark and rainy place where ghosts dare to intrude.

Academy award winner Jennifer Connelly stars as Dahlia, the recently divorced mother of six-year-old Cecilia, played by Ariel Gade. These two actors anchor this film and turn in excellent performances as mother and daughter nervously seeking a low-cost apartment close to New York City. They are nicely supported by John C. Riley as Mr. Murray (the building manager), Pete Postlethwaite as Veeck (the scruffy on-site superintendent), Tim Roth as Jeff Platzer (a lawyer with problems of his own), Dougray Scott as Kyle (the ex-husband) and Camryn Manheim as the teacher.

Murray tries to put a good face on all of the "not-so-nice" aspects of the disgusting apartment in a dilapidated building on Roosevelt Island…a coat of paint, a little clean up and -- what a view! Of course, there's that ugly dark stain on the bedroom ceiling… and dripping and worse. There are mysterious sounds blamed on the bad boys who live downstairs. Things really get going when Ceci reveals a friendship with an invisible friend, Natasha, that she maintains is real.

"Dark Water" offers a tight script and great acting that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. Hold on for one of the best frights you can get. Watch out, here comes the "Dark Water"! Try to stop shaking and gagging…it's only a movie…right? Rated an 8 out of 10 for the Best Scare of the Summer (so far).

"Cinderella Man" – WOW! "Cinderella Man" cast – WOW! "Cinderella Man" script – WOW! WOW, WOW, WOW – what a movie!

The new film "Cinderella Man" is the true story of boxer James J. (Jim) Braddock. This film is stunning and exciting from beginning to end. In my opinion, it's the best movie so far in 2005, and it may well be the second boxing movie in two years to win the Academy's nod for Best Picture. How can I say this? Well, Russell Crowe as Braddock has never been better. Incredible! Director Ron Howard also gets terrific performances from Renée Zellweger as Braddock's wife, Mae, and from talented actor Paul Giamatti as Joe Gould.

What a lucky hit… and maybe it was more than luck that reunited Academy Award-winning producer Brian Grazer, director Ron Howard, and screenwriter Akiva Goldsman (all Oscar winners for 2001's "A Beautiful Mind") with Oscar winner Russell Crowe. What a team and what a story! The film recreates the pain of the dark days of 1930s Depression in a way that will stir you to the core. Braddock, a once-promising heavyweight boxer, struggles along with wife Mae to survive and hold their family together. Braddock's impressive run of wins has been surpassed by a string of losses that has rendered him a ring has-been, grubbing for any kind of work. Then an unlikely stroke of good fortune – a last minute cancellation – offers Braddock one more night in the ring against a second-ranked world contender. Unbelievable – except it really happened – Braddock, with no training for the fight, wins that match. Everywhere in the country, this new hero – who is one of their own – uplifts the downtrodden people living through this terrible time. Those controlling the matches can't ignore Braddock's popularity and the potential for profit as the old man is brought back to fight young savages who will probably kill him. (Shades of "Million Dollar Baby"!)

You'll be on the edge of your seat for the whole play-out. If you're a boxing fan, you probably know what happens – but I won't spoil it for you if you don't know. Either way, don't miss this dream movie…a true-life fairy tale. I'm giving "Cinderella Man" an "A++" on my Entertainment Report Card.

Sorry to tell you that this movie has one of the worst scripts ever. It's just a shame, too -- because I like Michael Keaton and think he has one of the sexiest mouths I've ever seen (and I'm probably old enough to be his mother). I really wanted to like this flick since I couldn't recall the last movie I'd seen him in.

On the positive side, "White Noise" was well acted and directed. The scary effects were jolting. The music was exciting and helped to build the tension. The characters were interesting and, although I don't particularly believe in ghosts, I felt some emotional bond with this theme.

Aside from that, the movie's script makes little or no sense. The ending was unforgivably dumb and for me, the movie was a big waste of time. My husband fell asleep for the last twenty minutes, so he was in a better place for the incredibly unmotivated ending.

