Friday, August 31, 2007
Death Sentence
Once upon a time there were two very different families; one were suburbanites and the other were gang bangers. They happen to cross paths and both clans become victims of circumstance. Nick Hume (Kevin Bacon) undergoes a tremendous metamorphosis as he is pushed beyond his limits in order to protect his family. The general story pretty much plays out as expected, but director James Wan of “Saw” fame adds his unique and creative touches which will shock, surprise, and keep the audience off balanced. There are little omens of things to come and pieces of sly humor, but mostly the unsophisticated audience were laughing at moments not meant to be funny. Expect a blood bath when the hunted becomes the hunter.
Alien gives it 3 “in a war, everyone thinks they are right” stars out of 4.
Once upon a time there were two very different families; one were suburbanites and the other were gang bangers. They happen to cross paths and both clans become victims of circumstance. Nick Hume (Kevin Bacon) undergoes a tremendous metamorphosis as he is pushed beyond his limits in order to protect his family. The general story pretty much plays out as expected, but director James Wan of “Saw” fame adds his unique and creative touches which will shock, surprise, and keep the audience off balanced. There are little omens of things to come and pieces of sly humor, but mostly the unsophisticated audience were laughing at moments not meant to be funny. Expect a blood bath when the hunted becomes the hunter.
Alien gives it 3 “in a war, everyone thinks they are right” stars out of 4.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
War
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
FBI agent Crawford (Jason Statham) and the mysterious assassin Rogue (Jet Li) are mixed up in the crossfire between the Japanese Yakuza and the Chinese Triad. Expect gratuitous violence, gun battles, sword fights, car chases, explosions, loud dramatic music, and a little nudity in this action-driven film where it is hard to recognize who the bad guys are. Like the ruthless killers portrayed here, this movie seems heartless and without a soul. Alien was very disappointed and just a little surprised by the end of this vengeance story. The duel between these two martial arts stars is more hype than payoff.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “save the women and children” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.
FBI agent Crawford (Jason Statham) and the mysterious assassin Rogue (Jet Li) are mixed up in the crossfire between the Japanese Yakuza and the Chinese Triad. Expect gratuitous violence, gun battles, sword fights, car chases, explosions, loud dramatic music, and a little nudity in this action-driven film where it is hard to recognize who the bad guys are. Like the ruthless killers portrayed here, this movie seems heartless and without a soul. Alien was very disappointed and just a little surprised by the end of this vengeance story. The duel between these two martial arts stars is more hype than payoff.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “save the women and children” stars out of 4.
Rocket Science
Hal Hefner’s coming of age story is further complicated by his struggle with stuttering in this quirky indie comedy. Hal becomes infatuated when an attractive, fast-talking girl invites him to join the debate team. The film is well acted and Alien was drawn in by the characters. However, like a stutterer, the movie doesn’t seem to hit its stride. It does have some funny and charming moments, but by the end Alien felt frustrated and unsatisfied. This film is bittersweet and uncomfortable to watch because it captures the agony of this young boy’s dilemmas so well. Reality and realism make and break this film. Alien tried the like it, but couldn’t make a connection.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “Battle Hymn of the Republic” stars out of 4.
Hal Hefner’s coming of age story is further complicated by his struggle with stuttering in this quirky indie comedy. Hal becomes infatuated when an attractive, fast-talking girl invites him to join the debate team. The film is well acted and Alien was drawn in by the characters. However, like a stutterer, the movie doesn’t seem to hit its stride. It does have some funny and charming moments, but by the end Alien felt frustrated and unsatisfied. This film is bittersweet and uncomfortable to watch because it captures the agony of this young boy’s dilemmas so well. Reality and realism make and break this film. Alien tried the like it, but couldn’t make a connection.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “Battle Hymn of the Republic” stars out of 4.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Balls of Fury
It’s “Fists of Fury” meets "Blades of Glory" meets “DodgeBall” meets “I Spy” meets “Kung Fu” in a parody of a martial arts tournament of champions starring a Jack Black wannabe. This ping pong film is filled with many talented familiar faces, but they are wasted in this dumb script. Alien will not name them here to spare them from any further embarrassment. The movie does have a few laughs, but that is the problem; there are only a few. Some of the gags are based on the crude and lewd, but most are just lame. In this stereotype of a “Charlie Chan” world, anything Asian goes as it mixes Cantonese, Mandarin, Japanese, and Indian cultures. There is nothing new here with this promising but disappointing premise and cast. So if you still want to see it for yourself, be sure to rush down to your local movie theater quickly because this film may zip right past you faster than a ping pong hammered by a powerful overhand smash.
