Jdc102 Reviews (145)

Spring Breakers (2012)

Franco makes this movie worth it...ALMOST..

[21 December 2013]

By no means is this a good movie. At about 90 minutes, it feels twice as long. The pace is beyond slow and the characters are dull and one dimensional EXCEPT FOR.. (wait for it..) James Franco. He is just about the ONLY reason to watch this. You actually forget you are watching the same guy from 127 hours or Freaks and Geeks. He is the real deal. I can't say that I've seen any other Harmony Korine's movies but I know he does have some artistic choices that work. The neon florescent night scenes are beautiful but unfortunately the scenes go on for too long.

Overall: James Franco is the real deal but this movie is a long music video that makes you feel icky.

D

Downton Abbey (2010–2015)

It's actually as good as people think!

[19 February 2013]

Downton Abbey is one of those shows that is almost impossible not to hear about. Since about 2011, I've heard of this show and recently watched it. I'll be honest, it took me a couple of episodes to get into it, but when I did, I was sure happy about it. This is a character driven, ensemble drama that has engaging stories about history. It has a soapy edge, but not to the point where anything feels forced. If I do have to find some criticisms, it does seem like some of the problems the characters face are often too quickly resolved (see: Matthew Crawley's injury) in a way that it almost feels like the writers attempting to get themselves out of a corner. Perhaps that is unfair to say, but the thought does come across. Anyways, the acting is fantastic and the story is great. You should watch it!

Grand Theft Auto IV (2008 Video Game)

The most cinematic video game of all time (until GTA V)

[19 February 2013]

If you have read any of my reviews, you will see that I am a fan of Grand Theft Auto. Ever since playing, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, I was hooked and I had big expectations for Grand Theft Auto IV and it didn't disappoint. In my opinion, I think GTA IV has the best story. Niko's tale about coming to America was original and made the story complex. You WANT to finish this game. Now, it's been 5 years and a new GTA is looming, and it certainly isn't perfect. After recently playing it again, I had forgotten how annoying it was when your "friends" wouldn't leave you alone and the "girlfriend" aspect really went nowhere. But other than that, GTA iv was THE game to get in 2008.

Cheers!

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Just Watch It.. Its Tarantino..

[7/10 · 10 January 2010]

After watching the first hour of this movie, I came upon a theory that I think makes a lot of sense as to why the movie Grindhouse wasn't a hit: They don't know how to market Quintin Tarantino. The previews show Inglorious Basterds as a fun, gory, thrill ride and in reality, it isn't. It isn't that I didn't like the film, it was just that I was expecting a Kill Bill style action-fest and it was pretty talky. The good news is that since Quintin Tarantino can write like no other, that makes the movie very entertaining. What I really love about this movie is the brilliant performances. I usually hate the saying that something is "a revelation", but Christof Waltz really is. I hope he wins a best supporting actor Oscar for playing the charming and mostly evil Hans Landa. I also thought the two actresses, Melanie Laurent AND the overall underrated Diane Kruger were fantastic.

QT is just awesome B++++

Modern Family (2009–2020)

Funny AND Smart but they need to lose the slapstick!

[8/10 · 8 January 2010]

Based on the previews alone, I knew I would be watching at least the Pilot episode of "Modern Family". I am a big fan of the "Office" (especially earlier episodes) and love the format, so I had high hopes for "Modern Family". I am happy to report that my hopes were not let down for this show. In my opinion, this is the greatest 1st season comedy since "the office". I've been reading numerous articles about the show and it seems like Ty Burrell, who plays Phil, is the break out star. I hate to say this, but I think Phil is probably one of the dumbest parts of the show. His character is basically a Michael Scott rip-off and the actor seems like he is trying too hard. I basically want to say to the producers of the show: You have a really witty show with some great writing, PLEASE don't resort every week for predictable, LAME slapstick plot lines. You guys are better than that. I give them major credit though, because this show has TONS of potential. First Season review: B+

The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007)

One of my favorite documentaries

[8 January 2010]

I loved this movie. I would never though the competitive world of Donkey Kong would have made anything worthy of watching, but I have to tell you, this movie is one of the most entertaining documentaries ever. The subject matter is simple and light but there is such tension in these scenes and the competitive nature of these players is definitely admirable. I have always been a fan of characters that you love to hate and Billy Mitchell (definitely a character, but not an actor) is quite memorable. I usually don't buy movies, but I went out and bought this DVD and watch it whenever I need a laugh. If you are thinking about watching this movie, PLEASE do. Everybody can relate to this movie, because its about being competitive about your passion--even if that passion is Donkey Kong. A

Jersey Shore (2009–2012)

Everybody needs their guilty pleasures..