I didn't stay for the credits. Where was this film shot? There are no filming locations noted here at IMDb. The only clue was one character has a business card that says "Washington" and area code 206.

I'm giving it a "D" and just cannot recommend this movie. However, there are some January holdovers that may pique your interest. Try "The Aviator" -- "Kinsey" -- or "Sideways" this weekend.

See you at the movies!

In fact, just seeing the movie "Hotel Rwanda" will likely be one of the most stressful experiences you will have at the movies this new year. The movie chronicles heroic events that took place in 1994 in the midst of the horrors of attempted genocide. The hero of the movie, and of the actual events, is Paul Rusesabagina, played impressively by Don Cheadle. Paul is a manager at an upscale, Sabena-owned hotel who risks everything to save the lives of more than one thousand Tutsis. This is the group that was being butchered by the Hutu militia. It is estimated that a million or more Tutsis were killed in just a few months' time.

Prior to the outbreak of violence, we find Paul performing his regular duties as hotel manager. He gifts liberally to suppliers and military and others in power in order to guarantee that the hotel will be able to continue to fully serve its guests in the current climate. He also wants to know that he has friends in high places who will protect him and his family if trouble comes.

When the killing starts, Paul quickly learns that those he has cultivated in high places are not as dependable as he hoped. He and his family are in great danger after all. In addition, frightened friends and relatives turn to him for help. He initially resists but then allows them into the hotel while he uses all available resources to bargain with those that would do harm or would allow harm to be done. Soon orphans and others in fear for their lives come to his hotel for safety. Paul fights to save all those under his protection using every device he can imagine.

This obviously sounds like this year's "Schindler's List". However it is a much more difficult film to watch and it has some flaws. Initially, the film lacks sufficient exposition about the reasons for the warfare between the Hutus and Tutsis. There is a bit said about the origin of this class distinction in Rwanda and what it has led to. However, it was not nearly enough to keep us from wondering if we really understand the differences between the good guys and the bad guys. By the end of the movie, you'll probably figure it out, but that's a little late.

No question about the horrors that took place -- but this film forces us to endure cycle after cycle of promised escape that is undone by new violence. It is a bit too repetitive and hard to take. The film certainly does succeed in sharing with us the terrible atrocities that were committed in Rwanda.

See this "Hotel Rwanda" -- but steel yourself for the experience. For its successes and for the many fine performances, I rate it a B+.

"Meet the Fockers" sounds like "Meet the f-u-u-…". Oops! Can't say that because of FCC guidelines. Just the same, the title pretty much describes the level of the humor in this Ben Stiller comedy. But that's redundant because it IS a Ben Stiller movie. Clearly my expectations for this movie were not high and, maybe because of that, I found "Meet the Fockers" quite funny.

Don't get me wrong. This is not a movie for everyone. First off, the writers did not miss a single opportunity to play off of the name "Focker". It's silly and gets a little old but it somehow works with the other repetitious low-down gags.

Focker is the family name for Greg (Focker), Ben Stiller. The funniest Fockers, however, (now I'm doing it) are Greg's parents Bernie and Roz, a loose and liberal Florida hippy couple still living in the last century and enjoying every minute of it. Dustin Hoffman, as Bernie displays a previously unrevealed talent for over the top comedy. Fitting perfectly with Hoffman's Bernie, is Barbra Streisand as Roz Focker, reminiscent of the "zaftig" Lainie Kazan. Bernie is a yesteryear lawyer who has not practiced since who knows when. Roz is the main breadwinner from her business as a sex therapist to the elderly.

Greg is not too eager to reveal his parents' true nature to his fiancée's parents as they all come to visit to get to know one another better. Teri Polo nicely plays Greg's fiancée Pam. Robert DeNiro and Blythe Danner play her stiff and straight parents, Jack and Dina Byrnes. Oh – also add in some baby low-brow by Spencer and Bradley Pickeren, two adorable twins playing Little Jack.