Alien gives it 1 “gwai lo” star out of 4.
It’s “Fists of Fury” meets "Blades of Glory" meets “DodgeBall” meets “I Spy” meets “Kung Fu” in a parody of a martial arts tournament of champions starring a Jack Black wannabe. This ping pong film is filled with many talented familiar faces, but they are wasted in this dumb script. Alien will not name them here to spare them from any further embarrassment. The movie does have a few laughs, but that is the problem; there are only a few. Some of the gags are based on the crude and lewd, but most are just lame. In this stereotype of a “Charlie Chan” world, anything Asian goes as it mixes Cantonese, Mandarin, Japanese, and Indian cultures. There is nothing new here with this promising but disappointing premise and cast. So if you still want to see it for yourself, be sure to rush down to your local movie theater quickly because this film may zip right past you faster than a ping pong hammered by a powerful overhand smash.
Alien gives it 1 “gwai lo” star out of 4.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Sydney White
Are you a preteen girl or an Amanda Bynes fan? Do you feel like a fairy tale? If so, check out this modern day twist on the “Snow White” theme where “Mean Girls” meets “Legally Blonde” meets “Revenge of the Nerds”. It is cute, corny, and predictable, but who doesn’t know the story of Snow White. The real fun here is spotting all of the fairy tale twists. Some are clever and some are dopey. With obvious last names like Prince and Witchburn, it is not hard to figure out their role. Alien just couldn’t figure out “Spanky”. Most of the jokes are old and tired, but those preteens are probably too young to notice or care.
Alien gives it 2 “Kappa Phi Nu” stars out of 4.
Are you a preteen girl or an Amanda Bynes fan? Do you feel like a fairy tale? If so, check out this modern day twist on the “Snow White” theme where “Mean Girls” meets “Legally Blonde” meets “Revenge of the Nerds”. It is cute, corny, and predictable, but who doesn’t know the story of Snow White. The real fun here is spotting all of the fairy tale twists. Some are clever and some are dopey. With obvious last names like Prince and Witchburn, it is not hard to figure out their role. Alien just couldn’t figure out “Spanky”. Most of the jokes are old and tired, but those preteens are probably too young to notice or care.
Alien gives it 2 “Kappa Phi Nu” stars out of 4.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Resurrecting the Champ
Relationships between fathers and sons and between trust and lies are explored in this touching film about a journalist and his stunning story about an ex-boxer’s life. Samuel L. Jackson is a colorful, homeless man who calls himself “Champ”, Battling Bob Satterfield. Josh Hartnett is a struggling sports writer living under the shadow of his famous dad, trying to impress his editor (Alan Alda), and wanting to be a hero to his son. Jackson gives a knockout performance. This bittersweet story promotes a positive message for families. It is a very good film that probably won’t be noticed at the box office, but hopefully it will find its audience through DVD sales and rentals.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “I thought he was dead” stars out of 4.
Relationships between fathers and sons and between trust and lies are explored in this touching film about a journalist and his stunning story about an ex-boxer’s life. Samuel L. Jackson is a colorful, homeless man who calls himself “Champ”, Battling Bob Satterfield. Josh Hartnett is a struggling sports writer living under the shadow of his famous dad, trying to impress his editor (Alan Alda), and wanting to be a hero to his son. Jackson gives a knockout performance. This bittersweet story promotes a positive message for families. It is a very good film that probably won’t be noticed at the box office, but hopefully it will find its audience through DVD sales and rentals.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “I thought he was dead” stars out of 4.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
The Kingdom
Buckle up, it’s a wild ride in Riyadh. “Jarhead” meets “Alias” in “Syriana” doing their “CSI” thing when terrorists strike a secured American compound in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The elite FBI team of Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper, and Jason Bateman struggle with American and Saudi red tape and protocol as they attempt to investigate the tragic attack. The middle of the film drags some, but it is a fascinating exploration of culture clash. Don’t fret, action fans, because guns come out blazing in an exhilarating battle to rescue the hostage and uncover the perpetrators. A chilling message is echoed at the end of the movie.