[2 January 2010]

Reality TV is trash. I get that sentiment exactly, but after watching a few episodes of Jersey Shore, I started to see beyond the fake tans, the fights and the horrible language (and bad grammar). What did I see? I saw myself and my friends at age 21. These people aren't stereotypes, they are TRULY how immature people act. I say let them enjoy being young. They are proud of being themselves and having fun. Is this quality TV programming? No, but you know what, sometimes quality programming can be boring. This JS cast is anything but boring and I found myself actually liking them. They ARE characters and they know how to put on a show. I don't know how long this show will go on, and I really do hope they keep the cast intact (at least for season 2) because I will be watching. B-

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

Underwhelming

[6/10 · 2 January 2010]

Jude Law is one of my favorite actors and I'm starting to really enjoy Robert Downey Jr after Iron Man. Guy Ritchie is stylish and can create a FUN experience at the movies (LSATSB). But after watching the first previews for Sherlock Holmes, I admit I was a bit underwhelmed. It seemed like they were going for style and very little substance. I think that is a shame, considering the substance is Sherlock Holmes, a character with a lot of potential. There is no doubt Robert Downey Jr. is charismatic and fun, but I never really saw him as Sherlock Holmes, but rather Tony Stark playing Sherlock Holmes. For me to recommend a movie, it has to stay with me, but with a boring plot that I didn't care about, this movie was forgettable. The occasional bits of humor aren't even close to recommending it. Its a shame with such a talented cast. C-

Dancing with the Stars (I) (2005– )

I don't get it.

[3/10 · 24 February 2009]

Aren't people sick of this yet?

Some people love DWTS. I simply don't get it. I can understand why people would like to see their favorite celebrities compete but many are "who?" celebrities. For Many (including somebody I went to High School with) their biggest achievement is the show itself.

I just find the hosts unfunny and the entire thing is really boring and predictable.

I only watched because Adam Carolla was on it and once he was gone. Adam was actually FUNNY and nobody seemed to care. The show is just bad. Really bad. I do think some of the ladies are good looking, but seriously, it isn't enough to watch this.

Gran Torino (2008)

A really good movie that shouldn't be nominated for anything.

[7/10 · 28 December 2008]

Gran Torino was a good, solid movie. By reading my review (First review in over 3 years, by the way) you might think that I didn't like this movie, but that isn't the case.

Gran Torino is a good movie, just not a great one. I think that is because it WAS predictable and rather cartoonish. A lot of stereotypes were used in a movie that wants to abolish stereotypes and I don't really get that. I think the ending was something that people could have predicted about 40 minutes before it actually happened (or maybe even sooner) That being said, I liked this movie. It never lagged and was always interesting. Eastwood was great and he is a fantastic director. That is enough to recommend it.

Survivor (2000– )

Survivor IS BACK!!!

[24 February 2005]

__Contains Minor Spoiler about the First Episode__ Only 2 episodes into Survivor:Palau and its already more interesting than Vanuatu, In my opinion. Survivor: Vanuatu was disappointing mostly because of the bland cast, and Survivor:All Stars was both over-hyped and predictable, but I'm happy to report that it seems that Survivor: Palau will rank up there with the best versions of the show. One criticism I have with the show is how they got rid of two people off the bat- I just think it was really unnecessary. Thus far, the cast seems great and I especially like the Koror or "the bad-news bears tribe". The people I'm rooting for: Tom, Coby, Ian and Stephenie. That would be a FANTASTIC final four, wouldn't it?

Survivor (2000– )

MEN VS. WOMEN is Played out..

[13 December 2004]

At first, I did not like this version of Survivor very much. The cast to me was dull and after the great cast of All-Star, I was expecting perhaps too much. I did have some favorites: Chad, Ami (At first), Rory, Sarge and Twila. Also, I agree with many people in that the "MEN Vs. WOMEN" is played out, I hope they NEVER do it again. The show did start pretty predictable, first the strong men were being voted out, then all the men but the game STARTED getting VERY interesting when Twila finally opened Chris' eyes to change the game. This was one of the last episodes, so it took a while,but Survivor:Vanuatu did end on a good note. Also, this was one of the few Final 2's where I didn't mind if either were declared the winner.

Can't Wait for Palau!

The Incredibles (2004)

GREAT on SO MANY LEVELS!

[20 November 2004]

This has got to be one of the most enjoyable movies I've seen in a long, long time. I loved pretty much everything about this movie. I LOVED the retro feel to it. The characters are SO well written and Syndrome is probably one of the greatest super villains i've seen in a movie, just because he combines comic relief with pure evil and his reasons for seeking revenge is both interesting and original. I really don't have anything bad to say about this movie, because it works for just about anybody. Men, Women, Kids, Grandparents (I think). It works as a comedy, adventure, suspense, and as a cartoon. This just proves how much greater PIXAR is than dreamworks. I mean Shrek was...cute, but it definitely doesn't have the depth that the Incredibles has.