So, go low, go loose -- or don't go at all -- but if you like Ben Stiller, go see "Meet the Fockers". Dustin's antics will crack you up and you'll enjoy Barbra back on the big screen after so long. Rated a B+.

My mother used to tell me, 'If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all.' This is a difficult position for a movie critic. I can pick and choose what I review and I really try to select my films wisely. I should have skipped this film, but my husband wanted to see it after printing out an early review giving it high marks. Also, the trailer looked good, so we went anyway.

While I thought the lead characters (Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Cate Blanchett, Anjelica Huston, Willem DaFoe, Jeff Goldblum) were well cast, the script was abysmal. Jacques Cousteau would be spinning in his grave if this is supposed to be something serious based on his work. The comedic elements were too farcical and far-fetched to be really funny, with lots of languid script forays into self-conscious dialog and idealogical thought. (Big yawn goes here!)

In my opinion, Bill Murray is at his best in this movie when he's parodying the boring educational films we've all seen in school classes, with the ubiquitous stiff scientist reading his lines with little or no inflection and totally stilted movement. In general, I've enjoyed Murray's performances in "Groundhog Day" and "Caddyshack" as well as the "Ghostbusters" films and his SNL performances. It's only fair to mention we didn't care for either "Lost in Translation" or "The Royal Tenenbaums".

There were scattered laughs at the screening I attended, and I laughed occasionally myself. However, this movie was vapid and self-conscious and I wouldn't have paid to see it. The film smacks of real cinematic amateurism, especially in photography, editing and continuity. Items on tables jump around. In one shot, you can see the camera crew reflected in a shiny picture on the opposite wall. Some of the hand-held camera work was so jumpy it was impossible to watch. I left the theater scratching my head. But Mom would be proud – I loved the animatronic creatures – the rainbow seahorse and other fish and the real three-legged dog (that barked with its mouth closed in one shot). Also, much of the exterior photography in Rome, Florence, and Naples, Italy is beautiful. I loved their locations. The film made me want to go back to Italy soon.

Worst film of the year? Probably not. It isn't even Christmas yet and there are a couple on my list already. An Oscar to Bill Murray? I don't think so, unless there are a lot of people in the Academy who think this particular emperor has new clothes. This film was a big waste of time and I wouldn't recommend it. My advice? Go see "The Aviator" or "Sideways" or "Kinsey" instead. I'm giving it a 'D' – for dumb dialog and dubious plotting. Of course, as with all cinema events, 'Your mileage may vary.'

We previewed the film "Ray" last night in Portland, Oregon, where a packed audience applauded spontaneously at the end.

You will believe that Jaimie Foxx IS Ray Charles in this movie. His performance so astonishes that I forgot this is an actor in the role who is lip-syncing the songs. I found out later that Foxx uses opaque eye prosthetics and actually was "blind" for fourteen hours at a time during the filming. Also, Mr. Foxx revealed today on CNN that he is a classically trained pianist and his hands were seen in all the piano keyboard shots in the movie.

"Ray" primarily covers the highs and lows of the first forty years of Ray's life and his battle with heroin addiction. The supporting cast is uniformly excellent, and the film itself is a true achievement. We're treated to a chronology of the ground-breaking music derived from the courage of this blind, black man.

Ray Charles never forgot his mother's forceful admonition to stand on his own two feet and not let himself become a "cripple" -- because of his blindness. So, he was heroic even as part of him was lost to heroin. Over and over, he demanded to be allowed to do it his way and broke ground where other performers had not succeeded. Live audiences and record fans were treated to his new creations year after year.

The film is an inspirational story of Ray Charles' accomplishments and a celebration of his music. It may be the best film of the year and Jaime Foxx may have nailed the best performance by an actor. Rated A++.

Here are my hastily-prepared excuses:

I promised my daughter I'd baby-sit for her son from 11 AM to 4 PM. It was cool and overcast and rain was predicted. I didn't want to go to a park... and after lunch, when I mentioned "Superbabies," the deal was struck!