Alien gives it 3 “bomb maker gets bitten” stars out of 4.
Buckle up, it’s a wild ride in Riyadh. “Jarhead” meets “Alias” in “Syriana” doing their “CSI” thing when terrorists strike a secured American compound in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The elite FBI team of Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper, and Jason Bateman struggle with American and Saudi red tape and protocol as they attempt to investigate the tragic attack. The middle of the film drags some, but it is a fascinating exploration of culture clash. Don’t fret, action fans, because guns come out blazing in an exhilarating battle to rescue the hostage and uncover the perpetrators. A chilling message is echoed at the end of the movie.
Alien gives it 3 “bomb maker gets bitten” stars out of 4.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
(Revisited at the IMAX)
Potter fans must go see "Order of the Phoenix" at the IMAX. It bigger and better because of the huge screen and terrific sound system. You'll also be treated to see the climatic battle scene in 3D (about 20 minutes long).
Alien gives it 3 1/2 "Defense Against the Dark Arts" stars out of 4.
(Revisited at the IMAX)
Potter fans must go see "Order of the Phoenix" at the IMAX. It bigger and better because of the huge screen and terrific sound system. You'll also be treated to see the climatic battle scene in 3D (about 20 minutes long).
Alien gives it 3 1/2 "Defense Against the Dark Arts" stars out of 4.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Mr. Bean’s Holiday
Rowan Atkinson reprises his popular character, Mr. Bean, in his latest comedy. Mr. Bean is a slow-witted buffoon who seems to create disaster where ever his goes. This time he wins a trip to Cannes and he manages to injure as many innocent bystanders as possible along the way. Atkinson’s performance is like watching one of those old silent movies. It’s physical comedy with very little dialogue. However, after just a few minutes, Atkinson’s antics grow tiresome. The movie’s silly humor probably plays better for young kids, but yet some of the jokes are too sophisticated for children. The film makers just couldn’t decide if they were making a comedy for kids or adults.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “oui and gracias” stars out of 4.
Rowan Atkinson reprises his popular character, Mr. Bean, in his latest comedy. Mr. Bean is a slow-witted buffoon who seems to create disaster where ever his goes. This time he wins a trip to Cannes and he manages to injure as many innocent bystanders as possible along the way. Atkinson’s performance is like watching one of those old silent movies. It’s physical comedy with very little dialogue. However, after just a few minutes, Atkinson’s antics grow tiresome. The movie’s silly humor probably plays better for young kids, but yet some of the jokes are too sophisticated for children. The film makers just couldn’t decide if they were making a comedy for kids or adults.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “oui and gracias” stars out of 4.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
The Invasion
It’s the “Andromeda Strain” meets “Outbreak” meets “Shaun of the Dead” meets “Crank” in this latest re-interpretation of the “Invasion of the Body Snatchers”. Space spores invade earth and threaten to control mankind. Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig, and company must evade the infected, find her son, develop a cure, and not fall asleep in order to save the world. It is pretty much a run of the mill and predictable story line. The film feels a bit disjointed as the early scenes seem to jump around. Was that style or was that necessary to cover up the mess left after the first production wrap? This movie is not a bad film, but it is not a great film either. It was entertaining, but Alien still loves the 1956 original version the best. Sorry “Body Snatcher” fans, there are no pods here. They must have blown that part of the budget on Kidman’s salary.
Alien gives it 2 “world peace and harmony” stars out of 4.
It’s the “Andromeda Strain” meets “Outbreak” meets “Shaun of the Dead” meets “Crank” in this latest re-interpretation of the “Invasion of the Body Snatchers”. Space spores invade earth and threaten to control mankind. Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig, and company must evade the infected, find her son, develop a cure, and not fall asleep in order to save the world. It is pretty much a run of the mill and predictable story line. The film feels a bit disjointed as the early scenes seem to jump around. Was that style or was that necessary to cover up the mess left after the first production wrap? This movie is not a bad film, but it is not a great film either. It was entertaining, but Alien still loves the 1956 original version the best. Sorry “Body Snatcher” fans, there are no pods here. They must have blown that part of the budget on Kidman’s salary.