Would it be strange if I said that this should be nominated for Best Picture?

A

The Simple Life (2003–2007)

"Reality" Show?

[6 August 2004]

I'll admit, "Simple Life 2" is entertaining in small doses. I liked how they went to different states and were with different people. So, in small doses, it can be entertaining. But, Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton(especially Nicole) are so obviously putting on a "show" for the camera, it really gets tiresome. I really would be shocked if the producers didn't plan for the girls to do some of the "wacky things" they do. For instance, when the girls go into a Burger King, they order all this food and while one of them goes out to their pink truck to look for money, the other gorges themselves while still in line, having not paid for anything. That is one of the many scenes that had FAKE written all over it. First off, Burger King is one of their sponsors. Secondly, there are no other people in line. Thirdly, the manager doesn't stop them from eating their food before they paid for it (He does get kinda upset afterwards though, which is acted, most likely). Finally, the girls ask some guys for money and they pay for their meal. Now, why didn't they do that in the first place?

I honestly couldn't really stand too much of Paris and Nicole and I never really learned much about them. You just hear them use their little catch phrases and think of funny ways of getting out of doing work.

Bottom Line: Entertaining in some parts, but overall seems pretty phony.

C+

The Village (2004)

I REALLY liked it, except for 3 things..:Contains Spoilers :

[3 August 2004]

---This contains Spoilers, don't read if you plan to see the movie---

First off, I really liked "The Village" and I think its M Night's best film since "The Sixth Sense". I heard a lot of people saying that the beginning was boring, I thought it was all very interesting. I do, have 3 minor problems with the film, they are:

-The lack of suspense and or scary scenes- I know M. Night doesn't want to show us too much, but I think he could have scared us at least a half dozen more times. I thought the scenes with the townspeople were interesting, but I wanted to be scared more. Show more scenes at night with the creatures or something.

The second problem was: -Plot Holes. Sure there's probably a dozen if you try hard enough, but the major one for me is with Noah. Why in the world would he go after Ivy in that suit? That never made sense to me. Did that costume take control over him? He was in love with her, they say. If you have an answer to this, please email it to me, because I'd really like to know

and lastly: -What happens to Lucius? They never say, and that bothers me. I wish it would just be resolved.

I did like a lot of things in it, like the music, and I even liked the twist ending, even though some people didn't. Bryce Dallas Howard is fantastic in this, I was really amazed. She really has great presence on screen and she brings so much to this film.

A

Fatherhood (2004–2005)

Kinda Weak, and its on the wrong network...

[30 July 2004]

I'm not crazy about "Fatherhood", but I don't think its terrible. Its just that its more for the Nickelodeon crowd (Who's more into cartoons) than the Nick-At-Nite audience. (Who's into more classic TV, although with the current state of the network, with some exceptions- that might not be true). I agree with Jabef, the animation is pretty ugly. It looks like they were trying to give it an old fashioned feel, but it just looks odd. The show itself is pretty thin on laughs and I actually got bored through most of it. I like Bill Cosby and I think he's a funny and talented guy, but this show isn't his best. This is basically a less funny, animated version of the Cosby Show.

Also if its based on Bill Cosby's book, Why not make him the voice of the main character, Dr. Bindlebeep?

C

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002 Video Game)

Better than some movies

[26 June 2004]

GTA:VC is the best video game I've ever played. Its more like a movie and has some really interesting (and sometimes hilarious) characters. Ray Liotta is PERFECT as Tommy Vercetti, a guy who's so badass, you learn to like the guy. I think GTA III was very good, but Vice City, for me is a masterpiece. The radio stations, the weapons, the cars, the boats, the motorcycles, the graphics, the nostalgia, its awesome. I can't wait for San Andreas. At this point, I don't think Rockstar can go wrong. Some people prefer GTAIII, and people have their own opinions, but I've never gotten bored with Vice City. A

Survivor (2000– )

Its ALL Business, which doesn't make it as enjoyable as other versions..

[28 March 2004]

First off- I enjoy Survivor:All Stars very much, but it has its share of problems. Mostly, I would say its lack of surprises and humor. I think Lex said it himself "This one is all business". He's right. Since everyone knows each other (Except for Rupert, since he was just there in Panama in Pearl Islands) it takes a big element out of the game right there. It is good to see all the people playing, but when 2 people quit and one team keeps winning ALL THE TIME, it takes a lot out of the game. Again, I wouldn't say Survivor:All Stars is a waste, because I do enjoy it, but it was nothing I pictured. If either Rupert, Tom, Lex, Kathy or Alicia happen to win, I'll be happy. If its Jenna Lewis, Rob, Amber, Jerri or Shii Ann, I'll just want to forget about it.