Background: My grandson fell in love with superheroes this year, and he has been alternately garbed as Spiderman and Superman, as well as a pirate complete with eye patch and skull-and-crossbones hat. His favorite possession is his plastic sword! Yesterday, going to the movie, he asked me if I could get him a parrot to sit on his shoulder!

He loved the movie and gave it two "thumbs up" (both his)! So, if you have an almost four-year-old, it might work for you. Otherwise, forget it. I paid $10.50 for both of us (one senior and one child) and slept through this movie.

I am so touched by the beautiful film we have just seen that I'm almost too overwhelmed to talk about it.

The movie is 'De-Lovely' about the life of Cole Porter, his music and, most of all, about an amazing, unlikely and wonderful love. I don't know how much is true and how much is given to poetic license, but I don't care and I don't especially want to know. I just want to hang on to the heartfelt experience.

I was not alone in my reaction to 'De-Lovely.' In addition to the spontaneous applause at the end of the screening, an astonishing number of people in the audience were still in their seats, savoring the impact, when the last of the credits rolled. 'De-Lovely' is such an integrated masterpiece of movie-making that I will only reluctantly move on to crediting the pieces that contribute to the whole.

Kevin Klein delivers a superb performance playing Cole Porter from middle age into his advanced years. Ashley Judd provides an equally compelling performance as Linda Lee, the woman whom Cole meets and marries early in the film. The story starts in 1920's Paris and includes scenes in Venice prior to Cole and Linda moving on to NYC and the "Great White Way," Hollywood, and finally, Massachusetts.

The sets and costumes, together with direction by Irwin Winkler, transport the audience flawlessly to the time and places of Cole and Linda's experiences. (It was interesting to note that this movie was shot in England and Italy; apparently none of it was filmed in the U.S.A. at all!) 'De-Lovely' also achieves its spectacular success by way of the strong script from Jay Cocks. And, of course, there is the wonderful music of Cole Porter, sung by amateurs Kline and Judd, as well as an impressive, multi-talented array of young musical artists.

You could elect to see this film in order to learn more about the life of Cole Porter. You could go in order to enjoy the songs and show presentations of Cole's music. You could also go to experience the time and places in Cole's life. However, the best reason to go is because this is a wonderful if improbable love story. The story of love evolving and maturing as it is nurtured by Linda's full knowledge and acceptance of Cole's homosexual or bisexual proclivities. Yet, Cole says of his many love songs that they have always been for Linda and we never doubt that it is true. In the end, after their relationship and love has been tested by terrible adversity, they are still there for each other with an ever-deepening love and tenderness.

Rated A+, see 'De-Lovely' for the story of Cole Porter, for travel to a different time and to different places, for the music and mostly to experience the love story. In my opinion, the movie is decidedly de-lovely!

"The Door in the Floor" may be one of the best movies so far this year. It offers a moving experience and memorable characters that you will not soon forget.

The story is an adaptation of the best-selling novel, "A Widow for One Year" by John Irving (who also wrote "The World According to Garp" and "The Cider House Rules"). I haven't read the book, but the screenplay by writer/director Tod Williams is so good that it's hard to imagine that it doesn't do justice to its source. (Apparently, the book spans many decades in the life of this family; that's certainly a different approach than what is presented in the film.) Applause to Tod again for his brilliant direction in which he obtains sensitive, extraordinary performances from the sterling cast.

Jeff Bridges is sublime as Ted Cole, a children's book author. His character dominates the plot and it's an Academy Award level portrayal. Bridges only gets better with time, and he is at the top of his form here. In a more understated, introspective role, Kim Basinger plays Ted's wife, Marion Cole. It's another performance deserving of Academy Award notice. Basinger's beauty is only exceeded by the depth of her acting ability. Elle Fanning, younger sister of the talented ten-year-old Dakota Fanning ("I Am Sam", "The Cat in the Hat", "Man on Fire") is an amazing, natural talent as young Ruth, daughter of Ted and Marion.