Alien gives it 2 “world peace and harmony” stars out of 4.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Superbad
It’s “Napoleon Dynamite” meets “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” when 3 very uncool high school boys think it’s their last chance to get some valuable experience with girls before heading off to college. Have you ever wondered what goes on in the minds of horny teenage boys? This hilarious movie outrageously exposes their thoughts and stupid actions. There is no middle ground here. You’ll either find this movie utterly disgusting or you’ll find it perversely funny – maybe a guilty pleasure. Everything in it is so wrong that you can’t stop laughing. What makes this film work is that the characters are believable, even though they are doing and saying such stupid things. Hey, I know that guy. It is a comedy of errors. This film is rated “R” for raunchy because you are hanging out with stupid horny teenage boys getting into trouble. This is no chick flick – it’s pure frat boy humor.
Alien gives it 3 “McLovin it” stars out of 4.
It’s “Napoleon Dynamite” meets “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” when 3 very uncool high school boys think it’s their last chance to get some valuable experience with girls before heading off to college. Have you ever wondered what goes on in the minds of horny teenage boys? This hilarious movie outrageously exposes their thoughts and stupid actions. There is no middle ground here. You’ll either find this movie utterly disgusting or you’ll find it perversely funny – maybe a guilty pleasure. Everything in it is so wrong that you can’t stop laughing. What makes this film work is that the characters are believable, even though they are doing and saying such stupid things. Hey, I know that guy. It is a comedy of errors. This film is rated “R” for raunchy because you are hanging out with stupid horny teenage boys getting into trouble. This is no chick flick – it’s pure frat boy humor.
Alien gives it 3 “McLovin it” stars out of 4.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Arctic Tale
Spring has come to the arctic ice kingdom as we begin to follow the lives of Nanoo, the polar bear cub, and Seala, the walrus pup. The newborns are adorable as the play and explore their new world. Soon their moms teach their young how to hunt and survive on the snow mountain and frozen ocean. This is a beautiful looking and entertaining documentary contrasting the lives of two fascinating animals. In the end, the ecological messages about saving the planet are delivered from the mouths of babes.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “global warming” stars out of 4.
Spring has come to the arctic ice kingdom as we begin to follow the lives of Nanoo, the polar bear cub, and Seala, the walrus pup. The newborns are adorable as the play and explore their new world. Soon their moms teach their young how to hunt and survive on the snow mountain and frozen ocean. This is a beautiful looking and entertaining documentary contrasting the lives of two fascinating animals. In the end, the ecological messages about saving the planet are delivered from the mouths of babes.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “global warming” stars out of 4.
Talk To Me
This is not a sneak preview. This movie has already released.
Most people never heard of Ralph Waldo Emerson “Petey” Greene, but after Don Cheadle’s mesmerizing performance, this original shock jock radio DJ in Washington, DC, during the late 60’s will be unforgettable. This engrossing and entertaining film takes you back to the era of black power, protests, and Martin Luther King Jr. through its music, dress, attitudes, and events of the times. See how this ex-con during turbulent times becomes the voice of the people by “telling it like it is”. Performances by the supporting cast (including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Martin Sheen, and Taraji P. Henson) rise to Cheadle’s level. It is a funny and touching true story. Rated “R” for language and sexual content.
Alien gives it 4 “WOL 1450 AM” stars out of 4.
This is not a sneak preview. This movie has already released.
Most people never heard of Ralph Waldo Emerson “Petey” Greene, but after Don Cheadle’s mesmerizing performance, this original shock jock radio DJ in Washington, DC, during the late 60’s will be unforgettable. This engrossing and entertaining film takes you back to the era of black power, protests, and Martin Luther King Jr. through its music, dress, attitudes, and events of the times. See how this ex-con during turbulent times becomes the voice of the people by “telling it like it is”. Performances by the supporting cast (including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Martin Sheen, and Taraji P. Henson) rise to Cheadle’s level. It is a funny and touching true story. Rated “R” for language and sexual content.