B+ so far.

Family Guy (1999– )

The PERFECT Cartoon for the 80's generation..

[15 February 2004]

At times I think "Family Guy" is better than the Simpsons. That's how much I love it. It's not as smart or touching as some (mostly earlier) episodes of the Simpsons, but its very, very funny. It might depend on what time you grew up (I'm sure younger kids wouldn't get all the references to things such as "The Kool Aid Guy", "Tron" and "Flock Of Seagulls"- just to name a few) But for any child of the 80's, this is THE cartoon to watch. I'm so happy they are bringing it back. I can't wait!

The Apprentice (2004–2017)

The BEST reality show on NBC (although that may not be saying much)

[14 February 2004]

"The Apprentice" is Survivor in the city. There are so many comparisons between them, but hey, the formula works and Mark Burnett is extremely talented. Like Survivor, you have contestants you root for (Troy) and ones that are meant to be the villians (Omarosa and Sam. But not only is it extremely entertaining, you learn about the business world (What to say, what not to say)

A very entertaining show. NBC FINALLY gets it right when it comes to Reality Television.

Lost in Translation (2003)

Scenic view

[13 February 2004]

I enjoyed bits and pieces of this film more than I did the whole thing. I don't know, maybe it was the mood I was in, but it was a little too slow paced for me and never really went anywhere. But, thats the end of my negative critique on it. I enjoyed the scenes when they were in the streets, or when Charlotte goes into an arcade and just observes the scenery. The scenery to me is what makes this film memorable. Sofia Coppola rightfully is nominated. One of my favorite parts in this movie is when Bob is having photo shoots done, very funny.

a solid B.

American Chopper: The Series (2002–2020)

For the best in Reality Television Watch "AMERICAN CHOPPER"..

[12 January 2004]

Believe it or not, it used to bother me about a year or two ago when I heard people say that they hate reality television. I know, that sounds really weird, but its true- it did bug me. But now, I totally understand. I can't stand it. Not only is it offensive and just plain mean, it really serves no point. I dont mean ALL of Reality TV- Basically any reality show on fox other than American Idol. I still love Survivor, Monster House and Queer Eye is also good. But then there's American Chopper, which easily surpasses "THE OSBOURNES", because not only is it just as funny (if not funnier)than that show, you actually learn a lot about the crafts of building motorcycles and how much time and effort goes into building and designing them. One of my biggest pet peeves about 'reality television' is that it doesn't serve a purpose and its people who are 'hungry for fame and attention'. But "American Chopper" isn't like that at all. Its just two guys, doing what they love to do. I have nothing but good things to say about this hilarious and all around fantastic show.

House of Sand and Fog (2003)

Intense and Emotional with spectuacular acting. An unforgetable movie.

[28 December 2003]

**Contains Spoilers** This is a great example of a movie that I had no desire to see when I first heart of it. I couldn't understand why anyone would want to kill someone just for a house. Even though I still don't understand that, I realized while watching this movie that Jennifer Connelly's character soon comes to realize that also. This movie sticks with you. Its emotional and makes you think. It challanges you, probably more than any movie (other than Mystic River) that came out this year. Ben Kingsley's performance is remarkable, not only is it the best performance of the year, its one of the best performances I've ever seen. I hated the ending when I saw it. I always hate when innocent people are killed in movies, because I am always hoping for a happy ending. This is not a movie with a happy ending. Its a modern day tragedy that is smart, intense and extremely emotional.



A

Family Guy (1999– )

As funny (if not funnier) than THE SIMPSONS in its prime..

[9 December 2003]

I love Family Guy. Ok, its a little racier than The Simpsons, but it is beyond hilarious. Its has a lot more pop culture references than the Simpsons and a lot of bizarre, off the wall humor that makes it a modern cartoon classic. Look at the quotes, THEY ARE HILARIOUS!

Really, Really funny.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

I want to change my vote...

[28 November 2003]

Originally, in 2000, for some reason I liked this movie. Now, 2003, thinking on it I finally realized how terrible this movie is. The moral of the story is that it doesn't matter how much you SPEND on Christmas, its the thought that counts and yet this was a very commercial movie with tons of advertising and a huge budget. It doesn't make much sense. This is kind of a slap in the face to Dr. Seuss and please just do yourself a favor and stick to the original cartoon- or the book.

Thanks. 4/10