Jon Foster plays teenaged Eddie O'Hare in yet another superlative job of acting in this movie. Mimi Rogers supports well as Mrs. Vaughn. Her filmography notes she was born in January 1956, which makes her 48 years old. Few actresses would have the ability to play this movie role. She appears in a tense scene, fully nude, and filmed from every angle while she is revolved on a life model's turntable. Wow! More power to her!

"The Door in the Floor" title comes from one of Ted's children's books. We hear the story as Ted does a reading before a local audience. It is clear from the outset that the Cole family is in a state of severe distress, which relates to earlier losses of two sons. Writer/director Tod Williams is masterful in carrying the audience through the gradual and painful exposition of what happened to the couple's children, Tommy and Timothy.

Pleased be aware that all of the principals (except Ruthie) are seen in various stages of nudity in this film -- front, side, back and on top of one another. Everything is shown with great subtlety and sensitivity within the delicate context of the film. There was certainly no prurient interest in any of it. All of the nude scenes are handled in a realistic and matter-of-fact way. For example, little Ruthie sees her father naked, which some viewers may find objectionable, but which certainly works within the context of this film.

This is a movie for all seasons. It's still early in the year and we can only hope that "The Door in the Floor," with its wonderful script, direction, editing, and acting, will still be remembered as we approach nominations for the best films at the end of the year. Go out of your way to see this A++ accomplishment.

... sorry to say it was not a very happy or easy experience.

`Raising Helen' stars the vivacious Kate Hudson. Her performance is the best thing in this movie. While the movie is supposed to be a comedy-drama rated PG-13, I'm not sure who this movie is for. The story is too saccharine and simplistic. We're supposed to believe that there can be a comic upside to three kids losing both their parents.

Kate Hudson plays Helen Harris, the lucky aunt who is named as guardian for her two nieces and her nephew. These children sustain the terrible tragedy of losing both parents in a traffic accident. To her credit, Hudson keeps us involved as she moves through the trials and tribulations of this slight script. This may be billed as a `feel good' movie, but it really only sustains that feeling until you think about it more deeply, or have some experience with children who have suffered parental loss in real life.

More in a minute about what I don't like about `Raising Helen' but first a few positives. Joan Cusack turns in an excellent performance as Jenny, Helen's sister and the aunt who was passed over for guardianship. She delivers a finely sculpted character who, at one and the same time, wants to support Helen but is pained by not having been the chosen aunt. Helen Mirren does well as Dominique, Helen's employer and the rest of the cast, including the kids and John Corbett as the love interest, do what is expected of them.

So what's wrong here? What's wrong is that three kids losing two loving parents in car accident is an experience that these kids will be lucky to survive without serious psychological damage. The plot attempts to tell us that this is just a comical challenge for their young winsome aunt. The movie is dishonest because it tries to convince us that it's too bad that Mom and Dad are dead -- but, with someone like Aunt Helen, all will be well.

So -- Kate, you did a good job -- except in your decision to act in this flick. Director Garry Marshall, you did a good job except in deciding to make this movie. My advice to the audience is -- go to this film only if you want to see a movie based on a false premise. In retrospect, this film will leave you feeling like you drank the soda pop enthusiastically, but the fizz was already gone. Rate it a 6/10.

Me--yowwee! Hooray for `Dr. Seuss' The Cat in the Hat'! What a hoot! It is rollicking fun from beginning to end, and not just for the kids! My husband and I took our almost six-year-old granddaughter to see this new live action flick from Universal Pictures. I can't tell you who enjoyed it more – us or the kid! While our granddaughter smiled and recited the well-known lines from the book along with the on-screen narration, I was splitting my sides with the adult laughs. This movie is rated PG for `mild crude humor' but that didn't seem to bother anyone at the preview. 'The Cat in the Hat' is from the book of the same name. For most young readers, it's probably their favorite from Dr. Seuss. Add in a masterfully humorous screenplay by Alec Berg, glorious production design by Alex McDowell, magnificent set decoration by Anne Kuljian, fantastic costume design by Rita Ryack and the ultimate direction by former production designer Bo Welch – and the result is up to expectations. The special effects are phenomenal as is the cast. Top cat Mike Myers handles the title role and he is over-the-top hilarious in a fast moving whirlwind of action that will have you breathless. There so much packed into this feature that you'll might feel the same way as our granddaughter, who said at the end, `Now I know what I'm going to do with the money I've been saving. I want to see it again and I'm going to buy the video when it comes out.'