Alien gives it 4 “WOL 1450 AM” stars out of 4.
Ratatouille (Revisited)
This is a continuation of Alien’s July 25, 2007 review.
It’s the “Food Channel” meets “Mickey Mouse” in this charming animated story with the empowering message that an individual can do anything they set their minds to, no matter what others think. See how a rat and a human develop into the dream team of the kitchen.
Alien gives it 3 “cartoon culinary cuisine” stars out of 4.
This is a continuation of Alien’s July 25, 2007 review.
It’s the “Food Channel” meets “Mickey Mouse” in this charming animated story with the empowering message that an individual can do anything they set their minds to, no matter what others think. See how a rat and a human develop into the dream team of the kitchen.
Alien gives it 3 “cartoon culinary cuisine” stars out of 4.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Rush Hour 3
The buddy cop team of Officer James Carter (Chris Tucker) and Inspector Lee (Jackie Chan) is back for a third wild and funny adventure which takes them to Paris and pits them against the Triad. Jackie brings thrilling excitement and acrobatics to the fight and chase scenes. Chris adds his musical stylings and humorous quips to the film’s fun. The “Who’s On First” bit will have you rolling in the aisles. The battle on the Eiffel Tower is spectacular. George, the French cab driver, steals his scenes. If you are looking for amazing action and lots of laughs, catch this “Rush Hour” ride and hang on tight. If you liked the first two films, you’ll love this third installment. It is all that you expect and more. Be sure to catch the hilarious trademark bloopers at the end of the film. Alien would have enjoyed the movie more if he wasn't seated behind Marge Simpson.
Alien gives it 3 “brutha from anutha mutha” stars out of 4.
The buddy cop team of Officer James Carter (Chris Tucker) and Inspector Lee (Jackie Chan) is back for a third wild and funny adventure which takes them to Paris and pits them against the Triad. Jackie brings thrilling excitement and acrobatics to the fight and chase scenes. Chris adds his musical stylings and humorous quips to the film’s fun. The “Who’s On First” bit will have you rolling in the aisles. The battle on the Eiffel Tower is spectacular. George, the French cab driver, steals his scenes. If you are looking for amazing action and lots of laughs, catch this “Rush Hour” ride and hang on tight. If you liked the first two films, you’ll love this third installment. It is all that you expect and more. Be sure to catch the hilarious trademark bloopers at the end of the film. Alien would have enjoyed the movie more if he wasn't seated behind Marge Simpson.
Alien gives it 3 “brutha from anutha mutha” stars out of 4.
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Daddy Day Camp
Some times you wonder why they even bother to make sequels of certain movies. Director Fred Savage (TV’s adorable Kevin Arnold) takes a nostalgic look at his summer camp “Wonder Years”. The movie is a predictable kid’s film. Two guys (Cuba Gooding Jr. and Paul Rae) become part owners of their childhood summer camp and quickly get over their heads in trouble. Soon their camp of typical losers must compete against a rival camp of rich spoiled kids. Expect the usual kid antics and gags for humor, a message of teamwork for success, and a lesson on building good father/son relationships. The movie is pretty lame for anyone over 8 years old, but it has good intentions and some “Winnie Cooper” moments. Too bad Savage couldn’t give it the same charm of his famed TV show.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “balloon toss and three-legged race” stars out of 4.
Some times you wonder why they even bother to make sequels of certain movies. Director Fred Savage (TV’s adorable Kevin Arnold) takes a nostalgic look at his summer camp “Wonder Years”. The movie is a predictable kid’s film. Two guys (Cuba Gooding Jr. and Paul Rae) become part owners of their childhood summer camp and quickly get over their heads in trouble. Soon their camp of typical losers must compete against a rival camp of rich spoiled kids. Expect the usual kid antics and gags for humor, a message of teamwork for success, and a lesson on building good father/son relationships. The movie is pretty lame for anyone over 8 years old, but it has good intentions and some “Winnie Cooper” moments. Too bad Savage couldn’t give it the same charm of his famed TV show.
Alien gives it 1 ½ “balloon toss and three-legged race” stars out of 4.