Alec Baldwin is memorable as the villainous Quinn. Handsome guy that he is, Alec has allowed himself to be shown as a super-slob complete with blubbery tummy. At one point, he appears totally dipped in purple sticky goopy stuff. Kelly Preston, who is John Travolta's wife in real life, plays the sweet and shapely Mom. The kids, Dakota Fanning as Sally and Spencer Breslin as Conrad, are fully up to the challenge of keeping up with the manic Myers.

What an opportunity! It's a chance to savor and enjoy `Dr. Seuss' The Cat in the Hat' in a whole newly embellished way. We loved it. You probably will, too. Forget about the critics who don't like it -- they're just Grinches! Find a kid to take you or make up some other reason to go – but don't miss this feline fantasy. I rate this an `A'!

XXX is the 007 of the new millennium. XXX, the movie, takes the outlandish "Bondsian" stunts and futuristic cars and weapons to a new level and with an unexpected new hero. Fans of this genre can't get enough of these thrilling antics but -- let's face it -- it was getting a little stale. Pierce Brosnan is Roger Moore is Sean Connery. All great in their day and all smooth, confident and debonair. However, the story and the hero in each new episode was a formula replay of the earlier ones. XXX is rough hewn, unsophisticated but tough, confident and living for adrenaline-rush thrills. Vin Diesel more than fills the bill, as does Samuel Jackson in the role of Security Agent Gibbons. The action and the effects are outstanding and the story has plenty of twists and turns. And, yes, it includes a demented villain with a vision of new world borne out of the destruction of the current one. This is not a movie for everyone but it should have broad appeal as good escapist fun.

`The Ring' is an eerie supernatural thriller that is just in time for Halloween. It raises a scary barrage of questions that had me on the edge of my seat through most of the movie. The ending floored me -- but not in a good way. This is another one of those films that takes your expectations to the heights and then drops you with a sudden thud at the end. In the final analysis, the movie never explains nearly enough to satisfy. It doesn't even try. I am weary of movies without an adequate conclusion. What's left, after the credits roll, is an audience that feels cheated.

My husband and I went to a press preview of this film last night. Originally scheduled to open in October, 2001, the film's opening has been delayed for four months because it was deemed too intense a subject for release immediately after the incidents of September 11th. My opinion is that the studio should have shelved this movie and it will suffer from comparison with what we have been through.

It was truly painful to watch this film. Arnold Schwartzenegger and the other actors do a good job, but the subject material -- a fireman who loses his wife and child to a terrorist bombing -- is just too difficult for this time in our history. It's difficult to imagine that the studio thought this film would EVER be acceptable. Even hardened critics in the audience winced at the similarities to what we have endured -- the bad guys, although supposedly of Colombian extraction -- look a lot like the Middle Eastern men whose pictures we have seen over and over again -- sans the turbans. Honestly, I don't know how good the box office for this movie will be. Maybe die-hard action movie buffs will go to it, but I cannot recommend this movie to my audience -- not because it is terrible, but because it is not entertainment in my mind. The scenes in the fire and the explosions in and around buildings are just too close for comfort. One woman shrieked out from the audience, "Give me my two hours back!" I can understand her comment completely. In this case, I really wish I had gone to a coffee house for a couple of hours and listened to music. Now that I have seen "Collateral Damage" I guess I can reflect on how much we could really use some superhero to get the evil guys who planned the terrible events that actually happened in 2001.

I give this film three stars (***) out of 10. See something else instead.