Friday, August 03, 2007
The 11th Hour
Interviews with scientists and experts along with power visuals are spliced together into a mosaic of 60 second clips to deliver Leonardo Di Caprio’s ecosystem message about saving the planet and mankind. This documentary puts into perspective man’s detrimental effect on our world. Unfortunately, this electronic production version abruptly froze 2/3 of the way through the screening and could not be resumed. In the final third, Alien had hoped to see possible solutions proposed. Alien gives it an incomplete because potentially the most important piece was not seen. Up to the break, the film was very entertaining and makes you think about the earth's future, including wondering about a Gore/Di Caprio ticket in 2012.
Interviews with scientists and experts along with power visuals are spliced together into a mosaic of 60 second clips to deliver Leonardo Di Caprio’s ecosystem message about saving the planet and mankind. This documentary puts into perspective man’s detrimental effect on our world. Unfortunately, this electronic production version abruptly froze 2/3 of the way through the screening and could not be resumed. In the final third, Alien had hoped to see possible solutions proposed. Alien gives it an incomplete because potentially the most important piece was not seen. Up to the break, the film was very entertaining and makes you think about the earth's future, including wondering about a Gore/Di Caprio ticket in 2012.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
El Cantante
While Alien was on his fairy tale adventure, a couple of scouts were sent out to review that Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony movie about the legendary Puerto Rican salsa singer Hector Lavoe, a pioneer of the sound and sensibility that redefined Latin music in the 1960s and 1970s. Here is what they had to say:
K's review: "The beginning of the movie started out a little too fast and made it confusing. I guess they had to do it like that to get everything in. As the movie went on I started to understand more. Jennifer Lopez played a good role as the wife and Mark Anthony was as awesome as ever! "
L's review: "A very passionate movie with lots of chemistry between Mark Anthony and Jennifer Lopez! The music made you want to get up and dance! Hector Lavoe was a troubled reserved man and Mark Anthony played the part well. He really expressed the pain this guy experienced throughout his life. I enjoyed it! 3.5 out of 4."
While Alien was on his fairy tale adventure, a couple of scouts were sent out to review that Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony movie about the legendary Puerto Rican salsa singer Hector Lavoe, a pioneer of the sound and sensibility that redefined Latin music in the 1960s and 1970s. Here is what they had to say:
K's review: "The beginning of the movie started out a little too fast and made it confusing. I guess they had to do it like that to get everything in. As the movie went on I started to understand more. Jennifer Lopez played a good role as the wife and Mark Anthony was as awesome as ever! "
L's review: "A very passionate movie with lots of chemistry between Mark Anthony and Jennifer Lopez! The music made you want to get up and dance! Hector Lavoe was a troubled reserved man and Mark Anthony played the part well. He really expressed the pain this guy experienced throughout his life. I enjoyed it! 3.5 out of 4."
Stardust
An ordinary low stone wall with a little old man as a guard separates the real world from a fantasy kingdom with sky pirates, witches, and a falling star. A whimsical fairy tale for adults unfolds involving a child, a dying king, a ruby, 7 murderous brothers, a missing sister, some evil witches, lightning gathering pirates, and star-crossed lovers. The movie’s quirky sense of humor adds to the fun. The dead man’s duel is a very funny scene. Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, and Rupert Everett take us on a magical journey to the land of enchantment where destiny intertwines the lives of the characters. Pfeiffer is gorgeous and hideous. Danes is radiant. De Niro is outrageous.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “Babylon candle” stars out of 4.
An ordinary low stone wall with a little old man as a guard separates the real world from a fantasy kingdom with sky pirates, witches, and a falling star. A whimsical fairy tale for adults unfolds involving a child, a dying king, a ruby, 7 murderous brothers, a missing sister, some evil witches, lightning gathering pirates, and star-crossed lovers. The movie’s quirky sense of humor adds to the fun. The dead man’s duel is a very funny scene. Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, and Rupert Everett take us on a magical journey to the land of enchantment where destiny intertwines the lives of the characters. Pfeiffer is gorgeous and hideous. Danes is radiant. De Niro is outrageous.
Alien gives it 2 ½ “Babylon candle” stars out of 4.
